Pinnacle Worldwide News

Pinnacle Mobilizing to Aid Philippines Flood Victims

28 September 2009

The worst flooding in 42 years has devastated sections of the Philippines, killing at least 140 people. Tropical storm Ketsana dumped a record amount of rainfall on the Manila metropolitan area, submerging parts of the city and affecting more than 400,000 people. Among those affected were long time Pinnacle members Romeo and Lulu Virtusio, whose home was inundated by chest-high waters for over four hours. Virtually everything they owned was damaged or destroyed.

In response to the tragedy, Pinnacle Worldwide is asking members, colleagues and friends to donate to relief efforts in the Philippines. Pinnacle has set up a special account on PayPal, the secure Internet payment system used by millions, to collect contributions that will be turned over to appropriate relief agencies working on helping those affected.

To make a donation, click here.

Carr Creates Identity for Falls Program

9 September 2008

Pinnacle member Carr Marketing Communications Inc. recently created a graphic identity for the Western New York Falls Prevention initiative, and facilitated group sessions with the WNY Falls Prevention Consortium to develop the slogan �Step Up To Stop Falls.�

The WNY Falls Prevention initiative is a community-wide effort to improve the quality of life and limit the loss of independence in seniors. The program includes education on factors that contribute to falls, tips to prevent falling, and a community-wide understanding about falls and fall prevention.

Carr Marketing Communications Inc. is an independent strategic planning, public relations, and marketing firm based in Amherst (near Buffalo).

For more information on Carr Marketing Communications, visit www.carrmarketing.com.

W&C Works U.S. Sugar Deal

25 June 2008

Pinnacle member Wragg & Casas PR of Miami handled media for U.S. Sugar�s landmark deal to sell 187,000 acres of land (292 sq. miles) to Florida for $1.75 billion. The transaction is the Sunshine State�s biggest land deal ever, and will go a long way in improving the health of the Everglades by restoring the natural water flow.

The New York Times reported on its front page that the transaction�s �magnitude and location of the purchase left environmentalists and state officials giddy.� U.S. Sugar will continue farming the site for six years and then turn over the land, two sugar refineries and 200 miles of railroad track to the South Florida Water Management District.

During the signing of the agreement, Gov. Charlie Crist said the deal is as �monumental as the creation of the nation�s first national park, Yellowstone.� U.S. Sugar called the transaction a �bittersweet moment for a company that has been farming this land for more than four generations.� It is proud to be part of an historical agreement to �restore much of the natural footprint of south Florida.�

For more information on Wragg & Casas, visit www.wraggcasas.com.

Pinnacle Releases Global Sustainability Study

11 June 2008

Results of a global survey of corporations on sustainability show that one-half of businesses polled lack a sustainability strategy. Those with a strategy are more likely to be focused on improving perceptions and responding to increasing regulations, rather than meeting social needs or generating revenue opportunities.

CEOs made up the majority of survey respondents, and although less than half have a strategy today, 55 percent said sustainability will grow in importance and require increased resources and attention.

The survey was developed by The Vandiver Group, Inc. (TVG), and sponsored by Pinnacle Worldwide (PWW), a global organization of independent public relations firms. The results represent companies on six continents, 25 countries and 40 industries. Of those who provided annual revenues, 18 percent had revenues from $10 million to $100 million; 9 percent were at $100 million to $1 billion and 13 percent were at $1 billion or more. The results also show that companies are more focused on perception (7.1 on a 10-point scale) than revenue growth (rated 6 on the same scale). Meanwhile, companies rated reducing consumption and increasing pollution control as more important (7.1 and 6.6 out of 10, respectively) than meeting social needs (5.28 out of 10 points) as drivers of their sustainability strategies.

The study found that nearly one-third of businesses are developing a sustainability strategy, and just less than one-half already have an existing strategy. Six percent of respondents characterized their company as a �recognized leader� in sustainability. The survey found that larger companies were slightly more likely than smaller companies to have strategies and staff dedicated to the area of sustainability. An overwhelming 75 percent of respondents said sustainability is either �an important part of our organization�s corporate strategy,� or said they expect the topic �to become increasingly important in the future.�

Read the complete news release (including a link to a comprehensive report of the survey results) at www.pinnacleww.com/whatsnew/20080605-Sustainability_Press_Release.pdf.

de La Garza Writes For Energy Industry Newsletter

5 June 2008

Henry A. de La Garza, president of Pinnacle member de La Garza Public Relations, of Houston, has been named Contributing Editor for Public Relations and Advertising by Natural Gas & Electricity, a highly influential and award winning industry newsletter.

Mr. de La Garza�s first column appears in the June edition and is entitled �Well Planned Crisis Communications Can Help Weather Any Storm.� It is timed to coincide with the arrival of hurricane season which always poses a risk to energy facilities in and around the Gulf of Mexico.

�We are delighted to have someone of Henry�s professional caliber and worldwide reputation in the communications business as a regular columnist,� said Robert E. Willett, managing director of Financial Communications Company, of Houston, co-publisher of the periodical.

de La Garza Public Relations, Inc. specializes in providing crisis communications to the energy and marine industry. The firm is the Texas gulf coast representative for the MTI Network of crisis communications firms which represent some 6,500 ships navigating the seas. Mr. de La Garza�s professional career spans nearly four decades as a former spokesman for two Texas Mayors and AT&T, an award winning television news journalist, and the founder of one of Houston top corporate communications firms. He is Accredited in Public Relations by the Public Relations Society of America. de La Garza is a former Chairman and President of Pinnacle Worldwide.

