Commit To Be Fit & Columbus Metro Parks Wellness In The Woods Video

Last month Columbus Metro Parks and Commit To Be Fit held a Wellness in the Woods event. An incredible morning was enjoyed by all participants.

Look for the next Wellness in the Woods coming in April.

Hey Columbus Moms, Momstyle is Becoming It's Own Social Networking Site!

Soon to be driven by the Dispatch Broadcast Group, Momstyle will be created with resources from the print publication and online special edition combined with the added spice of a social network just for moms, in one convenient place.

They are currently looking for moms to sign up to be a discussion leader. It’s easy and free and it’s a great way to market your own unique brand.

Simple visit the site landing page and include your contact information and why you want to be part of Columbus Momstyle.

The Press Release Makes It Official!

Commit To Be Fit announcement!!

Proud To Announce New Partnership with 10TV and Commit To Be Fit

I am jumping out of my seat excited to announce my new partnership with 10TV Commit To Be Fit. Annie Vian, of Vian Communications, and columbus imPRessions are merging our areas of expertise to breathe new life into the 10TV Commit To Be Fit program.

This seven year old program, lead by the lovely Andrea Cambern, was created because in 2001 Columbus was named the 5th fattest city in America. Andrea and 10TV took this health concern very seriously and created the Commit To Be Fit Program. Working with the Columbus community, last year we were ranked the 19th fittest city by Men’s Fitness Magazine! From one of the fattest to one of the fittest!

Annie and I want to keep that moment going and create new opportunities for the Columbus community. Over the next year, we will work with 10TV and Andrea to take Commit To Be Fit to a new level with more interaction and excitement.

We look forward to the opportunities this new partnership can bring to Columbus!

Go Google

Google is using billboards to promote Google Apps.

Four simple messages will rotate every weekday for a month enticing people to "Go Google."

The outdoor ads are placed in heavily traveled urban areas. But you won't see them in Columbus. You'll have to go to Chicago, San Francisco, Boston and New York.

If you're not traveling to those areas here is a peak of a couple billboards.

Media Inquiry Sheet

Since yesterday's post was about how to do an interview, I thought today I'd share something that has helped me keep potential media crisis situations at bay.

In order to be proactive in handing a potential media crisis, you should have a defensive PR strategy and it should start with how to handle incoming media calls.  A media caller who is looking to see if there is any merit to a claim can usually make a determination by the reaction of the first phone call.  By being prepared and creating a procedure you can avoid a media headache.

Create a point of contact to handle media inquiries then create a media inquiry sheet for the staff.  Everyone should follow these simple media instructions (which should be placed somewhere near the phone).

MEDIA INQUIRY SHEET

Instructions for Responding to Media Inquiries that come via phone, email or in-person

(place near telephone)

DON'T ANSWER ANY MEDIA QUESTIONS

DO

1. Get the media caller's name, affiliate and contact information
2. Put all media inquiries through to:  (insert designated point of contact - usually the Communications Director)*
3. If the designated point of contact is not available, please do the following:

• Get the media caller's name, affiliate, contact information and deadline
• Get the nature of the inquiry
• Let them know (insert designated point of contact) will get back to them as soon as possible
• Immediately notify (insert designated point of contact) at (insert cell phone number or email address)

*If the media caller asks for a specific person other than the designated point of contact, or starts to ask you questions, state the organization's policy (example below) and put the inquiry through to the designated point of contact.

Media Policy

It is the policy of (insert organization name) to direct all media inquires through to (insert designated point of contact). You can contact (insert designated point of contact) at (insert direct dial line, cell phone number or email). This individual will help you with your questions.

Designated Point of Contact's Response to Media

If you are the designated point of contact and are caught off guard by a media caller's inquiry or need more time to answer, follow these steps:

• Politely say something like "I'm right in the middle of something, can I get back to you?"
  
