You don't want to miss the Minnesota Women in Communications Professional Development Seminar on Jan. 18. The theme is, Energize Your Writing. There will be a panel discussion on writing for diverse audiences, writing for the web and e-communications, and writing blunders in the new millennium. Check out more details below:

Professional Development Seminar
Energize Your Business with Writing

Topics:

• Writing for Global Audiences: Panel Presentation
  Diversity of the audiences to whom we communicate is expanding. In this fast-paced society we live in, it is sometimes hard to keep up! Our panel of experts will share their insights on writing for global audiences, giving you key take-away concepts and some “dos” and “do nots” to guide you through your writing. Time will be set aside for open dialogue and questions at the end of this session, so be sure to bring those burning questions you have!
  
  
• Writing for the Web and E-Communications
  Is your Web site copy making users feel smart and successful? Or is it driving them away in droves? Customers come to your web site for two main reasons: to gather information and to complete tasks. As Web writers, our job is to make their visits as effortless as possible. From how we organize information on the page to the way we structure a paragraph, the most important question we can ask is: what does the reader need to succeed? In this session, led by Kristina Halvorson, you'll learn:
  

  o How people read online (and why it matters)
  o Top 10 Web writing best practices
  o 4 easy ways to edit your Web copy
  o How a content inventory can change your life

• Writing for New Media: Don't Forget the Basics
  Though we all have had grammar drilled in to our heads from grade school on up, many of us did not learn about the Web and other new media until much later. Join us as Laura French, communications consultant and Star Tribune freelance writer, walks us through the basics of new media and the key writing blunders. You’ll leave this session feeling energized and able to apply the concepts learned to your own writing.

To get more details on speakers and to register, please visit our Web site.

Creativity should be present in every business. On Wednesday, January 17, presents Fred Senn, co-author of "Juicing the Orange," and co-founder of Fallon Worldwide. The presentation is centered on how businesses and professionals can leverage, harness and foster creativity to help them grow. Don’t miss this opportunity to make sure your company is getting it’s fill of “Vitamin C”...the C being for creativity, of course.

Date: Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Agenda:
11:00 a.m. – Registration
11:30 a.m. – Buffet-style lunch
11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Announcements/presentation/Q&A
1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Adjournment and networking
Location: Metropolitan Ballroom – , Golden Valley
Register: or call

The Star Tribune is has reportedly been sold for $530 million dollars, roughly half of its value of when it was sold for $1.2 billion in 1998. McClatchy Co. sold the paper to Avista Capital Partners in a last minute tax benefit deal.

From Bloomberg:

The sale of the Star-Tribune allows Sacramento, California- based McClatchy to receive $160 million in tax benefits, the company said today in a statement. Avista, a New York-based private equity firm, will retain senior management.

Get the Star Tribune story here.

Roepke Public Relations announced last week that the year ending Dec. 31, 2006 produced strong growth and with growth comes new hires and the promotion of a key team member.

Melissa Bohlig and Michael Soricelli have been hired as assistant account executives and Jessica Sachariason has been promoted to senior account executive.

"We are delighted to welcome Melissa and Mike to our team," said Katherine Roepke, president of Roepke Public Relations. "They will be influential to our success as our firm continues to experience significant growth of new business."

Sachariason started with the firm as an assistant account executive. This is her second promotion in less than three years.

"Jessica is a vital member of our team," said Roepke. "She has been instrumental in securing national editorial coverage for clients. Her media relations skills are superb."

Effective Jan. 1, 2007, Risdall Advertising Agency (RAA)will broaden its organization’s structure to create Risdall Marketing Group, LLC (RMG), which will reflect the variety and multitude of integrated marketing competencies the agency holds.

With ever-changing industry trends, restructuring agency marketing strategies is necessary to create client growth and success.

“What clients are looking for has changed over the past 50 years. With the introduction of the Internet, everyone had to change the way they marketed,” said John Risdall, founder of RAA. “This new structure reconfigured our product offerings and platform as an integrated marketing group. Clients can engage with any of Risdall’s seven marketing companies as they see needed, yet have access to any of the others on a totally integrated basis to create success for their business.”

And success is a tradition that will carry over to RMG from previous years. The most recent Business Journal Top 25 List for web development and design firms ranked Risdall Advertising Interactive (RAAi) at number one. In the Top 25 List for advertising firms, RAA sits at number seven, and the April rankings for the Top 25 PR Firms placed Risdall McKinney Public Relations at number seven.

Including the advertising, interactive and PR services, RMG is comprised of the following divisions:

• Risdall Advertising Agency (RAA), Ted Risdall, President
  
• Risdall Advertising Agency Interactive (RAAi), Ted Risdall, President
  
• Risdall McKinney Public Relations, Rose McKinney, APR, President
  
• Risdall Fundraising Agency, Jerry Seppala, President
  
• Risdall Search Marketing, Jennifer Risdall, President
  
• Risdall Sandstrom Media Works, Jim Sandstrom, President
  
• Risdall Marketing Institute, Kevin Deshler, President

In addition to four of the division presidents listed above, RMG board members include:

• John Risdall – vice chairman, CEO and COO, RMG; chairman, RAA
  
• Ted Risdall – chairman, RMG
  
• Tom Wilson – president, RMG; executive vice president, chief connectivity officer, RAA
  
• Terri Lee – executive vice president, account supervisor, RAA
  
• Rose McKinney
  
• Jennifer Risdall
  
• Jim Sandstrom
  

Merry Christmas to all MNPR Blog readers. Hope you have a relaxing and joyous holiday season!

-Ryan

Yamamoto Moss Mackenzie took home three American Design Awards last month, including first prize for The Can Mailing, a corporate identity design, second prize for The Wood Postcard, a flyer/postcard and second prize for Dead Presidents, an invitation design.

"As this is a design award, it hardly makes sense to put words to our enthusiasm," says Tim Naylor, co-creative director, Yamamoto Moss Mackenzie. "But, as a copywriter, I can’t stop myself. We’re honored to be included amongst the unusual, interesting and arresting design winners featured in the American Design Awards this year."

The American Design Awards, based in San Diego , value the importance of eye-catching design pieces, whether in print form or on the web. Twenty design categories are open for competition semi-annually. For more information and to see Yamamoto Moss Mackenzie’s winning pieces and others, visit www.americandesignawards.com/.

Plumbers and Paparazzi Photographers Unite!!!

The Morris + King Company (MKC), yesterday issued the first-ever “Best ProfNet Queries of the Year” list.

Compiled from a collection of 52 weeks worth of email queries from PRNewswire’s ProfNet service, this list chronicles the funniest, most unique and peculiar reporter queries of 2006. On a typical day, PRNewswire, which is the global leader in news and information distribution services for professional communicators, transmits between 100 and 150 reporter queries. Throughout 2006, MKC Account Supervisor Lane Buschel and Senior Account Executive Justin Kazmark scoured through tens of thousands of such queries to fashion this year’s list. Without further ado, the Best ProNet Queries of 2006!:

10. Naked Workouts—New York Times (US)

I'm doing a story on nude sports—that is, people who exercise in the buff (i.e., in college you see 'naked lacrosse' and such). A strange question, I know, but are there any health or physical benefits to this? No phone calls, please. I'm a freelancer.

9. NON-EXPERT: Lemonade and Kidney Stones—First for Women (US)

I'm looking for women (ages 25-50) who drink lemonade to relieve pain associated with their kidney stones. If interested, please e-mail me a summary of your experience and photo as soon as possible. 06:00 PM US /Eastern JUN 08

8. MEDICINE: How To Fight Against Indestructible Head Lice—Univision (US)

Lice are becoming indestructible. Scientists believe that 80 percent of the bugs are immune to over-the-counter lotions. They found lice were untroubled by the chemicals permathrin and phenothrin, found in popular bug-busting brands. The experts say the process of natural selection means the insects have developed a resistance to the lotions. The findings will not just leave children, parents and teachers scratching their heads. It will almost certainly start a scramble to discover a lotion to do the job better. How to fight against head lice now? We won't make phone calls or interviews—just need experts to tell us by e-mail how to prevent pediculosis and which treatment is effective against head bugs. 01:00 AM US/Eastern JUN 22

7. TODAY/BEHAVIOR: Shrink—Star Magazine (US)

I need a shrink to read something a woman wrote and tell me what they think it means.

