Friday, January 31, 2014

Announcing the 1st Annual “Care 4 Hair” 5K Run for Alopecia, Hosted By Midwest Black Hair Magazine

5K Event, hosted by upscale hair and beauty magazine, designed to bring Alopecia Awareness to the Kansas City area.

Shawnee, KS, January 31, 2014 – Midwest Black Hair Magazine welcomes you to participate in the 1st Annual “Care 4 Hair” 5K Run for Alopecia, sponsored by Tresses Au Naturale. Alopecia Areata is a common autoimmune skin disease resulting in the loss of hair on the scalp ranging from patches to total body hair loss. Alopecia Areata affects approximately two percent of the population overall, including more than 6.5 million people in the United States alone. The event is designed to raise money for victims of this widely spread disease, as well as bring awareness. A portion of the proceeds will go to help children diagnosed with Alopecia.

Midwest Black Hair Magazine, an international upscale hair and beauty magazine, will be hosting the “Care 4 Hair” event. Started in November 2011, this magazine has been devoted to showcasing African American hair styles, promoting hair and beauty stylist, supporting small businesses, putting a spotlight on hair & beauty events, and providing hair, beauty, and health information through monthly articles. Celebrities have also graced the pages of Midwest Black Hair Magazine, such as Nicole Ari Parker and Countess Vaughn. Monthly issues of Midwest Black Hair Magazine can be found at www.MidwestBlackHair.com.

The 1st Annual “Care 4 Hair” 5K Run for Alopecia will be held at Shawnee Mission Park in Shawnee, KS on June 14, 2014. Registration and Check-In for runners will open at 8:00am and the 5K race will begin at 9:00am. Following the race will be a post-race bash with vendors, snacks, music, and information. Family participation is also encouraged with children registration available as well as some activities as well.

All information regarding the event, as well as online registration, can be found at www.midwestblackhair.com/alopecia-run.

If you are interested in obtaining more information and/or being a part of this event by being a volunteer, sponsor, or vendor, please contact Midwest Black Hair Magazine at info@midwestblackhair.com or 816-866-MWBH (6924).

You can find more information about Midwest Black Hair Magazine by visiting their website, as well as liking them on Facebook at facebook.com/MidwestBlackHairMagazine. You can also follow them on Twitter at twitter.com/mwblackhair.

Contact:
Malisse Lockhart-Ford
Midwest Black Hair Magazine
Shawnee, KS
816-866-6924
info@midwestblackhair.com
http://www.midwestblackhair.com

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Apparel Company Launches One of a Kind Sports Line

Start up company, SportsAddict Apparel previews its unique athletic products by highlighting several cutting edge sports related accessories on crowd funding site KickStarter.

Homewood, IL, January 29, 2014 - SportsAddict Apparel is created with football and basketball fabric incorporated into athletic apparel. This concept creates a unique aesthetic of accented and strategically placed fabric, which undoubtedly translates the connection of the product to a sport. Sports Addict Apparel adds another dimension to sports apparel in a manner that has never been done before.

Owner and designer, Wallace Brown, describes the company’s mission: “SportsAddict Apparel will address the increasing demand for independent fashion that is fast gaining traction in the U.S. and abroad by presenting customers with a unique, never-before-seen use of materials and textures.” He goes on to say, “We see our product line as the go-to, distinctive, lifestyle brand for today’s active and sports-minded individuals. We named our company with this in mind.”

Wallace is a Chicago native and serial entrepreneur. He talked about how he came up with the idea of using sports textured fabric integrated into apparel. While watching an NFL football game, it came to him: “So many people love sports but where are the products that reflect the synergy of apparel and the fabric which the game is centered on… and what about Basketball as well as other sports?” As he pondered, he sketched out the Football Helmet Hat and the ideas started to flow. “This is the ultimate disruptive model that will appeal to millions, including casual sports fans, women, and children,” says Wallace. The growth of the sports apparel industry, technology, social media, and crowd-funding sites are the perfect formula for this company to gain serious traction in the market.

SportsAddict Apparel is looking to raise funds to realize its growth potential. Using their authentic aesthetic, the company has produced the Football Helmet Hat, visors, and caps as well as backpacks and duffle bags to debut their brand. Their introductory products can be seen at http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/47434463/game-changer-sports-accessories-and-apparel

Contact:
Wallace Brown or R. Calhoun
SportsAddict Apparel
Homewood, IL 60430 USA
312-545-9681
sportsaddictapparelinc@gmail.com
http://www.sportsaddictapparel.com/

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

New Video Installation Project in Development from Artist Fawn Rogers

ArtPress Records at L.A. Art Show, Interview with Artist Fawn Rogers: "I Love You And That Makes Me God"

Santa Monica, CA, January 29, 2014 - Having worked extensively in a variety of media and international settings, artist Fawn Rogers is exploring a new form with her provocative video installation currently in development: “I Love You And That Makes Me God.” At last week’s LA Art Show patron reception, she was kind enough to sit down over a glass of Bordeaux to share some words about her new project:

Adrien Miller: There’s been some hinting about your new project here in LA. Is that connected at all to your Visible Light body of work?

Fawn Rogers: Completely separate project. That series [Visible Light], to super-simplify, was very much about visual and physical expanse, having to do with nature and our place within it… The new project is concerned with the videnda of a psychological landscape. Again, my aesthetic is very minimal with the new project, but the focus is also about identity and evolution. The depth of content that’s been emerging from the theme is extraordinary.

AM: So what is the theme?

