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(PRWEB) April 9, 2004

Onyx Awards announces the 2nd Annual Onyx Awards Black Tie Banquet, which recognizes the achievements of outstanding African-Americans through out the state of Florida. All profits from our Awards Banquet go to Sickle Cell Disease and Onyx Literacy Programs for children throughout the state of Florida. Our event will be held at the Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, Orlando, Florida on Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 7:00 p.m.

The Onyx Award, sponsored by Onyx Magazine, will present each year to African-American individuals in 12 different categories, awards for their accomplishments, and community involvement in their chosen career path. The nominees have assumed a leadership role in his/her professional role, and/or education, health, community services, (we know that success is the result of preparation, planning, and performance) to improve and expand African-Americans in a positive way through out our great state of Florida, and our 13th category the Diversity Awards which goes to corporations that have developed and achieved diversity with-in their company.

Guests can expect a wide range of superb entertainment provided by talented local artists–Matt Shenk, Robert Harris, and Hype; visiting artists, Teddy Washington – Jacksonville and Unyson – Gainesville; and also celebrity guest, Marina Harrison (Miss Maryland 2003.) In keeping with her platform, “Public Education,” Miss Harrison’s itinerary includes a visit to Jones High School.

Ms. Jo Jo Dancer, radio personality from 94.5 in Orlando and Marc Little of Marc Little Public Relations in Jacksonville will serve as Mistress and Master of Ceremony.

This year, forty-nine nominees in 12 categories will be honored for their achievement. From this number, one from each of 10 categories will emerge as winner of the Onyx Award. In addition, the originators of this event have included a 13th category, the Harris Rosen Cultural Diversity Award. This award is given to corporations that have achieved a higher level of Diversity in there business and in community outreach.

What is Diversity? Diversity is as a concept focuses on a broader set of qualities than race and gender. In the context of the workplace, valuing diversity means creating a workplace that respects and includes differences, recognizing the unique contributions that individuals with many types of differences can make, and creating a work environment that maximizes the potential of all employees. Dimensions of diversity include but are not limited to: age, ethnicity, gender, physical abilities/qualities, race, sexual orientation, educational background, geographic location, income, marital status, military experience, parental status, religious beliefs, work experience, and job classification.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is the signature sponsor for this annual event. Other sponsors include Harris Rosen Hotels and Resorts, Orlando; PSAV Presentation Services, Florida; Progress Energy, Central Florida; SHANDS of Jacksonville; JCB Construction, Inc.(http://www.jcbcon.net), Orlando; BCN Associates, Inc., Gainesville; and Ever After Formal Wear, Inc., Orlando; Skyy Limousine, Orlando (http://www.skyylimousine.com); Wedding Specialities, Orlando, (http://www.event-full.com); Connie Duglin – Specialty Linen, Orlando & Tampa(http://www.connieduglinline.com).

This year’s nominees are as follows:

Spiritual Leadership: Rev. Alvin White, Orlando; Rev. Earl Mason, Sr., Temple Terrace; Rev. Dr. R. B. Holmes, Jr., Tallahassee; and Rev. Rudolph McKissick, Sr., Jacksonville

Healthy Living: Elizabeth Means, Jacksonville; Dr. James Brookins, Tampa; Dr. Phillip St. Louis, Orlando; and Jasmine Shirley, Ft. Lauderdale

Education: Dr. Patrick C. Coogins, Deland; James Wilson, Orlando; Dr. Barbara Ann Darby, Jacksonville; and Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Daytona Beach

Communication: Marsha & Rudy Reese, Orlando; Dr. Charles Cherry, Daytona Beach; Rachel Reeves, Miami; and Rachel Bishop-Cook, Gainesville

Community Service: Rev. Nelson Pinder, Orlando; Jacobi Pittman, Jacksonville; Dr. Robert Brown, Jacksonville; and Chole Coney, Tampa

Business: Carlton Jones, Jacksonville; Cecil Allen, Eatonville; Sterling Blake, Kissimmee; and Oscar Horton, Tampa

Political Involvement: Rufus Brooks, Orlando; Adora Obie Nweze, Miami Shores; Carrie P. Meek, Miami; and Frank Washington, Ocala

Performing Arts: Rhodesia Butler, Jacksonville; Canara Price, Orlando; Maurice Jackson, Tampa; and Patricia Whatley, Sanford/Jacksonville

Music/Entertainment: Jacqueline Jones, Orlando; Rev. Arthur Jones, Tampa; Deborah McDuffie, Jacksonville; and Eddie Robinson, Ft. Lauderdale

Sports: Derrick Brooks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Daunte Culpepper, Ocala/ Minnesota Vikings; Fred Taylor, Jacksonville Jaguars; and Alvin Wyatt, Coach BCC, Daytona Beach

Humanitarianism: Mrs. Mildred Wilkerson, Orlando; Marvin Zanders, Apopka; Robert J. Samuels, Tampa; and Sylvia Poiter, Deerfield

Lifetime Achievement: Rev. Thomas A. Wright, Gainesville

Harris Rosen Cultural Diversity Award: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Jacksonville; Brighthouse Networks, Central Florida; Turner Construction, Orlando; and United Parcel Service, Central Florida

All proceeds from the Onyx Awards will go directly to LBS Foundation to benefit the Foundation’s health and education initiatives. The Foundation’s primary focus is Sickle Cell Disease and the recently appointed Onyx Literacy Programs, which will be implemented through existing programs in various Florida locations.

