CA Productions Announces Jamey Stone As New Marketing Director; Unveils New Projects

The CA Productions family, that includes CA Skateparks and CA Rampworks, has welcomed movement attention maestro Jamey Stone to a position of Marketing Director. Formerly, Stone served as a Publisher of Skateboarder repository and has been in a movement sports attention for some-more than 15 years. He skeleton to request his believe of Digital and Social media to a CA brands with pivotal selling initiatives that implement disdainful web content, amicable media and on-site code awareness.

In other news, a association also denounced several arriving projects and events, including an a CA Pro-Am movement competition in Lake Havasu, Arizona during Spring Break, Mar 28-30, and dual new skateparks set to open in Los Angeles and Huntington Beach, California in Mar 2014. Read a sum below:

CA Skateparks

CA SKATEPARKS is looking brazen to a opening of two completely new, top-of-the-line

skateparks.

The first is the Vans “OFF THE WALL” Skatepark in Huntington Beach, California.  Set to open in March  2014, this world-class skatepark is certain to turn one of a many renouned skateparks in a US.  At over 35,000 block feet, finish with lights, bathrooms, break bar, and movement emporium – there’s no reason to ever leave.  This unique California Skateparks design includes 15,000 block feet dedicated to theTransition Area and 20,000 block feet to the Street Plaza space, with a iconic VANS “Checkered”pattern as a featured tone intrigue throughout.

The Transition Area is comprised of a full-sized, competition clover bowl complete with tile and Golden State pool coping, and was designed in partnership with skateboard legends, Lance Mountain and Christian Hosoi.  This Transition Area also includes a combination flow course that facilities a “hipped” mini ramp and an integrated backyard pool.

The Street Plaza, that was shabby by Vans group riders and staff members, includes an contentment of real-life travel elements comprised of stairs, rails, gaps, planter ledges, a double-kinked handrail that’s over 40 feet long, and a volcano underline with a palm tree in a center, to enrich a California vibe.  The VANS “OFF THE WALL” skatepark presents a singular eventuality for a village given it will also offer a choice of hosting Pro

Events.

The second park is Sheldon Skatepark.  This 25,000 block foot skate park has a large, executive plazawhich terraces down with a accumulation of stairsets to form a dual categorical wings of a park.  The incomparable of a dual wings starts with two opposite triple sets and a long double-kinked rail, leading towards a large executive volcano that’s surrounded by a transition section.  The smaller of a dual wings starts with a 4 and 5 stair leading toward an “A” support with rails, a smaller double-kinked rail, and Pier 7 ledges. 

The Two wings are connected by a pathway slicing diagonally opposite a park, that facilities an contentment of ledges, prosaic bars, and a massive bank-to-ledge.  Our pattern for this plan is certain to make it another premier movement park for the City of Los Angeles.  The grand opening date for this park is still tentative, though entrance really soon!

CA PROductions

CA Productions is unapproachable to announce a initial of a kind CA PRO-AM movement contest. The eventuality is function during SPRING BREAK on Mar 28-30th, during a newly built Patrick Tinnell Memorial movement park in pleasing Lake Havasu, AZ. Much some-more than your normal movement contest, we will have internal vendors, nightly entertainment, drink gardens and extraordinary skateboarding. Centered around a SLS approved travel plaza, we will horde a Amateur competition judged with a never before employed in pledge skateboarding travel joining format. We will also horde a pro play eventuality and a demonstration race.

Click here for some-more information about a CA PRO-AM movement contest. Please hit Jeff Jewett during jewett@caproductions.com for information on entrance forms, sponsorship and march side branding opportunities.

CA Productions has also been bustling with pre-production on some a biggest events in a attention including Kia World Extreme Games in Shanghai, China, X Games 2014 In Austin, TX and Kimberley Diamond Cup in Kimberley, South Africa

CA RampWorks

CA RampWorks is unapproachable to announce a New multiplication to a CA family. Build during Home Skateparks- is a “direct to consumer” ramp pack program, formed online, where skaters can select from a accumulation of Ramp kits that are pre-cut, pre-drilled , and packaged. These are shipped approach to your doorway with FREE smoothness – all a skater needs is a screw gun to assemble. The initial call of products includes mini ramps, 1/4 pipes , banks and wedges , boxes and ledges and of march prosaic rails. These are all creatively designed to work as mount alone “driveway” ramps or partnered together to emanate your possess movement park. Look out for imitation ads in Thrasher and several web ads to dump in March, featuring skateboarding idol Jamie Thomas!

