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President's Message
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Stirring up storytelling skills in kids
 | | Frank W. Lewis |
Frank W. Lewis is a man on a mission.His goal: to demystify writing for kids, teach
respect for the craft, and encourage a lifelong passion for creating. In order to achieve this, he founded a non-profit youth creative writing center called Ohio City Writers. The former Cleveland Scene and Free Times editor is now involved in organizing programs to help youth in grades 4 through 12 hone their skills with the written word, which in turn will bolster their imaginations, critical thinking abilities, and self-confidence.
According to Lewis, "a writing coach is a personal trainer for your literary muscles." He is looking for volunteers to be writing coaches. Ohio City Writers is building alliances with members of the local writing, journalism, arts and music communities, as well as the increasingly vibrant Near West neighborhoods. If you are a writer looking to pass on your skills and passion for writing to others, here's a wonderful opportunity. For further details, go to their website: ohiocitywriters.org or email him here.
SPJ board members met with Professor Jae-won Lee for a delicious Indian buffet at the Taj India Palace restaurant on Wilson Mills Road. Lee leaves in two weeks for South Korea. What will he be doing there? "My resume has 31 pages; I don't need to have anything more added there. I think I will be looking at some altruistic pursuits and volunteer activities," he said, while enjoying some spicy goat meat curry.
Meanwhile, all eyes are on The Plain Dealer and the changes that will be coming. On Tuesday Dec. 11, there will be a panel discussion at 7:30 p.m. at Happy Dog, West 58th and Detroit. Dan Moulthrop of The Civic Commons moderates this panel discussion, which so far includes Rachel Dissell of the PD; Thor Wasbotten, director of Kent State's School of Journalism; Jill Miller Zimon, Pepper Pike council member and political blogger at Writes Like She Talks; Angie Schmitt, former PD reporter and current blogger at RustWire.com; and Afi-Odelia Scruggs, former PD columnist and current multimedia journalist who is covering the transition now going on at the PD at PDNowWhat.com.
This event is part of the Write to Assemble series, organized by OCW and hosted by Happy Dog. Admission is free. If you're coming, please let them know on the Facebook event page. And continue to support our PD!
Sincerely, Cheryl D'Mello
President
cheryldmello@hotmail.com  | | Seated from left, Cheryl D'Mello, Jae-won Lee, Cliff Anthony, Carrie Buchanan and Maria Shine Stewart |
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| PD developments watched nationwide |
Develop ments at the Plain Dealer are being closely watched across the nation, as evidenced by the recent article on Poynter.org by its director, Julie Moss.
The article discusses the new tentative, six-year agreement between The Plain Dealer and the Guild's bargaining committee.
Mentioned are the following agreement points:
- 58 people will be laid off in 2013 and up to 5 in 2014 but after that the layoffs stop;
- part of the 2009 12 percent pay cut will be reversed;
- additional heath care and a lump sum option will be offered to laid-off employees;
- Non-guild employees can be hired for Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer can use Cleveland.com material in print.
to read the full article click here.
Plain Dealer Guild president Harlan Spector will be part of a forum on Dec. 16 from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. at the First Unitarian Church of Cleveland, 21600 Shaker Blvd. in Shaker Heights. Moderated by SPJ board member Anup Kumar of Cleveland State University's School of Communication, the panel will also feature former PD editor Jean Dubail, now senior regional editor of Patch.com, and Afi-Odelia Scruggs, a former PD columnist who is currently blogging about the transition at PDNowWhat.com (see link above).
To share your concern for the Plain Dealer's future: - Sign the petition here
- Subscribe to the paper here. There's even a digital edition.
- Advertise, and support those businesses that do the same.
- Go to the Facebook site Save the Plain Dealer and sign up by hitting the "Like" button.
- Communicate! You can reach the chairman of Advance Publications Inc., Steven Newhouse, through the Contact Us button at this website or the more detailed address and phone information given by the SavethePlainDealer Facebook page. Tell him how you value the paper.
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| New Benefits for SPJ Members! | 
SPJ and WestPoint Financial Group have partnered to offer "SPJ Solutions", a program that provides the opportunity for benefits to members of SPJ.
Members can now enroll in the following insurance programs:
- individual life
- health
- disability
- long-term care
- personal liability
- property liability
- errors & omissions
Disability and long-term care, offered through MassMutual, will have a 10% lifetime premium discount.
Most attractive to freelance journalists, SPJ Solutions could also ease some of the transition upheaval to those enduring layoffs and downsizing.
Click here to learn more
Not an SPJ member yet? Click here to join.
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| Mark of Excellence Award deadline 1-24! | 
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!
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| 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 2013 the winners will be declared and on June 21 there will be an awards banquet at the National Press club in Washington, DC.
