[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/10/weve-moved-join-us-at-www.html[/postlink]

We've moved! Join us at www.GlobalPointPR.com

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/09/triumph-insult-comic-dog-on-chabad.html[/postlink]

Triumph the Insult Comic Dog on the Chabad Telethon

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/09/best-band-ever-love-you-vic.html[/postlink]

Best Band EVER! Love You Vic!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/09/comedy-for-cause.html[/postlink]

CELEBRITY COMICS FIGHT WORLD HUNGER
SNL’S JEFF RICHARDS AND COMPANY UNLEASH COMEDY FOR A CAUSE AT LA’S COMEDY STORE

Jeff Richards (SNL, MAD TV) brings his all star list of comics to the stage in an all out fight against poverty. Asswax 4 Hunger will take place at the infamous Comedy Store this Thursday, September 17th at 8:30 PM. This special event, described as a “Non Conformist Comedy Benefit for World Hunger” will be hosted by Kato Kaelin. Celebrity comics confirmed so far are Ian Edwards (Comedy Central, Bad Boyz of Comedy), Chris Porter
(Last Comic Standing), Jordy Fox (Tom Green House Tonight), Jason Gillearn (The Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live), Bobby Wheeler (The Oprah Winfrey Show), Shawn Halpin (Comedy Store Regular), Eleanor Kerrigan (Opening comic for Andrew Dice Clay) and a surprise special guest (past special guests include Dane Cook, Sarah Silverman, Kevin Nealon and Jeffrey Ross). This will be the 4th Asswax showcase, which has so far raised almost $10,000 for victims of hunger.

"People are hungry around the world,” says Richards. “I am hungry at this very moment...so many people don't have refrigerators with cheese in them. This is a super important event that blends hunger pains with laughing pains"

To purchase tickets in advance, go to www.tastyjeff.com. The Comedy Store is located at 8433 W. Sunset Blvd L.A. 90069. Doors open at 8:00pm.

All media inquiries contact Daniel Ferszt at Global Point Public Relations (310) 359-8419 or email dferszt@globalpointpr.com

####

Comedy For a Cause

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/09/blog-post.html[/postlink]
[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/09/larry-king-tells-us-to-watch-chabad.html[/postlink]

Larry King Tells Us to Watch the Chabad Telethon Sunday, Sept 13 5-11PM Pacific on KTLA

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/to-life.html[/postlink]

To Life!!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/become-fan-of-chabad-telethon-on.html[/postlink]


Click the picture and become a fan of the Chabad Telethon! Get minute by minute information on the biggest and brightest Telethon yet! Dont forget: The 29th Annual Chabad Telethon will air on Sunday, September 13 from 5-11 PM (PDT) on KTLA 5 in Los Angeles, WLNY in the Tri-State area, KTSF in S. Francisco, and nationwide on DirecTV's JLTV Ch. 366. The Telethon will stream live online at ToLife.com.

Become a Fan of the Chabad Telethon on Facebook!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/pa-first-to-integrate-keyboard-town.html[/postlink]
Click to read: PA first to integrate Keyboard Town PALS keyboarding program

TECH & LEARNING MAGAZINE: PA first to integrate Keyboard Town PALS keyboarding program

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/keyboard-town-pals-in-tech-learning.html[/postlink]

http://www.techlearning.com/article/22484

Keyboard Town PALS in Tech & Learning Magazine

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/chabad-telethon-2009-extreme-joy-for.html[/postlink]

Chabad Partners with KTLA 5 on Sunday, September 13th to produce its biggest and most important Telethon yet

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Chabad announced that the 29th annual Chabad "To Life!" Telethon, known for its celebrity guests and dancing rabbis will broadcast live from Hollywood on Sunday, September 13, from 5PM to 11PM (PDT). The current economic crisis has caused a tremendous increase in demand for Chabad's social services. Therefore, Chabad proclaimed its determination to make this year's Telethon an extravaganza that will raise the desperately needed funds to help those who need it now, more than ever.

The growing list of confirmed guests includes Jon Voight, Larry King, Howie Mandel, Tom Arnold, Mindy Sterling, Sam Rubin, NBA Champion Jordan Farmar and co-hosts Elon Gold and Leslie Grossman. Slated performances include Israel's world music sensation Idan Raichel, Broadway legend Mike Burstyn, Ray Chew's Boys Choir of Harlem, Moshav Band and 8th Day.

“These challenging times call for increased joy and a renewed commitment to help those in need. Each one of us has the opportunity and the responsibility to share the precious gift of joy. That's been the underlying theme of this Telethon for 29 years,” said Rabbi Boruch Shlomo Cunin, head of West Coast Chabad. "Now more than ever, people are turning to Chabad for help," he said, "Men, women and children face desperation and hopelessness. On September 13, we will fight hopelessness with happiness as we work harder and dance more than ever to celebrate the joy of giving." he exclaimed.
The Telethon supports Chabad's network of over 200 community outreach centers and a broad range of educational and nonsectarian programs providing social services to the needy and support for children with special needs. Last year’s broadcast generated more than $8 million in charitable gifts, with donations ranging from a single dollar to tens of thousands. The Telethon is co-chaired by Hollywood mega producer Jerry Weintraub and all-star attorney Marshall Grossman.

