Industry Insight

News and advice from the sponsors of Shop-eat-surf.com

Aside from S.L.A.T.E. serving as MAGIC's order-writing home for all things action sports at the show, several bonus features will amp up the energy in February 2012 with a broad selection of new and returning boardsport brands and adrenaline-fueled onsite events, seminars, concerts, competitions and a new blogger lounge curated by lifestyle and fashion journalists, Marcus Troy.

1. Kick it off with Lauryn Hill

Kicking off the opening night of S.L.A.T.E. on Monday, February 13, is a special concert from Ms. Lauryn Hill, performing music from "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill." The event, held at the House of Blues (Mandalay Bay) and in conjunction with Rock The Bells is by invitation only for S.L.A.T.E exhibitors and retailers. Additional tickets are available for sale through Ticketmaster.

2. Blog with the best of them

Curated by lifestyle and fashion journalist Marcus Troy, S.L.A.T.E. will feature a new blogger lounge, where the hottest streetwear bloggers from around the world will showcase their sites and post live from the show floor. A host of editors from Highsnobiety.com, Antennamag.com, Nicekicks.com, Freshnessmag.com, KarmaloopTV.com and other sites hand selected by Marcus Troy will be on hand to meet with show attendees.

3. Check out two skate contests

SUPERHEAT will present a Mini-Ramp event in the center of the show floor named "ACES HIGH MINI RAMP JAM PRESENTED BY SUPERHEAT." Ryan Clements from Skate Park of Tampa will commentate the Jam. Riders scheduled to attend include Mike Vallely, Ben Hatchell, John Rattray, Chad Bartie, Kyle Berard, Anthony Schultz, David Loy, and more. Monday, Feb 13 and Tuesday Feb 14 from 2pm-4pm.

MALOOF LONG OLLIE CHALLENGE– 15 pro and upstart amateur skaters including current and former long ollie record holders will compete to shatter the existing long ollie world record, Monday, Feb 13 4pm-6pm.

4. Learn the latest retail trends

S.L.A.T.E. will also offer a compelling new educational series in partnership with Board Retailers Association. For up-to-date event and seminar descriptions, locations and times, please visit www.magiconline.com/seminars. Held on the show floor, seminars will address the industry's most relevant topics, such as:

LOCAL SEARCH & SOCIAL TACTICS FOR BRICK & MORTAR RETAILERS presented by John Faris - Director, Cross-Channel Marketing, Red Door Interactive. Monday, Feb 13 at 10am.

HOW THE HECK DID LONGBOARDING GET SO BIG AND WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Presented by Michael Brook - Publisher, Concrete Wave and Longboard Retailer Magazines. Monday Feb 13, 12pm.

REMOVING RISK FROM YOUR BUY. Presented by Gina Ashe, CEO, KRUSH Inc. Tuesday Feb 14, 10am.

5. Check out 10 hot new designers in Project 10

Launched at PROJECT in August 2010, PROJECT 10 – a group of up-and-coming designers—sets the stage for young companies within the fashion and apparel industry to exhibit their products in a unique setting.The focus for PROJECT 10 this season will be upon two action sports currently seeing large growth - skating and cycling. Brands participating include Western Edition, Cadence, FTC, The Ampal Creative, CBNC, Corpse Corps, Wheelmen & Co, and more.

Please click HERE to register for the show.

Athlete Competes in Taylor Steele’s Innersection

San Clemente, CA  – The Surfrider Foundation is teaming up with Hawaii’s Torrey Meister to try to win this year’s Innersection film competition.

Created by acclaimed filmmaker Taylor Steele, Innersection is a groundbreaking platform for surfers and filmmakers to capture the latest progressions in surfing and showcase them in unique video segments. The best submissions are consolidated into a final movie. Innersection members are then invited to vote for their favorite. The winning filmmaker and surfer will receive $100,000.

“As passionate as I am about surfing, I am equally passionate about protecting our beaches and oceans,” says Torrey Meister.

“If I am fortunate enough to win this year’s Innersection, I’ve pledged to donate $10,000 to the Surfrider Foundation in support of their efforts to protect our oceans, waves and beaches."

Meister’s segment, which was produced in collaboration with noted filmmaker Aaron Lieber, features footage shot in Hawaii, Central America, and the site of one of Surfrider’s most famous victories, Trestles.

“Watching Torrey and the other surfers parts in the movie is a great reminder of why the work we do is so important,” says Surfrider Foundation’s Marketing Director, Matt McClain. “We talk a lot about preserving these waves for future generations. These guys ARE the future generation."

In order to vote, audiences must sign up on the Innersection website www.innersection.tv. Membership includes the ability to download the full version of the Innersection movie.

About Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 250,000 supporters, activists and members worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, visit www.surfrider.org.

After a two-year hiatus, we brought back the Moss Adams Fashion Innovator (MAFI) Award during fall Fashion Week in LA last October.

We started MAFI as a way for us to give back and thank an industry that’s been good to us for more than 40 years, and to celebrate and recognize California’s great talents in fashion and design.

We believe some of the best designers in the world, especially in the branded fashion area, are here.

You might remember that we started the MAFI in 2003 as part of the LA Fashion Awards started by Jennifer Uner. We presented the award every year through 2008, and then the recession hit. Organizers had trouble getting sponsors for the event the last two years.

This year, Frances Harder at Fashion Business Inc (FBI) approached me – I’m on the board of FBI – and I said, “We have to do this.’ She showed me the venue, St. Vibiana’s in downtown LA, and it was just spectacular. There’s great synergy between what the FBI does and Moss Adams, and bringing back the MAFI now was the right fit.

So we agreed to sponsor the show, and the MAFI Award. FBI board members and members of the fashion press were able to nominate companies in any category. There were 15-20 companies nominated.

The FBI board and the fashion press voted on the winner. Moss Adams was not involved in the process of nominating companies or selecting a winner.

The winner needed to be an established business that’s done something innovative with respect to design in the past year, and they needed to be a California designer.

They chose contemporary women’s brand Nally and Millie, owned by Nally and James Park. They’re seen as a rising company in the industry, and with respect to fabric and color and patterns, they’re doing something very different and innovative.

And that night in October, Frances put together a great event – the runway show was different, not just the standard models going down the runway, but lots of entertainment.

We were very happy with the event and we look forward to doing it again.

Martin Hughes is a Moss Adams partner since 1998 and is the leader of firm’s Apparel Group. He provides assurance and consulting services to private and public middle-market companies in apparel manufacturing and distribution. The Apparel Group includes offices in Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Irvine, with more than 50 dedicated people who work with more than 150 companies in all categories, ranging in size from start-ups to companies doing in excess of $500 million in annual sales.

Since joining SDSI last October, I’ve learned a great deal about the action sports industry. Not only have I been exposed to new sports related products, technologies, brands and ideas, but I’ve also had the opportunity to further my knowledge with start-ups and business in general.

One of SDSI’s signature programs is Springboard, a mentoring program that pairs qualified entrepreneurs and industry veterans with start-up companies for hands on mentoring.

Together, the team works to fine-tune company business plans, create a compelling commercialization strategy and prepare for capital funding opportunities. Having sat in on a number of Springboard panels, it is truly amazing that not only does this educational program exist, but it is FREE.

While there is a plethora of commonalities that all start-ups share, what I find to be the most interesting is how sports and consumer product companies set themselves apart from other industries.

The area where I’ve witnessed the biggest differences is not with marketing strategies, but in branding. Branding is what can really make or break a company and it’s one of the ways to differentiate your company/product or service from the competition.

According to the American Marketing Association, a brand is a name, term, design, symbol, or any other feature that identifies one seller's good or service as distinct from those of other sellers. Furthermore, brands have evolved to include identity and it impacts the personality of a product, company or service. Here are four things to keep in mind when devising on your brand:

1. Identify Your Target Market: Before you start brainstorming ideas, it’s important to understand what makes your product or service unique from the others. Who are you trying to reach in your marketing efforts? This can be determined by numerous factors such as demographics, age levels and more. Having a better understanding of your target market will help tremendously with the branding and how you move forward.
2. Pick an Identifiable Logo: Logos are extremely important because they symbolize your brand. Make sure that you have an expert designing the logo who understands the company’s mission, goals and products because the logo should convey information on the company. Logos don’t have to be fancy, but they should be memorable.
3. Build a Solid Website: Not only is it important to have a professionally designed website that’s easy for visitors to navigate around, but it’s also essential to have a look and feel that matches who you are. In addition, make sure the colors you use on your website are consistent with the colors you use for other marketing materials.
4. Have a Social Presence: The rule of thumbs is if your stake holders, customers and partners are on social media, you need to be there as well. Social media is just as important as a website and this is where the company can communicate. Set up profiles for your company on Twitter, Facebook and other social networks that you feel are important. This will only help your brand!

Having something to stand for is a great way to build a brand. It’s important to always remember that you are your brand and it’s crucial that you keep your word, do what you say you’ll do and stand by your mission.

SDSI invites you to join us in February for an educational event on branding that will include advice from some of our top experts on brand building and creating brand awareness through marketing. You’ll also be able to mix and mingle with other like-minded folks and compare brand notes. Please check our website and newsletter for more information. We look forward to seeing you.

For more information, contact Lisa Freedman at LFreedman@connect.org or Renne Catalano at RCatalano@connect.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

S.L.A.T.E. is a curated gathering of the most progressive streetwear labels representing the underground surf, skate, art and music communitie s— from indie to established.

Defined by an authentic vibe and unapologetically fresh perspective, S.L.A.T.E. spotlights the fashion and lifestyles of those inspiring the trends of tomorrow.

This season the S.L.A.T.E. show will feature the fourth edition of the hugely successful brand installation - PROJECT 10 - which was launched at PROJECT in August 2010. PROJECT 10 is a stage for young companies within the fashion and apparel industry to exhibit their products in a unique setting.

These companies are invited for their pioneering spirit - developing new trends, new concepts, and new ideas about what this business should be about.These companies are invited to one of the biggest events in the industry to share their vision, and that of the PROJECT team, with the thousands of retailers, press and brands that come to the PROJECT and S.L.A.T.E. shows.

The focus for PROJECT 10 this season will be upon two action sports currently seeing large growth - skating and cycling. The most interesting and innovative brands in these worlds are being invited to come to Las Vegas and tell their stories.

From hats to hoodies, bags to boards, PROJECT 10 will cover a wide range of categories. In giving these companies a distinct platform within the trade show experience, an opportunity is created for them to create an impactful narrative and connect with key retailers.

Though these companies are small and size and limited in resources, PROJECT believes they have the ability to make a difference. The goal is to foster these brands and individuals so that they are able to develop and succeed in turning their big ideas into successful realities.

PROJECT and S.L.A.T.E. take pride in fostering relationships and partnerships within the fashion and action sports communities, and PROJECT 10 is the crystallization of the efforts to do so.

Thank You

We would like to extend a big thank you to everyone that attended KNOWSHOW this season and hope that you found a mix of work and play. We look forward to doing it all again this summer.

The official dates for the next show are August 9th - 11th 2012. Mark your calendar.

Survey 

As we are always striving to make the KNOWSHOW experience better we ask that you please take a moment to fill out our survey and provide us your feedback. One lucky person will win their accommodation at the next show. Please click here.

This edition of the Labor & Employment e-Update provides an overview of significant employment law developments that will affect California employers in 2012. Employers are advised to review and update their policies and practices to ensure compliance in light of these developments.

California Employers Must Make Specific Disclosures to New Hires.

Pursuant to California’s “Wage Theft Prevention Act of 2011” (the “Act”), beginning January 1, 2012, most California employers must provide employees with specific information upon hire, in writing. This includes:

The rate or rates of pay and the basis for pay, including overtime rates (e.g., hour, shift, day, week, salary, piece, commission, or other).

All allowances claimed as part of the minimum wage (including for meals or lodging).

The employer’s regular payday.

The name of the employer, including any "doing business as" names used by the employer.

The physical address of the employer's main office or principal place of business; if the mailing address is different from the principal physical address, it must also be included.

The telephone number of the employer.

The name, address, and telephone number of the employer's workers' compensation insurance carrier.

The information provided in each of these categories must be updated in writing within seven (7) calendar days of any change.

Importantly, employers must also now maintain payroll records for three (3) years, which is one year longer than previously required by California law.

The Act allows aggrieved employees to recover attorney’s fees and costs, and provides for substantial civil and criminal penalties against employers, for violations.

The Act also requires employers to provide “[a]ny other information the state Labor Commissioner deems material and necessary.” The California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement published a template disclosure on December 30, 2011, which can be accessed here: http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/Governor_signs_Wage_Theft_Protection_Act_of_2011.html

The Prohibition Against “Sex” Discrimination or Harassment Includes “Gender Identity” and “Gender Expression.”

A.B. 887 amends various California laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment on the basis of “sex” to specifically include gender, gender identity and gender expression. While “gender identity” is not defined by the legislation, A.B. 887 defines “gender expression” as “a person’s gender-related appearance and behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person's assigned sex at birth.” Employers are advised to review and revise their Employee Handbook in light of this amendment.

California Adopts A Law Prohibiting Discrimination on the Basis of Genetic Information.

Comparable to the federal Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, California employers will be prohibited from discriminating against employees on the basis of genetic information. Employers will therefore not be permitted to make employment decisions based on the genetic characteristics of employees. Employers are advised to review and revise their Employee Handbook in light of this legislation.

California Employees Who Take Pregnancy Disability Leave Are Entitled to Continuation of Health Benefits.

All employers with more than five (5) or more California employees are subject to Government Code section 12945, the Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (“PDL”). PDL provides up to 4 months of unpaid leave for an employee disabled by pregnancy. Effective January 1, 2012, employers must continue health benefits for employees taking PDL, for the entire duration of the leave. Employers should review and update their PDL policy to ensure compliance with this new requirement.

California Employers Are Prohibited from Using Credit Reports for Employment Purposes.

Beginning January 1, 2012, an amendment to the California Labor Code prohibits the use of credit reports in employment-related background checks, with certain specifically-enumerated exceptions. Most financial institutions are exempt from these prohibitions. Employers are advised to reevaluate their background check policies, procedures, and forms in light of this amendment.

The National Labor Relations Board Imposes New Posting Requirement Affecting Most Employers.

The National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”) has issued a new poster requirement, which will become effective on April 30, 2012 (postponed from November 14, 2011). Copies of the notice are now available at no charge from the NLRB website (www.nlrb.gov) and from NLRB regional offices (www.nlrb.gov/who-we-are/regional-offices). All employers covered by the National Labor Relations Act (“NLRA”) will be required to comply with the new posting requirement. The NLRA applies to nearly all private-sector employers.

The notice must be posted in a conspicuous place where other government notices are posted and where employees may easily view it. In addition to the physical posting, the rule requires every covered employer to post the notice on an internet or intranet site if personnel rules and policies are customarily posted there. The notice must be posted in English and in another language if at least twenty percent of employees are not proficient in English and speak another language.

Failure to post the new notice may be considered an unfair labor practice under the NLRA. Employers should consult legal counsel with any questions regarding this new requirement.

IRS Mileage Rate Unchanged.

The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has maintained its standard mileage rate at 55.5 cents per mile for business miles driven in 2012.

As part of FrontWindow, a free service for action sports retailers and brands, Clarinova offers daily Facebook insights and updates to help retailers navigate the world of social media marketing.

The FrontWindow Facebook application helps shops connect with customers, build a fan base and gain access to the latest and greatest industry content available on the web to share with their Facebook fans.

Last month we focused heavily on how to use social media for better customer acquisition. We’ve rounded up our most popular tips for you. … Read on and be sure to Like the FrontWindow Facebook Page HERE. Happy 2012 everybody!

Become a publisher

The web is full of information, and full of people who share interests with your audience. Go out and find professional, credible sources that provide objective information that will draw in your audience and re publish it on Facebook. This shows that you are willing to collaborate for the best interest of your customers...building trust!

Use social media to provide resolution

You no longer need to guide customers to your company website for quick resolution of a problem or promotion of an event or contest... you can use their feedback from interaction on social media sites to lead them to personalized landing pages on Facebook!

If you have questions on creating landing pages ask us and we're happy to lend some advice!

Improvise, but use common sense

Using social media doesn't come with a playbook... it isn't mainstream enough yet to have set rules and procedures. So use your gut. Social media is about interaction, so hard selling on Facebook is probably not going to get you the results you're looking for. However, starting a conversation and offering advice will probably create lasting engagement.

Fulfillment is the core of what we do at A52 Warehouse, and it’s one of our six specialties that I will be writing about in coming months here on Shop-eat-surf.

For us, fulfillment includes receiving, picking, and packing apparel, footwear, and accessories. 

We have the ability to execute high volume month end crunches, working with our clients to project and plan for high volumes throughout the year, ensuring that our warehouse is always sufficiently staffed.

Additionally, we have the ability to process and ship e-commerce orders in the same day.

To ensure sufficient aptitude of our staff, we have developed a proprietary test to be used by prospective new casual staff prior to working with us.

Throughout the entire fulfillment process, we give you 100 percent visibility, 100 percent of the time meaning you can see exactly where your product is in our warehouse at any given time from the moment it is scanned in upon arrival until the moment it is shipped and scanned out. 

Additionally, every month we send each of our clients a report card, demonstrating the speed with which we are turning around their products as well as the inventory accuracy.

One way we have helped our clients, especially smaller brands, in the fulfillment process is by helping them become UPC compliant. 