Strategic Objectives Awash in Awards

29 May 2008

Pinnacle member Strategic Objectives, Canada�s leading independent public relations agency which is now celebrating its 25th year, has earned more than a dozen top PR awards this spring. Recognition has come from the International Hermes Creative Awards, the Communicator Awards, the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) and the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Ovation Awards for outstanding public and media relations, community relations, special events and PR campaign photography.

Strategic Objectives scored three Hermes Creative Platinum Awards for M&M Meat Shops National Family Dinner Night (Best Community Relations) and Trident Splash National Cannonball Championship (in the Special Event and Publicity categories). The Cadbury Chocolate Couture Collection Fashion Show won a Gold Award for Photography. This international competition that recognizes outstanding work in traditional and emerging media, received more than 4000 entries.

The Trident Splash National Cannonball Championship also won the Communicator Gold Award of Excellence, alongside programs from many of North America�s most innovative marketers.

Additionally, Strategic Objectives took Gold, Silver and Bronze awards at the recent CPRS ACE Awards. Trident Splash National Cannonball Championship, which invited any Canuck who can tuck to compete, won Gold for Best Use of Media Relations and Bronze for Best Use of Special Events. The Silver went to M&M Meat Shops National Family Dinner Night, an annual online fundraising event and PR program created by Strategic Objectives for M&M Meat Shops. National Family Dinner Night has been embraced by hundreds of communities from coast-to-coast. This annual program will also be recognized with a top award at the CPRS National Awards on June 10, 2008 in Halifax.

On May 29, IABC Toronto honoured Strategic Objectives with three Ovation Awards of Excellence at its Toronto Gala. The agency�s campaigns for Trident Splash National Cannonball Championship and the Launch of Panago Pizza in Toronto each won an Ovation Award of Excellence in separate Media Relations categories. Strategic Objectives also won an Ovation Award of Excellence in Photography for its Cadbury Chocolate Couture Collection, celebrating the two things women love most: chocolate and fashion.

Headquartered in Toronto and founded in 1983 by sisters Deborah Weinstein and Judy Lewis, Strategic Objectives is recognized as one of Canada�s most creative, successful and celebrated public relations agencies. The firm provides Smart Ideas and Better Solutions to many of Canada and the world�s leading brands. Strategic Objectives is the only Canadian firm ever to be honoured with the United Nations Grand Award for Outstanding Achievement in Public Relations. A member of Pinnacle Worldwide, the Strategic Objectives team includes more than 50 PR professionals including representatives in Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver. For more information, visit www.strategicobjectives.com .

Agility Healthcare to CRT/tanaka

19 May 2008

Pinnacle member CRT/tanaka announced that it has been retained by Agility Healthcare Solutions as the company�s public relations agency. Agility Healthcare Solutions offers industry-leading software that allows hospitals to improve the quality of patient care, generate more revenue and improve margins by making better use of resources, decreasing delays and easing bottlenecks throughout the hospital.

CRT/tanaka will work with Agility to educate key audiences about AgileTrac Enterprise, its family of software products that provide hospital-wide visibility of patients, staff and resources to improve the flow of patient care and deliver a rapid return on investment (ROI).

�We�re excited to engage CRT/tanaka. The agency�s branding expertise, coupled with its tactical implementation will help Agility break into new markets, helping us foster company growth,� said Dan Neuwirth, Agility Healthcare Solutions chief operating officer.

�Agility Healthcare Solutions delivers an extraordinary benefit for hospitals,� said Deborah A. Myers, CRT/tanaka Health Practice director. �We value the opportunity to help them gain momentum with key constituents by telling their story and increasing their visibility.�

CRT/tanaka is an award-winning public relations and marketing firm known for creative solutions and workplace culture. The firm is headquartered in Richmond, Va. and New York, with offices in Los Angeles and Norfolk, Va. More information about CRT/tanaka is available at www.crt-tanaka.com.

Winery Brand Manager Joins CRT/tanaka

19 May 2008

Pia Mara Finkell has come on board as an associate vice president in the Consumer Practice of Pinnacle member CRT/tanaka. Finkell, who will work out of the agency's New York office, brings a strong background in wine and food public relations to CRT/tanaka and will be working with clients such as Wines from Rioja (Spain).

Prior to joining the agency, she was the North American spokesperson and brand manager for Louis Bernard Winery at Boisset America. Pia served as the face of the brands, managing all sales, marketing and public relations programs, as well as education programs for their 40 partner distributors in the US and Canada.

Pia has also taught wine education classes at her own culinary school, as well as at other wine event companies in New York City. She graduated with honors from The Institute of Culinary Education�s pastry and management programs.

Previously, Pia was second in charge of the Public Relations department at Sopexa USA, an integrated marketing services and communications agency dedicated to the promotion of French and European food, wine and spirits on the U.S. market. Sopexa USA is a member of The Sopexa Group, with 40 offices in 34 countries and over $85 million in worldwide billings.

Vandiver Adds VP

25 Mar 2008

Pinnacle member The Vandiver Group, Inc. (TVG), in St. Louis, welcomes Lawrence J. Cox as Vice President. He also becomes a member of the Executive Leadership Team of the company.

Larry brings more than 25 years of experience in strategic communications and public affairs. He joins TVG from DRS Technologies, headquartered in New Jersey, where he served as director of public affairs. He was senior manager of corporate communications for Engineered Support Systems, Inc. (ESSI) in St. Louis before the company merged with DRS Technologies.

Prior to his work at DRS and ESSI, he managed the public affairs staff for the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, overseeing the operations of over 75 public relations professionals at 15 subordinate offices worldwide. He was Press Desk Chief of the Coalition Press Information Center for Operation Iraqi Freedom in Kuwait City; Public Affairs Operations Chief for the Office of the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff and Public Affairs Director for the Air Force�s Stealth Fighter unit in Alamogordo, NM.

