Friday, November 30, 2007

Dr. Ellen Roth to Speak December 18, 07

Former Guest on Positively Pittsburgh Live!

December 18 at James Center in West End, E-Women Networking event.
You can listen to her interview on Positively Pittsburgh Live at:

http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/tscmd/tc/18520



Businesswomen! You can't miss this topic: “What’s Right About Pittsburgh and Our Region"?
We are concerned business women who want to market our businesses effectively, right? Pittsburgh is considered the #1 most livable city in the United States, and as serious women we need to know what sets us apart so that we can provide better services to our clientele. We need to be able to market our businesses locally and nationally in a way that makes people want to know about us and what we do!
After 16 years of successfully promoting our city to recruits and newcomers, Dr. Ellen A. Roth has combined in an informative and entertaining presentation, what people want and need to know about the strengths of our region.
From Dr. Roth we will learn:
The benefits of the high quality of life and the amenities of our region that we all enjoy.
How Pittsburgh’s economy and environment transformed from a smoky steel town to one that is driven by healthcare and education.
How we, as women, can effectively market our Pittsburgh-based businesses nationally and internationally.
Dr. Ellen Roth Ph.D.
Dr. Roth is the President of Getting to the Point, Inc., a premier relocation consulting firm that she co-founded in 1991. Her company assists more than 100 corporations in the Greater Pittsburgh Region recruit and relocate highly sought executives and senior talent.
Ellen Roth began her career studying to be a museum curator. She earned her M.F.A. from Syracuse in Museology (Museum Studies), and her Ph.D. from the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. She has combined her curatorial skills, educational background, and passion for Pittsburgh to create a presentation that spreads the exciting news about all that is good and right about Pittsburgh, and our preeminence as the most livable city in America.
Dr. Roth was recently recognized by the Girl Scouts –Trillium Council as a Woman of Distinction in the category of “Professional Woman.” Governor Ed Rendell also honored her for being among the best 50 Women in Business in Pennsylvania (2003). She is a member of the Allegheny Conference Regional Investors Council, and has published numerous articles on relocation and the advantages of living in the Pittsburgh region.

Sunday, November 25, 2007

SBA Nomination Webinar

Webinar by Positively Pittsburgh Live Guest: Jo Ann R Forrester of Blue Ribbon Profiles

SBA Nomination Webinar

This is the perfect time to showcase a small business owner through the annual U.S. Small Business Administration SBA Awards Program.

Click here to learn 5 EASY STEPS TO WRITING AWARD WINNING PROFILES!
By JoAnn R. Forrester.
Educate yourself before you start your nomination process and make sure your nominee gets noticed!
Award categories include:
Small Business Person of the Year
Small Business Exporter of the Year
SBA Young Entrepreneur
Family-Owned Business of the Year
Woman-Owned Business of the Year
Champion categories include:
Financial Services Champion
Minority Small Business Champion
Veteran Small Business Champion
Home-Based Business Champion
Small Business Journalist Champion
Women in Business Champion
Log on to: www.e-magnify.com/sbanomination
Deadline for Nomination is December 5, 2007.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Entrepreneurial Thursdays Now at: Red Star Tavern, Station Square

LIVE RHYTHM, JAZZ & BLUES
Musical Networking Happy Hour
EVERY THURSDAY!!!
5:30 PM - 8 PM
At Red Star Tavern, Station Square
Hosted by Jazz/R&B Vocalist - Jessica Lee
Cover Charge: Only $5.00!
The "ENTREPRENEURIAL THURDAYS" Happy Hour Show
Live Music by City's Great Jazz/R&B Artists!Interviews @ Musical Break with City's Leading Entrepreneurs/Innovators!Great Business & Professional Networking!
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS:
$2.00 Draft Beer - Over 20 domestics & imports!$3.00 Select Martinis & AppetizersFull bar and dinner selections
THEME FOR NEXT SHOW
November 29, 2007"Health & Wellness Entrepreneurs"Featuring Interviews with:
Astro Teller, Chairman - BodyMedia, Inc. (www.bodymedia.com)Mary Del Brady, President and CEO - RedPath Integrated Pathology Inc. (www.redpathip.com)Will Clower, President - Mediterranean Wellness Inc. (www.fatfallacy.com)Mike Woods, Sales Representative - Charles P. Leach Insurance Agency (www.leachagency.com)
PARTNERS
Platinum Sponsor - Pittsburgh Gateways Corporation
AFTRA
BarSmart
BIOSAFE, Inc.
Chrysler Corp. (SBDC) Duquense University
Eagles Ventures, Inc.
George Mendel Photography
HDJ Associates, Inc.
Human Connections
Latin American Cultral Union
MAKK Strategies
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Pittsburgh Technology Council
Pittsburgh Urban Magnet Project (PUMP)
Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP)
Positively Pittsburgh Live
Sales Star Agency
Seaton Hill University's E-Magnify ®
Sigma Pi Consulting
STAAR Funds
Technical Products & Supply
TiePGH-Pittsburgh Chapter of The Indus Entrepreneurs
Vistage
Womens Independent Press/Women's Yellow Pages