The flagship station for the 2009 Chabad "To Life" Telethon is KTLA 5, LA's original broadcast station, who are partnering with Chabad in its efforts to help those in need.

John Moczulski, Vice President of KTLA 5, is excited about the new partnership. "KTLA 5 is proud to partner with Chabad to bring the Telethon to Los Angeles. As Los Angeles' marquee news station and the only station with 'LA' in our call letters, we see Chabad's dedication to helping people, and we want to be a part of it. They're an amazing part of our community; they represent the heart and soul of what makes LA special -- its generosity and commitment to those in need," he said. DirectTV will carry the live Telethon nationwide on Jewish Life Television's (JLTV) Channel 366 and the Telethon will stream live on the web at ToLife.com.

In all, the 2009 Chabad "To Life" Telethon will reach more than 150 million households worldwide. Viewers tune-in to join the unique combination of celebrity guests and dancing rabbis--and when they do, they’ll see just the latest round of an ongoing celebration of giving.

"We have an incredible team working on this Telethon. Everything will be bigger, better, and more joyous," said Chaim Marcus, Telethon Producer. "We are especially excited about Larry King joining us this year," he said.


“The Telethon started in response to a terrible event, and brought us new hope,” explained Rabbi Cunin. “To this day, the program provides a way to demonstrate our common humanity and fulfill the Rebbe’s vision of people working together to help one another.”


For more information visit www.ToLife.com. All media inquiries contact Daniel Ferszt at (310) 359-8419 or email dferszt@globalpointpr.com.

Chabad Telethon 2009: Extreme Joy For Challenging Times

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/blog-post.html[/postlink]

:-)

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/blast-from-telethon-past-meshugenas.html[/postlink]

A Blast From Telethon Past: "Meshugenas With Attitudes!" with Vic "The Brick" Jacobs!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/blast-from-telethon-past-meshugenas_08.html[/postlink]

A Blast From Telethon Past: "Meshugenas With Attitudes!" with Vic "The Brick" Jacobs!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/08/cast-of-it-chicks-soon-to-be-seen-on.html[/postlink]
Elspeth Keller, Jada Catta-Preta and Kato Kaelin


The cast of The IT Chicks: Guest Appearance on The Single Life With Sam Phillips.

The Cast of "The IT Chicks" Soon to Be Seen on "The Single Life with Sam Phillips" on MAV TV

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/military-moms-love-it.html[/postlink]
Caroline is a Homeschooling Mom in a Military Family who just LOVES Keyboard Town PALS! Read her fabulous review!

Military Moms Love It!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/global-ambassador-for-autism-to-host.html[/postlink]
GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR AUTISM TO HOST LIVE PRESENTATION AND PUBLIC SCREENING OF EMMY AWARD WINNING HBO DOCUMENTARY “AUTISM: THE MUSICAL”

For immediate release: On Wednesday, August 5th at 6:00 PM The Friendship Circle of Pacific Palisades-Malibu will screnn the Emmy Award winning HBO Documentary, “Autism: The Musical.” The film chronicles the lives of five autistic children and their parents over a period of seven to eight months, as well as their participation in The Miracle Project, a unique theatre arts program created by world renowned writer, director, therapist, educator Coach Elaine Hall (“Coach E”). The event will take place at the Theatre Palisades, and will be the only viewing prior to its screening for American Troops in Pakistan, as chosen by the United States Government. There will also be a live performance featuring some the stars of Autism, as well as a question and answer session with Coach Elaine, who has just recently been invited by the United Nations to be the Global Ambassador for Autism.

“This will be an informative evening for everyone who attends, not just those who are connected to kids with Autism,” says Moriel Zacks, Director of the Friendship Circle; the pioneering nationwide organization that pairs teen volunteers with special needs children. “I am big fan of the film and an even bigger admirer of Coach E and her work. I feel strongly that people have a responsibility on a human level to be informed and to hopefully get involved.”

Rabbi Zushe Cunin is Executive Director of Chabad of Pacific Palisades, which is the parent organization to the Friendship Circle. “This is an event that will affect the entire community in a profound and positive way,” he says. “We are truly blessed to have Elaine as a part of our community and we look forward to working together with The Miracle Project.”

The Theatre Palisades is located at 941 Temescal Canyon Rd, Pacific Palisades, 90272. Tickets can be purchased for $18 at www.fcpalisadesmalibu.org and will be sold for $23 at the door. Light refreshments will be served and seating is limited. All media inquiries contact Daniel Ferszt at Global Point Public Relations (866) 594-4777 or email news@globalpointpr.com.

####

About the Film

Autism: The Musical is a call to arms, bringing attention to a modern-day epidemic while celebrating the value of the human spirit in overcoming any challenge. The film introduces Neal, Lexi, Henry, Adam and Wyatt - five autistic kids who, along with their parents, take part in a groundbreaking theatrical workshop. The Miracle Project was started by Neal's mother Elaine Hall with an eye towards helping children with autism express themselves while learning to socialize with other kids. Over the course of six months, we experience the frustrations, challenges and triumphs of the families both on stage and in their home lives as they prepare for the show. The creative process provides a key to unlocking the children's inner worlds. We also see how patience, understanding, love and community can be used to help children with autism better adapt to the world at large.

