Several folks have asked me where MGAPR contributions were going in 2008 (in lieu of holiday cards and client gifts). MGAPR made contributions to:
***The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, which provides food to a number of non-profit programs throughout our area. Several years ago, I had the opportunity to work with them on a capital campaign project to build a new warehouse. I've been very impressed with their organization and their ability to deliver. For information on their programs and services: www.foodbankwma.org.
***The Trevor Project, which operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. When I started working with AOL's LGBT program (then called On Q), The Trevor Project was a pioneer in reaching out to gay kids in crisis. For information on their programs and services: www.thetrevorproject.org
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Mark's Very Short, Very Much Edited, Year-in-Review
Mark's 2008 in Review: Work Highlights
***MGAPR continued to provide special events and travel planning to 88.5FM/WFCR and its AM broadcast service, 640AM/WNNZ. (for 22 years -- yikes, time flies !!!) MGAPR assisted the stations by producing annual performances of "The Capitol Steps" and a reading/booksigning with best-selling author/memoirist Augusten Burroughs, whose "A Wolf At The Table" is set in our region. We organized a Santa Fe Opera trip (which will be repeated in 2009). MGAPR also helped the station partner with local non-profit cultural organizations via event co-sponsorships.
***MGAPR partnered with the Mike Thornton Agency to assist with marketing and publicity for New England performances by The Capitol Steps in Vermont and Cambridge/Boston.
***MGAPR worked with Cross-Culture Journeys in Amherst on several projects, including press and publicity for its international tours, copy for its website and newsletters, and efforts to enhance its partnerships with public broadcasting stations and other non-profit institutions.
***Other projects included serving on the Editorial Board of the Northfield Mount Hermon School's award-winning NMH Magazine; editing (for the 11th year) an online newsletter that launched during my early days at AOL; teaching a marketing/public relations workshop for my colleaue Brenda Garton at Western New England College; providing coffee and copy for resumes and cover letters for several unemployed colleagues; and strategic planning for several clients.
Mark's 2008 in Review: Play
***I spent many hours iced-caffeinating and tanning--for the latter, I made daily trips to the condo pool, where I edited the poolside gossip newsletter, organized a couple of dinner outings, and a picnic evening for some summer Shakespeare.
***I worked with classmates on organizing my Northfield Mount Hermon class reunion, and managed a great early-June weekend with my prep school buddies. I was re-elected class secretary and to the next reunion committee (scheduled for 2013). It is comforting to know that our class remains eternally youthful, and a tad scary to see us progressing to the front of the line for the parade--where the oldest classes march first.
***My best friend in Berlin (and former roomate from my Manhattan days) came to the USA for a week. We ran around New York City and took in a performance of Patti LuPone in "Gypsy". Other memorable theatre trips included "The Little Dog Laughed" at Hartford's TheaterWorks, "Xanadu" with Cheyenne Jackson on Broadway, "South Pacific" at Lincoln Center, and a great local production of "The Miracle Worker" in which my neighbor's daughter took on the role of Anne Sullivan with a performance that was really incredible.
People That Highlighted My Year
***I've been given a great opportunity to collaborate with some talented creative people; 2008 was no exception. It was a joy to work with Greg Jones at Cannes Associates, an event production coordination group; designers Susan Bergeron-West at Sirius Design, Kevin Brady at LSHD, and Michael Kusek at Communication Angle. I've had a great group of colleagues at WFCR, who always make my performance and travel projects look good.
***Two good buddies kept me grounded and focused. One, a buddy from work is making a remarkable recovery from a stem cell transplant to cure his lymphoma. His treatments have been successful. He's been extremely brave throughout his journey. We, along with an entourage of friends, get together for not-frequent-enough lunches and laughter. I'm glad they continued in 2008 and will move forward in 2009. Another buddy was abruptly laid off by his company in July. I helped him format his resume, his cover letters, and his thank you letters; I kept him caffeinated in the process and played cheerleader; I was more excited than he was, when he began a new (and better ) job this month.
***My Dad, who had a tough time after my Mom died in 2006, met a family friend who had been widowed at about the same time. They've become the neighborhood's fun couple, and I sometimes get to go along for the ride.
So, thanks to all who made 2008 memorable, and here's hopes that 2009 shines.
Mark
***MGAPR continued to provide special events and travel planning to 88.5FM/WFCR and its AM broadcast service, 640AM/WNNZ. (for 22 years -- yikes, time flies !!!) MGAPR assisted the stations by producing annual performances of "The Capitol Steps" and a reading/booksigning with best-selling author/memoirist Augusten Burroughs, whose "A Wolf At The Table" is set in our region. We organized a Santa Fe Opera trip (which will be repeated in 2009). MGAPR also helped the station partner with local non-profit cultural organizations via event co-sponsorships.
***MGAPR partnered with the Mike Thornton Agency to assist with marketing and publicity for New England performances by The Capitol Steps in Vermont and Cambridge/Boston.
***MGAPR worked with Cross-Culture Journeys in Amherst on several projects, including press and publicity for its international tours, copy for its website and newsletters, and efforts to enhance its partnerships with public broadcasting stations and other non-profit institutions.
***Other projects included serving on the Editorial Board of the Northfield Mount Hermon School's award-winning NMH Magazine; editing (for the 11th year) an online newsletter that launched during my early days at AOL; teaching a marketing/public relations workshop for my colleaue Brenda Garton at Western New England College; providing coffee and copy for resumes and cover letters for several unemployed colleagues; and strategic planning for several clients.
Mark's 2008 in Review: Play
***I spent many hours iced-caffeinating and tanning--for the latter, I made daily trips to the condo pool, where I edited the poolside gossip newsletter, organized a couple of dinner outings, and a picnic evening for some summer Shakespeare.
***I worked with classmates on organizing my Northfield Mount Hermon class reunion, and managed a great early-June weekend with my prep school buddies. I was re-elected class secretary and to the next reunion committee (scheduled for 2013). It is comforting to know that our class remains eternally youthful, and a tad scary to see us progressing to the front of the line for the parade--where the oldest classes march first.
***My best friend in Berlin (and former roomate from my Manhattan days) came to the USA for a week. We ran around New York City and took in a performance of Patti LuPone in "Gypsy". Other memorable theatre trips included "The Little Dog Laughed" at Hartford's TheaterWorks, "Xanadu" with Cheyenne Jackson on Broadway, "South Pacific" at Lincoln Center, and a great local production of "The Miracle Worker" in which my neighbor's daughter took on the role of Anne Sullivan with a performance that was really incredible.
People That Highlighted My Year
***I've been given a great opportunity to collaborate with some talented creative people; 2008 was no exception. It was a joy to work with Greg Jones at Cannes Associates, an event production coordination group; designers Susan Bergeron-West at Sirius Design, Kevin Brady at LSHD, and Michael Kusek at Communication Angle. I've had a great group of colleagues at WFCR, who always make my performance and travel projects look good.
***Two good buddies kept me grounded and focused. One, a buddy from work is making a remarkable recovery from a stem cell transplant to cure his lymphoma. His treatments have been successful. He's been extremely brave throughout his journey. We, along with an entourage of friends, get together for not-frequent-enough lunches and laughter. I'm glad they continued in 2008 and will move forward in 2009. Another buddy was abruptly laid off by his company in July. I helped him format his resume, his cover letters, and his thank you letters; I kept him caffeinated in the process and played cheerleader; I was more excited than he was, when he began a new (and better ) job this month.
***My Dad, who had a tough time after my Mom died in 2006, met a family friend who had been widowed at about the same time. They've become the neighborhood's fun couple, and I sometimes get to go along for the ride.
So, thanks to all who made 2008 memorable, and here's hopes that 2009 shines.
Mark
Thursday, December 4, 2008
WFCR Travel Program: 2009 Santa Fe Opera Tour
WFCR's 2009 Santa Fe Opera Tour
August 10-14, 2009
5 days / 4 nights
WFCR Host: John Montanari
For the 4th year, WFCR 's Travel Program is offering a summer trip to The Santa Fe Opera. We prepared this itinerary for WFCR with our travel partners, Ellen Gill CTC and Tours of Distinction.
WFCR will offer one trip as a Winter E-Pledge Prize on December 12-13. For details, see WFCR's website at www.wfcr.org
The tour highlights:
MON: 8/10/09
We depart Bradley International Airport at 7:40AM and arrive in Albuquerque at 1:35PM local time (via American Airlines with a connection in Dallas/Ft.Worth). A motor coach transfer to Santa Fe is provided. After check-in at our hotel, the La Fonda Hotel on the Plaza in Old Santa Fe, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. An afternoon walking tour around historic Santa Fe Plaza is provided. We dine tonight at the La Plazuela Restaurant at La Fonda. (Those who wish can attend a performance of Gluck's "Alceste" at Santa Fe Opera at additional cost). Meals included: Dinner
TUE: 8/11/09
After a full breakfast at La Fonda, we travel to the Santa Fe Opera House for a private backstage tour of the state-of-the-art theatre, acclaimed for its architectural design. We'll meet the resident costume designers in the theatre's costume shop and see the design process for "La Traviata", "The Elixir of Love" and other Santa Fe productions. We'll lunch (on our own) at the Opera Cantina with members of the Santa Fe Opera's apprentice program. After lunch, we return to Santa Fe. The afternoon is at leisure for sightseeing on your own in Santa Fe or for relaxing at the hotel. After an early dinner at one of Santa Fe's unique restaurants, we attend a performance of Verdi’s “La Traviata” with Natalie Dessay. Overnight at the La Fonda Hotel. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.
WED: 8/12/09
After a Full Breakfast at La Fonda Hotel, we tour the major sites of Santa Fe with a local guide. Stops include Loretto Chapel, The Palace of the Governors and the International Folk Art Museum. After lunch on your own, the afternoon is at leisure to explore the Museum Hill museums, Canyon Road galleries, and other attractions. Dinner tonight is at the Santa Fe Opera's Cantina. During dinner, we'll be treated to an "informance" prior to a performance of Donizetti’s “The Elixir of Love”.
Overnight at The La Fonda Hotel. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.
THU: 8/13/09
After a Full Breakfast at La Fonda Hotel, we depart Santa Fe for a full-day's visit to Taos with a local guide. We'll visit the Bandelier National Monument, site of the ancient Anasazi ruins; the Taos Pueblo and the Millicent Rogers Museum. Lunch on own. After some leisure time to explore Taos' distinctive shops and galleries, we'll have an early dinner at Doc Martin’s at the historic Taos Inn, before returning to Santa Fe. Overnight at The La Fonda Hotel. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.
FRI: 8/14/09
After a Full Breakfast at La Fonda Hotel, we check out and head for Albuquerque with a stop enroute at the Sandia Mountain tramway. We'll travel to the top of Sandia Peak for dramatic vistas of New Mexico, including Albuquerque. We then travel to Albuquerque's Old Town for sightseeing, shopping, and lunch on one's own. We have an early afternoon check-in for our flight home. We depart Albuquerque at 3:45PM and arrive at Bradley International Airport at 12:45AM on Saturday, 8/15/09. Air is American Airlines via Dallas/Ft. Worth. Meals included: Breakfast.
Tour price includes: round-trip airfare between Hartford/Springfield and Albuquerque; airport transfers in New Mexico and all local transportation in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Taos; four nights accommodations at La Fonda in Santa Fe; 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners; orchestra seating for two opera performances at Santa Fe Opera; guide services, admissions as listed in itinerary; fulltime tour escort, and Tips/gratuities for local guides, skycaps, bellhops. A portion of the tour cost benefits the programs and services of WFCR and WNNZ.
Not included: lunches, alcoholic beverages, items of a person nature, travel insurance, tips for tour escort and bus driver; additional taxes and fuel surcharges, airline charges for checked baggage.
Prices:
Early Bird (when deposit is paid before March 31, 2009): $3,959.00 per person/double occupancy; $640.00 single supplement. Land only: approximately $300.00 per person less***
Regular: (after March 31, 2009): $4,259.00 per person/double occupancy; $640.00 single supplement. Land only: approximately $300.00 per person less***
Deposit ($500 per person) due to secure reservation. Balance payments due on or before June 5, 2009.
***Participants who choose this must make their own transfer arrangements to/from Albuquerque Airport and Santa Fe at their own expense.
For information on the WFCR Santa Fe Opera Tour: www.wfcr.org
August 10-14, 2009
5 days / 4 nights
WFCR Host: John Montanari
For the 4th year, WFCR 's Travel Program is offering a summer trip to The Santa Fe Opera. We prepared this itinerary for WFCR with our travel partners, Ellen Gill CTC and Tours of Distinction.
WFCR will offer one trip as a Winter E-Pledge Prize on December 12-13. For details, see WFCR's website at www.wfcr.org
The tour highlights:
MON: 8/10/09
We depart Bradley International Airport at 7:40AM and arrive in Albuquerque at 1:35PM local time (via American Airlines with a connection in Dallas/Ft.Worth). A motor coach transfer to Santa Fe is provided. After check-in at our hotel, the La Fonda Hotel on the Plaza in Old Santa Fe, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. An afternoon walking tour around historic Santa Fe Plaza is provided. We dine tonight at the La Plazuela Restaurant at La Fonda. (Those who wish can attend a performance of Gluck's "Alceste" at Santa Fe Opera at additional cost). Meals included: Dinner
TUE: 8/11/09
After a full breakfast at La Fonda, we travel to the Santa Fe Opera House for a private backstage tour of the state-of-the-art theatre, acclaimed for its architectural design. We'll meet the resident costume designers in the theatre's costume shop and see the design process for "La Traviata", "The Elixir of Love" and other Santa Fe productions. We'll lunch (on our own) at the Opera Cantina with members of the Santa Fe Opera's apprentice program. After lunch, we return to Santa Fe. The afternoon is at leisure for sightseeing on your own in Santa Fe or for relaxing at the hotel. After an early dinner at one of Santa Fe's unique restaurants, we attend a performance of Verdi’s “La Traviata” with Natalie Dessay. Overnight at the La Fonda Hotel. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.
WED: 8/12/09
After a Full Breakfast at La Fonda Hotel, we tour the major sites of Santa Fe with a local guide. Stops include Loretto Chapel, The Palace of the Governors and the International Folk Art Museum. After lunch on your own, the afternoon is at leisure to explore the Museum Hill museums, Canyon Road galleries, and other attractions. Dinner tonight is at the Santa Fe Opera's Cantina. During dinner, we'll be treated to an "informance" prior to a performance of Donizetti’s “The Elixir of Love”.
Overnight at The La Fonda Hotel. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.
THU: 8/13/09
After a Full Breakfast at La Fonda Hotel, we depart Santa Fe for a full-day's visit to Taos with a local guide. We'll visit the Bandelier National Monument, site of the ancient Anasazi ruins; the Taos Pueblo and the Millicent Rogers Museum. Lunch on own. After some leisure time to explore Taos' distinctive shops and galleries, we'll have an early dinner at Doc Martin’s at the historic Taos Inn, before returning to Santa Fe. Overnight at The La Fonda Hotel. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.
