The document provides tips for Libertarian parties to develop effective media lists and get more media coverage, including compiling media contacts from directories, yellow pages, and libraries; researching local media outlets by phone; sending out regular press releases; and making interviews more impactful with preparation and clear, concise messaging.
The document summarizes the following:
1. The US Postal Service applies barcodes to letters that uniquely identify the destination address. These barcodes allow mail to be sorted by delivery route.
2. Optical character readers scan addresses and look up the corresponding barcode to apply to letters at a rate of 10 pieces per second. Address standardization and variations present challenges.
3. Large mailers can earn postage discounts by preparing mail accurately according to CASS guidelines and using address databases certified by the Postal Service. National Change of Address tracking also helps redirect mail.
Report from iron_mountain_on_the_possibility_and_desirability_of_peace-leonar...RareBooksnRecords
The document summarizes the background and formation of a secret government commission called the Special Study Group. The Group was formed in the early 1960s by members of the Kennedy administration to conduct a realistic, long-term study of the challenges that would arise if permanent peace was ever achieved globally. The Group was assembled in secret and worked for over two years, producing a report that examined the functions served by war and potential substitutes. The summary provides context for understanding the Group's controversial conclusions but does not reveal the specifics of the report.
The Libertarian Party fundraising plan raised $250,000 for Jon Coon's campaign through a systematic, multi-pronged approach. It began with developing a fundraising plan and obtaining contact lists. Jon Coon then met with potential donors individually and at public meetings to pitch the monthly pledge program. Additional funds were raised at events, through ongoing newsletter requests, and a final pre-election push. The plan emphasized continual personal asks of the ideological donor base through various in-person and written channels. It resulted in a high 90% pledge fulfillment rate and successful fundraising.
This document summarizes 10 common mistakes that public relations professionals make when dealing with journalists. These mistakes include following up too aggressively after sending out releases, taking too long to respond to journalist inquiries, not including clear contact information, failing to understand the realities of journalism work, misspelling journalists' names, breaking promises made to journalists, being gatekeepers rather than facilitators, showing favoritism to larger media outlets, and having too narrow a perspective focused on their client rather than the needs of journalists. The document provides examples and advice on how to avoid these mistakes and have more successful media relations.
This document provides instructions for organizing and running an Operation Politically Homeless (OPH) booth. It discusses selecting a location and time for the booth where many people will be present, obtaining any necessary permissions, recruiting volunteers, acquiring needed materials, and contacting news media. The document gives guidance on setting up the booth and engaging with participants, including administering the World's Smallest Political Quiz, plotting responses on the Diamond Chart, and obtaining contact information from prospective libertarians. It also offers recommendations for follow-up activities like an introductory presentation to further engage identified libertarians.
This document provides instructions for raising $2,500 for a political campaign within 7 days through direct, in-person requests to friends, family, and local businesses with whom one has a relationship. It recommends making a list of such contacts and their estimated incomes to determine request amounts between $50-$500. The approach involves brief, casual requests explaining the campaign and asking for a donation, with suggestions for addressing concerns or objections to donating. Reciprocation of past or future business spending is also proposed as a request rationale. Scheduling fundraisings for brief periods each day over 7 days is recommended to reach the $2,500 goal quickly through a high-volume personal approach.
The document outlines the key requirements for a successful fundraising campaign:
1) A compelling case must be made by clearly articulating the community need, the organization's plan to address it, who will carry out the project, and when it will take place.
2) A strong case for support, realistic fundraising goal, and previous fundraising success are needed.
3) A sufficient number of qualified and major gift prospects who are likely to donate must be identified early.
4) Strong staff support, resources, and full commitment from the board and effective volunteer leadership are critical to a campaign's success.
The Libertarian Party of Indiana raised $40,000 in one day at their 1999 state convention by implementing a strategic fundraising plan. They set a goal of hiring an executive director months before the convention. At the convention, committee members gave testimonials and asked attendees to pledge monthly donations during breaks. Speakers emphasized the party's accomplishments with a director and goals for the future. By the end of the convention, over 100 attendees had pledged new or increased monthly donations totaling $40,000 per year. The executive director position was sustained for over a year through these pledged funds.
The document summarizes the following:
1. The US Postal Service applies barcodes to letters that uniquely identify the destination address. These barcodes allow mail to be sorted by delivery route.
2. Optical character readers scan addresses and look up the corresponding barcode to apply to letters at a rate of 10 pieces per second. Address standardization and variations present challenges.
3. Large mailers can earn postage discounts by preparing mail accurately according to CASS guidelines and using address databases certified by the Postal Service. National Change of Address tracking also helps redirect mail.
Report from iron_mountain_on_the_possibility_and_desirability_of_peace-leonar...RareBooksnRecords
The document summarizes the background and formation of a secret government commission called the Special Study Group. The Group was formed in the early 1960s by members of the Kennedy administration to conduct a realistic, long-term study of the challenges that would arise if permanent peace was ever achieved globally. The Group was assembled in secret and worked for over two years, producing a report that examined the functions served by war and potential substitutes. The summary provides context for understanding the Group's controversial conclusions but does not reveal the specifics of the report.
The Libertarian Party fundraising plan raised $250,000 for Jon Coon's campaign through a systematic, multi-pronged approach. It began with developing a fundraising plan and obtaining contact lists. Jon Coon then met with potential donors individually and at public meetings to pitch the monthly pledge program. Additional funds were raised at events, through ongoing newsletter requests, and a final pre-election push. The plan emphasized continual personal asks of the ideological donor base through various in-person and written channels. It resulted in a high 90% pledge fulfillment rate and successful fundraising.
This document summarizes 10 common mistakes that public relations professionals make when dealing with journalists. These mistakes include following up too aggressively after sending out releases, taking too long to respond to journalist inquiries, not including clear contact information, failing to understand the realities of journalism work, misspelling journalists' names, breaking promises made to journalists, being gatekeepers rather than facilitators, showing favoritism to larger media outlets, and having too narrow a perspective focused on their client rather than the needs of journalists. The document provides examples and advice on how to avoid these mistakes and have more successful media relations.
This document provides instructions for organizing and running an Operation Politically Homeless (OPH) booth. It discusses selecting a location and time for the booth where many people will be present, obtaining any necessary permissions, recruiting volunteers, acquiring needed materials, and contacting news media. The document gives guidance on setting up the booth and engaging with participants, including administering the World's Smallest Political Quiz, plotting responses on the Diamond Chart, and obtaining contact information from prospective libertarians. It also offers recommendations for follow-up activities like an introductory presentation to further engage identified libertarians.
