Dreamweaver Marketing News, Stand Up to Violence Week Without Violence: October 11-17, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                        

CONTACT:  Ellen Sheppard

YWCA Greater Pittsburgh

412-255-1253

esheppard@ywcapgh.org

Stand Up to Violence

Week Without Violence: October 11-17, 2015

PITTSBURGH, PA (October 7, 2015):  The YWCA Greater Pittsburgh invites the public to stand up to violence during the 20th annual Week Without Violence:  October 11-17, 2015.

The Week Without Violence is a signature initiative created by the YWCA USA 20 years ago to mobilize people in communities across the United States against all forms of violence, wherever it occurs. The YWCA Greater Pittsburgh joins YWCA’s nationwide in hosting local Week Without Violence events that raise awareness about and put an end to violence in all forms.

“The facts are appalling,” said Chaz Kellem, newly appointed Senior Director of Advocacy for Race and Gender Equity, YWCA Greater Pittsburgh. Kellem refers to the statistic showing that 46 women are shot to death every month by a current or former partner in domestic violence-related homicides. “This week, choose to stand up. We cannot continue to lose our family and friends to violence.”

“Violence should not be the answer to our problems,” said Magdeline E. Jensen, Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Greater Pittsburgh. “As a community, we must come together and look for alternative solutions. That’s what the Week Without Violence is all about. I urge everyone to get involved.”

YWCA Week Without Violence gives you practical, sustainable non-violent alternatives through a week-long series of events. For more information, call 412-255-1466 or go to www.ywcapgh.org.

Event Line-up

Sunday, October 11: Day of Remembrance

Mark and celebrate this day in memory of friends and loved ones lost to violence.

Monday, October 12: Fun with the Force

Mingle with members of Pittsburgh’s police, SWAT team, bomb squad and K9 officers for hands-on activities, truck tours, and interactive play.

Time: 3:30pm - 5:30pm | Location: YWCA, Homewood Brushton Center, 6907 Frankstown Avenue

Tuesday, October 13: Making Our Schools Safe

YWCA, Prime Stage Theatre and Community College of Allegheny County present You Belong to Me, a teen production based on the warning signs of dating violence. Panel discussion to follow.
(Not open to the public.)

Wednesday, October 14: Surviving Domestic Violence

Hear one woman’s story of survival; learn about legal protection and safety strategies. Featuring panelists Eric Kroll, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and Lorrain Bittner, Women’s Center and Shelter. Register at ywcapgh.org

Time: 9:00pm – 12:00pm | Location: YWCA, 305 Wood Street, Pgh, PA 15222 (fourth floor)

Thursday, October 15: Youth Speak & We Listen: Town Hall Meeting

Join Pittsburgh Police Chief, Cameron Mclay, in a community discussion on how to change the culture of violence. Presented by Black Women for Positive Change. #YouthSpeak

Time: 10:00am – 11:30am | Location: CCAC Allegheny Campus, Foerester Student Center

Friday, October 16: Eliminating Racism and Hate Crime

Use your social media voice to raise hate crime, racism and violence awareness. Look for details via Twitter (@ywcapgh) and Facebook.

Saturday, October 17: Replacing Violence with Recreation and Fun

Spend time with family:

• Check out Frick Art & Historical Center, The Frick Art Museum and Car & Carriage Museum – FREE ADMISSION
• Visit Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh 

The YWCA Greater Pittsburgh strengthens our community by creating and advancing opportunities for all women to seek equality and self-sufficiency; and is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.For more information about the YWCA’s programs and services, visit www.ywcapgh.org or call 412-391-5100.

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Dreamweaver Marketing News, PNC DONATES LANTERN BUILDING TO PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contacts
Shaunda Miles, Director of Public Relations, 412-471-1578/Miles@TrustArts.org
Diana Roth, Communications Manager, 412-471-8717/Roth@TrustArts.org

Images: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Press RoomSearch name:  Lantern Building

PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST ANNOUNCES

PNC DONATES LANTERN BUILDING TO PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST

DONATION EXEMPLIFIES JOINT COMMITMENT TO ARTS
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE CULTURAL DISTRICT

Pittsburgh, PA—The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announced today PNC’s donation of the Lantern Building to the organization in support of its mission to culturally and economically revitalize the Cultural District.  The Lantern Building is located at 600 Liberty Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh.  

