Poughkeepsie Journal -Latest bridal fashions can be seen at local wedding shows this fall

Jackie DiMarzo 12:03 a.m. EDT October 19, 2014 Recent events such as the Grandview’s Autumn Wedding Show in Poughkeepsie and Diamond Mills Fall Wedding Expo in Saugerties in September gave local brides a chance to shop for wedding-day vendors such as photographers, DJs and florists. As an added bonus, they had an opportunity to view the latest in wedding fashions. Both shows featured gowns from Chamonix Bride in Rhinebeck. Chamonix Bride owner Heather Graham, who at press time was planning to head to New York City the following weekend to see the latest dress designs, said new this coming season are a lot of different necklines (high neck styles, plunging V-necks, and off-the-shoulder) and also, capelets, which are small capes that cover the shoulders during the ceremony and are removable later. The capelets are often made of lace, which seems to be the standout feature for all things bridal this season. “Local brides are loving lace,” Graham said. “Almost everyone wants something either all lace or a little bit of lace at the hemline or incorporated somewhere into the gown.” Designer Wtoo, a featured collection at Chamonix Bride, offers many dresses in the fabric. David Lopez, communications director for the line, said for the Fall 2014-Spring 2015 season, the Wtoo design team was inspired by legendary actress and Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly. “The bridal collection is composed of effortless, elegant silhouettes, from lady-like lace with carefully hand-crafted appliques to opulent contrasting beadwork,” Lopez said.

Tina Pomarico, owner of Lady Gray Bridal of Beacon, agreed. “The look is very romantic, and lace is very popular. It’s just very old-time Hollywood. That’s the way I explain it — very Audrey Hepburn,” she said. As for styles of dress, Pomarico said slim silhouettes that really hug the body are very popular and low backs seem to be a big trend for 2015 as well. “We’re seeing very interesting back treatments; whether it be a very deep low “V” or a deep illusion back,” Pomarico said. “We do a lot of fitted and flared out gowns, which are not as tight as a mermaid or trumpet gown, but something that’s a little fitted around your hips and a little fuller at the bottom,” Graham said. The color of the gown is also a nod toward vintage glamour. “The most popular colors today are ivory, champagne, vintage gold or a little hint of pink,” Pomarico said. “We’re not doing a lot of pure white, but the ivories are very light and absolutely beautiful. That, and probably the light gold, would be our No. 1 colors,” she said, adding that the dresses are often worn with a matching sash. “Sashes are very popular — whether they be just a plain, satin sash, or a beaded sash that would complement their gown,” Pomarico said.

Graham agreed. “Everyone likes belts and sashes because they add a little bit of sparkle and a little bit of something else going on, because that really personalizes the dress,” she said.

Sleeves make a comeback “There have been a lot of strapless dresses in the past, and we are getting requests for some kind of a sleeve,” Graham said. “We do offer custom designs, so we can customize a lot of the strapless dresses and create something different with a strap or cap sleeve. Our seamstress is very talented and very special to us,” Graham said. Pomarico agreed on the popularity of sleeves. “They’re really making a nice comeback — little cap sleeves, three-quarter sleeves and a little bit of an illusion sleeve. We had strapless for so many years. It’s nice to see keyhole backs and sweetheart necklines. Really beautiful looks,” she said. In addition to Wtoo, Graham also carries the designers Alvina Valenta and Marissa, among others. Pomarico said her No. 1 designer is Maggie Sottero. She carries a large selection of Maggie Sottero gowns. Veils complete the fairy tale Pomarico said, “Cathedral veils are very popular with our girls. It just fits that beautiful, romantic look. It extends the silhouette, right down to the train, so the girls love that look.”

Graham said she often sees long, lace cathedral veils chosen by brides who are having large church weddings, but many of her brides opt for a fingertip veil, because it’s just long and special enough, and not too cumbersome. Bridesmaids in pale pink “Soft pink is going to be a very big color — again just that timeless, classic look,” said Pomarico, as well as other soft pastels and neutral shades like champagne and taupe. “We’re still continuing to do pewter gray. It’s a very popular shade for us.” Graham added, “Bridesmaids’ dresses come in so many different colors. The trend we’re really seeing is the neutral colors like blush or nude, or anything pale — pale pink or blue.” Graham included two bridesmaid’s dresses by Designer BariJay in the show at the Grandview — one in a soft, pale blue, the other in a very pale, neutral green.

