Bold Fusion and the power of positive press
The Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber did an amazing job of putting together the third annual Bold Fusion networking and educational YP summit on Friday. The event drew an energetic, informed and inspired crowd of professionals, predominantly under 35 years old.
One of the highlights was a media panel with local radio, TV and newspaper representatives and someone from a blog watch company. The young professionals were not shy in expressing concern over the media’s saturation of negative news, particularly regarding violence in downtown neighborhoods. From the homicide count to the Bengals, the general consensus was that our news is predominantly bad news.
A news clip beautifully illustrated the point: One of the local TV stations was doing a piece on LilyPad, Cincinnati’s new wi-fi network. The creation of LilyPad was a marked success in a city that is struggling to maintain its downtown arena. But rather than simply announcing the new network and celebrating its debut, the reporter wove the city’s crime statistics into the story.
How can Cincinnati receive positive coverage on CNN when we can’t get it on WKRC?
I am a nascent journalist – interning at Women’s Business Cincinnati before returning to Ohio University for my final year of undergrad. I am constantly being asked: “So, what do you want to do?” When I started at WBC I told my editor, Cindi Andrews, I don’t want to report the news — I want to write lengthy articles about positive things and people. I know my head is in the clouds, but there must be some middle ground.
It is time for our local media to take a crash course in the power of positive press. When something good happens at a company, the PR person is everywhere spreading the news. Part of the role of
Cincinnati media is to point out the good things happening in our beloved city.
Yes, the news must be honest and accurate; we cannot change the facts. But when progressive, positive initiatives are happening here, we should be eager to spread the word locally and nationally.
— Angela Prues, editorial intern