Contracting Opportunities--School District of Pittsburgh

Paula B. Castleberry
Minority/Women Business Coordinator
341 S. Bellefield Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
P : (412) 622-3733
F : (412) 622-7910
www.pps.k12.pa.us

OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT
THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION
OF THE
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH

Sealed proposals shall be addressed to and deposited with Mr. Richard R. Fellers, Chief Operations Officer, at the School District of Pittsburgh Administration Building, Room 251, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, January 4, 2008, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time, for the following Projects. Work on all Projects shall be started no later than ten (10) days after the execution of a Contract with the Owner or as otherwise directed in writing:

PITTSBURGH CLASSICAL ACADEMY MIDDLE/PITTSBURGH GIFTED CENTER, Project No. MS07-132-33 – Removal of existing duct liner and installation of new duct liner in outside air and mixed air plenums for air handling units S-1 and S-5. The Contractor shall be prepared to start the on-site work as early as May 1, 2008 or as late as June 30, 2008 at no additional cost to the Owner. The entire work shall be complete, ready for use, forty-five (45) calendar days after the start of the on-site work.

PITTSBURGH FORT PITT PREK-5, RESTROOM RENOVATIONS, Project No. BI02-103(B)-31/32/33/34 – General, Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Prime Contractor cost proposals are requested. The work consists of, but is not necessarily limited to, the demolition and reconstruction of three stacked, gang toilet rooms and two individual, separate toilet rooms located on three floors. Asbestos abatement will be required and shall be included under the General contract. The Contractor shall be prepared to start the on-site work as early as June 10, 2008 or as late as July 10, 2008 at no additional cost to the Owner. The entire work shall be complete, ready for use, one hundred forty (140) calendar days after the start of the on-site work.

PITTSBURGH OLIVER HIGH SCHOOL, WINDOW REPLACEMENT, Project No. BE07-104-13 – Remove and replace exterior windows and doors as shown and detailed in the contract documents. Also included in this work will be the replacement of all window blinds, the removal, cleaning, painting and reinstallation of the window security screens, and all related patching and painting. The Contractor shall be prepared to start the on-site work as early as June 10, 2008 or as late as July 30, 2008 at no additional cost to the Owner. The entire work shall be complete, ready for use, two hundred forty (240) days after the start of the on-site work.

CUPPLES STADIUM, INSTALLATION OF NEW UNIT HEATERS, Project No. MS07-140-33 – The HVAC Contractor shall provide and install new unit heaters, modifications to existing unit heaters, heating piping/insulation, ductwork/insulation, controls and electrical work.

PITTSBURGH KING PREK-8, INSTALLATION OF UNIT VENTILATORS, Project No. MS07-147-33/34 – Work involves Mechanical and Electrical Contractors for the installation of new unit ventilators (pre-purchased by Owner), modifications to existing cabinet unit heaters and fan coil units, heating piping/insulation, new relief fan, ductwork/insulation, controls and related electrical work.

The Contractors on the above Cupples and King Projects shall be prepared to start the on-site work as early as June 18, 2008 or as late as July 18, 2008 at no additional cost to the Owner. The entire work shall be complete, ready for use, sixty (60) days after the start of the on-site work.

PITTSBURGH CAPA HIGH SCHOOL, KILN ROOM VENTILATION, Project No. MS06-119-33 – Installation of new exhaust fan, chimney fan, ductwork and grille. ATC sub-contractor to provide and install controls. Provide all testing and balancing sub-contractor work required. All electrical sub-contractor work, including circuit breakers, power wiring and conduit required. Shop drawings, cut sheets, wiring diagrams, As-Build drawings. Operation and maintenance manuals – Instruction to Owner – 3 copies. This is a re-bid.

PITTSBURGH PEABODY HIGH SCHOOL, CHILLER ROOM DRAINAGE, Project No. MS08-118-32 – Install new trench drains and floor drain in Chiller Room, new duplex sump pump control panel, and switch sump pumps to normal emergency power.

PITTSBURGH ROONEY 6-8, WATER LINE REPLACEMENT, Project No. MS07-148-32 – Replace existing water line service. ***Will open on January 29, 2008.

VARIOUS SCHOOLS, PAVING, Project No. GI07-107(A)-31/32 – General and Plumbing proposals are requested for asphalt paving of Pittsburgh Brookline K-8 School play field and Pittsburgh Allegheny School K-5 parking. The opening of this Project is extended from November 27, 2007 to January 4, 2008.

The Contractors on the above CAPA, Rooney, Peabody, and Various Schools Projects shall be prepared to start the on-site work as early as June 23, 2008 or as late as June 30, 2008 at no additional cost to the Owner. The entire work shall be complete, ready for use, forty-five (45) calendar days after the start of the on-site work.