Both shop owners agreed that flexibility is key when dealing with large bridal parties. “The continuity would be in the fabric and the color when you have a large party. Brides are letting the girls choose a silhouette that will complement their figure and allow them to be comfortable,” said Pomarico. “It really depends on the bride,” Graham said. “The bride will pick one color and let their girls choose styles. That’s just really nice and comfortable for everybody.”

Here comes the flower girl Junior bridesmaids and flower girls are also often an important part of the wedding party. Pomarico said, “We do a tremendous amount of junior bridesmaids dresses — which are a silhouette that would be age-appropriate for a junior bridesmaid, but also complements the rest of the girls. It’s a great look.” Bari Jay, one of the lines carried at Chamonix Bride, offers junior bridesmaid dresses, which Graham often includes in her fashion shows at bridal expos. For flower girls, she carries the Us Angels line, including the Petal Dress, which includes petals that can be sprinkled into one layer of the double tulle overlay.

“They come in different colors and sizes with different colored petals, as well. Just really fun and cute and adorable if you have a little girl in the wedding,” Graham said. Jackie DiMarzo is a freelance writer. Reach her at newsroom@poughkeepsiejournal.com Upcoming bridal expos and wedding shows If you’re a bride-to-be and are interested in attending an upcoming wedding show or expo, the following two shows are scheduled in Dutchess County in November: • The Links at Unionvale, 153 North Parliman Road, LaGrangeville: What Brides Want (and Grooms too!). 6-9 p.m. Nov. 7. • Dutchess Golf Club, 2628 South Road, Poughkeepsie: Hudson Valley’s Luxe Bridal Expo. Noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 30. • The Garrison, 2015 Route 9, Garrison: 2015 Bridal Show followed by Wedding Party at the Highlands Country Club, 955 Route 9D, Garrison. Noon to 4:30 p.m. Jan. 18. Fall Bridal October 2014 Dugan Radwin Niche Content Coordinator For advertising information, call retail advertising at 845-437-4770.

21st Century Career and Community Expo - Thursday, October 23, 2014

Expo Speakers and Workshop Topics-21st Century Career and Community Expo “Putting Scholarship, Leadership and Citizenship To Work" Dr. C.M. Long Family Life Center - 71 Lincoln Ave - New Rochelle NY 10801 Power Networking in a Social Media World Branding Your Image for Maximum Results Network Your Way To The Hottest Jobs Of The 21st Century Spiritual Toughness in Challenging Times HEALTH: The Key to your Financial Success How to Successfully Transition from a Military Career to Civilian Job Market Career Alternatives: Is Business Ownership Right For You? Stop Looking For A Job. Start Managing York Career How To Make Your Resume Work For You

We are honored to have New York State Senator, George Latimer as the Keynote Speaker for 2014 21st Century Career & Community Expo. Senator Latimer’s sound business experience, his record of public service and his dedication to the County community have been the driving force behind his effort for the last 25 years in both the public and private sector.

Branding Your Image for Maximum Results What will I learn? Cheryl Brannan is a Seasoned Professional in Political, Civic, Corporate, Nonprofit and International arenas over the past 30 years. Cheryl is President of successful consulting company The Brannan Solutions Group, founder and CEO of Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI), a nonprofit established in 1994.