03:00 PM US /Eastern JUL 20

6. BEHAVIOR: Barbie Mutilated?—Exit Weekly (US/NJ)

Ever own a Barbie? Or maybe your sister did. Recent reports have concluded that many children do not regard Barbie as their idol, but rather something to be destroyed or defaced. Have any keen memories of destroying your Barbie or a sibling's? Share. Bonus if you're from New Jersey , our local area. 03:00 PM US /Eastern JAN 04

5. NON-EXPERT: Know a Jerk?—Author (US)

Tell me about the biggest jerk you know personally, in 200 words or less, for inclusion in a book proposal about the villains in our lives. Go ahead and vent. Names will be changed. 12:00 PM US /Eastern FEB 21

4. CHARITIES: Equine Charities—Horse Illustrated magazine

For Horse Illustrated magazine, I'm writing an article on equine charities throughout the world; what they are about and what issues they are currently tackling. Nov 02, 2006 18:11 PM EST(America/New_York)

3. LIVING: Got Poop?—News Journal (US/DE)

What's with all the pooper scoopers? Is this the end of civilization as we know it, or what we've always longed for? A lifestyle reporter with Delaware 's largest daily seeks serious and not-so-serious experts to talk about the explosion of personal services, especially the pooper scooper type. No phone calls, please. 06:00 PM US /Eastern JUL 03

2. FEATURES: Plumbers and Paparazzi Photographers Unite—First for Women

For an article that is not strange in the slightest, I need to speak with both a plumber or anyone who knows how to unclog a toilet, and a paparazzi photographer or anyone else who spends time trespassing. I'm happy to answer questions about the article and would love to have something set up by the end of the week. Nov 17, 2006 05:00 PM

1. BOOSTER: Ob/Gyn, Tech Guru, Dog Trainer—First for Women

I'm working on a story where I'll need an ob/gyn, a tech guru and a dog trainer to comment on very specific situations in their area of expertise (tips on how to tell if a woman is pregnant without asking, how to ensure e-mail gets sent to the right recipient, and how to teach your dog not to jump on others). Deadline is this week. Thank you in advance to those who respond, but only the three who most fit my needs will be contacted. Nov 01, 2006 12:11 PM EST(America/New_York

Buschel and Kazmark were inspired to create a best ProfNet Queries of the year list after coming across the following query in late 2005:

BOOSTER: Bowel Expert—Exit Weekly (US/NJ)

[Limited to the NJ/NY metro area] Bowel expert needed to address symptoms arising from extreme stress/fright. This is for our health section, so we’re needing to talk to a medical professional. NYC or New Jersey area professionals only, please. Exit Weekly, a new weekly geared toward younger readers, is a publication of North Jersey Media Group, publishers of the Record and Herald News.

“ProfNet is a great resource, and we pay special attention to the listings as they come in multiple times a day,” said Lane Buschel, an account supervisor at The Morris + King Company. “We often pass relevant queries around the agency, especially when we know people may be backed up with pressing matters. We look forward to producing this list annually.”

Colle+McVoy, Inc., announced that Chris Henderson has been named interactive creative director for the firm. His award-winning talents further the agency’s commitment to the digital space and belief that interactive will play a critical role in the future success of their clients.

“"Discovering unconventional and alluring ways to penetrate the market takes someone who displays strategic thinking, an integrated approach and passion—someone who inspires others, like Chris Henderson,"” said Christine Fruechte, Colle+McVoy’s president. "“Chris will play a critical part in building the company’s momentum and in our clients’ success moving forward.”"

“"With the constant changes in how people are consuming media, it’s more important than ever to raise the bar and consider all media to reach consumers, including interactive,"” said Henderson. “"It’s not about choosing one discipline over the other—now it’s how many ways can we impact the consumer and that’s exciting. I’m looking forward to bringing new innovative thinking and opportunities to our clients.”"

Henderson joins Colle+McVoy from Olson where he was executive creative director and spent the last seven years building their interactive department and developing award-winning work. His creative expertise has been recognized with several high-profile awards including 2006 Interactive Best of Show at the Minneapolis Show for the Nike Bauer Hockey site, two Gold EFFIE Awards and Best of Show at the Minnesota Public Relations Society of America. His brand experience includes Breathright, Detroit Pistons, Formica Corporation, Medtronic, Public Broadcasting Station (PBS), Supervalu, Target and Thrivent Financial.

Are you already working on your New Year's resolution for 2007? Have you decided to further develop your career or find new opportunities? If so, Minnesota PRSA’s Job Mart could help you obtain your goals and satisfy your New Year’s resolution. Minnesota PRSA Job Mart connects job seekers to employers with open positions.

Many PR agencies, corporations as well as government and non-profit organizations rely on PRSA's Job Mart placement service to successfully fill open positions. The Minnesota PRSA in partnership with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) and the Association of (MWC) organize and administer Job Mart and the services are free for PRSA members for the first three months and it is a confidential service. Non-member rates and renewal fees are $40 per quarter. Whether you’re an employer with an open position to fill, or a job-seeker out looking for work – Job Mart wants to hear from you!

Register with Job Mart today! See:
http://www.mnprsa.com/index2.cfm?page=job_mart.cfm

Also, if there are any graphic designers who would like to get their work seen by other PR professionals, we’d love your help creating Job Mart materials.

Contact: Tony Deos at for more information.

The Sherwin-Williams Company, one of the world’s leading coatings manufacturers and distributors, has chosen public relations firm Carmichael Lynch Spong as its agency of record for its Paint Stores Group’s architectural segments. The firm will help Sherwin-Williams elevate and maintain its status as the leader in the coatings industry by providing strategic counsel, creating awareness and building demand for the company’s products.

Based in Cleveland , Ohio , Sherwin-Williams is the largest producer of paint in North America and holds the number two position globally. In addition to paints, Sherwin-Williams manufactures a wide array of coatings, finishes, applicators and varnishes. Sherwin-Williams branded coatings are sold exclusively through 3,000 Sherwin-Williams owned and operated paint stores throughout North America . Carmichael Lynch Spong will serve the Paint Stores Group, which is the largest single operating division within The Sherwin-Williams Company.

“Carmichael Lynch Spong is the perfect firm for our business. They have a shared set of values, similar spirit, and a creative culture that’s contagious. We expect them to play a significant role in growing and supporting our brand,” says Ellen Moreau, vice president of marketing communications for Sherwin-Williams.

As one of the 15 largest public relations firms in the nation, Carmichael Lynch Spong represents a select portfolio of clients that are the leaders in their industries. Among the companies it represents in the home and garden industry are American Standard, the world’s largest manufacturer of bath and kitchen products; MasterBrand Cabinets, the second-largest manufacturer of cabinetry in North America and a Fortune Brands company; TRANE, the world’s largest manufacturer of heating and cooling; Therma-Tru, the nation's leading manufacturer and most preferred brand of fiberglass and steel residential exterior entry and patio door systems; Clorox, a leading manufacturer and marketer of consumer products; Lutron, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of lighting control systems; and the Maytag, Jenn-Air and Amana brands of the Whirlpool Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances.

“Sherwin-Williams is one of the greatest brands in America ,” says Douglas K. Spong, APR, president. “We are excited to be partnering with a 140-year-old company that embodies a rich history.”

Weber Shandwick today announced the hire of three new employees in its Twin Cities office.
Whitney Mares was hired as a senior account executive in the consumer marketing practice. Mares previously worked for Total Higher Education as a public relations representative. A native of Minneapolis, Mares holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Ithaca College, Roy H. Park School of Communication, and a master's degree in strategic public relations from the University of Southern California, Annenberg School of Journalism.

