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  Writer's Week  

Society of Professional Journalists

    Cleveland Pro Chapter Newsletter    

July 3, 2012     

 Deadline For Next Edition: July 12

President's Message
A fond farewell and best wishes
to the chapter's new board
 
Carrie Buchanan
Carrie Buchanan

On Thursday night, your chapter elected a new president, so you might wonder what the heck my face is doing on this message. Well, I didn't get the chance to say farewell at the annual meeting because I got sick and missed the whole thing. So our new president, Cheryl D'Mello, and I decided I would do one last column.

First, let me thank Cheryl for stepping up to the presidency a few hours early and taking over the running of our Nostalgia Night and annual meeting. Thanks also to Eileen Beal, who picked up the food from The Stone Oven when I realized, at the very last minute, that I could not do it.  


It was a
wonderful evening, as Maria Shine Stewart, our incoming second vice president, has written in her blog. Click on this hyperlink to read her description of the event -- it made me feel as if I'd been there!
Many thanks to our
Mary Beadle
Mary Beadle
speakers: Mary Beadle from John Carroll University; Bill Barrow, Special Collections Librarian for Cleveland State University; and Janet Beigle French, former food editor for the Plain Dealer and one of Cleveland's pioneering female journalists, who stepped up when Doris O'Donnell became ill and
Bill Barrow
could not attend. We also owe appreciation to Gray and Company, Publishers, who provided several book prizes we distributed at Thursday's event. 

On the new board, Rodney Bengston has stepped up to first vice president, and Tom Moore will continue to serve as our secretary-treasurer. You have been stalwarts d
uring my term as president, and I know that Cheryl will appreciate you as much as I have. Thanks also to those who have agreed to serve another term on the board: Stan Bullard, Betty Clapp, Rich Exner and Anup Kumar (who chairs the Phillip W. Porter Scholarship committee). Each of you has brought a great deal to SPJ already, and we are grateful for your depth of expertise and experience on our board. And we bid fond goodbyes several board members who have stepped down, including former chapter presidents Claudia Taller and Jay Miller, as well as Peter Chakerian, Peter Jedick and Kathy Shaw. Don't be strangers, now!

For more details on our chapter officers, please visit the chapter website and click on the Chapter Officers tab.

I am feeling really proud of what we accomplished this past year, in particular the many excellent programs and speakers we presented. I feel sure that there are many more of these in store for you in the year to come! 

Have a great week, writers!
And Happy Fourth of July!

Carrie Buchanan

Past President, SPJ Cleveland  

Do We Journalists "Duck The Question"?
Cliff Anthony.
Talk about hypocrisy in the media!
Though I have observed a few double standards during my 25 years in several newsrooms, the recent one takes the cake.
A galaxy of national print and broadcast journalists­ descended on April 18 at Lorain County Community Colleges where I teach journalism. They landed there to cover President Obama's visit.
The staffers of LCCC's student newspaper, The Collegian, were in full force to cover the event. It was once-in-a-life opportunity for these journalism students. One of the story angles was to write about the national media's views on the president's speech and the importance of the venue in Ohio, a battle ground state for Obama and his challenger Mitt Romney. A Collegian staffer was to interview a couple of reporters who covered the president on a regular basis. The student wanted a national perspective.
He approached two reporters - one from a national cable network and another from a newspaper.
The cable network reporter said she had to obtain permission from the higher ups before talking to the media. She also wanted the student to submit a questionnaire for her boss' perusal.
The reporter for the national newspaper was not any better, either. First, he wanted the student to wait until he emailed his story on the president's speech to the newsroom in New York City, and then he delayed the interview until he received the green signal from his editor. He urged the student to return a few minutes later. By the time, the student went back to meet him at the makeshift pressroom, the national print reporter had already left LCCC.
Let's turn the table around. Guess what would be the reaction if an elected official or a bureaucrat in Washington, D.C., gave the same response to these reporters? The phrases "censorship," "delay tactics," and "ducking the question" will be lavishly used in the story lambasting the official.
Granted these reporters work for private businesses. But, they are journalists who fight for access to information and freedom of speech.
Sadly, some journalists don't practice what they preach.

Anthony is the author of the novel Page-A1 (click underlined title to visit website). He is a board member of the Cleveland Pro Chapter.

 

Job opportunities

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 at right.

