Buchanan (see photo above) teaches journalism and related courses at John Carroll University, where she has been a tenure-track professor since 2009. A Canadian, born in Montreal, she spent 15 years as a newspaper reporter and editor - 12 of those for the Ottawa Citizen, the major daily in Canada's capital, and three years before that at community newspapers in the Montreal area. Buchanan left the newspaper business in 2000 and taught for seven years while completing her doctorate at Carleton University's School of Journalism and Communication in Ottawa. She moved to Cleveland in 2006 with her husband, Rev. George Buchanan. She has been involved with SPJ Cleveland for the past four years, serving this past year as first vice-president, responsible for communications and membership, and for the past two years as editor of Writer's Week. She is also faculty adviser to John Carroll's student SPJ chapter. Although she has left mainstream journalism, Buchanan cannot stop writing. She has two blogs: one called Dis.location, about the places she has lived and visited, and a newer one called Is Journalism Over? She also contributes to Mediaminder, a group blog by members of the Small Programs Interest Group of the Association of Educators in Journalism and Mass Communication. Buchanan's personal website is here.

First Vice-President: Cheryl D'Mello

Cheryl D'Mello

Cheryl D'Mello has worked for magazines and newspapers in Mumbai and in the United States and was a reporter for the Gazette Newspaper in Parma, Seven Hills and Independence for two years. She has taught English as an adjunct faculty member at Cuyahoga Community College for several years. She is presently on the editorial team of The Lotus, an Asian Indian newspaper in Cleveland, and writes for the Brecksville Magazine, the Catholic Universe Bulletin and other publications.
D'Mello completed her master's in Communication Theory and Methodology from Cleveland State University (CSU) in 2010. Her thesis: "The Influence of New Communication Technologies in the Acculturation of Bhutanese Refugees in an American community" was nominated by the Graduate Committee in the School of Communication at CSU for the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools (MAGS) 2011 Distinguished Master's Thesis Competition. 

She also has a master's in English Literature from Mumbai University, India, and she has studied Journalism at the Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai. Her articles have appeared in several publications in India, the Middle East, and the United States.

D'Mello is a board member of the AAIWO (Association of Asian Indian Women in Ohio), and an active member of the Asian Ministry, Diocese of Cleveland.

Second Vice-President: Rodney Bengston

Rodney Bengston

Rodney Bengston has worked as a copy editor, reporter and production editor at Sun News. He now works as assistant editor the Sun Post-Herald, West Shore Sun and Sun Sentinel.
Bengston is also is a founding member of the Cleveland Comedy Kitchen, which does stand-up comedy shows at clubs, corporate events and charity functions.




Secretary-Treasurer: Tom Moore

Tom Moore

Click on this link to Tom's excellent bio and photograph on the WTAM website, where he works as a news announcer. Tom has been a vital and essential member of our board for several years, serving as Secretary-Treasurer for as long as most of us can remember.








Past President: Claudia Taller

Claudia Taller photo courtesy of lakewoodbuzz.com

Claudia Taller is a travel and lifestyle writer and has written for many local Cleveland publications, including The Plain Dealer Sunday Magazine, West Shore, Northern Ohio Live, West Shore Live Well, and Long Weekends. She is a regular contributor to Cool Cleveland, the corporate columnist for Paralegal Today, and writes on-line lifestyle and travel content for Yahoo. She attained a B.A. in English Literature and Writing from Kent State University, interned with the Kent State University Press, and received her post-graduate paralegal degree from Dyke College. She has worked as a business transactional paralegal for over 25 years and currently works as a senior Paralegal at Squire Sanders. She taught Business Organizations for several years at Notre Dame College of Ohio and frequently speaks at professional legal events. She regularly leads workshops on writing, creativity, and spirituality, and has been a reading group member and presenter for over 20 years. Claudia owns Igniting Possibilities, an event and retreat business, as a conduit for writing and creativity workshops. She is a past president of the Cleveland Association of Paralegals, past president of Skyline Writers, and president of SPJ Cleveland. She has just finished a book entitled Ohio's Lake Erie Wineries, to be released June 20 by Arcadia Press. She is also working on a novel entitled Daffodils and Fireflies. Find out more about her and the June 23rd book release at her blog.

