Monday, 13 July 2009

President Roosevelt to Celebrate Fee Free Weekend at Historic Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park

Guests Can Have Free Photo Taken With The President

Port Angeles, WA (Vocus/PRWEB ) July 13, 2009 - Lake Crescent Lodge, operated by Forever Resorts, will be reliving a special time in the history of Olympic National Park on Sunday July 19 when the twenty sixth President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt and his wife will visit. Celebrating the National Park Service fee free weekend in the National Parks will be August 15-16, 2009.

Theodore Roosevelt, the twenty sixth President of the United States will be making an appearance on Sunday, July 19 at historic Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park, Washington in honor of Fee Free Weekends in the National Parks.
Theodore Roosevelt, the twenty sixth President of the United States will be making an appearance on Sunday, July 19 at historic Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park, Washington in honor of Fee Free Weekends in the National Parks.

Dressed in period attire, Ron and Carol Browning of Port Angeles will bring history alive as they re-enact Theodore Roosevelt and Edith Kermit Roosevelt. Jerry Shaffer, general manager of Lake Crescent Lodge stated, "They will be here on Sunday from 11 to 5 pm to mingle with guests and speak as if they actually were Teddy and Edith Roosevelt. They will talk about politics of the early 1900's and as if they were on their way to a Spanish American War Club reunion for the Rough Riders. Visitors and guests will have the opportunity to capture this historic moment in history with a free photograph with the former president."

Ron Browning states that people often told him how much he resembles Theodore Roosevelt which gave him the idea to learn more about the man and pose as the President in presentations to help educate the public. The Brownings are passionate to encouraging people to read about Theodore Roosevelt and to better understand the ideals that he envisioned for America and the world. Carol Browning is the seamstress for the team, creating beautiful and historically accurate costumes for both of them. Carol created the Presidential frock coat and top hat for the Presidential appearances and some very attractive gowns and fancy hats for Edith Roosevelt.

Ronald states that he and Carol may be the only team bringing both the President and Mrs. Teddy Roosevelt to the public. They took a two week vacation through five of the National Parks and stayed in character the entire time. They have appeared in parades and many historical celebration activities. The Brownings feel privileged to be able to bring the Roosevelts back into public view. People ask questions, listen intently, and are overwhelmed by the occasion to learn about the President who ushered in the twentieth century for the United States of America.

This free photo opportunity will take place at Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park, Washington from 11 am - 5 pm on July 19, August 16, September 20 and October 4. The Lodge will also be serving a special commemorative menu that was served at Lake Crescent Lodge to another famous president, Franklin D. Roosevelt in September, 1937 while he stayed at Lake Crescent. Roosevelt was contemplating the designation of the Park to National Park status. Reservations can be made for the Sunday dinner by calling (360) 928-3211.

Theodore Roosevelt's most effective achievements were in conservation when he added enormously to the national forests in the West and set aside lands for public use. U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt originally created Olympic National Monument in 1909 and after Congress voted to authorize a redesignation to National Park status, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the legislation in 1938. In 1976, Olympic National Park became an International Biosphere Reserve, and in 1981 it was designated a World Heritage Site. In 1988, almost all of the Olympic Peninsula was designated as the Olympic Wilderness, further enhancing the protection of the region.

Forever Resorts manages Lake Crescent Lodge, Hurricane Ridge and Fairholme Store in Olympic National Park. Their other locations consist of an exceptional collection of destinations that provide hospitality services throughout the world. Forever Resorts focuses on properties with access to nature and one-of-a-kind surroundings for vacations.

For additional information and photos:
Darla Cook, VP Public Relations; 602.432.7549

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 18:45 0 comments

PlattForm Advertising Announces Attendance at LeadsCon East 2009 Conference

Convention Attendees and Sponsors Invited to Meet PlattForm Representatives in New York City Aug. 17-18.

Lenexa, KA (Vocus/PRWEB ) July 13, 2009 -- PlattForm Advertising, a leading interactive advertising and marketing agency in the postsecondary education industry, will be attending the LeadsCon East 2009 Conference, Aug. 17-18 at the Marriot Marquis Times Square. PlattForm will have a booth at the conference, located at T-41, and will discuss new interactive strategies and campaigns designed to maximize and increase revenue for lead generation partners.

