Publicity tips/Tie-ins to spinach September 26, 2006

The Publicity Hound's
Tips of the Week
Issue #312 - Sept. 26, 2006
Publisher: Joan Stewart
mailto:JStewart@PublicityHound.com
http://www.PublicityHound.com
http://www.PublicityHound.net
(Blog) The Publicity Hound®

Circulation: 21,388

=====================================
"Tips, Tricks and Tools for Free Publicity"
Receive this ezine direct to your desktop
http://www.publicityhound.com/tipsoftheweek/
=====================================

You are receiving this because you signed up for it at The Publicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe. If you didn't subscribe, you can unsubscribe by clicking the link at the bottom of the newsletter. Please forward this ezine to anyone you know who needs free publicity to establish their credibility, enhance their reputation, position themselves as employers of choice, sell more products and services, or promote a favorite cause or issue.
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2 Deadlines Looming:

--If you're frustrated by the high cost of media directories, take advantage of the special offer that Steve Harrison is making on his directory/database of top shows. You can save $200 on "Harrison's Guide to the Top National TV Talk & Interviews Shows" if you buy it by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, Sept. 29. The book gives you key contacts and "how to get booked" tips for 259 top shows including "Oprah," "Good Morning America," "Today," "CNN," Fox News, MSNBC, "Larry King Live," Bloomberg TV and many more. You'll also get a special training audio with a former NBC producer on "Secrets for Getting Booked as a Guest on Top National TV Shows." Also at the web page, you can get four free sample listings from Steve's directory, including those for ABC's "20/20," CBS' "60 Minutes," "The 700 Club" and "Montel." Read more about it at http://tinyurl.com/kfrzv

--If you're reading my 89-day tutorial on how to write and post direct-to-consumer press releases online, you know that the more releases you write, the more exposure you get. That's why a subscription to Expertclick.com is such a great deal. You can post up to 52 press releases a year at no additional per-release charge. Friday, September 29, is the last call for the 2006 discount pricing of $760. You'll get another $100 off if you tell them The Publicity Hound sent you. The 2007 base rate will be $995. Call Expertclick at 202-333-5000 before the prices go up. Or visit their website at http://tinyurl.com/f5evn
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In This Issue
================================

1. Tie-ins to Spinach

2. Are Your Press Releases Spam?

3. Speak at Colleges

4. Involve Bloggers in Your Product

5. A Children's Book on Divorce

6. Help This Hound

7. Hound Quote of the Week


==================================
1. Tie-ins to Spinach
==================================

News stories about the spinach-related E. coli outbreaks all over the United States offer lots of opportunity for savvy Publicity Hounds to piggyback onto this story.

Here are some ideas off the top of my head:

--What's the effect on restaurants? Have they pulled spinach completely from their menus or are they using frozen spinach in place of the fresh stuff? Are restaurants reprinting menus?

--Are more people flocking to nurseries to buy spinach seeds, hoping to plant a crop before the first frost?

--How do you know if you've ingested food tainted with E. coli? What are the warning signs, and what should you do if you have the signs?

--Are supermarkets refunding customers' money if they return bags of spinach to the stores?

--Are spinach distributors doing a good enough PR job during the crisis? PR people can submit op-ed columns to their trade magazines. See this article titled "Spinach Distributors Need a PR Boost" from Bulldog Reporter (scroll about a third of the way down the screen) at http://tinyurl.com/rmyat

--If a cook is making a recipe that calls for spinach, what greens are good substitutes? Chefs and restaurant owners can comment and offer recipes to food editors.

--Health officials in Canada aren't recommending precautions because they haven't found any similar patterns of disease in Canada. Even so, are consumers leaving spinach on the shelves?

--Are consumers in the U.S. afraid of buying any kind of bagged lettuce? Should they be? Health officials can comment.

The media love covering stories related to food. Why? Because everybody eats. "Publicity Tips for Restaurants, Chefs & Foodies," available as a CD or an electronic transcript, includes 51 story ideas you can start pitching today--everything from food trends to what to do when your restaurant gets a good or bad restaurant review. Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/clr26

==================================
2. Are Your Press Releases Spam?
==================================

Are you sending unsolicited press releases to journalists without first asking their permission?

If so, you're spamming. So says David Henderson, head of a PR agency and publisher of Boomercafe.com, an online literary magazine for Baby Boomers.

Henderson says it's standard practice at many newsrooms to automatically forward unsolicited and unknown email into separate spam inboxes where someone may or may not get around to reviewing them. "It’s usually that no one ever has the time, and those inboxes are emptied at the end of each day," he says in a column he wrote for Bulldog Reporter at http://tinyurl.com/rv7ew

His view: "Blast and unsolicited emails rarely work to either get the attention of a journalist or to result in a story."

His advice: "How about the next time you want to blindly send out that news release by email, think about framing the release as a legitimate news story. Then, find an appropriate reporter who might be interested, give them a call and work to engage their interest. I know it sounds old-fashioned but it’s what journalists prefer, and it works."

He's right, of course. Instead of sending 300 press releases to journalists, many of whom don't want them, The Publicity Hound would rather see you deliver customized pitches to three media contacts that you know are interested in the topic. One way to do that, in addition to calling, is by sending a pitch letter. "How to Write a Pitch Letter More Powerful Than a News Release" is a one-hour interview I conducted with publicity expert BL Ochman who says she always favors pitch letters over press releases. She walks you step-by-step through the process of writing irresistible pitch letters the media love. You can listen to her on the CD or read her tips in the downloadable electronic transcript. Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/6yd65


==================================
3. Speak at Colleges
==================================

If you're a professional speaker, author, trainer, coach or consultant, or an expert with a topic that college students, faculty or staff would find appealing, market yourself as a speaker to colleges and universities.

The best topics include anything dealing with leadership, being successful in and out of school, relationships and dating, overcoming challenges, alcohol awareness and drug prevention.

If you book a gig at a college, you can get publicity:

--In college newspapers.

--On the college radio and TV stations.

--In the newspapers and radio and TV stations in communities where the college is located.

--In blogs and ezines read by students, faculty and staff.

--In alumni magazines for your college or the colleges where you speak.

Not only that, but if they like your program, they'll probably refer you to people at other colleges and universities who hire speakers.

James Malinchak, "The King of the College Speaking Market," says many colleges have up to 17 types of key people who book speakers for events. Those events include student leadership gatherings, student government events, lectures sponsored by fraternities and sororities, career and job fairs, commencements and graduations, student conferences and summer programs. Add to the list academic, athletic and club events, and other meetings where an "outside" expert is needed.

James also says there are enough colleges and universities to keep a speaker busy for the remainder of their speaking career. But you have to know how to get in front of the decision-makers who do the hiring.

Join me tomorrow for a free one-hour telephone seminar and listen to James spill the beans on how to break into the college speaking circuit. It will be at 3 PM Eastern Time. Register at http://tinyurl.com/fs56k and he'll send you the call-in number and access code.


