In This Issue:

• December Holiday Party
• Annual Meeting is January 10
• Woman of the Year Luncheon Success
• Pro Bono Committee News
• Membership News
• Other Holiday Parties for Communicators
• Employment Opportunities

WWPR WRAP PARTY IS DECEMBER 6

Help us “wrap up” 2007 at our holiday party! Festivities include free food, beer and sangria for the first two hours and door prizes will be awarded. We will also be collecting unwrapped items for our pro bono client Doorways for Women and Families to help make their holidays a little brighter. Don’t forget to invite your friends– we hope to see you there!
 
When: December 6, ­8 PM
Where: La Tasca, Penn Quarter, 722 7th St. (Take the Metro Red Line to Gallery Place)
Cost: Members­-free with donation or $10.00,
Non-members-­$10.00 with donation or $15.00
 
To register click here.
 
The holiday season can be a difficult time for our shelter residents and their families. Please consider bringing a donation to support them during this holiday season. A full list of donation ideas are available here.
 
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING ON JANUARY 10 

WWPR's Annual Meeting & Luncheon

"New and Emerging Media"

Where:   The Arts Club of Washington

When:  January 10, 12-2 pm

Guest Speakers:  Denise Graveline, don't get caught and David Weiner, PR Newswire   

Registration and details will be available at www.wwpr.org   
 
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2007 WASHINGTON PR WOMAN OF THE YEAR—JENNIFER WAYMAN!

WOMAN OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON SUCCESS Stars come out for the Washington Women in Public Relations Luncheon

By Elisa O’Halloran
 
The local stars of the D.C. area’s public relations community gathered at the 18^th annual Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) Washington PR Woman of the Year awards program on November 14. More than 200 PR practitioners attended the event held at the prestigious Mayflower Hotel in downtown D.C. to honor three of the Washington area’s top professionals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership and a strong dedication to community involvement. 

 
Before the nominees were announced, Helen Thomas, "The First Lady of the Press" and syndicated columnist for Hearst Newspapers, delivered an inspiring keynote address. She spoke about her incredible experiences covering nine U.S. presidents. It was during the coverage of her first White House in January, 1961 that she began closing presidential press conferences with “Thank you, Mr. President,” creating a White House tradition that continues to this day. Thomas went on to say, “We who cover the White House don’t always see the good sides of PR. Presidents don’t often see the good side of the press. It all started with Washington, but I was not around to cover him.” Thomas ended her speech reflecting on the fact that women are better off now than when she first came to Washington: “Suffragists chained themselves to fences and went to jail for the right to vote. It looks better for us now.” 

 
After Helen Thomas received a standing ovation from the crowd, the 2007 Washington PR Woman of the Year honorees were introduced.  The first horee was Karen Doyne, Managing Director of Crisis & Issues Management for Burson-Marsteller. Doyne served as Press Secretary to Senator David Durenberger and was a member of legendary local D.C. entertainment group The Capitol Steps before she started working in crisis management. “Crisis management is not a career choice for a lot of women. You have a reputation of being a grim reaper. When clients see you coming, they know something is wrong.” 

 
The second honoree to be recognized was Juliette Rizzo, the National Director of Exhibits and Events Planning for the U.S. Department of Education. Rizzo has a very impressive background including serving as a spokesperson for 54 million people with disabilities as Ms. Wheelchair America 2005 and carrying the Olympic torch through Dallas during the Atlanta Olympic Games. She has also been appointed by the governor of Maryland to chair the Outreach and PR Committee of the Maryland Commission on Disabilities. Rizzo told the audience about her experience meeting Ted Koppel. “I told Mr. Koppel about my background and he said, find her an internship.”