PITTSBURGH FORT PITT PREK-5, WATER LINE REPLACEMENT, Project No. MS07-146-32 – Replace existing water line service. The Contractor shall be prepared to start the on-site work as early as June 23, 2008 or as late as June 30, 2008 at no additional cost to the owner. The entire work shall be complete, ready for use, fifty-four (54) calendar days after the start of the on-site work.

Separate bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Board Room, Second Floor, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 at 2:00 P.M.

Each bid shall be signed, sealed and accompanied by a certified check, a cashier’s check or the bid bond of an approved Surety Company licensed to do business in the Commonwealth of PA in an amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount of the base bid proposal. Check or bond shall be drawn in favor of the School District of Pittsburgh.

No Bidder may withdraw his or her bid for a period of one hundred twenty (120) days after the date set for the opening of bids unless extended by the mutual written consent of the Contracting Body and the Bidder. Thirty (30) day extensions of the date for the award of the Contract may be made by the mutual written consent of the Owner and the Bidder.

Project Manual and Drawings for bidding purposes may be obtained by the Contractors at the Facilities Office, 1305 Muriel Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. The office may be contacted by Phone 412-488-4306 or Fax 412-488-4340. On or after November 16, 2007 a deposit between $10.00 and $100.00, in cashier’s check or money order, may be made for one set of the Project Manuals and Drawings. The deposit will be refunded to Bidders only upon submission of a bona fide bid and the return of the Project Manuals and Drawings, including Addenda, to the Owner in reusable condition within ten (10) days after the date of the opening of bids; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited. A second set of the construction Project Manuals and Drawings may be obtained upon an additional refundable deposit .

Notice is given that the Project for which construction bids are being solicited hereby is a Project constituting public works and is subject to applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act, Act of August 15, 1961, P.L. 987, as amended and supplemented, and appropriate prevailing minimum wage rates as promulgated under provisions of said Act must be paid by Contractors in connection with performance of the necessary work.
The School District of Pittsburgh reserves the right to waive any informalities in bids, or to reject any or all bids.
By Order of The Board of Public Education

Mark Roosevelt
Superintendent of Schools and Secretary


WE ARE AN EQUAL RIGHTS AND OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Positively Pittsburgh Live Sponsors Technology Conference

Technocrats Teach Technology Tools at Duquesne SBDC Technology Conference
Pennsylvania Business Technology Conference
on December 6, 2007.

Experts to Share Sales-Driving Strategies & Technologies

ü Is your Web site generating the business that it should?
ü Want to learn how to utilize affordable and fast eMail marketingeffectively to secure new business?
ü Are you utilizing the latest sales tools that can help you close morebusiness quicker and strengthen customer relationships?

Are you interested in learning how you can drives sales with new medialike eNewsletters, blogs and talk casts?Learn how today’s technologies are helping successful companies cut costs and drives constantly increasing sales!Don’t miss the Pennsylvania Business Technology Conference onDecember 6th.

· 11 information-packed, expert-led workshops
· Keynote address by John Clinton, The 10 Greatest Myths of the Internet
· Talk Shoe Developer, Dave Nelson on Pod casting for Profit table
· Business Technology Roundtable & Showcase


Register today!For full workshop, speaker and discount registration information,

Visit www.conference.duq.edu.

Pittsburgh's 1st Annual Soul Day

SOUL DAY FEEDBACK

Soul Day was off the hook! I enjoyed myself immensely and it was souplifting to support our black entrepreneurs. Please plan to holdanother event like this in the future! I will definitely be there,along with my friends and whomever I can bring with me. People complainthat Pittsburgh doesn't have anything to offer, but this event was veryreminiscent of events I have attended in Baltimore, New York, andPhiladelphia. Keep up the good work!
J'Aira Pryor

I had a great time at the Soul Day event. This was my first time atsomething like this. My mother lives close to the Kingsley, so I toldher we should go check it out. At first she did not want to go, butwhen we got there, I could not get her to leave. I enjoyed the poetryand dancers. (My mother was out there line dancing) LOL. The food wasgreat. There were a lot of businesses and services I did not knowabout. I have already convinced the women in my family and friends todo a spa party. I am so happy that I took time out to experience thisbeautiful and informative event. My mother thanks you also.
Lakesha C.

I was a vendor at Soul Day, and I really had a great time. I made my money back,that's always a big plus for me, along with getting quality, affordable productsfrom black owned companies into the hands of our folks, I like to say buy (by) Us,For Us.....Thanks for inviting Revelations & Reflections to be a part of the 1st annual Soul Day. Kim Allen, Owner


Soul Day had the most wonderful vibe. The mix of people, products, services and entertainment did the soul good. Thank you and we are looking forward to next year.
Celeta H.


