World Skateboarding Federation President's Response to Today's Tokyo Olympic Committee Announcement Proposing Skateboarding for 2020 Olympic Games

KIMBERLEY, SOUTH AFRICA--(September 28, 2015) - Today, the Tokyo Olympic Committee announced that they are proposing that skateboarding will be one of two new sports to be added to the 2020 Olympics Games. The following is a statement from Tim McFerran, president of World Skateboarding Federation regarding today's announcement.

"WSF is pleased about the exciting and positive news coming out of Tokyo to include Skateboarding in the 2020 Olympics and we are hopeful that it will win final approval by the IOC next year. WSF has been active around the world promoting and organizing skateboarding and highlighting the positives that skateboarding brings to communities. World Skateboarding Federation has grown from the idea of providing social development and leadership to skateboarders and governments on a global basis, to an organization with almost 4000 members representing 92 countries and sanctioning over 60 contests in all disciplines of skateboarding including Street, Vert, Bowl, Slalom, Park, Downhill and Freestyle. In the short time since our establishment, we have been overwhelmed by the continuous stream of applications we are getting to join our group on a daily basis. We have received praise from numerous governmental and private organizations in countries from all over the world about the positive impact WSF has had in the lives of youth. We have had constant contact and very positive conversations with members of the IOC about how skateboarding can have a positive impact on the 2020 Olympic games and the youth of the world and are extremely grateful to be invited to take part in this process. WSF is actively working with many national federations and government agencies around the world to provide leadership and guidance to ensure a very positive experience for all skateboarders and their fans at the games. We want to thank the Tokyo 2020 committee for their recommendation and hope the IOC will give skateboarding this opportunity when they bring it to a final vote next year. I have personally been involved in the biggest contests in skateboarding since 2008 and I am pleased that this news comes out just prior to the Skateboarding World Championships (7-10 October), where the best skateboarders in the world will compete in Kimberley, South Africa, for the largest prize purse in skateboarding. Many of these competitors will likely represent their countries in the 2020 Olympics if it gets voted in by the IOC and WSF is proud to have played a role in the process."

About World Skateboarding Federation (WSF)

World Skateboarding Federation, a governing body of skateboarding, is the only federation to represent all disciplines of skateboarding including street, vert, downhill, slalom, bowl and freestyle. The WSF Board of Directors are: Tim McFerran, United States; Sasha Steinhorst, United States; Maga McWhinnie, Peru; Paco Manzanares, Mexico; Stefan Lilis Akesson, Sweden; Kevin Harris, Canada; Cyrille Harnay, France; Felix Arguelles, United States; Tim Gavin, United States; Jani Söderhäll, France; and Hans Koraeus, Sweden.

WSF actively donates skateboards to youth in poverty stricken areas and supports worthwhile skateboarding organizations like Skateistan in South Africa. WSF is currently working with a number of countries, providing leadership and expertise, to help them form national federations. The mission of the World Skateboarding Federation is to promote skateboarding around the world; to grow and connect relevant skateboarders, organizations, brands and manufacturers for the further expansion of skateboarding; to assist in building quality skateparks; to provide financial assistance to top skateboarders to attend international skateboarding contests; to create a centralized judging and scoring system; and to provide a platform to create national, regional and local contests. World Skateboarding federation is a USA incorporated nonprofit 501-c-3 organization.

For more information visit www.worldskateboardingfederation.org or follow us on social media @WSk8Federation on Twitter and World Skateboarding Federation on Facebook.

The following files are available for download:
Brendi Rawlin/ Lee and London PR/ brendi@leeandlondon.com/ 619-546-7488



SOURCE: World Skateboarding Federation through Marketwired by press release ©

 Original document : PDF

Chaco Supports Outdoor Industry Women’s Coalition With $7,000 Donation

ROCKFORD, Mich. (September 25, 2015) – Outdoor Retailer veterans know that walking the halls of the Salt Palace is hard on your feet and a pair of supportive shoes is critical to a good show experience. That’s one reason Chaco sold through hundreds of its classic flips in the first day of the show. Another reason is that all proceeds from the sale, over $7,000, went to a great cause, the Outdoor Industry Women’s Coalition (OIWC).

“We are committed to providing comfortable and durable footwear, and saw this as a perfect opportunity to invest in something else that’s important to us. We support OIWC’s commitment to empowering and expanding opportunities for women,” stated Colin Butts, Chaco director of marketing.

Founded in 1996, OIWC strives to expand opportunities for women in the outdoor, snow, bike and run industries in order to create more equity, diversity, and inclusion of women. For more information, visit http://www.oiwc.org.

About Chaco:

Born on the river in 1989, Chaco builds premium footwear for the outdoor-minded. As a result of the brand’s proprietary LUVSEAT™ footbed, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) has awarded the Seal of Acceptance to all Chaco footwear styles. The APMA Seal is intended to raise awareness by identifying products of exceptional quality that are manufactured with comfort, health, and safety in mind. Simply put, Chaco is fit for adventure. Please visit us at www.chacos.com, Facebook: Chacos, Instagram: ChacoFootwear, Twitter: Chacousa.

Chaco is a part of Wolverine Worldwide's Performance Group, which also includes the notable lifestyle brands Merrell, Saucony, and Cushe.


Source Chaco ©

Introducing Grassroots Connect 2015: A New Platform for Excellence in Outdoor Specialty Retai

Asheville, N.C. (September 24, 2015) — Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, an organization of innovative specialty outdoor retailers across the U.S., will host a landmark event this November in the first annual Grassroots Connect show.

The inaugural Grassroots Connect takes place November 11-13, 2015, in Knoxville, Tenn., and is far more than an early buying trade show.

While the event will serve as an efficient and intimate platform for buyers to build a powerful store presentation, Grassroots Connect is also about creating the future of outdoor specialty retail.
The fact that Grassroots Connect is taking place in the original gathering place for the outdoor industry – Knoxville, Tenn. – is intentional. The event is designed to create a new success blueprint for independent specialty outdoor retailers during an important juncture in the evolution of the outdoor active lifestyle industries.

“Specialty retail is in a critical window of evolution and with that evolution comes incredible opportunity for our membership,” said Wes Allen, President of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance and former owner of two specialty retail stores. “Grassroots Connect was launched to support specialty retailers through this evolution, arming them with new best practices specific to outdoor specialty and enabling independent stores to take a prominent position in the connected consumer’s buying journey.”

Grassroots Connect is an invitation-only event for premier outdoor brands and independent specialty retailers. Over 70 of the industries leading brands will be represented, including: Patagonia, The North Face, Under Armor, Ibex, Darn Tough and Hydro Flask. Through Grassroots Connect, these select vendors will have one-on-one time with more than 80 of the leading independent outdoor specialty retailers in the United States.

Invitations were extended to brands based on significance of business already done with Grassroots member retailers, and invitations to non-member retailers is based on fit with the independent, specialty focus of the group.

“We’re an independent specialty outdoor retail store based in Telluride, Colorado, and this will be our first year attending Grassroots Connect,” said Erik Dalton, owner of Jagged Edge Telluride. “The standard show schedule is really hectic and they happen at extremely busy times for us— in the middle of winter or the middle of summer. So to find a show that’s happening in early November is great timing and allows us to look at these lines earlier and get orders in ahead of deadlines.”

About Grassroots Outdoor Alliance

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance unites 55 independent outdoor retailers with over 100 doors in 30 states, as a strong voice to protect and promote the experience of outdoor enthusiasts across the United States. To learn more about Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, visit our website at www.GrassrootsOutdoors.com.