This document provides instructions for raising $2,500 for a political campaign within 7 days through direct, in-person requests to friends, family, and local businesses with whom one has a relationship. It recommends making a list of such contacts and their estimated incomes to determine request amounts between $50-$500. The approach involves brief, casual requests explaining the campaign and asking for a donation, with suggestions for addressing concerns or objections to donating. Reciprocation of past or future business spending is also proposed as a request rationale. Scheduling fundraisings for brief periods each day over 7 days is recommended to reach the $2,500 goal quickly through a high-volume personal approach.
The document outlines the key requirements for a successful fundraising campaign:
1) A compelling case must be made by clearly articulating the community need, the organization's plan to address it, who will carry out the project, and when it will take place.
2) A strong case for support, realistic fundraising goal, and previous fundraising success are needed.
3) A sufficient number of qualified and major gift prospects who are likely to donate must be identified early.
4) Strong staff support, resources, and full commitment from the board and effective volunteer leadership are critical to a campaign's success.
The Libertarian Party of Indiana raised $40,000 in one day at their 1999 state convention by implementing a strategic fundraising plan. They set a goal of hiring an executive director months before the convention. At the convention, committee members gave testimonials and asked attendees to pledge monthly donations during breaks. Speakers emphasized the party's accomplishments with a director and goals for the future. By the end of the convention, over 100 attendees had pledged new or increased monthly donations totaling $40,000 per year. The executive director position was sustained for over a year through these pledged funds.
Talk radio can be an effective way for libertarians to spread ideas to the general public, but it requires preparing concise yet engaging messages. Callers should listen to shows beforehand to understand formats and hosts, and edit remarks to less than 90 seconds. It's also important to be entertaining rather than just reading articles, and to discuss topics passionately. While small market shows allow more airtime, both agreeing and disagreeing hosts can spread libertarian ideas if discussions remain respectful.
This document is a campaign manual for Libertarian candidates that provides guidance on effective campaign techniques. It covers preparing to run a campaign by setting goals and laying groundwork. It discusses organizing the campaign team by developing strategy, creating a campaign plan and timeline, managing budgets and staff. It offers tips for reaching voters through precinct walking, public appearances, phone banks, paid and earned media. It provides guidance on organizing petition drives and getting out the vote. The manual aims to help Libertarian candidates run effective, organized campaigns.
The document provides tips for running a successful voter registration and outreach table at local shopping malls. It recommends contacting malls to request a table, having multiple activists work shifts to keep enthusiasm high, distributing materials like the Nolan Quiz to attract interest, collecting contact information from interested individuals, and thanking activists to motivate continued involvement. The overall goal is to promote the Libertarian Party through friendly outreach and build name recognition in the community.
This document provides 36 tips for getting more media coverage from various media professionals. Some key tips include putting a human face on stories, localizing stories, avoiding an insular "beltway mentality," being immediately accessible to reporters, providing newsworthy updates regularly, and writing catchy headlines and leads for news releases. Media professionals emphasize being honest, personable, and listening to their advice regarding what makes a compelling story.
The document provides a campaign plan template for a Libertarian Party candidate running for city council in Berkley, Michigan. It includes sections for goals, strategy, research conducted on the district and opponents, targeted voters and messaging tactics, a timeline, and budget requirements. It emphasizes the importance of a formal campaign plan to demonstrate seriousness and provide guidance. It also includes a sample of research conducted on the Berkley district and a draft strategy and tactics section tailored for the Fred Collins campaign.
This document is a quarterly status report for a state Libertarian Party chair. It includes a checklist of core activities like having a strategic plan, website that can accept donations, and ability to put candidates on the ballot without assistance. It also includes metrics on membership, organization, resources, electoral success, and communications outreach. The report collects data on items like revenues, expenses, member numbers, and advertising spending to measure the state party's performance.
The document provides a summary of Robert's Rules of Order, which establishes common rules and procedures for orderly meetings. It aims to allow the majority to decide while respecting the rights of the minority. Key points of order and procedures are outlined, including how to make motions, amend motions, limit or extend debate, and raise points of privilege or order. The fundamental right of deliberative assemblies is that all issues must be thoroughly discussed before taking action.
Bruce Van Buren was elected to the Avondale Estates City Commission, marking the first electoral win for the Georgia Libertarian Party. His election showed that Libertarians can win local office and cut back city spending. As a candidate, Bruce lacked a history of community involvement but campaign manager pushed him to knock on every door, which was key to overcoming this and winning by a narrow margin.
The document provides tips for writing effective letters to the editor, including keeping letters under 200 words, responding to issues in a timely manner, sticking to a single topic, using facts and avoiding personal attacks, and proofreading for errors. The key recommendations are to state your argument briefly, support your position with evidence, and view the letter from the reader's perspective. The most important tip is to write letters regularly and not get discouraged if one is not published.
This document provides guidance on voter targeting for political campaigns. It discusses identifying three types of voters - supporters, opponents, and undecideds - and determining which to target based on the percentages of each. The primary targets are undecided voters who are most persuadable and soft supporters of the opposing candidate. Various methods are described for identifying supporters through phone calls, door-to-door canvassing, and predictive modeling using demographics and past voting behavior. The goal is to secure one's base, target persuadable voters for persuasion efforts, and target marginal supporters for get-out-the-vote activities to reach the threshold for victory.
The document discusses redistricting, the process of redrawing legislative districts after a census. It argues that redistricting should better represent people rather than politics by using criteria like keeping communities of interest together and avoiding splitting counties and cities. The Secretary of State wants to start a discussion on redistricting reform in Indiana to create a fairer system and more competitive elections. Sample redistricting maps are provided to show what districts might look like if new criteria were used.
The document provides tips for being an effective state or local Libertarian Party chair. It outlines that the chair needs organizational skills, diplomacy, sales ability, and people skills, while also understanding Libertarian philosophy. Beyond this, the chair must be a good listener, think creatively to solve problems with few resources, and understand managing the operational details of running the organization. The key roles of the chair are resolving conflicts and getting people to work together effectively. Tips include showing courtesy to Libertarians, explaining rationales, asking for help rather than ordering it, recognizing accomplishments, and maintaining a sense of humor.
The Mickey Mouse Giant: The Impact the Walt Disney Company Has on ABC NewsKate Hamilton
In 2003, I wrote a paper on the Walt Disney company from a media conglomeration standpoint, exploring the impact mixed media ownership has on journalistic ethics and integrity. What is common knowledge now was just being explored in the early 2000s, though many communications experts predicted such influence and control over American airwaves, news dissemination and information after the Telecommunications Act of 1996 was passed. That research was synthesized into this presentation.
