Sierra McCormick as Seen on A.N.T. Farm Hosts Caroline Sunshine and Friends Concert
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SIERRA MCCORMICK AS SEEN ON A.N.T. FARM HOSTS CAROLINE SUNSHINE AND FRIENDS CONCERT
-Stars As Seen on Disney Highlight Soul Daddy-Daughter Night-
PHILADELPHIA (May 16, 2013) – The 2012 American Conference Champion Philadelphia Soul, presented by Parx Casino, announce they are hosting a 90-minute concert with Caroline Sunshine and Roshon Fegan, as seen on “Shake It Up,” hosted by Sierra McCormick, as seen on “A.N.T. Farm.” The concert will begin immediately following the Philadelphia Soul home game on Saturday, June 1 as part of “Daddy-Daughter Night” and is free with a Soul ticket purchase.
Sunshine currently has a recurring role on the Disney Channel original series “ Shake It Up.” In addition to her work on “Shake It Up,” Caroline has been busy working on new music. In 2012, Caroline had featured songs on the “Shake It Up: Live 2 Dance” soundtrack and the Disney Channel Holiday Playlist. She has also been working on other music and performing at shows across the US.
“This is a phenomenal opportunity for me to perform for my fans in Philly!” said Caroline Sunshine. “Me, Roshon and IM5 are going to rock the Wells Fargo Center and make sure everybody has an amazing night that they will be talking about for years to come.”
Stars of the Concert include Disney star, Roshon Fegan seen on “Shake It Up” and “Camp Rock” movies; and the band, IM5. Fegan was also featured on the 14th season of the ABC show “Dancing with the Stars.” He stayed on for 8 weeks and was placed in the top 6. The MC will be Adrian R’Mante, made famous from his role playing “Esteban” from Disney Channel’s, “Suite Life of Zack & Cody”.
Official Host for the evening’s concert is the talented Sierra McCormick, who is seen daily on Disney’s “A.N.T. Farm” and appeared in movies: Jack and Janet Save the Planet, Ramona and Beezus; and, A Nanny for Christmas. Sierra will also participate with other stars in meeting and greeting VIP ticket holders.
IM5 is quickly making waves as the world’s next dominant boy band and was founded on a national talent search headed by American Idol creator, Simon Fuller, along with world-famous celebrity blogger, Perez Hilton. The multi-cultured quintet comprised of band members Cole Pendery, Dalton Rapattoni, Dana Vaughns, Gabe Morales and Will Jay boast their own unique style that fuses together hook-driven pop melodies, authentic vocal harmonies, and full-blown dance routines.
“We are thrilled to have Caroline and Sierra join Roshon and IM5 for this amazing night,” said Soul Vice President and COO John Adams. “Caroline and Sierra bring star power and an energy that kids gravitate to. If you are a parent of a young child, you will not want to miss bringing them to this Soul game and Concert.”
“Daddy-Daughter Night” was created to provide an opportunity for all fathers to create an unforgettable experience with their daughters. Dads will get to experience a great day of Arena Football by watching the Soul in a rematch of Arena Bowl XXV vs. the Arizona Rattlers.
Daughters will have the opportunity to see an incredible concert filled with some of today’s top child performers. Of course, the entire event is great for the entire family, not just daddies and daughters.
To accommodate this concert, the kickoff will be moved up to 4 p.m., with the concert set to start at approximately 7 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, fans can contact the ticket office at (215) 253-4900, ext. 3, visit www.philadelphiasoul.com, call Wells Fargo Center box office at 1-800-298-4200, or click here to go to the box office.
VIP Ticket packages are available for this event. One package includes access to the Caroline Sunshine, Roshon Fegan & IM5 sound check for $50 per person. Another package includes a private meet and greet with Caroline Sunshine, Sierra McCormick, Roshon Fegan & IM5 and field access for the post game concert for $100 per person. For more information on VIP Packages, call the Soul offices at 888-789-SOUL X3.