=================================
4. Involve Bloggers in Your Product
=================================

Here's a great tip for anyone creating a product--either a physical product like a widget or an information product like an ebook or special report.

One of the very best ways to have the blogging community embrace your product is to involve bloggers in its creation.

That's right. Let's say I'm writing an ebook on how to get a job in public relations. Here are ways I can involve bloggers:

--I can contact bloggers who once worked in PR and ask them to submit their own best advice for inclusion in the book.

--I can email bloggers who are experts on the topic and ask them to read the first draft or a sample chapter and comment on it. Is it accurate? Is there anything I'm missing? They might even want to share the sample chapter with their own readers who can provide feedback.

--I can ask a blogger who's an expert on the topic to write the foreward to the book.

If you're creating a physical product, like a child-proof safety latch for kitchen cupboards, send the product to bloggers who write about parenting issues and ask them to test it. What do they like or not like? What improvements can they suggest?

Involving bloggers in the creation of your product was only one of hundreds of tips I discussed with Denise Wakeman and Patsi Krakoff (a.k.a. "The Blog Squad") during a teleseminar last week.

We recorded it, and the Cds will be shipped this week to everyone who participated in the call. If you missed out, you can order the CD or the electronic transcript, which should be available sometime next week. Order at http://www.PublicityHound.com/teleseminar.htm


==================================
5. A Children's Book on Divorce
==================================

This week, eight Publicity Hounds have advice for author DK Simoneau of Lakewood, Colorado on how to market a children's book that focuses on the issue of divorce.

From blogger Tammi Lenski:

"This book sounds like it would have a terrific audience among mediators, particularly those who do divorce and post-divorce work. I’m a mediator but don’t do that particular work, and know how many times mediators get asked about good resources for their children. I’d be happy to review the book on my mediation blog, Mediator Tech, to help get the word out. The author may also wish to contact the Association for Conflict Resolution at http://www.acrnet.org/ for advertising or promotional opportunities in enewsletters and the quarterly magazine.


From Lois Carter Fay of MarketingIdeaShop.com:

"There are many monthly parenting magazines and newspapers out there that would welcome 'expert' articles on the topic of joint custody. I suggest you go through your book and develop a list of 10-12 articles you could write using information from the book, and then offer these articles free to the publications. Things like, '10 Ways to Make the Transition Between Homes Easier for Everyone' or 'Joint Custody Holidays without Hassle: 5 Ways to Keep the Peace.' And of course, all of these articles can also be used on your website, in your blog and distributed through online news release distribution services. Always include a link to your website and an 'author box' to tell about you and the book."


From book publicist Kate Bandos:

"Having promoted many children’s books, I find that the regional parenting magazines are a great way to spread the word. Some will do a review or just mention the book is available. Others might be interested in running the list of ideas for parents and kids as an article. Family editors at newspapers would be equally worth contacting. Parenting web sites and parenting radio shows are two other good ways to get the word out."

Read all the responses at http://tinyurl.com/knoh3


The Publicity Hound says: Are you blogging about this topic yet, DK? If not, this is a fabulous way to draw traffic to your website and sell more books. Read Don Crowther's excellent ebook called "Blogging for Business" which will give you all the inside tips on how to sell products and services with a blog. Read more about the book at http://tinyurl.com/7fjrk


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6. Help This Hound
================================

Publicity Hound Adam Adelman of Fairfax, California writes:

"My wife and I have launched a company called Juno Baby at http://www.junobaby.com/ and we're an award-winning and critically-acclaimed premium creator of infant/toddler music and media.

"All of our original music was scored for and performed by actual orchestral musicians. All of the original music was written by my wife, Belinda, a Ph.D. in music composition and a classical music composer. Belinda decided to create a company that would introduce our daughter to true classical music. We are doing our own PR and are trying to come up with clever pitches/angles. I'm afraid just blanketing the press about a new company launch is not overly exciting. For this reason, we'd love to hear any ideas you or your readers might have for us."


The Publicity Hound says: You've come to the right place, Adam. My Hounds will hit the right notes with all their great ideas. Post your best ideas to my blog at http://tinyurl.com/qlj94


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7. Hound Joke of the Week
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New research shows almost 20 percent of pet owners share a bed with their dog or cat. Another 20 percent sleep in a basket on the floor while the pets have the bed to themselves.


DOG JOKES & QUOTES EBOOK: 170+ G-rated dog jokes and quotes, perfect for a dog-lover, your favorite vet, or just for a few good laughs.

BONUS: Buy the ebook and you also get a compilation of the 50 best websites for dog humor.
Http://www.publicityhound.com/dogjokebook/
----------------------------------------------------------------
Where to Meet or Hear The Publicity Hound®

October 31, 2006: West Bend, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin, part of the "Adding to Your Organization's Toolbox--Media and Public Relations" series, sponsored by the University of Wisconsin-Washington County, UW- Extension, Volunteer Center of Washington County and The United Way of Washington County. I'll present "Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast & Online Publicity" for nonprofits from 8 to 9:30 a.m., followed by a media panel. Over lunch, from 11:30 until 1, I'll present "How to Write Powerful Press Releases." Registration is $35 for the first session and $8 for the luncheon session on press releases. To register, and to submit a press release that you'd like me to rewrite for the second class, contact Dan Anhalt at mailto:dan.anhalt@uwc.edu or
(262) 335-5218.


March 17, 2007: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

"Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast and Online Publicity." 8 a.m. to noon. Details pending.


PERMISSION TO REPRINT: You may reprint any items from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week" in your own print or electronic newsletter. But please include the following paragraph:

Reprinted from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week," a free ezine featuring tips, tricks and tools for generating free publicity. Subscribe at http://www.publicityhound.com/ and receive free by email the handy list "89 Reasons to Send a News Release."

If you like these tips, please pass them on to your friends, clients and colleagues.
You are receiving this because you signed up for it at The Publicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe.

PRIVACY STATEMENT: The Publicity Hound® will never distribute your address to anyone.

Period.

Promise.
=======================================================
Joan Stewart
a. k.a. The Publicity Hound®
3434 County KK
Port Washington, WI 53074
U. S.A.

Phone: 262-284-7451 (Central) Fax: 262-284-1737

Publicity tips/Video press releases Sept. 19, 2006

The Publicity Hound's
Tips of the Week
Issue #311 - Sept. 19, 2006
Publisher: Joan Stewart
mailto:JStewart@PublicityHound.com
http://www.PublicityHound.com
http://www.PublicityHound.net (Blog)
The Publicity Hound®

Circulation: 21,266

=====================================
"Tips, Tricks and Tools for Free Publicity"
Receive this ezine
direct to your desktop
http://www.publicityhound.com/tipsoftheweek/
=====================================

You are receiving this because you signed up for it at The Publicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe. If you didn't subscribe, you can unsubscribe by clicking the link at the bottom of the newsletter.

