Charleston West Virginia Economic Development

Discussions on Economic and Community Development in West Virginia and the Charleston MSA as well as issues of the Charleston Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, October 31, 2008


Celebrate with Generation Charleston
Tickets Still Available!

Join us to celebrate Generation Charleston's accomplishments and goals at the Generations Celebration this Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center.

Halloween might be over by Nov. 1, but that doesn't mean you have to put the costumes away. Show off your creativity by dressing as your favorite icon from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Costumes are optional but encouraged. Prizes awarded for best costumes from each decade as well as door prizes and a gift basket drawing.

Come dance to the likes of Vanilla Ice, Madonna, the Macarena and other favorites with music will be from Electric 102.7 DJ Libby Jo Salyers at the Generations Celebration! Relive your youth with games of Twister, Ms. Pac-Man (yes we have a Ms. Pac-Man game) and Rubik's Cube. Great food, open bar and a groovy time!

Tickets are $35 single in advance / $60 pair in advance / $40 at the door.

Contact Deb Coffman at (304) 340-4253 or DCoffman@CharlestonAreaAlliance.org to order tickets.

Job Posting - Charleston Area Medical Center

Charleston Area Medical Center is looking for a Research Review Coordinator.

A detail-oriented, high energy professional with strong communication and writing skills is needed to coordinate the review of research proposals at Charleston Area Medical Center and WVU- Charleston Division.

Provides leadership and direction to the Institutional Research Review Board. Coordinator is responsible for training and interacting with a wide variety of health academic professionals.

A bachelor degree with a minimum of 1-year experience in research or related field is required. A Master’s degree in scientific, administrative or health related field with experience working with a volunteer board, and federal/state regulation is preferred. A legal/regulatory background is preferred.

This is a full time position with benefits. For immediate consideration, log on to www.camc.org to complete an application.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Charleston Area Alliance Board Approves
New Members and Officers

The Charleston Area Alliance Board this week approved three new members - Greg Burton, president and CEO of BrickStreet Insurance; Terrell Ellis, president of Terrell Ellis & Associates; and H.G. "Chip" Shaffer III, a partner with Shaffer & Shaffer. Ellis and Shaffer are small business representatives on the board.

“We are excited to have these people on our board,” said Matt Ballard, president and CEO of the Charleston Area Alliance. “All three bring energy and dedication to the table, which can only help in our mission to create more vibrant community and prosperous economy.”

The board approved officers this week, as well. Jack Rossi, managing partner of Arnett & Foster PLLC, will continue as chairman. Virginia King, vice president of Kanawha Stone, will continue as treasurer. Skip Lineberg, chief creative officer of Maple Creative, is the new vice chairman, and Mike Basile, managing member of Spilman Thomas & Battle, is the new secretary.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008


Meet This Evening, Party This Saturday!

Meet this Evening ...
Join us this evening at 5:30 p.m. at the ReStore, 815 Young St., for Generation Charleston's next general meeting.

Beth Wheatley and Dennis Strawn will be discussing "green living" and land conservation.

Wheatley is director of government relations for The Nature Conservancy in West Virginia. She works in partnership with public agencies, corporations, landowners and others to conserve West Virginia's outstanding forests and natural areas. Most recently, she worked with partner organizations to pass legislation to develop an Outdoor Heritage Conservation Fund to invest in the conservation of the state's most significant lands.

Strawn has been a programmer analyst and application developer for Mountain State Blue Cross Blue Shield for 18 years. He commutes by bike daily for work and errands. He serves on the boards for the Friends of the Kanawha Trestle Trail Organization, Charleston Land Trust, the West Side Neighborhood Association, the West Side Main Street Organization and the Regional Intergovernmental Council.

The event is free and open to the public. Food and refreshments will be available.

... and Celebrate this Saturday!
Halloween might be over by Nov. 1, but that doesn't mean you have to put the costumes away.
Come dance to the likes of Vanilla Ice, Madonna, the Macarena and other favorites with music will be from Electric 102.7 DJ Libby Jo Salyers at the Generations Celebration!

It's this Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center. Show off your creativity by dressing as your favorite icon from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Costumes are optional but encouraged. Prizes awarded for best costumes from each decade as well as door prizes and a gift basket drawing.

Relive your youth with games of Twister, Ms. Pac-Man (yes we have a Ms. Pac-Man game) and Rubik's Cube. Great food, open bar and a groovy time!

Tickets are $35 single in advance / $60 pair in advance / $40 at the door.

Contact Deb Coffman at (304) 340-4253 or DCoffman@CharlestonAreaAlliance.org to get your tickets! Or register online here!


"Designated Daughter" Author to Speak at Women's Council Luncheon

Best-selling author D.G. Fulford is the featured speaker for today's Professional Women's Council Luncheon at Edgewood Summit.

The book signing and luncheon begin at 11 a.m. Fulford's presentation follows at noon.
Tickets will be available at the door.

Fulford has been a guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Today Show, Good Morning America and National Public Radio. She is the author of several best-selling books, including "Designated Daughter: The Bonus Years with Mom," which she wrote with her mother, Phyllis Greene; the classic "To Our Children's Children," which she wrote with her brother, Bob Greene; and "The Things I'd Love to Know," the companion fill-in journal to "Designated Daughter."

She also co-founded http://www.therememberingsite.org/, which makes it easy for anyone to write, archive, share and publish life stories.

Fulford speaks across the country about how she found the "bonus years" with her mother to be their best. During her presentations, she shares stories about their relationship from "Designated Daughter." She will read excerpts from their book and divulge a humorous and hopeful message about living deliberately.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008


Charleston Area Alliance to Take Equity Position in MATRIC

Continuing its long-standing commitment to retain top researchers and scientists in the Kanawha Valley, the Charleston Area Alliance Board of Directors today voted to invest in the Mid-Atlantic Technology, Research & Innovation Center (MATRIC).

The board approved a recommendation to convert MATRIC’s $500,000 line of credit with the Alliance into a combination of equity and debt. Details of the agreement are being finalized by the two organizations.

The Alliance’s predecessor, BIDCO, was a catalyst to the creation of MATRIC, lending it a half-million dollars in 2004. Terms of that loan are set to expire in January 2009.

“MATRIC is working hard to create high-value jobs and retain the region’s intellectual capital,” said Alliance Chairman Jack Rossi. “We hope our investment will positively impact its future success.”

“MATRIC is a valued partner in our mission to create a more vibrant community and prosperous economy,” added Alliance President Matt Ballard. “MATRIC’s successes benefit us all. Its drive to commercialize its research is a powerful economic development tool. We look forward to continuing to work together with MATRIC to create jobs and keep the best and brightest in the Kanawha Valley.”

“The Alliance has partnered with MATRIC since its inception, and that work has paid off in the form of many good-paying jobs in the Valley, with the potential for many more,” commented David Hardy, who serves as a member of the Alliance Board and the Kanawha County Commission.

Monday, October 27, 2008



Learn Web 2.0 at the Next CEO Roundtable

What happens when years of hard work building your reputation can be obliterated overnight? What happens when customers have more control over your image than you do? What happens when important conversations about your company occur, but you aren’t participating in the dialogue?

