FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405-286-0144

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America will present “PRSA-OKC Upper Case Winners Reveal All,” during the professional organization’s monthly meeting scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, located on the third floor of the Student Union at Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma City Campus, located at 900 N. Portland Ave.

One of the featured speakers includes Katherine Leidy, ABC, APR, marketing director of the Percussive Arts Society. She won an Upper Case Award and “Best of Show” in Feature Stories during the recent PRSA-OKC Upper Case Awards for her “Hospital Uses Drumming To Treat Troubled Teens.”

Another Upper Case Award and “Best of Show” for Public Relations Program was awarded to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) for its “First Ladies Gala Special Event.” Featured speaker Adam Cohen, director of legal and public affairs for OMRF, will discuss how his foundation launched the campaign for its special event.

The monthly luncheon cost $15 for PRSA-OKC members, $20 for non-members, $13 for PRSSA students and $15 for others students. If you are a member of the media and need media information, please contact PRSA-OKC Public Relations Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at (405) 604-6916. To make reservations, please log on to http://www.prsaokc.com/docs/RSVP.htm or e-mail president.elect@prsaokc.com.

Meanwhile, PRSA-OKC members and others will stay warm by mixing and mingling during the “Second Annual Freezin' Season Jingle Mingle” scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 15 in the Purple Bar at Nonna's in Bricktown. The free networking and gathering event will include members from PRSA-OKC, Ad Club, AIGA, AMA, AWC, IABC, OBA, OKC News Bureau, OPA, SMPS and SPJ.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405-286-0144

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America has been chosen as one of four PRSA chapters from across the country to take part in the PRSA Foundation Career Exploration Program during the 2005-2006 school year.

Participation in the PRSA Foundation Career Exploration Program will help the PRSA-OKC Chapter to advance education in public relations and strengthen the PRSA Foundation’s commitment to the diversity of the future work force of public relations professionals. It will encourage and leverage community involvement in PRSA and PRSSA chapters and the local chapter can use PRSA communications curriculum for activities targeting secondary students, as well as enhance the educational relevance of PRSA curriculum.

The California Capital, Houston and New York City PRSA chapters will also participate. PRSA-OKC Chapter President Sam Sims, APR, said the chapter is thrilled to be a part of this educational movement.

“The Oklahoma City chapter of PRSA is honored to be one of four chapters selected to represent this educational program,” Sims said. "We stand for advancing the profession and the professional and this allows us a head start in further developing the public relations profession.”

Participating PRSA chapters will offer the following:

• Career exploration resources to a high school located in an urban community.
• Provide guest speakers for in-class presentations (using PRSA Communications curriculum) to 120-150 students during a five-day period throughout the school year.
• Provide one-day job shadowing for two teachers with a public relations professional in the workplace.
• Present public relations professionals and PRSA curriculum to teachers during a school staff development conference (up to 30 minutes).
• Partner with local PRSSA chapter to provide undergraduate student mentors.

Please visit www.prsafoundation.org for more information about this and other PRSA Foundation programs.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America announced the winners of the 28th Annual PRSA-OKC Upper-Case Awards competition during a gala evening event held Friday, Oct. 28, at the Petroleum Club in downtown Oklahoma City.

PRSA-OKC’s 2005 Upper Case Awards recognizes the best in public relations programs and practices in the Central Oklahoma region and throughout the state. First held in 1978 as the Bronze Derrick Awards, the competition’s name was changed in 1990 to the Upper Case Awards to better reflect the journalistic beginnings of the profession.

The evening featured music by the Brent Blount Trio and began when PRSA-OKC President Sam Sims, APR, who recognized the Central Ohio Chapter of PRSA for judging this year’s Upper Case Awards. He also recognized the event’s sponsors, which included, Clampitt Paper, Dot Graphics, Heritage Press, Wolf Mailing & Marketing Services and OGE Energy Corp.

Sims then introduced PRSA-OKC’s slate of officers for 2006, which were unanimously voted in by chapter members. They include, Danielle Ezell, APR, president; Nancy Coggins, APR, president-elect; Julie Claggett, secretary; Danielle Walker, treasurer; Assembly Delegates Brenda K. Jones, APR and Pamela Gutel, APR., plus Sims as immediate past president. Other members of the 2006 board of directors also include two board members at large, appointed by the incoming president. They include Derinda Lowe and Kim Holding.

