PRSA Richmond Articles RSS Feed

Around Town: African Community Network Kicks Off its First Fundraising Dinner: “Taste of African Diversities”

Osita Iroegbu — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:00:00 GMT

In an effort to foster an environment of multicultural unity, The African Community Network (ACN) is hosting its first "Taste of African Diversities" dinner and celebration on March 20 at 4 p.m. at 2010 Carlisle Avenue, Richmond, VA 23231. The event is open to the public. Donations are encouraged.

The event will feature a variety of authentic African cuisines from various countries across the Continent including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Eritrea, Sudan, Kenya, Senegal, Ghana, Liberia, Togo, and Mauritania. Live African music and cultural dancing will reverberate throughout the evening and African artifacts will be on display. The purpose of the event is to promote unity throughout diverse communities within the Greater Richmond Area and to foster a deeper appreciation for African influences, cultures and traditions.

ACN is a new, non-profit organization that aims to serve African families and communities in the areas of education, economic development, health, advocacy and social and cultural affairs. ACN works to promote diversity and helps bridge the gap between communities in order to develop a better quality of life for all.

“ACN is growing to become the face and voice of Africans in Virginia and beyond,” said Sam Dilla, president of ACN and a Sudan native.

The ACN meets the second Thursday of every month at the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross, located at 420 East Cary St., Richmond, VA 23219. For more information on "Taste of African Diversities" dinner or on the ACN, contact Mahamadou Tandia at 804.833.3126 or Osita Iroegbu at 804.484.9356.

He who learns, teaches --- African Proverb

11-Mar-10 11:00 AM

PRSA Richmond Newsletter 8-Mar-10

Theresa House — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:55:36 GMT

Hello [firstname],

Welcome to PRSA Richmond's newsletter. We've got a great luncheon program planned for later this month, and we're looking forward to seeing you there!

Register online now!

March Program & Luncheon
Sponsor: McGuireWoods Consulting
Speaker's Name: Panel Discussion of Journalists Who Moved to PR
Day: Wednesday 31-Mar-10 11:45 AM
Location: Sheraton Richmond West Hotel 6624 West Broad Street Richmond, VA
Summary: A Whole New Ballgame: From Gatekeeper to Pitcher ...
Register Mapquest | Add to Calendar
Posted by: Theresa House

Chapter News

President's Note: PRSA Richmond Programs Reinvigorated

Author: Denise Baddour

Release Date: Monday 8-Mar-10 8:00 AM

In the spirit of a fresh start for spring, PRSA Richmond is blooming with some new-and-improved features, programs and events designed to help you get the most of your membership. In addition, as we continue to focus on Diversity – the way we communicate and engage with our members and area PR professionals of diverse backgrounds in race, ethnicity and communication jobs – here are some recent updates and upgrades: The Commonwealth Awards: the rebranding of the Virginia Public... [More Info]
Posted by: Denise Baddour

PRSA Richmond Welcomes New Members

Author: Jeff Wilson, APR

Release Date: Monday 8-Mar-10 7:00 AM

PRSA Richmond Welcomes New Members PRSA Richmond is pleased to welcome three new members who joined in February 2010. As always, we would like to thank all members and their employers for the continued support of the public relations profession. Jim Schepmoes, Director, Marketing & Public Relations, Stratford Hall Duncan Phillips, The Hodges Partnership Erika Neddenien, Communications Coordinator, University of Richmond If you know of someone who could benefit from joining PRSA, the... [More Info]
Posted by: Jeff Wilson, APR

Mark Your Calendar: I've Got It, Now What Do I Do With It?

Author: Jennifer Mullen

Release Date: Sunday 7-Mar-10 7:00 PM

Your organization most likely has a presence on Facebook and Twitter... maybe you're even utilizing a few other social media tools as well. The question is, now that you've got the tools, what do you do with them to make sure you're reaching your audience? Jon Newman of The Hodges Partnership will join us to delve deeper into this topic. Location and registration details will be available in the April newsletter but, in the meantime, please be sure to mark your calendar for the morning of... [More Info]
Posted by: Jennifer Mullen

Follow PRSA Richmond on Twitter using #PRSARVA.