New Members-at-Large: Kathleen Shaw, Peter Jedick and Jerome Masek (who is returning to the board after several years' absence)

Kathleen (Kathy) Shaw

 

A former member of SPJ, Shaw is back

Kathy Shaw

and happy to support the Cleveland chapter and its members. Shaw has print experience from working at The Plain Dealer. She also was a writer in Cleveland State University's News Bureau. In addition to her writing duties, she produced up to 10 weekly public affairs radio programs. The shows garnered several awards while airing on commercial stations including WGAR-FM, WCLV-FM, WHK and WMMS-FM, WJMO and WZAK-FM, WDOK-FM as well as WCSB-FM, CSU's student station.Some shows were repeated on cable television.

At night while at CSU, Shaw earned a Master of Applied Communication Theory and Methodology. Her degree focused on marketing, persuasion and health care communication. Later, at the Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals of Cleveland's Memory and Aging Center, Shaw recruited participants for its research registry.  She often worked with media on and off campus to promote the center, registry and studies ranging from normal aging to Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Formerly, Shaw served on the Press Club of Cleveland's programming committee.

 

Peter Jedick

 

Jedick has been a freelance

Peter Jedick

writer since graduating from Kent State University in 1971. He has written for all the major publications in Northeast Ohio including The Cleveland Press, The Plain Dealer, The Plain Dealer Sunday Magazine, Cleveland Magazine and Avenues Magazine. Nationally. his articles have appeared in World War II Magazine and Baseball America. He was also a full-time reporter for Sun Newspapers. Jedick is the author of four books. Two are non-fiction books about Cleveland: League Park and CLEVELAND: Where the East Coast Meets the Midwest. His two novels are HIPPIES and The West Tech Terrorist. The two novels are now available on Kindle and Nook.  

  

Jerome Masek 

Jerry Masek

Primary Career: 20 years in newspaper journalism, 20+ years in

public sector communications. Now Publications Manager for RTA. 

Second Career: Certified hypnotist since 2005.
 SPJ: Member since 1975. Previously served 17 years on the board of the Cleveland Chapter. Presentor at numerous national and regional conventions and national leadership retreats. Served three years as national membership chair. Won awards for service to SPJ on local,regional and national levels. Founder of Writer's Week newsletter, and am so happy that it has continued for so long.       

 

Returning board members

 

We appreciate the continued presence on our board of Stan Bullard, Betty Clapp, Tony Kozolowski, Rich Exner, Anup Kumar, Peter Chakerian, Jay Miller and Cliff Anthony. We regret that Audrey McCrone had to resign her board position but hope that she will return, once her baby, Jana, born in February, gets a little older! We thank her for her dedicated service. We also thank outgoing board members Veronica Dahlberg, Ken Myers and David Molpus for their service to SPJ Cleveland and to journalism in Northeast Ohio.

 

PLAIN DEALER SEEKS SUBURBAN STRINGERS 

The Plain Dealer is looking for freelance reporters with an interest in suburban communities. Candidates should be motivated self-starters able to produce up to five stories a week with limited supervision. Strong writing skills and knowledge of AP style mandatory. The ideal candidate should have an interest in attending night meetings of school boards and town councils and in distilling what happens into stories. The ability to take photos and shoot videos is a plus. Candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Metro Editor Karl Turner.

 

PART-TIME COPY EDITOR, SPORTS

The Chronicle-Telegram in Elyria, Ohio, has an opening for a part-time sports copy editor. QuarkXpress experience preferred. Please send resume to Managing Editor Julie Wallace at jwallace@chroniclet.com.

 

ONLINE MARKETING ASSOCIATE

The OnMark Solutions Online Marketing Associate is a creative and motivated individual who loves technology and will help clients develop and implement targeted, measurable e-marketing strategies. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of social media and web-based marketing.  You must have the ability to work independently as you will be working in a virtual office environment.   To be a part of the OnMark team, this creative thinker and heavy online conversationalist must possess basic html knowledge and have exceptional writing skills that would compel readers to action.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related field of study
• Quick learner at online applications
• Positive attitude and strong work ethics
• Highly organized; efficient with time management skills
• Ability to take direction and manage multiple tasks that are deadline-sensitive while working independently
• Great attention to detail with strong follow-through
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Articulate communicator;  experience writing for email, blogs and social media a plus
• Ability to work from  home in a quiet home-office environment 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Writing and editing copy that includes content for email campaigns, social spaces, newsletters, blogs and websites
• Optimizing copy for SEO and pay-per-click advertising purposes.
• Maintain regular client contact and respond to questions/issues quickly, honestly and completely
• Basic HTML editing to create and/or modify email campaigns
• Collaborating with designers to create various online communication resources  