Ezell then introduced the evening’s emcee, respected local TV journalist Jennifer Eve-Fish. She said members of the Central Ohio Chapter of PRSA served as judges for the 2005 Upper Case Awards competition. The judges were instructed to establish winners within each category based on the rankings of averaged scores. This year’s entries competed in four categories and 24 subcategories. Main categories include publications, non-print materials, writing, and public relations programs.

Winners in “Publications” Division included:

• Honorable Mention for Public Relations Materials, 1-3 color, went to Omniplex Science Museum for the Oklahoma Aviation and Space Hall of Fame Invitation.
• An Award of Merit for Public Relations Materials, 1-3 color, went to Visual Image Advertising for the Urban League Gala Program.

Winners in the “PR Materials, 4-color division included:

• Honorable Mention for Public Relations Materials, 4-color, went to The City of Oklahoma City for MAPS Done Program.
• An Award of Merit for Public Relations Materials, 4-color went to LifeShare
  of Oklahoma for Give Thanks Give Life Insert.

There was a tie for the Upper Case Award. The first Upper Case Award went to the Stillwater Convention & Visitors Bureau for the Stillwater Meeting and Event Planners Guide, and the OU Visitor Center for the University of Oklahoma Visitor Guide.

Winners in the “Publications – Magazine, 4 Color” Division included:

• Honorable Mention goes to Oklahoma Sports Media for Sooner Spectator.
• Award of Merit: World Neighbors, Inc. for Neighbors.
• An Upper Case Award was awarded to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for Findings Magazine.

Winners in the “Publications – Annual Reports, 4 Color” Division included:

• Honorable Mention: OG+E Energy Corp for “Getting Things Done” – OG+E Energy Corp 2004 Annual Report.
• There was a tie for “Award of Merit in the Publication – Annual Reports, 4-Color category.” The First Award of Merit went to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum for The First Decade. The next Award of Merit in the Publications – Annual Reports, 4-Color category went to the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency for their 2004 Annual Report.
• An Upper Case Award was presented to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for their 2004 Scientific Report.

Winners in the “Publications - Newsletters, 4-Color” Division included:

• Honorable Mention: Public Strategies, Inc. for YSOC Newsletter.
• Award of Merit: Jones Public Relations Group for Oklahoma Centennial Newsletters.
• Upper Case Award: Express Services, Inc. for Extra.

Winners in the “Feature Stories” division included:

• Honorable Mention went to Express Services, Inc., for Meeting the Changing Needs of the ‘Me’ Generation.”
• Award of Merit: the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for The Forgetting.
• Upper Case Award for Feature Stories is presented to the Percussive Arts Society for Hospital Uses Drumming to Treat Troubled Teens.

Winners in “Straight News Writing” included:

• An Award of Merit: The Oklahoma Bar Association for Advance Directive.

Winners in “Visual Materials” included:

• Honorable Mention: Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma for Fall Creek TV Broadcast.
• Award of Merit: The City of Oklahoma City for CC20 Sports – OKC’s New Skatepark.

Winners in “Audio Materials” included:

• Upper Case Award for Non-Print Audio Materials: Percussive Arts Society for Percussive Arts Museum’s PSA.

Winners In “Web Page Design” included:

• The Honorable Mention: Omniplex Science Museum for Omniplex Science Museum - Feed Your Brain.
• Award of Merit: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for OMRF.org Redesign.
• Upper Case Award: Third Degree Advertising & Communications for Vox Web Site Redesign.

Winners in “Electronic Media” included:

• An Award of Merit: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for “Be a Roads Scholar” CD /Systems Status Report.

In “Public Relations Program,” winners of the “Marketing/Public Relations Campaigns’ included Honorable Mention: Express Services, Inc. for their Generations Campaign; an Award of Merit to Jones Public Relations Group for the Oklahoma River Grand Opening and an Upper Case Award to Third Degree Advertising & Communications for the TFCU “We Get It” Campaign.

Winners of “Special Events” included Honorable Mention: World Neighbors, Inc. for Work of Women (WOW!) Parties; Award of Merit: Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum for National Week of Hope and 10th Anniversary Commemoration and the Upper Case Award for Special Events was presented the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for the First Ladies Gala.