News Image

LeadsCon East 2009 is the first East coast version of the successful LeadsCon series, the pioneering conference and expo dedicated to increasing the effectiveness of those operating in the online lead generation industry. Featuring well-known presenters and prominent companies, LeadsCon East will provide a forum where the Internet advertising and traditional media communities can meet and discuss synergies between the two sides.

This year’s event will include many breakout sessions that will broaden the discussion on not just online lead generation but all of performance-based marketing with topics designed for those already familiar with the sector as well as those, such as media planners, looking to understand the latest trends and opportunities for accountable advertising. This segment of the online advertising space contains some of the most dynamic, successful, and innovative companies, but it is also a sector that has been historically under-served.

SPECIAL OFFER
PlattForm is pleased to pass along an exclusive, discounted registration rate of $295*, a $300 savings off the onsite price, for attendees who register before Aug. 1. To receive the discounted rate on registration, Click Here.

About PlattForm
PlattForm Advertising is a full-service direct-response advertising agency emphasizing interactive marketing and advertising for the education and self-growth industries. Operating out of Kansas City and New York, the agency boasts an internal team of nearly 400 industry professionals. PlattForm provides a number of direct-response marketing services, including interactive lead generation, broadcast and print planning and placement, search engine marketing, social media services, video and print creative services, magazine placement, and email and postal direct marketing. The agency provides customized marketing solutions for each client. All creative materials are written, designed and produced by in-house employees. PlattForm Advertising is a division of Ad Venture Interactive.

*Discount rate good on new registrations only. Credits or refunds cannot be issued on previous registrations. Discount rate good through August 1, 2009. The prevailing rate applies thereafter.

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 10:45 0 comments

Pearson Creates Education Innovation Fund With Revolution Learning

$10 Million Initial Investment Focuses on Emerging Technologies

New York, NY (PRWEB) July 13, 2009 -- Pearson, the world leader in educational content, technology and assessment, announced today that it is partnering with Revolution Learning to accelerate its aim to identify, develop, and scale the next generation of learning technologies, school management and organization innovations. Pearson has invested in a $10 million innovation venture fund managed by Revolution Learning.
News Image
"Over many years, Pearson has pioneered a range of effective digital learning innovations: course management and learning management platforms, digital textbooks, embedded diagnostic and online assessments, and data systems that help personalize learning and manage school accountability. This partnership with Revolution Learning extends our resources for evaluating emerging technologies that can break new ground and help bring forward the day when we can have universally effective, as well as universally available education" said Steve Dowling, Pearson Executive Vice President.

The innovation venture fund brings together two leaders in education. By harnessing technology to make learning personal to each student, Pearson is part of a revolution that puts into the hands of a highly effective teacher data about a student's learning styles and needs, assessments to watch him through the learning process and ready communication between home and school. Revolution Learning is the education sector's leading private equity investor that concentrates primarily on funding innovative tools, platforms and formats.

"Access to broadband, inexpensive devices, powerful applications, and global markets make this the ideal time to invest in educational innovation," said Tom Vander Ark, partner in Revolution Learning. "Investing in companies in this rapidly growing market makes financial sense and promotes the acceleration of both formal and informal learning which is key to global economic growth. With their global scale, marketplace knowledge, and record of investment in educational technology development, Pearson brings a track record of progress to the goals of this partnership."

About Pearson
Pearson (NYSE: PSO), the global leader in education and education technology, reaches and engages today's digital natives with effective and personalized learning, as well as dedicated professional development for their teachers. This commitment is demonstrated in the company's significant investment in innovative print and digital education materials for preK through professional learning, student information systems and learning management systems, teacher development, career certification programs, and testing and assessment products that set the standard for the industry. Pearson's comprehensive offerings help inform targeted instruction and intervention so that success is within reach of every student at every level of education. Pearson's commitment to education for all is supported by the global charitable giving initiatives of the Pearson Foundation. Pearson's other primary businesses include the Financial Times Group and the Penguin Group. For more information, go to www.pearson.com.

