Tonight the Attorney General of Utah will revisit Utah State University to talk about his Identity Theft campaign. The first time he came, no one was aware that he was even here. Through a series of events, some of the PR students were given the opportunity to promote the event when he revisited Utah State. I signed up to be part of this process. I think it’s great that we as students had the opportunity to take on real experience. I actually applied the concepts I learned in class, and found out many things about PR that I did not know before this experience.
First, it is a lot of work to get published, and get the word out about an event. When I see posters around campus or read articles in the paper, it never occurs to me how much work goes on behind the scenes. Editing and revising the press releases, and then sending them out took a significant amount of time. I scheduled time on the radio and trying to find people to go on the show, coordinating a time, and developing talking points was a lengthy process. It was also a little difficult because most of the communication was over a Google Doc, so sometimes delayed things getting done. I guess what I’m saying, is even though I have been learning about the PR profession all semester, I didn’t really understand the process until now. Even now, I am sure I don’t really have a clue. The good thing is, I think this experience has been great, and I can see myself really enjoying a career in this field.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
2300: Empowering the Silent voice of Seniors
Health care reform is a hot topic of debate on Capitol Hill and around the nation. I have read many articles about the cuts that could possibly be made to Social Security and Medicare, making life drastically different for senior citizens in America. But what I have not heard is their voice and opinion in the matter.
The RetireSafe Listens campaign provides a voice for the silent majority of seniors. The company Retire Safe conducted a poll and found that 79 percent of more than 626 seniors responding to the poll expressed concerns that they were not represented in Washington. Retire Safe offers surveys that seniors can take, and the results are posted at www.retiresafe.org. Retire Safe will also take the results of the surveys and share them with Congress, The White House, and media organizations. RetireSafe is a grassroots advocacy organization representing over 400,000 supporters.
This is a great Public Relations move on the part of this company. They are representing an organization who is largely without a voice, and communicating their ideas in a somewhat effective manner. Great PR is being practiced by the company through listening to their audience, and then fulfilling the need that exists. They are also attempting to bridge that gap of discrepancy that exists between seniors and the general public. Instead of being viewed as weak and feeble, they are changing the perception, and allowing seniors to be seen as an empowered force with a voice.
Read the press release here: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/listening-to-seniors-provides-real-voice-for-older-americans-64755287.html
The RetireSafe Listens campaign provides a voice for the silent majority of seniors. The company Retire Safe conducted a poll and found that 79 percent of more than 626 seniors responding to the poll expressed concerns that they were not represented in Washington. Retire Safe offers surveys that seniors can take, and the results are posted at www.retiresafe.org. Retire Safe will also take the results of the surveys and share them with Congress, The White House, and media organizations. RetireSafe is a grassroots advocacy organization representing over 400,000 supporters.
This is a great Public Relations move on the part of this company. They are representing an organization who is largely without a voice, and communicating their ideas in a somewhat effective manner. Great PR is being practiced by the company through listening to their audience, and then fulfilling the need that exists. They are also attempting to bridge that gap of discrepancy that exists between seniors and the general public. Instead of being viewed as weak and feeble, they are changing the perception, and allowing seniors to be seen as an empowered force with a voice.
Read the press release here: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/listening-to-seniors-provides-real-voice-for-older-americans-64755287.html
Monday, October 19, 2009
2300: Public Opinion & The Jay Leno Show
The other night I was watching the Jay Leno show, and he had a Q&A with John McCain. I laughed at the exchange, but thought the situation was interesting. Jay Leno and McCain were both making fun of Obama, specifically his health care plan, and most of the audience was cheering and laughing. However, not so many months ago, McCain was the target for every comedy event, late night or otherwise. This is interesting from a PR standpoint.
I am surprised how fast public opinion can change. On the show, McCain was seen as the good guy comedian instead of the candidate that would surely drive our nation into a fast downward spiral. Obama is receiving more criticism, and many wonder if his policies will be effective, or simply cause a bigger headache. This also made me think of how people in positions of power are under such a large amount of scrutiny. McCain holds no threat, so he becomes the likable comedian, while Obama now has a target on his back. Public opinion can change so fast, and people can switch loyalties in an instant. As a PR professional, this is something to note, and remember. Although people may have deeply held convictions and beliefs, sometimes it doesn’t take much to alter their opinion or view.