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust will continue to use the gallery to showcase and enhance artistic programming.  The Trust has a well-regarded track record of effectively managing resources while bringing art to local communities.  As more people migrate downtown and as the local arts community continues to grow, PNC’s donation is timely and reflects the city’s commitment to the arts.

PNC plans to move its Legacy Project from the Lantern Building to its new headquarters, The Tower at PNC Plaza, which is nearing completion.  Through access to the Legacy Project, employees, customers and visitors to the tower will have an opportunity to learn about Pittsburgh and PNC’s contributions to the city.  The Tower at PNC Plaza will feature the exhibit’s reader rail, as well as two interactive panels that display the Legacy Project website and “Pittsburgh: Now and Then,” a dynamic portrait of the city.

PNC has long supported the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust through programs including, but not limited to, PNC Grow Up Great, ArtsMasters: Masterclasses for the Community, and through the PNC Broadway Across America series. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s planned use of the space will be consistent with PNC’s long-term vision for the PNC Campus, which is to create an aesthetically pleasing space for employees, neighbors and visitors.

PNCThe PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (www.pnc.com) is one of the United States’ largest diversified financial services organizations providing retail and business banking; residential mortgage banking; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management.

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust has overseen one of Pittsburgh’s most historic transformations: turning a seedy red-light district into a magnet destination for arts lovers, residents, visitors, and business owners. Founded in 1984, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a non-profit arts organization whose mission is the cultural and economic revitalization of a 14-block arts and entertainment/residential neighborhood called the Cultural District. The District is one of the country’s largest land masses “curated” by a single nonprofit arts organization. A major catalytic force in the city, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a unique model of how public-private partnerships can reinvent a city with authenticity, innovation and creativity. Using the arts as an economic catalyst, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust has holistically created a world-renowned Cultural District that is revitalizing the city, improving the regional economy and enhancing Pittsburgh’s quality of life. Thanks to the support of foundations, corporations, government agencies and thousands of private citizens, the Trust stands as a national model of urban redevelopment through the arts. www.TrustArts.org

Follow us on Twitter @CulturalTrust, and like us on Facebook.

DreamweaverMarketingNews, RAY DAY CALLIOPE’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

RAY DAY

CALLIOPE’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

(Pittsburgh, PA)- Calliope welcome to The Roots Cellar at The Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, Friday, April 17, 2015 from 6:00-10:00 PM

More information is available online at www.calliopehouse.org or by contacting the Calliope office at (412) 361-1915.Tickets are $50 *plus handling fee.

This Calliope Annual Fundraiser is in honor of Ray Werner, past president and frequent contributor to Calliope. Ray is an ex-ad man and agency owner, responsible for such gems as “You’ve Got a Friend in Pennsylvania.” Since retiring from the ad business, he has become Pittsburgh’s own renaissance man: bread baker extraordinaire, musician, playwright, filmmaker, artist, teacher, volunteer, and trailblazer.

So please join us! Enjoy live music provided by the members of Hooley and other Pittsburgh acoustic music luminaries. Also included in the ticket price: good brew, fine wine, soda, and top-notch food. Don’t miss the acoustic music event of the year! And support a great cause to boot.

Ray Werner was born in 1938 in Freedom, PA, in a house on the side of a hill, and raised in a loving family by Chuck and Pauline Werner, the two most memorable people in his life.  The stories he tells -- in plays, films or music -- had their beginning at their kitchen table.

After a stint in the Army in Alaska, Ray graduated from Duquesne University in 1964 and studied playwriting at the Yale School of Drama. Then copywriting grabbed him, and he eventually became creative director at Pittsburgh’s largest ad firm, Ketchum, where he wrote and produced campaigns for H. J. Heinz, Alcoa, National Geographic, the telephone company, PA Tourism and others.  His “You’ve Got a Friend in Pennsylvania” was recently named the most memorable ad campaign in Pittsburgh's history.

In 1986 Ray started his own agency, with clients like Mellon Bank, UPMC and PA State Tourism.  A good while back, he sold the agency to pursue other writing, other projects.  In 2003 Ray was elected into the American Ad Federation Hall of Fame. He had a good run, and is still running, as a writer and consultant.  His business card reads, “Writer, Baker, Music Maker.”

A filmmaker, Ray wrote and produced the film “Tommy and Me,” that was part of the Pittsburgh Neighborhood Narratives feature film celebrating Pittsburgh’s 250th birthday. 