Local media systems in the US have become severely diminished due to consolidation of commercial media ownership. Six companies now own 90% of US media outlets, leaving many communities without proper local journalism. This has inadequate local reporting and leaves communities vulnerable without independent oversight of those in power. Barriers to improving local media include lack of funding for investigative reporting, decline of print media, corporate control of local news, and "professionalism" in journalism that favors official sources over critical analysis.
Session 7 Media Mountain 7M Culture Shaping MasterClassOs Hillman
This document summarizes a masterclass session on the role of media in culture. It discusses how media controls culture and shapes views. It provides statistics on bias in 2016 election coverage and declining viewership of some networks. The document advocates for Christians to have a role in mainstream media and discusses how media is changing views on issues like morality, evolution, and marriage. It also draws parallels between the 2016 US election and biblical stories, labeling Donald Trump as similar to the prophet Jehu who destroyed evil rulers.
Early newspapers in the 17th and 18th centuries were published by political parties for elites and focused on opinion over news. The penny press revolution in the 1830s led by Benjamin Day lowered costs and focused on factual news stories to appeal to growing urban populations. Throughout the late 19th century, newspaper wars between Hearst and Pulitzer popularized sensationalized stories and yellow journalism. In the 20th century, radio and television challenged newspapers' role in broadcasting news, though newspapers adapted by strengthening online content and mobile platforms. While national newspapers remain profitable, many local papers are struggling with declining revenues.
The document discusses how the internet has disrupted the traditional newspaper business model by removing their most profitable content like classified ads and how political parties previously supported newspapers financially. It argues that non-commercial news struggles to be financially sustainable without political or philanthropic support.
This document is an advertisement for a fireplace retailer offering rebates on Regency brand fireplaces and stoves purchased between January 15th and February 22nd, 2016. Customers can receive half of the listed discounts as an instant in-store rebate and the other half as a mail-in rebate from the manufacturer. Rebate amounts range from $50 to $600 depending on the product. The ad encourages customers to "cut your heating bill" this winter by taking advantage of the promotion and lists eligible products and corresponding rebate amounts.
BU Interactive Marketing 2015 Summer Class Slides - Part 1Todd Van Hoosear
This course explores interactive marketing communications and the integration of marketing and corporate communications roles. It covers topics like advertising, PR, social media, digital content and more. As part of the course, students will complete a final project developing an interactive marketing strategy and plan for a real company. The strategy will include recommendations for the company's website, email marketing, content marketing, social media and key performance indicators. The goal is to help students understand the marketing process and how to measure the effectiveness of different digital marketing channels and tactics.
The document discusses the relationship between public relations (PR) and journalism. It argues that PR has saturated journalism and that journalists are now reliant on pre-packaged stories from PR companies due to budget cuts and demands for more content. A study found that 60% of newspaper stories consisted wholly or mainly of wire/PR copy, and 70% were published without fact checking. Broadcast and BBC news are also highly reliant on wire/PR stories due to staff cuts. This "churnalism" means news outlets uncritically publish stories from untrustworthy sources, compromising accuracy for the public.
Talk radio can be an effective way for libertarians to spread ideas to the general public, but it requires preparing concise yet engaging messages. Callers should listen to shows beforehand to understand formats and hosts, and edit remarks to less than 90 seconds. It's also important to be entertaining rather than just reading articles, and to discuss topics passionately. While small market shows allow more airtime, both agreeing and disagreeing hosts can spread libertarian ideas if discussions remain respectful.
This document is a campaign manual for Libertarian candidates that provides guidance on effective campaign techniques. It covers preparing to run a campaign by setting goals and laying groundwork. It discusses organizing the campaign team by developing strategy, creating a campaign plan and timeline, managing budgets and staff. It offers tips for reaching voters through precinct walking, public appearances, phone banks, paid and earned media. It provides guidance on organizing petition drives and getting out the vote. The manual aims to help Libertarian candidates run effective, organized campaigns.
The document provides tips for running a successful voter registration and outreach table at local shopping malls. It recommends contacting malls to request a table, having multiple activists work shifts to keep enthusiasm high, distributing materials like the Nolan Quiz to attract interest, collecting contact information from interested individuals, and thanking activists to motivate continued involvement. The overall goal is to promote the Libertarian Party through friendly outreach and build name recognition in the community.
This document provides 36 tips for getting more media coverage from various media professionals. Some key tips include putting a human face on stories, localizing stories, avoiding an insular "beltway mentality," being immediately accessible to reporters, providing newsworthy updates regularly, and writing catchy headlines and leads for news releases. Media professionals emphasize being honest, personable, and listening to their advice regarding what makes a compelling story.
The document provides a campaign plan template for a Libertarian Party candidate running for city council in Berkley, Michigan. It includes sections for goals, strategy, research conducted on the district and opponents, targeted voters and messaging tactics, a timeline, and budget requirements. It emphasizes the importance of a formal campaign plan to demonstrate seriousness and provide guidance. It also includes a sample of research conducted on the Berkley district and a draft strategy and tactics section tailored for the Fred Collins campaign.
This document is a quarterly status report for a state Libertarian Party chair. It includes a checklist of core activities like having a strategic plan, website that can accept donations, and ability to put candidates on the ballot without assistance. It also includes metrics on membership, organization, resources, electoral success, and communications outreach. The report collects data on items like revenues, expenses, member numbers, and advertising spending to measure the state party's performance.
The document provides a summary of Robert's Rules of Order, which establishes common rules and procedures for orderly meetings. It aims to allow the majority to decide while respecting the rights of the minority. Key points of order and procedures are outlined, including how to make motions, amend motions, limit or extend debate, and raise points of privilege or order. The fundamental right of deliberative assemblies is that all issues must be thoroughly discussed before taking action.
Bruce Van Buren was elected to the Avondale Estates City Commission, marking the first electoral win for the Georgia Libertarian Party. His election showed that Libertarians can win local office and cut back city spending. As a candidate, Bruce lacked a history of community involvement but campaign manager pushed him to knock on every door, which was key to overcoming this and winning by a narrow margin.
The document provides tips for writing effective letters to the editor, including keeping letters under 200 words, responding to issues in a timely manner, sticking to a single topic, using facts and avoiding personal attacks, and proofreading for errors. The key recommendations are to state your argument briefly, support your position with evidence, and view the letter from the reader's perspective. The most important tip is to write letters regularly and not get discouraged if one is not published.