Get the answers at the next CEO Roundtable luncheon - "Web 2.0 - What CEO's Need to Know" - noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 29 at the Charleston Area Alliance, 1116 Smith St.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

The advent of the “social web” has all but eliminated the “megaphone” approach to marketing and given rise to conversational marketing. While few CEO’s are able to answer the question “What return on investment are you getting from your marketing budget?” even fewer understand the implications of marketing in the Web 2.0 world.

This roundtable, lead by Skip Lineberg of Maple Creative and Jeff James of Mythology LLC, will address these strategic topics:

· What is Web 2.0, what tools does it include and what ramifications does it have for my company’s sales, marketing and PR efforts?
· How can I manage my personal and company reputation in this highly-connected, Internet-speed environment?
· How can we learn to trust our customers and prospects to help shape our company’s brand and marketing communications?
· How do we respond when negative news or rumors hits the blog and social network sites?
· How do we measure and manage our marketing investments offline and online in the Web 2.0 world?

Tickets are $10 for members and $20 for non-members. To reserve your spot, contact Danny Forinash or Deb Coffman at (304) 340-4253. Or CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

Count On Us

By Matt Ballard, Alliance President/CEO
& Jack Rossi, Alliance Chairman

There isn’t much you can count on these days. However, you can be certain about one thing: the Charleston Area Alliance and our commitment to you, our members and our community.
During good times and in times of challenge, the Alliance is hard at work on your behalf, building a more vibrant community and prosperous economy.

Just recently, we were pleased to announce TRG’s expansion and 225 new good-paying jobs with benefits at its Corridor G location, unveil our East End Main Street wireless Internet project and the East End Main Street’s second Art Mural, we are making significant progress in making Gateway Greenspace, a sustainable park planned near the Clay Center, a reality and there is much more to come. These are just a few examples of the many innovative projects we undertake on your behalf to make the Kanawha Valley a better place to live, work and play.

In addition to grand-scale projects such as these, we provide a wide range of programs and services that can boost your bottom line today:

• Business referrals: As a member, your name is added to our industry-specific roster of businesses and service providers and posted on our Web site. The hundreds of inquiries we receive each year for recommendations are directed to the businesses that have demonstrated their professionalism and commitment to our community through their Alliance membership.
• Free technical assistance and business solutions: Our economic development and engineering professionals can provide guidance on a wide range of issues, from land development, to selling your products internationally, to recruiting specialized personnel. If we don’t have the answer, we know who will. Help is just a phone call away.
• Networking and business contacts: Our popular Business After Hours, Small Business Trade Fair, Generation Charleston and Professional Women’s Council are just a few of the low-cost forums available for connecting with others and raising the visibility of your business. Why not bring the whole office to the next event? Young professionals and experienced managers alike can benefit from networking with their peers and establishing new connections.
• Expertise: Our CEO Roundtable series, TechKnowledge and other educational programs provide very affordable ways for you and your employees to hear from the experts and stay abreast of industry trends.
•Marketing: Through our new "Member Market" program, you can promote your business to the 3,000+ business people, young professionals and community leaders on the Alliance’s exclusive email list for only $150 ($100 non-profits). Members may also submit information for inclusion on our blog and calendar of events at no charge.
• Special events: Our popular special events, such as the Annual Celebration, Issues & Eggs breakfast and Golf Outing, provide members with cost-effective and highly visible opportunities for showcasing their businesses to decision-makers and business and community leaders in a professional setting

In addition to these direct member benefits, the Alliance delivers a solid return on your membership dollars through the programs and services we provide as a multi-faceted economic, business and community development organization as well as the largest regional Chamber of Commerce in West Virginia. These include:

• Economic vitality and growth for our region
• New jobs and new customers for your businesses
• Capital investments and improvements in our community
• Legislation and policies that promote bottom-line results
• Retention of our youth and growing the talent that fuels innovation
• Enhanced quality of life and quality of place
• A promising future in a community that you and your family can be proud to call home.

We encourage you to take full advantage of the many benefits of Alliance membership. With your participation and support, the best is definitely yet to come!

Friday, October 24, 2008



Celebrate Art on the East End at Our Saturday Block Party

East End Main Street and the Charleston Area Alliance are celebrating an acrylic mural – “Double Dog Star” – on the wall of The Book Exchange building at 1588 Washington St. E. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 25.

The mural faces the dog park across Maxwell Street.

The Oct. 25 block party will feature art, fun and food, including hot dogs. East End Main Street will offer trick-or-treat bag painting for kids, chalk drawing on the streets. The celebration will have an autumn and Halloween theme.

The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority in September approved the project.

Chris Dutch – of Chris Dutch Stained Glass – is the creator. His piece is painted on the wall’s existing red-brick color rather than a white background, allowing the mural’s bright colors to stand out. It incorporates stained glass, as well.

“The design is meant to be playful, to have a human element, to have large, recognizable elements that can be recognized by passing drivers and smaller bits that are best seen from close up,” Dutch explained.

The event is free and open to the public.


Last Call for Movie Extras

A local video production company is seeking extras for a two-day shoot for the West Virginia indepedent film "Men of Steel" from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 25 and from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 26.

You must be at least 18 years ago and willing to take directions.

We are aiming to achieve realism in this film, so please dress as you feel is appropriate. A few things though:
NO shirts with logos
Boots, brogans, coveralls, bibs, mine stripes, etc are all highly encouraged

A Sunday wrap meal will be provided as a “thank you” for your help. We can’t make this happen without your help, so bring a friend and come check out our movie set! Call (304) 389-2989 with any questions!

"MEN OF STEEL" SHOOTING SCHEDULE

Friday:
3 p.m. - Load in and setup @ Realcorp Facility, Kanawha City, CREW ONLY

Saturday:
10 a.m. - Crew Call, prep and pre-light set
Noon - Cast Call, Goody, Rolly; finalize fight choreography
3 p.m. - Cast Call, ALL CAST MEMBERS INCLUDING EXTRAS
Block and rehearse for Sunday Photography
Some aerial and crowd reaction photography
7 p.m. - Cast dismissed, crew clean up and prep for Sunday
8 p.m. - Crew dismissed

Sunday:
9 a.m. - Crew call
10 a.m. - Cast Call, Goody, Shifflett, Enforcers
Noon - Cast Call, ALL CAST INCLUDING EXTRAS, Primary Photography
7 p.m. - End photography, Cast Dismissed, Crew begin load out
9 p.m. - Load out complete, begin wrap party! Beer/soda/hors d’ovures

Directions to shoot location @ corner of 39th St. and MacCorkle Ave. in Kanawha City
From I-64/77
I-64/77 to Exit 98
Left at foot of Bridge
Turn LEFT at 4th light onto 39th Street
Building will be on immediate left
Entrance will be clearly marked



The American Advertising Federation of West Virginia Media & Lifestyle Auction to benefit the REACH Program is Nov. 6 at the Charleston Civic Center.

The silent auction and social hour is at 5:30 p.m. The bidding begins at 6:30 p.m.

Come out and bid on great items, including advertising packages, artistic gifts, craft items, golf packages, vacations and more!

Admission is free.

Visit http://www.aafwv.org/ for more information.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Job Posting

Applied Computing and Engineering is looking for a Director of Business Development.