Ray is a playwright and member of the Dramatists Guild.  His short play, “Night Song,” was selected for the 2009 Source Festival in Washington, D.C., His trilogy “Elder Hostages” had a staged reading in 2011 at the Hazlett Theater in Pittsburgh and The Theater in the District in Cape Town, South Africa.  It premiered at the Pittsburgh Playwrights Theater in The Cultural District. He has had three one-acts in their annual Black and White Festival, and his “Redneck Revenge” was named audience favorite. His full-length play, Christmas Star, premiered in December, 2014, and featured the new song “Christmas Takes Me Back,” co-written with singer, songwriter Mike Gallagher.

Ray plays the anglo concertina and is a founding member of Hooley, Pittsburgh's first Irish traditional music group.  Two of his songs were recorded by the late Frank Patterson, one of Ireland's greatest tenors.

He was first Chairperson of Anne Mullaney's Friends for Haiti, a campaign that built two schools in Delandes, Haiti, managed by Partners in Progress, in memory of the incomparable Anne.

Ray is past President of the Board of the Pittsburgh Irish and Classical Theater (PICT), and Calliope, Pittsburgh’s Folk Music Society.  Ray was awarded the first Spirit Award by PICT in 2013. He’s a former board member of the Pittsburgh Public Theater, the Leadership Board of The Pittsburgh Symphony, The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh, and others.  He serves on the Marketing Committee of the Pittsburgh History Center and the board of The Magic Woods.

Ray and wife Susan have been blessed to help their St. Bede Parish build Our Lady of Apostles school in Uganda, which they visited in 2007.  And worked with Anne Mullaney's Friends for Haiti to build two new school buildings in Delandes, Haiti, managed by Partners in Progress, in memory of the incomparable Anne.

His most important community effort today is “Helping Cancer Patients Make Ends Meet,” inspired by his late brother Larry Werner.  He invites you to check out Larry’s Legacy at thepittsburghfoundation.com.

Ray is a serious home bread baker and a member of The Bread Bakers Guild of America.  His first community brick oven is in Braddock, PA and he hopes others will follow. He participated in the Mattress Factory's Gestures exhibit with his art installation, "Bricks and Bread."  In September, 2014, with fellow baker Rich Jones, they conducted a brick oven building workshop at Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, PA, where they’ll be teaching classes on how to use a brick oven.

Ray and his Susan received an AIA Award for the restoration of The No. 7 Engine Company in the Strip (Architect, John Martine). They helped pioneer the first organic farmer’s market in Pittsburgh, Farmers @ Firehouse, now in its fourteenth season. 

They have four children and five grandchildren and live in Point Breeze, near St. Bede Parish, where Susan serves on various committees and Ray sings in their magnificent choir.

_________________________________________________________________________

Founded in 1976, Calliope is a non-profit music organization that organizes and administers a variety of concert series, a folk music school, and educational outreach programs.  As the premier promoter of roots music in southwestern Pennsylvania, Calliope’s mission is to promote and preserve traditional and contemporary heritage-based music and its allied arts.  Calliope programs are supported in part by the A.W. Mellon Education and Charitable Trust Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation, The Allegheny County sales tax revenues awarded by the Allegheny Regional Asset District, The Heinz endowments, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, University of Pittsburgh Library System, and an anonymous donor. Calliope also thanks the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and Chatham University.

-- 
Lisa Alexander, MFA
PR Marketing Manager 
Calliope
6300 Fifth Avenue, 3rd Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
412-361-1915
www.calliopehouse.org

Photographer Rob Larson Captures Pittsburgh's Roller Derby Scene

Rob Larson: Derby

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: August 6, 2012


Rob Larson: Derby
709 Penn Gallery
709 Penn Avenue, downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District
August 31-October 7, 2012

Opening Reception: Friday, August 31, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Gallery hours: Wed. & Thurs. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. / Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m - 8 p.m. / Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Free and open to the public.

Pittsburgh, PA:  Hip whip. Taking a knee. Grand slam. Rink rash. This is the unique vernacular roller derby, which is alive and well in the City of Champions.  Photographer Rob Larson beautifully captures this bawdy, theatrical sporting subculture, as well as the physical ramifications (like rink rash) found in Pittsburgh’s robust Roller Derby scene with his most recent photo exhibit Derby at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s 709 Penn Gallery.  This exhibit is free and open to the public.