FR: The project is titled “I Love You And That Makes Me God.” That’s essentially the theme. I’m developing the project as a dual-monitor video installation, intentionally stark and designed to highlight the subtleties of delivery. Individuals are shot in portrait-style close up, and presented giving and receiving the expression “I Love You And That Makes Me God.” We’re in the process of filming people for the project now. The experiences for people in the project are very diverse – the exchange has been surprisingly intimate and I’m really embracing it. Each person, for example, has a very different relationship to the expression - from power, to concepts of God, to embodiment of love. It’s amazing how much story comes out from each person.

AM: Who’s being filmed for the project?

FR: There’s a very eclectic range.

AM: Anyone we’d recognize?

FR: Yes, we have some fun surprises. But the project isn’t really about celebrity, it’s about authenticity. There’s this incredible Iroquois expression – orenda – which refers to the spiritual force by which human empowerment takes place. That experience manifests in many interesting ways, no matter your status.

AM: I see paint on your fingernails. What else are you working on?

FR: This project has two other dimensions. I am creating some canvasses, and am also exploring some new styles of work in conjunction with this project. I find I’ve been inspired in strange ways by the intimacy of the video installation aspect – to create work in which the nature of the dialogue is completely different: more communal, public. In some sense, this project is like a multi-dimensional puzzle piece that has been following me since my childhood. That’s playing out both in content and form. Though a lot will be happening quickly in the current year, I feel that I could work with this theme for a decade and continue to be inspired by it.

Fawn Rogers is an American visual artist, best known for her work with visible electromagnetic light. Her work has been exhibited throughout Europe, Southeast and East Asia, and Africa, and has been published in People and Italian Vogue. She currently resides in Los Angeles.

For more on the artist, visit www.fawnrogers.com.

Contact:
Adrien Miller
ArtPress Records
1430 5th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-447-2044
adrien.b.miller@gmail.com
http://www.fawnrogers.com

Taylor Gang Records Proudly Presents, "Love on the Run" Official Mixtape Release Party

Starring The 1st Lady of Taylor Gang Courtney Noelle Performing Live

Pittsburgh, PA, January 28, 2014 - Taylor Gang Records will be taking over the city with the hottest mixtape release party of the year. Pittsburgh's very own, 1st Lady of Taylor Gang, Courtney Noelle will be hosting her official mixtape release party for her newest project, “Love On the Run.” The “Love on the Run” Mixtape Release Party is going to be a night full of music, dancing, fun and excitement featuring music by Courtney Noelle has worked very hard on this mixtape and is ready to not only to show the City of Pittsburgh what she has to offer but to also represent for the ladies.

“Love on the Run,” is a testament of Noelle’s strong songwriting abilities as well as her infectious vocal skills. Courtney Noelle doesn’t want to be labeled as just another local singer on the rise, she considers herself a solidified songwriter, musician, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Proceeds from the mixtape party will go to the Young Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. The event is Friday, January 31, 2014 at the Enigma Lounge located at (130 7th Street Pittsburgh, PA 15222) in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh. Doors open at 9:00PM with an enforced dress code of (No Hoodies or No Baggy Attire) Drinks Specials are available and Appetizers will be served.

Courtney Noelle want s her fans to know that she is here and ready to show and prove that she is worth the wait. “Love on the Run” is the first release of the year for Courtney and she anticipates several more releases throughout the year. If you’re in Pittsburgh and would like to attend the Courtney Noelle’s Mixtape Release Party for “Love on the Run” tickets are available for early purchase, you can also contact 412-980-8717 for VIP Reservations. “Love on the Run” will be available for purchase on iTunes and other select retailers throughout the Country. For more information about Courtney Noelle and Taylor Gang follow her on twitter at: @CNBBRAND.For Press Opportunities please contact Darnell Clark at: 412-353-9240 or MrImagemakers@gmail.com.

About Courtney Noelle:
Courtney Noelle is an American Singer/ Songwriter signed to Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records and is best known for her collaborations with Wiz Khalifa on his mixtape "Star Power." She’s been featured on "Bankroll", which I performed along Wiz on his "Wake and Bake" tour, also on "Burn after Rolling" and on "One Way". Noelle has collaborated with Chevy Woods, on his "Pilot Shit" mixtape, on a song called "Crazy", she's also worked with several other recording artist including as S.Money, and Boaz.

Contact:
Darnell Clark
Image Makers Media Group, LLC
646 Antone Street
Atlanta, GA 30318
412-353-9240
Dclark@imagemakersmedia.com
http://www.capitalconnectionsagency.com

Monday, January 27, 2014

Axicon Labels to Launch New Labelling Service at Foodex 2014

Axicon Labels, part of the Axicon Group, will launch a new ‘print your own’ labelling service at Foodex food and drink expo, 24-26 March at the NEC in Birmingham.

Oxford, UK, January 27, 2014 - Axicon Labels, part of the Axicon Group, will launch a new ‘print your own’ labelling service at Foodex food and drink expo, 24-26 March at the NEC in Birmingham. Foodex is the UK trade show for processing, packaging and logistics and represents the ideal environment for Axicon Labels to launch their new highly flexible and customer driven service.


The print your own system will allow customers to use an Axicon Labels template, but have editing control over a number of key specifications such as best before dates, batch numbers and ingredient changes.

Adam Carey, Director of Operations for Axicon Labels commented, “We are delighted to launch our new print your own labels system at the upcoming Foodex expo in Birmingham,” he continued, “We strive to give our customers innovation and flexibility to tailor our products to best suit their needs and we feel that our new service certainly provides that, we look forward to discussing the new system with our customers at Foodex.”