He has a B.S. in Public Relations from Kent State University and an M.S. in Management Science from Troy State University. He has an M.A. in Applied Military Science from the Air Command and Staff College.

The Vandiver Group, Inc. is a full-service, award-winning strategic communications firm helping clients strategize, visualize, articulate and navigate communications issues by providing strategic counsel, market research, public relations, graphic/web design and executive/employee training. For more information, visit www.vandivergroup.com.

CRT/tanaka to Launch Our365.com

3 Mar 2008

CRT/tanaka announced that it has been retained by Our365.com to promote the launch of the company�s revamped Web site in the United States. The site offers products and services to expecting parents, including capabilities that give extended family members the opportunity to view baby albums, order personalized picture keepsakes of newborns and stay up-to-date on their babies� developments even from thousands of miles away.

CRT/tanaka�s New York office will service the Our365 account. The agency�s preliminary responsibility will be launching the Web site with a special emphasis on promoting Our365�s Baby Namescape application. With 1.3 million names, it is the largest single source for up-to-date baby names. The application allows expecting parents to search for the most popular baby names in their state, city or even a local hospital, through a unique database that captures this information from its affiliated hospitals nationwide.

�There are several reasons why we chose CRT/tanaka to represent Our365,� said Peter Cavrell, senior vice president of marketing at Our365. �Because our primary audience is new moms, we wanted a company that had a specialty in marketing to women. Also, it�s a given that getting good PR requires a lot of collaboration between the client and the agency, and I wanted smart, inventive and strong people who really knew what they were doing and were fun to work with.�

�From birth through the early toddler years, parents are increasingly getting their babies onto the MySpace bandwagon. Our365 represents the next generation of social networking for today�s Web savvy parents,� said Ellen LaNicca Albanese, CRT/tanaka executive vice president. �We are honored that Our365 chose us to partner with them on the birth of the company�s new Web site.�

Gordon Biersch Taps Allison & Partners

25 Feb 2008

For the first time, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant Group have joined marketing resources and hired Allison & Partners as the company�s public relations agency of record. Allison & Partners, a leading national independent communications firm headquartered in San Francisco, will promote the brand�s 20-year anniversary while raising visibility for the Gordon Biersch brand during a year-long campaign.

�The experience that the Allison & Partners team has shown with lifestyle, food and wine clients such as Michelin Guide and Best Western is very impressive,� said Dan Gordon, co-founder of Gordon Biersch Brewery. We look forward to implementing their creative ideas for this campaign, especially surrounding the area of traditional media relations as well as their understanding of the value of social media outlets.�

Founded in 2001, Allison & Partners operates from six offices nationwide and works with customers ranging from tech, non-profit and consumer companies to those in the hospitality and food industries. With over 75 team members nationally, Allison & Partners was recently named one of the top fifty independent firms nationwide, and has become widely recognized for its standout work in the hospitality space, highlighted by work for Michelin Guide, Best Western and Hard Rock Hotel. Other practice areas include technology, social impact and professional services.

Allison & Partners is also a member of Pinnacle Worldwide (www.pinnacleww.com), one of the leading and oldest networks of independent public relations firms with members located in major markets around the globe. Its affiliation with Pinnacle Worldwide will give Allison & Partners the ability to pull in fellow members on an as needed basis around the nation to assist in achieving Gordon Biersch�s strategic objectives.

Allison and Partner�s won the business in a competitive review against more than 40 firms in December, 2008. The multi-faceted campaign will incorporate media relations, social networking, special events and viral video/word-of-mouth marketing. More information about Allison & Partners is available at www.allisonpr.com.

Pinnacle Adds New Members in Dubai and Sydney

11 Feb 2008

Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of leading independent public relations agencies, added two new member firms at its Winter meeting in Maui, Hawaii.

The new members are Cicero & Bernay Public Relations, of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, and Wilkinson Media, in Sydney, Australia.

"Cicero & Bernay grew from the demands of clients who needed good public relations but couldn't find anyone in the Middle East to deliver the high exacting standards required," said Leonie G. Trubshoe, Executive Director. "We cover the UAE, Oman, Qatar and the Sudan from our Dubai head office and have associates based in Cairo (Egypt), Damascus (Syria), Amman (Jordan) and Manama (Bahrain)," she added.

Wilkinson Media is a Sydney based corporate communications company with specialist skills in media and issues management. "We have an extensive track record in issues and crisis management," noted Peter Wilkinson, Managing Director.

More information on both firms is available on the Pinnacle website, www.pinnacleww.com, and at the firms individual websites, www.cbpr.ae and www.wilkinsonmedia.com.au.

Air New Zealand Selects CRT/tanaka

5 Dec 2007

Air New Zealand has selected CRT/tanaka as its public relations agency of record for North America, which covers its efforts in the United States, Canada and South America. The firm will provide the highly regarded airline with support for strategic planning, media relations, promotions, sponsorships and events, new/dynamic media outreach and word-of-mouth marketing.

Air New Zealand provides air passenger and cargo transport services within New Zealand, as well as to and from New Zealand, Australia, the South Pacific, Asia, North America and the United Kingdom. CRT/tanaka will work with Air New Zealand to market its North American routes, including those from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver to New Zealand as well as its route from Los Angeles to London.

