Online Reputation

To: Lauren Hong

From: Travis Hansen

What: Online Reputation

Date: December 7, 2009

A Shout Out For Chocolate Milk

 

I was amazed that when I typed in “Lauren Hong” in a Google search you would come up twice in the first ten listed results. You have two twitter accounts, www.twitter.com/tutkia and www.twitter.com/lkhong. It was easy to notice that these were you have profile pictures on each of these accounts. A common theme I found was your love for chocolate milk. That led me to search on Google for “Lauren Hong, Chocolate Milk” which sadly only brought up the same websites I already found. Yet, I found something humorous on this list of websites. It said “Ralph Lauren Hong Kong” and by clicking I found myself on a Blog Catalog site. I thought it was interesting to see how your name fit in with a popular clothing brand and a city in China.

I continued my search by typing in “Lauren Hong Utah State” and again all the previous sites appeared. In addition to these was the USU Admissions site on twitter, where you are a fan. Then I typed in “Lauren Hong Public Relations” and I was amazed how many more websites involving you popped up. Preston Parker, one of your professor’s, Twitter account showed up as well as a blog titled “Musings on PR” http://musingsonpr.blogspot.com/.

For my final stage of finding your online reputation I went to my Facebook account and typed in your name. There were many Lauren Hong’s but your account happened to be at the top of the list, lucky for me! I added you as a friend, and after you accepted I was able to see some of your conversations with your friends. Again I noticed your reference to Chocolate Milk, and I realized that having unique things such as that on each of your profiles, it set you above the rest. Online reputations are hard to come in such a modern age. Yet, you have done a tremendous job.

Best Regards,

Travis Hansen

Travis Craig Hansen

My name is Travis Craig Hansen. Sports, hunting, fishing, and being in the outdoors, tops the list of my favorite things to do. My blog is designed to portray my thoughts in various ways. I love thinking critically, and I also enjoy constructive criticism. In the world we now live in, we must keep learning and do our best to better society.

REAL SALT LAKE

First ever MLS Cup ended wonderfully for Real Salt Lake who looked to be the clear underdog going into the match.  Being from Utah, and having a passion for the game, my emotions were definately sky rocketing through the game and at the conclusion of the match. 

I am sure I share the same opinions of many Utahns when I say, "WE WANT TO PARTY."  Come on Real Salt Lake, throw a party at Rio Tinto because we want to share in the celebration.  It isnt about money, but I would spend five dollars to go and enjoy the sweet taste of victory!!

LET'S PARTY REAL SALT LAKE!!!!

2300 PR Thoughts

A press release does not have a specific guidline that you have to follow 100 percent. There is a format, and common sense information.  Establishing what, when, where, why, and how if necessary. Beyond this, it is up to you to spice your release up in a way that grabs someone's attention.  Some releases that I have read have done this, most have not.  It is simple, we live in a fast world.  Quicker is better in many cases.  Take the time to make your press/news release worth reading.  Quality is more important than quickness, however it is possible to do quality work in a fast manner.

The other day I was reading through some sports news releases, I came across one that caught my eye. It said, "Santa Runs For Courage Center December 5."  Santa run, yeah I would like to hear about this. I click on it, and immediately I am not impressed.  The format was horrible, you can tell whoever published it did not care about the event. There is such great potential with a topic like this.  It is a 5k run, or a 1k elf walk.  An elf walk, what is it? Do you dress up like an elf? Do you walk like an elf? Is it for shorter people?  It never explains it. 

Make your release clear, concise, and professional. Get on the internet, read press releases, take notes on the ones that catch your eye.  For reference purposes here is the link of the press release I talked about. http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/santa-runs-for-courage-center-december-5-70214737.html

2300 PR Thoughts

Real Salt Lake, a soccer team within the Major League Soccer program, has made it to the championship game.  This will be their first ever MLS Cup appearance, not to mention they have only been around for half a decade. This should be a PR's dream! The Public Relations department should be scrambling for research on the history of MLS, LA Galaxy, who RSL will play in the final game.  With this research they need to make TV and Radio ads, they need to advertise their merchandise, advertise tickets to the game. 