Please forward this ezine to anyone you know who needs free publicity to establish their credibility, enhance their reputation, position themselves as employers of choice, sell more products and services, or promote a favorite cause or issue.

***********************************************

New Teleseminars:

"How to Pitch the Best Bloggers and Create a Publicity Explosion"

When: 8:30 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, September 20

Guests: I'll join Denise Wakeman and Patsi Krakoff, aka "The Blog Squad" so you get three experts for the price of one

(See Item #3 below.)

* * *

"James Malinchak's College Speaking Success"

When: 3 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, September 27

If you're a speaker, author or expert on a topic that appeals to college students, learn how to grab your share of the lucrative college speaking market. More details in next week's newsletter
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In This Issue
================================

1. Video Press Releases

2. How Boring is Your Bio?

3. Harness the Power of Bloggers

4. Become a Heavily-quoted Source

5. Promoting a Cosmetic Surgery Book

6. Help This Hound

7. Hound Quote of the Week

8. And at My Blog...


==================================
1. Video Press Releases
==================================

If you've signed up for my 89-day email course on how to write press releases, you learned in Week 1 that we no longer write them only for journalists.

Posting releases online gives us the ability to write them for consumers who can find our releases through the search engines, click through to our websites, take a look around, and perhaps even buy--even if journalists don't think our news is important enough to cover.

That's why a press release that includes a video clip can be so incredibly powerful. Readers simply click on the video link and watch a short video of you extolling the virtues of your product or service. Or they watch you demonstrate a new product. Or interview a customer who has used it successfully.

The video just might be the one element of the release that pulls consumers into your sales funnel.

Expertclick.com, the subscription-based company that lets you post up to 52 press releases a year, is now letting subscribers add video to their releases. You can watch this short video of Mitch Davis of Expertclick explaining the new feature: http://www.NewsReleaseWire.com/13870

The video explains that you can also make money sending releases. You can "opt-up" to include your Google Adsense code so that you get paid for all the hits on the ads on your press releases and profile, or "opt-out" and have advertising-free pages.

Members can also include indexing by 39 key phrases for better search engine results. More multi-word key phrases help you connect with more journalists and ensure you are there when journalists search for your phrase. This is designed to give each member up to four times as much "cross-pollination." After all, journalists like several sources on each story.

Expertclick is also adding an 18-month online planning calendar that will let you post your own events such as speaking engagements and teleseminars. The calendar will then be available to journalists.

September 29 is last call for the 2006 discount pricing of $760. You'll get another $100 off if you tell them The Publicity Hound sent you. The 2007 base rate, which includes 52 press releases a year, will be $995 for the Yearbook of Experts. Call Expertclick at 202-333-5000 before the prices go up.

If you still haven't signed up for my free email course on how to write press releases, you can do so at http://tinyurl.com/jfr7j

Of if you don't have 89 days to spend learning this course, get a great overview from the CD or electronic transcript called "The New Rules of Press Releases: How to Write Them for Journalists, Not Only for Buyers." Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/ndwfo


==================================
2. How Boring is Your Bio?
==================================

When I read most bios, my eyes glaze over.

All those boring lists of every college degree ever earned and every job title ever held. Enough already!

But I snap to attention when I read the ones written by people like Tina Forsyth, co-author of the book "Money, Meaning and Beyond--27 Unexpected Ways to Create What Really Matters for Business Owners."

Here's the opening to her bio:

"Tina's first foray into the business world was at age 8, when she used her trusty tape recorder to create a radio commercial for her family's rental business."

Here's the opening to the bio written by her co-author, Andrea J. Lee:

"Andrea's experience with small business started at age 11 when she helped her Dad sort receipts and enter them by hand into a blue ledger book."

Stuffy bios written by executives rank among the very worst. Then there's the one written by Dan Early, president of Ascedia, an interactive marketing agency in Milwaukee. It includes these illuminating paragraphs:

"Non-work interests or hobbies: Play guitar and write and record my own music. Bogey golfer who just doesn’t get to play enough and who vows to make more time each year. An executive that drives a pick-up truck rather than one of those typical sedans. Loves to travel domestic and abroad and has only missed travel to two states: North Dakota and Alaska.

"Likes to read: Voracious reader of newspapers and periodicals, including sneaking the gossip magazines from my wife when I need to."

Is your bio any match for theirs? If it's in desperate need of a rewrite, "Special Report #46: Tips for Rewriting Your Boring Bio" will help you incorporate humor and even poetry into your bio. I give you examples of some of the most clever--and short--bios I've read. The special report includes a list of questions to ask yourself so you can generate compelling material and fun little facts for your bio. Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/sy2ox


==================================
3. Harness the Power of Bloggers
==================================

Still not convinced that you should be spending your time pitching bloggers? You should talk to the folks at Marriott International.

This past spring, Marriott began an aggressive program to reach bloggers, who influence everything from which airlines travelers choose to which hotels they select.

Marriott has asked bloggers to speak to its corporate communications team. The giant hotel chain is now inviting bloggers on press trips and feeding news to bloggers before they give it to the traditional media. For example, Marriott offered bloggers exclusive information about a plan to put airline check-in stations in its lobbies.

"A lot of business travelers are getting their information from blogs," said John Wolf, a Marriott spokesman, who was quoted in an article in the New York Times. "We wanted to have a better understanding of blogs."

Marriott has assigned an employee to monitor the blogosphere and generate daily reports on what bloggers are writing about the company. Marriott is also pitching ideas to bloggers, who can then turn around and spread the information to other bloggers.

Pitch the right bloggers, let them know you're familiar with what they write about and that you have something valuable to share, and they can be spreading the word about your company to thousands and perhaps millions of other readers by day's end.

But you have to know what you're doing. Pitch incorrectly, and bloggers can publicly humiliate you. I'm teaming up with The Blog Squad (Denise Wakeman and Patsi Krakoff) to present a teleseminar called "How to Pitch the Best Bloggers and Create a Publicity Explosion." Join us at 8:30 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, September 20, for this 60-minute call and listen as we share the secrets of what the best bloggers expect if you pitch them. We all blog, so we know exactly what you should and shouldn't do.

Registration is $39 and includes a copy of the CD, which we'll mail to you. You can email questions to me at mailto:jstewart@PublicityHound.com?subject=BlogQuestion and we'll try to answer them during the call.

Register or order the CD or electronic transcript at http://www.PublicityHound.com/teleseminar.htm


=================================
4. Become a Heavily-Quoted Source
=================================

Many people who complain to me about getting little or no media attention fail to recognize a powerful tool that can bring journalists to them in droves.

They have, within their own organizations, one or more experts.

When journalists need story ideas, who do they go to? Experts.

When they need commentary on controversial topics, who do they call? Experts.

When a reporter can't understand lingo used in an industry the reporter has just been assigned to cover, who do they seek out? Experts.

Yet lots of companies and nonprofits assume that if the media don't call on their own experts, it means they aren't interested.