• Find out the media caller's deadline and assure you will get back to them in plenty of time
  
• Quickly do an Internet search on your organization to see what, if anything, is being said
• If you find something create some talking points
• Make sure all information on your organization is current
• Research media caller and affiliate
• Contact media caller and answer questions
• Should questioning become in-depth it is alright to tell media caller that you will need to obtain additional information and will get back to them before their deadline 

By putting a few simple media procedures in place, your organization could prevent a potential crisis situation, (as well as a headache that could last many hours, day, or even weeks).

You've Been Asked To Do An Interview . . Now What?

Here are some tips when working with the media for an interview.

Before the Interview:

1. A reporter's approach can give clues to the intent of the interview. Will the interview be taped or live? Before the interview date do some research on the media outlet and reporter - what type of stories do they typically cover? Is the reporter conversational or tight-lipped?
2. Prepare a fact sheet to give to reporter.  If it's a live interview give to reporter the day before the interview. If it's taped bring it to the interview.  This way your key messages will be correct either during the live interview or when the interview is edited.
3. Prepare talking points for yourself.  You may not cover all points but it is a good point of reference to use as you prepare.
4. If it's an on camera interview dress appropriately. Stay away from harsh patterns or colors. Keep hair and jewelry simple.

During the Interview:

1. Be natural, confident and speak at a normal volume.
2. Be relaxed, smile and make eye contact with reporter. Body language is important. Don't fidget with your cross your arms in front of your chest.
3. Be honest and accurate. Don't guess, it's alright to say you don't have that information at that time and you will get back to reporter as information is available.
4. Be brief. Keep language simple, straightforward and to the point. Don't use extremely technical terms and stay with the message.

If Interview Turns Hostile:

1. Stay calm. Never react and don't yield to pressure. How you sound is as important as what you say.
2. Respond with facts and be persuasive.
3. Don't repeat reporter's negative words, even to refute them. Substitute with positive words.
4. Don't let inaccurate statement pass you by. Word the correction in your follow-up response.  Use steering phrases to bring back your message like:

• "The real issue here is . . ."
• "What really affects the public is . . ."
• "Let's put this in perspective . . ."
• "Another important point is . . ."

When you are being interviewed, no matter the tone of the interview, always listen carefully to the questions. Listen to the entire question, then take a couple seconds to collect your thoughts before you answer.

New Client: Family Promise of Delaware County

A few weeks ago I gave a presentation to the board of Family Promise of Delaware County. This week I was hired to do a small marketing and PR project to help this chapter get started.  I will be working on the "Four M's": 

• Messaging - creating local key messages
  
• Marketing - creating an updated brochure or marketing postcard
  
• Media - creating some awareness in traditional press and social media
  
• Means - creating a few fundraising/sponsorship tools
  

Family Promise is a national organization with 150 affiliates nationwide.  They are an interfaith hospitality network for homeless families. Congregations and volunteers help connect homeless families with services and support like shelter, meals child care, and career training.  

Currently Delaware County has nine host churches, five support churches and a day center signed up and ready to help.  This network will serve as host and will provide meals and overnight accommodations to up to 14 people for a week. They provide beds, transportation, and a day center where families will spend day hours receiving counseling, doing job searches and preparing to move into permanent housing.

In Delaware County the homeless family count is rising.  To help combat this growing problem Family Promise of Delaware County was developed with the assistance of homeless advocacy group, Concerned Citizens Against Homelessness.

Family Promise of Delaware County is in the process of raising funds and accepting in-kind donations for the development of the Network.  They hope to open their doors by the end of summer and will reside at 35 N. Washington Street, Delaware, OH.  Be on the lookout for their local website coming soon.  In the meantime, you can check out the national website here.

COLUMBUS MEDIA: It's Volunteer Week Please Help Me Create Awareness for In-Kind Connection

This week marks Volunteer Week.  We are encouraged to share our stories.  Therefore, I'm asking the Columbus media to assist me in bringing awareness to In-Kind Connection. 