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT OR SOFTWARE

• Internet access with Microsoft Office 2007 or higher

ESTIMATED HOURS

• Full time position (Part time options available also)

 

COPYWRITER - EQUITY TRUST COMPANY

Equity Trust Company and its affiliates provide services to over 130,000 individuals and businesses nationwide with approximately $10 billion in assets under custodial and retirement administration. Since 1974, we have provided services to individuals and the financial services industry - including financial advisors and planners, broker-dealers, tax and legal professionals, investment product sponsors, mutual fund companies, banks and other financial institutions.

At Equity Trust Company we do what works best, and we have fun while doing it! We offer our employees a fast paced, creative, and challenging work environment, where great people and ideas thrive. Our team members challenge themselves and their peers everyday to help our company pass our competitors in customer service and satisfaction. That is why we are currently looking for a Copywriter to join our Interactive Team

The Copywriter is responsible for writing, editing, and managing copy for all internal and external communications for Equity Trust and Sterling Trust, including marketing campaigns and educational communications, both for technical and promotional copy. It is essential that this position knows the product and audience to write compelling content with appropriate tone. Responsibilities also include management and execution of communication projects. The Copywriter will be responsible majority of the promotional and technical communications for clients and prospects across two brands (ETC and Sterling).

 

Primary Job Responsibilities/Functions:

· Write and/or edit copy for all media types including but not limited to: client/prospect e-newsletters, articles, e-books, press releases, print ads, letters, direct mail, case studies/testimonials, flyers, general emails, Web site content, promotional web landing pages, blog, client forms and related materials as required.

· Responsible for the majority of the Equity Trust Company corporate communications

· Responsible for the factual and grammatical accuracy of all promotional written communications.

· Must be able to research and create story ideas

· Work closely with other creative staff -graphic designers and project managers - in the conception and production of communication elements and campaigns.

· Coordinate and manage delivery of client communications

· Liaison to sales for promotional collateral material- Work with Sales and marketing representatives and outside vendors

 

Essential Education/Training/Work Experience:

·  Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, English, Public Relations, Communications, Marketing or related field.

·  0-3 years experience in business communications required, financial services industry preferred.

·  Previous graphic design experience, Adobe Suite, a PLUS, but not required.

·  Must be strong and proficient writer and editor with available communications portfolio; writing samples required.

·  Experience in gathering and understanding information from a highly technical staff and senior leaders.

·  Strong organizational skills.

·  Good interpersonal skills and an ability to work with people of all levels.

· Ability to dissect concepts and draft copy into concise points that accurately represent the most significant and actionable content.

· Ability to work and accomplish results with minimal supervision in a fast-paced and environment.

· Ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously with demonstrable experience in consistently delivering high-quality results.

· Ability to solve problems, come up with alternative solutions, make suggestions.

Interested applicants, please visit the website to learn more about the Copywriter role, or reach out to Amanda Thompson by email. 

Thanks to Kelly Blazek for her dedication and commitment in seeking out many 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.  

ASSOCIATE EDITOR, PRINT/DIGITAL PUBLICATIONS - LACHINA PUBLISHING SERVICES
Share | Job Reference: AE-1-2011
Client Name: Lachina Publishing Services
Salary: $30,000
We are looking for bright minds interested in pursuing a modern career in publishing. This entry-level position offers the opportunity to be trained by seasoned editors in editorial and production management.
The Associate Editor will work with project managers, editors, authors, graphic artists, and technical staff to guide a project from manuscript to bound book to the digital world. Candidate should possess excellent organizational, communication, and language skills, with an especially strong background in English grammar and spelling. Knowledge of or willingness to learn about the process of book production is necessary. This position offers the right person an opportunity to learn and apply multiple skill sets in a unique industry.
Required Qualifications:
Undergraduate degree preferably in English or Journalism or equivalent experience
Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel
Editorial eye
Excellent communication skills
Organizational skills
Attention to detail
Ability to multitask and prioritize
Self-motivated and self-disciplined
Willingness to learn and take direction
Desired Qualifications:
Adobe Acrobat familiarity
Proofreading/copyediting experience
Knowledge of book production process
Position Responsibilities:
Assists in editorial and book production tasks including proofreading, word processing, manuscript compilation, digital transformation, art database entry, photocopying, shipping
Coordinates activities of freelancers/in-house staff.
Serves as point of contact for authors and publishers.
Utilizes various computer programs (Word, Excel, and Web-based data systems) for the organization and tracking of projects.
Keeps accurate records
Maintains communication with all project participants.
Spelling and proofreading tests will be administered to qualified candidates as a part of our pre-screening process.
Please e-mail résumé and a cover letter with "AE-1-2011" in the subject line to this email address. No phone calls.

