AP for PR: Enhancing public relations credibility with one simple book

Kara Winton, APR, CPRC

Is it Fla. or FL? Do I capitalize the boss’ title? These details might seem insignificant, but quite the opposite is true. Nothing gives a news release, and the public relations professional submitting it, more credibility than having these details correct. Enter the “AP Stylebook.”

Join us Aug. 2 as former journalist and PR professional Kara Winton, APR, CPRC leads a hands-on discussion about why The Associated Press style is important, common mistakes made in news releases (NOTE: news releases not press releases!), how to establish your company’s own stylebook and tips for ensuring your company or organization has credibility even if your colleagues have never heard of AP style. We’ll explore the most applicable entries in the stylebook and see how, for example, Lee County Parks & Recreation created its own consistent style.

The 2011 stylebook was just released, and we’ll learn what’s new (e-mail is now email!). You might even win one to take back to the office with you. Bring along a copy of the AP Stylebook and be entered into a drawing for a brand new spiral bound book. Seasoned professionals are encouraged to bring their oldest copy of the Stylebook, and we will give away a second stylebook to the guest with the oldest version.

Utilizing her days as a newspaper reporter and her passion for AP Style, Kara will help you walk away with practical tips to enhance the credibility of your news releases. Kara has more than 20 years of media and public relations experience as a reporter at The News-Press, public information officer for the Fort Myers Police Department and account manager for Priority Marketing. She recently embarked on her newest career as a full-time mother and part-time graduate student. She has served FPRA in several capacities and currently is credentialing co-chair.

Join us Aug. 2 and don’t forget to bring your AP Stylebook! Register online today at http://www.fpraswfl.org/.

Meeting Details
Tuesday, Aug. 2
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre
Cost: $20 for members
$25 for nonmembers
$12 for students