Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Positively Pittsburgh Live! News 09-15-14 Events in Cultural Trust & Jobs for Veterans


Positively Pittsburgh Live! News 09-15-14
Events in Cultural Trust & Jobs for Veterans
Listen to the show online HERE

PPL Co-Host
Megan Grabowski
Employed 6 + years as an office manager and service writer for a small automotive repair garage. I am a December 2013 Cum Laude Graduate from Carlow University, where I earned my bachelor's degree in Professional Writing, a minor in mass media communications and a certificate in grant writing. My free time is spent as a volunteer for numerous community ventures including the Carlynton Council of GSWPA. I am interested in opportunities that will allow me to explore the more creative side to my communication expertise, such as copy writing, advertising or public relations. I am comfortable speaking in front of groups, am enamored by the power and reach of social media and am a thorough researcher and fact checker. I possess impeccable customer service skills, whether it be face-to-face via the telephone or electronically. I work well independently and collaboratively and am excited to explore new opportunities.

Megan does the set up for the PositivelyPittsburgh Post Script which goes out every week and also has come on as the Marketing Director for Positive Pittsburghers which you can join for free at: http://positivepittsburghers.com.

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY?
Dean's Diner on Rte 22 Blairsville, Jim Palmer's Dream Business Academy,
Clarion Hotel at Philadelphia Airport, and Roman Bistro in Forest Hills

POSITIVELY PITTSBURGHER SPONSORED EVENTS
WIN Professional Development Day  |  The Authors' Zone 1st Annual Awards Ceremony

CULTURAL CLUES
Dirty Dancing and The Balancing Act Are Back Again  |  Fall Fun in September  |  Arts Day of Giving  |  Jackie Evancho Returns Return to Pittsburgh Next Spring  |  Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme  |  National Recognition for Bricolage Production Company  |  Ballet Hispano Classico Classes  |  Irving Berlin's White Christmas  |  2014–2015 Pittsburgh Dance Council Season

KIDZ KORNER:  Kids Without Kicks Golf Fundraiser

WOMEN AND GIRLS ACHIEVEMENT:  Operation Jumpstart - A Business Feasibility Class

BUSINESS BUZZ
Pittsburgh Gains Another Top Accolade  |  Mayor William Peduto Announces Transformational Plans for Hill District  |  Ribbon Cutting Ceremony or its RIDC Park West Expansion  |  Burgh Biz Showcase - Consultants & Young Professionals

HIGH SCHOOL and UNIVERSITY NEWS
New App Helps College Students Pinpoint Their Career Qualities  |  LaunchCMU: Roboburgh, the Sequel

PITTSBURGH HISTORICAL STUFF:  Hear Chamber Music at Historic Old St. Luke's

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY BLACKTIE PITTSBURGH
STAND UP for STANDING FIRM 2014 Awards Luncheon  |  World Gratitude Day Pittsburgh  |  3rd Annual Power of Laughter Health Workshop & Comedy Luncheon

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS:  African-American Heritage Day Parade

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS
Steve Peck  |  Nicole  |  Jessica Schlie  |  Kelly Coleman  |  Gia Tatone  |  Tomlyn Ward

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT
Of Mice and Men  |  Dean's Diner, Rte 22 Blairsville  |  Jim Palmer's Dream Business Academy  |  Clarion Hotel at Philadelphia Airport  |  Roman Bistro, Forest Hills

PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS:  Pitt Football Notebook: Three Panthers Honored

PITTSBURGH GOOD NEWS FORUM:  Getting Your Basic Needs Through Barter

VETERANS VET and MILITARY METTLE:  Jobs for Pittsburgh Veterans: WeHireHeroes.US

POSITIVELY PITTSBURGHER SPONSORED EVENTS

WIN Professional Development Day
Wednesday, October 15, 2014  |  7:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Gaetano’s Restaurant, 1617 Banksville Rd



To register or for more information, visit www.pittsburgh.na-win.com.


The Authors' Zone 1st Annual Awards Ceremony
October 16th, 2014  |  Rivers Club
***Calling for Submissions***
The Authors’ Zone (TAZ) is accepting submissions from authors and publishers for the 1st annual awards ceremony. TAZ is an event that showcases independent authors in Southwestern PA.   Our mission is to create a platform that celebrates and honors local authors to the general public ~ and connects them to national and international audiences.

The following categories are eligible:
  • Full-length books of fiction and nonfiction
  • Collections of short stories and collections of essays by one author
  • Biographies/autobiographies
  • Collected and selected poems by one author
  • Children’s books
  • Self-published books
  • Business books
  • Ebooks
Submission forms and deadlines can be found at www.theauthorszone.com.

Tickets for the awards ceremony are only $49.00.  Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are available. The awards ceremony will consist of grazing stations, a cash bar, and a short program with featured speakers including KDKA’s Dave Crawley.

For more information, please visit www.theauthorszone.com, email info@theauthorszone.com or call 412-563-6712 or 412-215-8247.


CULTURAL CLUES

Dirty Dancing and The Balancing Act Are Back Again
Tuesday, September 16  |  7:00 AM  |  Benedum Center
Jillian Mueller (Baby)
Samuel Pergande (Johnny)
(Photo by Matthew Murphy)
Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story On Stage, presented by Broadway Across America at the Benedum Center as part of the Pittsburgh 2014/2015 Broadway Series from April 7 to April 12, 2015 will take center stage on the award-winning morning show The Balancing Act® on the Lifetime® Channel on Tuesday, September 16 at 7:00 a.m. (ET/PT). Tune in as The Balancing Act® host Olga Villaverde gets up close and personal with star Samuel Pergande aka “Johnny Castle” and Associate Choreographer David Scotchford to learn some of the classic dance moves from the show and as the movie’s author Eleanor Bergstein shares what inspired her to bring this beloved film to life on the stage.

This is the second of a special six-part series, “Broadway Balances America.”  The episode originally aired on September 9 at 7:00 a.m. (ET/PT) on Lifetime.  The six-part special series “Broadway Balances America” will provide interviews highlighting the shows that are featured on Broadway Across America’s 2014-2015 Broadway series nationwide - from Boston to Costa Mesa, from Houston to Minneapolis, and everywhere in between.  Individual tickets are scheduled to go on sale on Friday, February 13, 2015, 9:00 a.m.

For more information visit the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue, or www.TrustArts.org.


Fall Fun from the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust in September

Downtown Rooftop Shindig The Big Lebowski
Wednesday, Sept 10, 2014  |  Theater Square Garage Roof
Art Together  |  Sept 13, 2014  |  Trust Arts Education Center
Beatles: Relive the '64 Concert
Sept 13, 2014  |  Benedum Center
Willie Nelson and Family - Live in Concert
Sept 16, 2014  |  Benedum Center
Clemente: The Legend of 21
Sept 19-21, 2014  |  Byham Theater
Pittsburgh Biennial 2014
Sept 19 - Nov 9  |  Wood Street Galleries
The Book of Mormon  |  Sept 23 - Oct 5, 2014  |  Heinz Hall
Tommy Emmanuel  |  Sept 23, 2014  |  Byham Theater
The Wiggles  |  Sept 16, 2014  |  Benedum Center
10th Anniversary Gallery Crawl
Friday, Sept 26, 2014  |  Cultural District
Dixie's Tupperware Party
Sept - Oct 12, 2014  |  Cabaret at Theater Square

For more great event information, visit www.TrustArts.org.




