The David Pakman Show 2010 Recap

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3PoVRq5KJ8

Thank You!

A special thanks to those who helped make The Capitol Steps "Liberal Shop of Horrors" performance at Mount Holyoke College on 12/18/10 a success:

Event sponsors: Mount Holyoke College, The Valley Advocate and Preview Magazine, Daily Hampshire Gazette, and public radio stations 88.5FM WFCR and WNNZ.

Production team: Chapin Auditorium staff: John LaPrade, Kris Bergbom; Northampton Box-Office and Mark Florence; Cannes Associates and Greg Jones, Navae Fenwick Rodriguez; Joan Grenier and the Odyssey Bookshop, South Hadley Youth Commission, Communications Angle (Michael Kusek), and Colleen Johnston and Mary Lawler.

TV22 Covers Volunteer Youth Commission Ushers at Capitol Steps

http://www.wwlp.com/dpp/news/local/hampshire/Concert-raises-funds-for-youth-group

Capitol Steps Review by Daily Hampshire Gazette

Kind words from Kathleen Mellen of the Daily Hampshire Gazette regarding the 12/18 performance in South Hadley.

http://www.gazettenet.com/2010/12/23/comedians-keep-step-world-politics

Press Release: Cross-Culture Journeys "Fabled Islands of Greece and Turkey" Cruise with Diane Rehm

DATELINE: December 17, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com 
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbach@gmail.com

CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS OFFERS MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE TO “FABLED ISLANDS OF GREECE AND TURKEY” WITH PUBLIC RADIO HOST DIANE REHM ON SEPTEMBER 30 THROUGH OCTOBER 13, 2011

Amherst, MA---Public radio “voice” Diane Rehm will accompany Cross-Culture Journeys' "Fabled Islands of Greece and Turkey" cruise aboard the Aegean Odyssey.  Diane Rehm, producer and host of her nationally-syndicated talk show, joins this one-time 14-day/12-night fully-escorted offering, departing the US on September 30, 2011 and returning on October 13, 2011  

The cruise aboard the recently-refurbished Aegean Odyssey begins in Piraeus, the Greek port serving the capital of Athens. Ports of call include the ancient city of Mycenae, the capital of Agamemnon; Myceanae, capital of Agamemnon; Heraklion on the island of Crete; the Greek islands of Rhodes, Delos, and Mykonos; and Gallipoli, site of the famous World War I battles. In Turkey, ports of call include Istanbul, the Sea of Mamara and the Dardenelles. The tour ends in Athens.

An optional pre-cruise extension to Athens (September 28 through October 1) is also available at additional cost.

Diane Rehm is host and executive producer of "The Diane Rehm Show" which airs nationally. Each week, more than 1.7 million listeners across the country tune in to the program, which has grown in 29 years from a local morning call-in show to a public broadcasting powerhouse distributed by NPR, NPR Worldwide and SIRIUS satellite radio. Rehm is the author of two autobiographical books. In 1999, Washingtonian Magazine named her “Washingtonian of the Year.” She and her husband, John, have traveled with Cross-Culture Journeys and public radio listeners from other stations on travel programs to the Adriatic Sea, The Danube and The Nile.

The Aegean Odyssey, newly modernized and refurbished is large enough to provide the amenities available on major cruise ships, yet small enough to dock at small-city ports. The ship can accommodate up to 350 passengers in a variety of stateroom options. The ship provides contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with carefully-selected wines; a gym, outdoor swimming pool, shop, and internet center.

Cross-Culture’s tour includes air-conditioned motorcoach tours of shore excursions, most meals, talks by guest speakers on classical civilizations from Minoan Crete to Byzantium, classical sculpture, the history of the Knights of St. John, and life in the Golden Age of Athens. Ms. Rehm will offer three discussions about her experiences with her nationally-syndicated public radio show. 

Prices begin at $3,995 per person, double-occupancy, plus applicable taxes and surcharges. Free airfare is available from New York (JFK and/or Newark airports) when the trip is booked and paid-in-full before January 31, 2011. Discounted airfares and reduced or free single supplement charges are available through Cross-Culture Journeys. 
 
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 further information and a detailed itinerary, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com, call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303, or email: travel@ccjourneys.com.

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Media Coverage: Capitol Steps' "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Saturday 12/18 in South Hadley

George Lenker previews The Capitol Steps for Mass Live and The Republican. Preview includes interview with Mike Thornton.

http://www.masslive.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2010/12/capitol_steps_to_bring_politic.html

Capitol Steps' "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Saturday 12/18 in South Hadley

Media Coverage from MassLive and The Republican. South Hadley Youth Commission to provide ushers for performance: http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/12/south_hadley_youths_to_serves.html

Student Rush Tickets Available for "The Capitol Steps" in South Hadley

Half-price student rush tickets will be available at the door for the Saturday, December 18 performance of The Capitol Steps "Liberal Shop of Horrors Tour" at Chapin Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA. Box-Office opens at 6PM. Curtain is 8PM. Valid student ID card required.

Program information: www.capsteps.com

Ticket information: www.nbotickets.com

Cross Culture Journeys: 2011 Greece and Turkey Cruise with Diane Rehm

Client Cross-Culture Journeys' Fabled Islands of Greece and Turkey Cruise with Diane Rehm itinerary: http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_341/fabeled+islands+of+greece+and+turkey+with+diane+rehm.aspx

The David Pakman Show Picked by Towleroad

The David Pakman Show was picked by Towleroad's Picks of TV Clips in it's "Guide to The Tube".

http://www.towleroad.com/2010/12/towleroad-guide-to-the-tube-793.html

Mt. Holyoke Features Capitol Steps on Homepage

http://www.mtholyoke.edu/news/channels/25/stories/5682449

Capitol Steps' "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Saturday 11/27 in Cambridge

From the Boston Globe

http://www.boston.com/ae/theater_arts/comedy/articles/2010/11/25/capitol_steps_skewers_all_the_turkeys/

Client "Midweek Politics with David Pakman" doubles programming and rebrands as "The David Pakman Show"

The David Pakman Show now airs twice-weekly in over 100 markets in the USA, Mexico, Caribbean, Europe and Ghana.