They’re some of the toughest athletes you’ll ever meet. They don’t play on a field of unblemished grass or on a rink of glassy ice. They don’t sign million-dollar contracts. And they don’t have lucrative endorsement deals.
Roller derby is made up of tough, smart and fascinating women who work up a sweat, get bruised, and sometimes draw blood for no other reason than they love the sport. They are sisters, daughters, wives and mothers. They are teachers, designers, and small business owners. And they all skate to win.  Through the collection of portraits that make up Derby, Rob Larson captures the spirit and power of an attraction that has, much to the thrill of its fast-growing number of fans, gone from 70s Saturday afternoon camp to today’s serious adrenaline rush.

About Rob Larson
Pittsburgh-based photographer and mixed-media artist Rob Larson enjoys photographing urban landscapes, people and the suburban nights. This is followed by his interest in employing silk-screening, wheat-paste and spray paint to make art that he liberally covers in shellac. Schooled traditionally in photography, Rob focuses on more intense lighting and heavily geometric compositions to pull together images that tend to be more ambiguous with their stories and statements.

For more information or to schedule an interview with Rob Larson, email rob@roblarsonphoto.com or call 412-965-0579.

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

YWCA Recognized by Avon National Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE




CONTACT: Laura Harwin
YWCA Greater Pittsburgh
412-255-1279

Karyn Margolis
Avon Foundation for Women
212-282-5666
karyn.margolis@avonfoundation.org

Avon Breast Health Outreach Program Awards Grant to the

YWCA for its ENCOREplus Breast Cancer Awareness Program

Local Organization Recognized With Support From National Program

PITTSBURGH, PA (February 17, 2011): The Avon Breast Health Outreach Program has awarded a $50,000 one-year grant to the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh’s ENCOREplus Program to increase awareness of the life-saving benefits of early detection of breast cancer. It is the 17th year that the program has received funding from the Avon Foundation for Women to support its work on this important health issue and in recognition of the program’s excellence.

The ENCOREplus Program of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh is a community-based outreach program that provides education, screening, and support services. Since 1994, the ENCOREplus Program at the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh has reached close to 90,000 women with information about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and has referred over 9,000 women for mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women in the United States, and the leading single cause of death overall in women between the ages of 40 and 55. According to the American Cancer Society, 10,000 new cases of breast cancer will be detected in Pennsylvania this year and 1,980 lives will be lost. Nationwide, there is a new diagnosis every three minutes and a death from breast cancer every 14 minutes. While advances have been made in prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure, early detection still affords the best opportunity for successful treatment. Programs such as ENCOREplus help ensure that all women have access to early detection information and options, even poor and medically underserved women.

“We are proud that the Avon Foundation for Women shares our mission and has chosen to support our program,” said Magdeline E. Jensen, CEO, YWCA Greater Pittsburgh. “With these funds we will be able to continue our important work to reach out to more women and link them to vital early detection screenings for breast cancer.”

Since 1993, the Avon Foundation has awarded more than 1,425 grants to community-based breast health programs across the United States, including the ENCOREplus Program at the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh. These programs are dedicated to educating underserved women about breast cancer and linking them to early detection screening services.

The Avon Foundation for Women and Breast Cancer Crusade

The Avon Foundation for Women, an accredited 501(c)(3) public charity, was founded in 1955 to improve the lives of women and today is the world’s largest corporate-affiliated philanthropy focused on issues that matter most to women. Avon philanthropy focuses its funding on breast cancer research and access to care, efforts to reduce domestic and gender violence, its women's environmental movement to nurture nature, and efforts to provide relief and recovery in times of major natural disasters and emergencies. Since the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade launched in 1992, Avon breast cancer programs in more than 50 countries have raised almost $700 million for research and advancing access to care, regardless of a person’s ability to pay. In addition to receiving generous support from Avon Products, Inc., and its sale of Avon “pink ribbon” products, the Foundation raises funds through a variety of events and walks, such as the U.S. Avon Walk for Breast Cancer series, which is the Foundation’s largest fund-raising source.

The Avon Breast Health Outreach Program

The Avon Breast Health Outreach Program is administered by Cicatelli Associates Inc. to support community-based, non-profit breast health programs across the country. The Fund's National Advisory Board selected the ENCOREplus Program of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh as one of 125 new grant recipients nationwide in the 2011 cycle of Avon Foundation Breast Care Fund grants. These organizations were chosen based on their ability to effectively reach women, particularly minority, low-income, and older women, who are often medically underserved.

