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<title>PRCompass / scherry / All</title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com</link>
<description>PRCompass</description>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Aug 2008 12:25:26 -0700</pubDate>
<language>en</language>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Common press release mistakes most small business owners make]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Common_press_release_mistakes_most_small_business_owners_make/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Common_press_release_mistakes_most_small_business_owners_make/</comments>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Aug 2008 12:25:26 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Common_press_release_mistakes_most_small_business_owners_make/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY -- August 21, 2008 -- Publicity and marketing expert Shannon Cherry, APR, MA has just released her most recent article in a series of free articles on her Web site. The article, Mistakes That Hurt Your Chance for Media Coverage, is available for immediate viewing and audio download at http://www.thepowerpublicist.com.Many business owners and entrepreneurs complain that their press releases are never used by journalists. According to Cherry, many marketing challenges can be traced back to a mere handful of mistakes.Cherry is known as &quot;The Power Publicist,&quot; and is the founder of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), a virtual publicity and marketing firm. She helps entrepreneurs and business owners attract more targeted prospects by using the power of publicity and promotions. The author, international speaker and media professional has more than twenty years experience as a journalist and public relations practitioner. This month, the publicity and promotions strategist outlines the most common mistakes small business owners and entrepreneurs make when writing their own news releases. By applying the information in the article, business owners can more clearly define their own successful marketing strategies and start reaping the rewards, mainly more leads, customers, sales and money.&quot;As a former journalist, I saw these blatant errors all the time - and often that meant the release went directly into the trash,&quot; says Cherry. &quot;But the good news is these mistakes are easy to fix, if you know what to look for.&quot;Read and download the audio version of Mistakes That Hurt Your Chance for Media Coverage for free at www.thepowerpublicist.com to uncover how to easily correct common press release mistakes. Upcoming articles will address other ways that business owners can rev up their results using publicity and promotions. Readers will learn about:- Working with reporters- Creating promotional materials- Internet marketing strategiesTo access the complete article series, visit www.thepowerpublicist.comAbout Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com)Founded by The Power Publicist Shannon Cherry, Be Heard Solutions is a virtual publicity and marketing firm that helps business owners and entrepreneurs attract more targeted clients and customers by using the power of publicity and promotions. In addition to one-on-one marketing communications services, Be Heard Solutions also provides products and learning programs to help business owners, solo-professionals and consultants take their marketing and their businesses to the next level. For the free Publicity Power Pack, visit www.BeHeardSolutions.com.###Contact:Shannon CherryBe Heard Solutions800.257.0633news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[3 Tips for Entrepreneurs: Building an Email List]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/3_Tips_for_Entrepreneurs_Building_an_Email_List/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/3_Tips_for_Entrepreneurs_Building_an_Email_List/</comments>
<pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:14:39 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Advertising</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/3_Tips_for_Entrepreneurs_Building_an_Email_List/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY - July 31, 2008 - Publicity and marketing expert Shannon Cherry, APR, MA has just released her most recent article in a series of free articles on her Web site. The article, Three Ways to Build Your Email List, is available for immediate viewing and audio download at www.beheardsolutions.com/blog.Many business owners and entrepreneurs complain that building an effective contact list is very difficult, and hard to manage. According to Cherry, many marketing challenges can be traced back to a mere handful of mistakes.Cherry is known as &quot;The Power Publicist,&quot; and is the founder of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), a virtual publicity and marketing firm. She helps entrepreneurs and business owners attract more targeted prospects by using the power of publicity and promotions. The author, international speaker and media professional has more than twenty years experience as a journalist and public relations practitioner. This month, the publicity and promotions strategist outlines three basic strategies for building an email list. By applying the information in the article, business owners can more clearly define their own successful marketing strategies and start reaping the rewards, mainly more leads, customers, sales and money.&quot;As a small business owner, most of you are trying to gain customers. It's important, you cant make money if nobody wants to give you any.&quot; says Cherry. &quot;If you build yourself a good email list; one with structure and good form, you will be able to spend more time building relationships and less time on more trivial problems.&quot;Read and download the audio version of Three Ways to Build Your Email List for free at www.beheardsolutions.com/blog to uncover simple tips to making email building less difficult. Upcoming articles will address other ways that business owners can rev up their results using publicity and promotions. Readers will learn:- Working with reporters- Writing news release- Creating promotional materialsTo access the complete article series, visit www.beheardsolutions.com/blog.About Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com)Founded by The Power Publicist Shannon Cherry, Be Heard Solutions is a virtual publicity and marketing firm that helps business owners and entrepreneurs attract more targeted clients and customers by using the power of publicity and promotions. In addition to one-on-one marketing communications services, Be Heard Solutions also provides products and learning programs to help business owners, solo-professionals and consultants take their marketing and their businesses to the next level. For the free Publicity Power Pack, visit www.BeHeardSolutions.com.###Contact:Shannon CherryBe Heard Solutions800.257.0633news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Publicist Explains Branding and its Pros and Cons]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Publicist_Explains_Branding_and_its_Pros_and_Cons/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Publicist_Explains_Branding_and_its_Pros_and_Cons/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:30:43 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Advertising</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Publicist_Explains_Branding_and_its_Pros_and_Cons/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY - August 4, 2008 -- Publicity and marketing expert Shannon Cherry, APR, MA has just released her most recent article in a series of free articles on her Web site. The article, Why YOU are the Brand, is available for immediate viewing and audio download at www.beheardsolutions.com/blog.Many business owners and entrepreneurs complain that it's difficult to stand out to their target market with large businesses having more resources. According to Cherry, many marketing challenges can be traced back to a mere handful of mistakes.Cherry is known as &quot;The Power Publicist,&quot; and is the founder of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), a virtual publicity and marketing firm. She helps entrepreneurs and business owners attract more targeted prospects by using the power of publicity and promotions. The author, international speaker and media professional has more than twenty years experience as a journalist and public relations practitioner. This month, the publicity and promotions strategist outlines how a new brand name mindset gets you halfway to success. By applying the information in the article, business owners can more clearly define their own successful marketing strategies and start reaping the rewards, mainly more leads, customers, sales and money.&quot;Big businesses have things a little easier, but it doesn't matter in the long run. You have just as much to offer as they do, and once you realize that you're almost there!&quot; says Cherry. &quot;If you believe in your business (product or service), and you can show your target market that your business is a reflection of youa4 You're really selling yourself. Make them like YOU not some catchy brand name&quot;Read and download the audio version of Why YOU are the Brand for free at www.beheardsolutions.com/blog to uncover a new way to look at brand-marketing.Upcoming articles will address other ways that business owners can rev up their results using publicity and promotions. Readers will learn:Working with reportersWriting news releaseMedia relationsTo access the complete article series, visit www.beheardsolutions.com/blog.About Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com)Founded by The Power Publicist Shannon Cherry, Be Heard Solutions is a virtual publicity and marketing firm that helps business owners and entrepreneurs attract more targeted clients and customers by using the power of publicity and promotions. In addition to one-on-one marketing communications services, Be Heard Solutions also provides products and learning programs to help business owners, solo-professionals and consultants take their marketing and their businesses to the next level. For the free Publicity Power Pack, visit www.BeHeardSolutions.com.