In these times of unprecedented economic growth there is an urgent need among the African-American communities to expand our traditional humanitarian efforts in supporting the above charities. LBS Foundation is therefore, assuming a leadership role in promoting educational improvement for our children through our Literacy Program and promoting good health through giving to the Sickle Cell Foundation. We are calling on the strength of our Black humanitarians in all walks of life to have a practical obligation and the strength to pledge and to give.

Information regarding reservations for the Awards may be obtained by calling (407) 443-6237 or (407) 579-9894. Reservations may also be made by logging on to our web site http://www.onyxmagazine.com.

“Our inaugural event last year was beyond my wildest dreams. This year, my husband and I are expecting an even bigger blessing. We created the LBS Foundation so that we could reach out and do more for the community, not only in Orlando, but also in other parts of the state. With the help of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Presentation Services, Progress Energy, Rosen Hotels and Resorts, and all the warm and loving people who serve on the Onyx Awards Committee, we are well on our way to another successful year,” says Lillian Seays, co-owner of Onyx Magazine.

This year’s Onyx Awards’ guests will get more entertainment for their $ 75 for individual setting or $ 1,000 to $ 5,000 per table sponsorship. More information on the sponsorship packages can be obtained by logging on to http://www.onyxmagazine.com and clicking on the Onyx Awards Logo. The general reception will give you opportunities to network, have photo opportunity with Miss Maryland, the nominees and other VIPs, art exhibit, a wonderful meal, fantastic entertainment and suspense.

For hotel accommodations, please call The Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive at 407-996-9700 (800-627-8258) or the Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive at 407-996-9840 (800-800-9840).

The Onyx Awards was created to give thanks to our Floridians that have work hard in their professional chosen fields of work. The LBS Foundation was created to assist in the fight of Sickle Cell Disease and Onyx Literacy Programs. As with the staff of the Onyx Awards all our staffs with these two projects are volunteers from all walks of life dedicating their time to both causes to make a difference.

Note to the press:

Accommodations will be made for the press. Please RSVP your intent to attend and present your credentials upon arrival. (Thank you)

SOURCE Onyx Magazine

Web Site: http://www.onyxmagazine.com

Contact:

Carolyn Bybel: cbybel@jcbcon.net – Public Relations: (407) 599-4204

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(PRWEB) July 8, 2004

Sharon Williams-Tobin

Living through Her Life’s Gift and Passion

Oscar Odelia Custom Tailoring & Shirt-making is the retail business through which owner and founder Sharon-Williams Tobin sells formal and casual clothing garments, which her tailors make by hand, along with accessories for men and women.

This woman-owned business operates in the Fashion District in downtown Los Angeles and is a division of Star Pants & Coats Manufacturing Company. Sharon launched in October, 1992. “Oscar” and “Odelia” are her father and deceased mother’s respective middle names. The studio’s business motto is: “It’s not about fashion at all it’s all about style, your style!”

Her private clients include Keyon Dooling (Clippers), Stan Kurland (President, Countrywide Mortgage), Lou Perez (CEO Checkmate Staffing), Keyshawn Johnson (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Lamar Odom (Miami), Lester Conner (Associate Coach Philly 76ers) and Mrs. Stacy Conner, Jamal Sampson (Los Angeles Lakers), Josh Childress ( No. 6 Draft Choice- Atlanta), David Perry (Photo Visions Inc., Pres-CEO), Clarence Ellington, II (Gateway Realty, Pres-CEO), Bernard Ussery (Attorney at Law), Virgil McDowell (Architectural Firm, Pres-CEO), Nenaji Jackson Ph.D., Ron Carter (The Carter Agency, CEO-Pres), Michael Stradford (Sony), Dr. Obioha (Pres-CEO, Cosmetic Mfg. Co), Derrick Martin (Detroit Pistons), Darius Miles (Former Los Angeles Clipper) Alvin Gentry (Former Clippers Coach), Dr. Alvin Jumper, Lisa Leslie (Los Angeles Sparks), Don Eason (MCA), Charles Quarels (The Bedford Group, Pres-CEO), Cedric the Entertainer, MAD TV, Disneyland, the Conan O’Brien Show, Tom Green, Bishop Will A. Wheat, Pastor Ed Smith, Johnny McWilliams (MN Vikings), Clive Brewster (Health South), Pastor. R.J McCowan, Joe Ray Jr. (Raysults Consulting, Pres-CEO), the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade, Monica Breckenridge, Dedrique Taylor (UNLV Reno- Coach), Morgan Freeman (Actor) and Mrs. Freeman, Karen Oliver (Helena Rubinstein-New York), Jerome Stanley ( Sports Agent) and many more.