For the press release: http://www.davidpakman.com/midweek-politics-with-david-pakman-doubles-programming-rebrands-as-the-david-pakman-show/

The David Pakman Show Podcasts

find them here...

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-pakman-show/id402050558

Cross Culture Journeys: 2011 Travel Programs for Utah Radio KUER

Client Cross-Culture Journeys has organized a Kenya and Tanzania Safari (April 9-24, 2011) for radio station KUER in Utah. Also upcoming: a Russian Imperial Waterways St. Petersburg-Moscow cruise (September 7-19). For details: http://www2.kuer.org/travel.html

Press Release: Capitol Steps South Hadley Performance on 12/18/10

DATELINE: November 12, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbach@gmail.com

THE CAPITOL STEPS RETURN TO SOUTH HADLEY WITH THE "LIBERAL SHOP OF HORRORS" TOUR ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18

The Capitol Steps make their annual Pioneer Valley visit with their new “Liberal Shop of Horrors” tour for one night only, Saturday, December 18, at 8PM, at Chapin auditorium on the campus of Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, MA.

The "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Tour is an evening of musical political satire which pokes fun at Democrats, Republicans, Tea Partiers and Independents alike. America’s health care, bailouts, the environment, the budget, partisan politics, unfaithful politicians, and a Nobel-Prize winning President are transformed into skit, song and dance.

The Capitol Steps began their antics over 25 years ago, when a group of Capitol Hill folks set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them.Today, The Capitol Steps perform in Washington, DC weekly, and at theatres and concert halls nationwide throughout the year. They have recorded 30 albums, including their latest, "Liberal Shop of Horrors" . 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 Capitol Steps have twice won the Washington Area Music Association's "Wammie Award" for outstanding cabaret and musical theatre performances; a New York Drama Desk nomination for "outstanding lyrics", and other national accolades.

To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections
from "Liberal Shop of Horrors", visit their website (www.capsteps.com) or find The
Capitol Steps on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Sponsors include: Mount Holyoke College, The Valley Advocate, The Daily Hampshire Gazette and 88.5FM/WFCR, Western New England's NPR News and Music Station and WNNZ, Western New England's NPR News Station.

A portion of the proceeds from the performance will benefit the programs and services of the newly-formed South Hadley Youth Commission. A limited number of benefit tickets, priced $50.00 each, which include premium seating and a post-performance cast party at the home of the new Mount Holyoke President , are available through the Northampton Box-Office, 76 Main Street, Northampton, MA (413-586-8686 or 800-THE-TICK) and The Odyssey Book Shop, 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA.

For information on the South Hadley Youth Commission, contact Carol Constant, 413-222-1761

General Admission Tickets: Orchestra: $47.50, Balcony at $42.50 and $37.50, are on sale at the Northampton Box-Office, 76 Main Street, Northampton; by telephone at 413-586-8686 or 800-THE-TICK and online at www.nbotickets.com

The South Hadley performance of The Capitol Steps is produced by the Mike Thornton Agency and Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations

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Capitol Steps' "Liberal Shop of Horrors" is Cambridge-bound

From The Boston Globe

http://www.boston.com/ae/events/articles/2010/11/04/mark_your_calendar/

David Pakman's Recap of the 2010 Elections

Client David Pakman of "The David Pakman Show" has a 2010 Election recap in his monthly column for The Daily Hampshire Gazette, published in Northampton, MA

http://www.gazettenet.com/2010/11/04/memorable-moments-2010-vote

New David Pakman Website

Now that the name change is in place....

http://www.davidpakman.com/

Client Name Change

"Midweek Politics with David Pakman" has grown in leaps and bounds in the last five years. What began as a once-a-midweek hour-long radio program on a small Northampton, MA community radio station has morphed into a multi-platform radio/TV/web program carried on 100+ commercial and public radio stations, television stations, YouTube, the web, and via podcast. Depending on the station, the program may air on weekdays or weekends, and YouTube and web listeners pick their date and time to listen to David Pakman.

So, "Midweek Politics with David Pakman" is now "The David Pakman Show". You can listen to it or watch it on stations in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Scandanavia, Ghana, and now Aruba. You can catch it anywhere you can access the net.

http://www.davidpakman.com/

Press Release: Out For Reel: Leading Ladies New England Premiere Screening

Leading Ladies - LGBT Dance Film Premieres in New England, Actress Will Attend

Nicole Dionne, Massachusetts native and lead actress in the award-winning film, Leading Ladies, will be attending its New England Premiere presented by Out! For Reel, the largest LGBT film series in the U.S. on Saturday, Nov. 6, at 7:30 pm at the Academy of Music Theatre in downtown Northampton.

Leading Ladies, described by Variety as "an easygoing musical...(and) impressive first feature" is a highly entertaining film about true love, coming out, family, and dancing. An After Party follows the film at the Clarion Hotel, Northampton, 9:30 pm - 12:30 am. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres, dance music, and cash bars will be provided.

The film, starring Benji Schwimmer, (2006 winner of So You Think You Can Dance), and renowned ballroom and Latin dancer Melanie LaPatin. Schwimmer, showing off his dancing talent and sex appeal in several dance scenes, steals the show in his over the top dance number on a bar in a glitzy gay nightclub. 

Leading Ladies is packed with astounding dance sequences and an infectious pop soundtrack. Family drama and coming out have never been better choreographed than in this uplifting modern dance musical. Leading Ladies is alternately outrageous and touching, and sure to please everyone from film buffs to dance lovers to Hairspray fans.

