About the Newsroom
About the Newsroom
The Newsroom is the online presence of the Media Center for RE-AMP. The mission of the Media Center is to change the current media dialogue on energy to one that supports the RE-AMP goal of reducing global warming pollution in the Upper Midwest by 80% by the year 2030. The vision of the Media Center is to offer maximum media relations services and support to organizations in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin working toward this attainable goal. We do so with the likeminded network of communications and public relations professionals who serve as the state partners in our work.
Menu of Resources
Briefings on the RE-AMP Frame/Messaging
- Developed through focus group research and continually refined by Valerie Denney Communications, the RE-AMP frame/messaging is the foundation that guides our work in media relations. Briefings are held around the region to get this important messaging into the hands of as many people as possible.
Strategic Communications Services
- Need help making sure your opinion piece or letter to the editor reflects the RE-AMP frame? Is that really the best tone and language for your news release? Does your radio script need a RE-AMP boost? Not sure that headline really works to convey your urgent message? Valerie Denney Communications' strategic communications strategy services are available to all member organizations of the RE-AMP community! Contact them at 312.408.2580 or online at info [at] vdcom dot com.
Reporter Database, Media Monitoring/Clippings
- The Media Center has access to a comprehensive media contacts database which is updated every 24 hours
- The Media Center monitors and clips stories that not only interest our community of organizations but carry our frames and messaging with unexpected – yet trusted messengers
Story Pitching and Placement
- The Media Center consistently places 50% or better of the stories we pitch – well above the industry standard
- Public News Service (AP-style radio) memberships in IA, MN, ND, SD and WI – have garnered over 2500 radio stories airing in the past 15 months – an average of over 40 stories a week
Communications Plans, Media 101 and Hands-On Training
- Everything works better with a plan but many ask - how does the media work? What is the best strategy? How do I develop a communications plan? Never fear, the Media Center, our state partners and other resources are here to provide you with a plan you can use and execute according to your needs.
- Media interviews can be a daunting prospect. The Media Center’s staff – in conjunction with our state partners – take the stress out interacting with the fourth estate. Whether it’s a day-long training in your media market or a pre-interview pep talk over the phone, we can help you present yourself professionally and confidently.
Advertising
- Sometimes the best way to get your message out is with paid media. Don’t know what a DMA is? We do. Don’t know the ins and outs to produce your own radio spots? We do. Know how to buy and sell farm futures but media buying – for maximum reach at the lowest cost – is not part of your experience? Don’t worry. It’s a big part of ours.
New Media
- The Internet has changed modern life and communication. But for RE-AMP member organizations, social media can be one of the most cost effective ways to communicate with the largest possible audience. From uploading photos to blogging, podcasts and vodcasting, the Media Center and the RE-AMP Commons can be one of your most valuable tools in this brave new world of interaction.
The Media Center contracts with organizations throughout the region to build their capacity and increase our level of local and regional expertise. If you’re part of a RE-AMP organization and you think we can help with your media needs contact your local state partner or the Media Center directly.
And it won’t cost you a dollar, dime or even a nickel. Just a little bit of your time. You’ll be glad you did.
The Media Center
Rick Fuentes -- Senior Media Specialist and Acting Media Director
Fresh Energy
651.726.7562 or fuentes [at] fresh-energy dot org
Elena Velkov – Media Relations Coordinator
Fresh Energy
651.726.7576 or velkov [at] fresh-energy dot org
Iowa
Lynn Laws – Communications Director
Iowa Environmental Council
515.244.1194 or lynnlaws [at] iaenvironment dot org
North Dakota
Mary Mitchell – Energy Coordinator
Dakota Resource Council
701.224.8587 or mary [at] drcinfo dot com
South Dakota
Jada Bulgin – Account Representative
Media Ink
605.336.3335 or JadaB [at] mediaink dot biz