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Brittany Simmons

Contents of Portfolio:

Written Statement Spec Ad for Nizoral A-D Memoir, More than a Gathering of Family Certificate of Episcopal Consecration Magazine Interview Proposal Mock Press Release

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I wrote my first story when I was in the 4th grade. Little did I know it would be the event that defined the rest of my life. Although I did not know much about the craft, I knew that it was something I wanted to do; pen and paper were my best friends. As time passed, I realized that I had a passion for writing. Flash forward to now, after experiencing countless workshops in college, I have learned that there are many ways to write. In this portfolio, I wanted to not only display my improvement as a wordsmith, but also show various ways in which one can communicate. Included are pieces that depict how I do so creatively and professionally. In terms of my creative side, I included a spec ad, a memoir, and a mock press release written to display my progress in regards to being open minded to various forms of writing. Professionally, I have included a certificate, a magazine interview, blog entry, and a proposal which is dedicated to content and structure of a work. I am currently interested in employment in the magazine industry in which I can exercise my editing and writing skills to contribute to the success of a company-ultimately becoming the most productive, efficient, and knowledgeable person in the field.

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Brittany Simmons Nizoral A-D SPEC AD

HEADLINE: Youre sensitive about your hairShouldnt your dandruff shampoo be as well?

SUBHEAD: The choice is yours.

COPY: Nizoral A-D is a shampoo that is harsh on flaking and itching, but delicate on all types of hair. Maintain your gorgeous hair by calling 1-800-962-5357 for a free sample.

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More Than a Gathering of Family Family is not just a link to a group of people related by kinship, but also a link to past ancestry and history. The Free Dictionary

God is grace, God is super, let us thank us for my food, my five-year-old brother wrongly recites grace. Once again, I find myself at my grandparents house for another gathering, which occurs the same day, the exact same time of every week: 12 pm Saturday. While other teenagers hang out with friends, go to the movies, or have sleepovers, I am forced to hang out with what seems to be 300 family members every Saturday. I think it to be unfair. Yes, I could have protested against this visit, but the thought of losing TV privileges did not seem worth the trouble. Once my brother is finished reciting grace, we finally sit down at the mahogany table. Each dish is passed around the table so that everyone is sure to get a sample of the baked beans, macaroni and cheese, barbeque ribs, and potato salad. After eating, we sample the desserts: sweet potato pie, sock-it-to-me cake, and banana pudding. Grandpa later announces that it is time for the entertainment. Everyone briskly walks to the living room to snatch an oversized pillow to hide his or her protruding belly. To initiate the entertainment, my younger uncle suggests we have a soul train line. One by one, each tribe member glides towards the middle of the maroon carpet. I am the first to dance in the space enclosed by the two lines. As I awkwardly move from side to side, somehow I accidentally trip on my shoelaces and fall butt first to the carpet. While everyone is laughing at me, I quietly step away from the crowd and take a seat.

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While I am sitting, watching everyone dance, I think about how my friends and their families never have family gatherings. It is during this very moment that I realize why these gatherings are so important for our family. It is not all about dinner. It is about the celebration of my family: aunts, uncles, cousins, and the like- coming together weekly to honor not only Grandpa and Granny, but to honor our ancestors as well. The food is a representation of my ancestors struggles. Our ancestors struggled to provide for our family just as my aunts, Granny, and I labor extensively to prepare the main dishes. The desserts we eat symbolize the sweet smell of victory amongst our ancestors after surviving numerous trials and tribulations. When the sun finally decides to retire for the day, everyone decides to adjourn the meeting. Grandpa and granny need rest. One by one, we say our good-byes and leave. I hug Grandfather first and then my Grandmother. As we embrace one another, I realize that I do not want to leave this place. Here, in this house, live so many memories. Here, in this house, all of my family has laughed, cried, and slept. I let go of my Granny and languorously walk towards the door. My Granny calls my name. I turn around. I smile. Then I know that everything will be okay.