This document provides guidance on voter targeting for political campaigns. It discusses identifying three types of voters - supporters, opponents, and undecideds - and determining which to target based on the percentages of each. The primary targets are undecided voters who are most persuadable and soft supporters of the opposing candidate. Various methods are described for identifying supporters through phone calls, door-to-door canvassing, and predictive modeling using demographics and past voting behavior. The goal is to secure one's base, target persuadable voters for persuasion efforts, and target marginal supporters for get-out-the-vote activities to reach the threshold for victory.
The document discusses redistricting, the process of redrawing legislative districts after a census. It argues that redistricting should better represent people rather than politics by using criteria like keeping communities of interest together and avoiding splitting counties and cities. The Secretary of State wants to start a discussion on redistricting reform in Indiana to create a fairer system and more competitive elections. Sample redistricting maps are provided to show what districts might look like if new criteria were used.
The document provides tips for being an effective state or local Libertarian Party chair. It outlines that the chair needs organizational skills, diplomacy, sales ability, and people skills, while also understanding Libertarian philosophy. Beyond this, the chair must be a good listener, think creatively to solve problems with few resources, and understand managing the operational details of running the organization. The key roles of the chair are resolving conflicts and getting people to work together effectively. Tips include showing courtesy to Libertarians, explaining rationales, asking for help rather than ordering it, recognizing accomplishments, and maintaining a sense of humor.
The Mickey Mouse Giant: The Impact the Walt Disney Company Has on ABC NewsKate Hamilton
In 2003, I wrote a paper on the Walt Disney company from a media conglomeration standpoint, exploring the impact mixed media ownership has on journalistic ethics and integrity. What is common knowledge now was just being explored in the early 2000s, though many communications experts predicted such influence and control over American airwaves, news dissemination and information after the Telecommunications Act of 1996 was passed. That research was synthesized into this presentation.
Local media systems in the US have become severely diminished due to consolidation of commercial media ownership. Six companies now own 90% of US media outlets, leaving many communities without proper local journalism. This has inadequate local reporting and leaves communities vulnerable without independent oversight of those in power. Barriers to improving local media include lack of funding for investigative reporting, decline of print media, corporate control of local news, and "professionalism" in journalism that favors official sources over critical analysis.
Session 7 Media Mountain 7M Culture Shaping MasterClassOs Hillman
This document summarizes a masterclass session on the role of media in culture. It discusses how media controls culture and shapes views. It provides statistics on bias in 2016 election coverage and declining viewership of some networks. The document advocates for Christians to have a role in mainstream media and discusses how media is changing views on issues like morality, evolution, and marriage. It also draws parallels between the 2016 US election and biblical stories, labeling Donald Trump as similar to the prophet Jehu who destroyed evil rulers.
Early newspapers in the 17th and 18th centuries were published by political parties for elites and focused on opinion over news. The penny press revolution in the 1830s led by Benjamin Day lowered costs and focused on factual news stories to appeal to growing urban populations. Throughout the late 19th century, newspaper wars between Hearst and Pulitzer popularized sensationalized stories and yellow journalism. In the 20th century, radio and television challenged newspapers' role in broadcasting news, though newspapers adapted by strengthening online content and mobile platforms. While national newspapers remain profitable, many local papers are struggling with declining revenues.
The document discusses how the internet has disrupted the traditional newspaper business model by removing their most profitable content like classified ads and how political parties previously supported newspapers financially. It argues that non-commercial news struggles to be financially sustainable without political or philanthropic support.
This document is an advertisement for a fireplace retailer offering rebates on Regency brand fireplaces and stoves purchased between January 15th and February 22nd, 2016. Customers can receive half of the listed discounts as an instant in-store rebate and the other half as a mail-in rebate from the manufacturer. Rebate amounts range from $50 to $600 depending on the product. The ad encourages customers to "cut your heating bill" this winter by taking advantage of the promotion and lists eligible products and corresponding rebate amounts.
BU Interactive Marketing 2015 Summer Class Slides - Part 1Todd Van Hoosear
This course explores interactive marketing communications and the integration of marketing and corporate communications roles. It covers topics like advertising, PR, social media, digital content and more. As part of the course, students will complete a final project developing an interactive marketing strategy and plan for a real company. The strategy will include recommendations for the company's website, email marketing, content marketing, social media and key performance indicators. The goal is to help students understand the marketing process and how to measure the effectiveness of different digital marketing channels and tactics.
The document discusses the relationship between public relations (PR) and journalism. It argues that PR has saturated journalism and that journalists are now reliant on pre-packaged stories from PR companies due to budget cuts and demands for more content. A study found that 60% of newspaper stories consisted wholly or mainly of wire/PR copy, and 70% were published without fact checking. Broadcast and BBC news are also highly reliant on wire/PR stories due to staff cuts. This "churnalism" means news outlets uncritically publish stories from untrustworthy sources, compromising accuracy for the public.
The document discusses the issue of censorship and banning books in the United States. It provides examples of books that have been banned or faced censorship, such as Charles Darwin's "Origin of Species". It also lists organizations and individuals that have pushed for censorship over the years. The document explores arguments both for and against censorship, such as concerns about exposing children to inappropriate content online or in media, as well as concerns about censorship limiting freedom of expression.
Does ownership of a media outlet matter? Have a look at the ways changing from corporate to independent ownership, and vice versa, preceded changes in staffing and circulation. This slideshow also considers why it matters where news originates.
Discovering, Detecting and Attacking Liberal Media BiasAccuracy in Media
Accuracy in Media was founded in 1969 to expose media bias through watchdog efforts like panel discussions and letters to editors. While the media landscape has changed with new platforms, AIM argues bias still exists, citing lack of coverage of scandals like IRS targeting and climate change terminology shifts. AIM advocates critical thinking about news and encourages consuming alternative views to become one's own watchdog against slanted coverage that can influence public opinion.
Beat reporting involves covering specific geographic or topical areas in depth. Traditionally, newspapers employed beat reporters to provide specialized coverage of areas like courts, business, science, and more. However, newspaper consolidation and financial pressures have led many papers to cut specialized beats. As a result, there is less in-depth coverage of important issues and institutions. Some see an opportunity for beat reporting to evolve by utilizing social networks and community expertise to enhance coverage, but there is also a risk that over-specialization could make reporting less accessible.
Public relations involves strategically managing communication between an organization and its various stakeholders to build mutually beneficial relationships. It aims to shape public perceptions of an organization by informing and persuading key audiences through non-paid forms of communication like publicity and civic engagement. PR pioneers like Ivy Lee, Edward Bernays, and others in the early 20th century professionalized the field by emphasizing the importance of truth, transparency, and social responsibility in an organization's relationships with the public.