The winner in the “Media Relations Campaigns” for an Upper Case Award was the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum for the National Week of Hope and 10th Anniversary Media Campaign.

Winners in the “Internal Communications” category included: Honorable Mention: Anglin Public Relations for Variety Health Center and the Upper Case Award for Internal Communications went to The City of Oklahoma City for the Heart of the City Campaign.

Winners in the “Community Relations” category included an Award of Merit presented to the Percussive Arts Society for Drum Roots and an Upper Case Award presented to Public Service Company of Oklahoma for Don’t Put Your Neighbors Out on a Limb.

The Upper Case Award winner in the “Public Service Campaigns” category was presented to Third Degree Advertising for the Oklahoma Blood Institute Campaign.

Winners in the “Public Affairs Campaigns” included an Honorable Mention Award for the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma for Gambling Mouse and an Upper Case Award was presented to 20 Hats for Kingfisher Regional Hospital Sales Tax Incentive.

Each year, the PRSA-OKC Chapter bestows three very special awards. They include “The Clarus Award,” presented to an outstanding member of the print or broadcast media; “The Outstanding Young Professional Award” and “The Paul E. Dannelley, Jr., Harmony Award.” Recipients of these very special awards are nominated by chapter members and are selected by a vote of the Oklahoma City Chapter of PRSA Board of Directors.

The Clarus Award honors a member of the print or broadcast media, and is given to a journalist who demonstrates fairness, clearness, and professionalism in his or her reporting. The winner of the Clarus Award was Channel 9’s Angela Buckelew.

In 1983, the Public Relations Society of America named Paul E. Dannelley, Jr. Outstanding Educator. Following his death in 1991, a memorial scholarship was established at the University Oklahoma in his name and the Oklahoma City PRSA chapter created a special award to be given each year in his honor. It is the highest honor the Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America confers. The 2005 winner of the Paul E. Dannelley, Jr. Harmony Award was OGE Energy’ Corp.’s Karen Halvorson, APR.

The “2005 Outstanding Young Professional” is awarded to a newcomer to the field of public relations for their significant contributions to the public relations profession. Express Personnel’s Julie Claggett won the “2005 Outstanding Young Professional Award.”

Two “Best In Show” Awards were also distributed. One “Best of Show Award" was presented for “Public Relations Tactics from the Publication, Writing ad Non-Print” categories. The other Best of Show was chosen from the eight “Public Relations Programs” subcategories.

The “2005 Best of Show Award for Public Relations Tactics” was presented to the Percussive Arts Society for their feature story entitled Hospital Uses Drumming to Treat Troubled Teens. The “2005 Best of Show Award for Public Relations Programs” was awarded to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for the First Ladies Gala Special Event.

At the end of the evening, Sims thanked PRSA-OKC’s Upper Case Awards Co-chairmen, Danielle Walker and Eric Oesch, for their outstanding work in organizing the awards and banquet, as well as PRSA-OKC Photographer Tara Lokey for her contributions.

Photos and cutlines are available by request, please contact PRSA-OKC Publicity Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at 405-640-5564.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America will present its “Ethics Program” during its regular chapter luncheon scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, located on the third floor of the Student Union at Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma City Campus, located at 900 N. Portland Ave.

A panel of three public relations professionals will share some of their career experiences dealing with ethical issues. Combined, these guests have more than 60 years of public relations experience to draw upon.

The panelist include Gil Broyles, CEO and founder of Broyles & Associates, Andrea Chancellor, manager of corporate communications for Public Service Company of Oklahoma and Gary Shutt, director of communications, Oklahoma State University.

The luncheon cost $15 for PRSA-OKC members, $20 for non-members, $13 for PRSSA students and $15 for others students. If you are a member of the media and need media information, please contact PRSA-OKC Public Relations Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at (405) 604-6916. To make reservations, please log on to http://www.prsaokc.com/docs/RSVP.htm or e-mail president.elect@prsaokc.com. Reservations must be made immediately.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America will present “Developing Culturally Relevant Campaigns To Reach The Growing Hispanic Community” during its regular chapter luncheon scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 17, located in Room 9 at the Business Services Center, located on Robinson Ave. and Sheridan Ave. in downtown Oklahoma City.