About the company, the Axicon Group is a world leading barcode verification solution provider. Based in the UK, Axicon Auto ID Ltd specialise in barcode verification, barcode images and labels and distribute their product range through a network of international partners across the globe. Axicon Labels is part of the Axicon Group and specializes in printing a large range of commercial label products. Axicon Labels invite anyone with an interest in barcode labels, self adhesive labels to please view the full product range on their website - www.axiconlabels.co.uk

For Further information or an illustrative image:
Media contact - Mathew Taylor, Director, Algorythm Solutions Ltd, website: www.algorythmsolutions.com

Contact:
Mathew Taylor
Director
Algorythm Solutions Ltd
10 Torkington St, Stamford
Lincolnshire PE9 2UY
+44 (0)773 403 2112
mtaylor@algorythmsolutions.com
www.algorythmsolutions.com

Saturday, January 25, 2014

One in 10 Coloradans Choose Colorado HealthOP on State’s Health Insurance Marketplace

Member-Driven Health Insurance Reports Significant Gain Among State’s Newly Insured

Denver, CO, January 25, 2013 — Colorado’s first statewide cooperative health insurance carrier, Colorado HealthOP, has made significant progress in the Colorado health insurance marketplace. The CO-OP announced today that it holds 10 percent market share among Coloradans who enrolled in health insurance on Connect for Health Colorado.

New Colorado HealthOP members point to the insurer’s member-driven philosophy and its focus on preventive care as reasons they chose the CO-OP when shopping on the exchange.

Brian Novak of Denver, a newly enrolled Colorado HealthOP member, hasn’t always had a positive outlook on health insurance. Novak is a type 1 diabetic and cancer survivor. He is also very active and health-conscious, but his pre-existing conditions have made it difficult for him to get quality health insurance coverage in the past. Colorado HealthOP’s non-exclusive policies mean that his medical history is no longer a roadblock to improved preventive coverage.

“When I started researching (on the exchange) I couldn’t find anything that worked for me,” said Novak, the 41-year-old self-employed outdoor adventure enthusiast. “I found Colorado HealthOP. I was intrigued by the idea of a non-profit health insurance company. It resonated with me because they are proactive about keeping members costs down and member health a priority. This was a very different approach to healthcare than I had experienced with other insurance companies. It made sense.”

Colorado HealthOP credits its market momentum to its cooperative business model and value-based benefits. These philosophies and practices allow the organization to provide sustainable healthcare options to Colorado consumers.

These philosophies have clearly resonated with Coloradans. In some areas of the state, the CO-OP’s market share exceeds 25 percent. This is no small feat for a company that began operating just over a year ago.

“We are very encouraged by our enrollment numbers,” said Julia Hutchins, chief executive officer of Colorado HealthOP. “They really affirm that our member-driven, cooperative business model is not only attractive but necessary to Colorado consumers.”

Colorado HealthOP’s current enrollment numbers meet the CO-OP’s membership projections and put the insurer on track to meet its first-year enrollment goals.

The CO-OP has seen the following enrollment trends:

* Colorado HealthOP holds especially strong market share among marketplace shoppers in the following areas of the state:

* Boulder County 27.0%

* Summit County 22.0%

* Park County 21.7%

* Denver County 11.8%

* On average, more than 60 people per day have signed up for Colorado HealthOP policies.

* The average age of Colorado HealthOP enrollees is two years younger than all Coloradans who have enrolled on the state marketplace.

Coloradans can enroll in Colorado HealthOP plans on the state’s online health insurance marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado, through March 31, 2014.

About Colorado HealthOP:
Colorado HealthOP offers a new alternative to traditional health insurance in Colorado. A nonprofit health insurance cooperative, Colorado HealthOP and its members are committed to providing affordable, quality coverage to individuals and employers interested in making a difference in their own health, their employees’ health and the health of their community. Colorado HealthOP aims to improve health outcomes by putting the responsibility for consumers’ care back into the hands of the cooperative’s members and providers. A private market solution tailored for individuals and employers, Colorado HealthOP will begin open enrollment in October 2013 via Connect for Health Colorado, Colorado’s health insurance marketplace, and through independent brokers and agents. Coverage will begin January 1, 2014. For more information about Colorado HealthOP, please visit www.COHealthOP.org or call 720.627.8900.

Contact:
Anna Beaty
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
abeaty@COHealthOP.org
http://www.csg-pr.com

Friday, January 24, 2014

Ecotech Institute to Host Webinar on the Demand for Skilled Labor in Renewable Energy Careers and Sustainable Industries

30-minute webinar will discuss what’s missing in the hiring pool for green energy jobs

Denver, CO, January 24, 2014 – On Tuesday, January 28, Ecotech Institute will hold a 30-minute afternoon webinar, “Demand for Skilled Labor,” that takes a look at why it’s so hard to find employees for positions in renewable energy and sustainable industries. Other questions the webinar will address include:

* What’s currently missing in the hiring pool for the renewable energy and sustainable industry?

* What is skilled labor?

* What soft skills are needed for these green energy jobs?

* What training and hard skills are needed?


Sue Pawlak, Ecotech Institute’s Area Director of Career Placement, will host the event. The webinar will be broken up into two parts: a 20-minute presentation, followed by a 10-minute question-and-answer session.

“When I meet with hiring managers I often hear that they need employees who have very specific training in wind and solar energy, who know the equipment inside and out and they want people who have had hands-on experience,” said Pawlak. “If employers don’t have to spend a ton of time on green energy training, they’d definitely prefer not to and that’s where applicants with skilled labor can really shine.”

Webinar Topic: “Demand for Skilled Labor in Renewable Energy”

Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Time: 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern/2:30 to 3:00 p.m. Central/1:30 to 2:00 p.m. Mountain/12:30 to 1:00 p.m. Pacific

Moderator: Sue Pawlak, Ecotech Institute’s Area Director of Career Placement

Register: Seats are limited. Register at www.ecotechinstitute.com/landings/webinar/.

Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colo., is the first and only school in the U.S. solely focused on renewable energy training. It offers eight associate’s degree programs:

* Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Facility Management Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Electrical Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Energy Efficiency, Associate of Applied Science

* Power Utility Technician, Associate of Applied Science

* Business Administration – Sustainability, Associate of Applied Science.

For more information on Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com. You can also follow Ecotech Institute through its Facebook page at facebook.com/EcotechInstitute and Twitter at twitter.com/Ecotech_Inst.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
CSG|PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Thursday, January 23, 2014

BADASS Dash™ Obstacle Course Challenge & Adventure Race Set to Transform Kiwanis Park on November 8th to Benefit Autism Speaks

Black Dog Promotions Partners to Bring Inaugural Competition to the Valley

Tempe, AZ, January 24, 2014 - Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and possible cure for autism; to raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and to bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder, is proud to announce the city of Tempe will host its final Obstacle Race fundraiser in conjunction with the 2014 BADASS Dash™ series. The inaugural Arizona BADASS Dash™ will take place on November 8th at Kiwanis Park in Tempe and be the final tour stop in a series of 12 events, taking place at select cities throughout North America in support of Autism Speaks in 2014.

Brian Sharenow, Race Director for the BADASS Dash™ series states, “Individuals within the Autism spectrum often experience the daily stress of feeling like a square pegs trying to live in a world of round holes. At each of the B.A.D. events, thousands of participants celebrate the challenge of trying to overcome obstacles they wouldn't normally face in our everyday lives. And although part of the thrill and excitement of the race is working toward conquering those obstacles, there's a certain amount of relief that comes from knowing there's a finish line.” Sharenow points out, “There's an immense feeling of satisfaction knowing you completed that LAST obstacle and are headed toward the coveted finish line to celebrate with friends, family and/or fellow racers. However, for individuals within the autism spectrum, the obstacles never end - there's always one more obstacle. The focus of these events is to hopefully one day provide those with Autism their finish line.”

So whether you are searching for a personal challenge, pride yourself in being a weekend warrior or are an avid racer seeking full-blown adrenaline rush, get ready for the most BADASS Obstacle Course Challenge and Adventure Run this side of insanity. The race will feature 30 of the most unique, challenging, fun and BADASS obstacles sprawled across a 7K (4.4 mile) course set within the confines of Kiwanis Park.

Each BADASS Dash competitor has the opportunity to compete individually or as a team and register for one of 3 Divisions:

The ELITE division, as the name clearly depicts, is geared toward individuals who are well trained (i.e. police, firefighters, armed forces, competitive athletes) and are looking to “get after it” while having the race of a lifetime. This division showcases those who can traverse through the obstacles while navigating the terrain the fastest with opportunities to win big prizes and even bigger bragging rights.

The RECREATION division, which can be anyone from an avid racer to a weekend warrior to someone looking for a new personal challenge, is geared toward those who are not specifically trained in Obstacle Course Challenges or Adventure Races but want to set a goal on the finish line and then achieve it.

The K9 COMPANION division showcases teams made up of one male or female (at least 14 years of age) and their dog (at least 1 year old) competing on the same course as the Recreation Division with a select number of obstacles designed specifically for each team to conquer together.

Each race also features a KIDS DASH division for children 4 - 13 years of age. The Kids Dash for 4 - 6 years old will feature a 200-yard dash with obstacles just their size while the 7 - 13 years old get to race on a 1-mile course with a mixture of adult and kids obstacles.

“We are excited to be partnering with The Badass Dash. Their fantastic race will be fun for the participants and also will help Autism Speaks. We are looking forward to the race. ” said Black Dog Promotions CEO, Scott Kelly.

Those not racing are encouraged to travel the course alongside the racers and cheer them on as they move from obstacle to obstacle as well as joining in the festivities of the POST-RACE FESTIVAL which will host racers, canines, vendors and spectators in a festival atmosphere with the inclusion of live entertainment, a beer garden, food & beverages, expo area, awards ceremonies, contests and prize giveaways.

If its time for you to take on the personal challenge of a lifetime or if you desire to be a part of an event that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impact on anyone who witnesses its spectacle, go to www.badassdash.com to register. To find out more information on the entire race series, check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/thebadassdash.

About BADASS Dash™
BADASS Dash™ benefits Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism; to raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and to bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. It is Autism Speaks firm belief that, working together, we will find the missing pieces of the puzzle. We are committed to raising the funds necessary to support these goals. The cause is bigger than the obstacles. For more information, visit www.badassdash.com. Find BADASS Dash™ on Facebook and follow on Twitter.

About Kiwanis Park
The Kiwanis Park Recreation Center is a beautiful 54,000 square foot complex that is owned and operated by the City of Tempe. Facility amenities include an indoor wave pool, fitness center, gymnasium, corporate ramada area, classrooms and a 15-court tennis center. The facility is located in the 125 acre Kiwanis Park.

About Black Dog Promotions:
Black Dog Promotions is a media and business development agency and also provides digital marketing and publicity consulting for regional and national brands. Black Dog’s team has a long history of success in the entertainment, sports, technology and finance industries. We have taken companies from concept to millions of dollars in sales and billions of dollars in market capitalization. Black Dog Promotions understands how to help business expand and reach their goals. Visit http://www.blackdogpromotions.com/

Contact:
Scott Kelly
Black Dog Promotions
9920 S. Rural Rd., Ste 108
Tempe, AZ 85284
480-206-3435
scott@blackdogpromotions.com
http://www.blackdogpromotions.com

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Bryant & Stratton College Offers Free Career Help for Albany Residents

One-on-one sessions focused on resume building, honing interview skills and job search techniques are available for all local job seekers now through March 29th

Albany, NY, January 22, 2014 – Bryant & Stratton College today announced it is offering free one-on-one career sessions to local residents from January through March at the Bryant & Stratton College campus in Albany. Residents can book one-hour appointments to receive expert advice and help developing their job search skills from Valerie Pettigrass, Career Services Director at the Bryant & Stratton College Albany Campus.