For more information and to enter. click here
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| 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/CONTENT SPECIALIST - WOIO/WUAB TV - WOIO-TV is seeking a full-time News Content Specialist. Make sure the day's stories decided by news mgmt are covered. Generate story ideas, monitor news wires/police radios, maintain phone lists of sources, files & records of upcoming news events. Assist in writing/preparing news broadcasts. Use personal discretion/initiative to solve problems; provide story ideas & research as necessary. Use judgment & discretion to make story/coverage decisions as events warrant. Direct videographers and/or reporters to gather/produce news. Make regular "beat" calls. Write/edit copy for inclusion on news pgms/spls as well as field produce & fill in line produce, as needed, to include story selection/format, rundown prep & other editorial/production resp associated within guidelines/policies est by news mgmt. Back time & insure editorial integrity of program from control room during its live presentation. College degree in Journalism preferred. Basic rules of journalism/news gathering Excellent writing/story telling ability. Demonstrated ability to research news stories/prepare copy for air. Ability to work under pressure & get along with others. Knowledge of politics/geography. Send resume/dvd to WOIO, 1717 E. 12th, Cleveland OH 44114 or email to; mgreen@woio.com. No phone calls please.
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER WGTE PUBLIC BROADCASTING, TOLEDO - WGTE Public Broadcasting seeks a full-time, Associate Producer. The position will also be responsible for assisting with project research, development and script writing. This position also operates television production equipment and edits video material. Previous experience in videography and digital editing required. Experience with Final Cut Pro preferred. Candidate must be willing to work a flexible work schedule. Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university in a field such as liberal arts, radio & television broadcasting or journalism required; or a minimum of an Associate's degree in liberal arts, radio & television broadcasting or journalism, and five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience is also required. A valid driver's license is required. Send your letter and resume to: Human Resources, P.O. Box 30, Toledo, OH 43614, or Online Here
COMMERCIAL COPY COORDINATOR - WEWS TV 5 - Info and Apply Here
DIRECTOR OF PRINT & DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS - NOTRE DAME COLLEGE - Info Here. To apply, please submit a résumé and cover letter to careers@ndc.edu. Please list the title of the position for which you are applying in your subject line of your e-mail.
ASSISTANT EDITOR - CRAIN'S CLEVELAND BUSINESS - Info and Apply Here
STUDIO PRODUCER - TRG REALITY - TRG Reality is looking for a highly organized, efficient, multi-tasker to fill a full time Studio Producer position. Must be able to prioritize between multiple photo and video shoots on a weekly basis, while not being easily overwhelmed and keeping a positive upbeat attitude. Professional experience a must, styling experience preferred.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:-Collaborates with Sales and Photography Department to determine technical and artistic project strategy -Works with photography department to determine required crew for projects-Sources out required crew for shoots (stylists, assistants, grips, camera operators, sound, etc.) -Creates and manages organized, strict schedules for large projects -Manages schedule and priorities of Set Builder and other assistants hired for Production needs. -Makes all arrangements for location shoots (contacts, fees, permits, insurance certificates, etc.) -Manages production budgets and alerts Traffic of any budgetary concerns, overages or issues -Requests talent submissions from agencies based on project requirements -Negotiates talent rates on behalf of client -Acts as liaison between client and talent agency during selection process -Ensures that all required props and wardrobe are obtained before shoot by pulling from studio inventory, purchasing, or sourcing a freelance stylist when required and within budget -Ensures that all props, wardrobe and special equipment are returned for refund after the shoot during studio hours, or hires a freelance stylist with required and within budget. -Pulls all stored product required for upcoming projects -Organize all products and props that are stored at studio on a long term basis -Search and discover new options for freelance talent in a small Cleveland Market (stylists, food stylists, set builders, photo assistants, video crew, etc) -Locate and negotiate price for obscure propping requests that can often be near impossible to find REQUIREMENTS: -3+ years' experience in production oriented field (preferably photo or video industries) -Outstanding organizational and analytical skills -Strict attention to detail -Ability to prioritize and complete multiple major projects under stressful conditions and stringent deadlines -Extremely strong computer skills: Excel, Word Processing -Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently -Excellent communicator, both oral and written -Must be self motivated-Prop buying and styling experience preferred. Please send resumes to Adam Wilde, Awilde@trgreality.com No Phone Calls Please
REPORTERS - CLEVELAND JEWISH PUBLICATION CO. The Cleveland Jewish Publication Co., a fast-paced print and digital media company, has immediate openings for reporters. Successful candidates should have strong writing skills; a track record of breaking news on deadline; the ability to write compelling features and profiles and manage multiple assignments; and be able to take photos and videos. Candidates should be able to work independently, be team-oriented and have an enthusiasm for online as well as print journalism. Requirements include a bachelor's degree in journalism or communications and 2+ years working in the media. Candidates should have a solid command of English grammar and AP style. Knowledge of Jewish practices and the Cleveland Jewish Community helpful. The CJN offers competitive salary and excellent benefits, including medical, dental and 401(k). To apply, send a resume, cover letter and three published writing samples to managing editor Bob Jacob at bjacob@cjn.org. 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
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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 |
Dec. 11
Panel Discussion on The Plain Dealer's Future
7:30 p.m.