Not so, says Dan Forbush of Profnet, the service that links journalists quickly and conveniently with expert sources. Dan says you must be proactive and let busy reporters and editors know exactly who your experts are and how they can help.

For example, "If you have an expert who can speak on a 'hot topic' that is currently in the news, consider sending out media advisory alerting reporters to the availability of your spokesperson, and his or her position on the topic," he suggests.

And make sure all your experts are listed at your website, preferably in your online media room.

Dan has other suggestions on how to become a heavily quoted source, and he explained them in article he wrote for the September/October issue of The Publicity Hound subscription newsletter. The issue also includes tips on how to write photo captions, how to get your special event onto event calendars, the incredible shrinking half-life of articles, how to follow up with reporters after you've pitched a story idea, three new lifestyle magazines that debut this fall, a task to put on your publicity to-do list in October, how to recycle publicity from a speech you've given, 5 ways to sell more books on TV, where to find an online newspaper archive, two new and very cool tips booklets on publicity, where to get a free ebook on how to become a syndicated columnist on the web, and September/October story ideas.

All for $10. Order at http://tinyurl.com/erwqo


==================================
5. Promoting a Book on Cosmetic Surgery
==================================

This week, eight Publicity Hounds have tips for Dr. Barry Lycka, a cosmetic dermatologist from Alberta, British Columbia, on how to promote his book "Restoring Youth: How To Keep and Restore Your Natural Beauty."

From Carlo Tarini:

"Issue a press release on which Canadian politician has the best skin tone, or tips for Canadian Muslim women on looking healthy without sun exposure."

From Stef Simmons:

"I would, first of all, NOT make it sound really scientific. I am very involved in this industry, and know women are very emotional about beauty. Some dermatologists' books, although great, are just not very appealing to the trendier women of today. I would tie it into celebs by maybe using celebs' names/pictures for different types of skin factors. For example, for clear, blemish-free skin like that of (celeb's name), you can do A, B & C. For even-toned skin with no brown spots like (celeb's name) do A, Bor C. Send it to magazines like Life & Style, In Touch, Us, Star or People."

See Special Report #50: How to Piggyback Onto Celebrity News to Promote Your Product, Service, Cause or Issue" at http://tinyurl.com/p55pr


From Shel Horowitz:

"Partner with people who already have visibility--maybe a natural skin care/cosmetics company? A local spa? A newspaper or radio station sponsoring a large public event that attracts women?

Read all the responses at http://tinyurl.com/j25uf

Here's another tip for Dr. Barry. Excerpt content from the book and turn it into briefs, one of the easiest ways to get into the big magazines. Learn about the nine kinds of briefs from my CD or electronic transcript "Briefs, Fillers & Quizzes: How to Write Them and Why Editors Love Them." Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/d74h7


================================
6. Help This Hound
================================

Author DK Simoneau of Lakewood, Colorado writes:

"I have written a children's picture book, 'We're Having A Tuesday' that focuses on the issue of divorce. It goes beyond the typical book that centers on divorce not being the child's fault. Instead, it's a communication tool meant to help children and adults discuss the frustrations of the ongoing lifestyle change of shuffling between two homes.

"I really believe this book needs to be out there for parents, teachers, therapists, pediatricians, and the like to bring the topic out for discussion. I'm wondering what other Hounds think might are some good ways to get the word out about this tool that could help so many children affected by this prevalent occurrence in our society. I am open to ideas and suggestions."

Learn more about the book at http://www.werehavingatuesday.com

The Publicity Hound says: Hounds with great ideas for DK can post them to my blog at http://tinyurl.com/knoh3

I mentioned this last week and it's worth repeating. National Public Radio can be a publicity gold mine for authors. But you need to know exactly which shows are the best fit with your topic. Book publicist Lissa Warren, who has placed more than 100 clients on NPR shows, explains how to do it on the CD or electronic transcript called "How to Get Booked on National Public Radio." Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/ayms6


================================
7. Hound Joke of the Week
================================

Thanks to Leona Hamel from Orleans, Ontario, Canada for this one.


10 Reasons Why It's Great to be a Dog

If it itches, you can reach it. And no matter where it itches, no one will be offended if you scratch it in public.

No one notices if you have hair growing in weird places as youget older.

Personal hygiene is a blast: No one expects you to take a bath every day, and you don't even have to comb your own hair.

Having a wet nose is considered a sign of good health.

No one thinks less of you for passing gas. Some people might actually think you're cute.

Who needs a big home entertainment system? A bone or an old shoe can entertain you for hours.

You can spend hours just smelling stuff.

No one ever expects you to pay for lunch or dinner. You never have to worry about table manners, and if you gain weight, it's someone else's fault.

It doesn't take much to make you happy. You're always excited to see the same old people. All they have to do is leave the room for five minutes and come back.

Every garbage can looks like a cold buffet to you.


DOG JOKES & QUOTES EBOOK: 170+ G-rated dog jokes and quotes, perfect for a dog-lover, your favorite vet, or just for a few good laughs.

BONUS: Buy the ebook and you also get a compilation of the 50 best websites for dog humor.


================================
8. And at My Blog...
================================

Rosie O'Donnell's zinger a perfect
opportunity for Publicity Hounds
http://tinyurl.com/qate8

Political best-seller list
in NY Times' online edition
http://tinyurl.com/gqr2g

---------------------------------------------------------------

Where to Meet or Hear The Publicity Hound®


October 31, 2006: West Bend, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin, part of the "Adding to Your Organization's Toolbox--Media and Public Relations" series, sponsored by the University of Wisconsin-Washington County, UW-Extension, Volunteer Center of Washington County and The United Way of Washington County. I'll present "Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast & Online Publicity" for nonprofits from 8 to 9:30 a.m., followed by a media panel. Over lunch, from 11:30 until 1, I'll present "How to Write Powerful Press Releases." Registration is $35 for the first session and $8 for the luncheon session on press releases. To register, and to submit a press release that you'd like me to rewrite for the second class, contact Dan Anhalt at mailto:dan.anhalt@uwc.edu or(262) 335-5218.


March 17, 2007: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

"Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast and Online Publicity." 8 a.m. to noon. Details pending.


PERMISSION TO REPRINT: You may reprint any items from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week" in your own print or electronic newsletter. But please include the following paragraph:

Reprinted from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week," a free ezine featuring tips, tricks and tools for generating free publicity. Subscribe at http://www.publicityhound.com/ and receive free by email the handy list "89 Reasons to Send a NewsRelease."

If you like these tips, please pass them on to your friends, clients and colleagues. You are receiving this because you signed up for it at The Publicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe.

PRIVACY STATEMENT: The Publicity Hound® will never distribute your address to anyone. Period. Promise.