###Contact:Shannon CherryBe Heard Solutions800.257.0633news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Entrepreneurs Learn How to Use Social Media for Business Development with the a4Penny Pinching Publicitya4 Teleclass Series]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Use_Social_Media_for_Business_Development_with_the_ldquoPenny_Pinching_Publicityrdquo_Teleclass_Series/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Use_Social_Media_for_Business_Development_with_the_ldquoPenny_Pinching_Publicityrdquo_Teleclass_Series/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:27:39 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Advertising</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Use_Social_Media_for_Business_Development_with_the_ldquoPenny_Pinching_Publicityrdquo_Teleclass_Series/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY -- August 5, 2008 - MaryPat Kavanagh, a marketing professional specializing in social media will share online marketing tips and tactics with business owners when she speaks on Developing Profitable Relationships Using Social Networking on September at 8 PM ET (5 PM PT), as part of the Penny Pinching Publicity Platinum Teleseries.&quot;Many entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants and solo professionals are looking for ways to increase their market share by using low-cost social networking and social media sites to grow their reach,&quot; says Shannon Cherry, creator of www.PennyPinchingPublicity.com. &quot;Having MaryPat on our teleseries will help business owners to learn what works and what doesn't in this ever changing marketing medium.&quot; Cherry is known as The Power Publicist. She's the owner of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), which helps business owners and entrepreneurs attract targeted prospects by using publicity to make them the recognized experts in their field. For more than 15 years, she's created PR and promotions programs to help clients gain market share.Kavanagh is known as the Queen of Marketing and the owner of Strategic Results Marketing (www.queenofmarketing.com). She helps professionals learn to create relationships that expand businesses.During the teleclass participants will learn:How to find possible joint venture partners using social media5 Key Strategies to develop profitable, long-lasting joint venturesWhich social media sites are best for making lasting connectionsAnd moreThe Penny Pinching Publicity Platinum program, sponsored by Readytalk, is a monthly mastermind membership, which features nationally-recognized experts to help entrepreneurs, business owners, coaches, consultants and solo professionals to build their business using proven marketing and public relations strategies.  Each month, members receive:A special report on a specific marketing topicA fill-in-the-blank press releaseMedia contactsTwo teleclasses a monthRecordings of the classes on CDA forum to ask questionsAnd more &quot;So many business owners don't want to hire a marketing professional, but know the importance of using publicity and marketing to grow their businesses,&quot; says Cherry. &quot;Many had approached me, looking for an alternative. So I developed the Penny Pinching Publicity series to help entrepreneurs get low cost, high impact marketing they learn from experts in the field and can implement themselves.&quot;The first month's membership is free, with a small charge for shipping the CD. For more information, or to register go to http://www.pennypinchingpublicity.com###Contact: Shannon Cherry800.257.0633, ext 4news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Cherry Picked: CICoach.com chooses Cherry Communications as PR Firm]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Cherry_Picked_CICoach-com_chooses_Cherry_Communications_as_PR_Firm-1/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Cherry_Picked_CICoach-com_chooses_Cherry_Communications_as_PR_Firm-1/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 12:35:47 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Cherry_Picked_CICoach-com_chooses_Cherry_Communications_as_PR_Firm-1/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY -August 5, 2008 - Cherry Communications, a virtual public relations firm for businesses and nonprofit organizations, announced today the addition of its newest client, CICoach.com.&quot;Cherry Communications is thrilled to be part of the team for this up-and-coming company,&quot; said Shannon Cherry, Cherry Communications president.  &quot;Using state-of-the-art technology, this partnership proves that you don't need a PR firm in your own backyard to obtain positive outcomes.&quot; Rosalind Joffe founded the executive career coaching practice, www.cicoach.com by building on her experience living with chronic illnesses, including multiple sclerosis and ulcerative colitis. Dedicated to helping others with chronic illness develop the skills they need to succeed in their careers, ciciach.com helps those living with chronic illness live a full and successful life.Cherry Communications is working with the company to promote publicity services for Rosalind Joffe's new book, &quot;Women, Work, and Autoimmune Disease: Keep Working Girlfriend,&quot; as well as her coaching practice.About Cherry Communications (www.cherrycommunications.com) Based in the Capital Region of New York, Cherry Communications is a virtual strategic communications firm that works with businesses and nonprofits all over the country to develop results-oriented marketing and public relations programs. For more information, contact Shannon Cherry at 518.632.6212 or email: contact@cherrycommunications.com. ###contact: shannon cherry, apr518.632.6212news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Cherry Picked: LittleEffortBigResults.com chooses Cherry Communications as PR Firm]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Cherry_Picked_LittleEffortBigResults-com_chooses_Cherry_Communications_as_PR_Firm/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Cherry_Picked_LittleEffortBigResults-com_chooses_Cherry_Communications_as_PR_Firm/</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Aug 2008 16:41:25 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Cherry_Picked_LittleEffortBigResults-com_chooses_Cherry_Communications_as_PR_Firm/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY -August 25, 2008 - Cherry Communications, a virtual public relations firm for businesses and nonprofit organizations, announced today the addition of its newest client, LittleEffortBigResults.com&quot;Cherry Communications is thrilled to be part of the team for this up-and-coming company,&quot; said Shannon Cherry, Cherry Communications president.  &quot;Using state-of-the-art technology, this partnership proves that you don't need a PR firm in your own backyard to obtain positive outcomes.&quot; Alexi Sebasttien is the author and creator of LittleEffortBigResults.com (www.littleeffortbigresults). The company specializes in helping women entrepreneurs let go of self-struggles so they can have excel in their businesses and in their home life.Cherry Communications is working with the company to promote its programs and services. About Cherry Communications (www.cherrycommunications.com) Based in the Capital Region of New York, Cherry Communications is a virtual strategic communications firm that works with businesses and nonprofits all over the country to develop results-oriented marketing and public relations programs. For more information, contact Shannon Cherry at 518-632-6212 or email: contact@cherrycommunications.com. ###contact: shannon cherry, apr (518) 632.6212news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[What Makes You Buzz Worthy?]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/What_Makes_You_Buzz_Worthy/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/What_Makes_You_Buzz_Worthy/</comments>
<pubDate>Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:02:13 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/What_Makes_You_Buzz_Worthy/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY - Thursday, July 10 -- Publicity and marketing expert Shannon Cherry, APR, MA has just released her most recent article in a series of free articles on her Web site. The article, Are You Buzz Worthy?, is available for immediate viewing and audio download at www.beheardsolutions.com/blogMany business owners and entrepreneurs complain that its difficult to create a publicity buzz cost-effectively. According to Cherry, many marketing challenges can be traced back to a mere handful of mistakes.Cherry is known as &quot;The Power Publicist,&quot; and is the founder of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), a virtual publicity and marketing firm. She helps entrepreneurs and business owners attract more targeted prospects by using the power of publicity and promotions. The author, international speaker and media professional has more than twenty years experience as a journalist and public relations practitioner.This month, the publicity and promotions strategist outlines free tips for small business owners to take advantage of, that will create a buzz about their product or service. By applying the information in the article, business owners can more clearly define their own successful marketing strategies and start reaping the rewards, mainly more leads, customers, sales and money.&quot;With all of these different media outlets, and the affordances of the internet, publicity doesn't always have to cost a lot of money. There are so many cheap an even free ways for small business owners to get their name out there&quot; says Cherry. &quot;It's all about thinking effectively. Look between the lines and use creativity to reach out to your target market.&quot;Read and download the audio version of &quot;Are You Buzz Worthy?&quot; for free at www.beheardsolutions.com/blog to uncover free tips for small business owners to take advantage of, that will create a buzz about their product or service.Upcoming articles will address other ways that business owners can rev up their results using publicity and promotions. Readers will learn:Working with reportersWriting news releaseCreating promotional materialsTo access the complete article series, visit www.beheardsolutions.com/blog.About Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com)Founded by The Power Publicist Shannon Cherry, Be Heard Solutions is a virtual publicity and marketing firm that helps business owners and entrepreneurs attract more targeted clients and customers by using the power of publicity and promotions. In addition to one-on-one marketing communications services, Be Heard Solutions also provides products and learning programs to help business owners, solo-professionals and consultants take their marketing and their businesses to the next level. For the free Publicity Power Pack, visit www.BeHeardSolutions.com.