CRT/tanaka is charged with helping to raise awareness of the airline, its unique brand and product offerings, as well as New Zealand as a �must-visit� destination. CRT/tanaka�s initial efforts will help Air New Zealand promote the airline�s high season, its shoulder season and the company�s �Pink Flight� in February, which is targeted toward the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities in celebration of the 2008 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Additionally, CRT/tanaka will help the organization with its outreach to the female, boomer and adventure traveler communities.

�We believe CRT/tanaka is a great cultural fit for Air New Zealand. We were looking for an agency that is wildly creative, but highly strategic,� said Roger Poulton, Air New Zealand Vice President, The Americas. �CRT/tanaka has offered great ideas and a talented team to deliver results. We are excited to begin this journey with them.�

New Book on PR Careers

21 Nov 2007

Nine "battle-scarred" public relations practitioners recall highlights of their careers in a new book entitled "How To Make It in PR (PR Veterans Tell Their Stories)." Edited by Pinnacle member Romeo P. Virtusio of Manila, the Philippines, and published by Context Communications International, Inc., this collection of memoirs takes the reader from the period covering the late 1950s and early 1960s (which was when most of them started their careers) up to the present. This period has seen PR practice in the Philippines grow from basic product-support publicity services to corporate and public affairs, marketing communication, corporate social responsibility, issues and crisis management, government and community relations and a far wider field covering health, lifestyle, tourism, information technology. entertainment, environment, international PR and many others.

All nine practitioners recollect their early careers (four were topnotch journalists and editors, one was briefly a wire service correspondent), the major influences in their lives, and reveal some of their "secrets" through career tips, case studies and brief stories of some of their memorable PR campaigns. Each of the writers is introduced through original pieces written for the book by their children, all of them accomplished in their own right.

The writers attribute their success to hard work, strategic planning and communication skills, imaginativeness, commitment to ethics, endurance, people skills and common sense. "We work very long hours," one says. "If you do not enjoy working and interacting with different kinds of people, PR is not for you" another says. One offers this piece of advice - "when you lose clients, be sorry for a moment, then go on and find others. Stick to your principles and maintain your integrity," says another.

All nine writers are current or former members of the Philippine chapter of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA). "How To Make It in PR" carries a Foreword by J.J. Calero, former chairman of J.Walter Thompson Co. Philippines, and the acknowledged elder statesman of Philippine advertising.

To order copies of the book, email Romeo Virtusio at rpv@virtusio.com.

Anne Klein Honored by NAWBO

20 Nov 2007

Anne Klein, president and founder of Anne Klein Communications Group, LLC (Pinnacle's member in Philadelphia) has been named Woman Business Owner of the Year by the South Jersey chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). The award will be presented on Nov. 29 at NAWBO�s 5th Annual "Beyond the Glass Ceiling" Awards Dinner in Voorhees, N.J.

The NAWBO awards honor extraordinary individuals and organizations for their contributions to women and women business owners. Other honorees will include New Jersey's Public Service Electric & Gas as Company of the Year.

Anne Klein Communications Group, LLC, founded in 1982 as Anne Klein & Associates, Inc., provides strategic counseling and communications programs to Fortune 500 companies and other national and regional businesses and organizations. For more information, visit www.annekleincg.com .

More Awards for Strategic Objectives

19 Nov 2007

Fresh off their trip to London, England, to accept the coveted IPRA (International Public Relations Association) Golden World Award for Excellence in Media Relations, Toronto-based Pinnacle member and PR powerhouse Strategic Objectives has won three prestigious new awards for its breakthrough work with Kruger Products.

On Friday November 16, their campaign, Luxury on a Roll � The Fashion Positioning of Cashmere Bathroom Tissue, took Gold for Public Relations at the Canadian Marketing Association Awards Gala in Toronto; and won two Silver Leaf Awards of Excellence � in Marketing and Photography � at the IABC (International Association of Business Communicators) National Awards on November 18, in St. John�s, Newfoundland.

"It�s truly an honour to be recognized for excellence in Public Relations by our peers here in Canada and around the world," says Strategic Objectives president and partner Deborah Weinstein. "We take great pride in creating breakthrough programming that contributes to our clients� bottom lines. Our Cashmere program elevated an everyday commodity to the height of fashion, and helped increase Cashmere�s marketshare."

Headquartered in Toronto and founded in 1983, Strategic Objectives is Canada�s leading, independent, full-service public relations agency. The firm provides Smart Ideas and Better Solutions to many of Canada and the world�s leading brands. Strategic Objectives is the only Canadian firm ever to be honoured with the United Nations Grand Award for Outstanding Achievement in Public Relations. A member of Pinnacle Worldwide, the Strategic Objectives team includes more than 40 PR professionals including representatives in Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver. For more information, visit www.strategicobjectives.com .

CRT/tanaka Receives Top Honors

31 Oct 2007

Pinnacle member CRT/tanaka, with offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Richmond and Norfolk, Va., has been honored by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) with a 2007 Silver Anvil Award and a Silver Anvil Award of Excellence, which are among the highest honors given in the PR profession.

These two honors are among 14 national and regional awards the agency has earned so far this year, including Chairman and CEO Mark Raper receiving the Thomas Jefferson Award of Excellence from the Richmond Chapter of PRSA for a lifetime of extraordinary achievement and exemplary service.

CRT/tanaka is an award-winning public relations and marketing firm, known for creative solutions and workplace culture. The agency was formed in 2005, when Carter Ryley Thomas acquired New York consumer PR agency Patrice Tanaka & Company, Inc. to form one of the top independent agencies in the country. It is headquartered in Richmond, Va. and New York, with offices in Los Angeles and Norfolk, Va.

For more information, visit www.crt-tanaka.com.