Power Networking in a Social Media World What will I learn? Rod Colón is an author and host of popular radio show "Own Your Career". Inspiring thousands to safely land jobs, Mr. Colon is President of Rod Colon Consulting, LLC & Founder of the 21st Century Career & Community Expo hosting non-profit, Empowering Today's Professionals. In addition to being a sought after speaker and #1 Career Coach in the United States, specialized in the 7 Step Job Search,

Network Your Way To The Hottest Jobs In The 21st Century What will I learn? Carl E. Reid, CSI is a successful entrepreneur, intrapreneur, social media endorsement coach and author of the 2 books: 10 Powerful Networking Secrets Of Influential People" and "10 Powerful networking Tips Using Business Cards - Global Extended Edition". With corporate travels from the mail room to the board room, Carl E. Reid knows what it takes to be successful. Carl has over 46 years of business experience, including 32 years as a technology expert, 22 years as a business career coach and 25 years as a successful entrepreneur. Mr. Reid is Executive Director of Empowering Today's Professionals.

Smart Fitness Tips For Busy People What you will learn Gail Bannister has her finger on the pulse of fitness enthusiasts and the club industry because of her widely varied fitness background. She presents both workshops and lectures at internationally attended conferences, and teach choreography as an instructor/co-partner with the East Coast Instructor Training School. Her classes are constantly fresh with new moves, and music, often incorporating trends and ideas that are just moving into the fitness scene.

Career Alternatives: Is Business Ownership Right For You? What will I learn? Frank Dunne is a franchise benefit / placement specialist in NY/NJ with FranNet. A franchisee himself, he works individually with career-transitoners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and other opportunity-seekers who are considering business ownership as a career alternative. Frank advises clients on how to search for and evaluate franchises/format business opportunities via a deep-dive research process. Clients are expertly matched with the businesses best suited for their skill set and experience and that meet their professional and personal goals.

HEALTH: The Key to your Financial Success What will I learn? Julio Barreto has 30 years experience as an entrepreneur, policy expert on local and national issues, is a speaker and health advocate. Mr. Baretto is an E-Commerce Entrepreneur. Overcoming life threatening health challenges, Julio is empowering neighborhoods as a real estate developer in the Baltimore-Washington, DC area.

How to Successfully Transition from a Military Career to Civilian Job Market What will I learn? Aaron F. Glover is a successful Transition Patient Advocate For Iraq and Afghanistan Combat Veterans. Aaron provides a continuum of employment services to veterans which includes vocational assessment, soft skills training, individualized job development and career development. He develops mutually beneficially relationships with community partners and employers with the goal of veterans being hired in their specialty.

How To Make Your Resume Work For You What will I learn? Schevon Holden is a seasoned Human Resources (H.R.) professional with extensive experience specializing in career development and human resources management. Her career spans a broad range of industries including finance services, insurance, entertainment and technology. Her roles also include specialization in compensation, benefits and training for domestic and international companies.

Spiritual Toughness in Challenging Times What will I learn? Reverend Lamont S. Granby is Pastor of First Baptist Church, Bronxville, NY and a Successful Entrepreneur. Receiving many awards and recognition as a community supporter, Reverend Granby is a member and current Chaplain of the 47th precinct Clergy Coalition of the Bronx and serves as the Clergy Liaison for the 47th precinct N.Y.P.D. Rev. Granby is also a member of the New York State and Metropolitan Funeral Directors.

Stop Looking For A Job. Start Managing Your Career What will I learn? Keith Bogen is founder of Whine & Dine Networking forums for Human Resources professionals that would be unfettered by rules and excess process. As a Human Capital Expert, he has been delivering HR Director, Manager, Generalist and Consultant services to organizations of all sizes, in many industries for the past 15 years. Keith is also proudly building a clean energy business with North American Power and providing life-changing opportunities to many through his network in that industry.

How To Turn Life Transitions Into Personal &Professional Re-Inventions What will I learn? Angela Derecas Taylor is a DAUGHTER, WAITRESS, EVENT PLANNER, WIFE, MOTHER, COMMUNITY ADVOCATE, SPOKESWOMAN, POLITICAL PLAYER, AND WRITER…ANGELA DERECAS TAYLOR, Sr. Advisor for Community Relations, in the office of the Mayor of New Rochelle.