The final honoree and winner of the 2007 Washington PR Woman of the Year was Jennifer Wayman, Senior Vice President and Co-Group Director for Ogilvy Public Relations. This mother of four has worked in the public relations industry for the past 15 years. She started as an intern at Ogilvy PR in 1991, when Ogilvy’s Social Marketing practice was in its infancy. Wayman is the leader of a group that specializes in women’s health. For the past five years she served as the project director on the national awareness campaign, The Heart Truth, about women and heart disease called, sponsored by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Wayman discussed the campaign and said, “The most exciting thing has been working on the Heart Truth campaign because heart disease is the number one killer of women. It has been very gratifying to be involved with a program that has really sparked a national movement.”  As well as being very busy with her career, Wayman has been published numerous times, including her paper entitled “Competition: A Social Marketer’s Friend or Foe.”

Thanks to the generosity of the attendees who purchased raffle tickets and those who donated the great prizes WWPR will be able to donate $2,000 to Doorways to Women and Families, WWPR’s pro bono client, Doorways for Women and Families.
 
Washington Women in Public Relations would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous support in making this event possible.  
 
Benefactor Sponsors
 
APCO Worldwide, Burson-Martsteller, Cision, Levick Strategic Communications, LLC., MultiVu, a PR Newswire Company, Porter Novelli, The Capital Buzz, and The NewsMarket
 
Patron Sponsors
 
BurrellesLuce, DBC Public Relations Experts, Georgetown University- Master’s degree in PR, Hager Sharp, Medialink, News Broadcast Network, North American Precis Syndicate, Inc. (NAPS), Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, Richfield Productions, Inc., SpeakerBox Communications, Spectrum Science Communications and T. Dean Reed Company
 
We would like to thank the Woman of the Year Judges:
 
Shonali Burke, Margaret Ferry, Lindsay Keller, Tracy Krughoff and Lisa Kelley McCluskey

PRO BONO NEWS
 
Doorways for Women and Families’ Third Annual Holiday Shopping Event was held at the Crate&Barrel in Arlington, VA on Wednesday, November 28. Approximately 915 tickets were sold for this event. All of the proceeds from ticket and raffle sales and 10 percent of sales from the evening plus a week of online sales were donated to Doorways for Women and Families.

This year, Doorways had even more restaurants represented including: Clarendon Ballroom, Cosi, Goodys, Harry’s Tap Room, La Tasca, Liberty Tavern, Melting Pot, Mexicali Blues, P.F. Changs, Pinzimini, Tallula, Tandoori Nights, Natalias’ Elegant Creations, and Starbucks.

In addition to door prizes donated by Crate&Barrel, Wildfire Tysons and Pinziminis/Westin Arlington Gateway, there were over a dozen raffle prizes donated by local businesses as well. Singers from Make-A-Scene Music and Entertainment were also on hand to provide festive music.

Over 50 Host Committee members, including members of WWPR, helped to sell tickets to this event.

Between NOW and December 5, 10 percent of all sales made to www.crateandbarrel.com/doorways will be credited to Doorways!! Spread the word to friends and family!

Doorways’ next event, the “Santa Jam” holiday benefit concert will take place on Thursday, December 13 at the State Theatre in Falls Church from 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. Tickets are a $10 minimum donation and can be purchased online at www.thestatetheatre.com or at the door. Concert goers are also asked to bring an unwrapped gift or toy. Performances will be featured by the Mary Ann Redmond Band, the Tom Principato Band, the Tommy Lepson Band, Generation Vinyl, Radio Mosaic, Linwood Taylor, Mary Shaver, Mike Ault, and Soul Gravity. More information about Santa Jam can be found at www.santajam.org. 
 
MEMBERSHIP NEWS 

We would like to welcome our new members:

• Jennifer Wayman, Ogilvy Public Relations Karen Doyne, Burson & Marsteller Juliette Rizzo, U.S. Department of Education Matthew Davis, BEST OF DC Dina Ruden, NTEU Heather Epkins, Discover America Partnership Kelly Gerald, The Phi Beta Kappa Society Nicole Arens, Ogilvy Public Relations
• Elisa O'Halloran

• Website Chair
• Professional Development Chair

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
 
IABC’s SWINGING HOLIDAY PARTY

On December 13th, IABC's DC, Maryland, and Virginia communicators are invited to make merry and give back to the community at the chapter's 2007 Holiday Party. Join IABC members, along with members of WWPR, MENG, Capital Communicators Group, Federal Communicators Network, and other area communicators.
 