Source Grassroots Outdoor Alliance by Wes Allen through press release ©


Media Contact:
Wes Allen Grassroots / Outdoor Alliance / Wes@grassrootsoutdoors.com / 307.250.8675

Bike to Work Day: Pedal for a More Bikeable Region

DENVER-- On June 24, 2015 tens of thousands of commuters from across the region will choose two wheels over four to get to work. Hundreds of businesses will host company teams and encourage employees to leave their cars at home. And volunteers from across nine counties in the metro Denver region will operate nearly 250 bike stations.
 
Bike to Work Day (BTWD) has grown into the second-largest event of its kind in the nation. This year, organizers at the Denver Regional Council of Government’s (DRCOG) Way to Go program expect more than 30,000 participants and organizers are emphasizing the importance of registration.
“We are seeing more emphasis than ever on active transportation, with more bike and pedestrian projects a part of the mix,” says DRCOG Director of Marketing and Communications Steve Erickson. “Bike to Work Day registration numbers support bike advocacy and, as a result, bike infrastructure that impacts the entire region.”

Two significant regional bike projects include the US 36 Bikeway and the Arapahoe Street Protected Bike Lane. The first phase of the US 36 Bikeway opens in conjunction with Bike to Work Day, on June 24, and includes an 11-mile portion from Westminster to Broomfield, when completed it will be an 18-mile bicycle path between Boulder and Westminster. The Arapahoe Street Protected Bike Lane is part of a larger plan to create a network of safe, dedicated bike lanes throughout the downtown area of Denver.

More than 29,000 people participated in last year’s event, along with about 950 companies and hundreds of volunteers at more than 200 stations. The event has grown, along with Colorado’s bicycling population. Consider the following:

• Denver ranks as the 4th most bikeable city in the United States Source (Source: Walk Score 2015.)
• Denver metro area ranked as the 5th fastest growing bike-commuting region in the country between 2000 and 2011 (Source: bikeleague.org/reports.)
• More than 35 percent of participants were motivated to continue to bike to work after the event (Source: Corona Insights 2014 BTWD: Survey Report.)

“In the future, we’d like to be known for our smart commuting population,” continues Erickson. “It’s easy to do, and if more people use biking as a means of commuting - even once a month - they can make a substantial, positive impact on their health and the environment.”

For Colorado’s greater Denver metro region, this impact starts with registering for Bike to Work Day.

About Bike to Work Day 2015:
 
Bike to Work Day is celebrated in many communities across Colorado, but the metro Denver area’s event is the largest in the state and second largest in the country.Hundreds of Breakfast Stations will open from 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. around the region. At these stations, riders can enjoy free refreshments, giveaways and camaraderie on their way to work. Bike Home Stations will open from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. for the trip home. There are also water stations open in the afternoon and bike parties in the evening.

For a comprehensive listing and map of Breakfast and Bike Home Stations, water stations, bike parties and group rides, please visit BikeToWorkDay.us.



Source Denver Regional Council of Government through BUSINESS WIRE by press release ©





Contacts Denver Regional Council of Government : Nate Currey, 720-579-8080 / Communications Coordinator / ncurrey@drcog.org

Polartec and TREW Combine Forces to Benefit First Descents

Denver, CO — Jun 17, 2015-- First Descents, a non-profit that provides outdoor adventure programs for young adults impacted by cancer, is thrilled to receive fabric and garment design donations for its Out Living It Project. Polartec, the premier provider of innovative textile solutions, donated over $8,000 in fabric to create the apparel incentives for the on-going fundraising program, and TREW, the makers of uniquely stylish, technical ski and snowboard outerwear, carefully crafted the design to fit this project. With these combined donations, valued over $10,000, for the first time FD is able to support this program without additional fundraising.

“Polartec has been a part of the First Descents story for many years, and TREW is an exciting new partner for First Descents,” says Sarah Hubbard, Marketing Director for First Descents. “We are thrilled that these two joined forces to help us save money and provide top of the line apparel for the 700+ people across the country who are fundraising on behalf of First Descents.”

The Out Living It Project is where the First Descents community fosters a spirit of adventure, creativity and philanthropy. OLI Projects are unique ways to fundraise for First Descents and range from marathons to back yard barbecues to meditation challenges. All funds raised through the Out Living It Project support First Descents’ mission to provide life-changing outdoor adventure programs for young adults impacted by cancer.

“Adventure and outdoor exploration gives all of us a feeling of vulnerability and empowerment, and for those fighting or who have fought cancer these experiences can be life changing,” states Tripp Frey, President of TREW. “TREW is proud to partner with First Descents to help cancer survivors regain confidence and bounce back from a long tough fight from a disease that affects too many people in our world.”

“We are a premium producer of textile solutions with a long history in outdoor adventure gear,” states Darren Josey, North American Marketing Manager for Polartec. “We are inspired by and support those who take our fabrics and make their own solutions to what life throws at them, which is why we’ve chosen to support First Descents and their members.”

To be a part of this initiative or to learn more about the Out Living It project and First Descents, please visit www.firstdescents.org

About First Descents

First Descents is a non-profit organization offering young adults (ages 18-39) impacted by cancer a free outdoor adventure experience designed to empower them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same. For more information on First Descents programming, or how to get involved, head to www.firstdescents.org.






Patrick King / Backbone Media / patrick.king@backbonemedia.net / 970-963-4873 

Dagger and First Descents Strengthen Partnership in 2015 and Continue to Transform Lives Through Kayaking

GREENVILLE, S.C. (June 15, 2015) – Dagger is celebrating and strengthening its 14-year partnership with First Descents in 2015. First Descents is a non-profit founded by Team Dagger athlete Brad Ludden that offers free kayaking and adventure camps to young adults who are fighting cancer or are cancer survivors.


“We are incredibly proud to strengthen our partnership with First Descents and to deepen our support of the programs that Brad has developed for cancer fighters and survivors,” said Evan Lyendecker, marketing manager for Confluence Outdoor. “Dagger has always been comprised of paddlers who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in a kayak, and partnering with First Descents aligns with Dagger’s fundamental goal of supporting adventurous, brave lifestyles. It has been an honor for Dagger to sponsor First Descents for the past 14 years, and we are excited to be able to expand our involvement in 2015.”

Dagger has been a key partner of First Descents since 2001 when Ludden founded the organization. As a young, professional kayaker, Ludden accomplished historic first descents down wild, uncharted rivers around the world. After a close family member was diagnosed with cancer he taught her to kayak and noticed an immediate change in her attitude and well-being. He realized that he could use kayaking to help people with cancer reclaim their lives and their strength in the outdoors, and to experience the same exhilarating feeling that he had after a first descent.

Along with Ludden, Dagger athlete Adriene Levknecht is also a key member of the lead staff at First Descents. In 2015 Dagger will provide three kayaks for First Descents’ annual fundraising events, and Dagger raffled off kayaks at the GoPro Games, North Fork Championships and Black Canyon Race to benefit First Descents. Additionally, Dagger and First Descents created a scholarship program together to support program participants who want to continue to pursue paddling, and come fall Dagger will be outfitting the winner with a new kayak and starter gear.

“Dagger has supported our mission from the very beginning and our meaningful partnership is a huge reason why we have been so successful at achieving our goal of helping young people with cancer reclaim their lives,” said Ludden. “We are really excited to expand Dagger’s role with First Descents this year, incorporate more Team Dagger athletes into our camps and continue to transform lives largely through the experience of whitewater kayaking.”