I have talked with multiple friends who would spend the money on tickets and travel to this event if they only had the chance.  Wake Up Real!!! Get every major newspaper to write a story on it by sending a press release.  Increase the awareness of soccer in Utah, and in the US. 

Real Salt Lake has struggled as of late to put out good press releases, sponsor events, advertise in rural areas.  They could have focus groups at different Universities like Utah State, Southern Utah, Weber State, Dixie College.  People will support them.  The time is now to get Utah behind you, do not miss your opportunity!

Burger Planet Positioning Paper: Draft

Disclaimer -- This is a rough draft, draft.  We still need to format it into an actual paper form.

Tasty, Filling, and amazingly Healthy


1. New menu options will boost sales among middle aged health concious women (who control the family budget). This will be supported by data we find about the amount of money Young (18 yrs old) to middle age (50 years old) women spend in comparison to the other demographics. Also how other quick-service restaurants have grown their profits by similar marketing.


“Burger Planet cares about its customers. For more than seven decades, the company has succeeded because it put customers first. We listen to our customers. And our customers desire healthy choices, of which we offer many,” said James E. Muellenbach III, CEO of Burger Planet.



"Burger Planet has been a leader in the Quick Service Restaurant industry in offering healthy menu choices. The company believes in encouraging customers to live healthier, active lifestyles and I have spent my life trying to teach women that lesson," said Jayne Petersen, fitness guru who helped Opal Whitcomb get in shape.


2. Jayne Peterson is also a convincing spokesperson for the new line because she is a representative that our target audience knows and respects. We can graph or outline in some way, her relatibility by cross referencing the audience's influence on market sales with their time spent watching the "opel whitcomb" television show.

Target Audience:

Female

Age 30-49

Family income below $75,000 a year

Has kids


Other Information (Outside Burger Planet)

2/3 of Americans are now either overweight or obese


35% of adult women are obese

Among Americans age 20 and older, 142 million are overweight or obese (73 million men, 69 million women)

Healthy eating is associated with reduced risk the three leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, and stroke.

Healthy Eating: Strategies for a healthy diet

Eat enough calories but not too many.

Eat a wide variety of foods.

Keep portions moderate

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes

Drink more water.

Limit sugary foods, salt, and refined-grain products.

Excersise

One step at a time

AGGIE BASKETBALL

Let's Make History ... Again!

Get EVERYONE to come to every game and make life miserable for our opponents!

We All Know The Louder We Are, The Better Chance We Have Of Winning!

SHOW UP, AND NEVER SHUT UP!!!

VISIT YOUTUBE AND SEARCH FOR 'UTAH STATE BASKETBALL' TO GET READY
Here is one of the links. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wdSXtMCFao&feature=fvw

 

2300 PR Thoughts

Today I saw a commercial for Subway/Sunday Night Football. Brilliant! My first thought was, wow I am hungry. My second thought was, that Subway is smart. Sunday Night Football is on the rise. For years Monday Night Football as been the premiere game of the week, that all changed when it went to ESPN rather than NBC. NBC countered with coming up with awesome games on Sunday night, this season has been spectacular. Each game I have watched on Sunday nights have been exciting, exillerating, and action packed. Subway, which is a multi-billion dollar organization, wisely jumped on the ship. Knowing that millions of Americans watch football on the weekends, Subway increased their awareness and advertising by at least ten fold. The commercial was funny, it had a little jingle that went with it. Jared, Subway's hero, was even in there.

It is awesome to see PR/Advertising at its best. I have put Subway on my top 10 list for PR geniuses. Here is my list for reference.

1. Gatorade
2. ESPN
3. Subway
4. Cabella's
5. AT & T
6. Great Value
7. Wrigley's
8. Verizon Wireless
9. NBA Playoffs (Where Amazing Happens)
10. Toyota (Prius)


Here is the link to a press release announcing the merge of the two organizations, http://www.rimag.com/article/CA6699715.html?industryid=48494.