My husband, "The Cookie Man" and I were vendors at "Soul Day" and we had a greattime! The folks that stopped by our table were so nice. Prior to the event, we hadE-mailed or mailed flyers to family and friends, inviting them to come. Quite a fewcame out and supported us. This was our first venture and it was quite a success!We're thinking about participating at the "African American Holiday Celebration" inWilkinsburg on Dec. 8th. Look for us there. Thank you soooooo much for "The Soul Pitt". I tell everyone about it. Thank you soooo much for the wonderful concept that was "Soul Day".
We look forward to participating next year!
Yours Truly, Deborah C. Tyler


I don't know where to begin with my comments about Soul day.
It was a BEAUTIFUL DAY!! I have shared with Donna how some people have the
ability to influence others. The ability to inspire, motivate and join you as you go forward with your goals; sometimes hold your hands if necessary. Some one who could be in politics and remain faithful to the cause. I saw some old friends and made some new ones.
We laughed, joked and helped one another. Most importantly we NETWORKED. I was so blessed to see such a successful event take place in the city if Pittsburgh. The atmosphere was joyous, peaceful and inspiring. The food was off the hook, and the jewelry and clothes were beautiful. I bought beautiful Christmas gifts at great prices. I was able to find a new accountant for my business as well as someone to increase my knowledge of investments.Sadly other than church you rarely see or hear of people of color getting together (especially when $ is involved) with no fighting. Thankfully I can recount that day to those who could not attend and proudly proclaim that we (as a people) came together for a cause other than a funeral or Sunday services with nothing but the angels in flight blessing and serving their people with nothing but peace and prosperity in the atmosphere!There were vendors from all over who looked like me and that in itself was a blessing. I love The Soul Pitt and The Soul Pitt family. Its an old school support system with today's technology under its wings. I am proud to be a part of it.HOTEP! (Egyptian for peace and prosperity to you)Dana of www.danasstylingsalon.com


WOW, Pittsburgh sure does have a lot of Soul, which was evidenced by thelarge turnout on Soul Day. I thoroughly enjoyed myself & took advantageof some of the specials offered @ the event. I purchased an autographedcopy of the book by Rev. Sinclair Grey, III, new hair products, jewelryfrom Avon, had my eyebrows done, etc. I even have a new florist topatronize in the future. That is what Soul Day is all about...patronizing Soulful businesses & building relationships.Thank you Donna & the Soul Pitt Staff for such a wonderful event!Jackey

Thank you to the Vendors that Participated!
A Woman's Touch Fashions
Lovely Creations
Aisha's Beauty Salon
Mia Bella Scented Candles
Allegheny County
Minority Network Exchange
Artists & Entertainers Table
Monica's Ethnic Treasures
August Wilson Center
myEcon Financial Services East
Avon
Peal Center
Biko
Penny Smith
Carla Brower
Premier Designs
Carnegie Museum of Art
PrePaid Legal
Carol's Creative Concepts
Pure Romance Parties by Debra
Cherished Journeys
Red, Black, and Green Flags
Corlew Images
Rev. Sinclair Grey, III
Cotton and Fox Creations
Revelations & Reflections
Dana's Styling Salon
Sandage Photography
Darnise Wilkes
Send Out Cards
Deborah C. Tyler
Soul Pitt Media
Denise Moore
Southwestern Pennsylvania Commissions Commute Info Program
Ms. K's Soul Rolls
The New Pittsburgh Courier
Donna and Ernie Bey
The Marriage Works
Ebony Excellence
Thelma White
F.I.A.R.E Custom Baskets
Thomas and Thomas Travel.com
Gibsons Restaurant& Take Out
Time-Out Ministries, Inc
Gifts & More by Aisha
The Ultimate Beauty Spa
Granny Marshall
United First Financial
Hamm Enterprising
UR T's N me Custom Imprinters
Hot Cards
Vacation 4 All Travel
House of Mudd Enterprise
Vells Gifts/Comic Books
Kalawentz Natural
World of Serenity Spa& Wellness Center
Kelly e. Parker
YTB Travel Network &Katydid Tours
Keturah's Emporium
YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh
Lorretta Goodwin
Stong Cleaners
Click here to see the entire collection of Soulful Pics from the 1st Annual Soul Day!

Monday, November 19, 2007

Pittsburgh 250 Newsletter, November, 2007

Pittsburgh 250 newsletter - November
From: Jim Rohr (jrohr@alleghenyconference.org)


We officially launched Pittsburgh 250 last week at the Allegheny Conference on Community Development’s Annual Meeting. This celebration of the naming of the region is an opportunity to encourage people inside and outside our region to imagine a bright future here. Over the next 14 months, we will follow in the footsteps of George Washington and countless others who travelled to our region to make history, pioneering advancements in industry, education, technology, medicine, the environment and the arts. Together, we celebrate our region’s world changing heritage as we prepare for the next 250 years and beyond.


With this eNewsletter, we want to keep you informed of the many exciting programs, events and initiatives that comprise the Pittsburgh 250 celebration. If you’ve been receiving the newsletter regularly, you know that I enjoy providing facts about the region that make us proud to be from southwestern Pennsylvania. I encourage you to share this information with others.


