Friday, February 27, 2009
Job Opening: PT/FT Retail Peachtree City, GA
Local Thrift store looking for help. PT/FT, includes Saturdays. Must be able to stand on feet and lift up to 30 pounds. Retail experience helpful. Please send resume to store@clotheslesstraveled or fax to 770-631-9771
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Dunkin' Donuts Announces Metro Atlanta as a Priority Market in 2009
/PRNewswire/ -- Dunkin' Donuts, America's favorite all-day, everyday, stop for coffee and baked goods, announced today that Metro Atlanta will be one of its key franchise development markets in 2009, with plans to develop multiple new restaurants over the next several years, in addition to the 73 existing units in the market. Growth markets targeted within Metro Atlanta include Athens, Riverdale, Douglasville, Atlanta, Stone Mountain, Ellijay, Dawsonville, Cumming, Gainesville and Cleveland.
Dunkin' Donuts' development in Metro Atlanta is part of a steady and strategic national growth strategy, which includes expanding in existing markets while entering new cities throughout the country. The company is actively seeking new franchisees to own and operate a minimum of five new restaurants in Metro Atlanta.
Building a network of stores enables Dunkin' Donuts to invest in a distribution model that ensures consistent, high-quality products that customers expect when visiting a Dunkin' Donuts location. In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin' Donuts offers franchisees a variety of designs and venues, including free-standing stores, sites within shopping centers and convenience stores and other retail environments.
"To fulfill our national expansion goals, Dunkin' Donuts is looking for developers with a strong organization and the ability to manage multiple restaurants effectively and successfully in Metro Atlanta," said Lynette McKee, CFE, vice president of Franchising, Dunkin' Brands, Inc. "We also look for prior restaurant operations and real estate development experience."
According to McKee, "Dunkin' Donuts will satisfy a growing demand in Metro Atlanta for high-quality coffee and baked goods that are available all day. Dunkin' Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the honest, hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day -- whether it's in a boardroom, a schoolroom or a construction site. We look forward to being a vibrant part of the community and playing an important role in the daily lives of the people who live and work in and around Atlanta."
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Dunkin' Donuts' development in Metro Atlanta is part of a steady and strategic national growth strategy, which includes expanding in existing markets while entering new cities throughout the country. The company is actively seeking new franchisees to own and operate a minimum of five new restaurants in Metro Atlanta.
Building a network of stores enables Dunkin' Donuts to invest in a distribution model that ensures consistent, high-quality products that customers expect when visiting a Dunkin' Donuts location. In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin' Donuts offers franchisees a variety of designs and venues, including free-standing stores, sites within shopping centers and convenience stores and other retail environments.
"To fulfill our national expansion goals, Dunkin' Donuts is looking for developers with a strong organization and the ability to manage multiple restaurants effectively and successfully in Metro Atlanta," said Lynette McKee, CFE, vice president of Franchising, Dunkin' Brands, Inc. "We also look for prior restaurant operations and real estate development experience."
According to McKee, "Dunkin' Donuts will satisfy a growing demand in Metro Atlanta for high-quality coffee and baked goods that are available all day. Dunkin' Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the honest, hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day -- whether it's in a boardroom, a schoolroom or a construction site. We look forward to being a vibrant part of the community and playing an important role in the daily lives of the people who live and work in and around Atlanta."
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U.S. Department of Labor Announces Boost in Weekly Unemployment Benefit Amounts
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced a weekly increase in unemployment compensation, as provided for in the stimulus legislation, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, enacted on Feb. 17.
The new temporary Federal Additional Compensation program will provide a $25 weekly increase in unemployment compensation for eligible workers. These extra benefits are 100 percent federally-funded.
The stimulus legislation also extended the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program, which was scheduled to expire on Aug. 27, 2009. "The program has been extended to Dec. 31, 2009, for new applications, with a 'phase-out' period ending May 31, 2010," said Secretary Solis. "Both the Emergency Unemployment Compensation and the Federal Additional Compensation programs provide temporary financial support to unemployed workers to help them pay for basic necessities such as food, clothing, medicine and gasoline while they look for new jobs."
To qualify for these benefits, unemployed workers must first be determined eligible for unemployment benefits by the appropriate state workforce agency. Workers must have earned sufficient wages from prior recent employment and have been separated from employment for non-disqualifying reasons (as determined under state law). Eligible workers must also be able to work and be available for work while receiving these unemployment benefits.