CA RampWorks has also been bustling stability to design, build and furnish some of a biggest events in a industry. Our latest projects include: Thrasher Death Match during South by Southwest in Austin, TX, Kia World Extreme Games in Shanghai, China, X Games 2014 in Austin, TX and some antecedent ramps for Nitro Circus, only to name a few.

By press release

Nike Football Accelerates Innovation with 3D printed “Concept Cleat” for Shuttle

Nike Vapor HyperAgility Cleat debuts for shuttle drill using SLS plate construction; One of three cleats influenced by 3D printing technology.

Nike continues to push the limits of innovation and design by debuting its second football cleat built using 3D printing technology. The Nike Vapor HyperAgility Cleat, built for the shuttle drill (or 5-10-5), has taken innovation and athlete agility to a new level. In the quest to help make athletes better, Nike is accelerating the footwear manufacturing process through 3D printing technology.

Last year, Nike’s “40 Yard Dash Project” redefined the game with new 3D plate construction built for linear speed through the Nike Vapor Laser Talon cleat. Insights captured from the project have revolutionized the way Nike designs and manufactures footwear, helping to inform theNike Vapor Carbon Cleat design less than a year later.

The new Nike Vapor HyperAgility cleat, born from Nike’s“Shuttle Project,” again takes innovation and traditional footwear manufacturing to a new level. In addition to linear speed, the game of football requires agility and lateral quickness. The mastery of these skills is seen on a grand stage as pro scouts clock athlete’s “shuttle” or “5-10-5” drill times in order to assess them for game-time ability. Optimal traction on turf, reducing deceleration time, and traction confidence, are all critical requirements when “cutting” or changing direction quickly.



With more than 40 years of athlete insights and innovation across sport, Nike again worked with long-time partner and gold medal sprinter, Michael Johnson and his trainers at Michael Johnson Performance to better understand what athletes need for lateral agility in the shuttle drill.

“Just like a race car driver needs confidence in his breaks, an athlete clocking speed in the shuttle needs the same confidence to stop and change direction,” said Michael Johnson, elite athlete and owner of Michael Johnson Performance. “If he can minimize the amount of time it takes to decelerate and change directions, he will unleash his athletic ability and accelerate faster into the turn or cut.”

Translated to the game of football, the shuttle drill shows how quickly an athlete is able accelerate laterally, get to the football, and change directions quickly in a split second.

The Nike Vapor HyperAgility Cleat’s unique plate design uses an amplified, tri-star stud shape enabling maximum speed on turf while creating the optimal traction needed to decelerate and change direction quickly. This ultimately allows athletes to accelerate both linearly and laterally.

The HyperAgility cleat pattern, stud placement and overall shape increases surface traction which in turn empowers the athlete to be more aggressive when they cut,” said Lance Walker, MJP Performance Director. “An athlete’s faith and confidence in his traction ultimately reduces his perceived need to slow down.”

The cleat’s upper is constructed using dynamic Nike Flywire cables, individually hand threaded through the plate and under the foot, providing maximum lockdown to prevent slippage inside the cleat. The mid-cut design also features a proprioceptive compression collar providing a closer fit as well as protection from the studs.

“In order to create a cleat that minimized slippage on the turf when cutting, 3D printing again allowed us to test, iterate and create shapes not possible with traditional manufacturing processes, which in turn allowed us to push the limits of innovation faster,” said Shane Kohatsu, Nike Director of Footwear Innovation. “The HyperAgility cleat helps the athlete accelerate faster, while creating an optimal braking and traction system.”

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is a 3D printing technology that uses high-powered lasers to fuse small particles of materials into a 3-dimentional shape. Traditionally this process is used for prototyping, but through proprietary material selection, Nike was again able to create fully functional plate and traction system in a fraction of the traditional timeframe and at a fraction of the weight. Once again, 3D printing has revolutionized the way Nike designs and manufactures footwear, allowing designers to make updates within hours, instead of months, to truly accelerate the innovation process.

With the Nike Vapor Laser Talon cleat built for linear speed, the Nike Vapor HyperAgility cleat built for explosive lateral acceleration, and the Nike Vapor Carbon II built for 360 degree gameday speed, Nike continues to push innovation for athletes across every aspect of the game.

