Learning Curve Brands has named Euro RSCG Chicago agency of record for its First Years line. The account is the agency's first work with Learning Curve and parent company RC2. First Years is a toy and supply line for infants and toddlers. Euro RSCG will create an integrated effort focusing on new moms, particularly first-time parents.

The ALS Association has chosen Grizzard as its agency of record. The agency is focusing on increasing both the size of the organization's donor base and the level of donor support. The nonprofit's previous efforts were limited to direct mail renewal programs used in conjunction with e-mail campaigns.

The Direct Marketing Association this week named Eugene Raitt, SVP for accident and health and CMO for Asia at Allied World Assurance Company, its 2010 board chairman. The group made the announcement at its annual business meeting in San Diego.

Reynolds DeWalt acquired RiverView Marketing Consultants, a direct marketing services company, effective October 5. Reynolds DeWalt, a multichannel agency, made the acquisition to boost its direct mailing capabilities, particularly in database management and analytics services for mail campaigns, in which RiverView specialized.

Chase launched an integrated campaign October 1 to promote its Ink business card portfolio. The integrated initiative highlights the benefits that each of the four Ink cards offer small businesses. Chase is primarily using the effort to build the Ink brand.

Overt, intrusive marketing can turn me off to even the most benevolent cause or event being promoted. On the contrary, a well-produced and well-delivered piece of interesting information can pique my interest in something about which I was previously unaware, apathetic or even mildly disinterested.

Genuine Interactive named Cyril Lemaire its first CMO late last month. He reports to John Grayson, president of the agency, and is responsible for new business development and maintaining client relationships.

The nonprofit Direct Marketing Educational Foundation (DMEF) has broadened its Next Generation Leaders program to two additional markets. Now in its third year, the program is placing associates in Dallas and Los Angeles, while continuing to do so in New York.

Gaiam's Marshall on how technology and word-of-mouth combine to drive sales and retain customers

Media and relationship marketing agency Maxus named Louis Jones CEO for North America, effective September 8. He replaced Carla Loffredo, who was named the agency's first COO. He reports to global CEO Kelly Clark.