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ABOUT PHILADELPHIA SOUL
The Philadelphia Soul are presented by Parx Casino. They capped their seventh Arena Football League season by capturing the 2012 American Conference championship. The Soul will play their next game on Saturday, May 18 at 7:05 p.m. ET against the Orlando Predators on CBS Sports Network. For 2013 season tickets, contact the Soul sales department at (215) 253-4900 ext. 3, or request contact from a representative by filling out the form on www.philadelphiasoul.com. Follow the Soul on Facebook at facebook.com/soul and Twitter at twitter.com/soulfootball.
CONTACT:
Jennifer Sherlock, Jenna Communications, (609) 369-3482 jsherlock@jennacommunications.com
Tom Goodhines, Soul General Manager, (215) 840-3232, tgoodhines@philadelphiasoul.com
Shaun Eagan, Public Relations, (215) 253-4900 ext 177, seagan@philadelphiasoul.com
Recapping the Broad Street Run and More
A sea of pink in Philadelphia today as thousands gathered this Mother’s Day at the 23rd Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure. From hundreds of volunteers to sponsors, runners to walkers, fundraisers to participants – many made it a day of celebration and empowerment for all women.
This is just one run of many races to come since last weekend’s Broad Street Run. Jenna Communications’ President, Jennifer Sherlock gives you a taste of her BSR experience and a preview of another race called Strides for Stroke that is also saving lives and raising awareness.
Septa’s Broad Street Line is packed at 7 a.m. as runners prepare for the 10 miles from North to South Philly.
My friend Lauren Nickles and I are all stretched and ready to attack Broad Street.
This is just one mile in as a sea of runners get ready to pace themselves for the next nine miles to go!
Finally I finished with my buddy Marshall Harris. The Comcast SportsNet anchor ran 1:17 and I finished with my best time in 9 years at 1:21. I hope to break 1:20 next year on my tenth year of running the race. Marshall hopes to break 1:15.
Finally, the next run I will be participating in is the Delaware Valley Stroke Council’s Strides for Stroke 5K Sunday, June 9 at 8:30 am in Philadelphia by the Art Museum Circle. The run takes place on a scenic course through Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive and raises awareness for stroke, the #1 cause of adult disabilities and #3 cause of death.
All proceeds help guarantee the continued success of the Delaware Valley Stroke Council’s programs to educate people on stroke and advocate for cutting-edge stroke care at area hospitals.
At this time, the Delaware Valley Stroke Council is searching for volunteers to help with tasks leading up to the race and also to assist with race day. Projects include helping with special events, logistics, fundraising, donation requests, registration, refreshments and more. This is an ideal opportunity to gain experience working with a nonprofit organization.
Like us on Facebook and join the event for more details. Register here for Strides for stroke: http://ow.ly/kSCcx
Miss Pennsylvania USA Send Off Party Tonight
Media Contact: Jennifer Sherlock
jsherlock@jennacommunications.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MISS PENNSYLVANIA USA SEND OFF PARTY TONIGHT
WHO: Jessica Billings, Miss Pennsylvania USA
WHAT: The official Send Off Party for Miss Pennsylvania USA before she travels to Las Vegas to compete for the Miss USA title on Sunday, June 16.
WHEN: Tonight, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
WHERE: Valanni
1229 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
WHY: Stop by Valanni tonight for an exclusive opportunity to meet Jessica Billings and wish her the best before she travels to Las Vegas to begin competing for the Miss USA title on Sunday, June 16. Jessica will be available for interviews and photo opportunities.
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About Jessica Billings:
Jessica Billings was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA 2013 at the Miss Pennsylvania pageant on Sunday, December 2, 2012, in Pittsburgh, Pa. She will compete for the title of Miss USA at the 2013 pageant on June 16, 2013 in Las Vegas, NV. Jessica is proud and grateful to have the support and encouragement of many corporate sponsors as she prepares for the Miss USA Pageant. To view Jessica’s full list of sponsors, visit http://www.billingsjessica.com/sponsors.html
Jessica is a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, manages Public and Community Relations for The Worton Group and is a print and runway model. She has also been a brand ambassador for several companies including Monster Energy, Boost Mobile, Barbie, and Blue Claw Co.
