R.L. Wilson House to host Domestic Violence Awareness Tea to benefit Prevail, Inc.

The Historic R.L. Wilson House is hosting a Domestic Violence Awareness Tea to benefit Prevail, Inc. Saturday, November 3 with a seating at 11:00 a.m. Sponsored by Senator Luke and Sally Kenley, Prevail, Inc.’s second annual tea includes a 5 Course Tea Pairing. Support a great cause among friends in a beautiful atmosphere. The R.L. Wilson House hosts elegant parties, teas and dinners specializing in beautifully decorated, nostalgic events with artfully, fresh, made from scratch recipes. The R.L. Wilson House is rated #1 Tea House in Indiana on teamap.com and also is home to Heavenly Sweets Cakes.

The cost is $35 and a portion of the proceeds go to Prevail, Inc. advocating for victims of crime and abuse. Reservations are required for this event as seating is limited. For reservations contact Natasha Robinson at (317) 773-6942 or Natasha@prevailinc.com.

Starters: Hot Apple Cider, Chicken Velvet Soup, and Citrus Chamomile Tea. Tea Sandwiches: Granny Smith apple with pumpkin bread and caramel, egg salad on cinnamon raisin bread, and savory herb fall chicken salad w/ butter tartlets. Scones: Cranberry apricot with warm homemade apple butter and Devon Cream. Tiered Desserts: mini pumpkin spice cupcakes with browned buttercream frosting, raspberry bars, lemon bars and mini salted caramel cupcakes, and Chai Tea.

About Prevail, Inc.

Founded in 1986, Prevail is a dedicated and recognized model in the advocacy for crime victims by promoting community awareness through educational prevention programs and collaborative community partnerships. Programs and services are offered without discrimination against age, race, gender, creed, ethnicity, color, marital status, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability and are confidential, personalized and free-of-charge. For more information on Prevail and its services, log on to www.prevailinc.com or call (317) 773-6942. Prevail, Inc. is located at 1100 South 9th Street, Suite 100, Noblesville, IN 46060

Prevail, Inc. has a 24-Hour Crisis Line: 317-776-3472

Business Women’s Day and resources to get involved

Sharon Smith, APR
Owner/President of Maverick Public Relations

September 22 is nationally recognized as Business Women’s Day which marks the founding of the American Business Women’s Association on September 22, 1949.  The organization was started post World War II to recognize the positive impact women had on the economy and the wealth of knowledge gained during this time.

Their mission is simple: “To bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership; education, networking support and national recognition.” To learn more about the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA), visit: http://www.abwa.org/.

As a female led firm, Maverick Public Relations celebrates all working women and commends you! If you are interested in getting involved with any women in business organizations around Indianapolis, below is list of helpful resources:

• Network of Women in Business (NOWIB):  www.nowib.com
• Mentoring Women’s Network:  www.mentoringwomensnetwork.com
• Women’s Increasing Networking Knowledge (WINK):  www.winkindy.org
• Women Like Us Foundation:  www.womenlikeusfoundation.org
• National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-Indianapolis):  www.nawboindy.org
• Indy {alphaChicks}: www.indyalphachicks.com

Don’t miss Stonycreek Farm’s 40th Annual Pumpkin Harvest Festival

Harvest season is celebrated each year on the 1860’s Stonycreek Farm in Noblesville, Indiana. This year marks the 40^th Annual Stonycreek Farm Pumpkin Harvest Festival which runs September 29 – October 31. Because of this summer’s drought, for the first time in 40 years, Stonycreek Farm has germinated pumpkins in greenhouses in preparation for the annual event. The seedlings were then planted in the field and maintained with a water truck. Thanks to a proactive germination program, the Farm hopes to yield 50,000 pumpkins for their 40th annual event, despite extreme drought conditions.

Bill hand waters pumpkin plants in the greenhouse

What began as a small pumpkin patch in 1972 has grown into a full-service nursery and landscaping business. Situated on fifty acres of rolling Indiana farmland, the farm was named after the creek, which meanders through the property. Stonycreek was an Indian trade route and the site of an old grist mill. Steeped in American history, still standing on the farmstead are the original house, the big barn, blacksmith shop, and buggy barn.