2300 PR Thoughts

As you can see in my blogs there is a sports theme for many of my thoughts. I love sports! Sometimes my wife wonders how someone can love sports so much, nearly every night I am watching, checking scores, or talking about some sporting event or game. Recently I have been involved in the Major League Baseball playoffs. In fact, I even prepared myself for the playoffs by playing a season on my Xbox 360. Crazy, right? Not to me, and when an umpire makes a bone head call ny face goes red, I get angry and all worked up. Some say it is an attitude problem, however I think it is just a fun part of loving sports.

As I was cruising around ESPN's website, www.espn.go.com I found an interesting article that I agree with whole-heartedly. It is simple, when technology advances the game must follow. For example, the video surveillance for TV and other sources of information outlets help the fans see plays much better than an umpire who has to make a split-second decision. This post-season has been outrageous. There have been calls that very well could have altered the way things turned out. I am not arguing that the Yankees or the Phillies do not deserve to be in the World Series. They are clearly the two ball clubs playing the best ball right now. I just think that "Americas Favorite Past Time" could be enjoyed much better if the calls were made right. Obviously 100 percent of the calls cannot be reviewed and made perfect, but it can make a difference. Go to this website and see for yourself! http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=4598071&sportCat=mlb

2300 PR Thoughts

I love gatorade, if powerade is cheaper I buy it, but what about HYPR sports drink? I had no idea what this was until I read one of their press releases. Here is the link, http://www.pr.com/press-release/179830.

Overall, this is well done press release. It gets to the point, it grabs you and tells you why it is the only sports drink, "specifically targeted to high endurance athletes." Ok, thank you for telling me this, but what about Gatorade. Anytime I think of a sports drink for athletes I automatically think of Gatorade, and sometimes Powerade. The formulas they have come up with are "targeted to high endurance athletes." Unless you think that Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, and basically any sports star is not a "high endurance athlete."

I am not saying that this new drink is not better, or even that they are not telling the truth. The thing is, they need to persuade me, and any sports fan, that they are better than Gatorade. If they are not better than Gatorade then tell why their strengths can match or exceed Gatorades.

In the press release we can see they used examples from 'Cal Poly' a university that is known for good sports team. However, do they really compare with the 'Florida Gators' which is where Gatorade was 'discovered.' I admire the way this company is going about their business, but it worries me that they are avoiding the Sports Drink Giant! I know that big companies and organizations are intimidating to small businesses that are just starting out. However, if you say stuff like "HYPR Sports Drink™ is the only sport drink using a unique combination of carbohydrates together with a blend of electrolytes and anti-oxidants specifically targeted to high endurance athletes." you had better have some more evidence to back up the fact that it is the "ONLY sports drink" that has those qualities.

2300 PR Thoughts

Hunting has always been a passion of mine. I stumbled across a press release that caught my attention because it had a picture of two big elk. However, as I began reading the press release I got bored. It did not grab me. The titles states, "High-End Hunting Operation Auctions Free Range Elk Hunt on eBay," ok so it gets the message across. They got the crucial information at the top, so anyone would know that they were selling a hunting trip to 6 hunters. The problem I have is the starting bid was set at $36,000.00 and the wording was bland. If you want people to spend a good portion of money, make it interesting. The first line should jump out, grab you, shake you, and get your emotions running in a way that you feel you cannot afford to pass up something like this.

In many circumstances I have emailed links such as this to older individuals that I know. Seeing how I am still fairly young and happen to not have the financial backing for this kind of adventure. Yet, I did not email this to anyone. I was not sold. Now like I said at the beginning, hunting is a passion of mine. I grew up hunting deer, elk, all types of upland game, fishing, etc. It should have been easy to sell me on this, but it did not. If I were the one writing a press release for an event like this I would simply get a killer first paragraph. Something that would relate to a hunter, but help a non-hunter feel like it is an adventure worth taking. It would go something like this.