Coles Wins Two New National Accounts

19 Oct 2007

Pinnacle member Coles Marketing Communications, an Indianapolis-based full-service marketing and public relations firm, has added two major new clients to its roster.

Obeo, a national company based in Salt Lake City, is the largest supplier of full-service residential real estate online marketing products in the United States and Canada. The Latin word for "to go to" or "to encompass," Obeo provides Realtors®, homebuilders, land developers and property managers with customized online marketing solutions and offline sales tools.

The Stratford Companies is a developer, marketer and operator of senior housing campuses and communities with its corporate headquarters located in Indianapolis. The company and its principals have developed, marketed and operated 17 senior campuses throughout the country valued at more than $1 billion. Currently, The Stratford Companies has projects under development in Cincinnati, Indianapolis and Kansas City with a total investment value in excess of $200 million.

Coles Marketing Communications has been a leading marketing and public relations firm for more than 22 years, balancing traditional practices with new, cutting-edge concepts. For more information, please visit, visit www.colesmarketing.com.

Carr Creates Tourism Campaign

17 Oct 2007

Carr Marketing Communications (Buffalo, NY) recently created a strategic advertising and marketing campaign for the launch of Allegany County�s new tourism Web site, DiscoverAlleganyCounty.com.

The campaign targets key regional markets in Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse through television and online advertising. Advertisements prominently feature the Web site�s address and act as links directly to the DiscoverAlleganyCounty.com site.

DiscoverAlleganyCounty.com is the first stand-alone tourism Web site for Allegany County. It contains updated information relating to the festivals, events, and outdoor activities available in Allegany County along with details about restaurants, accommodations and shopping opportunities. Advertisements are featured on the "What 2 Do" segments on WGRZ-TV in Buffalo and WGRZ.com; Buffalo.com and BuffaloNews.com; News10NBC.com in Rochester; Syracuse.com; and WNYFamilyMagazine.com.

�Carr Marketing Communications was pleased to lend our considerable experience and expertise in tourism and destination marketing to help Allegany County launch its tourism Web site,� said Robert Carr, president of Carr Marketing Communications.

The Web site is a collaborative effort of the county�s Office of Tourism, Office of Development and the Tourism Advisory Board. Matching grant funds provided through the �I Love NY� tourism promotion program were used to help launch the campaign.

Carr Marketing Communications is an independent strategic planning and marketing communications firm, providing services to companies in the cultural arts, health care, financial services and environmental risk management fields.

For more information on Carr Marketing Communications, visit www.carrmarketing.com.

New Member in London

14 Oct 2007

Gabrielle Shaw Communications, a lifestyle public relations agency based in the UK, has joined Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies.

Offering services ranging from media relations and publicity to experiential marketing and new product development, Gabrielle Shaw Communications works with a variety of lifestyle sectors, such as restaurant clients as well as those specializing in luxury, charity and retail. The company strives for big agency thinking combined with a hands-on approach.

"Our mission is to use the accountability typically found in larger agencies and still retain the ability to be nimble, pro-active and creative," said Gabrielle Shaw, managing director of GSC. "I know that Pinnacle�s structure will allow us to seize the best opportunities available and truly make a difference for our clients."

"Gabrielle Shaw Communications has a wide-ranging expertise and meets our highest standards for quality, performance and accountability," said David Marriott, CEO of Gogerty Stark Marriott, Inc. in Seattle, Wash. and new president of Pinnacle Worldwide. "The company will allow members to have the added value of its international reach and I am pleased to have them join Pinnacle.�

For more information on Gabrielle Shaw Communications, please visit, visit www.gabrielleshaw.com.

New Member in Frankfurt and Munich

14 Oct 2007

Panthere GmbH Consulting, a public relations consulting firm based in Germany, has joined Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies.

With locations in Frankfurt and Munich, Panthere Consulting offers marketing consulting, brand and company communication, brand development and design and crises management. The company has been in operation for 10 years and has a special expertise in corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

"The demand for consulting is increasing now, especially in Germany," said Klaus Fasold, owner and managing partner of Panthere Consulting. "Panthere has the capacity and knowledge to meet this new request. By joining Pinnacle, we gain an international scope while staying focused on our mission of intelligent and multi-cultural communication."

"We are looking forward to all that Panthere has to offer Pinnacle," said David Marriott, CEO of Gogerty Stark Marriott, Inc. in Seattle, Wash. and new president of Pinnacle Worldwide. "The company will help grow our international reach and give our clients an even broader range of public relations expertise from around the globe.�

For more information on Panthere Consulting, please visit, visit www.panthere.de.

Morrissey Promotes Safer Teen Driving

12 Oct 2007

Morrissey & Company, a Boston-based reputation management firm and member of Pinnacle Worldwide, has partnered with Synectics, a leading global consulting firm specializing in innovation and creativity, to help Safe Roads Alliance (SRA) further its mission of promoting safer driving among teens in Massachusetts. The project is intended to help the Newburyport-based non-profit investigate teen behavior and craft its messages and programs concerning safer driving to resonate with high school audiences.

Synectics, based in Cambridge, Mass., recently hosted a focus group during which teens expressed themselves creatively and shared their thoughts about common means of teen-to-teen communication, such as MySpace and Facebook. Morrissey & Company is helping Safe Roads Alliance integrate the focus group findings into promotional materials and presentations for SRA's High School Outreach Program which encourages teens to take driving seriously by participating in hands-on driver skills development courses.

SRA's High School Outreach Program includes free presentations to students, teachers and parent groups in Massachusetts schools and other organizations interested in preventing teen automobile crashes. Presentations include crash statistics, safer driving tips, and advice as to how teens can best improve behind-the-wheel skills and driving behaviors.