Description:
Applied Computing and Engineering Limited (AC&E) is an innovative company with extraordinary technology in the areas of robotics simulation, manufacturing process and workflow optimization. We have had great success over the last couple years in building an initial US client base for our products and are seeking to expand our team as we grow.

ACEL is looking for a US based leader to help us grow and establish a sizeable permanent presence in North America. This is a ground floor opportunity where the right individual can build a long term career.

ACEL has strong relationships and partner network tapping into hunderds of developers and managers with a state-of-the-art production facility in UK, along with the credentials of being Spatial Technology and Autodesk development partners. We are agile, flexible and growing rapidly, paying keen attention to this dynamic industry and its demands.

Essential Job Duties:
· You will be required to generate revenue through self-driven initiatives and both direct sales and establishing OEM channel partners.
· Develop and implement a business development strategy for target territory and industry.
· You will have to identify and penetrate new accounts, as well as leverage existing client relationships for new businesses.
· You will manage all phases of the sales life cycle from prospecting to closure including negotiating prices and contractual agreements.
· You will use multiple prospecting methods to generate leads, set up sales meetings and pitch appropriate solution-offerings to prospects. You will anchor proposal preparation activity, and work closely with relevant managers in identifying appropriate solutions.
· You will be required build successful and scalable relationships with C-Level audience in prospect organizations and work under minimum supervision.

Qualifications:
· Bachelors Degree or higher
· A proven 5+ year track record in selling software and / or robotics applications to mid to large size companies.
· Ability to work from home.
· Ability to travel up to 60%.
· Permanent Resident or US Citizen.
· Preferred location – Mid Atlantic Region

Compensation:
The compensation package is highly competitive with base range of $30k-50k based on experience plus incentive bonuses and travel.

For more information, send resume to hr@acel.co.uk .

Online Tax Filing for West Virginia Businesses Expands

West Virginia State Tax Commissioner Christopher G. Morris has announced the expansion of the West Virginia State Tax Department’s “MyTaxes," an online Business Taxpayer services system.

“MyTaxes has been an enormous success thus far for both the Taxpayer and the State Tax Department,” Morris said. “I am proud to say more businesses will benefit as we continue to improve the system by moving 11 taxes onto the new online tax filing system.”

As of October 14, 2008, Business Taxpayers who must remit the following taxes are be able to view, file and pay taxes on the Tax Department’s new, secure website called https://mytaxes.wvtax.gov/ :

severance tax
coal severance tax
coal reclamation tax
waste coal severance tax
workers’ compensation severance tax
timber severance tax
solid waste assessment fees
telecommunications tax
healthcare provider severance tax
healthcare provider broad based tax

Previously these taxes could not be filed electronically.

“By making these taxes available for online processing, a total of 222,000 taxpayers will now be able to remit their taxes easily, efficiently and accurately,” Commissioner Morris said.

“MyTaxes does not close. Since May, more than 13,000 Taxpayers have filed various taxes, like Sales and Use, and Withholding taxes, through the web site at all hours of the day and night. The 24 hour a day, 7 day a week access has improved compliance and the Tax Department has collected more than $189 million in taxes through the MyTaxes web site.”

MyTaxes enables businesses to electronically manage their accounts. Among other benefits, users can create their own log in access for the system, amend returns, view and file multiple accounts at one time, schedule future payments, view and file returns for prior periods, as well as easily change their mailing address. The previous electronic filing web page for Business Taxpayers did not offer these services.

“MyTaxes is helping businesses cut back on their paper work and man power hours,” Morris said, “enabling them to get back to their business faster than ever before.”

MyTaxes will continue to expand with an anticipated completion date of August 2009. Visit today at https://mytaxes.wvtax.gov/.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008


Unisys Posts Job Openings

Unisys, the information technology consulting and outsourcing firm, has several positions to fill. If you know of anyone - either in-state or elsewhere hoping to return home - please pass along the following job descriptions.

Candidates can apply directly online at http://www.unisys.com/

Or, contact Tom Kierner at (614) 389-3281.

.NET Developer with 2+ years experience (2)
Business Justification for personnel to be hired/contracted:
This request is for a software developer who will work for Unisys Technical Services (UTS) in Charleston, West Virginia. This team will work on Global Industries Public Sector projects in North America where Unisys is contractually committed to use onshore resources starting in the 4th Quarter of 2008. The initial team size is planned at 8 resources with the expectation to grow to 25 – 50 resources. This resource will be in a billable role code with the UTS equivalent of a C4/C5.
Role Description:
This request is for a software developer for software development engagements in the public sector. Designs and develops software modules. Ensures assigned activities are completed within committed time, cost, and technical objectives. Keeps abreast of engineering/applied research trends and developments and incorporates them into appropriate segments of overall programs.
Day-to-day work description:
The software developer works with technical and solution architects, other developers and test teams on the development, enhancement, maintenance and support of complex solutions and applications for the public sector market. It is desirable for candidates to be familiar with advanced software engineering methods and techniques using the Rational Unified Process and model driven development.
Education and experience:
2 or 4-year college degree plus 2 or more years work experience as described below:
o Experience with software development using Microsoft .NET, C#, ASP.NET, Relational Databases (Oracle, MS SQL Server)
o Experience working within large application development public sector projects for local governments is desirable.
o Experience with iterative and model based software development and the Rational Unified Process and/or experience with Agile development is desirable.
o Experience with UML modeling tools (Rational Rose, Rational XDE, and Rational Software Architect) and Rational development tools is desirable but not required.

Software Tester with 2+ years experience (2)

Business Justification for personnel to be hired/contracted:
This request is for a tester who will work for Unisys Technical Services (UTS) in Charleston, West Virginia. This team will work on Global Industries Public Sector projects in North America where Unisys is contractually committed to use onshore resources starting in the 4th Quarter of 2008. The initial team size is planned at 8 resources with the expectation to grow to 25 – 50 resources. This resource will be in a billable role code with the UTS equivalent of a C3 or C4.
Role Description:
This request is for a software tester for software development engagements in the public sector. Develops test plans and scripts and performs integration, functional, and performance tests using automated testing tools. Ensures activities are completed within committed time, cost, and technical objectives.
This request is for a software tester for software development engagements across business units. Develops test plans and scripts and performs integration, functional, and performance tests using automated testing tools. Ensures activities are completed within committed time, cost, and technical objectives.
Day-to-day work description:
The software tester works with technical and solution architects, developers and other testers on the development, enhancement, maintenance and support of complex solutions and applications for the public sector market. It is desirable for candidates to be familiar with advanced software engineering methods and techniques using the Rational Unified Process and model driven development.
The sofware test engineer works on the development, maintanenance / enhancement and create test cases and test plans. Validate the unit test cases and will be in sync with the development team. Experience on Manual and/or automate testing is desirable.
Education and experience:
2 or 4-year college degree plus 2 or more years work experience as described below:
o Experience with software automated test planning, scripting, and execution.
o Experience working within large application development public sector projects for local governments is desirable.
o Experience with iterative and model based software development and the Rational Unified Process and/or experience with Agile development is desirable.
o Experience with UML modeling tools (Rational Rose, Rational XDE, and Rational Software Architect) and Rational development tools is desirable but not required.
Essentials: To have a development background / understanding, experience in writing test cases, validating the unit test cases, against the integrated test case.Experience with UML Modeling tools is an added advantage.Experience on peer reviews of test plans, test scripts and test data /results. Experience on Reqpro to support traceability to test cases.• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. The resource is expected to perform in alignment with the development team for the System Testing and Integration Testing as per the System Test Plan and Integration Test Plan.