Jessica is also an activist and volunteer for many organizations that focus on helping children and people with special needs. She has volunteered or served PACER, the Special Olympics, the Autism Society, the Global Road Safety Taskforce for the World Health Organization, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and the National Board of Directors for the National Organization for Youth Safety (NOYS).
The Judge Group, Philadelphia Soul Join Forces to Promote Employment of Veterans, Military Community
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Media Contacts:
Jennifer Sherlock
609-369-3482
jsherlock@jennacommunications.com
The Judge Group, Philadelphia Soul Join Forces to Promote Employment of Veterans, Military Community
-First ever Judge VIP Careers’ Army Veterans vs. Navy Veterans Arena Football Game and “Speed Career Networking Event” set for June 22 Military Appreciation Day-
PHILADELPHIA, May 7, 2013 – Today, the Philadelphia Soul arena football team and The Judge Group, a global professional services firm, hosted a press conference at The Union League of Philadelphia to unveil details about the first-ever Judge VIP Careers’ Army Veterans vs. Navy Veterans Arena Football Game and “Speed Career Networking Event.” The mission is to help veterans get jobs.
Nearly 16 percent of enlisted veterans ages 25 to 29 are unemployed according to Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Judge Veterans in Professional (VIP) Careers, The Judge Group’s newest division, acts as a career lifeline for those looking to transition into the civilian workforce.
Sportscaster Lou Tilley will serve as emcee for the conference, and attendees include Distinguished Naval Veteran Rear Admiral Thomas C. Lynch (retired) and other high-ranking military officials, local influencers and politicians.
Lynch , who served as the U.S. Naval Academy Superintendent from 1991 to 1994, was Captain of the 1963 Navy Cotton Bowl team with Roger Staubach, its Heisman-winning quarterback.
Soul team owners, including NFL Quarterback and ESPN Football Analyst Ron Jaworski, will be present alongside current Philadelphia Soul players, among them newly acquired Linebacker Morkeith Brown is a United States Army veteran who was deployed for 14 months to Afghanistan in 2005.
On June 22 at the Wells Fargo Center, the Armed Forces will ”face-off in Philly” in a friendly arena football competition to draw awareness to a very important mission—coming together as a business community to provide meaningful career opportunities for our American Heroes and their spouses.
“The deployment of veterans onto the arena field following the regularly scheduled Soul game is the patriotic culmination of the Philadelphia Soul’s Military Appreciation Day,” said Ron Jaworski, majority owner of the Soul.
Tryouts for the Army Veterans vs. Navy Veterans Arena Football Game were held May 4 with a second tryout session May 12 at the Pinelands Sports Center in Southampton, NJ. All branches of the Armed Forces are eligible to play including guardsmen, reservists and veterans. The event will be open for media members to attend.
As part of the Philadelphia Soul’s Military Appreciation Day, Judge VIP Careers, will host the Speed Career Networking Event exclusively for transitioning military service members, wounded warriors, veterans and military spouses from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Center prior to the evening events. The networking event is free for all current military and veterans. Judge VIP Careers, which has successfully implemented a full “Boots to Boardroom” program that opens career doors for military members, expects nearly 50 employers to attend.
“The U.S. military is the greatest training program in the world, and these men and women have the skills and attributes our nation needs and wants,” said Mike Ferraro, president of Judge VIP Careers. “Our job in the private sector is to be part of the solution and help make this transition successful.”
To learn more about all planned events for Military Appreciation Day visit http://www.philadelphiasoul.com and to learn more about Judge VIP Careers, visit http://www.judgevip.org.
About The Judge Group & Judge VIP Careers
The Judge Group, established in 1970, is a global leader in professional services that provides technology consulting, staffing solutions, corporate training and human capital management. Our newest division, Judge VIP Careers, is focused on helping transitioning military service members, wounded warriors, veterans and military spouses find meaningful employment after honorably serving our country. We aim to create unique, cost-effective and innovative employment solutions, opening a pipeline of outstanding talent into corporate America. To learn more about The Judge Group and Judge VIP Careers, visit www.judge.com and www.judgevip.org.