For more information, visit http://www.autismthemusical.com/ . For more information about The Miracle Project, visit http://www.themiracleproject.org/.

About the Friendship Circle

The Friendship Circle is a project of Chabad of Pacific Palisades. Its innovative and caring cause extends a helping hand to families who have children with special needs and involves them in a full range of social experiences. The Circle's unique formula introduces teenage volunteers to the children and their families, and through the shared experiences, all are enriched.

The child with special needs looks forward to a weekly visit and the opportunity to play with and learn from their older friends.

The teenage volunteer learns the value of giving, and cherishes the experience of making a difference in a child's life and bringing a smile to his or her face.

The child's family gets a needed respite and the pleasure of seeing their child become a part of the community circle. The Friendship Circle is made up of five parts: volunteers, children, parents, staff, and supporters. The true beauty of the Circle is how we all link together to form a seamless circle of friendship. For more information, visit http://www.fcpalisadesmalibu.org/.

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR AUTISM TO HOST LIVE PRESENTATION AND PUBLIC SCREENING OF “AUTISM: THE MUSICAL”

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/omg-hot-chicks-get-tech-or-is-it-chicks.html[/postlink]
Read the article by Liz Shannon Miller

OMG, Hot Chicks Get Tech? (Or, Is The IT Chicks Sexist?)

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/working-with-hard-rock-cafe-to-feed.html[/postlink]GPPR collaborated with The Hard Rock Cafe in Los Angeles and Chabad of California to provide hot Thanksgiving dinners hundreds of homeless individuals and families. This event has taken place yearly since its inception in November 2005.

Working With The Hard Rock Cafe to Feed the Needy

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/it-chicks-social-network-snark.html[/postlink]

The IT Chicks: Social Network Snark

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/friday-distraction-special-thanks-to.html[/postlink]
Friday distraction: Let's hear your review of "IT Chicks" Between the Lines ZDNet.com

Friday Distraction: Special Thanks to Sam Diaz From ZDNET for Posting The IT Chicks!!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/meet-it-chicks.html[/postlink]

Meet The IT Chicks!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/blast-from-telethon-past-perry-farrell.html[/postlink]

A Blast From Telethon Past: Perry Farrell On The Chabad Telethon

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/it-chicks.html[/postlink]Launching today!!!

The IT Chicks!!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/blast-from-telethon-past-cast-of.html[/postlink]

A Blast from Telethon Past: The Cast Of Friends (Blooper)

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/blast-from-telethon-past-adam-lambert.html[/postlink]

A Blast from Telethon Past: Adam Lambert on the Chabad Telethon!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/07/happy-birthday-america.html[/postlink]

Happy Birthday America!!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/ktp-reviews-are-in-on-amazoncom.html[/postlink]"Keyboard Town Pals taught my 9 year old daughter to keyboard in just one hour (really!). Best of all, my 75 year old father did it too. We followed the program as directed and did lesson one on day one and lesson two on day two. We did it again the following day and the rest is history; she has never looked back. My father is now a believer and devotee of the Keyboard Town Pals method. The story is easy to understand, easy to follow, and the methodical nature of the program allowed it to be memorized and immediately put to use. This keyboarding program is a winner!"
- Amy, New York

Click the link for more: http://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Town-Timed-tests-Techniques-Repetitive/product-reviews/B001XUMK2C/

KTP - The Reviews Are In on Amazon.com

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/friendship-circle-teaches-typing-to.html[/postlink]Click to enlarge!

The Friendship Circle Teaches Typing to Children With Special Needs

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/ktp-on-national-tv.html[/postlink]

Available at www.OnlyAnHour.com and www.Amazon.com

Watch Keyboard Town PALS On Nationally Syndicated Kurt the CyberGuy!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/thanks-to-post-for-wonderful-article.html[/postlink]Click to enlarge!

Thanks to the Post for printing a wonderful article (and quoting me correctly!)

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/special-thanks-to-kids-and-staff-of.html[/postlink]
This morning, 30 4th graders at Lockwood Avenue Elementary learned to type with Keyboard Town PALS. The presentation (a puppet show given By creators Rita Herman and Donna Katz) was a lot of fun and highly educational. A special episode of the nationally syndicated Kurt The Cyber Guy was filmed for the event.

Special thanks to the kids and staff of Lockwood. You are all amazing. Thank you so much Kurt and crew for working with me to put this together.

Stay tuned for airing dates, times and channels!







Special Thanks to the Kids and Staff of Lockwood Ave. Elementary, Kurt the Cyber Guy, Cyber Guy Crew and KTLA

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/gppr-is-proud-to-rep-chabad-telethon.html[/postlink]Lights, camera, ACTION!

Global Point Public Relations is proud to return to the Chabad Telethon as their #1 choice for publicity! Previous guests include Jon Voight, Bob Dylan, Adam Sandler, Matisyahu, Tony Danza and many other Hollywood celebrities.

Stay tuned for more info...

www.ToLife.com

GPPR is Proud to Rep the Chabad Telethon (Once again!)