The free career sessions can help those looking for ways to improve their job search strategy or first-time job seekers. At the sessions, local residents can take advantage of:

Customized feedback on their resume or assistance with resume creation

Expert advice on drafting cover letters

Instructions and strategies on how to effectively search for jobs using keywords and popular job posting websites

Mock interview practice

Opportunities to have their resume shared with the College’s network of local employers

“Job searching today is much different than it was just 10 years ago. Understanding new trends, such as using keywords in resumes and what are the best job sites, can help job seekers tremendously,” said Ms. Pettigrass. “During the sessions I will not only help participants learn how to successfully navigate the job search and application process, but how to prepare once they advance to the interview stage as well. Getting your foot in the door is the first step, but a strong interview will help you stand out from other applicants and land the job.”

Career Session Details:
What: Bryant & Stratton College Career Clinic
When: Now through Saturday, March 29
Time: By appointment
Fridays 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Saturdays 9:00 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Bryant & Stratton College Albany Campus
1259 Central Ave?
Albany, NY 12205
Cost: Complimentary
Appointment Contact: Beth Goldup, 518-437-1802

“We are excited to offer free career clinic sessions to the residents of the Capital District. Bryant & Stratton College has always been dedicated to helping our students develop employability skills and we are now extending the resources we have in place for our students and graduates to the greater community,” said Mike Gutierrez, Assistant Director NY State Campuses and Albany Campus Director at Bryant & Stratton College. “The career sessions allow us to lend our resources, expertise and employer network to those looking to improve their job search skills and secure employment. During these sessions we are their very own personal career coach and job search partner.”

The Bryant & Stratton College Career Clinic is open to all residents in Albany and surrounding areas. Those interested in attending can set an appointment by calling the main campus at 518-437-1802 and asking for Beth Goldup in the career services department. Ms. Goldup will assist in booking the free one-on-one appointment.

For more information about Bryant & Stratton College and its degree programs and campuses, visit www.bryantstratton.edu.

About Bryant & Stratton College:
Bryant & Stratton College is a private career college delivering outcomes-based education and training through a flexible, contemporary curriculum in a personalized environment. The College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Bryant & Stratton College has campus locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Professional Skill Center. For over 160 years, Bryant & Stratton College has been providing real world education leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees and professional certificates in the fields of healthcare, technology, legal, business, & graphic design.  For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu/disclosures. General information can also be found on the College’s website at www.bryantstratton.edu.

Contact:
Anne Jenkins
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
703-624-6125
ajenkins@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Biennial Survey of Leading Corporations Reveals Most Important Leadership Capability

Leaders from some of the world’s best known large and medium-sized organizations across the globe participated in the biennial survey, which has been conducted by EDA every two years to four years since 1983.

Oklahoma City, OK, January 22, 2014 - For today’s executives, the ability to develop a successful business strategy is no longer enough. In our complex business environment, the most successful organizations will be the ones with leaders who can create a compelling vision—and who can convey that vision to customers and employees. These skills have, for the first time in recent years, surpassed critical thinking in importance, but there is a problem, says Bonnie Hagemann, CEO of Executive Development Associates.

This new reality was reflected in the key findings of “2014 Trends in Executive Development: A Benchmark Report.” A wide range of executives and human resource leaders, including presidents, senior vice presidents, chief learning officers, and heads of executive and leadership development, reported that the ability to create a vision— and convey it to others—is now the single most important capability needed in the emerging generation of leaders.

The “2014 Trends in Executive Development: A Benchmark Report” is the product of collaboration between Pearson TalentLens and Executive Development Associates Inc. (EDA), a global leadership consulting firm that specializes in executive assessment, development, and coaching.

Leaders from some of the world’s best known large and medium-sized organizations across the globe participated in the biennial survey, which has been conducted by EDA every two years to four years since 1983 in order to follow the trends, growth and evolution of executive development in corporate environments. The complete report can be purchased at http://www.executivedevelopment.com.

“The HR leaders in the study reported that the ability to create a vision is the one most lacking in the next generation of leadership talent, followed by the lack of critical-thinking skills. Clearly, they are worried about the ability of the new generation to step up into top positions,” says Hagemann.

She notes that once leaders create a vision and have used their critical-thinking skills to develop the appropriate business strategy, they must bring others into the program.

“This requires the ability to convey the vision to others—to get employees and customers just as excited about the new direction and opportunities. And it requires the ability to engage employees at all levels in the underlying business strategy. Vision without strategy will not get far. And neither will move forward without engagement,” says Hagemann.

The report indicates that there are several reasons why creating a vision and conveying it to others has surpassed critical thinking as the capability most critical to success and yet most lacking in the next generation of leadership talent.

“During the recession, companies needed to focus on cutting costs and increasing revenue in an increasingly competitive global business environment. As the economy improves, companies are focusing less on cutting costs and more on expanding production and opening new markets, products and services, all of which require an inspired and engaged workforce,” says Hagemann.

And there may be another disconnect, according to the report. While the HR leaders in the study said their top priority in the next two to three years is developing capabilities needed to achieve vision and execute strategy, they still tend to focus developmental efforts in other areas.