Source Nike

Bogs Generates Strong Fourth Quarter Growth

Weyco Group, Inc. reported sales of $78.5 million in the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2013, slightly ahead of $78.4 million a year ago. Net earnings declined 11 percent to $6.8 million, or 62 cents a share, from $7.7 million, or 71 cents, in 2012.

Earnings for last year's fourth quarter included approximately $1.8 million ($1.1 million after tax) of income resulting from a reduction in the estimated liability for future payments related to the 2011 acquisition of The Combs Company ("Bogs"). Without this adjustment, earnings from operations and net earnings attributable to the company would have been up 2 percent and 4 percent, respectively, for the quarter.

Diluted earnings per share were $0.62 in the fourth quarter of 2013, compared to $0.71 per share in the fourth quarter of 2012. Without the Bogs liability adjustment described above, 2012 diluted earnings per share on an adjusted basis would have been $0.60 per share.

Net sales in the North American wholesale segment, which include North American wholesale sales and licensing revenues, were $58.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2013, up 3 percent as compared to $56.6 million in 2012.  This increase was primarily due to higher sales of the BOGS brand.

Wholesale net sales of BOGS increased approximately $2.5 million, or 22 percent, for the quarter, with higher sales in both the U.S. and Canada. Earnings from operations for the wholesale segment were $7.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2013, down 15 percent as compared to $9.1 million in 2012. Last year's fourth quarter earnings from operations included approximately $1.8 million of income resulting from the Bogs liability adjustment described above. Without this prior year adjustment, earnings from operations for the wholesale segment would have been up 7 percent for the quarter, primarily due to the increase in sales.

Net sales in the North American retail segment, which include sales from the company's Florsheim retail stores and its internet business in the United States, were $6.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2013, down 9 percent as compared to $7.6 million in 2012.  Same store sales were up 5 percent for the quarter. There were six fewer domestic retail stores as of December 31, 2013 than at December 31, 2012. Earnings from operations for the retail segment increased approximately $173,000 for the quarter, due to the benefit of closing underperforming stores and improved same store performance.

Other net sales, which include the wholesale and retail net sales of Florsheim Australia and Florsheim Europe, were $13.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2013, down 5 percent as compared to $14.1 million in 2012.  The majority of other net sales were generated by Florsheim Australia.  Florsheim Australia's net sales were down $790,000, or 6 percent, for the quarter. In local currency, Florsheim Australia's net sales were up 5 percent, due to higher sales volumes in its retail businesses, partially offset by lower sales volumes in its wholesale businesses.

The decrease in U.S. dollars was caused by the weakening of the Australian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar in 2013. Earnings from operations of these businesses were $1.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2013, down 24 percent as compared to $2.1 million in the same period last year. This decrease was primarily due to a $600,000 decline in the operating earnings of Florsheim Australia's wholesale businesses, resulting from lower sales volumes and gross margins.

FULL YEAR 2013

Overall net sales in 2013 were a record $300.3 million, an increase of 2 percent from 2012 sales of $293.5 million. Earnings from operations were $27.8 million in 2013, down 7 percent as compared to $29.8 million in 2012. Net earnings attributable to the company were $17.6 million in 2013, down 7 percent as compared to $19.0 million in 2012. Earnings for 2012 included approximately $3.5 million ($2.1 million after tax) of income resulting from reductions in the estimated liability for future payments related to the 2011 acquisition of Bogs. Without these adjustments, earnings from operations and net earnings attributable to the company would have been up 6 percent and 5 percent, respectively, for 2013 as compared to 2012.

Diluted earnings per share were $1.62 per share in 2013, compared to $1.73 per share in 2012. Without the Bogs liability adjustments described above, 2012 diluted earnings per share on an adjusted basis would have been $1.54 per share.

Net sales in the North American wholesale segment, which include North American wholesale sales and licensing revenues, were $225.7 million in 2013, up 4 percent as compared to $217.9 million in 2012. This increase was due to higher sales of the Nunn Bush, Bogs and Florsheim brands.

• Wholesale net sales of Nunn Bush were up approximately $4.8 million, or 8 percent, for the year due to higher sales volumes at department stores and national shoe chains, driven by increased sales of new casual products.
• Wholesale net sales of BOGS were up approximately $3.3 million, or 9 percent, for the year due to higher sales volumes in both the U.S. and Canada, including $1.1 million of additional volume in 2013 due to the takeover of Bogs Canadian distribution in June 2012.
• Wholesale net sales of Florsheim were up approximately $1.8 million, or 4 percent, for the year due to increases across several trade channels. Wholesale gross margins increased to 32.6 percent in 2013, from 32.2 percent in 2012. 