Watch the first episode of the Out Living It video series about the partnership between First Descents and Dagger here.  

About Dagger®
Dagger doesn’t believe in going half-way, or giving “just enough.” In the world of paddling, Dagger is all in, and has been since 1988. From recreational moving water kayaks to whitewater boats bound for class V creeking and all water in between, Dagger designs and manufactures premier kayaks for all paddling styles in Greenville, S.C. From the mountains to the sea, Dagger represents the relentless pursuit of adventure. If your soul is also one with the water, join the Dagger Community and check out the kayaks at www.dagger.com.

About First Descents®

First Descents is a non-profit organization offering young adults (ages 18-39) with cancer a free outdoor adventure experience designed to empower them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same. For more information on First Descents programming, or how to get involved, head to www.firstdescents.org. 

 
Source Dagger ©




Media Contact: Verde Brand Communications / Lisa Mullen / confluence@verdepr.com /970.259.3555

Performance Bicycle® raises over $13,000 for PeopleForBikes

Leading cycling retailer matches donations given by customers to charitable foundation during National Bike Month

CHAPEL HILL, N.C., June 10, 2015 -- Performance Bicycle®, the #1 choice for people who love to ride, is proud to announce that cyclists around the country helped raise $13,448 for PeopleForBikes and its goal of making every ride better. The total is a mix of donations directly from customers as well as from Performance Bicycle matching funds.

"We are humbled by the generous support our customers have provided to help improve cycling infrastructure by donating to PeopleForBikes" said Performance Bicycle CEO David Pruitt. "We are proud to partner with PeopleForBikes and know our combined advocacy efforts will make a difference."

Performance Bicycle partnered with PeopleForBikes, a charitable foundation with a goal of making every ride better by improving cycling infrastructure, during its National Bike Month celebrations in May. Customers were able to make an in-store or online donation of $2 to support PeopleForBikes' mission of creating more trails, bike parks and protected bike lanes. Performance matched all of the donations made by its customers for a total donation of $13,448.

"Our vision is that bicycling infrastructure is improved to the point that safe and reliable access for all riders is the norm across America, and not the exception," said PeopleForBikes President Tim Blumenthal. "The generous donation from Performance and its customers will go a long way in helping us achieve that goal."

Cyclists can follow Performance Bicycle on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram at http://www.twitter.com/performancebike, http://www.facebook.com/performancebike, http://www.youtube.com/performancebike and www.instagram.com/performancebike.

About Performance Bicycle®

Performance Bicycle® is the No. 1 specialty bicycle retailer in the U.S. and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Performance Inc. Performance provides an omni-channel cycling experience that spans more than 100 stores nationwide, and www.PerformanceBike.com, catering to both the avid cycling enthusiast and the recreational rider. Performance Inc. is majority owned by North Castle Partners of Greenwich, Conn.

For more information about Performance Bicycle, please visit www.PerformanceBike.com

About PeopleForBikes

PeopleForBikes is making riding better for everyone by uniting millions of individuals, thousands of businesses and hundreds of communities. Join us at PeopleForBikes.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Matt Kovacs / Nick Valente / Blaze PR / (310) 395-5050 / mkovacs@blazepr.com / nvalente@blazepr.com





SOURCE Performance Bicycle through PRNewswire by press release ©
http://www.PerformanceBike.com

First Global Skateboarding Summit a Huge Success: World Skateboarding Federation Unveils "Skate 20/20" Agenda and Previews National Ranking System

IOC, SportAccord, and International Federation Officials Come Together to Discuss Need for Unification, Address Sport's Olympic Prospects

SACRAMENTO, CA--(June 04, 2015) - The first ever Global Skateboarding Summit, held in Istanbul May 22-24, was a huge success and a solid start to unifying the sport ahead of potential Olympic inclusion at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games, according to event host World Skateboarding Federation (WSF).

Keynote speakers included Christian Wassmer, the International Olympic Committee ‎Head of Winter Sports and International Federations Relations; Vlad Marinescu, general director of SportAccord; and members from 15 countries and international federations including the International Downhill Federation (IDF), International Slalom Skateboarding Association (ISSA), International Distance Skateboarding Association (IDSA), Association of International Skateboarders (AIS), FIRS and the International Skateboarding Federation (ISF).

The three-day summit was held at the Conrad Hotel in Istanbul. Designed to be an annual meeting to unify skateboarding, the summit discussed ways to help grow and form local, national and international skateboarding federations and associations. Attendees also received pertinent information regarding skateboarding's Olympic potential from industry leaders and IOC experts. Issues discussed ranged from Wada testing and gender equity, to the framework for an internationally agreed upon format and unified scoring system, and qualifications for Olympic sporting events.

World Skateboarding Federation also unveiled its Skate 20/20 agenda during the summit, which focuses on six key initiatives over the next five years:

1) Develop 40 National Governing Organizations over the next two years (WSF is already working with eight countries and will have those governing bodies set up by the end of the year)
2) Create a minimum of 17 WSF-sanctioned regional and national contests that feed into national championship events, by 2016
3) Create and support a global youth development program
4) Create a universal scoring system
5) Host International Judging Conference (Inaugural contest to be held in October 2015 in Kimberley, South Africa to coincide with Skateboarding World Championships)
6) Host annual Global Skateboarding Summit. The 2016 summit host candidates include Glasgow, Montreal and Mexico City.

WSF also previewed a national ranking system, which was very well received by attendees and will officially launch June 15 on www.worldskateboardingfederation.org.

The summit was an open forum allowing attendees from across all of skateboarding's disciplines to voice opinions and ask questions. The full list of speakers for the 2015 Global Skateboarding Summit included:

- Vlad Marinescu, General Director of Sport Accord
- Christian Wassmer, IOC Head of International Federation Relations and Winter Sports
- Tim McFerran, President of World Skateboarding Federation
- Alistair Menzies, Board Chairman of Skateboard Scotland
- Cyrille Harnay, President of the International Downhill Federation
- Dr. Jack J. Lesyk, Ph.D., CC-AASP, Director of Ohio Center for Sports Psychology
- Mike Jacki, Former President of USA Ski and Snowboard
- Peter Shakkour, Emmy Winning TV Producer, Worked on 8 Olympic Games for CBS and NBC
- Brendi Rawlin, Managing Director of Lee & London Public Relations
- Aaron Spohn, President of Spohn Ranch Skateparks
- John Block, Minister of Economic Development & Tourism, Northern Cape, South Africa

"This Global Summit was very beneficial to all those interested in the advancement of skateboarding and its possible future inclusion in the Olympic program," said Mike Jacki, newly elected General Secretary of WSF and former ISF member. "The great majority of people feel that skateboarding will benefit tremendously if it becomes an Olympic sport. We also feel that skateboarding will provide a new and exciting youth initiative to the Games. It is essential that we are willing to work with the IOC and the international skate community leaders in order to do what is required to gain acceptance into the world's most prestigious sporting event: the Olympic Games. Having 15 countries represented is a step in the right direction. While there is a great deal of work to do, we have a foundation and a sport that deserves the effort."

About World Skateboarding Federation (WSF)

World Skateboarding Federation a governing body of skateboarding and the leader in providing skateboarders around the world with funds to help pay for travel expenses to attend international contests. The WSF Board of Directors are: Tim McFerran, WSF Board President, Sasha Steinhorst, United States; Maga McWhinnie, Peru; Paco Manzanares, Mexico; Stefan Lilis Akesson, Sweden; Kevin Harris, Canada; Cyrille Harnay, France; Felix Arguelles, United States; Tim Gavin, United States; Jani Söderhäll, France; and Hans Koraeus, Sweden.