Pittsburgh Sensation Jackie Evancho Returns to Heinz Hall to Perform with Members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Friday, February 13, 2015  |  8:00 PM  |  Heinz Hall
Jackie Evancho, the 14-year-old vocal sensation from Pittsburgh, returns to her hometown to perform with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra on February 13, 2015.   Evancho, who first gained fame as a runner up on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” at 10 years old, releases her third studio album, “Awakening,” on September 23. Her performance with the Pittsburgh Symphony will feature the lush classical-crossover compositions for which she has become known, as well as the more contemporary material that can be found on her new album. Evancho also will sing several original songs and music from Broadway.  “Of course there are always going to be some classical pieces but I wanted to reinvent the pop songs and make them my own,” said Evancho of the new album. “The only thing that mattered was that the song spoke to me.”

Tickets, ranging in price from $39 to $179, go on sale September 8 and can be purchased through the Heinz Hall box office at 412-392-4900 or pittsburghsymphony.org. 


PICT Theatre Presents "Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme"
September 4-20, 2014  |  Stephen Foster Memorial,4310 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Almost 60,000 British soldiers were killed, wounded or taken prisoner the first day of fighting at the Somme. But, "Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme" by Frank McGuinness is so much more than a story of a bloody WWI battle.  Whether you've faced war or not, this play demonstrates for all the true level of camaraderie, trust, love, and brotherhood that all soldiers know.  Witness the camaraderie in this tight-knit PICT cast directed by Matt Torney.

Reserve Tickets now with your special discount code ULSTER22798 at PICTTheatre.org/Sons or call 412-561-6000.


Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Celebrates National Recognition of Pittsburgh's Bricolage Production Company
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces the national recognition of Bricolage Production Company as one of seven companies recently lauded as producing groundbreaking immersive theater throughout the world by Backstage.com.  “The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is proud of the well-deserved national recognition Bricolage has received,” shared J. Kevin McMahon, President & CEO of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.  “Bricolage has enlivened Pittsburgh’s Cultural District with first-rate arts offerings, and the company’s creativity and energy have brought diversity and new audiences to the District.  The Trust will to continue to spearhead efforts to help develop, nurture and sustain vibrant, 'homegrown' arts activity, whenever it is feasible.”

“We are truly humbled and honored to be in the company of such inspiring artistic organizations,” shared Jeffrey Carpenter, Artistic Director for Bricolage Production Company.  “Bricolage would not even be near such a list without the full support of Kevin McMahon, Veronica Corpuz and the entire Cultural Trust team. This partnership has enabled us to bring our crazy ideas to life, and we owe a lot to their vision and willingness to share resources in support of our creative insanity. A big thanks too, to Paul Organisak! Working with Teatro de los Sentidos in the Trust's 2008 International Festival of Firsts galvanized and inspired a long-time dream for us, one that will ripple out for decades to come!”

For more than 50 years, Backstage has been the most trusted place for actors to find career advice and casting information.  Established in December 1960 by Ira Eaker and Allen Zwerdling, Backstage is the trusted industry source where actors, singers and dancers can connect with the greater performing arts community. The article that recognizes Bricolage Production Company for its ground-breaking immersive work was written by K.C. Wright and posted on August 5, 2014.  The article provides the following mention of the Pittsburgh production company:

“Bricolage” is defined as “making artful use of what is at hand.” This Pittsburgh-based theater company embraces its name by devising works with location, current events, and audience engagement in mind. Housed in a former Turkish bathhouse, Bricolage recently produced “Ojo,” in which audience members receive their evening’s itinerary from a mock travel agency at the start of the performance, and “STRATA,” an evocative and immersive journey through a “refitnessing center.”


Ballet Hispano Classico by Southwest Ballet
September 18-October 11, 2014  |  5430 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh
Southwest Ballet Dancers
Jessica Collazo-Lilja and
Enrique Bazaan
Café Con Leche Pop-Up will be hosting a 4 week Hispanic Dance Program for children through adult at the former Quiet Storm Gallery on Penn Avenue from September 18-October 11.  Plena, Cumbia, Bomba, Cueca plus others will be learned with the fundamental training of classical ballet. Anyone is welcome to join.

This program will be taught by Virginia Nicoll-Hernandez, She has been Artistic Director of Southwest Ballet since 1992 and her former students are some of our nations top professional performers.   Dancers will need a full skirt that is at least knee length and it is preferred that the wear ballet slippers. Children ages 6-10 will have class 10:00 am- (1) hour and students 11-adult will be at 11:00 am, Saturday mornings beginning September 20 through October 11. 

Open registration will be held Saturday September 13, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm., at the Quiet Storm location at 5430 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh Pa.  The cost is $20 for the four classes. Please go the Café Con Leche web site to register at www.CafeConLeche.com


Irving Berlin's White Christmas
November 18 – 23, 2014  |  Benedum Center 
This holiday season discover the perfect gift for everyone on your list! The timeless movie “White Christmas” is adapted for the stage in a lavish new production that the New York Times says to “put on your wish list.” IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written! Give everyone the gift they’re dreaming of with this merry and bright holiday musical.

Enter promo code SNOW to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the public on Friday, September 26.  To purchase tickets, visit TrustArts.org, call 412-456-4800, or go in person to the Box Office at Theater Square.


2014–2015 Pittsburgh Dance Council Season
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces single tickets go on sale, Friday, August 29, at 9AM, for the 2014–2015 Pittsburgh Dance Council season.  Pittsburgh Dance Council is a division of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.  All performances will take place at the Byham Theater located at 101 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.  The 2014–2015 Pittsburgh Dance Council Season includes the following six performances.  Also, two special dance events presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust: Royal Ballet of Cambodia and Three Acts, Two Dancers, One Radio Host are additional recommendations to dance patrons.

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet  -  Saturday, October 11, 2014  |  8PM  |  Byham Theater
Michael Clark Company  -  Saturday, November 1, 2014  |  8PM  |  Byham Theater
Ron K. Brown Evidence  -  Saturday, February 7, 2015  |  8PM  | Byham Theater
Union Tanguera  -  Saturday, March 28, 2015  |   8PM |  Byham Theater
Pontus Lidberg  -  Saturday, April 18, 2015  |  8PM  |  Byham Theater
Scottish Ballet  -  Tuesday, May 19, 2015  |  8PM  |  Byham Theater

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES  -  Single tickets start at $25
Royal Ballet of Cambodia  -  Friday, November 7, 2014  |  8PM  |  Byham Theater
Three Acts, Two Dancers, One Radio Host  -  Saturday, February 28, 2015  |  8PM  |  Byham Theater

Single tickets start at $19 for the 2014-2015 Pittsburgh Dance Council season and are available at www.TrustArts.org, by calling 412-456-6666, or in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue.  Subscription packages are available for: $64-$240. Subscriptions can be purchased in packages of 4 shows or 6 shows. To subscribe, call 412-456-1390.

For more information visit, www.TrustArts.org/dance.