FRI: 8/14/09
After a Full Breakfast at La Fonda Hotel, we check out and head for Albuquerque with a stop enroute at the Sandia Mountain tramway. We'll travel to the top of Sandia Peak for dramatic vistas of New Mexico, including Albuquerque. We then travel to Albuquerque's Old Town for sightseeing, shopping, and lunch on one's own. We have an early afternoon check-in for our flight home. We depart Albuquerque at 3:45PM and arrive at Bradley International Airport at 12:45AM on Saturday, 8/15/09. Air is American Airlines via Dallas/Ft. Worth. Meals included: Breakfast.
Tour price includes: round-trip airfare between Hartford/Springfield and Albuquerque; airport transfers in New Mexico and all local transportation in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Taos; four nights accommodations at La Fonda in Santa Fe; 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners; orchestra seating for two opera performances at Santa Fe Opera; guide services, admissions as listed in itinerary; fulltime tour escort, and Tips/gratuities for local guides, skycaps, bellhops. A portion of the tour cost benefits the programs and services of WFCR and WNNZ.
Not included: lunches, alcoholic beverages, items of a person nature, travel insurance, tips for tour escort and bus driver; additional taxes and fuel surcharges, airline charges for checked baggage.
Prices:
Early Bird (when deposit is paid before March 31, 2009): $3,959.00 per person/double occupancy; $640.00 single supplement. Land only: approximately $300.00 per person less***
Regular: (after March 31, 2009): $4,259.00 per person/double occupancy; $640.00 single supplement. Land only: approximately $300.00 per person less***
Deposit ($500 per person) due to secure reservation. Balance payments due on or before June 5, 2009.
***Participants who choose this must make their own transfer arrangements to/from Albuquerque Airport and Santa Fe at their own expense.
For information on the WFCR Santa Fe Opera Tour: www.wfcr.org
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Press Release: Capitol Steps Add Second Cambridge Show 5PM on November 29
DATELINE: 11/06/08
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency on behalf of Capitol Steps
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
CAPITOL STEPS ADDS SECOND SHOW AT CAMBRIDGE'S SANDERS THEATRE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008. HARVARD APPEARANCE PART OF THE 2008 CAMPAIGN AND SUFFERING TOUR
Cambridge, MA--The award-winning musical satire group, The Capitol Steps, will be making a Pre-Inauguration stop at The Sanders Theatre, at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA with an additional Thanksgiving Weekend performance of their new "Campaign and Suffering" tour on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at 5PM. The troupe's other performance at 8PM has limited ticket availability.
Cambridge will be one of the first post-election whistle stops on the Capitol Steps 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour. Be among the first audiences in the country to roast the new President-Elect Barack Obama with some song-and-dance, as 2008's most colorful campaign characters side-step and tap their way through global warming, the recession, foreclosures, and bank failures. Hum along as John McCain, Caribou Barbie, and Joe the Plumber step into history, and as George W. Bush and Cheney perform their grand finales before the American people.
Since they began in 1981, the Capitol Steps have recorded 27 albums. They've been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on NPR stations nationwide during their "Politics Takes a Holiday" radio specials. The Cambridge program includes songs from their brand new album "Campaign and Suffering", as well as melodies spoofing current issues in the news. The show promises to hit both sides of the aisle and the songs change with the scandal of the day. So, if something big happens in the news, you can run to the Capitol Steps show and find out exactly what rhymes with it! To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Campaign and Suffering", visit www.capsteps.com.
Recently nominated for the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and winner of the 2006 WUSA A-List for "Best Comedy Club", the Capitol Steps have reached many fans nationwide. The New York Times called the performance of music and comedy "A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous".
The Capitol Steps have brought new shows to the Boston area for over a decade.
The Capitol Steps performances in Cambridge are made possible with the support of public radio station WBUR.
Tickets, priced $38, $34, and $29 are now on sale at the Harvard Box-Office. Students can purchase tickets at a $5.00 discount. For tickets, call 617-496-2222 or order online at www.boxoffice.harvard.edu.
-30-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency on behalf of Capitol Steps
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
CAPITOL STEPS ADDS SECOND SHOW AT CAMBRIDGE'S SANDERS THEATRE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008. HARVARD APPEARANCE PART OF THE 2008 CAMPAIGN AND SUFFERING TOUR
Cambridge, MA--The award-winning musical satire group, The Capitol Steps, will be making a Pre-Inauguration stop at The Sanders Theatre, at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA with an additional Thanksgiving Weekend performance of their new "Campaign and Suffering" tour on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at 5PM. The troupe's other performance at 8PM has limited ticket availability.
Cambridge will be one of the first post-election whistle stops on the Capitol Steps 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour. Be among the first audiences in the country to roast the new President-Elect Barack Obama with some song-and-dance, as 2008's most colorful campaign characters side-step and tap their way through global warming, the recession, foreclosures, and bank failures. Hum along as John McCain, Caribou Barbie, and Joe the Plumber step into history, and as George W. Bush and Cheney perform their grand finales before the American people.
Since they began in 1981, the Capitol Steps have recorded 27 albums. They've been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on NPR stations nationwide during their "Politics Takes a Holiday" radio specials. The Cambridge program includes songs from their brand new album "Campaign and Suffering", as well as melodies spoofing current issues in the news. The show promises to hit both sides of the aisle and the songs change with the scandal of the day. So, if something big happens in the news, you can run to the Capitol Steps show and find out exactly what rhymes with it! To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Campaign and Suffering", visit www.capsteps.com.
Recently nominated for the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and winner of the 2006 WUSA A-List for "Best Comedy Club", the Capitol Steps have reached many fans nationwide. The New York Times called the performance of music and comedy "A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous".
The Capitol Steps have brought new shows to the Boston area for over a decade.
The Capitol Steps performances in Cambridge are made possible with the support of public radio station WBUR.
Tickets, priced $38, $34, and $29 are now on sale at the Harvard Box-Office. Students can purchase tickets at a $5.00 discount. For tickets, call 617-496-2222 or order online at www.boxoffice.harvard.edu.
-30-
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
WFCR Election Day Special. Capitol Steps Campaign and Suffering Tour.
ELECTION DAY SPECIAL. Good on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, November 4-6 ONLY
After you go to the polls, get $5.00 OFF on each ticket to:
88.5FM/WFCR and 640AM/WNNZ present
THE CAPITOL STEPS
2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour
Friday and Saturday, December 5-6, 2008 at 8PM
Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA.
The Capitol Steps return for their 7th WFCR appearance.
South Hadley will be one of the first post-election whistle stops on the Capitol Steps 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour. Be among the first audiences in the country to roast the new President-Elect with some song-and-dance, as 2008's most colorful campaign characters side-step and tap their way through global warming, the recession, foreclosures, and bank failures. Hum along as Caribou Barbie, Joe the Plumber, and others step into history, and as George W. Bush and Dick Cheney perform their grand finales before the American people.
For program information on The Capitol Steps, visit their website: www.capsteps.com.
Ticket Prices BEFORE WFCR Election Discount: (General Admission ). Producers Circle: $55.00 ( includes premium seating and post-performance cast-party), Orchestra: $37.50, Balconies: $32.00 and $27.00 are on sale at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office: 413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS and online at www.wfcr.org
The discount ticket information is at WFCR's website: www.wfcr.org
Offer good through November 6, 2008 only
After you go to the polls, get $5.00 OFF on each ticket to:
88.5FM/WFCR and 640AM/WNNZ present
THE CAPITOL STEPS
2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour
Friday and Saturday, December 5-6, 2008 at 8PM
Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA.
The Capitol Steps return for their 7th WFCR appearance.
South Hadley will be one of the first post-election whistle stops on the Capitol Steps 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour. Be among the first audiences in the country to roast the new President-Elect with some song-and-dance, as 2008's most colorful campaign characters side-step and tap their way through global warming, the recession, foreclosures, and bank failures. Hum along as Caribou Barbie, Joe the Plumber, and others step into history, and as George W. Bush and Dick Cheney perform their grand finales before the American people.
For program information on The Capitol Steps, visit their website: www.capsteps.com.
Ticket Prices BEFORE WFCR Election Discount: (General Admission ). Producers Circle: $55.00 ( includes premium seating and post-performance cast-party), Orchestra: $37.50, Balconies: $32.00 and $27.00 are on sale at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office: 413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS and online at www.wfcr.org
The discount ticket information is at WFCR's website: www.wfcr.org
Offer good through November 6, 2008 only
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Press Release: Capitol Steps Campaign and Suffering Tour Heads to Boston
DATELINE: 10/29/08
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency on behalf of Capitol Steps
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
CAPITOL STEPS TO PERFORM AT CAMBRIDGE'S SANDERS THEATRE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008. HARVARD APPEARANCE PART OF THE 2008 CAMPAIGN AND SUFFERING TOUR
Cambridge, MA--The award-winning musical satire group, The Capitol Steps, will be making a post-campaign stop at The Sanders Theatre, at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA with a Thanksgiving Weekend performance of their new "Campaign and Suffering" tour on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at 8PM.
Cambridge will be one of the first post-election whistle stops on the Capitol Steps 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour. Be among the first audiences in the country to roast the new President-Elect with some song-and-dance, as 2008's most colorful campaign characters side-step and tap their way through global warming, the recession, foreclosures, and bank failures. Hum along as Caribou Barbie, Joe the Plumber, and Oprah step into history, and as George W. Bush and Cheney perform their grand finales before the American people.
Since they began in 1981, the Capitol Steps have recorded 27 albums. They've been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on NPR stations nationwide during their "Politics Takes a Holiday" radio specials. The Brattleboro program includes songs from their brand new album "Campaign and Suffering", as well as melodies spoofing current issues in the news. The show promises to hit both sides of the aisle and the songs change with the scandal of the day. So, if something big happens in the news, you can run to the Capitol Steps show and find out exactly what rhymes with it! To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Campaign and Suffering", visit www.capsteps.com
Recently nominated for the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and winner of the 2006 WUSA A-List for "Best Comedy Club", the Capitol Steps have reached many fans nationwide. The New York Times called the performance of music and comedy "A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous".
The Capitol Steps have brought new shows to the Boston area for over a decade.
The Capitol Steps performance in Cambridge is made possible with the support of public radio station WBUR.
Tickets, priced $38, $34, and $29 are now on sale at the Harvard Box-Office. Students can purchase tickets at a $5.00 discount. For tickets, call 617-496-2222 or order online at www.boxoffice.harvard.edu
The Sanders Theatre is at Memorial Hall, Harvard University, 45 Quincy Street, Cambridge, MA.
-30-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency on behalf of Capitol Steps
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
CAPITOL STEPS TO PERFORM AT CAMBRIDGE'S SANDERS THEATRE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008. HARVARD APPEARANCE PART OF THE 2008 CAMPAIGN AND SUFFERING TOUR
Cambridge, MA--The award-winning musical satire group, The Capitol Steps, will be making a post-campaign stop at The Sanders Theatre, at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA with a Thanksgiving Weekend performance of their new "Campaign and Suffering" tour on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at 8PM.
Cambridge will be one of the first post-election whistle stops on the Capitol Steps 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour. Be among the first audiences in the country to roast the new President-Elect with some song-and-dance, as 2008's most colorful campaign characters side-step and tap their way through global warming, the recession, foreclosures, and bank failures. Hum along as Caribou Barbie, Joe the Plumber, and Oprah step into history, and as George W. Bush and Cheney perform their grand finales before the American people.
Since they began in 1981, the Capitol Steps have recorded 27 albums. They've been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on NPR stations nationwide during their "Politics Takes a Holiday" radio specials. The Brattleboro program includes songs from their brand new album "Campaign and Suffering", as well as melodies spoofing current issues in the news. The show promises to hit both sides of the aisle and the songs change with the scandal of the day. So, if something big happens in the news, you can run to the Capitol Steps show and find out exactly what rhymes with it! To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Campaign and Suffering", visit www.capsteps.com
Recently nominated for the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and winner of the 2006 WUSA A-List for "Best Comedy Club", the Capitol Steps have reached many fans nationwide. The New York Times called the performance of music and comedy "A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous".
The Capitol Steps have brought new shows to the Boston area for over a decade.
The Capitol Steps performance in Cambridge is made possible with the support of public radio station WBUR.
Tickets, priced $38, $34, and $29 are now on sale at the Harvard Box-Office. Students can purchase tickets at a $5.00 discount. For tickets, call 617-496-2222 or order online at www.boxoffice.harvard.edu
The Sanders Theatre is at Memorial Hall, Harvard University, 45 Quincy Street, Cambridge, MA.
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Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Cool Travel Information Websites
We've provided a series of travel tips and cool websites for Cross-Culture Journey's E-newsletters. Here are some interesting websites that we've discovered for casual travellers and road-warriors. Some have made their way to E-News. Others are sitting amongst my bookmarks.
Airlines and Airports
Today in the Sky. USA Today's well-written air travel blog by Ben Mutzabaugh. On Wednesdays, at 1PM ET, Ben hosts a chat, where people can ask about airline news, trends, and commentary. http://blogs.usatoday.com/sky/
Skytrax. Frequent fliers globally rate the airlines, airports, flight itineraries, meals, airport lounges and more. http://www.airlinequality.com/
Flight On-Time Arrival/Departure Information. For most airlines and airports around the world. http://www.flightstats.com/go/Home/home.do
Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide. If you're travelling with a laptop, you can surf the web for free or next-to-nothing at many airports, who now offer wireless connections in the terminals. We found two good resources for airports with WIFI. TravelPost.com has an Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide. www.travelpost.com/airport-wireless-internet.aspx
WIFI Freespot Directory also has an airport guide. www.wififreespot.com/airport.html
Airline Route Maps: Who flies where in graphic terms: www.airlineroutemaps.com/
The Airchive: Something Old In the Air: Once upon a time, air travel was adventurous and glamourous. The Airchive is a web museum of commercial aviation travel with airline memorabilia from old timetables and route maps to display advertising that captured the excitement of real first class air travel. Revisit Eastern Airlines "Whisperjets" or the days of PanAm's "Flying Clippers". http://airchive.com/SITE%20PAGES/index.html.