Earnings from operations for the wholesale segment were $20.7 million in 2013, down 7 percent as compared to $22.2 million in 2012. Last year's earnings from operations included approximately $3.5 million of income resulting from the Bogs liability adjustments described above. Without these prior year adjustments, earnings from operations for the wholesale segment would have been up 11 percent in 2013 as compared to 2012, primarily due to the increase in sales and gross margins.

In the retail segment, net sales were $23.3 million in 2013, down 4 percent as compared to $24.3 million in 2012.  There were six fewer domestic retail stores as of December 31, 2013 than at December 31, 2012.  Same store sales were up 7 percent for the year.  Earnings from operations for the retail segment increased approximately $1.4 million for the year due to the benefit of closing underperforming stores and increases at both retail stores and the internet business.

The Company's other businesses had net sales of $51.4 million in 2013, compared with $51.2 million in 2012.  Florsheim Europe's wholesale business was up for the year, but was offset by lower net sales at Florsheim Australia. Florsheim Australia's net sales were down $730,000, or 2 percent, for the year. In local currency, Florsheim Australia's net sales were up 6 percent for the year, due to higher sales volumes in its retail businesses, partially offset by lower sales volumes in its wholesale businesses.

The decrease in U.S. dollars was caused by the weakening of the Australian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar in 2013. Earnings from operations of these businesses were $4.0 million in 2013, down 33 percent as compared to $5.9 million last year. This decrease was primarily due to a $2.0 million decline in the operating earnings of Florsheim Australia's wholesale businesses, resulting from lower sales volumes and increased infrastructure costs to accommodate the Bogs expansion in Australia.  

"We are proud, as a Company, to have achieved $300 million in sales in 2013, which is a testament to the strength and staying power of our brands," stated Thomas W. Florsheim, Jr., the Company's Chairman and CEO. "Given the soft retail environment, we are pleased with the performance of our North American wholesale segment and are encouraged by the significant improvement in our retail business. We are looking forward to building upon these successes in 2014."

On February 24, 2014, the Company's Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.18 per share to all shareholders of record on March 17, 2014, payable March 31, 2014.

In addition to the results reported in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") included in this release, the table above (as well as the information provided in this release) provides certain non-GAAP financial information, related to diluted earnings per share excluding the impact of the Bogs liability adjustments (as described in more details above). Management believes that presentation of this non-GAAP financial measure provides useful information to investors because this information may allow investors to better evaluate ongoing business performance and certain components of the Company's results.

In addition, the Company believes the presentation of diluted earnings per share excluding the impact of the Bogs liability adjustments enhances an investor's ability to make period-to-period comparisons of the Company's operating results. This information should be considered in addition to the results presented in accordance with GAAP, and should not be considered a substitute for the GAAP results. The Company has reconciled the non-GAAP financial information included in this release to the nearest GAAP measure.

By press release

Ski and ride the best of Japan and the USA on the Epic pass

BROOMFIELD, Colo., Feb. 26, 2014  -- Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN)  announced an epic partnership with one of the snowiest and most celebrated powder skiing resorts in the world—Niseko, Japan. The partnership represents the first Asian partner for the company, further enhancing the already incredible value of its flagship and industry-changing season pass.

Epic Season Pass holders have the opportunity to experience unlimited and unrestricted skiing and riding at the best of the USA, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge,Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Canyons in Park City, Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe; and now five complimentary consecutive days at Niseko, Japan, for the 2014-2015 winter season.

In less than a week of skiing and riding, the Epic Passpays for itself and continues to offer the best value in the snow sports industry, with access to 28,830 skiable acres and 27,136 vertical feet at the best ski and snowboard resorts in the U.S., as well as complimentary access to mountains across multiple continents.

"We're excited to announce a partnership between Vail Resorts and Niseko, Japan, providing access to a part of the world that is legendary for its endless powder and overall incredible guest experience. Epic Pass holders now have access to the epic skiing and riding for whichJapan is world-renowned" said Kirsten Lynch, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts. "It's no wonder that we have Epic Pass holders in all 50 U.S. states and in 80 countries around the world.

They enjoy an incredible resort experience and unmatched value, with unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail Resorts' 10 ski resorts, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone,  Canyons,Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood as well as Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, and Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan."