UPC compliance means meeting or complying with the bar code labeling guidelines set down by a customer. A bar code labeling standard helps monitor inventory, assists replenishment, minimizes distribution time, and allows for product traceability.

Being UPC compliant will not only allow you to sell your product in larger retail stores, it will give your product a more professional look and add accuracy and speed to your goods as they move through the warehouse.

The bottom line is to get the right product to right place in the shortest possible time.

A52’s professional team will gladly help you in the UPC compliance process; from providing you the contact information to setting it up completely for you.

We are ready to help you with your warehousing or third party logistic needs with exceptional service and care. 

Please check out our website  or contact me for more information.

Last week, the San Diego technology community gathered to celebrate what is known as its biggest event of the year – CONNECT’s Most Innovative New Product (MIP) Awards. Drawing more than 800 people in attendance, the event showcased some of the most cutting-edge technology being commercialized in America’s Finest City. Hundreds of companies submitted entries and vied for one of the 24 available finalist spots within the eight categories, going head-to-head against some of the biggest names in the technology industry.

This year, one of SDSI’s members, Hydroflex Technology, was selected as one of three finalists in the Action and Sports Technologies category and took home the category win for developing the Hydroflex Supercharger, a stringerless EPS blank that surfers can pump with air and control the flex. In addition, it also prevents the blank from heavy denting. The company’s technology is based on three interdependent patents that include:

• 3-dimensional lamination based on vacuum infusion that creates a 3-dimensional bond to the inner core with tens of thousands of fiberglass roots inhibiting delamination.

• Technology that makes a stringer-less design possible while the homogenous, symmetrical glassing structure enables revolutionary flex characteristics without material fatigue and delivers outstanding durability and performance.

• Adjustable core air pressure that results in highly variable flex patterns for different surf conditions/riders and helps prevent water uptake, dings and dents without the rigidity of the conventional sandwich design. Pressurization is achieved by a built-in valve and a hand operated pump.

Launched in Germany in 1998, Hydroflex brought its U.S. Operations to Oceanside, Calif. in 2009 to provide the local surf market with their technology and establish business relationships with Southern California’s surf production community.

“Oceanside is a great location and a good place to R&D boards with team riders. It’s also close to Matt Biolos at Lost Surfboards. He’s one of many shapers we work with and his team riders include Chris Ward, Kolohe Andino, Mason Ho, Andrew Doheny and many others,” said Ed Santos, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hydroflex.

In addition to this achievement, the company has been awarded the ISPO BrandNew Award and the IF Design Award Technology and Design.

“Being involved in SDSI has been a rewarding experience. We’ve received a lot of support from previous MIP winners and it’s a major accomplishment to be recognized with other prominent brands in our category such as KVA Stainless and TaylorMade Golf,” said Santo.

So what’s next for Hydroflex? According to the company, they’re currently working on a newer model called The Natural that will utilize the same Hydroflex 3D glassing, but will be on a regular blank. It will be the more affordable sports car in their family.

SDSI congratulates Hydroflex Technologies for their innovation and accomplishments!

Contact Lisa Freedman at lfreedman@connect.org or Renne Catalano at rcatalano@connect.org, to learn how SDSI may be able to assist your sports business.

Promote your Company and Brand With Local, Regional and Nationwide

Installation for Retail Graphics by CPI Resources

With today’s economy cutting everyone’s marketing budget, it’s crucial that each project is completed on time, on budget and on point. Nobody wants to be the one who hired the wrong company for the job or be responsible for the job being less than perfect.

Skechers and other major brands choose CPI Resources as their partner in creating effective signage and advertising that is executed exactly to plan. If you have a nationwide chain of retail stores, you’ve probably felt the pain of your window graphics at your Indianapolis store being installed after the promotion started, or not being able to find a reliable installer for your mall signage in Orlando, or having the project delayed because you were given incorrect dimensions and the artwork doesn’t fit the window properly.

CPI Resources has gained their impeccable reputation in the industry with high standards and their superior knowledge. They are not just installers, but their skilled team can create a signage marketing campaign from original concept through to point-of-sale displays and vehicle wraps.

Their local installation teams will visit the site, do a walk-through and measure dimensions to prevent any surprises and ensure your graphics will fit perfectly. Their installers are all certified and insured, and CPI Resources works with property management companies, landlords, mall personnel, historical societies, city councils and design review boards to get the right permits and approvals, plus they will arrange installation times that fit the project timeline without causing disruption to the area.

What today’s companies need are partnerships that they can depend on, businesses to partner with who have the experience and capability to be flexible, responsive and, ultimately deliver. Companies in the action-sports industry and beyond choose CPI Resources as this partner because they succeed at being more than just suppliers—they provide marketing strategies based on extensive experience with clients such as Skechers, Boost Mobile, Billabong, Vans and Toyota to provide the most return on investment.

Whether you need a building wrapped with your ad in Manhattan, have an product to rebrand and introduce in Chicago, have or need a local or nationwide product launched with packaging, fulfillment and distribution, year-round or just for the holidays, CPI Resources will be your partner in making it a success. Call now for more information or to arrange an installation of retail graphics: (949) 975-1631.

Pre-Registration is NOW OPEN for Agenda Long Beach.

Pre-Registration is required to attend Agenda.

To register online now, CLICK HERE.

 PLEASE NOTE: This registration section is NOT for registering your brand to EXHIBIT or SHOW at Agenda. This section is just for attendees to register to obtain passes for the shows.

NEW AGENDA ADMISSON POLICY: Please note that Agenda has changed our admission policies and now everyone must pre-register online HERE.

Buyers, distributors, and press are admitted into the show for free but are now required to pre-register for the each show by clicking HERE.

Manufacturers, suppliers, non-exhibiting sales reps & non-exhibiting designers will also need to pre-register by clicking HERE. After registering you will receive an email prompt with the next steps. If you are approved to attend, you will be required to pay a $200 admission fee per person online.

No sourcing agents of vertical manufacturers are allowed at Agenda. The general public is not admitted into Agenda and we reserve the right to refuse admission to anyone.

Travel Info

Book your rooms now! They Will Sell Out!

Take advantage of the Agenda discount rates at these nearby hotels which are all less than a mile away from the Agenda Show at the Long Beach Convention Center. All rates are approximate and only available while supplies last. See below for details.

Please visit the Agenda travel section here for all your travel needs including airport info & transportation.

Agenda Long Beach hotels:

Hyatt Regency Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $139

Phone: (562) 491-1234

Click here to book your room.

Rennaisance Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $129

Phone: (562) 499-2555

Click here to book your room.

The Westin Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $109

Phone: (562) 436-3000

Click here to book your room.

Avia Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $189

Phone: (562) 436-1047

Discount Code: g-agda

Click here to book your room.

Brands Featured

Poler Camping Stuff will be joining Agenda for the first time. Debuting the Fall 12 line of stuff, Poler brings a unique mix of pragmatic utilitarianism, a high design sensibility, and affordable price points to it's collection of outdoor lifestyle stuff. Polerstuff.com

Do you know the company Uranium? If you don't know them yet, you are probably missing out on some kick ass and sick jewellery pieces in your wardrobe! After 13 years of success, and more than 120 Canadian retailers later, Uranium not only leads the street fashion industry with jewellery, accessories and clothing for both men and women by establishing itself as a premium brand, but also, has always believed in creating and making Made in Canada products.

Accessories are the best way to make ones' personality stand out no matter the way one decides to dress. The company's snowboarding background partnered with their passion for fashion has helped create multiple collections perfectly geared toward the image of their target market. The marketing concept of this company has made a few waves since it is based on specific values and morals that as always been important to society and holds close to the heart of all individuals: Beauty, Strength, Love and Creativity. A crew of artist or collaborators create a new vibe every season. No doubt these products will make some new friends. www.uranium.ws

To see all brands featured at Agenda Long Beach, please visit www.agendashow.com/exhibitors.

Coming Soon: Agenda NYC!

January 23rd & 24th, 2012 (9am-6pm)

330 West Street

New York, NY 10014

On the corner of Houston & The Westside HWY

Launch Micro-site

Be the change you wish to see in the world - Gandhi

We are all from various backgrounds and experiences yet we form a universal connected web of life called the human race. There are many wonderful ways people all around the world are choosing to give back to the web of life.

Choosing to focus on the positive impact we can make on the life, lives, and environment is a way for us all to expand our hearts, and connect to the world around us.

Barco’s Nightingale Foundation has reached 1,400 children with life changing surgeries, sent children with cancer to the Ronald McDonalds Camps, and is in the process of building a solar powered water well in Haiti to help thousands of children from dying because of a lack of clean water.

It is Innovative Systems’s honor to join in with Barco’s Nightingale Foundation and participate in helping our future generations and this beautiful planet thrive.

To learn more about Barco’s Nightingale Foundation visit:

www.barcosnightingales.org

www.facebook.com/BarcosNightingalesFoundation

Happy Holidays from all of us at Innovative Systems and may your New Year be filled with joy!

As part of FrontWindow, a free service for action sports retailers, Clarinova offers daily Facebook insights and updates to help retailers navigate the world of social media marketing. FrontWindow helps shops connect with customers, build a fan base and increase knowledge about what a powerful marketing tool social media can be. Last week's tips were about being more persuasive on Facebook, and this week we'll cover how to raise your shop’s social media ROI (Return on Investment).

Reciprocate

If you give something as a gift and then ask the recipient for a favor, they'll respond in kind. For example: after a customer has downloaded a free eBook, encourage that person to subscribe to your blog, Facebook Fan page or Twitter account — "Now that you have the book, would you mind following me on

Twitter?"

Be Personable

Some personality traits to exude on the web:

- Be personable and charismatic: talk to people online like you would at a cocktail party.

- Be Polite: If you don‘t have anything nice to say. Don’t say anything at all.

- Be Funny: Show off your witty sense of humor. Everyone loves to laugh!

Tell Them What You Know

Highlight any authority you may have in your field, such an published works you have written, or a noteworthy athlete that attended an event at your shop.

Authority and expertise = influence!

Commitment and Consistency

Don't go back on your word. If you‘re going to use social media and expect people to follow and respect you, follow through! If you say you'll post the surf report everyday, post it. If you say you'll respond to every comment or question, respond. Being consistent will create trust.

Be Yourself

Make your online self an extension of who you are, or what your shop represents, in real life. You can‘t expect to be persuasive if you‘re not confident, honest and authentic.

Every two months, we host a seminar series that tackles the details of building and running a successful action sports or fashion industry business.

We started the series earlier this year because we deal with so many companies that are running through the same obstacle course as they move toward growth. We wanted to invite executives in for topical discussions about the issues that they likely will or are facing as they grow their businesses.

So, the purpose of the Moss Adams Capital Spotlight Series is to assist business leaders in understanding and addressing a range of issues most businesses face in early and advanced stages of growth. We want to help build awareness of such issues so managers can devise plans to overcome obstacles on their path of growth.

We invite industry executives to our Irvine offices for a morning seminar that takes you deeper into the nuts and bolts of running a successful business.

For instance, in September, we gave executives an overview on public-company valuations and the correlation to private company valuations. We showed how to benchmark your company relative to the performance of peers to compare gross profit percentage, sales per employee, management compensation, operating income and other key indicators.

We also talked about the pros and cons of monetizing a private company’s brand equity – when, and how, to get the best yield to match your goals. We examined direct-to-consumer models, licensing, hybrid sale/license transactions and selling a brand or a company to private equity or strategic buyers.

We’re hosting our next Spotlight Series seminar on Dec. 2, and we hope you’ll join us.

We’ll tackle:

• Your financial model: We’ll take a deep dive into the details of a business today, and how to create a blueprint for planning the details of a company’s growth.

• ERP Systems: We’ll examine how to manage the business of your business.

• Year-end tax strategies: We’ll help you discover income tax savings in your receivables, inventory and other key accounts.

More than 25 executives from more than a dozen companies have attended each of the first two Moss Adams Capital Spotlight series events.

If you’d like to attend our December session please email Linda Lamar or call her at 949-221-4024.

Licensing can be like jumping into cold water at 6 am – you’re hesitant to do it, but once you’re in the water and catch your first wave, you’re fine. Start-up brands and established brands are often unsure about the details and/or benefits of licensing. To some, licensing may help increase business beyond what they ever expected. To others, licensing can be your worst nightmare.

The first rule is to think of licensing as a marriage. Don’t get involved in a licensing deal with someone you hardly know, or with someone you don’t trust. Many licensing agreements fail because the parties did not share the same goals when the relationship was formed. Conflicts can be avoided by choosing the right partner at the outset.

Another critical aspect of licensing that is often overlooked is the plan. You need to have a licensing strategy. Too many companies go down the wrong path by not defining their core objectives through licensing. For example, allowing a licensee to mass produce certain products in the wrong markets with promises of substantial royalties may sound appealing at first, but it could ruin the brand’s core image and value in the long run.

Also, as with any agreement—know the terms; monitor performance; and diligently enforce your rights. It’s your brand and you need to protect it. You need to ensure that your intellectual property rights remain valid and protectable, which usually means completing proper registrations and establishing a portfolio. In addition, in the event of unforeseen risk or potential damage to your brand and/or your rights, you will need to know the potential triggers for termination of the relationship. Hopefully, the relationship is successful, but if not, you need to cancel and move on. In this respect, your licensing agreement should be thought of as your prenuptial agreement in a marriage.

Finally, licensing deals can be complex, sometimes overwhelming, and may take weeks or months to negotiate. For this process, you’ll want to consult a lawyer with experience in negotiating licensing agreements.

Sales growth mixed. Overall, our covered companies grew the topline by an average median rate of 11.4% during calendar 3Q, a respectable level given what is still a relatively difficult macro environment. Ten of 17 companies exceeded consensus revenue expectations, but results varied widely depending on company size and channel position. For example, the fastest growth continued to be concentrated in younger, brand-oriented companies like SKUL, BDE, CROX and UA, which collectively averaged 37.8% revenue growth during calendar 3Q.

The introduction of new and innovative products remains a consistent growth driver for virtually all Active Lifestyle companies, especially among brands/vendors. More established players like NKE, VFC and COLM posted solid double-digit revenue growth aided by strong demand for new products by wholesale customers, growth in direct-to-consumer sales, as well as acquisitions in one case. Retailers continued to report more modest sales gains, reflecting spotty overall traffic trends; however, uneven traffic is typically being more than offset by higher average ticket.

Margin trends favored retailers during 3Q. The median year-over-year change in gross profit margin (GPM) was down 40bp for our covered companies; however, there was a meaningful divergence between retailers and vendors. For the three retailers that reported results, the GPM trend was positive by a ratio of 2- to-1, with increases averaging 170bp compared to a year ago.

We believe this largely reflects retailers continuing to maximize inventory productivity including reducing markdown exposure to mitigate risk related to the soft macro environment. Vendors were more likely to show GPM compression during 3Q as 8 of 13 reporting companies showed an average decline 164bp for the quarter. The average increase for the five other reporting vendors was 130bp. Rising input costs continued to be a factor pressuring vendor margins and many of the declines had been anticipated.

Another quarter of impressive EPS growth. So far this reporting season our Active Lifestyle coverage universe median EPS growth rate is up 24.3% year-over-year. Twelve of 17 companies exceeded consensus EPS expectations. The combination of double-digit topline growth, price increases and operating expense leverage proved more than enough to offset gross margin headwinds.

Thematically, the primary EPS growth drivers remain 1) product innovation fueling strong consumer interest in the athletic and outdoor categories, 2) brand vendor international and direct- to-consumer growth, 3) price increases yielding modest net pricing gains, and 4) tight operating expense management. High-quality companies such as NKE, UA, and VFC have thrived in all of these categories. EPS growth remains challenging for companies attempting to revitalize their business amidst a tough economic environment, including ELY and BGFV, both of which posted earnings declines.

Outlook: Of the companies we follow that have reported, five (COLM, NKE, SKUL, UA and VFC) formally raised full year guidance while HBI was the only company to lower guidance (lowered revenue guidance; narrowed EPS guidance). There were some instances where the increase to full year guidance was partially offset by reductions to 4Q EPS—CAB and COLM are examples. In addition, both ELY and JAH provided details on their 4Q expectations which were below consensus. Initial 2012 commentary was limited, but in general not materially different from current expectations that can be described as cautiously optimistic. All in, earnings revisions were mixed as strong 3Q performance was offset by limited forward visibility given economic uncertainty, tight retailer inventory management and product cost pressures which will persist through 1H12.

D.A. Davidson publishes this commentary to provide industry decision makers with relevant economic and market information in an accessible format. Please notify us if you would like additional information or if we can be of assistance with helping you raise capital or assisting in mergers or acquisitions.

For more information, or the full report, please contact us.

Newport Beach Film Festival Action Sports Film Series: April 26-May 3, 2012

ChopShop is on board again this year as the co-producer of the 2012 Newport Beach Film Festival Action Sports Film Series. This is the fourth consecutive year that ChopShop has partnered with the Newport Beach Film Festival leading the effort to establish and brand the Series as the destination for action sports filmmakers and their films.

Action sports films have been a part of the Newport Beach Film Festival since 2004 and in 2009 ChopShop stepped up to build the Series and cast a broader net to filmmakers in this genre. Each year Action Sports Film Series’ audiences have grown along with the number of submissions - films, shorts and documentaries - featuring surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, wakeboarding, motocross and other action sports.

The Action Sports Film Series gives filmmakers a platform to showcase their work and offers the resources for nurturing their talents, exposure to audiences and potential distribution channels. An important element to the Series is the location right in the epicenter of the action sports industry and the lifestyle that the brands proliferated.