Now one can only imagine who is under Sharon’s private wholesale umbrella where other Custom Tailors get the credit for what Sharon creates and produces. However, this is why she’s the “Tailor’s Tailor!” Just think, when the legendary Ray Charles was asked by Quincy Jones who was his Tailor, Ray Charles never gave up the information. Now of course, Sharon can tell Mr. Jones it was Oscar Odelia Custom Tailoring & Shirt-making!

As a mentor to entrepreneurs, Ms. Tobin routinely shares the information below on her professional background, obstacles and goals, plus related general advice.

Background in Tailoring

I began designing and sewing clothing at age thirteen when I needed a red skirt for a cheerleading tryout. My parents could not afford to purchase one for me, especially as there were six children in our family. My mother, who possessed basic sewing skills, instructed me on how to make a skirt, which I did, and the skirt pleased me enough, that I was encouraged to design and sew other garments.

Soon I was tailoring all of my clothing for church. I would obtain various patterns and tailoring books, read them, and learn to combine “pieces.” I would “sit, rip out and redo it, and rip out and redo again.” Ultimately, I had learned enough to begin teaching my mother how to sew garments.

While still in high school, I began wearing my clothes during weekend outings with my girlfriends. Typically, I also would wear a new outfit to each party or church service, which would prompt people to ask me where I had purchased my clothing. I would tell inquisitors that I had made them, and my admissions spawned a teenage female clientele.

After I graduated from high school, I majored in fashion design at Los Angeles Trade Technical Community College and received a two-year degree. Then I transferred to the California State University at Los Angeles and earned my bachelor of arts in family studies and consumer science, a fancy name for home economics. Thereafter, I decided to learn to tailor clothing for men and to develop a male clientele. I started reading books on designing and sewing men’s clothing and started getting male clients. I basically taught myself how to perfect my craft.

In 1986 I returned to Los Angeles to live with no job or money and 2 children. In 1987 an administrator with the Compton Unified School District, after learning of my skills, invited me to start an apparel design program in the district. I started a program and worked for the district for one and one-half years. Thereafter, Los Angeles Unified School District invited me to start and lead a design program in that district. For several years, I taught my design program during the day and handled my private design and tailoring business in the evenings, and in 1992 launched my company.

Professional Obstacles

I am the only African American female owner of a “Cut, Make and Trim” company in the United States, and my gender was and remains a continuous obstacle in the male-dominated tailoring industry. I also lacked financing for the start-up and initial operation of my business because banks would not consider me for a loan. I refinanced my house to obtain the cash that was needed.

As to operating her business, it is difficult to hire and train qualified employees because custom tailoring is a “dying” art. Still, Oscar Odelia has 10 employees, whom I found by mostly through referrals by present and former employee tailors. Each tailor must possess basic needlework skills on the date of hiring. Thereafter, I train each tailor to my shop’s system. Each of my current employees have been with me for quite a while, and my shop’s overall employee turnover rate has been low traditionally.

To enable me to personally serve clients, while I supervise the factory operations and employee activities, I employ a head tailor to supervise the coat department and a floor lady to supervise the pant department… I also have a personal assistant who is also the general receptionist for my factory.

Forward Looking Professional Goals

I’m working on achieving the professional respect and status of the elite fashion designers such as the late great, Edith Head (Hollywood’s Best!), Donna Karin, Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani. I also will sell my best clothing lines through high-end retailers, such as Neiman Marcus, Saks, Barney’s and Lord & Taylor, as well as through a top shelf store of my own, which I want to open and operate under the name “Oscar Odelia.” I’m also planning on launching a perfume.

Advice to Aspiring Businesspersons

I have learned not to let professional obstacles stop me. The custom tailoring industry is male-dominated, and I have been shunned at industry conventions. Entrepreneurs launching businesses should avoid allowing persons who attempt to persuade them to change course from the pursuit of goals that the entrepreneurs determine are realistic for themselves.

Additionally, entrepreneurs must learn how to secure the trust of potential financial investors to the extent outside financing is needed to launch and operate their businesses. Entrepreneurs must have solid business ethics to secure and maintain the trust of potential investors and clients.

In my tailoring business, at times a retail clothier’s client will contact my wholesale garment making division and attempt to complete a below-retail price purchase directly from my wholesale division. I do not accept these purchase offers because I treat people in business and in life as I want them to treat me. This is the Golden Rule and how I live. If people have respect for each other, only then can honesty and friendship result.

Consistent with focusing on treating people fairly, I do not advise entrepreneurs to measure their success solely by their income but also by the positive relationships that they develop with investors, clients and others in the operation of their businesses. I most enjoy my work when I see a flat piece of cloth, and transform it into a garment for a client, who leaves my shop pleased and pledging to make future purchases.

Lastly, I encourage entrepreneurs to live a balanced existence that included time for making a home and nurturing relationships with family. I am married and have two adult children, a daughter who is a police officer, a son who is in the Navy and a stepson who is a case manager. My home is my favorite place it is where my relationships with my husband and children all meet in harmony. My home represents my family, friends and fun.