Tickets are available online at www.OutForReel.org, or at the Academy of Music Box Office. Film tickets are $11.50 in advance and $14.50 at the door. Student tickets are $10 and are available only at the Box Office. After Party tickets are only available at www.OutForReel.org or at the door. To watch the film trailers visit www.OutForReel.org.

Out! For Reel’s mission is to create and strengthen our LGBT community through film and cultural events, build strong ties with our heterosexual allies, and work toward the eradication of homophobia in our community through education and the arts.


###

Press Release: Cross-Culture Journeys "Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea": Early Bird Discounts Extended

DATELINE: November 1, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbach@gmail.com

CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS OFFERS “ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS OF THE RED SEA” TRAVEL PROGRAM TO EGYPT, THE SINAI, AND JORDAN IN FEBRUARY 2011. EARLY REGISTRATION DISCOUNTS EXTENDED UNTIL NOVEMBER 30.

Amherst, MA---Cross-Culture Journeys will offer a 16-day/14-night travel program “Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea” to Egypt, The Sinai, and Jordan, on February 1-16, 2011. The travel program includes a 5-night cruise of the Red Sea onboard the intimate M/V Harmony V.

Travellers will arrive in Amman, Jordan for a visit to the Jordanian capital, along with the Wadi Rum (the former headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia), the red-rose city of Petra, and the Red sea resort of Aqaba. In the Sinai, excursions will be offered to St. Catherine’s Monastery, Sharm El Sheikh and the Ras Mohammed National Park before continuing to Hurghada in Egypt. The tour continues to Luxor, old and new Cairo, and the famous pyramids of Giza.

A six-day pre-tour extension to Syria (Damascus, Palmyra, and Aleppo) is available departing on January 26; a post-tour extension is available to Alexandria in Egypt. The pre-tour and post-tour extensions are optional and are not included in the basic tour prices.

The M/V Harmony V, launched in 2003 and refurbished in 2008, offers 25 outside cabins, regional and international cuisine, a sundeck and internet and email service.

Prices begin at $5,995 per person, double-occupancy, plus applicable taxes and surcharges. Free airfare is available from New York (JFK and/or Newark airports) when the trip is booked and paid-in-full before November 30, 2010. Prices for the Syria pre-tour extension begin at $1,995 per person, double-occupancy’ prices for the Alexandria post-tour extension begin at $1,495 per person, double-occupancy. Single supplements are available at additional costs.

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 further information and a detailed itinerary, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com, call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303, or email: travel@ccjourneys.com.

-30-

Client David Pakman featured in Small Business Profiles

David Pakman of "Midweek Politics" and Vivid Edge Media was profiled in Jeanne Yocum's well-regarded business blog.

http://www.yourghostwriter.com/blog/2010/10/27/small-business-success-qa-15-vivid-edge-media-group/

Cross Culture Journeys Extends Early Booking Discounts on February Red Sea Tour

Cross-Culture Journeys has extended the early booking discounts until 11/30/10 for its "Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea" tour to Egypt, The Sinai, and Jordan departing on February 1, 2011. Pre-tour extension to Syria. Post-tour extension to Alexandria. For the itinerary: http://www.ccjourneys.com/trip+details/0_319/ancient+civilizations+of+the+red+sea.aspx

Press Release: Capitol Steps "Liberal Shop of Horrors" in Cambridge on 11/27/10; Second Performance Added

DATELINE: October 27, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbach@gmail.com

THE CAPITOL STEPS RETURN TO CAMBRIDGE WITH THE "LIBERAL SHOP OF HORRORS" TOUR ON NOVEMBER 27. SECOND PERFORMANCE ADDED AT 5PM

The Capitol Steps return to Cambridge's Sanders Theatre at Harvard University with their all-new "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Tour, an evening of musical political satire that pokes fun at Democrats, Republicans, Tea Partiers, Independents and their fans alike. There will be two performances on Saturday, November 27 at 5PM and 8PM. (The 5PM show has been added since the Cambridge performance was first announced).

"Liberal Shop of Horrors" brings music, comedy, and satire to midterm elections, health care, bailouts, the environment, the budget, partisan politics, unfaithful politicians, and the Tea Party. Famous for putting the "mock" in democracy, the Capitol Steps have become an annual area Thanksgiving weekend tradition The irreverent group charms audiences on both sides of the aisle with its unique brand of political humor set to popular music. While the Capitol Steps are renowned for poking fun at occupants of the White House, no one is safe from their satirical barbs, from Democrats to Republicans, Independents to Tea-Partiers, and from Congress to the Supreme Court.

The Capitol Steps began their antics over 25 years ago, when a group of Capitol Hill folks set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them.Today, The Capitol Steps perform in Washington weekly, and at theatres and concert halls nationwide throughout the year. They have recorded 29 albums, including their latest, "Liberal Shop of Horrors" . 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 Capitol Steps have twice won the Washington Area Music Association's "Wammie Award" for outstanding cabaret and musical theatre performances; a New York Drama Desk nomination for "outstanding lyrics", and other national accolades.

To preview some of the Capitol Steps materials and download selections from "Liberal Shop of Horrors", visit their website (www.capsteps.com) or find The Capitol Steps on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Sanders Theatre is located at Memorial Hall, Harvard University, 45 Quincy Street, in Cambridge, MA. Tickets, priced $38.00, $34.00, and $29.00 (with $5.00 OFF student tickets with alimit of two per person, ID required) are on sale at the Harvard Box-Office. For tickets, call 617-496-2222 or order them online at http://ofa.fas.harvard.edu/boxoffice/

The Cambridge performance of The Capitol Steps is produced by the Mike Thornton Agency.