About Revolution Learning
Revolution Learning, an affiliate of Revolution Ventures, is a multi-stage private equity investor concentrating on improving formal and informal learning. With a focus on innovative learning tools, platforms, and formats, Revolution Learning focuses on companies that improve educational engagement, access, and efficiency with a particular interest in innovations that connect young people with viable life options. One of the early Revolution investments was AdvancePath Academics, a drop out prevention network. Revolution partners have deep expertise in building successful businesses, deploying leading edge learning technologies, and scaling innovative school operations.

Contact:
Tom Vander Ark
Revolution Learning
206-909-8251

Wendy Spiegel
Pearson Communications
800-745-8489

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 10:45 0 comments

Texas Tech University Hosts First of its Kind Virtual Open House at CollegeWeekLive

The virtual open house, held at www.CollegeWeekLive.com, included live video presentations featuring Texas Tech representatives from admissions, financial aid, and housing, as well as the academics associate vice provost.

Lubbock, TX and Boston, MA (PRWEB) July 13, 2009 -- Texas Tech University hosted the higher education market's first ever virtual open house, a dedicated afternoon which showcased the school for interested prospective students. The virtual open house, held at CollegeWeekLive, included live video presentations featuring Texas Tech representatives from admissions, financial aid, and housing, as well as the academics associate vice provost. In addition, representatives from the Center for Campus Life and the City of Lubbock Visitors Center were featured live via video.

Admissions and Financial Aid Virtual Booths at CollegeWeekLive
Admissions and Financial Aid Virtual Booths at CollegeWeekLive

Texas Tech's virtual open house also featured virtual booths where college-bound high school students could browse information and text chat live will representatives. For example, a booth dedicated to Admissions and Financial Aid was staffed live by advisors ready to answer questions about admissions requirements, while a booth dedicated to Academics offered the opportunity to chat with students currently enrolled in Texas Tech's ten academic colleges. Additional booths featured details on Campus Housing and Dining, where virtual tours of residence halls and chat with current residents was available, and Student Life and Visit Texas Tech and Lubbock, which included opportunities to get involved in the university as well as the community.

Coming from New-Jersey, I was unaware of the many advantages Texas Tech offers with regards to campus life, TECHniques Center, academic program, and pre-professional health program. I look forward to applying to Texas Tech later this fall.
One high school student who attended the virtual open house commented, "Coming from New-Jersey, I was unaware of the many advantages Texas Tech offers with regards to campus life, TECHniques Center, academic program, and pre-professional health program. I look forward to applying to Texas Tech later this fall." The seven hour open house event enjoyed nearly 500 visitors.

"We didn't know what to expect, but were very pleased with the response. A virtual event not only gives us a chance to reach students who can't readily visit our campus, but also allows us to spark students' interest in Texas Tech and encourage a real campus visit," said Karen Hamel, Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Texas Tech University. "CollegeWeekLive was extremely effective and user-friendly. We plan to host another virtual Texas Tech day in the spring of 2010, when students are making their final school choices." Texas Tech also participates along with hundreds of other colleges and universities in CollegeWeekLive college fairs held in November and March each academic year.

"We were excited to have Texas Tech University as our first Virtual Open House host," said Robert Rosenbloom, CEO of PlatformQ, the producer of CollegeWeekLive. "And we were pleased to see that Texas Tech found it to also be an effective online enrollment marketing tool." To learn more about CollegeWeekLive, or to register for free for an upcoming CollegeWeekLive event, visit CollegeWeekLive.

About Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University (TTU) is a public, coeducational, research university in Lubbock, Texas. Established on February 10, 1923, and originally known as Texas Technological College, it is the leading institution of the Texas Tech University System and has the seventh largest student body in the state of Texas. With 1,839 acres, it has the second largest contiguous campus in the United States and is the only school in Texas to house an undergraduate institution, law school, and medical school at the same location. The university offers degrees in more than 150 courses of study through 13 colleges and hosts 60 research centers and institutes. Texas Tech University has awarded over 200,000 degrees since 1927, including over 40,000 graduate and professional degrees.