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/unity-walk-2009.html[/postlink]Thanks to the Mayor's Office, the West Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles Fire Department, CPAB, the Community and most all, Baila Romm.


I cant decide who's tougher.

Leading the Pack
The Banner

The Unstoppable Baila Romm

Council Member Paul Koretz

Crime Stoppers.

Unity Walk 2009

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/for-immediate-release.html[/postlink]
2ND ANNUAL “UNITY WALK” TO TAKE PLACE SUNDAY, JUNE 14TH AT 3:00 PM

LOS ANGELES CITY OFFICIALS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS UNITE TO SPEAK OUT AGAINST CRIME


The 2nd Annual Community “Unity Walk”
will take place on Sunday June 14th, 2009 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm. Los Angeles city officials and local residents will join hand in hand to encourage peace and support neighborhood efforts to stand against all criminal activity in the La Cienega Heights and South Robertson neighborhoods.


City officials expected to attend include Los Angeles City Attorney Carmen (“Nuch") Trutanich, Council District 5 members Paul Koretz and Jack Weiss, Captains Evangelyn Nathan and Ruben De La Torre of the West Los Angeles Community Police Station, and Captain Kelly Toman of the Los Angeles Fire Department Station 58.



Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton
strongly supports the Unity Walk. “Community-police partnerships are the cornerstones of public safety.” said Chief Bratton. “Throughout the City these alliances are essential in reducing the fear and incidence of crime. The Unity March is a symbolic celebration of law enforcement and the communities’ unwavering solidarity, support and commitment to remain vigilant partners in combating and reducing crime throughout our City.”

Spearheaded by community activist, Baila Romm, last year’s Unity Walk was extremely effective in attracting local residents wanting to live in a secure neighborhood, but had never spoken out due to fear of retaliation.

“The purpose of this walk is to show support for our neighbors and city officials.” says Romm. “We need to bring positive attention to the area. We call on all of our residents to come out and demand a safer neighborhood.”

The Unity Walk will begin at the Warehouse Shoe parking lot 2045 S. La Cienega Blvd at the corner of Cadillac and S. La Cienega Blvd. For more information, contact info.neighborhoodwatch@gmail.com.

This event is supported by: The Los Angeles City Mayor’s Office: Antonio Villaraigosa, Office of the City Attorney, Council District 5: Council members Jack Weiss and Paul Koretz (CD 5), Council District 10: Councilman Herb Wesson (CD 10), West Los Angeles Community Police Station: Captain Evangelyn Nathan (WLAPD), Los Angeles Fire Department: Battalion 18, Chief Ronald Leydecker and Fire Station 58 Captain Kelly Toman (LAFD), Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB), Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Captain Stacy Gerlich, South Robertson Neighborhood Council (SORO), Westside Neighborhood Council (WNC), Police and Community Together (PACT).

Media contact: Daniel Ferszt at Global Point Public Relations
Phone (866) 594-4777 Email dferszt@globalpointpr.com.

For Immediate Release

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/la-city-officials-and-local-residents.html[/postlink]

LA City Officials and Local Residents Unite Against Crime

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/statement-by-chabad-lubavitch-world.html[/postlink]

STATEMENT FROM CHABAD-LUBAVITCH WORLD HEADQUARTERS

Wednesday, June 03, 2009 (lubavitch.com): Regarding recent comments made by Rabbi Manis Friedman in response to a question posed by Moment Magazine, we vehemently disagree with any sentiment suggesting that Judaism allows for the wanton destruction of civilian life, even when at war.

In keeping with Jewish law, it is the unequivocal position of Chabad-Lubavitch that all human life is G-d given, precious, and must be treated with respect, dignity and compassion.

Statements and opinions expressed by individuals do not necessarily reflect the position of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Lubavitch World Headquarters is the only office authorized to speak on behalf of the movement.

Please contact Daniel Ferszt at daniel@lubavitch.com or at (310) 424-8290 with any questions or comments.

Statement from Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/guess-whos-being-featured-in.html[/postlink]Congrats to Keyboard Town PALS! Can't WAIT to see you featured in the October 2009 issue of ParentGuide!






Guess Who's Being Featured in ParentGuide News!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/06/new-opportunity-in-early-childhood.html[/postlink]
EXCLUSIVE PRE SCHOOL OPENS ITS DOORS IN THE PACIFIC PALISADES

LITTLE MACCABEES OFFERS A COMPLETE EARLY CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE
IN AN INTIMATE SETTING



For immediate release, Monday, June 01, 2009: Limited enrollment has begun for the Little Macabees preschool, which will open its doors in September for the very first time. A new project of the Palisades Jewish Early Childhood Center (PJECC), Little Macabees offers a warm environment where children can develop socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically in an exclusive Jewish setting.

Little Macabees was originally conceived as a temporary facility that would remain open in the interim while permanent facilities were secured for the PJECC. However, the concept of an additional smaller preschool began to prove necessary to Chabad’s growing family base.

“There are simply more Jewish families moving to the Palisades these days,” says Rabbi Zushe Cunin, Director of the Chabad Jewish Community Center. “We want to provide parents with as many options for their children as possible. We have discovered that the Little Macabees preschool will serve a need for children who require a smaller environment in which they can learn.”