###Contact:Shannon CherryBe Heard Solutions800.257.0633news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Tax Secrets Save Small Business Hidden Money]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Tax_Secrets_Save_Small_Business_Hidden_Money/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Tax_Secrets_Save_Small_Business_Hidden_Money/</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jul 2008 06:48:45 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Tax_Secrets_Save_Small_Business_Hidden_Money/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[As the year turns to its latter half, small business owners should be getting their taxes in order. Jessica Reagen Salzman, a professional bookkeeper for small business, offer tips to make sure those taxes are as orderly as possible. She also reveals many secret methods that most solo professionals haven't heard of.&quot;The government doesn't purposely hide ways for you (small business owners) to cut taxes. And these secrets aren't classified as tax evasion.&quot; Says Salzman. &quot;We've reached a midway point in 2008 and its important to make sure that deadlines are met in order to benefit from these tax secrets&quot;Jessica Reagen Salzman is a professional bookkeeper and certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. She is a member of the Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Society of Accountants (NSA), and a recipient of the E-Myth Embark E-Learning Scholarship.She uses less well-known provisions of the government's economic stimulus package to help small business owners save various amounts of money.1. &quot;Many may be eligible for a special depreciation bonus this year. Under this package you can automatically depreciate 50% of the cost of certain business equipment that was bought this year.2. Small business owners can even write-off any remaining cost as per the MACRS (Modified Accelerated Cost Recover System.&quot;Salzman also points to provisions of Section 179 of the IRS code. &quot;Small businesses that are starting up this year may be allowed to deduct property tax in full&quot;. She says not to be afraid of finding loop-holes and suggest that those with less experience or knowledge of the tax system read up and educate themselves. She says that his is one point where reading these kinds of things actually &quot;pays off&quot;.For more information, visit www.behindthescenesLLC.com.About Behind the Scenes LLC ( www.behindthescenesLLC.com):Behind the Scenes LLC was founded by Jessica Reagan Salzman to help small business owners to increase profits, reduce taxes, and improve cash flow. Founded in 2006, the company maximizes small businesses' resources by offering a customized approach to professional bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and tax-related services to small businesses and solopreneurs.Behind the Scenes LLC provides what they call the &quot;bookkeeping with benefits&quot; model, which helps clients understand their monthly financial statements, and empowers them to make more effective and more profitable business decisions. This exclusive model also provides clients with peace of mind that while they concentrate on revenue-producing goals, Behind the Scenes is taking care of the bookkeeping aspect of their business.### <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[How to cope when your body fires you from your job]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/How_to_cope_when_your_body_fires_you_from_your_job/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/How_to_cope_when_your_body_fires_you_from_your_job/</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:32:20 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/How_to_cope_when_your_body_fires_you_from_your_job/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[How to cope when your body fires you from your jobBOSTON - JULY 9, 2007 - Most professionals who live with a chronic illness are challenged to balance three equally competing demands: career, personal life and disease symptoms.   But what happens when a person's body decides that work in no longer an option but the mind and soul are not in agreement?There are several options, says Rosalind Joffe, president of  cicoach.com and the author of the new book Women, Work and Autoimmune Disease: Keep Working, Girlfriend! (Demos Health, May 2008). &quot;Just because you can't do the work you have always done in the way you have always done it, it doesn't mean you can no longer work at all or forever.&quot;Joffe has lived with several chronic illnesses for almost 30 years. She helps professionals, like herself, who are passionate about continuing to work because they know it's good for their state of being.  But, as she explains it, the key is to find the right work in the right environment   rather than staying stressed and trapped in a miserable job or giving up and leaving work altogether.&quot;While millions of p people continue to work every day with disabilities, the fact is that most people only see one alternative, to leave the workplace altogether. It's true that some may have to stop working for a short period - and for a few, it can be indefinite. But if you have the motivation, you can expand your options rather than only focusing on what you've lost,&quot; says Joffe.She explains that one of the biggest issues many professionals face is self-pity.  &quot;Work for any person, regardless if they have a chronicle illness, is important to self-esteem,&quot; says the certified coach. &quot;But this is particularly true when you've devoted time and resources to building a career. When your body, as you've known it, &quot;quits&quot; on you, you  can find ways to  keep working, in whatever capacity possible, so you can stay engaged, continue to feel vibrant and most importantly, to be more than just this sick body.&quot;Some ideas to help include:a4Determining if this is temporarya4Finding out if a new job could accommodate one's needs bettera4Seeking out support from professionals and friendsa4Creating opportunities for volunteering and contributing elsewhereAdditional resources are available at cicoach.com, including The Keep Working with Chronic Illness Workbook. This workbook is a companion piece to her recently published book, Women, Work, and Autoimmune Disease: Keep Working, Girlfriend!  Visit http://www.cicoach.com/workbookpromo.html for more information.About Rosalind Joffe, M. EdRosalind Joffe is the founder and president of cicoach.com, an executive career coaching firm dedicated to providing the services, resources and products that high achievers living with chronic illness need to succeed in their careers. She has been interviewed in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Boston Globe, ABC Radio, National Public Radio as well as a variety of regional and national media outlets. In addition, Joffe is published in dozens of disease organization and health journals.### <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Time for a midyear financial tune-up for small businesses]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Time_for_a_midyear_financial_tune-up_for_small_businesses/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Time_for_a_midyear_financial_tune-up_for_small_businesses/</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2008 07:58:05 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Time_for_a_midyear_financial_tune-up_for_small_businesses/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[NORWOOD, MA - July 7, 2008 - With today's financial climate, small business owners should focus on reviewing their financial strategies midyear. That's according to Jessica Reagan Salzman, a professional bookkeeper for small businesses.&quot;July is the perfect time to re-evaluate and start thinking about new ideas to increase revenue and reduce expenses,&quot; says Salzman. A Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Salzman is the founder of Behind the Scenes LLC (www.behindthescenesLLC.com), a virtual bookkeeping firm. She is also a member of the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Society of Accountants (NSA), and a recipient of the E-Myth Embark E-Learning Scholarship.Salzman suggests business owners should consider steps to lower their energy bills, not just for this year, but for the long term. She also points to some changes the government has made to the tax laws that owners should review:0.Mileage deduction increase. Effective July 1, the IRS increases the mileage deduction for vehicles used for business purposes, to 58.5 cents from 50.5 cents.0.Economic stimulus package provisions for small businesses. The first is a near doubling to $250,000 of what's known as the Section 179 deduction. The second is a bonus depreciation allowance under which businesses of any size can depreciate 50 percent of the cost of equipment bought and placed into service this year. &quot;The first step in a midyear financial tune up should be an appointment with an accountant or other financial professional,&quot; says Salzman. &quot;Besides making sure your numbers are in sync, your bookkeeper can suggest ways to improve your cash flow and how to best take advantage of these new tax laws.&quot;A midyear tune up should also mean checking in with clients and customers. Salzman suggests owners increase their marketing efforts not just geared toward prospective customers, but to established ones as well.  &quot;The key is to stay in touch,&quot; he said. &quot;Everyone's looking at pricing, but they are also looking for more value.&quot;For more information, visit www.behindthescenesLLC.com.About Behind the Scenes LLC (www.behindthescenesLLC.com):Behind the Scenes LLC was founded by Jessica Reagan Salzman to help small business owners to increase profits, reduce taxes, and improve cash flow. Founded in 2006, the company maximizes small businesses' resources by offering a customized approach to professional bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and tax-related services to small businesses and solopreneurs.Behind the Scenes LLC provides what they call the &quot;bookkeeping with benefits&quot; model, which helps clients understand their monthly financial statements, and empowers them to make more effective and more profitable business decisions. ###Contact:Shannon CherryPR for Behind the Scenes LLCnews@cherrycommunications.com800-257-0633 , ext 4 <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Marketing Experts Become Camp Counselors At MarketingSummerCamp.com]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Marketing_Experts_Become_Camp_Counselors_At_MarketingSummerCamp-com/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Marketing_Experts_Become_Camp_Counselors_At_MarketingSummerCamp-com/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 17:28:46 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Marketing_Experts_Become_Camp_Counselors_At_MarketingSummerCamp-com/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Albany, NY - June 23, 2008 - Shannon Cherry, the power publicist, and Rebecca Murtagh, the Internet marketing success master, become virtual marketing summer camp &quot;counselors&quot; at MarketingSummerCamp.com designed to show &quot;campers&quot; who include small business owners, entrepreneurs and other solo professionals, how to grow their businesses by targeting customers through publicity and internet marketing. (www.MarketingSummerCamp.com). &quot;We created Marketing Summer Camp based on a needs survey that demonstrated that most people are looking to sharpen their skills in three main areas: SEO &amp; Internet marketing, niche marketing, and media relations &amp; promotions,&quot; says Shannon Cherry, APR, MA. Public relations and marketing are essential to increase a business's revenue or to improve its professional image, but relying on a public relations expert can be costly.  