Date: December 13 Time: 6:15 - 9:15 pm
Location: Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City, 1250 South Hayes Street Arlington, Va.

More information and registration: http://www.iabcdc.org/calendar/event_071213.html
 
NAWBO Holiday Party

Date: December 10, 2007Start Time: 6:00 PMEnd Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Ritz Carlton Pentagon CityCost: Members registering prior to 11/30 $50Non-Members prior to 11/30 $60Members ($70 at the door) $60Nonmember ($80 at the door) $70

More information: Web Site: http://www.dealsinheels.com/  
To Register: https://www.dealsinheels.com/register.php?id=6107

E-mail: info@nawbo-ncc.org  
  
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
 
Associate Director of Communications
 
The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) seeks experienced individual for Associate Director of Communications position.
 
Principal Responsibilities:  This position will write and coordinate editorial content for the association’s bi-monthly magazine; write media advisories and press releases; create and manage media contact lists; track association’s media coverage; assist with pitching media stories and responding to media requests; and staff select association events.
 
Job Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or similar field. A minimum of 3 years experience in press/communications required.  Successful candidate will have strong verbal and written communications skills, knowledge of internet research, strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.  Qualified candidate will thrive in a team environment, be capable of juggling multiple activities at once and have strong interpersonal skills. Knowledge of the construction industry a plus.
 
AGC provides a supportive work environment, competitive salary, and an excellent benefits package.  Equal Opportunity Employer.  Please submit resume, references, three writing samples and salary history to: Carolyn Coker, Executive Director, HR/Mbshp/Admin, The Associated General Contractors of America, e-mail:  cokerc@agc.org, fax:  703-837-5404.
 
Public Relations and Marketing Specialist IV – Position BT081

Virginia Department of Health
Northern Regional Office for Emergency Preparedness & Response Program
 
The Virginia Department of Health, Office of Public Relations, announces recruitment for a key leadership and operational position located in the VDH northern region.  Office is located in Fairfax, Virginia area.   Position will assist local health departments and state office with media relations, information dissemination, press release preparation, briefing materials, speeches, informational packets, pamphlets, etc.; makes presentations; provides media/public relations training and guidance. Develop, implement and evaluate regional public health emergency communication plans; anticipate media trends; implement crisis communication measures; handle planning; conduct needs assessments; design, implement and evaluate public/media relations activities; oversee publications; coordinate promotional services and programs. 
 
Qualifications include considerable knowledge of and experience in public relations practices, crisis communication response techniques, marketing strategies and area media. Ideal candidate will have the ability to develop themes; manage public relations programs; communicate effectively; and meet critical deadlines.  Bachelor's degree in journalism, broadcasting, media, public relations, health education or equivalent combination of training and experience. Candidate should have experience using Microsoft Office or related publishing software and in providing citizens public health related information. Candidate must pass a criminal/background investigation; be available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week; travel frequently within region and occasionally throughout the state; and possess a valid driver's license. Those needing sponsorship need not apply.  Salary is negotiable to $72,000.
 
Interested candidates must apply by submitting a state application for employment online at http://jobs.virginia.gov.
 
VDH accepts only online applications and faxed, mailed, or e-mailed applications will not be considered.
 
For questions, contact:  Diane Powers, Voice: 804-864-7022, Email: Diane.Powers@vdh.virginia.gov.   Your application must be received by 5:00 p.m. on December 7, 2007.  The Virginia Dept. of Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 
Communications Specialist