WSF actively donates skateboards to youth in poverty stricken areas and supports worthwhile skateboarding organizations like Skateistan in South Africa. WSF is currently working with a number of countries, providing leadership and expertise, to help them form national federations. The mission of the World Skateboarding Federation is to promote skateboarding around the world; to grow and connect relevant skateboarders, organizations, brands and manufacturers for the further expansion of skateboarding; to assist in building quality skateparks; to provide financial assistance to top skateboarders to attend international skateboarding contests; to create a centralized judging and scoring system; and to provide a platform to create national, regional and local contests. World Skateboarding federation is a USA incorporated nonprofit 501-c-3 organization.

For more information visit www.worldskateboardingfederation.org.

The following files are available for download:

- PDF - WSF Only 250x250 copy 

 




SOURCE: World Skateboarding Federation through Marketwired by press release ©

Partnership awards $375,000 to make bike share more equitable

Boulder, CO — Jun 1, 2015 In a collaboration between the City of Philadelphia, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, the PeopleForBikes Foundation and the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), the Better Bike Share Partnership has awarded nearly $375,000 in grants to recipients across the country working to make bike share programs more equitable. The Better Bike Share Partnership is funded by the JPB Foundation to increase access to and use of bike share in underserved communities.

This round of grants is the first in $900,000 of funding PeopleForBikes will administer over three years as part of the Partnership. “Most cities and bike share operators want to find ways to make bike share an appealing and accessible option for more people in their communities,” said Zoe Kircos, Grant Manager at PeopleForBikes. “These grants allow cities, systems, and non-profit partners to test interventions and help us develop best practices for encouraging more people to use bike share.”

“We’re excited that this funding will enable six cities to be innovators in this field,” said Carniesha Kwashie, Grant Manager with the City of Philadelphia’s Mayor’s Office of Transportation and Utilities and the Better Bike Share Partnership administrator. “Lessons learned from their experiences will guide future efforts to enhance the capacity of bike share to improve how all people move throughout their communities.”

The following projects have received funding:

Austin Bike Share Equity Project: $50,000

Austin, TX

Austin B-cycle will use this grant award to address barriers of cost, safety, comfort with bicycling, and language through a bilingual outreach and education campaign along with subsidized membership and cash payment options. A report with best practices on implementing a fully bilingual bike share system is one key deliverable of this project.

Boston Bikes Hubway Equity Project: $51,760

Boston, MA

Boston Bikes will build on their successful membership subsidy program and Prescribe-a-Bike collaboration with the Boston Medical Center to reach more diverse city residents with the help of this grant funding. Expansion of these two programs will join with plans to understand, reinforce and replicate the system’s best referral sources, align with other Boston Bikes programs, and develop more effective peer marketing tools through storytelling.

Building Up Bike Share in Bedford Stuyvesant: $75,000

Brooklyn, NY

The Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation (Restoration) will capitalize on Citi Bike’s addition of 26 stations to their neighborhood with several targeted interventions to increase use. Restoration will focus their grant funding on tailored community outreach, education about riding bicycles and using bike share, membership promotion campaigns, and integration with other community services to introduce more Bedford Stuyvesant residents to bike share.

Capital Bikeshare Outreach Resources for Community Organizations: $25,000

Washington, DC

The District of Columbia’s Department of Transportation (DOT) will strengthen and expand its network of local community service organizations as ambassadors for Capital Bikeshare with this grant award. In addition to initiating partnerships and developing best practices based on previous community partner experiences, the DOT will also create resources including a training curriculum and manual, multi-lingual demonstration video on how to use bike share, new member kits, and an ambassador network that links and supports community partners.

Charlotte B-cycle Free Wheelin’ Fridays: $20,000

Charlotte, NC
Charlotte B-cycle is working with an extensive roster of community partners to help people from neighborhoods across the city try using bike share for their Friday morning commutes. This targeted program will use experienced riders, incentives, and origination points in communities with less bike share use to boost ridership.

Divvy for Everyone: $75,000

Chicago, IL
The Chicago Department of Transportation (DOT) is using their award and match funding from BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois to implement a citywide program of subsidized memberships and facilitated enrollment through the Local Initiatives Support Coalition (LISC) – Centers for Working Families. Chicago DOT will also partner with Slow Roll Chicago on targeted outreach, education and engagement in the Southside neighborhood of Bronzeville along with general outreach and engagement citywide.

Equity Outcomes and Potential for Better Bike Share: $74,986

Portland, OR

Researchers at Portland State University will collect and examine data such as perceptions of bike share, barriers to use, success of specific interventions to increase use, and the impact of station siting decisions in Philadelphia’s Indego Bike Share System. The key deliverable is a report that will help new and existing bike share systems identify and implement interventions that will help them reach and engage more riders.


About PeopleForBikes        
          
PeopleForBikes is making riding better for everyone by uniting millions of individuals, thousands of businesses and hundreds of communities. Join us at PeopleForBikes.org.



Sourcwe PeopleForBikes by Lauren Fallert through press release ©


Media Contact: Lauren Fallert/ lfallert@verdepr.com /970-259-3555    

’47 Partners with Historic Black Fives Foundation

Premium Sports Lifestyle Brand Teams Up with Leading Non-Profit Organization to Create New Genre of Apparel, Combining Fashion with History

BOSTON--'47, a privately held, premium sports lifestyle brand, has partnered with the Black Fives Foundation, a non-profit organization that works to research, preserve, showcase, and teach the pre-1950 history of African Americans in basketball, to create a first-of-its-kind collection of headwear, apparel and accessories that combines fashion with history. The multi-year licensing partnership brings together one of today’s leading sports lifestyle brands with a one-of-a-kind authentic vintage sports property that is socially and culturally relevant. 

“Both ’47 and the Black Fives Foundation represent a legacy that is deeply rooted in American sport history, and we are honored to work with them on this collaboration,” said ’47’s co-owner Steven D’Angelo. “’47 supports the history of sports, so it was a natural fit to join forces with the Black Fives Foundation and bring this new genre to life, by sharing the untold stories of how the Black Fives Era helped pave the way for basketball as we know it today.”

The partnership includes headwear, apparel and pennants, which draw on and reflect the Foundation’s leading historical archive of Black Fives Era artifacts as well as its unique portfolio of the historically accurate logos of original African American teams. Looking ahead, both ’47 and the Black Fives Foundation will expand with additional product offerings, such as vintage jerseys, socks, and other complementary styles.

“The vision behind this collaboration from our two authentically rooted brands is to not only capture fans’ passion for basketball, history, and quality workmanship, but also to honor and celebrate the once-forgotten but important efforts and contributions of the game’s early African American pioneers,” said Claude Johnson, Executive Director of the Black Fives Foundation.

The partnership reinforces the Foundation’s slogan, “Make History Now,” by bringing back an important genre of sports history through the existing appeal of ’47’s youthful, fan-targeted, contemporary lifestyle apparel and accessories offerings. Both ’47 and the Black Fives Foundation will amplify their messages by creating collections that speak to the audiences that both brands have established, and beyond.

