President's Message
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My daughter's writing a paper on journalism for her College 101 class at Lorain County Community College because that's one major she's considering. It reminds me of my first year at Kent State, when the world was totally open and available to me, and I felt I could do anything I wanted with my life. I was going to be a writer or an artist, and Kent seemed like the best place to explore either option. A year later, after some art classes and journalism classes, I decided to be an English major - I liked writing about literature more than I liked writing about real life. I abandoned art like a scrupulous woman abandons a man who betrays her, knowing all along my lack of talent was a glass-half-empty thing.
When we see our children start to explore their career options, we start thinking about what we could have done if our choices had been different. And we start to look at our children to see whether their talents match up with their aspirations. So I'm looking at my daughter Claire and wondering whether she can write. That's the first step. And I'm wondering whether she can get to the bottom of a story. I'm wondering if she knows what stories make good headlines. I'm wondering if she knows about a good lead sentence and a title that captures attention. I'm wondering if she wants to follow the rules that an editor dictates to her and whether she can write in an inverted pyramid, the rule that made me walk away from becoming a reporter. I'm wondering if she's willing to let go of her own agenda in service to the truth.
It's good to remember why we're doing what we're doing, how we arrived on the path we're headed down. It's good to look at ourselves and say, yes, I can write. I can get to the bottom of a story, and I know a good story when I see one. I know how to capture the reader's attention and carry it out throughout the article, and I can handle anything an editor throws at me because I'm always willing to look at things differently. I can follow the rules, and I know the rules.
Once we make a choice, we often cannot go back. Once the words are out there in the world, they cannot be taken back. But the words and the rules and the truth need to be revisited time and again. It's a journey, and it's imperfect, like everything else in life.
Claudia TallerPresident |
Oct. 23 - Learn Final Cut Pro
| The Final Cut Pro class on Saturday, Oct. 23 is full, but if you would like to be on a waiting list in case someone drops out, please contact us at spjcleveland@me.comThe workshop will be held at Lorain County Community College from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Take advantage of the expertise and facilities there to learn a valuable skill in a single morning, for a fraction of the price you'd usually pay. Final Cut Pro is a "nonlinear editing" software that's designed to edit video. Teaching the class will be Dennis Ryan, digital media professor at LCCC. This workshop will cost only $10 for SPJ members, $15 for nonmembers. The class will be held in Lab PC-108 in Patsie Campana Building, located next to Advanced Technologies on the LCCC campus, at 1005 N. Abbe Road, Elyria, Ohio 44035. The LCCC classroom is equipped with 24 MacIntosh computers, so registration is limited to that number. Participants will need to bring their own video camera and its USB cord, though it is possible we may have a couple to loan. |
Job openings
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Thanks to Kelly Blazek for her dedication and commitment in seeking out most of the jobs posted below. To receive her full newsletter (we only excerpt media-related jobs) see the separate box headlined Cleveland Job Bank below.
Layout and Graphics Editor
The Lorain County Magazine seeks a part-time layout/graphics editor. Please contact, Lou Acosta at 440-670-7017.
Morning Talent - WQAL
Q104 Cleveland is looking for the next morning star! Rebecca Wilde of the Wilde & Fee Morning show has resigned to take a sabbatical and travel the world. Is your passion TMZ, The Bachelorette, Twitter and the VMA's? Do you have a unique perspective that you can bring to our very popular yet very dysfunctional morning show? Then you may be the next morning star at Q104! Apply online www.cbsradio.com. CBS Radio is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Preferred Skills/Experience Two years of on-air experience is preferred.
Minimum Education Level Associate Degree or Equivalent Experience
Additional Candidate Instructions E-mail audio sample and a 100 word review of the movie "Eat, Pray, Love" to dave.popovich@cbsradio.com.
Entry-level position at Sun Newspapers
Sun Newspapers is looking for an entry-level reporter for Medina County and southwest Cuyahoga County.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a journalism degree or equivalent experience, a passion for community journalism and a willingness to connect with readers on the local level.
Position requires strong writing and reporting abilities for both print and online.
Photography skills are a plus.
Interested candidates should contact Executive Editor Linda Kinsey at lkinsey@sunnews.com. No phone calls, please.
Assignment Editor - WJW FOX 8
Posting Date: September 27, 2010
WJW Fox 8 is looking for an outstanding Assignment Editor who will be responsible for the daily operation of the assignment desk in Cleveland's largest multi-media newsroom. This job requires excellent news judgment and communication skills, attention to detail, and exceptional organizational skills that will be applied to our three platforms; mobile, web and broadcast.