KIDZ KORNER

Kids Without Kicks
October 4, 2014  |  10 AM  |  Cedarbrook Golf Course


WOMEN AND GIRLS ACHIEVEMENT

Operation Jumpstart: Business Feasibility Planning 10 Week Class
Tuesdays, Sept 16 thru Nov 18th  |  6PM - 9PM  |  CCAC's Allegheny Campus, North Side 
Women Empowered for Entrepreneurial Excellence (WEEE) is currently recruiting for the Operation Jump Start feasibility/business plan class beginning September 16, at CCAC.   In this 10 week class, entrepreneurs determine if their business concept has market feasibility before launching and investing money into the actual business venture.  This 36-hour noncredit certificate program leads participants through determining whether a business idea is a feasible business opportunity.

They examine their concepts or businesses from every angle and write a feasibility plan:
  • Evaluating a business idea to determine whether it can be viably launched into a business.
  • Looking for new, strategic focus and direction of the business they are currently leading.
  • Or, contemplating self-employment as a new career option.
Operation JumpStart is an award-winning microenterprise development program that partners with organizations seeking to assist aspiring entrepreneurs. Combining nationally-recognized curriculum; coaching and mentoring; and rich online resources; this program can be the foundation necessary in building entrepreneurial communities of opportunity.  Students who successfully complete the course requirements will gain access to business support groups, as well as micro-financing and business incubation.

For more information, visit weeemeanbusiness.org.


BUSINESS BUZZ

Pittsburgh Gains Another Top Accolade
From: Pittsburgh Post Gazette  Written By: Anya Sostek | June 02, 2014
What do Pittsburgh and the Everglades have in common? Both are top travel destinations.
Downtown Pittsburgh from Schenley Oval
(photo courtesy: Julia Rendleman/Post-Gazette)
Is this ranking the one for the thumb?  Pittsburgh has racked up yet another accolade, with the designation as the “most livable city” in the continental U.S., according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2014 livability survey.  Only Honolulu outperformed Pittsburgh among U.S. cities in the study, which measured “which locations around the world provide the best or the worst living conditions.” Pittsburgh was tops in the country in the 2009 iteration of the study.

Pittsburgh was named “America’s Most Livable City” by Forbes magazine in 2010 and was named one of the “Best All-American Vacations” earlier this year by The Travel Channel, among other positive rankings.
In the 2014 Economist study, Pittsburgh ranks 30th in the world among 140 cities in the study and Honolulu ranks 26th. The top-ranking city in the world is Melbourne, Australia, and the bottom-ranking city is Damascus, Syria. The other cities in the top five are Vienna, Austria; Vancouver, Canada; Toronto, Canada; and Adelaide, Australia.

The report notes that — like Pittsburgh — cities performing well “tend to be mid-sized cities in wealthier countries with relatively low population density.” It noted that cities with a “big city buzz,” such as New York, London and Paris, can suffer from higher crime and overstretched infrastructure. Cities were given a score between 1 and 100 in five categories — stability, health care, culture and environment, education and infrastructure — with 100 considered “ideal.” Pittsburgh received 100s in education and infrastructure, an 85 in stability, a 92 in health care and a 91 in culture and environment. The factors that go into the stability category generally relate to the prevalence of crime and unrest.  “It’s great to celebrate the accolades that were made possible through the spirit of innovation here, fueled by the passion of Pittsburgh residents and decision makers,” said Craig Davis, president and CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH. “There’s been a conscious effort to invest in the arts, culture and the environment as an economic development strategy. And that has paid off nicely.”


Mayor William Peduto Announces Transformational Plans for Hill District
From our Friends: PittsburghUrbanMedia.com
Written By: Author | Jan. 00, 2014
City, County, State, Federal, Community and Penguins leaders announce agreement between community and team, investment fund and option agreement
Mayor William Peduto joined other officials today to announce historic agreements among the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Hill District community and local government that will transform the entire neighborhood and provide tens of millions in financing for community improvements, jobs and housing.  “This plan will build transformational wealth for the residents of the greater Hill District,” Mayor Peduto said. “It provides the financial resources to build the ladders of opportunity between the 28 acres and the rest of the Hill District.”

The Mayor was joined at the announcement by Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Urban Redevelopment Authority Chairman Kevin Acklin, Pittsburgh City Councilman R. Daniel Lavelle, state Sen. Jay Costa, and Penguins Chief Operating Officer Travis Williams.  The announcement was the culmination of more than 50 meetings among city, county, state, federal, community and team officials on how to best leverage the redevelopment of the former Civic Arena site in the Lower Hill to provide for business development, jobs, housing, and infrastructure improvements to the entire area. Through a new tax increment financing district, property tax growth from the redevelopment of the Lower Hill will be used to pay for improvements in six other neighborhoods across the Hill: Bluff, Crawford Roberts, Terrace Village, Middle Hill, Bedford Dwellings and Upper Hill.

Announcements today included:
An Agreement between the Penguins and Hill District Community
  • Signing today the Community Collaboration and Implementation Plan (CCIP)
  • Highest levels of MWBE commitments ever in the history of the City of Pittsburgh
  • Results of more than 50 meetings, and weekly sessions since January
  • Full collaboration of City, County, URA, SEA, Penguins and Community
  • Goal is to build transformational wealth for the residents of Greater Hill District
Greater Hill TIF District
  • Largest TIF district in the history of the City of Pittsburgh
  • At worst case, will generate $22M and as much as $50M for investment
  • Captures value from development on 28 acres and invests in middle and upper Hill
  • Provides financial resources to build “ladders of opportunity”
Option Agreement with the Penguins
  • Now that community plan is in place, Option Agreement will be voted on by URA and SEA on Thursday
  • Replaces short form option agreement executed in 2007
  • Provides for 1 year extension for first takedown
  • Parcels to be acquired by Penguins at market value
  • Good deal that will promote the final development of this 28 acres
A map and fact sheet on the proposed TIF district is here.
A development map for the Civic Arena site is here.
Read full article at pittsburghurbanmedia.com.


SDC Nutrition to Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony or its RIDC Park West Expansion
Tuesday, September 16th  |  10 AM  |  RIDC West Industrial Park
SDC Nutrition will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Press Conference at their new corporate headquarters, located in RIDC West Industrial Park on Tuesday, September 16th at 10 a.m.   Following the ceremony, guests and media are invited to tour this state-of-the-art, 60,000 square foot facility.  SDC Nutrition, Inc. has grown at a CAGR of almost 200% since inception 5 years ago and currently employs more than 40 team members with a forecast of adding more jobs throughout 2015.  SDC is a Pittsburgh-based company with a primary focus to continue to create more jobs and positively impact the local economy as they provide products for those seeking a healthy lifestyle all over the world.  "We simply have outgrown our current facility and are thrilled to be moving into the facility in Findlay Township," says Director of Marketing, Devenee Schumacher.

In addition, Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) assisted SDC Nutrition Inc. with its recent expansion.  Through its Economic Development Administration (EDA) revolving loan fund, ACED provided a $220,000 loan to SDC Nutrition for the purchase of state of the art equipment.  This high-tech equipment will enable SDC to fully automate their manufacturing line and effectively double unit production per shift as well as to institute larger production runs for greater efficiency and economies of scale. It will also allow them to take advantage of larger volume discounts for primary product ingredients.  “SDC Nutrition’s decision to locate in RIDC Park West is another example of the investment and growth in the Airport Corridor,” said County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.  “We look forward to the company’s continued growth in the coming years and hope to see them expand even more in the future.”


