Local Public Relations Chapter Hosts Media-Con

February 3, 2023 – Sarasota

The Central West Coast chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (CWC-FPRA) is thrilled to announce the return of its most popular annual professional development event, “Media-Con: Shoot for the Best Headline.” Public relations, communications, nonprofit and associated professionals are invited to join CWC-FPRA for a morning of learning, conversation, and networking with media representatives from across our region and beyond. 

The event – which is open to members and guests – takes place on Thursday, February 23, 7:30-11:30 a.m. at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (3130 Fruitville Road, Sarasota).

Attendees will hear from numerous media representatives on topics including best practices for story pitching and content matter most appropriate and desired by their respective outlets as well as some pet peeves that might get in the way of building mutually beneficial relationships. Through interactive panel discussions and pitch moments, they will learn the “whos” and “hows” of strategically deploying their stories – their star players – at the right time to shoot for those winning headlines.

Featured guests are Forbes arts contributor and podcaster Chadd Scott and ESPN Radio host Amber Wilson. Representatives from numerous regional outlets will also be in attendance, including Mark Gordon of the Business Observer; Cooper Levey-Baker of Sarasota Magazine; Holly Harper from WWSB ABC7; John Knowles of SCENE Magazine; Bob Williams of Sarasota Stories podcast; Kerri Black of Fiorini Broadcasting (WENG Radio); Kerry Sheridan of WUSF; and Mercedes Soler of Solmart Media. The participants will be divided into two panels targeting broadcast, print and digital; and radio and podcast.

“While many professionals in our field have an abundance of great stories they’d like to share through the media, it is crucial to build positive relationships and adhere to industry best practices in order for those stories to ever see the light of day,” said Sheryl Vieira, president of CWC-FPRA. “Our annual media event provides communications pros the chance to meet with key media representatives in our area – and beyond – and build lasting relationships.”

Tickets are $50/members, $60/future members; cost includes breakfast. To register, visit cwcfpra.com/events. CWC-FPRA’s annual corporate sponsors are Caldwell Trust Company and Next-Mark, with additional financial support courtesy of Joe Curley, APR, CPRC. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties and Sir Speedy have graciously donated spaces and resources as in-kind sponsors.

CWC-FPRA meets monthly for professional development luncheons and networking. These events are designed to expose attendees to current public relations practices and developments in the communications industry. Visit cwcfpra.com for more information.