Ms. Barbara Leibovic, PJECC Director, is equally as excited. “When Rabbi Cunin and I presented the idea of a smaller, temporary preschool to the staff and parents, the feedback was surprising. We heard, ‘Why temporary? My child does better in a smaller setting.’ and ‘This would be would be ideal for the Mommy and Me program!’ Everyone is excited and ready to help provide an incredible unique early childhood learning experience.”

“We have our best teachers on board for next year.” explains Ms. Leibovic. “We also have a wonderful and developmentally appropriate curriculum planned for the children.”

Once the PJECC moves into its permanent facility, it will be able to accommodate over 70 children. Alternatively, Little Macabees will cater to 28 children (14 per session) in its charming and intimate home based facility.

For more information contact Barbara Leibovic at (310) 628-4440.


###

A New Opportunity in Early Childhood Education

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/ktp-is-all-good-with-homeschoolers.html[/postlink]

Keyboard Town Pals Typing


Written by Lori on May 30, 2009 – -



I remember typing class.


It wasn’t fun. It was mundane. It took a looooooooong time to learn.


Recently, I was introduced to Keyboard Town Pals. According to the Keyboard Town Pal website,



Keyboard Town PALS™ presents a new, stand-alone digital product that teaches children of all ages to type on a computer keyboard, using the proper finger technique, in only one hour. Our method is successful in capturing the imagination of all types of learners, ages 7 to adult. Drilling and speed time testing are replaced by memory technique and association, which greatly accelerates the learning process.



logo



One of the most difficult parts of typing is the random placement of the keys on the keyboard. This program introduces the child to a PALS, an acronym for Purposeful Associative Learning System. The student is also introduced to “puppet pals” who will join them on the journey into typing. This helps the child make sense of the keyboard while they associate the keys with puppet pals. The program is innovative and well thought out.


My 9 year old son, Hayden had an opportunity to try the program and he really enjoyed it! He was intrigued by the puppet pals and began identifying the keys with the pals almost immediately. Having tried several typing programs with my children, I liked that there was not a “timed test” at this level. It really was a stress free, fun way to learn typing skills. The program has also seen some promising results in children with special needs.


The program suggests use from children age 7 to adult. The puppet pals will most likely appeal to those children 10 and under.


If you’re looking for a innovative typing program for your child, check this one out! Head on over to their site, Keyboard Town Pals! The program is offered for homeschoolers in a dvd or a download along with other support products at the site.


It just may be a great way to incorporate typing into summertime fun!



lori2


ihopethisworks-1





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KTP is All Good With Homeschoolers! Thanks Lori! http://hsbapost.com/

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-immediate-release_27.html[/postlink]Pittsburgh Public School First to Use Cutting Edge Typing Program

Second Grade Students Welcome Keyboard Town PALS to Their Curriculum



The Jeffrey Primary School in Glenshaw, PA will be the first in the Shaler Area School District to integrate Keyboard Town PALS (KTP) into its curriculum. This coming September, the school’s second graders will be introduced to the educational and entertaining program that uses successful association and memory techniques, through stories told by fun and adorable live puppets.


KTP was founded by Rita Herman, CEO and professional educator and Donna Katz, President and former private school administrator. They enlisted the help of several members of the Emmy-Award Winning teams behind Misters Rogers’ Neighborhood, as well as Warner Brothers’ Looney Tunes and Hanna Barbara cartoons.



Currently, Keyboard Town PALS is the only company that offers teaching material for typing by using the Purposeful Associative Learning System (PALS). The company claims that no parent or educator will ever want to return to the mindless drills and endless exercises used by other programs.



“When I first listened to Donna speak about the program and what it could offer our students, I really thought that it would be a perfect fit for the level of technology instruction we have available to us,” says School Principal, Kara Eckert. “I quickly realized that this program could serve as a stepping stone to the other projects and programs that we will be unveiling over the course of the next year.”



KTP has also developed a readiness program called, “Typing for Tots.” Mrs. Eckert intends to implement the program in the Kindergarten curriculum, pending the approval of a new grant opportunity. Jeffery Primary School’s extremely supportive Parent Teacher Organization is happy to cover the cost of implementing both programs in the school next year.


Mrs. Eckert looks forward to beginning the KTP program, “Since beginning as Principal of Jeffery Primary, it has been my goal to continuously provide our students with progressive technology in the classrooms. With these programs we are just taking another step in the right direction!”



On Thursday, June 11th, The Keyboard Town PALS method will be introduced to the administration and teaching staff of Jeffrey Primary, along with other representatives from the Shaler School District at a unique school in-service given by KTP creators Rita Herman and Donna Katz, using actual puppets featured in the KTP presentation.



Visit www.OnlyAnHour.com


Media contact: Daniel Ferszt at Global Point Public Relations Phone (866) 594-4777 Email dferszt@globalpointpr.com


For Immediate Release

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/its-time-to-reclaim-neighborhood.html[/postlink]Click picture to enlarge.

It's time to reclaim the neighborhood.