"We couldn't be more thrilled about our partnership with Vail Resorts, as the preeminent mountain resort company in the U.S.," said Colin Hackworth, Representative Director of Nihon Harmony Resorts, representing Niseko United. "Niseko, Japan, is revered around the world for its consistently light, dry powder snow and warm Japanese hospitality. We welcome the opportunity for more Epic Pass holders to experience this very special part of the world and look forward to seeing them on our trails."

In 2008, Forbes crowned Niseko one of the Top 10 International Ski Resorts, and more recently, National Geographic voted Niseko as the best powder snow resort in the world. It's no wonder, given that the resort boasts an average jaw-dropping 590 inches (15m) of snow per year. Located 100 kilometers south of Japan's fifth largest city, Sapporo, in the southwest corner of the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, Niseko Annupuri is a part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park and is the most eastern park of the Niseko Volcanic Group. Seasonal winds from the Eurasian continent blow in some of the driest, lightest and plentiful snow in the world. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Yotei—an active volcano similar to Mt. Fuji—the Niseko region boasts not only epic skiing and riding, but also breathtaking scenery. At night, the mountain is lit up with stadium-style lights which brighten 2,560 vertical feet of skiing and riding. Deep-powder trails through lit birch trees are a Niseko staple, offering sheltered stashes of untouched powder skiing.

Niseko United, as it's commonly referred to, is made up of four base areas—Annupurri, Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Hanazono—that access one mountain, Niseko Annupuri (4,291 feet). With wide open trails, incredible tree runs, epic backcountry, first tracks and night-skiing, Niseko caters to all abilities, from beginner to expert. For the adventurers, hiking trails lead from the highest lifts to the summit. An extensive lift system of 26 chairlifts and three gondolas accesses 72 trails.
Aside from world-class skiing, the Niseko area is known for its premium agriculture and locally brewed alcohol. Local restaurants import fresh seafood from nearby towns and villages and the area is home to a vast array of restaurants and bars with everything from authentic Japanese fare to European cuisine. Being a volcanic island, Hokkaido is also well-known for its thousands of natural hot springs, or 'onsen'. 

With non-stop flights between Tokyo's Narita International airport and several major US cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denverand New York, it's never been easier for U.S. skiers and riders to visit Niseko. Niseko is typically open from November through May.
The five free consecutive days of skiing and riding will be reciprocated for Niseko All-Mountain Season Pass holders, allowing more guests from Japan, China and surrounding areas to experience Vail Resorts' world-class mountain resorts.

The Epic Season Pass will be available for purchase beginning March 10, 2014, at www.epicpass.com.

Vail Resorts also offers other pass options for guests next winter:

-   The Epic Local Pass™ is perfect for guests who can navigate a pass with a few more restrictions on their winter vacation.The Epic Local Pass offers unlimited and unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone, Afton Alps, Mt. Brighton andArapahoe Basin, with limited restrictions at Canyons, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood. Also includes a total of 10 days at Vail andBeaver Creek with U.S. holiday restrictions. At the spring rate, the Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over four days.

-   The Epic 7-Day ™ is ideal for guests who only plan to ski seven days throughout the winter season. It features seven unrestricted days of skiing and riding at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Canyons inPark City, Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Tahoe, Mt. Brighton and Afton Alps.

For more information, visit http://www.epicpass.com.


Season Pass Benefits

Access to Niseko is only provided to Epic Pass holders and not holders of other passes offered by Vail Resorts (Epic Local, Tahoe Local, Summit Value and Tahoe Value). In addition to the five days of free skiing at Niseko and our other partner resorts, Epic Pass and all Vail Resorts season pass holders will continue to receive exclusive offers on lodging, dining, ski rentals, equipment, ski school and special events for the 2014-2015 ski and snowboard season at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Canyons, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, as well as Mt. Brighton, Mt. Afton and Arapahoe Basin. All season pass products are non-transferable and non-refundable.
For more information about Niseko, and to book, visit http://www.niseko.ne.jp/.
 
About Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN)

Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the leading mountain resort operator in the United States. The Company's subsidiaries operate the mountain resorts of Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoearea of California and Nevada; Canyons in Park City, Utah; Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan; and the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The Company's subsidiary, RockResorts, a luxury resort hotel company, manages casually elegant properties. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning, development and construction subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN).

The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com and consumer website is www.snow.com.

