Falling Star
Wednesday, November 12th, 2008
When its glorious new press pavillion was complete with aqua-colored glass nearly overhanging Interstate 70, it appeared as though The Kansas City Star had finally achieved invincibility. Already the city’s most prominent news publication, it finally had the digs to flaunt its status. But on Monday the staff weathered a third round of layoffs not unlike the recent cutbacks at other metropolitan dailies, including The Los Angeles Times.
The Star has been struck by the down economy and the accompanying decline in advertising sales. This time a close friend of mine lost his job. His dismissal is evidence that the cuts are reaching far deeper into the newsroom than anyone anticipated and that talented people are being let go. I think I speak for most local journalists in wishing the more than 200 individuals who have been impacted the best of luck in finding positions that keep them in the journalism profession or at least their passion alive for telling stories.
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Tags: Business, Clients
Helix Architecture’s Rebekah Kingsley is a goddess! I owe her for connecting me with Review editor Tracy Abeln. My piece titled “Solid Crossing” appeared in the essay section of the magazine’s October edition. I haven’t requested a print copy. I’ll just take Rebekah’s word that it looked spectacular. (more…)
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Tags: Business, Clients, Review
Recognition is best when it comes unexpectedly. When it’s not the end goal, it’s easier to be open minded and genuine during the creative process.
That point proved itself to me last night when I received an indirect honor at the PRISM Awards Gala at the Sprint Center. I was attending the ceremony to claim an award for PlattForm Advertising’s work on its philanthropic web site and related e-mail campaigns. This is the first time the agency has participated in the awards competition hosted by the Greater Kansas City Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. (more…)
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Tags: Business, Clients, PR
If you’re into comic books, keep an eye on Present Magazine. Co-publisher Pam Taylor contacted me late last week about my next assignment. This weekend, I’ll be heading to an infamous bookstore in Mid-town for a book signing with two local artists. From what little I know, the character they have created has one of the most daring (and dark) back stories I’ve ever heard. Brave would also apply if the authors/illustrators share a similar background.
I won’t give away any more in fear of jeopardizing the scoop on this piece, but I’m looking forward to writing it. Pam and Pete Dulin have let me run absolutely wild on the pages of their online publication. I’ve relished every word of every sentence. The 18th Street Fashion Show story in June raised the bar on sentence length and outlandish commentary on my part.
This new assignment might be darker, but that does not necessarily mean more reserved. Look for it in Present or the link to it here come early August.
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Tags: Business, Clients, Local Stuff