Development Manager (1)

Business Justification for personnel to be hired/contracted:
This request is for a Site/Development Manager who will manage a Unisys Technical Services (UTS) team in Charleston, West Virginia. This team will work on Global Industries Public Sector projects in North America where Unisys is contractually committed to use onshore resources starting in the 4th Quarter of 2008. The initial team size is planned at 8 resources with the expectation to grow to 25 – 50 resources. This resource will be in a billable role code with the UTS equivalent of an M2, depending on experience.
Role Description:
This is a management position charged with managing the technical activities, human resources, schedules and costs of an organization engaged in projects for major segments of a large program concerned with the design and development to create or enhance software products.
The Development Manager participates in establishing objectives, work plans, schedules and cost data for development programs. Ensures assigned activities are completed within committed time, cost, and technical objectives and are integrated into total programs. Provides technical leadership to subordinates; keeps abreast of engineering/applied research trends and developments and incorporates them into appropriate segments of overall programs.
Day-to-day work description:
The Development Manager works with Business Analysts, technical and solution architects, development and test teams to lead the design, development, enhancement, maintenance and support of complex solutions and applications for the public sector market.
Qualified candidates should be experienced and familiar with project management of software development projects, advanced software engineering methods and techniques using the Rational Unified Process and model driven development.
Education and experience:
4-year college degree plus 8 or more years work experience as described below:
· Experience in directing large application development projects. Experience with public sector projects for local governments is desirable but not required.
· Experience with iterative and model based software development and the Rational Unified Process. Experience with Agile development is also desirable.
· Experience with directing software development project using Microsoft, Java / J2EE, Relational Databases (Oracle, MS SQL Server)
· Experience with UML modeling tools (Rational Rose, Rational XDE, and Rational Software Architect) and Rational Development tools.

J2EE Developer with 2+ years experience (1)
Business Justification for personnel to be hired/contracted:
This request is for a software developer who will work for Unisys Technical Services (UTS) in Charleston, West Virginia. This team will work on Global Industries Public Sector projects in North America where Unisys is contractually committed to use onshore resources starting in the 4th Quarter of 2008. The initial team size is planned at 8 resources with the expectation to grow to 25 – 50 resources. This resource will be in a billable role code with the UTS equivalent of a C4/C5.
Role Description:
This request is for a software developer who will be analyst, designer, coder, tester for software development engagements in the public sector. Designs and develops software modules and provides technical guidance to other software developers with less experience. Ensures assigned activities are completed within committed time, cost, and technical objectives. Provides technical leadership to other software developers; keeps abreast of engineering/applied research trends and developments and incorporates them into appropriate segments of overall programs.
Day-to-day work description:
The software developer works with business analysts, technical and solution architects, other developers and test teams on the design, development, enhancement, maintenance and support of complex solutions and applications for the public sector market. Qualified candidates should be experienced and familiar with advanced software engineering methods and techniques using the Rational Unified Process and model driven development.
Education and experience:
2 or 4-year college degree plus 2 or more years work experience as described below:
o Experience working within software application development projects.
o Experience with public sector projects for local governments is also desirable.
o Experience with iterative and model based software development and the Rational Unified Process.
o Experience with software development using J2EE, Java, Relational Database such as SQL Server or Oracle
o Experience with UML modeling tools (Rational Rose, Rational XDE, and Rational Software Architect) and Rational Development tools is desirable but not required.

.NET/J2EE Developer with 4+ years experience (1)
Business Justification for personnel to be hired/contracted:
This request is for a software developer who will work for Unisys Technical Services (UTS) in Charleston, West Virginia. This team will work on Global Industries Public Sector projects in North America where Unisys is contractually committed to use onshore resources starting in the 4th Quarter of 2008. The initial team size is planned at 8 resources with the expectation to grow to 25 – 50 resources. This resource will be in a billable role code with the UTS equivalent of a C2.
Role Description:
This request is for an experienced a software developer who will be the technical lead for software development engagements in the public sector. Designs and develops software modules and provides technical guidance to other software developers with less experience. Ensures assigned activities are completed within committed time, cost, and technical objectives. Provides technical leadership to other software developers; keeps abreast of engineering/applied research trends and developments and incorporates them into appropriate segments of overall programs.
Day-to-day work description:
The lead software developer works with business analysts, technical and solution architects, other developers and test teams on the design, development, enhancement, maintenance and support of complex solutions and applications for the public sector market. Qualified candidates should be experienced and familiar with advanced software engineering methods and techniques using the Rational Unified Process and model driven development.
Education and experience:
2 or 4-year college degree plus 4 or more years work experience as described below:
· Experience working within large application development projects. Experience with public sector projects for local governments is also desirable.
· Experience with iterative and model based software development and the Rational Unified Process. Experience with Agile development is also desirable.
· Experience with software development using Java/J2EE, Microsoft .NET, C#, ASP.NET, Relational Databases (Oracle, MS SQL Server)
· Experience with UML modeling tools (Rational Rose, Rational XDE, and Rational Software Architect) and Rational Development tools.

LEAD BUSINESS ANALYST (1)
Lead Transformation Rules Analyst for Maine Medicaid Account. Responsible for Requirements, Design and Testing for Conversions and Interfaces. As lead, also responsible for coordination across teams (such as DMG and configuration) and across subsystems (Ref, claims, providers and eligibility). Medicaid and SQL Server experience preferred. Good communication and organizational skills needed. Client interaction is required. This position requires 50% travel.

BUSINESS ANALYST (1)
Work as a member of the TRA Team responsible for Design, Development and Implementation of Interfaces and Conversions for the Idaho Medicaid Management Information Systems. Business analysts responsibilities include requirements gathering, mapping of data and test script development and validation. MMIS and SQL Server experience a plus. Excellent written and oral communication skills a must. This position requires 25% travel. Must be able to pass extensive background check. BS degree required.

SYSTEMS ANALYST (5)
Installation and maintenance of Trizetto QNXT applications. Support HIM common development systems. Modify existing systems to support new requirements. Develop new automation techniques and procedures. Document operational procedures Develop detailed systems design documents. Develop Disaster Recovery Plans. Work with an applications engineering team to develop, support and maintain the following environments: Systems integration User Acceptance Testing Production

TECHNICAL WRITER (4)
Research, Organize, write, edit, and produce data for the Detail System Design documentation, General System Design document, Network diagrams, Site diagrams, Floor layouts, Rack diagrams, Work flow diagrams, Help desk procedures, etc... Generate and maintain run books for all environments. Generate, maintain, and manage Infrastructure portal documentation. Assist in writing RFP responses Gather metric information and generate reports. Assist in developing specialized reports showing trend analysis.