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have executed agreements with the U.S. Department of Labor to administer these programs. States will begin to make the extra payments as early as the week of March 1, 2009, for weeks of unemployment effective Feb. 22, 2009.
For information on unemployment compensation, visit http://www.dol.gov/.
FACT SHEET
EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION AND FEDERAL ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION UNDER AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT OF 2009
Emergency Unemployment Compensation, 2008 (EUC08) - Program Extension
-- The EUC08 program, created on June 30, 2008, provides up to 20 weeks
of federally-funded benefits to eligible unemployed workers who have
collected all their regular state unemployment benefits. An
additional 13 weeks of EUC are available in states with high levels of
unemployment.
-- The EUC08 program was scheduled to expire on Aug. 27, 2009. The
stimulus legislation, Public Law Number 111-5, which was enacted on
Feb. 17, 2009, extends the expiration date of the EUC08 program to May
31, 2010.
-- The period during which an individual may establish eligibility for
EUC08 is extended from March 31, 2009, to the week of unemployment
ending on or before Dec. 31, 2009, and the "phase-out" or expiration
date of the program is extended from Aug. 27, 2009 to May 31, 2010.
-- The stimulus legislation does not provide additional weeks of benefits
for individuals who have or will exhaust their EUC08 benefits.
Federal Additional Compensation (FAC)
-- The stimulus legislation also created a new FAC program that provides
a $25 supplement that is payable to individuals receiving state
unemployment compensation (UC) or Federal UC. The $25 supplement does
not apply to state-financed Additional Compensation programs.
-- All 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands executed agreements with the
secretary of labor to administer this new program on behalf of the
federal government on or before Feb. 21, 2009; therefore, the program
is effective Feb. 22, 2009, in all states/jurisdictions.
-- States are modifying their automated benefit payment systems to
implement FAC. Many states will begin to make payments during the week
of March 1, 2009, for weeks of unemployment effective Feb. 22, 2009.
However, due to the complexity of changing automated systems, some
states have advised that they may implement later, making payments
retroactively.
States will calculate the individual's weekly benefit amount and make any adjustments in accordance with state law to account for any earnings, and any other deductions (for example, severance and retirement/pension payments).
-- The $25 supplement is taxable. Therefore, states will include the
total benefits received including the $25 increase(s) in issuing a
1099G to claimants.
-- The $25 supplement/payments will be paid from federal general
revenues. States will receive administrative costs associated with
implementing the $25 add-on.
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The new temporary Federal Additional Compensation program will provide a $25 weekly increase in unemployment compensation for eligible workers. These extra benefits are 100 percent federally-funded.
The stimulus legislation also extended the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program, which was scheduled to expire on Aug. 27, 2009. "The program has been extended to Dec. 31, 2009, for new applications, with a 'phase-out' period ending May 31, 2010," said Secretary Solis. "Both the Emergency Unemployment Compensation and the Federal Additional Compensation programs provide temporary financial support to unemployed workers to help them pay for basic necessities such as food, clothing, medicine and gasoline while they look for new jobs."
To qualify for these benefits, unemployed workers must first be determined eligible for unemployment benefits by the appropriate state workforce agency. Workers must have earned sufficient wages from prior recent employment and have been separated from employment for non-disqualifying reasons (as determined under state law). Eligible workers must also be able to work and be available for work while receiving these unemployment benefits.
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have executed agreements with the U.S. Department of Labor to administer these programs. States will begin to make the extra payments as early as the week of March 1, 2009, for weeks of unemployment effective Feb. 22, 2009.
For information on unemployment compensation, visit http://www.dol.gov/.
FACT SHEET
EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION AND FEDERAL ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION UNDER AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT OF 2009
Emergency Unemployment Compensation, 2008 (EUC08) - Program Extension
-- The EUC08 program, created on June 30, 2008, provides up to 20 weeks
of federally-funded benefits to eligible unemployed workers who have
collected all their regular state unemployment benefits. An
additional 13 weeks of EUC are available in states with high levels of
unemployment.