We also recognize the need to help businesses leverage the internet to achieve the best results, but successful marketing goes far beyond tactics. &quot;Marketing Summer Camp is a powerful, fun and highly informative program full of ideas to spark creative thought and immediate action toward promoting and building new business&quot;, says Shannon Cherry, APR, president of Be Heard Solutions. .&quot;Search and internet marketing have become vital to the success of every business serious about winning new customers. &quot;When it comes to leveraging SEO and internet marketing to grow a small business, the more defined and accurate your focus is, the more successful your efforts will be. Search engine marketing and pay per click programs can work effectively for even the smallest of businesses, if you know what you are doing&quot;, explains Murtagh, &quot;We want marketers of all levels to walk away with timely actionable information and that creative spark to help generate powerful marketing campaigns that will generate results, now matter how big, or small, their company or budget is&quot;.Murtagh and Cherry offer 50 years combined expertise in marketing and public relations with a mutual passion for helping small business owners achieve their goals. Murtagh owns KarnerBlueMarketing.com, an SEO an award-winning Internet Marketing firm, and Cherry is a former media insider and president of CherryCommunications.com, a virtual publicity firm. Both companies are located in Albany, New York, USA.MarketingSummerCamp.com offers a virtual campground where you can rest easy and away from the cares of the day to take another look at how you go about marketing your business&quot; through four different seminars via internet and telephone. Marketing Summer Camp activities include:a4Target Practice, where campers learn how to narrow their focus to expand their opportunities.a4Trail Blazing on the Internet Super Highway with practical and proven ways to leverage the Internet to grow your business.a4Stories around the Campfire, showing campers how to turn news-worthy stories into publicity media and customers notice. a4Free Swim: where campers get to ask Summer Camp Counselors questions about all things marketing.MarketingSummerCamp.com offers vacation-minded marketers an uplifting, challenging and fun approach to sharpen their marketing skills and gain new perspective on methods to attract and win new clients and customers. The price of the camp is $257 and includes bonuses. Campers that register by July 2 receive a $60 discount, making the course affordable to anyone seeking expert advise at bargain prices. Shannon Cherry, the &quot;Power Publicist&quot; owns Be Heard Solutions, a subsidiary of Cherry Communications, is a strategic communications firm that works with entrepreneurs, businesses and not-for-profits across the United States to develop results-oriented marketing and public relations and publicity programs. BeHeardSolutions.comRebecca Murtagh is Founder and Chief Strategist of Internet Marketing Success Masters, a division of Karner Blue Marketing LLC, an award-winning internet marketing firm specializing in SEO, PPC, Usability and Conversion consulting and training services.  KarnerBlueMarketing.com###For more information, contact Shannon Cherry at 518-248-6592 or email: info@beheardsolutions.com. For more information or to register, go to www.MarketingSummerCamp.com. <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Women Entrepreneurs Learn How to Attract More Business with the a4Queen of Your Financesa4 Teleclass Series]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Women_Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Attract_More_Business_with_the_lsquoQueen_of_Your_Financesrsquo_Teleclass_Series-1/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Women_Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Attract_More_Business_with_the_lsquoQueen_of_Your_Financesrsquo_Teleclass_Series-1/</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:32:44 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Women_Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Attract_More_Business_with_the_lsquoQueen_of_Your_Financesrsquo_Teleclass_Series-1/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Santa Monica, CA - June 30, 2008 - Ann Convery will share her financial savvy with women entrepreneurs when she speaks on how to attract more prospects, clients, business and money by changing the way they talk on Monday, August 25th at 5 p.m. PST, as part of teleclass series Queen of Your Finances.&quot;Women business owners and entrepreneurs focusing on wealth building need to grasp the concept of how financial woes are holding them back in other parts of their life in order to become successful,&quot; says Gina Ratliffe, creator of The Queen of Your Finances teleseries, and the owner of The Esther Experience (www.theestherexperience.com). &quot;Having Ann on our series will help these women to realize how to attract more business by having better conversations.&quot; Convery is the creator of &quot;Speak Your Business in 30 Seconds or Less&quot; (www.annconvery.com) and has enabled her clients to generate up to hundreds of thousands of dollars within weeks with her program. She is an international speaker, seminar leader, trainer, and author who has worked with top professionals in the fields of politics, medicine, law, business, health, and beauty for more than 18 years. During the teleclass, participants will learn:a4How to speak in buyer's languagea4How to dollarize and quantifya4How to stop labeling yourself out of businessa4Additional techniques not taught in sales classes&quot;Successful women have particular spending patterns, lifestyles and attitudes,&quot; says Ratliffe, &quot;So I developed the along the The Queen of Your Finances series to achieve help empower women entrepreneurs to embrace their wealth and entrepreneurial spirit.&quot;The Queen of Your Finances is a monthly mastermind membership program, which features nationally recognized experts to help women build their businesses and create lasting financial success. The first month of the program, which includes two teleclasses, is $9.97.For more information, or to register go to http://www.estherexperience.com/queenfinances_signup.htmlAbout The Esther Experience (www.theestherexperience.com)The Esther Experience was founded by professional life and success coach, Gina Ratliffe, to help women create the lifestyle and happiness they desire. Ratliffe is a nationally recognized motivational speaker as well as radio talk show host. She has studied some of the world's most influential people while working at the White House, Supreme Court, and the Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. ###Contact: Shannon CherryPR for The Esther Experience800.257.0633, ext 4news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Women Entrepreneurs Learn How to Position Themselves as an Expert with the a4Queen of Your Financesa4 Teleclass Series]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Women_Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Position_Themselves_as_an_Expert_with_the_lsquoQueen_of_Your_Financesrsquo_Teleclass_Series/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Women_Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Position_Themselves_as_an_Expert_with_the_lsquoQueen_of_Your_Financesrsquo_Teleclass_Series/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:47:14 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Women_Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Position_Themselves_as_an_Expert_with_the_lsquoQueen_of_Your_Financesrsquo_Teleclass_Series/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[News ReleaseFor Immediate ReleaseWomen Entrepreneurs Learn How to Position Themselves as an Expert with the a4Queen of Your Finances' Teleclass Series Nationally recognized and accomplished business psychologist reveals how branding and building a platform leads to wealth building at www.estherexperience.comSanta Monica, CA - April 15, 2008 - Larina Kase, business psychologist and expert in platform building and branding will share her financial savvy with women entrepreneurs when she speaks on &quot;Brand yourself, build your platform, and build wealth,&quot; on Monday April 21, at 5 p.m. PST, as part of teleclass series Queen of Your Finances.&quot;Women business owners and entrepreneurs who focusing on wealth building need to know how to position themselves as the expert in their field in order to become successful,&quot; says Gina Ratliffe, creator of The Queen of Your Finances teleseries, and the owner of The Esther Experience (www.theestherexperience.com). &quot;Having Larina on will help these women learn how and where to position themselves as an expert to gain more recognition and wealth.&quot;Kase, is the owner of PlatformBuildingSecrets.com. She helps women build their platforms, position themselves as the expert and be sought as the &quot;go to&quot; person in their field.During the teleclass, participants will learn:a4How to stand out from the sea of information expertsa4How to build their own platforma4How your platform will bring you success&quot;Successful women have particular spending patterns, lifestyles and attitudes,&quot; says Ratliffe, &quot;So I developed the along the The Queen of Your Finances series to achieve help empower women entrepreneurs to embrace their wealth and entrepreneurial spirit.&quot;The Queen of Your Finances is a monthly mastermind membership program, which features nationally-recognized experts to help women build their businesses and create lasting financial success.  