 

Webcast Producer Senior Associate- Ernst & Young - The Webcast Producer Senior  Associate produces project deliverables, specializing in webcasting. This position is responsible for advising clients and others on the best use,
combination, and repurposing of each medium to meet strategic objectives. This position is responsible for the full lifecycle of development from concept, design, and planning (pre-production) to production, editing, publishing, and measurement.
Responsibilities
Consult and recommend media to enhance the message through webcasting.
Manage the client relationship and/or coordinate with the project manager; acting as single point of contact for the deliverable.
Organize and coordinate all tasks related to project deliverable, performing tasks or identifying and delegating to other resources as appropriate; this may include technicians and other contractors, as well as engineers in Publishing Technology and Implementation (PTI).Maintain ownership and accountability that all tasks are completed on time and correctly.Prepare the budget and timeline estimates for completion of project deliverable; assist in tracking expenditures and status in order to operate within the approved estimates.Incumbent should regularly update project manager or client on changes to original estimate, as well as status of deliverable.Assist and learn from other Producers as appropriate.Comply in a timely manner with firm, Americas Communications and Marketing (ACM), and PTI standards and procedures including, but not limited to, visual identity (branding), approvals (Standard Communication Organization and Retrieval process (SCORE)), project management, billing, and time tracking.The incumbent will act as a business advisor to clients, project managers, Producers, and other project requesters on the most effective approaches and methods of implementation to achieve their strategic goals via the functional areas within PTI. The incumbent should possess the ability to: Rapidly solve problems and make decisions during the production of live events.Recognize potential issues and make decisions throughout a project that balance the need to meet a deadline and still meet the original requirements of the project.Identify opportunities for repurposing content for additional audiences or to add convenience for the consumption of the message by the target audience
Knowledge and skills requirements
Strong project management, client service, team building and interpersonal communication skills.Knowledge of webcast technologies.Proficiency in at least a few of the following software applications: Microsoft Office, After Effects, Photoshop/Fireworks, PowerPoint, Pro Tools/SoundForge, Media Platform, On24, Webex, Webcaster, Windows Media technologies.Competency in at least a few of the following skill areas:, Flash, HTML/XML/XSLT, Javascript, .NET.Rapidly learn new technologies on a frequent basis and as part of a project.Directs other resources, such as Engineers, and vendors to complete production tasks; for example Engineers responsible for running aspects of webcast technology.Act independently of supervision.Travel or an extended work day is required as needed to meet deadlines. Experience - A minimum of 3+ years relevant experience  Education - Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience. Apply To: Michelle.Tzoulafis@ey.com

  

SENIOR WRITER - CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY 

Info and Apply Here

 

STATION MANAGER - WEWS TV 5 Requisition Number: 4899 We are seeking an innovative, dynamic Station Manager to lead a team that executes and delivers quality content to multiple platforms. This position is responsible for providing leadership for the station, guidance and direction to the staff and executing the station's strategic plan. This position is also instrumental in bringing the station to the community it serves through participation on local boards and community events. Key activities of this position include: Provide summary oversight for the coordination of all day to day station operations, activities and providing the staff with positive motivation, direction and insight in support of the strategic plan. Assist in the creation of regular communications systems with the department heads and staff. Set clear, measurable internal expectation for the staff relating to the station's goals. (Make daily decisions, including news judgment, sales, employee relations)

Partner with general manager in creating and executing the strategic plan for the station.Provide resolutions for critical issues to general manager. Create monthly reports to General Managers on status of station. Provide professional, positive, visible leadership both inside the station and with the community. Be involved with the community by participating on various boards and representing the company at important local events. Be visible and establish strong relationships with our customers. Participate in various station meetings, including daily editorial, sales and sweeps. Enforce all FCC, EEO, SOX and any other appropriate rules and regulations. Understand, adhere and enforce company policies and at all times adhere to the highest ethical standards. The ideal candidate will possess the following experience/skills: Bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent years of experiences required; 5-7 years in a senior management/leadership position within the broadcast industry; Stay current and embrace emerging technologies; Keen appreciation of product and importance of content to operations success; Commitment to quality journalism and communication; Work well as part of a team, inclusive and able to influence and motivate; Excellent written and oral communication skills; Ability to multi-task and prioritize multiple projects at the same time; Strong leadership skills. Apply Here
 

 