Ms. Sharon Williams-Tobin can be reached directly at (310) 704-2689 or SWTOBIN@pacbell.net, her Studio/mailing address is 546 South Los Angeles Street, 3rd floor, Los Angeles, California 90013. Studio hours: M-F 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. PST. (213) 624-5054, fax (213) 624-5876.

Gretchen J. Morris &

Janice Smallwood-McKenzie

FNAR

1446 words

Copyright ©2004 G.J. Morris

# # #

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Baltimore, MD (Vocus) December 5, 2009

Baltimore, MD (Vocus) December 4, 2009 — The fifth annual Champion

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(PRWEB) March 16, 2003

Soap, film and sports celebrities return to Southwest Florida on May 2nd-4th to support the Marco Island Film Festival’s annual celebrity fundraising event. Over two dozen stars will join festival supporters at a VIP reception, a golf tournament, a theater performance, and a Sunday brunch. Proceeds from the weekend long fundraising event will benefit the Marco Island Film Festival’s ongoing educational programs.

A VIP MEET THE STARS Sponsor Party kicks off the celebrity charity weekend on Friday, May 2nd at Front Street Italian Steakhouse.

Saturday, May 3rd, the public events begin with the annual CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT at Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club. Television stars, professional athletes, and film celebrities will play 18 holes of golf with local residents and visitors. For a $ 150 donation, golfers will enjoy a continental breakfast prior to the scramble tournament at 8:30 a.m., followed by a luncheon and awards ceremony. Non-golfers can become a CELEBRITY CADDY/DRIVER for a $ 125 donation that includes escorting and driving a celebrity participant, and attending the awards ceremony. CELEBRITY GOLF SPECTATORS can purchase tickets for $ 40 per person. Stars will be in attendance during all events and all golf event tickets include lunch.

Last year’s celebrities included multi-Emmy winner Kim Zimmer, NBC’s hit “American Dreams” star Brittany Snow, sports legend Luis Tiant and Tampa Bay Buccaneer Derrick Brooks.

On Saturday evening, May 3rd, eight soap stars will perform an encore presentation of “Vendler’s Television Playhouse.” This theatrical event will take place at 8:00 p.m. at Edison Community College in Naples and is a special performance that should not to be missed. Seating is limited so purchase your $ 30 tickets early. This event is currently open for sponsorship.

Rounding out the celebrity fundraising weekend, cast members of CBS daytime television’s GUIDING LIGHT and AS THE WORLD TURNS will be on-hand at the 4th annual BRUNCH IN SPRINGFIELD on May 4th at 11:00 a.m. at Cedar Hammock Golf and Country Club.

This event includes photo opportunities, autograph signing, a Q&A session, a trivia contest, an auction, a brunch buffet, and our popular “April Fools” script reading. Tickets are $ 60 per person. Table sponsorships are available at $ 200 and include your company logo on a table as well as your company name in all advertisements and in the event program.

Currently scheduled to take part in the charity event from GUIDING LIGHT are: Anthony Addabbo, Brittany Snow, Liz Keifer, Frank DiCopoulos, Matthew Bomer, KIM ZIMMER (nominated for Lead Actress in a Drama Series), PAUL ANTHONY STEWART (nominated for Supporting Actor in a Drama Series), Maureen Garrett, Beth Chamberlin, JORDI VILASUSO (nominated for Young Actor in a Drama Series), Marj Dusay, RICKY PAULL GOLDIN (nominated for Lead Actor in a Drama Series), Robert Newman, Aubrey Dollar, and Jay Hammer. And attending from AS THE WORLD TURNS (nominated for Best Drama Series) are: Scott Holroyd, Bailey Chase, Kelley Menighan Hensley, Jon Hensley, and Jessica Dunphy.

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Fernandina Beach, FL (PRWEB) October 13, 2005

PR Week, the international trade publication for the public relations industry, named Jason Mudd, APR, founder and president of AXIA Public Relations and Marketing, as one of the 2005 Ten Rising Stars of PR. This annual report recognizes young communications professionals who are blazing trends in the industry, deftly heading accounts or an internal team in crisis mode, leading successful product initiatives or building their own successful practice or agency.

In 2002, Mudd left a comfortable VP position to start his own public relations firm, Jason Mudd & Associates, in his home office. In 2004, the agency opened offices in downtown Jacksonville and downtown Fernandina Beach, added advertising services and changed its name to AXIA Public Relations and Marketing. Axia, the Greek word for value, represents the agency?s focus ? providing daily value to its clients. Over the years, the agency has enjoyed representing organizations such as MPS Group, Modis, Blue Cross Blue Shield, First Coast Community Bank, Rayonier and the American Cancer Society. The agency has 10 associates.

?It?s an honor to be recognized by my peers for the work our agency has completed in less than three years,? Mudd said. ?We?ve come a long way in a short time and the best is still to come. Without great clients and smart, hardworking associates, we would have never been so successful. This recognition inspires our agency team to continue to seek greater results and desired outcomes for our clients.?

The agency has grown steadily since its inception. AXIA Public Relations and Marketing has produced four times the revenue in 2005 than it did in 2004. Mudd predicts his 2005 revenue will double in 2006.

For more information about Mudd and the recognition from PR Week, visit PR Week’s web site.