Equal Justice Works is seeking a Communications Specialist to provide editorial and media relations services to support the communications goals. S/he works as part a three-member Communications Unit and reports to the Director of Communications.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with staff on communications strategies to achieve program goals. Coordinate implementation of publications plan, including brochures, fact sheets, and annual report. Develop content for print and electronic publications, invitations, promotional pieces and other materials. Draft news releases; maintain media contact lists. Respond to media requests.   Monitor and report on media coverage of the organization, our programs, and key issues. Develop content for the Equal Justice Works website; ensure accurate and up-to-date content. Participate in the development and implementation of event and program marketing and promotional efforts, including content development and integration of messages. Participate in organizational events, strategic communications planning and communications initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or related field and three (3) years relevant work experience. Excellent and demonstrated written and oral communication skills. Web editing and writing experience and basic web content management skills including use of HTML.  Basic knowledge of media relations strategies and tactics. Ability to prioritize and carry out multiple tasks in a team setting. Strong database and word processing skills, preferably Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
• Commitment to Equal Justice Works mission and program goals.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary commensurate with experience; comprehensive and generous benefits package, including loan repayment assistance, full health insurance coverage for employee, employer sponsored disability insurance program, monthly transportation stipend, retirement plan up to 8% employer match, and 2 weeks vacation plus sick leave, holiday schedule and summer hours.

TO APPLY

Applicants should send a resume, references, and cover letter describing in detail experience, qualifications and interest in the position to Real Thornton, EQUAL JUSTICE WORKS, 2120 L St., NW, Washington, D.C. 20037, or email to mail@equaljusticeworks.org. Position remains open until filled. Vice President, Corporate Communications Fleishman-Hillard has an immediate opening in Washington D.C. for an energetic, self-starting, Vice President to join our thriving corporate communications practice. This position provides the opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment with collaborative teams to assist multiple clients with their external public relations and communications activities.
 
Responsibilities
Responsibilities include daily interactions with clients, and developing and managing strategic programs. Vice Presidents are expected to manage projects, balance staff workload, develop and manage budgets, have strong hands-on media outreach skills and relationships, be involved in strategic planning and ensure profitability. They are involved in regular account planning meetings and new business presentations.

Qualifications
• Seven or more years of experience providing public relations counsel to clients
• PR Agency experience is a must and experience with hardware, mobile devices and/or networking equipment providers is a plus
• Experience with technology clients and the government market (B2G) is preferred
• Must have proven success pitching trade and national business media
• Strong strategic thinker and planner, with a proven track record in messaging and positioning
• Demonstrated experience executing public relations plans and the ability to draft and implement strategic public relations programs within budget
• Excellent writing ability with extensive experience in all forms of written communication, from business media news releases to executive talking points
• Proven ability in developing compelling proposals and presenting them effectively and persuasively
• Detail – oriented
• Ability to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality
• Ability to work well within a team environment
 
Fleishman-Hillard’s reputation for quality, creativity, and results is the foundation of our distinguished status in the industry. We offer a competitive salary and superb benefits including medical/dental/vision, life/disability insurance, paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan with a significant company match.  
 
Please do not contact the Washington D.C. office directly, only resumes submitted through our Web site will be considered.

Account Supervisor, Corporate Communications

Fleishman-Hillard has an immediate opening in Washington D.C. for an energetic, self-starting, Account Supervisor to join our thriving corporate communications practice. This position provides the opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment with collaborative teams to assist multiple clients with their external public relations and communications activities.
 
Responsibilities
Responsibilities will include proactive outreach to key trade and national reporters; staffing events and tradeshows; working with more senior members of the team to create budgets and forecasts, manage projects and clients, and pursue new business by contributing to proposals and opportunities.

Qualifications
• Five or more years of experience providing public relations counsel to clients
• PR Agency experience is a must and experience with hardware, mobile devices and/or networking equipment providers is a plus
• Experience with technology clients and the government market (B2G) is preferred
• Must have proven success pitching trade and national business media
• An ability to quickly learn complicated subjects and help solve client problems using a suite of public relations tactics
• Excellent writing ability with extensive experience in all forms of written communication, from business media news releases to executive talking points
• Detail – oriented
• Ability to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality
• Ability to work well within a team environment
 
Fleishman-Hillard’s reputation for quality, creativity, and results is the foundation of our distinguished status in the industry. We offer a competitive salary and superb benefits including medical/dental/vision, life/disability insurance, paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan with a significant company match.
 
Please do not contact the Washington D.C. office directly, only resumes submitted through our Web site will be considered.