Someplace, CO - Deep in the beautiful mountains of Colorado, six lucky hunters will have the opportunity to hunt some of the biggest and best looking elk that hunters usually only dream about. Staying at Grizzly Camp the highest bidding group will experience the great outdoors in a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Obviously this is just an example of a draft, there are better ones out there. There just needs to be something with substance. To view the press release I am referring to visit the following website. http://www.pr.com/press-release/185689

Media Pitch Final

NEWS RELEASE
Oct. 20, 2009

Greg Madson
The Leader
119 East Main St.
Tremonton, UT 84321
http://www.tremontonleader.com/

LEARN FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE AT NO COST
Meetings Help People Learn How To Increase Passive Income

LOGAN, Utah- The Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA) has two main goals in helping people: Educate them on financial independence, and help them start networking with other investors. “The biggest problem with financial independence is people do not understand what it is, or how to get it,” said Preston Parker, President of CVAIA.

Financial Independence is something that everyone is striving for, and it is no different in your small town. Small towns are affected by economic struggles and need resources to help stay afloat. Your readers can benefit from what CVAIA has to offer. Your readers have the advantage of the meetings being held within 30 minutes.

Meetings are held every other Thursday at the Cache County Chamber of Commerce, located at 160 North Main St. Logan, Utah. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. and will consist of guest speakers with principles in financial stability and a question and answer session.

The easiest way for your readers to start the process is to come to the meetings and learn from experts who have had success. They will teach on how to decrease your expenses and increase your passive income. To become a member go to http://www.cvaia.org/.

The meetings were created for the purpose of allowing people to come together in a non-threatening environment. “I want people to be happy,” Parker said. This is an organization designed to help everyone become financially independent. Let your readers have the opportunity to enjoy in this great service.

Cache Valley Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and The Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007 and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

For more information contact me.

Travis Hansen
Public Relations Executive
travishansen9@gmail.com
435-512-5861

Preston Parker, President
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
851 N. Main St., Logan UT 84321
611-772-7537
prestonparker@gmail.com

http://www.cvaia.org/

-END-

Draft Media Pitch

NEWS RELEASE
Oct. 13, 2009

Greg Madson
The Leader
119 E. Main St.
Tremonton, UT 84321
http://www.tremontonleader.com/

LEARN FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE FOR FREE

Meetings Help People Learn How To Passive Income

LOGAN, Utah- The Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA) has two main goals in helping people: Educate them on financial independence, and help them start networking with other investors. “The biggest problem with financial independence is people do not understand what it is, or how to get it,” said Preston Parker, President of CVAIA.

Financial Independence is something that everyone is striving for, and it is no different in your small town. Small towns are affected by economic struggles and need resources to help stay afloat. Your readers can benefit from what CVAIA has to offer.

Meetings are held every other Thursday at the Cache County Chamber of Commerce, located at 160 North Main St. Logan, Utah. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. and will consist of guest speakers with principles in financial stability and a question and answer session.

The easiest way for your readers to start the process is to come to the meetings and learn from experts who have had success. They will teach on how to decrease your expenses and increase your passive income. To become a member go to http://www.cvaia.org/.

The meetings were created for the purpose of allowing people to come together in a non-threatening environment. “I want people to be happy,” Parker said. This is an organization designed to help everyone become financially independent.

Cache Valley Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and The Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007 and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

For more information contact me.

Travis Hansen

Public Relations Executive

travishansen9@gmail.com

435-512-5861

Preston Parker, President

Cache Valley Area Investors Association

851 N. Main St., Logan UT 84321

611-772-7537

prestonparker@gmail.com

http://www.cvaia.org/

-END-

2300 PR Thoughts

The New York Yankees, you either love them or you hate them. I grew up in a house where my father basically paid tribute to the Yankees through worship. Recently the Yankees have built a new stadium, a tender spot in my father's heart and many other loyal fans who miss the "House the Ruth built." This morning in the Herald Journal I saw an article about how the "Yanks slash ticket prices." My first reaction was that their PR group must be trying to boost the image of the new stadium. Upon further review I see that they have struggled to fill their seats, yes that is right the Yankees are not getting sold out games.

They have slashed ticket prices already this season and plan on slashing nearly 6500 seats prices next season. This is huge change, one that needs to be explained. However the "Yankees president Randy Levine declined comment on the changes," according to the article in the Herald Journal. Now, I do not claim to be the "top dog" in PR by any means, but even I know that if you do not comment on an important matter, especially in NEW YORK, you leave the door open to criticism and media greif.