-30-

NOTE TO THE MEDIA

For general information on The Capitol Steps: (includes news,
downloads, etc for the general public): www.capsteps.com
For the Capitol Steps Media Kit: http://www.capsteps.com/live/bookings.html
For The Capitol Steps photos and graphics: http://www.capsteps.com/live/pr.html
For a Capitol Steps CD, to interview one of the Capitol Steps, or
additional information: Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations.
413-733-7095 or mgauerbach@gmail.com

Media Coverage: Capitol Steps / South Hadley

Reminder Publications 10/18/10 issue. Page 30

http://www.thereminder.com/publications/readourpaperonline/

Media Coverage: Capitol Steps / South Hadley

GailSez: http://gailsez.org/2010/10/capitol-steps-liberal-shop-of-horrors-comes-to-mt-holyoke/

Press Release: Cross-Culture Journeys "Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea"

DATELINE: October 12, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbach@gmail.com

CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS OFFERS “ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS OF THE RED SEA” TRAVEL PROGRAM TO EGYPT, THE SINAI, AND JORDAN IN FEBRUARY 2011.

Amherst, MA---Cross-Culture Journeys will offer a 16-day/14-night travel program “Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea” to Egypt, The Sinai, and Jordan, on February 1-16, 2011. The travel program includes a 5-night cruise of the Red Sea onboard the intimate M/V Harmony V.

Travellers will arrive in Amman, Jordan for a visit to the Jordanian capital, along with the Wadi Rum (the former headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia), the red-rose city of Petra, and the Red sea resort of Aqaba. In the Sinai, excursions will be offered to St. Catherine’s Monastery, Sharm El Sheikh and the Ras Mohammed National Park before continuing to Hurghada in Egypt. The tour continues to Luxor, old and new Cairo, and the famous pyramids of Giza.

A six-day pre-tour extension to Syria (Damascus, Palmyra, and Aleppo) is available departing on January 26; a post-tour extension is available to Alexandria in Egypt. The pre-tour and post-tour extensions are optional and are not included in the basic tour prices.

The M/V Harmony V, launched in 2003 and refurbished in 2008, offers 25 outside cabins, regional and international cuisine, a sundeck and internet and email service.

Prices begin at $5,995 per person, double-occupancy, plus applicable taxes and surcharges. Free airfare is available from New York (JFK and/or Newark airports) when the trip is booked and paid-in-full before October 31, 2010. Prices for the Syria pre-tour extension begin at $1,995 per person, double-occupancy’ prices for the Alexandria post-tour extension begin at $1,495 per person, double-occupancy. Single supplements are available at additional costs.

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 further information and a detailed itinerary, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com, call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303, or email: travel@ccjourneys.com.

-30-

Press Release: Calendar Listings: Capitol Steps "Liberal Shop of Horrors" in Cambridge on 11/27/10

DATELINE: October 11, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbach@gmail.com

*CALENDAR LISTINGS*

THE CAPITOL STEPS: THE "LIBERAL SHOP OF HORRORS" TOUR
Musical Political Satire

Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 8PM
Sanders Theatre, Memorial Hall
Harvard University
45 Quincy Street, Cambridge, MA

The Capitol Steps return to Cambridge with their all-new "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Tour, an evening of musical political satire that pokes fun at Democrats, Republicans, Tea Partiers and Independents alike. The Capitol Steps began their antics over 25 years ago, when a group of Capitol Hill folks set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them.Today, The Capitol Steps perform in Washington weekly, and at theatres and concert halls nationwide  throughout the year. They have recorded 29 albums, including their latest, "Liberal Shop of Horrors" . 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.

"Their political satire brings chuckles...rave reviews...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: www.capsteps.com.

Tickets: $38.00, $34.00, $29.00 and $5.00 OFF student tickets (limit of two per person, ID required) are on sale at the Harvard Box-Office. Telephone: 617-496-2222. Online at: http://ofa.fas.harvard.edu/boxoffice/

The Cambridge performance of The Capitol Steps is produced by the Mike Thornton Agency.

-30-

NOTE TO THE MEDIA

For general information on The Capitol Steps: (includes news,
downloads, etc for the general public): www.capsteps.com
For the Capitol Steps Media Kit: http://www.capsteps.com/live/bookings.html
For The Capitol Steps photos and graphics: http://www.capsteps.com/live/pr.html
For a Capitol Steps CD, to interview one of the Capitol Steps, or
additional information: Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations.
413-733-7095 or mgauerbach@gmail.com

Press Release: Calendar Listings: Capitol Steps South Hadley Performance on 12/18/10

DATELINE: October 11, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Mike Thornton
Mike Thornton Agency
703-597-4441
thorntonis@yahoo.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations
413-733-7095
mgauerbach@gmail.com

*CALENDAR LISTINGS*

THE CAPITOL STEPS: THE "LIBERAL SHOP OF HORRORS" TOUR
Musical Political Satire

Saturday, December 18, 2010 at 8PM
Chapin Auditorium
Mount Holyoke College
South Hadley, Massachusetts

The Capitol Steps return to the Pioneer Valley with their all-new "Liberal Shop of Horrors" Tour, an evening of musical political satire that pokes fun at Democrats, Republicans, Tea Partiers and Independents alike. The Capitol Steps began their antics over 25 years ago, when a group of Capitol Hill folks set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them.Today, The Capitol Steps perform in Washington weekly, and at theatres and concert halls nationwide throughout the year. They have recorded 29 albums, including their latest, "Liberal Shop of Horrors" . 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.

"Their political satire brings chuckles...rave reviews...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: www.capsteps.com.

Sponsors to date include: Mount Holyoke College, The Valley Advocate, The Daily Hampshire Gazette and 88.5FM/WFCR, Western New England's NPR News and Music Station and WNNZ, Western New England's NPR News Station.

A portion of the proceeds from the performance will benefit the programs and services of the newly-formed South Hadley Youth Commission. A limited number of benefit tickets, priced $50.00 each, which include premium seating and a post-performance cast party, are available through the Northampton Box-Office, 76 Main Street, Northampton, MA (413-586-8686 or 800-THE-TICK) and The Odyssey Book Shop, 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA.