1. Newspaper circulations are declining in many Western countries as consumption patterns shift to online media. Younger demographics in particular are turning to blogs which are making inroads into traditional media.
2. The study examined online media and blogs through interviews with journalists and bloggers in the UK, US and Canada. It found that productivity pressures are rising for journalists who must file more stories, leaving less time for in-depth reporting.
3. Some bloggers are breaking stories ahead of traditional journalists and see mainstream journalists as lazy or fearful of challenging the political establishment. However, journalists and bloggers have different standards, levels of accountability, expertise and focuses.
The document discusses various topics related to journalism including issues facing journalism, extra credit opportunities to attend networking events and write about the experiences, importance of grammar and spelling, and deadlines for papers. It also discusses whether celebrities are newsworthy and mentions advertising and pop quiz questions.
The document discusses various topics related to journalism including issues facing journalism, extra credit opportunities to attend networking events and write about the experiences, importance of grammar and spelling, and deadlines for papers. It also discusses whether celebrities are newsworthy and mentions topics like the Tiger Woods scandal and photograph of Paris Hilton. Journalism students are encouraged to consider newsworthiness criteria and principles of journalism when writing their papers on issues facing the field.
CHICAGO, 1968 P OLICY AND P RO T E S T AT T HE DEMOCR AT IC JinElias52
CHICAGO, 1968 : P OLICY AND P RO T E S T AT T HE DEMOCR AT IC N AT ION AL CONV EN T ION
ROLE SHEET: Walter Trohan, Mainstream Journalist
M AINS T R E AM JOUR N ALIS T
Walter Trohan
Chicago Tribune columnist
orn in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, in 1903, your family moved to the South Side of
Chicago in 1910, so you grew up and went to school in Chicago. You know the city well.
This is your town.
In high school, you worked as a reporter for a small newspaper, The Daily Calumet.
After graduating, you attended the University of Notre Dame with the specific idea of becoming a
newspaperman. Consequently, you took many courses in English and history.
After graduating, you worked in New York City, but you did not like it, so you came back to
Chicago, where you got a job with the City News Bureau in 1927. This gave you the opportunity to
cover the infamous 1929 St. Valentine’s Day massacre when Al Capone’s gang gunned down seven
members of a rival organization. Even though you had to take a streetcar, you were the first reporter
on the scene.
Your crack reporting earned you a job with the Chicago Tribune covering courts. In 1934, they
offered you a job working in Washington, D.C. After accepting, you ironically observed, “From the
lofty beginnings of police reporting, I descended into politics. My progress has been steadily downward
ever since.”1
When you first arrived, Washington seemed more like a small town than the nation’s capital. You
had free run of the White House and had the telephone numbers of everyone on the cabinet. Your
stories were often critical of Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, but you always maintained a cordial
relationship with the president. He had charisma in spades, but he was also the worst snob you ever
encountered. You also cultivated a relationship with FBI director J. Edgar Hoover.
Over the years, your connections and experience as a Washington insider gave you a number of
scoops. For example, in 1951, you were the first to learn that President Truman planned to fire General
Douglas MacArthur over their differences regarding Korean War strategy.
You eventually became a senior reporter and served as the executive director of the Tribune’s Wash-
ington Bureau; you built it from four reporters to about fourteen. You have worked in Washington for
more than thirty-five years and are contemplating retirement, but you have at least one Convention left
in you—particularly one in your old hometown.
OBJECTIVES
The Tribune is the best of Chicago’s newspapers. You are a political reporter, well versed in the ins and
outs of Washington, so your research needs to be thorough, accurate, and rich in facts.
Get the scoop!
If you are the only journalist to release a call for a big event like a protest, walkout, or vice presidential
pick, it will confirm your reputation as one of America’s leading journalists. Get someone to go on the
record about an important upcoming event.
1. Glen Elsasser, ...
The article discusses ethical issues in news reporting, specifically regarding objectivity, fairness, and accuracy. It gives examples of three main New Zealand television news programs - One News owned by a government-owned broadcaster, and Three News owned by a privately-owned broadcaster. While news programs aim to present information objectively without bias, in reality complete neutrality can be difficult to achieve due to the influence of owners, advertisers, and other external factors.
This document provides guidance for volunteer coordinators to help keep volunteers engaged and satisfied. It summarizes 12 common reasons why volunteers quit organizations or stop participating. These reasons include burnout from taking on too much too quickly, feeling excluded from inner circles, feeling a lack of growth opportunities, and a sense that their efforts cannot contribute to success. The document advises showing appreciation, providing a variety of roles, and ensuring volunteers feel in control of their level of involvement.
The Libertarian party in Indiana has fielded 100 candidates in the 1998 elections, far more than ever before, signaling growth for the third party in a traditionally two-party state. Libertarians believe about half of Indiana residents agree with their platform of smaller government, lower taxes, and greater individual freedom but are unfamiliar with the party. Their message of reducing the size and scope of government appears to be resonating with more voters. While gaining traction could siphon votes from major parties, the Libertarians hope to draw new voters to the polls and their fresh voice could push other parties to reconsider some of their policy stances.
The document provides guidance for Libertarian candidates running for local elected office in Ohio. It advises candidates to carefully consider which office to run for by evaluating time commitments, residency requirements, and potential conflicts of interest from their career or business dealings. It also stresses the importance of building a plausible candidacy through community involvement prior to running. Candidates are instructed to evaluate the political landscape and competition before deciding to run. Finally, it outlines resources on the Ohio Secretary of State's website to properly file as a candidate.
The document provides information on organizing a county level Libertarian Party, including structuring the party organization, developing the county organization through membership drives and volunteer recruitment, planning programs and events, public relations strategies, fundraising, and candidate recruitment. It outlines the roles and responsibilities of county executive committee members and officers such as the chair, vice chair, secretary, and treasurer.
The document provides an overview of guerrilla marketing techniques that can be used by small political parties like the Libertarian Party to compete against larger rivals. It summarizes Jay Conrad Levinson's book on guerrilla marketing, outlining five low-cost marketing methods: canvassing, telephone marketing, circulars/brochures, classified ads, and signs. For each method, it provides tips from Levinson on how to effectively utilize the technique with a minimum of resources. The overall message is that small political groups can promote themselves and increase visibility through clever use of unconventional "mini-media" options ignored by larger competitors.
The document provides instructions for Libertarian Party volunteers to conduct phone calls to raise funds for a petition drive. It recommends volunteers make 15 calls per evening between 7-9:30pm using a script to solicit donations of around $250. Volunteers are asked to record call details and pledge amounts each night and report results to the fundraising coordinator to help reach a $11,000 goal in 10 days to pay petitioners to collect the remaining 11,000 signatures needed.