’47’s first Black Fives Collection will be unveiled in New York City today. Key boutique partners in cities where Black Fives Era teams played, collaborated on the designs and will be offering the collection in their retail locations:

1. New York - Reed Space
2. Chicago - LDRS
3. Pittsburgh - Shop 412
4. LA – Hall of Fame
5. DC – Major
6. New Jersey – Packer
7. Philadelphia - Sneaker Villa

A subsequent European roll out will launch in London at the Old Truman Brewery, Unit 8, Dray Walk, on June 11, 2015 and a Pop Up Shop will run until June 21. The new collection will also be available at ’47’s flagship store on Newbury Street in Boston, MA as well as online at 47brand.com.

About ’47
 
’47 is a privately held sports lifestyle brand founded in Boston, MA, by twin brothers, Arthur and Henry D’Angelo in 1947. The D’Angelo’s were entrepreneurial pioneers who were quick to see the future of sports licensing by selling pennants and other sports memorabilia on the streets around Fenway Park. Through a combination of hard work, sound instincts and incredible passion, the brothers were able to grow their business from a single street cart to a premier sports lifestyle brand that uniquely melds sport and style. Previously known as Twins Enterprises, ’47 is currently managed by Arthur’s four sons, Bobby, David, Mark, and Steven. ’47 is a proud partner of Major League Baseball, the National Football League, the National Hockey League, the National Basketball Association and over 900 collegiate programs. ’47 employs over 250 corporate and retail associates around the world and is headquartered in Boston and Westwood, MA.

For more information, please visit www.47brand.com.

About The Black Fives Foundation
 
The Greenwich, CT-based Black Fives Foundation is a public charity that is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code. It works to research, preserve, exhibit, and promote the pre-1950 history of African Americans in basketball to engage, teach, and inspire youth while honoring its pioneers and their descendants. The Black Fives Foundation also maintains a unique portfolio of intellectual property and an acclaimed historical archive.
The Black Fives were dozens of African American basketball teams that played before the formation and racial integration of the NBA, from 1904 through 1950, a period known as the Black Fives Era. “Fives” referred to the five starting players in a basketball lineup. All-black squads were known as Black Fives.

For more information, please visit www.blackfives.org.

Source ’47 through  BUSINESS WIRE by press release ©



Contacts: Havas Formula PR / Jill Greenwood, 212-219-0321 / Greenwood@havasformula.com

American Apparel Launches #EqualityForward with Human Rights Campaign Foundation

LOS ANGELES, June 1, 2015 -- American Apparel, the clothing manufacturer and retailer based in downtown Los Angeles, has announced a collaboration with the Human Rights Campaign Foundation.

Beginning June 1st, the apparel company will offer a limited edition #EqualityForward t-shirt and tank top that feature their interpretation of HRC Foundation's classic symbol.

The garments will be sold in the majority of American Apparel's 200+ retail locations and most regions of its online store. Fifteen percent of the proceeds will support the work of HRC Foundation's international initiative, HRC Global, and its partner organizations.

"Working with HRC Foundation was a no-brainer— we were fortunate to work with them years ago, and to reunite in 2015, with the Supreme Court rulings happening, has been monumental."

The product launch will be accompanied by seven in-store events, which will feature top talent from the drag community. The schedule for the #EqualityForward Tour is as follows:

6/13 West Hollywood with Pearl
6/14 Portland with Courtney Act
6/14 Philadelphia with Miss Fame
6/24 Toronto with Alaska
6/26 Chicago with Gia Gunn
6/28 San Francisco with Manila Luzon
6/28 NYC with Violet Chachki

American Apparel is the first international apparel partner of HRC Foundation global initiative. We believe in and celebrate equality and the freedom of expression. With many of their employees and customers identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, they have been, and continue to be, strongly committed to efforts to achieve LGBT equality.

For more information, please visit www.americanapparel.net and www.hrc.org.

About American Apparel

American Apparel, Inc. is a vertically-integrated manufacturer, distributor and retailer of branded fashion basic apparel based in downtown Los Angeles. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has approximately 10,000 employees and operated 242 retail stores in 20 countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, United Kingdom, Ireland, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, South Korea and China. The Company also operates a global e-commerce site that serves over 50 countries worldwide.

About Human Rights Campaign Foundation

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation envisions a world where lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are ensured equality and embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.



SOURCE American Apparel through PRNewswire by press release ©
http://www.americanapparel.net

Green Sports Alliance Announces Continued Partnership with UPS

UPS Sponsors Second Straight Green Sports Alliance Summit to Accelerate Sustainability in the Sports Industry

May 20, 2015 - PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Green Sports Alliance and UPS have teamed for the second year in a row to drive the greening of the sports industry. The Alliance announced the continued partnership with UPS to sponsor its annual Green Sports Alliance Summit which will take place June 29-July 1 at McCormick Place West in Chicago. The Summit is the world’s largest and most influential gathering for the sports community to unite around sustainability. The event brings together more than 800 industry stakeholders to learn and share better practices and the latest innovations in greening operations, advancing the supply chain and engaging fans.

“The Green Sports Alliance constantly strives to accelerate advancements in the sport industry. We are excited to have UPS as the Summit Presenting Sponsor for the second year in a row,” said Scott Jenkins, Board Chair. “UPS continues to demonstrate its leadership offering innovative solutions that enable more sustainable growth for industry stakeholders, all while reducing environmental impacts. The Alliance is looking forward to expanding its relationship with UPS this year in order to continue to advance industry innovation and collaboration, and the spread of the green sports movement.”

A new addition to the Summit will be the 2015 Thought Leadership Forum Delivered by UPS which will take place on Monday, June 29. The Forum will convene the corporate community, including sports industry vendors, sponsors and partners for an interactive and engaging discussion on how innovation and collaboration across industries can advance the green sports movement. This unique opportunity will bring together stakeholders to share perspectives and insights to move the industry forward.

Aligned values between the Green Sports Alliance and UPS, as well as similar desires for the improvement of the sports industry, provide the foundation for this strong partnership. “We’ve been advancing sustainability at UPS for more than a decade and are excited to offer what we’ve learned through our journey to others in the sports sponsorships space,” said Ron Rogowski, UPS vice president, global brand and sponsorships. “Sponsoring the Green Sports Alliance Summit again in 2015 gives us an opportunity to elevate our sustainability and sports sponsorships programs and to learn from others in the industry.”

This partnership is a further demonstration of UPS’s longstanding commitment to sustainability. Using its scope and scale, UPS continuously adapts and optimizes its network to drive more efficient trade and pioneer more sustainable solutions with customers around the world. UPS tests cutting-edge vehicle technologies and alternative fuels in its “rolling laboratory,”

a fleet of nearly 5,500 alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles. The company has set a goal of driving one billion miles using  this specialized fleet by the end of 2017.

UPS and the Alliance will also be partnering to offer industry thought leadership and content beyond the annual Summit through case studies, webinars and more throughout the year.


About the Green Sports Alliance Summit

The Green Sports Alliance Summit will be held June 29-July 1, 2015 in Chicago at the McCormick Place West (2301 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60616). For more details on the 2015 Green Sports Alliance Summit including the program, speaker line-up and registration costs, please visit the website: www.greensportssummit.org

About Green Sports Alliance

The Green Sports Alliance leverages the cultural and market influence of sports to promote healthy, sustainable communities where we live and play. The nonprofit organization does so by inspiring sports leagues, teams, venues, their partners, and millions of fans to embrace renewable energy, healthy food, recycling, water efficiency, species preservation, safer chemicals, and other environmentally preferable practices. Alliance members represent nearly 300 sports teams and venues from 20 different sports leagues and 14 countries. 

 

Find out more at www.greensportsalliance.org.