=======================================================
Joan Stewart
a.k.a. The Publicity Hound®
3434 County KK
Port Washington, WI 53074
U.S.A.
Phone: 262-284-7451 (Central) Fax: 262-284-1737

Publicity tips/Tie your story to celebrities September 12, 2006

The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week
Issue #310 - Sept. 12, 2006
Publisher: Joan Stewart
mailto:JStewart@PublicityHound.com
http://www.publicityhound.com/
http://www.publicityhound.net/ (Blog)
The Publicity Hound®

Circulation: 21,305

=====================================
"Tips, Tricks and Tools for Free Publicity"
Receive this ezine direct to your desktop
>http://www.publicityhound.com/tipsoftheweek/
=====================================

You are receiving this because you signed up for it at The Publicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe. If you didn't subscribe, you can unsubscribe by clicking the link at the bottom of the newsletter.

Please forward this ezine to anyone you know who needs free publicity to establish their credibility, enhance their reputation, position themselves as employers of choice, sell more products and services, or promote a favorite cause or issue.

***********************************************
New Teleseminar:

"How to Pitch the Best Bloggers and Create a Publicity Explosion"

When: 8:30 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, September 20

Guests: I'll join Denise Wakeman and Patsi Krakoff, aka "The Blog Squad" so you get three experts for the price of one

(See Item #3 below.)
***********************************************
================================
In This Issue
================================

1. Tie Your Story to Celebrities

2. Write Great Photo Captions

3. Pitch the Best Bloggers

4. Media Leads

5. Promoting Asian Products for Women

6. Help This Hound

7. Hound Quote of the Week

==================================
1. Tie Your Story to Celebrities
==================================

For years, Debra Holtzman kept wishing and hoping that she’d generate publicity in top-tier newspapers and magazines and on the big morning TV shows like "Good Morning, America" because of her expertise in child safety.

But the wishing and hoping got her a media hit here and there. Then Debra found the key that not only unlocked the door to publicity, but had the media practically tripping over themselves to interview her. Even the bloggers loved her.

Her secret? She ties her expertise to the celebrities--sometimes several times a month. It all depends on how much material the stars feed her. And feed her they do.

Here's what she's done in just the last five months:

--On May 17, when the celebrity magazines printed a photograph showing Britney Spears driving her convertible, with 8-month-old son Sean Preston in the back, sitting in a car seat facing forward and slumped over to one side, Debra wrote a press release titled "Britney Spears Needs Baby Safety Training!" She posted it at Expertclick.com, the subscription-based website that serves as a database of experts for the media and lets subscribers post up to 52 press releases a year. The story was picked up by celebrity gossip bloggers and top-tier media outlets.

--That same month, when Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt welcomed their baby girl, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, Debra swung into action and issued a press release with the headline "Angelina and Brad's Perfect Baby Room for Shiloh." It described some of the dangers of a baby’s nursery and included a checklist of 11 tips on how to keep the baby safe.

--Also that month, the paparazzi got a photo of Pitt during a bike ride in Namibia with his 4-year-old son and 16-month-old daughter. His son wore a helmet and rode his tricycle. The baby rode in a blue papoose strapped to Pitt's back. Debra wrote another press release about the dangers of riding with babies on a bike and was quoted in Us magazine, among others.

--On August 1, just after Mel Gibson’s drunken-driving arrest, Debra issued another release titled "Top 10 Tips to Drive Like a Star, but not Mel Gibson."

--A few weeks later, while law enforcement officials were investigating John Mark Karr, the suspect who claimed he murdered JonBenet Ramsey in 1996, Debra wrote another release headlined "A Focus in the JonBenet Ramsey Case No One is Talking About." It included a list of 21 things parents can do to keep their children safe from child abduction, molestation and other dangers.

Last week, just after Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray while diving, Debra posted another press release on Expertclick.com, this one titled "Teach Children How to be Safe Around Pets and Wild Animals." She didn’t name Irwin or mention his death in the release. But journalists and anyone else who searched online for information on that news story probably would have found her press release in the list of organic search results.

All those releases and all that publicity helps her sell more of her books, The Panic-Proof Parent (McGraw-Hill, 2000) and The Safe Baby (Sentient Publications, 2005) which she mentions in every release.

She has been interviewed by papers like USA Today and the New York Times and has a list of media hits a mile long at her website at http://www.thesafetyexpert.com/

Half the work is just keeping your ears open for opportunities. My new "Special Report #50: How to Piggyback off Celebrity News to Promote Your Product, Service, Cause or Issue" gives you 15 ideas on how to tie your news to the celebrities. It's $10 and you can order it at http://tinyurl.com/6uz9g


==================================
2. Write Great Photo Captions
==================================

When I look at myself in the mirror and see that it's time to get my hair colored, I know that some of those gray hairs peeking out at the roots were caused by photo captions.

In my newspaper days, incorrect or poorly written captions caused more problems, and required more corrections, than any other part of the newspaper.

Papers I worked for printed photo captions that mistakenly identified men as women, women as men, or people who were cropped out of the photo. Many captions had misspelled names, wrong facts and missing information that confused readers. I've even seen captions under the wrong photos.

Do an editor a favor and learn to write your own captions for photos you submit to the media.

What? Did I hear a few of you say you don't bother with captions because you know that copy editors will rewrite them anyway? To the doghouse without your dinner!

If you can learn how to write great captions, you will increase the chances of an accurate caption that doesn't require a correction the following day.

A few quick pointers:

--Identify people in the photo from left to right.

--Make sure all names are spelled correctly.

--Write in the present tense. Example: "Second-grader Timmy Smith swings at the T-ball while his classmate, Brady Turner, waits his turn."

--Don't use "looks on" or "smiles" or other phony verbs that say the person is doing one thing when all they're really doing is posing.

--Don't use the verb "poses" or "is posing."

Lots more tips on how to write great captions are in my column in the September/October issue of The Publicity Hound subscription newsletter. It also includes articles on how to get your special event onto event calendars, the incredible shrinking half-life of articles, how to follow up with reporters after you've pitched a story idea, three new lifestyle magazines that debut this fall, a task to put on your publicity to-do list in October, how to recycle publicity from a speech you've given, how to become a heavily quoted source, 5 ways to sell more books on TV, where to find an online newspaper archive, two new and very cool tips booklets on publicity, where to get a free ebook on how to become a syndicated columnist on the web, and September/October story ideas.

My column also includes an absolutely hysterical website where you can find examples of real-life newspaper and magazine corrections that will leave Hounds howling with laughter.

All for $10. Order at http://tinyurl.com/erwqo

==================================
3. Pitch the Best Bloggers
==================================

I'm still aghast at the Media Mutts who never target bloggers in their publicity campaigns. They still think bloggers are mostly young kids who prattle on about last night's date or the newest garage band.

Bloggers include corporate CEOs who you can get in front of by posting comments to their blog. Bloggers also include opinion shapers who can spread your message to thousands of people in a matter of minutes. And they include experts who have a ready-made niche audience of followers who might be eager to hear what you have to say.

But you can't pitch bloggers the same way you pitch traditional journalists.