If I were the PR group I would organize a statement ASAP, get the word out. Explain how you are slashing prices to help the local community and fans of the Yankees. Trust me, there are tons of Yankee fans. Personally I am an Atlanta Brave fan, but I would love to read an article of how the Yankees were caring about their fans.

Final Press Release 3: Cause Promotion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 29, 2009
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
Preston Parker, President
http://www.cvaia.org/

LOCAL EXPERTS TEACH FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

Free Meetings Help People Learn How To Increase Investments

LOGAN, Utah- The Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA) has two main goals in helping people: Educate them on financial independence, and help them start networking with other investors. “The biggest problem with financial independence is people do not understand what it is, or how to get it,” said Preston Parker, President of CVAIA.

The main difference in people who have financial independence with those who do not, is passive income. Contrary to earned income this is money you get by “not having to think,” according to Parker. It does not come easy, but it is attainable. Investments are the main source of passive income, but you do not need a large amount of money to get started. “You do not have to just invest money, it takes your time and assets to obtain financial independence,” Parker said.

The easiest way to start the process is to come to the meetings and learn from experts who have had success. They will teach you how to decrease your expenses and increase your passive income.

Meetings are held every other Thursday at the Cache County Chamber of Commerce, located at 160 North Main St. Logan, Utah. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. and will consist of guest speakers with principles in financial stability and a question and answer session. The next meeting will be held on October 1.

The meetings were created for the purpose of allowing people to come together in a non-threatening environment. “I want people to be happy,” Parker said. This is an organization designed to help everyone become financially independent.

-MORE-

For more information contact me.

Travis Hansen
Public Relations Executive
travishansen9@gmail.com
435-512-5861

Cache Valley Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and The Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007 and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

-END-

Draft Press Release 3: Cause Promotion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 24, 2009
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
Preston Parker, president
http://www.cvaia.org/

LOCAL EXPERTS TEACH FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE
Free Meetings Every Other Week Helps People Achieve Their Own Financial Independence

LOGAN, UT- The Cache Valley Area Investors Association has two main goals in helping people: Educate them on financial independence, and help them start networking with other investors. “The biggest problem with financial independence is people do not understand what it is, or how to get it,” said Preston Parker, President of CVAIA.

The main difference in people who have financial independence with those who do not is passive income. Contrary to earned income this is money you get by not having to think. It does not come easy, but it is attainable. Investments are the main source of passive income. “You do not have to just invest money, it takes your time and assets to obtain financial independence,” Parker said.

The easiest way to start the process is to decrease your expenses and increase your passive income. Come to the meetings; learn from experts who have had success.

Meetings are held every other Thursday at the Cache County Chamber of Commerce, located at 160 North Main St. Logan, Utah. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. and will consist of getting to know you time, guest speakers with principle in financial stability, and a question and answer session.

The meetings were created for the purpose of allowing people come together in a non-threatening environment. “I want people to be happy,” Parker said.

The cause of this organization is to help all people become financial independence.

-MORE-

For more information contact me.
Travis Hansen

Public Relations Executive

travishansen9@gmail.com

435-512-5861

Cache Valley Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and The Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007 and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

-END-

Final Press Release 2: Image Management

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 22, 2009

Burger Planet
Hans Ketchup
VP of Communications
999 Burger Lane
Gary, IN 46444
123-234-3456
http://www.bgplanet.com/

BURGER PLANET TEAMS UP WITH JAYNE PETERSEN

Petersen, Fitness Trainer For Opal Whitcomb, Supports Burger Planet’s Menu

GARY, IN – Jayne Petersen, President and CEO of Looking Glass, Inc., has signed with Burger Planet to promote a menu fit for everyone. Petersen is famous for helping Opal Whitcomb lose, and keep off, 75 pounds. Petersen will travel with mascot Corny the Clown to different Burger Planet restaurants. Their first stop will be at Times Square in New York on May 12.

Along with Burger Planet’s famous burger, fries, and soda, they have added healthy alternatives to create a well balanced meal. Petersen has helped women all over the country lose weight and feel confident. “Women can have a burger and fries now and then as long as they are active and also try some of Burger Planet's exciting new menu choices, such as the fruit packages," Petersen said.