Sarah Goldthwait has joined the technology practice as an account executive. Goldthwait most recently worked as an associate development officer for the University of Minnesota Foundation where she managed a diverse portfolio of donors and collaborated on fundraising and scholarship programs. A graduate of St. Olaf College, Goldthwait has a bachelor's degree in political science and French. She is a native of Minneapolis.

Kimberly Crumley has been hired as an administrative assistant in the corporate, community and public affairs practice. Crumley previously worked for the University of Minnesota as an account executive for printing and graphic design and, most recently, at a northern Minnesota resort as the interior design and resort operations assistant. A Minneapolis native, Crumley has a criminal justice degree from Alexandria Technical College.

I came across an interesting post this morning that is worth sharing. Fellow PR blogger, Mike Sacks at the Big Mouth, writes about the . I think he makes some good points. For one I agree that the PR industry should recruit people who understand business. Although, if it is true that business professionals don't value PR as he indicates, then why would someone who understands business want to work in the PR industry?

The answer, I think, is that when PR is executed strategically and with purpose business professional see that it adds value. But when it is done haphazardly it is disregarded. The most important statement Mike makes in his rant is the following:

We can't just call for change as if that is our due diligence. We actually have to do something.

So what do we do? As an industry we push accreditation, we work to find new ways to measure success and we show value by learning to better understand the business world we work in every day.

There is a new free clipping service available for those of you media junkies that can't get enough news fast enough. Clip&Copy offers free clips on breaking news "before it is picked up by portals or indexed by search engines." Check it out here.

Tunheim Partners, Inc., a Minneapolis-based public relations and public affairs agency, is pleased to announce that president and CEO Kathy Tunheim has been appointed to the University of Minnesota Foundation (UMF) Board of Trustees.

Kathy was unanimously appointed as a UMF trustee by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents at their Nov. 10, 2006 board meeting. The three-year term commences immediately and ends November 2009.

“I am a proud graduate of the University, and I understand the increasingly important role of philanthropy in ensuring that higher education is prepared to play its critical part in the vitality of our great State. I look forward to being a part of this well respected board,” said Kathy Tunheim.

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the hire of (retired) Col. Richard "Denny" Shields as vice president in the corporate, community and public affairs practice group.

Shields brings to his new position a long history with the U.S. Armed Services and will play a key leadership role on Weber Shandwick's U.S. Army account team. In addition, he brings a wide range of skills and experience, including deep knowledge of the Minnesota legislative arena, public affairs, media relations and crisis communications.

Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Shields was Director of Public Affairs for the Minnesota Air and Army National Guard, where he spent 14 years. From 2004 to 2006, he also served as the Assistant to the Adjutant General where he was directly responsible for the Guard's internal and external communications as well as government and community relations.

Shields has served as media spokesperson for several statewide emergencies, including the Red River Valley floods of 1997 and the overseas deployment of Guard units. He also managed the Guard's successful government relations campaign that blocked the closing of the Duluth Air National Guard Base.

Yep, it is that time of year again. Time to put together my performance development review for 2006. It was an amazing year with lots of things to brag about, but how do I convince management that it was all worthwhile?

Evaluation of public relations is one of the most important pieces of the PR puzzle but it is also the easiest to overlook or to do half-heartedly because it is time consuming and repetitive. According to Wikipedia, PR measurement is actually a science.

Wikipedia also offers some helpful suggestions for PR Measurement and evaluation including the following:

• Establish clear program, activity, strategic and tactical objectives and desired outputs, outtakes and outcomes before you begin, to provide a basis for measurement of results. PR goals should tie directly to the overall goals of the organization.
  
• Differentiate between measuring outputs, outtakes and outcomes.
  
• The measurement of media content, while of great value, needs to be viewed as only a first step in the PR measurement and evaluation process. It can measure possible exposure to PR messages and actual press coverage; however, it cannot, by itself, measure whether target audiences actually saw the messages and responded to them in any way.
  
• There is no one, simple, all-encompassing research tool, technique or methodology that can be relied on to measure and evaluate PR effectiveness.

Get the rest of the measurement guidelines here.

Of course, all of this doesn't help me complete the standard 18-page document we have for evaluating our individual performance.

about guys wearing black shoes with blue dress pants. The results were evenly split half of you said that it was a fashion mistake others said it was okay. Oh, and several of you said "Who cares!"

Well, according to , it IS okay to wear black shoes with blue dress pants. From About.com:

Black and blue are perfectly OK to wear together, and actually the preferred combo. I'm not sure exactly when the aesthetic changed, but I do remember when cordovan or brown were acceptable choices for navy.

Other comments on the Web regarding this topic can be found here.

So it may have been when I dropped my laptop going through security or when I threw my backpack into the rental car, but some how last week I ruined my wireless card. VERY FRUSTRATING! To make matters worse the hotel I was staying at only had a wireless connection. Anyway, that is why I haven't been updating this site very much. I am back at it now so stay tuned!

Weber Shandwick has been selected by the United States Mint to develop and implement a multi-year, national communications campaign to promote public information, education and awareness about the new Presidential $1 Coin.

The Weber Shandwick team – comprised of people in its Twin Cities, Chicago and Washington, D.C., offices – worked with United States Mint and Federal Reserve Bank officials to provide Americans with their first glimpse of a new series of circulating Presidential $1 Coins at a highly publicized design unveiling ceremony last week at the Smithsonian Institution's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.

"The new Presidential $1 Coins are an educational and fun way to learn about former presidents," said United States Mint Director Edmund C. Moy. "Our research indicates that, like the 50 State Quarters coins, the Presidential $1 Coins will be popular with millions of Americans."

The campaign supports the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005, which requires the United States Mint to issue four new Presidential $1 Coins annually, bearing the likenesses of U.S. presidents in the order of their service, as well as the continued minting and issuance of Sacagawea-design $1 coins for circulation. The federal law also imposes new mandates on various federal entities to promote robust circulation of these coins in commerce, including ensuring that business operations are capable of accepting and dispensing $1 coins as well as displaying notices of such capabilities.

The first Presidential $1 Coin, featuring George Washington, will be launched around Presidents Day in February 2007. The integrated campaign includes consumer and business-to-business marketing targeting the financial services industry; retailers; coin equipment manufacturers; vending, parking, car wash and transit communities; federal employees and service members; and coin users groups.

"This important initiative for the United States Mint is exactly the kind of challenge at which our firm excels,” said Barb Iverson, president of Weber Shandwick’s North American Financial Services practice and leader of the firm’s Minneapolis financial services group. “Weber Shandwick has deep knowledge about the ways in which government and financial services intersect. We will use this expertise to raise awareness and drive usage of the Presidential $1 Coins among key audiences through effective and persuasive approaches.”

The United States Mint is the bureau of the U.S. Treasury that produces coinage for the nation to conduct trade and commerce. Weber Shandwick also works with other major bureaus of the U.S. Treasury, including the Financial Management Service and the Internal Revenue Service.

Weber Shandwick’s United States Mint team is led by Jim Holland, a senior vice president of financial services in the firm’s Chicago office. The Chicago office is responsible for overall campaign leadership, consumer marketing and materials development. In Minneapolis, Randy Sands, senior vice president of financial services, is leading a team that’s driving the campaign’s business-to-business component, and David Krejci, vice president of Web relations, and his team are responsible for the campaign’s Web relations component.

THE party to attend!

Before your holiday plans book up, here is THE party you won't want to miss; , December 7, at Trocaderos night club and restaurant. This charitable fundraising event promises a few surprises, fun people, delicious food, a complimentary "Jingletini" signature cocktail, free valet parking, and an opportunity to bid on fabulous auction items. Click here for more details, mark your calendar and reserve your spot quickly for Thursday, December 7, from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

So over the holidays I had a discussion I have had with several people in the past including a gentleman from K&G Mens Superstore. The question, can men wear black shoes with blue dress pants. Voice your opinion, vote by clicking here or comment below.

When the survey is complete I will post the results.

New and long-standing members of MWC are invited to mix, mingle, learn about MWC, exchange business cards, knock down some pins, and have a cocktail!