Author: Andrew Ryan

Release Date: Sunday 7-Mar-10 8:00 AM

The PRSA Richmond Board recognizes the importance of social media in our industry and has begun developing tools and resources for our chapter. As part of this broader commitment to social media, PRSA Richmond has established its own hash tag on Twitter: #PRSARVA. The Board encourages all members on Twitter to use this hash tag when discussing the chapter, our industry, PR events, and the PR community in Richmond. You can also see what your colleagues are talking about and keep up on all the... [More Info]
Posted by: Andrew Ryan

Around Town: The 2010 Virginia Communications Hall of Fame

Author:

Release Date: Thursday 4-Mar-10 7:00 AM

The School of Mass Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University requests the pleasure of your company at the 23rd Annual Virginia Communications Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony. Join friends, colleagues & Hall of Fame members in honoring our 2010 inductees: Bob Jones, Jr., Indpendent Photographer Edward W. Jones, Editor, The Free Lance-Star Bea Kopp, Pioneering Photojournalist, The Times-Herald* Robert G. (Bob) Lee, Retired General Manager, WDBT-TV Dan Smith, Editor &... [More Info]
Posted by: Theresa House

Opportunity for Local Organizations to Apply to Receive Assistance from PRSA

Author: Ryan Smartt

Release Date: Thursday 4-Mar-10 7:00 AM

Each year, our Public Service Committee offers a Richmond-area nonprofit organization support in promoting an event, project or ongoing mission. If you know an organization that should take advantage of this opportunity, please encourage them to learn more and download the application, or contact Public Service Committee Chairperson Ryan Smartt by calling (804) 827-2002 or by e-mail at rsmartt@connectnetwork.org.
Posted by: Ryan Smartt

Awards Update: Individual Award Entries Deadline Extended to March 10

Author:

Release Date: Tuesday 2-Mar-10 8:00 AM

PRSA Richmond is extending the deadline for its Individual Awards -- the Thomas Jefferson Award (seasoned practitioner) and the Rising Star (a PR professional with three or fewer years in the industry). The new deadline is Wednesday, March 10. Please send your entry and a check for $50 made payable to “PRSA Richmond” to: Bryan Chandler Virginia Blood Services 2825 Emerywood Parkway Richmond, VA 23294 It’s easy to apply and so important to recognize our Richmond-area... [More Info]
Posted by: Theresa House

Many Thanks to our 2010 Signature Sponsors!

Stay up to date with our RSS feeds.

8-Mar-10 5:55 PM

President's Note: PRSA Richmond Programs Reinvigorated

Denise Baddour — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Awards: the rebranding of the Virginia Public Relations Awards to the”Commonwealth Awards” and introduction of the “Rising Star Awards.”

On the heels of the Academy Awards, PRSA Richmond is excited about producing our version of the Oscars – the Commonwealth Awards – where area PR celebrities will be recognized for their brilliant “performances.” The prestigious Jefferson Hotel will be home to our 63^rd Annual Commonwealth Awards. It’s an event you won’t want to miss.

The Rising Star Awards recognizes an outstanding new member of the public relations profession. To nominate someone for this award or learn more about this award and the Commonwealth Awards program, please visit our site by March 10.

Our new presence on Twitter: through the #prsarva hash tag our goal is to create a deeper and constant dialogue with our members virtually. Along with #prsarva, PRSA Richmond on Facebook and LinkedIn are new communication vehicles for our members. Our goal is to provide you with tools to facilitate online discussions with your peers while sharing updates from PRSA Richmond.

Our improved study program: designed to help candidates secure their APRs.

Ø This year’s study session series will be conducted in the spring AND the fall.

Ø The session curricula have been revised to better prepare candidates.

Ø Readiness Review presentation panels will be convened only twice a year.

To learn more about this APR initiative, click here, contact Pam Lepley, accreditation chair, at 828-6057 or pdlepley@vcu.edu, or Anne Buckley, co-chair, at 828-6052, albuckley@vcu.edu.

“A Whole NEW Ballgame: From Gatekeeper to Pitcher:” our March 31^st luncheon will feature a panel of journalism-turned-PR pros who will share their rationales for switching to PR and insider media relations do’s and don’ts while speaking candidly about the surprising challenges in their new roles. If you haven’t registered for our upcoming event, please do so by clicking here.