Source Green Sports Alliance through PRlog by press release ©

New Owners Take the Helm at Chicks Climbing

Ouray, CO (May 14, 2015) – Chicks Climbing, the premier provider of women’s rock and ice climbing instruction, today announces the official transfer of ownership from founder Kim Reynolds to a new ownership team. A seasoned group of five professional guides and climbers who have been leading Chicks Climbing for many years are now on the sharp end, leading the organization into its next era.

The new ownership team includes: Kitty Calhoun, Dawn Glanc, Angela Hawse, Elaina Arenz, and Karen Bockel.

Chicks Climbing was founded 16 years ago when Reynolds identified a huge gap in the experience climbing could offer for women.

“As I watched the sport of climbing grow, I saw few women taking the lead in this seemingly intimidating activity,” Reynolds said. “I saw an opportunity for women to learn from other women and gain the confidence needed to become proficient, self-reliant climbers and climbing partners.”

The many, many participants who have experienced a Chicks Climbing clinic over the past 16 years are proof of concept on Reynolds’ vision.

The most important facet of that vision is the level of professionalism that Reynolds prioritized to create a true Chicks Climbing experience. The years of time on the rock and ice, as well as the certifications, are evident in the women who guide for Chicks Climbing. The organization touts the most highly qualified female climbing guides in North America. The ratio of participants to guides never exceeds 4:1.

“Perhaps the best part of this change of leadership of Chicks Climbing is the fact that my most experienced and trusted guides are now the owners of the organization,” Reynolds said. “Chicks Climbing clients climb with the most experienced and seasoned female guides in the best rock and ice climbing areas in the country.”

The guide/participant interaction takes place at the crags during the day and continues during dinners and evenings together, and even well beyond the clinics.

“Chicks Climbing is a tight-knit community that’s growing,” said Kitty Calhoun. “The women who climb with Chicks have an incredible, memorable experience – for many it’s life-changing. As the new ownership team, we’re 100% committed and looking forward to furthering and growing the excellent reputation of Chicks Climbing.”

As a side benefit, Chicks Climbing alumni get a membership to a cutting-edge community of women dedicated to self-discovery through climbing. The Chicks website and newsletter have also grown into the hub women looking for information not only on upcoming events, but also on gear, training, nutrition, and gossip.

The Chicks community is rooted in the spirit of giving back, which Reynolds established in the organization from day 1. Chicks has raised money for women’s charities and the Ouray Ice Park though slideshows and auctions, which have been an integral focus of the Chicks Climbing winter clinics. Over the years, Chicks Climbing has raised over $200,000 as part of its giveback program. Additionally, Chicks is sponsored by several amazing partner companies in the outdoor industry, all of which share in the giveback commitment of Chicks Climbing.

Through the past 16 years, Chicks Climbing has evolved and grown. In 2009, Chicks Rock was created and rock climbing clinics in New River Gorge, Keene Valley, Devils Lake, Red Rocks, and later Indian Creek, were added.

Later this year, a new chapter begins for Chicks Climbing that includes on-snow adventures. Ski mountaineering and alpine climbing will be added to the line-up as well as new event locations. Details of a new ice climbing event in Iceland, a new rock climbing event in Red River Gorge, and a new ski event in Southwest Colorado will be announced on the Chicks Climbing and Skiing website soon.

ABOUT CHICKS CLIMBING AND SKIING:

Chicks Climbing was founded in 1999 with the goal of Empowering Women through Mountain Sports. Chicks Skiing launches in 2015, and will round out the vertical experiences designed specifically for adventurous women seeking to explore their limits and build friendships in the mountains. Chicks offers transformational experiences for women climbers and skiers domestically and internationally. The organization upholds a strong tradition of both community and of giving back, especially in areas of access and land management. 

To learn more about Chicks Climbing and Skiing, visit www.Chickswithpicks.net.

Source Verde Brand Communications ©

Media contact: Kristin Carpenter-Ogden / Verde Brand Communications / kco@verdepr.com /(970) 946-2511

Sheckler Foundation Sparks Community to Be the Change at Its 6th Annual Skate for a Cause

SAN CLEMENTE, CA--( May 4, 2015) - Last Saturday, more than two thousand supporters joined the Sheckler Foundation, its sponsors and skateboarders for Skate for a Cause at the etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest. The event raised enough money to fund eight more "Be the Change" grants to help kids in need and injured action sports athletes. The Sheckler Foundation's latest "Be the Change" recipient, Carter was the guest of honor throughout the day, where he received a check for $10,000, recognition and gifts from former "Be the Change" recipients, The Ashley Wade Foundation and Peach's Neet Feet. To see highlights of all the skateboarding that went down, watch the video here: http://youtu.be/CB6UHHJh5y4.

Pro Skateboarder and Sheckler Foundation's co-founder, Ryan Sheckler said, "It's such a blessing to have our supporters join us here at Skate for a Cause today. Our supporters help make it all possible, they enable us to give to those like Carter and continue to help more kids and injured action sports athletes."

The event kicked off at 10:00 a.m. as people swarmed to sign in and participate in the event's festivities. Before the skateboarding contests kicked-off, we were blessed to host a demo by WCMX (Wheel Chair Moto Cross) and Adaptive Action Sports athletes who put on an incredible show! Professional skateboarders ranging from Fabrizio Santos, Kevin Romar, Greg Lutzka, Manny Santiago, Ryan Decenzo, Matt Berger, Sean Sheffey, Eddie Elguera, Eddie Reatretegui and Tom Schaar joined the amateur skateboarders like Chris Joslin, David Reyes and Alex Midler among dozens of others to compete against and rally for each other.

Carter is a 12-year-old boy who suffers from Asperger Syndrome and a rare form of debilitating Eczema. He is the Sheckler Foundation's latest "Be the Change" recipient who has received widespread support from the skateboarding community. At this year's Skate for a Cause, he received a $10,000 financial grant that will go towards his treatments. Prior to becoming the latest "Be the Change" recipient, Carter was touched by a fellow nominee, Taylor's Journey with a Traumatic Brain Injury. He had decided if he were given the $10,000 grant, he would split half of the grant with Taylor. Carter's generosity sparked a series of past "Be the Change" recipients to pay it forward. Peach's Neet Feet and The Ashley Wade Foundation joined in by donating shoes and baskets for Carter and Taylor.

The Sheckler Foundation would like to give a warm thank you to all of its supporters -- from the skateboarders, sponsors and to all the individuals who came out and showed their support at the 6th Annual Skate for a Cause.

For additional details and information on the event and the Sheckler Foundation, please visit: shecklerfoundation.org; Facebook: facebook.com/shecklerfoundation; LinkedIn; Twitter: @SheckFoundation; Instagram: @ShecklerFoundation.

About The Sheckler Foundation:

Founded in 2008, The Sheckler Foundation was created as an avenue for Ryan Sheckler, his family, friends and business associates to give back to the community and industry that they are so grateful for. Fueled by the desire to contribute to the many causes that directly benefit and enrich the lives of children and injured action sports athletes, The Sheckler Foundation will produce fundraising events, passion projects and web-based initiatives to raise capital and awareness. Our ultimate goal is to empower our community to "Be the Change!"



Source The Sheckler Foundation through Marketwired by press release ©


Press Contacts: Ashton Maxfield/ Master Plan Communications/ 949.289.6493/ ashton@masterplanpr.com

or

Deborah Cser/ Master Plan Communications/ 714.310.9651/ deborah@masterplanpr.com

UPDATE: KEEN Footwear & Mercy Corps Partner for Nepal Earthquake Relief

MEDIA ALERT | April 30, 2015 | PORTLAND, Ore.:On Monday, KEEN announced their partnership with Mercy Corps, a leading global humanitarian organization, to help bring relief to communities in Nepal through Mercy Corps’ Nepal Earthquake Response Fund.