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/theres-only-one-way-to-rent-in-southern.html[/postlink]

There's Only One Way to Rent in Southern California

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/chabad-landmark-in-jerusalems-old-city.html[/postlink](lubavitch.com) Visitors to the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City are often moved by the sight of the Hurva Synagogue. Destroyed by the Jordanians in 1948 during Israel’s War for Independence, the synagogue has recently begun construction to restore its former glory.

Just steps away, however, is another shul that is at least as significant to Jerusalem’s history. Less recognized , perhaps, but figuring largely in the history of Jerusalem’s Old City and its reunification after the Six Day War, is Chabad-Lubavitch’s Tzemach-Tzedek Synagogue. Perched above the ancient Roman market street known as the Cardo, the synagogue, also serving now as a kollel, was the only one found intact following the Six-Day-War. It was here that Rabbi Moshe Tzvi Segal, a dynamic and fearless Chasidic personality, led the first minyan in the Old City following the war.

Though Jews were still reluctant to return to the Old City after its reunification, afraid that Jordanian rule would return, Rabbi Segal led a movement to repopulate the city, and moved into Beit Menachem, otherwise referred to as the Tzemach Tzedek's shul.

Today, it is a thriving hub within the Rova’s [Quarter’s] community, where some 40 young men study daily, and Shabbat services with Chasidim who engage in long hours of contemplative prayer, reflect the authentic character of Chabad of old.

In the Jewish Quarter, Chabad Street runs parallel to the Cardo, about a hundred feet above the famous excavations. Steps connect the street to the main open area of the Rova, with one side overlooking a Roman collonade and the wall of a building lining the other side of the staircase. This is the wall of the Tzemach-Tzedek shul building.

The beginnings of this structure date back to 1847, when after 15 years of difficulties with their Arab neighbors in Hebron, a number of Chabad families moved to Jerusalem and began building their community. The third Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Lubavitch (1789-1865), also known as the Tzemach Tzedek (after the title of his voluminous responsa), encouraged them to build a synagogue. Lacking funds, they reached out to Jewish philanthropists from abroad.

Perched above the ancient Roman market street known as the Cardo, the synagogue, also serving now as a kollel, was the only one found intact following the Six-Day-War. It was here that Rabbi Moshe Tzvi Segal, a dynamic and fearless Chasidic personality, led the first minyan in the Old City following the war.

In an 1849 letter to England’s Sir Moses Montefiore, the group wrote, “We have no proper place for prayer and worship, to study Torah. We lack holy books and a proper place to keep them… We have no where to turn, no one to lean on other than the kindness of Hashem, our Father in heaven.”

With funds from Montefiore, Elias David Sassoon in Bombay, and others, the group purchased land for the synagogue in 1850. Finished six years later, the shul was named “Beit Menachem,” in honor of the Rebbe who promoted its founding.

On the east side of Chabad St., just north of the staircase, a plaque on the building wall marks the entrance to Tzemach-Tzedek, and tells part of its history. Passing beneath an archway into a small covered area, to the left one may see a moderately sized room that serves as the “Chabad House,” aimed at reaching out to the surrounding community.

Rabbi Mendel Osdoba has been managing the Chabad House for the last twenty years. Osdoba’s passion for his work becomes clear as he discusses many little details about the synagogue’s history.

“It was Divine Providence,” says Osdoba, when asked how he came to lead this Chabad House. A former student in the kollel at Tzemach-Tzedek, the welcoming rabbi now runs events for the Jews of the Jewish Quarter. Many are geared towards children, and relate to the Jewish holidays. He also teaches informal classes regularly, never asking for contributions from his students.

Through a pair of archways, straight ahead of the entrance to the building, lies a bright open-air courtyard. The ground floor used to house a synagogue as well, and once housed a Sephardic minyan, while the Lubavitch group worshiped upstairs. Today, the small sanctuary is primarily used forchasidic farbrengen gatherings.

A staircase wraps around the sides of the courtyard, rising to the upper floor. The main sanctuary there, used by the synagogue for prayers, also hosts the kollel that meets there daily. Another room alongside is also used by the kollel, and offers dramatic views of the Hurva Synagogue construction. The third large room on this floor houses the library.

Yitzchok Kaufmann is one of the current kollel students. Like so many of the students, the Minnesota native now lives outside of Jerusalem itself. A resident of Beitar Ilit, Kauffman travels about an hour and a half, five days a week, just to study at Tzemach-Tzedek. This, despite there being another Chabad kollel in Beitar Ilit itself.

Though first attracted to the school by the dean, Kaufmann is also motivated by the history of the institution. “It’s the kollel that the [late] Rebbe took interest in personally,” says Kaufmann, a smile spreading behind his short, dark beard.

The shul reflects the tumultuous comings and goings of Jerusalem’s Jews, now chased out, now allowed back, always yearning to return and remain. During World War I, most of the city’s Jews fled to the relative safety of Egypt. Still, one man remained stalwart. A Lubavitch chassid, Avraham Zalman, moved into the synagogue, maintaining its upkeep.

After war’s end, through World War II, few Jews returned to the Old City itself, forsaking it for other neighborhoods outside the historic city walls. But Beit Menachem persevered. During Israel’s 1948 war, however, Jerusalem fell to the Jordanians. The Arabs expelled all Jews from the Old City, leaving Beit Menachem to fend for itself.