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The Universal Church of Jesus Christ

Certificate of Episcopal Consecration
Be it known to all who witness these presents that: We, The Most ReverendD.E.Chase, Th.D. in the due administration of our Apostolic Office as Archbishop and Patriarch in the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church, and in the due exercise of our Apostolic Succession, conferring Holy Orders under the protection of Almighty God, did on the 21st day of May in the Year of our Lord Two Thousand-Eight, rightfully and canonically administer the Sacred Vows of Episcopal Consecration upon our beloved brother in Christ:

The Right ReverendJohn A. Doe, DD

And did, in the witness and presence of the Church, solemnly and publicly set apart, ordain and consecrate by prayer, the anointing with oil and the imposition of our hands, in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, the Constitution and Canons of the Church and by the order prescribed in the Book of Common Prayer with the necessary additional prayers and verbiage as per the Ordinal of the United Assemblies of Christ; rightfully consecrating and elevating him as a true and undoubted;

Bishop
of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church during a Pontifical Celebration of the Holy Eucharist, held at the Immanuel International Cathedral in the City of Louisville, Commonwealth of Kentucky, USA. In Witness Whereof: we have hereunto set our hand and affixed our Archiepiscopal Seal on the date and in the place aforementioned, and in the Ninth year of our Consecration.
The Most ReverendD.E. Chase, Th.D Archbishop and Patriarch The Most ReverendD.E. Smith, Jr., DD Dean of the College of Bishops The Most ReverendC.W. Maddox, DD Chancellor of the Apostolic Court

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Jasper Miller Interview- Music to Live By By Brittany Simmons

As I wait for Mr. Miller, I reminisce about my childhood days growing up in the small city of Bradenton, Florida and always going to the parades-just to see the band play. One by one, marching band members feverously play their brass and wood instruments. Walking a few paces behind is none other than Mr. Jasper Miller-the music instructor. That was 10 years ago. Today I sit with him to gain insight from a musicians perspective.

Brittany: Thank you for taking time out to do this interview Mr. Miller. Jasper: No problem. You are quite welcome. Brittany: What is your official job title? Jasper: Well, I have two job titles. I am a music instructor at Bradenton Christian School and I am co-owner of Manatee Music. Brittany: How long have you been in your field of work? Jasper: Twenty years. Brittany: Which job would you say is the most rewarding for you? Jasper: Ooh, good question. That is tough. I think if I had to choose, I would pick the school because I love teaching. Brittany: What was a factor in your decision to become a musician? Jasper: I got a lot of joy from my experience as a child playing and sharing music with others. Brittany: In past conversations, you stated that music is rewarding for you. In what way is music rewarding for you? Jasper: I get a sense of fulfillment. It is an outlet to share my passion with others. Brittany: Public schools budgets are being drastically cut. Unfortunately, music programs are the first to be cut from budget. What is your opinion on this matter? Jasper: It should not be done. Every student needs an outlet to express self and be able to relieve stress encountered throughout the day. Brittany: How does that decision affect the students that you teach?

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Jasper: They no longer have music as an outlet. Music has been proven to improve students in math, science-anything that involves formulas. They no longer have that discipline that they need. Brittany: What steps are you taking to ensure music programs are not cut from the budget at Bradenton Christian School as a music instructor? Jasper: By getting together with parents and telling them to pass the word. Brittany: You are not only a music instructor, but also co-owner of Manatee Music. What are the benefits of having a music store when it comes to your students? Jasper: I am able to give private lessons which provide one on one time. This allows the band program to grow stronger. Brittany: You are often busy with two jobs. How do you balance your job and outside responsibilities? Jasper: Thankfully, it (music) is something I enjoy. The stress level is non-existent. The down time I do have- I spend at home with my wife. Brittany: In ten years from now, where do you see yourself in the music industry? Jasper: Hopefully, continuing what I am doing now, and hopefully students will choose the path that I have taken.

