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  Writer's Week  

Society of Professional Journalists

    Cleveland Pro Chapter Newsletter    

Nov. 18, 2012     

 Deadline For Next Edition: Nov. 21

President's Message
l-r Tom Moore, Harlan Spector and Jean Dubail debate Cleveland's news future Thursday
l-r Tom Moore, Harlan Spector and Jean Dubail debate Cleveland's news future

Roomful of passionate interest greets SPJ panel on Cleveland's news future  

 

SPJ's brown bag lunch discussion on Nov. 15 at Trinity Commons drew a crowd of passionately interested journalists, professors, students and others in the media.

 

Our panelists Harlan Spector, Newspaper Guild chair at The Plain Dealer, Tom Moore, news anchor at WTAM radio, and Jean Dubail, senior regional editor at Patch.com, debated animatedly on the future of Cleveland news.

 

Moore spoke of the challenges and changes in radio news anchoring with shrinking manpower. Spector drew attention to the role that The Plain Dealer plays in Cleveland and the recent movement launched to gather community support to save the seven-day-a-week print edition. Dubail spoke of how people are increasingly obtaining their news from social media.

Professors Edward Horowitz, Anup Kumar and Leo Jeffres from Cleveland State University's School of Communication joined in the discussion about the future of print journalism. The consensus was that without news providers with resources to do large-scale investigative reporting, society is bound to suffer.  

 

What can we, as a community, do to save our seven-day-a-week PD?

  1. Join the campaign by signing the petition here. 
  2. Advertise and support the paper's advertisers.
  3. Subscribe to the paper here. Did you know the PD has a digital edition?
  4. Sign up on the Facebook site "Save the Plain Dealer"   
  5. Write to Steven Newhouse, chairman of Advance Publications Inc., the Plain Dealer's owner, by going to this website and clicking on the Contact Us button. (There is no street address.) Tell him that seven-day newspapers are still feasible in many cities and that we want the PD to stay the way it is.
So please hurry and sign up!
Cheryl D'Mello
Cheryl D'Mello 





Sincerely,
Cheryl D'Mello
President 
  
Register by Tuesday for Holiday Party

Yes, we know it's before Thanksgiving and the holiday decorations are not supposed to come out yet, but we're making plans for a fantastic Holiday Party on Nov. 27 and we need you to get signed up by Wednesday! Otherwise you'll miss the special, $20 rate for a delicious buffet plus your first drink on the house.

The party itself will be right after work, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Massimo de Milano at W. 25th & Detroit Ave. As is our tradition, we're getting together with other communicators - SPJ has joined other local groups whose members do public relations, marketing and other types of communication.

Come on out and join us! Click here to register online. The cost goes up to $30 after midnight on Wednesday!

 

Mark of Excellence Award deadline Jan 24! 

 

Are you enrolled in a U.S. college or university and studying for an academic degree  in 2012?  Have you never worked full-time as a journalist - outside of internships that is. Have you published or broadcast an article during the 2012 calendar year?

 

If you can answer yes to all 3 questions, here's your chance to enter the competition for a Society of Professional Journalists' Mark of Excellence Award. Every year, SPJ honors the best journalism by students. There are categories for print, radio, television and online collegiate journalism.

 

It's a real challenge. To win the national competition you must run the gauntlet of regional competition and emerge in first place. Your entry will then advance to the national level and you'll have a chance at the top awards. Regional and national winners will both be recognized at the SPJ spring conferences. 

 

For more information and to fill in an entry form click here and good luck! 

 

Sigma Delta Chi Awards now open. Entry deadline Feb. 7

The prestigious Sigma Delta Chi Awards are now open for entries. You have from now to  Feb. 7, 2013 to submit entries. 

 

The Sigma Delta Chi Awards date back to 1932 when only six individuals were honored for contributions to journalism. Now the awards recognize the best in professional journalism in categories covering print, radio, television, newsletters, art/graphics, online and research. 

 

The contest is open to international SPJ members and any U.S.media outlet. Publication or broadcast of entries must have happened during the 2012 calendar year. 

 

In May 0f 2013 the winners will be declared and on June 21, 2013 there will be an awards banquet at the National Press club in Washington, DC. 