The document provides details on planning a fundraising dinner event for the Libertarian Party called Liberty Fest Dinner. It outlines the date, location, expected attendance, pricing, and committee members responsible for various tasks. It also includes a budget, timeline of tasks leading up to the event, and process for registration and food orders. The goal is to make a profit to support the party's activities. Careful planning is emphasized to ensure a successful fundraising event.
The document provides instructions for searching for the term "libertarian" on Facebook and refining search results. It instructs the user to type "libertarian" in the search bar, select the desired network if results are not as expected, and refine the search to the "People" category and by location for more relevant results.
The document provides tips for writing effective direct mail fundraising letters. It discusses that longer letters tend to raise more money according to market testing. It recommends including a unique selling proposition, addressing all questions donors may have, and providing a progress update, project description, request for funds, reminder of past accomplishments, and postscripts to build continuity across letters. The tips are meant to help non-profits maximize funds raised through direct mail campaigns.
This document lists the new officers for an organization, including their names, addresses, phone numbers, and titles or responsibilities. It includes vice chairs, a secretary, treasurer, newsletter editor, membership/database officer, and another unnamed officer. The officers' contact information and positions are provided to share leadership details with members.
The document provides guidelines for Libertarian Party affiliates to use in selecting candidates. It recommends that candidates have a professional appearance, be willing to learn campaign skills, understand and defend the party's platform, have financial resources to invest in their campaign, and be aware that their background could become public. It also notes that those whose personal lives cannot withstand public scrutiny can still contribute as campaign managers.
This document provides guidance on recruiting Libertarian Party candidates. It discusses the importance of running many candidates to advance the party's agenda and move policy in a libertarian direction. Running full slates of candidates gets the party media attention and forces opponents to address libertarian ideas, even if some candidates do not run active campaigns. The manual cites examples of state parties that successfully recruited large numbers of candidates and realized benefits like increased votes, attention from the media, and party growth. It argues that recruiting candidates is one of the most important activities a state party can engage in.
1. THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY'S SUCCESS '99
2600 Virginia Avenue, NW,Suite 100 * Washington DC 20037 * (202) 333-0008 * www.LP.org
Media Lists
How to develop a media list for your local party
3 Media
H
ere are four ways to develop a media list Guides In Libraries
for your state or local party - ranging Most local libraries have media guides that list
from the easy to the labor-intensive, phone and fax numbers for reporters, editors,
and from the expensive to the free. and producers. One example: Gale's Directory of
Publications & Broadcast Media, available in
1 Bacon's Directories most public libraries.
Bacon's offers a comprehensive, nationwide • Contact: Your locallibrary .
guide that lists 200,000+ media contacts at • Price: Free
40,000+ different outlets. CD-ROMand hard-
cover books are available. Purchasers must sign 4 Research Via Phone
contractual agreement not to violate property If your organization has more time than money,
rights by unauthorized duplication. you can still employ the single most accurate
• Contact: Bacon's at 312-922-2400. way to compile information about media in your
• Price: $1,355. area: Simply pick up the phonebook and call
them. In just a few hours, a small group of
2 News Media Yellow Book volunteers can compile a completely up-to-date
The phonebook-sized "Yellowbook" lists list. Ask for the name of the reporter who
contacts by type of media; alphabetically by handles political news, as well as the phone and
personnel; by subject or specialty; and fax number, and you're in business, immediately.
geographically. While less comprehensive than • Price: Free
Bacon's, the Yellowbook is useful for big-city
markets but considerably less effective in
smaller markets.
Also available on CD-ROM.
• Contact: Leadership Directories at 212-627-4140
• Price: $264
2. - , THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY'S SUCCESS
2600 Virginia Avenue, NW,Suite 100
'99
* Washington DC 20037 * (202) 333-0008 * wwwLPorg
Media Tips
36 tips to increase your media coverage
H
ere are 36 tips about how to get more news, but what's news is always compelling."
media coverage for your state or local
Libertarian organization. These sugges- 7 Don't call journalists late in the afternoon.
tions are straight from media professionals - "Try to contact reporters in the morning -
the White House reporter for USA Today; the before 1 or 2:00 in the afternoon. By 4:30 or
Washington correspondent for the Knight-Ridder 5:00, they're scrambling on deadline."
newspaper chain; a booker from CNNcable
network; and a producer for a Washington-area
8 Send out.press releases on a:regular basis.r'If
there is no consistent contact, they're going to
radio station.
forget about you. Regular contact is important."
These tips were collected at a seminar at the
National Press Club entitled: "How to Get Media 9 Try to craft your press releases as a "horror
,-.' Coverage for Your Issues and Spokesmen,"
sponsored by one of Washington, DC's most
successful public relations firms, Creative Re-
story." "That's what sells newspapers; that's.
what gets TV ratings."
sponse Concepts (CRC). Quotes are verbatim from 10 Put a human face on your story. "Nothing
the various journalists. sells like a human face. You need to have your
facts and figures, your statistics, but a human
1 Good media coverage starts with a good face will trump your facts."
media fax or mail list. "There's quite a bit of
turnover; keep your list up-to-date." 11 Try to localize your story. "You want to
give an example of how your issue will impact
2 "It's important to have a regular list of your neighbor, your community. Many smaller
contacts. Have a 'core' list that always gets your newspapers will only take stories with a local
'press wleaS1!S." an91e~'i-
3 Keep your press releases to one page. "Two -12 Avoid the beltway mentality. "We think _
pages just annoys them." what's important to us is important to the folks
back home." Frequently, it isn't.
4 Write good headlines. "Make it sexy and
interesting ." 13 Take your message to alternate media
sources like talk radio. "There's nothing to reach
5 Use a subhead in your press release. "There is the masses like talk radio. There's nothing to get
supporting evidence that a subhead will encour-
your message out like talk radio."
age the reader to read the first paragraph."
14 "Recycle your press clips" on a regular
6 Write about breaking news. "Piggyback on' basis to show the media that you're already
headlines. What's compelling to you isn't always
newsworthy.
3. THE LIBERTARIAN PAR TV'S SUCCESS '99
*
2600 Virginia Avenue, NW,Suite 100 Washington DC 20037 * (202) 333-0008 * wwwtPorg
Press Releases
For Immediate Release Contact: Your Name and phone #.