About the Philadelphia Soul
The Philadelphia Soul are presented by Parx Casino. They capped their seventh Arena Football League season by capturing the 2012 American Conference championship. For 2013 season tickets, contact the Soul sales department at (215) 253-4900 ext. 3, or request contact from a representative by filling out the form on www.philadelphiasoul.com. Follow the Soul on Facebook at facebook.com/soul and Twitter at twitter.com/soulfootball.
Delaware Valley Stroke Council to Host 19th Annual Strides for Stroke
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Media Contact:
Jennifer Sherlock
jsherlock@jennacommunications.com
DELAWARE VALLEY STROKE COUNCIL TO HOST 19th ANNUAL STRIDES FOR STROKE
- Annual 5K Run/Walk Raises Funds for Stroke Education and Local Advocacy Programs -
PHILADELPHIA, May 7, 2013 — On Sunday, June 9, the Delaware Valley Stroke Council (DVSC) will host its 19th Annual Dr. Howard Mazer Strides for Stroke Memorial 5K Run/Walk at 8:30 a.m. The race begins at 26th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway and runs along a predetermined course on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive.
More than 1,000 runners and volunteers are expected to participate in Strides for Stroke in order to help raise awareness for stroke, the third leading cause of death and number one cause of adult disabilities. Funds raised from the race remain in the Greater Philadelphia Area and help guarantee the continued success of the DVSC’s programs, which include educating local community members on the warning signs of stroke as well as working with local hospitals to ensure all stroke patients receive cutting-edge care.
Founded by Toby Mazer, whose late husband Howard was a stroke survivor of nearly two decades, the DVSC works to provide advocacy for area stroke survivors and raise awareness of stroke symptoms. “There are nearly 800,000 stroke cases a year in the U.S., but sadly, very few people know the symptoms of stroke,” Mazer said. “To help individuals identify stroke, we developed the F.A.S.T. acronym, meaning the face must be observed for a droopy smile, raised arms checked for a downward drift and speech monitored for slurring. If any of these conditions persist, then time is of the essence to call 911 because the person is suffering a stroke.”
One of the most powerful messages the DVSC promotes is that stroke can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. Aimee Girard, a current Thomas Jefferson University nursing student learned this firsthand when she suffered a stroke as a result of a trauma injury at the age of 23. One day, Aimee began to experience excruciating headaches, which is one of the many key symptoms of stroke. After visiting the emergency room and receiving a CT Scan that turned up negative, Aimee’s symptoms persisted. It took a follow up visit and a second, more extensive CT Scan to discover Aimee had a stroke. “I never suspected that my symptoms were the result of a stroke,” Girard said. “I always thought stroke was a condition that mainly affected the elderly or those with high blood pressure, but my case proves stroke can truly affect anyone.” Fortunately for Girard, her stroke was detected early enough, which enabled her to make a full, successful recovery.
For the 19th Annual Strides for Stroke, the DVSC has partnered with Parx Casino, Philly Pretzel Factory and additional local businesses and corporations to provide refreshments and information in a community-sponsored vendor alley. Participants and volunteers will enjoy race-day giveaways, gifts and prizes compliments of Weston Fitness, Modells and Yoga Garden. Kathleen Titus of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau will warm-up the crowd along with DJ Steve Hawk of EMS Entertainment prior to the start of the race.
To register for Strides for Stroke, visit http://www.phillystroke.org/Assets/strides_for_stroke_2013.html or call (215) 772-9040. To learn more about the DVSC and its initiatives, visit http://www.phillystroke.org/.
About Delaware Valley Stroke Council:
Delaware Valley Stroke Council, a United Way agency, promotes optimal stroke care through advocacy, education, awareness, diagnosis and treatment. The Delaware Valley Stroke Council works as a citizens’ organization. Founded by a group of area neurologists, Delaware Valley Stroke Council serves Philadelphia and the Greater Delaware Valley, including South Jersey and Delaware. Over the years, the organization has continually expanded its programs to meet newly recognized needs, while establishing state and national constituencies in the process.