James E. Rohr, Pittsburgh 250th Anniversary Commission



!Imagine That! A Fact About Our Region For more than a century, Pittsburgh has been one of the nation’s top corporate centers. We remain so. More than 100 companies with global revenues of a billion-dollars-or-more maintain headquarter operations in the Pittsburgh region, make southwestern Pennsylvania a growing center for headquarters, business services (legal, accounting, HR) and back office support. Headquarters-related employment is growing here at a rate far higher than the national average. Plans Announced for Region’s 250th Anniversary Celebration honors regions past, present and future.



Last week during the Allegheny Conference Annual Meeting, community leaders unveiled plans for the year-long celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the naming of the region, a series of events and initiatives to honor Pittsburgh’s past, and position the area for a promising future. Calling on residents to participate in an array of cultural and outdoor events, leaders say the anniversary is an opportunity to showcase how the 14-county area helped shape the nation. The goals are to spur economic development, boost travel and tourism, and change the way locals see the region. The Pittsburgh 250 celebration encompasses three strategic projects, three grand opening events, and three grass roots initiatives, all under the theme “Pittsburgh 250: Imagine What You Can Do Here.” Already underway is the $35 million renovation spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Riverlife Task Force of Point State Park, a 36-acre National Historic landmark at the confluence of Pittsburgh’s three rivers.


Much of the celebration will be built around the region’s role in American history; starting at its early days as a key colonial outpost to its industrial prowess during the early 20th century, and on to Pittsburgh’s current status as one of the most livable places in the United States. The anniversary celebration will highlight two historic trails, the Forbes Trail connecting Pittsburgh to Philadelphia and the Great Allegheny Passage, linking the region to Washington, DC. Forged by Forbes and Washington during the French and Indian War, the Forbes Trail – the 450-mile route they followed from Philadelphia west – will be memorialized in a new heritage tourism driving guide. It will also serve as the route for an elite six-day cycling race sponsored by American Eagle Outfitters Inc. and presented by Highmark Healthy High 5. Beginning on June 24th in Philadelphia and ending on June 29th in Pittsburgh, the Tour of Pennsylvania will wind through some of western Pennsylvania’s oldest towns, including Carlisle, Bedford, and Ligonier.


The 250th anniversary of the naming of the region will also salute local communities and the people that contribute to our region’s heritage. Among three grass roots initiatives, a community effort spearheaded by the non-profit Sprout Fund will allot $1million to fund neighborhood projects and events under the theme of “Pride and Progress.” More than 500 groups have sought funding. Grants will be announced in December.
James E. Rohr, Chairman of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, PNC Financial Services Group welcomes the Allegheny Conference on Community Development Board, Regional Investors Council ,guests and staff to the Annual meeting.
Michele Fabrizi, President and Chief Executive Officer, MARC USA.


Thanks to Pittsburgh Civic Light Orchestra, Col. George Washington and General John Forbes helped launch the Pittsburgh 250 Celebration. Reunions and Homecoming News Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History has opened registration for Re-Union: World’s Largest Wedding Vow Renewal Ceremony. Being held on Sunday, February 10, 2008, Re-Union will attempt to set the Guinness World Record for simultaneous renewal of wedding vows and is available only to the first 700 couples to register. The cost is $30 per couple. To register, visit: http://members.carnegiemuseums.org/vowrenewal.


Festivity filled the air at the Benedum Center in late October as 50 former dancers from Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) took their own curtain call after the final performance of Don Quixote. Celebrating 38 years of PBT history, the Benedum audience thrilled as current Artistic Director, Terrence Orr introduced former directors Patricia Wilde, Patrick Frantz, and PBT founding director Nicholas Petrov. Following the performance, more than 250 invited guests gathered for a reunion, reception and to renew friendships. Pittsburgh Ballet Theater’s reunion was so successful that plans are now underway for the 40th anniversary in 2009. The Reunions and Homecoming Committee is co-chaired by Esther Bush and Jeff Letwin. To date, dozens of organizations have scheduled meetings, homecomings and reunions that are expected to bring at last 50,000 visitors to our region next year.


Tour of PA Forms Local Organizing Committees Mayor Luke Ravenstahl greeted more than 60 volunteers from across the region who met last week to form two Local Organizing Committees (LOCs) that will promote and support the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania presented by Highmark Healthy High 5. Jim Roddey was introduced as co-chair of the Pittsburgh LOCs. Six LOCs are being formed across the state for the event, which is expected to attract more than 500,000 spectators at the race and the Highmark Healthy High 5® Festivals over six days (June 24-29).


Pittsburgh 250 Celebrates with Light Up Night Hundreds of people visited the Pittsburgh 250 booth during Light Up Night on November 16 to pose for photographs and learn about the year-long celebration. A special thanks to Carol Jacobelli, Bridget Laero, James Laero, Nathan Laero, Susan Meneghini, Patricia Quolke, Nova Rubio, Sarah Shepard, Amy Tweten, Brandon West, Judy West, Paulette Zanotti who helped to make Light Up Night a great success. Visit the photo gallery the week of November 26 at imaginepittsburgh.com by clicking on “250 News.”