During the peak weekends of the Pumpkin Harvest Festival, more than 2,000 people a day attend the event to make special memories with friends and family members. The Festival opens daily, 10 AM to 5 PM. Private party sites are available during the evening from 6 PM to 11 PM. Parking is $5.00 per car on Saturday and Sunday and there is no parking fee Monday-Friday.

Once again, the zip line is expected to be a crowd pleaser. The cost is $15 per person for anyone age 10 and up who weighs between 90 pounds and 250 pounds. In honor of the 40th anniversary, those turning 40 years old during the month of September or October get a free Zipline ride (with valid ID), a $15 value. The zip line sails across the Christmas tree field, over a pond and gives riders a spectacular view of the hayride wagons heading out to the field. The ride is approximately 400 feet long and is 40 feet high in some places.

Stonycreek Farm zipline

Bring the family and enjoy the many fall activities Stonycreek Farm has to offer. The festival includes entertainment for “kids” ages 8-80. Have you ever wondered what a grain grinder looks like? A new educational program will feature antique farm equipment where visitors can learn about the use of various vintage farm equipment. Other highlights include hayrides to the pumpkin patch, a haunted house, the gourd sling shot, corn cob cannon, Kiddiepillar (inflatable), candle making, farm animals, and more. Kids can take pony rides and talk with a blacksmith, as well as jump in a giant straw mound and play at the playground. Most activities have a nominal fee.

If you get hungry or thirsty, the Country Market is open daily. Smoked ribs, turkey legs, pulled pork, and Kettle Corn are sold on the weekends. Mums and fall decorations are available for sale in the greenhouse. Visit the Gift Shop for local handmade products as well as unique fall and Christmas gifts.

Stonycreek Farm Nursery and Landscaping is located at 11366 State Road 38 East, two miles east of Noblesville on State Road 38 East. For more event updates and information, visit www.stonycreekfarm.net.

Instagram: a picture is no longer worth a thousand words, but rather a billion dollars

It’s no secret that the social media revolution is in full swing. If you’ve watched the news or used any social network lately, it is likely that you’ve heard that Facebook bought Instagram for a billion dollars in April. Less than two months later, Instagram, a free photo sharing app, is now also one of the most popular social networks. As social media shifts the way we communicate, the practice of public relations must integrate use of these powerful news outlets.

Twitter and Facebook have allowed us to break news instantly, but Instagram was developed with the idea of keeping it mobile and visual. Cell phones have become a fifth appendage for most people, constantly in our hands wherever we go. For a generation constantly on the go, Instagram has transformed the way we share these experiences. Although statuses are updated constantly, a photo is a universal language that quickly catches our attention and also leaves a lasting, memorable impression. Incorporating Instagram into the public relations mix proves the old saying “a picture is worth a thousand words.”

Although Instagram was launched in 2010 and initially supported on Apple products, the app exploded when it was released in April 2012 to the Android market and immediately purchased by Facebook. President Obama has even recently begun using Instagram to share photos and keep the public updated. Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook’s CEO, announced that he is committed to building and growing Instagram independently, which allows users to keep posting pictures to competing social networks like Twitter, Foursquare and Tumblr, providing ultimate exposure.

Businesses can utilize this social network by sharing filtered snapshots and documenting day-to-day work life that gives followers a sense of your company’s culture. Also, Instagram now provides hash tags so that users can tag their photos, making it easier to both be found and search for the things that interest you. Ultimately, Instagram has become a social networking giant and an extremely effective public relations tool.

If you are a business or an individual, how have you used Instagram? Share your photos and experiences with us.

Five reasons why you still need traditional media in your PR mix

With the rise of social media, many “experts” have predicted the demise of traditional media, whether for information dissemination, advertising, marketing or PR. In fact, one of our clients recently commented, “I am not so sure I need access to a traditional reporter anymore!” While we encourage clients to include social media in their PR strategy, we would not advise anybody to drop traditional media. It may seem that traditional media is losing its usefulness. Many newspapers and magazines have folded up. More and more people are turning to social networks first to get the news. And popular bloggers are reaching incredible numbers of people. All this is true. However, we still need traditional media for PR. Here are five reasons why:

1. Traditional media are instantly recognizable.

Chances are, the average person can recognize your city’s newspaper rather than the most popular blog in your area. Traditional media have been around longer than social media, and many have built recognizable and credible brands.