General Admission Tickets: Orchestra: $47.50, Balcony at $42.50 and $37.50, are on sale at the Northampton Box-Office, 76 Main Street, Northampton; by telephone at 413-586-8686 or 800-THE-TICK and online at www.nbotickets.com

The South Hadley performance of The Capitol Steps is produced by the Mike Thornton Agency and Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations

-30-

NOTE TO THE MEDIA

For general information on The Capitol Steps: (includes news,
downloads, etc for the general public): www.capsteps.com
For the Capitol Steps Media Kit: http://www.capsteps.com/live/bookings.html
For The Capitol Steps photos and graphics: http://www.capsteps.com/live/pr.html
For a Capitol Steps CD, to interview one of the Capitol Steps, or
additional information: Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations.
413-733-7095 or mgauerbach@gmail.com

For information on the South Hadley Youth Commission, contact Carol Constant, 413-222-1761

Client David Pakman featured in EDGE

http://www.edgeonthenet.com/index.php?ch=entertainment&sc=culture&sc2=news&sc3=&id=111010

South Hadley's Youth Commission: Mass Live Feature

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/10/south_hadley_establishing_new.html

South Hadley's Youth Commission

The Mike Thornton Agency and I will co-produce The Capitol Steps again this fall in Western Massachusetts. Details are forthcoming.

This has given me the opportunity to work with some of the good people of South Hadley, Massachusetts,
who have put together a Youth Commission to help the young adults in a town that has seen the results of in-school bullying first-hand. We wish them well.

Here's information on their formation.

South Hadley Youth Commission
Town of South Hadley
116 Main Street
South Hadley, MA 01075

DATELINE: October 7, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS: Carol Constant. 413-222-1761

South Hadley Youth Commission Appointed

South Hadley, Massachusetts. On Tuesday, October 5, the South Hadley Selectboard voted to establish a youth commission with the mission empowering all youth to become change-makers in the community.

Appointed were adult members: Carol Constant, Carol Isackson, Tanya Kopec, David LaBrie and Christie Reardon. Ultimately it is planned that a total of fifteen young people between the ages of thirteen and twenty-one will serve on the Commission’s Youth Task Force along with seven adults on the Youth Commission. The goal is to include all youth regardless of ability, race, religion, national origin, socio-economic background, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation.

Selectboard member Bruce MacCullagh said "We want our youth to be involved in the community and we want our community to provide programs and services for our youth. The input and participation of South Hadley youth on this commission will bring new ideas and programs to South Hadley."

Some ideas generated to-date include a Winter Carnival; a Mural Project; clean-up and repair of the Buttery Brook Skateboard Park; public service clean-up projects; teen nights, and group trips and activities.

Those interested in serving should contact, Carol Constant at 413-222-1761 or Commission Youth Task Force member Melanie Demakis at melxo47@aim.com.

New Client: Out For Reel LGBT Film Series

We're pleased to have Out For Reel, the Northampton, MA based LGBT film series, join our client roster. Out For Reel presents award-winning lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender films from around the world, along with occasional live performances, and collaborations/partnerships with other Western New England cultural organizations. Most events are held at the historic Academy of Music Theatre in downtown Northampton. We'll be assisting with the development of sponsorship packages. For more information: www.outforreel.org.

Client David Pakman featured in Northampton blog.

http://northamptonmedia.com/AstheValleyTurns/?p=688

Feature Coverage: Mark G Auerbach Public Relations

I was fortunate to do a Q&A with Jeanne Yocum, a PR practioner colleague with a business blog or two.

http://www.yourghostwriter.com/blog/2010/09/21/small-business-success-qa-13-mark-g-auerbach-public-relations/

Job Opportunity at "Midweek Politics with David Pakman"

One of my clients seeks a savvy underwriting representative. Here's the job posting of 8/31/10.

“Midweek Politics with David Pakman”, the nationally-syndicated progressive political talk radio, TV, and web show seeks an independent sales representative to sell on-air underwriting and sponsorships to expand the show’s rapidly growing network and listener/viewer base. A ground-floor opportunity for a self-starter willing to work independently from a home-office. Self-motivation, strong communication and presentation skills essential. Computer savvy a plus. Previous media or sales experience preferred. Stipend plus commission based. Training provided.

For details: http://www.midweekpolitics.com/job-underwriting-sales-representative/

Client David Pakman featured in Northampton blog.

David Pakman of "Midweek Politics" is featured in Paul Shoul's "As The Valley Turns" blog in Northampton Media and likened to Rachel Maddow.

http://northamptonmedia.com/AstheValleyTurns/?p=541

Press Release: "Midweek Politics" Airs on Free Speech TV Network Beginning 7/31/10

DATELINE: July 27, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts: David Pakman
radio@midweekpolitics.com
Mark G. Auerbach
Public Relations
413-733-7095 or 413-427-7352
mgauerbach@gmail.com

“Midweek Politics with David Pakman” Launches Nationally on Free Speech TV Network

Northampton, MA--Midweek Politics With David Pakman, the internationally-syndicated weekly talk radio and television program that originates in Northampton, MA, will become available to 30 million additional listeners and viewers on the Free Speech TV Network (FSTV), beginning on July 31, 2010.

FSTV will broadcast Midweek Politics with David Pakman on Saturdays at 7PM ET and on Sundays at 5AM ET. FSTV reaches over 30 million US homes and airs on DirecTV (channel 348) and DISH Network (channel 9415).

Free Speech TV, launched in 1995, is an independent, publicly-supported, 501(c)3 non-profit TV multi-platform digital media pioneer. Using both television and the Internet, Free Speech TV inspires viewers to become civically engaged to build a more just, equitable, and sustainable society. FSTV, based in Denver, CO is owned and operated by Public Communicators, founded in 1974. Midweek Politics with David Pakman joins “Democracy Now”, “The Thom Hartmann Program Live”, “GRITtv with Laura Flanders”, and a wealth of other programming on FSTV. FSTV program schedules are available at www.freespeech.org.