Details
Date: Thursday, Dec. 7
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Bryant Lake Bowl, 810 West Lake Street, Minneapolis
Cost: $3.75 per game, attendees pay for their own refreshments (no checks accepted)

Contact Melissa Peick at for more information. Register here.

Minneapolis-based public relations firm LaBreche Murray announced the promotion of Callie Briese and Jacqueline Varriano to assistant account executives.

Briese, who previously served as account assistant since November 2005, will continue providing valuable expertise to her business to business, consumer, financial services and professional services clients. Throughout her time at LaBreche Murray, Callie Briese has been instrumental in achieving desired results for her clients. She is a member of the firm’s marketing and business development committees.

“Callie has a keen understanding of the business-to-business needs of our clients,” said Beth LaBreche, president. “She has built significant relationships with key media influencers for national businesses over the past year.”

---

Over the past year, Jacqueline has consistently moved up the ranks; from intern to account assistant and now as an assistant account executive. She amassed the largest portfolio of clients for an account assistant in the agency’s history. Varriano will continue delivering exceptional expertise and quality work for her current clients, which span professional and financial services, consumer and healthcare industries. Jacqueline led the agency’s marketing committee and significantly contributed to the agency’s pro-bono clients.

“From day one, Jackie has exceeded our expectations by growing beyond her job description and providing exceptional value for her clients,” says Jacob Trippel, the vice president and CFO of LaBreche Murray Public Relations.

Jacqueline came to LaBreche Murray Public Relations from Wax Marketing. She received her bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of North Dakota.

---

LaBreche Murray also announced today, the addition of Lindsay Childs as an account assistant.

Childs comes to LaBreche Murray from Harrison & Shriftman Public Relations where she was responsible for handling event logistics, coordinating event guest lists and developing strategic communications materials for clients. While attending the University of Miami , Lindsay interned in the media relations department. During her time there, she assisted with the media activities for the architecture, law, business, and arts departments.

Academic leadership contributed to Lindsay’s college experience. Childs was involved in PRSSA as well as Quantum Entertainment where she had a chance to further her public relations skills. As director of advertising and public relations for Quantum, she was responsible for creating full-scale promotional campaigns for theatrical performances.

Childs graduated from the University of Miami in May 2006 with a 3.9 GPA. Prior to moving to Miami , Lindsay graduated from Apple Valley High School in 2002 and was honored to be the valedictorian of her class.

Colle + McVoy carried home 35 awards, including three gold, four silver, fourteen bronze and fifteen merit honors at The Show, the annual advertising awards gala. The honors, given on the evening of Fri., Nov. 10 at The Depot in downtown Minneapolis, were for agency clients including Schell's Beer, Winnebago, Red Wing Shoe Company, Nestlé Purina and Minnesota State Lottery.

The advertising and interactive marketing awards were judged earlier this year. Out of 1,446 entries, a total of 19 gold, 46 silver, 89 bronze and 226 merit honors were awarded.

"It was a fantastic night, a night years in the making," says Mike Fetrow, executive creative director, Colle+McVoy. "The Show was a tangible chance for Minneapolis to see what's been happening at Colle+McVoy and for all of us to celebrate some great work."

"This is more of the momentum we've been gaining since we moved to downtown Minneapolis in September," says Christine Fruechte, Colle+McVoy¹s president. "No agency has ever achieved such a dramatic change in one year at the Show, and it's the beginning of more great things to come from Colle+McVoy."

Yesterday’s Minnesota PRSA luncheon focused on “How to Move the Measurement Needle – and Prove It – Without Getting Stung.”

The session was led by Monika Strom, Ph.D., who has an extensive communications research and public relations background with experience in both quantitative and qualitative measurement. Strom shared the customized measurement program she developed for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, and provided insight as to how to implement such an initiative within a company or on behalf of clients. Strom made the following case:

Why does measurement matter?

• Measurement is the new business reality
  
• Everyone wise to public relations views it as the antidote to advertising and information overload, so expectations are higher and “results” are the new normal
  
• Results are not holistic. Instead, they are linear and in line with the business makers’ decisions
  

The five steps to better measurement include:

• Shifting your mind-set
  
• Identifying your organization’s needle and metric
  
• Identifying your organization’s comparison set
  
• Translating what’s helpful to you into what’s meaningful to the organization
  
• Regularly reporting and sharing results to decision makers
  

Further information can be obtained from the Minnesota PRSA.

Jillian Beauman
Associate
Carmichael Lynch Spong

Mark your calendar and join for the most joyous holiday gathering and charitable fundraiser ever!

This year's party features a happy hour -- with a complimentary
"Jingletini" signature cocktail, delicious food and a few surprises.

Try your luck in the raffle or place the winning bid on fabulous silent and live auction items. Plan to leave work a little early -- our festivities start at 4:00PM. Come enjoy some holiday cheer with
a few hundred of your closest Ad Fed friends!

NEW LOCATION and FREE VALETPARKING

Date: Thursday, December 7, 2006
Location: Trocaderos (107 Third Avenue North, Downtown Minneapolis)
Time: Registration 4:00 p.m.
Silent Auction and Raffle 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Live Auction 5:45 p.m.- 6:05 p.m.
Hors d'oeuvres and mingling 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Costs: $30 for members, $50 for non-members and $400 for groups of ten. (An additional $10 after November 30th).

Be sure to make your reservations by November 30.

Click here to register or call the Ad Fed office @ .

The time has arrived to enter your best public relations elements and programs for award consideration. The Minnesota PRSA Classics committee is now accepting entries for the 29th Annual Minnesota PRSA Classics Awards. To access an entry form or to find more information about award categories, please visit www.mnprsa.com/classics07.

Entries must be received by 2 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 7, 2006, and should be sent to:

Minnesota PRSA Classics Awards
c/o Nonprofit Solutions
1821 University Avenue West, #S256
Saint Paul, MN 55104

The awards ceremony and banquet to honor the best of local public relations will be held at Solera in downtown Minneapolis Thursday, March 15, 2007. Any questions should be directed to Classics committee co-chairs, Dawn Lindgren, or Curtis Smith, .

Tunheim Partners, a Minneapolis-based public relations and public affairs agency, is pleased to announce the appointment of Bryan Brignac, Kate Slater and Matt DePoint to account representatives and Jason Lucas as executive assistant.
Brignac, Slater and DePoint bring expertise in media relations, measurement analysis and writing to the firm. Brignac and DePoint are graduates of the University of Minnesota. Slater is a graduate of the University of St. Thomas.
Lucas joins Tunheim Partners from Minnesota Diversified Industries, where he provided executive assistant support and event planning expertise.

Dear Friend of PR News,

As a PR professional you understand that finding your match in a PR firm is one of the most difficult and important endeavors for a PR professional, whether it’s the corporate or nonprofit PR professional looking for an agency or the PR firm seeking clients. In short, who you partner with can make or break your campaign and sometimes your career.

That’s why we’re inviting you to attend our 90-minute Webinar next Wednesday, November 15 at 1:30 p.m At ET. “Choosing Your PR Firm & Making the Relationships Work”. You’ll hear from a distinguished panel of corporate and agency professionals that will share the secrets of choosing the right PR firm for a project, finding an agency of record, and setting the right expectations for maximum gain on both sides.

Register Now

The following award-winning experts will present during the live conference:

• Deborah Radman, APR, Fellow PRSA Managing Director, Stanton Communications; Immediate Past Chair, Counselors Academy
• Kathy Callahan, Director of Communications, Ameristar Casinos
• Rose McKinney, President, Risdall McKinney
• Jessica Pantages, Senior Manager, General Dynamics Advance Information Systems

Register now

Where: ONLINE (from your office or conference room)
When: November 15, 2006 at 1:30 ET
Questions:

Plus, live Q&As throughout the workshop.

If you're not available at this time, still register, you'll have access to the program and materials for 6 months from date of the Webinar. This added benefit allows you to view the program when it's convenient to you and your team. We also recommend using the Webinar as a teaching tool through-out the year. If you are not the best contact for partnership programs or there are others in your organization who have an interest, please forward this to the appropriate people.