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Memo
To: Date: Re: Professor Barbara March 25, 2009 Proposal to write a Feasibility Report on the subject, Understanding UCF's Place in the Community: The State of African Americans in Higher Education From: Brittany Simmons

I wish to express interest in continuing work on my feasibility report titled, Understanding UCF's Place in the Community: The State of African Americans in Higher Education. Your approval will allow me to analyze the retention of African Americans in post-secondary institutions and its effect on the University of Central Florida. This report is the final project required for the professional writing course. African American Retention Rate at UCF College campuses include many types of people. However, the percentage of various racial backgrounds is low-especially when African Americans are involved. Unfortunately, the University of Central Florida faces this very same issue. According to the Office of Institutional Research, in the fall of 2008, the enrollment for African American students was only 4,433. This is a little over 9% of UCFs population. That is ironic considering the fact that UCF is known for its diverse college community. After further delving into statistics, this fact can be baffling to many. How can such a diverse college have such a low retention rate for blacks? This is the question in which I search for answers. This issue needs to be addressed immediately. Maybe there are more ways in regards to attracting and retaining African Americans in higher education. According to statistics, African-Americans are more likely to drop out of college than any other race. It is time to get to the root of this issue and figure out how society can retain blacks in postsecondary institutions. If this proposal is not adopted, the number of blacks in college will continue to dwindle. Intended Audience The intended audience for this report includes the entire University of Central Florida community, especially the Board of Trustees (BOG). By targeting this specific group, students will want to take action in order to dutifully and responsibly act on such a major issue. In

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addition, the Board of Trustees has authority to make changes and persuade others in and outside the UCF area. Objectives My objective for this report is to enlighten the masses regarding this issue. This report will assist in finding the reason as to why a certain percentage of African Americans attend college. As the college campus grows, so does the various ethnic backgrounds. This matter is close to my heart as I am also an African American in pursuance of a bachelors degree. I hope that my audience will realize the seriousness of this matter. I also hope that more will be compelled to take action and reach out to the surrounding areas. After further analysis and documentation, which supports my report, I do believe that my audience will take me seriously. Proposed Solutions I propose the following solutions: Create forums for African American students, which will discuss more ways to attract more students of color. Allow students to go out in the community and discuss the benefits and advantages of attending college. Student organizations will be able to accomplish this task. Provide more scholarships for African Americans who would like to attend a postsecondary institute, but are not able to do so without financial assistance.

Research Previous research includes: Facts from UCFs Office of Institutional Research Articles which explain college population Peer responses to questions

List of Questions I will randomly select freshmen, sophomore, junior, and senior standing African American students that attend the University of Central Florida. This questionnaire will provide an idea of the opinions students have on the low percentage of black students at the school. 1. What is the average number of African American students in your classes? 2. On a school week basis, about how many black students do you encounter?
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3. How do you feel about being part of the small percentage of blacks at UCF? 4. Do you think UCF provides enough promotion specifically targeted to the African American race? 5. Do you think transportation plays a big part in the reason as to why there are a small number of blacks attending UCF? Please explain answer. 6. Do you know of any scholarships for African American students to attend UCF? 7. What do you think will help UCF increase the retention of African American students in college? The following questionnaire is for the professors: 1. How many African students are in your class on average? 2. Do you think that number is a sufficient amount to satisfy diversity? Please explain. 3. What are some of your suggestions for increasing the number of blacks attending college? 4. How long have you been teaching at UCF? 5. What do you think will help UCF increase the retention of African American students in college? Resources Needed In order to create a final Feasibility Report, I will need participants who are willing to answer the questionnaire, both students and teachers. I also need resources for research and library time in which I am able to complete my report. My intentions are to reach out to my fellow peers, from all ages to conduct more research. The final cost for the Feasibility Report is nothing. Schedule Research will continue on this topic and my schedule for completion of the report is as follows: Week 13 Randomly select participants for questionnaire Conduct Survey Turn in Proposal to turnitin.com April 8 Complete Rough Draft Final Report Draft complete Final Report due April 25