21st Century CAREER and COMMUNITY Expo - Thursday, October 23, 2014

Seven Reasons to Attend 1. Educational opportunities. No matter how experienced you are, everyone can learn. Our workshops can expose you to new people, new business and new creative ways to of thinking for your Future Success. 2. Networking. Generate leads for strategic alliances and most importantly, potential customers. Collect business cards, refer to the directory and use all other outlets provided to you during the Expo. Encounter new clients, vendors and suppliers. Click here to start networking now by downloading 21st Century Expo mobile app. 3. Position yourself as an expert. When you are active in your industry, you can develop a reputation as an expert to your peers and your clients. Clients feel good about doing business with those that are celebrated by their peers. 4. Boost Your Career. Attending this expo is THE starting place to prepare students and career professionals for a 21st Century future that is happening Right Now! It is your golden opportunity to cultivate relationships with hiring agencies superstars – you will arrive at the Expo seeking a job, but leave with a refreshed outlook and a vibrant career opportunity. What could be more motivating than that? 5. High Quality Speakers. Speakers will provide valuable, practical, tips on topics ranging from networking strategy, social media marketing, using your passion for professional success, cutting edge marketing techniques ,“Careers to Save the Human Race” -21st Century Careers, Space Travel, Health & Wellness, Branding and more. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of focus, purpose and direction. 6. Free Registration For Attendees. Meet with business owners, and professionals who are motivated to do business with you. Connect with vendors that provide unique products & services. Network with our sponsors who contribute to the development of our communities. 7. Have fun. Being in business should be rewarding and fun. Spark your creativity, develop new ideas and think in innovative ways. Never underestimate the power of a little fun mixed with some interesting people! 0 inShare Get floating share buttons

Upcoming - Activities In Charlotte -

Financial Empowerment eBus

Thursday, Oct 2 9:00a to 1:00p

Crisis Assistance Ministry Charlotte, NC

Fifth Third Bank's popular eBus will be visit Crisis Assistance Ministry on Thursday, October 2 2014. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 500A Spratt Street in Charlotte.
The Fifth Third eBus is features onboard computer workstations and internet connectivity along with professionals who provide free one-on-one personalized counseling, credit scores, financial coaching, budgeting, and small business counseling. Sign up at http://crisisassistance.org/ebus

Soul of the South Uptown Food Tour

Friday, Oct 3 4:00p to 7:00p More dates & times (6)

Uptown Charlotte Charlotte, NC

What is Southern Cuisine? Have you experienced Southern Hospitality? Can you get more Southern than the farm up the road? On this tour with FEAST Food Tours, we sample & sip our way through some of Uptown Charlotte’s best representations of the South. Chefs & restaurant owners explain the influence of Southern Heritage in their cuisine. Many of their recipes are Southern family traditions, others are created by what a local farm can provide, and some are a modern twist on Southern cuisine.

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/371141638-soul-of-the-south-uptown-food-tour#storylink=cpy

 http://feastfoodtours.com/

Phone (980) 258-9992

Price $49 including food and beverage

Age Suitability All Ages

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/371141638-soul-of-the-south-uptown-food-tour#storylink=cpy

Dives to Dining Plaza Midwood Food Tour

Saturday, Oct 4 3:00p to 6:00p More dates & times (7)

Plaza Midwood Charlotte, NC

One of Charlotte's Historic Districts, Plaza Midwood, is a diverse mix of creative local flavor and historical character. On this walking food tour, we will get an enticing look into the past of the area while savoring wonderful cuisine from some great local culinary artisans. These establishments range from locations showcased on the Food Network Show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives to unique fine dining establishments and everything in between! For more info & register: www.feastfoodtours.com

Phone (980) 258-9992

Price $49 per person including food & beverage

Age Suitability All Age

Deep Stretch Yoga and Acupuncture Savasana with Wendy Swanson

Saturday, Oct 4 6:30p to 8:30p

Be YogaCharlotte, NC

Ready for 2 hours of relaxation, unwinding and de-stressing? Come back to yourself and your body with 1 ½ hours of deep stretch yoga followed by 30 minutes of acupuncture aided savasana.
• Deep Stretch: After a brief warm up we will hold longer floor based yoga poses. • Acupuncture & Savasana: Acupuncture needles will be inserted in some of the most balancing, restoring and deeply healing points on the body (in the ear, between the eyebrows and on the top of the head)

http://beyogaclt.com/

Price $45

Age Suitability

NASP NC "Mix & Mingle"

Wednesday, Oct 8 6:00p

Charlotte City Club Charlotte, NC

Buy Tickets

The National Association of Securities Professional (NASP) is the premier trade association for people of color and women in the financial services industry. NASP:

Connects members to industry leaders and business opportunities;
Advocates for the policies that create equal representation and inclusion;
Provides educational opportunities; and
Works to build awareness about the value of ensuring that people of color and women are included in all aspects of the financial services industry.