The weeklong Newport Beach Film Festival and the Action Sports Film Series will kick-off on April 26 and run through May 3. Submissions are being reviewed right now and final decisions will be made by mid-February. Visit nbffACTION.com for more information and a complete listing of 2011 films.

ChopShop is a team of professionals whose expertise includes concepting, copywriting, video and film production, as well as editorial, finishing, design and animation for broadcast and multi-platform applications.

Agenda will hold our first Long Beach show on January 5th and 6th, 2012.

This new LB show will be our largest show to date, coming in just shy of a quarter million square feet at 235,000 sqft total.

Agenda Long Beach will feature 500+ brands and we are expecting about 12,000 - 14,000 attendees over the two days.

Key new features/additions to the show:

Agenda LB will feature a new longboard skateboard/Skate Hardgoods segment

• Divine Wheel Co
• Dogtown
• Dregs
• Elephant Skateboards
• Given
• GoldCoast
• Hosoi
• Landyachtz
• Layback
• Madrid
• Palisades Longboards
• Paris Trucks Co
• Penny Skateboards
• Riviera Skateboards
• Sector 9
• SIMS
• Vision Skateboards
• Z-Flex
• and about 15+ more brands to be added before the show.

This longboard skateboard/skate hardgoods segment will not be separately branded inside the show, but mixed in with the other core action sports products. This new segment will also be completely separate from "The Berrics Agenda" show segment that focuses on only core street skate brands.

Influx of brands from the outdoor market

• HippyTree
• Patagonia
• Poler Camping Stuff
• ... and more which are all new editions to the show, and we see a huge opportunity in this show segment moving forward.

Increase in new lifestyle footwear brands

• Asics Onitsuka Tiger
• LRG Footwear
• The People's Movement
• Psyberia Dry Goods
• Volley Shoes
• ... and more which will add to our already robust selection in this category. Agenda believes that we have the most comprehensive offering of Lifestyle and ActionSports footwear brands out of any show in North America.

The return of Primer at Agenda

Primer is our independent brand section that we put on hiatus for the last show to reformat and relaunch it at this Long Beach show in January. Primer will showcase over 50 start-up brands on the main floor of Agenda, rather than in a side room as we have done in the past.

New Food Truck Area

Agenda Long Beach will feature a new food truck area with 7 of the best food trucks from LA each day. We know that everyone hates convention center food, so we wanted to mix it up a bit and give people something fun and different.

New BMX Segment

Agenda Long Beach will feature a few hand selected BMX brands. This January show will start small with BMX, maybe 4-5 brands tops to kick off a much larger show segment for the future. Each BMX brand invited will be working on an exciting collaboration with Agenda to be released at the show.

Come learn how SDSI can help your company grow

What absolutely attracted me to join SDSI as Executive Director last month was the networking. Our mission is about connecting people and companies and creating opportunities, all with the goal of growing the Southern California sports economy.

We believe that the more we grow, the more we can give back and the better off we will all be in the long run.

There is also the part of our mission that includes mentoring start-up companies to position themselves for access to capital. And we implemented our Springboard Program to do that by bringing experts that help guide your business plan through assistance with branding, marketing, financials, operation plans and ultimately help to prepare for funding opportunities.

SDSI provides education for sports companies, especially small companies that are great at creating their products, but might not always know how or who to ask for help to solve business challenges. We are successful in that, but what we offer is much broader.

We are creating opportunities for mature companies as implement programs and events that encourage collaboration on best practices and provide access to new technologies. We also provide unbiased public policy advocacy in both Sacramento and Washington DC.

We are here to help companies resolve issues, internal or external, find resources and find qualified people and service providers. If you have a problem, we want you to come to us and let us help you solve it. We want to share the knowledge and experiences of our experts with even more sports companies.

That’s why we’re reaching out again to So Cal sports companies on Nov. 15 with a networking and panel discussion event we’re calling “SDSI Presents: Why SDSI?”

I’ll join SDSI Executive Chairman Bill Walton to discuss why we chose to be a part of an organization that has become the front-runner for collaboration, innovation, business mentoring and business development across Southern California’s sports industry.

We’ll join a panel discussion with John Sarkisian, CEO of SKLZ and SDSI advisory board member since its inception in 2008; John Vance, SDSI’s most recent board member and former president of Sanuk; and Lisel Ferguson, partner of Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP and longtime member of SDSI’s parent organization CONNECT.

The event’s a great way to learn how you and your company can get involved with our growing organization and how our programs can help accelerate your business growth – and it will be an opportunity to network with an eclectic group of sports industry movers and shakers on the back patio of Yogi’s Bar and Grill in San Diego.

You can register for our November 15 event here. I hope to see you there.

Chances are you or your company has already jumped on the social media bandwagon. Brands have seen an opportunity to directly engage with their target customers and have grasped it with much success. Promotions abound on Twitter an Facebook, as does constant dialogue with consumers and brand reps. The ease and immediacy of interaction and access have made social media platforms the next frontier for brands to use, not just for marketing strategies, but for real-time customer service.

The following is a social media checklist for companies. When devising your social media strategy, we recommend you talk with attorneys experienced in this area.

Ø Stake your claim: Claim your brand/business name on the relevant sites. Even if you don’t plan on using them immediately, it will prevent others from tying them up and potentially using them for anti-competitive means.

Ø Ask first: Be careful about misusing other’s trademarks in your social media content. Be sure whatever agreement you have with a promotional partner applies to the virtual world as well as the brick-and-mortar world.

Ø Changing terms: Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of each platform. The terms and conditions are usually prominently posted on the homepage and tend to change. Nobody wants to get banned from Facebook.

Ø Interacting Fans: For brands who invite customer interaction, we advise compliance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). If you meet these requirements, you can be immune from liability for infringing content posted by others on your sites (i.e. a video posted by a fan that is owned by someone else). Compliance is pretty simple and well worth it as it protects you from potentially hefty damages (especially in that litigious scenario).

Ø Contest Rules: Make sure all promos, sweepstakes and contests comply with the relevant federal and state laws. Linking to a static page with the contest rules is a productive way to comply.

Ø Earn the rights: Be aware of ownership issues when posting content. Yes, your YouTube video may capture more viewers if you sync it with the latest Black Lips hit, but you are essentially using the video for commercial purposes and thus must obtain the rights to use them.

Ø Protect and enforce: Monitor social media networks for offensive or infringing content and enforce your rights. If someone sets up an unauthorized Twitter account report it to Twitter and send a cease-and-desist letter. If your trademark is misused, make sure it’s corrected or removed. Proactive action can lessen the likelihood of infringement. But choose your battles wisely. You may walk into a public relations nightmare if you decide to make strong legal threats against an innocent fan who was unaware of any legal ramifications.

Ø Employee power: Set parameters. Companies can embrace the marketing power of their employees by encouraging them to Tweet something positive about the brand. As long as you’re actively monitoring the content generated, it could be a winning strategy. Be sure to address protection of your company’s confidential information in your employee social media guidelines.

Ø Communicate: Involve multiple business teams in your social media strategy. It not only helps with consistency in messaging, it also prevents a potential PR nightmare that could occur when marketing and legal don’t talk.

Ø Legal: This wouldn’t be a true article prepared by lawyers if we didn’t advise you to seek competent legal counsel to discuss these issues further.

Goodman Mooney is a full service law firm with a specialization in intellectual property and business law. The Orange County, Calif.-based firm has an international clientele, including professional snowboarders Torstein Horgmo and John Jackson, Voluspa, Too Faced Cosmetics and bathing suit designers American Honey. For more information, please visit www.goodmanmooney.com.

Mooney Goodman co-founders, Amanda Mooney and Eric Goodman can be followed on Twitter (@GoodmanMooney), Facebook (www.facebook.com/GoodmanMooney) and on their blog (brandadvocates.wordpress.com).

September Quarter Earnings Previews Expect Resilient 3Q Results; Cautious 4Q Outlook

Our September quarter earnings season officially begins Monday, October 24th with VF Corp. This earnings preview covers seven companies (ATX, BDE, ELY, HBI, JAH, SKUL, VFC) reporting September quarter results in the coming weeks. Overall we expect 3Q results will be relatively unharmed by the recent torrent of negative news flow on the global economy. However, we expect this negative sentiment will seep into 4Q guidance and potentially mute 4Q earnings upside potential.

In this report, we outline our view on five industry topics which will influence sector performance including the U.S. consumer, international exposure, currency, cotton and inventories. Overall, data points remained mixed, but not indicative of any material weakness in our space. On the contrary, reports from high-quality companies such as Nike and Wolverine World Wide support our view that well positioned companies can still deliver impressive results.

As evidenced by solid September sales trends, consumer spending remains on track in the U.S. supporting healthy sell-through for many of our brand vendors. Active lifestyle inventories continue to be a source of concern, having materially outpaced revenue growth in 2Q (up 35% versus revenue up 16%). Cotton prices have held around $1.00/lb since July, meaning we should begin to see product cost pressures abate by 2H12. Dollar appreciation in September due to European debt fears means that currency will be a headwind in 4Q (based on current rates).

The Active Lifestyle universe continues to outperform the S&P 500 year-to-date; however, the difference between the haves and have-nots continues to widen. Our thesis remains stick with high-quality names that have company specific growth drivers, defensible margin structures and a track record of creating shareholder value. Out top picks remain HBI, VFC and ZUMZ.

INDUSTRY HEADWINDS/TAILWINDS

U.S. Consumer is Holding Up

Stock market tumbles, European concerns grow, but U.S. retail sales trends appear unfazed for now. Over the last three months stagnate job market news, weak housing and stock markets, and Europe’s debt woes have plagued the news. While there have been pockets of weakness, same store sales trends have largely demonstrated that consumer spending patterns are relatively unchanged. September same store sales were up 5.8%, as measured by Retail Metrics, with 63% of companies beating estimates, suggesting that consumers are willing to spend on compelling product. We continue to believe this choppy economic picture will drive sharp differences between the winners and losers as we move into 3Q earnings season and the holiday outlook.

International Exposure: Risk or Opportunity?

With growing concerns around a European recession and a Chinese slowdown, revenue exposure by region will prove important to 2012 growth prospects. For most active lifestyle companies, Asia is a small percent of total sales, but an outsized portion of future growth prospects. Europe is, on average, the second largest market for our coverage universe (behind the U.S.) in terms of revenues and in many cases carries higher margins than domestic sales. With both of these regions at risk of slowing, we believe regional sales exposure will be an important factor to consider as companies begin to outline initial 2012 expectations.

Dollar Appreciation is a Headwind in 4Q

Steep dollar appreciation in September shifts currency to a year-over-year headwind in 4Q. Driven by European debt fears, the dollar materially appreciated versus most currencies in September, quickly erasing the currency tailwind most companies in our coverage universe have been experiencing. 

Current guidance likely has aggressive currency assumptions relative to current exchange rates. The U.S. dollar has strengthened against key currencies with the exception of the Japanese Yen. Given the appreciation in the dollar occurred after the 2Q earnings conference call season, many currency assumptions baked into existing guidance could prove slightly aggressive. For example, VFC’s guidance assumes a USD/EUR exchange of $1.35 versus the current $1.34 rate.

Cotton Stabilizing Around $1.00/lb.

Global cotton production appears in balance with demand, despite Southwest drought conditions. Since peaking above $2.15/lb. in March 2011, cotton prices have fallen over 50% with the December 2011 futures trading around $1.00/lb. Improving supply coupled with weakening demand appear to be the primary contributors to this rapid price correction. According to the most recent USDA cotton report, global cotton inventories are expected to rise for the first time in two years, helping to restore supply/demand equilibrium to the cotton market.

While current cotton prices will bring product cost relief in the 2H12, it is important to remember that cotton costs will continue to be a headwind for the next four quarters (3Q11 to 2Q12). The early response from consumers to modestly higher price points has been encouraging, with minimal impact to unit volumes. However, it remains to be seen how consumers will react to steeper price increases currently being implemented in the context of an anemic economic environment.

Inventory Levels Remain Elevated

For this section, we define the Active Lifestyle apparel and footwear universe as 14 companies including: Quiksilver, Columbia Sportswear, V.F. Corporation, Under Armour, Wolverine World Wide, Deckers Outdoor, Crocs, Nike, Rocky Brands, Skechers USA, K-Swiss, LaCrosse Footwear, adidas AG, and Puma AG.

Active lifestyle inventory continues to look bloated, especially in light of a slowing economy. Exiting 2Q, Active lifestyle inventories were up 35% year-over-year, compared to 16% revenue growth in the quarter. Inventory growth has outpaced revenue growth since 4Q10.

Reasons for higher inventory levels include: 1) unusually light inventory levels in 2Q10 affecting comparisons, 2) higher product costs, 3) early receipt of products given manufacturing capacity constraints earlier in the year, and 4) order books suggesting continued positive momentum. While many of these reasons are legitimate, we believe current inventory levels could prove problematic if consumer spending materially slows from current levels. This problem would be exacerbated by the fact that it would coincide with peak cotton cost inventory flowing through the P&L (excess inventory of high cost product). If U.S. consumer spending slows, we believe excess inventory would drive increased promotional activity and pressure 4Q margins.

D.A. Davidson publishes this commentary to provide industry decision makers with relevant economic and market information in an accessible format. Please notify us if you would like additional information or if we can be of assistance with helping you raise capital or assisting in mergers or acquisitions.

For more information, or for the full report, please contact us.

Agenda Long Beach

January 5th, 2012 (9am-7pm) & January 6th, 2012 (9am-6pm)

Long Beach Convention Center

300 E. Ocean Blvd.

Long Beach,CA 90802

Map it!

Pre-Registration is NOW OPEN for Agenda Long Beach.

Pre-Registration is required to attend Agenda.

PLEASE NOTE: This registration section is NOT for registering your brand to EXHIBIT or SHOW at Agenda. This section is just for attendees to register to obtain passes for the shows.

NEW AGENDA ADMISSON POLICY: Please note that Agenda has changed our admission policies and now everyone must pre-register online HERE.

Buyers, distributors, and press are admitted into the show for free but are now required to pre-register for the each show by clicking HERE.

Manufacturers, suppliers, non-exhibiting sales reps & non-exhibiting designers will also need to pre-register by clicking HERE. After registering you will receive an email prompt with the next steps. If you are approved to attend, you will be required to pay a $200 admission fee per person online.

No sourcing agents of vertical manufacturers are allowed at Agenda. The general public is not admitted into Agenda and we reserve the right to refuse admission to anyone.

Travel Info

Take advantage of the Agenda discount rates at these nearby hotels which are all less than a mile away from the Agenda Show at the Long Beach Convention Center. All rates are approximate and only available while supplies last. See below for details.

Please visit the Agenda travel section here for all your travel needs including airport info & transportation.

Hyatt Regency Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $139

Phone: (562) 491-1234

Click here to book your room.

Rennaisance Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $129

Phone: (562) 499-2555

Click here to book your room.

The Westin Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $109

Phone: (562) 436-3000

Click here to book your room.

Avia Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $169 (CALL IN ONLY)

285 Bay Street

Phone: (562) 436-1047

CALL IN TO BOOK YOUR ROOM.

Hilton Long Beach

Agenda Rate: $99

Phone: (562) 983-3400

Click here to book your room.

For more information, visit agendashow.com.

The Vancouver Convention Centre will play host once again January 18-20th for KNOW?SHOW 13. Until then be sure to keep updated with industry news on the KNOW?SHOW Blog.

New Accommodations

We are happy to announce a new hotel partnership with The Coast Coal Harbour Hotel with discounted rates for registered KNOW?SHOW attendees. With such close proximity to not only the show grounds but also Vancouver's best venues and restaurants we think this is a perfect match.

Check out the details HERE.

Brand Bios

Check out brand bios with Bridge & Burn and Omit! Click here for more on Bridge & Burn! For info on Omit, click here. 

On September 8, 2011, the U.S. Senate passed the America Invents Act (AIA), and President Obama signed the Act into law on September 16, 2011. This Act made significant changes to the patent law and rules. Below is a brief summary of some of the more significant prosecution-related provisions of the Act.

First-to-File. The Act converts the present "first-to-invent" system to a system in which the first inventor to file a patent application on the invention would have priority. The date of invention will no longer be considered in determining what is prior art against future inventions. This change brings the U.S. in line with most of the rest of the world.

An applicant will still be allowed a one year grace period to file an application in the U.S. after any disclosures made by the applicant. However, as before, disclosure of the invention prior to filing will still be a bar to filing patent applications in most countries. The first to file provision is set to take effect on March 16, 2013. As a result, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office will most likely see a flurry of patent applications prior to this provision’s effective date. Companies and inventors will need to reevaluate their invention disclosure and patent filings procedures to emphasize prompt submissions of disclosures and filings of patent applications.

Interference. Another provision set to begin on March 16, 2013 is the replacement of the interference proceeding with a “derivative proceeding” to determine whether an inventor of a first-filed patent application derived the claimed subject matter without authorization from an inventor named in a later-filed application. The derivative hearing must be filed within a one-year period beginning on the date of the first publication of a claim in the earlier filed application.

Assignment. In the case where an inventor has assigned an invention, the Act allows the assignee to file the application for the patent.

Preissuance and Post-Grant Proceedings. Beginning on September 16, 2012, new rules will be put in place to challenge the validity of a patent.