"I couldn't imagine a better next step in television for us than FSTV," said David Pakman, “Midweek Politics” host. "We've been interested in partnering with FSTV since launching the TV version of our show, and this couldn't have happened at a more opportune time."

Midweek Politics with David Pakman producer Louis Motamedi, added that "we’re ready to step up the TV version of our show, and this additional exposure to audiences nationwide via FSTV offers us the right opportunity to grow.”

Midweek Politics with David Pakman is the multi-media political talk show focusing on the politics and news of the week, news analysis and regular interviews with key players in the liberal, conservative, and non-political arenas. Recent guests have included: Senator John Kerry; Members of Congress Dennis Kucinich, Richard Neal, and Jan Schakowsky; former Governors Jesse Ventura and Michael Dukakis, Congressman Joe Sestak, The Young Turks host Cenk Uygur, and countless others.

Midweek Politics with David Pakman first aired in 2005 as a local political talk program, broadcasting from Northampton, Massachusetts. The program now airs on over 100 public and commercial radio and television stations in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Africa. Programs also appear on YouTube and are available in podcast format.

Midweek Politics with David Pakman is owned and produced by Vivid Edge Media of Northampton, MA. For information on Midweek Politics with David Pakman, program schedules, and membership and sponsorship opportunities, visit the program’s website at www.midweekpolitics.com or the program’s pages at Facebook (www.facebook.com/midweekpolitics) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/midweekpolitics).

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Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations on Facebook

I've created a page for the business: Mark G Auerbach Public Relations.

This way, I can keep the musings on Starbucks, swim season, and showtunes separate from work-related postings.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Longmeadow-MA/Mark-G-Auerbach-Public-Relations/114375215268513

Some of Our Clients' Recent Press

Some of our clients’ recent press:

The Scott Simon / Diane Rehm Mediterranean Cruise, produced by Cross-Culture Journeys.

USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/travel/cruises/item.aspx?type=blog&ak=88623.blog
Miami Herald:
http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/19/1586672/national-public-radio-celebrity.html

Midweek Politics with David Pakman:

CSR Newsline: http://www.environmental-expert.com/resultEachPressRelease.aspx?cid=6511&codi=163515&lr=1

Mike Thornton Agency, producing The Capitol Steps at The Plaza Theatre in Orlando.

http://www.theplazatheatre.com/0809_showdetail.asp?EventID=53

The Seminole Voice:
http://seminolevoice.com/Seminole_Voice/article.asp?ID=3595

Press Release: i Idren Debuts at Esselon

DATELINE: April 20, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Gerry LeBlanc
413 230 8773
jahgerry@iidren.com

Upful Music in the Esselon Garden

Hadley, MA -- The May 6th debut performance of local roots reggae band, i Idren, will open the summer season at Esselon Cafe. Amidst the stone chairs, flowering bulbs and the new grass, the sounds of classic reggae hits from Bob Marley, Desmond Dekker, and Tarrus Riley mixed with original rasta riddims, horns and harmonies will make for a perfect evening of dinner and open air dancing. The performance, from 6 to 8pm, is free to the public and family friendly. In the event of rain, the performance will be cancelled.

i Idren formed in January of 2010, comprised of veteran local musicians who were brought together by lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Gerry LeBlanc. LeBlanc draws on his experience as lead singer and songwriter for the band Minibus, a rock/reggae/jam outfit born out of the 90’s UMass music scene. Sweet female vocal harmonies reminiscent of the legendary I-Threes which are integral to the i Idren sound, are beautifully rendered by Jenn Murphy and Gudrun Durham. The drum and bass combination so important to reggae is handled mightily by drummer Dave Noonan, one of the founding members of the Equalites, and bassist Dave Chalfant, known for his work with The Neilds, and many local and national recording artists. To top the solid rhythm section and multi-part vocals, saxophone player Jon Weeks, member of Viva Quetzal among other local groups, brings his vast experience in latin, jazz and rock horns, and he shines as the soloist in the spotlight.

For booking and more info about the band visit: www.iidren.com Esselon Cafe is located at 99 Russell St., Hadley, MA. 413-585-1515 www.esselon.com A full dinner menu is available as well as beer & wine, coffee, tea, and desserts.

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Capitol Steps' "Liberal Shop of Horrors" is Orlando-bound

The Mike Thornton Agency and The Plaza Theatre present The Capitol Steps with their new show, “Liberal Shop of Horrors” on Saturday, May 1 at 7PM, at The Plaza Theatre, 425 North Bumby Avenue in Orlando. For tickets: 407-228-1220 or http://theplazatheatre.com/.

For a preview of “Liberal Shop of Horrors”: www.capsteps.com

People We’re Glad We Know. Gerry LeBlanc

I first met Gerry when he was web designer at Gazettenet, the online presence of the Daily Hampshire Gazette. He recently started his own company, GerryLeBlanc.com where he’s an internetologist. He’s a hot musician.

Gerry LeBlanc’s new band, i Idren, premieres at the Esselon Cafe (99 Russell Street/Route 9, Hadley, MA) on Thursday, May 6th and 6PM. Details: www.iidren.com

Feature Coverage: David Pakman III

David Pakman featured in the Daily Hampshire Gazette and Gazettenet, the local daily newspaper and its website serving Northampton, MA and Hampshire County

http://gazettenet.com/node/265055

Feature Coverage: David Pakman II

From the 3/23/10 Springfield, MA Republican and MassLive.com

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/03/northampton_david_pakman_midweek_politics.html

Feature Coverage: David Pakman

My client David Pakman was featured in the most recent issue of the Jewish Ledger in a Q&A with columnist and feature writer Judy Polan. http://www.jewishledger.com/western_mass/

Press Release: Diane Rehm and Scott Simon Host Cross-Culture Journeys' Mediterranean Cruise