The Dinosaurs Are Back! The Carnegie Museums are opening the doors to what is quite simply the best dinosaur exhibit anywhere, Dinosaurs in Their Time. The completely renovated and expanded dinosaur hall was recently featured on ABC World News Tonight and is expected to draw visitors to our region from around the world throughout next year and well into the future. More than 20,000 Carnegie Museum members attended the four-day preview. Congratulations to everyone at the Carnegie for bringing a major new attraction to our region.


Our Region is Boss When It Comes to Robots Carnegie Mellon University is celebrating a $2 million dollar win. Boss, the latest machine to roll out of the Robotics Institute, won the DARPA Urban Challenge earlier this month, successfully navigating California streets and traffic faster than any other robot, and more safely, too. Boss Rules! And so does the Pittsburgh region when it comes to autonomous machines. Stay Posted •


To stay posted on Pittsburgh 250 news, visit www.imaginepittsburgh.com. • To submit your community event, click on 250 Celebration. Select Submit Calendar Event; complete form and click submit event. • For the most up-to-day information on Pittsburgh 250 events, visit the online calendar of events at: http://www.imaginepittsburgh.com.


Mark Your Calendar French and Indian War Re-enactors will join the Celebrate The Seasons Holiday Parade on Saturday, November 24, 2007, from 9:00 – 11:00 AM. Pittsburgh 250 is more than a birthday party. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to encourage people inside and outside our region to imagine a bright future here. The strategic plan is grounded in an important milestone in American history, the 1758 Forbes Campaign that led to the naming of Pittsburgh, and the founding of Bedford, Ligonier and other communities west of Carlisle.


Imaginepittsburgh.com 412 392-2401

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Stevie Awards Finalist in Pittsburgh

[pittsburghwomensnetworking] A Special Announcement from Single Steps Strategies
From: pittsburghwomensnetworking@yahoogroups.com on behalf of Sara Durzo (sdurzo@singlestepsstrategies.com)

Sent:
Tue 11/13/07 8:04 PM
To:
Sara Durzo (sdurzo@singlestepsstrategies.com)
I am pleased to announce that Mary Grace Musuneggi, Executive Director of Single Steps Strategies, was a finalist for the 2007 Stevie Awards in the category of “Women Helping Women.”
The Stevie Awards were created to honor and generate public recognition of the efforts, accomplishments, and positive contributions of companies and business people worldwide. Beginning with The American Business Awards in 2002, The International Business Awards in 2003, The Stevie Awards for Women in Business in 2004, and The Selling Power Sales Excellence Awards in 2006, their mission is to raise the profile of exemplary companies and individuals among the press, the business community, and the general public. In short, the Stevie has become one of the world's most coveted awards. The New York Post called the Stevies "the business world's own Oscar Awards."
Representing The Musuneggi Financial Group, Mary Grace was among finalists such as UPS, Hewlett Packard and The Whirlpool Corporation.
Please log onto www.stevieawards.com for more information on this prestigious award.

Friday, November 16, 2007

For those Interested in Tea in Pittsburgh

Laura was to be a guest on Positively Pittsburgh Live when we did our show on tea in Pittsburgh but she had a scheduling conflict so I thought I would include some tea tips form her newsletter. I am sure she has more up to date newsletters but I was partial to this one because I have a brother who is a "tea snob" and perhaps you know one too and this may help you to choose between loose tea and tea bags. All of our wonderful social events around travelling tea and tea rooms is just another one of the Positive things about Pittsburgh.


Home is where the Tea is Newsletter
How to complement your tea with flowers
412-956-1857 www.kacyhometeas.com
September 2007

Welcome to the new version of Tea Tips!! from Home is where the Tea is, the area's most complete and private tea service. With Home is where the Tea is, YOUR tea pleasure begins with YOU choosing the event, the location, the theme (English style or Urban-chic), and the menu from many options including pastries from The Cafe at the Frick!
What is there to not love about attending a tea? Beauty has been planned for your pleasure, with the hostess and myself choosing the theme, china, linens, menu, and entertainment. The hostess 'sets the stage' and then is able to relax while we set it up, present the tea, and clean it up! You have the position of esteemed guest.
Sumptuous foods await your guests whether you choose the elegant English style, or the edgy and young "Contemporary Urban-chic" (go to www.kacyhometeas.com for details)


Items of Interest!
Recipe : Pear & Stilton Tea Sandwiches
Loose tea Steeping Guidelines
Great discount sales!
A World of TEA: classes!!