Happy Dog
W. 58th and Detroit Ave.
Moderator: Dan Moulthrop, The Civic Commons;
Panelists: Rachel Dissell of the Plain Dealer; Thor Wasbotten, director of Kent State's School of Journalism; Jill Miller Zimon, Pepper Pike council member and political blogger ; Angie Schmitt, former PD reporter and current blogger; and Afi-Odelia Scruggs, blogger covering the PD transition
Dec. 12
The Press Club
Annual Meeting and Holiday Event
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
at Nighttown
12387 Cedar Road
Cleveland Heights OH 44106
more details below
Dec. 12
Board meeting
SPJ Cleveland
Exact time and location TBA
it will be an evening meeting.
Contact chapter president Cheryl D'Mello at the link below to attend. All welcome.
Dec. 16
The Plain Dealer Newspaper Crisis: Print or Digital?
Sunday Forum
9:30 - 10:45 a.m.
First Unitarian Church of Cleveland
21600 Shaker Blvd.
Shaker Heights OH 44122
with Harlan Spector, PD Guild chair; Jean Dubail of Patch.com;, Afi-Odelia Scruggs, blogger covering the PD transition; and Anup Kumar of Cleveland State University.
Jan. 2
Excellence in Journalism 2013
Call for Programs Deadline
Jan. 24 Mark of Excellence Awards Submission Deadline
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.
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Members' Milestones
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Dan Coughlin to receive SEHS Hall of Fame Award.
SPJ, Cleveland Pro Chapter Distinguished Service Award winner for 2002, Dan Coughlin has been named a St. Edwards High School Hall of Fame Award winner. A member of the class of 1956, Coughlin receives this latest honor as one piece in a string of recognition that includes an Emmy award and twice being named Ohio sportswriter of the year.
Sports has been Dan's Couglin's passion for the past four decades, from his beginnings sportswriting for the Plain Dealer (1964 - 1982) and on through his work at WJW-TV8 (since 1983). As his recent books "Crazy with the Papers to Prove it" and "Pass the Nuts" prove, he has a well developed sense of the absurd and has immensely enjoyed using it.
Dan will be presented with the award at a ceremony on Jan. 18 at Ahern Catering in Avon, Ohio.
Please send us your special news so we can share it with your fellow SPJ members.
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| Scripps Introduces "Storm Shield"
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Here's a new tool for journalists.
The Scripps network of television stations has released Storm Shield, a weather app for iPhone and Android that uses voice and push notifications to send you weather warnings and watches issued by the National Weather Service. You choose the areas and if it's in a Scripps local market it will even add customized local information, alerts and news.
The app can be found on iTunes for iPhone users and Google Play for Android.
For more information click here
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| 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
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Get accredited to do PR
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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
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EIJ 2013 - Call for Programs and Conference Ideas
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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
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| Internships for journalism and communication students | |
SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN - NINESIGMA - Info and Apply Here
WINTER/SPRING INTERNSHIP - AKHIA - AKHIA is looking for a Winter/Spring Intern. The ideal candidate must have a passion for communication, strong written skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Qualifications: *Effective verbal and written communication skills *Pursuing a degree in public relations, communications or a related field *Attention to detail *Experience with social media channels, such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc. a plus Please send resume and cover letter to Amanda.kleinhenz@akhia.com.
MARKETING INTERN, SUMMER 2013 - JOANN STORES - Info and Apply Here
INTERN REPORTERS - CLEVELAND JEWISH PUBLICATION CO. The Cleveland Jewish Publication Co., a fast-paced print and digital media company, has immediate openings for intern reporters. A small stipend will be available at the end of the term.Successful candidates should have strong writing skills; a track record of breaking news on deadline; the ability to write compelling features and profiles and manage multiple assignments; and be able to take photos and videos. Candidates should be able to work independently, be team-oriented and have an enthusiasm for online as well as print journalism. Requirements include working toward a bachelor's degree in journalism or communications and experience writing for a student newspaper. Candidates should have a solid command of English grammar and AP style. Knowledge of Jewish practices and the Cleveland Jewish Community helpful. A small stipend is available at the end of the term. To apply, send a resume, cover letter and three published writing samples to managing editor Bob Jacob at bjacob@cjn.org. No phone calls, please
MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS INTERN - OATEY Info and
MARKETING INTERN - ALCOA Info and Apply Here
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| 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.
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| EXCLUSIVE searches |
| | Laurie Mitchell Marketing & Communications Executive Search has been retained for the following assignments:
Retail Marketing Manager/Mall
Internal Communications Manager
3 PR Agency experienced Account Supervisors
PR Account Supervisor/Toledo
2 Digital Sr. AEs/Toledo
Sr. Digital Art Director/Toledo
Financial Services Sr. Financial Services
To apply for any of these current searches, please email your resume as a single Word file to
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216-292-9936
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 Writer'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.
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