SOLUTIONS SUPPORT ENGINEER (2)
Support the Health PAS EDI group working with a team of engineers as well as developers to support multiple State Medicaid sites and other solutions. Support paper claims data capture, working as liaison between site staff and outsource vendor. Assist with new EDI Trading Partners enrollment and X12 testing • Gain experience on Health PAS EDI solution, including Biztalk, Instream, QConnect, and File Transfer Agent components. Perform in requirements analysis, design, development, testing, documentation, and implementation. • Perform as PM on assigned projects. Also assist in proposal work. • Assist in on-site implementation and customer support of EDI solutions

SOLUTIONS SUPPPORT ENGINEER (2)
Support the Health PAS EDI group working with a team of engineers as well as developers to support multiple State Medicaid sites and other solutions. • Gain experience on Health PAS EDI solution, including Biztalk, Edifecs, QConnect, and File Transfer Agent components. Perform in requirements analysis, design, development, testing, documentation, and implementation. • Perform as PM on assigned projects. Also assist in proposal work. • Assist in on-site implementation and customer support of EDI solutions. Experience with HIPAA regulations, Biztalk, Edifecs, QConnect, SQL Server, requirements gathering, design, testing, and documentation. Past expertise in HIPAA Validation and EDI implementations. Experience with Rational CMM software a plus. Microsoft Project experiences a plus. A Bachelor's degree in software related discipline plus 3+ years of HIPAA claims Validation/EDI Client dedicated, strong oral communication and writing skills. Past experience with a team of systems and/or database professionals.

SECURITY ANALYST (1)
•Ability to review, design, develop, and implement network and application security architecture in a large enterprise environment •Partner with business units and various groups to define secure technology solutions. •Performs information security risk assessments and serves as the internal auditor for information security processes including risk identification, risk mitigation, and documentation. •Audit and monitor IT Security Best Practices including: Firewall/Network Design, Anti-Virus Strategy, Platform Maintenance, Intrusion Detection Monitoring, System access ID and log-on procedures and policies, file transfer and encryption protocols, procedure & practices, and identify & manage remediation efforts on vulnerabilities •Knowledge of Administering and maintaining network security systems such as Firewalls, IDS, A/V and incident management. •Ability to direct and provide guidance in operating system and application security for the following platforms and applications: NT/Windows 2000, Windows 2003, Unix, Linux, and Virtual machines

SOFTWARE ENGINEER (1)
Manage and update the Unisys Web Portal, database and cache server(s),Perform Trading Partner EDI X12 testing, Provide daily EDI transaction volume reports, Act as a Resource for high level inquiries from Unisys and Customer in regards to X12 transaction, Update and process Web Portal content and reports and Monitor FTA transactions. Skill Set: Information technologies: MS SQL, MS BizTalk, aQtrans, QNXT, File Transfer Agent, eServices XJ Series Web Portal, Sun One Application, Adobe InDesign, Fluent knowledge in X12 transactions, HTML and DHTML fundamentals, Web Authoring and Publishing, Java 2 Language Basics, Records Management, Claims Processing and EDI experience

TRAINER / DOCUMENTATION SPECIALIST (1)
Responsible for accessing relevant training needs for staff individuals and organization. This position will be responsible for but not limited to the following duties: Stays informed as to relevant skill and qualifications levels required by staff for effective performance, and circulate requirements and relevant information to the organization as appropriate. Design training courses and programs necessary to meet training needs. Organize training venues, logistics and accommodations as required to achieve efficient training attendance and delivery. Develop self, and maintain knowledge in relevant field at all times. In addition, this position will be responsible for developing and maintaining technical documentation such as user manuals, system documentation, and operational procedures utilizing predefined formats. Write documentation for end users, technical personnel, and management by interviewing subject matter experts and technical personnel to gather information. Supports Quality departmental projects as needed and performs tasks in accordance with documented processes and procedures. Writes and revises Standard Operating Procedures as needed. Critical Technical & Behavioral Skills/Qualifications: High school diploma. Preferred experience in quality assurance/quality control and required experience in provider relations and/or claims areas. Extensive experience in the use of Microsoft Office product suite, Word, PowerPoint and Excel required. Position requires attention to detail, excellent verbal, written and organizational skills. Working knowledge of Medicaid or commercial insurance operations.

MEDICAID REPORT WRITER / DATA WAREHOUSE (1)
Responsible for DataMart activities and ad-hoc reporting. Must have excellent analytical skills. Finance background preferred. Previous Medicaid experience required. Must be able to analyze data and report findings to client and be able to talk to various state officials about report. SQL knowledge preferred


Tuesday, October 21, 2008


Learn Microsoft with TechKnowledge

The Charleston Area Alliance and the Community and Technical College System of West Virginia are teaming up to offer TechKnowledge, a set of four classes designed to teach employees how to get the most out of Microsoft programs.

A class focusing on Microsoft Word will begin the series and is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 7. The classes cover Excel, Access and Powerpoint on Nov. 21, Dec. 5 and Dec. 19, respectively. All classes take place at the Alliance office, 1116 Smith St.

The Community and Technical College at West Virginia University Institute of Technology, through its Office of Workforce Development, is providing the instructors, equipment and reading material.

TechKnowledge is part of “Skills for the 21st Century,” a series of courses designed to help employees be better, more productive employees. A course called WorkAbility began the “Skills” program in June.

“Our goal is to offer area businesses more skilled employees,” said Matt Ballard, president and CEO of the Charleston Area Alliance. “These classes will allow them to have a stronger grasp on the kinds of software that businesses depend on. We want citizens to have the skills to help their employers succeed."

Each “Skills” course includes four classes over a two-month period. Future course and class themes will include basic personal finance, meeting facilitation, networking and team training.

“There’s a big list of skill sets,” said Sid Valentine, CTCS coordinator for workforce and technical program development. “These are portable skills workers could take with them their entire careers.”

The course fee is $75 for Alliance members and $90 for non-members. The per-class fee is $30 for members and $40 for non-members.


Get In, Get Help and Get Started with College Night for Adults

Are you an adult with some college credits? Do you want to find out how you can return to college and get that degree? Never attended college? Want to advance your career?

The Community & Technical College at the WVU Institute of Technology presents College Night for Adults from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 27 at Embassy Suites, 300 Court St.

Drop in for quick, professional assistance with financial aid, the application process, academic programs, career options and transcript evaluations.

For more information, contact Jeanne Smith at (304) 442-3000 or Jeanne.Smith@mail.wvu.edu.


Monday, October 20, 2008


Kit Homes Lecture and Trolley Tour This Saturday

Rosemary Thornton, an expert on kit homes and the author of "The Houses That Sears Built & Finding the Houses That Sears Built," is presenting "Finding the Kit Homes of Charleston" from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Kanawha Players Theater (former 1st Christian Church) at the corner of Washington Street East and Beauregard Street.

Between 1908 and 1940, Sears customers ordered about 75,000 houses out of Sears catalogs. The houses were shipped by rail to lots all over the country. Each "kit home" contained 30,000 pieces and a 75-page instruction book. Thornton will survey the Charleston area and present her findings, with tips on how to identify a Sears home.

She will be available for Q & A and have copies of her books for sale and signing immediately following the lecture.

The event is funded by the West Virginia Humanities Council. It is free and open to the public.

A light buffet luncheon presented by Bluegrass Kitchen follows at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $8.

A trolley tour including selected kit homes in Charleston is scheduled for 1:15 to 3 p.m. The cost is $12. The tour is limited to 24 people.