 

For more information and to enter. click here

 

 

EIJ 2013 - Call for Programs and Conference Ideas

Is it really time to start talking about the the Excellence in Journalism 2013 conference?  Yes! The Call for Programs and the Call for Conference Ideas has gone out. 

 

The Call for Programs applies if you have a proposal for a specific program with topic, content and suggested speaker (even yourself). Click here  for more information and to submit. The deadline is Jan. 2

 

The Call for Conference Ideas applies if you want to recommend general conference topics and speakers with out a specific title or description.The planning committee will use the information to develop programs.  Click here for more information. . 

 

The 2013 conference will be held in Anaheim, California so start planning your trip. For information about hotels in the area click here

 

 

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. 
 

NEWS PRODUCER/MULTIMEDIA - WOIO/WUAB WOIO-TV is seeking a News Producer/MM to produce newscasts: including story selection/format, rundown preparation & other editorial/production responsibilities associated with news line producing within guidelines and policies established by News Director and at direction of Executive Producer. Line produce other news broadcasts, as needed, on WOIO and WUAB. Write/edit copy for inclusion on news programs & news specials produced for WOIO/WUAB. Field & associate produce news stories/segments. Back time & insure editorial integrity of the program from the control room during its live presentation. Contribute story ideas for general & special assignment reporters. Other duties as assigned by news management. Minimum two (2) years TV news producing. Must be capable of handling multiple live remotes. Must have a working knowledge of contemporary use of graphics. Excellent writing and story telling ability. Must be able to work with and motivate co-workers. Computer literate and able to work long hours. Send resume and dvd to: WOIO-TV, 1717 E. 12th Street, Cleveland, OH 44114. No phone calls please.

JUNIOR PRODUCER/EDITOR - MARCUS THOMAS Info and Apply Here

VIDEO PRODUCER - CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY Job ID: 3133 The Video Producer provides high-quality video production to support the university's efforts to convey its strengths, accomplishments and opportunities as well as recognize individuals of exceptional talent, achievement or contributions to the university.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Identify, research and develop story ideas with the potential to become video pieces that provide information and/or raise awareness of aspects of the university's activities.
2. Upon direction of the Vice President and/or Senior Executive Producer, complete projects that publicize and promote the university's research, teaching and learning.
3. Support the Senior Executive Producer as directed on select video projects.
4. Collaborate with members of the UMC staff on projects (e.g. web, print and video) under the direction of the Vice President.
5. Coordinate with the Senior Executive Producer to choose the most effective team for pre-production, filming and post-production efforts.
6. Manage scheduling and logistics of project shoots, editing and other post-production activities. Engage the assistance of UMC administrative staff in these tasks when needed.
7. Communicate with the Vice President and/or Senior Executive Producer in developing concepts, timelines, storyboards and scripts of projects before filming. Revise and adapt projects based on feedback and/or changes in project goals, timelines and audiences. Review final cuts with Vice President and, when appropriate, relevant stakeholders.
8. Interact with video subjects in a manner that helps create comfort in front of the camera and confidence that their participation in the project will benefit the university and present them in a realistic manner.
9. Work with representatives of subjects and/or locations to ensure that required approvals or releases are in place before filming commences.
10. Ensure that media included within productions that is not university-produced - e.q. stock images, video and music - are used in accordance with copyright requirements and other relevant standards.
11. Support the work of media relations with select video news releases.
12. Continue to develop and advance professional skills in all elements of video production. These range from the most effective approaches to video storytelling as they relate to specific aims; concepting and storyboarding; framing images and scenes; cuts, fades and transitions; and technical elements of filming, editing and production.
QUALIFICATIONS Experience: 4 years of experience in video production.Education: Bachelor's degree.
REQUIRED SKILLS
1. Ability to produce video pieces that accomplish stated project goals, i.e. engagement, awareness, inspiration, etc.
2. Understanding of elements of effective video storytelling, e.g. narrative arcs, pacing, imagery, metaphor, and, when appropriate, creation of emotional touchpoints within a piece.
3. Expertise in developing concepts, scripts, storyboards and other pre-production materials that convey messages, ideas and information in a compelling manner.
4. Ability to translate complex information into clear and concise writing/scripting for video pieces.
5. Appreciation of logistical, technical and visual elements involved in studio and field production.
6. Talent for recognizing key elements of raw footage required to create the most powerful final product.
7. Ability to direct and collaborate with video editors to develop a final video product that meets the highest standards of excellence in quality and effectiveness.
8. Ability to work independently, with outside contractors and among departmental colleagues to realize expectations and timelines for individual projects. Measurable or observable knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or behaviors that are required to succeed in performing the essential functions.
9. Directing: Works with camera operators to identify the best angles and positions for filming to ensure the most effective composition, lighting and sound for each element of the shoot.
10. Editing: Working independently and in conjunction with video editors, identifies segments, cuts, transitions, fades, music, narration and all other elements of establishing the tone and rhythm of the video piece.
11. Equipment and software: Familiarity with cameras, microphones and other devices used commonly in filming. Expertise in Microsoft Word, Adobe Creative and Final Cut. Apply Here