In-Kind Connection is a complimentary service sponsored by columbus imPRessions connecting non-profits in need of in-kind items to businesses and donors who can help.

Making a difference for the greater good - www.inkindconnection.com

* columbus impressions runs the web site to help spread the word and make a connection. 
* Non-profits email needs for upcoming events, to enhance the program, the office or to raise awareness. 
* Businesses email overstock items they are looking to donate or the willingness to assist non-profits.

After posted to the site needs and haves are then broadcasted through various social media channels like, Twitter, Facebook, AllTop, LinkedIn, etc.

columbus imPRessions will help make the connection. It is up to the non-profit and donor to work together to secure and exchange the items.

Email your need or have to inkindconnection@columbusimpressions.com

Baby The Planet Expo Info

Today I am going to distribute the first Baby The Planet Expo press release and wanted to give all my social media friends the first glance.

March 2, 2009

Contact: Michele Savoldi, columbus imPRessions

                 740.816.3251 or michele@columbusimpressions.com

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Baby the Planet Expo, first Mom and Mom-to-be Targeted Green Show in Central Ohio,

 Chosen as a Featured Event in Columbus Parent Magazine EXPO

 

(Columbus, OH) -   Baby the Planet Expo, a premier family green event, announced today that it will be a feature of the Columbus Parent Magazine EXPO, a quality family experience attracting 30,000 attendees on May 2-3, 2009 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

 

"Columbus Parent Magazine EXPO is thrilled to have Baby the Planet as part of our event this year. With so many families trying to become more eco-friendly, having green products and services at the EXPO is a benefit to all the kids and parents who attend the show,” states Staci Perkins, Editor of Columbus Parent Magazine.

 

As the first mom and mom-to-be targeted green event in the area, Baby the Planet Expo will bring local and national products, services and education to families looking to take those first steps in living a greener lifestyle or add to what they are already doing to improve the environment. 

 

“It can be overwhelming for parents and parents-to-be to learn and find resources to help them live a more sustainable lifestyle.  After hearing from so many women that they wish they could discover more about green living in one place, the idea of the expo was formed,” states event spokeswoman Michele Savoldi. The expo is focused on providing attendees with one new thing that will assist them with living a more sustainable lifestyle.  Interactive educational sessions will be offered on both days of the event.

 

A portion of the event’s proceeds will go to The Leave No Child Inside Central Ohio Collaborative, a non-profit dedicated to connecting kids with the outdoors as a way to improve their health, academic performance and happiness.

 

Current expo partners include sponsors The CW on WWHO-TV, American Canvas, Addison’s Compass, Itsabelly and Rain Brothers joined by the following exhibitors:

 

Camp Fire USA Central Ohio Council

Center for Humane Options in Childbirth Experiences  

Down the Garden Path 

Good to Go Eco 

Intuitive Concepts, Inc. 

The Leave No Child INSIDE Central Ohio Collaborative   

Long Mountain Designs 

Miessence Organics

Whole Foods 

 

Baby the Planet Expo has a limited number of sponsorships and exhibitor spaces still available for those companies and associations who want to connect their important message with families.  Event information is located on the event Web site at www.babytheplanetexpo.com. 

Peanut Butter Mess

The peanut butter scare has spoiled a staple in American comfort food.  Because of the tainted peanut butter at the Peanut Corp. of America in Georgia sales have dropped 23%, a number of schools across the country have stopped offering PB&J sandwiches, and pantries in households everywhere no longer stock creamy or chunky jars on their shelves.

Cause and Effect Can Have a Real Affect

Because of this serious action, makers and sellers of peanut butter from organic brands to commercial brands like Skippy, Jif and Peter Pan have had to become very reactionary.  In order to boost consumer confidence and defuse the situation, all makers had to put a crisis communication plan in place.  