Public Transportation To/From Airports: www.apta.com/links/airports.cfm
Trains, Subways and Metros
Subway Maps Online. We found a site with numerous rapid transit maps for many global subway and commuter rail systems ready for download. http://people.reed.edu/%7Ereyn/transport.html
And, another site has several which can be dowloaded to an iPod. http://www.coolosxapps.net/2007/04/30/isubwaymaps-subway-maps-for-your-ipod/
The Man in Seat Sixty-One. Mark Smith is a British career railwayman who developed a travel web site about passenger rail service throughout the world, from the Orient Express and the Eurostar trains, to local routes. From Albania to Zimbabwe, there's a rail adventure waiting.
http://www.seat61.com/index.html
For American Rail Buffs. Here's a fascinating website where a railway fan took photos of all 528 Amtrak depots in the USA. You can chart the depots by route, state, or city. http://www.trainweb.org/usarail/stationlist3.htm
Commuter Rail Systems: www.apta.com/links/transit_by_mode/commrail.cfm
General Travel
The Menu Collection of the Northwestern University Transportation Library currently includes more than 400 menus from 54 national and international airline carriers, cruise ships, and railroad companies, with coverage from 1929 to the present. http://www.library.northwestern.edu/transportation/digital-collections/menus/
Old and Abandoned Airport Terminals. Airports in olden days. http://oldterminals.topcities.com/index.html
World Hum is an ever-changing boutique collection of travel blogs from people who get into the spirit of the travel experience. It's not a collection of "what to do" and "where to go" features, but the kind of travel portraits that redefine travel. Among our favorites in the current editions: "10 Sizzling Hot Travel Tips from Sir Francis Bacon", Rolf Pott's repackaging of the 17th century philosopher's "Of Travel" essay for 21st century travellers and Jeffrey N. Wasserstrom's "Sipping Starbucks from Bloomington, Indiana to Shanghai, China". Is a Starbucks a Starbucks a Starbucks ? www.worldhum.com
Minimus.biz is a great new online travel store that sells a wide variety of approved travel-sized toiletries, food and drink, and more that meet the TSA's 3-1-1 carry-on rule (3 ounce containers in a 1 qt. plastic bag per 1 passenger). They have extensive selections of items with brands not always available in the "trial size" bins at local pharmacy and supermarket chains. They sell beverage kits, domestics, food, personal care items, colognes, after-shaves, and pharmacy products featuring many popular domestic and imported name brands from Tom's to Calvin Klein. www.minimuz.biz.
Airlines and Airports
Today in the Sky. USA Today's well-written air travel blog by Ben Mutzabaugh. On Wednesdays, at 1PM ET, Ben hosts a chat, where people can ask about airline news, trends, and commentary. http://blogs.usatoday.com/sky/
Skytrax. Frequent fliers globally rate the airlines, airports, flight itineraries, meals, airport lounges and more. http://www.airlinequality.com/
Flight On-Time Arrival/Departure Information. For most airlines and airports around the world. http://www.flightstats.com/go/Home/home.do
Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide. If you're travelling with a laptop, you can surf the web for free or next-to-nothing at many airports, who now offer wireless connections in the terminals. We found two good resources for airports with WIFI. TravelPost.com has an Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide. www.travelpost.com/airport-wireless-internet.aspx
WIFI Freespot Directory also has an airport guide. www.wififreespot.com/airport.html
Airline Route Maps: Who flies where in graphic terms: www.airlineroutemaps.com/
The Airchive: Something Old In the Air: Once upon a time, air travel was adventurous and glamourous. The Airchive is a web museum of commercial aviation travel with airline memorabilia from old timetables and route maps to display advertising that captured the excitement of real first class air travel. Revisit Eastern Airlines "Whisperjets" or the days of PanAm's "Flying Clippers". http://airchive.com/SITE%20PAGES/index.html.
Public Transportation To/From Airports: www.apta.com/links/airports.cfm
Trains, Subways and Metros
Subway Maps Online. We found a site with numerous rapid transit maps for many global subway and commuter rail systems ready for download. http://people.reed.edu/%7Ereyn/transport.html
And, another site has several which can be dowloaded to an iPod. http://www.coolosxapps.net/2007/04/30/isubwaymaps-subway-maps-for-your-ipod/
The Man in Seat Sixty-One. Mark Smith is a British career railwayman who developed a travel web site about passenger rail service throughout the world, from the Orient Express and the Eurostar trains, to local routes. From Albania to Zimbabwe, there's a rail adventure waiting.
http://www.seat61.com/index.html
For American Rail Buffs. Here's a fascinating website where a railway fan took photos of all 528 Amtrak depots in the USA. You can chart the depots by route, state, or city. http://www.trainweb.org/usarail/stationlist3.htm
Commuter Rail Systems: www.apta.com/links/transit_by_mode/commrail.cfm
General Travel
The Menu Collection of the Northwestern University Transportation Library currently includes more than 400 menus from 54 national and international airline carriers, cruise ships, and railroad companies, with coverage from 1929 to the present. http://www.library.northwestern.edu/transportation/digital-collections/menus/
Old and Abandoned Airport Terminals. Airports in olden days. http://oldterminals.topcities.com/index.html
World Hum is an ever-changing boutique collection of travel blogs from people who get into the spirit of the travel experience. It's not a collection of "what to do" and "where to go" features, but the kind of travel portraits that redefine travel. Among our favorites in the current editions: "10 Sizzling Hot Travel Tips from Sir Francis Bacon", Rolf Pott's repackaging of the 17th century philosopher's "Of Travel" essay for 21st century travellers and Jeffrey N. Wasserstrom's "Sipping Starbucks from Bloomington, Indiana to Shanghai, China". Is a Starbucks a Starbucks a Starbucks ? www.worldhum.com
Minimus.biz is a great new online travel store that sells a wide variety of approved travel-sized toiletries, food and drink, and more that meet the TSA's 3-1-1 carry-on rule (3 ounce containers in a 1 qt. plastic bag per 1 passenger). They have extensive selections of items with brands not always available in the "trial size" bins at local pharmacy and supermarket chains. They sell beverage kits, domestics, food, personal care items, colognes, after-shaves, and pharmacy products featuring many popular domestic and imported name brands from Tom's to Calvin Klein. www.minimuz.biz.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Press Release from Cross-Culture Journeys: Winter 2009 Tours to India, Indonesia, China and Vietnam
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 23, 2008
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS OFFERS WINTER 2009 TOURS TO INDIA, INDONESIA, CHINA AND VIETNAM
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross Culture Journeys offers a variety of getaway tours for the Winter 2009 season, featuring warm weather destinations around the world, including North India, South India, Indonesia, China and Vietnam.
According to Cross-Culture Journeys President Ati Jain, "these destinations have pleasant winter climates, exquisite scenery and cultural opportunities, and offer great value, as their economies have not been severely impacted by rising prices."
Cross-Culture Journeys has been an industry leader in providing tours to India. Cross-Culture's "North India: Festivals, Forts, Palaces and People" (18 days, departing February 11, 2009) visits India's cosmopolitan capital, Delhi; Agra and the magnificent Taj Mahal; Rajasthan's vibrant capital of Jaipur; the Amber Fort, and the "blue city" of Jodphur. Travellers can extend this trip with a pre-tour visit to Bhutan or a post-tour extension to the sacred city of Varanasi. (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_131/exotic+north+india+-+festival+forts+palaces+and+people.aspx)
Cross-Culture's "South India" tour with a Kerala Backwaters Cruise (15 days, departing January 21, 2009) visits Chennai (Madras), the coastal center of Cochin with its Portugese influence, and a three-day cruise aboard the MV Vrinda. The itinerary is highlighted by performances of classical Indian dance performances, visits to palaces, and a city tour of Mumbai (Bombay). (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_171/deluxe+south+india+with+kerala+backwaters+cruise.aspx)
Cross-Culture will offer a "Yunan & Vietnam Ancient Wonders Tour" (16 days, departing January 30, 2009 or February 20, 2009) with an optional extension to Cambodia. The trip begins in the Yunan province of China and its capital of Kunming; the city of Lijiang founded in the Ming Dynasty, and major sites in North Vietnam including Halong Bay with its 3,000 small islands and the capital of Hanoi. (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_246/ancient+wonders+of+yunan+and+vietnam.aspx)
In-depth travels in Vietnam are available on Cross-Culture's "Vietnam Adventure" (16 days, departing January 23, 2009 and February 6, 2009), which visits Hanoi; Hue, the former capital of Vietnam; the Mekong Delta, and bustling Ho Chi Minh City, the former Saigon. (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_105/explore+vietnam.aspx)
The Mysteries of Indonesia are featured on two Cross-Culture departures (17 days, departing January 23, 2009 and February 20, 2009). Wandering through three Indonesian islands of Java, Sulawesi and Bali, travellers will visit traditional villages, Buddhist and Hindu temples and shrines, rice farms, beaches, and the cosmopolitan capital of Jakarta and the resort of Denpasar (Bali). (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_200/mysteries+of+indonesia.aspx)
Complete itineraries and pricing are available at Cross-Culture's website, www.ccjourneys.com.
For a free copy of the Cross-Culture Journeys "Unforgettable Journeys" 2009 Catalogue, call Cross-Culture Journeys at 413-256-6303 or 800-491-1148 or email travel@ccjourneys.com.
About Cross-Culture Journeys
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 50 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations for over a decade. Its partners include: WAMU/Washington, DC, WFCR/Western New England, KUER/Salt Lake City, WGUC/Cincinnati, and KACU/Abilene.
Cross-Culture Journeys now develops itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs including: UC-Berkeley, UCLA, Duke University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Lehigh University, North Carolina State, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Penn State, Texas A&M, Wake Forest University, University of Washington, Washington & Lee University, and Williams College.
For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS OFFERS WINTER 2009 TOURS TO INDIA, INDONESIA, CHINA AND VIETNAM
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross Culture Journeys offers a variety of getaway tours for the Winter 2009 season, featuring warm weather destinations around the world, including North India, South India, Indonesia, China and Vietnam.
According to Cross-Culture Journeys President Ati Jain, "these destinations have pleasant winter climates, exquisite scenery and cultural opportunities, and offer great value, as their economies have not been severely impacted by rising prices."
Cross-Culture Journeys has been an industry leader in providing tours to India. Cross-Culture's "North India: Festivals, Forts, Palaces and People" (18 days, departing February 11, 2009) visits India's cosmopolitan capital, Delhi; Agra and the magnificent Taj Mahal; Rajasthan's vibrant capital of Jaipur; the Amber Fort, and the "blue city" of Jodphur. Travellers can extend this trip with a pre-tour visit to Bhutan or a post-tour extension to the sacred city of Varanasi. (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_131/exotic+north+india+-+festival+forts+palaces+and+people.aspx)
Cross-Culture's "South India" tour with a Kerala Backwaters Cruise (15 days, departing January 21, 2009) visits Chennai (Madras), the coastal center of Cochin with its Portugese influence, and a three-day cruise aboard the MV Vrinda. The itinerary is highlighted by performances of classical Indian dance performances, visits to palaces, and a city tour of Mumbai (Bombay). (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_171/deluxe+south+india+with+kerala+backwaters+cruise.aspx)
Cross-Culture will offer a "Yunan & Vietnam Ancient Wonders Tour" (16 days, departing January 30, 2009 or February 20, 2009) with an optional extension to Cambodia. The trip begins in the Yunan province of China and its capital of Kunming; the city of Lijiang founded in the Ming Dynasty, and major sites in North Vietnam including Halong Bay with its 3,000 small islands and the capital of Hanoi. (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_246/ancient+wonders+of+yunan+and+vietnam.aspx)
In-depth travels in Vietnam are available on Cross-Culture's "Vietnam Adventure" (16 days, departing January 23, 2009 and February 6, 2009), which visits Hanoi; Hue, the former capital of Vietnam; the Mekong Delta, and bustling Ho Chi Minh City, the former Saigon. (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_105/explore+vietnam.aspx)
The Mysteries of Indonesia are featured on two Cross-Culture departures (17 days, departing January 23, 2009 and February 20, 2009). Wandering through three Indonesian islands of Java, Sulawesi and Bali, travellers will visit traditional villages, Buddhist and Hindu temples and shrines, rice farms, beaches, and the cosmopolitan capital of Jakarta and the resort of Denpasar (Bali). (http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_200/mysteries+of+indonesia.aspx)
Complete itineraries and pricing are available at Cross-Culture's website, www.ccjourneys.com.
For a free copy of the Cross-Culture Journeys "Unforgettable Journeys" 2009 Catalogue, call Cross-Culture Journeys at 413-256-6303 or 800-491-1148 or email travel@ccjourneys.com.
About Cross-Culture Journeys
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 50 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations for over a decade. Its partners include: WAMU/Washington, DC, WFCR/Western New England, KUER/Salt Lake City, WGUC/Cincinnati, and KACU/Abilene.
Cross-Culture Journeys now develops itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs including: UC-Berkeley, UCLA, Duke University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Lehigh University, North Carolina State, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Penn State, Texas A&M, Wake Forest University, University of Washington, Washington & Lee University, and Williams College.
For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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Monday, October 20, 2008
Capitol Steps / Cambridge-Boston
We've been asked to help The Mike Thornton Agency with PR support for The Capitol Steps' upcoming performances of the 2008 Campaign and Suffering Tour on Saturday, November 29, at the Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA. Tickets are now on sale. Ticket and performance information are now available at The Capitol Steps website: www.capsteps.com.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The Road Show Summary
A colleague asked me what kind of outline I use for a typical "intro" marketing seminar. Here's a short outline I used recently at Western New England College.
Marketing explained quickly:
***You have a product or a service that you wish to sell. It doesn't matter if you're a for-profit company or a not-for-profit company. (That's just a determination by the IRS and a company mission).
***There is an audience/consumer base around you with members who may (or may not) be interested in your product or service.
***Marketing is building the two-way bridge that connects product with market.
In order to be successful, one must:
***know your product (service),
***know your competition, and
***know your market (who will buy).
There are three distinct types of potential customers:
***the enthusiasts (just let them know about your product and how to buy it);
***the interested (they might buy your product, but they need a little persuasion); and the
***disinterested (nothing you can do or say will make them open their wallets).
Build your campaign to reach the enthusiasts and convert the interested. Skip the disinterested population.
Good marketing campaigns craft the right message (think AIDA--the Verdi or Elton John version).
***A) attract attention,
***I) create interest
***D) create desire and
***A) make the market take action.
Good campaigns are also well-planned, well-budgeted, well-designed, well-worded and flexible enough to be pro-active and remain fluid.
Marketing tools include: advertising, direct mail, telemarketing, websites, eblasts and all forms of communication. The message is controlled by the client. The message is budgeted and paid for. The marketplace knows that. You can often measure the results of marketing by how much product is sold in relation to the time a marketing component appears.
Public relations
***forges a believable partnership between the organization and the community.
***includes media coverage, special events, and spreading positive word of mouth.
***builds trust and credibility, which is (when done well) unapparent to the consumer.
Good PR is budgeted and paid for, but some of it costs little. (A thank-you note for a job well done on behalf of your company or a kind word said about your product or service creates good will).
You can't often measure the results of good PR in terms of sales at a specific time. But, you hear the feedback. (Example: "That was a great article about you in the New York Times".) With PR, you can't always control the message (that's called "spin" and it's usually transparent), but a good PR team can shape the message. Good public relations is pro-active. Good public relations can turn reactive into future pro-active.