For more Information

For more information on the ENCOREplus Program of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, please call Yvonne Durham at 412-365-1915.

For more information about breast cancer, contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 or www.cancer.org, or the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER or www.cancer.gov.

To learn more about the Avon Foundation for Women, call 1-866-505-AVON or visit www.avonfoundation.org, where you can access free printable Breast Health Resource Guides in English and Spanish. For information or to register or support the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer events, visit www.avonwalk.org or call 1-888-540-WALK.
# # #

National Recreation TRails in Southwestern Pennsylvania

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 5, 20009 CONTACT: Megan O’Malley


Secretary Salazar Announces Designation of
6 New National Recreation Trails in Southwestern Pennsylvania



Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar recently designated 22 trails in 13 states as newly recognized National Recreation Trails, adding more than 525 miles of trails to the National Trails System. Included in this designation are 6 trails in southwestern Pennsylvania.

"From coast to coast, the National Trails System helps connect American families with the wonders of the outdoors," said Salazar. "These new National Recreation Trails, built through partnerships with local communities and stakeholders, will create new opportunities for fitness and stewardship, while creating a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren."

This announcement is timed to coincide with the 17th annual celebration of National Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, 2009. The theme for this year, “Take In the Outdoors,” encourages people of all ages to get outside and use trails for exercise and exploration. Thousands of trail enthusiasts will participate in hikes, educational programs, bike rides, volunteer repair projects, festivals, paddle trips, and trail dedications across the country.

All of the southwestern Pennsylvania trails now included in this designation encourage people to learn about area history as well. These trails were all a part of the Harrisburg Main Line Canal system, a vital transportation route westward during the mid-19th century. To encourage people to explore local history, enjoy the outdoors and get exercise, the staff of Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site will be leading interpretive hikes and bicycle rides along several of these trails including the 6 to 10 Trail, the Lower Trail, the Path of the Flood Trail and the West Penn Trail this summer and fall.


Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway - 6 to 10 Trail – This 7.75-mile trail follow the remnants of the Allegheny Portage Railroad, an engineering landmark that lifted canal boats over the Allegheny Mountains in the mid-1800’s. Staff from Allegheny Portage Railroad will lead hikes along the 6 to 10 Trail on June 14 and August 23.

Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway - Juniata River Water Trail – For 184 miles this water trail parallels the route of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal which operated primarily in the 1830’s through 1850’s.

Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway - Lower Trail – The 16.5 mile multi-use Lower (rhymes with “flower”) Trail features many historic canal era remnants with interpretive signs telling the history of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal. It is the center link in the Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway. On June 28 join a park ranger from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site for a bicycle ride along the Lower Trail in Williamsburg. Park rangers will lead a bicycle ride along the Lower Trail in Alfarata on September 6.

Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway - Path of the Flood Trail – This 6.5 mile trail follows the path of the Great Johnstown Flood of 1889. For part of its length, the trail joins the 2.5-mile Staple Bend Tunnel Trail which follows the remnants of the Allegheny Portage Railroad to the first railroad tunnel built in the U.S., the 901-foot long Staple Bend Tunnel. On July 12 and August 9 park rangers from Allegheny Portage Railroad will provide transportation to Staple Bend Tunnel for people who need assistance. On October 4 park rangers will lead a hike along the Path of the Flood Trail and the Staple Bend Tunnel.

Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway - Roaring Run Trail – Following the Western Division of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal along the Kiskiminetas River, this 4-mile trail is rich in historic transportation themes and recreational opportunities.

Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway - West Penn Trail – The 12-mile West Penn Trail offers many scenic, natural and historic assets, including 100-year old stone arch railroad bridges and parts of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal. Forty interpretive signs enrich this trail experience. Learn more about the West Penn Trail on a bicycle ride with a park ranger on September 20.

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is located 10 miles west of Altoona, Pennsylvania off the Gallitzin exit of U.S. Highway 22. The park preserves portions of the first railroad crossing of the Allegheny Mountains. This unique railroad connected the eastern and western divisions of the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal.

All hikes and bicycle rides listed above are free, but reservations are required. For more information and to make reservations for the program contact Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site at 814-886-6150 or visit our website at http://www.nps.gov/alpo.


For more information about National Recreation Trails visit http://www.americanhiking.org.