“The two developmental activities their next generation of leaders are most likely to participate in, they said, are developmental job assignments and action learning. However, those types of activities alone are rarely enough to give emerging leaders the ability to create and carry out a larger vision,” says Hagemann.

While these types of development paths can be very valuable, they do not focus specifically on teaching leaders how to create a vision and engage others around it. Developing such capabilities requires a thoughtful, purposeful approach—one that sets out agreed-upon goals and strategies. Several techniques have proved to be effective, particularly when used in combination. Among them:

Coaching and Mentoring. Every organization has current and retired leaders who over the course of their careers have articulated a strong vision—and seem to have an exceptional ability to convey it to others. Such leaders should be recruited to be coaches and mentors to both the current and the upcoming generation of leaders who need to develop in this area.

Training. Executive training programs should be expanded to specifically include inspiring and engaging others. These capabilities can be built into business scenarios and simulations.

Another proven approach is storytelling, followed by practice.

Tapping the Vision of Gen Y. Creating a vision means looking ahead to the ideas that will capture the imagination of new generations of employees and customers. Companies already have a powerful and available thought partner in their Generation Y employees. These workers can provide valuable insight into the kind of products they and their peers would like to buy as well
as the kinds of organizations they want to work for.

Changing the Culture. The importance of developing vision and engaging others around it must be made part of the corporate culture.

As in past Trend Reports, the lack of bench strength continues to be the single most influential factor on executive development. With the end of the recession, many baby boomers who delayed retirement are now leaving, fulfilling long-standing predictions of an alarmingly limited flow in the executive pipeline. Many current executives acknowledge they have not yet prepared their successors, often because it is difficult to find candidates with expertise in the necessary specialties.

In addition to Hagemann, the report authors include John Mattone, Senior Talent Management Consultant and Master Executive Coach with Executive Development Associates, and John Maketa, Director of Strategic Partnerships for Pearson .

About EDA
Executive Development Associates is a leader in creating custom-designed executive development strategies, systems and programs that help organizations build the capabilities needed to achieve their strategic objectives. EDA leads the way in the use of executive development to help organizations successfully address their marketplace challenges and accelerate the execution of their business strategy. With their proven ability to achieve results, they create measurable improvements in both individual executive performance and business outcomes. For more information about executive, leadership and high-potential development, visit http://www.executivedevelopment.com.

About Pearson TalentLens
Pearson TalentLens publishes scientific assessments that are used globally to hire and develop the 21st century workforce. Our instruments measure critical thinking, problem solving, and a range of job skills to deliver data-driven insights that inform and clarify an organization’s human capital decisions. Learn more at TalentLens.com

Press interviews or copy of the report, contact Bonnie Hagemann • CEO, Executive Development Associates, Direct: +1 816 830 6001; Toll Free: +1 866 EXEC DEV, ext. 201; or bhagemann@executivedevelopment.com

Contact:
Bonnie Hagemann/Steven Infanti
Executive Development Associates
4 NE 10th Street, #171
Oklahoma City, OK 73104
816 830 6001
smicommunications@earthlink.net
http://www.executivedevelopment.com

7 Leading Industry Associations Join Forces To Address Conflict Minerals Compliance

Seven of the largest industry associations collaborate with Source Intelligence and Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP to launch the first cross-industry resource center, addressing the SEC’s Conflict Minerals compliance regulation.

Washington, DC, January 21, 2014 - Seven of the world’s largest industry associations collaborate with Source Intelligence and Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP to launch the first cross-industry training and resource center, addressing the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Conflict Minerals compliance regulation. Source Intelligence has developed the Conflict Minerals Resource Center (CMRC) to support over 15,000 member companies who collectively generate over $3 trillion (USD) in GDP and hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs.

Key representatives from the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), the Fashion Jewelry and Accessories Trade Association (FJATA), the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), the National Retail Federation (NRF), the Toy Industry Association (TIA) and the United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) worked with Source Intelligence and Schulte Roth & Zabel to align training and resource center priorities to provide member companies with the information they need to comply with the SEC regulation.

The goal of the joint initiative is to deploy easy-to-use Conflict Minerals compliance tools across the seven industry associations. By providing the member companies and their vendors and contractors with the information and resources needed to meet the compliance requirements, all players along the supply chain can spend less time navigating policy, and more time producing the products and services that generate economic growth and jobs.

These tools will help companies understand the complicated requirements of the regulation, recognizing that it is the responsibility of individual companies to identify their specific compliance obligations and handle the real challenges that remain as they design their own programs.

On August 22, 2012, the SEC adopted a final rule to implement Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank). The rule requires publicly-held companies to disclose whether their products contain conflict minerals as defined by the law: tin, tantalum, tungsten or gold (3TG) originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and specific adjoining countries.

The first report, covering calendar year 2013, is due to the SEC by May 31, 2014. The SEC and Government Accountability Office estimate that approximately 6,000 issuers and 280,000 non-issuer companies will be directly or indirectly impacted by the rule.

Source Intelligence is honored to be entrusted with providing the nation’s leading manufacturing and retail companies with the most complete resource for managing conflict minerals compliance,” commented Jess Kraus, CEO and co-founder of Source Intelligence. “Our market leadership servicing global brands has enabled us to build the largest network of suppliers in the world. Source Intelligence and Schulte Roth & Zabel, the premier law firm in conflict mineral compliance, are combining our experience, best practices and resource libraries to provide a comprehensive training and resource center to inform and educate companies in these vital industries.”

Access the conflict minerals training and resource center by registering today at http://conflictmineralsresources.com

About the Associations
Representing more than 1,000 world famous name brands, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the trusted public policy and political voice of the apparel and footwear industry, its management and shareholders, its four million U.S. workers, and its contribution of $350 billion in annual U.S. retail sales.