That's because bloggers don't view themselves as being bound by the same ethics policies and other restrictions that apply to traditional journalists. They're also much more willing to hype your product or service if they think it's a good fit with their audience--something most journalists would never do.

Find the right blogger, become familiar with what they care about, then deliver the right pitch and you could receive far more exposure online than you'd ever get from your local newspaper.

Here's the best part. Unlike journalists, bloggers link to each other's blogs. So if the right blogger picks up your story, it could be spread to other bloggers, and thousands more readers, by the end of the day. And unlike the one-day shelf life of most newspapers, a blog post about your product or service lives on forever, just waiting to be grabbed by the search engines.

But you have to know what you're doing. I'm teaming up with The Blog Squad (Denise Wakeman and Patsi Krakoff) to present a teleseminar called "How to Pitch the Best Bloggers and Create a Publicity Explosion." Join us at 8:30 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, September 20, for this 60-minute call and listen as we share the secrets of what the best bloggers expect if you pitch them.

Registration is $39 and includes a copy of the CD, which we'll mail to you. You can email questions to me at mailto:jstewart@PublicityHound.com

Register or order the CD or electronic transcript at http://www.PublicityHound.com/teleseminar.htm


=================================
4. Media Leads
=================================

--Celeb Staff magazine is looking for celebrity foundations that are raising money for Katrina victims, for its February cover story. Send leads to mailto:PR@MayoCommunications.com The bi-monthly subscription magazine is also mailed to the homes of more than 10,000 celebrities who are listed in Celeb Staff's exclusive Social Diary Register. Celeb Staff magazine is about managing the mansions and estates of the very wealthy and about the staff that caters to their every need. It deals with a wide range of topics pertaining to the luxury lifestyle of the super wealthy, from where the mega rich shop, who they hire, what they eat, how they stay fit, to where they vacation.

--Cindi Leeman, editor and publisher of WALK! magazine, is looking for submissions for its Gift Giving Guide in the February issue. WALK's audience is comprised of over-40 distance walkers(marathoners), race walkers who compete, hikers and beginners. Items might include foot massagers, athletic clothing, hydration systems, MP3 players, books, backpacks for hikers, or anything an athlete might use during training or to recover from a walking event. "I would prefer new ideas or items with a twist that make them seem new or special." Descriptions should be no more than 200 words and photos should be at least 300 pixels per inch at 100 percent. Photos should be no larger than 4 x 4 inches. Include purchase price and a website. Email information by October 2 to mailto:admin@walk-magazine.com


==================================
5. Promoting Asian Products for Women
==================================

Last week, Rudy Gelton of Cambridge, Massachusetts asked for ideas on how to promote a line of Alluring Items With Asian Influences. The items include home decor goods, gifts and garments from the Far East. She specifically wanted to know how to get information about these items in front of men, who would buy them for the women in their lives.


From Laura Ricci:

"I would suggest using the Chinese zodiac to write a series of press releases about good gifts for people born in those years. Year of the Dog: People born in 1922, 1934, 1946, and 1958, possess the best traits of human nature. They have a deep sense of loyalty, are honest, and inspire other people’s confidence because they know how to keep secrets. (Taken from http://tinyurl.com/l6p0) These people would enjoy having a Chinese jewelry chest with a secret compartment.


From The Publicity Hound:

Once your website has all the elements of a great ecommerce site:

--Pitch editors of holiday gift guides. You can subscribe to The Gift List, a wonderful subscription service that will give you so many leads and contact information for the right editors that this alone will keep you busy for weeks. They’re at http://tinyurl.com/9es8y Some of these leads might be for gift guides in men's magazines.

--Pitch editors of home and lifestyle magazines. Submit a short press release and photo of the wine bottle covers to editors of wine magazines. Send press releases and photos of your kitchen products to the many food and beverage magazines.

--Pitch bloggers.

--What are the hot new clothing items for fall? You can pitch this story to fashion and lifestyle editors.

--Write direct-to-consumer press releases about these products and post them online. Make sure relevant keywords are inserted into the headline and throughout the press release. See "The New Rules of Press Releases: How to Write Them for Buyers, Not Only Journalists" at http://tinyurl.com/ndwfo

Read all the responses at http://tinyurl.com/lxtub


================================
6. Help this Hound
================================

Dr. Barry Lycka, a cosmetic dermatologist from Alberta, British Columbia writes:

"I recently wrote the book 'Restoring Youth: How To Keep and Restore Your Natural Beauty.' It's about how our skin is at the mercy of the sun, harsh weather, our own bad habits and our age.

"It discussed the myriad of procedures and treatments such as peels, liposuction, facelifts and others, and which are the best ones for you. I advise people to see a cosmetic surgeon only after they've read this book.

"Can you give some ideas for promoting it?"


The Publicity Hound says:

The first thing I thought about was piggybacking this topic onto celebrities (See Item #1 above). But I know my Hounds have lots more fun, creative ideas. Post them to my blog at http://tinyurl.com/j25uf

In the meantime, how about trying to get onto one of the many health-related shows on National Public Radio? You're certainly an expert, and you could give listeners a really fun, informative interview. See "How to Get Booked on National Public Radio" at http://tinyurl.com/ayms6


================================
7. Hound Joke of the Week
================================

Bulldogs are adorable, with faces like toads that have been sat on.


DOG JOKES & QUOTES EBOOK: 170+ G-rated dog jokes and quotes, perfect for a dog-lover, your favorite vet, or just for a few good laughs.

BONUS: Buy the ebook and you also get a compilation of the 50 best websites for dog humor.
>http://www.publicityhound.com/dogjokebook/


---------------------------------------------------------------
Where to Meet or Hear The Publicity Hound®

October 31, 2006: West Bend, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin, part of the "Adding to Your Organization's Toolbox--Media and Public Relations" series, sponsored by the University of Wisconsin-Washington County, UW-Extension, Volunteer Center of Washington County and The United Way of Washington County. I'll present "Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast & Online Publicity" for nonprofits from 8 to 9:30 a.m., followed by a media panel. Over lunch, from 11:30 until 1, I'll present "How to Write Powerful Press Releases." Registration is $35 for the first session and $8 for the luncheon session on press releases. To register, and to submit a press release that you'd like me to rewrite for the second class, contact Dan Anhalt at mailto:dan.anhalt@uwc.edu or(262) 335-5218.


March 17, 2007: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

"Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast andOnline Publicity." 8 a.m. to noon. Details pending.


PERMISSION TO REPRINT: You may reprint any items from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week" in your own print or electronic newsletter. But please include the following paragraph:

Reprinted from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week," a free ezine featuring tips, tricks and tools for generating free publicity. Subscribe at http://www.publicityhound.com/ and receive free by email the handy list "89 Reasons to Send a News Release."

If you like these tips, please pass them on to your friends, clients and colleagues.

You are receiving this because you signed up for it at The Publicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe.


PRIVACY STATEMENT: The Publicity Hound® will never distribute your address to anyone. Period.