If you have a new idea or suggestion to optimize your PRSA Richmond membership, please let us know by contacting any of our board members or me.

Hope to see many of you later on this month!

Warm Regards,

Denise M. Baddour

PRSA Richmond President

8-Mar-10 8:00 AM

PRSA Richmond Welcomes New Members

Jeff Wilson, APR — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

PRSA Richmond is pleased to welcome three new members who joined in February 2010. As always, we would like to thank all members and their employers for the continued support of the public relations profession.

Jim Schepmoes, Director, Marketing & Public Relations, Stratford Hall
Duncan Phillips, The Hodges Partnership
Erika Neddenien, Communications Coordinator, University of Richmond

If you know of someone who could benefit from joining PRSA, the National Chapter is offering a great promotion for March and April. First-year Chapter dues are being waived for new members who pay $290 ($225 + $65 initiation fee).

New member prospects must put the promotion code SPRING2010 on their national applications to take advantage of the March/April membership promotion.

If you have questions about PRSA membership or are interested in helping recruit new members, please contact Jeff Wilson, APR, chair of the PRSA Richmond membership committee, at jwilson@crt-tanaka.com or 804.675.8175.

8-Mar-10 7:00 AM

Mark Your Calendar: I've Got It, Now What Do I Do With It?

Jennifer Mullen — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Your organization most likely has a presence on Facebook and Twitter... maybe you're even utilizing a few other social media tools as well. The question is, now that you've got the tools, what do you do with them to make sure you're reaching your audience?

Jon Newman of The Hodges Partnership will join us to delve deeper into this topic. Location and registration details will be available in the April newsletter but, in the meantime, please be sure to mark your calendar for the morning of Thursday, May 20. Come have some breakfast with Jon and your colleagues to discuss the big, wide (and sometimes scary!) world of social media and how you can use the tools to achieve your goals.

7-Mar-10 7:00 PM

Follow PRSA Richmond on Twitter using #PRSARVA.

Andrew Ryan — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Around Town: The 2010 Virginia Communications Hall of Fame

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The School of Mass Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University requests the pleasure of your company at the 23rd Annual Virginia Communications Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony.

Join friends, colleagues & Hall of Fame members in honoring our 2010 inductees:

Bob Jones, Jr., Indpendent Photographer

Edward W. Jones, Editor, The Free Lance-Star

Bea Kopp, Pioneering Photojournalist, The Times-Herald*

Robert G. (Bob) Lee, Retired General Manager, WDBT-TV

Dan Smith, Editor & Co-Founder, Valley Business FRONT

Harold Soldinger, Sr., Innovative Television Executive and former Vice-President, WAVY-TV*

*will be inducted posthumously

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Country Club of Virginia

6031 St. Andrews Lane

Richmond, VA 23226

Presented by Virginia Commonwealth University

The Hall of Fame, established by the School of Mass Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University in 1986, recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional achievement in the fields of print, broadcast, public relations, advertising and interactive media, including cable and the Internet. The newest class of inductees increases the hall’s membership to 118.

The reception for the induction ceremony starts at 6:30 p.m. with dinner and the ceremony to follow. Tickets are $125 each and can be reserved by calling (804) 827-3761. Proceeds benefit the Hall of Fame permanent exhibit and scholarship fund.

R.S.V.P. and pay online at www.2010HallofFame.kintera.org

4-Mar-10 7:00 AM

Opportunity for Local Organizations to Apply to Receive Assistance from PRSA

Ryan Smartt — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

4-Mar-10 7:00 AM

Awards Update: Individual Award Entries Deadline Extended to March 10

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

PRSA Richmond is extending the deadline for its Individual Awards -- the Thomas Jefferson Award (seasoned practitioner) and the Rising Star (a PR professional with three or fewer years in the industry). The new deadline is Wednesday, March 10.

Please send your entry and a check for $50 made payable to “PRSA Richmond” to:

Bryan Chandler
Virginia Blood Services
2825 Emerywood Parkway
Richmond, VA 23294

It’s easy to apply and so important to recognize our Richmond-area colleagues who are making an impact on our profession and our community. Click here for the Entry Form.