DATELINE: March 22, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Ati Jain, Cross-Culture Journeys, 413-256-6303 or ajain@ccjourneys.com 
Mark G. Auerbach Public Relations, 413-733-7095 or MGAuerbach@gmail.com

CROSS-CULTURE JOURNEYS OFFERS MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE TO GREEK, ITALIAN AND SICILIAN PORTS WITH PUBLIC RADIO HOSTS DIANE REHM AND SCOTT SIMON ON JULY 26 TO AUGUST 10

Amherst, MA---Public radio “voices” Diane Rehm and Scott Simon will accompany Cross-Culture Journeys' "Mediterranean Voyage to Antiquity"
cruise of select ports in Greece, Sicily, and Italy aboard the Aegean Odyssey. Diane Rehm, producer and host of her nationally-syndicated talk show, and Scott Simon, host of NPR’s “Weekend Edition Saturday” join this one-time 16-day/14-night fully-escorted offering, departing the US on July 26, 2010 and returning on August 10, 2010.

The cruise aboard the newly-refurbished Aegean Odyssey begins in Piraeus, the Greek port serving the capital of Athens. After a guided tour of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and other classic sites in the Greek capital, the tour sets sail for Greece, Sicily, and Italy. Among the highlights: Myceanae, capital of Agamemnon; Taormina and Siracusa, cities known for their Greco-Roman theatres; Agrigento with its Valley of the Temples; Marsala (with a wine-tasting); Palermo, Sicily’s capital; the Aeolian Islands and Salerno; the Amalfi coast, Pompeii and Capri. The tour ends in Rome.

Optional pre-cruise extensions to Athens (July 24-27, 2010 ) and post-cruise extensions to Rome (August 10-12, 2010 ) or Florence (August 10-14) are also available at additional cost.

Diane Rehm is host and executive producer of "The Diane Rehm Show" which airs nationally. Each week, more than 1.7 million listeners across the country tune in to the program, which has grown in 29 years from a local morning call-in show to a public broadcasting powerhouse distributed by NPR, NPR Worldwide and SIRIUS satellite radio. Rehm is the author of two autobiographical books. In 1999, Washingtonian Magazine named her “Washingtonian of the Year.” She and her husband, John, have traveled with Cross-Culture Journeys and public radio listeners from other stations on travel programs to the Adriatic Sea, The Danube and The Nile.

Scott Simon brings the perspective of a world correspondent to his role as host of NPR’s “Weekend Edition Saturday”. Over the last thirty years he has covered eight wars and has reported from 50 states and five continents. Closer to home, he is famously devoted to the Chicago Cubs, Bears and Bulls. Simon has been honored with many awards, including a George Foster Peabody Award, for his comprehensive and insightful reporting, essays and interviews. He has also hosted many public television programs. He is author of two books on sports, “Home and Away: Memoir of a Fan”, “Jackie Robinson and the Integration of Baseball”, and two novels,” Pretty Birds”, set in Sarajevo during the siege, and “Windy City”, a political comedy. Simon and his wife Caroline Richard are the parents of two young daughters.

The Aegean Odyssey, newly modernized and refurbished is large enough to provide the amenities available on major cruise ships, yet small enough to dock at small-city ports. The ship can accommodate up to 350 passengers in a variety of stateroom options. The ship provides contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with carefully-selected wines; a gym, outdoor swimming pool, shop, and internet center.

Cross-Culture’s tour includes air-conditioned motorcoach tours of shore excursions, most meals, talks by guest speakers about the history of the Normands in Sicily, the scientist Archimedes, Italian wines and Greek cultural legacy in Italy. Ms. Rehm and Mr. Simon will offer discussions about their experiences with their respective public radio shows. 

Prices begin at $3,995 per person, double-occupancy, plus applicable taxes and surcharges. Free airfare is available from New York (JFK and/or Newark airports) when the trip is booked and paid-in-full before April 30, 2010. Discounted airfares and reduced or free single supplement charges are available through Cross-Culture Journeys. 
 
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 further information and a detailed itinerary, visit Cross-Culture Journeys' website at www.ccjourneys.com, call 800-491-1148 or 413-256-6303, or email: travel@ccjourneys.com.

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For additional information on Diane Rehm: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=2101067

For additional information on Scott Simon: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=3874941

For additional information on Cross-Culture Journeys: http://www.ccjourneys.com/

This Week on Midweek Politics with David Pakman (March 10, 2010)

Just interviewed exclusively on Midweek Politics with David Pakman:

Shirley Phelps-Roper of the Westboro Baptist Church, known for their “God Hates Fags” rhetoric. The US Supreme Court will soon hear a free-speech case which will determine whether the Church’s notorious anti-gay rhetoric is protected by free speech.

Catch the interview at: www.midweekpolitics.com
Midweek Politics on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/midweekpolitics

New Client: “Midweek Politics with David Pakman”

We’ve been doing some public relations work for the up-and-coming radio program “Midweek Politics with David Pakman”. The Northampton-based program (which first aired in 2005 on WXOJ-LP, “Valley Free Radio” in Northampton), is produced by Vivid Edge Media, for radio, internet, and television. It’s currently found on Pacifica Radio, YouTube, on public access television stations nationwide, and via internet podcast. “Midweek Politics with David Pakman” is a political talk program, focusing on the politics and news of the week, with regular interviews of both liberal, conservative, and non-political guests. Keller Broadcasting recently announced a national syndication partnership with the program.