Creating key messaging, maker web sites offer immediate statements reassuring the public that they do not use ingredients from the tainted company and that their product is safe to consume. Today, I even heard a new commercial for Jif where they immediately used messaging to put the viewers mind at rest letting them know their peanut butter is safe.  They had to use advertising dollars that either weren't planned or planned for something else.

All of this reminded me of my days in my past job.  Even though we were in Ohio, if something happened in another part of the country that was in any way comparable to our organization, we would feel the effects and needed to diminish the situation is quickly as possible.  Because of that uncontrollable threat, I created a crisis communication plan to handle any possible scenario - one we created or one that was handed to us because of the actions of someone else.

Crisis communication plans are so important.  I'm sure the peanut butter makers can attest to that.  These plans help keep you organized at a time when everything else around you is not so organized.  

Tomorrow I will post some crisis communication ideas to help you in a possible time of need. Until then, I'm going to make myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich because Jif reassured me that everything is just fine (and delicious) with their product.

Tune in Tomorrow Morning to 92.3 WCOL

ABC-6/FOX-28 News Anchor Gabe Spiegel will be visiting 92.3 WCOL's Woody and the Wake Up Call tomorrow morning.  We set up an interview between Gabe and Woody to discuss The Epilepsy Foundation and their "Fat Tuesday" Mardi Gras event.  Gabe is this year's Mardi Gras King.  Who knows, Gabe might even use his royalty to partake in a goofy radio bit.

Tune in to WCOL 92.3 at 7:45 and again at 8:10 a.m.  Can't get to a radio?  No problem, you can listen live on their site here.

Social Media, Is it the New Marketing?

The other day I had lunch with a friend who I haven't seen in quite some time.  It was great catching up and sharing stories about our families and busy lives.  Also, because we are both in marketing, we spent quite a bit of time talking about marketing and social media.

My friend is the marketing director for The Diamond Cellar.  Over the years The Diamond Cellar has relied heavily on traditional media, mostly radio to market their message.  While this has been successful, they are now beginning to look at non-traditional avenues, mostly social media.

The Diamond Cellar is experimenting in Facebook and just recently built a products page.  You can see it here.  While there, why not become a fan, we did.  They are linking their page with the Facebook pages of the product lines they carry in their jewelry store to maximize their exposure.  Smart move!

I told her about Twitter and the benefits it has brought columbus imPRessions.  By burning our feed through twitterfeed, we direct more visitors to our site, and create awareness to our media followers on stories we want to get in the news.  It's almost like having a PR coordinator on staff sending out press releases on our behalf.  I highly recommended it for the Diamond Cellar.

I also talked to her about having a blog.  We strongly feel blogs are important for business. Because of the economy, potential client's are becoming more cautious about signing a contract so quickly.  With this in mind, we always encourage potential clients to visit our blog.  This is where they learn more about us.  Not only professionally but personally as well.  On our blog we share our personality, our styles and our feelings.  Potential clients start to develop a personal relationship with us on-line which makes them more comfortable and confident to do business together.  

I think a blog would be a great opportunity for the Diamond Cellar too.  They could include personal stories from customers, introduce staff, highlight product lines and the designers, use polling to get customer feedback, advertise exclusive promotions, and provide special offers to blog followers.  This would develop deeper customer relationships, give customers an interactive experience and can also serve as great market research.

We both left the lunch charged and ready to tackle the social media world. So charged it prompted this post and the word of mouth marketing for The Diamond Cellar.  The opportunities are endless and we continually learn new things each day.  

Jen, if the Diamond Cellar needs some social media pointers, let me know.  Would love to help and learn of other social media opportunities with you along the way.

1-800 Flowers Brand Expansion

The other night on TV I saw an ad for 1-800 Flowers introducing the newest brand partnership, the one with Martha Stewart.

Who would have ever thought a flower retail shop in New York would grow into not only a worldwide florist, but extend itself into a huge home decor, and gifts mega retailer.