Burger Planet’s additions to their menu include lettuce wrapped white chicken breasts, bananas, pineapples, grapes, apples, peaches, and an assortment of gourmet salads. However, one thing is certain Burger Planet has not changed their longtime popular burger menu including ‘The Saturn and Venus’ burgers with ‘Hemisphere’ fries, topped off with a soda.

James E. Muellenbach III, CEO of the company and grandson of the founder James E. Muellenbach I, continues to stress that customers come first. “Burger Planet cares about its customers. For more than seven decades, the company has succeeded because it put customers first. We listen to our customers. And our customers desire healthy choices, of which we offer many,” Muellenbach III said.

Burger Planet, headquartered in Gary, Indiana, was founded in 1934 by James E. Muellenbach I, who is now retired. They currently have 8,921 franchises in 17 countries and 48,272 employees. They continue to lead the Quick Service Restaurant Industry as they have served 52 billion customers and counting.

Come to your nearest Burger Planet today to join in good, healthy fun. For more information please contact me.

Travis Hansen
Public Relations Executive
travishansen9@gmail.com
435-512-5861

-END-

2300 PR Thoughts

We all know that the state of the economy is in turmoil. Each newspaper headlines some political issue that always brings up how bad the economy is. Jobs have been lost, business's have closed their doors. Yet many industries and organizations are still increasing in revenue. One of them is Great Value, a discount brand sold most notably at Wal-Mart. In a press release dated March 16, 2009 Great Value shows how they will help families get the food they need at low prices. It is titled "Walmart’s Revamped Great Value Brand Delivers Affordable, Quality Choices When Consumers Need Them Most." What American would not feel like they are appreciative of Great Value thinking of their family. They are conducting tests to make sure their product is just as good as "name brand" products, if not better. They re-formulate products to their customers needs and wants, and they are even coming up with new product that will help families across America save money on food expenses.

Now Great Value did not have to revamp their PR situation. They have had such great positioning within America to be the brand that can save you money. How many of us find what we are looking for and then look to see if their is a Great Value equivalent? So Great Value promises America, and the world for that matter, that they will be there to help each family.

Something my wife pointed out to me is how their advertising helps people feel they are saving money by buying Great Value products. Of course we all know that Great Value has never had an extravagant package on any of their products. It was conservative, with bright colors that draw your attention. Now their products have packages that are mostly white, with pictures of the products, and simple lettering. We bought a bag of barbeque chips and my wife said, "pretty sad when we have to buy the cheep chips, huh?" We got home tasted them and they were better than even Lays potato chips. I am not a huge fan of barbeque chips but I have eaten nearly the entire bag.

Props to Great Value and their PR department for getting the word out and doing their best to help each family through out the World. To see more for yourself visit http://mypbrand.com/2009/03/17/the-official-great-value-launch/.

2300 PR Thoughts

Gatorade, what althlete does not drink it? I firmly believe that the PR group for Gatorade has what it takes to help any organization to greatness. Let's go back a few years. Gatorade was a new product and the company looked to professional sports to help them promote their rejuvenating drink. Then when Powerade and other drinks threatened to cut in on Gatorade's parade, they got Tiger Woods to support them. They came out with "new" flavors with Tiger on the label. Sales went up proving that Gatorade is the best sports drink there ever has been. Then recently as we all know Michael Jordan was inducted into the Hall of Fame for the NBA. A huge event, infact they had to change the location because it would not hold the capacity of teammates, coaches, and fans.

Instead of being ok with where they were in the sports drink field, they came out with a "new" product. Actually they are just changing the labels again. Now it just has a G on the label. They have commercials comingout with how Gatorade supports all the major moments in sports history. I am a huge sports fan, and to be honest my adrenaline starts going and I often feel emotional when I see these sports moments. Simply, Gatorade should be the template of what PR groups need to do for their organizations.