February 11, 1999 Address too, if it's not on letterhead
LIBERTARIANS PUT OUT A MEDIA RELEASE (snazzy headline)
Ann Arbor, Ml=:.-The-firstparagraph-contains;alLofthe~im:portant, -attention.:getting
information. Who,-What, Where, When, and Why. Keep in mind that this may be all that
they will read. Try to capture their attention, so that they will read further.
The second paragraph contains back-up information. Remember, you are not trying to
write the story for them, unless it is an extremely small publication. Put in a "quote" if you
have one, but keep it as short as possible, and worth printing. (eg: "If he's afraid to debate
me," Coon said, "How's he ever going to stand up to Hillary Clinton?")
The last paragraph contains additional information, but remember, what you really want
is for them to call you about your release, not just print what you wrote. Finish with another
q-uote if you have orre.
Important: NO':matter-how-much'you' have-to:-say;--keep-it:to"one'pagefDouble- spacei]
possible. (Double.spacinq is nice but not mandatory.). Be sure-:.to spellcheck. If you absolutely
have to go to a second page, and I repeat, you should not, use:
-more-
at the end of your first page.
the symbol for the end of the release is
-30-
4. - THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY'S SUCCESS
2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Suite 100
'99
* Washington DC 20037 * (202) 333-0008 * www.LP.org
etter Interviews
How to make your media interviews more effective
Before you go on the air: When you're on the air, be sure to:
(1) Create a one-sentence summary of your (1) Speak in short sentences, and avoid
position. If you can't do this, chances are that jargon. Be lively and animated. Don't speak in a
you aren't clear about what your position is. monotone. Remember: Radio and TV are prima-
rily entertainment. If you are not (to some
(2) Prepare a list of the three mainpoints _
- degree) interesting> and entertaining, you will
-,you want to make. Be prepared to make these
not be invited back.
points several times, in slightly different ways.
(2) Show your personality. Humor and the
(3) Be ready to set the stage by giving a
use of real-life examples will make you more
30-second description of the problem/issue.
likable, and consequently, more credible.
Usually, this resembles the first paragraph of any
standard news story. Don't assume that the (3) Back up your opinions with facts.
host/audience knows anything about the issue.
(4) If you use statistics, put them in
(4) Be able to explain why this issue is context, ideally by using a colorful metaphor.
important to the average American, in terms _Example: "Many people say that too much
that they can understand. - money is spent on political campaigns. Interest-
ingly, Americans spent three times as much
(5) Study your opponents' arguments. _
money in 1994 on potato chips as they did on
Anticipate their criticisms. You can do this by
political campaigns."
preparing a list of obvious questions, then "role
playing" with a friend to practice your answers. (5) Be ready to supply a Libertarian
Most tough questions can be anticipated. Note: solution. Remember, criticism of an opponent's
-Vl-hen-cuming trp with=torrqh": questrorrs; -]JON'T position Is-only a: vehicle throug-h'whkh We-can
think like a Libertarian! Think like a Republican present our ideas.
or Democrat.
While on the air, don't ...
6) Be prepared for seemingly easy open-
----ended questions=-owhichcan be more difficult (l)Say/~um." One way to avoid-it is to
than you expect. Examples of common open- pause for a second before answering a question
ended questions: "Tell us why this is an impor- in order to gather your thoughts.
tant issue." "Why are Libertarians concerned
(2) Engage in an argument with the host or
about this issue?" "Tell us a little about the
callers. Calmly and politely explain your position
Libertarian Party."
and attempt to answer any objections, but if a
caller becomes combative, you might just say, "I
can see that we're going to have to agree to
disagree on this issue. Let's move on ... /1
5. - THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY'S SUCCESS'99
*
2600 Virginia Avenue, NW,Suite 100 Washington DC 20037 * (202) 333-0008 * www.LP.org
Fill this out before doing any radio or TV interview
Media Outlet Interviewer
Interviewer's Title and/or Speciality
Prior attitude [if known]: 0 Receptive/friendly 0 Hostile 0 Unknown 0 Other:
~------------------
Type of interview [live, taped, etc.]:
Main topic:
... our key theme or message:
Y
Best/most important quote:
THREE "MUST AIR" POINTS
.~ 1.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Example or proof:
2.
Example or proof:
3.
Example or proof:
THREE MOST DIFFICULT QUESTIONS
1.--miestlon:
Response
2. Question:
Response
3. Question:
Response
BACKGROUND: THE FIVE "W's" and "H"
Who: What: When:
Where: Why; How:
6. THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY'S SUCCESS'99
2600 Virginia Avenue, NW,Suite 100 * Washington DC 20037 * (202) 333-0008 * www.LPorg
t Media
_______
Do's and Don'ts when dealing with print journalists
N
othing is an absolute when media are two days or less, so if a reporter can't reach you
involved. Nothing is a given when fairly quickly, your view might not get in.
elections come along. However, candi- • DON'T badger journalists about cover-
dates can really help themselves out by follow- age. They don't mind taking a call asking legiti-
ing a few mostly common-sense steps in their mate questions, or announcing real news, but
dealings with print (and other) media. anything less gets bothersome. (Editors and
• DO realize that media organizations are reporters-take many. calls a day, and they they
made up of individuals. It's important to learn still.have to get a lot-of writing done, too.)
who needs your press releases and who .needs ··00be patient during an interview when
your photos; they may be different people. reporters mix up who you are, which office you
• DON'T assume the Editorial Page depart- are seeking, or some other detail. That same
ment is connected to the News Department. At reporter probably is covering five or six small
most papers, they have nothing to do with each and large races, each with two or three candi-
other, so feeding your news-related releases to dates, many of whom he or she likely spoke with
the Editorial Page doesn't do you much good. just hours or minutes before speaking with you.
• DO make sure everything you send the (However, make sure the reporter has the detail
paper is typed. Unfair as it might be, handwritten correct before the interview is over.)
releases don't get top priority. The people who • DON'T try to trick, dazzle, impress or
have to type them in dislike having to decipher. belittle the reporter. Be yourself, talking to
• DO have nice color and black-and-white someone just trying to do a job well. Speak
photos made. This becomes more important with clearly and directly. Reporters aren't trying to
less visible offices, which are less likely to unearth some terrible secret when they inter-
inY2ly~ _d~~a!~s_or_p~})lic_pj)~~rClnce~._A_ies:~nt-
a c viel'l_You_apollt tltE:r~ce;Jhey ju.§t_V'!aI1tqocd,
quality publicity photo lends credibility. Make concise answers that they can relay in print.
sure the appropriate person at the paper has at That said, if a reporter does ask hard questions,
least one copy in color and in black and white. remember that's part of his job, too.