In the intervening years, the lower floor had been used for storage, while some type of factory filled the upstairs.

The Tzemach-Tzedek shul has thrived since 1967. These days, one can join morning and afternoon prayers with the kollel students, and full Sabbath services each week. The bright and airy sanctuary on the upper floor brims with a warm hominess and a style of hospitality that connects it to its surrounding community, making it a symbol of continuity in this ancient holy city.


A Chabad Landmark in Jerusalem’s Old City

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/lag-bomer-on-beach.html[/postlink]

Lag B'Omer On the Beach

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-immediate-relese.html[/postlink]RUSSIAN PRESIDENT MEDVEDEV
INTERVENES ON BEHALF OF JEWISH STUDENTS

CHIEF RABBI ENCOURAGES PRESIDENT TO POSTPONE
STATE EXAMS
CONFLICTING WITH JEWISH HOLIDAY


For immediate release: (lubavitch.com)
In a meeting Monday between Russia's Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar and President Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s Jewish students were granted permission to postpone upcoming state exams conflictingly scheduled for the first day of the Shavuot holiday.

On most Jewish holidays, like the Sabbath, observant Jews do not write or travel. The students would have been unable to attend the exams without violating religious laws.

Principals in the Ohr Avner – Chabad school system, which educates more than 15,000 students across the Former Soviet Union, received the test schedule from the Education Ministry two months ago and mobilized for action after realizing the conflict. Requests for a postponement, however, were denied by the ministry due to the test’s critical importance.

The Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS (FJC) was alerted of the impasse and Chief Rabbi Lazar requested a meeting with Russia’s President Medvedev, seeking his intervention. Shortly thereafter, Rabbi Lazar was able meet with the President at his residence outside of Moscow, where he presented the scheduling conflict, the religious requirements of Jewish students and the urgent need for a postponement.

The President was interested in hearing about the holiday of Shevuot; “He asked many questions before addressing the problem,” Rabbi Lazar told Lubavitch.com.

“President Medvedev immediately sent a message to the Minister of Education to allow Ohr Avner students and all Jewish students in public schools to postpone the test a few days until after the holiday.”

Lazar discussed anti-Semitism in Russia with Medvedev, and said that while the President is aware of recent anti-semitic outbursts in the country, Russia’s problem is with anti-Semites, not anti-Semitism. “Anti-Semitism as an organized force exercising political power doesn’t exist in Russia.” He credited the President’s policies and efforts to root out anti-Semitism and extremism.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of ways to improve communication and increase cooperation going forward in order to help Jews and strengthen Judaism throughout Russia.

The Chief Rabbi also seemed gratified that Medvedev demonstrated, “by his actions, the state's concern about the development of religious communities and his interest in maintaining a dialogue with them, and its commitment to solve problems in a positive way.”

The FJC oversees the Ohr Avner – Chabad network which operates 54 kindergartens, 72 elementary day schools, 12 high schools and five universities, located in 65 cities across the former Soviet Union.

###



For Immediate Release

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Follow!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-immediate-release_18.html[/postlink]
WORLDWIDE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED IN MEMORY OF
NINE YEAR OLD BOY

CHILD’S RECENT UNTIMELY PASSING INSPIRES YOUNG HEARTS AND MINDS FROM LOS ANGELES TO SHANGHAI

For immediate release: Monday, May 18, 2009 (Lubavitch.com) Thousands of Jewish boys and girls across the United States, South America, South Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia are studying and memorizing Jewish books in exchange for cash from sponsors. The recently launched campaign to raise funds for the dedication of a Torah, dedicated to the memory of nine year old Levi Yitzchak Wolowik, who passed away suddenly on Saturday morning, February 28th. The campaign is simply called “Levi’s Torah.”

Levi was the son of Rabbi Zalman and Chanie Wolowik, Shluchim (Chabad emissaries) to the Five Towns of Long Island. He was known as a dedicated “Rabbi-in-training” and a lover of sports and study. Moments after concluding the traditional week of mourning, the Wolowiks announced plans to memorialize their son. In addition to a children’s Judaica library launched in his memory, the Wolowiks announce their plans to dedicate a Torah to Levi.

Most of the participating children never knew Levi; that unfamiliarity only heightens the distinctiveness of this endeavor. United by their common goals and distance, many of those involved are also children of Shluchim, simply taking care of their colleague.

Levi’s Torah is supported by MyShliach, an innovative “big brother” program for children whose parents are Shluchim, and Rabbi Shimmy Weinbaum in conjunction with Tzivos Hashem. Under the auspices of Chabad Lubavitch headquarters, MyShliach currently matches 340 boys and girls for a weekly study hour with a mentor. Levi was one of those boys. Children are studying and raising funds until the holiday of Shavuot, May 28th. Sponsorships can be made online, at http://levistorah.com.


FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: DANIEL FERSZT PHONE: (310) 424-8290 EMAIL: daniel@lubavitch.com
OR VISIT www.Lubavitch.com

For Immediate Release

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/when-world-needs-to-know.html[/postlink]



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When the World Needs to Know.