AXIA Public Relations and Marketing produces creative designs, corporate communications, media relations and marketing solutions for domestic and international corporations in the public and private sectors of all industries. Through strategic counsel and tactical execution, AXIA provides high value to its clients by creating a significant return on investment for marketing programs.

Jason Mudd, APR

Prior to becoming a marketing executive, Jason Mudd spent a few years as a print journalist. His passion for journalism led him from Florida to Missouri. He is a graduate of the acclaimed University of Missouri School of Journalism, where he received a Bachelor of Journalism with an emphasis in advertising, political science and new media.

During his career, Mudd has served a number of high-profile organizations including Hilton Hotels, Pizza Hut, Ray Charles, Florida Marlins, Tampa Bay Lightning, NASCAR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, PGA Tour, Christian Broadcasting Network, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, H&R Block, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Merck, New York Life and Wachovia.

A 2002 Jacksonville Business Journal Up and Comer, Mudd is nationally accredited in public relations and is a member of the Public Relations Society of America. He has received several awards for media relations campaigns, including the 2004 Dick Pope All-Florida Golden Image Award ? Florida’s most prestigious public relations award ? as well as top honors for public relations campaigns and Judges? Awards for demonstrating maximum results while using a minimum budget.

Mudd maintains his PRSA membership to further his commitment to the ethical practice of public relations. He is a board member of the Fernandina Beach Rotary Club and served on the strategic communications subcommittee for the Jacksonville Super Bowl Host Committee.

Mudd and his wife, Tabitha, reside in his hometown of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island with their children, Molly and Simon. He values his time away from the office and enjoys serving in the ministry of Amelia Presbyterian Church.

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(PRWEB) March 16, 2004

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida and Onyx Magazine to Host the “Second Annual Onyx Awards Benefit Gala”

Orlando – Onyx Awards announces the 2nd Annual Onyx Awards Gala, which recognizes the achievements of outstanding African-Americans through out the state of Florida. Our event will be held at the Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, Orlando, Florida on Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 7:00 p.m.

The Onyx Award, sponsored by Onyx Magazine, will present each year to African-American individuals in 12 different categories, awards for their accomplishments, and community involvement in their chosen career path. The nominees have assumed a leadership role in his/her professional role, and/or education, health, community services, (we know that success is the result of preparation, planning, and performance) to improve and expand African-Americans in a positive way through out our great state of Florida, and our 13th category the Diversity Awards which goes to corporations that have developed and achieved diversity with-in their company.

Guests can expect a wide range of superb entertainment provided by talented local artists–Matt Shenk, Robert Harris, and Hype; visiting artists, Teddy Washington – Jacksonville and Unyson – Gainesville; and also celebrity guest, Marina Harrison (Miss Maryland 2004.) In keeping with her platform, “Public Education,” Miss Harrison’s itinerary includes a visit to Jones High School.

Ms. Jo Jo Dancer, radio personality from 94.5 in Orlando and Marc Little of Marc Little Public Relations in Jacksonville will serve as Mistress and Master of Ceremony.

This year, forty-nine nominees in 12 categories will be honored for their achievement. From this number, one from each of 10 categories will emerge as winner of the Onyx Award. In addition, the originators of this event have included a 13th category, the Harris Rosen Cultural Diversity Award. This award is given to corporations that have achieved a higher level of Diversity in there business and in community outreach.

What is Diversity? Diversity is as a concept focuses on a broader set of qualities than race and gender. In the context of the workplace, valuing diversity means creating a workplace that respects and includes differences, recognizing the unique contributions that individuals with many types of differences can make, and creating a work environment that maximizes the potential of all employees. Dimensions of diversity include but are not limited to: age, ethnicity, gender, physical abilities/qualities, race, sexual orientation, educational background, geographic location, income, marital status, military experience, parental status, religious beliefs, work experience, and job classification.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is the signature sponsor for this annual event. Other sponsors include Harris Rosen Hotels and Resorts, PSAV Presentation Services, Progress Energy and SHANDS of Jacksonville.

This year’s nominees are as follows:

Spiritual Leadership

Rev. Alvin White, Orlando

Rev. Earl Mason, Sr., Temple Terrace

Rev. Dr. R. B. Holmes, Jr., Tallahassee

Rev. Rudolph McKissick, Sr., Jacksonville

Healthy Living

Elizabeth Means, Jacksonville

Dr. James Brookins, Tampa

Dr. Phillip St. Louis, Orlando

Jasmine Shirley, Ft. Lauderdale

Education

Dr. Patrick C. Coogins, Deland

James Wilson, Orlando

Dr. Barbara Ann Darby, Jacksonville

Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Daytona Beach

Communication

Marsha & Rudy Reese, Orlando

Dr. Charles Cherry, Daytona Beach

Rachel Reeves, Miami

Rachel Bishop-Cook, Gainesville

Community Service

Rev. Nelson Pinder, Orlando

Jacobi Pittman, Jacksonville,

Dr. Robert Brown, Jacksonville

Chole Coney, Tampa

Business

Carlton Jones, Jacksonville

Cecil Allen, Eatonville

Sterling Blake, Kissimmee

Oscar Horton, Tampa

Political Involvement

Rufus Brooks, Orlando

Adora Obie Nweze, Miami Shores

Carrie P. Meek, Miami

Frank Washington, Ocala

Performing Arts

Rhodesia Butler, Jacksonville

Canara Price, Orlando

Maurice Jackson, Tampa

Patricia Whatley, Sanford/Jacksonville

Music/Entertainment

Jacqueline Jones, Orlando

Rev. Arthur Jones, Tampa

Deborah McDuffie, Jacksonville

Eddie Robinson, Ft. Lauderdale

Sports

Derrick Brooks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Daunte Culpepper, Ocala/ Minnesota Vikings

