Monday, December 7, 2009

Life's Simple Pleasures...and an unlikely snowstorm



















Life can be influenced by the simplest touch of a person's hand, a light caress, a smile of acknowledgment, or even the most innocent of winks as you walk by a stranger on the street. I was reminded of that this weekend through both my professional and personal encounters with clients and friends.

It was amazing to me to be witness at a cover shoot for Boulevard magazine with Ugly Betty's Ana Ortiz and Mark Indelicato and watch the people from the infamous world of Cassini, as in Oleg Cassini be so touched and moved and thrilled to be in their presence as both actors seemed to be in theirs. The chief designer for Cassini went so far as wanting to have numerous photos taken with the pair to show his friends, and was as excited to be working with them as any fan might be to pass them on the street. Meanwhile on the other side, it was Ana and Mark that were impressed and in awe and knew the greatness of the world in which they inhabited for a day. It was so much more complementary that other shoots I've been on in the past. Watching them all interact with each other, experiencing it as they experienced it on both sides was entertaining and enlightening. Plus just for a second If I can just mention the mansion that is the Cassini headquarters at 15 East 63rd was just out of the world incredible. Old world charm, high ceilings, murals on the ceilings, the stone work on the walls, marble floors, simple elegance that was being restored to its greatness from when it was first built. The cascading staircases, old crickety elevator leading floor by floor to wonderful treasures whether it be sconces, cherubs, stone carved ivy...it brought you to another world where a horse drawn carriage may have one day stopped in front of the residence to pick some one up for a stroll through the park. It also had the most beautiful collections of photos of Jackie O that were inspiring to gaze at. Although, I am fully aware that I work in this world, it still amazes me as an observer to watch the interactions between people and be aware of the human condition.

Again, I was witness to that on Sunday morning. For four years in a row, Tamara Tunie has generously donated her time in support of one of the oldest charities in New York. The Children's Aid Society. A local chapter of a national organization, the people who devote themselves to non profit are truly selfless in their pursuit to help others. Or at least that is what I was evidencing that day. From the sophisticated brunch at Calypso on Madison and 68th, the speech by the new President and CEO of the charity, for a moment you might forget we were in a recession and the ones who had money were more than willing to part with some of it to help the kids. Even I got into the moment and got an adorable pair of fingerless gloves and cashmere scarf in Fushia of all colors! Tamara said lovely things about helping these children get better education, health care and a chance at a better life. It was moving and although the streets may have seemed a little less crowded this year, it was the coldest day I ever experienced this season and ran out of the cold I did at the first chance I got.

Talking with a woman in her 80's who has been on the board of the Children's Aid Society of New York for 45 years gives new meaning to learning from your elders. She and her husband were quick as a whip-it and all too open to discuss how the charity and New York has changed through the years. This woman was the first ever President of a non profit. Or at least that is what she said. I should have taken a photo of the lovely couple.

Hopefully people shopped today on Madison Avenue and gave their little piece to children in need. And when I saw this 14 year old girl, go up to Tamara and ask to have a photo taken with her, I was reminded of how special my own life was in many ways, and that those that are not surrounded by what I do, on a daily basis, can be touched, by the simple acknowledgement by a person they deem to be a celebrity, and be okay knowing that for that moment in time, they had a piece of something different that they would take home with them and cherish, such as a photo with someone they admire.

Everyone has someone they look up to. I suppose its no different than the day I met Bill and Hilary Clinton or the fact that they acknowledged they new my last name (Thank you Ron) that made the passing moment so special. Or flying to Berlin to be part of history when the wall came down, or even simply standing next to Candace Bergen when you are eight years old as an extra in a movie where your moment of fame eventually ends up on the cutting room floor. It was reall fun though, I have to say. Not sure it was more fun missing school or standing there all day....
Or having a lovely evening with someone you just met, in a snowstorm, with whom you seem to have known in passing for a long time, only to feel comfortable talking with him like sitting in your favorite chair...

Everyone looks up to someone else, admires and appreciates others. Until you stand in his/her presence to truly see both sides of the equation, one can never truly know the layers and interests of a person no matter how well you claim to know them.

So whether the first snowfall, a charitable day, a moving touch or soft kiss is what reminds you of life's simple pleasures, one must only think back to the young girl who tugged at that celebrities coat tail to say "can I have a photo please?" To remind you that it doesn't take much to make people happy.

We have a new client!

Hi Everyone! Very excited to announce that the company is now working with the amaing Jim Norton - Opie and Anthony, New York Times Best Selling Author, Jay Leno Show, Red Eye with Greg Gutfeld...Sold out venues across the country! Heck this guy is legendary and he is only just in his 40's. We are so thrilled to be working with him, stay tuned for updates on his comedy tour, intersting items such as the one that ran in Page Six on Sunday....and more!

Have a great day everyone.
Amy

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Ana Ortiz says NO to MCDONALD'S

The award-winning Ugly Betty actress ANA ORTIZ has enough! With McDonald’s that is! So much that she wrote a letter to the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), which is the largest national Latino Civil Rights and Advocacy organization in the U.S. Her letter urged the group to not to partner with McDonald for any future events.

In her letter, Ana pointed out that slaughterhouse workers (many of whom are Hispanic immigrants) are poorly paid, usually receive no medical benefits, and face dismal working conditions. As Ana writes in the letter, "McDonald's has no regard for animals or for the people who are paid an unfair wage to kill them." To that end, she's asking NCLR to join PETA in urging McDonald's to switch to a less cruel slaughter method that would improve conditions for both chickens and workers.

You can read the rest of Ana’s letter by clicking: http://tinyurl.com/yjdxgay

Friday, November 20, 2009

A Day in the Life

This week has been a fantastic week for Brownstein and Associates clients. A record Day and so much fun!!!!!

Monday, my day started out a little bit dazzled from a late night with my client Gregory Generet www.gregorygeneret.com at his amazing show at Feinstein's at Loews Regency! His jazz is like the finest cashmere pillows...soft, comfortable and extravagant. Between his rendition of "Moondance" and the amazing "Two for the Road," my friends Jennifer Litt from 5WPR, journalist Jennifer Keil from the New York Post and my associate Tim Yates, were enveloped in his amazing sounds amongst a packed crowd that included his wife Tamara Tunie, Cicely Tyson, designer B Michael, THR columnist Roger Friedman, agent Sarah Fargo from Paradigm and many many more.

So you can imagine that when I woke up at 530 am Tuesday morning to go spin with the amazing Loi Jordan at Reebok sports club, you know it wasn't happening as changed the alarm and hit my head hard on the pillow for a "do over"

I woke up at 8 am and scurried to get ready to meet Tamara Tunie at the Wendy Williams show. We met the handsome and yummy Morris Chestnut and enjoyed "Shoe Day" on the show. Tamara rocked the house and Wendy and Tamara had a great time. I'm so proud of Wendy and hope her show continues to gain momentum. She is prepared, smart, and easy to talk. And she allows her guests to talk. She's also super fun. Give Wendy Williams the shout out she deserves for making it happen.

Simultaneously, our Broadway ingénue Saycon Sengbloh was being fitted for a dress for the opening of FELA!, November 23rd. First, she started out at Karen Sabag, then over to the lovely B Michael she went!

Then I made my way over to CNN to join Ana Ortiz at Joy Behar's show on CNN Headline News. She sat on a panel with a reporter from the NY Observer and actor Michael McKean. Ana was sharp and on it like always. She's doing some incredible work on Ugly Betty. Hilda Suarez rocks the house.

And Michael Ausiello from EW wrote the following last week about Ugly Betty:
“The Ausiello Files” '
Ugly Betty' spoiler alert: A death, a departure and a (shocking) declaration!
by Michael Ausiello

If you’re among the millions of viewers who haven’t followed Ugly Betty to its deleterious new Friday timeslot, here’s what you’ve been missing: the show’s most consistently entertaining season since its transcendent first. As I mentioned in this week’s Ask Ausiello, the fourth-year comedy is, IMHO, enjoying a helluva creative resurgence. For proof, look not further than tonight’s exceptionally funny, moving, gutsy outing. If there were any doubts that Betty has a lot of life left in her — I’m talking to you, Ken Tucker — this eppy should obliterate them. Now then, time to step off my soap box and board the spoiler train. Some teases for tonight’s hour:

* Ana Ortiz carves out an early spot on my Dream Emmy Ballot with a performance that will move you to tears and laughter. Honorable mentions go to Michael Urie, Mark Indelicato, Vanessa Williams, and America Ferrera, who has come to embody Betty so wholly that it’s easy to take her superior work for granted.Check out the complete story at: http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/11/13/ugly-betty-spoilers-deaths-departures/

Glad the fan base is growing again! Keep it going! The work IS better than ever.