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/cyber-guy-and-keyboard-town-pals-make.html[/postlink]On June 16th, KTP creators Donna Katz and Rita Herman will join the Cyber Guy in teaching 4th graders to type at Lockwood Elementary School in Los Angeles. The event will be featured on KTLA Channel 5, kicking off a week long media blitz!

The world needs to know.

The Cyber Guy and Keyboard Town PALS Make a Difference Together!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-immediate-release.html[/postlink]
CHABAD JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER TO KICK OFF UNFORGETTABLE, ACTION PACKED SUMMER PROGRAM
EROLLMENT HAS BEGUN FOR CAMP GAN ISRAEL’S 10TH EXCITING SUMMER


Enrollment has begun for Chabad of Pacific Palisades’ Camp Gan Israel (CGI). The decade old successful summer camp offers an entire action packed schedule of activities for children 5-10 years old. Including sports, games, crafts, entertainment, beach days and field trips led by professional counselors and instructors in a Jewish setting.

A Kiddy Camp offers a wonderful opportunity for youngsters ages 2-4 to have their first experience in a real summer camp. The children are guided in organized activity, play & social skills by a loving, patient and caring staff who serve all year-round as pre-school teachers.

CGI of Pacific Palisades is part of the largest and fastest growing network of day camps. With locations across California, the popular summer camp has enjoyed a reputation as a pioneer in Jewish camping for the past 40 years. CGI is dedicated to enriching the lives of children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations through a stimulating camping experience. The innovative and enthralling program of activities is organized to provide enjoyment and inspire children to try new and exciting things.

The CGI campsite is conveniently located at the safe and child friendly facilities of Franklin Elementary School, located at 2400 Montana Ave in S. Monica, just 8 minutes from the Village. Camp begins Monday, June 29th and ends Thursday, August 13th.

For more on CGI, including enrolment information, go to www.CgiPalisades.org or call
(310) 454-7783.

For Immediate Release

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/05/call-today-and-connect-with-media-866.html[/postlink]

The World Needs to Know! (866) 594-GPPR

Call today and connect with the media! (866) 594-GPPR

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/04/happy-birthday-israel-61-and-going.html[/postlink]

Happy Birthday Israel! 61 and going strong!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/04/keyboard-town-pals-youtube-clips.html[/postlink]Cute kid! :)




Keyboard Town PALS YouTube Clips!

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/04/point.html[/postlink]
THE POINT

To Believe or Not to Believe…

I’ve played once before in the complex sandbox of Public Relations. In other words, I used to work in PR back in “the Day” (2000-2005); primarily with entertainers. In hindsight I can say with complete confidence that I disliked 95% percent of them. At the end of my run, I found myself burnt out – to a crisp. I left my desk with the intention of leaving for good.
However in 2007, through certain circumstances, I was pulled back to that desk to help raise funds and awareness for two non-profit organizations. One project I had worked on involved a drug counseling center and the other, a pre-school. I found the work to be spiritually rewarding and was therefore successful in strategically planning publicity tactics and pitching the media. It was then that I realized the obvious: I’ll do better at my job if I truly believe in what I’m selling. I launched Global Point Public Relations immediately. Now I’m back in the PR business with a whole new song and dance.
On Sunday night my professional journey led me to the Brandeis-Bardin University, where I was finally privileged to watch a play I’ve been promoting this past month called “The Quarrel”. I already knew the plot; two friends, having survived the Holocaust, are shocked to meet in a park years later, having believed the other dead. One has become a Rabbi and one has lost his faith. What ensues is an argument over Gd, morality and the past; a Quarrel. But though I knew generally what I was going to see, I found myself sitting in my chair while my eyes welled up with tears: I was blown away.
The two main characters, Chaim (played by Sam Guncler) and Hirsch (played by Reuven Russel) argue their respective beliefs with ferocity and great depth of sincerity. Chaim is as deeply passionate about his lack of faith as Hirch is in his devotion to Gd. Further, because of their horribly painful experiences and enormous losses during the Holocaust, they both demonstrate every reason to feel the way they do. While the Quarrel is never really settled, the relationship between these two friends comes across as deep, personal and rich with the history that created it. They love each other a great deal despite their anger, and are thankful for the chance to meet again. And though their beliefs are profoundly different, they share an underlying connection that only they understand. Co writer Rabbi Joseph Telushkin sums up the theme of The Quarrel up perfectly; “Can you love someone whose views you can’t stand?” while Sam Guncler advises; “See it with someone you hate!”
The Quarrel tugged at my personal struggles and when the lights came on and the cast bowed, I noticed that others were affected as well. I appreciate the way the story focused on human relationships as much as it did on our relationship with Gd.
As for me, I’m with Hirsch and I am thankful to have worked with such a wonderful production, one that reinforces my desire to work with clients in whom I have faith. I can’t wait to promote The Quarrel when it comes to California again, and I can’t wait to see all you Angelinos there.

THE POINT

[postlink]http://gppr.blogspot.com/2009/04/birkat-hachama-on-cbs-kcal.html[/postlink]Wonderful.

http://cbs2.com/video/?id=99010@kcbs.dayport.com

Birkat Hachama on CBS, KCAL