About CollegeWeekLive
CollegeWeekLive is the world's biggest college fair and it meets entirely online. With hundreds of colleges and universities exhibiting and more than 150,000 registrants, CollegeWeekLive events revolutionize college admissions, making the process easier and more cost-effective by bringing students, parents, counselors and colleges together online, transcending time and distance. CollegeWeeklive events are always free to register for and attend. CollegeWeekLive has been featured on ABC News, FOX, CBS, USA Today and other national and international media outlets.

CollegeWeekLive is produced by PlatformQ, whose mission is to connect people, companies, organizations and associations worldwide to meet, interact and learn from leading experts and thought leaders through proven interactive tools at online events.
CollegeWeekLive and PlatformQ are trademarks of PlatformQ, LLC. All other trademarks or service marks are property of their respective owners.

2009 Events
Date   Event
Thursday Aug 6, 2009   ACT Training Series for Admissions Representatives
Thursday, Sep 17, 2009   CollegeWeekLive Test Prep
Sunday, Oct 04, 2009   University of Mary Virtual Open House @ CollegeWeekLive
Thursday, Oct 08, 2009   ACT Training Series for Guidance Counselors
Thursday Oct 15, 2009   CollegeWeekLive New England
Wednesday, Nov 04, 2009   CollegeWeekLive Fall
Thursday, Nov 05, 2009   CollegeWeekLive Fall
Friday, Nov 06, 2009   CollegeWeekLive Fall
Saturday, Nov 07, 2009   CollegeWeekLive Fall
Sunday, Dec 06, 2009   University of New Haven, Virtual Open House @ CollegeWeekLive

2010 Events
Date   Event
Thursday, Jan 14, 2010   CollegeWeekLive Paying for College
Wednesday, Mar 24, 2010   CollegeWeekLive Spring
Thursday, Mar 25, 2010   CollegeWeekLive Spring
Thursday, Aug 05, 2010   ACT Training Series for Admissions Representatives
Thursday, Sep 16, 2010   CollegeWeekLive Test Prep
Thursday, Oct 07, 2010   ACT Training Series for Guidance Counselors
Thursday Oct 14, 2009   CollegeWeekLive New England
Wednesday, Nov 03, 2010   CollegeWeekLive Fall

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 07:45 0 comments

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Engages ICG Commerce to Reduce Costs of Outside Expenditures

Leading publisher will leverage indirect procurement capabilities to deliver bottom-line savings

Partnering with ICG Commerce will enable Houghton Mifflin Harcourt to continue to focus on providing superior service to our employees, drive purchasing efficiencies and enable cost savings that can be reinvested in growth opportunities targeted at our core markets and customers

Philadelphia, PA (Vocus/PRWEB ) July 13, 2009 -- ICG Commerce today announced that it has signed a five-year agreement with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, the world's largest publisher of educational materials for pre-K-12 schools, to provide ongoing sourcing and category management services. The Company will leverage ICG Commerce's deep category expertise, supported by a robust market information and technology platform, to drive cost reductions across its indirect spending in areas including IT, Telecommunications, Marketing, Facilities Management and Travel.

News Image

Recognizing the importance of focusing internal resources on core competencies and market expansion opportunities, particularly in the current market, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt engaged ICG Commerce to quickly tap into additional resources and expertise needed to aggressively manage its indirect expenses.

"Partnering with ICG Commerce will enable Houghton Mifflin Harcourt to continue to focus on providing superior service to our employees, drive purchasing efficiencies and enable cost savings that can be reinvested in growth opportunities targeted at our core markets and customers," said Greg DuMont, senior vice president of Operations at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt evaluated a number of solutions to support its cost reduction initiative, including a technology-centric alternative. The Company ultimately recognized that depth of expertise, market insight and breadth of experience were the key drivers of sustainable cost reductions and selected ICG Commerce based on its demonstrated ability to help dozens of companies realize significant savings.

"We look forward to tapping into ICG Commerce's indirect procurement infrastructure and engaging them as an extension of our team to gain greater visibility and control over our spend," said Chet Taff, vice president of Indirect Procurement at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. "The partnership will enable us to expand our influence and deliver measurable cost reductions and improved supplier value."