But wait....a Laura Bell Bundy spotting! Yes Yes! She looks relaxed, beautiful, happy and confident. Strong and it was amazing to look at her face, give her a hug and say "Hi, it’s been a while" and let's not forget Christian Borle looked fantastic as well and he's appearing in "Mary Poppins" and loving it!!! Can't wait to see him in it. He looked really happy and settled as well. Not going to tell you where they were however or they can't go back again while she is in town LOL. For all our 11 blog followers out there! What a stampede that would make!

Jace Alexander, Maddie Corman and one of their children was there as well. Jace is an amazing director and he's responsible in part for Royal Pains on USA. Got to give a shout out to Jace. And Maddie, the older sister of my wonderful friend Noah is going to Broadway with her play Next Fall and I encourage everyone to run out and see it. It’s moving and tearful and joyous at the same time. Lessons can be learned; they just don't always come on time or on cue.

But what day would not end more perfectly if I didn’t treat myself to a three musketeers bar, a weight watchers frozen dinner, a TIVO'ed HOUSE and a new NCIS before bed. Is Spin in my future tomorrow? Only the REM's know for sure...

I miss my summer interns...

Amy

Monday, November 9, 2009

From Eden with Love

So OK, I meet celebrities and heck I'm used to it. It’s a part of my life. However, when you move over in a booth to make room for Ozzie and Sharon Osbourne something clicks inside you. It was the most bizarre moment, yet most natural as they came in on a fluke to see Eden Espinosa's show. We thought they were friends with her. It was her first concert in NY for the new show "From Eden with Love" and we publicized it the best we could but we didn't invite any celeb types. So of course, her agents and I were sure they were friends. So when they were sitting in an obstructed booth, we offered for them to come sit with us and they DID! Not only did they sit with us, but Ozzie hugged me to thank me for the better seat. We were sure they knew her, especially then when he turned to me and said, "She's hot. She's really hot!" I just nodded my head and went back to paying attention to the show. I mean this rock legend was not only sitting five inches away from me but he was giving his seal of approval to us about her voice and her concert. And they are both SO nice! Wonderful people. We still thought they were mutual friends. And then in the end, after the show, we found out that actually they were staying at the hotel and wanted to see something different, So they came down to watch Eden! How exciting it is!

"From Eden with Love” I was mesmerized by Eden's performance. The Osbourne's must have been as well as a bottle of champagne was sent over to Eden from them as congratulations. How amazing that must be for Eden. This concert is sultry, soulful, real and full of meaning. The fact that she can "perform" adds depth to her music that only someone who has performed can do. She put on a show but it was a concert that just as easily could have been in Madison Square Garden or Carnegie Hall. The direction Eden is going with this "to-be" record is a true rock album full of the melancholy and the sublime, songs of hurt feelings, hatred and of course love. She even dedicated the last song to her dad. I'm truly excited for her to go into the studio and record this concert so you can all be treated to something special - sans the Ozzy sighting of course. Some things just can't be replicated!

And everyone said goodbye tonight to the man who originated the Green Ogre on Broadway, Brian d'Arcy James. I could not be in two places at once, but could only imagine how emotional and heartfelt the show was as he slowly said goodbye and took his final curtain call. That role was truly an emotional journey for everyone in his life. And I know I talked about it last week. But everyone come and see him in Time Stands Still in January!!!!

One more piece of news - Mark Indelicato started writing a column for Fashion Week Daily. Check out his first one (http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/parties/fullstory.sps?inewsid=6642542). It’s very exciting and we are thrilled for him! Did you know he deleted his twitter account? What's going on with these celeb/actors - one minute it’s the greatest thing and the next its hell on wheels? Mark's tweets will most certainly be missed.

And for those who attended the Sunflower Gala, I want to thank my amazing staff - Tim Yates, Marti Gould Cummings, Ashley Cox, my intern Lauren and my friend Adam P Jacobs and my brother in law Peter Gewirtz for helping out. Adam got to meet his childhood crush - that of Paulina Poriskova so I think we're even. The red carpet rocked and the event on our side went super smooth. We'd love to do more celebrity wrangling and red carpet events. It’s like we were meant to mobilize and handle these types of things. Sunflower Children was very grateful. Things truly were amazing and I'm really glad that it all worked out. Except for the fact that Russell Simmons got a drink poured on him by a drunken stock broker and by the time they gave the award to Quincy Jones, the traders were so drunk and obnoxious, Quincy had to yell shut up so many times. The crowd was so incredibly rude. And when it came time to make donations, Helena Houdova poured her heart out and Russell got so frustrated, he said "I'm in for 10K" and I'm out! Then he jumped off the stage. I mean, who do these traders think they are? This is not the floor of the stock exchange. This was a black tie, classy charity event. I just thank goodness that I wasn't part of that. As far as the red carpet went and our getting the classy press there - we did and we hope that all you people googling "event planner" or "event public relations" that you find us! It was fun!

On Sunday morning, our client Gregory Generet brought his magical voice to Weekend Today in New York. Gregory performed songs from his album re)generation. As he began the first bar of Angel Eyes, the entire newsroom stood still and in awe of his melodic sounds! Even Cindy Adams, sitting in the wings, got off her mobile phone and gave her undivided attention to Gregory Generet. Gregory even closed out the show with his hot song How High the Moon. Take a look and listen: http://www.nbcnewyork.com/station/as-seen-on/Gregory_Generet_Peforms_on_WTINY_New_York.html.

Catch more of Gregory Generet at his show “Songs in the Key of ‘G’” at Feinstein’s at Loews Regency for a two nights on November 9th and 16th at 8:30 PM. He will be performing songs from the Great American Songbook as well as Contemporary Standards from his album (RE) GENERET-ION, which has received rave reviews from critics.

He has performed throughout New York City with sold-out shows at Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Highline Ballroom, Joe’s Pub, and the Edison Ballroom. His debut effort has garnered much attention, including radio play across the country at stations like KKJZ-FM in Los Angeles, as well as Jonathan Swartz’s “The Saturday and The Sunday Show.”

Later Sunday, our Broadway diva, Saycon Sengbloh, who is co-starring in the highly, anticipated FELA! on Broadway, had an amazing photo shoot for the December issue of Paper Magazine (hitting stands the first week of December). Saycon joined her cast mates, Sahr Ngaujah and Kevin Mambo for this shoot. Though hair/make-up was hours late and the stylist a half hour late, the photo shoot was amazing as Saycon brought a certain sexy vibe to the shoot which was directed by photographer Rafael Rios. We are always excited for Saycon and can’t wait to see the photos selected as everyone at the shoot agreed, it’s going to be hard to pick as she’s so darn good! FELA! is getting rave reviews by its audience and we await the opening on November 23, 2009 at the Eugene O’Neil Theater.

Thanks

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

The Good Thief isn't just good, it’s extraordinary....

For all those theater fans that either were too young to attend, or hadn't discovered the art of the live one man performance the first time Brian d'Arcy James stepped foot on the stage to portray The Good Thief at the Lucille Lortel Theatre, one was instantly reminded last night at the Keen Company benefit what an outstanding talent Brian d'Arcy James truly is.

Now I'm not saying this because I'm his publicist, I'm saying it as a fan of true, emotionally charged theater that leaves you speechless.

My words may not be as poignant as Ben Brantley's were back in the day, or of any of the paid critics or amazing people in New York or Los Angeles who awarded Brian the first time around with incredible reviews as well as him garnering awards such as The Obie, Outer Critics Circle, the Drama Desk Awardm Backstage Garland Award and the LA Weekly Award among many others.

But this one does come straight from the heart.