Preissuance. The Act allows a third party to submit relevant prior art publications for the patent examiner to consider. The period for submission will be lengthened from two months after publication to the earlier of: (i) the issuance of a Notice of Allowance or (ii) six months after publication or the issuance of a first Office Action on the merits, whichever is later. In comparison to the current procedure, which disallows any explanation by the third party regarding the submitted reference, the new procedure allows a third party to add a description concerning the relevance of the submitted prior art.

Post-Grant Inter Partes Review. Inter Partes Review may be granted on specified novelty and non-obvious subject matter grounds. The review must be requested within nine months after grant or reissue or after the date of termination of post-grant review. Prior art submissions are limited to patents and printed publications. The petitioner must show that there is a reasonable likelihood of prevailing on at least one claim for the review to be granted.

Post Grant Review. The post grant review permits allegations of invalidity on any ground in the statute, and must be requested within nine months of grant or reissue. The PTO will consider any ground of invalidity with the thresholds being: (1) more likely than not that at least one challenged claim is unpatentable, or (2) the petition raises a novel or unsettled legal question that is important to other patents or applications. Petitioners must take care when considering whether to file for a post grant review, as the petitioner is estopped from raising with courts, the International Trade Commission (ITC) or the PTO "any ground that petitioner raised or reasonably could have raised during the review."

Supplemental Examination. The Act establishes a system of supplemental examinations for a patent owner “to consider, reconsider, and correct information believed to be relevant to the patent.” This examination may be used to “cure” what might be inequitable conduct in the original prosecution. In the event that the Director becomes aware of "material fraud" on the PTO in connection with a patent during a supplemental examination or reexamination proceeding, the Director is required to confidentially refer the case to the Attorney General.

Review of Business Method Patents. The Act requires the Director to establish an eight-year transitional post-grant review proceeding for review of the validity of covered business method patents. The term "covered business method patent" is defined as "a patent that claims a method or corresponding apparatus for performing data processing or other operations used in the practice, administration, or management of a financial product or service, except that the term does not include patents for technological inventions."

Patent Office Funding. The Act creates a separate fund into which all fees collected in excess of the amount appropriated for the Patent Office will be deposited. Those funds are to be appropriated subsequently for use by the Patent Office only. The ability of the PTO to use these funds is intended to lead to an increase in hiring of patent examiners and thus a decrease in patent application pendency.

Higher Fees. Beginning on September 26, 2011, patent filers will pay a 15% surcharge on all patent fees.

Non-electronic Filing Fee. A new $400 fee must be paid by those applicants who do not file utility patent applications electronically.

Priority Filing Fee. There is a $4,800 fee for filing a prioritized application. Small entities pay $2,400.

Micro Entity. The Act creates a “micro entity” fee structure. A “micro entity” is any small entity that has filed no more than four applications, and has an income that is less than certain specified limits. Micro entities are charged significantly lower fees (e.g., $250 for filing, examination and search fees).

Tax Strategies. The Act directs the USPTO to stop granting patents for strategies to reduce, avoid or defer tax liability.

Virtual Marking. Virtual marking - the process of using a publicly accessible website to provide a link between a patented invention and its patent number - shall be considered as sufficiently providing public notice for that patent. This change takes effect immediately and will apply to all cases pending as well.

Next > Part 2: Litigation-Related Effects of the AIA.

Florida’s original beach party, the DeLuna Fest, announced that it has selected the Surfrider Foundation as one of its beneficiaries for the 2011 festival to be held October 14-16 in Pensacola, FL. The festival will donatea portion of proceeds from tickets sales to the Foundation to continue its mission of protecting and preserving our oceans, waves and beaches in Florida.

“As an organization that is truly active on the ground in the Florida Panhandle, we are honored that DeLuna Fest reached out and named us a beneficiary of thisthis event,” said Ericka Canales, Surfrider Foundation’s Florida Regional Manager.

Florida plays home to 11 chapters and 5,000 members that focus their volunteer efforts on water quality, open beach access, coastal preservation and ecosystem protection. For instance, the Emerald Coast Chapter continues to lead “local” testing efforts for oil and dispersants in the Gulf following the catastrophic Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010.

The Chapter works with a coastal geologist to conduct UV light tests and dig sand trenches to determine if oil and dispersants are present. If found, the Chapter is able to alert the community that oil from the spill is still on beaches that appear clean to the naked eye.

“DeLuna Fest is thrilled to provide an amazing experience for the people of Pensacola and surrounding communities that will also benefit the Surfrider Foundation,” said Alicia Yaffe, DeLuna Fest Director of Marketing.

“DeLuna Fest is a celebration of the beach and the coastline that Surfrider fights so effectively to protect. What’s more, the festival is taking special caution to protect the beach where the event is taking place from the environmental impact of festival goers, and looks forward to many years of providing beach festival access and amazing events.”

DeLuna Fest's five stages and waterfront hotels along Pensacola Beach will play host to national rock acts as well as regional southern rock superstars. In addition to the hottest in today's mainstream and indie rock scene as well as seasoned headliners, performing artists will be spinning poolside, while the very best in jazz and blues will be performing in the Gulf Winds Jazz & Heritage Stage. After the main stage performances each evening, the fun continues with indoor club parties in venues along the shore.

Tickets are on sale now for all three days, including single days. VIP weekend passes are $800 and includes all stages, in/out privileges, all access to VIP lounges, complimentary beverages, VIP only events, premiere viewing areas and an exclusive kick off party on October 13th. Visit http://www.delunafest.com/tickets for more information.

About Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 60,000 members and 100 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, visit www.surfrider.org.

About DeLuna Fest

DeLuna Fest 2011 boasts an outstanding lineup of mainstream and independent artists, top headliners, plus the biggest Jazz, Blues and Southern acts from around the world. The fall's best music festival takes place October 14-16 on the white sands of Pensacola Beach, FL.

For all of you who love the rush of snowboarding and live for the time on the slopes you steal every winter, you might wince every time you see a “famous” snowboarder’s face on an American Express commercial. The team at StepChild Snowboards feels your pain—they don’t feel that snowboarding should be taking itself quite that seriously either.

“We don’t think of snowboarding as an Olympic sport,” explains Scott Murray, StepChild’s head of operations and international sales. “We remember when we had to break into golf courses to board, since they wouldn’t let us on the ski slopes. We like being small; it lets us push the boundaries and be outrageous.”

You don’t have to look far to find the reason that StepChild is more about fun than selling boards. Just look at the founders, Sean Johnson (a self-proclaimed “washed-up 90s pro snowboarder”) and his childhood partner-in-crime on the slopes, Brad Richmond.

They grew up together on the slopes of British Columbia, Canada, and soon Johnson and Richmond decided to start StepChild—not a bad idea, considering Johnson’s pro background and Richmond’s family owning one of the first skate and snowboarding shops in Western Canada.

The company started independent, and remains independent to this day, and have the reputation of “standing out amongst a sea of mediocre brands lacking any kind of personality.”

And that’s the way the StepChild team like it. There is no board of directors, no investors, and all profit is sunk back into the company to keep it hopping. They’re all dedicated to snowboarding—they all ride, although at differing levels—to the individualism that the sport started with, and to the progression of the sport. Although not down the corporate route; StepChild prides itself on being the naughty monkey of snowboarding. In fact, their name comes from back when Johnson used to ride professionally.

He was always rowdy and therefore was referred to as the “red-headed stepchild”, spawning the logo of the kid viewed through a keyhole, like a latchkey kid.

So, if the boards rock and StepChild isn’t set on dominating the world of snowboarding, why start a clothing line? Simple: the kids dig it. That and the fact that StepChild is smart enough to see that their riders are trendsetters, and take their advice about what they’re wearing while they board.

“Younger riders were moving away from traditional outerwear and wearing hoodies,” says Murray.

“We adapted by creating thicker, custom hoodies with thumbholes.” At first, production was hard to get on a regular schedule, so the products were coming out after the season’s start—which luckily, only made them more desirable.

After the recession hit, StepChild saw that if they were going to keep producing clothing, they were going to have to refocus their efforts, and stick to hoodies and t-shirts. When introduced to CPI Resources through a mutual friend, they quickly realized that they would be paying the same for manufacturing in the U.S. as they were in China for the same quality. Plus, logistics and communications would improve, as well as their ability to provide a steady supply of product to their selected small “mom-and-pop” stores that sell their product in the U.S. and Canada, many of whom they’ve worked with for over 10 years.

“Overseas factories deal with major brands, and we would often get pushed to the bottom of the pile, and the lead time was too long for us,” explains Murray. “CPI made us feel like we were at the top of the list, plus they’re very flexible and help us get the job done on time.”

They’ve worked with sales rep David Vallandigham since the beginning, and the StepChild team has appreciated his patience, his understanding of the brand’s vision and his help in finding suppliers for different pieces. With the help of CPI, StepChild can create custom pieces that will be new and different, without having to wait for the product to be produced in China and shipped over.

“We are happy to do things domestically. We feel we’re a North American company, not just a Canadian company,” says Murray.

Keeping it small and humble is what StepChild Snowboards strive for, and doing the right thing for the company and the sport. “We sometimes wonder how we did it,” says Murray. “We take heart in the fact we must be doing something right—and our suppliers are part of that. We look forward to building the relationship with CPI Resources and working with them for years to come.”

For more information on StepChild Snowboards and for a list of their dealers, visit www.StepChildSnowboards.com or use their online form to ask a specific question. For more information about CPI Resources and their services, visit www.CPIresources.net, or call (949) 975-1631.

Surf Expo again proved that it is an important market place for all action/water sports.

Buyers from 48 states and 71 countries were in attendance with a cumulative 3 day total of more than 11,000 buyers representing 6,400 retailers, an increase of more than 13% over last year's numbers.

A diversity of categories included Surf, Skate, Wake, Kite, SUP, Free Dive, Swim, Resort and Gift.

Highlights of the show included an offsite demo day at the Orlando Water Sports Complex, the 8th Annual Transworld Wake Awards, The AWSI Awards for Wind & Kite, the Transworld Business Showroom Fashion Show and on-floor demo areas for free-dive, wake, and SUP.

Here's a video recap:

To see the video on Vimeo, visit http://vimeo.com/29600332.

Bottom line is that our September show continues to evolve in to a true international water sports and water lifestyle show. Our growth categories included SUP, Wake, Kite and our newest addition, free-dive.

With our numbers approaching our record-setting 2008 totals, we feel that once again Surf Expo delivered a great product and we look forward to accelerating that momentum with our January 12-14 trade show.

The latest Small Business Roundup from Wells Fargo has our advice on keys for cash management, ways to save on business insurance and how to avoid business budgeting mistakes.

Best Practices

Keys to Cash Management

Cash is king, and many small businesses are in danger of running out in today's slumping economy. Business owners continue to struggle to find cash flow strategies that will help them survive the recession. Recent research suggests companies both large and small are still struggling to stay financially viable. The stakes are high and decisions critical, so what can you do to keep your business afloat?

Three things you can do:

1. Manage risk-managing accounts receivables is one of the key strategies for keeping cash flowing.

2. Understand cash needs-Cash flow projections are an important tool in understanding the cash flow needs of the business.

3. Conserve cash-Conserving cash is a key strategy for weathering recession. Many businesses are operating with a cost structure that can’t be supported by soft revenues.

To read more about keys to cash management, including Cash Flow Tips, click here.

Business Protection

Five Ways to Save on Business Insurance

Securing insurance for your business can save you tens of thousands (if not millions) of dollars if a covered loss occurs. But you can begin saving money before you even purchase your policy by following these five pointers for choosing the most cost-effective coverage.¹

1. Comparison Shop—Insurance prices vary from policy to policy and from company to company. Use this to your benefit by finding an insurance company that offers the best policy options for your needs at the lowest rate.

2. Choose a Higher Deductible—Deductibles are the amount of money you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. The higher the deductible, the less you will pay for the policy.

3. Buy a Package Policy—It can sometimes be more affordable to purchase a package policy rather than individually priced policies. One very popular package is a Business Owners Policy (BOP), which typically includes liability, property, and business interruption coverage.

4. Work Closely with Your Agent or Broker—Your business insurance agent can provide invaluable advice to help protect your business from unexpected disasters.

5. Be Proactive About Ways to Prevent Losses—You may be able to lower your rates by employing risk-management techniques like:

• Inspecting your workplace for loss prevention improvements.

• Installing safety devices like sprinklers, fire alarms, smoke detectors, and security systems.

• Offering workplace safety workshops.

• Offering disaster-preparedness training classes.

For more on ways to save on business insurance, click here.

Line Items

Avoid Key Budgeting Mistakes

Success is ultimately determined by the numbers, and a working budget is critical when it comes to understanding where the numbers are taking you. But budgeting mistakes can quickly derail a budget.

Ian Benoliel, CEO of software solutions provider NumberCruncher.com, Inc., has worked with thousands of small businesses in the areas of finance, accounting, and operations. In that time, he's seen owners make a few common, yet easily avoided budgeting errors:

Imagine the Worst When Doing Projections—"The thing we see most often is owners not being conservative enough," he says. "Whether it's on revenue projections or expenses, it makes sense to start with the worst-case scenario. You may think your sales will be great, but you need to account for those slow times for your budget to be realistic. What happens if you have no sales for a few months? What will it take to keep going?"

Take Care with Credit—Whether it's your own credit or credit that you extend to customers, you need to keep a close eye on it. Whenever you sell a product in a non-cash business, for example, you're typically not getting the cash from a sale right away.

Don't Forget the Tax Issues—It may seem like a no-brainer, but it happens all the time.

For more on Avoiding Key Budgeting mistakes, click here.

You're invited.

For over 20 years, Luce Forward's Labor & Employment Seminar has been the source of the most comprehensive, compelling and useful information regarding new developments in labor and employment law impacting California businesses.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Check-In 1:30 to 2:00 pm | Seminar 2:00 to 5:00 pm | Reception 5:00 to 7:00 pm

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

Pavilion Conference Room - 10950 North Torrey Pines Road - La Jolla, CA 92037

Map & Directions.

Agenda

1:30 to 2:00 pm > Check-In

2:00 to 2:40 pm

Recent Developments in California Employment Law

Presented by Emily T. Gates and William T. Earley

In this informative and entertaining (entertaining? Well, you be the judge!) presentation, Emily Gates and Bill Earley will highlight significant legal developments from the past year that affect California employers. Emily and Bill will analyze recent cases and new laws, and provide practical guidance for employers on how to deal with California's ever-changing legal landscape.

2:40 to 3:20 pm

Preventing Wage and Hour Claims in California

Presented by Marie Burke Kenny

Wage and hour claims continue to pose significant concern to California employers, particularly in light of the substantial potential costs involved in class actions and PAGA representative actions based on alleged California Labor Code violations. In this dynamic and insightful presentation, Marie Burke Kenny will address the various ways in which an employer can protect itself from wage and hour liability, as well as discuss the recent updates in California wage and hour laws over the past year. Topics will include proper expense reimbursement practices, California's reporting time pay and split shift premium requirements and overtime computation issues involving bonuses. Marie will also provide an analysis of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in AT&T Mobility v. Concepcion, explaining how that case impacts employment arbitration agreements in California.

3:20 to 3:35 pm > Break

3:35 to 4:15 pm

Conducting "Rightful" Terminations

Presented by Phillip L. Kossy

The termination of employment is rarely the result of a single event, but rather the culmination of several factors related both to the employee and the employer. In this presentation, Phil Kossy will provide practical yet sophisticated strategies that enable employers to engage in "rightful" terminations, thereby avoiding costly administrative claims and lawsuits.

4:15 to 5:00 pm

Employer Liability In the Era Of Social Media

Presented by Robert A. Levy

Social media use has exploded in the past several years. Between social media websites such as Facebook and Linkedin, there has been significant increase in commercial use of social media by employers. Employees want to be connected 24 hours a day. With this explosion, significant risks have arisen for employers. Bob Levy will discuss the legal and practical issues facing employers as a result of this social media use. Topics will include unauthorized disclosure or use of private, confidential or proprietary information, rights and limitations employers have when addressing work related and non-work related social media postings, and employer's duties when employees are texting or posting inappropriate, harassing or threatening remarks about other employees. Mr. Levy will also discuss the importance of implementation and use of a social media policy.

5:00 to 7:00 pm > Reception

REGISTRATION, PAYMENT & PARKING

$50.00 > $25.00 for each additional guest from the same organization.

Self-parking is hosted.

To register, click here.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT

This activity has been approved for Minimum Continuing Legal education credit by the State Bar of California in the amount of 2.75 hours of general participatory credit. Luce Forward Hamilton & Scripps LLP certifies that this activity conforms to the standards for approved education activities prescribed by the rules and regulations of the State Bar of California governing minimum continuing legal education.

This program has been approved for 2.75 (General) recertification credit hours toward PHR, SPHR and GPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute. Please be sure to note the program ID number on your recertification application form. For more information about certification or recertification, please visit the HR Certification Institute website at www.hrci.org.*

*The use of this seal is not an endorsement by the HR Certification Institute of the quality of the program. It means that this program has met the HR Certification Institute's criteria to be pre-approved for recertification credit.

THANKS FOR A GREAT SHOW.  

SEE YOU JAN.17-19 FOR FALL/WINTER 2012.

HELP US HELP YOU!

CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE OUR POST SHOW SURVEY.

We at KNOW?SHOW are always striving to improve the show experience and value the input of our retailers and exhibitors. Please take the time to click the link and complete the surveys. One lucky retailer will win one nights stay in Vancouver during January's show. Complete the survey by September 20th (12pm PST) to be eligible.