The first month of the program, which includes two teleclasses, is $9.97.For more information, or to register go to http://www.estherexperience.com/queenfinances_signup.htmlAbout The Esther Experience (www.theestherexperience.com)The Esther Experience was founded by professional life and success coach, Gina Ratliffe, to help women create the lifestyle and happiness they desire. Ratliffe is a nationally-recognized motivational speaker as well as radio talk show host.  She has studied some of the world's most influential people while working at the White House, Supreme Court, and the Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. ###Contact: Shannon CherryPR for The Esther Experience800.257.0633, ext 4news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Feel Free To Prosper Program Offered at Unity Church of the Bay Area]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Feel_Free_To_Prosper_Program_Offered_at_Unity_Church_of_the_Bay_Area/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Feel_Free_To_Prosper_Program_Offered_at_Unity_Church_of_the_Bay_Area/</comments>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:42:50 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Feel_Free_To_Prosper_Program_Offered_at_Unity_Church_of_the_Bay_Area/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Feel Free To Prosper Program Offered at Unity Church of the Bay AreaProsperity Mentor Teaches the Laws of Attraction in HoustonApril 10, 2008 - Businesswoman and prosperity teacher Marilyn Jenett will be presenting her Feel Free to Prosper Program at the Unity Church of the Bay Area in League City on Saturday, May 17 from 1 -4 pm.&quot;Just as a house cannot stand without a proper foundation, success cannot arrive unless you first have the internal foundation - the mindset - to succeed,&quot; says Jenett. &quot;This program provides the missing link in other prosperity programs and is known for strikingly fast results.&quot;In the three-hour program, participants will learn:* How to overcome resistance in the subconscious mind* To apply a new awareness specifically to the success of a business or career* Techniques to help you prosper in all areas of life: health, wealth, love and relationshipsRegistration is limited and must be made in advance by April 30. For more information or to register, visithttp://www.feelfreetoprosper.com/unityofbayarea.htmlAbout Feel Free to Prosper ( www.feelfreetoprosper.com)After a successful career in the business world using the laws ofattraction, Marilyn Jenett created Feel Free to Prosper to provide a simple, yet powerful lesson and mentoring program based on mental and spiritual laws. The course has been taken by thousands of students around the world and is available in live or audio formats. The company also offers additional audio programs and eBooks, including &quot;An Introduction to Universal Laws and Prosperity Principles,&quot; &quot;Release is Magnetic,&quot; &quot;The Gratitude Call,&quot; and &quot;I Create My Body.###contact: Marilyn Jenettmarilyn@feelfreetoprosper.com(310) 475-0211 <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Interior Designer Wins International Award for Window Treatment Design]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/InteriorDesign/Interior_Designer_Wins_International_Award_for_Window_Treatment_Design-1/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/InteriorDesign/Interior_Designer_Wins_International_Award_for_Window_Treatment_Design-1/</comments>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:26:16 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Interior Design</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/InteriorDesign/Interior_Designer_Wins_International_Award_for_Window_Treatment_Design-1/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Schenectady, NY- April 10, 2008 -Professional Interior Designer, Terry Kral, founder of Window Wear Etc. (http://www.windowwearetc.com/index.html), was awarded top honors at the Window Fashions Envision Design and Ingenuity Workroom Competition. Kral received first prize in the Specialty Window Category for a treatment featured in a New York home. &quot;I am so honored to be recognized by the top designers in our industry,&quot; says Kral. &quot;Using my expertise in signature custom window design, I was able to create a masterpiece that truly got the judges attention, but more importantly satisfied my clients' needs for a functional, elegant window treatment.&quot;Kral has more than 10 years experience as an interior designer.  The award-winning consultant is a Certified Window Treatment Professional and a member of the American Society of Interior Designers.The competition is held annually by Window Fashions Design &amp; Education Magazine, an industry leader in window treatment and interior design. More than 150 designs were submitted to the international competition. Kral received her award at the International Window Coverings Expo in Atlanta, where she received a trophy.  In addition to the award, Kral is also featured as a leading interior designer in Window Fashions magazine. For more information visit: http://www.windowwearetc.com or call (518) 355-0063.About Window Wear, Etc. (http://www.WindowWearEtc.com)Window Wear Etc. provides quality products and professional advice for custom interior design services. Founded by Terry Kral, the company was created for modern, busy lifestyle and operates exclusively as a shop-at-home decorating service by bringing all products and samples to customers' homes. The company is based in the Capital Region of NY.### <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[New Telebootcamp Teaches People to Build Email List & Get Free Publicity]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/New_Telebootcamp_Teaches_People_to_Build_Email_List__Get_Free_Publicity/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/New_Telebootcamp_Teaches_People_to_Build_Email_List__Get_Free_Publicity/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2008 07:20:40 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Public Relations</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/New_Telebootcamp_Teaches_People_to_Build_Email_List__Get_Free_Publicity/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[News ReleaseFor Immediate ReleaseNew Telebootcamp Teaches People to Build Email List &amp; Get Free PublicityListBuildingPromotionSecrets.com offers little known way to increase subscribersALBANY, NY - April 1, 2008 - Publicity expert Shannon Cherry will be sharing strategies in a new teleseminar series, List Building Promotion Secrets Telebootcamp (www.ListBuildingPromotionSecrets.com)  beginning April 15. The three-part webinar series will share Cherry's exclusive promotional system on how to attract customers quickly, while gaining free publicity. &quot;Most business owners forget that the most important thing to have someone do when visiting their site is to get their name for future promotions&quot; says Cherry, creator of the program and founder of Be Heard Solutions (http://www.beheardsolutions.com), a publicity and promotions firm. &quot;By harnessing the power of Internet marketing and publicity, the information I share in the webinar series allows anyone to quickly increase the number of targeted people who will buy from them.&quot;Created for Internet marketers, the List Build Promotion Secret Telebootcamp includes:a4Three webinar classes with step-by-step instructions to build a targeted email list using a special holiday promotion.a4List Building Promotion Secrets Telebootcamp Workbook to help plan a list building promotion.a4Templates to assist in writing promotions easily.a4A targeted media lista4A press release critiqueCherry is the owner of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), and Cherry Communications (www.cherrycommunications.com). A former TV and newspaper journalist, she helps small business owners and entrepreneurs attract more customers by making them the recognized expert. Cherry is accredited in public relations and has worked in the PR, marketing and fundraising field for more than 15 years. For more information on the telebootcamp and to reserve a spot go to www.ListBuildingPromotionSecrets.com or call 1-800-257-0633.###Contact: Shannon Cherry, APR, MABe Heard Solutions800.257.0633 ext 4news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Internet Marketing Expert to Share Strategies At Global Annual Web Industry Expo.]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Computers/Internet_Marketing_Expert_to_Share_Strategies_At_Global_Annual_Web_Industry_Expo-/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Computers/Internet_Marketing_Expert_to_Share_Strategies_At_Global_Annual_Web_Industry_Expo-/</comments>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:26:43 -0700</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Computers</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Computers/Internet_Marketing_Expert_to_Share_Strategies_At_Global_Annual_Web_Industry_Expo-/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Internet Marketing Expert to Share Strategies At Global Annual Web Industry Expo.Rebecca Murtagh of KarnerBlueMarketing.com named speaker at Web 2.0 in San FranciscoALBANY, NY - March 12, 2008 -Rebecca Murtagh joins the most innovative and successful Internet industry figures in San Francisco to present, &quot;Integrating SEO, Usability, and Internet Marketing for High Performance and Results,&quot; at Web 2.0 2008. The Expo, known as the global annual gathering of technical, design, marketing, and business professionals who are building the next generation web, is co-presented by CMP Technology and O'Reilly Media at Moscone Center West in San Francisco, April 21-25, 2008.Murtagh's presentation to on April 25 at 11 a.m. will share best practices on how to:  a4Honor the website mission more than the project and technology used within. a4Turn a good website into a great website.a4Build a results-driven environment that will support immediate and long-term goals.a4Challenge process and methods to give the audience what they want, in record-time.a4Leverage usability and loyalty to improve search engine marketing, usability and conversion. &quot;For too long the website has been viewed as a project, deemed successful when it goes live. When, in reality, true success is measured by the results generated by the website - which means attracting qualified prospects to the site and converting them to customers,&quot; Murtagh says. &quot;It's easy to let the excitement of new technologies distract us from the bottom line, so I challenge designers and technologists to expand their vision, and everyone wins.