When I was first introduced to the work of Brian d'Arcy James, it was after I had moved to New York and started my own company in 2003. Shortly after he was nominated for a Tony for Sweet Smell of Success and continued on through amazing shows like the off Broadway production of Apple Tree, Next 2 Normal, and Port Authority, and others... but I didn't get to actually meet him until we sat down to discuss my representing him for SHREK. Out of all of the amazing work he had done over the years he was ready to let the world know who he was behind the green prosthetics and costume that fans would soon come to know him by. After seeing The Good Thief, I completely understand. Actors may go from play to play, musical to musical and get to the point where they are sought after for all the key theater projects, but it all starts somewhere. And although by the time he did "The Good Thief" he was already starting to get a name for himself, he always said that role was and may always be "his most memorable role to date." So to look back at all the work we did together during Shrek, to know how much he put into that character and how he made this Ogre his own, it’s no surprise sitting in the theater tonight why being known as Brian, the actor behind this costume was so important. It is truly the same incredible actor that stood up on that stage tonight and took your breath away as he took us on this remarkable journey about a Thief with a heart and a soul.

Conor Mc Pherson's play has been performed numerous times. It is a piece that moves people to tears as you hear about a man who pines for his ex- love, about a "job" gone bad, a "job" that changes his life forever and leaves him with his life, or what's left of it and haunting questions that in the end would never be answered and love gone unrequited.... Of a situation he found himself in, that went completely awry.

There were funny moments, but the kind of funny when you laugh because something is ironic, or just doesn't seem fair or right. And then silence. His portrayal had the audience so quiet, even breathing couldn't be heard. It was as if the audience stopped breathing all together in complete awe, watching and listening to this sad man's tale.

Moment by Moment I wasn't sure if he was asking us, the audience for our forgiveness or for his salvation or for perhaps nothing more than he just needed someone to talk to. It seemed to be so long since he had anyone to talk to.

But talk he did for over an hour and with each hit mark, and each moment, you grew to truly ache for this man's life. The choices he made and what could have been different had he never met "Greta" she had never left him, he never took that job or ever stepped foot in the "mitchell's home."

For all of you who had something else to do, you missed a riveting performance that reminds people why they became actors and inspires those who have yet to achieve to dream, to run to the nearest class to become one.

I leave you with this, as Brian prepares to leave Shrek the Ogre behind this week (November 8th is his last performance) although I am saddened that he will no longer run outside the stagedoor of the Broadway Theater every day around the block in his Shrek costume waiving at fans as he re-enters to run down the aisle, or sing the lovely "fart song" "I've got you beat" with Princess Fiona, or makes "snothers" in the swamp, or sits for 2 hours in hair and makeup each evening, there are new pastures to farm for this actor.

And with this one night performance of The Good Thief, I am reminded that there is a lot of Brian d'Arcy James left to come...

So look forward to Time Stands Still in January at the Manhattan Theater Club with Laura Linney, Alicia Silverstone and Eric Bogosian where again, the brilliance that exists inside Brian d'Arcy James that captures audiences in costume or not proves that he is one of the defining actors of his generation.

The Good Thief - may everyone be treated to this at one time or another- may it be a PBS special in Lincoln Center or Carnegie Hall...one can dream!

And yes, I do truly love my clients. May you too be lucky enough to become one....


Amy

Monday, November 2, 2009

One Door Closes and Many Open

Happy November


This is going to be a great week for Brownstein & Associates for our company and our clients. Halloween is over but I still feel great, like its Purim or something - everything is inside out, upside down and inhibitions are damned! No more hiding behind a straight laced career! We're just as creative as the creatives. And the more we let our hair down the better our work and the more excited we get to take care of the people we are entrusted to promote!

So tonight, Brian d'Arcy James revisits a role he hasn't played in years, The Good Thief. This role garnered him rave reviews, critical acclaim and an OBIE among other awards. It’s a show not to be missed. It’s one of his most memorable performances to date and on behalf of the Keen Company's Tenth Anniversary; we will all be treated to some amazing theater. Tickets are still available and can be purchased at http://www.ticketcentral.com/showdetails2.asp?showid=2207.


Brian, by the way, is ending his tour of the role of the Green Ogre SHREK on Sunday, Nov 8th. He then starts up in TIME STANDS STILL with the amazing Laura Linney, Alicia Silverstone and Eric Bogosian.

Also, that night our other client Eden Espinosa brings her successful Los Angeles show FROM EDEN WITH LOVE to Feinsteins at Loews Regency for two shows that night. This concert is going to be the basis for a new album and it’s more sophisticated, fun and definitely a wonderful time for everyone. To purchase tickets, please visit www.feinsteinsatloewsregency.com.

Then let's not forget that on Monday, November 9th and 16th, Tamara Tunie's husband and our client Gregory Generet will sing his heart out from his new album (RE) GENERET-ION at Feinstein's as well. Tickets are going fast as the publicity spreads about this emerging artist who has received rave reviews from critics!!! Get your tickets now at www.feinsteinsatloewsregency.com.

Now, here's something you can also sink your teeth into! As you know, this is the time for Philanthropy. With so many people out of work and the world going through a recession, charities are finding it extremely difficult to get the funding they need to stay afloat. And small charities do not yet have financial support from Government grants need your support more than ever. One of those charities is Sunflower Children's Charity (www.sunflowerchildren.org). This Friday night, November 6th, Sunflower Children’s Charity is hosting Monte Carlo in New York, a combination boxing match, fashion show and celebrity poker fundraiser. For as little as $100 a ticket you can get in on the action and it’s completely tax deductable. It has something for everyone! Watch Wall Streeters wanting to make a difference, duke it out between each other to raise money for this charity. And the Koch brothers - you know the big promoters in NY and Hamptons? They have been training for 3 months, eating right, not drinking to fight each other in the ring at this event. Then we have Jamie Gold the former World Series of Poker champ hosting the poker section and with celebs like Russell Simmons, Helena Houdova, Ana Ortiz, Mark Indelicato, Reshma Shetty, Tamara Tunie, Paulina Porizkova mixing it with the high rollers, we're in for an amazing time! And let's not forget that we're honoring Music legend Quincy Jones! Buy your tickets today. Visit www.sunflowerchildren.org !!!!Or make a donation!

So yes, this sounds like a newsletter....but here's a little fun tidbit for you...on Halloween I went to a brunch in the meatpacking district with Tim Kelly, Lane Carlson and some other fun cats to meet the infamous "Koch" brothers are Revel. Let me tell you, they do not disappoint and boy do they know how to throw a brunch. Vino was flying all afternoon, with great brunch and great crowd and dance on your chair music. And yes, let me tell you there was a lot of dancing on chairs. I totally forgot what it was like to be in my 20's until I got this reminder like a hard slap in the face. But instead of shying away, I got my groove on like the rest of them. But alas, my age took over and by 5 pm I was home, in bed and conked out! Oh well, I tried, but I do think someone has a photo of a rose in my hair....and I distinctly remember who has it. I must get it back. And dear, wonderful Tim was also having a great Halloween at Eva Marcille Pigford's 25th Birthday and Masquerade Party Just check out his photos on Facebook to see exactly how much! Publicists definitely know how to slam it down; we just don't do it in front of you Ha!!!

We're excited to say that Jon Stone, our former intern who I introduced to Richard Laermer at RLM, hired Jon about a month ago, and everything seems to be going well. Jon loves it so much, he sent me a plant (please G-d let me not kill it) and my team some very fun and caloric candy and popcorn! We're happy he found what he was looking for...another wonderful intern finds placement through excelling with us...Go Jon!!!

Carolanne Coviello, another success story was my former personal assistant. She is also excelling in her new job! We talk all the time and she is rocking it out as a coordinator working on nine beauty accounts and from what I understand, kicking some butt over there! And I'm so happy for her. Congrats Carolanne. Keep up the good work!