This engagement follows several new customer signings for ICG Commerce in recent months, including Whirlpool Corporation, Teva Pharmaceuticals and a global software provider, bringing the Company's total spend under management to more than $10 billion.

"We continue to see leading companies look to indirect procurement as an area that presents significant savings opportunities, while strategically allocating internal resources toward core business activities," said Carl Guarino, Chief Executive Officer, ICG Commerce. "We are pleased to be selected by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt to provide the infrastructure and expertise to help them achieve their savings goals."

About Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company is a global education leader and the world's largest publisher of educational materials for pre-K-12 schools. The Company publishes a comprehensive set of best-in-class educational solutions, ranging from research-based textbook programs to instructional technology to standards-based assessments for students and educators. The Company also publishes an extensive line of reference works and award-winning literature for adults and young readers. With origins dating back to 1832, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt combines its tradition of excellence with a commitment to innovation. To learn more about Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, visit www.hmhpub.com.

About ICG Commerce
ICG Commerce is the leading procurement outsourcing specialist delivering comprehensive source-to-pay services. Results-driven leaders access ICG Commerce's experienced resources and market intelligence to better manage procurement and logistics spend, gaining significant savings and enhanced visibility and control.

ICG Commerce is a privately held company founded in 1992 and a member of Internet Capital Group's (NasdaqGM: ICGE - News) network of partner companies. The company has earned recognition from Forbes, Fortune, The International Association of Outsourcing Professionals (IAOP) and leading industry analysts for its leadership in procurement outsourcing. For more information: www.icgcommerce.com

CONTACT:
Shannon Parish
ICG Commerce
484-690-5446

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 07:45 0 comments

Go Play!: Non-Profit Organization KaBOOM! Announces List of 93 "Playful City USA" Communities

Communities Across the Country Make Play a Priority Despite Economy

Washington, D.C. (Vocus/PRWEB ) July 13, 2009 -- Parents have less disposable income for children's play-related activities because of the economy and funding for Parks and Recreation departments nationwide continues to dwindle during a time when 82 percent of parents believe kids don't spend enough time playing outside.^

Despite these challenges, 93 communities across the nation have taken innovative approaches to make play a priority to ensure their children have the time and space they need to play. To honor cities and towns making this commitment to play, KaBOOM!, a national non-profit dedicated to bringing play back into children's lives, named them Playful City USA communities.

Our country is facing two monumental deficits: a lack of unstructured play among children and a lack of resources to address this very issue
In the third year of this annual program, 32 of 93 Playful City USA communities were repeat honorees from 2008, while 22 cities were cited for the third consecutive year. Thirty-nine new communities have joined others in making a commitment to children, including Honolulu, Indianapolis and San Antonio. These 93 communities created and implemented programs to positively impact childhood wellness, public safety and the quality of life.

Each of the 2009 Playful City USA communities demonstrated creative commitments to the cause of play in the areas of quantity, quality and access. Quality relates to the number of usable, open playspaces. Quality involves subjective factors that encourage repeated use and make playspaces engaging, exciting, interesting and fun. Access entails the ability to get to a playspace (roads, trails) and a lack of barriers to the playspace (cost, safety, traffic, locked gates, equity).

Playful City USA celebrates and highlights these unique initiatives developed by communities across the country. A primary goal of Playful City USA is to encourage cities and towns to share creative ideas, concepts and programs in an effort to increase play opportunities for children. City initiatives include:

QUANTITY

 
  • Dothan, Ala. (pop. 65,447)
After incorporating the KaBOOM! community build model for the construction of a playground, the City decided to use this method exclusively for any future playgrounds built in Dothan. The community build model offers a great opportunity to involve neighborhoods, while saving significant costs on construction.
 
  • Indianapolis, Ind. (pop. 795,458)
The Indianapolis Parks and Recreation department is conducting a study that would involve converting abandoned housing and vacant lots and turning them into urban mini parks. This project will require that city department resources are combined to increase green spaces and remove abandoned housing, identify clusters of abandoned houses and vacant lots, identify potential mini park spaces, and host public meetings that would solicit the surrounding neighborhoods' advice on the usage of these spaces.