Learn more at www.nasphq.org
Please RSVP by Monday, October 1,2014 to
northcarolinanasp@gmail.com

"Fit and Fabulous": Throwback Hip Hop Dance Classes

Saturday, Oct 11 12:00p

Carole Hoefner Center Charlotte, NC

610 E. Seventh St., Charlotte, NC, 28202

(704) 353-0038

Buy Tickets

If making the commitment to "work out" is a challenge, but you REALLY want to get your body back in shape, try "dancing out"! This is a bi-weekly hip hop class with a twist. You can expect to work all your muscles with our custom choreograhy, boost your confidence and bond with other like-minded women. No need to feel insecure. We accept beginners to advanced level dancers, and keep in mind that everyone has a part of their body they want to improve....or they wouldn't have signed up. So, join our fit and fabulous challenge! Register today!
FAQs
What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?
FREE on-site parking
Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?
febistyleinc@gmail.com or
FAQs
What can/can't I bring to the event?
Yourself! Bring a friend and receive $5 credit toward your next class

The Move & Shake Experience: Professional Development Expo

Thursday, Oct 16 5:30p

Carolinas Aviation MuseumCharlotte,NC

Buy Tickets

Calling All Professional 'Movers And Shakers' In And Around The Charlotte, NC Area:
What Is The Move And Shake Experience? It is the area's First Professional Development Expo hosted by Stand & Deliver LLC, The Grooming Greatness Foundation, Legacy Partners LLC, Life Spark LLC, along with The Charlotte Aviation Museum.
The event is catered to All Professionals from All Backgrounds, and it will bring education, vendors, and networking all under one roof. Our goal is to have professionals in our region…

http://www.carolinasaviation.org

Food for Thought: A Faithful Look at Unconditional Forgiveness

Thursday, Oct 16 11:45a to 1:00p

Covenant Presbyterian Church Charlotte, NC

What do you do when…
…it is hard to forgive?
…forgiveness is not accepted?
…your community has been hurt & forgiveness is needed?
Therese Bartholomew will guide in a discussion on forgiveness using stories and clips from her documentary, “The Final Gift”, which chronicles her journey to meet the man who shot and killed her brother Steve in 2003. Her story is about “finding faith and humanity in dark and unexpected places and then being willing to see possibilities.  (YOU HAVE TO REGISTER ON WEBSITE)

http://www.meckmin.org/events/fft-oct14/

Phone (704) 565-5455

Price Free ($7 lunch available on-site)

Age Suitability 18 and up

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/371751117-food-for-thought-a-faithful-look-at-unconditional-forgiveness#storylink=cpy

Easter Seals UCP 15th Annual Walk With Me - 5K

Saturday, Oct 11 10:00a to 12:00p

Freedom Park Charlotte, NC

Walk With Me is a 5K family fun walk that benefits Easter Seals UCP and the programs and services that help individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges, along with their families, soar to great heights. Family activities begin at 9:00 a.m. and the walk will start at 10:00 a.m. A complimentary lunch for participants will follow.
Walk With Me offers participants of all physical abilities the chance to inspire and be inspired.

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/371474376-easter-seals-ucp-15th-annual-walk-with-me-5k#storylink=cpy

 http://wwm.easterseals.com/

Phone (704) 936-0333

Price $25

Age Suitability All Ages 

The Park Church 2014 Prayer Conference

Saturday, Oct 11 8:00a

The Park Church Independence Charlotte, NC

Join The Park Church for The Answer Prayer Conference
Saturday, October 11, 2014
8:00am – 1:00PM
The Park Church Independence
800 Briar Creek Road, Charlotte 28205
704-392-1681
www.theparkministries.org
Unleashed: Withholding Nothing!
“Give yourselves completely to serving Him, and do not be stubborn any longer” Deuteronomy 10:16 (NCV).