SDSI Accepting Applications for FREE Mentoring Program for Sports and Active Lifestyle Startups

San Diego – February 26, 2014 - SD Sport Innovators, the business accelerator that connects and drives the growth of Southern California’s vibrant sports and active lifestyle economy, is now accepting applications for Springboard 2.0 - Class 3 through March 9.

Springboard 2.0 is a free 20-week, intensive mentoring program for innovative sport and active lifestyle companies.

Accepted companies are paired with mentors to assist in fine-tuning company business plans and creating compelling investor presentations in preparation for commercialization and capital funding opportunities. While SDSI’s resources are located in Southern California, Springboard is open to companies outside of the region; however travel to San Diego is required.

“The mentoring I received in my first meeting alone was some of the most priceless business information I have ever learned,” said 2013 SDSI Springboard Graduate, Kristen Buchanan, Founder of GoodOnYa Bar. “For a small business owner to be able to connect with the level of people that donate their time to SDSI is priceless.”

Follow-up opportunities for SDSI Springboard Graduates include consideration to present at investor events such as SDSI Investor Draft, Rock Stars of Innovation as well as FundSourceOR, a recent collaboration with Outdoor Retailer Summer and Winter Market.

To date, 29 companies have graduated from SDSI Springboard since it became a standalone program from CONNECT in 2011. Two additional companies are slated to graduate in the coming weeks.

SDSI’s mentor team is comprised of more than 50 industry veterans and experts who volunteer their time to help make these up-and-coming sports and actively lifestyle companies sustainable businesses that contribute to job creation and the overall health of the business community.

Apply to SDSI Springboard 2.0 at http://sdsportinnovators.org/pages/springboard_about or contact Renne Catalano at rcatalano@connect.org.

Become an SDSI mentor and join the dynamic group of talented industry executives contact Renne Catalano at rcatalano@connect.org.

About SDSI

SD Sport Innovators (SDSI) is a non-profit, business accelerator that connects and drives the growth of Southern California's vibrant sports economy by offering elite level networking, and innovative programs and services for start-ups, mature companies and service providers. We offer mentoring, education and capital funding opportunities for start-ups; best practice collaboration, access to new technology, and public policy advocacy for mature companies; as well as deal flow to our service providers and the Southern California Investment Community.

By press release

Veteran Executive Gary Giulietti Joins Back9Network Board of Directors

HARTFORD, Conn., Feb. 25, 2014 -- Back9Network, a golf lifestyle television and multimedia network, announced today that Gary Giulietti has joined its Board of Directors. 

Mr. Giulietti currently serves as the President of the Northeast operations at Lockton Companies, LLC, the world's largest independently owned commercial insurance brokerage firm with more than 3,800 associates and a premium volume exceeding $14 billion.  He led the initiative to expand Lockton's market share worldwide and further Lockton's property and casualty practice and its employee benefits practice, which have grown to be one of the largest brokerage firms in the world, including 175 Fortune 1000 companies.

"Gary is a brilliant businessman with street smarts and a huge heart. We are thrilled to add him to our Board of Directors at Back9 as we continue to grow in an extremely competitive environment," said James L. Bosworth Jr., Chairman and CEO of Back9Network.  "His expertise in strategic development and growing market share complement the broad experience of our current directors and ensures Back9 will continue to have a capable and diverse board," said Bosworth.

About Back9Network: 

Back9Network, based in Hartford, CT, is a lifestyle multiplatform television network and media company.  Back9Network was developed as a complementary alternative to traditional media's focus on professional golf tournament coverage.  Focused on compelling storytelling, interesting personalities, features and fashions, interviews and instruction, travel, gear and much more, fans of all kinds will want to hang with the Back9Network.  Back9Network.com, its online clubhouse, delivers a fresh perspective on the golf lifestyle and its worldwide influence.  Back9Network's leadership includes respected and outspoken executives from the golf and media industries.  Back9Network recently moved into its new corporate Headquarters and TV/Video Production Studio in Hartford, joining ESPN, NBC Sports and YES Network in Connecticut.  

For further information, visit www.back9network.com.

Contact:
Gina Antoniello /GinaAntoniello@back9network.com

SOURCE Back9Network

Optibike, Leader in Electric Bikes, Surpasses Sales Expectations in January With the Addition of New E-bike Models

Electric Bicycle manufacturer, Optibike, has record breaking sales for the month of January, 2014. 