KNOW?SHOW Galleries

Take a look back at the 3 days of KNOW?SHOW in our Galleries section. Click here to see the photos.

We would like to thank everyone for coming out to the HB and NYC Agenda Shows this summer!

See you all soon at Agenda Long Beach.

January 5th & 6th, 2012 (9am-6pm)

Long Beach Convention Center

300 E. Ocean Blvd.

Long Beach, CA 90802

Here's a video from our last New York show.

Agenda:NYC July 18th & 19th 2011 from Agenda Tradeshow on Vimeo.

Time is running out to sign up for our intimate training session on September 7. Sign up today!

With so much change in the retail world and the action sports landscape, Surf Expo—our partner since BRA's inception— remains the place to check in and check the pulse of the industry. Take advantage of your trip to Orlando with a crash course at our new series BRA University.

This "semester" offers a four-hour session titled "Converting Online Traffic to Foot Traffic: Bringing Business to Your Door". Our expert speakers will teach you best practices to implement social media, video, a virtual storefront, and the optimal website to bring your brick and mortar store to the Web.

Following this info-packed morning you can join us as we hop a shuttle to Surf Expo's Demo Day for an afternoon of discovering new products and networking with other retailers and manufacturers. BRA University is in session Wednesday, September 7, from 9am-1pm. Cost is only $50 for BRA members and $75 for non-members.

Contact us today for more information at vicki@boardretailers.org or go to boardretailers.org.

Factoring is the selling of accounts receivable at a discount to a factor in order to obtain cash payment before the accounts come due. This basic definition can be easily found through an internet search, but how factoring works and why it’s an important financing option isn’t necessarily clear. To uncover the answers, let’s begin at the beginning.

How it all started

Factoring has been around for at least 4,000 years when Hammurabi and the Mesopotamians had the first written invoices. The type of factoring found in America today has its roots in the colonial days.

Colonists that produced goods to be sold in England had to wait to get paid as their wares were shipped overseas and the payment was shipped back. The factor stepped in to provide payment to the supplier so that the supplier could continue producing goods.

Factoring still plays an important role as goods continue to be bought and sold, and companies need working capital to continue running their businesses. The Commercial Finance Association says factoring has been a growth market since 1976.

Many businesses today turn to factoring for start-up, high growth or turnaround cash flow. 

Our clients range from companies with $5 million in annual sales volume up to companies with more than $300 million in annual sales.

Apparel and textile industry businesses are the most active users of factoring, though furniture, electronics, transportation and business services industries are also strong users of factoring.

An explanation in simple terms

A look at some basic terms will help in the understanding of what factoring is and how it works.

Company: The business that produces the goods and services.

Account debtor: The organization that purchases the goods and services from the company.

Accounts receivable: The amount owed by the account debtor to the company for goods and services provided. Accounts receivable are represented by an invoice.

How factoring works

In this example, the company is ABC Socks Company, and the account debtor is Anchor Department Store. These figures are not necessarily indicative of a typical deal but are simply used to demonstrate the process.

1. ABC Socks Company sells $100,000 worth of socks to the Anchor Department Store and generates an invoice for the accounts receivable with payment due in 60 days.

2. ABC Socks Company sells the $100,000 of accounts receivable to the factor.

3. The factor pays ABC Socks Company $80,000 immediately.

4. In 60 days, the factor collects full payment from Anchor Department Store.

5. The factor sends the remaining $20,000 to the ABC Socks Company, less the factor’s fee.

A sample of additional services that may be included in a factoring arrangement

The flexibility of factoring is a likely reason that factoring has existed for so long and is so widely used. A company may have various business services included as part of the arrangement with their factor.

In many of the situations listed below, the company is outsourcing its accounts receivable, reporting and collections to the factor. This can benefit the company by helping them keep staff and systems overhead low.

Non-recourse factoring. The factor provides the bookkeeping, accounts receivable posting and the reporting and collection services. The factor may provide advances or loans against the purchased accounts receivable, inventory or other assets. The factor assumes credit risk of an account debtor’s inability to pay the outstanding accounts receivable.

Recourse factoring. The factor provides the bookkeeping, accounts receivable posting and the reporting and collection services. But, similar to an asset-based lending situation, the factor does not assume credit risk of a customer’s inability to pay the outstanding accounts receivable. The risk is borne by the client.

Collection factoring. The factor provides the bookkeeping, accounts receivable posting and the reporting and collection services. But, the factor does not offer loan or advance privileges. The factor assumes credit risk of an account debtor’s inability to pay the outstanding accounts receivable.

Money or funds in use factoring. The factor provides the bookkeeping, accounts receivable posting and the reporting and collection services. The factor does offer advances and/or loans against the purchased accounts receivable, inventory or other assets. This can be done on a non-recourse or recourse basis.

Non-notification factoring. The client is responsible for collecting the invoice payments from its own customers. Generally, the client is required to direct its customers to remit payment to the factor’s lockbox.

The benefits of factoring

The most obvious benefit of working with a factor is the ability to quickly get working capital. The accelerated cash flow a factor can provide may help the success of a startup, a company experiencing high growth or a seasonal sales spike, or even a business in a turnaround situation.

Factors typically offer favorable advance rates for accounts receivable, inventory or other assets. A factor can also provide credit protection against customer bad debt losses.

An established factor can offer the ability for a client to outsource credit, accounts receivable bookkeeping and collections functions. This typically speeds accounts receivable collections and can free-up additional working capital for a company. It also converts accounts receivable management costs from fixed to variable, and they may be eligible for off balance sheet treatment.

Summary

Given the flexibility factoring offers, it is possible that factoring will be around for another 4,000 years. Though apparel, textile, furniture, electronics, tran sportation and business services industries have been actively using factoring, other industries such as toys, sporting goods and specialty foods are also recognizing the benefits of factoring.

If you are interested in learning more about how the Trade Capital team at Wells Fargo Capital Finance can help your business, click here or give us a call at 1-866-703-4932.

You're Invited!

For over 20 years, Luce Forward's Labor & Employment Seminar has been the source of the most comprehensive, compelling and useful information regarding new developments in labor and employment law impacting California businesses.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Check-In 1:30 to 2:00 pm | Seminar 2:00 to 5:00 pm | Reception 5:00 to 7:00 pm

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

Pavilon Conference Room - 10950 North Torrey Pines Road - La Jolla, CA 92037

Map & Directions.

AGENDA

Check-In > 1:30 to 2:00 pm

Seminar > 2:00 to 5:00 pm

Reception > 5:00 to 7:00 pm

TOPICS

Recent Developments in California Employment Law

Preventing Wage and Hour Claims in California

Conducting "Rightful" Terminations

Employer Liability In the Era Of Social Media

REGISTRATION, PAYMENT & PARKING

$50.00 > $25.00 for each additional guest from the same organization.

Self-parking is hosted.

To register, click here.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT

This activity has been approved for Minimum Continuing Legal education credit by the State Bar of California in the amount of 2.75 hours of general participatory credit. Luce Forward Hamilton & Scripps LLP certifies that this activity conforms to the standards for approved education activities prescribed by the rules and regulations of the State Bar of California governing minimum continuing legal education.

This program has been approved for 2.75 (General) recertification credit hours toward PHR, SPHR and GPHR recertification through the HR Certification Institute. Please be sure to note the program ID number on your recertification application form. For more information about certification or recertification, please visit the HR Certification Institute website at www.hrci.org.*

*The use of this seal is not an endorsement by the HR Certification Institute of the quality of the program. It means that this program has met the HR Certification Institute's criteria to be pre-approved for recertification credit.

KNOW?SHOW is only a few weeks away, running August 17th-19th in Vancouver, Canada.  

AUGUST 12 UPDATE:

ATTENDEE PRE-REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED

Attendees can register for the KNOW?SHOW onsite during the following dates/ times:

Tuesday 16 August 13:00 – 18:00 *encouraged to avoid wait times on Wednesday morning during peak arrival time

Wednesday 17 August 07:30 – 18:00

Thursday 18 August 08:00 – 18:00

Friday 19 August 08:00 – 16:00

Onsite Registration Location

The registration desk will be located in the Exhibition Level Lobby (outside of Exhibit Hall A) of the Vancouver Convention Centre West (1055 Canada Place Road, Vancouver).

Pre-registration will remain open until 12pm on August 8th. Retailers that haven't registered are urged to do so soon.

2011 KNOW?SHOW Open

Our yearly tournament is on deck once again presented by SBC Business and sponsored by Ogio. Open to all attendees of the show.

Email perry@knowshow.ca to register. $140 for golf, lunch, a cart, prizes and a delicious banquet supper. Space is limited so get at us soon!

The tournament will take place on Monday, August 15th.

Red Bull Presents Broken Toyz @ Fortune

JUST ANNOUNCED! Red Bull Presents The official KNOW?SHOW Spring 2012 party @ Fortune Sounds Club with BROKEN TOYZ, DJ Age and tyMetal. Your Show Badge gets you in Free by 11pm. Presented by Brixton, Instance, Native, Neff and RVCA.

This ones gonna be a hootenanny!

More info at on the Facebook page.

KNOW?SHOW Futbol

The beautiful game returns to the KNOW?SHOW. Check your email for an invite onto the pitch for the opening night of the show. No invite? Thats ok, come down for a pint, and to blow your Vuvuzela!

Official KNOW?SHOW Closing Party

It's that time again! Fortune has just announced the official KNOW?SHOW closing party!

End another show on the dance floor with music from Ricky Mars, Sincerely Hana, Rico Uno, Cherchez and Alien.

Mark the calendar and we will be sure to remind you again.

Check the FB page HERE.

Agenda Huntington Beach is This Week!

August 3rd & 4th, 2011 (9am-6pm)

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach

21500 Pacific Coast Highway

Huntington Beach, CA 92648

At the corner of Beach Blvd. & Pacific Coast Highway

Map it!

Pre-Registration is NOW REQUIRED to Attend Agenda

PLEASE NOTE: This registration section is NOT for registering your brand to EXHIBIT or SHOW at Agenda. This section is just for attendees and pre-approved exhibiting staff members to register to obtain passes for the shows. If you would like to submit your application to exhibit in future Agenda shows please click here.

NEW AGENDA ADMISSON POLICY: Please note that Agenda has changed our admission policies and now everyone must pre-register online HERE.

Buyers, distributors, press and pre-approved exhibiting staff members are admitted into the show for free but are now required to pre-register for each show by clicking HERE.

Manufacturers, suppliers, non-exhibiting sales reps & non-exhibiting designers will also need to pre-register by clicking HERE. After registering you will receive an email prompt with the next steps. If you are approved to attend, you will be required to pay a $200 admission fee per person online.

No sourcing agents of vertical manufacturers are allowed at Agenda. The general public is not admitted into Agenda and we reserve the right to refuse admission to anyone.

The Official Agenda Party

Neff presents The Official Agenda Party featuring DJ SKEE. Sound provided by SKULLCANDY.

August 3rd. 10pm-2am at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

The Agenda Family BBQ

The Agenda Family BBQ. Presented by RVCA, KRU 82 VODKA and Freedom Artists.

Free hot dogs and hamburgers for all attendees.

August 3rd. 6-8 pm in The Hyatt Regency Lighthouse Courtyard.

Performances by Snakebit Drifters, Runman & Gantez Warrior

Celebrities To Surf First Point Malibu At The Surfrider Foundation’s 6th Annual Celebrity Expression Session

Join celebrities from film, music and television at Malibu’s Surfrider Beach on Saturday, September 10 as they surf First Point in the Surfrider Foundation’s 6th Annual Celebrity Expression Session presented by Cali Bamboo. The hour-long free surf gives participants the opportunity to demonstrate their surfing skills on Malibu’s famous wave, while raising funds and awareness for the organization.

This is the fourth year that the Malibu Surfing Association’s MSA Classic is hosting the Celebrity Expression Session, which has attracted supporters such as Jason Mraz, Eric Balfour, Anthony Kiedis and Flea, and has raised more than $25,000 to protect our world’s oceans, waves and beaches. The MSA Classic is the premier contest in the Coalition of Surfing Clubs’ annual series. This year’s MSA Classic celebrates the club’s 50th anniversary, and is expected to draw 300 athletes from some of the world’s elite surfing clubs.

“We’re excited to be back at Malibu with Cali Bamboo and the Malibu Surfing Association for what promises to be another great Celebrity Expression Session,” says Alexis Henry, Surfrider Foundation’s Communications Manager. “Not only will beachgoers get to watch one of the longest running surf club contests, they’ll also get to watch our passionate celebrity supporters as they raise funds and awareness for the Foundation.”

San Diego-based Cali Bamboo, the premier manufacturer of green building materials made primarily from bamboo, returns for a second year as the Celebrity Expression Session’s presenting sponsor. Leading up to the event, Cali Bamboo is hosting a National Greenscape Challenge at http://www.calibamboo.com/greenscapechallenge.html to promote eco-friendly landscape and garden designs. The contest, inspired by Surfrider Foundation’s Ocean Friendly Gardens program, runs until July 31. The grand-prize winner, who will be announced on August 8, will enjoy an all-expense paid weekend to Los Angeles to watch the Celebrity Expression session, and enjoy a 30-minute surf session with a celebrity from the event.

“2010 was our first year attending and sponsoring the Celebrity Expression Session and it was a memorable experience to say the least. To help build excitement leading up to this year’s event, we launched the Greenscape Challenge contest with Surfrider,” said Jeff Goldberg, CEO and President of Cali Bamboo. “We’re proud to support this event, and it’s entertaining to watch the celebrities who get out in the water and show off their skills for a good cause!”

The Surfrider Foundation’s 6th Annual Celebrity Expression Session is presented by Cali Bamboo and made possible by the generosity of the Malibu Surfing Association and Barefoot Wine.

About Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 60,000 members and 100 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, visit www.surfrider.org.

About Cali Bamboo, LLC.

San Diego-based Cali Bamboo manufactures green building products for residential and commercial projects made primarily from bamboo; one of the world’s most durable, sustainable and renewable materials. Founded in 2004 by Jeff Goldberg and Tanner Haigwood, the company is fast becoming one of the shining examples of how individuals, businesses and communities can implement stylish architectural and interior designs without impacting the environment. Cali Bamboo’s wide range of bamboo offerings includes fencing, flooring, decking, plywood and more. For more information, visit www.CaliBamboo.com.

About Malibu Surfing Association

Formed in 1961, the Malibu Surfing Association (MSA) is one ofCalifornia's first surfing clubs. MSA is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to the fellowship of surfing and to the stewardship of its local break, world-famous Surfrider Beach. The MSA Competition Team is the 2006 champion of the Coalition of Surfing Clubs' CSC Series. Online at www.msasurfing.org.

About Barefoot Wine

Barefoot’s award-winning California wines are attractively priced and can be found in bottles bearing the fun, iconic footprint label. Barefoot’s still wine portfolio ($7 for 750-ml bottles, $12 for 1.5-liter bottles) includes twelve unique offerings: Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, White Zinfandel, Sweet Red, Moscato, Riesling, NEW Sweet Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Zinfandel. Barefoot also offers five delicious sparkling wines: Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvée, Extra Dry, Pinot Grigio, Moscato Spumante and Rosé Cuvée. Barefoot Bubbly is the most awarded California Sparkling Wine under $20 in the US and retails for $10. For more information about Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, visit www.barefootwine.com.

Here are highlights from our Q2 2011 Active Insights Quarterly report:

We provide research coverage and/or market-making for 30 active lifestyle companies, including these action sports and outdoor companies: Deckers Outdoor, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Dick's Sporting Goods, Lululemon Athletica, Nike, Urban Outfitters, Pacific Sunwear, VF Corporation, Columbia Sportswear, Quiksilver and Zumiez.

Solid Active Lifestyle IPO Backlog – The last IPO on a U.S. exchange in the Active Lifestyle sector was Lululemon Athletica in July 2007; however, there are three large IPOs in registration waiting to price:

• Skullcandy, an action sports headphone provider, filed its S-1 in January and is looking to raise $125 million;

• SRAM, a premium bicycle components manufacturer, filed its S-1 in May and is looking to raise $300 million; and

• Tilly’s, an action sports retailer, filed its S-1 in July and is looking to raise $100 million.

Shifts in Public Markets – Over the past decade, the IPO markets have experienced substantial structural changes that have made it more challenging for private companies to go public. In addition, the added compliance obligations associated with operating a public company have made IPOs a less attractive alternative for smaller, privately-held companies. As a result, there are dramatically fewer IPOs today than there were a decade ago, for example, from 1991 to 2000, there were 5,330 IPOs in the U.S., and from 2001 to 2010, there were 1,280 IPOs.

In recent years, private secondary markets, such as SecondMarket and SharesPost, have emerged as alternatives to the traditional public equity markets. While such private secondary markets do not provide the same levels of liquidity as traditional public markets, they do provide qualified investors with greater access to equity investments in venture capital-backed, rapidly growing emerging non-public companies without the corresponding costs associated with structuring privately negotiated investments.

Such markets may also provide a ready avenue to dispose of equity investments in privately-held companies when appropriate, as well as a more reliable means of determining the value of such equity investments. Overall, this is an interesting emergence of private secondary markets and we look forward to seeing what opportunities arise for smaller companies with strong growth prospects.

D.A. Davidson publishes this commentary to provide industry decision makers with relevant economic and market information in an accessible format. Please notify us if you would like additional information or if we can be of assistance with helping you raise capital or assisting in mergers or acquisitions.

Please contact us if you would like a full copy of the 6-page report.