-- The EUC08 program was scheduled to expire on Aug. 27, 2009. The
stimulus legislation, Public Law Number 111-5, which was enacted on
Feb. 17, 2009, extends the expiration date of the EUC08 program to May
31, 2010.
-- The period during which an individual may establish eligibility for
EUC08 is extended from March 31, 2009, to the week of unemployment
ending on or before Dec. 31, 2009, and the "phase-out" or expiration
date of the program is extended from Aug. 27, 2009 to May 31, 2010.
-- The stimulus legislation does not provide additional weeks of benefits
for individuals who have or will exhaust their EUC08 benefits.
Federal Additional Compensation (FAC)
-- The stimulus legislation also created a new FAC program that provides
a $25 supplement that is payable to individuals receiving state
unemployment compensation (UC) or Federal UC. The $25 supplement does
not apply to state-financed Additional Compensation programs.
-- All 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands executed agreements with the
secretary of labor to administer this new program on behalf of the
federal government on or before Feb. 21, 2009; therefore, the program
is effective Feb. 22, 2009, in all states/jurisdictions.
-- States are modifying their automated benefit payment systems to
implement FAC. Many states will begin to make payments during the week
of March 1, 2009, for weeks of unemployment effective Feb. 22, 2009.
However, due to the complexity of changing automated systems, some
states have advised that they may implement later, making payments
retroactively.
States will calculate the individual's weekly benefit amount and make any adjustments in accordance with state law to account for any earnings, and any other deductions (for example, severance and retirement/pension payments).
-- The $25 supplement is taxable. Therefore, states will include the
total benefits received including the $25 increase(s) in issuing a
1099G to claimants.
-- The $25 supplement/payments will be paid from federal general
revenues. States will receive administrative costs associated with
implementing the $25 add-on.
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Sunday, February 22, 2009
Microsoft Equips Individuals With New Training Resources Needed for Jobs
/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. today announced a new initiative, Elevate America, which will provide up to 2 million people over the next three years with the technology training needed to succeed in the 21st-century economy.
Microsoft has worked for years with other businesses and community-based partners to broaden access to job opportunities through information technology education and training. Elevate America expands these efforts and provides immediate support in response to the current economic crisis in partnership with others in the public and private sector.
Elevate America has two main offerings, one available immediately and one that will be provided in partnership with state governments including those of Florida, New York and Washington.
A new online resource, located at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica, is available today. This new Web site helps individuals understand what types of technical skills they need for the jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities of today and tomorrow, and resources to help acquire these skills. The Web site provides access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.
In order to provide a broader range of training programs and certification exams, Microsoft will also partner with state and local governments, which in turn will make these resources available to their citizens. Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, today announced that Florida, New York and Washington will be the first states to provide Elevate America to their residents. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire says that programs such as Elevate America are critical to providing support to Washington families and helping the economy recover.
"At the federal, state and local level, leaders are working together to help start the engine of economic growth. The private sector provides much of the spark needed to jump-start that engine," Gregoire said. "Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft's leadership on education and work force development -- issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens. Washington state is pleased to be one of the first states to partner with Microsoft to provide Elevate America to our residents."
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist said that the success of the Elevate Miami program in his state is proof that public-private partnerships can work and benefit citizens. "We have worked with Microsoft for years in Miami to bring technology training to underserved populations," he said. "Now, with Elevate America, we have the opportunity to bring these important skills to even more people, at a time when they are needed more than ever."
Elevate America is an extension of Microsoft's long-standing commitment to provide skills training and certification through schools, government programs and community-based organizations. The Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills Program is an example of how Microsoft is already working to bridge the technology skills gap and equip more people with skills relevant to today's work force. More than half of today's jobs require some technology skills, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that will reach 77 percent in the next decade.
"Millions of Americans don't have the technology skills needed in today's economy. Through Elevate America, we want to help workers get the skills they need to succeed," Passman said. "We are also providing a full range of work force development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialized training for their workers."
Short-Term Needs and Long-Term Investments
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people than ever are pursuing Microsoft technical certifications. As part of the Elevate America effort, Microsoft is providing 1 million Microsoft Learning vouchers for free access to Microsoft eLearning courses and select certification exams.* This comprehensive offering also includes the following:
-- Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training
-- Basic-level information technology training resources through
Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula
-- Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and
instructor-led, plus selected certification exams
-- Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft
-- Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business
certification
-- Grants of cash and software to community partners to build
in-classroom training capacity
-- Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the
Microsoft IT Academy program
-- Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training
and resources that position them for success in the economy today, and
tomorrow
More information on Elevate America is available at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
* Requires an Internet connection. Internet connection fees may apply.
