We made it! The year 2008 is over!

I think everyone can agree that it was a pretty rough year. We had minor natural disasters – the hurricane-force wind storm; as well as man-made disasters – the housing and financial crisis. And to make matters worse, a national business magazine referred to our hometown as a “dying city.”

Good riddance 2008.

Unfortunately, the outlook for at least the first part of 2009 is just as grim. All signs point to the continued slashing of workforce and budgets by area companies and organizations.

To this I say, “Tough times breed tough people.”

In these difficult times, it’s important you continue to hone your public relations skills, strengthen your professional relationships and gain recognition for your talent and good work.

And to that end, the Dayton Area PRSA can be a valuable resource. Attending our events and lunches will help you network and learn new tactics and best practices; entering our PRisms award program will give your work notoriety; and gaining accreditation will give recognition to your talent and skill level.

Be sure to visit www.prsadayton.org for more information on APR, PRisms and the complete 2009 schedule of our events.

Here’s hoping 2009 is better than 2008.

Regards,

Tony Castillo
2009 President
Dayton Area PRSA
937-439-9084
tony.castillo@fahlgren.com

February - March 2009 Membership Promotion

The first National membership promotion of 2009 will run from February 1 to March 31.  Prospects may join for $290 ($225 national dues and $65 initiation fee) and receive a free, first year chapter membership when they do - the cost is subsidized by national.

Chapters with the greatest participation in this promotion will receive incentive awards (by Chapter size). New members MUST mention the promotion code to receive these special offers.

2009 Silver Anvil Awards

Early Entry Deadline: February 13, 2009
Final Entry Deadline: February 27, 2009

The Silver Anvil, symbolizing the forging of public opinion, is annually awarded to organizations, which have successfully addressed contemporary issues with exemplary professional skill, creativity and resourcefulness. In the 60-plus year history of the Silver Anvil Awards, more than 1,000 organizations have been recognized with Silver Anvils for excellence in public relations.

Silver Anvil Awards recognize complete programs incorporating sound research, planning, execution and evaluation. They must meet the highest standards of performance in the profession.

Visit the Silver Anvil link on the PRSA web site for guidlines, categories, tips and online entry forms.

Tops in 2008

Recap 2008 and see what made the Nielsen "tops" list, from best selling books to most popular commercials, you might be surprised at what you find.

February Luncheon

Standing Up in a Down Economy – Best Practices For Maintaining Your Brand and Positioning Your Company for Success

February 19, 2009
11:30 a.m. registration; noon lunch
Holiday Inn-Dayton Mall
31 Prestige Plaza Dr.
Miamisburg, Ohio
 
$25.00 Regular Member Ticket
$35.00 Guest Ticket
$15.00 Student Ticket
 
More details on this luncheon coming soon!

President
Anthony Castillo
Fahlgren Mortine

With more than 12 years of public relations experience, Tony has extensive business-to-business and technology expertise. Specializing in media relations, analyst relations and technical writing, Tony is adept at understanding complex technologies and creating successful public relations strategies. He has worked with a variety of industry-leading B-to-B companies in a number of industries, including healthcare, technology and supply chain.

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Tony held public relations positions at the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the agency Lord, Sullivan & Yoder (now Fahlgren Mortine), before moving to Dayton in the fall of 2001.

President-elect
Sarah Hibner
MeadWestvaco

Sarah Hibner has been a member of the Dayton Area Chapter of PRSA since 2004 serving several board positions including membership chair, secretary, and, most recently, treasurer. During her tenure with the board, she was intimately involved with the launch of the chapter’s new Web site.

Upon graduating from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in public relations, she moved back to her hometown of Dayton. She worked for The Berry Company in several marketing functions, and most recently works for MWV (Mead) as an associate marketing manager on the decorative calendar team managing several brands including Year-in-a-Box® and AMCAL®. 

In her free time, she enjoys being mom to Olivia, knitting, and running.

Treasurer
Elizabeth Sidor
Fahlgren Mortine

Liz Sidor is an Account Associate at Fahlgren Mortine Public Relations. She recently graduated summa cum laude from the University of Dayton and received the Maureen M. Pater Award of Distinction to the Outstanding Senior in Public Relations. As an undergraduate, she was the president of the university’s Public Relations Student Society of America chapter, worked on two student campaigns with local agencies, and received a student PRism award from the Dayton-area Public Relations Society of America chapter.

Secretary
Laura Woeste, APR
Downtown Dayton Partnership

As the director of marketing and communications at the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Laura Woeste, APR is responsible for marketing, communications and public relations efforts for the downtown development organization. In recent years she has served as communications chair and programming chair for the PRSA Board of Directors. Prior to joining the Partnership in 2003, Laura spent two years as the marketing and communications coordinator for Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Wright State University and her APR accreditation in April 2008.