Morrissey & Company is an award-winning agency specializing in reputation management and a member of Pinnacle Worldwide, a leading international corporation of independently owned communications agencies with more than 60 offices worldwide. Through Pinnacle, members such as Morrissey & Company form strategic partnerships across the globe and gain access to top-of-the-line market research worldwide trends. For more information, visit www.morrisseyco.com.

Mouton is New Executive Director

21 Sep 2007

Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies with nearly 60 members around the world, has named Johanna Mouton as its new executive director, replacing the organization's original executive director, Lynn McCarthy, who retired after 31 years of service.

Prior to working with Pinnacle Worldwide, Mouton served as a principal consultant for Cap Gemini/Ernst & Young, focusing on project management and business analysis. She was also project implementation supervisor for Gelco Information Network as well as a project manager and financial risk analyst for Wells Fargo Bank.

Mouton has done extensive international travel and will also use her experience as personal assistant to the Ambassador of Egypt to help coordinate efforts amongst Pinnacle's culturally diverse membership group.

"We are excited to welcome Ms. Mouton to this position with Pinnacle," said David Marriott, CEO of Gogerty Stark Marriott, Inc. in Seattle, Wash. and new president of Pinnacle Worldwide. "As associate to our previous executive director, she has already proven herself to be extremely capable of handling Pinnacle's organizational needs. I know she will preserve Pinnacle's history while helping it develop in the future."

TVG Wins Marketing Excellence Award

20 Sept 2007

Pinnacle member The Vandiver Group (TVG)(St. Louis, Missouri) received the American Marketing Association's top honor, winning a "Marketing Excellence Award" in the non-profit category for the "Warmthgiving Weekend" campaign it developed and executed for Dollar-Help, Inc.

TVG's campaign encouraged children across the Greater St. Louis area to host hot chocolate stands to raise money and awareness for Dollar-Help, a non-profit corporation that provides financial assistance to people who cannot pay their heating bills. St. Louis Rams NFL players Will Witherspoon and Adam Timmerman created public service announcements and helped launch hot chocolate stands in local schools. Dierbergs Markets was a sponsor, offering discounted hot chocolate, PSA's featuring Greg Dierberg, announcements about the event in their advertising supplements. Their employees helped out by wearing buttons promoting Dollar-Help.

For more information on TVG, visit www.vandivergroup.com.

2007-2008 Executive Committee Announced

23 Aug 2007

Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies, has named its executive committee for fiscal year 2007/2008.

Ron Hanser, president of Hanser & Associates in Des Moines, IA, will serve as chairman.

David Marriott, CEO of Gogerty Stark Marriott, Inc. in Seattle, Wash., will be the new Pinnacle president.

Donna Vandiver, president and CEO of The Vandiver Group, Inc. in St. Louis, Mo., will serve as president-elect.

Scott Peyron, president of Scott Peyron & Associates in Boise, ID., will serve as treasurer

Ray Casas, principal of Wragg & Casas Public Relations, Inc., Miami, FL., will serve as vice president of Latin America.

Norrey Simmons, managing director of Four Winds Communications in Wellington, New Zealand, has been named vice president of Asia Pacific.

Andrew Littauer, president of APT Resources & Services SRL in Bucharest, Romania, will serve as vice president of Europe.

Gary Conkling, co-founder and president of Conkling Fiskum & McCormick in Portland, Ore., will serve as member-at-large.

Barbara Coles, president of Coles Marketing Communications in Indianapolis, IN., will serve as member-at-large.

Jeannette Boccini, principal and executive vice president of LVM Group, Inc., New York, NY, will serve as member-at-large.

Pinnacle Worldwide, Inc. is an international corporation of independently owned public relations firms. Its members develop and implement strategic communications plans that influence audiences locally, regionally and on a global scale.

Sprint Selects CRT/tanaka

6 August 2007

Pinnacle member CRT/tanaka has been selected as the lead public relations and new media agency in support of Sprint's vision of becoming the nation's wireless mobility services leader. CRT/tanaka will work in concert with Sprint's other public relations agencies to provide strategic guidance for pubic relations activities and to also lead Sprint's dynamic/new media efforts.

CRT/tanaka has had an extensive relationship with Sprint for several years, previously handling PR for the wireless company's 10-year, $70 million NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Sponsorship.

"We are excited to engage CRT/tanaka's strategic thinking and leadership to help continue to grow our business," said Bill White, Sprint senior vice president of communications. "We also are eager to work with CRT/tanaka to extend our PR and marketing efforts in the new media realm - reaching countless consumers in new ways."

"Sprint is the definitive leader in the wireless industry through its innovative technologies, network strength and mobile data services," said Mark Raper, CRT/tanaka chairman and CEO. "We are pleased to continue to expand our public relations and marketing services to Sprint to help them achieve their corporate communications and marketing goals."

For more information, visit www.crt-tanaka.com.

Hanser writes chapter for business book

10 May 2007

Ronald Hanser, APR, president of Pinnacle member Hanser & Associates (H&A) in West Des Moines, Iowa, wrote a chapter for the new book, "Inside the Minds: Developing Public Relations Campaigns," published this month by Boston-based Aspatore Books, America's largest publisher for C-level corporate executives.

Aspatore describes the book as an authoritative, insider's perspective on the key strategies for creating, implementing and benchmarking successful PR campaigns. Featuring presidents and CEOs representing some of the nation's leading PR firms, the book provides an overview of the key steps and considerations involved in planning and launching PR programs.

Hanser is one of only 10 public relations industry leaders in the United States chosen to contribute to this book. His selection was due in part to Hanser's role as global chairman of Pinnacle Worldwide.