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Microsoft has worked for years with other businesses and community-based partners to broaden access to job opportunities through information technology education and training. Elevate America expands these efforts and provides immediate support in response to the current economic crisis in partnership with others in the public and private sector.
Elevate America has two main offerings, one available immediately and one that will be provided in partnership with state governments including those of Florida, New York and Washington.
A new online resource, located at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica, is available today. This new Web site helps individuals understand what types of technical skills they need for the jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities of today and tomorrow, and resources to help acquire these skills. The Web site provides access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.
In order to provide a broader range of training programs and certification exams, Microsoft will also partner with state and local governments, which in turn will make these resources available to their citizens. Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, today announced that Florida, New York and Washington will be the first states to provide Elevate America to their residents. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire says that programs such as Elevate America are critical to providing support to Washington families and helping the economy recover.
"At the federal, state and local level, leaders are working together to help start the engine of economic growth. The private sector provides much of the spark needed to jump-start that engine," Gregoire said. "Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft's leadership on education and work force development -- issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens. Washington state is pleased to be one of the first states to partner with Microsoft to provide Elevate America to our residents."
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist said that the success of the Elevate Miami program in his state is proof that public-private partnerships can work and benefit citizens. "We have worked with Microsoft for years in Miami to bring technology training to underserved populations," he said. "Now, with Elevate America, we have the opportunity to bring these important skills to even more people, at a time when they are needed more than ever."
Elevate America is an extension of Microsoft's long-standing commitment to provide skills training and certification through schools, government programs and community-based organizations. The Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills Program is an example of how Microsoft is already working to bridge the technology skills gap and equip more people with skills relevant to today's work force. More than half of today's jobs require some technology skills, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that will reach 77 percent in the next decade.
"Millions of Americans don't have the technology skills needed in today's economy. Through Elevate America, we want to help workers get the skills they need to succeed," Passman said. "We are also providing a full range of work force development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialized training for their workers."
Short-Term Needs and Long-Term Investments
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people than ever are pursuing Microsoft technical certifications. As part of the Elevate America effort, Microsoft is providing 1 million Microsoft Learning vouchers for free access to Microsoft eLearning courses and select certification exams.* This comprehensive offering also includes the following:
-- Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training
-- Basic-level information technology training resources through
Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula
-- Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and
instructor-led, plus selected certification exams
-- Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft
-- Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business
certification
-- Grants of cash and software to community partners to build
in-classroom training capacity
-- Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the
Microsoft IT Academy program
-- Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training
and resources that position them for success in the economy today, and
tomorrow
More information on Elevate America is available at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
* Requires an Internet connection. Internet connection fees may apply.
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Thursday, February 19, 2009
White House Releases State by State Numbers; American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to Save or Create 106,000 Georgia Jobs
According to the White House, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will only create or save an estimated 106,000 jobs in Georgia over the next two years.
The White House recently released state-specific details on the local impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is a nationwide effort to create jobs, jumpstart growth and transform our economy to compete in the 21st century. The compromise package of $789 billion will create or save 3.5 million jobs over the next two years. Jobs created will be in a range of industries from clean energy to health care, with over 90% in the private sector.
The estimates are derived from an analysis of the overall employment impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act conducted by Christina Romer, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, and Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist for the Vice President, and detailed estimates of the working age population, employment, and industrial composition of each state.
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The White House recently released state-specific details on the local impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is a nationwide effort to create jobs, jumpstart growth and transform our economy to compete in the 21st century. The compromise package of $789 billion will create or save 3.5 million jobs over the next two years. Jobs created will be in a range of industries from clean energy to health care, with over 90% in the private sector.
The estimates are derived from an analysis of the overall employment impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act conducted by Christina Romer, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, and Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist for the Vice President, and detailed estimates of the working age population, employment, and industrial composition of each state.