Within the first 48 hours, the overwhelming support and generosity of fans, community, friends, and family have successfully helped us surpass our initial relief donation goal of matching every dollar raised through the KEEN Mercy Corps donation page up to $10,000 – with a total goal of raising $20,000. Thank you so much.

Yesterday, a friend and fan of KEEN, who would like to remain anonymous, committed an additional $10,000 to match the next $10,000 in contributions through the KEEN Mercy Corps fundraising page. So, once the $20,000 donation mark is reached, our collective efforts will help fund Mercy Corps with $40,000 for relief efforts.

“We set out with an initial goal of raising $10,000 for earthquake relief efforts and are incredibly humbled by this additional donation,” said Linda Balfour, brand marketing director at KEEN. “Every donation makes a difference, and we just want to thank everyone for their support.”

Help Donate: https://www.mercycorps.org/people/keen/NepalEarthquake

"Our team in Nepal has been working tirelessly to help their neighbors survive and communities recover,” said Graham Craft, VP, Corporate and Foundation Partnerships, Mercy Corps. “We're grateful for the support of KEEN and all our partners. They make it possible for Mercy Corps to meet immediate humanitarian needs, while planning for long-term recovery. KEEN’s matching gift challenge will inspire even more people to join our community of change-makers bringing help and hope to families in Nepal."

Again, KEEN and Mercy Corps can’t thank you enough for your thoughtfulness and support. It is our continued hope that you can help keep the momentum going and spread the word through your networks and outreach.

Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to talk to a KEEN representative.



Source Keen by Keith Cozzens through press release  ©


MEDIA CONTACT: Keith Cozzens, Verde Brand Communications, keith@verdepr.com, 970.259.3555 x122

KEEN Announces 6 Spring 2015 KEEN Effect Grantees

Each grantee will be awarded $10,000 to help build stronger communities and a healthier planet; one more grantee to be unveiled through fan vote.

PORTLAND, Ore. (April 22, 2015) – KEEN, manufacturer of original hybrid footwear, is a brand committed to helping build stronger communities and a healthier planet. One of the ways KEEN does this is through the KEEN Effect – a fan-activated grant program that supports non-profits around the world who are inspiring responsible outdoor participation. In celebration of Earth Day, today, KEEN unveils the first six 2015 grant recipients, who will each receive $10,000 to inspire people to spend time outside. The recipients are: First Descents, Muddy Sneakers, GirlVentures, Open Meadows, Green Thumbs/Growing Kids, and Sustainable Coastlines. 

Since January, the KEEN Effect received more than 800 applications from non-profits in the U.S. and around the world inspiring people to get outside and responsibly enjoy the great outdoors. The grantee selection process was conducted by an internal grant review committee representing all departments at KEEN and its subsidiaries in Canada, Japan, and Europe, who collectively selected winners based on specific criteria.
“The amount of dedicated individuals and organizations making our world a better place is humbling and inspiring,” said Kirsten Blackburn, KEEN Brand and Community Specialist. “My dream would be for the KEEN Effect program to be a catalyst of action – to connect non-profit groups to passionate community members to make our world a better place.”
The KEEN Effect is part of KEEN’s Hybrid.Care giving program, which has donated more than $8M in cash and resources to non-profits around the world since 2004. KEEN is committed to being a driving force in connecting its fans to the outdoor world and preserving it for generations to come. This year’s KEEN Effect applications represented more than 19 different countries and every U.S. state – a significant increase from the program’s inaugural season last year.

Announcing the 2015 KEEN Effect’s newest grantees:

• First Descents: offers young adult cancer fighters and survivors a free outdoor adventure experience to climb, paddle, and surf beyond their diagnosis.
• Muddy Sneakers: brings the classroom outside to instill in children a life-long love of nature, and to do it in a way that enhances academic achievement.
• GirlVentures: empowers girls to stretch beyond their comfort zones and explore new physical, social, emotional, and creative activities as they grow into adulthood.
• Open Meadows: prepares students for success in college, career, and community with programs designed for Open Learning – a mix of advocacy, equality, and academics – for a successful life beyond high school.
• Green Thumbs, Growing Kids: empowers urban children, youth, and their families to learn about, grow, and prepare fresh foods, cultivated in an environmentally-sustainable manner through hands-on programs.
• Sustainable Coastlines: helps keep the coastlines beautiful by supporting large-scale coastal clean-up events, educational programs, public awareness campaigns, and riparian planting projects.

Because of the overwhelming amount of amazing applicants, KEEN wants to award a seventh $10,000 grant to one more great organization, and is asking for your help and engagement. Head over to keeneffect.com and cast your vote for one of the three finalists. Voting ends May 6 and the winning organization will be announced shortly after. The three organizations are: Axel Project, Alaska Geographic, and Paaqavi – Adventures for Hopi Youth.
“What’s truly remarkable and inspiring is not just the quantity of great of applications, but the fact that more than 50 of them were referred by KEEN employees, committee members, retailers, friends, or family members,” said Blackburn. “This shows us that the KEEN community truly cares, and wholeheartedly believes in our promise to build stronger communities and a healthier planet – the KEEN Effect is a true team effort.”
For more about the KEEN Effect, please check keeneffect.com, or email keeneffect@keenfootwear.com. Applications are accepted year-round and the final round of grantee winners will be announced on National Public Lands Day, Sept. 26.

About KEEN

Inspired by a love of the outdoors, KEEN Inc., manufacturer of hybrid outdoor and casual products, including footwear, clothing, and accessories, is dedicated to creating quality products that support the lifestyles and outdoor adventures of active people around the world. KEEN products can be found online and through more than 5,000 retail locations in more than 60 countries, as well as in KEEN Garage retail stores in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. The company operations and culture reflect a stand-out commitment to building a strong community and a healthier planet so that all can create, play, and care. Learn more at www.keenfootwear.com.


Source Keenby press release ©


MEDIA CONTACT | Keith Cozzens, Verde Brand Communications, keith@verdepr.com, 970.259.3555 x122

WILEY X, ® INC. WORKING TO REDUCE SPORTS-RELATED EYE INJURIES

WILEY X, ^® INC. WORKING TO REDUCE SPORTS-RELATED EYE INJURIES

 
During April, American Academy of Ophthalmology Spotlights Need for Protective Eyewear During Recreational and Competitive Sports

Whether it’s mountain bike riding, pickup basketball or an impromptu game of touch football during a family picnic, sports are an important part of American life.  Unfortunately, so are about 40,000 sports-related eye injuries each year, as participants get poked or elbowed in the eye, struck by a ball or even get dirt and debris in their eyes.  And these are just some of the many ways eye injuries can occur during competitive and recreational sports activities.

There is good news to focus on, however.  The vast majority of these injuries could be prevented by simply wearing proper protective eyewear.  Highlighting this fact is the driving force behind National Sports Eye Safety Month, an annual effort of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.  Each April, the organization works to educate the American public about the dangers of sports-related eye injuries — many of which can be quite serious — and the importance of wearing protective eyewear whenever people play.