Marketing explained quickly:
***You have a product or a service that you wish to sell. It doesn't matter if you're a for-profit company or a not-for-profit company. (That's just a determination by the IRS and a company mission).
***There is an audience/consumer base around you with members who may (or may not) be interested in your product or service.
***Marketing is building the two-way bridge that connects product with market.
In order to be successful, one must:
***know your product (service),
***know your competition, and
***know your market (who will buy).
There are three distinct types of potential customers:
***the enthusiasts (just let them know about your product and how to buy it);
***the interested (they might buy your product, but they need a little persuasion); and the
***disinterested (nothing you can do or say will make them open their wallets).
Build your campaign to reach the enthusiasts and convert the interested. Skip the disinterested population.
Good marketing campaigns craft the right message (think AIDA--the Verdi or Elton John version).
***A) attract attention,
***I) create interest
***D) create desire and
***A) make the market take action.
Good campaigns are also well-planned, well-budgeted, well-designed, well-worded and flexible enough to be pro-active and remain fluid.
Marketing tools include: advertising, direct mail, telemarketing, websites, eblasts and all forms of communication. The message is controlled by the client. The message is budgeted and paid for. The marketplace knows that. You can often measure the results of marketing by how much product is sold in relation to the time a marketing component appears.
Public relations
***forges a believable partnership between the organization and the community.
***includes media coverage, special events, and spreading positive word of mouth.
***builds trust and credibility, which is (when done well) unapparent to the consumer.
Good PR is budgeted and paid for, but some of it costs little. (A thank-you note for a job well done on behalf of your company or a kind word said about your product or service creates good will).
You can't often measure the results of good PR in terms of sales at a specific time. But, you hear the feedback. (Example: "That was a great article about you in the New York Times".) With PR, you can't always control the message (that's called "spin" and it's usually transparent), but a good PR team can shape the message. Good public relations is pro-active. Good public relations can turn reactive into future pro-active.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Road Show
I'll be teaching my first marketing/public relations seminar for the 2008-09 year on Wednesday, October 8, at 12Noon at Western New England College in Springfield, MA. (For those who want to attend, it's in Sleith Hall 105).
Since I opened my business in 1986, I always thought that it was important to share my expertise and experiences with others considering marketing and PR. In previous positions, I've mentored interns. A couple have become quality contributors to broadcast and print journalism.
In recent years, I've done marketing and PR seminars for WNEC, Indiana University's Arts Administration Program and other programs. It's a small, yet fulfilling, way to give something back to those who mentored me along the way.
Since I opened my business in 1986, I always thought that it was important to share my expertise and experiences with others considering marketing and PR. In previous positions, I've mentored interns. A couple have become quality contributors to broadcast and print journalism.
In recent years, I've done marketing and PR seminars for WNEC, Indiana University's Arts Administration Program and other programs. It's a small, yet fulfilling, way to give something back to those who mentored me along the way.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Press Release from Cross-Culture Journeys: 2009 Catalogue
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 15, 2008
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS RELEASES 2009 "UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES" CATALOGUE OF TOURS
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys has released its 2009 "Unforgettable Experiences" catalogue of 2009 tours and small-ship cruises. Over 40 itineraries with 180 departure dates during 2009 are listed in Cross-Culture Journeys' collection of tours to Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Asia and small-ship expedition cruises and river cruises.
According to Cross-Culture Journeys' President Ati Jain, the Company will launch new travel programs to Morocco, Tunisia, Israel & Jordan, and a revamped President's Tour to the Adriatic, which will include new stops in Montenegro and Albania.
Cross-Culture Journeys will offer specialty travel programs to Venice for the Biennale, the internationally acclaimed contemporary arts festival; a family-friendly tour to Italy (Rome, Florence and Venice) and "Legends of Gods & Heros" a family small ship cruise from Athens through the Greek Islands across the Adriatic to Rome. Cross-Culture Journeys will offer a golfing cruise to Morocco and Spain's Costa del Sol, visiting some of the golf courses at the Rock of Gibraltar and El Jadida Royal in Morocco. Other tour highlights include: eco-history cruises and tours to The Galapagos, Antarctica, Tahiti and the Marquesas and Society Islands; a Great Lakes cruise from Toronto to Duluth via Niagara Falls and Mackinac Island.
For a free copy of the Cross-Culture Journeys "Unforgettable Journeys" 2009 Catalogue, call Cross-Culture Journeys at 413-256-6303 or 800-491-1148 or email travel@ccjourneys.com.
About Cross-Culture Journeys
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 50 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations for over a decade. Its partners include: WAMU/Washington, DC, WFCR/Western New England, KUER/Salt Lake City, WGUC/Cincinnati, and KACU/Abilene.
Cross-Culture Journeys now develops itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs including: UC-Berkeley, UCLA, Duke University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Lehigh University, North Carolina State, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Penn State, Texas A&M, Wake Forest University, University of Washington, Washington & Lee University, and Williams College.
For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS RELEASES 2009 "UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES" CATALOGUE OF TOURS
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys has released its 2009 "Unforgettable Experiences" catalogue of 2009 tours and small-ship cruises. Over 40 itineraries with 180 departure dates during 2009 are listed in Cross-Culture Journeys' collection of tours to Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Asia and small-ship expedition cruises and river cruises.
According to Cross-Culture Journeys' President Ati Jain, the Company will launch new travel programs to Morocco, Tunisia, Israel & Jordan, and a revamped President's Tour to the Adriatic, which will include new stops in Montenegro and Albania.
Cross-Culture Journeys will offer specialty travel programs to Venice for the Biennale, the internationally acclaimed contemporary arts festival; a family-friendly tour to Italy (Rome, Florence and Venice) and "Legends of Gods & Heros" a family small ship cruise from Athens through the Greek Islands across the Adriatic to Rome. Cross-Culture Journeys will offer a golfing cruise to Morocco and Spain's Costa del Sol, visiting some of the golf courses at the Rock of Gibraltar and El Jadida Royal in Morocco. Other tour highlights include: eco-history cruises and tours to The Galapagos, Antarctica, Tahiti and the Marquesas and Society Islands; a Great Lakes cruise from Toronto to Duluth via Niagara Falls and Mackinac Island.
For a free copy of the Cross-Culture Journeys "Unforgettable Journeys" 2009 Catalogue, call Cross-Culture Journeys at 413-256-6303 or 800-491-1148 or email travel@ccjourneys.com.
About Cross-Culture Journeys
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 50 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations for over a decade. Its partners include: WAMU/Washington, DC, WFCR/Western New England, KUER/Salt Lake City, WGUC/Cincinnati, and KACU/Abilene.
Cross-Culture Journeys now develops itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs including: UC-Berkeley, UCLA, Duke University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Lehigh University, North Carolina State, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Penn State, Texas A&M, Wake Forest University, University of Washington, Washington & Lee University, and Williams College.
For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Interview: Mike Thornton of The Capitol Steps
The Brattleboro Reformer interviewed Capitol Steps talent Mike Thornton in advance of the group's performance at the Latchis Theatre in Brattleboro on September 14. http://www.reformer.com/ci_10425523
Friday, September 5, 2008
Press Release from Cross-culture Journeys / New Tours to Morocco, Tunisia, Israel & Jordan, and the Adriatic
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 5, 2008
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS INTRODUCES TRAVEL PROGRAMS TO MOROCCO, TUNISIA, ISRAEL AND JORDAN, AND THE PRESIDENT'S CRUISE TO THE ADRIATIC
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys has introduced four new itineraries for 2009. International travellers will have an opportunity to sample new trips to Morocco, Tunisia, Israel and Jordan, and the 2009 President's Cruise from Venice to Athens with stops along the Adriatic coast.
Cross-Culture's new "Discover Morocco: A Cultural Journey", a 14 day/12 night small-group tour visits the cities, deserts and kasbahs of North Africa's exotic country with stops in Casablanca, Marrakech, and Rabat. Tour highlights include guided tours of Rabat's kasbah, masoleum, and Andalucian gardens; the spiritual capital of Fez; a desert camel ride in the Erg Chebbi sand dunes; the Roman city of Volubilis; the Road of a thousand Kasbah in the high Atlas mountains; the gardens and palaces of Marrakech, the coastal town of Essaouira, and a stop at a Berber village. Departures begin in February, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/SSTUser/Destinations.aspx?RegionID=7&CountryID=134
Cross-Culture Journeys ' Archeological and Cultural Treasures of Tunisia, offers another new travel program in Northern Africa. The 12 days / 10 night itinerary combines Mediterranean beaches, the Sahara Desert, the famous Phoenician city of Carthage; infused by the Arab Muslims who conquered the region in the 7th century; the Normans who came along in the 12th century, and the French who followed in the 19th century, and you have Tunisia. The program visits North Africa's largest Medina in Tunisia's cosmopolitan capital Tunis, the ruins of Carthage; a venture into the Sahara by 4-wheel drive and rail, overnight at an oasis; visits to landscapes used in the movies "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Star Wars", and Berber villages, ancient synagogues and mosques, ocal spice markets and bazaars. Departures begin in January, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/SSTUser/Destinations.aspx?RegionID=7&CountryID=143
Cross-Culture Journey's Israel & Jordan: A Journey Through The Ages (14 days / 12 nights) visits the eastern Mediterranean region sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. the tour includes visits to Jerusalem, the center of the three religions' spiiritual history; modern Tel Aviv, the Roman ruins at Caesaria, the buoyant waters of The Dead Sea; Masada and other Biblical sites; and Jordan's ancient rose-hued city of Petra and Madaba, the city of Mosaics. Visitors will stay on an Israeli kibbutz; have a family visit in Petra, and lunch at a Druze village on Mt. Carmel. Departures begin in February, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/SSTUser/Destinations.aspx?RegionID=7&CountryID=152
Cross-Culture Journey's 2008 President's Cruise to the Adriatic received accolades from our participants, a second cruise, accompanied by Cross-Culture President Ati Jain, has been scheduled with a different itinerary. Dubbed "A Voyage of Discovery", the 13 days/ 11 nights cruise aboard the MS Monet, a yacht-sized vessel with luxurious amenities, meanders through the Adriatic and Ionian seas on a course between Venice and Athens with highlights including: the Grand Canal of Venice with its waterfront palaces; the temples and antiquities of Athens; stops in Montenegro and Albania, the Palace of Diocletian in Split, the Oracle a Delphi, and shorelines with gorges and cascades. The tour is punctuated with strolls through the medieval streets of delightful towns from Rovinj, Croatia, to Argostoli, on the Greek island of Kefalonia. Gourmet foods and wines dazzle the senses. The tour departs May 26, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_306/adriatic+presidents+voyage+of+discovery.aspx
Detailed itineraries, prices, early-booking and pre-payment discounts and registration materials for all four programs are available at Cross-Culture Journeys website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
About Cross-Culture Journeys
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 50 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations for over a decade. Its partners include: WAMU/Washington, DC, WFCR/Western New England, KUER/Salt Lake City, WGUC/Cincinnati, and KACU/Abilene.
Cross-Culture Journeys now develops itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs including: UC-Berkeley, UCLA, Duke University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Lehigh University, North Carolina State, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Penn State, Texas A&M, Wake Forest University, University of Washington, Washington & Lee University, and Williams College.
For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS INTRODUCES TRAVEL PROGRAMS TO MOROCCO, TUNISIA, ISRAEL AND JORDAN, AND THE PRESIDENT'S CRUISE TO THE ADRIATIC
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys has introduced four new itineraries for 2009. International travellers will have an opportunity to sample new trips to Morocco, Tunisia, Israel and Jordan, and the 2009 President's Cruise from Venice to Athens with stops along the Adriatic coast.
Cross-Culture's new "Discover Morocco: A Cultural Journey", a 14 day/12 night small-group tour visits the cities, deserts and kasbahs of North Africa's exotic country with stops in Casablanca, Marrakech, and Rabat. Tour highlights include guided tours of Rabat's kasbah, masoleum, and Andalucian gardens; the spiritual capital of Fez; a desert camel ride in the Erg Chebbi sand dunes; the Roman city of Volubilis; the Road of a thousand Kasbah in the high Atlas mountains; the gardens and palaces of Marrakech, the coastal town of Essaouira, and a stop at a Berber village. Departures begin in February, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/SSTUser/Destinations.aspx?RegionID=7&CountryID=134
Cross-Culture Journeys ' Archeological and Cultural Treasures of Tunisia, offers another new travel program in Northern Africa. The 12 days / 10 night itinerary combines Mediterranean beaches, the Sahara Desert, the famous Phoenician city of Carthage; infused by the Arab Muslims who conquered the region in the 7th century; the Normans who came along in the 12th century, and the French who followed in the 19th century, and you have Tunisia. The program visits North Africa's largest Medina in Tunisia's cosmopolitan capital Tunis, the ruins of Carthage; a venture into the Sahara by 4-wheel drive and rail, overnight at an oasis; visits to landscapes used in the movies "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Star Wars", and Berber villages, ancient synagogues and mosques, ocal spice markets and bazaars. Departures begin in January, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/SSTUser/Destinations.aspx?RegionID=7&CountryID=143
Cross-Culture Journey's Israel & Jordan: A Journey Through The Ages (14 days / 12 nights) visits the eastern Mediterranean region sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. the tour includes visits to Jerusalem, the center of the three religions' spiiritual history; modern Tel Aviv, the Roman ruins at Caesaria, the buoyant waters of The Dead Sea; Masada and other Biblical sites; and Jordan's ancient rose-hued city of Petra and Madaba, the city of Mosaics. Visitors will stay on an Israeli kibbutz; have a family visit in Petra, and lunch at a Druze village on Mt. Carmel. Departures begin in February, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/SSTUser/Destinations.aspx?RegionID=7&CountryID=152
Cross-Culture Journey's 2008 President's Cruise to the Adriatic received accolades from our participants, a second cruise, accompanied by Cross-Culture President Ati Jain, has been scheduled with a different itinerary. Dubbed "A Voyage of Discovery", the 13 days/ 11 nights cruise aboard the MS Monet, a yacht-sized vessel with luxurious amenities, meanders through the Adriatic and Ionian seas on a course between Venice and Athens with highlights including: the Grand Canal of Venice with its waterfront palaces; the temples and antiquities of Athens; stops in Montenegro and Albania, the Palace of Diocletian in Split, the Oracle a Delphi, and shorelines with gorges and cascades. The tour is punctuated with strolls through the medieval streets of delightful towns from Rovinj, Croatia, to Argostoli, on the Greek island of Kefalonia. Gourmet foods and wines dazzle the senses. The tour departs May 26, 2009. For a sample itinerary: http://ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_306/adriatic+presidents+voyage+of+discovery.aspx
Detailed itineraries, prices, early-booking and pre-payment discounts and registration materials for all four programs are available at Cross-Culture Journeys website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
About Cross-Culture Journeys
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 50 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations for over a decade. Its partners include: WAMU/Washington, DC, WFCR/Western New England, KUER/Salt Lake City, WGUC/Cincinnati, and KACU/Abilene.