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Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Southern Bioenergy Industry Could Create Thousands of Jobs
The South is in a unique position to create thousands of jobs for Southerners through the development of the bioenergy industry, a new report says. The Southern Bioenergy Roadmap, a project of the Southeast Agriculture & Forestry Energy Resources Alliance (SAFER) and the University of Florida, shows that the South has abundant natural resources and intellectual capital to produce electricity and automotive fuel from plants, trees, and waste, also known as
biomass.
The report found that, in 2007, the South:
• Contained 30 percent of the nation’s bioenergy potential in its agricultural and forestry resources;
• Produced 46 percent of the nation’s biomass generated electricity;
• Produced 22 percent of the nation’s biodiesel, but only 6.4 percent of the nation’s ethanol; and
• Hosted bioenergy research centers in every state.
SAFER presented these findings to Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, chairman of Southern Growth Policies Board’s Southern Technology Council, who commented that “this is a key time for the South to lead the nation in new technologies for converting biomass into energy.” Governor Bredesen also said, “The State of Tennessee has shown a commitment to helping the South become the national leader in bioenergy through its support of the Tennessee Biofuels Initiative and the BioEnergy Science Center at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.”
For the South to become the nation’s leader in the research, production, and distribution of bioenergy, the Roadmap recommends states (1) Improve the supply, demand, and regulatory environment for bioenergy in the South, (2) Invest in the development of commercial biopower and biofuel facilities in the South, and (3) Educate Southern leaders and the public on the economic and environmental benefits of bioenergy.
Liam Leightley, Chairman of SAFER and Executive Director of the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, Virginia, said, “The Roadmap provides a starting point for building on the region’s assets and addressing the barriers to the bioenergy industry in the South.” “By wisely using our resources we can move closer to energy independence and at the same time create good jobs for our rural communities,” Leightley added.
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biomass.
The report found that, in 2007, the South:
• Contained 30 percent of the nation’s bioenergy potential in its agricultural and forestry resources;
• Produced 46 percent of the nation’s biomass generated electricity;
• Produced 22 percent of the nation’s biodiesel, but only 6.4 percent of the nation’s ethanol; and
• Hosted bioenergy research centers in every state.
SAFER presented these findings to Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, chairman of Southern Growth Policies Board’s Southern Technology Council, who commented that “this is a key time for the South to lead the nation in new technologies for converting biomass into energy.” Governor Bredesen also said, “The State of Tennessee has shown a commitment to helping the South become the national leader in bioenergy through its support of the Tennessee Biofuels Initiative and the BioEnergy Science Center at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.”
For the South to become the nation’s leader in the research, production, and distribution of bioenergy, the Roadmap recommends states (1) Improve the supply, demand, and regulatory environment for bioenergy in the South, (2) Invest in the development of commercial biopower and biofuel facilities in the South, and (3) Educate Southern leaders and the public on the economic and environmental benefits of bioenergy.
Liam Leightley, Chairman of SAFER and Executive Director of the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, Virginia, said, “The Roadmap provides a starting point for building on the region’s assets and addressing the barriers to the bioenergy industry in the South.” “By wisely using our resources we can move closer to energy independence and at the same time create good jobs for our rural communities,” Leightley added.
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Friday, February 13, 2009
Georgia Southern University Hosting Regional Economic Forum
A free, public forum on how southeast Georgia can prosper despite a struggling national economy will be held on Thursday, February 19, beginning at 6 p.m. in the College of Information Technology Auditorium on the Georgia Southern University campus.
The forum titled “Growth in Tough Times: How Southeast Georgia Can and Will Thrive During the Current Economic Downturn” will take a look at the economic advantages in southeast Georgia and the positive impact they can have during this time of economic uncertainty. Anyone who would like a deeper understanding of the current economic climate and how our region is affected is encouraged to attend.
“In the current economic climate, communities are struggling to sustain economic development and growth. They need to figure out how to maintain the current jobs and attract those businesses that continue to prosper. This Regional Economic Development Forum will provide a look at how some successful communities in our region are meeting the challenge,” said Dr. Donna Fisher, an associate professor of economics at Georgia Southern University and the program coordinator for the Regional Economic Development major.
The keynote speaker will be Chris Clark, who will begin serving as the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in April. “Chris Clark has extensive experience in economic development at both the local and state level. His new position with the DNR will provide a vital link between growing jobs and business and utilizing the state's natural resources to keep this growth sustainable,” said Dr. Ronald Shiffler, dean of the College of Business Administration. Clark is the current executive director of the Georgia Environmental Authority.