Fred Taylor, Jacksonville Jaguars

Alvin Wyatt, Coach BCC, Daytona Beach

Humanitarianism

Mrs. Mildred Wilkerson, Orlando

Marvin Zanders, Apopka

Robert J. Samuels, Tampa

Sylvia Poiter, Deerfield

Lifetime Achievement

Rev. Thomas A. Wright, Gainesville

Harris Rosen Cultural Diversity Award

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Jacksonville

Brighthouse Networks, Central Florida

Turner Construction, Orlando

United Parcel Service, Central Florida

All proceeds from the Onyx Awards will go directly to LBS Foundation to benefit the Foundation’s health and education initiatives. The Foundation’s primary focus is Sickle Cell Disease and the recently appointed Onyx Literacy Programs, which will be implemented through existing programs in various Florida locations.

In these times of unprecedented economic growth there is an urgent need among the African-American communities to expand our traditional humanitarian efforts in supporting the above charities. LBS Foundation is therefore, assuming a leadership role in promoting educational improvement for our children through our Literacy Program and promoting good health through giving to the Sickle Cell Foundation. We are calling on the strength of our Black humanitarians in all walks of life to have a practical obligation and the strength to pledge and to give.

Information regarding reservations for the Awards may be obtained by calling (407) 443-6237 or (407) 579-9894. Reservations may also be made by logging on to http://www.onyxmagazine.com.

“Our inaugural event last year was beyond my wildest dreams. This year, my husband and I are expecting an even bigger blessing. We created the LBS Foundation so that we could reach out and do more for the community, not only in Orlando, but also in other parts of the state. With the help of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Presentation Services, Progress Energy, Rosen Hotels and Resorts, and all the warm and loving people who serve on the Onyx Awards Committee, we are well on our way to another successful year,” says Lillian Seays, co-owner of Onyx Magazine.

This year’s Onyx Awards’ guests will get more entertainment for their $ 75 for individual or $ 1,000 per table (other sponsorship packages can be obtained by logging on to http://www.onyxmagazine.com and clicking on the Onyx Awards Logo). The general reception will give you opportunities to network, have photo opportunity with Miss Maryland, the nominees and other VIPs, art exhibit, a wonderful meal, fantastic entertainment and suspense.

For hotel accommodations, please call the Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive at 407-996-9840 or the Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive at 407-996-9700.

The Onyx Awards was created to give thanks to our Floridians that have work hard in their professional chosen fields of work. The LBS Foundation was created to assist in the fight of Sickle Cell Disease and Onyx Literacy Programs. As with the staff of the Onyx Awards all our staff with these two projects are volunteers from all walks of life dedicating their time to both causes to make a difference.

Note to the press:

Accommodations will be made for the press. Please present your credentials upon arrival.

SOURCE Onyx Magazine

Web Site: http://www.onyxmagazine.com

Contact:

Carolyn Bybel: cbybel@jcbcon.net – P.R.- (407) 599-4204

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Montreal, Canada (PRWEB) March 26, 2008

HaiVision Systems Inc. (Montreal, Canada), the world’s leading vendor of performance H.264 network video encoders, and Wowza Media Systems, an emerging leader in streaming media server software, have cooperated to integrate HaiVision’s MAKO-HD “zero latency” high definition H.264 encoder with the award-winning Wowza Media Server? Pro platform to deliver the world’s fastest live Flash

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Fork Union, VA (Vocus) June 16, 2009

Vinny Testaverde has traveled far and wide throughout his long NFL career, but this week he returns to the small village of Fork Union, Virginia where his dream of earning a scholarship to play college football became reality.

On the evening of June 18, 2009, Fork Union Military Academy will induct four new members into the FUMA Sports Hall of Fame: Heisman Trophy winner and record-setting NFL quarterback, Vinny Testaverde; Pro Bowl offensive tackle and Super Bowl Champion, Roman Oben; NBA veteran and the best 3-point shooter in University of North Carolina’s history, Shammond Williams; and legendary FUMA football coach, R. L. “Red” Pulliam.

These inductees will join the ranks of the thirty previous honorees in Fork Union Military Academy Sports Hall of Fame, including Eddie George, FUMA?s second Heisman Trophy winner; Green Bay Packer quarterback Don Majkowski; Eagle?s Pro-Bowl receiver Mike Quick; Jim Bunch, the All-American lineman who helped Coach Bear Bryant win two national championships at Alabama; and many more familiar names from the world of college, Olympic, and professional sports.

