Noting the lack of a widely accepted definition of public relations, this paper discusses several definitions that have been formulated and dismisses them as inadequate and fraught with understatement. It then suggests that a more appropriate and satisfactory approach to the problem might be to think of public relations as an immature and…

Reports the results of two studies. The first determines that providing camera-ready copy is a cost-effective method of getting information published in newspapers. The second suggests that newspapers take longer to publish releases that are related to topics in the news. (MS)

The authors explain how to develop a speakers bureau as a statewide marketing tool for vocational education. They draw upon their experience in starting a home economics speakers bureau in Colorado. (CH)

Describes the duties of a political press secretary, some of the problems with the profession, and the frame of mind necessary to pursue a career in press relations. (HTH)

Discusses specific ways to plan for and promote National Vocational Education Week. Includes suggested activities and audiences as well as a planning calendar. (JOW)

Discusses details of conference organization in terms of public relations, advertising, and activities which make the meeting run smoothly. (JOW)

An overview of how media centers should conduct their public relations programs. (BD)

Provides guidelines for working with the media to increase recognition of programs and students. (JOW)

Interview with Steven Mulvenon, communications director of the Washoe County (Nevada) School District. Mulvenon answers questions about the principalship and school public relations. (PKP)

Argues that collaborative public relations is unfeasible in some situations--certain kinds of conflicts require asymmetric or win-lose public relations efforts. States that practitioners sometimes perceive few degrees of freedom in how they may respond to a situation. (PA)

Reviews several popular definitions of public relations; explicates the shared elements and assumptions inherent in these definitions. Presents an alternative conceptualization of public relations based upon Herbert Blumer's symbolic interactionism. Looks to stimulate questioning and self assessment and to introduce alternative goals, ideas, and…

Determines whether the public knows of the newspaper ombudsman's role, and probes the effects of calling a newspaper on public perceptions of the newspaper's interest in accuracy and correcting errors. Finds that people who call the ombudsman are satisfied with the response to their complaint. (RS)