The Fashion Jewelry & Accessories Trade Association represents the interests of manufacturers, suppliers and retailers of jewelry and accessories. With more than 225 member brands, FJATA serves as the key voice on industry issues to state, federal, and international regulatory agencies, and actively promotes industry safety and compliance initiatives. Our members comprise a highly dynamic and competitive segment of the fashion industry, providing jewelry and accessories to adults and children worldwide.

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 12 million men and women, contributes more than $1.8 trillion to the U.S. economy annually, has the largest economic impact of any major sector and accounts for two-thirds of private-sector research and development.

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) is the association of electrical equipment and medical imaging manufacturers. Founded in 1926 and headquartered in Rosslyn, Virginia, its 400-plus member companies manufacture a diverse set of products used in the generation, transmission, distribution, and end use of electricity as well as medical diagnostic imaging. Worldwide annual sales of products in the NEMA scope exceed $140 billion.

The National Retail Federation (NRF) is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and Internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.5 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy. NRF’s This is Retail campaign highlights the industry’s opportunities for life-long careers, how retailers strengthen communities, and the critical role that retail plays in driving innovation. www.nrf.com

Toy Industry Association™, Inc. (TIA) is the not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses involved in creating, producing and delivering toys and youth entertainment products for kids of all ages. The Association represents more than 600 companies that collectively account for approximately 85% of domestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toy industry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety including the development of the first comprehensive toy safety standard more than 30 years ago, and working with government, consumers and industry on ongoing programs to ensure safe and fun play.

The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) represents the fashion industry: textile and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers based in the United States and doing business globally. Founded in 1989 as the United States Association of Importers of Textiles & Apparel with the goal of eliminating the global apparel quota system, USFIA now works to eliminate the tariff and non-tariff barriers that impede the industry’s ability to trade freely and create economic opportunities in the United States and abroad.

About the Contract Award Winners
About Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP (www.srz.com):
Schulte Roth & Zabel ("SRZ") is a full-service law firm with offices in New York, Washington, D.C. and London. The firm's practices include investment management; regulatory & compliance; bank regulatory; business reorganization; distressed investing; employment & employee benefits; environmental; finance; individual client services; intellectual property, sourcing & technology; litigation; mergers & acquisitions; real estate; securities & capital markets; structured products & derivatives; and tax.

SRZ is a leader in global conflict minerals compliance. The firm is actively advising public and private companies and trade associations across a wide range of industries and throughout the supply chain on conflict minerals compliance. As part of its leadership in this area, SRZ has published more articles, Alerts and White Papers, participated in more programs and been quoted in the press significantly more than any other law firm. SRZ is also the only law firm with an Advanced Conflict Minerals Rule Compliance webinar series. This ongoing series features third-party experts and thought-leaders from across the compliance spectrum, including from the upstream, downstream, trade association, NGO, governmental and investor communities. SRZ's conflict minerals practice is part of its global public companies practice, which is headed by New York-based partner Michael R. Littenberg.

About Source Intelligence® (www.sourceintelligence.com):
Source Intelligence® is an information knowledge company that helps customers make informed decisions about business partners to offer products that meet legal, ethical, and environmental standards. Our cloud-based information and analytics platform provides customers with visibility into product supply chains and material sources in order to comply with the law, minimize operational and brand risk, and improve efficiency.

As a leading provider of conflict minerals compliance programs, Source Intelligence protects customers’ interests with private industry’s largest network of suppliers, a platform to manage and connect business partners, and a portfolio of compliance programs for all regulated materials. Founded in 2009 by career experts in environmental solutions, management consulting and analytics, Source Intelligence® has headquarters in Carlsbad, California and operations around the world.

Contact:
Lina Ramos
Source Intelligence
1921 Palomar Oaks Way, Ste 205
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(877) 916 6337
lramos@sourceintelligence.com
http://sourceintelligence.com

Monday, January 20, 2014

Booz Allen Executive Vice President Joins Easter Seals Board of Directors

Easter Seals Serving DC I MD I VA announced that Robin Portman, a Booz Allen Hamilton Executive Vice President based in McLean, VA, has been elected to its Board of Directors.

Silver Spring, MD, January 21, 2014 -- Robin Portman, a Booz Allen Hamilton Executive Vice President based in McLean, VA, has been elected to the Board of Directors of Easter Seals Serving DC I MD I VA.

“Ms. Portman is a champion for the firm’s veteran and Wounded Warrior support efforts where she drives many of Booz Allen's pro bono efforts to benefit our nation’s heroes. Throughout her professional life, she has supported initiatives and organizations that provide opportunities for people with disabilities and special needs, including veterans and military families,” said Lisa Reeves, President & CEO of Easter Seals Serving DC I MD I VA. “We are very excited to have her as a member of our board.”

In her role at Booz Allen Hamilton, Ms. Portman leads the firm’s business development function supporting the firm’s major markets (Defense, Security, Civil, and Commercial) and is responsible for providing clients comprehensive, innovative solutions to their most complex challenges.

Prior to this role, Ms. Portman led the firm’s enterprise integration business that focused on developing deep industry and client-specific expertise for energy, environment, transportation, health, and major Department of Defense services, departments, and agencies.

Ms. Portman also led the firm’s health business for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Military Health System (MHS), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She also provided leadership to commercial engagements specifically in the commercial pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. She led a large group of health industry professionals focused on areas such as healthcare organization development and optimization; clinical healthcare services optimization and quality improvement, health benefits evaluation and management, and health reform.