Sincerely,

The PR News Team

Mobile marketing tour takes new acne line nationwide

Colle+McVoy has launched the , a cross-country mobile spa marketing tour, in New York, Los Angeles and Minneapolis. The campaign was launched to support Outer Peace Acne Relief Skincare, Aveda¹s new skin care line.

Using a converted Airstream Basecamp trailer, pulled by an eco-friendly hybrid vehicle, Aveda's Outer Peace Patrol offered product, prizes and skincare tips to those stopping by the mobile spa. National skincare expert Krista Kiley, Aveda¹s director of spa education, and additional members of Aveda's professional team of skin care experts staffed the mobile spa to
provide expertise and product demonstrations at each stop.

"We knew that the Outer Peace Acne Skincare line would appeal not only to our core consumers but also to a younger audience, including teens. We've seen what Colle+McVoy has done for some of its youth-oriented clients and knew that the agency would be a strong partner to help Aveda connect to this trendy and ambitious consumer," says Rachael Ostrom, director of consumer marketing and media, Aveda Corporation. "With the production of the mobile spa, after-hour teen spa events and Outer Peace¹s MySpace profile page (), Colle+McVoy helped us create marketing tools that put us right in front of our target audience."

"Helping Aveda launch Outer Peace gave Colle+McVoy an opportunity to
leverage our youth marketing and non-traditional media muscle," says
Christine Fruechte, president, Colle+McVoy. "We created tools to align with
the interests of today¹s teens, including a MySpace profile page that made
it easy to build brand awareness and credibility with this very important
consumer."

Dear Eligible Voter,

"I'm a believer that if enough people get involved in the vote, the right decisions will be made."

This quote was taken from an article in last Friday's Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal and it sums up my feelings entirely. As Americans I believe it is our right, our responsibility and our privilege to vote.

Every year after the election I hear people say, "next year I will get more involved." The first step to ‘getting involved’ is to become an informed voter. That means more than just trying to recall the commercials you’ve been inundated with on television. That means more than just voting based on party affiliation. Take a few minutes to read about where your candidates stand on issues that are important to you.

The second step is actually voting. As the quote above says, I believe the 'right decision' can, and will, be made. You’ve got an opportunity to help determine the future of the place you call home. Below you will find some information that will help you make your decision on who to vote for, so step up and help make the right decision--Vote.

Thanks for you participation,
Ryan

You can find your polling place here http://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/

Weber Shandwick was named Large PR Agency of the Year by PR News at the publication’s Platinum PR Awards ceremony held on October 18 in New York City. The awards honor the best campaigns and practices in public relations. Weber Shandwick also received Platinum Awards for Best Branding Campaign of the Year (Siemens) and Best Internal Publication Communications (American Airlines).

"Just after being named Pan-European Consultancy of the Year by The Holmes Report, this honor further underscores our firm’s commitment to our clients, and the strategic and creative thinking of our professionals around the world," said Harris Diamond, chief executive officer of Weber Shandwick.

"Our clients, in both the public and private sectors, allow us the opportunity to deliver exceptional communication strategies and programs," said Sara Gavin, president of Weber Shandwick’s Twin Cities office. "The caliber of communication assignments and challenges we manage with our clients also allows us to attract the best public relations talent the Twin Cities has to offer."

In its review of Weber Shandwick, PR News wrote: “Weber Shandwick’s worldwide presence was underscored by a year of record growth and award-winning campaigns that ran the PR gamut in 2005. These included an integrated communications effort as the U.S. Department of the Treasury/Federal Reserve Bank moved away from paper checks, as well as a brand management initiative for the Minnesota Hospital Association. Judging from its high customer satisfaction rates, Weber Shandwick has hit that goal many times over, placing it at the pinnacle of outstanding PR service.”

Twin Cities-based executive lecture series, The Masters Forum, to feature
marketing and psychology expert, Dan Ariely. Through his work at MIT, Ariley has explored the decision making process and has conducted extensive examinations of online auction behaviors, personal health monitoring, the effects of different pricing mechanisms, and the development of systems to overcome day-to-day irrationality.

Ariely’s presentation will explore the connection between decision-making and marketing:

• Behavioral Economics
  
• Decision-making
  
• Consumer Welfare
  
• Rationality
  
• Irrationality
  

INFO: The Masters Forum
Thursday, Nov. 16
8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Thrivent Auditorium
625 4th Ave. S.
Minneapolis
Cost $375

ABOUT: The Masters Forum is an executive lecture series that has been bringing the world’s best business thinkers to share their new and innovative ideas with Twin Cities’ leaders since 1987. Past presenters include such luminaries as James Collins, Michael Porter, Stephen Covey, Tom Peters, Rosabeth Moss Kanter, Gary Hamel, Clayton Christensen, Malcolm Gladwell, Margaret Wheatley and Peter Block.

WHO: Ariely holds a joint appointment between MIT's Program in Media Arts and Sciences and Sloan School of Management and is the principal investigator of the Lab's eRationality group and co-director of the Lab's SIMPLICITY consortium.

With PhDs in both cognitive psychology and marketing, Ariely’s career has been focused on understanding the decision-making process and the effects of marketing on that process. Recognized in both marketing and psychology circles, Ariely’s research and opinions have been widely published, and he has received numerous honors and awards for his work in the both fields. Prior to his appointment at MIT, Ariely held positions at University of California at Berkley, Stanford and Princeton.

For more information on Ariely’s background visit

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

How Agencies Play Nice

Can agencies that would normally compete join forces for the benefit of a client? On November 15th, you'll meet three people that know it is possible - and learn how they do it. Join as we present a panel of experts that have succeeded through agency collaboration.

Panelists include:
Rich Butwinick, MarketingLab
Jim Cousins, Kruskopf Coontz
Keith McCracken, Promotions industry expert

Date: Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Location: International Market Square, 275 Market Street,
Time: 11:15am-1:30pm
Cost: $30 members, $65 nonmembers, $25 students ($10 additional after 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 9, 2006)

Registration: or call the Ad Fed office at by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, November 9, 2006.

Greetings,

We’re looking for participants and ideas for an upcoming issue on Baby Boomers...The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal will be publishing an in depth report on Training for 60: Boomers Turn 60” in our Friday, Dec. 8 issue.

One of the features we would like to include are four or five Q&As with Twin Cities business leaders who are about to turn 60 or have recently turned 60. We are looking for people who are currently making decisions about retirement, second (third or fourth) careers, estate planning, care for aging parents, personal health, etc.

And we are looking for your help to locate these individuals, who should be willing to share their plans, concerns, and hopes with our readers.

Any ideas? Please e-mail me at by end of day Wednesday, Nov. 1. Please check with the individuals you recommend first to ensure they would be willing to participate in this project. We may or may not be following up with them, but it would be helpful if the groundwork was laid.

Thanks in advance for your help and suggestions. If you have any additional questions about the project, please feel free to give me a call.

Regards,
Kim

Kim Johnson
Special Reports editor
Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal
120 S. Sixth St., Suite 900

Ph.
F.

Web site: minneapolis-stpaulbusinessjournal.com

Okay, it seems a little odd that Minnesota PRSA would hold an event on election day, but then again they are hosting it in the state capitol, St. Paul. Assuming you can vote over lunch, I hope you will join me and the rest of PRSA for a drink after work. Here are the details:

Location: The Liffey at 175 West Seventh St., St. Paul

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

FREE! Free drinks/drink specials and appetizers

The blogging world is a buzz about If you are unfamiliar with Second Life it is a 3-D virtual world entirely built and owned by its residents. Although this world is fictional, it is .

According to Second Life's web site, they have their own currency, the Linden Dollar. Residents can use Linden Dollars to pay for goods and services provided by other Second LIfe residents. The Linden Dollar can also be exchanged for real U.S. Dollars and other foreign currencies on a number of different websites.