QUALITY

 
  • Las Cruces, N.M. (pop. 86,268)
Las Cruces Public Schools launched a free program called Recess Before Lunch in 2007 to examine what benefits could result. After implementing the program, moving recess before lunch led to a significant improvement in healthy eating habits for the students, a reduction in food waste, and better focus in the classroom after lunch.
 
  • San Francisco, Calif. (pop. 808,976)
The San Francisco Neighborhood Parks Council (SFNPC) developed a Playground Report Card which analyzes and rates playspaces in San Francisco. The Report Card gave letter grades to all the playgrounds, with the San Francisco Parks and Recreation department and SFNPC then taking action by bringing all the failing parks up to standard.

ACCESS

 
  • Ankeny, Iowa (pop. 42,000)
As part of the Ankeny Comprehensive plan, the highest priority of Ankeny residents was to build a trail system within the community that connects to a regional trail system. The Ankeny to Woodward Trail Steering Committee secured a $1.75 million Vision Iowa grant to develop the 20 miles of trail and construct one of the world's tallest and longest trail bridges with the project scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2009.
 
  • New York, N.Y. (pop. 8,310,212)
The New York City Parks and Recreation Department will break ground and revamp 221 playgrounds that require improvement throughout the City, while also targeting underdeveloped destination parks for each borough in 2009. This City is also working toward the creation of a public plaza in every community in partnership with non-profit groups, particularly in neighborhoods that lack open space.

The KaBOOM! vision is a great place to play within walking distance of every child. Playful City USA communities create best practices, like the ones above, to reach a similar goal. They serve as role models for other communities and prove that enhancing children's well-being by increasing the opportunity for play is an attainable goal for every community.

"Our country is facing two monumental deficits: a lack of unstructured play among children and a lack of resources to address this very issue," said Darell Hammond, KaBOOM! CEO and Co-founder. "These 93 communities took a stand and determined that the future of their community--their children--deserve a commitment to the cause of play. This is an investment in the future, not an expenditure and cities and towns across the country can replicate initiatives from these Playful City USA communities so that they too can bring play back into the lives of their children."

^ 2009 Harris Interactive Poll

2009 Playful City USA Communities

Allentown, Pa.
*Ankeny, Iowa
Annapolis, Md.
#Arlington, Texas
*Atlanta, Ga.
Auburn, Wash.
Baldwin Park, Calif.
Bismarck, N.D.
#Bloomington, Ind.
#Brentwood, Calif.
Casa Grande, Ariz.
#Cerritos, Calif.
*Chandler, Ariz.
Columbia, Ill.
Columbus, Ohio
Commerce City, Colo.
#Coolidge, Ariz.
Coral Gables, Fla.
Corpus Christi, Texas
*Creedmoor, N.C.
#Danville, Va.
Delray Beach, Fla.
#DeRidder, La.
*Dothan, Ala.
Durham, N.C.
#Encinitas, Calif.
Euless, Texas
Evans, Colo.
#Findlay, Ohio
Fishers, Ind.
*Gilbert, Ariz.
#Grand Prairie, Texas
#Green River, Wyo.
*Greenbelt, Md.
Greensboro, N.C.
Greenville, N.C.
Hamilton, N.J.
#Henderson, Nevada
#Hernando, Miss.
Hilo, Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawaii
#Huntsville, Ala.
Indianapolis, Ind.
*Kenner, La.
*Kerman, Calif.
Killeen, Texas
#La Mesa, Calif.
*Lake Charles, La.
*Lake Worth, Fla.
#Landfall, Minn.
Laramie, Wyo.
Las Cruces, N.M.
#Lauderdale Lakes, Fla.
Laurel, Md.
*Longview, Wash.
#Mercer Island, Wash.
Mesa, Ariz.
Miami Lakes, Fla.
Missoula, Mont.
#Murray, Ky.
#Nampa, Idaho
*New Lenox, Ill.
New Port Richey, Fla.
*New Roads, La.
#New York City, N.Y.
Niagara Falls, N.Y.
*Norfolk, Va.
#Northglenn, Colo.
#Orlando, Fla.
#Palm Bay, Fla.
#Parkland, Fla.
*Phoenix, Ariz.
*Portsmouth, Ohio
Richmond, Ind.
#Riverside, Calif.
#Safety Harbor, Fla.
#St. Petersburg, Fla.
San Antonio, Texas
San Bernardino, Calif.
*San Francisco, Calif.
Sanford, N.C.
*Shirley, Mass.
*Spartanburg, S.C.
#Springdale, Ark.
Takoma Park, Md.
Tempe, Ariz.
Thornton, Colo.
*Tucson, Ariz.
#West Palm Beach, Fla.
Wichita, Kan.
#York, Pa.
#Yorkville, Ill.
*Yuma, Ariz.