Accreditation/Masters Program
Elizabeth Long, APR
Graceworks Lutheran Services

Liz Long is Marketing Specialist for Graceworks Lutheran Services in Centerville, a position she has held since May 2008. She also works on the other side of the media fence as a news anchor for News Talk Radio WHIO in Dayton.

Prior to joining Graceworks, Liz worked for the American Red Cross from 2003 to 2008, serving as Director of Public Relations for the Dayton Area Chapter and then as Senior Associate of Communications, Marketing and Government Relations for the Great Lakes Service Area in Cincinnati, Ohio. From 2001 to 2003 she was Vice President of Public Relations at Marketing Impact, an integrated marketing, advertising and public relations firm in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

A native of Toledo, Liz is a 1984 graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism.

Programs Co-Chair
Kristin Armstrong
Downtown Dayton Partnership

Kristin graduated from the University of Dayton with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Management in 2005, followed by her Master of Arts in Communication in 2006. She currently is a Marketing Manager with the Downtown Dayton Partnership, a non-profit organization that works to grow, strengthen and promote downtown Dayton. Her responsibilities include PR for downtown organizations as well as the DDP itself, managing the organization’s Web site, and producing several printed and electronic publications about downtown. Prior to this, she worked in the marketing department at The Berry Company. She is currently Co-Chair of Programs for Dayton Area PRSA. 

Programs Co-Chair
Melissa Wyatt
Hafenbrack Marketing

Melissa Wyatt graduated from the University of Dayton with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and a Minor in Marketing. Prior to joining Hafenbrack Marketing, Melissa worked with The Big Picture Advertising Agency in Cleveland, Ohio. She joined Hafenbrack in 2006 as a Public Relations Specialist. Melissa is an active member of the Public Relations Society of America and will be a board member for the PRSA Dayton Chapter in 2008 and 2009. In 2007, she was elevated to the position of Project Manager. She is responsible for support of the Hafenbrack Account Executive Team, regular client interface, and day-to-day management of jobs from entry to delivery.

Communications Chair
Mari Jo Sellers
Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley

Mari Jo’s professional career has largely been spent at Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley where she has leveraged her communications skills in the fields of fundraising and marketing. As annual fund manager, Mari Jo oversaw an employee based fundraising campaign, direct mail fundraising appeals and corporate sponsorships.

Now, as marketing communications specialist for Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley, Mari Jo is responsible for media relations and measurement, internal communications and the agency’s customer service initiative. Mari Jo also leads the marketing strategy for the Goodwill Auto Auction.

Mari Jo renewed her membership to PRSA a year ago and recently served as interim secretary. A native of northeast Ohio and Dayton transplant, Mari Jo graduated from the University of Dayton and chose to make the Dayton area her home. She and her husband reside in Kettering.

Are you a public relations student living in Cleveland or Dayton this summer? Consider spending your summer with Fahlgren Mortine. We are looking for two outstanding PR students - one to support our team in Dayton and one to assist the Edward Howard group in Cleveland.

If you are a rising public relations student and are at least a sophomore in college looking to learn more about life at an agency, send your resume and cover letter to careers@fahlgren.com. The deadline for submitting your information is Friday, April 30. We look forward to hearing from you and hope to work with you this summer.

Interested in getting a sneak peek at what it's like to be an intern at Fahlgren Mortine? Join the Fahlgren Mortine PR Interns Alumni group on Facebook.

http://ow.ly/1AeSQ

COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER

Responsibilities may vary depending upon the goals, skills and interests

of the intern as well as current priorities and projects of Community Blood

Center/Community Tissue Services Human Resources team. These may include:

1. Works with the Communications Group to determine different mediums to be used to

communicate effectively with all CBC/CTS® employees

2. Works with the Communications Group to determine appropriate content. Interact with

departments to receive newsworthy information that should be communicated and

distributed.

3. Determines what departments and people need to be contacted and work with them to

receive their input

4. Writes, edits and proofs to insure all communication standards are met: professional

style, accuracy, completeness, proper grammar, appropriate level of detail, etc.

5. Insures deadlines are met and communications materials are sent to printer and

distributed

6. Seeks employee feedback and input about the preferred methods of communication and

topics

7. Evaluates quality dimensions of each communication

8. Maintains high standards of confidentiality.

9. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Strong writing, proofreading, and research skills

2. Ability to meet deadlines and work independently as well as part of team

3. Proficient at Microsoft Office skills; primarily Word and Publisher

TRAINING:   On-site training and support as needed

HOURS:       8 - 12 hours per week

BENEFITS:  Free parking, background check, training, opportunity for references or a letter of

recommendation if needed after completion of 30 hours of volunteer time, a copy

of all work product produced for your portfolio, and the personal satisfaction of

knowing you assisted in the process to save a life through a blood or tissue

donation.