I have been too busy with my first life to dig too deep into my second life, but looking into the future, it is easy to see how Second Life could have a real impact on business. If you want to know what's next in public relations and marketing keep an eye on Second Life, especially if you are in the consumer industry. Don't believe me? Second Life now has their own newspaper, the Second Life Herald claiming to be "always fairly unbalanced."

.

Visit the SLExchange here.

Global business executives view public CEO apologies less effective than other strategies to repair tarnished company reputations (59 percent), according to a new 11-country survey by global public relations firm Weber Shandwick and KRC Research.

“CEO apologies are quickly losing their power to allay public concern now that they are almost expected when a crisis strikes or companies are accused of wrongdoing,” said Weber Shandwick’s Chief Reputation Strategist Dr. Leslie Gaines-Ross, architect of the new research. “Taking responsibility by apologizing is important, but more is expected from CEOs in crisis such as greater public outreach on what the company intends to do about the problem on an immediate and regular basis.”

According to nearly three-quarters of the 950 global business leaders participating in the “Safeguarding Reputation™” survey, the best steps to beginning the reputation recovery process are announcing specific actions the company will take to fix the problem (76 percent), creating an early warning system (76 percent), and establishing procedures and policies the company will follow to demonstrate its commitment to being a responsible citizen (73 percent). Other frequently mentioned strategies for repairing post-crisis reputation are working closely with legal counsel on public disclosures (72 percent), issuing regular public progress reports to address the problem (71 percent) and quickly and publicly disclosing what happened (71 percent). Many of these action steps help stem hyper-media coverage as stakeholders are assured that the company is being as transparent and proactive as possible under the circumstances.

.

Back in college I knew I needed to get an intership, so I started sending out resumes everywhere. I was discouraged when I didn't hear back from anyone! Then one day, I received a letter in the mail saying that they had been trying to contact me at the phone number listed on my resume, but that the lady that answered insisted that she didn't know me. Yep, that's right...I had the wrong phone number on my resume.

It was a silly mistake and it was embarassing, but I also learned something and will nevermake that mistake again. Most of us have noticed typos or errors in our resume but as we progress in our careers hopefully our resume gets better. Hopefully!

However, during a discussion with a colleague the other day he mentioned that he had seen a resume cross his desk that blew him away, and not in a good way. He described some of the language contained in the resume and some of the odd claims that were made. In disbelief I demanded that he send me a copy of it so that I could see it for myself.

Of course, I would be remiss if I were to get my hands on some juicy material like this and not share it with you, so take a look for yourself. I have included some editorial comments just for fun. Here is the worst resume I've ever seen.

Feel free to share your resume stories in the comments below.

P.S. I have elimnated anything that would allow you to identify this person, he has done enough damage to himself.

P.S.S. Before the comments start rolling in let me be clear my comments are sarcastic. I know that Herzegovina is real and that minutiae is a word, but who uses that?

PRSA has an about the press release turning 100. Given its age, the article suggests that it is time for the press release to undergo a makeover. Here are the five tips given to help make your news release more friendly in today's social media environment:

1) Democratize access. Eliminate barriers, such as requiring credentials to log in to a media room.

2) Ensure accuracy. Provide official versions of graphics and multimedia.

3) Embrace context. Use social bookmarking to link supplementary material.

4) Build community. Use RSS feeds; encourage open discussion.

5) Be findable. Give all contact information; understand online search optimization.

As a blogger, I agree with all of these. It is nice when I receive a news release where it is clear the sender is also a reader. In my opinion the three most important tips are : 2,3,5 send graphics to spice things up, offer links so that people who want more info can get it and give a phone number so I can call with questions.

One additional thought, be consise. I don't want a 10-page news release, that is too much to sift through. You laugh? But I received one just last week.

PRSA & The American Red Cross: The Power of Two Program

The Power of Two Program is a partnership venture between PRSA and the American Red Cross. The goal is to recruit, train, and engage public relations and public affairs professionals to support the Red Cross communications and public information initiatives.

This program provides an opportunity for PRSA members to use their communication skills in times of need and develop rewarding on-the-job crisis training experience. As a volunteer with The Power of Two program, you may be engaged to play a part in Red Cross disaster communications operations, provide publicity at the local level for local chapter initiatives, serve on the chapter’s publicity committee, or write press releases or articles for the local chapter’s web site or the RedCross.org online site.

The 5 Ws Of Being A Power of Two Volunteer

What: The Power of Two is a partnership between the American Red Cross and the Public Relations Society of America and provides volunteer opportunities for public relations experts. Power of Two volunteers can serve as disaster public affairs personnel or provide a variety of communication support at the community level to Red Cross chapters, Service Areas, and Blood Services regions.

Why: The Power of Two offers an opportunity to use your communication skills to support the Red Cross as the organization responds to people. Plus, you can earn credits towards maintaining your APR credentials by participating in the Po2 program.

When: You can volunteer when you are available. There are opportunities for the communication professionals to volunteer for two weeks, two days, two hours, or on an ongoing basis. You make the decision.

Where: Wherever you are. With more than 800 Red Cross offices across the U.S., there’s probably one near you. There are also opportunities to volunteer virtually – all you need is a computer and access to the Internet.

Wow! How do I sign up? To become involved, contact David Rudduck, who is in charge of Red Cross communications in Minnesota, at . Or, e-mail Sharon Alfred, American Red Cross Power of Two project coordinator, at .

You can learn more about Power of Two volunteers by visiting the . And, by reading the most recent Power of Two newsletter on RedCross.org – look in the Volunteer Services’ Spotlight box.

Risdall Advertising Agency (RAA) announces the promotion of Jennifer Risdall to president of Risdall Search Marketing.

Jennifer started the Search Engine Optimization department at RAA in 1997 and has helped it become another strong offering for clients. As interest continues to grow for both sponsored and natural search rankings, search marketing has become a driving force for clients.

“It’s another tool we have in our toolbox,” say Jennifer Risdall. “Search marketing fits with everything we do at Risdall from online advertising to public relations to the creation of Web sites. It ties the agency together.”

Because search marketing creates Web site visibility and traffic, it plays an important role on the interactive forefront, as RAA is the largest interactive agency in the state and ranks in the top 50 largest interactive agencies in the country.

“We were doing Search Engine Optimization before it had a name,” says John Risdall, chairman of RAA. “We did it because our clients needed it.”

Search Engine Optimization generates organic searches and RAA compliments that with one of the top online media groups through the expertise of staff like Josh Dahmes, vice president, director of online marketing, and Jim Sandstrom, director of media services.

Since MNPR Blog readers are obviously not spending their weekends reading this blog, I thought you may want to catch a movie instead. How about something that hasn't been release yet? Check this out:

Twin Cities film lovers may not realize that the film festival experience is happening right under their noses: Talk Cinema, the sneak preview film and discussion series, features independent and foreign film screenings before their official release, discussions led by movie critics, filmmakers or other experts immediately following the movie and the added element of surprise.

Talk Cinema participants are given the unique opportunity to see a film as an industry insider does —before official theatrical release. Last year, in the Twin Cities, Talk Cinema movies screened included “Mrs. Henderson Presents,” “The Squid and the Whale,” “TransAmerica” and “The World’s Fastest Indian,” all before they opened locally. In years past, titles have included “Kinsey,” “Sideways,” “Bend it Like Beckham,” “The Piano,” “Life is Beautiful” and “Pulp Fiction,” all screened before their big break-outs.

In the Twin Cities, hosted by local writer and Mystery Science Theater 3000 alum, Kevin Murphy, Talk Cinema films are screened on select Saturdays this fall, winter and spring at 10:00 a.m. at Landmark Theater’s Edina Cinema, at 50th and France. Discussion follows immediately after each movie.

This year’s 10 dates in Edina are Oct. 28, Nov. 11, Dec. 2, Dec. 16, 2006; and Jan. 13, Jan. 27, Feb. 10, Feb. 24, Mar. 10 and April 21, 2007. Moviegoers can subscribe to a five-part season ticket package for $70 or the full season for $135. Or, attendees may purchase single tickets for $15 ($10 for students) at the theater the morning of the screening. Tickets are also available for Talk Cinema events in other cities, including New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles. For more information, call or visit www.talkcinema.com.