Pittsburgh Mom's Business Vote in Top 200 Leading Moms in Business

For Immediate Release

Contact: Judy Masucci
724-934-8795
press@mothersboutique.com

A Mother's Boutique Voted One Of Top 200 Leading Moms In Business In StartupNation Competition

PITTSBURGH – MAY 4, 2009 – A Mother's Boutique announced today that it has been recognized as one of the top 200 mom-owned businesses in StartupNation's 2009 Leading Moms In Business Competition (http://www.startupnation.com/leading-moms-2009). The competition, sponsored by VerticalResponse, recognizes the achievements of mothers across the country who run outstanding businesses.

A Mother's Boutique is an on-line store that specializes in maternity and breastfeeding attire, nursing bras and nursing accessories. Selling to new and expectant mothers all over the world, A Mother's Boutique helps moms get what they need quickly and easily—exactly as boutique owner Judy Masucci planned it. Four years ago, Masucci herself became a new mom, and found it surprisingly difficult to locate maternity and nursing items that were suitable and stylish. Her business was started to help other moms avoid the same frustration; a solid formula that has kept her profitable in business for two years and counting.

"Moms across America were honored in this year's ranking, showing that they're capable of starting and running successful businesses while managing to balance family, career, home and self," said Rich Sloan, co-founder of StartupNation."Well over 600,000 votes were cast in support of several thousand contestants. What an incredible achievement to be named a winner, and what an inspiration for anyone looking to start their own business."

"It's challenging for anyone to start and run a successful business – particularly in this economy. These women are setting the standard for innovation and creativity," said Janine Popick, founder and CEO of VerticalResponse.

StartupNation (www.startupnation.com) launched the first annual Leading Moms in Business Competition in January with the support of VerticalResponse (www.verticalresponse.com) to recognize the achievements of mom entrepreneurs across the US. Winners were selected and ranked according to public votes accumulated from January through March, 2009. The elite 200 win bragging rights, promotional support, and digital winner's emblems recognizing their achievements as the Leading Moms in Business.

About A Mother's Boutique
Based out of Pittsburgh, A Mother's Boutique provides expectant and nursing mothers with a unique, personalized approach. We carry everything you need to prepare for pregnancy and nursing: clothing for maternity and breastfeeding, nursing bras, breast pumps, slings, accessories and more. Visit our online store to find out why our selection and service are exactly what a busy mom deserves!

A Mother's Boutique And Annee Matthew Expand Relationship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 29, 2009

Contact: Judy P. Masucci, Ph.D.
A Mother's Boutique
724-934-8795
press@mothersboutiq ue.com
www.mothersboutique.com

A Mother's Boutique And Annee Matthew Expand Relationship

PITTSBURGH—Tightenin g the belt may be a trend for many businesses today, but for A Mother's Boutique owner, Judy Masucci, success has come in the exact opposite shape. Expanding middles are more her style—especially when that means outfitting expectant mothers.

Launched online two years ago, A Mother's Boutique "provides suitable and stylish clothing for expectant and nursing mothers," Masucci notes. Within six months, her boutique was already turning a profit and in April of 2008 she signed an exclusive distribution deal for the U.S. with Annee Matthew Maternity & Nursingwear of Singapore.

That distribution deal has just been renewed for 2009-2010, and has even been expanded to include Canada on a non-exclusive basis. Over 24 wholesale clients now sell this line across the U.S. and Canada and more are on the way.

Wholesale client BabiesNBellies. com explains just why this line is so popular with expectant and new moms, "The quality of the garments is excellent as well as the sizing. I have been doing really well with the entire line and am excited to see what new things continue to come in! The nursing items that double as maternity items offer a longer range of wearability that really draws in the customer. It is such an excellent selling point."

Adds Annee Matthew, "A Mother's Boutique has successfully managed our line and obtained great market penetration. We are pleased to announce an expansion of our distribution relationship. While other companies in this industry have been scaling back, Judy—through A Mother's Boutique and her distribution site www.anneematthew. net—keeps on thriving. It's been great to grow with her across the U.S. and I look forward to continued success as she expands into Canada."

About A Mother's Boutique
Based out of Pittsburgh, A Mother's Boutique provides expectant and nursing mothers with a unique, personalized approach. We carry everything you need to prepare for pregnancy and nursing: clothing for maternity and breastfeeding, nursing bras, breast pumps, slings, accessories and more. Visit our online store to find out why our selection and service are exactly what a busy mom deserves!