&quot;Murtagh is the owner of Karner Blue Marketing, an Internet marketing firm (www.karnerbluemarketing.com) which helps businesses who wanted to attract more clients and customers by leveraging the power of their website through search engine optimization (SEO), web usability, pay per click campaigns and other e-business functions. Karner Blue Marketing has had renowned success being one of the leading SEO companies in the country and winning numerous marketing awards including the Mark of Excellence from the American Marketing Association Capital Region District. Murtagh has more than 25 years of marketing experience with prestigious marketing firms in the Northeast. She is also an expert judge for the Web Marketing Association's annual International Website Competition and Internet Advertising Awards Competition. To register for the event, visit https://en.oreilly.com/webexsf2008/public/registerFor more information on Rebecca Murtagh and Karner Blue Marketing, visit http://www.karnerbluemarketing.com### <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Five Steps for Small Business Owners to Survive Tax Season]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Five_Steps_for_Small_Business_Owners_to_Survive_Tax_Season/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Five_Steps_for_Small_Business_Owners_to_Survive_Tax_Season/</comments>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 Mar 2008 10:25:25 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Five_Steps_for_Small_Business_Owners_to_Survive_Tax_Season/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Five Steps for Small Business Owners to Survive Tax SeasonProfessional Bookkeeper and Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor shares secrets to avoid your IRS anxietyNorwood, MA - March 6, 2008 - With more than 64% of small business owners filing their own taxes, a lot of anxiety surrounds small business owners as they begin tax preparation. According to one Professional Bookkeeper, planning is the key to reducing stress - even if one has waited to the last minute.&quot;These are often the times that stress small business owners andentrepreneurs the most. Business is down, money is tight, and the taxes need to be done,&quot; says Jessica Reagan Salzman, founder of Behind the Scenes LLC (www.behindthescenesLLC.com), a virtual bookkeeping firm. &quot;Stress is basically a result of feeling out of control. By sitting down and making a plan - even if you are behind, you can reduce the anxiety involved in getting your taxes done.&quot;Salzman is a Professional Bookkeeper and Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. She is a member of the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Society of Accountants (NSA), and a recipient of the E-Myth Embark E-Learning  Scholarship.She shares five secrets to reduce IRS anxiety, maximize 2007 tax benefits, and turn problems into profits:*Gather all necessary documentation long before you sit down to prepare your taxes. Much of the stress associated with preparing taxes has to do with locating and collecting the proper documentation. Take the time to find all tax-related material needed.*Separate business and personal funds. Many small business owners make the mistake of mingling business funds and legitimate business expenses with personal finances.  &quot;It's good business practice to open a separate checking account for managing business finances. It's also a great idea to take it one step further and also maintain a credit card account that is used solely for business purchases,&quot; says Salzman. &quot;It's much easier to keep track of business expenses when there aren't personal purchases thrown into the mix that later need to be weeded out.&quot;*Check for inventory write-offs. Look through inventory to see if any products are damaged or outdated. Noting market-value loss could provide additional tax deductions.*Contribute to a retirement plan. &quot;Small business owners and entrepreneurs should recognize that being your own boss means you are responsible for your own retirement,&quot; she says. &quot;If you haven't started contributing to a retirement account, now is the time. Most contributions made are tax deductible.&quot;*Above all, don't procrastinate, seek professional help.  Don't wait until April to enlist the help of a tax professional. Chances are they'll be hard-pressed to fit you in that late in the game. &quot;Tax laws can be confusing and deductions difficult for the layperson to recognize. Consult with a professional early in the year and come equipped with well-organized documentation. You'll be ready for a stress-free tax season,&quot; says Salzman.For more information, visit www.behindthescenesLLC.comAbout Behind the Scenes LLC (www.behindthescenesLLC.com):Behind the Scenes LLC was founded by Jessica Reagan Salzman to help small business owners to increase profits, reduce taxes, and improve cash flow. Founded in 2006, the company maximizes small businesses' resources by offering a customized approach to professional bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and tax-related services to small businesses and solopreneurs.Behind the Scenes LLC provides what they call the &quot;bookkeeping with benefits&quot; model, which helps clients understand their monthly financial statements, and empowers them to make more effective and more profitable business decisions.This exclusive model also provides clients with peace of mind that while they concentrate on revenue-producing goals, Behind the Scenes is taking care of the bookkeeping aspect of their business.###Contact:Shannon CherryPR for Behind the Scenes LLCnews@cherrycommunications.com800-257-0633, ext 4 <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Health Care Most Important Issue for Parents in 2008 Election, National Parenting Survey Finds]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/HealthCare/Health_Care_Most_Important_Issue_for_Parents_in_2008_Election_National_Parenting_Survey_Finds/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/HealthCare/Health_Care_Most_Important_Issue_for_Parents_in_2008_Election_National_Parenting_Survey_Finds/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 Mar 2008 10:58:17 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Health Care</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/HealthCare/Health_Care_Most_Important_Issue_for_Parents_in_2008_Election_National_Parenting_Survey_Finds/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[news releasefor immediate release   Health Care Most Important Issue for Parents in 2008 Election, National Parenting Survey FindsARLINGTON, MA - MARCH 4, 2008 - With the 2008 presidential nominations right around the corner, an independent parenting magazine survey finds healthcare ranks as the most important issue for parents- and will be making their voting choices based on it.The survey, sponsored by Parents for Parentsa4 Magazine (www.ParentsforParentsMag.com), found 40% of adult parents surveyed chose healthcare as the key election issue, with education following at 28%.&quot;With the recession looming, and more people losing jobs more people will be uninsured or under-insured. It's not surprising that this is a huge issue for parents,&quot; says S.K Joun, publisher of Parents for Parents, who is also a parent and author. &quot;After all, who wants to have to worry about medical costs when you have a child in need?&quot;The poll also revealed other issues important to parents:a4War in Iraq- 11%a4Environment-  8%a4Immigration-  2%a4Social Security-  2%The survey was conducted by Parents for Parentsa4 magazine between December 2007 and January 2008. For more information, visit www.ParentsforParentsMag.com.About Parents for Parentsa4:Written for parents by parents, the magazine is based on the belief that the only real experts on parenting are parents. It gives both moms and dads the opportunity to trust themselves and share information, as well as support with each other without judgment. S.K. Joun is also the author of Mother of Two's Guide to Sanity, a quick, fun resource book that provides useful and proven parenting techniques to families of all sizes.###Contact:Shannon CherryPR for SK Joun800-257-0633, ex 4pr@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[a4Lily On the Fly - Hearty Meals for Hungry Familiesa4 Named Best Product of 2008 by iParenting Media]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Family/ldquoLily_On_the_Fly_-_Hearty_Meals_for_Hungry_Familiesrdquo_Named_Best_Product_of_2008_by_iParenting_Media/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Family/ldquoLily_On_the_Fly_-_Hearty_Meals_for_Hungry_Familiesrdquo_Named_Best_Product_of_2008_by_iParenting_Media/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:47:48 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Family</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Family/ldquoLily_On_the_Fly_-_Hearty_Meals_for_Hungry_Familiesrdquo_Named_Best_Product_of_2008_by_iParenting_Media/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[&quot;Lily On the Fly - Hearty Meals for Hungry Families&quot; Named Best Product of 2008 by iParenting Media Westerville, OH (March 4, 2008) - Lily On the Fly-Hearty Meals for Hungry Families was named among the best products of 2008 by iParenting Media. iParenting Media evaluates products ranging from educational software to parenting websites and only lists the highest quality products on their award-winning list.   The iParenting Media Awards program is an unprecedented process that carefully reviews and then recognizes the best products in the marketplace and then shares them with the parents,&quot; says Alvin All, chief executive officer of iParenting Media. &quot;Thousands of products were submitted to our 2008 Best Products Call for Entry and all were put through the only internationally certified product evaluation system in the parenting and awards industry.  Only the ones that exceeded the high evaluation standards we set earned the iParenting Media award.&quot; Created by Karen Patterson, Lily On the Fly offers a 3-step, color coded card system of planning, shopping and preparing healthy meals. According to Patterson, &quot;The system is designed for today's busy families who live their lives a4on the fly'.&quot;   iParenting Media's evaluation process matches the products submitted with hundreds of experienced reviewers.  Items will only be considered for the list after thorough evaluation.  The final list of award-winning products enables parents everywhere to seek out the highest quality products with just the click of a mouse.   &quot;I am honored to be named as a Best Product of 2008 by iParenting Media. People should feel confident in purchasing any of the Lily on the Fly Hearty Meal solutions,&quot; says Patterson. The Lily On the Fly kits are available at www.lilyonthefly.com. The company is located in Westerville, OH.       ###Contact:Shannon Cherry, APR, MAPR for Lily On the Fly800.257.0633, ext 4news@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[National Be Heard Day Offers Small Business Celebration with Free Gifts]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/National_Be_Heard_Day_Offers_Small_Business_Celebration_with_Free_Gifts/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/National_Be_Heard_Day_Offers_Small_Business_Celebration_with_Free_Gifts/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:54:31 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Public Relations</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/National_Be_Heard_Day_Offers_Small_Business_Celebration_with_Free_Gifts/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[News Release For Immediate ReleaseNational Be Heard Day Offers Small Business Celebration with Free GiftsMarketing Experts Reveal Secrets to Be Heard for Entrepreneurs and Small Business OwnersAlbany, NY- February 29, 2008 --  As part of National Be Heard Day on March 7, a group of marketing experts will be offering free tools and programs to help entrepreneurs and small business owners find their voice, tell their story and be heard.Be Heard Day was created in 2005 by entrepreneur Shannon Cherry to celebrate small businesses inventive and low-cost ways to market and promote themselves effectively. &quot;More than 145 million people in the US own a small business or is an independent professional. The day urges these professionals stop worrying about what the big corporations are doing - and start using creative, low-cost solutions to get known in their communities and beyond,&quot; says Cherry. As part of the celebration, more than 15 professionals will be offering a free gift to help small businesses and entrepreneurs get the publicity they wanted and needed to grow. The free giveaways include:a4Tools to Define and grow your Business from Laurie Boyce (www.themarcomlab.com)a4Personal vs. Professional Special Report from Jennifer Gniadecki (www.marketingcurve.com)a4Ten Cost-Free Ways a Business or Service Can Find New Prospects ebook from Shel Horowitz (www.frugalmarketing.com)a4How to Utilize New Media Marketing for Your Business Special Report from Tammy Munson (www.newmediava.com)a425 Ways to Hear Ka-Ching! In Your Business FAST and Get More Customers, Clients and Money Special Report from name of person (www.michelepw.com)a4Increase Your Business by Communicating Your Credibility e-course from Felicia Slattery (www.transformativejourneys.com)a4Build a Credible Testimonial e-course from Desiree Young (www.venturewalk.com)&quot;It's exciting to see how many great marketing professionals have jumped on board to help entrepreneurs,&quot; says Cherry, who is the owner of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com). &quot;We've all been there and I think that's why everyone wanted to participate. Even when I first started out in on my own, I had very little direction and found myself fumbling my way through things, spending a lot of unnecessary money. I wish I had a resource like this when I was trying to build my business which is why I was motivated to bring these free tools to as many small business owners as possible.&quot;To access and take advantage of all the tips and freebies this holiday has to offer, go to www.beheardfirst.com. ###Contact:Jen DwyerCherry Communications800.257.0633, ext 4Jennifer@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Entrepreneurs Learn How to Be Heard With Exclusive Free Audio Series From StartupSpark.com as Part of National Be Heard Day]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Be_Heard_With_Exclusive_Free_Audio_Series_From_StartupSpark-com_as_Part_of_National_Be_Heard_Day/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Be_Heard_With_Exclusive_Free_Audio_Series_From_StartupSpark-com_as_Part_of_National_Be_Heard_Day/</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 09:01:28 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Business/Entrepreneurs_Learn_How_to_Be_Heard_With_Exclusive_Free_Audio_Series_From_StartupSpark-com_as_Part_of_National_Be_Heard_Day/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[News ReleaseFor Immediate ReleaseEntrepreneurs Learn How to Be Heard With Exclusive Free Audio Series From StartupSpark.com as Part of National Be Heard DayHost Shannon Cherry interviews ten successful marketers on tactics small business owners can useAlbany, NY - February 19, 2008 - Ten successful marketers will be interviewed as part of a series in celebration of National Be Heard Day. The interviews, conducted Public Relations Professional Shannon Cherry, will feature the insider secrets on how to develop low-cost, effective marketing strategies for small business owners and entrepreneurs.The podcast interview series, &quot;Be Heard&quot; will be featured on the award-winning blog, www.startupspark.com, and will be conducted leading up to National Be Heard Day on March 7.  The holiday was founded in 2005 to help small businesses and entrepreneurs find their voice, tell their story and be heard. &quot;When you're just starting a business - it can be daunting,&quot; says Cherry. &quot;These professionals have been there and made their mistakes. But they survived the hard start up times, and now will be sharing what they've learned along the way at startupspark.com. I think what they have to say will be invaluable to small business owners and entrepreneurs.&quot;Cherry is the owner of Cherry Communications (www.cherrycommunications.com) and its subsidiary, Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), Albany, NY-based virtual strategic communications firm that works with small businesses and nonprofits all over the country to develop results-oriented marketing and public relations programs. She is also the co-author of the books, Be Your Own Great &amp; Powerful: A Woman's Guide to Leading Your Real, Big Life and Parenting Beyond Belief, and has spoken on public relations and marketing issues and strategies worldwide.The interviews will available free of charge on www.startupspark.com beginning February 28 and include advice from a diverse pool of professionals in areas including copywriting, public relations, life coaching and virtual assistance. They will also be available via iTunes and other podcast download sites.For more information, go to www.startupspark.com.###Contact: Jen DwyerCherry Communications800.257.0633, ext 4Jennifer@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Publicity Expert Shares Tips on Being Heard for National Be Heard Day]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/Publicity_Expert_Shares_Tips_on_Being_Heard_for_National_Be_Heard_Day/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/Publicity_Expert_Shares_Tips_on_Being_Heard_for_National_Be_Heard_Day/</comments>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 11:01:20 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Public Relations</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/PublicRelations/Publicity_Expert_Shares_Tips_on_Being_Heard_for_National_Be_Heard_Day/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[news release   Publicity Expert Shares Tips on Being Heard for National Be Heard DayNational Holiday Encourages Entrepreneurs and Business Owners to Find Their Voice, Tell Their Story and Be Heard ALBANY, NY - (FEBRUARY 22, 2008) - Many small business owners and entrepreneurs think marketing and publicity is out of their reach, especially when they feel they can't compete budget-wise with big corporations. But one publicity professional disagrees. She feels with the right amount of exposure in the right places, any small business can flourish and succeed. With National Be Heard Day on March 7th, small businesses can celebrate their own unique marketing efforts.&quot;National Be Heard Day calls attention to the 145+ million people who are either employed by a small business or is an independent professional in the United States. They're the owners of the local grocery store, the employees of the small advertising agency, piano teachers and plumbers, business analysts and bakers, attorneys and artisans,&quot; says Shannon Cherry, APR, creator of the holiday. &quot;The day urges these professionals to find their voice, tell their story and be heard through marketing and publicity.&quot;Cherry, who created the holiday in 2004, is the owner of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com), and Cherry Communications (www.cherrycommunications.com). A former TV and newspaper journalist, she helps small business owners and entrepreneurs who are struggling to get more customers making them the recognized expert. Cherry is accredited in public relations and has worked in the PR, marketing and fundraising field for more than 15 years. According to Cherry, marketing is a key element in any small business, but it doesn't need to break the bank. &quot;Small businesses typically have a limited marketing budget if any at all,&quot; she says. &quot;Does that mean you can't succeed like the big guys? Absolutely not. It just means you have to think a little more creatively. And that's what National Be Heard Day celebrates: creative tactics that helps the little guy grow and thrive.&quot;To help small businesses owners, Cherry offers the following tactics to be heard on National Be Heard Day:1.Write articles: Articles don't have to be long; they just need to be informative. Writing articles gives you instant credibility, too. Submitting online, as well as offline, provides another good chance to get your name in print at no cost. Be sure to put your contact information in a contact resource box at the end of the article. 2.Use your business cards: Think of your business card as a small billboard and start handing them out everywhere. Include them in all your correspondence - even in your bills!3.Public speaking: Speaking in front of an audience usually makes you an expert. People like to buy from experts. If they're in your audience, then they'll remember your expertise and come to you when they need your product or service. Speaking is free, and it's just like making a sales call to many people at one time. 4.Free reports: Offering a free report online is a good way to get an e-mail from prospects so you may market to them later. This is the whole basis of permission-based marketing, or opt-in lists. You can do the same thing offline. 5.Build strategic alliances: Introduce yourself to other businesspeople who don't compete with you but sell products or services to the same target audience. Offer to promote them if they promote you. Make sure they're people you like and trust.For more marketing tactics and tips, and to receive free gifts as part of the National Be Heard Day celebration, go to www.beheardfirst.com.###Contact:Jennifer DwyerCherry Communications800.257.0633 ext 4Jennifer@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>2 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Why a Website is not enough]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Why_a_Website_is_not_enough/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Why_a_Website_is_not_enough/</comments>