AWARD DETAILS

Thomas Jefferson Award
Each year PRSA Richmond recognizes the extraordinary achievements of a seasoned professional. Thomas Jefferson Award winners exemplify the best in the profession. Individuals may be nominated by a colleague or may choose to self-nominate. The program is open only to public relations practitioners in the Greater Richmond metropolitan area.

Individuals should include two copies of the Entry Form with their application packet, which should include the following:

Current resume
A 500-word statement summarizing why the individual deserves the award
At least one letter of recommendation from someone who is familiar with the individual’s work The awards committee will accept an unlimited number of letters of recommendation.
Any work samples that demonstrate the individual’s professional strengths

Rising Star
The chapter’s new Rising Star Award recognizes an outstanding new member of the public relations profession. Individuals may be nominated by a colleague or may choose to self-nominate. To qualify for the award, the nominee must have three or fewer years of professional public relations experience.

Individuals should include two copies of the Entry Form with their application packet, which should include the following:

Current resume
A 250-word statement summarizing why the individual deserves the award
At least one letter of recommendation from someone who is familiar with the individual’s work. The awards committee will accept no more than three letters of recommendation.
Any work samples that demonstrate the individual’s professional strengths

For questions or more info, please contact Laura Baliles Osberger at (804) 387-5191 or laura@handcraftedcommunications.com.

2-Mar-10 8:00 AM

PRSA Richmond Award Entry Deadline is Friday!

Theresa House — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:48:48 GMT

Hello [firstname],

This Friday, Feb. 26 is the deadline for entering PRSA Richmond’s Awards program. This includes entries for Programs (Commonwealth), Tactics (Capital) and the Individual Awards (Thomas Jefferson - seasoned practitioner and Rising Star -practitioner with three or fewer years of experience). Entries must be delivered by 5:00 pm to:

Brian Chandler
Virginia Blood Services
2825 Emerywood Parkway
Richmond, VA 23294

If you have any questions, please contact Laura Baliles Osberger at (804) 387-5191 or laura@handcraftedcommunications.com. Thanks!

Stay up to date with our RSS feeds.

24-Feb-10 3:48 PM

Clarifications for the Commonwealth Awards Program

Theresa House — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:55:58 GMT

Commonwealth Awards: the 63^rd Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards: Below are some clarifications to this year’s newly redesigned Awards program based on recent inquiries:

1. Overviews: The Overview descriptions (research, planning, execution and evaluation) required for each entry are limited to:

- 2 pages max for Programs (Commonwealth Awards)

- 1 page max for Tactics (Capital Awards)

2. Executive Summary: Don’t forget to include a 100-word Executive Summary of the project PLUS your company logo and any pertinent project photos. (Logo and photos must be submitted on CD.)

3. Eligibility: The Commonwealth and Capital Awards are open to all Virginia-based PR programs and tactics. However, the Individual Awards (Thomas Jefferson and Rising Star) are limited to Richmond-based PR practitioners.

4. Deadlines: The deadlines are right around the corner!

- Early bird deadline is this Friday, Feb. 12 at 5:00 p.m.

- Regular deadline is Friday, Feb. 26 at 5:00 p.m.

Call Laura Baliles Osberger with any questions: laura@handcraftedcommunications.com or (804) 387-5191.

Stay up to date with our RSS feeds.

9-Feb-10 1:55 PM

PRSA Richmond Newsletter 8-Feb-10

Theresa House — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:47:06 GMT

Hello [firstname],

Welcome to PRSA Richmond's newsletter. We've got a great program planned for later this month, and we're looking forward to seeing you there!

Register Online Now!

February Program & Luncheon
Speaker's Name: Gary D. McCormick, APR, Newly Elected PRSA Chair and CEO, HGTV
Day: Wednesday 24-Feb-10 11:45 AM
Location: Sheraton Richmond West Hotel 6624 West Broad Street Richmond, VA
Summary: Meet and Greet with the National PRSA Chair and CEO ...
Register Mapquest | Add to Calendar
Posted by: Theresa House

