Independent retail support leader Kirk Blank has offered a five-point message of encouragement to stores looking to grow their business and impact in people's lives.

Looking back on more than 20 years in the industry, the president of Munce Group says that while economic challenges, consolidation and competition have taken their toll on chains and independents, "those same challenges have provided opportunities for growth for some independent stores."

Originally scheduled for the fall, The Greatest Coach Ever: Timeless Wisdom and Insights of John Wooden will be published next month.

Balow could not be reached to comment on details of his resignation. David Morris, owner of Oasis Audio, said Balow "has made a significant contribution to not only Oasis, but to the audio industry as a whole." "We've appreciated and benefited from his leadership, and wish him well in his future endeavors," Morris added.

Before joining NavPress, Lathrop was with Word Distribution, where he served for 11 years. He also has more than 19 years of experience working in and with the Christian retail industry.

Julie Langmade, NavPress director of marketing, said Lathrop's "background in retail sales and his attention to detail will be a great enhancement to our current marketing team."