Fork Union Military Academy has a national reputation for its athletic programs. In football alone, more than 70 Fork Union Military Academy alumni have played in the NFL. In track and field, the school has produced five Olympians and won the private school State Championship 21 out of the past 22 years.

Vinny Testaverde

“Believe it or not, it had nothing to do with the football field,” said Vinny Testaverde when asked recently to relate a favorite FUMA story. “They asked me to come be part of the track team and throw the javelin. They didn’t have a javelin thrower. I had never thrown it before. We went out there and I think I set the school record in throwing the javelin. That?s one of my favorite memories.”

Vinny Testaverde attended FUMA as a postgraduate in 1981-82 and played quarterback on the PG football team under Coach Pulliam. His arm strength was incredible and Vinny’s javelin throw of 212′ 1″ in competition still stands as the FUMA record.

As starting quarterback of Sewanhaka High in Elmont, New York during his senior season, Testaverde racked up almost 700 yards in passing, despite playing in an offensive scheme built around running the veer play. Having a rocket arm wasn’t enough for the young athlete to gain a scholarship, however. He also needed to demonstrate the kind of academic achievement that would attract the recruiters from the top Division I programs.

So Testaverde left behind the comfort of his loving family and his status as high school star in order to meet the challenges of Fork Union Military Academy. That choice not only led to a scholarship to the University of Miami, it helped reinforce and develop the qualities of determination, patience, leadership, responsibility, and dedication to hard work that would characterize Testaverde’s long football career.

“It saved my football dreams,” Testaverde told New York Times writer Bill Pennington in an interview for Pennington’s book The Heisman.

“I remember that from 7:30 to 9:45 every night, the entire school was studying,” Testaverde told Pennington. “And it made a difference. I learned what you can accomplish when you focus.”

Roman Oben

Roman Oben was one of the members of FUMA?s vaunted PG Class of 1991 from which over 50 players went to Division I schools and 13 players ended up in the NFL. One teammate, Kevin Plank, went on to be founder and CEO of Under Armour.

Oben was born in Cameroon, West Africa and moved to the United States when he was four years old. He attended Gonzaga High School in Washington, DC and then came to Fork Union to prep for college.

In addition to football, Oben participated in track and set the standing FUMA discus record at 175′ 10″.

Drafted in 1996 by the New York Giants, Oben started over 90% of the games in his 12-year career at left tackle with the Giants, Browns, Bucs, and Chargers. He was the starting left tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their Super Bowl victory in 2002, earning a Super Bowl XXXVII championship ring.

Shammond Williams

Shammond Williams? plans were to earn his bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina in Industrial Relations and become a financial broker. Getting drafted into the NBA after college was just a bonus.

When asked to recount the basketball accomplishments that bring him pride, this NBA veteran doesn’t start by telling stories of playing with his friend and Lakers? teammate Kobe Bryant, or any of the memorable highlights from his long NBA career. He points to when he helped his Southside High School team in Greenville, South Carolina win the 1992 South Carolina AA Championship.

Williams still returns regularly to South Carolina to host basketball camps for area youth. Williams is also a frequent visitor to Coach Fletcher Arritt’s annual basketball camp at Fork Union where he dazzles the young players with his ball-handling skills and flawless shooting technique.

As captain of the PG basketball team in 1993-94, Shammond Williams left his mark on FUMA both on and off the court. Not only did he win the Thomas PG Athlete Award and Frank A. Crockett Captain’s Award, he also won the Best Drilled Cadet competition.

Coach R. L. ?Red? Pulliam

COL R. L. “Red” Pulliam came to Fork Union in 1956 as an English Instructor and Varsity Football Coach. He served as FUMA’s Head Football Coach for 26 years and compiled a remarkable 170-69-7 (.705) record and coached many players who would go on to distinguished playing careers in college and in the National Football League.

Pulliam was inducted into the Randolph-Macon College Hall of Fame in 1999, honoring his standout career from 1949-1953 on the football field, where he was a three-year starter. He earned All-State First Team honors and was named Honorable Mention Little All-America.

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More Tampa Bay Buccaneers Press Releases

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Tallahassee, FL (Vocus) April 13, 2010

The Florida Departments of Agriculture and Education have joined a campaign to fight and defeat childhood obesity in cooperation with Dairy Farmers, Inc./Dairy Council of Florida and the NFL, multiple health organizations and several major corporations.

The campaign ? Fuel Up to Play 60 ? is funded with an initial private sector commitment of $ 250 million over five years by America?s Dairy Farmers, including 140 Florida farm families. Funding is expected to grow as government, businesses, communities and families join this effort to improve nutrient-rich food choices and achieve 60 minutes of physical activity each day among children. More than 60,000 schools nationwide, including 2,200 in Florida, are enrolled in Fuel Up to Play 60.

?We not only wholeheartedly support our dairy farmers in this effort, we applaud them for the impressive financial commitment they are making to increasing fitness and reducing obesity in our schools,? said Charles Bronson, Agriculture Commissioner. ?Many organizations have highlighted this growing problem, but few have stepped up and committed their resources to the extent that our dairy farmers are demonstrating today.?