Week 14 Week 15 Week 16

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Final Project Format The final report will include graphs along with concrete facts that will aid in the explanation of my findings. The final form of the actual document will be a Feasibility Report. Presentation will be precise and thorough. During the writing process, I will keep the audience in mind. The report is generated based on information I find relevant and useful for the audience. Upon reading my report, the audience will learn of an issue that has always been present at the University of Central Florida. My Qualifications I am an African American student at the University of Central Florida and part of the small population of blacks at the school. As a senior at UCF, I have experience and I also have access to the UCF community such as students, faculty, and staff of the school to conduct research. I have previous experience with research papers and am familiar with the format and time requirement. I also have taken numerous writing classes that enable me to research and write about such a topic. Conclusion Presentation of my final report will be the conclusion of all the aforementioned. I am very passionate about the subject matter and feel that it is crucial and necessary to reach out to the UCF community. By acknowledging the issue and trying to resolve the issue at UCF, other colleges will see that it is possible for an increase in the retention of African American college students. Thank you for your time. Best Regards, Brittany Simmons

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Works Cited

Willie, Charles. The Education of African-Americans. New York: Auburn House, 1991.

Lee Jones. Making it on broken promises leading African American male scholars confront the culture of higher education. 1st ed. Sterling, VA: Stylus, 2002.

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Blog entry link: http://salvationarmymercerco.wordpress.com/2012/03/17/go-green-go/ Go Green, Go! When it comes to the word green, many words come to mind such as grass, broccoli, money etc.; however, no three words are more synonymous with the color than Saint Patricks Day. Originally, the holiday was created to pay tribute to Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland whose mission was to convert the Irish to Christianity. In more recent years, it has been known as a time to celebrate the Irish culture in its entirety. The Irish, including others from around the globe, wear the hue to help commemorate all things green associated with the Irish holiday: shamrocks, corned beef and cabbage, leprechauns, and of course, Ireland. March 17th of every year, the world literally turns green! How awesome will it be if the whole world goes green everyday? Not only will individuals be more eco-friendly, but also save on energy, improve health, and ultimately save some greenbacks-better known as cash money. Ways to go green: 1. Conserve energy 2. Recycle 3. Eat smart So in honor of this celebratory occasion, lets start another mission: keep Earth green! St. Pattys Fun Facts Quiz: 1. What was the original color associated with St. Patricks Day? Answer: Blue 2. Leprechauns are part of the ______ folklore. Answer: Irish 3. The very first St. Patricks Day parade was held in what location? Answer: Boston 4. What is the traditional meal for this time? Answer: Corned beef and green cabbage.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brittany Simmons 941-726-4377

June 1, 2011

WORLD CHAMPION TEAMMATE TO HAVE BIRTHDAY AND GRADUATION PARTY FAMILY TO HOST SURPRISE CELEBRATION FOR TONY II

[BRADENTON-- Wednesday, June 1] Ten months after representing and winning for USA in the F1 School World Finals, Tony II will graduate from Southeast High School June 1 and celebrate his 18 th birthday June 5. The celebration will be held June 17, 2011 at Holiday Inn Sarasota Bradenton Airport, 8009 15th Street East, Sarasota, Florida 34243 in an office casual environment. Janet, mother of graduate, to host party. On her reaction regarding Tonys graduation and birthday, Janet stated: This is a great accomplishment for my son. He worked hard to prepare for the Finals in Singapore and keep up his grades as a student. Now, it is his time to relax and enjoy the fruits of his labor. The statement is in response to Tony being part of Southeast Highs Team Unitus Racing Team as the graphics designer. The group traveled to Singapore September 16, 2010 to compete in the F1 School World Finals. Students researched, tested, produced, and raced miniature size Formula One cars. Days later, Team Unitus was crowned world champions and made history as the first country to win title for a second time.

Brittany Simmons is a creative and professional writer aspiring to write for the magazine industry. ###

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