On the Radar Screen: Institute of PR Takes On Brits Who Charge for Editorial
The Institute of Public Relations, London, is publicizing its new Code of Professional Practice to give PR pros a bargaining point when dealing with media that charge for ink. The code reinforces that neither companies, nor their charges, should have to pay for coverage.
While flipping through the dozens of pubs that land on our desks every week, we read a piece in the May 1998 issue of the Institute of Public Relations Journal about IPR members' complaints about editorial charges levied by media outlets in England.
Even if the charges are for services as benign as color separations, we're appalled that the organization would have to remind media operations that paid media isn't earned media. In the U.S., we call that advertising.
Lions Club Communications Mix Now Includes Ads
Lions Clubs International, the non-profit that's as all-American and down home as apple pie, takes a gigantic leap in launching the newest image enhancer, international ads, in its $3 million public affairs campaign. The ads start this month.
Deviating from its dependence on grassroots PR spawned by its presence in communities nationwide, it's now promoting its 1.4 million members in more a deep-pocketed way. Through Ketchum, it took out ads on CNN and in USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.
The ads round out a PR program that includes a worldwide news bureau, a Lions News Team and the rollout of its worldwide campaign to educate audiences about its mission to fight blindness. The news bureau consists of six Ketchum offices throughout the world that provide localized PR support to Lions in dozens of countries. (Ketchum, 312/228-6800)
PRSA Releases Catalog On Resources
The Public Relations Society of America's new "Catalog: Resources for the PR Professional" allows members to buy books for discounted prices. The catalog includes experts' writings on a range of subjects. Included are: Lloyd B. Dennis's "Practial Public Affairs in an Era of Change ($29.50 members/$33.95 non-members); and John W. Graham and Wendy C. Havlick's "Mission Statements: A Guide to the Corporate and Nonprofit Sectors" ($84.15 members/$99 non-members). (PRSA, 212/460-1462)
"Day With the L.A. Times" Makes PR Sense - Not Just Cents
Ordinarily we don't promote workshops and events in our industry news, but the Public Communicators of Los Angeles has come up with a June 23 workshop that's a humdinger. "A Day with the Los Angeles Times" allows PR pros to mingle with media execs.
It's a stealeable idea that can improve knowledge about the business or media in your area while also generating some cashflow. Prices for the event run from $50 for new members to $245 for a group package.