Following his keynote address, Clark will moderate a panel discussion. Panelists include Emcee Shantell Wilson, Savannah Economic Development Authority; Stacy Watson, Georgia Ports Authority; Peggy Chapman, CEO Statesboro/Bulloch Development Authority; Peggy Jolley, Georgia Power; and Ron Tolley, Liberty County Development Authority.
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The forum titled “Growth in Tough Times: How Southeast Georgia Can and Will Thrive During the Current Economic Downturn” will take a look at the economic advantages in southeast Georgia and the positive impact they can have during this time of economic uncertainty. Anyone who would like a deeper understanding of the current economic climate and how our region is affected is encouraged to attend.
“In the current economic climate, communities are struggling to sustain economic development and growth. They need to figure out how to maintain the current jobs and attract those businesses that continue to prosper. This Regional Economic Development Forum will provide a look at how some successful communities in our region are meeting the challenge,” said Dr. Donna Fisher, an associate professor of economics at Georgia Southern University and the program coordinator for the Regional Economic Development major.
The keynote speaker will be Chris Clark, who will begin serving as the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in April. “Chris Clark has extensive experience in economic development at both the local and state level. His new position with the DNR will provide a vital link between growing jobs and business and utilizing the state's natural resources to keep this growth sustainable,” said Dr. Ronald Shiffler, dean of the College of Business Administration. Clark is the current executive director of the Georgia Environmental Authority.
Following his keynote address, Clark will moderate a panel discussion. Panelists include Emcee Shantell Wilson, Savannah Economic Development Authority; Stacy Watson, Georgia Ports Authority; Peggy Chapman, CEO Statesboro/Bulloch Development Authority; Peggy Jolley, Georgia Power; and Ron Tolley, Liberty County Development Authority.
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Monday, February 9, 2009
UGA Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit: All-Star Panel and Presenters to Give Insight and Practical Advice on Feb. 12 in Atlanta
The Terry College of Business and University of Georgia Alumni Association will host the Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit on Thursday, Feb. 12, at the UGA Atlanta Alumni Association Alumni Center.
The summit will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and feature a panel discussion, two presentations and a luncheon that will provide attendees insights into the innovation process, practical advice about raising capital, protecting intellectual property and creating a culture that promotes innovative thinking.
“In this economy entrepreneurs have such little margin for error,” said Chris Hanks, director of the Terry Entrepreneurship Program and one of the event’s panelists. “And this is an opportunity for people to spend a day getting advice and seasoned mentorship from some heavy hitters who are all-stars when it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship.
The expert panel will begin the summit with the discussion topic, “Seizing the Moment: How Entrepreneurs Can Win with Innovation.” In addition to Hanks, the panelists will include Beyond Z Interactive Media CEO Karen Lennon, the first-ever Emmy Award winner for interactive television; Alan Koenning, a corporate venture capitalist with UPS and manager of its Strategic Enterprise Fund; and the panel moderator, UGA alumnus Keith Herndon, president of Internet Decisions LLC and editor of the book Entrepreneurs and Innovation: Creating Value with Emerging Technologies.
Following the panel discussion, John R. Harris, partner of the intellectual property group at Morris, Manning and Martin LLP, will present “Protecting Intellectual Property – Insights into the Legal Process,” and UGA Eminent Scholar and entrepreneur Steven Stice will present “Creating the Future as a Scientist and Entrepreneur” as the luncheon speaker. Stice, the first scientist to successfully clone calves, is director of the UGA Regenerative Bioscience Center and chief scientific officer of Aruna Biomedical.
The UGA Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit is free for UGA students, $20 for UGA Alumni Association members and $30 for the general public.
The Entrepreneurship Program was established by the Terry College of Business to provide an outstanding entrepreneurship curriculum, mentoring by the most seasoned entrepreneurs in the Southeast, networking opportunities, practical seminars and an array of other resources designed to inspire, teach and serve entrepreneurs and those who hope to be.
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The summit will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and feature a panel discussion, two presentations and a luncheon that will provide attendees insights into the innovation process, practical advice about raising capital, protecting intellectual property and creating a culture that promotes innovative thinking.