A few year's back 1-800 Flowers included local company Cheryl&Co into their brand collection. Cheryl&Co has been providing delicious cookies and corporate gifts for years.  This made me wonder what the new partnership with Martha Stewart would do to the locally grown company. 

Like Cheryl&Co, Martha also offers cookies.  Could this become competitive between the two brands?  Time will tell but at least for right now 1-800 Flowers is leaning heavy on Martha. The relationship is new, and Martha is huge. So huge she is getting top billing, heavy promotion, even an individual navigation tab on the 1800 flowers web site.  Cheryl and Co. basically has an honorable mention link at the bottom (underneath the fold) of the web page.

Let's hope this will only bring new customers to one of our favorite cookie brands from Columbus and help it grow even bigger.  You can order delicious Cheryl&Co cookies and gift baskets here.  Help keep a local company and brand prosperous!

Money Tight? Feed the Pig.

It's an expensive time of the year on top of a tough economic time.  Feeling frustrated and not sure what to do.  Feed the Pig can help!

We found a great site sponsored by the AICPA (America Institute of Certified Public Accountants) that gives you great tips on saving money, provides financial resources, financial discussions and podcasts.  They even have a site to help tweens with money questions.

"Spokespig" Benjamin guides you through the site making it interactive.  You can also find your inner under saver and learn how you can slightly change your habits and save money.  Add the application to your Facebook (like we did) and keep track of your saving commitment through social networking.

Want a daily reminder text keyword "feed" to 83484 for free reminders to feed the pig.

Sponsored by the Ad Council this campaign is targeted to Americans 25-34 so they can take control of their finances by reducing debt and increasing savings.

Great resource at a time when it's really needed.  Go ahead, check out the site and feed the pig.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Macy's is 150 years old.  This retail store started out as a fancy dry good store in 1858.  Today they are a leading retail store with hundreds of brands including celebrity branded merchandise. We're pretty sure everyone has seen the nostalgic advertising campaign they've been running the past few months.  We really like how Macy's has captured iconic moments mentioning Macy's over the years.  For us it resonates long-standing comfort and trustworthiness.

In 1924, the Macy's Day Parade was born.  Originally known as the Macy's Christmas parade, employees of the store and animals from Central Park Zoo started this holiday tradition.  The world famous giant helium balloons were added in 1927 and in 1948 the parade was televised.

A holiday tradition for our family, we will be watching the parade while making Thanksgiving dinner.

Little trivia. . . Did you know how Macy's got their branded iconic star?

Answer:

˙ɐǝs ʇɐ ɯıɥ pǝpınƃ ɥɔıɥʍ sɹɐʇs ǝɥʇ oʇ ǝʇnqıɹʇ ɐ sɐ ɯɹɐ sıɥ uo ɹɐʇs pǝɹ ɐ pǝooʇʇɐʇ ʎɔɐɯ ˙ɥ ˙ɹ 8581 uı 'pןɹoʍ ǝɥʇ ƃuıןıɐs ǝןıɥʍ

The Gift of Holiday Publicity

Everyone is thinking about the holidays right now, so tailor your message accordingly.  Obviously, not everything can apply, but charities can capitalize on the giving season and work with the media to spread the word this time of year.  For example:

HOLIDAY GIVING IS EASY

WITH CHARITY IN MIND

(COLUMBUS, OHIO) The holidays and new year are a time of generosity and central Ohioans are looking for unique and meaningful gifts.  Charities like the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio offer numerous ways that individuals, families and businesses can contribute.   The Stroll For Epilepsy is coming up, so there are plenty of ways to get involved now!

-Families:  Make a donation in honor of a loved one with Epilepsy, include in holiday cards.

-Individuals: For your holiday party, ask guests to bring a donation and sign up for your Stroll For Epilepsy team (and get back together on January 31st for the event!).

- Businesses: Ask employees to attend the upcoming Stroll For Epilepsy, donate auction items for the event.