• 8:00-8:30am Continental Breakfast (registration required)
• 8:45am Worship Begins
• 10:00am Workshops begin
• 11:40am Prayer, Praise and Worship
• 1:00pm Benediction… Show more

Our Vanishing Americana - A North Carolina Portrait

Sunday, Oct 19 3:00p

Duke Mansion Charlotte, NC

In today’s sprawling Charlotte region, are there still places to connect with an earlier rural South? Davidson-based author/photographer Mike Lassiter has tracked down a whole book full. He’ll share discoveries from his volume Vanishing Americana: A North Carolina Portrait, and the PBS documentary he produced which chronicled his journey. Free. Reservations required: contact kellis@tlwf.org or 704/714-4445. Part of the Explore History! series sponsored by Levine Museum and The Duke Mansion.
http://www.dukemansion.com/
Price free 

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/371649465-our-vanishing-americana-a-north-carolina-portrait#storylink=cpy

Sickle Cell Disease......Let's Talk About It

Saturday, Oct 25 8:00a

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Charlotte, NC

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/370589757-sickle-cell-disease-lets-talk-about-it#storylink=cpy

3301 Beatties Ford Rd., Charlotte, NC, 28216

 http://www.friendshipcharlotte.org/

(704) 392-0392

Read more here: http://events.charlotteobserver.com/charlotte_nc/events/show/371751061-financial-empowerment-ebus#storylink=cpy

Happenings Around Charlotte - For Entrepreneurs in the month of September

Greetings Entrepreneurs!   Below is a list of a few of the upcoming seminars to help you start, manage and grow your business.   

Check the class listings for your local Community College Small Business Centers. Also, your local Chamber of Commerce has additional events.  Other events can be found at www.score.org; www.sbtdc.org; www.fsuvboc.com;   www.ncceed.org/help/womens-business-center;  www.ncimed.org/index.php/client-services/women-business-development.   More can be found at www.sba.gov/nc and click on "calendar".  

Upcoming Events

September 9      Simple Steps for Starting Your Business #1          Charlotte

SCORE offers the first of five Simple Steps workshops for FREE.  This session will be held Packard Place, 222 Church St., “The Garage” meeting area, Charlotte.  Check-in 5:45pm and workshop from 6:00-9:00PM.  The remaining four workshops are $125.    Other Simple Steps will be offered at the SBA office on Fairview Road and at the University City Library.  Contact SCORE at 704-344-6576. 

September 9      WOSB & EDWOSB Contracting Program for Women       Greenville 

This SBTDC is sponsoring this workshop.  It will cover the WOSB contracting program and how businesses can compete for government contracts and grow their business. The WOSB contracting program allows federal agencies to offer WOSB set aside contracts to women business owners.   Discussion Topics include: Detailed Information on the eligibility requirements • Steps to take to certify your company as a WOSB or EDWOSB • Marketing your company as a WOSB or EDWOSB • How to compete for government contracts • Resources available and much more. 8:30am – 12:00pm.  300 E. First St. – Willis Building, Greenville, NC. Registration is Required:    http://www.sbtdc.org/programs/ptac/wosb-seminars-2014/  

September 10                   ABCs of Starting a Business         Durham

Hosted by the NCIMED Women’s Business Center of NC, this session will be held from 11:30am - 1:30pm.  Discussions include What does it take to be an entrepreneur?, How do I choose the right legal entity?, Do I need a business plan?, Where can I get money?, Who are grants for?, and much more.  To register, please contact Melissa Terrell 919-956-8889 mterrell@ncimed.org  Free.  