But in sad news, we say goodbye to our wonderful coordinator Ashley Cox this week. She has been there for me through thick and thin and will always be a good friend. However, after an amazing year, we, as a group, mutually decided that it was time to move on. She is going to pursue her passion of working in product placement beauty and lifestyle PR. We're sad to see her go, but know that when you get out of college, your first job is rarely your last. I mean, how many jobs have you had until you found "the career." I mean your first job is a valuable learning opportunity to experience different things, know what comes easy, what is a challenge, what you like, what you don't like and what you want out of your life. A time to be on your own for the first time, grow up a little and start to be clear about that. You learn what you are capable of and should build on your strengths and learn how to build on your weaknesses. She had a lot of fun pushing beauty products. Though I must tell you, she does do a mean red carpet! I know the clients will miss her southern charm and happy ways, but it’s time for the bird to fly away from her nest. Did you know I had 4 or 5 assistant jobs in Hollywood working for everyone from Paramount, the old Writers and Artists, ICM and Rogers and Cowan before I ended up at PMK and started my career? And that wasn't forever either. It was hard for me to find out where I fit in. But when I did and I started doing it, one day I woke up and my career was right in front of me and I never looked back. We all have to follow our own path and we know that is going to happen for Ashley too! So for all you beauty cats out there at Siren, Trachtenberg, Blue Sky and more, snatch up our Ashley Cox and you’re sure to get a winner! Bonus? She's amazing at Photoshop and PowerPoint so she's got a lot of added value. If you want more info on how to find her, give us a call!!!!

We have the Precious Premiere, the Lucky Shops Event, Theresa Rebeck's opening of The Understudy, the Jose Cuervo event and Sunflower to look forward to this week so get ready for some great blogs and lots of laughs!!

Oh and last but not least, let's welcome Rachel Miranda to the company as a new assistant. She comes from Abercrombie and Fitch in the management program. PR is her dream and we're thrilled to have her. This week is her crash course in red-carpets so if you see a cute brunette running around with Tim Yates, that's her! Ready to learn and soak up like a sponge!

And the lovely Marti Gould Cummings from Broadway Speaks Out is temping for us on and off this month and it’s a love fest. He'd make an amazing PR person if all else fails. He's been a great help and we are so happy to have him, He's doing an amazing benefit too! BD Wong just signed up for it. It’s called “A Very Mary Holiday” and we're going to help him with the PR. To purchase your tickets visit www.broadwayspeaksout.com.

Happy Week! Let's get it on!

And remember there is a rock and roller in all of you!

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Getting the Job Done

Wow, I was thrilled to run into Dave Zinzenko and Dan Abrams last night. They are both doing really well of course, and with everyone they meet, I can never get over the fact that they always remember me, are always gracious and seriously want to know how I am.

I am so saddened by the passing of the amazingly comedic Soupy Sales. These guys really have class.

I spent more time with my friend Carolanne tonight and she has so many insights on how to better organize my personal life and my business. It’s fun to listen to a young 20 something who is really excited and has a zest for her career. Her drive to succeed kinda reminds me of me. Back in the day, there wasn't anything I wouldn't do for a client. I still go above and beyond all the times but the early 90's was different. There were no computers, no cell phone and only a typewriter and white out, and car to get where you needed to be. So the "above and beyond" was truly a lot more. If you know me, you remember my breaking into a clients home after climbing over an iron fence, sliding down a dry, non-mowed lawn, climbing up a ladder that I found in the garage, and throwing rocks at the window as well as knocking very loudly till the client drowsily comes to the window, cracks it wide enough for me to get pulled in, only to say "hey, what are you doing here" as if he didn't notice the limo sitting outside his home for hours to take him to a cover shoot. Now with text, blackberry messenger, cell phone, email, it’s easier and quicker to find someone and the adventures in PR land are well, just different. At least now I don't get splinters in strange places. But when that cover came out, it didn't matter how crazy it seemed at the time, it was a PR adventure I remember forever.

I've got a lot of those stories, and they all helped me become the strong, well-rounded publicist that I am. Everything I have learned and all that I teach and encourage my team, is that you can always do more. To ask yourself, "What aren't you doing?" "What makes the client most comfortable?" and "How do you foster the relationship over time in continuing to not only establish the brand but grow it as well?" PR isn't easy, and truly not everyone can do it. But when I walked back that day into my office with blades of dry grass stuck to my pants and in my hair and clothing, I knew my mission was accomplished, he got his cover and he got the recognition he deserved. And after that, I knew that there was nothing that could faze me. I had learned that protecting the brand from himself and others from time to time can be as, if not more important than promoting it.

Good night!

Friday, October 23, 2009

Former Assistant, Current Events and Philosophy

I'm out with my former assistant Carolanne Coviello who now has a very successful career in beauty at Creative Media Marketing - they rock - did you know they rewarded their employees with a trip to Woodbury Commons? And I thought I gave good incentives. The topic came up tonight as the holiday season is coming. To Gift or Not to Gift? We say gift. A happy employee is a well "happy employee". So I heard jury selection is ongoing in the John Travolta case. I think it’s open and shut. Travolta has nothing to be ashamed of, nor his family. He did what he could to save his son. And because he is a celebrity you automatically think they are going to have something to hide? Fry the bastards. On Twitter, Gavin DeGraw is going crazy writing about our constitutional rights and it’s quite interesting. You should follow him. Edward Norton and Alyssa Milano also got some great tweets - one for charity the other for news and sports. I feel so connected!

Ana Ortiz got invited to Bette Midler's Hullaween ball - we're currently trying to find her a costume and Mark Indelicato is meeting with Fern Mallis to discuss a future career in fashion. George Wendt launched his book to amazing attention - did you see that "beer pong" game between George and Natalie Morales? Go to Today Show online, it’s hilarious. And then he had a beer chugging contest with Bill Schultz from Red Eye - well the name of George's book is "Drinking with George - a Bar Stools Guide to Beer..." He's off to Boston and then Chicago and then LA. And then well, more press...by the way, what a travesty that the amazing Ana Ortiz can't present at the Latin Grammys. Can you believe we were told it’s been booked since August? Which award shows do you know that ever gets TOTALLY booked that far in advance. Baloney! Hope they read this. She is a rock star! And they made a huge mistake!

Other news, I signed on again to help with celebrity placement and auction items with the Sunflower Children’s Charity Poker Event on Nov 6th. Jamie Gold will be there again- more to come on that....

And now on to my philosophical part, one cannot succeed in business if the support system does not know how to support you. I think there should be a ladder system. Always try to advance to the next level instead of feeling stuck where you are. Ruts are a state of mind. When you get there, just look up and you'll see the sun....

On another note, whoever thought I would be friends with my former assistants? It’s amazing how after six months we're like best buds, and they all have fab jobs now - I must have done something right to train them to. And the funniest quote is "amy I get it now!" Who knew they had to go larger companies to realize what pr is all about! Well however they did it, I'm grateful. It may have been tough over here but as a small company, whose owner was trained by the biggest and most prestigious ones, they now realize that missing a beat so not cool and worse it just can't happen. I think its hiring the college grads. And now that they have all advanced, they see and they seem to get promoted really fast. I'm proud of everyone I've nurtured over the years.

And one more quandary I ask the blogosphere...what do you think it takes to be a rain-maker. Do you think you need to be born with it or can it be taught? I think you can read every book in the store but if you don't have that fire, you will lose every time. Same thing with pitching. I remember my old bosses saying, "Do you know how many pitches these people get a day? You are one of hundreds calling for the same placement each month that perhaps is two if not one opportunities the magazine offers!" "Be concise, be creative, know the magazine and know the editor and the magazine" It increases the odds your call or email will be returned. And once you book with them, they will always return your call or email because you send them quality stuff. So for all you PR people out there who still take money for "throwing it all out there to see what sticks" - it’s not the way to go and you will learn soon enough that a few random small hits, are nothing compared to the big strategic hit that either increases visibility, cash flow or sales...

So with that said, sometimes a boutique firm with fewer clients may just be the ticket to get you where you need to be. Relationships count and the personal relationship gets the job done. Know the client, know the press, and get results (even if that means keeping people out of the paper)

So, hey Pat Kingsley, Leslie Dart, Catherine Olim, Annett Wolf, all the amazing publicists I've had the pleasure of working for and working with - I've remembered everything you taught me and well as you all know, I'm doing it with my own flair. Hope you’re proud of what I've created.