I am surprised how fast public opinion can change. On the show, McCain was seen as the good guy comedian instead of the candidate that would surely drive our nation into a fast downward spiral. Obama is receiving more criticism, and many wonder if his policies will be effective, or simply cause a bigger headache. This also made me think of how people in positions of power are under such a large amount of scrutiny. McCain holds no threat, so he becomes the likable comedian, while Obama now has a target on his back. Public opinion can change so fast, and people can switch loyalties in an instant. As a PR professional, this is something to note, and remember. Although people may have deeply held convictions and beliefs, sometimes it doesn’t take much to alter their opinion or view.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Final Media Pitch
For Immediate Release: Oct. 20, 2009
Attn: Patrick Oden
The Utah Statesman
Taggart Center 105
Utah State University
Logan, UT 84322-0165
Local Organization teaches students and others how to get rich quick
Dear Patrick,
Increasing passive income and lowering expenses is the way to become financially independent, says Preston Parker, president and founder of Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA). This organization was formed to help people manage their finances, and meets every other Thursday at 7:00 pm to discuss and implement smart financial planning. This forum is open to students, and is based around the idea that a financial foundation is started within oneself. I think this could be beneficial to the students of Utah State for several reasons.
First this organization teaches that time, assets, and experience can be invested to establish personal wealth in five areas of investment: social, physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Many students may see investing as expending time and money to an outward source. However, CVAIA teaches that strong financial foundations start within an individual. After establishing personal well-being, focus is drawn outward to other investments.
Parker says, “We believe people should be able to spend their time doing something they love, not just a job that provides income.” In a university setting where so many students are struggling financially, or looking to find a career that excites them, I think this could be of great use to a large demographic of students. I urge you to consider the great impact this information, and more importantly this organization, could have on the student body at Utah State.
Cache Valley Area Investors Association was founded in 2007 by Preston Parker. It embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. The members are from varying geographical locations and all walks of life. They are united under that belief that education mitigates the risks of investing. For more information, please contact me.
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Attn: Patrick Oden
The Utah Statesman
Taggart Center 105
Utah State University
Logan, UT 84322-0165
Local Organization teaches students and others how to get rich quick
Dear Patrick,
Increasing passive income and lowering expenses is the way to become financially independent, says Preston Parker, president and founder of Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA). This organization was formed to help people manage their finances, and meets every other Thursday at 7:00 pm to discuss and implement smart financial planning. This forum is open to students, and is based around the idea that a financial foundation is started within oneself. I think this could be beneficial to the students of Utah State for several reasons.
First this organization teaches that time, assets, and experience can be invested to establish personal wealth in five areas of investment: social, physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Many students may see investing as expending time and money to an outward source. However, CVAIA teaches that strong financial foundations start within an individual. After establishing personal well-being, focus is drawn outward to other investments.
Parker says, “We believe people should be able to spend their time doing something they love, not just a job that provides income.” In a university setting where so many students are struggling financially, or looking to find a career that excites them, I think this could be of great use to a large demographic of students. I urge you to consider the great impact this information, and more importantly this organization, could have on the student body at Utah State.
Cache Valley Area Investors Association was founded in 2007 by Preston Parker. It embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. The members are from varying geographical locations and all walks of life. They are united under that belief that education mitigates the risks of investing. For more information, please contact me.
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Final Press Release 4
For Immediate Release: Oct. 20, 2009
Mark Steel Jewelry
568 S. Foothill Drive Kamas, UT 84036
435-783-4447
marksteeljewelry@gmail.com
New Products and Services that Sparkle
Mark Steel Jewelry releases new catalog, jewelry styles, and website
KAMAS, Utah- Mark Steel Jewelry recently released a new catalog with new earring styles included. The company also recently launched a new website for the sales reps, where they can do business online. The new catalog highlights the traditional styles of earrings, and also showcases the newly released ones.
Owners Matt Flinders and Mark Soffe say their main goal was to increase customer satisfaction, and make things easier for the sales representatives that work for Mark Steel. The current catalog that was released was over two years ago, and Matt and Mark feel that this catalog showcases the jewelry better. “We work daily to see how we can improve the quality of our product, and showcase it better to customers,” said Soffe. The website used to only be available for viewing selected styles of jewelry, but it now has a wider selection, a store locator for the reps, and contact information of how to order from the company.
“We hope these changes improve our relationship with our customers,” said Flinders. Mark Steel is also working on setting up a store online, so people everywhere can buy jewelry from home. They are unsure of how long this will take, but hope to start the process soon. “We hope these changes will only strengthen the ties of loyalty that people have to our company, and attract new customers as well,” said Soffe.
Mark Steel Jewelry was founded in 1979 by Mark Steel Soffe. The company manufacturers all of the jewelry locally and then ships it out to stores across the United States. They produced hand crafted earrings, finger rings, and toe rings with sterling silver and 14K gold filled. To find out more information visit marksteeljewlry.com or, contact the designated PR specialist listed below.