Check out Jenna Communications’ April PR Tip of the Month
Spring is here, and that means it’s prime time for special events. In our latest PR Tip of the Month, Jenna Communications’ president Jennifer Sherlock walks you through some important elements to consider when hosting a special event for your organization.
Now that spring is here, we are in prime season for special events. While social media and digital outreach is highly important, nothing can fully replace good old face-to-face communication that takes place during events. In fact, a recent study found that 95% of event participants are more likely to purchase a product or service that was directly promoted to them. Now, we will look at what elements to consider to make your event successful.
• Find the right fit: Make sure the event you are planning is consistent with your organization’s brand. At the end of the day, it should back up your business values and priorities to ensure that when people leave they are more likely to engage with your company.
• Promote, Promote, Promote!: Find every channel and every angle possible to promote your event. Take social media by storm and feature any guest speakers who are attending. Ask them to cross-promote on their social media, too. Send info to all your personal email contacts, and also put together an email blast to send to your official lists. Don’t forget to involve the media, as they can help amplify your reach and spread your name even farther.
• Make Events Fun and interactive: Always try to bring in that “it” factor that will make your event pop! Whether it’s a surprise guest appearance or unique group activity, all events need that extra piece to make them memorable. This will help get people to continue to engage with your brand long after the event has ended.
• Share Your Event Results: Don’t forget to survey attendees for direct feedback. While you may have hosted the most awesome event ever, you can always learn from it to do even better in the future.
Happy Spring and best of luck with your next big event!
Our April 2013 Newsletter is Out!
Read Below for Can’t Miss Events and News! April 2013 Help us reach 2,000 “Likes” on our Facebook page and 1,000 followers on Twitter!
Thanks for helping us grow! New Client Announcements April was a milestone month for Jenna Communications! We’re proud to announce that we brought three exciting, new client partners on board. Goldtex, Philadelphia’s newest luxury apartment building from Post Brothers Apartments, located at 315 N 12th Street in Center City, has paired with us for help planning their grand opening. But, the fun doesn’t stop there, as Goldtex has a full schedule of events planned over the next several months. If you’re searching for that dream residence in center city, look no further! Goldtex offers a full array of class-leading amenities, and boasts a LEED silver certification as a green building. Stay tuned for more updates on all events by liking Goldtex on Facebook, and don’t forget to visit their website to learn more about all the property’s features. Photo Credit: photographerkatedevlin@gmail.com Treat yourself to one of the most breathtaking views of center city in your new home at Goldtex Our next new client partner, BC Processing, provides a range of business services to a number of organizations in South Jersey and beyond. Whether you need electronic credit card processing, managed IT, point-of-sale systems, computer repairs or mobile app development, BC Processing has you covered. Our team will manage and grow BC Processing’s social media, develop corporate videos and marketing strategies, and plan its annual technology expo. To learn more about BC Processing, visit its website and don’t forget to connect with the company on Facebook and Twitter. Stay tuned for some very exciting announcements from BC Processing in the coming weeks!
Hollywood comes to BC Processing as Jennifer Sherlock interviews clients for testimonials. Our third new client partner, Judge VIP (Veterans in Professional) Careers, is The Judge Group’s newest division. VIP Careers focuses its efforts on helping returning veterans ages 24-30 who face elevated unemployment rates. Through its “Boots to Boardroom” program, VIP Careers provides a career lifeline to members of our Armed Forces so they can begin rewarding civilian professions. Jenna Communications will help VIP Careers with its official launch at Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, June 22 at the Philadelphia Soul game. The night will feature a “career speed recruiting” or “Vet-working” event for military members as well as the first-ever Army-Navy Veterans Arena Football Game. If your company would like to register to attend the “Vet-working” event, click HERE for more details. Tryouts for the Army-Navy Veterans Arena Football Game are scheduled for Saturday, May 4 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pinelands Sports Complex in Southampton, NJ. If you are a veteran interested in trying out, contact Joe Krause at jkrause@philadelphiasoul.com. Upcoming Events: For the second year in a row, Jenna Communications is planning the Delaware Valley Stroke Council’s Strides for Stroke 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, June 9, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to help! Volunteers are needed to help with event logistics, fundraising, donation requests, registration and refreshments. Also, we need local businesses to serve as sponsors, donate fruit to serve runners, and encourage employees to set up running teams! To sign up and for more information, please call (215) 772-9040 or email info@phillystroke.org. Race day registration begins at 7 a.m. Click HERE to register for the event and visit the Delaware Valley Stroke Council’s website to learn more about the organization. Remember, stroke is the number one cause of adult disabilities. By participating in Strides for Stroke, you are helping to guarantee the continued success of programs that educate community members about stroke and work with hospitals to provide cutting-edge care for stroke victims.