Sam Orme is a Principal in Investment Banking for D.A. Davidson & Co. He has extensive experience working on a variety of investment banking transactions including mergers and acquisitions, public offerings, and private equity transactions. Companies he has worked with include American Sporting Goods, Volcom, Leatherman, Nautilus, PayPal.com, Ask.com, E*Trade.com, Teva/Ugg, Crocs, Cargill, Corporate Express, and Mitsui, as well as numerous financial buyout groups.

CPI Resources has everything you need to market your business, whether you want to increase sales and awareness to your company or are seeking to completely rebrand your image.

But, CPI Resources is not just about creating printed material or eye-catching signage. We take pride in helping our customers achieve their goals and are involved in the entire process, not just producing marketing materials. Our customers hire us because we have not only the resources but also the adeptness to successfully walk every project from beginning to end, while producing high-volume results.

Recently, we were hired by an organization to completely rebrand its image. Creative Behavior Interventions (CBI), a company specializing in working with families of autistic children, was scheduled to appear and promote at their booth at T.A.C.A (Talk About Curing Autism) Family Picnic. CBI knew they only had this one chance to make a solid impression, and enlisted CPI Resources to help them get it done right.

CPI Resources completely revamped CBI’s image and transcended the lines of traditional advertising to provide CBI with the products they would need to set them apart from everyone else.

CPI Resources collaborated with mastermind graphic designer Zeke from Zeke Design to produce high-quality shirts, banners, collateral, table cover, tote bags, and pens for CBI. Using our materials, the CBI booth turned out bold and vibrant, and was definitely the talking point and highlight of the entire event.

Our favorite product was the temporary tattoos of the new CBI mascot, an adorable bumblebee. The temporary tattoos were a hit, and their uniqueness attracted many passersby and children to the CBI booth.

Needless to say, CBI made quite an impression at the event. Not only that, but the giveaway products that CPI Resources produced for CBI—the pens, tote bags and other items—ensured that CBI’s return on investment would last long after the event was over. 

CPI Resources is equipped with the talent and resources to help small companies grow using our unique promotional items.

Our client portfolio consists of successful brands such as Boost Mobile and Vans who trust our work, so why shouldn’t you?

CPI Resources wants to help you execute creative, effective and affordable marketing and we would love to show you how—call us at (949) 975-1631 and we’ll answer any questions.

Andrew is constantly on me about writing more Industry Insight articles as a part of our sponsorship package. Installing and supporting apparel software is not the most exciting thing to write about. I decided to do something different, and tell a little story.

Approximately three years ago I received a phone call from a Tiffany Montgomery, asking me if she could meet with me to talk about sponsoring a new website she had launched called Shop-eat-surf.

My first response was, Shop-Surf-What? As I was about to blow her off, she indicated that Frank Kaufman from Moss Adams had referred her to me. I have the utmost respect for Frank, and decided I had nothing to lose to have a short meeting with Tiffany. When I sat down with Tiffany, I was just struck with how sweet and down to earth she was. It was like I was talking to a friend of mine for twenty years. I know most of you have met Tiffany, so I don’t believe I have to say much more about this fantastic person.

So she proceeded to tell me about her thoughts about the website, and the industry leaders she was going to interview, etc. To be honest, I was thinking that those were some pretty lofty goals. Well, her personality and vision won me over. I decided on the spot, that I would sponsor Shop-eat-surf. One decision I made, that I will never regret. I figured if she could charm me the way she did, that it was only a matter of time that Shop-eat-surf would take off. I obviously did not expect what was about to happen.

Well look at where Shop-eat-surf is today. She obviously had a vision, and tirelessly worked hard to make Shop-eat-surf the number one go to spot for information in the action sports industry. I would have never have believed it would be where it is at today. The interviews, and the information that she has brought to Shop-eat-surf is just simply awesome. The Executive Roundtables are interesting, informative, and truly a lot of fun. It has been an honor to sponsor the wonderful work that Tiffany and Andrew have been doing. You guys rule!

To all of my friends, colleges, bosses, people that I look up to, and all readers in general, I enjoy being able to sponsor Shop-eat-surf. I honestly believe that Tiffany and Andrew have brought our awesome community together in a way that no one could have ever imagined. I will continue to sponsor Shop-eat-surf in the future, for Tiffany, Andrew, and all the cool people that help make this industry so great.

Andrew always tells me, this is an opportunity to get your story out there. So, to make Andrew happy, if you are looking for the most kick-ass apparel software on the market, give me a call.

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to send my condolences to the entire LRG family, in the untimely passing of an industry icon, Jonas Bevacqua. You will be missed, but your legacy will live on.

Peace -

Joseph R. Schaefer

Your business and personal wealth are connected. This concept may sound obvious, but I often see its implication forgotten in practice. I come across many people so focused on their business they forget to pay attention to their personal goals.

That’s an unfortunate mistake. A thoughtful personal financial plan can help pave the way for you and your family to maintain your current lifestyle while meeting your personal goals and the business milestones you’ve carefully laid out.

Remember the first dollar you made? Earning it was so personal and intentional. A financial plan can help focus your current goals with the same intensity and purpose you had with that first dollar. Whether you're exploring additional business ventures, eyeing retirement, or planning yearly trips with your family for business and pleasure, a plan will put you in a better position to know what you can afford.

Questions are critical at all stages of the financial planning process, as they can help prioritize your goals. It’s important to analyze and evaluate all the factors to gain a thorough understanding of where you’ve been, where you are, where you’re headed, and where you need to be.

Regardless of what you’re aiming for, establishing and following a plan after a comprehensive review of your goals and objectives will add clarity and sense of direction while navigating your financial future. And that just might be the best way for you to stay focused on what you love most.

Jason Romano is a partner with Moss Adams providing investment management and consulting services for the Southern California offices of Moss Adams Wealth Advisors. Mr. Romano brings over 15 years of experience as a wealth manager working with high net worth families and people in the entertainment and apparel industries. 

Intriguing, fun, relevant, thoughtful and beautiful.

Surfrider Foundation CEO Jim Moriarty is showing 125 8x8 Giclee prints at Gallery Neuartig at 366 W. 7th St. in San Pedro, CA on Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 7-9pm.

This very unique show benefits the Surfrider Foundation. Each of the 125 prints will be sold through a silent auction format starting $100. The Surfrider Foundation is a grassroots non-profit environmental organization that works to protect and preserve the world's oceans, waves, and beaches.

"At Surfrider we're about using the best tools possible to maximize our mission of coastal protection. We want people pushing out pictures, videos and podcasts...anything that helps connect people to our vision of healthy coasts. Part of this process is having them use tools like iPhones as much as possible and explore those tools capabilities. All these photos were taken on my iPhone." said Moriarty. "In some cases I've also used phone apps to tweak or mashup the imagery. I thing of these photos as something in-between real-time loose sketches and an ongoing photographic journal."

Moriarty has been sharing his photographic journal with his Facebook friends for several years. "I knew this would be the eventual outcome of so many great moments," said friend Ian Padraig O'Roarty.

Jim Moriarty is the CEO of the Surfrider Foundation an an innovative leader in the environmental and action sports communities. From a a skateboarding punk-rock kid to an architect of the early days of e-commerce, Moriarty is obsessed with building companies and organizations around notable and world-altering ideas. Jim's job as CEO of the Surfrider Foundation melds his passions for environmental awareness, action sports and big ideas. His vision is clear: Create a global movement of coastal environmental awareness and action. Jim resides in Solana Beach, and when he's not working, he can be found riding waves at his home break in Cardiff Reef.

Gallery Neuartig in San Pedro, CA strives to create meaningful and stimulating surroundings through contemporary art and maintains an eclectic program of carefully selected artists based on mastery of their craft, creative process and the depth of their vision and ideas.

We invite all media, members of the surf community community and art lovers to this special opening. We invite everyone to bid on the pieces. Early bidding on some pieces has started on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.182751815114810.47911.105244419532217

Facebook invite: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=210569392313868

We asked Mike Jacot, the buyer for Central Coast Surfboards in San Luis Obisbo, California, to test drive our FrontWindow Facebook tool.

We built the tool to make it easier for retailers to connect with consumers and provide them content from brands.

After testing it for about 6 weeks, Mike told us that our app was working beyond his expectations.

"FrontWindow has been putting us on top of local searches ... faster than we realized,” he told us.

“It only takes minimal effort on my part to upload new videos, set new stuff up. ... It’s creating a buzz on our website and Facebook because now people are looking at it and commenting."

Or click on this link to go to our channel on Vimeo: Front Window Increases Brand Sales for Surf Retailer! 

The FrontWindow Facebook app saves time, providing quick, easy access to engaging content from the brands retailers carry. In just minutes, retailers can browse, attach comments, and post great content to their Facebook pages.

Our Facebook app is fast, easy, and best of all, the more they use it, the better retailers will rank in local Google searches for brands and their products. I can't think of a more direct way to help support the retailers who are so crucial in growing brand awareness on a local level."

And, our Facebook app is just the latest great component in FrontWindow.

FrontWindow is a tool to enhance retailer/brand collaboration, and to help both parties increase their sales. We have included features that are as much a benefit to retailers as they are to the brands who pay for the service.

FrontWindow is a tool by Clarinova that helps consumers find your brand locally and makes it easy for your retailers to distribute content about your brand to their Facebook friends.

Find out more at clarinova.com.

I remember years before even installing Full Circle® at LRG I had the pleasure of running into the LRG team during magic at a Japanese restaurant in the MGM.

I was with my eight month old son, mom, and a friend. We kept hearing chanting, and seeing fun and laughter ensuing from tables packed with people near. In looking closer I saw each person with an LRG symbol on their clothing somewhere.

Low and behold moments later in walked Robert and Jonas and a loud standing ovation ensued. It brought a smile to my face to see such team camaraderie and pure happiness. We paid our bill, gathered our things, and began walking out of the dining room.

Two of the LRG members smoking near the entrance came over to me and began apologizing, explaining what they do for a living, and said that they hoped they hadn’t disturbed our dinner.

Such genuine people and words brought a smile to my face. I congratulated them on their success, creativity and diversity in such a hard market. I think they were baffled that I knew of them.

They looked at me and seeing my son in my arms laughed and said you are more than welcome to join us. And I would have if the circumstances were different.

I unfortunately never had the pleasure of meeting Jonas Bevacqua. My dinning encounter and having spent time with the rest of the LRG family during the install of Full Circle proved to all of us at Innovative Systems what a truly unique, gifted, genuine, and creative team of people made up the LRG family.

Without Jonas and Robert creating such an iconic brand the entire Innovative Systems team would never have known this amazing group of people and for that we are truly forever grateful.

GET ACTIVE, GET WET, GET INVOLVED

The Surfrider Foundation and SURFING Magazine have organized more than 147 official International Surfing Day events that are confirmed to take place on Monday, June 20th. Surfrider Foundation Chapters, along with various other organizations, will host beach cleanups, art projects, dune restorations and surf clinics worldwide.

“There are so many fantastic events lined up for this year’s International Surfing Day. It’s the perfect excuse to take some time off, surf and give back to our oceans, waves and beaches,” says Laura Mazzarella, Surfrider Foundation’s Marketing Manager. “We’re excited to celebrate ISD with people everywhere, whether it’s through a local event or through our special membership drive.”

Key events this year include the Otter Rock and Roll Surf Contest in Oregon for kids of all ages; the Colorado River Surfing Association’s surf contest and river cleanup; the South Texas Chapter’s free surf clinics for kids in South Padre Island; horseshoe crab tagging in Connecticut; and a surf art fundraiser in Washington, DC. Additional events from taking place around the world can be found at www.intlsurfingday.com.

Keeping with tradition, the Surfrider Foundation will also host a special International Surfing Day drive to encourage people to join or renew their memberships. For $25, new or renewing members will receive a limited edition ISD t-shirt, a complimentary one-year subscription to SURFING Magazine and a bar of all natural surf wax. For those looking to go big on International Surfing Day, join or renew at the $100 level and receive all the great premiums above along with a pair of Dragon E.C.O. Sunglasses.

In addition to the Surfrider Foundation-hosted events worldwide, International Surfing Day sponsor Barefoot Wine is dispatching film crews to ten locations. Footage captured will be used to create One Beach, a film series about a global community coming together to keep beaches barefoot friendly through optimism and creativity. Directed by Jason Baffa, One Beach will premiere in Fall 2011.

Founded seven years ago by the Surfrider Foundation and SURFING Magazine, International Surfing Day unites surfers from around the world in celebration of the sport of surfing. As is tradition with the annual holiday, surfers will do their part to give back to our oceans, waves and beaches through various organized events courtesy of the Surfrider Foundation. International Surfing Day has exploded from 16 domestic and one international location in 2005 to more than 147 events in 29 countries this year, including unexpected locations such as Taiwan, Malta and Ghana.

Surfrider Foundation, SURFING Magazine and Barefoot Wine make the 7th Annual International Surfing Day possible.

About Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 60,000 members and 100 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, go to www.surfrider.org.

About SURFING Magazine

SURFING Magazine is the official storyteller of modern surf culture. We seek out the personalities and ideas that define our community — progressive, authentic and young, with a focus on the experiences and lifestyle that make surfing more than a sport. Travel. Photography. People. Fashion. Music. Art. The magazine is published 12 times per year by Source Interlink Media’s Actions Sports Group (ASG) / Grind Networks, an integrated network of magazines, digital properties, events and television programming. www.surfingmagazine.com

About Barefoot Wine

Barefoot’s award-winning California wines are attractively priced and can be found in bottles bearing the fun, iconic footprint label. Barefoot’s still wine portfolio ($7 for 750-ml bottles, $12 for 1.5-liter bottles) includes twelve unique offerings: Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, White Zinfandel, Sweet Red, Moscato, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Zinfandel. Barefoot also offers five delicious sparkling wines: Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvée, Extra Dry, Pinot Grigio, Moscato Spumante and Rosé Cuvée. Barefoot Bubbly is the most awarded California Sparkling Wine under $20 in the US and retails for $10. For more information about Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, visit www.barefootwine.com.

We have four new updates at the Agenda Trade Show: Travel arrangements are now in place for the next Agenda Huntington Beach, we're now requiring pre-registration for the show, we have information about Agenda NYC, and we have updates on our show artists for Agenda NYC and Agenda Huntington Beach.

Travel Arrangements

Agenda Huntington Beach

Please book hotels, flights and all travel early.

Hotels will sell out due to the US Open coinciding with Agenda in Huntington Beach. 

Hotels

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 

21500 Pacific Coast Highway 

Huntington Beach, CA (Map It)

Phone: (714) 698-1234

Click here to book your room.

Fairmont Hotel Newport, CA
4500 MacArthur Boulevard
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Map It)
Phone: (949) 476-2001
Agenda Rate: $128 While they last
Click here to book your room.

Radisson Hotel Newport, CA

4545 MacArthur Boulevard 

Newport Beach, CA. 92660 (Map It)

Phone: (949) 833-0570

Agenda Rate: $99 While they last

Click here to book your room.

For more information on travel arrangements, including Airline Discounts, click HERE.

Pre-Registration

Pre-registration is NOW REQUIRED to attend Agenda.

Click HERE to register online now.

PLEASE NOTE: This registration section is NOT for registering your brand to EXHIBIT or SHOW at Agenda. This section is just for attendees to register to obtain passes for the shows.

NEW AGENDA ADMISSON POLICY: Please note that Agenda has changed our admission policies and now everyone must pre-register online.

Buyers, distributors, and press are admitted into the show for free but are now required to pre-register for the each show by clicking HERE.

Manufacturers, suppliers, non-exhibiting sales reps & non-exhibiting designers will also need to pre-register by clicking HERE. After registering you will receive an email prompt with the next steps. If you are approved to attend, you will be required to pay a $200 admission fee per person online.

No sourcing agents of vertical manufacturers are allowed at Agenda. The general public is not admitted into Agenda and we reserve the right to refuse admission to anyone.

Agenda NYC

Agenda New York

July 18th & 19th, 2011 (9am-6pm)

Launch Microsite

Chelsea Art Museum

556 West 22nd Street

New York, NY 10011

Travel Info

Ace Hotel

20 West 29th Street

New York, NY 10001

P.212.679.2222

Agenda Rate: $229 and up. While they last.

Click here to book your room.

Agenda Artists

Agenda teams up with Joe King of Rook Clothing to create the graphic for the upcoming Agenda: NYC show.

Some of Joe's other clients include: Crooks N Castles, Billabong, Elwood, Kr3w, OBEY, Osiris, Rich Soil, Darkstar Wood, Freshjive and Rook. Here's part of Joe's bio, from his website:

"At an early age it was apparent King didn't fit in societies design. School was always an up hill battle, but was tolerated for the chance to participate in art classes or any other creative outlet they would provide. Native to southern California he grew up skating the streets of Long beach and it's surrounding cities. ...

"Sometimes hitting rock bottom is what it takes to discover what you live for, art and skateboarding became salvation. After only a few semesters at his local junior collage it became apparent that illustration and design was going to become his career."

For the upcomping Huntington Beach show, Agenda teams with Chicago artist Pose.

Pose worked with LRG and founded We Are Supervision. Here's some of Pose's bio from an artist profile by The Known Gallery.

"Hailing from the Windy City, Pose made his first attempt at graffiti in 1992.

"Since then he has added a multitude of contributions to the Graff game and set out to conquer every medium visual art has to offer; on and off the streets.

"An aesthetic chameleon and jack of all creative trades, Pose enjoys abusing the alphabet, pomade, cold steel and the triumph of originality."