Chapter News

President's Note: Diversity Days

Author: Denise Baddour

Release Date: Sunday 7-Feb-10 10:00 PM

In honor of Black History Month and PRSA Richmond’s commitment to enriching our profession by celebrating individuals of diverse backgrounds in race, ethnicity or communication, I encourage you to read Gary McCormick’s, APR, PRSA Chair and CEO, latest blog entry on Multicultural Public Relations. McCormick celebrated the memory of D. Parke Gibson who established the first black-owned PR firm, D. Parke Gibson International, in New York. To learn more about D. Parke Gibson, visit the... [More Info]
Posted by: Denise Baddour

PRSA Mid Atlantic District Holds First-Ever Quick Start Meeting, Richmond Chapter Represented

Author: Tina Lambert, CAE

Release Date: Sunday 7-Feb-10 3:00 PM

On Saturday, January 23 at the Springfield Country Club, the PRSA Mid Atlantic District held its first-ever training event – called Quick Start – designed for chapter leaders to kick off their year by sharing best practices, roundtable discussions, brainstorming sessions, network and meet counterparts in other chapters in our region. I was honored to represent PRSA Richmond at this meeting, and swap great ideas with colleagues from National Capital, Blue Ridge, Central... [More Info]
Posted by: Tina Lambert, CAE

Clarifications for the Commonwealth Awards Program

Author: Laura Baliles Osberger

Release Date: Sunday 7-Feb-10 12:00 PM

Commonwealth Awards: the 63rd Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards: Below are some clarifications to this year’s newly redesigned Awards program based on recent inquiries: 1. Overviews: The Overview descriptions (research, planning, execution and evaluation) required for each entry are limited to: - 2 pages max for Programs (Commonwealth Awards) - 1 page max for Tactics (Capital Awards) 2. Executive Summary: Don’t forget to include a 100-word Executive Summary... [More Info]
Posted by: Laura Baliles

PRSA Richmond Welcomes A New Member

Author: Jeff Wilson, APR

Release Date: Sunday 7-Feb-10 10:00 AM

PRSA Richmond is pleased to welcome a new member who joined in January 2010. As always, we would like to thank all members and their employers for the continued support of the public relations profession. Aurelia Fairbank James, Associate Director of Public Affairs, Virginia Community Healthcare Association If you know of someone who could benefit from joining PRSA, the National Chapter is offering a great promotion in February. When new members join this month, the $65 initiation fee will... [More Info]
Posted by: Jeff Wilson, APR

PRSA Richmond Revises APR Study Program to Ensure Candidate Success

Author: Pam Lepley, APR

Release Date: Thursday 4-Feb-10 12:00 PM

Sneak Peak at the March 2009 Program: A Whole New Ballgame--From Gatekeeper to Pitcher

Author: Jennifer Curtis, APR

Release Date: Tuesday 2-Feb-10 7:00 AM

Are more journalists leaving media to work in public relations? Practitioners on both sides share similar skills - - but is that enough to make a successful transition? A panel of former journalism-turned-PR pros will answer these questions and more. Moderated by Paula Otto, Executive Director of The Virginia Lottery, panelists will discuss why they changed their career paths, share ‘insider’ media relations tips and reveal challenges they were surprised to discover in their new... [More Info]
Posted by: Jennifer Curtis, APR

Commonwealth Awards: 63rd Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards

Author: Theresa House

Release Date: Tuesday 12-Jan-10 9:54 AM

Dear fellow communicators, As Virginia’s capital chapter, PRSA Richmond is proud to have recognized public relations talent from across the Commonwealth for 63 years. This year we are rechristening our awards show to reflect that pride. The awards will... [More Info]
Posted by: Theresa House

JOBLink--Online and Free to Job Seekers!

Specialist, Digital Communications

Company: Altria Client Services (part of Altria Group Inc.)

Date Activated: Thursday 28-Jan-10 0:00 AM

Work as a member of the Corporate Affairs' Communciations team by supporting the company's corporate websites. Duties: Develops and... [More Info]
Posted by: Kim Farlow, APR

Manager of Communications and Public Relations

Company: Virginia Commonwealth University

Date Activated: Wednesday 13-Jan-10 0:00 AM

Virginia Commonwealth University is seeking a dynamic Manager of Communications for the Massey Cancer Center. The Manager will report... [More Info]
Posted by: Jeannie Rummel

Public Relations Manager

Company: CarMax

Date Activated: Thursday 21-Jan-10 0:00 AM

Manage public relations activities for CarMax by building relationships with key national, local and online media - through strategic PR... [More Info]
Posted by: Trina Lee

Many Thanks to our 2009 Signature Sponsors!