Her team at Booz Allen has received the firm’s most prestigious honor, the Professional Excellence Award, in recognition of its outstanding service to the community for veteran issues, such as employment, community reintegration, and family support. She also served on the Advisory Board to the Business and Professional Women’s Foundation to establish a women’s veteran mentoring program.

Prior to joining Booz Allen, Ms. Portman worked as a systems and engineering program manager for TRW, and a computer specialist and intelligence analyst for the U.S. Navy. Ms. Portman is also active in the Washington, DC community. She is the Chair of the Board of Trustees for Capital Caring (formerly Capital Hospice), and has served on the Board since 2006. She is also on the Advisory Board for the Virginia Hospital Center’s Medical Brigade, a nonprofit organization serving community health needs in Latin America. She serves as a Deacon for the Vienna Presbyterian Church in Vienna, VA. She has a B.S. degree in education and an M.S. degree in management information systems, both from the University of Maryland.

For more than 75 years, Easter Seals Serving DC | MD | VA has been at the forefront of providing exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play in our communities. Services are delivered through a network of 19 sites where participants and their families find support, hope, medical care, and enjoyable activities. In addition to serving the overall community, Easter Seals places an emphasis on the unique needs of wounded warriors, veterans, active duty military, and their families.

Contact:
Steven Infanti
Easter Seals Serving DC | MD | VA
1420 Spring Street I
Silver Spring, MD 20910
800-886-3771
Smicommunications@earthlink.net
http://www.eseal.org

Sunday, January 19, 2014

B2B Soft and Wireless One Partner on Integrated Inventory Management System for Wireless Retail

Dealer Supply Chain Automatically Streamlined Through The Wireless Standard Retail Management Platform, Maximizing Profits

New York, NY, January 20, 2014 - B2B Soft, a business-to-business software company specializing in retail management for the wireless/cellular retail industry, is pleased to announce a new partnership with Wireless One, Inc. to offer B2B Soft's Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) through the Wireless One network of wireless dealers. Wireless One distributes wireless devices and accessories and provides logistical solutions to wireless retailers.


B2B Soft's innovative VMI system remotely manages and automatically restocks inventory, saving wireless retailers time and effort. An integrated part of B2B Soft's retail management platform, Wireless Standard, VMI frees retailers from the burden of dealing with complex and constantly changing inventory, allowing them to more easily manage all aspects of their single or multi store operations with real-time management tools.

Adopted by more than 6,000 wireless dealers and master agents, B2B Soft's Wireless Standard Retail Management Platform is the wireless retail industry's premiere solution. With seamless point-of-sale transactions, streamlined store operations, inventory control, loss prevention, resource management, integrated payment solutions and powerful business intelligence, the comprehensive platform assists retailers in running their businesses more efficiently, effectively and profitably.

B2B Soft's VMI saves retailers both time and money by eliminating the need for unnecessary inventory counts and buying forecasts. Dealers are able to sell more while carrying less, as the VMI automatically weeds out dying inventory, replenishing with fresher, more suitable phones and accessories. By streamlining the supply chain, dealers can reduce ineffective inventory and
their related costs, maximizing the bottom line.

Sales data generated in B2B Soft's Wireless Standard platform is sent directly to suppliers and analyzed based upon specified criteria like inventory levels, in store sales, promotional offers, max/min quantities, etc. Purchase orders are automatically created and the appropriate inventory is automatically shipped to the retailer.

“Keeping pace with rapid changes in products and services and the ever increasing array of available devices is one of the biggest challenges facing wireless dealers,” says Gary Khabinski, B2B Soft's CEO. “With Wireless Standard's VMI, they can keep their supply chain streamlined while ensuring they can meet the demand for the latest handsets and services. It eases the constraints of carrying excessive or wrong inventory and frees their time and
resources.”

About B2B Soft
B2B Soft develops innovative software solutions for wireless and general retail markets and provides consulting services that enable growth and drive business success. With over a decade of proven experience in wireless retail, B2B Soft is a leader in building enterprise point of sale solutions that improve management and operational processes while helping companies engage their customers by providing a superior customer experience.

B2B Soft's business management services include mobilePOS, Real-time Web Reporting and Activation, Real-time Business Intelligence Analysis, Inventory Control, POS Transaction Processing, CRM (Marketing & Customer Service), Kiosk and Lobby Management, Employee Management, and Commission Reconciliation. Today, more than 6,000 wireless retailers rely on B2B Soft its Wireless Standard Retail Management Platform to make the business of doing business simpler and more profitable. Visit www.b2bsoft.com and www.wirelessstandard.com.

About Wireless One
Since 1996, Wireless One has been dedicated to providing quality products and services to wireless carriers, national retailers, MVNO's, and independent retail stores throughout North America. Wireless One provides a unique value to its partners by distributing both wireless devices and accessories. Wireless One's visibility into new devices allows it to design and build premium first-to-market accessories. Wireless One's product portfolio consists of both Wireless One manufactured devices and accessories distributed from leading OEM's such as: Body Glove , HTC, Huawei, LG, Motorola, Option, Otterbox, SanDisk, and many others..

Wireless One, Inc. Contact:
James Ferguson
Ph. 818-407-4890 x125
Email. jferguson@wirelessoneco.com

Wireless One provides an inventory of wireless products such as: New CDMA and GSM handsets, tablets, routers, refurbished devices and USB dongles. Contracts with leading wireless carriers and manufacturers allows Wireless One to custom provision, brand, kit, and package these products for our customers. www.wirelessoneco.com

Contact:
Don Rossi
VP Sales & Marketing
17 Battery Pl, Suite 715
New York, NY, USA 10004
212 742-2301 ext. 744
donrossi@b2bsoft.com
http://www.b2bsoft.com