September 11   Connecting Business with Opportunity                 Greensboro

NCIMED, Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council, SAS, Duke Energy and many other sponsors are hosting panel discussions and an awards luncheon in recognition of 2014 Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week.  An evening reception on September 10 kicks off the celebration.  On September 11, from 8 a.m. to 3 pm, join business, government and academic leaders at the second annual statewide celebration.  Keynote speaker is Joann Hill from the US Department of Commerce MBDA.  The event will take place at NC A&T University. $100.   Register at www.ncimed/org/medweek. 

September 11   Boots to Suits Conference                           Raleigh

Is your small business hiring?  Consider hiring a veteran!  More than 7,000 veterans will be transitioning from Ft Bragg this year.   The mission of Boots to Suits Conference is to train and educate human resources professionals and hiring managers on why veterans and spouses are an asset to any company or organization. The conference workshops are designed to encourage businesses and organizations to adopt military friendly hiring practices.   Fayetteville State University is hosting a conference for HR professionals and hiring managers at the McKimmon Center in Raleigh from 8 to 4:30.  $199/$249.  For more information, contact 919-515-2261 or go to  Go.ncsu.edu/opd   

September 11   Lunch and Learn:  Affordable Care Act                   Greenville

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Affordable Care Act or ACA) enacted comprehensive health insurance reforms designed to ensure Americans have access to quality, affordable health insurance. Learn what the law means for your small business through this informative lunch and learn sponsored by the SBTDC and the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce.  Lunch is included in the registration costs ($12.00).  Guest Speaker: Al Delia, Office of Health Access, Brody School of Medicine East Carolina University.   12:00 PM until 1:30 PM  at the ECU Willis Building Auditorium,  300 East 1st Street Greenville, NC 27858.                

September 17                   Affordable Care Act Provisions                 2 PM  WEBINAR

Sponsored by the IRS.   Topics include: • The Affordable Care Act 2014 Marketplace tax provisions • Premium Tax Credit (IRC 36B)  • Individual Shared Responsibility Provision (IRC 5000A) • Small Business Health Care Tax Credit (IRC 45R) • Plus a live Q&A session with Subject Matter Expert.   Registration required: http://www.visualwebcaster.com/event.asp?id=100208 

September 23         How Military Women Become Entrepreneurs      Charlotte  

Did you know that the skills you honed in the military are the very skills that make successful entrepreneurs?  Your military experience is your secret weapon, but there are other business skills you will need to start or grow your own business as a female veteran. Are you ready to call in reinforcements?  The North Carolina Women’s Business Center and the Small Business Center at Central Piedmont Community College would like to honor your sacrifice and hard work with a conference created just for you.  All women are invited to join us, but if you are a female veteran, an active duty female service member, or one of the military women on the frontlines here at home, we have put together an event to help you move forward with your own “new mission” as an entrepreneur.    Come listen to a panel of successful female veteran business owners, learn about the business resources available to you and be energized by Elizabeth McCormick, a former Army Black Hawk helicopter pilot who uses her experiences to inspire you to “Soar 2 Success!”  Harris Conference Center; Free.  Call  704-330-6736;  renee.hode@cpcc.edu;   Register:  http://bit.ly/milentrepreneur  

September 24        WOSB & EDWOSB Contracting Program for Women       Charlotte

This SBTDC is sponsoring this workshop.  It will cover the WOSB contracting program and how businesses can compete for government contracts and grow their business. The WOSB contracting program allows federal agencies to offer WOSB set aside contracts to women business owners.   Discussion Topics include: Detailed Information on the eligibility requirements • Steps to take to certify your company as a WOSB or EDWOSB • Marketing your company as a WOSB or EDWOSB • How to compete for government contracts • Resources available and much more. 9:00am – 12:00pm

8701 Mallard Creek Road, Ben Craig Center, Charlotte, NC.  Registration is Required:    http://www.sbtdc.org/programs/ptac/wosb-seminars-2014/http://www.sbtdc.org/programs/ptac/wosb-seminars-2014  

September 9, 16, 23        Brownbag Session: SBA Programs and Services for Your Small Business     Candler (Asheville)  