Stay up to date with our RSS feeds.

8-Feb-10 1:47 PM

President's Note: Diversity Days

Denise Baddour — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 03:00:00 GMT

In honor of Black History Month and PRSA Richmond’s commitment to enriching our profession by celebrating individuals of diverse backgrounds in race, ethnicity or communication, I encourage you to read Gary McCormick’s, APR, PRSA Chair and CEO, latest blog entry on Multicultural Public Relations. McCormick celebrated the memory of D. Parke Gibson who established the first black-owned PR firm, D. Parke Gibson International, in New York. To learn more about D. Parke Gibson, visit the PRSA link that follows on PRSA’s newly redesigned web site: http://prsay.prsa.org/index.php/2010/02/04/remembering-d-parke-gibson-multicultural-public-relations-pioneer/

Later this month, McCormick will join us at our February luncheon to discuss initiatives at the National level including PRSA’s advocacy campaign “The Business Case of Public Relations™” and to spotlight PRSA National’s Diversity initiatives.

With a focus on enhancing diversity initiatives at the local level, the board of directors of PRSA kicked off the year last month with an energizing strategic session and a board meeting to outline goals and outcomes for the year. We will soon be publishing the strategic plan, which will outline individual and committee chair goals as well as overall goals for the board. In the meantime, I encourage you to contact our officers and committee chairs with any requests or suggestions you may have (http://www.prsarichmond.org/2010-board-of-directors/). Our job is to ensure you’re getting the most from your membership.

I urge you to get immersed in PRSA on a national, regional or local level by serving on a committee, volunteering at an event or serving as a speaker at an upcoming session or luncheon.

As part of our ongoing commitment to diversity in 2010, I encourage each and every one of you to reach out to professionals with diverse backgrounds in communication jobs (branding, marketing, advertising, public relations, new media, etc..), race or ethnicity and invite them to one of our upcoming PRSA Richmond programs - starting with our monthly luncheon on Wednesday Feb. 24 http://www.prsarichmond.org/en/cev/103. I hope to see you and your guests then.

Warm Regards,

Denise M. Baddour

President, PRSA Richmond

7-Feb-10 10:00 PM

PRSA Mid Atlantic District Holds First-Ever Quick Start Meeting, Richmond Chapter Represented

Tina Lambert, CAE — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:00:00 GMT

On Saturday, January 23 at the Springfield Country Club, the PRSA Mid Atlantic District held its first-ever training event – called Quick Start – designed for chapter leaders to kick off their year by sharing best practices, roundtable discussions, brainstorming sessions, network and meet counterparts in other chapters in our region.

I was honored to represent PRSA Richmond at this meeting, and swap great ideas with colleagues from National Capital, Blue Ridge, Central Chesapeake, Penninsula, Hampton Roads, Maryland, Central Pennsylvania and Philadelphia chapters.

It was a fun-filled day, with interesting discussion from passionate leaders, on topics like strategic planning and measurement, managing and motivating volunteers, sponsorships and budget planning, member networking and meetings/event management. I was so impressed by all the wonderful programs at other chapters in the region, but even more proud to share all the amazing accomplishments of PRSA Richmond. In two words, we ROCK! Many thanks to YOU, our dedicated members and volunteers, for all that you do to make our chapter so successful.

Our chapter board of directors will be discussing take-aways from the Mid Atlantic Quick Start meeting, and are continuously looking at ways to best serve our members.

If you have any questions about the Mid Atlantic District, PRSA Richmond or have any thoughts on how our chapter can best serve your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact me at tlambert@vscpa.com or (804) 612-9416 or contact any member of our Board of Directors.

Look forward to connecting with you at an upcoming chapter meeting!