2. Traditional media give you instant status.

Because traditional media are recognizable and often seen as credible, getting exposure through them gives you instant status and credibility as well. On the other hand, being interviewed on a blog or web TV may not have the same effect.

3. Traditional media still reach vast audiences.

As long as a traditional media outlet is still publishing or airing, chances are, it continues to reach a large enough audience to keep it viable. This is why many online stories take off only after traditional media talk about them.

4. Social media feed on traditional media.

Bloggers often write about what’s going on in traditional media, whether it’s a new TV ad or a story that ran recently in the news. If you land an interview in traditional media, you’re likely to catch the attention of social media as well. Furthermore, appearing in traditional media gives you something to post about in your own blog and in social networks.

5. Traditional media have huge social media presence.

Traditional media outlets often also have an Internet presence, such as blogs and social networking profiles. Those with websites usually get more traffic than even the most popular blogs.

So if you were ready to ditch traditional media for social media — don’t! You still need traditional media to reach an audience and establish your credibility. The most important thing is to target those media outlets that YOUR target market is consuming, whether it’s a digital medium or a non-digital one. Chances are, you’ll do best to have a mix of both.

Mixing, mingling, and mindset shifting Forum benefits Prevail, Inc.

Mark your calendar for Thursday, June 14! This Key4Women Forum focuses on utilizing social media. The $25 registration fee will benefit Prevail Inc., a nonprofit organization that advocates for crime victims and their families. Learn about getting your message out, network with other women and support Prevail’s work. A true win-win-win!

Client spotlight: Prevail, Inc.

You are invited to attend  “Criminal Justice Odyssey 2012,” in observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, next Thursday, April 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. This free event will be held at Prevail’s office, 1100 S. 9^th Street, Noblesville. This year’s theme for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is “Extending the Vision, Reaching Every Victim.”

Community partners will be onsite offering information related to law enforcement, medical and criminal justice services. Enjoy tours, light refreshments and one lucky winner will receive a door prize. Contact Prevail, Inc. at (317) 773-6942 or visit http://www.prevailinc.com for more information.

In other Prevail news, last month, Tri Kappa Epsilon hosted its annual Cruisin’ for a Cause purse auction at the Bridgewater Clubhouse in Carmel. Almost 200 people attended the event and proceeds totaling $8,138 will benefit Prevail’s programs and client services. Congratulations to Tri Kappa Epsilon on hosting such a successful, fun event!

Attendees enjoyed a competitive and exciting auction that included purses filled with gift certificates, theater tickets, beauty items, sports memorabilia and more.

Client Spotlight: Prevail, Inc.

Our client, Prevail Inc., will host an open house, “Criminal Justice Odyssey 2012,” in observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week on Thursday, April 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Prevail, Inc., 1100 S. 9^th Street, Noblesville, Ind.  This year’s theme for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is “Extending the Vision, Reaching Every Victim.”

The open house is free-of-charge and will include tours of Prevail, Inc. Community partners will offer information related to law enforcement, medical and criminal justice services. Light refreshments will be provided, and one lucky winner will receive a door prize!

For more information about Criminal Justice Odyssey 2012, please contact Prevail, Inc. at (317) 773-6942 or visit http://www.prevailinc.com.

Prevail recently hosted “Spring into Fashion” Wednesday, March 14 at Woodland Country Club in Carmel, Ind. Fashions were provided by Lilly’s Boutique Gallery of Zionsville and event proceeds totaling $9,235 will benefit Prevail’s programs and client services!

“Spring into Fashion” included a lunch and guests were encouraged to arrive early to shop for clothing and accessories from Lilly’s. WISH TV anchor and investigative reporter Karen Hensel served as Master of Ceremonies. Prevail, Inc.’s director of community relations, Michelle Corrao, shared her devastating story as a victim of assault and rape, and discussed how services such as Prevail Inc.’s helped her, and other victims of violent crimes, find the strength to come forward and begin rebuilding her life.