And to Lucy Liu, Terrence Howard, David Boreanaz, Jeremy Sisto, Balthazar Getty, Jake Busey, and everyone else I may have forgot to mention - I'm so grateful to have started your career with you and helped you get to where you need to be. And those I've helped even after they were famous, Sir Ian Mc Kellen, Susan Lucci, Johnny Depp and Rupert Everet and Queen Latifah ,it’s the journey that counts and even though my stop on the train may have come, that time spent with you helping you become well "you" I would not trade for the world. Congratulations to all of you. Everyone always remembers their "first," or the the "one who made a difference"

And to all those amazing assistants out there who made doing what we do so easy...watching you rise up the ladder is of great pleasure to me, especially, Carolanne Coviello, Lisa Phillips, and Sarah Grossbart and my outgoing assistant Ashley Cox,. May you all become CEO's producers and editors in chiefs whatever your dreams desire.

It does take a village to raise a child - a "company too""

Monday, October 19, 2009

Balloons, Music and Celebrities

For starters, I finally got my friend at ET on the phone and we're working on the story. The balloon boy did not win that battle. Secondly, I really don't like unscripted programming and do you remember when MTV actually played music videos. Its becoming increasingly more difficult for someone like me to be introduced to new music when there are places like Sirius/XM where you can choose the channel and the free radio plays the same songs all the time. I loved watching MTV but now its all American Idol. That's the trade off? Perhaps I'm just an oldie but goodie. But then I'm in Spin class at Reebok with the amazing Marc Selden and he puts on this song that rocks my mind. Mind you, It doesn't take a lot but I heard this song that was really awesome called "Nothing Ever Hurt Like You" by James Morrison. Yes he's been around for a while but maybe because he's on the other side of the pond or again it wasn't a "single" it wasn't till three weeks ago that I found my new obsession. Went to Itunes and downloaded all his CD's and like my mom when she burned a hole in her 45 for the Beatles "I Want to Hold Your Hand," I just can't keep listening to that song. I mean who hasn't wanted to walk through glass for the one you love. Its whether they will be waiting for you on the other side when you are all cut and bloody is the question...

I digress... Our super hot client Reshma Shetty rocked it out in this week's Star Mag in a purple Catherine Malandrino dress. Go Reshma...

Preston Bailey was mentioned in the NY Post on Friday and Mark Indelicato had a super cute boxing photo run in their photo section on Sunday from the Bahamas!

Let's not forget Tamara Tunie doing her "Sunday Routine" in the New York Times - its pretty revealing - def read that one and it shows you how sexy and cool 50 can be.

Very excited about Banana Shpeel but more on that later....

Have a great night and peace out!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

BALLOON BOY – HOW IT AFFECTED PR AROUND THE WORLD

So we’re here, pitching our clients just like on a regular day when we call Entertainment Tonight to talk to our contact about doing a fun story on one of our clients. She says to us “Oh my G-d, I can’t talk to you right now, there is a boy missing in a balloon…turn on the TV it’s all over the place…” So what do we do? We turn CNN and start watching…We are horrified. Did the child fall out of the balloon, what was he doing at six years old unattended by parents? We are listening and watching with everyone else, stopping EVERYTHING we are doing to watch for the search for BALLOON BOY….No one will talk to us, the industry, all industries stop, locked down, guests cancelled, things seem to be falling apart! But Wait! While we are watching we get news that BALLOON BOY is hiding in his attic in a box! A box his brother told him to hide in! Now me ask you all a question, what was going through their parents minds, when they did not search the house or the attic, when they say that is the place the boy goes and it was not the first time that he disappeared in the attic. How many tax payer dollars during this recession were used and wasted traveling all over to find a boy who was in fact…home. So my call with Entertainment Tonight will have to be had tomorrow, and I just hope that there is not another balloon traveling in the air, to prohibit me yet again, from making my pitch.

You guys may not realize this, but every piece of news affects entertainment, finance, lifestyle, community you name it. This is all everyone is talking about. And the Big Question one should ask, is should the parents be held responsible for all of this? They sent the world into a frenzy over a boy who was in his own attic in a box hiding out…and when the local news media, says “Oh we get this all the time” then why didn’t anyone check the attic before sending out search and rescue.

Sure’ we are thrilled the Balloon Boy is home and safe and sound and nothing happened to him, except perhaps being grounded for hiding and maybe no dessert with dinner.

We got no work done today! Shame on all of you! Wild Goose Chase for nothing!!!!!!

Balloon Boy…Campbell Brown is doing a fantastic interview tonight on CNN. She is really getting the story good! How does anyone think this is appropriate? The family is enjoying the press, they brought out law enforcement, they put the world in a panic! This is a really good case of Bad PR….this would have been horrific if it was true…thank goodness it was not. So STOP TALKING ABOUT IT! THEIR 15-MINUTES ARE UP!!!!

Thursday, October 8, 2009

A Day in the life of ANA ORTIZ







Oh my! How much do we love our client Ana Ortiz!?!?!

The entire cast of Ugly Betty has been in the Bahamas shooting an episode since last Saturday! And though she was in the beautiful Bahamas enjoying the dolphins, the beautiful waters at the amazing Atlantis Resort, she immediately jumped on a plane and flew back to NYC when she got word of some amazing news! She’s such a fan of THE VIEW and to be asked to guest co-host, she was ready!

Her day got started at 8 a.m. with hair by the amazing Charles Baker Strahan and make-up by Rebecca Restrepo. But while sitting in hair and make-up, Ana got a chance to meet one of her favorite singers…Kelly Clarkson who came into her dressing room without makeup and with hair curlers in hair! How funny???? Kelly went on to tell Ana how she was such a fan of Ugly Betty and the first question she asked? Well take a guess. When is Betty going to be pretty? Kelly was so disarming to Ana. We think there might be a duet coming!

As the day proceeded, Ana unveiled her post-pregnancy body in a Jill Sanders dress, then got mic’d and was ready for her morning television debut and what a host she was.

Ana shared center stage with the amazing Whoopi Goldberg, the insanely funny and quick witted Joy Behar and the Queen of Comedy Sherri Shepard! They of course shared amazing conversation. The first topic of conversation with Ana’s beautiful 13 week old daughter Paloma Louise! How adorable is she?

Whoopi, Sherri, Ana and Joy all shared laughs through the morning! But perhaps what was the funniest thing ever is Ana being called Star Jones! You got it; Paul Shaffer called her Star Jones. I think that’s about as funny as Chris Brown and Rihanna attending Game 4 of the NBA Finals. After the insane laughter of Paul’s mistake, the show went on and they even shared some vocal exercises. Here again, Ana Ortiz and Sherri Shepard showcasing their inner rocker!

Ana did such an amazing job with her co-hosting duties! The world is proud! President Obama was definitely cheering her on from the Oval Office of the White House! Check out this amazing behind-the scene video taken by Bill Getty at ABC (http://theview.abc.go.com/video/viewtube-ana-ortiz). Ana and Kelly had the chance to get friendly...even I was a nerd and grabbed a photo with Kelly. The girl rocks!

After all is said and done, the lovely Ana Ortiz was swept away in a black sedan to the UN where she met her co-stars Judith Light and Tony Plana for a press briefing!

You see, on the show Betty is promoted and has to come up with an idea for her first story! She decided she wants to talk about Malaria in a fashion magazines and pitches using bed netting as a fashionable material. Whilhemia (Vanessa Williams) agrees and allows her to embark on her adventure. Betty creates the pretty marriage with Nothing But Nets (http://www.nothingbutnets.net/). “Betty has a great heart and soul. It’s not a stretch that she wants to help other people, she is trying to change hearts and minds by influencing other people,” says Judith Light.

Ten million Americans will see the show and the Ugly Betty family hopes it will have an effect and bring more attention to the campaign.

It was an awakening of my awareness of the issue,” said Tony Plana, “that the every donation is indicative of the support of the donors and that 10 dollars will help one child. It increases your passion for what you do”
More than 2 million nets in Africa are distributed with its partnerships. The UN has a goal to eliminate Malaria deaths by 2015. Every NGO and corporations and companies are behind. Nets are the best prevention tool to get there

Says Ana Ortiz, Becoming a mom has changed my outlook on just about everything. When there is something so simple as a net, any publicity we can bring to it would be great. I see the world as much larger now being a mom. Thinking of these little kids and all they need is a little net at night..it’s a huge honor, when you get a job that you get to go to work and speak to issues that are close to you as a person, for any issues whether single motherhood, healthcare issues.”