“In this economy entrepreneurs have such little margin for error,” said Chris Hanks, director of the Terry Entrepreneurship Program and one of the event’s panelists. “And this is an opportunity for people to spend a day getting advice and seasoned mentorship from some heavy hitters who are all-stars when it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship.
The expert panel will begin the summit with the discussion topic, “Seizing the Moment: How Entrepreneurs Can Win with Innovation.” In addition to Hanks, the panelists will include Beyond Z Interactive Media CEO Karen Lennon, the first-ever Emmy Award winner for interactive television; Alan Koenning, a corporate venture capitalist with UPS and manager of its Strategic Enterprise Fund; and the panel moderator, UGA alumnus Keith Herndon, president of Internet Decisions LLC and editor of the book Entrepreneurs and Innovation: Creating Value with Emerging Technologies.
Following the panel discussion, John R. Harris, partner of the intellectual property group at Morris, Manning and Martin LLP, will present “Protecting Intellectual Property – Insights into the Legal Process,” and UGA Eminent Scholar and entrepreneur Steven Stice will present “Creating the Future as a Scientist and Entrepreneur” as the luncheon speaker. Stice, the first scientist to successfully clone calves, is director of the UGA Regenerative Bioscience Center and chief scientific officer of Aruna Biomedical.
The UGA Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit is free for UGA students, $20 for UGA Alumni Association members and $30 for the general public.
The Entrepreneurship Program was established by the Terry College of Business to provide an outstanding entrepreneurship curriculum, mentoring by the most seasoned entrepreneurs in the Southeast, networking opportunities, practical seminars and an array of other resources designed to inspire, teach and serve entrepreneurs and those who hope to be.
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Monday, February 2, 2009
Baskin-Robbins Opens Atlanta for Franchise Sales; Plans More Than 60 New Stores
/PRNewswire/ -- Baskin-Robbins, America's favorite neighborhood ice cream shop, shares its plans to rapidly expand its national footprint with today's announcement that Atlanta is now open for franchise sales. More than 60 new stores are projected over the next several years throughout Atlanta and the surrounding region. This unprecedented growth campaign is designed as part of a plan to double Baskin-Robbins' U.S. presence over time and is based on a diversified concept portfolio, expanded and comprehensive menu, and system-wide operational simplicity.
Built over the last 63 years, Baskin-Robbins currently enjoys 98% brand awareness. Most recently, Baskin-Robbins was named for the second consecutive year the number one ice cream and frozen dessert franchise, in Entrepreneur magazine's Annual "Franchise 500" ranking. This widespread recognition now makes it the opportune time to own large geographic territories in and around Atlanta and operate multi-store networks of five-to-31 or more locations with limited exclusivity.
"As the Baskin-Robbins brand continues to develop in Atlanta, we're now looking for large area developers in the Metro Atlanta area with strong financial backgrounds, a passion for their local communities and a desire to manage multiple stores," said Salman Siddiqui, vice president of franchising and development, Baskin-Robbins. "We are excited to provide large-area developers with premium territories to maximize their region's potential and set the direction of the market's growth."
Baskin-Robbins opened more than 600 stores globally in 2008, marking the highest single-year new unit openings in the company's history. With a domestic footprint of more than 2,700 locations, Baskin-Robbins currently operates four locations in and around Atlanta and 35 stores across Georgia. Baskin Robbins' Atlanta launch is part of an aggressive growth strategy which includes expanding in existing markets including California, Florida and Texas, while continuing its growth in South Carolina, North Carolina and Indiana, to name a few.
Baskin-Robbins begins 2009 with a diversified concept portfolio that includes design concepts that will provide interested large area developers with flexible real estate options. The traditional concept is an updated version of the stand-alone store featuring all of Baskin-Robbins' standard equipment and offerings. The recently launched BR Express concept is a simplified design offering a convenient and specialized solution for malls, sports arenas, airports or other real estate opportunities under 200 square feet. There is also the revolutionary "Cafe 31" model that is currently in test and operates as a high-end dessert bar with unique ice cream and coffee products.
"By continuing our history of developing new product innovations and keeping our focus on customer service for our franchisees, Baskin-Robbins is well positioned for growth in 2009 and beyond," said Siddiqui. "We share a common objective with our franchisees and large-area developers, which focuses on building the business in this increasingly challenging economy."