Jessica Billings, Miss Pennsylvania USA, has three exciting upcoming events. On Friday, April 26, artist Shelly Hamill will unveil a tile mosaic she created of the dress Jessica wore when she was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA. The unveiling will take place at Bluestone Art Gallery in Philadelphia. Visit Shelly Hamill’s website to view her entire portfolio.
On Friday, May 9, Jessica will host a going away party at Valanni from 7-9 p.m. Many of her friends, family members and sponsors will be present to wish her luck before she leaves for Las Vegas to compete for the Miss USA title on Sunday, June 16.
Agency Update: Jenna Communications is proud to announce its re-certification in business from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). This certification states that the firm is “woman-owned, operated and controlled”. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest third-party nonprofit certifier for businesses that are owned and operated by women in the United States. For additional information about the WBENC, visit its website.
For the past three years, Jenna Communications has shared office space with Copy Secure, one of Philadelphia’s leading providers of data and document services. Copy Secure prides itself on forging strong personal relationships with all client partners, and is proud to have worked with some of the region’s top law firms and businesses for more than 10 years. Services include Scanning/Copying, Blowbacks/Printing, Digital Color Printing, Color Oversize/Trial Boards, Email Processing, Online Document Review and much more. Please visit www.copysecure.com to see the full range of services offered.
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Miss Pennsylvania USA to Help Raise Awareness for Autism Spectrum Disorders at HeARTS for Autism Family Program
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Media Contacts:
Jennifer Sherlock
Jenna Communications
jsherlock@jennacommunications.com
(609) 369-3482
Debbie Goetz
Debbie Goetz Media Connections, LLC
(215) 630-5408
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Miss Pennsylvania USA to Help Raise Awareness for Autism Spectrum Disorders at HeARTS for Autism Family Program
PHILADELPHIA, April 23, 2013 - Jessica Billings, Miss Pennsylvania USA, will participate in HeARTs for Autism’s Family Program on Saturday, April 27, from 10:00–11:30 a.m. at Norcom Community Center, 10980 Norcom Road, Philadelphia, PA.
The HeARTs for Autism Family Program will bring together children on the Autism Spectrum for art, games and creative movement. Jessica will join volunteers in facilitating these activities with the children. HeARTS for Autism will also offer parents an opportunity to network and receive holistic care and support to help with the challenges of raising a child on the Autism Spectrum.
Jessica passionately supports causes related to Autism awareness as she has an older brother Jamey, who is Autistic. She serves as a sibling advocate for the Autism Society and other organizations designed to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. Regarding her platform for Autism awareness Jessica states, “Growing up, I was always an advocate for people like my brother Jamey, who has Autism. I wanted to take my advocacy to the next level and I knew Miss Pennsylvania USA was an opportunity to reach a larger audience with my platform.”
Billings is an active volunteer in organizations such as the Special Olympics and the Autism Society. Billings is also an ABA (Applied Behavioral Analyst) therapist for children with autism and she is part of the Organized Steps of Hope teams for the Autism Society’s annual fundraiser.