EDITOR - LACHINA PUBLISHING SERVICES Info and Apply Here

REPORTER/BLOGGER - CLEVELAND SCENE Cleveland's alternative weekly, Scene, is looking for a fearless reporter and smart writer and blogger to join its editorial team.Though our primary focus is arts and entertainment, the paper has a news and investigative reporting core, so we're looking for someone with solid newspaper and/or magazine experience. You should bring a set of local contacts and a passion for breaking great stories. Versatility is important: The position calls for writing everything from 3,000-word features to daily blogs to sharp, witty items for our satirical columns. Experience in feature writing, long-form journalism, investigative work and digital media are all pluses.
The office atmosphere is casual and creative, but we work hard and demand high journalistic standards. The ideal candidate is also flexible, willing to pitch in on a variety of projects, handy with a camera and fun to have around.
Send a resume, brief cover letter, links to clips and three story ideas to fkuznik@clevescene.com. No calls, please.

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   

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

Chapter email: Cleveland@spj.org

President: Cheryl D'Mello

Chapter web site:  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 information on these events and awards below, in articles under this column or the President's Message. For job listings, see lower left; for student internships, see lower right

SIGN UP NOW FOR THE  2012 COMMUNICATORS HOLIDAY PARTY!
Nov. 27,  5:30 to 8 p.m.
at Massimo de Milano
W. 25th & Detroit Ave
(directions)
REGISTER BY WEDNESDAY, NOV. 21, to get the special $20 rate (here's the website)
or pay $30 at the door.
 Includes delicious assortment of food and at least one drink ticket for beer or wine.
This event brings together local communicators from media, public relations, technical writing, marketing and business. Come along and join us!

Nov. 29
Finding (and Writing) the Magic in Everyday Life
with Erin O'Brien
7 p.m.
Brecksville Branch
Cuyahoga County Public Library
Registration required - see more below and here  

November is National Novel Writing Month.
Click here to see the Cuyahoga County Public Library's events 
 
Dec. 2 
Mobile Connections: Are We Alone Together
Cheryl Campanella Bracken
First Unitarian Church
21600 Shaker Blvd.
Shaker Heights, 44122
9:30 a.m.
 
Jan. 2
Excellence in Journalism 2013
Call for Programs Deadline
More information online here or below at left
 
  Jan. 24
Mark of Excellence Awards Submission Deadline
More information online here or below at left

Feb. 7
Sigma Delta Chi Awards
Submission Deadline
More information online here or below at left

SAVE THE DATE!!!
 Region 4 Spring Conference April 5-6
University of Dayton. Watch this space for more info as it becomes available.
Members' Milestones

Please send us your special news so we can share it with your fellow SPJ members.     

Get accredited to do PR

Perhaps you're leaving journalism, or perhaps you haven't started yet but you hear the rumblings of change. While you're waiting for things to settle down, there are opportunities in public relations. 

 

 In March 2013 the Greater Cleveland Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) will start classes for the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) designation. 

 

To qualify you'll need to

  • Be an active PRSA member with at least five years of full-time, paid professional public relations experience (recommended) 
  • Submit an application to PRSA national office 
  • Participate in a review process of your work and your experience 
  • If you are approved by the committee then you will need to pass a computer exam

To be considered for accreditation download and complete an application from the national PRSA Accreditation Web site  where you can also check for information on the process, a study guide, and recommended books to prepare for the exam. 