Hanser's chapter � entitled "PR for People in Corner Offices" � mentions organizations with which H&A has been involved, including City of West Des Moines, Coach USA, Council of Public Relations Firms, GfK Roper Consulting, Good Samaritan Hospital, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Iowa Health System, Pinnacle Worldwide, Public Relations Society of America, Qwest, Redstone Communications, The Wall Street Journal, Word of Mouth Marketing Association and others.

The book can be purchased by visiting www.aspatore.com or retail bookstores and online sellers including Amazon.com, BN.com and Borders.com.

Hanser & Associates is a national public relations firm that helps companies build and maintain relationships with the people who are important to their future. H&A is headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, and has affiliated offices in 30 countries worldwide through partnership in Pinnacle Worldwide. The firm has been nationally ranked among the top independent PR firms in Midwest cities; named "Best Public Relations Firm" in Central Iowa seven consecutive years; and has won more than 40 international, national and local awards for its public relations work, including the Public Relations Society of America's "Best of Show" and two national Bronze Anvils - the "Oscars" of PR. H&A has a strategic alliance with Redstone Communications, an Omaha-based advertising agency, and the two firms share offices in Des Moines and Omaha. Visit www.hanser.com for more information.

Hanser & Associates wins three awards for national PR

30 Apr 2007

Hanser & Associates (H&A), the Pinnacle member firm in Des Moines, received three awards at the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Central Iowa Chapter's 2007 Public Relations Institute Mark of Excellence (PRIME) awards ceremony April 26 in Des Moines.

• PRIME award in the Integrated Communications Campaign category for "Go for $1," the public relations-driven national campaign that launched New York, N.Y.-based Coach USA's megabus.com intercity bus service in the United States in 2006.
• PRIME award in the Special Events category for "Cut the Hose - Building America's Energy Independence," communications for the dedication of Algona, Iowa-based Hydrogen Engine Center's corporate campus in 2006. H&A's work, which gained nationwide news coverage for Hydrogen Engine Center, was also a finalist for the PRIME "Best of Show" award.
• Merit award in the Audiovisual category for a video news release created for Coach USA.

"We are honored by these PRIME awards, which recognize public relations' measurable results produced for our clients," said Ronald Hanser, APR, President of Hanser & Associates.

Strategic Objectives ACEs the Awards

27 Apr 2007

Strategic Objectives, Canada's leading independent public relations agency and the Pinnacle Worldwide member in Toronto, was honoured with the coveted Best of Show and Most Creative Program Awards for the second year in a row at the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) at its ACE Awards gala on Wednesday, April 25 in Toronto. The firm's program supporting the launch of Tetley Pure and Natural Green Tea was recognized for its innovative execution and breakthrough, bottom line results.

The firm collected five additional awards including: Gold, Best Use of Media Relations for the launch of Tetley Pure and Natural Green Tea; Gold, Community Relations Campaign of the Year for the Search for Kraft Hockeyville; Bronze, Brand Development Campaign of the Year for Cadbury Celebrates 100 Years in Canada; Bronze, Brand Development Campaign of the Year for Captain Morgan Rules the World Rock Paper Scissors Championships; and Bronze, Best Use of Media Relations, for the Search for Kraft Hockeyville.

Headquartered in Toronto and founded in 1983, Strategic Objectives is Canada's leading, independent, full-service public relations agency.

Anne Klein Named One of Top Women in Business

15 Feb 2007

Anne Sceia Klein, president of Anne Klein Communications Group, LLC, Pinnacle Worldwide's member in the Philadelphia region, has been named by NJBiz magazine as one of New Jersey's most dynamic women business leaders in its annual search for "NJ's Best 50 Women in Business."

Klein was selected for this honor based on her accomplishments in the public relations profession, her community involvement, and the impact she has had on the personal and professional growth of women in business.

"This is such an honor and especially gratifying as my firm celebrates its 25th anniversary this year," Klein said when she received word of her selection.

Allison & Partners Acquires Clients of Phoenix-Based LAUNCH Public Relations

13 Feb 2007

Allison & Partners has acquired the clients of LAUNCH, a Phoenix-based full-service marketing and public relations firm. Allison has recruited local marketing veteran, Scott Appel, to lead the new office. Allison & Partners' clients include Phoenix-based Best Western International, ARAMARK, YouTube, Hasbro, KPMG Corporate Finance LLC, Sony Electronics and Michelin Travel Publications, among others. "Allison & Partners is thriving nationally and Phoenix is a market exploding with innovation. It's a great fit," said Scott Allison, CEO of Allison & Partners. "We look forward to continuing the momentum LAUNCH has built to serve this market."

LAUNCH clients such as Mobility Electronics, ITtoolbox and Inilex will benefit from national account service utilizing Allison offices in San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Allison & Partners was recently identified as one of the top six firms to watch in 2007 by PRWEEK.

"The acquisition of LAUNCH's accounts allows us to enter the Phoenix market with an exciting initial client base," said Scott Appel. "We value LAUNCH's commitment to community involvement with groups like Enterprise Network and the American Marketing Association, and plan to continue that initiative." Prior to Allison & Partners, Appel held positions at DoctorSolutions Inc., Adcom Communications and Extension Media Group.

"In recent months, I saw a need to grow and increase support for our clients' national and international marketing and public relations efforts. At the same time, I made the decision to take a professional hiatus and spend time with family. Allison will undoubtedly take our clients to greater heights," said Stephanie Silverman Houser, founder and president of LAUNCH. "Allison has an understanding of social media, blogging and other online initiatives at the level our clients demand."