Tina Lambert, CAE

PRSA Richmond, President-Elect

Vice President of Member & Public Relations

Virginia Society of CPAs

7-Feb-10 3:00 PM

Clarifications for the Commonwealth Awards Program

Laura Baliles Osberger — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Awards: the 63^rd Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards: Below are some clarifications to this year’s newly redesigned Awards program based on recent inquiries:

1. Overviews: The Overview descriptions (research, planning, execution and evaluation) required for each entry are limited to:

- 2 pages max for Programs (Commonwealth Awards)

- 1 page max for Tactics (Capital Awards)

2. Executive Summary: Don’t forget to include a 100-word Executive Summary of the project PLUS your company logo and any pertinent project photos. (Logo and photos must be submitted on CD.)

4. Deadlines: The deadlines are right around the corner!

- Early bird deadline is this Friday, Feb. 12 at 5:00 p.m.

- Regular deadline is Friday, Feb. 26 at 5:00 p.m.

Call Laura Baliles Osberger with any questions: laura@handcraftedcommunications.com or (804) 387-5191.

7-Feb-10 12:00 PM

PRSA Richmond Welcomes A New Member

Jeff Wilson, APR — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 15:00:00 GMT

Aurelia Fairbank James, Associate Director of Public Affairs, Virginia Community Healthcare Association

If you know of someone who could benefit from joining PRSA, the National Chapter is offering a great promotion in February. When new members join this month, the $65 initiation fee will be waived.

If you have questions about PRSA membership or are interested in helping recruit new members, contact Jeff Wilson, APR, chair of the PRSA Richmond membership committee, at jwilson@crt-tanaka.com or 804.675.8175.

7-Feb-10 10:00 AM

PRSA Richmond Revises APR Study Program to Ensure Candidate Success

Pam Lepley, APR — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:00:00 GMT

PRSA Richmond is changing up the program for helping candidates attain Accreditation in Public Relations in 2010. The revised time frames, study sessions and review opportunities are aimed at more effectively preparing candidates for successful accreditation.

The APR Accreditation is the only professional certification program for public relations professionals. Its purpose is to elevate the profession by establishing best practices, encouraging a strategic approach, and reinforcing ethical standards. It is recognized by peers in the PRSA as the hallmark of a professional.

An APR orientation session will be held for those considering pursuing their APR at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 23, on the VCU Monroe Park Campus at 816 W. Franklin Street, Richmond. The process will be explained and questions answered, including those about this year’s study series and readiness review panel schedules.

Some changes of note:

·   The study session series will be conducted twice this year, in the spring and fall. The series is free to PRSA/Richmond members. However, candidates must officially apply for APR accreditation in order to participate in the study sessions. The spring study sessions will be held on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., March 9 – April 3. The location will be announced shortly. The fall series dates will be announced in late summer.

·   The review session curricula are being revised to better prepare candidates for completing the accreditation process.

·   Readiness Review presentation panels will be convened only twice a year, approximately two weeks after the last review session of the season. The Readiness Review presentation is the first of two steps to achieve accreditation. The second step is the computer-based accreditation examination.

·   The Richmond Public Relations Foundation will continue to reimburse the first five chapter members this year who successfully pass the APR exam up to $275 of their or their company’s examination expenses.

Any questions? Don’t hesitate to contact Pam Lepley, accreditation chair, at 828-6057 or pdlepley@vcu.edu, or Anne Buckley, co-chair, at 828-6052, albuckley@vcu.edu. Click here for more information on accreditation.

4-Feb-10 12:00 PM

Sneak Peak at the March 2009 Program: A Whole New Ballgame--From Gatekeeper to Pitcher

Jennifer Curtis, APR — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Are more journalists leaving media to work in public relations? Practitioners on both sides share similar skills - - but is that enough to make a successful transition? A panel of former journalism-turned-PR pros will answer these questions and more. Moderated by Paula Otto, Executive Director of The Virginia Lottery, panelists will discuss why they changed their career paths, share ‘insider’ media relations tips and reveal challenges they were surprised to discover in their new jobs. Panelists will include Mychael Dickerson (WWBT to Henrico County Schools), Gordon Hickey (Richmond Times-Dispatch to Governor Tim Kaine's press secretary), Bill Phelps (WWBT to Altria) and Lisa Shaffner (WRIC to UNOS).

Please join us on Wednesday, March 31, for what is sure to be a lively panel discussion. Networking begins at 11:45 a.m. and the luncheon program begins at 12:15 p.m.