Responsibilities include but not limited to: research and develop news leads and stories; assign, dispatch and coordinate reporters, photographers, engineers, live crews etc. Review and monitor websites, news releases, newspapers and stories from various media outlets; monitors scanner traffic from emergency service agencies; discuss the development and progress of stories with producers, web and managers. Use social media as a means to find and solicit story ideas in addition to posting stories/updates etc.
Minimum Knowledge, Skill &/or Abilities: Strong typing skills and the ability to learn the newsroom computer system as well as station website. A proficiency in English grammar, spelling and punctuation . The ability to communicate clearly and be able to deal effectively and politely with the public in person and over the telephone. Work well under pressure and meet deadlines. Must keep up on local, state, national and international events. Self starter who can work individually as well as part of a team. Must be able to prioritize and anticipate coverage needs. Must have excellent sources and be resourceful. Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
Education Requirements: College degree preferred and or three years professional broadcast experience (excluding internships).
Interest parties can submit resume and references via email or US Mail at:
Attn: Human Resources
fox8.jobs@fox8.com
WJW
5800 S. Marginal Road
Cleveland, OH 44103
Reporter/Associate Editor - Smart Business Network
Smart Business Network, national publishers of 19 regional business management journals for CEOs and senior executives, seeks a full- time associate editor to join the Smart Business team.
The associate editor is responsible for overseeing multiple markets, which includes writing cover stories, features and recruiting columnists. Smart Business articles go beyond the profile, past the corporate history and dive down into how a CEO deals with a specific business issue with his or her company. You should be comfortable doing phone interviews with CEOs and writing to a CEO-centric audience. This position also requires attending some local and regional business events.
Job requirements:
· Bachelor's degree in journalism or English required
· Magazine experience preferred
· Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel required
· Experience with social media and video preferred
· Attention to details and deadlines required
· Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
This full-time position is located in our Cleveland, Ohio, headquarters. A benefits package is included.
To gain a better understanding of what Smart Business is all about, visit www.sbnonline.com.
Please send your cover letter, resume, writing samples/clips, salary requirements and three references via e-mail to: tshryock@sbnonline.com
or via U.S. mail to:
Todd Shryock, Managing Editor
Smart Business Network
835 Sharon Drive, Suite 200
Cleveland, OH 44145
No phone calls please.
Technical Writer - eGovernment Tech Support - Federal Reserve Bank
The eGovernment Department is seeking a Technical Writer to coordinate the development and dissemination of technical content for a variety of users. Develop documentation for computer programs and set up communications systems with consumers to assess customer satisfaction and quality control matters. Write and edit operating procedures, training guides, system and planning documentation. Maintain standard templates for documents delivered for each application. Keep track of documents that have been or will be produced.
Essential Accountabilities:
Apply end-user knowledge of the product, conduct usability studies to improve product design.
Write or edit operating, technical, and end-user related procedures and guides.
Organize all materials and maintain master library of all documents.
Route and track documents through the review and approval process.
Recommend layout, format and organization of documents.
Consult subject matter with experts.
Validate documentation through software testing.
Perform other duties as assigned or requested.
Adhere to Bank\'s attendance policies through regular and prompt attendance.
Job Specifications:
Bachelor\'s degree
4 + years of related work experience
Knowledge of complex and diversified procedures, practices, and policies
Knowledge of complex procedures and practices of a specific function
Ability to perform involved, independent research and creative work
Knowledge of procedures and services of related areas (such as accounting or purchasing)
Specialized, technical skills
Thorough understanding of a scientific discipline (for example, economics, management, computer science)
Additional Information:
Proficiency with Microsoft Office software products, particularly Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio.
Proficiency with screencasting software (e.g. Adobe Captivate, Camtasia Studio etc.)
Proficiency with HTML/XHTML and CSS, including Adobe Dreamweaver or similar web development software package.
Basic proficiency with Adobe Photoshop or similar graphics editing package.
Familiarity with XML and database concepts desirable.
Familiarity with conducting Webinars.
Contact Information:
Name: Britney Huffman
E-mail: bhuffman@clev.frb.org
Posted on 09.29.2010
Promotions Coordinator/Receptionist - Clear Channel, Akron
Assist the Promotions Director in organizing, planning, implementing and analyzing all station promotions, station events, community activities and personal appearances. Regular clerical duties to maintain the promotions department (promotion calendars, taking minutes, database entry, recaps). Attention to detail is imperative with this position.
Receptionist Job Description: 1. Pleasantly answer multiple phone lines 2. Greet clients/staff with decorum, poise and an inviting demeanor. 3. Be professional with good service skills. 4. Be a team worker accepting new tasks when asked. 5. Working knowledge of MS Office Products and Outlook. 6. Must be good at multi-tasking. 7. Previous experience in an office environment preferred
Job Requirements: Prospective candidate must be able to accommodate a varied and flexible schedule, which may include nights and weekend hours. Prospective candidate must have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
Apply online here
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 Writer's Week is
a service of the Cleveland chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.