More than one copy never hurts. • DON'T-make assumptions about the
·00 get a Web page, and put on it the political. persuasions of the News Department( s).
important things you want people to see: Your Editorial Page departments are supposed to have
views on major issues, background details, a a political bias. But News Departments aim to
photo. Links to other sites sponsored by your remain as neutral as possible. Individual reporters
party. Make sure the Web address is prominent can and do belong to political parties, but they
on any materials you hand out. aren't supposed to favor one view over another.
• DO be available for interviews.
• DON'T delay returning phone calls from [Written by Mark Thompsen-Kolar. the Assistant
reporters. Stories usually are turned around in Managing Editor, News-Sentinel, Fort Wayne, IN]
7. Libertarian Volunteer January/February 1998 - Turn press releases into publicity Pagelof3
January/February 1998
Turn press releases into publicity
Activist Library
Manuals and
Garnering more local media: A proven three-
Handbooks step process
Libertarian
Volunteer By Scott Kjar, Libertarian Party of Alabama.
I log on, check my e-mail, and somehow end up on the local news. I read
my e-mail, and a few days later I see my name in print. I download my e-
mail, and my picture appears in the local paper.
Is there something magical about my e-mail? Yes! The magic in my e-mail
comes to me from the National Libertarian Party.
But more on that later ...
STEP ONE
Before I can get local media coverage, I have to know what local media
outlets are available. This step is actually pretty easy" The phone book! I
pick up the local phone book, go to the Yellow Pages, and I start looking up
headings like "Newspapers," "Radio Stations," "Television Broadcast
Stations," "Magazines," and "Publications." From there, I write down the
name of each media outlet, its address, and its phone number.
If possible, you should pick up a copy of the newspapers and magazines,
and see who writes their political material. Watch the television news and
..- --s~h.Q-GQ¥€-r-s-th-€l-p0l-i-t-iea-l-s-t:0ri-e&--Listen--t-o-th-e-radl-o-stat-i-ons-and-finu-out
who handles the political beat. Or, just call them! That's right, you can call
the local media outlets, ask them who handles politics, and then record the
name. (And while you've got the receptionist on the phone, ask for their fax
number!)
Once you've got your local media list created, you'll want to figure out a
good way to keep track of it. If you have a computer, record the information
in a database. If not, you can type the information onto a sheet of paper. Do
it in the size of a label, so that you can photocopy your page directly onto a
sheet of labels, then just peel them off and stick them on envelopes when
you need them.
(For media outlets with fax machines, often a fax is the fastest, cheapest,
and most convenient route to take. I have the fax number of the local
http://archive.lp.org/lit/lv/980 I-media.html 2/21/2002
8. Libertarian Volunteer January/February 1998 - Turn press releases into publicity Page 2 of3
newspaper programmed into my own fax machine, so I can get info out
within seconds.)
STEP TWO
I mentioned the magic e-mail that I get from the National LP. You see, the
National LP sends out e-mail press releases every few days. These are items
that the national LP HQ has already sent out to national media, such as the
Washington Post, or NBC. However, it's a pretty good bet that the National
HQ has not sent them to the Opelika-Auburn News (my local daily paper),
or to the Tuskegee News (a weekly paper in the next county).
That's where I step in. You see, I simply take the National LP press release,
download it into Microsoft Word, put it into an attractive font, add my own
name as a local contact (while leaving the national LP contact information
also on the release), and print it out.
I don't have to worry about whether my press release is well written -- it
already is. I'm not concerned about whether I am following the rules of
putting together a release, or in have given too much or too little
information. After all, the people who write these at the national HQ --
Communications Director Bill Winter and Press Secretary George Getz --
are professionals who do this for a living.
All I need to be able to do is print it, and mail (or fax) it.
STEP THREE
Once in a while, steps one and two are sufficient, and a local media
representative calls me and asks for an interview. Usually, though, a little
follow-up is required. So, I go back to my press list, I pick up the phone,
and I call the person to whom I sent the press release. I ask if they received
the release, and if they would like more information.
Sometimes, the person did not receive it. (This usually means they saw it,
threw it away, and forgot about it.) Offer to re-fax it to them, and call them
back in a half-hour.
Other times, theperson did receive it, but is not interested in the story.
-'fh-atsokay.-Repoftefssee a 10fOY potentIal-slones every Gay~and-most 'of
them never get covered. That's right, most of them never get covered! There
is a finite amount of space in a newspaper and on TV news -- and it isn't
possible to cover every story (no matter how important we think it is!)
Thank the person, and move on. Haranguing a reporter will rarely succeed
in getting you good press, but it is almost guaranteed to get you bad press.
In our best-case scenario, the reporter got the press release, thought it was
interesting, and thanks you for calling. At this time, you suggest a get-
together with the reporter to discuss the issue, and try to set an appointment.
You are on your way to local media coverage.
Two notes of caution
First, reporters may not always know the ins-and-outs of your issue, but
http://archive.lp.org/lit/lv/980 1-media.html 2/21/2002
9. Libertarian Volunteer January/February 1998 - Turn press releases into publicity Page 3 of3
they can generally tell whether you know the ins-and-outs. Don't try to
dazzle the reporter, and don't try to make things up. Marshall your facts
before you meet a reporter. If you need additional information or sources,
call the National LP HQ. After all, since they wrote the original press
release, they can probably also tell you where to get additional information.
In some cases, George Getz and Bill Winter have faxed articles to me, so
that I could show my local media representative that the issue has been
covered in other places. (While national journalists may want to break new
stories, local journalists are often more comfortable knowing that someone
else has already decided that an issue is newsworthy.)
Second, when you meet with any reporter, whether for TV, radio, or
newspaper, you should dress for the event! If you show up in a scruffy pair
of pants and an obscene tee-shirt, you will be dismissed as a fringe element.
If you look and act in a professional manner, you will be treated
appropriately. Also, keep in mind that you just might end up on TV, or your
photo might end up in the newspaper. If you look like a scraggly mess, then
your image becomes the local LP's image. Professional business attire is
always appropriate in such situations.
FINAL THOUGHTS
By following the Three-Step Approach, you can increase your local media
presence without doing a great deal of work. And once one local media
outlet picks up a story, you then want to redouble your efforts at the other
outlets.
For example, I had a particular story I promoted here about the Tuskegee
Syphilis Experiments and Bill Clinton's "apology." At first, no local
newspaper covered the issue. However, once a local TV station gave me a
two-minute story, suddenly all local media wanted to hear our views.
Thus, it is easy for you to help get the LP message across. Just read your e-
mail!
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