Furthering its commitment to its franchisees, Baskin-Robbins also offers a range of support systems including: complete training, site selection support, design, construction, marketing, and technology assistance. Baskin-Robbins has proven to be a simple business to run with convenient hours of operation, minimal equipment, little waste and a majority of inventory that has a shelf life of one year with proper storage.
"Baskin-Robbins will satisfy a growing demand in Atlanta for high-quality ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages," said Siddiqui. "Over the past 63 years, Baskin-Robbins has become the brand of choice for consumers and has consistently delighted them with our irresistible flavors and treats. We look forward to being an important part of the Metro Atlanta community."
More than six decades ago, Baskin-Robbins was founded by ice cream enthusiasts Burton "Burt" Baskin and Irvine "Irv" Robbins who shared a dream to create an innovative ice cream store that would be a neighborhood gathering place for families. Today, more than 300 million people visit Baskin-Robbins each year to sample from the more than 1,000 flavors available in its ice cream library, as well as enjoy its full array of frozen treats including ice cream cakes, frozen beverages and sundaes.
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Built over the last 63 years, Baskin-Robbins currently enjoys 98% brand awareness. Most recently, Baskin-Robbins was named for the second consecutive year the number one ice cream and frozen dessert franchise, in Entrepreneur magazine's Annual "Franchise 500" ranking. This widespread recognition now makes it the opportune time to own large geographic territories in and around Atlanta and operate multi-store networks of five-to-31 or more locations with limited exclusivity.
"As the Baskin-Robbins brand continues to develop in Atlanta, we're now looking for large area developers in the Metro Atlanta area with strong financial backgrounds, a passion for their local communities and a desire to manage multiple stores," said Salman Siddiqui, vice president of franchising and development, Baskin-Robbins. "We are excited to provide large-area developers with premium territories to maximize their region's potential and set the direction of the market's growth."
Baskin-Robbins opened more than 600 stores globally in 2008, marking the highest single-year new unit openings in the company's history. With a domestic footprint of more than 2,700 locations, Baskin-Robbins currently operates four locations in and around Atlanta and 35 stores across Georgia. Baskin Robbins' Atlanta launch is part of an aggressive growth strategy which includes expanding in existing markets including California, Florida and Texas, while continuing its growth in South Carolina, North Carolina and Indiana, to name a few.
Baskin-Robbins begins 2009 with a diversified concept portfolio that includes design concepts that will provide interested large area developers with flexible real estate options. The traditional concept is an updated version of the stand-alone store featuring all of Baskin-Robbins' standard equipment and offerings. The recently launched BR Express concept is a simplified design offering a convenient and specialized solution for malls, sports arenas, airports or other real estate opportunities under 200 square feet. There is also the revolutionary "Cafe 31" model that is currently in test and operates as a high-end dessert bar with unique ice cream and coffee products.
"By continuing our history of developing new product innovations and keeping our focus on customer service for our franchisees, Baskin-Robbins is well positioned for growth in 2009 and beyond," said Siddiqui. "We share a common objective with our franchisees and large-area developers, which focuses on building the business in this increasingly challenging economy."
Furthering its commitment to its franchisees, Baskin-Robbins also offers a range of support systems including: complete training, site selection support, design, construction, marketing, and technology assistance. Baskin-Robbins has proven to be a simple business to run with convenient hours of operation, minimal equipment, little waste and a majority of inventory that has a shelf life of one year with proper storage.
"Baskin-Robbins will satisfy a growing demand in Atlanta for high-quality ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages," said Siddiqui. "Over the past 63 years, Baskin-Robbins has become the brand of choice for consumers and has consistently delighted them with our irresistible flavors and treats. We look forward to being an important part of the Metro Atlanta community."
More than six decades ago, Baskin-Robbins was founded by ice cream enthusiasts Burton "Burt" Baskin and Irvine "Irv" Robbins who shared a dream to create an innovative ice cream store that would be a neighborhood gathering place for families. Today, more than 300 million people visit Baskin-Robbins each year to sample from the more than 1,000 flavors available in its ice cream library, as well as enjoy its full array of frozen treats including ice cream cakes, frozen beverages and sundaes.
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www.fayettefrontpage.com
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