Cross-Culture Journeys now develops itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs including: UC-Berkeley, UCLA, Duke University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Lehigh University, North Carolina State, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Penn State, Texas A&M, Wake Forest University, University of Washington, Washington & Lee University, and Williams College.
For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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Sunday, August 17, 2008
New Client: The Mike Thornton Agency
New Client: Mike Thornton and I have partnered for years bringing The Capitol Steps to Western Massachusetts. He's asked me to help market and promote his Brattleboro (VT) show, which also gives me an opportunity to partner with Michael Kusek at Communication Angle. Here's the scoop on the performance.
CAPITOL STEPS TO PERFORM AT BRATTLEBORO'S LATCHIS THEATRE ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2008. VERMONT APPEARANCE PART OF THE 2008 CAMPAIGN AND SUFFERING TOUR
Brattleboro, Vermont--The award-winning musical satire group, The Capitol Steps, will be making a campaign stop at The Latchis Theatre at 50 Main Street in downtown Brattleboro, Vermont, with one performance of their new "Campaign and Suffering" tour on Sunday, September 14, 2008, at 7:30PM.
Since they began in 1981, the Capitol Steps have recorded 27 albums. They've been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on NPR stations nationwide during their "Politics Takes a Holiday" radio specials. The Brattleboro program includes songs from their brand new album "Campaign and Suffering", as well as melodies spoofing current issues in the news. The show promises to hit both sides of the aisle and the songs change with the scandal of the day. So, if something big happens in the news, you can run to the Capitol Steps show and find out exactly what rhymes with it! To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Campaign and Suffering", visit (www.capsteps.com).
Recently nominated for the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and winner of the 2006 WUSA A-List for "Best Comedy Club", the Capitol Steps have reached many fans nationwide. The New York Times called the performance of music and comedy "A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous".
The Capitol Steps performance in Brattleboro is made possible with the support of Vermont Public Radio. (www.vpr.net).
Tickets (rear orchestra priced at $34 and balcony priced at $28) are now on sale at www.brattleborotix.com and via phone at 802-246-6000.
For information on the Latchis Theatre: www.latchis.com/theatre.html)
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CAPITOL STEPS TO PERFORM AT BRATTLEBORO'S LATCHIS THEATRE ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2008. VERMONT APPEARANCE PART OF THE 2008 CAMPAIGN AND SUFFERING TOUR
Brattleboro, Vermont--The award-winning musical satire group, The Capitol Steps, will be making a campaign stop at The Latchis Theatre at 50 Main Street in downtown Brattleboro, Vermont, with one performance of their new "Campaign and Suffering" tour on Sunday, September 14, 2008, at 7:30PM.
Since they began in 1981, the Capitol Steps have recorded 27 albums. They've been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on NPR stations nationwide during their "Politics Takes a Holiday" radio specials. The Brattleboro program includes songs from their brand new album "Campaign and Suffering", as well as melodies spoofing current issues in the news. The show promises to hit both sides of the aisle and the songs change with the scandal of the day. So, if something big happens in the news, you can run to the Capitol Steps show and find out exactly what rhymes with it! To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Campaign and Suffering", visit (www.capsteps.com).
Recently nominated for the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and winner of the 2006 WUSA A-List for "Best Comedy Club", the Capitol Steps have reached many fans nationwide. The New York Times called the performance of music and comedy "A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous".
The Capitol Steps performance in Brattleboro is made possible with the support of Vermont Public Radio. (www.vpr.net).
Tickets (rear orchestra priced at $34 and balcony priced at $28) are now on sale at www.brattleborotix.com and via phone at 802-246-6000.
For information on the Latchis Theatre: www.latchis.com/theatre.html)
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Monday, July 14, 2008
News from Cross-Culture: Mt. Holyoke's Art Museum's Rome Trip
DATELINE: July 11, 2008
CONTACTS:
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
Marianne Doezema
Florence Finch Abbott Director
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum
413-538-2245 or mdoezema@mtholyoke.edu
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum and Cross-Culture Journeys Present Travel Program to Rome..."Sites and Sensibilities: Walks in Rome and Environs". Mount Holyoke Art Historian and Travel Writer John Varriano to Lead October Trip
The Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, in association with Cross-Culture Journeys, is offering an 11-day travel program to Italy, Sites and Sensibilities: Walks in Rome and Environs on October 3-11, 2008. Mount Holyoke College art historian John Varriano, author of the travel guide "Rome: A Literary Companion" (chosen by Travel & Leisure Magazine as one of the best guidebook for walks in Rome), has designed the tour with Cross-Culture Journey's travel professionals; Varriano will lead the tour and some of the unique walks through the historical neighborhoods and sites that blanket the Eternal City.
Rome has been, for centuries, a center of Western civilization; largely unscathed by World War II, it has remained a living center of art and antiquities, surrounded by the vibrancy of a modern capital and "la dolce vita". Professor Varriano and local guide Nancy De Concilis will illuminate daily encounters with Ancient Rome, the great artists of the Italian Renaissance, and the powerful baroque works of Bernini and Borromini whose vision permeates the city to this day. The tour visits ancient ruins, museums, piazzas and fountains, the Vatican, and several of the villas that grace Rome’s environs. The tour also includes visits to the charming towns of Tivoli and Frascati, as well as the beautiful outlying area known as the Castelli Romani. There's time to savor some of Rome’s delightful restaurants, and spend several afternoons exploring the city independently or sketching with John Varriano. All travel participants will receive a copy of Varianno's book.
The Sites and Sensibilities: Walks in Rome and Environs tour includes: 9 nights accommodations at the centrally-located Ponte Sisto Hotel (four-star) in Rome, daily buffet breakfasts and meals as listed in the itinerary, excursions, admissions, and travel as listed in the itinerary, For those purchasing group air transportation through Cross-Culture Journeys, Rome airport transfers are included. Prices (per person, double occupancy) are: $4,995 land-only; $5,795 with air from Boston and/or New York. Airline ticket taxes, surcharges, and fees are extra. For a complete itinerary, registration form, and additional information, contact Cross-Culture Journeys at 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
The Mount Holyoke College Art Museum in South Hadley, founded in 1876, is one of the nation's leading collegiate art museums. Its comprehensive permanent collection of 14,000 objects features Asian art, 19th and 20th century European and American paintings and sculpture, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art; Medieval sculpture, early Italian Renaissance paintings, and an extensive collection of works on paper. For information on the Museum's exhibitions and programs: 413-538-3185 or http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/artmuseum/general_info.html. For recent news about the Mount Holyoke College Art Museum: http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/artmuseum/whatsnew.html
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups. Cross-Culture Journeys, long a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations including WFCR in Western New England, WAMU in Washington, DC and KUER in Cincinnati, has developed a series of itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs for partners UCLA, Texas A&M, Williams College, Penn State, University of Georgia, and Duke University. For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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CONTACTS:
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
Marianne Doezema
Florence Finch Abbott Director
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum
413-538-2245 or mdoezema@mtholyoke.edu
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum and Cross-Culture Journeys Present Travel Program to Rome..."Sites and Sensibilities: Walks in Rome and Environs". Mount Holyoke Art Historian and Travel Writer John Varriano to Lead October Trip
The Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, in association with Cross-Culture Journeys, is offering an 11-day travel program to Italy, Sites and Sensibilities: Walks in Rome and Environs on October 3-11, 2008. Mount Holyoke College art historian John Varriano, author of the travel guide "Rome: A Literary Companion" (chosen by Travel & Leisure Magazine as one of the best guidebook for walks in Rome), has designed the tour with Cross-Culture Journey's travel professionals; Varriano will lead the tour and some of the unique walks through the historical neighborhoods and sites that blanket the Eternal City.
Rome has been, for centuries, a center of Western civilization; largely unscathed by World War II, it has remained a living center of art and antiquities, surrounded by the vibrancy of a modern capital and "la dolce vita". Professor Varriano and local guide Nancy De Concilis will illuminate daily encounters with Ancient Rome, the great artists of the Italian Renaissance, and the powerful baroque works of Bernini and Borromini whose vision permeates the city to this day. The tour visits ancient ruins, museums, piazzas and fountains, the Vatican, and several of the villas that grace Rome’s environs. The tour also includes visits to the charming towns of Tivoli and Frascati, as well as the beautiful outlying area known as the Castelli Romani. There's time to savor some of Rome’s delightful restaurants, and spend several afternoons exploring the city independently or sketching with John Varriano. All travel participants will receive a copy of Varianno's book.
The Sites and Sensibilities: Walks in Rome and Environs tour includes: 9 nights accommodations at the centrally-located Ponte Sisto Hotel (four-star) in Rome, daily buffet breakfasts and meals as listed in the itinerary, excursions, admissions, and travel as listed in the itinerary, For those purchasing group air transportation through Cross-Culture Journeys, Rome airport transfers are included. Prices (per person, double occupancy) are: $4,995 land-only; $5,795 with air from Boston and/or New York. Airline ticket taxes, surcharges, and fees are extra. For a complete itinerary, registration form, and additional information, contact Cross-Culture Journeys at 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
The Mount Holyoke College Art Museum in South Hadley, founded in 1876, is one of the nation's leading collegiate art museums. Its comprehensive permanent collection of 14,000 objects features Asian art, 19th and 20th century European and American paintings and sculpture, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art; Medieval sculpture, early Italian Renaissance paintings, and an extensive collection of works on paper. For information on the Museum's exhibitions and programs: 413-538-3185 or http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/artmuseum/general_info.html. For recent news about the Mount Holyoke College Art Museum: http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/artmuseum/whatsnew.html
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross-Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups. Cross-Culture Journeys, long a group travel partner for public broadcasting stations including WFCR in Western New England, WAMU in Washington, DC and KUER in Cincinnati, has developed a series of itineraries for some of the nation's most prestigious college and university alumni travel programs for partners UCLA, Texas A&M, Williams College, Penn State, University of Georgia, and Duke University. For information, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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Saturday, June 28, 2008
Calendar Listings: Capitol Steps Return
DATELINE: June 27, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Mark G. Auerbach
Special Projects / WFCR
413-733-7095
marka@wfcr.org
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
*CALENDAR LISTINGS*
88.5FM/WFCR and 640AM/WNNZ present
THE CAPITOL STEPS
Musical Political Satire
Friday and Saturday, December 5-6, 2008 at 8PM
Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA.
The Capitol Steps return for their 7th WFCR appearance in an all-new program, to be announced after the 2008 elections.
"A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous". Lawrence Van Gelder, The New York Times
"Their political satire brings chuckles...ravereviews...guffaws...and bipartisan grins all around. The satire hits the mark.” The Wall Street Journal
For program information on The Capitol Steps, visit their website:.
Tickets: (General Admission ). Producers Circle: $55.00 ( includes premium seating and post-performance cast-party), Orchestra: $37.50, Balconies: $32.00 and $27.00 are on sale at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office: 413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS and online at
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88.5FM WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, is an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International serving over 200,000 listeners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York with regional news and information programming, and locally produced classical, jazz, Latino, and world music programming at 88.5FM, 101.1FM North Adams, 96.3 Williamstown, HD2 at 88.5FM, and on 640AM WNNZ. The University of Massachusetts is the license holder for 88.5FM WFCR, which operates with the advice and support of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. For more information about 88.5FM WFCR's programs and services, call 413-545-0100 or visit our website at www.wfcr.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Mark G. Auerbach
Special Projects / WFCR
413-733-7095
marka@wfcr.org
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
*CALENDAR LISTINGS*
88.5FM/WFCR and 640AM/WNNZ present
THE CAPITOL STEPS
Musical Political Satire
Friday and Saturday, December 5-6, 2008 at 8PM
Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA.
The Capitol Steps return for their 7th WFCR appearance in an all-new program, to be announced after the 2008 elections.
"A happy evening for those who yearn for the lighter side of the news and derive pleasure from seeing the mighty made ridiculous". Lawrence Van Gelder, The New York Times
"Their political satire brings chuckles...ravereviews...guffaws...and bipartisan grins all around. The satire hits the mark.” The Wall Street Journal
For program information on The Capitol Steps, visit their website:
Tickets: (General Admission ). Producers Circle: $55.00 ( includes premium seating and post-performance cast-party), Orchestra: $37.50, Balconies: $32.00 and $27.00 are on sale at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office: 413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS and online at
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88.5FM WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, is an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International serving over 200,000 listeners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York with regional news and information programming, and locally produced classical, jazz, Latino, and world music programming at 88.5FM, 101.1FM North Adams, 96.3 Williamstown, HD2 at 88.5FM, and on 640AM WNNZ. The University of Massachusetts is the license holder for 88.5FM WFCR, which operates with the advice and support of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. For more information about 88.5FM WFCR's programs and services, call 413-545-0100 or visit our website at www.wfcr.org.
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News from Cross-Culture: Holiday Cruises
DATELINE: June 26, 2008
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys
413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
Cross-Culture Journeys Presents Exotic South Atlantic and South Pacific Cruises During Holiday Season
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys, specialists in small-ship cruises to unique destinations, presents two new cruise itineraries for Fall and Winter, 2008/09. One itinerary, abord the MS Corinthian II, travels from the Shores of Africa to South America's Patagonia over a 33-day itinerary. The second itinerary, aboard the MS Spirit of Oceanus, meanders through the South Pacific on a 19-day excursion from Fiji to Guam.
From the Shores of Africa to Patagonia: A Grand Voyage to West Africa, the Atlantic Islands and South America (33 days, 31 nights aboard the MS Corinthian II. Departure date: November 20, 2008) The MS Corinthian II repositions itself from Northern Europe and Mediterranean tours to its winter home in Antarctia with an itinerary from Casablanca to Cape Horn via ports-of-call off the map of most travellers. On the sailing routes taken by Spanish and Portugese explorers and traders the cruise departs Morocco for points along the Western Sahara and the Azores, across the Southern Atlantic to exotic Recife, Brazil, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Olinda, and on to Salvador and Rio. The tour continues to Montevideo, Uruguay; the resort of Mar del Plata, and the Falkland Islands, before ending in Ushuaia, the Argentine port in Patagonia. Carefully selected ports of call introduce travelers to historical sites, ecological wonders and the fusion of European and local cultures. The itinerary and pricing is available online at:
Legends of the Pacific. (19 days, 16 nights aboard the MS Spirit of Oceanus. Departure dates: December 28, 2008 and February 24, 2009) carries travelers to the splendors of the South Pacific made famous by James Michener, Rodgers & Hammerstein, and "Survivor" on a cruise that highlights the paradise of Polynesian and Melanesian cultures with historical sites made famous during World War II. Ports of call ibetween Lautoka, the sugar capital of Fiji, and Guam, a favorite beach resort of the Japanese and Asians, include the lava lakes and rainforests of Vanuatu, The Solomon Islands (site of the famous World War II battle at Guadalcanal); Micronesia with the island of Pohnpei, site of Nan Madol ("The Venice of the Pacific", an historical city of man-made canals and buildings that predates its Italian counterpart). The itinerary and pricing is available online at:
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups. For information and itineraries, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys
413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
Cross-Culture Journeys Presents Exotic South Atlantic and South Pacific Cruises During Holiday Season
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys, specialists in small-ship cruises to unique destinations, presents two new cruise itineraries for Fall and Winter, 2008/09. One itinerary, abord the MS Corinthian II, travels from the Shores of Africa to South America's Patagonia over a 33-day itinerary. The second itinerary, aboard the MS Spirit of Oceanus, meanders through the South Pacific on a 19-day excursion from Fiji to Guam.