Attendees enjoyed an exciting raffle that featured car wash tickets, museum passes and restaurant gift certificates, as well as other prizes, including an amethyst/diamond ring from Hofmeister Personal Jewelers and a $500 gift certificate from Smith Jewelers. Table sponsors included Crosser Family Foundation, Sally Crow, Hamilton County Leadership Academy, Riverview Hospital, Fishers Sertoma, Woodland Country Club, Smith’s Jewelers, Raymond James Holistic Wealth Advisors, Orthodynamics Company, Inc., Kaye Winings and Maverick Public Relations. Committee members included Chris Corrao, Christi Crosser, Sally Crow, Shannon Gigante, Kim Joyce, Esther Lakes, O’Dell Lakes, Kelly McVey, Carrie Renner, Gabrielle Sauce, Sharon Smith and Kaye Winings.

Danielle, The Face of MyINDY-TV; Melissa Hook, WISH-TV 8;  Michelle Corrao, Prevail, Inc. and Karen Hensel,WISH-TV 8, enjoy Prevail’s Fashion Show event at the Woodland Country Club in Carmel.

Did you attend Spring into Fashion? If so, we’d love to see your pictures from the event!

Prevail, Inc. to host great girl’s day out events!

Hey, ladies! Are you in need of a fun girl’s event? If so, we recommend two – a silent purse auction AND a fashion show! Both events will benefit our client, Prevail, Inc., a Hamilton County-based non profit organization that advocates for crime victims and families in crisis.

Tri Kappa Epsilon is hosting its annual Cruisin’ for a Cause silent purse auction on Tuesday, March 13 from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Bridgewater Clubhouse, 3535 East 161st Street, Carmel. Stunning purses filled to the brim with goodies will be available for auction. Past purses have included theater tickets, restaurant gift certificates, beauty items and sports memorabilia. Tickets are only $15!

Then, Prevail, Inc. will host “Spring into Fashion” Wednesday, March 14 beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Woodland Country Club, 100 Woodland Lane, Carmel, Ind. 46032. Fashions will be provided by Lilly’s Boutique Gallery of Zionsville! You’ll enjoy an exciting raffle that features car wash tickets, museum passes and restaurant gift certificates, as well as other prizes, including gorgeous jewelry from Smith Jewelers and Hofmeister Jewelers!

“Spring into Fashion” will include a lunch at 11:30 a.m. Make sure you arrive early to shop, though! The fashion show will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m., and WISH TV anchor and investigative reporter, Karen Hensel, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Prevail, Inc.’s Director of Community Relations, Michelle Corrao, will share her powerful story.

The cost to attend is $45 per person, or $400 for a table of eight. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited and the registration deadline is March 7. To register for either event, call the Prevail Office at 317-773-6942 or visit http://prevailinc.com and click the ‘donate now’ button, and indicate which event(s) you are registering for in the comments section.

Stonycreek Farm Nursery & Landscaping participates in the 2012 Indiana Flower and Patio Show

Spring is right around the corner, and we definitely have landscaping on our minds. If your gardens and flower beds look the same year after year, you should visit this year’s Indiana Flower & Patio Show!  Our client, Stonycreek Farm Nursery & Landscaping, is participating in the 54^th annual Indiana Flower & Patio Show, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds’ West Pavilion, Saturday, March 10 through Sunday, March 18. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.

The Indiana Flower and Patio Show will feature more than 40 dazzling showcase and exhibitor feature gardens, more than 400 outdoor living experts, one-of-a-kind displays that depict the latest landscaping trends and dozens of educational programs – all in over 171,000 square feet of the State Fairgrounds’ West Pavilion & Expo Hall.

This year’s theme is “Let Us Entertain You!” and each garden will feature a specific event. Stonycreek Farm Nursery & Landscaping’s garden theme is “Earth Day.” The entire garden will be earth-friendly, including edible landscaping. A carport with a green roof will house an electric car, and a rain barrel will be employed to take water off the roof and send overflow into the rain garden.

Stonycreek Farm Nursery & Landscaping designers and key staff will be onsite throughout the entire show. You can register for consultations at their booth, talk one-on-one with an expert or even bring pictures of challenging landscape areas!

You don’t want to miss the Indiana Flower and Patio Show this year. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $12; children 12 and under are free.

Are you planning to do anything new in your landscape beds or gardens this season? If so, share your plans with us. We’d love to hear from you!