Creator/host David Pakman, a native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, grew up in Northampton, MA, attended Northampton schools and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Some links: www.midweekpolitics.com
Midweek Politics on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/midweekpolitics
A feature about David Pakman in Northampton Young Professionals newsletter: http://www.thenayp.com/june-newsletter-spotlight-on-david-pakman
National feature about the program's national syndication: http://www.rbr.com/radio/radio-programming/21144.html

Update: “Says You!” Holland Trip

Popular “Says You!” panelist Tony Kahn and his wife, author Harriet Reisen, will lead the “Says You!” trip to Holland (April 17-25) instead of creator/host Richard Sher. In his multifaceted career Tony Kahn has lent his talents to several public broadcasting landmarks. He was the first host of PRI’s “The World”, the original writer for ZOOM and narrator of a dozen NOVA programs. His NPR documentary drama Blacklisted, about the Hollywood blacklist of the 1950s, tells a story inseparable from that of Tony’s own family. Among his other productions is the long-running podcast series WGBH Morning Stories, which you can hear at tonykahn.com.

Tony’s wife Harriet Reisen will also join us on the cruise. She is best known for her highly praised biography Louisa May Alcott: The Woman Behind Little Women, which The Wall Street Journal named one of 2009’s Standout Selections. Her documentary based on the book won awards at several festivals and premiered on PBS stations last December. (www.alcottfilm.com)

The Holland trip was coordinated by our client Cross-Culture Journeys (www.ccjourneys.com). The trip is sold out.

No February Postings ?

I was quiet in blog-world last month, probably with good reason.

Home life took precedence. On January 31, I went over to check my father’s house, the home I’d grew up in. I’m the caretaker during his Florida winters. The pipes had burst sometime in between my previous visit on the prior Thursday, before a massive thunder/lightning/windstorm and an arctic chill. The cascading waters short-circuited the furnaces, so as I arrived, I saw frosted windows (never a good sign), wood floors buckling under glazed ice. The following days were spent with plumbers, oil people, insurance adjusters, repair people, etc.

Having learned that repair people only give arrival estimates, I had to work client meetings and schedules around “we’ll be there sometime 9am-noon”. The old house has no wi-fi, and phone service had been suspended, so much of my work took place evenings and weekends.

As house got under control, I decided to fly to FL for a week to provide some dad-care and work on my tan. Coldest winter on record in Marco Island, FL, but I managed to get outside daily and enhance the tan.

Anyways, at work, we provided counsel to: a former broadcast colleague who is out-of-work and wrote his resume and cover letters; fine-tuned a travel itinerary for a client; wrote several newsletter copies, and worked with some new clients. We also became more adept at social network marketing with Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter (mgauerbach).

My January Revamp: Networked

I initially questioned the validity of social media for anything other than...well connecting. This last Fall, I had three clients with projects that might be promoted through Facebook, Linked-In, and Twitter. All told, our marketing via social media was successful and more cost-effective than some other traditional marketing methods.

So, after recommending clients utilize social media for marketing, I’ve spent a good part of January working on Facebook, Linked-In, and, yes, Twitter.

I’m easy to find on the networks.

On Facebook, I’m Mark G. Auerbach. I started using Facebook to bring my Northfield Mount Hermon class together. As Class Secretary, it was a good way to reconnect. Within a couple of months, we had a class group. I also use FB for personal use only, so I’ve gone out of my way to appear only interested in caffeine, lying in the sun, and showtunes.

On Linked In, I’m Mark G. Auerbach. I’m using Linked In to reconnect with colleagues, and make new contacts that can help me maintain and grow the business. Some of the forums are terrific. I find it odd, though, that there's no specific place for a middle initial, so I chuckle when it says "Mark G says this" or "Mark G recommends this"

On Twitter, I’m mgauerbach. I’m too much of a neophyte to evaluate its success and too busy to tweet.

For those exploring social media, I recommend: Marketingbuddy’s Blog: Bringing Social Media Marketing to the average Joe or Jane. http://marketingbuddy.wordpress.com/

Donna Abelli, a Western Massachusetts-based graphic designer and marketing consultant, has started a new blog for marketeers, public relations, and business people, which makes it easy to understand social media from Facebook to Linked-In. Social marketing media plans are essential to doing good business, and they’re here to stay. A little knowledge here goes a long way.

Mark G Auerbach Public Relations: The 2009 Recap

In some ways, 2009 was a challenging year for my company, Mark G Auerbach Public Relations. We parted company with a client we'd done work for in excess of 22 years--public radio station WFCR; saw other clients go under or cut back, and found it more difficult to manage cash-flow. Challenge enthuses me, but it would be nice if market conditions improve before next summer's pool/tan season.

On the plus side, we added some new clients and projects, including:

***Mike Thornton Agency in Washington, DC:. Mike and I co-produced an almost sold out performance of the Capitol Steps in Northampton, MA (my first-ever event production independent of a client). Mike, a member of The Capitol Steps and a talented DC-based jazz and big band singer, hired us to promote Capitol Steps performances in Orlando, FL; Lebanon, NH; Albany, NY; and Cambridge/Boston, MA and two jazz performances in the metropolitan Washington, DC area.

***"Says You!", the public radio quiz show carried on over 100 stations coast-to-coast. We linked "Says You!" and our other client, Cross-Culture Journeys, together to produce an April 2010 Holland and Belgium small ship cruise during tulip time.

***PACE Theatre in Easthampton, MA, a small non-profit group which presented the musical "Falsettos" at The Academy of Music Theatre in Northampton, MA. We coordinated their marketing and public relations for the two-week performance run.

***A series of smaller projects including: a ghost-writing project for singer interested in developing a club act, copywriting and media-buying services for another marketing agency; resume and cover-writing projects for job-seekers, and more. I continued to serve on the Northfield Mount Hermon School's NMH Magazine Editorial Board (and act as class secretary with two other classmates). I also taught a public relations seminar for my collegue Brenda Garton's communications class at Western New England College.

We got into social media with Linked-In (where I hopefully look smart and savvy) and succumbed to the allure of Facebook (where I appear under-caffeinated). Find me on both under the name Mark G. Auerbach. I was actually able to use both to promote client programs and activities.

I like New Years. It offers a chance to close some doors, a chance to open others, and an opportunity to thank and appreciate colleagues, friends, and vendors who helped to make the old year possible. Thank you. Happy New Year.