MARKETING WRITER SUPERVISING ASSOCIATE - ERNST & YOUNG 

Job ID CLE000IM As Marketing Writer Supervising Associate, you'll develop written content for a variety of deliverables. These will communicate key messages about Ernst & Young's products, services, strategies and industry issues, to both external and internal audiences. You may produce print or web-based materials, including brochures, white papers, magazine-length articles, speeches, videos, webcasts, podcasts and RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds. You may also advise on communications vehicles and strategies, in collaboration with internal clients and communication consultants.  In this role you'll receive general supervision, and be expected to work independently within your area of expertise.
Responsibilities
*Partner with internal groups, to understand their communication needs and help with communication and promotional strategies
*Develop close working relationships with internal clients. Recommend executions and media channels, and educate clients on leading practices
*Anticipate client needs, and follow up to maintain satisfaction
*Develop print and online deliverables that meet communications objectives. At the same time, set your own work priorities, and delegate tasks where needed
*Establish and monitor project plans for small teams
*Apply knowledge of current business issues in developing projects, and explain and demonstrate their impact on the firm and its clients
*Serve as a resource for less experienced co-workers
*Manage and navigate the firm's internal approval process (SCORE - Standard Communication and Organization REtrieval)
*Maintain high standards of writing and performance
*Act as a business advisor to clients, project managers, and other project requesters. Help determine the most effective ways to achieve their strategic goals
*Deal with potential project issues, balancing tight deadlines with project needs
*Identify opportunities for rearranging content for additional audiences, or to make messages easier to understand
*Maintain in-depth knowledge of Ernst & Young's products, services, strategies and operations. Apply that knowledge to develop communications deliverables  Knowledge and skills requirements
*Proven business-to-business writing and editing skills, and an understanding of principles and practices
*Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, across a variety of media
*Competent at learning and utilizing the firm's communication tools and techniques
*Working knowledge of standard technology including Microsoft Windows, Excel, Word, Lotus Notes, PowerPoint and internet
*Familiarity with graphic design beneficial
*Adept at working with minimal supervision in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment
*Knowledge of any or all of the following industries beneficial: asset management, automotive, banking and capital markets, biotechnology, consumer products, insurance, media & entertainment, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, real estate, technology, telecommunications and utilities
*Speech writing experience highly desirable.
Experience
*A minimum of 5 years related experience
Education
*Bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related discipline
Apply to: Michelle.Tzoulafis@ey.com

 

 

infoaboutusWriter's Week is a service of the Cleveland chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. This e-newsletter is edited by Carrie Buchanan, assistant professor, Tim Russert School of Communication & Theatre Arts, John Carroll University, and assistant editor Elaine Wilson, who is studying editing and design.  

Please send news items and job & internship postings to spjcleveland@gmail.com

Address: Cleveland SPJ, 4337 Chanticleer Drive, Fairview Park, Ohio 44126-1906

Chapter email: Cleveland@spj.org

President: Carrie Buchanan, spjcleveland@me.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.

Summary
There is more on these events and awards below, in articles under this column or the President's Message. Please scroll down for  a special column by Cliff Anthony, and a congratulatory article on David C. Barnett's win in the prestigious Sigma Delta Chi Awards! For job listings, see lower left; for student internships, see lower right. 

July 20
Sigma Delta Chi Awards Banquet
National Press Club
Washington, D.C.
More information here

Aug. 6
Application Deadline
AHCJ-National Library of Medicine Fellowship
More information here and below at left

Aug. 9-12

Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) conference

Chicago
More information here and below

Sept. 15
Early Bird Deadline 
Journalism & Women Symposium CAMP 2012
More information here and below

Sept. 20-22
Society of Professional Journalists' annual Excellence in Journalism Conference
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
More information here and below

MEMBERS' MILESTONES
 
 Are you involved with a special project or event?  Let us know. We'd love to share in your achievements and efforts.

David C. Barnett of 90.3 WCPN wins Sigma Delta Chi Award

 

Congratulations to David C. Barnett of 90.3 WCPN Ideastream (Cleveland), winner of a Sigma Delta Chi Radio Feature Reporting award for his article "Frank's Donation".

 

The article tells the story of Frank's pilgrimage through the process of donating his brother's organs. Using actual recordings, Barnett brings to life the journey that many travel when a loved one dies. Listen to the feature now

 

Barnett's love of the microphone began at age 2, when his father interviewed him using the first reel-to-reel recorder in their Chicago neighborhood. After they moved to Cleveland in 1963, Barnett started producing his own DJ shows and adventure stories as he negotiated public and high school. He continued his education, earning a B.A. in communications from Cleveland State University and then two master's degrees from Kent State. That's when he first fell in love with public radio.  After joining WCPN in 1990 he produced a program about the Kent State shootings called "Emily's Diary" (assembled by producers Kathleen Cerveny and Jim Goldurs). 

 

"Frank's Donation" joins the ranks of Barnett's many award-winning programs, including productions about American musical legends  Woody Guthrie and Hank Williams (both engineered by WCPN's Al Dahlhause), which have been syndicated by Public Radio International.

 

Barnett will receive his Sigma Delta Chi award during the July 20 banquet at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.  For more information about the the banquet click here

 

Quick Links

SPJ Job Bank

Join or Renew Membership
(Be sure to scroll down on the application form and sign up for the Cleveland Pro Chapter, as well as the national SPJ)

Richard Gingras to be Keynote Speaker at AEJMC Conference

Richard Gingras, head of news products at Google and the former CEO of the Salon Media Group, will be the keynote speaker  at the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) conference to take place Aug. 9-12 in Chicago. 