Grab your lunch and head to an A-B Tech site to discover what the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has in store for your small business, whether you are just starting or already in business.  Find out the available SBA-sponsored and SBA-funded resources to counsel and train small business owners in all areas of small business management (including business planning).   Find out what it takes to obtain a small business loan and to access SBA financing sources in particular.  Discover the SBA’s minority and other certification programs which can enable your small business to tap into federal government contracting opportunities. Time:  12 to 1 p.m.  Choose from one the following dates and locations: 1) Tuesday, Sept. 9, at A-B Tech Enka; 2)  Tuesday, Sept. 16, at A-B Tech South location; or 3)  Tuesday, Sept. 23, at A-B Tech Madison County campus.  Free of charge, but registration is required:  https://www.ncsbc.net/center.aspx?center=75020  (check back if event is not yet entered).  

September 26      WOSB & EDWOSB Contracting Program for Women       Pembroke

This SBTDC is sponsoring this workshop.  It will cover the WOSB contracting program and how businesses can compete for government contracts and grow their business. The WOSB contracting program allows federal agencies to offer WOSB set aside contracts to women business owners.   Discussion Topics include: Detailed Information on the eligibility requirements • Steps to take to certify your company as a WOSB or EDWOSB • Marketing your company as a WOSB or EDWOSB • How to compete for government contracts • Resources available and much more.   Registration is required:    http://www.sbtdc.org/programs/ptac/wosb-seminars-2014/  

Additional WOSB & EDWOSB Contracting Programs for Women

TRIAD Area October 1

ASHEVILLE  October 8

HICKORY  October 9

RALEIGH  October 14

BOONE  November 18

www.sbtdc.org/programs/ptac/wosb-seminars-2014/#sthash.l3otRzV7.dpuf

October 16          Funding High-Growth Ventures                               Greensboro

This workshop is  for any emerging or existing company who knows that understanding the scope of financing available to them is key to success. This workshop will use best practices and data to examine how to finance a startup business, including:             An introduction to start-up capital requirements and stages of development;     Examining investment opportunities – lender vs. investors; Exit strategies and options; Capital sources for entrepreneurs – angel investors vs. venture capitalists; Business plans for start-ups; How to surround yourself with great advisors; What is a fundable company.  6pm to 9 pm. Cost: $199.  Location: 7300 Cessna Drive Greensboro, NC 27409;  Register:  www.haloworkshops.com/register 

October 29-31                   GLOBAL MARKETS                           Charlotte

Compete, Win, and Grow Your Business through Exporting.  Looking to penetrate new overseas markets and boost your bottom line through exports? Then reserve your place now at a DISCOVER GLOBAL MARKETS event in 2014.  Several events will be held around the country.  

At Each DISCOVER GLOBAL MARKETS Conference you will: • Meet one-on-one with U.S. Commercial Diplomats visiting from abroad • Participate in panel discussions on the latest industry trends  • Identify new and emerging markets of opportunity ahead of your competition • Learn about U.S. export programs designed to cut your time to market • Network with U.S. trade officials, leading private sector experts and like-minded U.S. businesses active in overseas markets.  

Breakout Session will cover questions on:  • Export finance  • Protecting your intellectual property  broad  • Complying with U.S. Export Controls • Mitigating your risk • Market entry strategies.   $295.  Register at:  https://www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventID=1468383  

For more information, http://export.gov/discoverglobalmarkets/  

December 8 – Charlotte:Advanced Proposal Preparation & Development Workshops

December 11 - Wilmington

The North Carolina Military Business Center is hosting six Advanced Proposal Preparation and Development Workshops throughout North Carolina. Each workshop session will consist of two days of lecture, discussion, extensive hands-on class exercises and homework.  Participants will build on prior experience to: Make informed bid/no-bid decisions, Develop a technical proposal response to a sample solicitation, Develop a pricing estimate for a sample solicitation, Present an oral presentation of their proposal, and more.  Attendees must have working knowledge and experience with basic acquisition processes, federal government solicitations, basics of technical and price proposal preparation, federal source selection processes and applicable Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).  $425.  Register today online at: http://www.ncmbc.us/14AdvancedProposalWriting.php