-END-
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Mark Steel Jewelry
568 S. Foothill Drive Kamas, UT 84036
435-783-4447
marksteeljewelry@gmail.com
New Products and Services that Sparkle
Mark Steel Jewelry releases new catalog, jewelry styles, and website
KAMAS, Utah- Mark Steel Jewelry recently released a new catalog with new earring styles included. The company also recently launched a new website for the sales reps, where they can do business online. The new catalog highlights the traditional styles of earrings, and also showcases the newly released ones.
Owners Matt Flinders and Mark Soffe say their main goal was to increase customer satisfaction, and make things easier for the sales representatives that work for Mark Steel. The current catalog that was released was over two years ago, and Matt and Mark feel that this catalog showcases the jewelry better. “We work daily to see how we can improve the quality of our product, and showcase it better to customers,” said Soffe. The website used to only be available for viewing selected styles of jewelry, but it now has a wider selection, a store locator for the reps, and contact information of how to order from the company.
“We hope these changes improve our relationship with our customers,” said Flinders. Mark Steel is also working on setting up a store online, so people everywhere can buy jewelry from home. They are unsure of how long this will take, but hope to start the process soon. “We hope these changes will only strengthen the ties of loyalty that people have to our company, and attract new customers as well,” said Soffe.
Mark Steel Jewelry was founded in 1979 by Mark Steel Soffe. The company manufacturers all of the jewelry locally and then ships it out to stores across the United States. They produced hand crafted earrings, finger rings, and toe rings with sterling silver and 14K gold filled. To find out more information visit marksteeljewlry.com or, contact the designated PR specialist listed below.
-END-
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Monday, October 12, 2009
Draft Media Pitch
For Immediate Release: Oct. 20, 2009
The Utah Statesman
Taggart Center 105
Utah State University
Logan, UT 84322-0165
Local Organization teaches students and others how to get rich quick
Dear Editor,
Increasing passive income and lowering expenses is the way to become financially independent, says Preston Parker, president and founder of Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA). This organization was formed to help people manage their finances, and meets every other Thursday at 7:00 pm to discuss and implement smart financial planning. This forum is open to students, and is based around the idea that a financial foundation is started within oneself.
Time, assets, and experience can be invested to establish personal wealth in five areas of investment: social, physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. After establishing personal well-being, focus is drawn outward to other investments. Parker says, “We believe people should be able to spend their time doing something they love, not just a job that provides income.” In a university setting where so many students are struggling financially, or looking to find a career that excites them, I urge you to contact this organization.
Cache Valley Area Investors Association was founded in 2007 by Preston Parker.. Anyone is welcome to join and membership is free. Coming to the meetings makes a person an active member, but a person can also join through Facebook or an email list. The members are from varying geographical locations and all walks of life. They are united under that belief that education mitigates the risks of investing.
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
The Utah Statesman
Taggart Center 105
Utah State University
Logan, UT 84322-0165
Local Organization teaches students and others how to get rich quick
Dear Editor,
Increasing passive income and lowering expenses is the way to become financially independent, says Preston Parker, president and founder of Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA). This organization was formed to help people manage their finances, and meets every other Thursday at 7:00 pm to discuss and implement smart financial planning. This forum is open to students, and is based around the idea that a financial foundation is started within oneself.
Time, assets, and experience can be invested to establish personal wealth in five areas of investment: social, physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. After establishing personal well-being, focus is drawn outward to other investments. Parker says, “We believe people should be able to spend their time doing something they love, not just a job that provides income.” In a university setting where so many students are struggling financially, or looking to find a career that excites them, I urge you to contact this organization.
Cache Valley Area Investors Association was founded in 2007 by Preston Parker.. Anyone is welcome to join and membership is free. Coming to the meetings makes a person an active member, but a person can also join through Facebook or an email list. The members are from varying geographical locations and all walks of life. They are united under that belief that education mitigates the risks of investing.
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Draft Press Release 4
For Immediate Release: Oct. 20, 2009
Mark Steel Jewelry
568 S. Foothill Drive Kamas, UT 84036
435-783-4447
marksteeljewelry@gmail.com
New Products and Services that Sparkle
Mark Steel Jewelry releases new catalog, jewelry styles, and website
KAMAS, UTAH- Mark Steel Jewelry recently released a new catalog with new earring styles included. The company also recently launched a new website for the sales reps, where they can do business online. The new catalog highlights the traditional styles of earrings, and also showcases the newly released ones. Owners Matt Flinders and Mark Soffe say their main goal was to increase customer satisfaction, and make things easier for the sales representatives that work for Mark Steel. The current catalog that was released was over two years ago, and Matt and Mark feel that this catalog showcases the jewelry better. “We work daily to see how we can improve the quality of our product, and showcase it better to customers,” said Soffe. The website used to only be available for viewing selected styles of jewelry, but it now has a wider selection, a store locator for the reps, and contact information of how to order from the company. “We hope these changes improve our relationship with our customers,” said Flinders.