Boulder, CO February 26, 2014

Optibike, the best electric bike on the market today, announced today the increase in sales revenue for the month of January by 50% over expected sales. With the addition of two affordable electric bike options, Optibike is the first of its kind to offer a wide range of e-bikes to match every price point.

Seen as a niche brand in the past with its custom handmade electric bikes, Optibike is opening new doors with the most diverse product line in the industry.

“This has been the biggest reason for our growth in what used to be one of the slowest months for us,” notes Jim Turner, CEO of Optibike. He continues, “No other e bike company is offering what we have. We have the widest product range out there, from the entry level bikes to the custom handmade mountain e bike, Optibike has something for everyone.”

The product line for Optibike includes two new affordable options, the Pioneer Allroad and SIMBB electric bike, that range in price from $2,795 - $5,700. Optibike also offers custom handmade bikes such as the R11 Offroad e-bike and the all around R8 electric bike. Now it is easier than ever for people to start taking advantage of all the benefits electric bikes have to offer.

To see a full product list from optibike, check out: http://optibike.com/compare-models. Now, customers of Optibike can take advantage of their Six Month Upgrade Option.

If you buy one of Optibike’s electric bikes and decide that you would like to upgrade within the first 6 months, Optibike will upgrade your bike for only the difference in cost of the new e bike model. And if that wasn’t enough, Optibike is offering a 90 day return policy.

If you are not satisfied with your bike, send it back for a full refund. Buy with confidence from Optibike, the leader in high performance electric bikes since 2006.

About OptiBike (http://www.optibike.com)

Founded in 2005, OptiBike is the premium designer and manufacturer of electric bikes in the world. OptiBike has been featured on ESPN, The Today Show, Forbes, Business Week, USA Today, The New York Times & CNN due to its innovative design and technology. OptiBike manufactures, assembles and conducts research to develop the next generation of electric bicycles in Boulder, Colorado USA. Whether for weight loss, keeping fit, commuting, or for fun and adventure with friends, riding the Optibike will change your life.

By press release

Sporting Goods Brands Nab Top Scores in Responsible Sourcing Survey

Adidas scored highest of 49 western brands to scored for their efforts to keep cotton grown by forced Uzbeki labor, including children, out of their supply chains, according to a new report released by the Responsible Sourcing Network.

The NGO has been working with socially responsible investors and the apparel industry to since 2007 to end use of suspect Uzbeki cotton. It conducted the study to capture best practices and to gain an overall understanding of what the industries are doing to identify risks, establish policies, implement procedures, and disclose practices to eliminate and prevent forced labor.

“It is well documented that for decades the Government of Uzbekistan has been forcing up to a million of its citizens to work in the cotton harvest each year,” reads the report. “However, due to international and corporate pressure, during the 2012 and 2013 cotton harvests, the Uzbek government almost entirely eliminated the number of children under 15 years of age it forced to work in the fields.Unfortunately, it is now sending even larger numbers of older children and adults to labor in the cotton fields."

A maximum of 100 points could be assigned across 11 indicators in the categories of Policy, Public Disclosure, Engagement, and Implementation & Auditing. In reviewing the individual company scores, out of a maximum of 100 points, five companies scored above 50 points (with 68 being the highest score) and 28 companies scored under 30 points (with two companies scoring zero).

The overall highest-scoring companies, with points greater than 50, were: adidas AG, Marks and Spencer Group plc (M&S), IKEA AG, Patagonia, Inc., and Phillips-Van Heusen Corp (PVH). The five lowest-scoring companies were: All Saints Retail Limited, Urban Outfitters, Inc., Costco Wholesale Corporation, Forever 21, Inc., and Sears Holding Corporation.

Sporting goods companies’ ranks and scores follow below:

1st:  Adidas 68
4th:  Patagonia 60
9th:  Fruit of the Loom 44
10th: Li and Fung Ltd. 43
13th: Lululemon Athletica Inc. 41.5
19th: Columbia Sportswear Co.,  32
22nd: Nike 29.5
29th:  VF Corp. 25
35th:  Hanesbrands Inc 10
38th:  Kering Group 75

By press release

SXcycles Bike Share Returns for SXSW® 2014

AUSTIN, TEXAS- USA —  Urban transport specialist, Tern, will be returning to Austin to support the third annual SXcycles, presented by NBC’s new hit comedy talkshow, Late Night with Seth Meyers. At SXcycles,Tern folding bikes will be available to conference attendees to help them navigate the city with ease and efficiency. SXcycles offers SXSW badge holders a chance to transform the way they experience Austin; ditch the car and get around the city for free in a convenient, fun, and sustainable way!