AKCG Receives Five Awards at PRSA Pepperpot Ceremony

7 Dec 2006

Communications Group, LLC, (AKCG) earned recognition from the Philadelphia chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) for five superior public relations programs. AKCG received the awards at the chapter's 38th annual Pepperpot Awards dinner held at The Ben Franklin House in Philadelphia.

AKA received a first-place Pepperpot in the "Institutional Programs" category for "Unifying Our Ministry Through 'Many Hands. One Heart.�'," a strategic branding campaign created for Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries. AKCG received a second first-place Pepperpot in the "Limited Budget Programs" category for "Promoting Financial Literacy to Reinforce Industry Leadership," a program created for the Radian Group, a financial services company.

Three second-place Pepperpot awards were presented to AKCG: in the "Media Relations" category for "Naming the Nobels: Raising the Profile of a Research Partner," a campaign developed for Thomson Scientific, the scientific business unit of the Thomson Corporation; in the "Special Events and Observances" category for "Celebrating Four Milestones - Noramco's Achievements," an event for Noramco, Inc.; and in the "Public Service" category for "Building a Bridge to Students' Futures," a community relations program for Noramco, Inc. A subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson, Noramco, Inc. produces fine chemicals for the pharmaceutical industry.

Peyron Corporate Practice Leader promoted to Vice-President

Thu, 23 Nov 2006 14:16:23 +0200

BOISE, Idaho - Two of the Pacific Northwest's top corporate communications experts have taken important new roles at public relations and marketing communications leader Scott Peyron & Associates (www.peyron.com) and client demand has led to further growth in the firm. Firm founder Scott Peyron today announced that the Boise-based firm has promoted Stephanie Worrell to Vice President and Practice Manager. And David Parker, vice-president of investor relations and governmental affairs of Albertsons, Inc., has joined the firm's senior counseling team to bring his expertise to clients in corporate communications; high technology, and travel and tourism.

"Stephanie has demonstrated over many years of leading our agency's outreach for Albertsons, that she knows how to influence the behaviors of consumers and how to guide a strong team. David Parker brings strength in investor relations and global business that is superior", firm founder Scott Peyron said.

Worrell has been a leader on the Peyron team for five years, most prominently in public relations and community relations capacities for longtime client Albertsons, Inc. She is an award-winning freelance writer and previously worked in public relations roles for Advantage Sales & Marketing, the Big Sky Conference and the Boise YMCA. She will continue to lead the firm's corporate communications practice, while taking on the responsibilities of Vice President. She holds a bachelor's degree and has completed a master's degree from Iowa State University.

Parker joins the Peyron firm in an "of counsel" capacity and is already at work assisting clients in investor relations and high-level networking assignments. Before his leadership role at Albertsons, Parker served as corporate spokesman and PR and investor relations executive at Micron Technology (NYSE: MU).

Melinda O'Malley Keckler, a longtime news anchor in the Treasure Valley and Spokane media markets and most recently public information officer of the Idaho Department of Correction, has joined Peyron in a senior counselor's role in the firm's Corporate Communications; Travel, Tourism and Real Estate; and Public Affairs practice groups. O'Malley Keckler is a graduate of Washington State University.

Scott Peyron & Associates also has appointed Trish Stack to the client service team in the Public Affairs and Corporate Communications practice groups. She served former-Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne as a member of his policy staff for nearly two years, after completing an internship at the Young Britons' Foundation in London. She graduated cum laude from Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. Scott Peyron & Associates, Inc., delivers strategic communications programs in public affairs, public relations and marketing communications through its five practice groups: corporate communications, public affairs; travel, tourism and real estate development; high technology, and health care, education and government. Peyron is the largest public relations firm in Idaho and its 2005-6 client list includes global leaders such as Albertsons (www.albertsons.com); Hewlett Packard (www.hp.com); Tamarack Resort (www.tamarackidaho.com; ProClarity (www.proclarity.com); and SunCor Development (www.suncoraz.com). With technological agility, proactive people and an industry-leading media database, the firm has helped to position clients as newsmakers in major media worldwide and to connect with their customers in creative and successful ways. Scott Peyron & Associates is an elected member of global network Pinnacle Worldwide (www.pinnacleww.com).

Idaho Governor Recognizes Leadership of Scott Peyron & Associates

Thu, 23 Nov 2006 13:09:17 +0200

BOISE, Idaho. Scott Peyron & Associates has been honored by its recognition as the 2006 winner of the Idaho Governor's Award in Recreation and Tourism for its work in promoting Idaho through the fast-paced development of new Idaho icon Tamarack Resort. Governor Jim Risch presented the award in the Media category at the 2006 Governor's Awards in Recreation and Tourism.

Said event emcee Ron Gardner of the Idaho Department of Commerce: "The award recognizes an organization's significant contribution to promoting recreation and tourism over several years. This year's selection was an easy one. The organization we honor today has probably done more to promote Idaho recreation and tourism than any company in the last several decades. For its work on behalf of Tamarack Resort, please recognize Scott Peyron & Associates. "

Strategic Objectives nominated for Agency of the Year Award

Tue, 21 Nov 2006 09:00:16 +0200

Pinnacle member Strategic Objectives (Toronto) is thrilled to have been named a Top Three Finalist for Marketing Magazine's first-ever PR Agency of the Year, which will be awarded Thursday, November 30, 2006 in Toronto. This is a wonderful honour for our company, our clients and our profession, and proof positive that Public Relations has awesome power to build, maintain, defend and protect brands and organizations. Stay tuned to this site for more exciting news from Canada's leading independent PR Agency!