Promise.

=======================================================
Joan Stewart
a.k.a. The Publicity Hound®
3434 County KK
Port Washington, WI 53074
U.S.A.

Phone: 262-284-7451 (Central) Fax: 262-284-1737

Publicity tips/Secure a spot on event calendars September 5, 2006

The Publicity Hound's
Tips of the Week
Issue #309 - Sept. 5, 2006
Publisher: Joan Stewart
mailto:JStewart@PublicityHound.com
http://www.PublicityHound.com
http://www.PublicityHound.net (Blog)
The Publicity Hound®

Circulation: 21,355

=====================================
"Tips, Tricks and Tools for Free Publicity"
Receive this ezine direct to your desktop
http://www.publicityhound.com/tipsoftheweek/
=====================================

You are receiving this because you signed up for it at ThePublicity Hound® website at http://www.publicityhound.com/ or you told me you want to subscribe. If you didn't subscribe, you can unsubscribe by clicking the link at the bottom of the newsletter. Please forward this ezine to anyone you know who needs free publicity to establish their credibility, enhance their reputation, position themselves as employers of choice, sell more products and services, or promote a favorite cause or issue.

*************************************************
Last Chance to Buy Inflight Magazine Report at Current Price

This is the last week to buy the 2006 updated version of "SpecialReport #29: Fly High with Publicity in the Inflight Magazines" before the price goes up on Friday. It includes all the information we could find--including editors' names, mailing addresses, emails, phone numbers, websites, pitching tips--for 42 inflight magazines, including many overseas carriers. So get it today before the price goes up on Friday. Order at http://tinyurl.com/n3pk4
*************************************************
================================
In This Issue
================================

1. Secure a Spot on Event Calendars

2. A Scrumptious Foodie Campaign

3. September 11 Anniversary

4. Media Leads

5. Promoting a TV Show for Kids

6. Help This Hound

7. Hound Quote of the Week

8. And at My Blog...

==================================
1. Secure a Spot on Event Calendars
==================================

Generating publicity for a big event this fall or winter?

Don't put so much thought and effort into getting a big two-page spread--complete with photos, maps and a schedule of events--in your local daily newspaper, then overlook a critical little detail that can land you in hot water.

Don't forget about securing a spot on event calendars. That's right. That tiny little three-line mention in the Friday entertainment section of your local newspaper can mean the difference between drawing a huge crowd and hosting an event that's an embarrassment.

Why are event calendars sometimes more important than the big two-page spread? Well, if you're like me, you don't have time to read the big feature stories. But on Friday, you grab the entertainment section in your local paper and check out the event calendar while planning your weekend.

Event calendars are everywhere--in your daily and weekly newspapers, city magazines, free shoppers, local special interest publications, Craigslist, your local TV and radio stations' websites, and even in your church bulletin.

Publicity Hound Judith Reppucci, who compiles events for a monthly lifestyle magazine on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, says savvy Publicity Hounds pay attention to all the little details of getting onto event calendars.

For example, check the publication closing dates for every calendar, and don't assume they're all the same. The magazine she works for goes to print two months before it's on the news stand.

Your event has a much better chance of getting top billing on the calendar if it includes a photo with a well-written caption. That doesn't seem like such a big deal, but editors who compile event calendars usually have two or three other jobs. If your good-quality photo happens to be handy, and the editor doesn't have to call you for more information, chances are good the photo will appear along with the notice of your event.

Judith's other tips on how to get onto event calendars are in the September/October issue of The Publicity Hound subscription newsletter. The issue also includes articles on the incredible, shrinking half-life of articles; tips for writing great photo captions; how to follow up with reporters after you've pitched a story idea; three new lifestyle magazines that debut this fall; a task to put on your publicity to-do list in October; how to recycle publicity from a speech you've given; how to become a heavily quoted source; 5 ways to sell more books on TV; where to find an online newspaper archive; two new and very cool tips booklets on publicity; where to get a free ebook on how to become a syndicated columnist on the web; and September/October story ideas.

All for $10. Order at http://tinyurl.com/erwqo


==================================
2. A Scrumptious Foodie Campaign
==================================

A tip of the hat to Publicity Hound Sue Lowery of Chattanooga,Tennessee for letting me know about the recent award received by Alabama's Bureau of Tourism and Travel for their "Year of Food"campaign.

It included:

--A cook-off among 60 chefs

--A food products promotion in more than 1,000 grocery stores in partnership with the Alabama Grocers Association

--A stamp featuring a tomato logo used to mail information to the media.

--A brochure listing favorite dishes in dozens of Alabama towns. It was the most popular feature, with some 400,000 copies of "100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die" being distributed.

"I thought it was such a great idea, and thought you might want to share it with your readers, especially since I know you have some cookbook authors/publishers on your list," Sue said. "WishI'd had the idea!"

So what's wrong with other states or convention and visitors bureaus borrowing this idea? I found their website at http://www.800alabama.com/yof/recipes/ and lots of yummy recipes, from Cajun frog legs to "Creamed Potatoes like Mamaw used to make."

You should never ever be at a loss for food stories to pitch. "Publicity Tips for Restaurants, Chefs & Foodies" gives you 51 of my best ideas that local and national media will love. I worked as a restaurant reviewer and food columnist, so I know exactly what kinds of stories to pitch, and when. It's available as a CD and comes with a list of all 51 ideas that you can download as soon as your order has been approved. Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/clr26


==================================
3. September 11 Anniversary
==================================

The media are gearing up for print, broadcast and online stories about the fifth anniversary of
the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. I see all kinds of ways to piggyback onto this story:

--On the evening of the anniversary of the attacks, memorials are taking shape in Pennsylvania, New York and Washington, D.C. Are there any memorials planned for your community?

--How has Sept. 11 changed the way you do business or changed the services your nonprofit offers? Or how has it changed your policies regarding safety and security?

--Are you the local angle to this national story? Do you have something to share that your local newspapers and TV stations would be interested in?

--Do you have an opinion to share about how Sept. 11 has affected you? If so, send a letter to the editor or opinion column to local and national newspapers. But hurry. Sept. 11 is less than a week away.

--If you blog, post a comment about how the terrorist attacks have affected your life.

--Do you know about an unsung hero who was involved with the rescue and clean-up efforts either in New York City, Washington, D.C. or Pennsylvania? Pitch a profile to local, regional or national media.

--Are teachers planning special lessons for their students on Monday, September 11? Education reporters might want to know.