About Jessica Billings:
Jessica Billings was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA 2013 at the Miss Pennsylvania pageant on Sunday, December 2, 2012, in Pittsburgh PA. She will compete for the title of Miss USA at the 2013 pageant on June 16, 2013 in Las Vegas, NV. Jessica is proud and grateful to have the support and encouragement of many corporate sponsors as she prepares for the Miss USA Pageant. To view Jessica’s full list of sponsors, visit http://www.billingsjessica.com/sponsors.html
Jessica is a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, manages Public and Community Relations for The Worton Group and is a print and runway model. She has also been a brand ambassador for several companies including Monster Energy, Boost Mobile, Barbie, and Blue Claw Co.
Jessica is also an activist and volunteer for many organizations that focus on helping children and people with special needs. She has volunteered or served PACER, the Special Olympics, the Autism Society, the Global Road Safety Taskforce for the World Health Organization, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and the National Board of Directors for the National Organization for Youth Safety (NOYS).
About HeARTs for Autism:
HeARTs for Autism is a non-profit organization comprised of parents, professionals and artists committed and inspired to spread awareness about the complex and diverse nature of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Their mission is to use art as a way to advocate and educate the larger community about the spectrum nature of Autism and as a therapeutic expression for those associated with the Autistic Spectrum.
HeARTs for Autism was founded in 2005, by Robin V. Schwoyer and Dr. Svetlana Gradess. They were joined by Nora Perry and Veronica Parker as the family program launched. They share a vision of helping not only Autistic persons, but their families as well. The inspiration for the outreach came from artwork done by Robin’s son, his siblings and 3 peers.
Various creative methods are used for the Spectrum person, with a special emphasis on volunteer assistants developing social connections. Parents/caregivers explore themes around the emotional and spiritual aspects, plus learn techniques for self care such as stress reduction, meditation, inner child, etc. HeARTS for Autism provides a safe place to learn how to embrace life on the Spectrum journey. To learn more about HeARTS for Autism, contact Robin Schwoyer at rvschwoyer@gmail.com or (267) 231-7595 or visit http://www.heartsforautism.org/
Photo Credit: DMS Graphix
Caption:
Jessica Billings, Miss Pennsylvania USA, will compete for the title of MissUSA at the 2013 pageant on June 16 at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas,Nevada.
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PR Tip of the Month: How to Ace a Guest Blogging Opportunity
In our latest PR Tip of the Month, Jenna Communications president Jennifer Sherlock explains how to ace a guest blogging opportunity and reap the full benefits from it.
Tips for Guest Blogging
One of the best ways to boost your online presence is by offering to be a guest blogger on a reputable site within your field. Through guest blogging, you can display yourself as a thought leader and ultimately lead more people to engage with you and your company’s products or services. However, approaching a blogger and offering to guest blog can often be tricky because so many people are always looking for this opportunity. In this month’s PR Tip, we will give a few hints on how to set yourself apart and land that guest blogging engagement.
• Start by making connections: After you’ve decided which blog you’d like to write for, begin by connecting with the blog/blogger on as many social media channels as possible. Bloggers are much more receptive to allowing guest writers they recognize from online connections rather than those who email pitch them out of the blue.
• Think about Your Topic and Carefully Consider Keywords: The goal of guest blogging is to have an expanded audience outside your network find your content. Believe it or not, Google has a Keyword Tool that analyzes how competitive a search term is. Try to develop blog topics that have low-medium search competition, as they will have a better chance of showing up on the first page of a Google search for people to see.
• Don’t Jeopardize Your Opportunity for Being Invited Back: When you guest blog, you will often be asked to honor some requests from the blog owner. For example, be sure to set time aside to respond to comments about your guest blog. Since you are the author, you are considered the subject expert; therefore, it is your job, not the blog owner’s, to respond to comments in a timely manner. Also, make sure you set clear stipulations as to when you can post your guest blog on your own site and social media. Common courtesy is to allow the blog to stand alone on the site you guest-wrote for, and then to post on your own site after several weeks. When you post on your own site, don’t forget to credit the blog where it first appeared.
By keeping some of these items in mind, you can ace your guest blogging experience and reap the benefits of reaching an expanded, targeted audience.