It is updated weekly and edited by Carrie
Buchanan, John Carroll University journalism educator, assistant editor Emily Gaffney, a John Carroll University student, and associate editor Dr. Richard Hendrickson. Send news
items and job & internship postings to spjcleveland@me.com
Address: Cleveland SPJ,4337 Chanticleer Drive, Fairview Park, Ohio
44126-1906
Chapter e-mail: Cleveland@spj.org
President: Claudia Taller ctallerwrites@wowway.com
SPJ Cleveland Chapter Web site:
http://www.spjchapters.org/cleveland/
The Society of Professional Journalists works to improve and protect journalism. SPJ
is dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating
high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi and
based in Indianapolis, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a
well-informed public, works to inspire and educate the next generation of
journalists, and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and
of the press.
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OHIO SPJ AWARDS
Tailgate at The Ohio State University | Don't miss the Ohio's SPJ Awards luncheon Oct. 30, hosted by the Cincinnati, Cleveland and Central Ohio (Columbus) pro chapters at the Ohio State football stadium
to honor the recipients of this year's Ohio SPJ Awards.
Arrive at 11:30 a.m. at the Huntington Club (Club Room Three) at Ohio Stadium, 411 Woody Hayes Drive in Columbus to enjoy tailgate fare while the Buckeyes are away in Minnesota. The Buckeyes do not play until 8 p.m. so you can still watch the game!
After tailgating, there are stadium tours available which feature the football field, press box, visitors' locker room and the Ohio State University Marching Band room.
There will be a cash bar. Free parking is available on the west side of the Horseshoe next to the Huntington Club entrance.
Tickets are $50 each, $30 for students. For tickets, mail a check payable to "Ohio SPJ Awards" to Tom Moore, 4337 Chanticleer Drive, Fairview Park, OH 44126. Mailed ticket orders must be received
by Oct. 22.
Tickets may also be purchased online here. Online ticket sales end Oct. 28 for regular meals and Oct. 30 for vegetarian meals. |
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Wise Up!! Chapter 2
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Come to Wise Up!! Chapter 2 on Oct. 24 to enjoy a great literary gathering and also support the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library.
The event will feature local celebrities, literary figures and friends of the art who will each read and bring to life a short poem or prose piece. Musical numbers with literary themes interspersed throughout the event.
The evening's cast will include Cinda Williams Chima, Derdriu Ring, Regina Brett, Margaret Bernstein, Leon Bibb, George Bilgere, Eric Broder, Tony Brown, Mark Dawidziak, Mansfield Frazier, David Giffels, Richard Gildenmeister, Michael Heaton, Susan Infeld, Meredith Holmes, Ed Kelley, Scott Lax, Sarah May, Kevin McGinty, Kristin Ohlson, Steve Presser, Brendan Ring, Les Roberts, Afi Scruggs, Joan Southgate, Laura Taxel, Stuart Warner, Phil Metres, Loren Weiss, Thomas Mulready, Tricia Springstubb, Ann Trubek, Martha Towns, Michael Roizen, Charles Michener, Don Rosenberg, Eric Schmiedl, Nick Koesters, Dan Coughlin, Eric Coble and Dorothy and Reuben Silver.
The event will be held at Nighttown, 12387 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights.
There will two separate shows, at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and each show will feature half the cast. Each has a $25 admission fee if you are registered ahead of time. Admission will be $30 at the door.
Friends of the CH-UH Library will also host a silent auction, with all event-related dollars donated to the Friends of the Library. That auction has already started online here.
Last year's event raised more than $7,000 for the CH-UH Library.
Local bookstores Appletree Books and Mac's Backs will also benefit from the event. Both bookstores will sell books at the events and receive sale proceeds.
To make a reservation call the CH-UH Public Library at 216-932-3600 ext. 234 or visit the website.
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| Events Calendar | Final Cut Pro Workshop
with SPJ Cleveland Board Meeting to follow
Saturday, Oct. 23
9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Lorain Community College
More info at left.
Wise Up! Chapter 2
Literary Event and Fundraiser
for the Cleveland Heights, University Heights Public Library
Sunday Oct. 24
Nighttown, 12387 Cedar Road,
Cleveland Heights.
5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows
More information above. | 2010 Press Club of Cleveland's Journalism Hall of Fame Awards Dinner and Induction Ceremony
Wednesday, Oct. 27
6 p.m. reception; 7 p.m. dinner
Corporate College East 6-7 p.m.
More info below
Ohio SPJ Awards Luncheon
Thursday, Oct. 30
The Ohio State football stadium.
Starts at 11:30 a.m.
More information at top above.