If you pitch, and you hear nothing back from the journalist, don't despair. There are several specific things you should do when following up with them without making a pest of yourself .Author Jill Lublin contacted several dozen journalists and got their best tips on how to follow up. She explains them all during the teleseminar "Failproof Ways to Follow Up After Sending a News Release or a Story Pitch." It's available as a CD or an electronic transcript that you can download as soon as your order has been approved. Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/bmyn7


=================================
4. Media Leads
=================================

Judith Lederman, editor-in-chief of The WAG, the premier "Gabazine" for Westchester County and Greenwich, Connecticut, at http://www.westchesterwag.com/, has two requests for columns and story ideas. She writes:

"I have an editorial calendar pretty much set in stone but am absolutely amenable to having some of the articles bylined by PR folks (as long as their articles aren't self-serving) and I'm open to pitches. Blurbs at the end of these articles may include credits and contact information. PR people pitching must be aware that my audience is very upscale and skews somewhat older and suburban (40+ and largely female). Donald Trump, his wife and child will be on our next cover and they have provided us with an exclusive interview. Previous covers have included local celebs Bonnie Fuller, Joan Lunden, Ralph Lauren and Ed Hill. The tone of the publication is W meets Town & Country with just a bit of NY Magazine and the Social Diary thrown in for good measure. Upcoming calendar articles that are looking for authors include:

"Hi-Tech Holidays: How Technology Helps Families Get Together for the Holidays (webcams, photosharing and other methods)

"Laser Healing: The Most Up-to-Date Laser Uses in Medical and Dental Technologies

"Beyond the Bed: Designing the Perfect 'Never Need to Leave' Bedroom

"I am also looking for a responsible event planner to byline a monthly column called 'In Any Event.' It's currently being written by an event planner who has been unable to meet deadlines, which is crippling me. Anyone who takes on the task of writing a bylined article MUST be responsible about my deadlines. The topics for 'In Any Event' vary and I am open to suggestions but have a few of my own as well."

Anyone interested can email her at mailto:jlederman@westchesterwag.com

Judith adds:

"Because I am also a PR person, I am very friendly to PR folks who pitch correctly. If they don't pitch right, I am also friendly BUT they are subjected to a 10-minute (FREE but informative no-holds barred) lecture about how to pitch an editor the RIGHT way!)"

The Publicity Hound says: If you're pitching Judith or anyone else, you must keep your pitch to less than one computer screen of type, or less than 30 seconds over the phone (15 seconds is even better). If you feel uncomfortable pitching or you don't know how to catch a reporter's attention quickly, publicity expert Raleigh Pinskey knows all the inside tricks. You can see how she takes long, rambling pitches and turns them into pitches of 15 seconds or less, on the CD or electronic transcript called" How to Create the Perfect 30-Second Pitch." Read more about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/6xghx


==================================
5. Promoting a TV Show for Kids
==================================

This week, nine Publicity Hounds have tips for Jennifer Perry of Atlanta, Georgia. She needs help promoting the "Pam & Buffy" TV show for kids, based in Atlanta. She says Atlanta media aren't interested in the show. Her client does a lot of charity work, such as getting emergency dental work for children of very poor families.

From Gail Sideman:

"Media loves pets and kids so my suggestion for Pam & Buffy is to hold a Buffy look-a-like contest and combine it with a brief walk that benefits its charity, U-R Special. It would be a great way to communicate the show and its message of giving to help others. In addition to attracting media, it should serve to enforce to kids and adults that when you’re generous with your time, you will feel good about yourself and can have fun at the same time.


From Sue Lowery:

"October is National Dental Health Month. How about focusing on the dentist(s) that do emergency dental work on kids? That might be a timely angle with good visuals at the dentist’s office."


From Patrice Dickey:

"The new magazine Atlanta Dog Life (editor Kitty Roberts mailto:kroberts@atlantadoglife.com ) might want to link up with you somehow, especially if you offer activities gratis for the underprivileged. You might want to include the birthday party angle too."


Read all the responses at http://tinyurl.com/ob6u4


================================
6. Help this Hound
================================

Rudy Gelton of Cambridge, Massachusetts writes:

"The line of Alluring Items With Asian Influences that I am assembling consists of home decor goods, gifts and garments from the Far East to which the ladies who have provided me with marketing input have had overwhelmingly positive reactions.

"Also, all of the friends, relatives and associates to whom I have given various items as gifts have been overjoyed. But a decent percentage of these women admitted they would not necessarily have bought the items for themselves.

"You can see the website at http://www.elementsofstyle.us/ However, I want to emphasize that it is at this point primarily a marketing vehicle that I am using to gauge the appeal of various items and test prices. It's an efficient and effective way for me to allow interested parties to view the goods and provide me with their input/feedback. So your Hounds should not at this point expect to see a slick ecommerce site.

"I'm wondering if your Hounds have any good ideas as to how to publicize the line or particular articles in a way that would bring the goods specifically to the attention of men in need of nice, interesting gift items to present to the ladies in their lives?"

The Publicity Hound says: Let's have at it, Hounds. Post your best ideas to my blog at http://tinyurl.com/lxtub In the meantime, if I were you, Rudy, I'd start blogging about the kinds of things you sell, then link from blog items to the website. A blog is like a big online magnet that pulls in traffic. Don Crowther's excellent ebook "Blogging for Business" shows you all the ways to make money using a blog. Read about what you'll learn at http://tinyurl.com/7fjrk


================================
7. Hound Quote of the Week
================================

"Dogs never talk about themselves but listen to you while you talk about yourself, and keep up an appearance of being interested in the conversation."

--Jerome K. Jerome, English humorist


DOG JOKES & QUOTES EBOOK: 170+ G-rated dog jokes and quotes, perfect for a dog-lover, your favorite vet, or just for a few good laughs.

BONUS: Buy the ebook and you also get a compilation of the 50 best websites for dog humor.
http://www.publicityhound.com/dogjokebook/

================================
8. And at My Blog...
================================

Google Alerts a great way
to learn about reporters
http://tinyurl.com/kkrae


Press release writing workshop
Oct. 31 in West Bend, Wisconsin
http://tinyurl.com/s42dc


---------------------------------------------------------------
Where to Meet or Hear The Publicity Hound®

October 31, 2006: West Bend, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin, part of the "Adding to Your Organization's Toolbox--Media and Public Relations" series, sponsored by the University of Wisconsin-Washington County, UW-Extension, Volunteer Center of Washington County and The United Way of Washington County. I'll present "Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast & Online Publicity" for nonprofits from 8 to 9:30 a.m., followed by a media panel. Over lunch, from 11:30 until 1, I'll present "How to Write Powerful Press Releases." Registration is $35 for the first session and $8 for the luncheon session on press releases. To register, and to submit a press release that you'd like me to rewrite for the second class, contact Dan Anhalt at mailto:dan.anhalt@uwc.edu or(262) 335-5218.


March 17, 2007: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

"Savvy Media Relations: How to Get FREE Print, Broadcast and Online Publicity." 8 a.m. to noon. Details pending.

PERMISSION TO REPRINT: You may reprint any items from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week" in your own print or electronic newsletter. But please include the following paragraph:

Reprinted from "The Publicity Hound's Tips of the Week," a free ezine featuring tips, tricks and tools for generating free publicity. Subscribe at http://www.publicityhound.com/ and receive free by email the handy list "89 Reasons to Send a News Release."

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