POSITIVELY PITTSBURGH LIVE! PERKS
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Who Promote the Good News in Pittsburgh


PositivelyPittsburghLive! Burgh Biz Showcase 09-13-14
Consultants & Young Professionals
On the newest episode of the Burgh Biz Showcase small business owners and entrepreneurs share their stories, talk about their services, give tips to other entrepreneurs, tips about their niche, and offer special deals for only PositivelyPittsburghLive listeners.

This weeks guests:
 Lisa Kennis-Miller, SPHR, Owner of HR Rescue Resources, LLC
John S. Oliverio, President of Pittsburgh Young Professionals
Stephanie Oliver, Owner and Lead Planner at Oliver Events
Jennifer Hain, Founder and Owner of Jennifer Lee Life Coaching

Check out this insightful episode at PositivelyPittsburghLive! Burgh Biz Showcase on PPLmag.com.


HIGH SCHOOL and UNIVERSITY NEWS

New App Helps College Students Pinpoint Their Career Qualities
From: Pittsburgh Post Gazette
Written By: Deborah M. Todd  |  Aug. 28, 2014
As a college freshman attempting to narrow a seemingly endless field of career options, Rachel Gogos never did find a straightforward, navigable trail toward her destiny.  Instead, the English major at the State University of New York at Buffalo followed a twisting path that shifted from earning a master’s degree at New York University to taking a run at law school, then doing a United Nations internship and a stint at The Wall Street Journal before ending up in the realm of entrepreneurship.

Hoping to spare this generation of college students the frustration of her early years, Ms. Gogos, 33, created the MyPath101 app in 2012 to serve as the college and career planning road map she wishes she and her peers had.  “I started this to help students find their path at that critical point when they’re 18, 19, 20 years old in a more efficient way, to help them find their purpose,” Ms. Gogos said. “I really struggled with that and feel like I lost some time. If I look back on my life, there is a very windy road that leads me to today and that happens to most people.”

Part personality assessment, image consultant and career counselor, MyPath101 is a website and app designed to steer students toward solid decisions during each phase of their pre-collegiate or post-graduate careers. Based in McMurray, the company has five employees.  Although MyPath101’s identity and personal branding assessment features questions and activities designed to pinpoint an individual’s most important career qualities, Ms. Gogos stresses that the product isn’t an assessment tool.  The site uses three separate modules — identity and personal branding, social media management, and career marketing — to help students recognize their passions and strengths in choosing a major, to make social media accounts job ready, and to provide expert advice to seniors ready to dive into the job search.

After a three-month pilot at the University of Pittsburgh in March 2013, MyPath101 is up and serving around 1,000 students nationwide, including hundreds at the university, which uses the service in its office of career development and placement assistance.  In coming months, Ms. Gogos said universities will be able to use MyPath101’s open-ended format to license the product and create a customized site directed specifically toward their students.  Cheryl Finlay, director of Pitt’s office of career development and placement assistance, said some students use the program as more than simply a supplement to their services.

For Ms. Gogos, who is reaching out to schools and directly selling the product to parents and students across the country, the idea isn’t to put the nation’s career counselors out of jobs. Instead, her hope is that she can make their jobs easier by helping students decide what’s ultimately important when it comes to the jobs they hope to hold in the future.  “Our goal with MyPath is to support what’s already going on on a campus or in a high school and help students prepare themselves before they go into those meetings.” she said.

Read the entire article HERE


LaunchCMU: A Startup and Research Showcase - Roboburgh, the Sequel 
Friday, October 3, 2014  |  Carnegie Mellon University's Jared L. Cohon University Center
Carnegie Mellon's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship cordially invites you to LaunchCMU.  Join the investment experts who look to Carnegie Mellon University for technology breakthroughs. Come meet the creators of Red Rover, Anki Drive, mamaRoo, NavioPFS, and others...

11:30 am   Demo & Poster Session
1:00 pm     Showcase Talks
3:00 pm     Reception & Demo & Poster Session (cont'd)

RSVP by Monday, September 29, 2014. Space is limited.

For more information and to register visit cmu.qualtrics.com


PITTSBURGH HISTORICAL STUFF

Hear Chamber Music at Historic Old St. Luke's, 330 Old Washington Pike, Scott Township
The historic Old St. Luke’s Church, Burial Ground, and Garden in Scott Township, will launch a FREE chamber music series starting this month.  Proprietors of the campus, which has not had an active congregation since 1930, say the music series is yet another way of keeping the site active all year round. PHLF has long played an active role in helping restore and maintain the iconic façade and interior of the church building, and has awarded several matching grants through its Historic Religious Properties program.

Sept. 14 at 2 p.m. – Academy Chamber Ensemble
Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. – Autumn Concert
Nov. 16 at 2 p.m. – Warren Davidson, Violin and Luke Mayernik, Organ
Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. – The Early Mays, Appalachian Carols and Folk Songs
Feb. 15 at 2 p.m. – Carnegie Brass
March 15 at 2 p.m. – Freya String Quartet
April 19 at 2 p.m. – Ferla/Marcinyzin Guitar Duo
May 17 at 2 p.m. – Living Room Chamber Music Project

The series is free and open to the public. Performances will be 90 minutes long. Donations, which will benefit the musicians and the church, will be accepted.

To learn more about Old St. Luke’s and the music series, visit OldSaintLukes.org.


NON-PROFIT EVENTS
SPONSORED BY BLACKTIE PITTSBURGH

STAND UP for STANDING FIRM 2014 Awards Luncheon 
Tuesday, October 14, 2014  |  11:30 AM to 1:30 PM  |  Rivers Club, Oxford Center
Standing Firm will award their Employer Award to Familylinks and Champion Award to Lynette Lederman, Executive Assistant to City Councilman Corey O'Connor.  The presentation will include keynote speaker Leslie Morgan Steiner, a TED Talk presenter and NY Times bestselling author of Crazy Love.

Register or sign up for a sponsorship by October 3rd here.


World Gratitude Day Pittsburgh
Sunday, Sept 21, 2014  |  3 PM  |  Undercroft Art Gallery, First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh
We're just 11 days away from World Gratitude Day! Why not register today? After hosting the first World Gratitude Day Pittsburgh in 2012 to mark the 10 year anniversary of Litzinger Career Consulting, many people asked about the program continuing. We are excited to bring the program back through the co-sponsorship of First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh and underwriting  by Journeys of Life in Shadyside.

Be uplifted through a program of music, poetry, reflection and sharing.  Featuring Julie Ann Sullivan, National Speaker and Author of A Little Bit of Gratitude Goes a Long Way.

For details and to register, visit WorldGratitudeDay.wordpress.com.