From the Shores of Africa to Patagonia: A Grand Voyage to West Africa, the Atlantic Islands and South America (33 days, 31 nights aboard the MS Corinthian II. Departure date: November 20, 2008) The MS Corinthian II repositions itself from Northern Europe and Mediterranean tours to its winter home in Antarctia with an itinerary from Casablanca to Cape Horn via ports-of-call off the map of most travellers. On the sailing routes taken by Spanish and Portugese explorers and traders the cruise departs Morocco for points along the Western Sahara and the Azores, across the Southern Atlantic to exotic Recife, Brazil, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Olinda, and on to Salvador and Rio. The tour continues to Montevideo, Uruguay; the resort of Mar del Plata, and the Falkland Islands, before ending in Ushuaia, the Argentine port in Patagonia. Carefully selected ports of call introduce travelers to historical sites, ecological wonders and the fusion of European and local cultures. The itinerary and pricing is available online at:
Legends of the Pacific. (19 days, 16 nights aboard the MS Spirit of Oceanus. Departure dates: December 28, 2008 and February 24, 2009) carries travelers to the splendors of the South Pacific made famous by James Michener, Rodgers & Hammerstein, and "Survivor" on a cruise that highlights the paradise of Polynesian and Melanesian cultures with historical sites made famous during World War II. Ports of call ibetween Lautoka, the sugar capital of Fiji, and Guam, a favorite beach resort of the Japanese and Asians, include the lava lakes and rainforests of Vanuatu, The Solomon Islands (site of the famous World War II battle at Guadalcanal); Micronesia with the island of Pohnpei, site of Nan Madol ("The Venice of the Pacific", an historical city of man-made canals and buildings that predates its Italian counterpart). The itinerary and pricing is available online at:
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups. For information and itineraries, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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Hot Travel Tips: Cross-Culture: 6/26/08
We edit Cross-Culture Journey's e-newsletter. To sign up for a free copy, visit www.ccjourneys.com
Hot Travel Tips
The American Public Transportation Association is an information source and advocacy group for current and future public transportation initiatives throughout the USA. Two sites of interest to travelers who are interested in using public transportation: commuter rail systems in US cities, including those that link airports and other points of interest: and a site specifically devoted to public transport access to US airports. The APTA links page has other information including college and university transit systems. Go green to and from your vacation and every day.
CyberCruises.com has links to the major global cruise ship terminals and port authority websites. Learn where your ship will dock, the amenities at the pier and passenger ship terminal, public transportation and/or parking options, directions, and more. The site updates regularly.
Hot Travel Tips
The American Public Transportation Association is an information source and advocacy group for current and future public transportation initiatives throughout the USA. Two sites of interest to travelers who are interested in using public transportation: commuter rail systems in US cities, including those that link airports and other points of interest:
CyberCruises.com has links to the major global cruise ship terminals and port authority websites. Learn where your ship will dock, the amenities at the pier and passenger ship terminal, public transportation and/or parking options, directions, and more. The site updates regularly.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Cross-Culture: Hot Travel Tips 6/03/08
Hot Travel Tips 6/03/08
We edit the e-news for Cross-Culture Journeys. These are the travel tips for the most recent newsletter. You can visit Cross-Culture's website (ccjourneys.com) and sign up to receive the newsletter.
Airport Havens. You'll be spending more times at airports this year, with longer security lines, earlier check-in lines, and unavoidable delays. Airport Havens profiles quiet spaces and good spots to relax before and after flights, all compiled by frequent flyers and road-warriors. You can also add your favorite spaces to the list. www.airporthavens.com.
Bus or Train to the Plane: With gas prices higher than ever, airport parking at a premium, and cab fares as costly as your plane ticket, you can utilize public transportation to/from many airports. To and From the Airport lays out the options. http://www.toandfromtheairport.com/index.html.
We edit the e-news for Cross-Culture Journeys. These are the travel tips for the most recent newsletter. You can visit Cross-Culture's website (ccjourneys.com) and sign up to receive the newsletter.
Airport Havens. You'll be spending more times at airports this year, with longer security lines, earlier check-in lines, and unavoidable delays. Airport Havens profiles quiet spaces and good spots to relax before and after flights, all compiled by frequent flyers and road-warriors. You can also add your favorite spaces to the list. www.airporthavens.com.
Bus or Train to the Plane: With gas prices higher than ever, airport parking at a premium, and cab fares as costly as your plane ticket, you can utilize public transportation to/from many airports. To and From the Airport lays out the options. http://www.toandfromtheairport.com/index.html.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
The Capabilities Recap: 3/30/09-Updated
Mark G. Auerbach
Public Relations
Capabilities
Since 1986, we've provided marketing, public relations, special events and development counsel to a variety of local, regional and national retail, cultural, travel and non-profit clients.
Some clients have included (list available upon request):
***Academy at Charlemont, Charlemont, MA. Marketing and public relations counsel for benefit concerts (The Paul Winter Consort and The Jazz Mandolin Trio).
***AOL / America Online, Community Leaders program supervisor, host, newsletter editor.
***The Center for Cross-Cultural Studies (CCCS), Amherst, MA. Public relations counsel for tourism programs in Spain and Cuba for an educational study-abroad company.
***Cross-Culture Journeys, Amherst, MA. Public relations and marketing counsel for an international travel company and its subsidiaries: Edit company's e-newsletter.
***DIFFA/The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS/Western Mass. Developed and marketed all special events which raised over $100,000 for local AIDS service organizations.
***Indiana University, Bloomington IN. Seminar in public relations and marketing for arts administration programs.
***Mike Thornton Agency, Falls Church, VA. Marketing/public relations for The Capitol Steps performances in Brattleboro, VT (9/14/08) and Cambridge, MA (11/29/08) and Mike Thornton "Step Back" Concert at Yorktown Bistro, Arlington, VA
***OnlinePartners.Com, San Francisco, CA. (same role as with AOL)
***Pioneer Arts Center of Easthampton (PACE), MA. Marketing/public relations support for performances of the musical "Falsettos" at the Academy of Music in Northampton, MA.(5/01/09-5/03/09, 5/08/09-5/10/09)
***Pioneer Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, Springfield, MA. (became Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau). Marketing and public relations counsel. Organized press tours of the region and developed organization's membership program.
***The Rouse Company, Columbia, MD. Arts in the Marketplace projects including the National Bel Canto Opera Competition, special projects public relations for Eastfield Mall, Springfield, MA
***Says You!, the public radio quiz show.
***StageWest, Springfield, MA. Public relations and marketing counsel for AEA LORT theatre company.
***Stanley Park of Westfield, MA. Public relations and marketing counsel for summer concert series with the Hartford and Springfield Symphony Orchestras.
***Western New England College, Springfield, MA. Seminar in public relations and marketing for communications department.
***88.5FM/WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, Amherst, MA. Produced all live special events, international and domestic travel programs, and community events on a project basis. Selected special events included: "A Prairie Home Companion" and "Says You!" live broadcasts; lectures/book tours with NPR personalities David Brancaccio, Bob Edwards, Ira Glass, Terry Gross, Garrison Keillor, Ketzel Levine, David Sedaris, Scott Simons, Linda Wertheimer; authors Augusten Burroughs, Jane Goodall, Anne Lamott, Andrew Weil; performances with Emanuel Ax, Eric Bogosian, Connecticut Opera Express, Spalding Gray, Matt Haimovitz, The Pittsburgh Collective, and Sonny Rollins. Selected travel programs included: Santa Fe Opera, Cuba, Prague International Music Festival, Barcelona/Terassa Jazz Festival, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Berlin. From 1987-2001, served as station's Public Relations / Underwriting Director. Supervised all underwriting, special events, public relations and marketing for station programming and activities. Supervised 3-4 underwriting sales staff and outsourced personnel (designers) on a project basis.
Other Employment
1985-1986: Director of Marketing, Greater Miami Opera, Miami, FL. Coordinated all marketing and public relations campaigns for a major opera company's winter season.
1982-1985: Director of Marketing and Communications, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Springfield, MA. Coordinated all marketing and public relations campaigns for the orchestra's classical and pops series, regional and New England tours, Washington, DC performances, and summer concert series.
1979-1981: General Manager, Connecticut Ballet, New Haven, CT. Coordinated marketing and development programs; produced New England tours of "The Nutcracker" and "Carmina Burana", Washington DC Kennedy Center residency and Carter Barron Amphitheatre summer performances.
1977-1979: Director, Houston Ticket Center, Houston, TX. Organized and administered Houston's first coordinated single ticket and group sales operations for Houston Grand Opera, Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony Orchestra, and Society for the Performing Arts. Computerized all ticketing operations.
1973-1977: Manager of Ticket Services, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, Vienna, VA. Coordinated all subscription, single ticket, group sales operations for major summer concert venue.
Journalism Experience
2008-Present: Editorial Advisory Panel, Executive Travel (American Express SkyGuide) Magazine
2006-Present: Editorial Board. NMH Magazine, Northfield Mount Hermon School.
1997-Present: Editor: COS Newsweekly. Online newsletter originally started for AOL LGBT Community.
1987-Present: Free-Lance Reporter: Articles/reports in Stagebill, Show Music, Horizon, Symphony Magazine, Broadway News Bureau, Turley Publications (Wilbraham/Hampden Times). Correspondent for "American Talk Radio Countdown" and "A Touch of Grey" (syndicated programs).
1994-1997: Theatre/Arts Reporter, The Optimist Weekly, Northampton, MA
1987-1997: Arts/Travel Editor, Jewish Weekly News of Western Massachusetts, Springfield and Northampton, MA.
1991-1993: Reporter/Anchor, WNNZ-AM (Celia Communications), Springfield, MA
1987-1989: Reporter/Anchor, WSPR-AM (H&H Broadcasting),Springfield, MA
Article for Broadway News Bureau can be found at: http://www.dupont.com/playhousetheatre/feat.html
Education
1972-1973: Yale University/Yale School of Drama, New Haven, CT. Theatre Administration.
1968-1972: American University, Washington, DC. B.A. in Theatre Management, 1972.
1966-1968: Northfield-Mount Hermon School, Northfield, MA.
Professional and Community Activities
Current/Former Member: American Theatre Critics Association, Advertising Club of Western Mass, Valley Press Club
Current/ Former Board of Directors: DIFFA/Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS/Western Massachusetts Chapter (Chair: 1990-1994); Community Music School of Springfield; UMASS Arts Extension Service. Steering Committees: Hatikvah Holocaust Education and Resource Center of Western Massachusetts, Springfield, MA; Springfield Arts Festival, Springfield, MA; UMASS Fine Arts Center 20th Anniversary Gala. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Capital Campaign Media Committee.
Public Relations
Capabilities
Since 1986, we've provided marketing, public relations, special events and development counsel to a variety of local, regional and national retail, cultural, travel and non-profit clients.
Some clients have included (list available upon request):
***Academy at Charlemont, Charlemont, MA. Marketing and public relations counsel for benefit concerts (The Paul Winter Consort and The Jazz Mandolin Trio).
***AOL / America Online, Community Leaders program supervisor, host, newsletter editor.
***The Center for Cross-Cultural Studies (CCCS), Amherst, MA. Public relations counsel for tourism programs in Spain and Cuba for an educational study-abroad company.
***Cross-Culture Journeys, Amherst, MA. Public relations and marketing counsel for an international travel company and its subsidiaries: Edit company's e-newsletter.
***DIFFA/The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS/Western Mass. Developed and marketed all special events which raised over $100,000 for local AIDS service organizations.
***Indiana University, Bloomington IN. Seminar in public relations and marketing for arts administration programs.
***Mike Thornton Agency, Falls Church, VA. Marketing/public relations for The Capitol Steps performances in Brattleboro, VT (9/14/08) and Cambridge, MA (11/29/08) and Mike Thornton "Step Back" Concert at Yorktown Bistro, Arlington, VA
***OnlinePartners.Com, San Francisco, CA. (same role as with AOL)
***Pioneer Arts Center of Easthampton (PACE), MA. Marketing/public relations support for performances of the musical "Falsettos" at the Academy of Music in Northampton, MA.(5/01/09-5/03/09, 5/08/09-5/10/09)
***Pioneer Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, Springfield, MA. (became Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau). Marketing and public relations counsel. Organized press tours of the region and developed organization's membership program.
***The Rouse Company, Columbia, MD. Arts in the Marketplace projects including the National Bel Canto Opera Competition, special projects public relations for Eastfield Mall, Springfield, MA
***Says You!, the public radio quiz show.
***StageWest, Springfield, MA. Public relations and marketing counsel for AEA LORT theatre company.
***Stanley Park of Westfield, MA. Public relations and marketing counsel for summer concert series with the Hartford and Springfield Symphony Orchestras.
***Western New England College, Springfield, MA. Seminar in public relations and marketing for communications department.
***88.5FM/WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, Amherst, MA. Produced all live special events, international and domestic travel programs, and community events on a project basis. Selected special events included: "A Prairie Home Companion" and "Says You!" live broadcasts; lectures/book tours with NPR personalities David Brancaccio, Bob Edwards, Ira Glass, Terry Gross, Garrison Keillor, Ketzel Levine, David Sedaris, Scott Simons, Linda Wertheimer; authors Augusten Burroughs, Jane Goodall, Anne Lamott, Andrew Weil; performances with Emanuel Ax, Eric Bogosian, Connecticut Opera Express, Spalding Gray, Matt Haimovitz, The Pittsburgh Collective, and Sonny Rollins. Selected travel programs included: Santa Fe Opera, Cuba, Prague International Music Festival, Barcelona/Terassa Jazz Festival, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Berlin. From 1987-2001, served as station's Public Relations / Underwriting Director. Supervised all underwriting, special events, public relations and marketing for station programming and activities. Supervised 3-4 underwriting sales staff and outsourced personnel (designers) on a project basis.
Other Employment
1985-1986: Director of Marketing, Greater Miami Opera, Miami, FL. Coordinated all marketing and public relations campaigns for a major opera company's winter season.