Make reservations for the lunch and tour by sending a check by Oct. 22 to Jean Blair, 912 Chappell Rd., Charleston, WV 25304.

Please make check payable to the Kanawha Valley Historical & Preservation Society (KVHPS) and be sure to mark it for which event(s) the payment is intended.

Friday, October 17, 2008



The article below appeared in today's Charleston Daily Mail. It's good news for downtown housing.

Brothers creating hidden treasure in East End
Charleston lawyer and his brother working to renovate 1938 building

by Monica Orosz
Daily Mail staff
CHARLESTON, W.Va. - It is the kind of building you might drive right past, oblivious to its charms, tucked as it is next to one of Kanawha Boulevard's high-rise complexes.

Take a leisurely walk through Charleston's East End, however, and you are likely to notice the elegant brick building in the Boulevard's 1500 block.

Designed in 1938 by Charleston architect Charles A. Haviland for J.G. Stierer, its steel, concrete, brick and cast plaster wall construction is like a well-made and classic cashmere coat - understated and never out of style, even if its lining was a bit worn and the buttons a bit loose.

Charleston lawyer Mark Sadd saw nothing but possibility in 1570 Kanawha Blvd. East. So when he heard heirs to the Stierer family who still resided in its penthouse were interested in selling it, he inquired.

"I had always been taken by the building," Mark said. "It was a classic pre-war apartment house with a great facade and a better location. There is nothing like it in Charleston."

He persuaded his brother, Chris, who was living in Chicago and working in the finance industry, to come back and help oversee renovations to the building's 13 apartments and the penthouse.
Said Chris, "We originally thought we might keep them as apartments. But we came in and said this has too much potential. The only way to do it was to make them condos."

They researched the local housing market, especially the availability and price of condominiums, and determined they could price the units favorably.

The brothers bought the building in September 2007 through a company they formed called Elizabeth Lee Properties LLC and set to work.

"Like the Rock of Gibraltar," is how Mark describes the building.

Its symmetrical brick exterior was in great shape. The lobby's stunning cobalt-blue and black swirled Vitrolite glass panels were intact.

Original casement windows had been replaced, but not with the best quality or design. Inside, the generously designed apartments were sturdy, with hardwood floors and handcut tile in the bathrooms, but they hadn't been updated in decades. In the rear, eight garages still had their original solid wood doors, but most didn't work properly.

Architect Haviland, who designed the building, also is responsible for others around town, including a former car dealership on Virginia Street that once sold Packards, Cadillacs and Daimlers. At J.G. Stierer's request, he designed a building that could both earn income for Stierer and serve as his family home.

"It was the apartment building to live in at one time," Chris said.

After their purchase, Chris moved into the building to oversee the renovations - Mark calls him the "guru" of the project, the man who knows every nook and cranny of the building.

Chris, in the meantime, credits Mark with making sure the historical building retains the best of those details.

Mark, who practices law with the firm Lewis Glasser Casey & Rollins PLLC, serves on the federal Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, where he has just been appointed to a second four-year term.

The city's Historic Landmarks Commission approved all exterior changes and the Sadds consulted with the state Historic Preservation Office particularly on the issue of the building's 100 windows.

The building held some other treasures, such as original blueprints Chris stumbled upon in the basement, neatly hand-drawn and printed. The drawings showed the lobby's design called for a terrazzo floor, which for some reason was never installed. It has it now, in shades of gray and cobalt blue that complement the Vitrolite.

Local interior designer Gayle Twigger and kitchen designer Darrin Fisher have provided expertise on renovations.

Where possible and practical, interior elements are being restored. Hand-cut tiles on bathroom floors are kept, if they're in good condition, and cast-iron tubs resurfaced. White oak floors are being refinished and new ones laid if necessary for the configuration of the condominiums.

The biggest change is to heating, air conditioning, plumbing and wiring, all of which will be replaced. The kitchen in the model unit has granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.

The condos have two to three bedrooms and range in size from 1,500 square feet to 1,850 square feet. The penthouse has 3,200 square feet plus two terraces, one overlooking the Boulevard and the other in the rear.

Prices will start at $300,000, which includes allowances for interior finishing. The penthouse will be offered at $650,000.

One unit already has sold, to a couple who are empty nesters ready to scale down from a house. Chris said they were the first prospective buyers to whom he showed the building.

He considers the project a good blend of renovation and restoration, the latter of which takes plenty of patience.

The gleaming solid brass mailboxes in the foyer?

"That took one guy six days to clean them, a layer at a time," he said.

The original elevator is in good working order, but a worker last week was painstakingly stripping layers of paint on the metal doors and trim - using Easy Off Oven Cleaner, no less - in a job Chris estimated would take 20 hours.

"I'm learning that to restore things isn't easier - or cheaper," he said.

1570 Kanawha Blvd. East will be open for tours from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Other open houses will be scheduled.


Be at MannaFest Tomorrow!

Help the Manna Meal Soup Kitchen by taking part in MannaFest 2008 from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the St. John's Soup Kitchen, 1105 Quarrier St.

The event features hot cider, popcorn, snowcones, pumpkins, live music, hayrides, carnival games, local arts and crafts, prizes and more.

"Mountain Stage" band members will be performing in the dining room from 4 to 8 p.m.

General Seafood will be providing food for the evening. Bring your own beer and wine. Juice, bottled water, iced tea and coffee will be available, along with cakes from local bakers.

Call (304) 345-7121 for more information.


Job Fair Comes to Civic Center Oct. 29

Workforce WV and Charleston Newspapers are presenting a Job Fair and Service Provider Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 29 at the Charleston Civic Center.

Thanks to a failing economy, many Kanawha County adults are looking for jobs to help them be more financially sound. In addition, folks with disabilities are finding that Social Security isn’t as solid as it used to be and need to find other means of support.

TheJob Fair and Service Provider Fair give both groups a chance to collect any information they need. Representatives from area businesses and service organizations will be on hand to answer any questions and provide important information. Charleston Newspapers is offering vendors optional advertising in a special section of the paper prior to the event.

Contact Workforce WV at (304) 558-0342 to confirm your participation in the fairs or Marcia at Charleston Newspapers at (304) 348-4858 with questions about advertising. Please RSVP with Workforce WV by Oct. 20.

Express Personnel , Division of Rehabilitation Services, BB&T, Ticketmaster and the Region III Workforce Investment Board are sponsors.

Thursday, October 16, 2008


Coming Together Around Military Families - Oct. 24

The West Virginia National Guard Family Programs, Military OneSource & the Learn & Play Center are pleased to announce special training provided by Julia Yeary from the ZERO TO THREE program.

The event, titled "Coming Together Around Military Families: Supporting Infants & Toddlers Affected by Military Deployments," is scheduled for Oct. 24 in the Kanawha Valley Room of the Schoenbaum Center.

ZERO TO THREE’s mission is to promote the health & development of infants & toddlers. It is a national, nonprofit organization that informs, trains & supports professionals, policymakers and parents in their efforts to improve the lives of infants and toddlers.

The care & resources that parents and other adults provide for infants and toddlers has an enduring effect on their health & development. "Coming Together Around Military Families" works to strengthen the resilience of young children and families who are experiencing trauma, grief and loss as a result of a service member’s deployment to Iraq and/or Afghanistan.