*Three-time honoree
# Two-time honoree

2009 Playful City USA Communities by State:
12: Florida
9: Arizona, California
6: Texas
5: North Carolina
4: Colorado, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland
3: Illinois, Ohio, Washington
2: Alabama, Hawaii, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wyoming
1: Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Carolina

Applications for 2010 Playful City USA recognition will be available beginning in the fall of 2009.

The KaBOOM! National Campaign for Play, including the Playful City USA program, is made possible via the support of the Omidyar Network.

About KaBOOM!:
KaBOOM! is a national non-profit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. Since 1995, KaBOOM! has used its innovative community-build model to bring together business and community interests to construct more than 1,600 new playgrounds, skateparks, sports fields and ice rinks across North America. KaBOOM! also offers a variety of resources, including an online community, free online trainings, grants, publications and the KaBOOM! National Campaign for Play, which includes Playful City USA and Playmakers - a national network of individual advocates for play. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., KaBOOM! also has offices in Chicago and San Mateo, Calif. For more information, visit www.kaboom.org.

Contact:
Mike Vietti, KaBOOM!, 202-464-6076 or 202-327-0086

###

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 05:45 0 comments

Sunday, 12 July 2009

Pacific Northwest College of Art Launches the WPA@PNCA: A Creative Approach to Student Leadership and Professional Practice Program Launches In Collaboration with Gerding Edlen Development and Cyan/pdx in Downtown Portland

"The contributions of the WPA have gradually emerged from unawareness. They are drawing renewed attention now, not only for the program's arts and brick-and-mortar legacies but also for its example. The Roosevelt administration placed an extraordinary bet on ordinary people, and the nation realized a remarkable return. The story of the WPA reminds us that the backbone of the United States is the strength, the patience, and the underlying wisdom of its people when they are called upon to face a crisis and are given the means to overcome it."American-Made: The Enduring Legacy of the WPA, Nick Taylor, 2008

Portland, OR (PRWEB) July 13, 2009 -- Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA) today announces the creation of the WPA@PNCA, a unique program to enhance students' capacity for employment, and professional practice, while offering exposure to community service, arts activism and volunteerism.

Building upon the original spirit of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), established in the early 1930's under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this program does not replace existing jobs, but rather, offers financial relief to students and young alumni in support of core projects within the College, creates collaborations within the Portland community and the development of a WPA-society-based student leadership program. The guiding principles that surfaced in discussions surrounding the development of the WPA@PNCA program included creating a culture of pride, respect, professionalism, commitment and a sense of community manifested in professional practice, arts activism and volunteerism.

The first project of the WPA@PNCA is a collaborative initiative with Gerding Edlen Development and their new Cyan/pdx building, located in the heart of downtown Portland. Multifaceted in its approach, the project consists of a site-specific installation in the lobby of Cyan/pdx, led by PNCA faculty member and Portland-based artist, Emily Ginsburg; alumni exhibitions; public programs and the creation of a cultural residency program between the College and Cyan/pdx.

PNCA students and alumni, chosen to participate in the WPA@PCNA program and to represent the College will play a critical role, serving in various capacities assisting in the development, fabrication and installation of the Ginsburg project, participating in the implementation of the public programs and serving as ambassadors and liaisons between PNCA and Cyan/pdx.