Mark Steel Jewelry was founded in 1979 by Mark Steel Soffe. The company manufacturers all of the jewelry locally and then ships it out to stores across the United States. They produced hand crafted earrings, finger rings, and toe rings with sterling silver and 14K gold filled. To find out more information visit marksteeljewlry.com or, contact the designated PR specialist listed below.
-END-
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Mark Steel Jewelry
568 S. Foothill Drive Kamas, UT 84036
435-783-4447
marksteeljewelry@gmail.com
New Products and Services that Sparkle
Mark Steel Jewelry releases new catalog, jewelry styles, and website
KAMAS, UTAH- Mark Steel Jewelry recently released a new catalog with new earring styles included. The company also recently launched a new website for the sales reps, where they can do business online. The new catalog highlights the traditional styles of earrings, and also showcases the newly released ones. Owners Matt Flinders and Mark Soffe say their main goal was to increase customer satisfaction, and make things easier for the sales representatives that work for Mark Steel. The current catalog that was released was over two years ago, and Matt and Mark feel that this catalog showcases the jewelry better. “We work daily to see how we can improve the quality of our product, and showcase it better to customers,” said Soffe. The website used to only be available for viewing selected styles of jewelry, but it now has a wider selection, a store locator for the reps, and contact information of how to order from the company. “We hope these changes improve our relationship with our customers,” said Flinders.
Mark Steel Jewelry was founded in 1979 by Mark Steel Soffe. The company manufacturers all of the jewelry locally and then ships it out to stores across the United States. They produced hand crafted earrings, finger rings, and toe rings with sterling silver and 14K gold filled. To find out more information visit marksteeljewlry.com or, contact the designated PR specialist listed below.
-END-
Emily Flinders
Public Relations representative
emily.flinders@aggiemail.usu.edu
Saturday, October 10, 2009
2300: Call it What IT is
Swine flu is everywhere. Wash your hands, cover your mouth, and stay away from the people who are infected. If you don’t, you may end up a carrier of the Swine Flu, also known as the H1N1 Flu. However, no one calls it the H1N1. Most of the media will begin a story saying, “There has been another death caused by the Swine Flu, or H1N1 flu.” People don’t hear the second part. All they hear is Swine Flu. Swine flu actually has genes from birds, swine, and humans. Therefore, the name H1N1 makes sense. This flu is contagious, but the easiest way to contract it is not by eating pork. Coughing and sneezing are the most common ways this virus spreads. Thousands of people die from the normal flu yearly, and this flu is no different. H1N1 can pass within a couple days if the patient rests, stays hydrated, and is not around a lot of people.
Why does the news media and everyone else have to make the situation worse? This is a severe outbreak of influenza, but calling it something as ominous as the “Swine Flu” is not helping matters. This illustrates to me the size of gap that exists between a company or organization and its public can be influenced by small details. What’s the big deal about calling it a different name? They are both referring to the same thing. In this case, I think it’s important. I would rather be diagnosed with H1N1 flu than the Swine Flu.
Why does the news media and everyone else have to make the situation worse? This is a severe outbreak of influenza, but calling it something as ominous as the “Swine Flu” is not helping matters. This illustrates to me the size of gap that exists between a company or organization and its public can be influenced by small details. What’s the big deal about calling it a different name? They are both referring to the same thing. In this case, I think it’s important. I would rather be diagnosed with H1N1 flu than the Swine Flu.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
2300: Blabbing Boozer
While reading the Sports section in The Salt Lake Tribune today, I happened across the headline, “Boozer backs off courtship of Bulls.” This brought all the instances of Boozer’s previous PR failures to the forefront of my mind. Boozer’s problems started with his injury last season. He was out for more than half of the games, and when he played, he was not performing as he had in previous seasons. Additionally, it was the last year of his contract before he had the option to “opt out.” This means he could go to another team if they wanted him, or bargain for more money with the Jazz organization.