 

The largest organization in the world for public relations professionals, the PRSA has more than 100 Chapters whose member comprise 32,000 students and professionals.  They represent business,industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Greater Cleveland Chapter of PRSA is the group that joins public relations, communications and marketing professionals all through Northeast Ohio. 

 

For more information about the courses starting in March 2013, email the instructors Christian Hunter, APR or Nora Jacobs, APR 

 
Lorain County Community College offers new course in 

" Social Media for the Newsroom" 

 

Lorain County Community College is offering a new journalism course that will focus on "Social Media for the Newsroom". 

  

According to SPJ board member Cliff Anthony, assistant professor of Journalism at LCCC, the course is part of an effort to prepare journalism students for the challenges they will meet in a modern newsroom. It will cover:

 

  • using Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, blogs and other social media tools to both gather news information and publish it. 
  • videotaping
  • editing on Finalcut Pro
  • streaming of events

  

Although LCCC's Journalism 1 (JRNM-151) is a prerequisite it is possible that requirement could be waived if a strong enough case is presented. 

 

Starting on Jan. 22 2013 and lasting for 16 weeks, the course will take place each Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.  For more information contact Anthony at canthony@lorainccc.edu or at 440-366-7729.

 
Press Club annual meeting & holiday event Dec. 12

The Press Club is holding its Annual Meeting and Holiday Event Dec. 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.  The entire slate of board members for this year will be there for you to meet. 

  

Come mix and meet with your friends and colleagues on the heated patio at Nighttown, 12387 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44106.  There will be surprises and celebrity guests. 

  

The cost is $20 for Press Club members, $35 for non-members. For more information and to register online click here

 
 
First Unitarian Church Community Forums 

First Unitarian Church has community forums lined up each Sunday morning from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Here's one that caught our eyes:   

 

  

Dec. 2 - Mobile Connections: Are We Alone Together?  

Cheryl Campanella Bracken, director of journalism and promotional communication at Cleveland State University talks about how the digital era has affected our families and our lives. She considers the questions:  

  1. Can we become addicted to texting and social media? 
  2. Are the connections in our brains being rewired?
  3. What is the impact on our families, friendships and communities?  

Both events are free and open to the public. First Unitarian Church is at 21600 Shaker Blvd. in Shaker Hts. 44122

  

For more information 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)
Cuyahoga County Public Library offers courses for writers

Spots remain in several of the courses and events for writers and authors at the Cuyahoga County Public Library this fall.

"Publishing 101" There is still one class left in this series designed to answer your questions about how publishing works

Dec. 15: "Nuts, Bolts and Next Steps"
Resources, concerns and plenty of time for your questions.

 

"Finding (and Writing) the Magic in Everyday Life" with Erin O'Brien, Nov. 29, 7 p.m. at the Brecksville Branch

and
Six "National Novel Writing Month" events , facilitated by local members of the NaNoWriMo organization, on Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. Oct. 27 through Dec. 1.
Click here for the page that has the links to sign up. The page also has a PDF of the library's fall flyer.

And don't forget the Writers Center Stage program, which takes place at Playhouse Square, will feature Ann Patchett Mar. 19, 2013 at the Ohio Theater, 7:30 p.m. More information about these authors, the entire series, and how to get tickets here.

 

Internships for journalism and communication students
MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS INTERN - OATEY  Info and
MARKETING INTERN - ALCOA
Info and Apply Here

PR INTERN - FAHLGREN MORTINE
Info and Apply Here for this Winter internship

MARKETING INTERN - MOEN Info and apply here (page looks blank but not; scroll down) 

MARKETING CO-OP - BENDIX Info and apply to this Elyria opportunity 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.  

  

NEW BLOG FROM KELLY: With a fresh batch of college grads looking for their first job, She shares pointers on how to identify shady entry-level employment scams in "Don't Fall for Faux "Entry-Level Marketing and Sports" Jobs" at her blog, Here And, follow her on Twitter Here where she posts "breaking new jobs" prior to including them in this 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 assignments:    

 

Sr. Marketing Communications Manager

Retail Marketing Manager/Mall

Digital Marketing Manager/Consumer

Internal Communications Manager (in December)

PR Agency Account Supervisor

Director Interactive/Online/Mobile/Social Media

PR Sr. AE or Acct Supervisor & Digital Sr. AE in Toledo

 

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

.  

216-292-9936