Draft Press Release 2: Image Management

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 22, 2009
Burger Planet
James E. Muellenbach III, CEO

BURGER PLANET TEAMS UP WITH JAYNE PETERSEN
Petersen, Fitness Trainer For Opal Whitcomb, Supports Burger Planet’s Menu

Gary, IN – Jayne Petersen, President and CEO of Looking Glass, Inc., has signed with Burger Planet to promote a menu fit for everyone. Along with Burger Planet’s famous burger, fries, and soda, they have added healthy alternatives to create a well balanced meal.

Petersen has helped women all over the country lose weight and feel confident. “Women can have a burger and fries now and then as long as they are active and also try some of Burger Planet's exciting new menu choices, such as the fruit packages," Petersen said.

Burger Planet’s additions to their menu include white chicken breasts, bananas, pineapples, grapes, apples, peaches, and an assortment of gourmet salads. However, one thing is certain Burger Planet has not changed their longtime popular burger menu including ‘The Saturn and Venus’ burgers with ‘Hemisphere’ fries, and topped off with a soda.

James E. Muellenbach III, CEO of the company and grandson of the founder James E. Muellenbach I, continues to stress that customers come first. “Burger Planet cares about its customers. For more than seven decades, the company has succeeded because it put customers first. We listen to our customers. And our customers desire healthy choices, of which we offer many,” Muellenbach III said.

Petersen will travel with mascot Corny the Clown to different Burger Planet restaurants. Their first stop will be at Times Square in New York on May 12.

Burger Planet, headquartered in Gary, Indiana, was founded in 1934 by James E. Muellenbach I. They currently have 8,921 franchises in 17 countries and 48,272 employees. They continue to lead the Quick Service Restaurant Industry as they have served 52 billion customers and counting.

Come to your nearest Burger Planet today to join in good, healthy fun. For more information please contact me.

Travis Hansen
Public Relations Executive
travishansen9@gmail.com

435-512-5861

-END-

Final Press Release 1: Announcement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 15, 2009
Social Media Club of Cache Valley
Preston Parker, President
851 N. Main St., Logan UT 84321
Phone: 661-772-7537
http://www.smccv.net/

SOCIAL MEDIA CLUB TAKES OFF IN UTAH
Three Members of Cache Valley Start New Chapter For Global Club

Logan, UT – The Social Media Club is a global organization that intends to teach everyone about the advantages social media and social networking can provide. Preston Parker, along with two colleagues, has opened up a chapter in Cache Valley. Meetings will be held on the second Thursday of each month at different locations of Cache Valley. Meetings consist of invited speaker lectures, panel discussions, and a learning experience for all ages.

The Social Media Club is in many US cities, as well as different countries around the world. The club came to Salt Lake City in January of 2009.

“Our goal is to help people become informed of social media, and it's advantages,” said Preston Parker, President of the Social Media Club of Cache Valley(SMCCV). The last meeting was held at Club New York on September 10th.

Locations of each meeting will change within local businesses, it is a great way to get free advertising for an organization.

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Facebook, Twitter, and Skype are a few of the Social Networking tools of our day. These are the some of the topics of conversation in the club meetings. There is no fee to join the club as it is intended for everyone. To become a member of the Cache Valley chapter you simply go http://www.smccv.net/ and fill out the registration form.

For more information contact me at the email address below.

Travis Hansen
Public Media Representative
Travishansen9@gmail.com
435-512-5861

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Draft Press Release 1; Announcement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2009
Social Media Club of Cache Valley
Preston Parker, President
851 N. Main St., Logan UT 84321
Phone: 661-772-7537
http://www.smccv.net/
SOCIAL MEDIA CLUB TAKES OFF IN UTAH
Members Cache Valley Start New Chapter For Global Club

Logan, UT – The Social Media Club is a global organization that intends to teach everyone about advantages social media and networking can provide. Preston Parker, along with two colleagues, have opened up a chapter for Cache Valley.
Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at different locations.
Meetings consist of invited speaker lectures, panel discussions, and a learning experience for all ages.
Social Media Club came to Salt Lake, Utah in January of 2009.
“Our goal is to help people become informed of social media,” said Preston Parker, President of the Social Media Club of Cache Valley(SMCCV).

For more information contact me at the email address below.