When asked about opting out in the middle of the season, Boozer said something to the effect that he would opt out regardless in order to get more money. He said he had to do what was best for his family in this tough economic time. At a later date, late Jazz owner Larry H. Miller said Boozer’s comment was, “one of the top ten stupidest things I have ever heard an NBA player say.” Fans were very upset and many of them quickly lost faith and loyalty in Boozer. The saga continued into the summer, when everyone was speculating and some hoping, that he would be traded. That brings me to the article that was published in the Tribune, citing his interest to play for the Bulls. However, the Bulls are not going to make a trade for him, or offer him a contract so he will play the final year of his contract in Utah. This makes for an interesting PR situation. He is repeatedly quoted saying that he has no problem playing in Utah, yet he also said that he would welcome playing in Chicago, calling it a “great organization…top to bottom.” What are fans supposed to think? He continually makes comments about opting out and being traded after a mediocre season in Utah. Many want to believe that he still has some commitment and loyalty to the Jazz, but it is difficult to believe with the evidence of what he has said.
I think what he really needs is a good PR person to help him when he addresses the media. Although I am disgusted with the situation, I don’t think he’s a bad guy. I do think that if he had good PR people who could advise him and help him, it would help significantly. But maybe he already has PR people who are advising him, and if I was in their position, I would look closely at the ROPE model. After reading the article today, I don’t think their plan has been fully effective yet.
When asked about opting out in the middle of the season, Boozer said something to the effect that he would opt out regardless in order to get more money. He said he had to do what was best for his family in this tough economic time. At a later date, late Jazz owner Larry H. Miller said Boozer’s comment was, “one of the top ten stupidest things I have ever heard an NBA player say.” Fans were very upset and many of them quickly lost faith and loyalty in Boozer. The saga continued into the summer, when everyone was speculating and some hoping, that he would be traded. That brings me to the article that was published in the Tribune, citing his interest to play for the Bulls. However, the Bulls are not going to make a trade for him, or offer him a contract so he will play the final year of his contract in Utah. This makes for an interesting PR situation. He is repeatedly quoted saying that he has no problem playing in Utah, yet he also said that he would welcome playing in Chicago, calling it a “great organization…top to bottom.” What are fans supposed to think? He continually makes comments about opting out and being traded after a mediocre season in Utah. Many want to believe that he still has some commitment and loyalty to the Jazz, but it is difficult to believe with the evidence of what he has said.
I think what he really needs is a good PR person to help him when he addresses the media. Although I am disgusted with the situation, I don’t think he’s a bad guy. I do think that if he had good PR people who could advise him and help him, it would help significantly. But maybe he already has PR people who are advising him, and if I was in their position, I would look closely at the ROPE model. After reading the article today, I don’t think their plan has been fully effective yet.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
2300: Coal Spill Crisis
After discussing crisis management, this article from The New York Times caught my attention. Roane County, Tennessee was the site of a large coal ash spill in December 2008. As a result of this spill, property value was devastated, tourism nearly stopped, and it dramatically slowed the number of retirees settling in Watts Bar Lake. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the company responsible, is giving $43 million to try and repair damage. There are several plans in place to reverse the negative global press this county has received. The thing that interested me was the reaction of the residents.
In theory it seemed like the company was doing a good job. They were trying to compensate for the loss experienced and make up for the discrepancy between them and the public. However, many of the people didn’t change their opinions. One resident said, “It’s another way that TVA is going to project a positive image while so many of us are in really, really bad shape, and TVA has totally ignored that they’ve destroyed our community.”
Although the company seemed to be applying correct principles, it does not seem like they were really listening to their public. They were going through the public relations process, but after they finished, the attitudes had not really changed. The people for the majority still viewed this company in a bad light. Also, the town still had the reputation of being an “unsafe” place to live because of the spill. One resident said, “People are reading the news 2,000 miles away, and they think we’re drowning in ash. That’s where we’re hurt.” Even though new buildings are being constructed and money is being donated, it seems like the public relations people’s time would be better spent interacting with the people and trying to spread news of what the town is like now. I think trying to get media attention about the people and how the town is functioning now would be a more effective campaign.
In theory it seemed like the company was doing a good job. They were trying to compensate for the loss experienced and make up for the discrepancy between them and the public. However, many of the people didn’t change their opinions. One resident said, “It’s another way that TVA is going to project a positive image while so many of us are in really, really bad shape, and TVA has totally ignored that they’ve destroyed our community.”
Although the company seemed to be applying correct principles, it does not seem like they were really listening to their public. They were going through the public relations process, but after they finished, the attitudes had not really changed. The people for the majority still viewed this company in a bad light. Also, the town still had the reputation of being an “unsafe” place to live because of the spill. One resident said, “People are reading the news 2,000 miles away, and they think we’re drowning in ash. That’s where we’re hurt.” Even though new buildings are being constructed and money is being donated, it seems like the public relations people’s time would be better spent interacting with the people and trying to spread news of what the town is like now. I think trying to get media attention about the people and how the town is functioning now would be a more effective campaign.
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