Celebrate Good Times With Preston Bailey's new book CELEBRATIONS!


Our client world renowned event designer Preston Bailey released his fourth book, PRESTON BAILEY: CELEBRATIONS, this week by Rizzoli New York.

CELEBRATIONS is divided into two parts, the first half of the book is arranged thematically into chapters focusing on Dramatic Statements, The Magic of Tents, Ceremonies, Table Settings, and Details, offering readers hundreds of inspiring ideas. Design elements ranging from towering cascades of fresh flowers, chairs “dressed” in couture slipcovers, table place cards suspended overhead on glittering crystal and pearl garlands, tents fashioned to “wow”, and many other rich details, are sure to encourage anyone planning a celebration of their own to think outside the box.

Featured in Transformations are ten never-before-published events, each lavishly illustrated in its entirety. From a royal wedding in the Middle East, where Bailey and his team transformed a convention center into a vibrant green oasis, to a West Coast birthday celebration set in a round tent with a see-though roof so that guests could watch the fireworks from their chairs. Each of the events included in Preston Bailey: Celebrations spectacularly showcases the power of Bailey’s boundless imagination and will inspire the reader to reach beyond the expected.

Preston brought his exotic tastes and natural flair for color and design to his floral business in New York City in the 1980’s. Since then, he has been sharing his innate taste-making talents with the fashionable and famous, creating magical events for such luminaries as Oprah Winfrey, Matt Lauer, Joan Rivers, and Donald Trump. Bailey’s uniquely inventive and thematic style has allowed him to transform raw, empty spaces into sumptuous, theatrical environments that defy all expectations, and his particular eye for lighting and texture has earned him critical acclaim throughout his career.

Check out http://www.prestonbailey.com/ and sign up for our blog http://brownsteinpr.blogspot.com/ for more up-to-date information on Preston and our many other talented clients. Also follow us on Twitter: @amybpr, @ashleybapr and @timkyates

Get ready world! The lovely and talented Ana Ortiz is coming to morning television! She will be guest co-hosting The View this morning alongside Barbara Walters, Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar and Sherri Sheppard.

Ana Ortiz is best known for her role as Hilda on the ABC hit comedy series Ugly Betty returning Friday, Oct 16, 2009. Tune in this morning to your ABC station and catch Ana on The View at 11 a.m. EST. Also, catch Ana and her Ugly Betty family for the 2 hour season premiere of Ugly Betty on ABC at 9:00 p.m. EST

After her co-hosting duties, Ana Ortiz will be on her way to the United Nations to participate in a press briefing to support Nothing But Nets Campaign, a grassroots movement involved in malaria prevention through advocacy, procurement and distribution of free nets.

Monday, September 28, 2009

La La Los Angeles, Fox Press Junket

I had the unique pleasure of being in Los Angeles with our client Lance Reddick (http://www.lancereddick.com/ and @lancereddick) to promote the second season of FRINGE FOX TV's hit television show which premieres September 17.

"It’s a wild roller coaster that finds his character Detective Broyles fully involved in the Fringe Division protecting it as well as finding out more about who his character is, what the back story is, how he fits in and what his relationship is to the US Government."

It’s going to be an "amazing season!" Said Lance in a recent interview. There is also something going on between Broyles and Sharp, which you find out in the first episode, but that is all I can tell you about that. "You will just have to tune in,” Lance says. He continues "I hope to have a scene or two with William Bell and come face to face with him between the two universes."

Then he went on to talk to reporters about how you saw him in the office a lot in the first season, but in the second season, "I'm much more in the field as the office takes a bit of a backdrop."

Speaking to all the Fox Affiliates across the country, Lance was interestingly always asked about his potential return to ABC's "Lost". Although no conversations have been had, it’s clear that Lance would love to come back and reprise his role as Matthew Abbadon. Many who were supposedly "dead" have found themselves resurrected. Will his character be too? Only time will tell.. Hear that JJ? Reddick loves working with you and would love to straddle both shows again as he did last year! He's also a Star Trek nut...doing a sequel?

Tune in every Thursday night! New Timeslot, New TV Competition and an amazing challenge for this incredible show on the network.

We saw Carl Weathers from the new series "Brothers." Carl was gushing about Lance's work and Lance was just in complete shock. It’s a testament to how truly modest this amazing actor is and how surprised he always is about who knows him. They talked about "The Wire," and "Fringe" and it was a great little meet up!

Stay tuned for updates from the Fox Affiliate party where all the stars from the Fox shows will descent to a party location to meet and greet. Big red carpet, lots of reporters, and the agents and managers and publicists who represent the actors.

...And sorry I bailed on Fashion Week and the VMA's. New York was shaking and continues to shake. Tim Yates my senior publicist has been full on handling all the actors for Fashion Week. Tim…tell us all about Fashion Week. What went out on the east coast on the catwalk???

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Lions and Tigers and Fashion Week Oh My

So Fashion Week has not yet officially started but we all are working behind the scenes furiously trying to get ready for the descending on New York of everything and all things fashion. On our side, we are dealing with getting clients, into shows, where they are going to sit, if they can wear the clothes (and keep them) and /or get transportation to and from. Depending on where you are on the fashion ladder you may get all or none of the above and certain shows truly require a major VIP card to gain entry no matter who you are or how much you like and/or wear the respective designers clothing. One wonders if these designers even know who is being turned down or accepted? Do we know the right people, don't we? Who is getting a favor and who isn't'? On our side, we're pretty lucky. But I wonder how other people are faring this week? I guess time will only tell and we still have a week to figure things out...lets hope it all goes smoothly - more on that later as Fashion Week unfolds and either goes off without a hitch or holes abound...lets hope for the former....

Next Saturday, September 12th Ana Ortiz is hosting the Fitness magazine Mind Body and Spirit Games, in Central Park. We are really excited about it. She is bringing her new baby Paloma and that is even more exciting. Have you seen that adorable baby? For more information about these amazing games visit http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/ and to register for the games you you need to visit http://www.nyrr.org/ (New York Road Runners) and Registration includes a complimentary FITNESS T-shirt and entitles participation in one of the 4 mile races or kid's races. Its really a wonderful event and I urge you all to check it out.

Further, Reshma Shetty is hosting an event for City Harvest to kick off the Grand opening of La Pomme on September 17th. More details on that later.....She had a super sexy fashion shoot shot by the amazing photographer David Needleman with hair by Anna Bernabe and make up by Suzy Gerstein. What an amazing day it was! Will send photos as soon as we get them......


More info on clients! Demian Bichir, Ana Ortiz and Mark Indelicato are all 2009 Alma Award nominees. The ceremony is in Los Angeles and taped on September 17th. One winner will be selected from each category. Wish them luck! Demian is currently shooting a film called "The Runway" and just finished an amazing season on WEEDS. That season really ended with a bang right? Who expected that! I know when I saw it I was completely floored and talking about it non-stop. Can't wait to see what Jenji comes up with next season!

Oh and in New Client News we just signed George Wendt and will be promoting his amazing book coming out in October called DRINKING WITH GEORGE. Follow him at @georgewendt or visit him on his facebook page! We also signed one of the new stars of FELA Sacyon Sengbloh who was formerly in HAIR among other amazing projects. More on her later...as the show gets up and running!

Trying to get everything done because I am giving everyone off on Friday AND Monday for an extra vacation. They definitely appreciate it.

oh and did I tell you that the wonderful people at Tiffany sent me a gift as a token of my appreciation for bringing the lovely Ana Ortiz to Maria Sharipova's event last week? I'm telling you that those people have class! Not to mention it was a lovely, lovely event.

I'm a little tired because its 10:31 p.m. and still in the office. Time to go home. Promise to be funny tomorrow!