Travis Hansen
Public Media Representative
Travishansen9@gmail.com
435-512-5861

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United Breaks Guitars

My hat goes off to David Carroll, a country music singer that recently has had an unfortunate experience with United Airlines. We all know how stressful it is to go through a claim process, regardless of the organization. Such was the case with Carroll. One of his band members witnessed their music equipment being treated poorly before they took off from Nova Scotia. Carroll tried to take to some employees form United but was pushed aside not once, or twice, but for nearly a year. In response Carroll and his band wrote songs and made music videos about the incident and posted it to YouTube for everyone to enjoy.

This is when the fun started to begin, within a matter of a few days millions of viewers had watched the video. The trend continued and as of today, the number of views is almost 6 million. If you do not get excited about this, you must be crazy! Social networking has come so far that in just a few short days, and sometimes hours, people from different parts of the world can communicate. The thing that amazes me the most is how the majority of the public is influenced by things posted on the internet such as this. Four days following the posting of the song United reported a 10% loss in their stocks, roughly costing them $180 million.

As I have read through comments on different sites about this incident, there is a common theme. It is something that an organization would never say to a reporter, and it is often viewed as a vulgar term; it is the word “sucks.” Many comments read that “America sucks,” some say “corporate America/Government sucks,” and some say that “country music sucks.” The reason I point this out is to bring to the table a concern that the global world, but mainly America, suffers from. I use the simple term, “pointing the finger.” In this example with Carroll and United, Carroll went to United and said they were doing things wrong. United beat around the bush, tried to cut corners, blamed other organizations, and ultimately said it was not their problem.

This is nothing new in our culture or day; the Presidents of the United States always have someone to point their finger at when something goes wrong. I am not saying that they are wrong in pointing a finger, I am saying it is instilled in us to point the finger and we often times use it when we shouldn’t. Think back to when you were with your little brother, sister, or cousin, and you were playing and something broke. Often times your first reaction is to blame the other person, second reaction would be to come up with a good story of how it was an accident. At times we tell the truth and that shows our maturity.

David Carroll was a genius with what he did. It got to the point that he did not care if he got a new guitar or money to replace it. He took his profession, the horrible incident, and some creative marketing strategies, to get some payback to United but also to get his name out as a singer. It could not have worked out any better for Carroll. In fact, United may want to use this as a good learning opportunity and hire some Public Relations workers that can come up with some creative ideas to prove they provide a good service to the community.

United must be spinning in circles, wondering what they are to do next. You would hope that they come out and provide a list of things they will fix, focus on, and improve. It would have been much easier had they done basic PR and handled the situation with Carroll before it escalated so drastically. If we can learn anything from this it should be that relationships between an organization and the consumers or just the general public are of high importance. Communication is vital, as you can see communication can get you in a lot of trouble in a short time.

Travis Hansen

Public Relations

Dear Kristin,

It was great hearing from you, and I am extremely excited to share with you what I have found public relations to be and why I have chosen this for my career.

Public relations primarily deals with the flow of information from the company to the public. This information comes in a few different forms including, but not limited to, written and visual media. A press release is a written form of media that has basic facts of a company, quotes from important people within, and dates for upcoming events. On the other hand video interviews with a CEO, a president, or leaders of a company, fall into the visual media. The public relations manager will brief these individuals before they go on camera and provide them with key points that they can use as a resource at anytime.

Often times the public relation departments have the task of overhauling the image of the company. They organize events, host conferences, and strive to help the public better understand how they can benefit from the work the company is doing. Advertising and relationships between the company and the consumers are extremely important to the success of the company.

One interesting fact about public relations is that it is different around the world. For example, a company in China will have different strategies than a company in California, to accomplish good relations with the public and the media. Therefore, it is extremely important for a public relations worker to be experienced and skilled in many areas. The need for public relations is always prevalent, and is never consistent. Hence, new and innovative ideas must constantly by thought of, applied, and carried out to ensure a successful future for any company.

Sincerely your cousin,

Travis

Hello World

I am a first time blogger. Writing is one of my passions, along with sports and the outdoors. I hope you enjoy the compilation of writings that I feel are worthy of being posted to this blog. Feel free to comment or email me personally at travishansen9@gmail.com

Travis