3rd Annual Power of Laughter Health Workshop & Comedy Luncheon
Saturday, September 20, 2014  |  Westin Convention Center
Join us for the 3rd annual Power of Laughter Health Workshop and Comedy Luncheon.  Did you know the burden of stroke is greater among minorities than in any other group?  In fact, minorities have almost twice the risk of first-ever stroke compared with Causasians, and minorities, 35-54 years old, have four times the relative risk for stroke.  This event is part of the American Stroke Association's Power To End Stroke campaign - an education and awareness campaign embracing and celebrating the culture, energy, creativity and lifestyles of African and Hispanic Americans.  It unites under-served communities to help make an impact on the high incidence of stroke with the community.

This event will feature actress and comedian, Kim Coles and back by popular demand, Humble G, the hip hop violinist.  In addition to the luncheon and workshops, there will be entertainment, FREE health screenings, vendors, exhibitors, VIP reception, health workshops, a heart-healthy lunch and a host of laughter!  Join us and learn more about what you can do to help defeat the #1 disabler of Americans - stroke.

Registration will open at 10:30 am for your convenience.  The free health screenings will be hosted by UPMC Heart & Vascular Coach, a silent auction, exhibitors, vendors will be held from 11 am-11:45 am.  A heart healthy lunch, health workshop and a host of entertainment and laughter will follow!

For more information contact Cindy Shambley at 412.208.3606 or email at cindy.shambley@heart.org.


NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS

African-American Heritage Day Parade
From our Friends: Soul Pitt
Saturday, Oct. 4, 2014  |  Downtown Pittsburgh


POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS

Steve Peck
8 Pecks Marketing
I love business, marketing, strategy and technology. Been fortunate with the opportunity to apply these loves to complex business problems for over 30 years. And grateful to have worked with businesses and business owners of both very large and very small organizations. When there is the opportunity to dump a business "out on the table" and see what's possible by putting it back together to create a better business - that's thrilling to me.

Nicole
Nicoles Nails
I've lived in the Burgh for 41 years.  I work in the salon business and am a nail tech.

Jessica Schlie
Spina Bifida of Western PA
I love raising awareness for issues and organizations like Spina Bifida of Western PA.

Kelly Coleman
WriterKAColeman
I write under K.A. Coleman because I have a very common name, but I love my name and what it means. I love my family and friends. With that said, I am definitely a dog person. I love reading and writing. I have super odd quirks. I can identify most songs within the first five seconds. Likewise, I always remember lyrics to songs. For some reason, I can do wall sits longer than anyone I know. I chalk that up to being super competitive rather than athleticism.

Gia Tatone
Red Engine Press
Educator, author, publisher and community leader

Tomlyn Ward
MAYA Organization
Tomi founded Maya (Me And You At-Last) Organization is 2009. Tomi was in the process of adopting her second child and realized the financial and emotional burden that adoptive families face during this sensitive time in their lives. Tomi began researching the adoptive family during her master’s program and continues researching emotional support for the adoptive family. “I am especially interested in making sure that birth parents receive the emotional support they deserve before, during and after the child is born”.

Get connected with Positive Pittsburghers!


ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT

Hopes and Dreams a Review of REP’s Of Mice and Men Sept. 5th 2014 Performance
From:  Roving Pittsburgher Report  Written By:  Stephanie Curtice  |  Sept. 08, 2014
Lennie (Leandro Cano) and George (Jarrod DiGiorgi)
Photo Courtesy: The REP
It is no secret that we live in a ridiculously fast paced world these days.  And for opening night, September 5th, 2014 of Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, there was a pause.  It was a beautiful pause and a challenging one.  Point Park University’s “The Rep” Professional Theater Company has set the bar for the 2014-2015 season for ALL artistic performances in the Pittsburgh area.  And they set it high.

I smiled with sincere pleasure in my heart, chuckled in humor, stirred in quiet disappointment, felt heartbreak, and was moved by a very deep yearning of hope.  One might think that could be sensory overload, but I think that was the genius of Steinbeck and the amazing artistry of this cast.

Set during the Depression in the rolling golden hills of California, we join roaming farmhands George (Jarrod DiGiorgi) and Lennie (Leandro Cano) leisurely camping under the stars on the eve of starting work at a new ranch.  They are an unlikely pair for the times; Lennie Small, a massively sized and strong man with but a wee child’s intellect, and George Milton, a practical and witty man who tries to look after Lennie as they work hard to pursue the great American Dream.  As they report to the nearby ranch, the simple story of two men just lookin’ for an honest day’s work, quickly becomes complicated.

The story is great, as tragic as it is, and the fact that it was performed beautifully made for an encredibly moving performance.  The set was simple and perfectly so.  Every single cast member WAS their character - living the story.  The superb acting of especially Leandro Cano and Jarrod DiGiorgi gave this stage performance the robustness of a movie amidst the seaming simplicity.  They brought to life their characters and the bond between Lennie and George to show the simple and beautiful notion that hopes and dreams are worth smiling for, even amidst the turmoil of social injustices.  I have not been to a more deserving performance of multiple standing ovations yet in Pittsburgh.

Additional Performances:
Friday, September 5 - Sunday, September 21, 2014  |  Pittsburgh Playhouse - Rauh Theatre
For more information and tickets, please visit www.PittsburghPlayhouse.com

Read the entire review at Roving Pittsburgher Report.

Dean's Diner, Rte 22 Blairsville
Jim Palmer's Dream Business Academy
Clarion Hotel at Philadelphia Airport
Roman Bistro, Forest Hills

If you would like to share your review and pictures of an event,
please email info@pplmag.com


PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS

Pitt Football Notebook: Three Panthers Honored
From: Pittsburgh Sporting News.com
Written By: Author | Jan. 00, 2014
For the second consecutive week, the Pitt Panthers football team turned in an impressive performance and for the second straight week they racked up some weekly ACC honors.
Sophomore running back James Conner was named the ACC’s Offensive Back of the Week, senior tackle T.J. Clemmings was selected Offensive Lineman of the Week and sophomore placekicker Chris Blewitt was named Specialist of the Week following Pitt’s 30-20 road victory over Boston College.
It’s the second consecutive week Conner has earned the award. Against BC Conner rushed for 214 yards and a touchdown on 36 carries, averaging 5.9 yards per carry. He opened the season by rushing for 153 yards and four scores on 14 carries (10.9 avg.) vs. Delaware.
Conner leads the ACC and ranks fourth nationally with an average of 183.5 rushing yards per game.
Clemmings is also the second consecutive Panthers’ linemen to be named the ACC’s Offensive Lineman of the Week after Matt Rotheram got the honors after Week 1.
Pitt racked up 303 rushing yards on 51 carries (5.9 avg.) and did not give up a sack against BC. Clemmings has helped Pitt compile 712 rushing yards in its first two contests (356 avg.), the Panthers’ most in consecutive games since 1988.
Blewitt played a big role in the win on Friday, tying his career high with 12 points (3-of-3 field goals and 3-of-3 PATs). He made field goals of 49, 42 and 41 yards. Blewitt’s 49-yarder marked a career long. He also had four touchbacks on seven kickoffs.
- With starting center Artie Rowell out for the season, Gabe Roberts is listed as No. 1 on the 2-deep, with Alex Officer now listed as the backup. It is worth noting though that Chryst did not commit to naming Roberts the starter.
- Pitt got three votes this week in the Top 25 poll, up from one vote last week.
- Pitt’s Sept. 20 game against Iowa will kick off at noon and be televised on ESPN or ESPNU.
- The Panthers (2-0, 1-0 ACC) play at FIU (1-1) this Saturday at noon. The game will be nationally televised by FOX Sports 1.