By assisting professionals through training and resources to help parents maintain a focus on the needs of their children, the overall family unit can be strengthened to more effectively surmount the special stresses that may come with separations due to deployment, injury, illness or death. This training will focus on providing professionals who support and care for very young children and their families the knowledge, skills, resources and tools to help nurture the relationships young children have with the significant adults in their lives, whether at home or at war.

Target populations:

· Mental Health providers
· Child Care providers
· Medical care staff including pediatricians & OB office staff
· State leaders in early childhood education, including NACCRA/Childcare referral & training staff.
· Chaplains & other religious leaders in community
· Early Head Start & Early Learning programs from your state/county
· Public Health Department (for Home visiting nurses)

Agenda

9:30-10:00 Registration
10:10-10:15 Welcome & Introductions
10:15-11:15 What Babies & Toddlers Need to Thrive
11:15-12:15 Trauma & Stress & Its Impact on Infants & Toddlers
12:15-1:00 Lunch Served
1:00-2:00 From a Young Child’s Perspective: Reintegration & Reunion
2:00-3:00 Developing Activities for Strengthening Connections, at Home & While Deployed
3:00-3:15 Wrap up, Reflection & Evaluation

This training will be facilitated by Julia Yeary, LCSW, a senior training and consultation specialist for ZERO TO THREE. She has been involved in supporting military families since 1980. As a part of CTAMF, Julia has focused on working with early childhood leaders and professionals in establishing stronger support for military families from the National Guard and Reserve communities who have very young children including those who do not have access to services found on military installations.

For additional information & to register, please contact:

Susan Izzo, BSW
WV National Guard Family Programs
State Youth Coordinator
1703 Coonskin Drive, Charleston, WV 25311
304-561-6821, Fax 304-561-6621
Toll Free 1-866-986-4326
susan.izzo@wv.ngb.army.mil

To learn more about ZERO TO THREE and the special resources they have developed to support military families, please visit their website at www.zerotothree.org/miliary.


Oktoberfest in Montgomery!

The Upper Kanawha Valley Oktoberfest is Saturday, Oct. 18, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Please visit downtown Montgomery and share a great fall day with the friendly folks who call the Upper Kanawha Valley home.Along with live music all day, the festivities will include handmade crafts, a variety of food vendors, local artisans and the German Beer Garden.

This is an all-day celebration of fall you don't want to miss. The communities of the Upper Kanawha Valley welcome everyone to come enjoy a day of family-friendly fun!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008


Join Us for ArtWalk Thursday Evening!

The downtown ArtWalk runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 16.

The Covenant House invites you to an anti-tobacco themed art exhibit during ArtWalk at the Capitol Conference Center, located at the corner of Capitol and Lee Streets. The display features gay and lesbian artists and artists who support the gay community.

Covenant House has chosen an anti-tobacco theme because of the high rates of smoking in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community. Members of the gay community smoke at twice the rate of the general population.

Sponsored by the DHHR's Division for Tobacco Prevention, the exhibit kicks off a year-long campaign to encourage members of the gay community to stop smoking and adopt clean indoor air policies.

The West Virginia Youth Symphony, meanwhile, will be providing on-street entertainment throughout downtown. The music is possible because of a grant through the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation.

In addition, Marshall University Professor Stanley Sporny is showing 12 new paintings from his “River Series” at the Callen McJunkin Gallery.

A frequent prize-winner in juried exhibitions, Stanley Sporny is included in such collections as The National Museum of American Art's, The Utah Museum of Fine Art's and that of Senator & Mrs. J.W. Fulbright, to name a few.

Sporny’s exhibition continues through Nov. 8, 2008 at the downtown gallery location in the loft over Stray Dog Antiques at 219 Hale St., Charleston. The gallery offers free parking at the Huntington Banks garage across the street with gallery validation.


Boo Ball is Coming!

The Junior League of Charleston invites you to Boo Ball 2008. It's an evening of Halloween fun, featuring a DJ, dancing, contests, an open bar and hors d'oeurves.

The event is scheduled for 8 p.m. to midnight Oct. 25 at the 405 Capitol St. atrium and ballroom.

Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. Raffle tickets are $10.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact a Junior League members, call the office at (304) 346-5856 or e-mail jlchas@verizon.net.


Click the above invitation for Edgewood Country Club's Complimentary Cocktail Reception Oct. 16 to see a larger version.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008


The article about loft living below appeared Sunday in the Charleston Gazette. It notes Generation Charleston's Loft Walk in June, which attracted more than 100 people. This project would allow more people an opportunity to live downtown.

Restaurateur Sadorra tries his hand at downtown living

By Sarah K. Winn
Staff writer

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Charleston restaurateur Virgil Sadorra is at it again, but this time it's something completely different - loft-style living in downtown Charleston.

He's made a brochure for his planned Rose City Lofts, and now he just needs some tenants - six of them.

"You have to have a certain personality to live downtown," he said. "People have said, 'You won't sell it.' I said, 'Let me try at least.'"

In 2006, Sadorra purchased the old Rose City Press building on Virginia Street. He had immediate plans to reopen his Delish restaurant, which had burned to the ground in March 2006.

"The fire gave me a new perspective on the industry," he said in June 2006. "Persistence is the key in entrepreneurism."

He still believes that two years later.

"From that fire, I think I found balance," he said last week. "It changed the perspective on how I looked at things."

Since 2006, he has been busy. He's opened Cilantro's in the old Delish spot on McFarland Street, Delish Express on Washington Street East and is revamping the Vandalia Lounge on Hale Street.
Downtown living isn't a new concept for Charleston. Other loft projects - individual units on Hale Street and 816 on the Boulevard - have happened. Others - Marketplace Lofts on Court Street and residences at KB&T Renaissance Tower on Capitol Street - haven't really.

Why is Sadorra's project different? First is the price point, he said. A move-in-ready, 1,000-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath loft will start at about $200,000, he said.

His price is based on what people are asking for, he said. He's targeting the young professional crowd, who, in some cases, are already paying $600 to $800 a month for apartment rents, he said.

A $200,000 mortgage wouldn't cost that much more - in the $1,000 to $1,200 range, he said.
"And you own it," he said.

There will be two units each on the second, third and fourth floors of the building, he said. The units will have either a river or city view, he said.

His plans call for movable walls so residents can change the layout if they choose, he said.

There will be on-site parking and other amenities, including a rooftop pavilion and workout room. Also in the plans are a tenant grocery store and room service, he said.

The grocery store will feature carryout pastas and Sadorra's signature sauces once featured at the McFarland Street Delish.

That's really why he wants the loft project to happen.

"It's a steppingstone to getting the Delish restaurant back," he said.

Why attempt a downtown loft space when other projects have failed?

Sadorra admits that downtown living isn't for everyone. With a wife and two small children it doesn't make sense for his family anymore.

But the want is there, he said.

He points out that the recent downtown loft walks by the Charleston Area Alliance's Generation Charleston, a young professional's organization, have had 100 attendees.

For now, Sadorra is finishing up details with a contractor and architect. He doesn't have a start date on the project, but he wants it done sooner rather than later.