 

Gingras has been highly concerned with the transformation of the news business and in 2007-2008 was a strategic adviser to the executive team at Google. His strategies focused on the evolution of news and television. 

 

A graduate of Boston College,  Gingras began his career in television in the 1970s. He held a variety of positions with PBS, KCET/Los Angeles, and NBC. In the 1980s, he managed a network of television stations which provided sideband data distribution for the news and advertising service, Silent Radio. From there, he founded MediaWorks, an Apple-funded startup that developed early news-agent and executive support software for Fortune 500 corporations. His relationship with Apple continued into the 1990s, when he led the development of eWorld, an innovative,pre-web online service.From there he moved to Excite@Home's product division, Excite Studios, where he led the development of online services. 

 

Before moving to full-time work at Google, Gingras co-founded Goodmail Systems, which developed certified email services for online retailers and financial service companies, then became CEO of Salon Media Group, operators of Salon.com, OpenSalon.com and the pioneering virtual community "The Well."  

 

Currently - in tandem with his work at Google - Gingras serves on the board of the World Computer Exchange, whose purpose is to deflect used computers from landfills and put them in educational centers in developing countries. 

 

The keynote presentation will be on Thursday, Aug. 9 at 6:45 pm. For more information and to register for the conference click here

 

Registration is Now Open for Excellence in Journalism 2012

 

Registration is now open for The Excellence in Journalism Conference , Sept. 20-22 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 

 

Highlights include:

 

A special edition of the highly acclaimed public television and radio series The Kalb Report, moderated by legendary journalist Marvin Kalb.

 

super session with Sree Sreenivasan, a professor and Dean of Student Affairs at Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism.

 

An address from Bob Edwards, host of "The Bob Edwards Show" and "Bob Edwards Weekend" on Sirius XM Radio, at the SPJ President's Installation Banquet at EIJ12 when he is named a Fellow of the Society.

 

Here's a series of links to help you get a sense of the whole event:

Pricing
 Super Sessions and Conference highlights
Breakout Sessions 
 Pre-Conference Workshops
 Schedule at a Glance
 Hotel and Travel Information 


For even more information and to register online  click here.

 

Journalism and Women Symposium CAMP 2012 scheduled for October

 

Get ready for The annual Journalism and Women Symposium conference and mentoring project (CAMP) taking place from Oct. 26-28 in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico. This year's keynote speaker is writer, lecturer, editor and feminist activist Gloria Steinem.  

 

Also on offer will be voting rights expert Keesha Gaskins, tech trainers and negotiating coaches, as well as the beautiful locale - the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa, 40 minutes from the Albuquerque, N.M. airport. 

 

If you take advantage of the early bird registration, before Sept. 15, the cost is $275. It includes meals and all sessions. After Sept. 15 the price goes up to $325. 

 

For more information and to register click here

 

AHCJ-NLM Fellowships:
Upgrade your medical, science reporting skills

The Association of Health Care Journalists has teamed up with the National Library of Medicine to offer AHCJ-NLM fellowships. Four journalists will be selected to spend the week of Sept. 30-Oct. 4 on the campus of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md.

 

If chosen you will:

  • Learn how to explore the latest NIH research
  • Learn how to understand and interpret biomedical statistics
  • Receive hands-on training in how to use PubMed, MedlinePlus, ClinicalTrials.gov, ToxNet and Household Products Database. 
  • Take advantage of NLM's data, programs and resources.

The fellowship includes AHCJ membership (new or renewed), travel expenses within the United States and lodging.

 

To be considered your application and materials must be in the AHCJ office by Aug. 6. 

 

For complete details and a link to the application form click here or visit the website


 

Internships for journalism and communication students
 
 
GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERN - THUNDER::TECH Get info and apply here  
 
 
Cleveland Job Bank

Check Kelly Blazek's website for advice on job-hunting and details on jobs in marketing, public and media relations, development, media, graphics/web design and more. Many of the jobs listed at left are reprinted from Blazek's newsletter.  

 

Blazek is also blogging here about job hunting and working smarter. And you can follow her on Twitter, where she posts "breaking new jobs" prior to including them in the Job Bank.  

 

To subscribe and get the full list (we only excerpt journalism-related jobs), email the Cleveland Job Bank. For more information, go to the website. 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.        


EXCLUSIVE  searches

Laurie Mitchell Marketing & Communications Executive Search has been retained for the following search assignments:    

 

 

PR Agency Management Supervisor/Consumer/Columbus

2 Directors of Public Relations/Akron & Toledo

PR Agency Account Supervisor/B2B

Social Media Maven/B2B Westside/25hours/week for 4 months

Large Law Firm Marketing Assistant

Director of AD Agency New Business Development

Marketing Manager/B2B/Akron-Canton area

 

 

To apply for any of these current searches, please email your resume as a single Word file to
.  

216-292-9936