Read the entire article HERE


PITTSBURGH GOOD NEWS FORUM

Getting Your Basic Needs Through Barter
Why I created Braddock Barter - The basic idea of the site is to connect folks that would like to trade goods and services to each other. It is not fancy but have as the functionality to keep track of the users, their wants/needs and their transactions.

The REAL exchange of goods and services can be setup through email (through the site) between the two parties without Braddock Barter getting involved, or the administrator of this site can setup the transaction. The goal in the future would be to have a brink and mortar building to help assist in the transactions/exchanges.

If you know of a situation that would assist in the temporary housing of Braddock Barter send me an email.
As this site gains traction many new ideas can be implemented to help the community acquire goods and services. If you have a need that is not being met send me the idea and we can see if we can get your need fulfilled by bringing the correct parties together.

For more information visit BraddockBarter.Com


VETERANS VET and MILITARY METTLE

Jobs for Pittsburgh Veterans: WeHireHeroes.US 
Rather than trying to be the world's biggest job board, WeHireHeroes.US is a network of local job boards that provides veteran-friendly employment leads, resources, and coaching for military veterans in their local communities.

Because we are veteran owned and operated, we understand veterans better than most. We understand and respect the incredible capabilities that veterans bring to the table - and we are in a unique position to help make those assets available to employers nationwide. We started building our social network of veterans and supporters a full year before we even launched the site.

The truth is, there are lots of jobs are out there looking for veterans, and lots of veterans out there looking for those jobs. Our mission is to provide a broadcast pipline that brings the two together.
Military members, male and femaleAt We Hire Heroes, our greatest passion is helping to solve the veteran unemployment problem. Government can help, but as veterans we know that problems always get solved faster once we're done just talking about solutions and start doing what we do best - working together.

Remember basic training? The biggest lesson we learned from Day 1 was how to win as a team.

Search jobs in Pittsburgh, PA and nearby locations at WeHireHeroes.us

Listen to the show HERE

Thank you for your viewing and listening support. If you have a Good News story you would like us to share on PostitivelyPittsburghLive! or would like your business or event featured please contact us HERE.

News Posted By: Stephanie Curtice
This was reported as a reproduction of PositivelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith.
(c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2014 All rights reserved.

Burgh Biz Saturday Showcase 09-13-14 Consultants and Young Professionals

Positively Pittsburgh Live
Burgh Biz Saturday Showcase 09-13-14
Consultants and Young Professionals
Hosted By Joanne Quinn-Smith
Listen to the show HERE

Today's Guests:
Lisa Kennis-Miller, SPHR
Owner of HR Rescue Resources, LLC
John S. Oliverio
President of Pittsburgh Young Professionals
Stephanie Oliver
Lead Planner at Oliver Events
Jennifer Hain
Founder and Owner of Jennifer Lee Life Coaching


Lisa Kennis-Miller, SPHR
Owner, HR Rescue Resources, LLC
Lisa Kennis-Miller grew up in rural north-central PA, the second of four children with a very large extended family (we’re talking hundreds).  She learned responsibility at a very early age as the daughter of a dairy farmer/Ag Science teacher and a Registered Nurse, Lisa spent the first half of her life working hard on the family dairy farm. Her days began before sunrise (squeezing school, basketball/volleyball practice, and evening farm chores in before dinner at 10PM) then homework before going to bed; get up – REPEAT.

Growing up in rural PA, Lisa also became an avid hunter and although she doesn’t get back very often these days for deer season; she has had 13 successful ‘buck’ seasons  - which includes  a ‘trophy buck’.
For a refreshing change of scenery, Lisa escaped the daily grind to attend Penn State and study Industrial/Organizational Psychology.  With her hard work ethic, Lisa completed college in 4 years, graduating with a 3.5 GPA.  Why is that such a big deal?  Well, she was on schedule to graduate in just 3 years, but life happened. She gave birth to her daughter the summer before her junior year (taking that fall semester off) and a year later changed the focus of her major from science to business, resulting in two additional semesters of business classes. Most college stories don’t include tales of 18 credit course loads (maintaining Dean’s List status) while working 20 hours/week and raising a newborn with colic!

With over 15 years of progressive human resources experience, primarily in the manufacturing industry, Lisa has held positions as Generalist, Front line Manager, Senior Management, and now Consultant.
Lisa Kennis-Miller is the Owner and Founder of HR Rescue Resources, LLC in Moon Township, PA.
Lisa has her Senior Professional in Human Resources Certification.  The SPHR certification, awarded by the HR Certification Institute, signifies that Lisa has mastered the principles of human resources and that she is dedicated to staying current in the profession.

Lisa resides in Moon Township with her husband and 15 year old and 12 year old step-sons.  Her 18 year old daughter is a freshman at Kent State University majoring in Visual Communication Design.
Lisa is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Pittsburgh Human Resource Association (PHRA), Pittsburgh Consulting Community, Member Coordinator of No BS Marketing Group, Senior Project Judge for Moon Area School District, and Member of St. George Byzantine Catholic Church.

Talking Points:
  • The company I worked at for 7 years was acquired by a competitor in 2010, the redundant positions were eliminated, including mine.  After much consideration, my husband and I decided I would give independent consulting a shot, allowing for flexibility in my schedule to be home for our teenage children when needed.  I've been at in now 3 1/2 years.
  • Employment compliance should be given great attention by business owners.  Within the past 3 years government agencies have increased audits by nearly 243%, focusing primarily on small businesses because they know that is where they will find violations.  Many times, they will present under the guise of (for instance) a "Payroll Audit" when in reality they are really looking to see if your employees are classified properly (exempt vs. non-exempt or independent contractor) and a payroll audit will get them access to the files they need to determine that!
  • Fines for small business owners are serious business and can have a huge impact.  Under IRCA (Immigration, Reform and Control Act), the fines for failure to have Form I-9 completed upon within 3 days of hiring an employee begins at $110 and can go as high as $1100 per employee, this is also the case for having the form filled out incorrectly or having it filed improperly.  Now if an employer knowingly hires and continues to employ an illegal alien, those fines start at $395 and can go as high as $16,000 per employee plus jail time.  Think about this for a moment; does your business complete the NEW Form I-9 on EACH and EVERY new employee within 3 business days of them being hired?  Are you certain that the person who reviews the I-9 documentation and is responsible for the form's completion is filling it out correctly?  Do you know if you are filing the form in the correct place and keeping it for the recommended period of time?  My recommendation to you is to make sure you find the correct answers to these questions before the IRCA finds you....      
  • The most common area of compliance a small business finds problematic is typically in wage and hour law.  There are so many rules and regulations and that creates opportunities for business owners to be fined and sued.  In my consulting business, I highly caution business owners to take heed and make certain they do not take these laws lightly.  This can cover everything from keeping impeccable time records, to making certain your employees have well- written job descriptions (by a certified HR professional who is experienced in job analysis) so employees can be classified properly (exempt vs. non-exempt) and also making sure all employees get reimbursed for any business expenses incurred no matter how nominal.  Managers and supervisors need to be trained thoroughly to discourage non-exempt employees from performing work 'off the clock' as not doing so will certainly bring a lawsuit against the employer in the future!
  • If you are a business owner who is planning on hiring in the near future, I would highly recommend sticking to structured behavioral interview questions that have been vetted by a professional to make sure they are legal to ask.  Make sure your employment application doesn't have any illegal questions either.  Check at least 3 professional references asking a series of probing questions that would allow you to establish whether or not the applicant was competent in their job duties in their former role, why they left, if they would rehire them, etc. before making an offer. You would be surprised how much information you can attain from spending 15 minutes on the phone with a former supervisor! 
  • Another tip is to do state, federal, county, and nationwide criminal background checks on the applicant after making a 'contingent offer'; meaning, they are hired contingent upon meeting the standards of the background check.  There are FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) laws you MUST follow when performing background checks.  I also want to point out that it is illegal to not hire an applicant just because they have a criminal record.  You have to look at the results and make a business case for or against hiring them that would stand up in court (this is why you really should have a professional assist you in hiring situations).  If you do not hire them based on the background check, you have to send them a letter telling them that along with the results per FCRA.  Failure to do a background check though can also have negative consequences, such as a negligent hiring lawsuit brought against you later on should the person you hire harm someone else.
Entrepreneur Tip:
Do NOT try to be the master of all departments - Accounting, Sales, Marketing, Human Resources, etc.  A business owner has so much pressure to get customers in the door and to keep them happy.  Leave it up to the experts to handle the areas you aren't an expert in.  You will save so much valuable time and money in doing so!