1982-1985: Director of Marketing and Communications, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Springfield, MA. Coordinated all marketing and public relations campaigns for the orchestra's classical and pops series, regional and New England tours, Washington, DC performances, and summer concert series.
1979-1981: General Manager, Connecticut Ballet, New Haven, CT. Coordinated marketing and development programs; produced New England tours of "The Nutcracker" and "Carmina Burana", Washington DC Kennedy Center residency and Carter Barron Amphitheatre summer performances.
1977-1979: Director, Houston Ticket Center, Houston, TX. Organized and administered Houston's first coordinated single ticket and group sales operations for Houston Grand Opera, Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony Orchestra, and Society for the Performing Arts. Computerized all ticketing operations.
1973-1977: Manager of Ticket Services, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, Vienna, VA. Coordinated all subscription, single ticket, group sales operations for major summer concert venue.
Journalism Experience
2008-Present: Editorial Advisory Panel, Executive Travel (American Express SkyGuide) Magazine
2006-Present: Editorial Board. NMH Magazine, Northfield Mount Hermon School.
1997-Present: Editor: COS Newsweekly. Online newsletter originally started for AOL LGBT Community.
1987-Present: Free-Lance Reporter: Articles/reports in Stagebill, Show Music, Horizon, Symphony Magazine, Broadway News Bureau, Turley Publications (Wilbraham/Hampden Times). Correspondent for "American Talk Radio Countdown" and "A Touch of Grey" (syndicated programs).
1994-1997: Theatre/Arts Reporter, The Optimist Weekly, Northampton, MA
1987-1997: Arts/Travel Editor, Jewish Weekly News of Western Massachusetts, Springfield and Northampton, MA.
1991-1993: Reporter/Anchor, WNNZ-AM (Celia Communications), Springfield, MA
1987-1989: Reporter/Anchor, WSPR-AM (H&H Broadcasting),Springfield, MA
Article for Broadway News Bureau can be found at: http://www.dupont.com/playhousetheatre/feat.html
Education
1972-1973: Yale University/Yale School of Drama, New Haven, CT. Theatre Administration.
1968-1972: American University, Washington, DC. B.A. in Theatre Management, 1972.
1966-1968: Northfield-Mount Hermon School, Northfield, MA.
Professional and Community Activities
Current/Former Member: American Theatre Critics Association, Advertising Club of Western Mass, Valley Press Club
Current/ Former Board of Directors: DIFFA/Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS/Western Massachusetts Chapter (Chair: 1990-1994); Community Music School of Springfield; UMASS Arts Extension Service. Steering Committees: Hatikvah Holocaust Education and Resource Center of Western Massachusetts, Springfield, MA; Springfield Arts Festival, Springfield, MA; UMASS Fine Arts Center 20th Anniversary Gala. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Capital Campaign Media Committee.
WFCR Press Release: Augusten Burroughs Benefit
DATELINE: May 15, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Mark G. Auerbach
Special Projects / WFCR
413-733-7095
413-427-7352
marka@wfcr.org
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
BEST-SELLING AUTHOR AUGUSTEN BURROUGHS WILL DO A READING/BOOKSIGNING OF HIS NEW MEMOIR "A WOLF AT THE TABLE" TO BENEFIT PUBLIC RADIO STATION WFCR
Amherst, Massachusetts--88.5FM/WFCR and 640AM/WNNZ will present best-selling local author Augusten Burroughs, who will do a reading from and a booksigning of his newest memoir, "A Wolf At The Table" on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:30PM at Chapin Audiutorium, Mount Holyoke College,
Route 116, South Hadley, MA. Proceeds from the event will benefit the programs and services of 88.5FM/WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England and its AM broadcast service 640AM/WNNZ. Sponsorship support for the program is made possible by The Odyssey Bookstore, who will coordinate the book sales at the event, Jackson & Connor, Mount Holyoke College, and The Valley Advocate.
During his appearance for WFCR at Mount Holyoke College, Burroughs will read excerpts from "A Wolf At The Table", speak about the book, field audience questions, and sign copies of the book and the audio, which he narrates. Both the book in hardcover form and audio version, narrated by Burroughs with music by Ingrid Michaelson, Tegan Quin, Sea Wolf, and Patti Smith, will be available for sale at the event. Producers Circle ticketholders can meet the author at a pre-event reception in the New York Room at Chapin Auditorium.
"A Wolf At The Table", published by St. Martin's Press, is a prequel of sorts to Burroughs' first-best seller, "Running With Scissors", which told the story of Burrough's mother, her psychiatrist and a number of characters in the Northampton/Amherst area. "A Wolf At the Table" is Burroughs' recollections of his father, who had been a professor at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Burroughs' other books include: "Dry", "Magical Thinking" and "Possible Side Effects" (a work for which he did a WFCR reading and booksigning in 2006). "A Wolf At The Table" debuted at #2 on the New York Times Bestseller List. Augusten Burroughs' biography is available at his website: www.augusten.com.
Tickets (general admission) priced $30-$70 with a specially-priced copy of "A Wolf At The Table" and $10-$50 without the book, are available at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office, by phone (413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS) or online (www.wfcr.org). Producer's Circle tickets include premium seatings and a pre-event reception.
88.5FM WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, is an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International serving over 180,000 listeners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire with regional news and information, and locally produced classical, jazz, and world music programming at 88.5FM, 101.1FM (Adams, MA), 96.3 (Williamstown, MA), 98.7FM (Great Barrington), 98.3FM (Lee), 93.9FM (Pittsfield/Lennox) on the FM band via HD Radio (TM) on 88.5FM WFCR HD2, and on 640AM WNNZ. The University of Massachusetts is the license holder for 88.5FM WFCR, which operates with the advice and support of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. For more information about 88.5FM WFCR's programs and services, call 413-545-0100 or visit our website at www.wfcr.org. WFCR 88.5 FM Public Radio
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Mark G. Auerbach
Special Projects / WFCR
413-733-7095
413-427-7352
marka@wfcr.org
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
BEST-SELLING AUTHOR AUGUSTEN BURROUGHS WILL DO A READING/BOOKSIGNING OF HIS NEW MEMOIR "A WOLF AT THE TABLE" TO BENEFIT PUBLIC RADIO STATION WFCR
Amherst, Massachusetts--88.5FM/WFCR and 640AM/WNNZ will present best-selling local author Augusten Burroughs, who will do a reading from and a booksigning of his newest memoir, "A Wolf At The Table" on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:30PM at Chapin Audiutorium, Mount Holyoke College,
Route 116, South Hadley, MA. Proceeds from the event will benefit the programs and services of 88.5FM/WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England and its AM broadcast service 640AM/WNNZ. Sponsorship support for the program is made possible by The Odyssey Bookstore, who will coordinate the book sales at the event, Jackson & Connor, Mount Holyoke College, and The Valley Advocate.
During his appearance for WFCR at Mount Holyoke College, Burroughs will read excerpts from "A Wolf At The Table", speak about the book, field audience questions, and sign copies of the book and the audio, which he narrates. Both the book in hardcover form and audio version, narrated by Burroughs with music by Ingrid Michaelson, Tegan Quin, Sea Wolf, and Patti Smith, will be available for sale at the event. Producers Circle ticketholders can meet the author at a pre-event reception in the New York Room at Chapin Auditorium.
"A Wolf At The Table", published by St. Martin's Press, is a prequel of sorts to Burroughs' first-best seller, "Running With Scissors", which told the story of Burrough's mother, her psychiatrist and a number of characters in the Northampton/Amherst area. "A Wolf At the Table" is Burroughs' recollections of his father, who had been a professor at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Burroughs' other books include: "Dry", "Magical Thinking" and "Possible Side Effects" (a work for which he did a WFCR reading and booksigning in 2006). "A Wolf At The Table" debuted at #2 on the New York Times Bestseller List. Augusten Burroughs' biography is available at his website: www.augusten.com.
Tickets (general admission) priced $30-$70 with a specially-priced copy of "A Wolf At The Table" and $10-$50 without the book, are available at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office, by phone (413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS) or online (www.wfcr.org). Producer's Circle tickets include premium seatings and a pre-event reception.
88.5FM WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, is an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International serving over 180,000 listeners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire with regional news and information, and locally produced classical, jazz, and world music programming at 88.5FM, 101.1FM (Adams, MA), 96.3 (Williamstown, MA), 98.7FM (Great Barrington), 98.3FM (Lee), 93.9FM (Pittsfield/Lennox) on the FM band via HD Radio (TM) on 88.5FM WFCR HD2, and on 640AM WNNZ. The University of Massachusetts is the license holder for 88.5FM WFCR, which operates with the advice and support of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. For more information about 88.5FM WFCR's programs and services, call 413-545-0100 or visit our website at www.wfcr.org. WFCR 88.5 FM Public Radio
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Thursday, May 8, 2008
Cross-Culture Journeys: Press Release: Israel and Jordan: A Journey Through The Ages
DATELINE: May 7, 2008
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys
413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS PRESENTS "ISRAEL AND JORDAN: A JOURNEY THROUGH THE AGES" IN NOVEMBER 2008
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys will host "A Journey Through The Ages", a 14-day tour of Israel and Jordan, with the first departure on November 2, 2008. Additional departures include: February 1, 2009; March 8, 2009; October 18, 2009, and November 8, 2009, according to President Ati Jain.
Cross-Culture Journeys travellers will explore historical sites of interest and contemporary attractions in a land with special meaning to Christians, Jews, and Moslems on this trip, which combines the antiquities of Biblical times with luxury modern amenities. Israel is in the middle of 60th anniversary celebrations, and many amenities have been freshened and updated for visitors in 2008.
The tour begins in cosmopolitan Tel Aviv, Israel, a vibrant modern city on the shores of the Mediterranean, known for its art deco district, theatres, galleries and restaurants. Travellers will visit the Roman ruins at Caesaria, a Druze village near Haifa, the city on the slopes of Mt. Carmel and home to the gold-domed Bahai temple. The tour proceeds to Golan Heights, whose mountain streams feed the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. Here, tour participants will have the opportunity to visit (and stay overnight) on a kibbutz, a communal farming community. The trip continues to Masada, site of a major Biblical battle, and the Dead Sea (known for its history and its spa qualities), before moving to Jerusalem, the spiritual center of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
During the Jerusalem portion of the trip, travellers will see major historical and religious sites from the Mount of Olives to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial. An excursion to the En-Karem is planned, with stops at herb farms and one of Israel's finest boutique wineries.
After visiting Israel, the group crosses the Jordan River into Jordan, for tours of Amman, Jordan's capital, and the ancient city of Petra, described by UNESCO as "one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage". There will be visits to a Bedouin village, and Madaba, the city of mosaics.
For the detailed itinerary and pricing, see Cross-Culture Journey's website: Worldwide Small Group Educational Tours, Small Ship River Cruises and Ocean/Adventure Cruises
Luxury accommodations are included throughout the itinerary, and meals include restaurants which offer contemporary and continental cuisines, as well as Middle Eastern specialties from the lavish Israeli buffet breakfasts to the lamb kebabs and felafel known throughout the region. The tour is escorted by Cross-Culture and local guides. Prices begin at $4,295 per person, double occupancy, land only; With airfare from New York, the price is $4,995.00 per person plus tax, double occupancy; Air fare (per person, double occupancy, plus tax) is available from most major US cities including: Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, DC ($5,195 per person, double occupancy, plus tax); Miami, Chicago ($5,195 per person, double occupancy, plus tax), and Los Angeles ($5,395 per person, double occupancy, plus tax). Consult Cross-Culture Journeys for fares from other cities.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups. For information and itineraries, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
-30-
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys
413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS PRESENTS "ISRAEL AND JORDAN: A JOURNEY THROUGH THE AGES" IN NOVEMBER 2008
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross-Culture Journeys will host "A Journey Through The Ages", a 14-day tour of Israel and Jordan, with the first departure on November 2, 2008. Additional departures include: February 1, 2009; March 8, 2009; October 18, 2009, and November 8, 2009, according to President Ati Jain.
Cross-Culture Journeys travellers will explore historical sites of interest and contemporary attractions in a land with special meaning to Christians, Jews, and Moslems on this trip, which combines the antiquities of Biblical times with luxury modern amenities. Israel is in the middle of 60th anniversary celebrations, and many amenities have been freshened and updated for visitors in 2008.
The tour begins in cosmopolitan Tel Aviv, Israel, a vibrant modern city on the shores of the Mediterranean, known for its art deco district, theatres, galleries and restaurants. Travellers will visit the Roman ruins at Caesaria, a Druze village near Haifa, the city on the slopes of Mt. Carmel and home to the gold-domed Bahai temple. The tour proceeds to Golan Heights, whose mountain streams feed the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. Here, tour participants will have the opportunity to visit (and stay overnight) on a kibbutz, a communal farming community. The trip continues to Masada, site of a major Biblical battle, and the Dead Sea (known for its history and its spa qualities), before moving to Jerusalem, the spiritual center of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
During the Jerusalem portion of the trip, travellers will see major historical and religious sites from the Mount of Olives to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial. An excursion to the En-Karem is planned, with stops at herb farms and one of Israel's finest boutique wineries.
After visiting Israel, the group crosses the Jordan River into Jordan, for tours of Amman, Jordan's capital, and the ancient city of Petra, described by UNESCO as "one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage". There will be visits to a Bedouin village, and Madaba, the city of mosaics.
For the detailed itinerary and pricing, see Cross-Culture Journey's website: Worldwide Small Group Educational Tours, Small Ship River Cruises and Ocean/Adventure Cruises
Luxury accommodations are included throughout the itinerary, and meals include restaurants which offer contemporary and continental cuisines, as well as Middle Eastern specialties from the lavish Israeli buffet breakfasts to the lamb kebabs and felafel known throughout the region. The tour is escorted by Cross-Culture and local guides. Prices begin at $4,295 per person, double occupancy, land only; With airfare from New York, the price is $4,995.00 per person plus tax, double occupancy; Air fare (per person, double occupancy, plus tax) is available from most major US cities including: Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, DC ($5,195 per person, double occupancy, plus tax); Miami, Chicago ($5,195 per person, double occupancy, plus tax), and Los Angeles ($5,395 per person, double occupancy, plus tax). Consult Cross-Culture Journeys for fares from other cities.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering a world of travel opportunities and new experiences for over 20 years. For sophisticated and curious travellers, Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb. From traditional to emerging destinations, from World Heritage sites to picturesque villages, from small-ship cruises to hiking and cycling; Cross Culture Journey's distinctive itineraries showcase a region's peoples and cultures through their landmarks, museums and fine cuisines. Cross-Culture Journeys customizes itineraries for individuals, families, and groups. For information and itineraries, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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Saturday, May 3, 2008
New Role: Editorial Advisory Panel
I've been invited to join Executive Travel Magazine's Editorial Advisory Panel. Executive Travel is a supplement to SkyGuide, a pocket flight guide which is required reading among road-warriors and frequent flyers.