Based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, Fuel Up to Play 60 empowers students in grades 4 through 10 to engage their peers to ?fuel up? with nutrient-rich foods they often lack ? particularly low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains ? and ?get up and play? for 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Components, developed for and by youth, such as program curriculum, in-school promotional materials, a Web site (http://www.fueluptoplay60.com) and youth social media partnerships, are customizable and non-prescriptive. The program?s design allows youths and schools determine which tools and resources best help them meet their wellness goals and school wellness policies. Partner-supported school grants will help schools make long-term healthy changes.

Fuel Up to Play 60 also gives leaders in health, government, businesses and communities nationwide the opportunity to be part of a movement that relies on participation, collaboration and action by youth and adults to help develop and maintain healthy habits to last a lifetime.

The program taps the power of all 32 NFL teams, players and physical activity programming to add recognition and value for students. The Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins are working closely with the Dairy Council of Florida to promote Fuel Up to Play 60 in their respective areas. The National Dairy Council?s trusted school relationships are crucial in sustaining the program.

In a joint news conference on April 12, 2010, the Dairy Council of Florida, NFL and the Florida Departments of Agriculture and Education will announce a renewed commitment to work together to combat childhood obesity in Florida. Through the Fuel Up to Play 60 program sponsored by Dairy Farmers, Inc./Dairy Council of Florida, Florida students will have the opportunity to engage in healthy eating and physical activity projects and activities that empower their schools to get healthy.

In the 2009-2010 school year, 15 schools in Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties were presented the opportunity to participate in a Fuel Up to Play 60 pilot. These outstanding schools, principals, staff and students working together received grants of $ 5,000 per school to promote healthy eating and physical activity to all students at their schools. Each Fuel Up to Play 60 pilot team consisting of approximately 20 students and their advisor were charged with developing projects that inspired their peers to make changes to help them be healthier and more active. Each team chose a nutrition and physical activity project to implement throughout the year. The grant funds were used to help make the team?s vision a reality. (Bay Point Middle school in Pinellas County is being asked to attend the news conference to share how the program has made a difference at their school.)

The projects were planned, managed and executed in collaboration with other school wellness initiatives and included the principal and staff from areas including food services, health education and physical education. In addition, all students could track their healthy behavior changes online at fueluptoplay60.com through the state and national competitions.

?With one in three Florida children 10-17 years old considered overweight or obese, programs like Fuel Up to Play 60 are more important than ever,? said Jennifer W. Sills, Registered Dietitian and Director of School Marketing for the Dairy Council of Florida. ?Through ongoing research and innovative programming and resources, the Dairy Council of Florida has been committed to helping schools combat poor nutrition, inactivity and obesity among Florida?s youth since 1958. Fuel Up to Play 60 will continue to expand in the coming years through bold leadership and new partnerships with organizations and industry leaders such as the Florida Departments of Agriculture and Education and the NFL, helping achieve changes no single organization could achieve alone.?

The goal is to use what was learned this year in pilot and non-pilot schools to engage more partners and expand the program in 2010-2011, making it more successful and impactful.

About Fuel Up to Play 60

Fuel Up to Play 60 is a youth-led social marketing initiative designed to help prevent childhood obesity and help youth develop life-long healthy eating and daily physical activity habits. As part of the program, student teams work with adult leaders in each school to make kid-appealing, good-tasting, nutrient-rich foods more available. They also create opportunities for daily physical activity, such as noon walking clubs and after-school sports and dance clubs. Fuel Up to Play 60 encourages kids to get involved and make changes that will help make their schools healthier places. The program reaches youth directly and engages their help in leading and inspiring their friends. Visit http://www.FuelUpToPlay60.com to learn more.

About Dairy Council of Florida

The Dairy Council of Florida is designed to enhance the school milk experience for students through marketing concepts that make milk and dairy foods more accessible and appealing. The Council also works with Florida educators to provide classroom materials and resources that further enhance the dairy industry?s image. The Council is one of 20 member organizations of the United Dairy Industry Association and carries out the programs of Dairy Management, Inc., the umbrella organization based in Chicago. For information on milk call 1(800) 516-4443 or visit our web site at http://www.floridamilk.com

About NFL PLAY 60

Designed to help tackle childhood obesity, NFL PLAY 60 brings together the NFL?s long-standing commitment to health and fitness with partner organizations like the National Dairy Council. NFL?s PLAY 60 is also implemented locally, as part of the NFL’s in-school, after-school and team-based programs. For more information, visit http://www.NFLRush.com.

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Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) March 21, 2011

Aaron?s, Inc. (NYSE: AAN), a lease-to-own retailer specializing in the sales and lease ownership of residential furniture, consumer electronics, home appliances and accessories, will hold its annual national store managers meeting March 21-23 in Orlando. For the third year in a row, participants will dedicate one afternoon to community outreach projects benefiting military service members, area children and the community.

More than 2,000 Aaron?s associates will invest 4,500 hours and $ 200,000 in product and service donations. As part of the donation, the Company will present St. Jude Children?s Research Hospital

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