"The building, it gets you the views and the price," he said. "I want to find that market and that person to move in."

To learn more, call (304) 343-1007.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Job Posting

Applied Computing and Engineering Limited (AC&E) is looking for a Director of Business Development.

Applied Computing and Engineering is an innovative company with extraordinary technology in the areas of robotics simulation, manufacturing process and workflow optimization. The company has had great success over the last couple years in building an initial US client base for our products and are seeking to expand its team.

ACEL is looking for a US based leader to help us grow and establish a sizeable permanent presence in North America. This is a ground floor opportunity where the right individual can build a long term career.

ACEL has strong relationships and partner network tapping into hunderds of developers and managers with a state-of-the-art production facility in UK, along with the credentials of being Spatial Technology and Autodesk development partners.

Essential Job Duties:
· You will be required to generate revenue through self-driven initiatives and both direct sales and establishing OEM channel partners.
· Develop and implement a business development strategy for target territory and industry.
· You will have to identify and penetrate new accounts, as well as leverage existing client relationships for new businesses.
· You will manage all phases of the sales life cycle from prospecting to closure including negotiating prices and contractual agreements.
· You will use multiple prospecting methods to generate leads, set up sales meetings and pitch appropriate solution-offerings to prospects. You will anchor proposal preparation activity, and work closely with relevant managers in identifying appropriate solutions.
· You will be required build successful and scalable relationships with C-Level audience in prospect organizations and work under minimum supervision.

Qualifications:
· Bachelors Degree or higher
· A proven 5+ year track record in selling software and / or robotics applications to mid to large size companies.
· Ability to work from home.
· Ability to travel up to 60 percent.
· Permanent Resident or US Citizen.
· Preferred location – Mid Atlantic Region

Compensation: The compensation package is highly competitive with base range of $30k-50k based on experience plus incentive bonuses and travel.

For more information, send resume to hr@acel.co.uk .

Thursday, October 09, 2008


Callen McJunkin Exhibit Opens Oct. 10

Marshall University Professor Stanley Sporny is showing 12 new paintings from his “River Series” at the Callen McJunkin Gallery.

The artist will give a brief lecture at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 with a reception immediately following.

A frequent prize-winner in juried exhibitions, Stanley Sporny is included in such collections as The National Museum of American Art's, The Utah Museum of Fine Art's and that of Senator & Mrs. J.W. Fulbright, to name a few.

Sporny’s exhibition continues through Nov. 8, 2008 at the downtown gallery location in the loft over Stray Dog Antiques at 219 Hale St., Charleston. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and anytime by appointment.

The Charleston Area Alliance's Downtown ArtWalk is 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16. All events are free. The gallery offers free parking at the Huntington Banks garage across the street with gallery validation.

Visitors needing elevator access, please call ahead.


Phone (304) 342-5647, e-mail art@mcjunkingallery.com or visit http://www.mcjunkingallery.com/.


Join March of Dimes Oct. 13

The 12th annual March of Dimes Star Chefs Auction is Monday, Oct. 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites.

The event, honoring Dr. Stefan R. Maxwell, features superb cuisine from star chefs, fine wines, craft brews and fabulous auction prizes.

The cost is $75 per guest, and table sponsorships are available. Call (304) 720-BABY for reservations.

Wednesday, October 08, 2008





Last night's "Meet the Women Candidates" event at the Summit Conference Center was a big success, with more than 50 guests and 10 Congressional, state and local candidates attending.

The Professional Women's Council was the host. The purpose was giving voters a chance to talk one-on-one with potential representatives.

A big thanks to everyone who helped make the evening so enjoyable!

Tuesday, October 07, 2008


Meet the Women Candidates This Evening!

Guests will have an opportunity to cast their votes for an engaging evening of politics and networking and join the Charleston Area Alliance Professional Women’s Council at its “Meet the Women Candidates” cocktail reception on Tuesday, October 7, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Summit Conference Center.

Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito and Congressional candidate Anne Barth are among those expected to attend.

Guests are invited to hear first-hand from the women running for Congressional, state-wide and local office in a relaxed setting and share their views on the future of our country and our region with the candidates and colleagues.

The reception will feature an array of hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

Tickets are $15 for Alliance members; $20 non-members. Walk-ins are $25 per person.

Contact Deb Coffman at (304) 340-4253 to make reservations.

Monday, October 06, 2008


UC Speaker Series Begins Wednesday

The University of Charleston's fall speaker series, sponsored by Dow, begins this week.

The presentations begin at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 8 and 23 in Riggleman Hall Auditorium. They are free and open to the public. Reservations are not necessary. Question and answer sessions, moderated by UC President Edwin Welch, follow each talk.

Harvard University Professor Diana Eck will speak about religioun diversity in America today.
An expert on Comparative Religion and Indian Studies, Dr. Eck is an award-winning author, and since 1991 has led a Harvard research team that explores new religious diversity in America and its meaning for the American Pluralist Project.

In her highly-acclaimed book, "A New Religious America," Dr. Eck draws on her experiences traveling the country, piecing together the most thorough guidebook of American religiosity. Culling stories from Muslims in Indiana and Buddhists in New Jersey, Eck conducted her research “hands-on” and emerged with a compelling look at our true diversity.

On Oct. 23 Dr. Lonnie Thompson, one of the world’s foremost authorities on paleoclimatology and glaciology, will speak about global warming.

Dr. Thompson, who is a professor at The Ohio State University and a native of Gassaway, W.Va., was just named one of the International Heroes of the Environment by Time Magazine. He has led more than 50 expeditions during the last 30 years, conducting ice-core drilling programs in the world’s polar regions as well as in tropical and subtropical ice fields. Recently, Thompson and his team developed lightweight solar-powered drilling equipment for the acquisition of histories from ice fields in the high Andes of Peru and on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The results of these histories, published in more that 200 articles, have contributed greatly toward the understanding of the Earth’s past, present and future climate system.

Other Thompson-led expeditions have recovered a 460-meter-long ice core, the world’s longest from a mountain range (Alaska, 2002); the first tropic ice core (Peru, 1983); and cores containing the entire sequence of the Last Glacial Stage as well as cores dating over 750,000 years in age, the oldest outside the polar regions (Tibet, 1992). Thompson’s research has resulted in major revisions in the field of paleoclimatology, in particular, by demonstrating how tropical regions have undergone significant climate variability, countering an earlier view that higher latitudes dominate climate change.

Thompson has received numerous honors and awards. In 2005, he was elected to the National Academy of Sciences and was awarded the John and Alice Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement. He has been selected by Time magazine and CNN as one of “America’s Best” in science and medicine. His research has been featured in hundreds of publications, including National Geographic and the National Geographic Adventure magazines. He and his team are the subject of a new book entitled: Thin Ice: Unlocking the Secrets of Climate in the World’s Highest Mountains by Mark Bowen published in late 2005. In 2006, he became an elected member of the American Philosophical Society, Alumni member of Phi Beta Kappa and chosen to receive the Roy Chapman Andrews Society, 2007 Distinguished Explorer Award. He served as Contributing Author on Chapter 6: Paleoclimate IPCC AR4 WG, 2007 volume. In 2008 he has received both the Dan David Prize and the Seligman Crystal award.

For more information, call 304-357-4717.