Consumer Tip:
When determining if you should hire a Human Resource Consultant, ask yourself these questions:
  • Am I certain that my company is 100% compliant with all employment laws and feel confident that a disgruntled employee's lawsuit could be strongly defended? 
  • Do I have an employee handbook that has been written or revised within the past 18 months? 
  • Can my company survive a lawsuit ranging between $10,000 - $600,000 or a Department of Labor audit with potential fines and negative press that goes with it? 
  • Am I prepared to be held PERSONALLY LIABLE and SEPARATELY CHARGED in lawsuits in the workplace (for being involved in missed promotions to unjustified discipline, inflicting emotional distress, and other perceived wrong-doing) that could lead to the loss of your home, assets, and destroying personal relationships?  
  • If you answered 'NO' to any of these questions, CALL ME TODAY to get an HR Audit of your business to uncover vulnerabilities to avoid these devastating experiences. 724-777-2286
Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
Any listener that would like a FREE one hour consultation should mention that they heard this interview.  The retail value of a One Hour Consultation is Regularly $150.

Contact:
HR Rescue Resources, LLC
www.HRRescueResources.com
PO Box 602, Moon Township, PA  15108
724-777-2286  |  HRLady34@gmail.com
Facebook: HRRescueResources  |  LinkedIn: Lisa Miller, SPHR  |  Blogspot: Small Business Safety Net


John S. Oliverio, SPHR
President, Pittsburgh Young Professionals
John S. Oliverio, SPHR, is the Chief Human Resources Director for GAI Consultants where he leads Human Resources for over 900 national employees.  He has 19 years of HR experience, having worked previously at WESCO, EDMC, ADVO, Nicholson Construction and Ames.  John is currently President of Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP - member since 1999) and board member/HR Committee Chair for the Animal Rescue League.  He previously held the position of President for both Pittsburgh Cares (2006-2008) and Pittsburgh Human Resources Association (2005) and was a board member  for PUMP.  John is one of Pittsburgh’s 40 Under 40 winners and named one of the Pittsburgh Business Times’ Fast Trackers.

He also spends his time volunteering for Pittsburgh Cares, Pitt Alumni Association, Pittsburgh's Promise, and Girls Hope. John has been asked to speak at seminars and has been interviewed by media sources on HR issues. He also provides resume preparation assistance to people in career transition. In his free time, he is the captain of an adult kickball team for the Pittsburgh Sports League and has traveled to six continents. John holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. From Pittsburgh, he grew up in South Park and resides in Crafton.

About PYP
In 1988, six friends who reunited in Pittsburgh formed a group to contribute to the community – a movement that officially marks the beginning of PYP, a Pittsburgh non-profit organization.  Now with over 420 members and 26 years of experience, PYP has aided in the social, professional, and civic development of young professionals in the Pittsburgh region.

Talking Points:
  • I began as a PYP member in 1999 and have been a member ever since.  I joined the board of directors in 2012 and became President in 2014.
  • Now in our 26th year, Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP) is forging ahead with a membership of more than 420 young professionals of diverse professional and personal backgrounds.
  • One of the oldest Young Professionals organization in the country, PYP was formed in 1988 by a group of six individuals who returned to the Pittsburgh region looking to give back to the local community. Through the years, PYP continues to be a strong not-for-profit and 100-percent volunteer-run organization that is dedicated to providing career-minded individuals with opportunities to develop socially, professionally and civically.
  • PYP sponsors an annual Scholarship Program where we award a $1,000 scholarship to a professional going for their Bachelor's or Masters Degree based on certain criteria.  We will announce the 2014 winner at our Signature Event next Friday.
  • 2014 Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP) Signature Event (A Black and White Affair) on September 19th, 6:30 - 11PM at Bill Chisnell Productions, Downtown Pittsburgh.  Details at:  http://members.pyp.org/event-1725013
Get Involved with PYP
Come out and spend some time with us
Join us for a PYP Social, Professional Development, or Community Involvement event. Socialize, network and meet people from a wide variety of professions located throughout the Pittsburgh area.

Participate on a Committee
Every year, PYP’s committee chairs strive to offer a wide variety of networking opportunities to its entire membership.

Become a Committee Chair or Board Member
PYP is a volunteer-run organization. Each year, the organization looks for candidates to fill chair and board member positions. Click here to access the online application for board members. Committee chair applications can be found here.

Develop
Pittsburgh Young Professionals offers a variety of professional development events throughout the year, focused on providing our members with a diversified menu of opportunities. On any given night, you may find yourself immersed in a round table discussion with leaders of our region, listening to a prestigious speaker, or honing your presentation skills in front of a crowd of your peers. At PYP, we like to vary our programs monthly – ensuring that there’s always something for everyone! Our Professional Development Committee works diligently to ensure that all of our members are satisfied with the level of professional development we offer throughout the year.

Network
During all of PYP’s professional development events, there will be time set aside to network with the speakers, panel members and other PYP members. However, PYP understands that most young professionals are looking to build their network of business contacts in the most efficient way possible. For this reason, a few times a year, PYP hosts professional networking events, such as speed networking, to afford our members the opportunity to expand their contact list. Remember, to advance your business or career, you first need to make and build those all-important relationships – and PYP can provide you with the platform to make that happen.

Succeed
Educate your mind. Sharpen your skills. Strengthen your connections. PYP is an excellent catalyst for this development, but ultimately, it’s up to you to make it happen!
Entrepreneur Tip:
I can't emphasize enough to network, network, network.  Even if an event looks to be more social than professional, you never know where your next client or business might come from.  At PYP, we have business connections happening at all of our events whether it is a happy hour, professional development series or dinner club.