RECIPE: Elegant Pear & Stilton Tea Sandwich!
This sandwich must be made the day of your tea- pears ripen quickly

Chop 2 firm but ripe pears- one green and one red is beautiful! Coat with lemon juice
Crumble 6 ounces of Stilton Cheese into pears, add 3T Miracle Whip of similar dressing, 4 oz of chopped pecans.
Scoop mixture onto diagonal slices of Asiago Bread, and garnish with a whole pecan



Loose leaf tea vs. tea bags:
It is largely convenience, but true tea enthusiasts go with loose leaf only. It is necessary to have either an infuser or filter, but it makes the tea experience more authentic. Now you can use an infuser or filter into the pot to contain your tea. Either must be large enough to allow the tea leaves to expand, in fact 2 tea filters (tea balls) is recommended for 6 cup teapots. It is not advisable to use the ones made of ‘pot metal’ as they can leave a very metallic taste. Using boiling water, allow the tea to steep (brew) for 3-5 minutes. Timing is more preferable to watching the color of the tea! Then conveniently remove the filter/infuser, and proceed to pour! A tea cozy will keep your tea warm in the pot.

Mario Lemieux Auction

This was sent to me by a member of Pittsburgh Women's Networking and while I plan to use it in the Positively Pittsburgh Live News in the first 15 minutes of the talk cast, thought I would get it out right now. Good stuff! Great cause!


The Mario Lemieux Foundation's Bid for 66 Online Auction runs November 18-28, 2007 at www.mariolemieux.org.
New items will be added each day during this special 10-day online auction comprised of memorabilia from some of the most recognizable names in sports. All proceeds benefit the cancer and other medical research initiatives of the Mario Lemieux Foundation.

  • The following is a sample of items that are available during the Bid for 66 online auction:-
  • Mario Lemieux autographed memorabilia, including a game-used stick, 2007-style
  • Penguins jersey, Penguins throwback jersey and much more Game-
  • used memorabilia from the Pittsburgh Penguins, including
  • a Sidney Crosby stick,
  • Gary Roberts jersey,
  • Marc-Andre Fleury goalie glove,
  • Sergei Gonchar helmet and Evgeni Malkin glove – each item is autographed!-
  • Autographed items from the superstars of hockey, including Jaromir Jagr, Eric Staal, Jarome Iginla and Joe Sakic
  • Autographed items from the Pittsburgh Steelers, including jerseys from Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, Jeff Reed and Daniel Sepulveda-
  • Additional autographed items from LeBron James, Phil Mickelson, David Ortiz, Greg Maddux, Brett Favre, Charles Barkley, Mark Messier and many, many more-
  • Golf shirts, sweaters, jackets and hats from the Mario Lemieux Celebrity Invitational golf tournament – perfect gifts for the sports fan on your holiday list!
  • Over 80 auction items in all!
  • Log on to www.mariolemieux.org
  • each day for new items and the latest updates.
  • Thank you for your support of the Mario Lemieux Foundation All proceeds benefit the medical research initiatives of the Mario Lemieux Foundation.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Events by Recent Guests

Events from some of my recent guests:


Calling all KIDS! Calling all KIDS! Calling all KIDS!
The Manchester Tea Room is
hosting:
Tea with Mrs. Claus
Saturday, December 1, 2007
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
For ticket information contact
The Manchester Tea
Room at
(412) 736-8700 or
www.themanchestertearoom.com

Monday, November 12, 2007

Pittsburgh Authors Profile: Bonnie Budzcowski, Nov. 12, 2007 Episode 35

Some info on Bonnie's Books:
If you want to maximize the opportunities and minimize the risks in presenting, this book is for you! You’ll learn 86 easy-to-grasp tips from a veteran presenter and coach. $12.00

More information and order at http://www.incrediblemessages.com/
“Kudos on your book Clickety Clack: 86 Ways to Keep Your Speech on Track. (Great title) It's well organized and packed with pithy tips that will help readers give better presentations.” Sam Horn,author of Tongue Fu! and POP! Stand Out in any Crowd

Discover 66 practical tips to e-mails, letters, proposals and presentations that capture attention and get results!
$12.00

More information and order at http://www.incrediblemessages.com/
“She truly knows how to engage an audience and make learning a pleasure. Bonnie is a real pro!” Maureen MurrayPresident, Maureen Murray Associates

If you are like most people, you find networking awkward and artificial. You wish you had a simple system to follow to success. Look no farther. In this CD, you can follow along as Bonnie reveals her secrets to success!More information and order at http://www.incrediblemessages.com/
Passion and expertise give Bonnie the ability to make a quick impact.Ken Carlson, Retired Supervisory Special Agent, FBI

Pittsburgh Authors--November 12, 07 Guest Profile-Bette Novak

Bette Z. Novak is an expert in human resource and organization development in both the public, non-profit and private sectors. Currently, Bette is a personal and business development coach and owner of a woman owned coaching and consulting company called LifePath Associates LLC. Bette has 20 plus years experience coaching leaders and organizations to higher performance in the government and corporate organizations. LifePath Associates LLC has been in business for over five years.


Bette and her coaching clients believe in the power of synergy—the coming together of people, resources and opportunity that helps you move forward to carry out and succeed in achieving your goals. Her success with her clients comes from helping them look outside their comfort zones and encouraging them to explore new options and opportunities that they overlooked and were afraid to challenge alone.