Guest Speaker Dora O. Tovar, president of Tovar PR, has more than 17 years in public relations experience on the behalf of advocacy organizations, government and corporate America in such markets as California, Texas, Washington D.C. and New York. During “Developing Culturally Relevant Campaigns To Reach The Growing Hispanic Community,” Tovar will guide PR practitioners and guests as they explore best practices and learn some of the pitfalls to avoid when developing a culturally-relevant campaign.

The Hispanic media has been growing in virtually every market across the country and many local agencies have attempted to re-define their services to meet the demand without understanding the complexities of the culture, not just language. Attendees will learn more about the culture and audience so that they can develop more effective campaigns.

Tovar brings experience as director of public relations for a premier U.S. Hispanic advertising and communications agency. Some of her clients include Kraft, Oscar Mayer, Post Cereals and many more. She is a former regional manager of corporate affairs for Texaco and Shell in the U.S. Western region. Her tenure as an advocate and leader in Hispanic issues gives her valuable insights in the area of corporate responsibility.

The luncheon cost $15 for PRSA-OKC members, $20 for non-members, $13 for PRSSA students and $15 for others students. If you are a member of the media and need media information, please contact PRSA-OKC Public Relations Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at (405) 604-6916. To make reservations, please log on to http://www.prsaokc.com/docs/RSVP.htm or e-mail president.elect@prsaokc.com. Reservations must be made by Aug. 15.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

OKLAHOMA CITY – Karen Halvorson, APR, of Edmond, Okla., was named the new president of the Public Relations Society of America’s Southwest District. She presides over 17 chapters including Oklahoma, Louisiana, Kansas, New Mexico and Texas.

A veteran public relations and marketing professional who is accredited in public relations, Halvorson served as past president of the Oklahoma City chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) in 2001 and is currently professional liaison for the University of Central Oklahoma’s PRSSA chapter. She has also served in various officer positions and led many committees for PRSA-OKC.

Halvorson also served as president of the Oklahoma City chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA) in 2004-2005 and as public relations counsel for the Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma County. She has won seven awards for her public relations and marketing work.

Halvorson works as a corporate communications specialist for OGE Energy Corp., the largest electric utility in Oklahoma and Southwestern Arkansas. Prior to joining OGE Energy Corp., Halvorson served as director of marketing for DCA Services, a billing service bureau and software development company serving telecommunications providers.

Before joining DCA Services, Halvorson served as account executive with Hays & Associates, an Oklahoma City-based public relations and marketing firm. She has also taught English, creative writing and journalism for Jones Public Schools, Jones, Okla.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America celebrated “Career Night & Zenith Award Ceremony” in late April and honored the best college students and recent graduates for achievements in their work. The chapter also recently distributed three “PRSA-OKC Emerging Leader Scholarship” checks to deserving students.

Held at Crabtown in downtown Oklahoma City, the Zenith Awards recognized excellence in public relations by college students, while Career Night provided students and recent graduates with the opportunity to network with professionals and attend a career seminar.

During the event, PRSA-OKC awarded academic scholarships in two categories for the first time, including two books and tuition academic scholarships and one PRSA membership scholarship. University of Oklahoma student Jake Basden was awarded an $1,400 books and tuition academic scholarship, while University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) student Shannon Scott received a $1,000 books and tuition academic scholarship. UCO student Elizabeth Montalbano received a free PRSA membership scholarship.

Keynote speakers include PRSA-OKC President Sam Sims, APR, director of integrated marketing services, 20 Hats; Vonda Wolfe, senior regional manager, Express Personnel Services and Terry Phelps, Ph.D., professor of English at Oklahoma City University.

“PRSA-OKC is committed to helping young PR professionals and students reach the professional standards demonstrated by PRSA-OKC’s members,” Sims said.

“We are dedicated to guiding the next generation of public relations practitioners to be the best professionals possible and these scholarships and awards recognize excellence in our field.”

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

CUTLINE: Basden Winner.JPG: (L-R) PRSA-OKC President Sam Sims, APR awards an “PRSA-OKC Emerging Leader Scholarship” to University of Oklahoma student Jake Basden, who received an $1,400 books and tuition academic scholarship during PRSA-OKC’s Career Night & Zenith Awards held in April.

CUTLINE: Montalbano Winner.JPG: (L-R) PRSA-OKC President Sam Sims, APR awards a “PRSA-OKC’s Emerging Leader Scholarship” to UCO student Elizabeth Montalbano. She received a free PRSA membership scholarship.

