Getting a JumpStart on the APR Process

We all face those times in our lives when we need to follow the wise words of 80’s rocker David Lee Roth…“just go ahead and jump!” On February 3^rd, 23 PRSA members from Wisconsin and Illinois did just that by taking part in an APR JumpStart session, a first-hand orientation to the PRSA Accreditation process.

Attendees from the Northeast Wisconsin, Madison, Southeast Wisconsin and Chicago chapters gathered in Neenah for an introduction to the infamous right of PRSA passage known as accreditation. In addition to an overview of the process—from application to readiness review and through the online exam—seasoned practitioners shared insights, tips and advice on what it takes to be successful through the process.

“The information was very thorough, the varying viewpoints were beneficial and I thought it was nice to have a session with members from multiple chapters,” one attendee commented.

“The session was excellent. I thought the sample test was really good as it helped us get our minds around the logic or nature of the questions. Also the portfolio explanation and the process review were very helpful,” shared another.

And finally: “Overall, the program provided the knowledge and resources I needed to consider APR. Also, the excitement of the presenters made me more excited to consider APR. And, the excitement of the presenters made me more excited to become accredited - thanks to everyone for this opportunity!”

And thanks to Chapter members Jim Streed, APR and LouAnn Novak, APR for sharing their expertise with the group. Interested in learning more about how you can add three little letters—APR—to your name? Just jump in and contact Chapter Accreditation Chair Janet Bonkowski at bonkowskij@schneider.com.

Make Emotions Work for You

Make the best of sticky situations by joining us for our March PRSA Meeting: Make Emotions Work for You at 11:15 a.m. on March 24, 2009, at the Bridgewood Resort in Neenah. Dr. Karin Suesser of Aurora Behavioral Health will explain Emotional Intelligence and help us plan for and manage our emotions, as well as manage others' emotions, to handle a crisis of any magnitude. Register today to be ready for even the stickiest of situations.

Join PRSA in March and Save

If you're interested in becoming a member of PRSA, now is the time to take advantage of a special offer. Through the end of March, you receive a one-year Chapter membership for free (a $60 value).

Wondering what PRSA can do for your, both professionally and personally? Contact our PRSA Membership Chair Erin Elliott at 920/592-3555. She'll be happy to share the benefits of being a member as well as help you with the application.

You Have the BEST Job in 2009!

According to a recent article on MSN Careers, public relations managers have the best job in the industry category of management, business and financial operations occupations. Based on job growth in the second half of 2008, PR is the way to go if you are looking for a job in 2009.

Sometimes Technology Just Makes Sense

Ever want to know what's front page news in Wausau, WI, Lincoln, NE, New York City or even Honolulu? The Newseum displays today's daily newpaper front pages in their original, unedited form. Just put your mouse on a city and the newspaper headlines pop up. To see the full page, just double click. Pretty cool, eh?

You just might want to bookmark this one...

You Should Know Cole Buergi

Cole Buergi, senior account executive at Leonard & Finco Public Relations, has been named one of the "40 People Under 40 Your Should Know" by the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce. His story is included in the February/March Bay Business Journal.

Laurie Pagel has been promoted to public relations manager for the American Cancer Society in Wisconsin.

March

8 years
Becky Bestul
Jennifer London

6 years
Scott Rice

3 years
Katie Eastman
Adam Hardy
Aaron Popkey

2 years
Lisa Evenson
Dana Kohlbeck