Brands and Businesses Now Allowed To Join And Share Benefits With Employees

On the heels of the last weekend’s Surf Industry Manufacturers Association’s annual summit, the Surfrider Foundation announced that it is rolling out a new corporate level membership program for brands and businesses.

Under the new program, companies apply for a corporate level membership for their businesses. Once accepted, the company joins for a one-time fee of $2,500, with an annual renewal of only $200. Each corporate level membership includes two (2) complimentary regular Surfrider Foundation memberships, a crystal plaque and logo assets identifying them as an official corporate member. Additionally, as a corporate member, companies will have the ability to offer their employees Surfrider Foundation memberships for just $5 – a 80% discount off the standard price.

“We’ve been looking for a way for companies to not only show their support for Surfrider, but to extend some level of benefit to their employees as well,” said Matt McClain, Director of Marketing for the Surfrider Foundation.

Applications for Surfrider Foundation’s new corporate memberships are now being accepted. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Matt McClain at mmcclain@surfrider.org.

About Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 60,000 members and 100 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, visit www.surfrider.org.

KNOW?SHOW Accommodations

SHOWKRAFT Event Management Group is the official housing bureau for the KNOW?SHOW.  A discounted room rate has been negotiated for attendees of the KNOW?SHOW at the Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel. Questions regarding hotel reservations can be directed to registration@knowshow.ca or by contacting the hotel directly. You are strongly encouraged to book your hotel early!

Hotel reservation deadline: Monday August 1st, 2011

In addition, KNOW?SHOW attendees will receive a welcoming package and their show accreditation upon arrival to the official hotel.There are two ways to book your hotel room:

Use the Online Reservation Form -or- By Phone Toll Free at 1-800-663-9255.

Find more info HERE.

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel

1088 Burrard Street

Vancouver, BCV6Z 2R9

Official Airline Partner

Westjet is pleased to offer a 10% discount off the best available regular fare at the time of the booking (excluding web and promotional fares) to attendees of KNOW?SHOW. Discounted rates are available for travel up to 3 days prior and 3 days after the KNOW?SHOW. For travel outside of these dates, Westjet will offer the best available fare at the time of booking. Attendees must make their travel arrangements through the WestJet Specialty Sales Team and quote the account number below at the time of booking.

To book a flight with Westjet call:

1-877-952-4696 (Mon – Fri 7:00am to 5:30pm MST)

KNOW?SHOW Account #: CC6977

Beckett’s Buddies was started in 2009 by two teenage sisters with a mission. Maddie and Kenzie Ludes were looking to create a club at their high school, but wanted it to be more than just a social club; it had to have a purpose. When they heard about the diagnosis of their neighbor’s nearly two-year-old son Beckett, they knew they had to take action. They also knew that they had found a cause their club could proudly stand behind.

Within days of hearing from Amy Williams, their neighbor and Beckett’s mother, about her son’s diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, the sisters sprang into action and formed Beckett’s Buddies, explaining the genetic disease to their club members and fellow students and spreading awareness throughout the community.

Now in its second year and 30 students strong, Beckett’s Buddies are gearing up for this Saturday, May 21st, when Huntington Beach hosts the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Great Strides event. Last year, the team raised about $28,000, and for this year their total already stands at over $35,000.

Amy Williams is not only touched by the Ludes’ and other students’ efforts, she also knows that the money will go to help research that has, indeed, made great strides over the past 50 years. “The average life expectancy is up from four years old to 37 years old,” Williams says. “So the money raised is really making a difference to those living with cystic fibrosis.”

To a mother, those numbers are crucial, and the Foundation’s supporters will be walking the five-kilometer course next Saturday to raise over $400,000 for further research to increase that average life expectancy. Sponsors of the event include large corporations such as Coca-Cola and the DISH Network, plus local companies, such as Ruby’s Restaurants, Volcom, BJ’s Pizza, Beach Pit BBQ and CPI Resources, who donated the signs to mark the walk-a-thon course.

“We are happy to help Beckett’s Buddies and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation raise funds and awareness about their important cause,” says Patrick Shedarowich, Sales Executive at CPI Resources. “We’re very proud of what Beckett’s Buddies have accomplished so far.”

For more information on Amy Williams, her son Beckett and Beckett’s Buddies, watch her video at http://vimeo.com/23343247. For more information about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, visit their website http://www.cff.org. To join Beckett’s Buddies and register for the walk on May 21st at 8:30am, visit http://www.cff.org/great_strides/AmyWilliams6601.

For further information about how CPI Resources works with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other non-profits, please call us directly at (949) 975-1631 or use our online form to get in touch.

President Obama has signed into law legislation that repeals the Form 1099 information reporting requirements enacted last year as part of health care reform legislation and the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010.

Specifically, the Comprehensive 1099 Taxpayer Protection and Prepayment of Exchange Subsidy Overpayments Act of 2011 withdraws information reporting requirements from:

• Businesses that make payments aggregating $600 or more during a calendar year to a corporation (enacted as part of the health care reform legislation for payments made after 2011)
• Individuals who earn rental income from real property and make payments aggregating $600 or more during a calendar year for rental property expenses (enacted as part of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 for payments made after 2010)

This reflects the first provision in the health care reform legislation to be repealed.

MA Alerts are written and edited by assurance, tax, and consulting professionals at Moss Adams LLP.

Their goal is to bring you timely information critical to your organization's compliance with (or ability to leverage) changing tax laws or regulatory standards. As always, we welcome your feedback.

Visit our Publications page to read past Alerts, industry-focused newsletters, and other articles designed to help you succeed.

The 11th largest accounting and consulting firm in the United States, Moss Adams provides expertise to public, private, and not-for-profit enterprises across the nation, in a wide range of industries. Discover how we make a difference.

Here are highlights from our Q1 2011 Active Insights Quarterly report.

We provide research coverage and/or market-making for 31 active lifestyle companies, including these action sports and outdoor companies: Deckers Outdoor, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Dick's Sporting Goods, Lululemon Athletica, Nike, Urban Outfitters, Pacific Sunwear, VF Corporation, Columbia Sportswear, Volcom, Quiksilver and Zumiez.

Public Company Market Commentary

Stock prices in the active lifestyle composite increased 23% over the 12-month period ending 3-31-11 and valuations remained strong at around 8.9x Total Enterprise Value / EBITDA.

Large Cap Stocks Break from the Pack

Stock prices of companies with market caps over $2B grew 45.1% for the 12-month period ending 3-31-11, substantially exceeding the performance of the sub-$2B market cap companies and the broader market.

Positive Indicators

In March 2011, unemployment dropped to 8.8% and consumer confidence remained 20%+ higher than the 3-year average.

Consumers Grapple with Higher Costs

CPI increased at a 6% annualized rate in February 2011, which was driven largely by increasing food and energy costs. Increasing input costs for materials (such as cotton) and labor are looming.

NRF Expects 4.0% increase in 2011

The National Retail Federation (“NRF”) expects retail sales growth in 2011 (excludes auto, gas, and restaurant) to be higher than both 2010 growth and the 10-year average retail growth of 3.1% and 3.7%, respectively.

Compression in Multiples

EBITDA multiples are down 9% from a year ago, as EBITDA growth has outpaced share prices.

M&A Activity Continues in 2011

Active Lifestyle M&A activity remained healthy in Q1 2011, although the number of transactions decreased from Q1 2010. Notable deals in Q1 2011 include:

• Mar. 15: GSI Commerce (GSIC) acquires Football Fanatics, a provider of online team and league-licensed merchandise, for $277M
• Mar. 2: Weyco Group (WEYS) acquires The Combs Company, a manufacturer of boots and shoes, for $43M
• Feb. 17: Brown Shoe Co. (BWS) acquires American Sporting Goods Corporation, a footwear manufacturer, for $151M
• Feb. 8: DSW (DSW) agrees to merge with Retail Ventures (RVI), its largest shareholder

D.A. Davidson publishes this commentary to provide industry decision makers with relevant economic and market information in an accessible format. Please notify us if you would like additional information or if we can be of assistance with helping you raise capital or assisting in mergers or acquisitions.

Please contact us if you would like a full copy of the 6-page report.

Sam Orme is a Principal in Investment Banking for D.A. Davidson & Co. He has extensive experience working on a variety of investment banking transactions including mergers and acquisitions, public offerings, and private equity transactions. Companies he has worked with include American Sporting Goods, Volcom, Leatherman, Nautilus, PayPal.com, Ask.com, E*Trade.com, Teva/Ugg, Crocs, Cargill, Corporate Express, and Mitsui, as well as numerous financial buyout groups.

12TH ANNUAL NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES
2011 ACTION SPORTS FILM SERIES

The Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) proudly announces its 2011 Action Sports

Film Series (ASFS), an international showcase of films celebrating athletes, visionaries, filmmakers, cinematographers, pioneers, environmentalists, entrepreneurs, artists and designers who have shaped the Action Sports culture and cultivated its progression with

their innovation, energy and creativity.

The event will take place during the week of the Newport Beach Film Festival (April 28 -

May 5, 2011) in Orange County, CA, a location celebrated as the epicenter of the surf wear and action gear industry and the ultimate destination to experience music infused cutting-edge adventure on the big screen.

ASFS films will screen at Triangle Square (1870 Harbor Boulevard in Costa Mesa) and at Regency Lido Theatre (3459 Via Lido Drive in Newport Beach).

Co-produced by the NBFF Action Sports Core Team and ChopShop, with promotional support by SKATEBOARDER Magazine, SURFING Magazine, Blue C Advertising and Travis Poe, the NBFF Action Sports Film Series will spotlight twenty-three films from around the world.

The Action Sports Film Series will celebrate athletes pushing the limits in some of the world’s most challenging and spectacular outdoor playgrounds and give filmgoers an opportunity to experience breathtaking cinematography, cultural journeys, in-depth portrayals and compelling stories that explore the physical, emotional, historical and spiritual realms of surfing, skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, stand up paddle boarding, cycling and motocross.

Highlights include red carpet film premieres, spotlight screenings, post-parties, filmmaker panels, athlete guest appearances, autograph signings and the participation of action sports retailers.

On Saturday, April 30 at 8:00pm at Triangle Square, the NBFF will host its Action Sports Spotlight, featuring a special screening of 2010 XXL Global Big Wave Awards, starring Shane Dorian, Greg Noll, Mark Healy, Greg Long, Keala Kenneally, followed by a Q&A with filmmakers Sam George, Paul Taubleib and athletes from the film.

Prior to the feature, the NBFF will present Tanker Love, a production of explore.org, about stand up paddle boarding (SUP) in Galveston Bay.

Following the screening, the NBFF will host its Saturday Night Showcase Party presented by 944 Magazine at The Sports Club/LA - Orange County (1980 Main St in Irvine) with entertainment, hosted bars by Absolut and Stella Artois and culinary samplings from top area restaurants.

West Coast Premieres

• Adam Pesce’s Splinters, (produced by Perrin Chiles and co-produced by NBFF alumni filmmakers TJ Barrack and Wes Brown) chronicling the evolution of indigenous surfing in Papau New Guinea, its emerging surf talent and the sports impact on one village’s social dynamics.
• Like A Lion, an in-depth behind the scenes portrayal of ski champion Tanner Hall.
• Alex DePhillipo’s Dark Fall following the adventures of brave cold-water surfers catching killer waves on the East Coast.

Other action sports films

• Quiksilver’s surf film Eddie’s Day, chronicling the annual Eddie Aikau event on Waimea Bay.
• Quiksilver’s new short film Moments, starring Dane Reynolds, Kelly Slater, Jeremy Flores, Clay Marzo and Craig Anderson.
• Bodyglove’s surf film Drop Zone: Fiji with surfers Holly Beck, Alex Gray, Cheyne Magnusson and filmmakers Greg Browning, Scott Daley, Scott Smith, Jenny Lane scheduled to attend.
• Stoked & Broke follows OC native surfer Cyrus Sutton and Ryan Burch on an entertaining journey into the oceans and streets of San Diego on a shoestring budget.
• James Cheeks III’s skate film On The Grind takes us into the depths of the Long Beach skate scene.
• Surfing With The Enemy, a film about the difficult challenges of surfers in Havana, Cuba.
• Taylor Steele’s Castles In The Sky follows surfers Dane Reynolds, Rob Machado, Dave Rastovich, Jordy Smith, Dan Malloy, Craig Anderson, Tim Curran, Kalani Robb, Mike Losness to Iceland, Peru, India, and Africa.
• Way of The Ocean captures the pure essence of Australia’s ocean.
• Out Of The Shadows spotlights insanely adventurous skiers conquering the slopes of Canada.
• From the1984 Sarajevo Winter Olympics to the Whitefish race in 2001, Zeke Piestrup’s new film Downhill: The Bill Johnson Story chronicles the life of Olympic Gold medalist rebel skier Bill Johnson, his traumatic brain injury and miraculous recovery.

Action Sports Shorts

• The Physics Of Surfing
• Confiskate
• Surfing The Silver Dragon
• Solo
• Calling On Others.
• At Equilibrium from Bulgaria
• The Lone Jackal from South Africa
• The Baja Wave Document from Mexico.

“The 2011 Action Sports Films Series has a strong international and humanitarian focus. Loaded with cinematically stunning footage and supercharged performances by stellar athletes, the program shines a light on compelling human stories of challenge and compassion from a wealth of fascinating cultures in the action sports world,” stated Leslie Feibleman, the NBFF’s Director of Special Programs / Action Sports Film Series.

For tickets, passes, the complete Festival schedule, full synopses, trailers and information, visit www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com. 2011 NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL Action Sports Film Series Lineup

About the Newport Beach Film Festival

Celebrated as one of the leading lifestyle film festivals in the United States, the Newport Beach Film Festival seeks to bring to Orange County the best of classic and contemporary filmmaking from around the world. Committed to enlightening the public with a first-class international film program, a forum for cultural understanding and enriching educational opportunities, the NBFF focuses on showcasing a diverse collection of studio and independent films from around the globe. The 12th annual Newport Beach Film Festival runs April 28- May 5, 2011 and will spotlight over 400 films from around the world. www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com and www.nbffACTION.com

About ChopShop

Orange County-based ChopShop is a film and video production company that specializes in creating content for the action sports market. The ChopShop team of professionals takes projects from concept to completion for airing on broadcast, cable, online, cell phone, iPod, events, or DVD. www.chopshoptv.com.

Editor's note: Shop-eat-surf.com is a member of the advisory board of the Newport Beach Film Festival's Action Sports Series.

The volatility of the current economic marketplace has companies scrambling for the best and latest way to promote their product and service and attract customers.

With the barrage of new technology, from Facebook to “apps” on smart phones and QR codes, many of these companies are overlooking, and even dismissing, some of the most simple, but most effective, forms of marketing.

Window displays and store signage are two of the cheapest forms of marketing, beaten only by promotional products for highest return on investment.

But it’s not just about cost, it’s about what window and retail signage can do for your business. Is your storefront working hard enough for you? Does it attract customers? Does it represent and promote your brand? Is it telling people they can buy your product—right here?

There are many ways to use your storefront to sell your business, services and products but, as with everything, it needs to be done correctly to show results.

Bad window signage is worse than none at all, making it essential to use a company with the expertise to provide real return on investment.

Window displays over a retail store in construction are a perfect vehicle for reinforcing brand recognition and generating excitement for a store opening.

In fact, Sketchers has hired CPI Resources to provide their window display graphics for all of the soon-to-open locations nationwide to generate anticipation among their local demographic.

Our customers hire us because we take the project from beginning to end. CPI Resources provides consultation, surveying, permit acquisition, manufacturing, installation and servicing.

Our big-brand clients, such as Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile, use us to maximize the usable signage “real estate” to promote their products and services while also keeping their branding consistent throughout nationwide chains of stores.

We don’t want to sell you a window display. At CPI Resources, we want to be your partner in creating effective advertising to increase your brand recognition and sales. We welcome the opportunity to show you how.

Dan Shedarowich was formerly Manager of International Marketing for Pertec Computer Corporation before joining Charter Printing, Inc. at its inception. CPI Resources was founded by Carol Shedarowich in 1986, and is still a female-owned company operating as Charter Printing, Inc., a California corporation.

Donate Life 9th Annual 5k Run/Walk

Moss Adams is pleased to announce our role as presenting sponsor of the Donate Life 5K Run/Walk and Family Festival to be held at Cal State Fullerton on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

Join us and help raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donation.

Donate Life is a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading awareness about organ and tissue donation for the over 100,000 people waiting for an organ transplant today.

The 9th Annual Donate Life Run/Walk and Family Festival will benefit the Donate Life California Organ and Tissue Donation Registry.

We invite you to join Moss Adams employees, along with our families, friends and local university students, who will be volunteering and participating in this event.

Admission is free of charge. If you wish to participate in the Run/Walk, registration information is available at Donate Life or to contribute, please click here.

MATCH (Moss Adams Team for Charity) is the community service team in the Moss Adams Orange County office. By strengthening our ties with our community, we provide employees with opportunities to gain fresh perspectives and share their enthusiasm for charities that are important to them.

Date & Time: Saturday, April 30, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm.

Location: Intramural Field, Cal State Fullerton, 800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton, CA 92831

Questions: Corrine Baughman, 949-221-4000 or email Corinne.Baughman@mossadams.com.

The 11th largest accounting and consulting firm in the United States, Moss Adams provides expertise to public, private, and not-for-profit enterprises across the nation, in a wide range of industries. Discover how we make a difference.