CUTLINE: Scotts Scholarship Winner.JPG: (L-R) PRSA-OKC President Sam Sims, APR awards a “PRSA-OKC Emerging Leader Scholarship” to University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) student Shannon Scott. She received a $1,000 books and tuition academic scholarship.

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Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America is proud to announce its annual “Professional Development Day and Luncheon” from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, in the Goldman Room on the second floor of the Omniplex located at 2100 N.E. 50 Street in Oklahoma City.

Kevan Goff-Parker, publicity chair, PRSA-OKC, said Professional Development Day offers PR pros a wide variety of ways to enrich their knowledge of public relations in the areas of research and measurement, international PR and strategic community relations.

“PRSA-OKC offers PR practitioners literally ‘the world’ during this upcoming Professional Development Day,” Goff-Parker said. “Our sessions range from international PR to critical research and measurement to strategic community relations planning. There is something new and intriguing for every level of professional, as well as our distinguished guest Elise Mitchell, APR, Fellow PRSA, who is coming in from PRSA National to share with our chapter.”

From 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., attendees can enjoy registration highlighted by a continental breakfast and networking. Session 1 begins with “Utilizing Research and Measurement for Your PR Programs and Campaigns” with presenter Katie Kimberling. This session focuses on demonstrating how a campaign or project affects an intended audience – demonstrating how to cultivate hard-core data and prove PR’s overall value.

Session 2 titled “International Public Relations:
Taking on Saudi Arabia” will feature Katie Kimberling from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Learn how Qorvis, the parent company of iQ Research and Consulting, took on the role as a client PR firm for Saudi Arabia. This promises to be a most engaging session, as we’ll discuss the challenges of representing a most controversial client and their strategies for improving their image.

PRSA-OKC Professional Development Day’s highlight includes a luncheon session titled “Hitting the Bull's Eye: Reaching Critical Stakeholder Groups Through Community Relations Planning,” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. featuring Mitchell, APR.

Mitchell will discuss key stakeholder relationships and community relations and how they can help enhance overall reputation, make a noticeable impact on business objectives and build much-needed bridges with diverse audiences. Focus will include how to assess current initiatives, identify diverse stakeholder groups and develop an action plan based on business or operational needs.

The half-day registration for PRSA members is $50. Non-PRSA members are $60. PRSSA students are $35 and other students (who are not members of PRSSA) are $40. The cost of the luncheon (only) is $25 for PRSA members, $30 for non-PRSA members, $18 for PRSSA students and $20 for other students. PRSA APRs may receive five points toward their maintenance for accreditation.

PRSA-OKC’s Professional Development Co-Chairs 2005 include Julie Leggett and Jennifer James. If you have questions, please contact Leggett at (405) 840-5000 or James at (405) 520-7636. Please register ASAP. Space is limited.Click here for registration form: www.prsaokc.com/prodev/PRSA_Pro_Deve_2005.pdf

Complete the registration form and mail with payment to: Julie Leggett, PRSA c/o Express Services, Inc. 8516 Northwest ExpresswayOklahoma City, OK 73162.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

Oklahoma City – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America will present a double-header with “Inside The Broadcast Newsroom,” plus a “New Member Orientation” during the professional organization’s monthly meeting scheduled on May 18. The New Member Orientation is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by the regular chapter luncheon scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. located on the third floor of the Student Union at Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma City Campus, located at 900 N. Portland Ave.

“Inside The Broadcast Newsroom” will provide PR practitioners with a behind-the-scenes perspective of the inner-workings of a broadcast newsroom. KWTV-Channel 9 News Director Blaise Labbe is the keynote speaker. Labbe joined KWTV in early 2003 after working for KENS in San Antonio, Texas. He has been honored with numerous community awards, including being recognized by the United State Secretary of Commerce with the National Minority Business Development Agency’s “Cornerstone Award.” The award is given annually to a member of the media for outstanding community service, media coverage and commitment to promoting diversity in businesses.

New and future members are invited to attend PRSA-OKC’s New Member Orientation. The orientation is designed to advise new and prospective members about PRSA-OKC’s benefits on a local and national level. It also addresses PRSA accreditation, ethics in the workplace, in the profession and when dealing with the media. The New Member Orientation is free of charge.