CONTACT: Cissy Hansen, Community Blood Center/Community Tissue Services, 349 S. Main St., Dayton, Ohio 45402. You must attach a resume and completed externship application. Email to chansen@cbccts.org. No phone calls please. You will be contacted by email for an interview.

Externship Application Page 1

Externship Application Page 2

https://www.timewarnercable.com/corporate/about/careers/search.ashx

TIME WARNER CABLE 

JOB VACANCY NOTICE 

Post Date:  January 11, 2010    Deadline: January 21, 2010  

Position: Communications Manager (117251) Department: Public Affairs/Marketing 

Level: Exempt Level M     

JOB FUNCTION:  

Manage the earned media and internal communication efforts for TWC’s Southwest Ohio division. As a member of  

the communications department, the selected candidate will proactively identify and develop media opportunities to 

promote division products, services and business initiatives; pitch and place stories to a wide range of print and 

electronic media; write media advisories, news releases, pitch letters & press kit materials as needed; maintain 

effective media relationships throughout the area; serve as media spokesperson as directed by vice president of 

communications and senior leadership. 

Additionally, this position is responsible for ensuring effective internal communications by developing and executing 

effective plans to inform and educate associates about company and department programs, TWC products and 

related initiatives. 

RESPONSIBLITIES:  

•Manage additional media relations tools: enhance division’s media presence on external website; maintain current  

media database; monitor and manage division news coverage. 

•Develop and implement promotional/PR campaigns around products, services and community relations initiatives  

(including the “Connect a Million Minds” education initiative) to increase customer/community awareness; manage  

and implement special events to promote products and services. 

•Support the development of strategic messaging, key talking points and FAQ’s. 

•Develop and implement a comprehensive internal/employee communications plan utilizing the division’s e- 

newsletters, websites, internal blogs, talking points, speeches and other materials as needed to ensure that all 

Time Warner Cable employees are notified of company initiatives; communicate via email, Internet, Intranet, 

newsletters and any other means as necessary. 

•Track and monitor key messages from competitors and key audiences to assist in development of a strategic 

communications plan; counsel the management team of issues that may affect our local business. 

•Support regional initiative and projects as assigned. 

•Maintain strong base of influential relationships with the division’s media, peers and regional/corporate contacts. 

•Perform additional duties and special projects as needed or assigned. 

•Manage educational projects, including but not limited to handling all school requests for installation and service.  

•Attend public functions as a representative of Time Warner Cable as directed by the V.P. of Communications;  

note, events may occur during the evening or on weekends. 

REQUIREMENTS:  

•Related Bachelors degree or equivalent related work experience and training. 

•Five years of corporate communications, public relations agency or print/broadcast journalism experience. Must  

have a passion for writing and editing. 

•Superior verbal and written communications skills. 

- Adept at breaking down complex concepts and making them easy to understand 

- Ability to track down details and facts 

- Working knowledge of new media techniques 

- Strong editing and proofreading skills 

•Passion for meeting deadlines and deliverables 

•Basic design and layout skills 

•Proficient on all necessary software (Microsoft) 

•Ability to anticipate issues with people and vendors 

•Ability to have the vision to activities that appeal to a diverse audience 

•Ability to successfully manage multiple priorities 

•Position will be located in Cincinnati, but will also cover the Dayton area. 

•Valid drivers license with good driving record. 

EOE 

Apply on-line via Employee Self Service and submit completed Job Bid Application to Deidra Bartlett – Human 

Resources.  Late and/or incomplete Job Bid Applications will not be accepted. Job Bid applications and On-line Bids 

must be submitted by the deadline date.  