EVENT TEAM PART TIME - CBS RADIO
Auto req ID 6340BR
CBS Radio Stations WQAL/ WDOK/WNCX/WKRK are accepting applications for our event teams. Must be upbeat, hard-working individuals with positive outlook. Required Skills/Experience Available to work nights & weekends. Preferred Skills/Experience Clean driving record and previous experience working with the public preferred. Additional Candidate Instructions Please indicate with your resume how you heard about our opening. Apply online here.

MANAGING EDITOR - WEWS TV 5
Requisition Number: 3578
Job Description: WEWS-TV5, a Scripps owned ABC affiliate in fun and exciting Cleveland, Ohio is seeking an experienced dynamic leader for Managing Editor. The candidate must have proven ability in a medium to large market with positive impact on ratings and content quality.
The Managing Editor is responsible for organizing and coordinating assignment desk staff and multi-media journalists (MMJ) to facilitate daily news coverage for multiple platforms. Additional duties include:
- Manage daily editorial flow, including assigning MMJs, photojournalists, and assignment desk staff to cover daily news stories and events;
- Lead daily news planning and coverage;
- Supervise and schedule MMJs, content coordinators, and assignment desk staff to manage overtime;
- Review content, ensuring journalistic balance, for all platforms;
- Implement and have working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws impacting operations;
- Assist editorial staff in developing all news coverage plans;
- Work closely with executive producers on distribution of coverage;
- Complete and deliver performance evaluations for direct reports;
- Knowledge and proficiency in posting content to station websites;
- Knowledge and proficiency in using social media to enhance newsgathering and customer engagement;
The success candidate must possess a Bachelor's Degree in a related discipline; have at least five (5) years news room management experience, possess advanced computer skills including Microsoft Office and social media; have a broad understanding of newsroom operations and equipment; a proven ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast paced environment; advanced oral and written communication skills; and have the ability to work a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays. Apply online here.  

GRAPHICS DESIGNER - ENERCO GROUP INC
Salary: $37,000 - $43,000
This position is responsible for the creative direction and implementation of all graphics and marketing materials (sales literature, catalogs, brochures, presentation support, point of sale collateral, trade show, consumer/trade advertising) as well as product packaging and artwork. Works closely with the Product Manager(s) to ensure timely delivery of all phases of packaging and artwork necessary for multiple new product launches each year while demonstrating the ability to translate marketing objectives into creative strategies in the most cost effective manner possible.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Manages creative projects from concept to completion
Creates impactful sales literature, brochures, catalogs, logos, and point of sale collateral
Manages quoting and sourcing of printed collateral for the most cost effective purchasing.
Develops product package design, layout, and graphics aimed at maximizing attention and driving sales
Responsible for all product imaging
Creates and maintains a complete product photo library as well as in-field images.
Trade show creative support and graphics implementation
Works with sales team, outside resources to create print ads to reach targeted audience through approved media and media schedule.
Works with sales team to support best-in-class customer presentations
Works with Product Manager(s) to deliver all new product creative and graphic requirements
All other duties assigned by Manager
Education and Experience:
Degree in Graphic Design or related field
Creative background and excellent design sense.
5+ years of business experience in graphic design preferably dealing with Consumer Products
Project management experience.
Digital photography experience is a plus; preferably in corporate setting with consumer products
Web design experience is a plus; preferably in corporate setting with consumer products.
Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Organized, process and detailed oriented.
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Excellent computer skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Microsoft Project) and Above Creative Suites (Illustrator, Photoshop, Quark, Freehand, InDesign)
Strong analytical and presentation skills required.
Ability to handle multiple tasks
To be Considered, Qualified Candidates Must Submit:
Cover Letter
Resume
Salary Requirements
Apply online here.

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