Everyone give a shout out to my amazing Senior Publicist, Timothy Yates for being amazing at what he does! He got our lovely client Tamara Tunie a hit in New York Times, and just secured that Stagedoor is going to be in a big national parade...more details to come....

ooh...and the press has just started to hit on our client Preston Bailey's book Celebrations. Check him out at http://www.prestonbailey.com/. What a great Twitter story I have. One of his friends was visiting from Chicago and I happened to be following her on twitter. I used twitter to hook them up and set up a meeting. Only time will tell what will come of it, but I truly believe in the power o of that thing!....

Okay so boring right? Dish will come soon. I promise. But for now, check out @ginarobertsgrey. She writes some really interesting things about pitching reporters and writing successful letters to get your clients in publications. I was pretty impressed by her twitter conference last night. #smbiz. Also @badpitch is really funny too....People never cease to amaze....

PS. Did anyone see Devin Ratray on Entertainment Tonight? Good Luck at the Montreal Film Festival this weekend man! Hope your movie Courting Condi does well. check out http://www.courtingcondi.com/ its pretty damn funny! He is also in the Surrogates but more on that later....
Have a good night!

Thursday, August 27, 2009


Hey our 6 followers....spread the word about our blog. Its fun, its interesting and not the same "rules and how to blog" like many other PR Websites. We have fun with our blog and intend to tell stories about our clients’ accomplishments and share learning experiences with you in hopes you will have a laugh and/or learn something too.

Last night, Tiffany and In Style had a kick butt sophisticated party at the Cooper Hotel Penthouse. Besides the view from the penthouse being incredible, facing three corners where you could see all of New York to the North, East and West, the crowd was lovely and sophisticated and the food wonderful. They made these really fun melon balls in a fruity alcoholic drink in the shape of tennis balls in honor of Maria Sharapova.

When Maria was just getting started, I did some work for her agent Max and got Maria her first American magazine spread almost eight years ago. It was in Teen People and she was chosen as one of the 20 Teens Who Would Change The World. Change it she did, while growing taller than I've ever seen (she's an amazon woman), beautiful, classy and a heck of a tennis player. Tiffany was celebrating Maria and the upcoming US Open. Maria wears Tiffany Jewelry on the court.

When I approached Maria, I could not believe she remembered me and was so gracious. I had never actually met her before interesting enough. I have a lovely post card from her from back then, when she wrote “I hope I live up to the title." She certainly did.

Let's not forget the lovely Ana Ortiz and Blake Lively were there as well. Blake stopped by before her birthday party later that night. Upon leaving she was on the phone in the lobby talking to her boyfriend while the lovely Leslie Sloane Zelnick was in tow calling the car to whisk them away.

Check Google and/or any of the fashion sites like http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/parties/fullstory.sps?inewsid=6638415. There are photos of them everywhere like the one above! Isn't Ana amazing!!!!!!


Ana looked so incredible one wonders how and when she ever had a baby! She couldn't get out of the hotel. Everyone was stopping her asking for a photo. She killed in a black and white dress, red lipstick, tiffany jewelry and black stilettos.

Blake was much taller than I expected but so nice and seemingly unaffected. I was pleased to see that.

Today Tim and I went to a bit of a disastrous "gifting" event. I say that because it would have been a "gifting event" if the designers realized they were supposed to gift the celebrities who showed up! It was truly beyond embarrassing for everyone. This group of designers in from Atlanta and North and South Carolina who had never been to New York before, were small local designers, who probably could not afford to "gift" as they were talking about their "one of a kind" pieces, how they "couldn't part with then" but "would the celebrity agree to take a photo with them and their product." Some people parted with their precious merchandise but not until the organizer of the event said something to her clients. Not to sound ungrateful but don't invite someone to your "gifting suite" if all you will walk away with is a paper bag and some business cards! Come on people! And do your homework! Know who is coming and at least pretend to be excited to meet them! NOT only did they not know who any of the celebrities were, they didn't understand the process of a "swag/gifting" lounge and made many people feel uncomfortable and nervous that they just left. It was truly awful but I can't tell you more without naming names. All I can say is that it was at a hotel in midtown on the east side in a non decorated ballroom.

Word to the wise, in the future, no matter how good an offer seems to be, be absolutely sure you know the people that are planning it. It may not be worth the risk. Bless their hearts though for trying to get through a New York crowd and impress these celebs that are used to the "white glove" treatment. Who can blame them! I was embarrassed for them! But we'll see what happens. Perhaps they will make good.

Aside from my completely frivolous ranting, we all mourn the loss of Senator Edward Kennedy. He did a great deal for a lot of people for a very long time. His presence in government will be felt and most certainly missed. Makes all of the above seem meaningless. We lost a great man today.


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Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Back from vacation

Hey everyone, today was my first day back in the office and boy do I hate those vacations! Love them while you are there but when you get back to life it tends to bite you in the ass! But all is fantastic at Brownstein and Associates.

Tamara Tunie was one of the judges at the amazing Miss Universe pageant in the Bahamas, Devin Ratray from Home Alone (did you know he knew Michael Jackson?)'S film Courting Condi got accepted to the Montreal Film Festival and the Bruce Willis, Jonathan Mostow directed film, The Surrogates comes out on Sept 25th right near Yom Kippur. What's up with that? In fact the Alma Awards that Honor Latinos in Entertainment Airs on Erev Rosh Hashana or so I'm told.

So while I was away, Reshma Shetty from Royal Pains shot the cover of a magazine in the Hamptons and appeared on a postcast on Huffington Post, the amazing Ana Ortiz picked up an Imagen Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role on Ugly Betty as Hilda (and her movie of the week she appeared in beat out Ugly Betty as best show believe it or not!), Devin Ratray met Renee Zellweger at the premiere of her film "My One and Only" and evidently got stopped and recognized for his role as "Buzz" in the Home Alone movie, Stagedoor Manor had its last week of the summer and waiting to hear if they got accepted into the Macy's Day Thanksgiving Parade, Applause was ending their Summer Sessions and preparing to appear on LXTV in September, Demian Bichir from Weeds, found out he is going to be honored for his work on Weeds at the Alma Awards in September with three actors on Dexter, his girlfriend Sandra Echeverria's film "Free Style will be released in October, Theresa Rebeck is still on vacation before she starts the rehearsal process on The Understudy at the Roundabout Theater w/Julie White, Mark Paul Gosslear and Justin Kirk in September, Brian d'Arcy James announced he was starring in a new Broadway play with Laura Linney and Alicia Silverstone and Mark Indelicato got a potential internship at Carolina Herrera....among many other exciting things...Oh and Reshma Shetty rode in the New York Daily News float on the past Sunday for the India Day Parade....

Wow, our clients are busy and I have to say how proud I am of my staff and how they handled everything. Kudos to Ashley Cox and Tim Yates for holding down the fort.

If you want tips on how to win the game, just keep the irons in the fire and the movement going and the boat afloat while your boss is on vacation. Just don't give her anxiety upon her return. No one deserves a kink in his/her neck no matter what.

Oh and did I tell you that I was in Los Angeles, went to the Leno press party and the show seems like its going to be amazing! And standing next to Jay Leno himself. He looks fantastic, slim, tan and very excited for his new venture. Ran into a manager I know and the next morning I ended up in a meeting with George Wendt to perhaps rep his book (we'll see about that, cross your fingers!) Oh and he has a fab facebook page! Realized that I loved staying in hotels, especially the Sunset Tower in LA with their homemade fresh chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies at your bedside. I'm home now in NY and have a craving for the smell and the taste of an amazing chocolate chip cookie and turn to my night stand and...nothing. Not even cookie dough in my freezer. What's up w/ that? And there was also strangely and with coincidence the Robert Kahn written book called "Guide to Movies." We were supposed to promote his booked called "Guide to Books" but not sure what happened. And if you twitter someone, they may just write you back. Even with a million followers!

Preston Bailey's book Celebrations comes out in a month and we need to get cooking when he comes back from holiday next week with some amazing fast breaking interview requests. The book is incredible. We do a lot of books. Want the key to working as an outside agency with an author? Come to Brownstein and Associates. We've got what it takes!