For further information, please contact Mike Pedelty, VP, Communications at (513) 386-6757  

• Manages all design, development and maintenance issues with company websites, primarily victoriatheatre.com and schustercenter.org. Assists with ticketcenterstage.com.
• Produces and manages all e-marketing initiatives including welcome and feedback emails, OnStage News e-newsletters, e-blasts, e-surveys, etc.
• Develop and coordinate all Web 2.0 initiatives including social networking sites, blogs, etc.
• Manage advertising buys as well as track and process payment for print, radio & TV advertising agreements.
• Assist in tracking sales trends and reports.
• Assist in supervision of marketing/PR interns.
• Interface with mail house for direct mail campaigns.
• Assist education/outreach with any marketing needs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Public Relations Specialist
Five Rivers MetroParks                            

Generates and builds the public awareness of Five Rivers MetroParks' services and image to attain the highest level of visibility and community support for the organization's mission, facilities, programs, and services. Ensures recognition of the MetroParks as an indispensable community asset. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Other duties may be assigned.
• Champions the strategic direction of Five Rivers MetroParks and supports positive development of the agency, its staff and the MetroParks experience through attitude, collaboration and respect.
• Prepares and disseminates press releases.
• Serves as the primary spokesperson for MetroParks.
• Participates in Speakers’ Bureau.
• Establishes and maintains effective relationships with paid and unpaid media and with key community and strategic partners.
• Protects and promotes the MetroParks brand to the community and to staff.
• Communicates with and serves as point person for various media sources and contacts.
• Contributes articles to publications, such as e-newsletters and various newspapers and performs other writing tasks such as preparing reports, presentations etc., as necessary.
• Coordinates and fulfills speaker’s bureau requests for materials.
• Helps write, edit and proof MetroParks promotional and development materials.
• Assists in the strategic planning for effective marketing and positioning of MetroParks to the general public and media.
• Assists the Director of Marketing & Public Information in carrying out assignments as needed.
• Assists with planning, organizing, coordinating and publicizing events, special projects, advertising and marketing efforts designed to keep the public informed of MetroParks’ programs, facilities and mission.
• Collaborates to develop the marketing efforts of other department’s and facilities.
• Takes advantage of new technologies to ensure MetroParks in reaching all audiences effectively.
• Works with the Community Connections Manager on key communication tasks including public appearances, correspondence and speeches.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assists in educating the MetroParks' staff on general public relations strategy emphasizing the importance of each department's contribution to the overall success of the organization.
• Develops and provides a database of key messages which communicate the mission of the MetroParks.
• Maintains MetroParks video and photo library and print news clippings files. Assists with photographic needs.
• Maintains databases useful for MetroParks marketing and promotional communications. Develops, maintains and grows the audience database for the MetroParks. Uses technology wherever possible and appropriate to maximize efficiency and Earth-friendly methodologies.
• Assists with developing interpersonal and public speaking engagement presentations.
• Performs special projects and serves on special committees as required or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS 
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Minimum of undergraduate degree with emphasis in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, English, Writing, or Journalism related area, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Three to five years related experience preferred but not mandatory.

JOB SPECIFIC SKILLS
• Creative idea generation and subsequent research and development of concepts, plans, execution and follow-up.
• Ability to work in a decisive manner in a fast-paced, can-do, positive attitude, customer-driven, strategically-based environment.
• Ability to plan, schedule and implement multiple projects simultaneously and to work effectively with minimal supervision.
• Thorough understanding of public sector work, including marketing concepts, campaigns and voters.
• Knowledge of community affairs, public programs and special events.
• Ability to communicate effectively in verbal, written and graphic forms.
• Ability to gain positive visibility and publicity for program
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with staff, volunteers and external contacts.
• Ability to organize and to work simultaneously on multiple projects.
• Capacity to handle details.
• Ability to organize and coordinate major events.
• Ability to develop relationships that lead to cross-promotions, sponsorships, and media relationships
• Ability to handle sensitive face-to-face contacts with public and government officials. Personal computer literate, with knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications, specifically Microsoft Office.
• Experience with desktop publishing programs such as InDesign or Quark Express a plus. 
• Knowledge of public parks, recreation and nature programs a plus.
• Ability to speak effectively before groups.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
Valid Ohio Driver’s License that meets MetroParks insurance carrier guidelines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings/weekends as needed.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment is a combination of a typical office and outdoor park settings.  The employee is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

RELATIONSHIPS & CONTACTS 
Regular contact is required with the directors of other departments, and with departmental staff.  External contact required on regular basis include public, news media, consultants and representatives of various partner organizations, i.e., government organizations, priority boards, museums, committees, the Chamber of Commerce, visitors' bureau, board members, etc.

TO APPLY
Email resume and cover letter to janet.davis@metroparks.org or beth.miller@metroparks.org.