Bette and her associates help individual clients develop personal action plans that optimize their talents and assets as well as support their need for a healthy balanced lifestyle. LifePath Associates LLC helps their business clients explore and expand their options, so they identify opportunities that will make them exceptionally competitive in their field or industry and therefore more profitable. If they find that their organizations require reorganizing or a mid-course correction, then Bette and her associates bring a multitude of organization change and effectiveness tools for building high performing teams, visionary leaders and effective supervisors and employees.


Most importantly, Bette is passionate about helping others succeed. She has focused most of her efforts toward helping women entrepreneurs use innovative ways to expand their business from solo practitioner or independent professional to a larger business. She is committed to keep her knowledge up-to-date, so she can share it with her coaching clients.

She plans for her Lunch and Learn System™, the first in her business development product line that her clients can use and benefit from in their business.

Bette sustains her passion and dedication to developing leadership and high organization performance in all levels of government. She dedicates part of her time as Secretary and Vice President of a virtual non-profit organization, The Public Sector Consortium, established in 2006 and headquartered in Cambridge, MA.

EDUCATION

§ Masters Degree of Human Resource Management, Marymount University
§ Masters Degree of Education, Georgia State University
§ Bachelor of Arts, Agnes Scott College

CERTIFICATIONS

§ Leadership and Organizational Learning Coach - International Coaching Federation training program, George Washington University and George Mason University/Newfield Network Inc.
§ Certified Teleclass Leader, Teleclass International Inc.
§ Certified Retirement Coaching, Retirement Options Inc.
§ Qualified Personality Type Indicator - MBTI and DISC
§ Interaction Management Training, Develop Dimensions International

PUBLICATIONS

7 Steps to Uniquely Market Your Business: A Lunch and Learn System™ That Gives Your More Time to Attract Your Ideal Client and Increase Your Income$ (2007)
“The New Silent Partners: Business Coaches Mean Profits, Part I,” Newsletter (2007)
“The New Silent Partner: You Hired A Business Coach – Now What? Part II,” Newsletter (2007)
“High Performing Federal Agencies” (Co-Author 1996)


PUBLIC SPEAKING AND CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

!990 – 2001
American Society for Training National Conferences
Federal Quality Institute Conference
Training Officers Conference
Chesapeake Bay Organization Development Network
USAID Conference

2002- 2007
Association of Federal Human Resource Managers Conference
USDA Grad School (Senior Executive Service Candidate Workshop)
Training Officers Conference
Business Network International
Women’s Business Network
Monroeville Area Chamber of Commerce

www.lifepathcentral.com

Saturday, November 10, 2007

ORIGINS OF POSITIVELY PITTSBURGH LIVE TALK CAST

When I first started to do TalkCasts on Talk Shoe, I did I to promote the local events of the National Association of Women Business Owners, Greater Pittsburgh Chapter. I was then the Public Relations Chair and thought it was a great use of technology to get us some PR in the community.


I really thought that someone else would step up to the plate and do the interviewing but when no volunteer was forthcoming, I decided to start my own show and as I played with titles that all sounded too much like venues already in existence I decided on Positively Pittsburgh and Live just was added because I wanted to let listeners know that Pittsburgh was a LIVE city.
My first shows were just that Round Table Discussions that centered around an event that NAWBO was staging.


EPISODE1 - Pittsburgh--Why We Love It, Make the Connection NAWBO—The chairperson of the NAWBO 7th Annual Make the Connection Luncheon and I talked about what Make the Connection was all about and how we honored forty volunteers, unsung heroes from the Pittsburgh Area. What could be more positive about Pittsburgh than the volunteer spirit of Pittsburgh. But Maureen Ciorolla and I were the only two people who showed up for the show and then we talked also about all of the wonderful things that we loved about Pittsburgh. We had great fun that night but there were only two of us on the maiden voyage of Positively Pittsburgh Live.
ADDITIONAL INFO AT: www.nawbopittsburgh.org


Likewise, the next show was about a NAWBO Pittsburgh Event-- EPISODE2- Girls Going Places Conference & Chatham Center Women Entrepreneurship. This show was really a lot of fun and really molded the rountable interview style of the show. On the call were Ann Flynn Schlicht from the Chatham Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship and Beth Greshock. Ann is from Ireland and gave us a real slant on how the town she came from and Pittsburgh were very similar. Two additional guests were Carol Hurley and Diane Yee of Hurley Associates, who are Guardian Insurance Subsidiaries and Guardian is the company that sponsors Girls Going Places along with NAWBO National who underwrites.


Girls Going Places is a day long annual conference where girls 12 to 18 can share the entrepreneurial experience for a day. This was the first time in Pittsburgh and only 12 other cities in the United States had these type of conferences, something else to be proud of in Pittsburgh.

Additional info at: http://www.guardianlife.com/womens_channel/girls_going_places/girls_going_places.html