Exponent Public Relations has hired two and promoted two. Emily Kaiden and Katie Mileusnic joined the shop as associates. Alison Dunning and Tony Saucier were promoted to senior associates.

Emily Kaiden was hired at Exponent after completing an internship with the agency. She holds a BA in journalism and mass communication from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minn. She was previously with Esprit & Decorum, Ltd., a London-based staffing agency serving top event catering and management companies. Kaiden handles work for clients including Cenex, IDEXX and the Industrial Fabrics Association International.

Katie Mileusnic joins the agency from Lerner Publishing Group, where she handled publicity, sales and marketing. She is a graduate of Carleton College, Northfield, Minn., with a degree in psychology. She handles client work including HomeAgain Inc., (a division of Schering-Plough), General Mills and the North American Olive Oil Association.

Alison Dunning, a graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Journalism, was promoted to senior associate at Exponent. She handles clients including Aveda, Buffets, Inc., HomeAgain, IDEXX and Pillsbury.

Dunning joined the agency in 2004 from Target Corporation, where she handled media relations.

Tony Saucier was also promoted to senior associate. He holds a degree in sociology from the University of Maine, Orono, Maine, and has worked at Exponent for two years, after working as a general assignment reporter at the Bangor Daily News in Maine. His client roster includes Minnesota State Lottery, Nestlé Purina and Novartis Animal Health.

"Getting and keeping best-in-class talent is everything in our business," says Riff Yeager, Exponent's Managing Director. "Our latest new hires and promotions reflect that and more -- these four are stellar examples of savvy young practitioners who fit well into our culture of passionate ideas, collaboration and accomplishment."

Carmichael Lynch Spong has announced that it added six new employees. The firm has hired Lisa Kovner as partner and chair of experiential marketing, Brad Ferris as media relations manager, Matt Wagner as senior counselor, Amanda Pierre as media relations specialist, Jillian Beauman as associate and Brittini Nelemans as associate and communications specialist.

Lisa Kovner will be based in the firm’s Minneapolis office and joins from John Paul Mitchell Systems in Beverly Hills, Calif., where she directed brand communications strategy, while also playing an integral role in business development.

Prior to working at John Paul Mitchell Systems, Kovner was director of worldwide public relations for Lexar Media, and before that she served as strategic marketing account director with Ogilvy PR Worldwide. Kovner began her public relations career with Ogilvy Adams and Rinehart in 1987.

Brad Ferris will be based out of the firm’s office and joins from Ketchum Public Relations in New York. With a wealth of media relations and broadcast background, Ferris will assist account teams with media strategies and implementation and provide media counsel for clients including, Buell, Clorox, Martek, Maytag, Rosetta Stone, Select Comfort, and TRANE.

Matt Wagner will be based in the firm’s Denver office and joins from LeGrand Hart, a boutique public relations and integrated communications strategy agency in Denver. He will bring strategic and creative counsel to client American Humane and others.

Amanda Pierre will be based in the firm’s Minneapolis office. Pierre previously worked at the Des Moines Register for seven years. Most recently, she was the Des Moines Register’s arts and entertainment reporter, contributing articles, columns and photos for print and online editions. Before that, she was the suburban general assignment reporter, writing news stories for the metro section. She began at the Des Moines Register as a general assignment news reporting intern.

Jillian Beauman joined the firm’s Minneapolis office during the summer as an intern, and prior to that spent one year living in southern France, where she served as a public relations consultant for the international publishing house, Decision News Media.

Brittini Nelemans joins the firm as an associate and communications specialist after interning in the firm’s Minneapolis office during the summer. Nelemans will represent client Martek, while also leading all internal and external communications for the firm.

So for those of you who have been wondering why I haven't been posting this week, I am on vacation in California with my wife. It has been relaxing and to be honest, I haven't felt like turning my computer on.

Yesterday I spent some time thinking about my blog and I have determined that I need to make some adjustments to make it more user friendly. The problem is, I don't have the time nor the energy to completely redesign my site. Any ideas?

The HTML code to this site could use a real cleaning and I am kinda looking for a new, refreshed look. If you are a Web designer with some thoughts or interest designing a new template . Oh, one thing, this would not be a paid position, but you could have some advertising space on the site. Cheers.

-Ryan

Blogs seem to have held their own over the last few years and it looks like they will be around for the long run, despite some people's predictions (you know who you are :-).

Still uncertain about how to reach out to blogs? Fellow PR blogger, Karen Sams has a few great points to consider.

• Read your target bloggers on a regular basis
  
• Open up a dialogue by posting comments
  
• Be honest/Don't pretend to be someone you're not

Hmm...seems a lot like pitching to a traditional journalist?

This looks like it could be an interesting session, but I am in California all this week. Hope someone can go for me and take good notes!

At The Crossroads: Integrating Technology to Elevate Strategic Communications

Years ago, the question was if companies should have a Web presence or should they host a blog. In today's environment where consumers, businesses, and media professionals obtain information from a multitude of sources, how can communicators reach their target? How are companies and communications professionals using emerging technology in creative, strategic manners to deliver messages to essential audiences?

You'll hear examples of what is being done with RSS feeds, pod casting, online community development and other technology that can help your organization enhance your other communication efforts. Hear how technology can be used in business-to-business applications, consumer focused communication and issue based grassroots outreach.

The session will include a panel discussion on incorporating new media into your communication plans followed by an open question and answer session.

Our speakers include:
Kevin Smith, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Executive Director, Minnesota Twins Community Fund
Bob Brin, APR, Director, Interactive & Creative Services, Padilla Speer Beardsley
Bob Hanvik, Senior VP and Partner, General Manager, Fleishman-Hillard Minneapolis


Meeting Specifics:

Thursday, October 19, 2006

Registration: 11:00 a.m.
Lunch & Program: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m

Location:

Metropolitan Ballroom
.
Golden Valley, MN 55416
Directions...

Cost:

PRSA Member $30
Nonmember $45
Student $15

Registration:

or Call the Minnesota PRSA office at by 5:00 p.m. October 12 to receive the early bird registration rate.

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the hire of Amanda Huneke as Assistant Account Executive.

Upon completion of an internship, Amanda Huneke has joined the corporate, community and public affairs practice group. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Huneke held internships with The Multiple Sclerosis Society where she worked on special events; the city of Eau Claire, Wis., where she worked in economic development; and also with the Chippewa Valley Symphony, where she wrote the organization's newsletter. Huneke also held a part-time position with the Mayo Clinic, where she worked on special projects for the department of finance.

A native of Zumbrota, Minn., Huneke graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire with a bachelor's degree in mass communications and an emphasis in public relations.

Adweek Magazine handed Colle+McVoy the award for "Best Guerrilla Marketing Campaign" at its second annual Buzz Awards in New York City on Sept. 14. The event was co-hosted by Adweek, Brandweek, Mediaweek, Billboard and The Hollywood Reporter.

Colle+McVoy was chosen for its use of grassroots marketing to generate brand attention and awareness, for a crushed vehicle campaign the agency created for the Minnesota State Lottery. “Don’t Belittle Powerball” brought the Powerball to life and reminded Minnesotans that a $60 million prize is nothing to ignore.

The agency made the Powerball a Minnesota celebrity. A bigger-than-life persona for Powerball demanded attention and increased anticipation, driving people to purchase tickets, regardless of the size of the jackpot. The big, red Powerball became the focal point of the campaign, seeking revenge on those who belittled it for not being big enough.

The integrated campaign included radio, in-theater spot television, public relations, online and out-of-home, but it was the crushed vehicles that attracted the most attention.

"What could possibly generate more buzz than a giant red Powerball falling from the sky?" says John Jarvis, Colle+McVoy CEO. "This initiative was a fully integrated effort at Colle+McVoy, and we’re all proud of the recognition for our client and agency."

Recognizing that branded entertainment is a hot trend in targeting consumers, and to honor excellence in brand and media integration, Adweek created the Buzz Awards in 2005. More than 320 entries were judged by industry experts from companies including American Express, Heineken USA, Staples, Mark Burnett Productions and Sony Corporation of America.