Where Are They Now? A host of former broadcast and print media journalists in the Richmond market will be invited to attend the program. We will take a few moments to remember where they were and invite them to tell you what they are doing now.

2-Feb-10 7:00 AM

Powering PRSA Richmond in 2010!

Denise Baddour — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

I’m very proud and privileged to serve as the president of PRSA Richmond and lucky to be surrounded by fellow Board members who are smart, talented, and ready to take our organization and its offerings to the next level. Our goal as a Board is to lead by example by being results-oriented, progressive, and visionary. We’re excited about the many opportunities that lie ahead of us.

We're interested in creating an organization where members feel valued for their ideas and empowered to take risks. One of the Board’s major outcomes in 2010 is to reach out to individuals of diverse backgrounds in race, ethnicity, and communication (marketing, advertising, branding, etc…) .

A key objective during 2010 is to ensure our members are engaged and empowered to make decisions that continue to shape our PR community locally and nationally. Another area of opportunity for the Board is to enrich our profession by focusing on Diversity, which is one of the five pillars* that PRSA National is spotlighting this year to continue advancing the profession and the professional.

Raising the awareness, education, and positive recognition of the differences among PR professionals is a personal passion of mine. As a first generation Lebanese descendant and an eight-plus-year PRSA Richmond Board member, I want to ensure our organization is reaching, involving, and supporting members who represent a broad spectrum of ethnic and racial groups and providing them the means to excel and thrive in their public relations careers.

Diversity also means variety. We also have the opportunity to build a diverse PR community that strives for variety in the way we communicate in today’s ever-changing world. We have to continue refining, evolving and expanding our communication skills to complement changes in the media and the economy that have resulted in new tools used by PR, Advertising and PR professionals.

PRSA Richmond exists for you, our members! We volunteer our time day in and day out to ensure you’re equipped with the latest tools and opportunities to help you succeed as a PR professional and leader. If there’s anything you need to be more successful, please don’t hesitate to contact any of our board members: http://www.prsarichmond.org/2010-board-of-directors/

I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at the Jan. 27 luncheon (http://www.prsarichmond.org/en/cev/102) don’t forget to register for the luncheon and remember to renew your dues.

Best wishes for an excellent 2010!

Kind Regards,

Denise Baddour

PRSA Richmond, President

*During 2010, the PRSA National Board and its committees will focus on:

19-Jan-10 8:00 AM

Commonwealth Awards: 63rd Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards

Theresa House — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 14:54:53 GMT

Dear fellow communicators,

As Virginia’s capital chapter, PRSA Richmond is proud to have recognized public relations talent from across the Commonwealth for 63 years. This year we are rechristening our awards show to reflect that pride. The awards will continue to celebrate the most creative and effective communications programs and tactics with a few new twists:

What’s New in 2010:

AWARD NAMES: In response to your feedback, the award categories are being newly branded this year:

- PR Programs will be recognized with “The Commonwealth Award” (and “The Commonwealth Award of Merit”).

- PR Tactics will be recognized with “The Capital Award” (and “The Capital Award of Merit”).

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS: The chapter will again honor a seasoned practitioner with the “Thomas Jefferson Award,” but we’ve also added a new “Rising Star Award” for practitioners with three years (or fewer) of professional PR experience. Application information is highlighted in the Call-for-Entries.

CALL-FOR-ENTRIES: Entry Forms will be distributed at the Jan. 27 PRSA Richmond luncheon at the Sheraton Hotel, but why wait till then? Click here to download the Call-for-Entries now and get started today!

DEADLINE: Entries are due much earlier this year – on February 26, 2010 (same deadline as PRSA National awards).

SAVE-THE DATE: This year’s awards ceremony will take place Thursday, May 6 at The Jefferson Hotel from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Mark your calendars now!

VOLUNTEERS: Want to have a hand in planning this year’s awards show? Volunteers are welcomed and appreciated. Please contact Laura Baliles Osberger at laura@handcraftedcommunications.com.

For more information, visit www.prsarichmond.org or contact:

Laura Baliles Osberger: (804) 387-5191 or laura@handcraftedcommunications.com.
Rachel Beanland: (804) 289-8418 or rbeanlan@richmond.edu.

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12-Jan-10 9:54 AM