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● Introduction & Index ● What is PR ● Job Expectations ● Types of Media ● Building Relationships ● Media, Hams & FCC Rules ● The Basic News Release ● Interviews and Live ● Making your own show ● Easy P.R. ● Public Service Events ● Piggy-back to Events ● Pictures NOW! ● P.R. Research Aids ● Making Friends ● ARES® PIO ● Final Exam Information Next Page

## Section 11 - Public Events News Release Form Inviting Public Officials Resource People Have Fact Sheet pr Brochure Getting Permissions Goals of this section: Recognize the opportunities and limits of a PIO in a public event Review the major preparations a PIO should take before the event Be able to list resouces a PIO should have available as needed Public events present unique settings for a “captive” audience to become more aware of Amateur Radio. They are ideal for attracting inquiries and promoting interest in our hobby. After a club has committed to providing communications for an event, ask for support for the public information and public relations effort. Most event sponsors are eager to help us promote Amateur Radio at their events. Ask for space for a paragraph on Amateur Radio in the event brochure, program and Press Kit. Depending on the event and the circumstances, this can range from mere acknowledgment of Amateur Radio operators to a brief description of our hobby and contact information such as the ARRL (for the prospective ham mailing with list of local clubs, classes and exam sessions). In most cases, it is better for the promotion of Amateur Radio to refer to the group “generically” as Amateur Radio Operators or Ham Radio rather than using your club or group name (if you have one). The idea is to get the words “Amateur Radio” or “Ham Radio” in front of the public eye as much as possible. The Wireless Association of Greater Norfolk County may be a super club but the name doesn’t convey Amateur Radio to the general public. Make your activity and participants visible! Position a station in a highly visible and well traveled location (with regard to spectators and participants). The Net Control Station (when feasible) or an Information station with a LARGE sign or banner displaying Ham Radio or Amateur Radio is a good attention getter. You may find someone in your area or club who has one to loan or who can generate one with computer banner or sign programs. Ask to have the Public Address Announcer make a few announcements regarding Amateur Radio. Have “prepared” copy to be read, thanking the amateurs for their participation and inviting people to get more information about Amateur Radio. You or one of your crew can hand this directly to the Public Address Announcer.