Cramer-Krasselt took home the grand prize for “Best Overall Program” for Careerbuilder.com’s Monk-e-Mail campaign. Other winners were:

• Best Event: Civic Entertainment Group for A&E Network
  
• Best Film/Movie: PRO.P.AG.AND.A. Entertainment Marketing Ltd. for Audi of America, Inc.
  
• Best Gaming: OMD for Visa
  
• Best Integrated Campaign: McKinney-Silver/Campfire Media for Audi of America, Inc.
  
• Best Music: Creative Presence Partners, Inc. for The Coca-Cola Company
  
• Best Other: Starcom USA for LEGO
  
• Best Outdoor/Out of Home: McKinney-Silver for Travelocity
  
• Best Print: Peterson Milla Hooks for Target
  
• Best Radio: CBS Radio for AOL LLC
  
• Best Reality Television: Universal McCann for Sony Pictures Entertainment
  
• Best Scripted Television: MediaVest USA for Masterfoods - M&Ms
  
• Best Sports: Initiative for AOL LLC
  
• Best Wireless Promotion: Zipatoni for AOL LLC
  

Seeing the potential of public relations to build its reputation as an industry leader in ophthalmic lens technology and to drive sales, Vision-Ease Lens has retained the services of Risdall McKinney Public Relations.

Through an integrated public relations approach that combines corporate communications, trade media relations, product launch support and tradeshow visibility, Risdall McKinney will help Vision-Ease evolve its reputation.

"As a pioneer in the development of polycarbonate and polarized lenses, maintaining Vision-Ease's reputation as one of the top lens manufacturers is critical to the growth of our company," says Alyssa Fee, marketing communication manager, Vision-Ease Lens. "Through the strategic efforts of Risdall McKinney, we hope to amplify our communication within the industry and drive greater recognition and sales of our brands."

As a manufacturer for a variety of top lens product lines including LifeRx(TM) photochromic lenses, SunRx(R) polarized lenses, and Illumina(R)progressive line-free lenses, Vision-Ease Lens products are sold through independent opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists, as well as many retail chains across the country.

"Key influencers' perceptions are vital to an organization's brand reputation," says Rose McKinney, president of Risdall McKinney Public Relations. "The program includes smart combinations of new and tried-and-true strategies. We'll demonstrate the power of public relations to achieve the results that matter to Vision-Ease."

In addition to Vision-Ease, Risdall McKinney has added several new clients during the third quarter including American Spaceframe Fabricators, LLC (ASFI), a design, build and engineering firm; Calhoun Square; and Reshare, a distribution relationship management (DRM) software and strategy company.

Minnesota Women in Communications (MWC) sponosors, Nora Paul – Director of the University of Minnesota’s Institute for New Media Studies and former Poynter Institute for Media Studies faculty member – who will talk about new media trends and provide tips and tools for success. You’ll also learn about how participatory culture has influenced marketing and communications. She'll also address how important it is to track the stories that are being told about your products and services in cyberspace.

Details
Date: Thursday, Nov. 9
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Woman's Club of Minneapolis
Cost: Member = $30; Non-member = $50; Full-time Students = $20 (must show student ID) Non-member guests of MWC members receive 20% off the non-member rate. Both the member and guest(s) must be pre-paid and pre-registered, and there are no refunds.

Registration deadline is Nov. 3. If you have questions, please contact Wendy Huckaby, MWC Chief Events Officer, at .

Risdall Advertising Agency (RAA) announces the addition of Melissa Lochner, account supervisor.

“Risdall continues to boost its capabilities as a full-service agency, offering clients a variety of integrated resources,” says John Risdall, chairman of RAA. “Melissa’s experience in media planning adds even more depth to our roster.”

Lochner joins RAA after spending time at other Twin Cities agencies including Carmichael Lynch where she was a media planner for Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN, Harley Davidson and Korbel Champagne. Lochner was also part of the team that launched the “Discover Boating” campaign for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).

At Campbell Mithun, Lochner was a broadcast negotiator for a variety of clients including H&R Block, Great Clips, Dish Network and Toro.

In addition to her agency experience, Lochner also completed the American Association of Advertising Agencies (4 As) Institute this past year with fellow RAA senior account executive Natalie Schmit. The competition consisted of classes and preparation for a new business pitch for Air Tran Airways’ X-Fares program to a panel of judges.

Last Friday I told you that the Mall of America was going to build the world's largest gingerbread house and yesterday they "broke ground." Roger Pelcher, the current gingerbread house world-record holder, city of Bloomington Mayor Gene Winstead and other dignitaries planted a giant whisk and flour sifter into a symbolic bowl of gingerbread for this record-breaking house, which will qualify for the Guinness Book of World Records.

Pelcher is partnering with MOA for his final, and most expansive project ever. It will take seven weeks and more than 1,700 man-hours to complete. With more than 14,250 pounds of gingerbread and 4,750 pounds of icing, this edible masterpiece will tower 70 feet in the air, just inches from the skylights in The Park at MOA. Funds raised will benefit the Saint Therese Foundation, an organization that serves seniors.

MOA is also taking their PR plan seriously. In connection to the groundbreaking, they launched an electronic press kit (www.mallofamericamedia.com/holiday) and are expecting global media coverage.

Here are some fast facts on this gigantic gingerbread house:

• The official unveiling will be held Black Friday, Nov. 24
  
• When completed the house will stand nearly 70 feet tall and encompass 1,496 square feet
  
• Donated candy includes 1,800 Hershey's® chocolate bars and 1,200 feet of Twizzlers®, 100 pounds each of Star Brites® Mix, Holiday Mix, Crimp Ribbon, Christmas Spicettes and Christmas Nougats from Brach's Confections, Inc., and 100 pounds of large-sized Tootsie Rolls® and 300 pounds of large-sized DOTS®
  
• When complete visitors will be able to walk through the house and experience a magical gingerbread factory complete with animated elves
  
• This house will celebrate Pelcher's fourth Guinness World Record - previous records include 13 feet in Mobile, Ala., 52 feet in Des Moines, Iowa, and 57 feet in Memphis, Tenn
  

Professional-Amateur (Pro-Am) Day is almost here! The annual mentoring event, sponsored by the Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), provides an opportunity for professionals from corporate, agency and nonprofit sectors to share a typical workday with students from affiliated Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapters. We hope you will consider hosting a student.

And new this is year is the Professional/Student “Speed” Networking event. Professionals will have an opportunity to meet students and provide their professional insight in the “Speed” Networking event where each attending student will have a few minutes to talk to each professional attending. This is a great opportunity to meet promising students for possible recruitment to your organization.

WHO: Professionals of all experience levels are encouraged to participate. As a host, you would share a typical workday with a PRSSA junior or senior from nearby colleges and universities.

WHAT: Pro-Am Day provides a chance for students to take a closer look at the public relations industry and job expectations. Students come to your workplace for a day of job shadowing. As a host, you are encouraged to offer students a chance to experience different PR activities with you and your colleagues. To learn more about work environments and job skills, students may attend meetings, meet with your peers, contribute to writing projects or even help stuff press kits. The goal is to provide a day-in-the-life of a PR professional.

WHY: It’s Important. PRSSA students are eager to see what the real world holds for them. Pro-Am Day is one of the highlights of PRSSA student member involvement. This is a valuable chance to mentor a young professional hoping to break into public relations.

It Applies Toward APR Maintenance. Participation in Pro-Am Day is a great way to earn points toward maintenance of your accreditation.

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 17, 2006 A.M. to 2/2:30 p.m.

WHERE: Your workplace

Reception/“Speed” Networking Event 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Weber Shandwick

Suite 400
55431

HOW: To register for the event, please contact Tracy Carlson at for a Pro-Am Day registration form by Oct. 27, 2006. Submit completed form to Minnesota PRSA at or by fax at .

Student-professional match information will be mailed by Nov. 3, 2006. For further information, please contact Tracy Carlson at or .