The South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conferences & Fesitvals (Mar. 7-16, 2014) is a multi-day event where visionaries for a better world come together to solve the complex challenges facing civil society, the economy and the natural world. Hosting an international audience of thought leaders and decision makers, the conference serves as the platform to evolve these critical matters towards actionable and profitable solutions.

“Year after year, SXcycles continues to grow. This has been one of our most well-received initiatives in North America,” said Steve Boyd, general manager at Tern, North America. “We are proud to be able to show people, in an interactive way, how easy and convenient it can be to navigate by bike in an urban setting.”


At SXcycles, Tern will supply registered SXSW gold, music and platinum badge holders with a fun, health conscious and sustainable way to get between the conference center, outside events, and lodging, at no cost to them. SXcycles rental includes daily use of several Tern bike options. Bike rental also includes a light set, a U-style lock, and helmet. In the unlikely event that riders run into any mechanical troubles, Tern will staff a team of mobile mechanics equipped to get riders back en route as quickly as possible and without charge.

Tern bikes offer the perfect gearing for Austin’s flat downtown but with enough range for a jaunt around Austin’s Hill Country. Combined with a quick 10-second fold-to-unfold time and agile wheel set, these are a perfect addition to your SXSW transportation options. All bikes will come with a rear rack, front and rear fenders, and a basket to carry all of your swag.

Attendees can register at the SXcycles HQ located at 98 Red River St. at the southwest corner with Cesar Chavez St. The SXcycles lot will be in operation March 7-15 from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. Bikes are available on a first come, first served basis. Before taking a bike, every renter is required to pre-authorize a $150 deposit at the SXcycles lot. Bikes must be returned by 12 a.m.

Using a Tern bike not only helps reduce carbon emissions in the city, but it offers attendees a fun, alternative way to stay healthy at the conference. It also saves time; while others are stuck in traffic or waiting in a taxi queue, you will have already arrived at the show. For anyone who wants to try out a bike without doing a full rental, the booth will also serve as a demo station for Tern’s current product lineup.

Click these links for more information:

Tern Bicycles: ternbicycles.com

SXSW: www.sxsw.com
NBC: www.nbc.com

By press release

Bernhard Grinders names Steve Nixon International Sales Manager

RUGBY, England, United Kingdom -- Bernhard and Company - manufacturer of Bernhard Grinders, the world's finest blade sharpening systems for turf cutting machines - has named Steve Nixon International Sales Manager.

Nixon, a Bernhard team member since 2001, will be based at the company's Rugby, U.K. headquarters and assume responsibility for all worldwide sales and marketing activities.

"Our growing sales and re-energized focus on customer support demanded reallocation of management team responsibilities," Stephen Bernhard, Executive Chairman of Bernhard and Company. "Steve will call upon the three years he spent for us in Florida to guide Gary Ray and the U.S. sales team, while also overseeing Bernhard initiatives in Asia and Europe."

Well known by the professional golf tours worldwide as the premier blade sharpening machines, Bernhard Grinders ensure maintenance equipment at daily-fee, private, resort and municipal courses is always in ideal cutting condition. They are favored by course superintendents, owners and operators for their precise cut, ease of use, reliability, safety-first design, value proposition and more.

"We are a close-knit company and Steve has always been very highly thought of by the whole team," adds Bernhard. "Everyone is excited about this development and the impact it will have on streamlining our business and opening new channels."

For more information: www.bernhardgrinders.com, 888.474.6348 (888-GRIND-IT).

About Bernhard and Company

The world's finest blade-sharpening system, Bernhard Grinders helps superintendents, owners and operators cultivate consistent, healthy turf. Private, public and resort golf courses realize top and bottom-line benefits from their precise cut, ease of use, reliability, environmental friendliness, safety-first design, value proposition, industry-best 10-year warranty and more. Bernhard Grinders are pivotal to maintaining pristine playing surfaces at nearly 75 of Golf Digest's Top 100 U.S. courses and many No.1-ranked courses on Golfweek's state-by-state "Best You Can Play" rankings. They are available through more than 65 certified regional distributors in the U.S. and Canada.

CONTACT:
Stephen Reynolds
Buffalo Communications / sreynolds@buffalocommunications.com


By press release