Consumer Tip:
The same advice - network, network, network.  Whether you may be looking for a job, looking for a business opportunity, or just to meet new people, the best technique is to get out there and network with people.  PYP offers a "safe" environment for networking as all of our events present attendees with opportunities to network and meet other professionals.

Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
Annual Signature Event "A Black and White Affair" on September 19 at Bill Chisnell Productions.  $30 for Members, $40 for Non members.  Email me at john.oliverio@pyp.org for a coupon code for $5 off registration for the event.

Contact:
Pittsburgh Young Professionals
www.pyp.org
P.O. Box 23127, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412-339-0797  |  info@pyp.org
Facebook: PghYP  |  Twitter: PghYoungProf
LinkedIn: Pittsburgh Young Professionals


Stephanie Oliver
Lead Planner, Oliver Events
Stephanie is Butler native, alumna of Mercyhurst University and an International Event and Wedding Planner Certified Professional.  She loves the Pittsburgh Penguins, singing, wine, reading, fashion, laughing uncontrollably, and is a self proclaimed Foodie.  She proudly opened Oliver Events in May of 2014, and is having a blast planning signature events throughout the Pittsburgh region.

Oliver Events is a full-service event planning company.  We plan corporate and private events throughout the Pittsburgh Region. "Be A Guest at Your Event, Leave OLIVE the Planning to Us!"

Talking Points:
  • I've been in the event industry since I took my first job as a banquet server at 15 years old, and have been in love ever since.  I opened Oliver Events in May 2014 after working in corporate event planning and marketing for many years.
  • My company works with companies and individuals on all types of events, large or small, like fundraisers, tradeshows, weddings, mitzvahs, bridal and baby showers, board meetings, etc.  Oliver Events plans any sort of event you can imagine: tradeshows, conferences, fundraisers, 5ks, awards shows, fashion shows, bridal showers, baby showers, mitzvahs, wakes, birthday parties, anniversary parties, retirement parties, weddings - you name it, we'll plan it.  Do you want to throw a softball tournament with you and your competitors?  We can do that too!  The sky is the limit!
  • As event planners we handle every aspect of your event so that you can enjoy it without the work.  Let's say we're planning a wedding:  we help the bride book the venue, decide on a menu, find a cake baker, a florist, the dress and bridal party fashion, invitations, entertainment, decoration.  Then, we're there for the entire event, setting up, tearing down, and overseeing every moment to ensure success and fun.
Entrepreneur Tip:
Don't be afraid to ask. Ask for advice from your mentors, and meetings with people you admire.  Ask your network to promote your endeavors. Ask questions about any and everything that can help you grow as an individual and business owner.

Consumer Tip:
When it comes to event planning many people assume they can handle it all themselves, but working with a professional saves you so much time and stress.  There are a lot of little details to keep in order, and if you're planning an event as one part of your job or life, it can be hard to keep everything in line.  Having a professional on hand, especially the day of the event, will be a life saver, and you'll actually get to enjoy the event you've created.

Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
15% off all event planning services for Positively Pittsburgh followers and listeners.

Contact:
Oliver Events
Be A Guest at Your Event, and
Leave OLIVE the Planning to Us!
www.OliverEventsOnline.com
724-496-1472  |  OliverEventsOnline@gmail.com
Instagram: OliverEvents  | LinkedIn: StephanieOliver
Jennifer Hain
Founder and Owner, Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
Jennifer received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Corporate Communications from The Pennsylvania State University.  It took some time “getting to know herself” in the workforce before she decided to make a huge leap – relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Los Angeles, CA to explore her interest in TV hosting!  However; after one year in CA and accepting various hosting opportunities, she still felt…empty.  She was missing a sense of purpose and knew she needed to switch gears in order to feel fulfilled.

After an epiphany she had in CA, she created an inspirational website which has quickly developed into a business where she can incorporate her love for all of the above!  Not only does she provide private coaching and workshop services, but she also brought back a piece of her “California Dream” and now interviews people who are making moves and chasing their dreams as an “A Breath of Fresh Air” feature!

Her specialty as a Motivational Life Coach is to help keep you motivated and on track while you strive to accomplish your personal and/or business goals.  She serves as your personal coach – directing you {if needed}, holding you accountable, and cheering for you along the way! She offers private coaching and workshop services.

Talking Points:
  • I have had my inspirational website & blog for going on 2 years now.  It was time for some serious self-reflecting!  I eventually broke it down to this:  I have a passion for 1.) motivating others 2.) presenting and interacting with others 3.) and helping others recognize and achieve their full potential.  After an epiphany I had in CA, I created an inspirational website which has quickly developed into a business where I can incorporate my love for all of the above!
  • I’ve been asked many times, “What exactly is a Life Coach?”  Let me help clarify that for you!  A Life Coach is someone who helps you improve and achieve in the areas of your life for which you wish to – and as the title says, they coach you!  Think of it in terms of sports.  A coach teaches you the game, supports you during your wins and losses, and helps you become the best player possible! 
  • Here are some examples of clients I am helping to achieve their goals:
  • Someone reach their goal of qualifying for a raise at work. A huge portfolio needs created proving their abilities and skills and I am working with this person to set up personal deadlines to complete their portfolio by January 2015. 
  • I am currently helping someone grow their social media connections and stay on track with their personal savings goals. 
  • I am also working with someone on strengthening their self-confidence so that they may advance in their workplace.
Entrepreneur Tip:
If you do not take action, it will NEVER happen. Even if you do take action, you may not get the results or immediate turn around that you desire…but, just keep taking action. You absolutely have to live and learn to figure out exactly what it is that you want to do. Exploring leads to discovering. And, once you finally discover what you want, you’ll appreciate the journey it took to get there and that the reward of happiness and success!

Consumer Tip:
In order to make a change in your life, you need to understand the importance of commitment and accountability. It’s easy to say you’re committed when things aren’t tough.

Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
Save 25% off of a private coaching session and/or group workshop/seminar if you provide the code words: “On fire to inspire.” Receive the discount by emailing me at jenniferleelifecoaching@yahoo.com and providing the code word above.  Offer lasts for 6 months only.

Contact:
Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
www.JenniferLeeLifeCoaching.com
105 Bellwood Drive
412-600-6411  |  jennifer.hain@yahoo.com
Instagram: Jennifer Hain



Hosted By:
Joanne Quinn-Smith
Joanne Quinn-Smith is the Creative Energy Officer of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a full service marketing company specializing in Web 2.0 Gorilla Branding™. Known as the Techno Granny she offers her clients unique, creative and energetic marketing and management plans. Joanne’s expertise is in creating online platforms that create perpetual buzz. 

Joanne is an author, prolific blogger and talkcaster with over 800 shows. She has interviewed over 2000 prominent business owners, non-profit executives and celebrities. Her flagship website, PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com garners 220,000 hits per month, 62,000 unique page views per week and in 1 year had 2.25 million visitors. 

Joanne Quinn-Smith has been designated nationally, 2009 Small Business Journalist of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration for her advocacy and reporting on small business using New Media. Her good news reporting at PositivelyPittsburghLive was a finalist for best website or blog in Media for the American Business Stevie Award in 2010.  

Listen to the show HERE

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Posted By: Stephanie Curtice
This was reported as a reproduction of PositivelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith.
(c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2014 All rights reserved.