As a leading provider of protective eyewear for U.S. military, law enforcement, factory workers and even champion NASCAR drivers, Wiley X is strongly behind this mission of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.  “When you consider how precious and irreplaceable the gift of sight is, there is really no excuse for not wearing protective eyewear during a wide range of sports activities,” said Wiley X Co-Owner Myles Freeman, Jr.  “It’s not just obvious sports like basketball or soccer that present dangers, either.   Eye injuries can occur during a round of golf, a friendly tennis match or a game of beach volleyball.  Even non-competitive outdoor sports like mountain biking, skateboarding or rollerblading can result in serious eye injuries,” Freeman added.

Wiley X offers a full range of standard and polarized eyewear styles that meet ANSI-Z87.1 High Velocity and High Mass Impact Safety standards for OSHA-rated protection.   Every Wiley X sunglass model is also designed for a comfortable, secure fit and sharp vision under a range of conditions.  Almost all Wiley X styles are also RX-ready, providing a comfortable, fashionable eye-protection option for people who need corrective lenses.   Wiley X’s advanced DIGIFORCE™ digital Rx lens technology enhances prescription accuracy and clarity, providing clear vision over the widest possible field of view.  “These things are very important, because we learned long ago that the best way to protect people’s eyes is to make a product they’ll actually want to wear,” added Freeman.

Wiley X also recently expanded its focus to protecting America’s youth with its new Youth Force™ line of ASTM F803 rated sports protective eyewear products for children. Each Youth Force model is uniquely designed to quickly change from spectacles to goggles with the simple push of a button to better meet the needs of individual athletes and their sports.  The Youth Force line is also Rx-Ready, making it ideal for young athletes who need prescription lenses along with advanced eye protection on the field or court.

To learn more about ways to prevent sports-related injuries, visit www.geteyesmart.org.  To learn more about Wiley X’s advanced eyewear products for adults and youth— contact Wiley X, Inc. at 7800 Patterson Pass Road, Livermore, CA 94550 · Telephone: (800) 776-7842 · Or visit online at www.wileyx.com. 

Get social with us on FACEBOOK, FACEBOOK TACTICAL, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, and LINKEDIN for a chance to win a free pair of shades and other cool gear. 


Source WileyX ©

etnies Presents the Sheckler Foundation's 6th Annual Skate for a Cause

SAN CLEMENTE, CA--(Apr 9, 2015) - The Sheckler Foundation and etnies proudly partner up to present the 6th Annual Skate for a Cause at the etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest. To be held on Saturday, May 2, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., the Cinco De Mayo weekend event will help raise funds for the Sheckler Foundation's "Be the Change" initiative to help injured action sports athletes and children in need. Families, friends and individuals are all welcome to attend this public event, free of charge. People can watch their favorite skateboarders participate in contests, enjoy food and play games to win prizes.

2015 6th Annual Skate for a Cause Schedule:

10:00 a.m. - Gates Open to the Public
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Legends Bowl Practice
12:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. - JAKKS Pacific Legends Bowl Contest
1:00p.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Volcom SkaterCross Contest
2:45 p.m. - 3:10 p.m. Red Bull Tech Center Best Trick Contest
3:15 p.m. - 3:40 p.m. - etnies Tranny Best Trick Contest
3:45 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. - Tilly's Stairs, Hubbas, Rails Best Trick Contest
4:30 p.m. - Awards
4:45 p.m. - Raffle Winners Announced
5:00 p.m. - Carnival Ends

This year's list of confirmed skaters includes:

Aaron Astorga/ Dave Bachinsky/ Matt Berger/ Charlie Blair/ Aiden Campbell/ Kurtis Colamonico/ Julian Davidson/ Ryan Decenzo/ Dave Duncan/ Eddie "El Gato" Elguera/ Yuri Facchini/ Jim Gray/ Dave Hackett/ Eddie Hadvina/ Tyler Hendley/ Kelvin Hoefler/ Chris Joslin/ Greg Lutzka/ Trevor McClung/ Alex Midler/ Steve Olson/ Julian Padilla/ David Reyes/ Jeremiah Risk/ Mike Rogers/ Kevin Romar/ Fabrizio Santos/ Manny Santiago/ Tom Schaar/ Christian Sereika/ Ryan Sheckler/ Kane Sheckler/ Jamie Tancowny/ Tony Tave/ Danny Way/ Bill Weiss/ Jeff Wright

Confirmed sponsors for the 6th annual Skate for a Cause include:

etnies/ Tilly's/ Red Bull/ Volcom/ JAKKS Pacific/ CCS/ Ford/ Plan B/ Rastaclat/ Tech Deck/ UFC/ Woodward West/ Direct Edge Media/ Chronic Tacos

Brown UnitedTo get up close and personal with the professional skateboarders inside the skatepark, the Sheckler Foundation is asking for a $50 donation through the foundation's site at ShecklerFoundation.org. Be sure to donate and reserve a spot; tickets are selling quickly and space is limited.

For additional info on the Sheckler Foundation, follow facebook.com/shecklerfoundation, LinkedIn, @SheckFoundation on Twitter and @ShecklerFoundation on Instagram.

About the Sheckler Foundation:

Founded in 2008, the Sheckler Foundation was created as an avenue for Ryan Sheckler, his family, friends and business associates to give back to the community and industry that they are so grateful for. Fueled by the desire to contribute to the many causes that directly benefit and enrich the lives of children and injured action sports athletes, the Sheckler Foundation will produce fundraising events, passion projects and web-based initiatives to raise capital and awareness. Our ultimate goal is to empower our community to "Be the Change!"

Contact Information Press Contacts: Ashton Maxfield/ Master Plan Communications/ 949.289.6493/ ashton@masterplanpr.com

Deborah Cser/ Master Plan Communications/ 714.310.9651/ deborah@masterplanpr.com



SOURCE: Sheckler Foundation through Marketwired by press release ©

SeaVees Supports 1% for the Planet

Santa Barbara, CA – March 24, 2015 - SeaVees, a premier, heritage footwear brand inspired by the casual, coastal style of 1960s, is pleased to announce its partnership with 1% for the Planet. Through this membership, SeaVees pledges one percent of its net sales to the preservation and restoration of the planet through the organization’s network of domestic and international grassroots environmental groups.

“Born in 1964 in California, a state celebrated for its natural beauty, we are endlessly inspired by our surroundings,” said Steven Tiller, CEO and Chief Designer of SeaVees. “We are proud to join 1% For The Planet to make a positive environmental impact on our Golden State and beyond.”

1% for the Planet was established in 2002 to build, support and activate an alliance of businesses financially committed to creating a healthy planet. Since then, 1% for the Planet has grown into a global movement of more than 1200 member companies in 48 countries, all donating at least 1% of annual sales to sustainability initiatives.

By contributing one percent of its net sales to grassroots environmental groups, SeaVees hopes to affect real change, while attracting conscientious consumers and showing its commitment to corporate responsibility.

For more information about 1% for the Planet visit www.onepercent.org.

About SeaVees, Inc.

Born in 1964 and rediscovered in 2010, SeaVees is a pioneer of the authentic California lifestyle. Based in Santa Barbara, CA, SeaVees honors the origins of the brand and designs premium, contemporary footwear that combines the casual, coastal style of 1960s California adapted for today’s modern sensibilities. Batch-made in small runs for superior quality, each SeaVees style carries a unique name inspired by an influential date in 1960s California culture. SeaVees footwear can be found online at www.seavees.com, and in Barney’s, Nordstrom and other specialty retailers across the United States. To learn more about SeaVees and its products, visit seavees.com. Follow all brand updates on Instagram (@seavees), Facebook (@SeaVees) and Twitter (@seavees).


source SeaVees by Julie Atherton through press release ©