And that's all for now...more on Wed for our midday quarterback..or is that Monday morning quarterback LOL

Amy

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

A Lesson in Philanthropy




A lesson in philanthropy:




This morning, I woke up at the crack of dawn, actually before dawn to take our up and coming client Reshma Shetty to the 125th Birthday Celebration of the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club in Brooklyn. We had secured this opportunity for her to attend this celebration, so that she could get to know a local charity in New York, connect with the children, give back and of course promote her role on the hit show "Royal Pains" on USA. Needless to say, the kids loved her, and and as the show is so new, it was a terrific way to further introduce her to future fans. Bonus points - she even got interviewed by the amazing Anne Craig from "Good Day New York" and there is going to be a photo of her with the children appearing in an upcoming issue of STAR magazine. Those were the "extras" but certainly not the main reason to be involved. At Brownstein & Associates, we truly stress the importance of finding a charity you are passionate about and being active. Not for the publicity, but because you can. We even found out that the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club has a large enrollment of Indian children, and as Reshma is Indian, it was a perfect match for future projects. Reshma got to know them, and they got to know her. Now we have made the perfect match for future endeavors together.




Our experience working with charities goes back many years. For example, we facilitated a relationship between Tamara Tunie the Miracle on Madison event where she will be celebrating her third year working with the organization. The event, which is on Sunday December 6th, allows people to shop on Madison Avenue in certain stores where a percentage of proceeds go to the Children's Aid Society of New York. Tamara has cut ribbons, taught the kids, sang with them, and every year she hosts a charity brunch the morning of the event for VIP's and others. Last year it was frigid cold outside, and even started to snow and rain. But she would do anything for her kids. She has brought some wonderful well needed attention to the charity, and I am sure over time, Reshma Shetty will do the same for The Madison Square Boys and Girls Club as well.






On another note, we were all very moved at Daniel Radcliffe's major donation to the Trevor Project. That organization is so important. He felt moved to help them financially so they could continue the good work that they were doing. I got involved with the Trevor project completely by accident. A friend of mine and producer of HAIR, Andy Sandberg had asked if my client Gavin Creel would perform at the organization's benefit here in New York. Through a wonderful guy Joel Flatow, who works at the RIAA, we were able to get Gavin to be the opening number before Jewel performed. Gavin of course jumped at the opportunity to support them, bring to light important issues facing the community and even presented the "Hero of the Year Award" to Dustin Lance Black, who won the Oscar for "Milk." Gavin, who is openly gay, had an opportunity to talk about his own decision to be public about who he was, and also perform a song called "For Nancy" which is a song he wrote about and for his mother, specifically about how no matter who he is, he is still her son. It was truly a beautiful tribute and timely for all children who are confused, and feeling like they have no place to turn while they are discovering who they are. Trevor project helps these kids, and people like Daniele, Gavin, Dustin, and more, all help use their name to bring to light important causes they are passionate about so the world knows about the great work these organizations do.




Our firm every holiday season represents charities who are planning a benefit and we use our resources to help get celebrities to attend, secure terrific items to auction off, and volunteer our time the evening of the event to help make sure everything goes smoothly. Last year, we worked in tandem with my good friend Lane Carlson and the Sunflower Children to support their annual Poker Tournament to raise money for the organization. It brought us all closer together and helped give a purpose to what we do on a daily basis for our clients. A couple of years ago, we also worked with Souls for Soles and assisted them in launching their 'million pair march' campaign. Our firm used our resources to secure a celebrity name committee, secure Melissa Rivers to do press in New York to raise awareness, and get Scarlett Johannson to include the charity in an event she was doing in Los Angeles to launch her new line of sneakers in conjunction with Reebok. She publicly acknowledged the charity and donated 1000 pairs her new sneakers which went directly to needy children in the Sudan. The list goes on.




All our clients support organizations whether its for Juvenile Diabetes, HIV-AIDS, Eco Friendly living, Arts and Education after school programs for kids, ending domestic violence, and encouraging the education of women in India among others.




We truly encourage anyone, whether they be a celebrity or an every day person to volunteer, and use whatever small amount of free time they can give, to support a charity they feel attached to in some way. In the current economic climate, among other things, so many organizations have been hit really hard and they need our support more than ever. Whether it is contributing money or just time, no matter how big or small, everyone appreciates the effort.




So, get involved today!

Monday, August 10, 2009

Stagedoor Manor - a place where a child's dream can come true!!!!





It's a little known fact that there is no better place to be during those summer months for teens who are looking to prepare for a career in the performing arts. So much so, that notables like Natalie Portman, Robert Downey, Jr., Kate Pippy, Mandi Moore, Jon Cryer, Bryce Dallas Howard and many more spent their summers at this amazing camp tucked away in the Cataskills. That camp, Stagedoor Manor, has been providing teens with state of the arts training in theater for more than 30 years.

And this summer, the more than 290 students during the second summer session had an opportunity to bring their training full circle when Andy Sandberg (a Stagedoor alum and one of Broadway's youngest producer's ever) and cast members from the hit Broadway musical HAIR (recipient of the 2009 Tony Awards for Best Revival of a Musical) sat down to chat and chew with these students.

Check out this amazing article on the experience these students had with cast members on Hollywood The Write Way (http://www.hollywoodthewriteway.com/2009/08/hair-meets-stagedoor-manor.html).

In recent years, the teen and tween market have exploded with new family programming, teen actors and such. Stagedoor has changed from a small out of the way place where serious kids can learn their craft, to a place where casting directors, agents, directors and production executives from New York and Los Angeles flock during the summer to find their next big “teen.”

There's so much going on at Stagedoor Manor that and it is the subject of several national news stories and broadcast reports. Check out http://www.stagedoormanor.com/, follow them on twitter @stagedoormanor.com for the latest happenings.
And sign up for our blog (http://brownsteinpr.blogspot.com/) for more information on Stagedoor Manor - a place where dreams come true as well as our many other wonderful clients!

Also, follow @amybpr and @timkyates on Twitter for continuous updates and information!

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Brownstein PR is Bringing On the Heat

Brownstein & Associates loves its new blog! We get to let you know the latest in what is going on with our company and our clients and give you up to the minute information, tips and things that can help you get into the business and survive at small boutique firm.

This week we signed a new client Chantal Nchako, a very talented up and comer who is the off-Broadway play HAPPY HOUR which debuts at the 44th Street Theater on September 16th. Its a short run, but we are really excited about introducing her to the theater press. We think she is so talented and totally on her way to Broadway or beyond! We're going to be introducing her around town so be on the look out for our invitations!

Aside from that, we are now working with the amazing Devin Ratray! Remember him from the "Home Alone" movies? The person who John Hughes made famous is now in an amazing new sci fi film called "The Surrogate" that comes out in September with Bruce Willis. We are so excited for him.

If you haven't figured it out, our firm specializes in up and comers and though we have some establshed names who we love, most of them have stayed with us over time since they were "new to the scene." There is definitely a craft in "breaking someone" and getting them to their next level and our owner has been doing that for 20 years from the days in 1994 when she first spotted Terrence Howard in Mr. Holland's Opus and Lucy Liu in a little seen teleivsion show in the 90's.

While we no longer represent those clients, we are so proud of their success and know that we had a bit to do with how they got there...Go figure.... more to come on the tips to handle an up and comer and do the work that needs to be done...

Monday, August 3, 2009

Ana Ortiz

Hi everyone and thanks for reading. We have some xciting news for you! Sunday, we were at the lovely home of Ana Ortiz for a photo shoot, exclusive to People Magazine. While the shoot was early in the morning, EVERYONE was in high energy, of course, with a baby a on set, how could you not be!!!!

Erin, a lovely photographer, got some great photos!!!!!

Be sure to check out People Magazine hitting news stands in September for photos of the lovely Ana Ortiz, her home and the soon to be baby diva, Paloma!

Keep reading....there is more to come!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Sprint Blackberry Tour


Last night, the Brownstein and Associates team was out in full force supporting Sprint's new blackberry at The Thompson Hotel LES. We were escorting Mark Indelicato to the party and were working with amazing Laird at Harrison and Shriftman who did a fantastic job last night making everyone feel comfortable.

Mark owned the black carpet doing interviews with EVERY press outlet that was in attendance including People, VH1, Extra, Guest of A Guest, OK!, In Touch and Life & Style!

And can you believe all the celebrities got 90 free days of service with the Tour????

More news to come!