Pugh To Assume GM Role Of KNOW?SHOW, Showkraft Event Management Named To Produce KNOW?SHOW

The KNOW?SHOW is happy to announce co-owner and head of exhibit sales Perry Pugh will begin a new role with the company as General Manager and Head of Sales.

As the show's role in Canada's retail market grows, the ownership group felt it was imperative to have full time personnel dedicated to working on growing the show.

"I'm very excited to be able to focus on the relationships we've built over the last 5 years, and build on opportunities for our business to continue to improve how premium brands connect with Canada's top retailers," Pugh said.

The show's two other founders, Ben Couves and Nick Brown, will remain involved with the show in an advisory and directional roles.

"I'm really excited to take this huge step with the show and have a key member of our team make KNOW?SHOW a full time focus," said Nick Brown, co-owner of KNOW?SHOW. 

"This will undoubtedly help the show evolve and provide our loyal customer base with a full time dedicated level of service that will exceed the previous structure."

KNOW?SHOW management is also announcing that SHOWKRAFT EVENT MANAGMENT has now been contracted to handle event production for the KNOW?SHOW.

SHOWKRAFT will provide logistical and registration services for the KNOW?SHOW in a continued effort to provide a better tradeshow experience for all exhibitors and show attendees.

In working with Khara we are extremely confident in the services SHOWKRAFT will provide and expect all of our stakeholders to enjoy an even better experience in dealing with attending the KNOW?SHOW. We are proud to be SHOWKRAFT's first client, and are excited to get to work.

"SHOWKRAFT is excited about the opportunity to partner with Perry, Nick and Ben to produce the KNOW?SHOW," said Khara Robertson of SHOWKRAFT.

"We hope to be an integral part of its continued success by offering outstanding logistical support and excellent customer service to all who participate in the show."

For all exhibition questions please contact Perry via email at perry@knowshow.ca

Anyone who has ever been in charge of organizing or sponsoring an event knows that a successful event does not happen by accident, but rather by an enormous amount of hard work, sleepless nights, collaboration and, most of all, commitment.

Throughout our 26-year career, CPI Resources has been instrumental in creating successful events all across the country, as shown by these photographs from Yamaha’s stands at the AMA Superbike series at Florida’s Daytona International Speedway earlier this month.

But it’s not just the promotional items, banners, tents and signage that we supplied to Yamaha that make us different; it’s our attitude to how we treat our customers. Any vendor can supply products to a company, but CPI Resources goes further and becomes a partner to our clients.

We understand that the action-sports industry is fast-moving and dynamic, filled with people who are passionate about their brand, their products, their customers and the environment. They are looking for companies run by people who share their commitment to quality, pride in craftsmanship and dedication to achievement, and that’s why they choose CPI Resources—we are a solution-driven company.

The recent upset in the economy has changed the way everyone does business, and companies need a partner that they can depend on, one who has the experience and capability to be flexible, responsive and ultimately, deliver.

Companies in the action-sports industry and beyond choose CPI Resources as this partner because we aren’t willing to be just suppliers, but provide marketing strategies based on our extensive experience with clients such as Sketchers, Boost Mobile, Billabong, Vans and DVS to provide the most return on investment for our clients.

Whether you have an event in Daytona, need a bus wrapped with your logo in Chicago or need a nationwide product launched with packaging, fulfillment and distribution, CPI Resources will be your partner in making it a success.

For more information about CPI Resources and their vast range of services, please visit our website.

Dan Shedarowich was formerly Manager of International Marketing for Pertec Computer Corporation before joining Charter Printing, Inc. at its inception. CPI Resources was founded by Carol Shedarowich in 1986, and is still a female-owned company operating as Charter Printing, Inc., a California corporation.

Managing a business is a time-consuming endeavor, requiring the complete attention of executives and business owners alike to address day-to-day issues while simultaneously planning for a successful future.

With the many business decisions facing executives today, it is easy to understand how issues perceived as legal “formalities” may not always be a company’s first priority.

However, companies should be careful not to lose sight of the numerous legal requirements to operate a business in the State of California.

Although some requirements may seem trivial, many can cause severe consequences if not properly handled.

To assist owners and executives navigate these many concerns, we have prepared an annual corporate checklist to remind private corporations operating in the State of California of some of the issues that they should consider on an annual basis.

To review the checklist, please click here.

For more information, please contact the author or any member of

Luce Forward's Action Sports group.

KNOW?SHOW NEWS

Welcome back from a bit of a break in the news.

First order of business is to let everyone know that the dates for the next show are set for August 17th through 19th, 2011 once again at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

We will be sure to let you know when registration opens so in the meantime make sure to check out the 'Brands' page to browse through new and returning exhibitors.

We have partnered with with Dose.ca to host a KNOW?SHOW style blog on the Dose site, sharing a lot of the news we share here and more.

Dose has a strong readership, giving us an opportunity for a more direct reach to the consumer and ability to help share your brands and stores.

If you would like to see your brand or store featured more online with KNOW?SHOW and Dose.ca make sure to contact jon@knowshow.ca with any news.

Surfrider Members Ski & Ride For Only $69

The Surfrider Foundation is partnering with Mammoth Mountain Ski Area to host a special member appreciation weekend.

From Friday, April 8th through Sunday, April 10th, Mammoth Mountain will offer a 25% discount on daily lift tickets to every adult skier or boarder who presents a valid Surfrider Foundation membership card.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Mammoth Mountain in helping to say ‘Thank you!’ to our valued members,” says Matt McClain, Surfrider Foundation’s Director of Marketing and Communications.

With more than 400+ inches of snowfall to date, Mammoth Mountain is experiencing one of the best seasons in the resort’s history. In addition to providing a thrilling playground for skiers and snowboarders, the Eastern Sierra is one of the principle water sources for Southern California.

“A lot of the same snow that we ski and ride on during the winter, eventually makes its way into the ocean we surf in during the spring and summer,” says McClain.

In effort to support our coastal environments Mammoth Mountain is also donating $5 for every Surfrider Foundation ticket sold back to the Foundation.

“The Surfrider Foundation is an outstanding organization doing important work,” says Mark Clausen, Chief Financial Officer for Mammoth Mountain.

“Hopefully this event will inspire even more people to join in the effort to protect our oceans and beaches.”

To find out more about Mammoth Mountain’s Surfrider Foundation Weekend, visit www.surfrider.org.

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 60,000 members and 100 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, visit www.surfrider.org.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area is the leading four-season mountain resort in California. With 1.3 million skier visits, Mammoth Mountain is currently the third most frequented ski resort in the United States.

The company owns and operates a variety of resort businesses including recreation, hospitality, real estate development, food and beverage and retail. Specific businesses owned and operated by Mammoth Mountain include Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, June Mountain, Tamarack Lodge and Resort, Mammoth Snowmobile Adventures, Mammoth Mountain Bike Park and the Mammoth Mountain Inn. Mammoth Mountain also operates Juniper Springs Resort, the Village Lodge and Sierra Star Golf Course in Mammoth Lakes, California. For more information on Mammoth Mountain, visit MammothMountain.com or call 800.MAMMOTH.

Once again, the Agenda Trade Show will coincide with the U.S. Open of Surfing.

Our next show is August 3 and 4 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Huntington Beach.

And we'll produce our next Agenda New York in late July at the Chelsea Art Museum.

Here's a quick video recap of our Agenda Snow show in Anaheim on Jan. 6 and 7.

Try this link on your iPad or iPhone: Agenda Anaheim January 6th & 7th 2011 from Agenda Tradeshow on Vimeo.

Here's a recap of our last Agenda New York on Jan. 17 and 18.

Try this link on your iPad or iPhone: Agenda:NYC January 17th & 18th 2011 from Agenda Tradeshow on Vimeo.

ChopShop is on board again this year as the co-producer of the 2011 Newport Beach Film Festival Action Sports Film Series.

This is the third consecutive year that ChopShop has partnered with the Newport Beach Film Festival leading the effort to establish and brand the Series as the destination for action sports filmmakers and their films.

Action sports films have been a part of the Newport Beach Film Festival since 2004 and in 2009 ChopShop stepped up to build the Series and cast a broader net to filmmakers in this genre.

Each year Action Sports Film Series’ audiences have grown along with the number of submissions - films, shorts and documentaries - featuring surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, wakeboarding, motocross and other action sports.

The Action Sports Film Series gives filmmakers a platform to showcase their work and offers the resources for nurturing their talents, exposure to audiences and potential distribution channels.

An important element to the Series is the location right in the epicenter of the action sports industry and the lifestyle that the brands proliferated.

The weeklong Newport Beach Film Festival and the Action Sports Film Series will kick-off on April 28 and run through May 5.

Submissions are being reviewed right now and final decisions will be made by mid-February.

Click here for more information and a complete listing of 2010 films.

About ChopShop

ChopShop is a team of professionals whose expertise includes concepting, copywriting, video and film production, as well as editorial, finishing, design and animation for broadcast and multi-platform applications.

2010 Newport Beach Film Festival Action Sports Film Series Highlights

• CANCER TO CAPRICORN: PATH OF THE MODERN GYPSY (2010, Documentary, USA)
• LIVING IT FOREVER (2010, Documentary, USA)
• LOST PROPHETS- SEARCH FOR THE COLLECTIVE (2009, Documentary, USA)
• MACHOTAILDROP (2009, Comedy, Canada / USA)
• MAKE IT COUNT: THE ELEMENT STORY (2009, Documentary, USA)
• SOMEWHERE NEAR TAPACHULA (2010, Documentary, USA)
• ULTIMATE WAVE TAHITI – 3D (2009, Documentary, USA)
• THE WESTSIDERS (2009, Documentary, USA, 92 minutes)

5 World Premieres and 20 Films Featured at the 2010 Newport Beach Film Festival Action Sports Film Series

Triple A For Action Sports

What’s more risky than dropping in on a 50-foot wave at Mavericks? Legally speaking, it could be acting as the athlete agent for the guy who’s doing it.

California’s law governing athlete agents, the Miller-Ayala Athlete Agents Act, or “AAA,” is an important, and frequently misunderstood law with serious consequences.

For action sports industry players, it is important to know what deals are covered. The AAA imposes strict requirements on athlete agents that protect not only athletes but also the companies that sponsor, endorse, or work with the athletes and their agents.

The AAA applies when an athlete is involved in the transaction. If a deal requires the contracting party to pay compensation to an athlete, it is likely covered by the AAA.

However, many contracts are not covered by the AAA even if they indirectly benefit athletes.

For instance, a company might sponsor a surf competition, but the deal between the sponsor and the organizer is not covered. The distinction is that no athlete was involved in the deal, even though athletes were involved and received compensation in the underlying event.

Another common situation in the action sports industry is when a company sponsors an athletic team rather than the athletes on the team. When a company sponsors the team itself, rather than the athletes on it, the contract is not covered by the AAA.

When the AAA applies, it is harsh, and failure to know the law is not a defense. If athlete agent fails to comply with the AAA, the action sports companies who are adversely affected may have recourse against the agents for significant sums of money.

KNOW?SHOW FW11 Recap

A big thanks to all of the retailers and exhibitors, sponsors and media that took part in another great show!

Not only was the floor packed and buzzing for 3 days but the parties and events went off as well.

Before we get into a recap of the show we want to remind you that THE NEXT SHOW DATES ARE AUGUST 17-19 2011 and we urge you to mark your calendars.

Though we have a big break between this show and the next, we will strive to continue to bring you and our retailers consistent, relevant content via our news letters, blog and social media.

Please keep sending any news, press releases, job openings and marketing initiatives to Jon Coleman, so we can share the growth of your businesses.

Event Galleries

We've updated the site with photo galleries from not only the showroom floor but also from the events and parties that took place over 3 days. Thanks to Mark of www.theperfectmess.ca for working the lens and capturing the many great moments of KNOW?SHOW. 

The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, signed into law on December 17, results in a two-year deferral on the long-standing congressional debate over the extension of the Bush-era tax cuts.

While national headlines have focused on individual tax rates, the new legislation extends and modifies many provisions that apply to businesses as well.

How will the new legislation impact you? Find answers and information on the following:

• Business tax provisions and extensions
• Individual tax provisions and extensions
• Estate and gift tax changes
• Extension of energy incentives

For further help understanding the tax planning opportunities presented by the new legislation, be sure to look at our updated Year-End Tax Planning Guide with revised tax planning checklists for businesses and real estate entities as well as individuals and families.

It is with much excitement and gratitude to our clients that we are proud to announce that Innovative Systems® has expanded its office.

With growth of our client base to more than 69 companies running Full Circle came the need for additional office space, and on-site capabilities to demo our product Full Circle®.

The additional office space, located just across the hall from where the Full Circle® team continues to reign, has given Innovative Systems ® the opportunity to add additional offices as well as a fully working model of Full Circle’s Warehouse Management System.

With these new additions we can continue Innovative System’s® growth and capabilities to serve our most valued access, our clients.

We welcome you to come by and check out our new space and catch up with the ever changing, ever expanding Full Circle® system.

We are continually grateful to our client base for the many years of support!

We wish everyone a very prosperous 2011!

This indeed may seem like a bold statement, but it’s one we continually work hard to ensure holds true on all accounts.

Offering bi-annual shows each year in Vancouver, KNOW?SHOW is Canada's ultimate sales and networking tool catering to hand picked brands in the Action Sports and Fashion industries.

Great buildings, open booth concepts, a clean layout, central lounge with bar, live installations using featured artists, on site entertainment and guest Djs are just a few of the ways KNOW?SHOW has avoided the standard “shoebox” tradeshow stigma.

With more than 300 industry leading Action Sports and Lifestyle brands represented at KNOW?SHOW, it’s easy to understand why every key retailer makes a point to attend the show each season.

More than 2,000 members of the retail community attended our two shows last year, and the number continues to grow each season.

Click here to see our list of brands for the Jan. 19-21 KNOW?SHOW in Vancouver, BC.

It's not too early to book your hotel accommodations.

The Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel is offering a discounted room rate to tradeshow attendees. The discounted room rate is only available to KNOW?SHOW attendees.

The hotel reservation deadline is Thursday, December 30, 2010. Here is a link to the registration page.

Our visit our website to find out more about KNOW?SHOW.

2010 Year-End Tax Planning Guide: Managing Your Taxes and Protecting Your Wealth

As 2010 comes to a close, a number of tax laws are in play that could affect you, including income tax and estate tax laws set to expire on December 31 and resulting changes that, in turn, could become effective on January 1, 2011.

Our 2010 Year-End Tax Planning Guide provides key information to help you identify opportunities and actions you can take between now and December 31 to reduce your tax burden in 2010 and beyond. The guide covers:

• Tax Facts: Five Things to Keep an Eye On This Year. Bush-era tax cuts, potential estate and gift tax changes, Roth IRA conversions, and more.
• Tax Planning Checklist for Business and Real Estate Entities. Key issues to keep in mind, including net operating losses, flow-through entity planning, C-to S-corporation elections, depreciable real estate and business equipment, and business credits.
• Tax Planning Checklist for Individuals and Families. We'll cover income tax, retirement planning, charitable giving, investments, estate and gift planning.

You can download our 2010 Year-End Tax Planning Guide by clicking here.

Or, visit our Wealth Services website, tailored to help businesses, business owners and individuals build, manage, and protect their wealth.

Wells Fargo Capital Finance has named Kevin Gillespie as the East Coast Regional Manager for its Trade Capital division.

In this role, Gillespie will be based in New York and will lead a team responsible for business development and relationship management in the East region.
 
“We are excited to have Kevin join Trade Capital and know that his experience and skill set will be a great addition to the team,” said Stuart Brister, head of the Trade Capital division of Wells Fargo Capital Finance.
 
Before joining Wells Fargo Capital Finance, Gillespie was most recently a senior vice president and the Northeast new business manager for Commercial Services at The CIT Group. 

He joined The CIT Group in 1998 as an associate and has held several positions, including account executive, senior account executive and underwriting manager.  Gillespie has an undergraduate degree in finance from Villanova University, and a masters of business administration in finance from Fordham University.

ChopShop Production and Post-production Projects Update

ChopShop Production Team Goes to Virgin Mobile’s FreeFest while Post-production Team work on Action Sports Shows for Broadcast

We were on location at Virgin Mobile’s FreeFest in Columbia, Maryland, managing production at the concert that featured headliners M.I.A., Ludacris, LCD Soundsystem, Joan Jett, Jimmy Eat World, the Temper Trap along with many more indie bands.

Our team came back with great footage that’s now being edited back at ChopShop HQ for multiple platforms and purposes. 

Interesting to note that the concert was free, but attendees were asked to donate $5 to youth homelessness through Virgin Mobile’s charitable initiative known as “The ReGeneration.” 

Meanwhile back here at ChopShop in Newport Beach, our post production services team has been busy editing, color correction, design, animation, mastering, closed-captioning and finishing broadcast shows for Hurley, Rip Curl, Element, Quiksilver, Alliance Wakeboards, Solymar Entertainment, Billabong Standard Films and others. 

And, we will again co-produce the 2011 Action Sports Film Series with the Newport Beach Film Festival. 

Save the dates for the 2011 Action Sports Film Series at the Newport Beach Film Festival: April 28 through May 5, 2011, and plan to see some great films from action sports producers.  

Filmmakers: Enter your films now by clicking here.

ChopShop is a team of professionals whose expertise includes concepting, copywriting, video and film production, as well as editorial, finishing, design and animation for broadcast and multi-platform applications.