<pubDate>Sat, 19 Jan 2008 18:23:35 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Advertising</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Advertising/Why_a_Website_is_not_enough/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[WHY A WEBSITE IS NOT ENOUGHInternet expert shares secrets to attract new customers on the Internet ALBANY, NY - JANUARY 3, 2008 -  With businesses increasing their use of the Internet to attract new customers and clients, one expert says that in 2008, just having a website is not enough.&quot;Recent studies show businesses of all sizes will rely on their website more than ever to promote, sell and support their products and services this year,&quot; says Rebecca Murtagh, an Internet marketing and e-business professional with more than 15 years experience. &quot;In the early days, it may have been enough to simply have a website. But so much has changed since that time that a business needs to harness all aspects of the Internet to connect with customers.&quot;Murtagh is the owner of Karner Blue Marketing (www.karnerbluemarketing.com) which helps businesses who wanted to attract more clients and customers by utilizing the power of the Internet with search engine optimization (SEO), web usability, pay per click campaigns and other e-business functions.&quot;Surveys show more there are more than 108 million distinct business websites and people are using the Internet increasingly to find them,&quot; she says. &quot;Businesses surely have their work cut out for them if they intend to connect with customers online and generate a return on the investment in their web presence. Those who take the Internet seriously more often enjoy a positive impact on their bottom line and are prepared to make the necessary investments to capture new revenue opportunities.&quot;She points to some growing trends that businesses need to stay on top of this year:1.The rise of pay-per-click and other online advertising. The e-business strategist pointed to research that's predicting online ad spending will reach an all-time high of $44.6 billion, surpassing radio advertising this year. &quot;Knowing exactly who your target market is - and what they are looking for is vital to make advertising worthwhile,&quot; says Murtagh. &quot;It's not worth the investment if you don't have your homework done.&quot;2.Search engine optimization gets more strategic. &quot;To drive qualified prospects to their website, you're going to need more than meta data and a few keywords,&quot; she says. More than 61% of Internet users conduct local searches so even geographically-centric businesses need to increase their use of the Internet and local search to reach new customers. 3.Social media makes a big impact.  &quot;No longer just one of the hottest Internet marketing topics buzzing around, social media marketing will open new opportunities in 2008 for B2B, B2C and not for profit organizations through organic and paid advertising on viral environments like blogs, YouTube and FaceBook,&quot; explains Murtagh. &quot;These audiences are growing exponentially with an insatiable appetite, presenting opportunities few businesses can afford to forget about.&quot;Murtagh cautions if ignored, these trends could leave some businesses in the dust of the customers that will seek and find the organizations they will ultimately do business with.  &quot;The tried and true methods of Internet marketing such as email marketing, quality copywriting, viral marketing are still important. However, the face of the Internet is changing as new technologies emerge. Adapting these cutting edge internet marketing strategies early can help you gain a distinct advantage.&quot;                                                                         ###Contact:WHY A WEBSITE IS NOT ENOUGHInternet expert shares secrets to attract new customers on the Internet ALBANY, NY - JANUARY 3, 2008 -  With businesses increasing their use of the Internet to attract new customers and clients, one expert says that in 2008, just having a website is not enough.&quot;Recent studies show businesses of all sizes will rely on their website more than ever to promote, sell and support their products and services this year,&quot; says Rebecca Murtagh, an Internet marketing and e-business professional with more than 15 years experience. &quot;In the early days, it may have been enough to simply have a website. But so much has changed since that time that a business needs to harness all aspects of the Internet to connect with customers.&quot;Murtagh is the owner of Karner Blue Marketing (www.karnerbluemarketing.com) which helps businesses who wanted to attract more clients and customers by utilizing the power of the Internet with search engine optimization (SEO), web usability, pay per click campaigns and other e-business functions.&quot;Surveys show more there are more than 108 million distinct business websites and people are using the Internet increasingly to find them,&quot; she says. &quot;Businesses surely have their work cut out for them if they intend to connect with customers online and generate a return on the investment in their web presence. Those who take the Internet seriously more often enjoy a positive impact on their bottom line and are prepared to make the necessary investments to capture new revenue opportunities.&quot;She points to some growing trends that businesses need to stay on top of this year:1.The rise of pay-per-click and other online advertising. The e-business strategist pointed to research that's predicting online ad spending will reach an all-time high of $44.6 billion, surpassing radio advertising this year. &quot;Knowing exactly who your target market is - and what they are looking for is vital to make advertising worthwhile,&quot; says Murtagh. &quot;It's not worth the investment if you don't have your homework done.&quot;2.Search engine optimization gets more strategic. &quot;To drive qualified prospects to their website, you're going to need more than meta data and a few keywords,&quot; she says. More than 61% of Internet users conduct local searches so even geographically-centric businesses need to increase their use of the Internet and local search to reach new customers. 3.Social media makes a big impact.  &quot;No longer just one of the hottest Internet marketing topics buzzing around, social media marketing will open new opportunities in 2008 for B2B, B2C and not for profit organizations through organic and paid advertising on viral environments like blogs, YouTube and FaceBook,&quot; explains Murtagh. &quot;These audiences are growing exponentially with an insatiable appetite, presenting opportunities few businesses can afford to forget about.&quot;Murtagh cautions if ignored, these trends could leave some businesses in the dust of the customers that will seek and find the organizations they will ultimately do business with.  &quot;The tried and true methods of Internet marketing such as email marketing, quality copywriting, viral marketing are still important. However, the face of the Internet is changing as new technologies emerge. Adapting these cutting edge internet marketing strategies early can help you gain a distinct advantage.&quot;                                                                         ###Contact:Rebecca MurtaghShannon CherryKarner Blue MarketingPR for Karner Blue Marketing866-558-3617800-257-0633info@karnerbluemarketing.comnews@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Child Music Experta4s Top Picks on Instruments for Toddlers]]></title>
<link>http://www.prcompass.com/Family/Child_Music_Expertrsquos_Top_Picks_on_Instruments_for_Toddlers/</link>
<comments>http://www.prcompass.com/Family/Child_Music_Expertrsquos_Top_Picks_on_Instruments_for_Toddlers/</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:26:16 -0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Family</category>
<guid>http://www.prcompass.com/Family/Child_Music_Expertrsquos_Top_Picks_on_Instruments_for_Toddlers/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[SCHENECTADY, NY - November 19, 2007- With all the choices of toys available for the holiday season, parents may be confused about choosing an item that is not only fun, but educational, for their young children. One children's expert suggests looking at musical instruments as an alternative to other noisy toys that give few benefits to the child.  &quot;Musical instruments make perfect gifts for toddlers, allowing them to tap into their creative outlet at the same time.,&quot; says Carol Jurs, owner of Music Box Arts (www.musicboxarts.com) in the Capital Region. &quot;Many studies have proven that learning to play a musical instrument can give so much more than just the joy it brings. Hand-to-eye coordination, self-discipline, and attention skills all come along with the mastering of a musical instrument; and the self-esteem and self-respect it brings can last a lifetime.&quot; Jurs, a certified children's music teacher who focuses on teaching children music through experience to develop richer lives, shares some gift ideas for children ages 3-5 years old:1.Tambourines2.Triangles3.Rhythm sticks4.Finger cymbals5.Hand drums6.Jingle bell sticks7.Maracas8.Tone blocks9.Castanets             &quot;The key is to find instruments that allow a toddler to explore,&quot; says Jurs. &quot;Kids learn how sounds are created and gain concrete experience with music fundamentals, such as timbre and pitch.&quot;   About Music Box Arts (www.musicboxarts.com)Music Box Arts is a leading provider of music programs for preschool-aged children in the Capital Region. It has seven locations for the beginning of its fall sessions. All classes use the Music Together methodology. Music Together is a research-based music program conceived and developed in 1985 in order to assist families, caregivers and educators in stimulating and supporting a child's musical environment. Qualified and trained instructors lead the classes, which are for children ages zero to four. For more information about Music Box Arts or classes available, go to www.musicboxarts.com or call Carol Jurs at 518-393-9580.###Contact:Carol Jurs518-393-9580musicboxarts@cs.comShannon Cherry518-248-6592pr@cherrycommunications.com <br/><br/>1 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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