"The opportunity to collaborate with PNCA to launch their WPA@PNCA program was a very appealing project for us," states Mark Edlen, principal, Gerding Edlen Development. "Not only does it allow us to support an important student-based initiative, it also creates a vibrant ingredient into the Cyan/pdx community by infusing diverse voices and programming that will intersect with arts, culture and contemporary issues."

During the development phase of the Ginsburg project, the College will mount two alumni exhibitions (September - December) and work in collaboration with Cyan/pdx to host a series of public programs centered on a dual commitment to a progressive living concept that reflects the triple bottom line of sustainability: social, economic and environmental. These conversations, open to the residents of Cyan/pdx, the PNCA community and the greater Portland community will address topics specific to contemporary and cultural issues and include artist talks, presentations, and the development phase of the Ginsburg installation.

"This is an incredible opportunity for our students and the PNCA community as a whole," states Tom Manley, president of PNCA. "As an internationally recognized leader in sustainable development, Gerding Edlen develops creative alternatives to community that advance progressive social and environmental ideals and values. Aligned with PNCA's values to educate our students for a life of creative practice, this initiative allows for the expansion of PNCA's creative footprint into the cultural landscape of Portland while giving our students professional exposure."

Through PNCA's Department of Communications and Public Programs and the Department of Career Advising, additional WPA@PNCA students will document and promote PNCA-Cyan/pdx projects, utilizing such expertise as photography, video, web development and assisting in the installation of the alumni exhibitions and hosting of public programs.

Concurrently with this project, Gerding Edlen and PNCA also announce the formation of a Cultural Residency program, hosting prominent artists, designers, writers and social activists that will enhance the cultural vibrancy of the Cyan/pdx community and the greater Portland community. Those selected for the residency would be invited by PNCA to visit and spend an extended amount of time in Portland to experience the city, immersed within the PNCA community and have interaction with the residents.

The launch of the WPA@PNCA through the PNCA-Cyan/pdx project is the first phase in the continued development of this program for the College. Over the course of the next year PNCA will further explore the expansion of the WPA@PNCA program to include potential funding opportunities to enhance employment opportunities and the development of the student-leadership program.

The intention is to create a replicable model of art activism and volunteerism within an educational institution that challenges and supports professional practice through community engagement. Recently chosen to host an AmeriCorps VISTA Member through Oregon Campus Contact, Melissa Brazeale will join the College to serve as the WPA@PNCA Program Administrator. This position will work alongside members of the College to manage and advance the concept through research and continued discussions within the PNCA community.

About the WPA@PNCA Program
What began as a discussion within a student sounding board discussion in the fall of 2008, has emerged as the WPA@PNCA, a student-oriented initiative to enhance professional opportunities of an advanced expectation that will integrate and complement current efforts for professional practice, academic curriculum, and career advising. This program is manifested in three forms: internal projects, external public-oriented projects, and a WPA-society-based student leadership program.

Approximately 80% of PNCA students work between 15-30 hours a week outside of any financial aid they may receive from the College to offset the cost of their tuition. Many of these part-time jobs are beginning to disappear as the local unemployment rate rises and often these jobs do not match their expertise or add to their body of knowledge in the creative capacity.

About PNCA
Since its founding in 1909, Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA) has become a leader in innovative educational programming that connects students to a global perspective in the visual arts. The College offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in Communication Design, Illustration, Intermedia, General Fine Arts, Painting, Photography, Printmaking and Sculpture. In addition, the College offers a mentor-based MFA in Visual Studies and a new joint MFA in Applied Craft and Design with Oregon College of Art and Craft. PNCA has the oldest continuously running community arts education program in the Northwest. PNCA is actively involved in Portland's cultural programming through exhibitions and a vibrant public program of lectures and visiting artists from around the world in conjunction with its Ford Institute for Visual Education (FIVE).

For more information, visit http://www.pnca.edu.

See Also:

[Via Education]


Medicine Reviews | Pharmacy News | Dirt Cheap Cigarettes
Posted by wolfenstein at 23:45 0 comments
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)