Position Title:  Director of Advancement

Location:  Sinclair Community College

Reports To:  VP of Advancement

Sinclair Community College is a comprehensive community college with an enrollment of over 23,000 students that offers career and transfer programs leading to an associate degree, certificate programs, and continuing education opportunities. Sinclair seeks to attract a culturally and academically diverse faculty of the highest caliber.  The Advancement Division is seeking applicants for the Director of Advancement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

·         Coordinates the relationship and joint projects with the President's office

·         Works closely with the Vice President for Advancement on all aspects of developing entrepreneurial investments and managing private fundraising

·         Serves as a community and donor liaison

·         Provides budget management for the department

EDUCATION:

• Master's degree in related field is required
• Minimum of five years exp. in development, alumni relations , volunteer management, or a related field
• Experience in stewarding major and principal gifts from individuals, foundations and corporations preferred
• CFRE Preferred  

All applicants must apply on-line for job# 01765. For more information and to apply online please visit our web site at https://jobs.sinclair.edu   Sinclair Community College is strongly committed to diversity within its community. EOE

Position Title:  Public Relations Assistant Manager
Location:  Northeast Ohio, Smuckers
Salary Range: $65,0000-80,000K 
Reports To:  Manager, Public Relations

Position Title:  Public Relations Manager
Location:  Northeast Ohio, Smuckers  
Salary Range: $80000-100,000 
Reports To:  Director, Public Relations

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Participate in PR planning/strategy review for all Company grocery brands
• Work with agencies and Company employees to manage implementation of PR initiatives: press releases, satellite media tours, celebrity spokespeople, sampling tours, contests, food editor breakfasts/events, etc.
• Measuring PR initiatives
• Budget management

SELECTION CRITERIA

• 5+ years of Public Relations experience (either in agency or Corporate environment) 
• CPG food experience is required
• High energy and enthusiasm
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• High level of organization
• Ability to work effectively with outside PR agencies
• High level of creativity
• Ability to work with people at all levels within/outside Company
• Ability to travel (2-3 times per quarter depending on PR activities)

EDUCATION
• Minimum four-year college degree, preferably in Communications, Public Relations, or Marketing

Information can be submitted to Phyllis Ives at phyllis@ivesearch.com. 
To view a listing of over 6000 jobs nationwide, www.executivesearchusa.com

Communications Manager
Downtown Dayton Partnership

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Produces and maintains content for the organization's Web site. Provides editorial review, fields staff requests for upholding information and updates daily.
• Provides all editorial content for publications and manages production with the Design Manager.
• Assists with stakeholder relations, including meeting with new businesses and members, as well as retention visits with existing downtown businesses.
• Performs various writing tasks such as press releases, grant writing and presentations.
• Communicates with various media sources and contacts.
• Manages annual business survey and other surveys conducted by the organization.
• Takes advantage of new technologies to ensure the organization is reaching all audiences effectively.
• Assists with planning and publicizing events, special projects, advertising and marketing efforts.
• Performs special projects and serves on special committees as required or assigned.
• Assists the Director of Marketing & Communications in carrying out assignments as needed. 

JOB SPECIFIC SKILLS
• Experience with Web site writing
• Experience in managing Web site layout and navigation
• Experience with web content management systems and/or WYSIWYG editors
• Basic knowledge of Adobe InDesign and Photoshop, Dreamweaver a plus
• Strong copywriting and copyediting skills
• Good knowledge of Excel and its charts and formula functions
• Ability to plan, schedule and implement multiple projects simultaneously and to work effectively with minimal supervision
• Ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written forms

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
• Minimum of undergraduate degree with emphasis in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism or related area, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Three to five years related experience preferred.

For consideration, please send resumes to:

Laura Woeste
Director of Marketing & Communications
woeste@downtowndayton.org
40 N. Main Street, Suite 1360
Dayton, Ohio 45423

Public Information Specialist
Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County

Full time mid-level position available in the Office of the Health Commissioner.
Individual will assist with planning, developing and implementing public information and
marketing programs for the agency to project a positive public image. Duties include
developing news releases, consulting with staff on public relations and marketing
strategies, serving as a liaison with news media as directed, researching and writing for
the agency website, and assisting with maintaining and improving the agency’s website.
May be required to play an active role in the event of a public health emergency, which
may include changes in responsibilities and working hours.

Individual must be an excellent writer, effective public speaker and able to work with
diverse populations. Prefer two years experience in the communication field, experience
with Windows and OSX operating systems and video production and photography skills.

NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Visual Communications, Public
Relations, Marketing or related discipline; Proficient with Microsoft Office software and
software programs such as Adobe Creative Suite; Valid Ohio Driver’s license and access
to a motor vehicle.

Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Excellent benefits.
Position subject to background check.
Deadline for Application and Resumes: February 17, 2009.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER/SERVICE PROVIDER

PUBLIC HEALTH - DAYTON & MONTGOMERY COUNTY
117 S. Main St., 2nd Floor
Dayton, Ohio 45422
(937) 225-4406
JOB LINE (937) 496-7872
FAX (937) 496-3070
E-MAIL: humanresources@phdmc.org