The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio is to enhance the quality of life for those affected by Epilepsy and to increase the understanding of epilepsy in Central Ohio.  Approximately 77% of every dollar donated goes toward this mission.  Remember that donations made before the end of the year are tax deductible for 2008!

About the event:  On January 31^st 2009, this family friendly walk takes strollers through both levels of the very popular Polaris Fashion Place. Held in the wintertime, it’s the perfect opportunity to get out of the house, get some exercise, and take part in making a difference for those affected by epilepsy. The walk includes lots of family fun and the chance to win some great prizes. Register Online!  Go to www.epilepsy-ohio.org and click on Stroll 2009.  Registration is free but participants are encouraged to raise a goal of $100.  The Foundation’s goal is to raise $100,000 through this event.  All funds raised stay local!

The Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio’s goal is to enhance the quality of life for those affected by Epilepsy and to increase the understanding of epilepsy in Central Ohio.  Our Foundation works to prevent, control and cure epilepsy through services, education advocacy and research.

###

PR For La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique (New Owner!)

WORTHINGTON BRIDAL BOUTIQUE UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP  

Grand Opening Kick-off with Holiday Sample Sale!

(WORTHINGTON, OHIO) Powell resident, Lindsay Fork’s dream recently became a reality when she bought local bridal boutique, La Jeune Mariee (689 High St. Worthington), from Rosie Taylor & Mary Taylor.  Twenty-nine-year-old Lindsay, has a background in the bridal industry and experience with business and sales.  An entrepreneurship major and graduate of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, Lindsay wanted to put her degree to use while also doing what she loves. 

The Taylors did a wonderful job in making La Jeune Mariee a Worthington staple as well as winning a coveted award from The Knot, a bridal “bible” of sorts.  La Jeune Mariee was voted one of the top Bridal Salons in the Midwest for 2008.  Lindsay hopes to continue the reputation of the boutique.  As always, personal attention, elegant bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and mother of the bride wear is offered at La Jeune Mariee.  Lindsay has updated the boutique’s look, added new designers, and also offers beautiful accessories.   Please note that appointments are recommended.

A sample sale is being planned for the holiday season.  The January 9^th & 10th event will include designer gowns sold off the rack at a highly discounted price.  The goal is to help brides who are feeling the economic pinch to afford the gown of their dreams.

Media is welcome to come to the shop in charming Worthington (High Street) for an interview/ photo opportunity. Contact Lindsay at 614.430.9659.

La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique, located in historic downtown Worthington, Ohio maintains a distinguished reputation for personalized service, premier designer bridal attire and an elegant, inviting atmosphere.  Voted as one of the top bridal salons of the Midwest by The Knot in 2008, La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique promises a unique and intimate gown shopping experience.  Contact the boutique at 614.430.9659 to schedule an appointment. 

Thank you Columbus Alive

After what seems like years of attacks, emails, commercials, SNL impressions, debates, boing newspaper articles,and hearing "I approve this message,"  it was refreshing to find a simple, unbiased breakdown of Barack Obama, John McCain, the minority party candidates, other offices on the ballot,  and statewide issues, in Columbus Alive's Voter Guide.  Personally, I have felt overwhelmed by such information overload, and find it hard to know what to listen to.  So, thank you Columbus Alive for weeding out the BS and summing up the facts.  (They also refer readers to check out the sample ballots).  

Happy World Pasta Day

World Pasta Day is serious business.  They have a logo, pr events, key messages and a strategic mission - economic feasibility, gastronomic versatility, and nutritional value.  Wow, I never knew pasta was so serious!

The Wheat Foods Council wants you to learn about all the pastabilities (not making that up).

So manja, manja (words my nonna always said to me every time I visited).

Today is a perfect day to take in Olive Garden, Fazoli's or in Columbus, Ohio Marcella's (that's my vote).  Enjoy! Ciao'