SPJ Narrative Writing Workshop
Nov. 13 in Pittsburgh
at Wyndham Pittsburgh
University Place
More info below.
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Journalism Hall of Fame
Awards Dinner
| The 2010 Press Club of Cleveland's Journalism Hall of Fame Awards Dinner and Induction Ceremony will be held Wednesday, Oct. 27 at Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights, Ohio 44128. Registration and reception will be held from 6-7 p.m. Dinner and the induction program will follow at 7 p.m.
| This year's inductees include Joanna Connors, Mark Dodosh, Jim Donovan, Eileen Korey, Ralph and Terry Kovel, Ann Wylie, Martin Savidge, John Teresko, Elizabeth Sullivan and Jack Graney.
This year the 2010 Chuck Heaton Award Recipient is The Plain Dealer's Margaret Bernstein.
Tickets prices are $75 for an individual ticket, $600 for a table of eight, and $750 for a table of 10.
Click here to register on-line. If you prefer to pay with a credit card over the phone, call the Press Club of Cleveland office at 440-899-1222.
Deadline for registration is Thursday, Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. Cancellations for reimbursement must be received in writing by Thursday, Oct. 21 at noon. |
Find Your Story in Pittsburgh
| SPJ invites Pittsburgh-area reporters and editors (this does include Northeastern Ohio) to step out of the
inverted pyramid and into the art of storytelling at the upcoming Narrative Writing Workshop,
Nov. 13 at Wyndham Pittsburgh University Place.
| Through SPJ's Narrative Writing Workshops, participants learn options for reinvigorating the writing craft.
Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and reporter Tom Hallman Jr., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a day filled with tips for creating excitement in news stories. Click here for registration information.
The freestyle conversation with Hallman includes discussion on:
- Defining narrative writing
- Reporting for narrative
- Long form narrative storytelling
- How you can apply narrative techniques to your daily reporting
- Strategies for your newsroom
Have a special project in the works? Share it! Participants can send Hallman a sample of their work in advance of the workshop. Tom will critique the work and discuss it with the rest of the class. Registration for the workshop ends Nov. 1. The cost for SPJ members is $45 and includes breakfast and lunch.
To learn more about the program and Hallman, see the NWW page on our national website. If you have any questions, please e-mail Heather Porter at hporter@spj.org.
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Improve your writing
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 | | John Ettore |
Looking to better your writing? John Ettore, Cleveland SPJ member and former board member, can help you improve. Ettore recently interviewed Diane Helbig about daily habits and disciplines that can improve anyone's writing. The advice is pulled from his upcoming book. The interview can be heard here. Ettore also writes a blog on writing called Working with Words.
Editor's note: If you have recently completed a book that's being published, let us know. We like to feature the major writing projects of SPJ members and other area writers.
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Sports Writing Class
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 | | Rich Exner |
Interested in sports writing? Cuyahoga Community College is offering a special eight-week sports writing class at the West Campus, beginning Oct. 25. The class will meet from 6:30-9:10 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays. The class will focus on how to watch a game as a reporter, how to write quickly on deadline and how to make sports stories more interesting. There will be field trips to games, guest speakers and more. Enrollment information can be found by using the "Search Courses" link at www.tri-c.edu or by contacting the instructor, SPJ Cleveland board member Rich Exner, by e-mail at richard.exner@tri-c.edu In-county tuition for the 3-hour class is $254 ($84.56 per credit hour).
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Cleveland Job Bank
| Check Kelly Blazek's website for details on jobs in marketing, public and media relations, development, media, graphics/web design and more. Many of the jobs listed above are reprinted from Blazek's newsletter, for which we are grateful.
| To subscribe and get the full list, e-mail the Cleveland Job Bank. For more information, go to the website or write to Kelly Blazek. Also see the website for listings of out-of-town job search websites.
Please Note: The jobs on Blazek's list are ONLY in communications related occupations.
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Exclusive Searches
| | Laurie Mitchell Marketing & Communications Executive Search has been retained for the following search assignments: | AD Agency Account Director/Pharma or Med-Ed/Cleveland
VP/Sales/Home Improvement/Cleveland
2 Direct & Digital Marketing Art Directors/Cleveland
3 PR Agency Senior Account Executives/Cleveland
AD Agency Media Planner/Buyer/Cleveland
AD/PR Agency Account Manager/Beauty Products/Editorial/Cincinnati
Global Marketing Communications Manager/B2B/Charlotte
AD Agency Account Manager/Building Products/Toledo
7 AD Agency Management//Account Supervisors/Classical & Digital/Louisville
To apply for any of these current searches, please email your resume as a single MS Word file to MitchellCo17@aol.com.
www.LaurieMitchellCompany.com
216-292-9936 |
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Writer's 