This is my second editorial advisory panel opportunity. I am serving on the Editorial Advisory Board of the NMH Magazine, published by Northfield Mount Hermon School for its alumni, parents, and friends.
This is my second editorial advisory panel opportunity. I am serving on the Editorial Advisory Board of the NMH Magazine, published by Northfield Mount Hermon School for its alumni, parents, and friends.
Cross-Culture Journeys: Press Release: Food & Wine Tours
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 11, 2008
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
Cross-Culture Journeys Launches Small-Ship Cruises to California Wine Country and The Pacific Northwest
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross Culture Journeys will launch three new small-ship cruise food and wine tours to California and the Pacific Northwest this fall. According to Cross-Culture's president, Ati Jain, these itineraries, which offer luxury small-ship cruises with an emphasis on food and wine,
are great getaways for those who want short vacations with the international Cross-Cultures flair. Jain says "the foods and wines of these American regions are world-renowned, and the restaurant and winery choices highlight the best handcrafted seasonal foods and drinks available today".
Cross-Culture's "Vintner's Choice" is a 5-day, 4-night cruise aboard the MS Spirit of Yorktown, which departs San Francisco on 7 departures beginning in September, 2008. Travellers will enjoy a specially-crafted winery tour of Napa Valley with a "Cooking With Wine" demonstration at the prestige Culinary Institute of America in Greystone. In the Sonoma Valley region, visitors can opt for a tour and tasting at one of the area's olive groves at Round Pond, a cabernet lover's limo tour to select wineries, plus time to explore the galleries and shops in the quaint town of Sausilito, across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.
The Cross-Culture "Culture of the Vine" tour, also departing San Francisco on the MS Spirit of Yorktown, offers a shorter 4 day and 3 night getaway with winery tours and sightseeing in Napa Valley and Sonoma County. There are 9 departure dates scheduled beginning in September, 2008.
The "Taste of the Pacific Northwest" (8 days and 7 nights) aboard the MS Spirit of Discovery departs Portland, Oregon for a cruise through the Colombia River Gorge, to three select wineries near Walla Walla, Washington. Tours of the Hanford Reach National Monument and the viticulture regions of Horse Heaven Hills and Red Mountain in Washington State are included, before cruising the Hood River region of Oregon to Astoria. Selected wineries will offer tours and tastings, and meals in local restaurants will feature the finest locally-grown produce and seafood. In Astoria, a visit to a cooking demonstration at the Seafood Consumer Center is included, followed by a stop at the Shallon Winery for a chocolate wine tasting. There are four departures scheduled beginning in September, 2008.
All tours include luxury accommodations, meals, and admissions to wineries and other attractions. Airfare is extra. Independent pre-tour and post-tour extensions in San Francisco (for the California tours) and Portland (for the Oregon/Washington tours) are available. Itineraries, departure dates, and pricing is available at Cross-Culture's website, www.ccjourneys.com, or by calling Cross-Culture at call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering individual and customized group tours for over 20 years. Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb by air, land and small-ship. Over the last decade, Cross-Culture has developed travel programs for alumni associations and numerous public radio stations, including NPR member stations in Western New England, Washington, DC; Virginia, Ohio, Utah, and Texas. For information and itineraries, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbachPubRel@aol.com
Cross-Culture Journeys Launches Small-Ship Cruises to California Wine Country and The Pacific Northwest
Amherst, Massachusetts--Cross Culture Journeys will launch three new small-ship cruise food and wine tours to California and the Pacific Northwest this fall. According to Cross-Culture's president, Ati Jain, these itineraries, which offer luxury small-ship cruises with an emphasis on food and wine,
are great getaways for those who want short vacations with the international Cross-Cultures flair. Jain says "the foods and wines of these American regions are world-renowned, and the restaurant and winery choices highlight the best handcrafted seasonal foods and drinks available today".
Cross-Culture's "Vintner's Choice" is a 5-day, 4-night cruise aboard the MS Spirit of Yorktown, which departs San Francisco on 7 departures beginning in September, 2008. Travellers will enjoy a specially-crafted winery tour of Napa Valley with a "Cooking With Wine" demonstration at the prestige Culinary Institute of America in Greystone. In the Sonoma Valley region, visitors can opt for a tour and tasting at one of the area's olive groves at Round Pond, a cabernet lover's limo tour to select wineries, plus time to explore the galleries and shops in the quaint town of Sausilito, across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.
The Cross-Culture "Culture of the Vine" tour, also departing San Francisco on the MS Spirit of Yorktown, offers a shorter 4 day and 3 night getaway with winery tours and sightseeing in Napa Valley and Sonoma County. There are 9 departure dates scheduled beginning in September, 2008.
The "Taste of the Pacific Northwest" (8 days and 7 nights) aboard the MS Spirit of Discovery departs Portland, Oregon for a cruise through the Colombia River Gorge, to three select wineries near Walla Walla, Washington. Tours of the Hanford Reach National Monument and the viticulture regions of Horse Heaven Hills and Red Mountain in Washington State are included, before cruising the Hood River region of Oregon to Astoria. Selected wineries will offer tours and tastings, and meals in local restaurants will feature the finest locally-grown produce and seafood. In Astoria, a visit to a cooking demonstration at the Seafood Consumer Center is included, followed by a stop at the Shallon Winery for a chocolate wine tasting. There are four departures scheduled beginning in September, 2008.
All tours include luxury accommodations, meals, and admissions to wineries and other attractions. Airfare is extra. Independent pre-tour and post-tour extensions in San Francisco (for the California tours) and Portland (for the Oregon/Washington tours) are available. Itineraries, departure dates, and pricing is available at Cross-Culture's website, www.ccjourneys.com, or by calling Cross-Culture at call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
Cross-Culture Journeys has been offering individual and customized group tours for over 20 years. Cross Culture Journeys features all-inclusive, small-group, in-depth cultural travel programs to over 40 unique destinations from Antarctica to Zagreb by air, land and small-ship. Over the last decade, Cross-Culture has developed travel programs for alumni associations and numerous public radio stations, including NPR member stations in Western New England, Washington, DC; Virginia, Ohio, Utah, and Texas. For information and itineraries, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com or call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303.
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WFCR: Augusten Burroughs Calendar Listings
DATELINE: April 24, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Mark G. Auerbach
Special Projects / WFCR
413-733-7095
marka@wfcr.org
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
CALENDAR LISTINGS
WFCR presents
Augusten Burroughs
reading and booksigning of "A Wolf At the Table"
Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:30PM
Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA.
Augusten Burroughs is the best-selling author of "Running with Scissors", "Dry" and "Magical Thinking", all of which were New York Times bestsellers and are published around the world. His newest book, "A Wolf At The Table", is a memoir of his father. (St. Martin's Press. Release date: 4/29/08). Augusten has been named one of the 15 funniest people in America by Entertainment Weekly. He lives in New York City and Western Massachusetts.
Mr. Burroughs will do a reading, question-and-answer session and booksigning of his new book. Proceeds benefit the programs and services of WFCR and WNNZ.
For information on "A Wolf At the Table" and Augusten Burroughs: www.augusten.com
Sponsors: Jackson & Connor Jackson & Connor, Mount Holyoke College Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, Massachusetts, The Valley Advocate The Valley Advocate, and The Odyssey Bookshop The Odyssey Bookshop Independent Bookselling Since 1963 The Village Commons South Hadley.
Tickets (general admission) priced $30-$70 with a copy of "A Wolf At the Table" and $10-$50 without the book, are available at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office, by phone (413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS) or online (www.wfcr.org). WFCR.org Producer's Circle tickets include premium seatings and a pre-event reception.
88.5FM WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, is an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International serving over 180,000 listeners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire with regional news and information, and locally produced classical, jazz, and world music programming at 88.5FM, 101.1FM (Adams, MA), 96.3 (Williamstown, MA), 98.7FM (Great Barrington), 98.3FM (Lee), 93.9FM (Pittsfield/Lenox) on the FM band via HD Radio (TM) on 88.5FM WFCR HD2, and on 640AM WNNZ. The University of Massachusetts is the license holder for 88.5FM WFCR, which operates with the advice and support of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. For more information about 88.5FM WFCR's programs and services, call 413-545-0100 or visit our website at www.wfcr.org. WFCR 88.5 FM Public Radio
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Mark G. Auerbach
Special Projects / WFCR
413-733-7095
marka@wfcr.org
mgauerbachpubrel@aol.com
CALENDAR LISTINGS
WFCR presents
Augusten Burroughs
reading and booksigning of "A Wolf At the Table"
Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:30PM
Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA.
Augusten Burroughs is the best-selling author of "Running with Scissors", "Dry" and "Magical Thinking", all of which were New York Times bestsellers and are published around the world. His newest book, "A Wolf At The Table", is a memoir of his father. (St. Martin's Press. Release date: 4/29/08). Augusten has been named one of the 15 funniest people in America by Entertainment Weekly. He lives in New York City and Western Massachusetts.
Mr. Burroughs will do a reading, question-and-answer session and booksigning of his new book. Proceeds benefit the programs and services of WFCR and WNNZ.
For information on "A Wolf At the Table" and Augusten Burroughs: www.augusten.com
Sponsors: Jackson & Connor Jackson & Connor, Mount Holyoke College Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, Massachusetts, The Valley Advocate The Valley Advocate, and The Odyssey Bookshop The Odyssey Bookshop Independent Bookselling Since 1963 The Village Commons South Hadley.
Tickets (general admission) priced $30-$70 with a copy of "A Wolf At the Table" and $10-$50 without the book, are available at the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center Box-Office, by phone (413-545-2511 or 800-999-UMASS) or online (www.wfcr.org). WFCR.org Producer's Circle tickets include premium seatings and a pre-event reception.
88.5FM WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England, is an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International serving over 180,000 listeners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire with regional news and information, and locally produced classical, jazz, and world music programming at 88.5FM, 101.1FM (Adams, MA), 96.3 (Williamstown, MA), 98.7FM (Great Barrington), 98.3FM (Lee), 93.9FM (Pittsfield/Lenox) on the FM band via HD Radio (TM) on 88.5FM WFCR HD2, and on 640AM WNNZ. The University of Massachusetts is the license holder for 88.5FM WFCR, which operates with the advice and support of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. For more information about 88.5FM WFCR's programs and services, call 413-545-0100 or visit our website at www.wfcr.org. WFCR 88.5 FM Public Radio
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My Blog's World Premiere
Another opening, another show...another blog, but my very first related to my business, Mark G Auerbach Public Relations.
Backstory: My first PR effort was publicizing my high school musical "Brigadoon" to my Northfield Mount Hermon boarding school community, a captive audience that was required to attend the show. In college (American University), while visions of song and dance whirled through my head (I whirled in serveral productions from "Wonderful Town" to "Fiddler on The Roof" and "La Perichole"), I worked in the theatre department's administrative office in the box-office and the audience development/public relations area. I was accepted to Yale School of Drama, and after two weeks of surveying the competition, I realised that I was born to be a P.R. Guy who liked watching others act and sing. P.R. is a production unto itself.
Backstory, Scene 2: I started my company in 1987, after working in marketing and public relations for a variety of non-profit cultural organizations around the country. At various points in time, I called Washington, DC; Houston, TX; New Haven, CT; and New York City home. In 1982, I returned to my hometown, Springfield, MA, to take the position of Director of Marketing and Communications at the Springfield Symphony. I loved the job, loved the people, an made good contacts in the region. Then, the headhunters swarmed, and in 1985, I was woo'd to Miami to take a marketing job at a major arts organization that was launching a musical theatre series. It was winter in MA and Miami looked too fabulous. I took the job.
Within months, I'd realised it had been a mistake and I looked for a way to return to W.Mass. Starting my own consultancy offering that opportunity, and with two part-time positions lined-up with a professional theatre and a tourism bureau, the curtain went up on my business.
The client base increased and diversified. I picked up projects in retail, cultural tourism, travel, non-profits, special events, media and more. I was also able to refine my journalism skills and return to writing and editing, mostly covering arts and travel for newspapers. An incredible mentor transitioned me to putting those skills to work in radio, and for a period of time, I provided arts reports and features to commercial radio and some syndicated programs. I also sharpened long-ago-forgotten news reporting skills and took to the anchor desks.
Flash Forward: My company has survived 20+ years of economic ups-and-downs. Two of my clients have been with me from day one. Others have come and gone. I have created my own workplace, sometimes well-staffed, sometimes me and some out-sourced work. My integrity and my sense of humor are intact. And, since, I'm the boss, I can listen to showtunes at work.
Today's showtune: "I Do What I Can With What I Got" from "Paper Moon" as sung by Faith Prince
Backstory: My first PR effort was publicizing my high school musical "Brigadoon" to my Northfield Mount Hermon boarding school community, a captive audience that was required to attend the show. In college (American University), while visions of song and dance whirled through my head (I whirled in serveral productions from "Wonderful Town" to "Fiddler on The Roof" and "La Perichole"), I worked in the theatre department's administrative office in the box-office and the audience development/public relations area. I was accepted to Yale School of Drama, and after two weeks of surveying the competition, I realised that I was born to be a P.R. Guy who liked watching others act and sing. P.R. is a production unto itself.
Backstory, Scene 2: I started my company in 1987, after working in marketing and public relations for a variety of non-profit cultural organizations around the country. At various points in time, I called Washington, DC; Houston, TX; New Haven, CT; and New York City home. In 1982, I returned to my hometown, Springfield, MA, to take the position of Director of Marketing and Communications at the Springfield Symphony. I loved the job, loved the people, an made good contacts in the region. Then, the headhunters swarmed, and in 1985, I was woo'd to Miami to take a marketing job at a major arts organization that was launching a musical theatre series. It was winter in MA and Miami looked too fabulous. I took the job.
Within months, I'd realised it had been a mistake and I looked for a way to return to W.Mass. Starting my own consultancy offering that opportunity, and with two part-time positions lined-up with a professional theatre and a tourism bureau, the curtain went up on my business.
The client base increased and diversified. I picked up projects in retail, cultural tourism, travel, non-profits, special events, media and more. I was also able to refine my journalism skills and return to writing and editing, mostly covering arts and travel for newspapers. An incredible mentor transitioned me to putting those skills to work in radio, and for a period of time, I provided arts reports and features to commercial radio and some syndicated programs. I also sharpened long-ago-forgotten news reporting skills and took to the anchor desks.
Flash Forward: My company has survived 20+ years of economic ups-and-downs. Two of my clients have been with me from day one. Others have come and gone. I have created my own workplace, sometimes well-staffed, sometimes me and some out-sourced work. My integrity and my sense of humor are intact. And, since, I'm the boss, I can listen to showtunes at work.
Today's showtune: "I Do What I Can With What I Got" from "Paper Moon" as sung by Faith Prince
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