Various PRSA-OKC board members will make presentations on different topics and will discuss how membership can be best used to better the profession, within the community and on a national level.

Attendees will learn how the profession of public relations plays important roles in professional development, in career advancement and in getting national attention for the companies or organization you represent. PRSA-OKC membership presents members with the opportunity to enrich their knowledge, expertise and contacts within the public relations field. To RSVP for the New Member Orientation, please contact Julie Claggett at membership(at)prsaokc.com.

The luncheon cost $15 for PRSA-OKC members, $20 for non-members, $13 for PRSSA students and $15 for others students. If you are a member of the media and need media information, please contact PRSA-OKC Public Relations Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at (405) 604-6916. To make reservations, please log on to http://www.prsaokc.com/docs/RSVP.htm. Reservations must be made by May 16.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

Oklahoma City – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA-OKC) will honor its best public relations students and recent college graduates during “PRSA-OKC’s Career Night and Zenith Awards Ceremony” beginning at 6 p.m. on April 20 at Crabtown, located at 303 E. Sheridan in Oklahoma City.

Professionals, as well as public relations students and recent college graduates pursuing a degree in public relations, are encouraged to attend. The Zenith Awards recognize excellence in public relations by college students, while Career Night provides students and recent graduates with the opportunity to network with professionals and attend a career seminar. PRSA-OKC also will distribute academic scholarships in two categories. They include the “Books and Tuition Academic Scholarship” and the “PRSA Memberships Scholarship.” Both will be awarded for the first time during the Zenith Awards ceremony.

During the career seminar, three speakers will share their expertise on the following: “How to create a standout resume,” “How to nail down your next job interview” and “Networking to get ahead.” The speakers include PRSA-OKC President Sam Sims, APR, director of integrated marketing services, 20 Hats; Vonda Wolfe, senior regional manager, Express Personnel Services and Terry Phelps, Ph.D., professor of English at Oklahoma City University.

PRSA OKC is also currently accepting students’ and recent graduates’ resumes for a resume critique by chapter professionals. Resumes must be submitted by e-mail to academics@prsaokc.com by Friday (April 8). Reviewed resumes will be returned during Career Night. The cost the buffet dinner is $15 for students and $20 for non-students. If you are a member of the media and need media information, please contact PRSA-OKC Public Relations Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at (405) 604-6916. To make reservations, please log on to http://www.prsaokc.com/docs/RSVP.htm or e-mail president.elect@prsaokc.com. Reservations must be made by April 15.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevan Goff-Parker, Media Relations/Publicity Chair
Oklahoma City Chapter - PRSA
405.604-6916

Oklahoma City – The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America will present “Surviving Eron, Telecom And Other Disasters” On Wednesday, March 16 during the professional organization’s monthly meeting scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 16, located on the third floor of the Student Union at Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma City Campus, located at 900 N. Portland Ave.

The role of corporate communications within an organization has changed with the scandals of the past several years. As manager of corporate communications for energy giant, Williams, Julie Gentz, APR, was part of a team that worked simultaneously on a crisis-communications plan in case the company filed Chapter 11 and a second plan for survival. Fortunately, Williams implemented the survival plan. During the meeting, Gentz will share her insight on how to survive PR disasters and other challenges.

Gentz, who has been with Williams since 1997, is responsible for providing communications support to the company's governments affairs and investor relations group, as well as other corporate issues and media relations. During her career with Williams, she has managed the company's international public relations department, led a corporate-wide public relations team assigned to the Williams World Challenge, a golf tournament sponsored in conjunction with Tiger Woods Foundation and managed public relations for Williams' non-regulated energy business.

The luncheon cost $15 for PRSA OKC members, $20 for non-members, $13 for PRSSA students and $15 for others students. If you are a member of the media and need media information, please contact PRSA OKC Public Relations Chair Kevan Goff-Parker at (405) 604-6916. To make reservations, please log on to http://www.prsaokc.com/docs/RSVP.htm or e-mail president.elect@prsaokc.com. Reservations must be made by March 11.

The Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org), based in New York City, is the world's largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 114 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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CUTLINE: Cheryl Camp PIO.jpg: PIO Cheryl Camp will speak on “High-Profile Media Relations In The Court Systems” during PRSA OKC’s monthly meeting at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 19 at OSU-OKC in the Student Union located at 900 N. Portland Ave.

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