7:30 a.m., Friday, March 6
Spokane Club, 1002 W. Riverside

Think of a worst case crisis scenario at your place of work.  Is it a bomb threat? Medical malpractice? Dirt being uncovered about company leadership? Computer hacker? Crises can range in complexity and scope, and all crises need a tailored plan of attack that includes communication with employees, the media, constituents and the public.

In the past year, I can recall instances of all these situations unfolding locally and nationally. It became clear which organizations had some sort of plan in place, and those that didn't.  The companies that were prepared had prompt communication with employees and the media (when necessary) and had spokespeople addressing tough questions as if they had rehearsed them the night before. No matter the source, messaging was consistent and discussion shifted towards the future – how the organization would prevent it from happening again, how they are faring now, or some other positive angle.

You are invited to hear from Jeffrey Bell, a partner from Gallatin Public Affairs in Spokane, to learn more about developing a crisis communication plan internally. Jeff will share his recommendations of crisis communication plan components, how to develop one internally, common mistakes made and how to avoid them, and more. With more than 14 years of experience in the public affairs sector, Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

About Gallatin Public Affairs
For nearly 20 years, at the often complex intersection of business, government, politics and the media, we've helped our clients seize opportunities, overcome challenges and grow. We create strategies to shape public opinion, enhance reputations and manage crises. From advertising to media relations, our team of proven communication strategists is ready to craft your message, prepare your messengers and engage the media and public to ensure your voice is heard.

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And now a word from our sponsors . . .

Without sponsors the SPARK Awards simply could not happen. It's that simple. Your MarCom Board is committed to continuing the tradition of honoring excellence in marketing, communications and public relations work done in our region. We do that by staging the SPARK Awards every April in a manner that is commensurate with your expectations—in an effort to raise money to provide paid internships to deserving local college students. So, to accomplish our goals we need and most sincerely appreciate our SPARK Awards sponsors.

Several firms and individuals have already stepped up and made the commitment such as Dean Davis Photography, Klündt | Hosmer and Maggie Crabtree. In addition to direct financial support, we are also most grateful for the in-kind services we have secured from Thinking Cap Communications who will be designing the invitations and awards, and Ross Printing Company who will be printing the event materials.

We are waiting for decisions from other MarCom member firms, but in the mean time I ask that you take a few moments to talk with your organization's decision-makers about the contributions we are seeking. It makes a difference in the future of our internship funding, which as you all know, has been increased to $2,500 for each of the two interns that are chosen from a long list of qualified collegiate candidates. In addition, by committing to a sponsorship, your company or organization will be recognized at the awards and included in event materials, which is a cost-effective way to get your brand or messaging in front of a captive audience.

Now is the time to make your sponsorship of the SPARK Awards happen. Just get a hold of Lori Humphrey, SPARK Awards Fundraising Chair @ 534-7477 or by email lulupromotion@aol.com.

Thank you!

Jeff Thomas, MarCom President

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Sign up to host a student today

Calling all public relations, communications and marketing professionals! Sign up now for Day on the Job and host a local student for a half-day job shadow.

We are once again offering the flexible date program. Students and professionals will choose a mutually beneficial date between March 6 and April 3 to complete the job shadow.  Job shadows should be approximately four hours long.

Day on the Job is a very beneficial experience for students, giving them a glimpse of the “real world” and a typical day in the field of communications. It’s also a great way for students to become familiar with different types communication professions.

Professionals and communication students wishing to participate should contact PRSA board member Alison Moerschell by Friday, February 20, 2008.  Registration forms will be available at the February breakfast meeting and are available online at www.prsaspokane.org.

Participating schools include:  Eastern Washington University, Gonzaga University, University of Idaho, Washington State University and Whitworth University.

If you have questions or would like to participate in the PRSA Day on the Job, contact PRSA board member Alison Moerschell at alison.moerschell@hillandknowlton.com or 509-321-1184.

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"Close scrutiny will show that most 'crisis situations' are opportunities to either advance, or stay where you are." - Maxwell Maltz

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