Why I am attending the Copper Anvils

By on September 7th, 2010 In Professional Development

prsa-w1Have you ever attended the PRSA Phoenix Copper Anvil Awards?  I haven’t entered or attended them in the past, thinking they were an “agency” thing. But after sitting down with Abbie Fink, President of Phoenix PRSA Chapter and Beth Wilkinson, who works with Abbie at HMA Public Relations and assists with the Copper Anvil committee, I am going to buy a ticket to the event.

You may think that since I am on the Phoenix PRSA Board that this is why I am writing this blog post. Well, I do want to support the group, but I also know there are some out there who just don’t see the need or reason to go. I wanted to know why an Indie or anyone who hasn’t submitted would attend. Well, there are some great reasons. Networking, Measurement, Support and Fun.

Networking: This is a unique opportunity to rub elbows with some of the more senior level PR professionals in our industry. According to Abbie, this is when the “Francine Hardaways” of Phoenix are in attendance. Step outside your comfort level and meet some new people who may not be at the usual industry social events. Abbie also shared the story of how she and Michelle Olson of Olson Communications met at a Copper Anvil ceremony quite a few years back and that was where their friendship began.

Measurement: How did your last PR campaign measure up to what is currently being done in the Phoenix area? The winning campaigns are highlighted during the award ceremony. What better way to see where your work stacks up? Plus, take a few ideas away with you and use those to inspire your next PR campaign.

Support: This is your opportunity to show your support of colleagues in the agency, government, business and non-profit areas. Lets celebrate each other’s accomplishments and successes. Acknowledge the history of the Copper Anvils in Phoenix. Abbie took me on tour of the awards when we met. Its pretty cool to see how they have changed over the years.

Fun: Beth says this is not the typical sit down award ceremony. Taking place at the Hotel Valley Ho, the vibe will be fresh, fun and dressy casual. No rubber chicken on a plate. Instead, look forward to a yummy menu of passed, comfort food as heavy hors d’ oeuvres (Chicken Pot Pie Cups, Beef Stroganoff, Braised Mushrooms, etc)  and a signature martini will be served along with wine, liquor, beer and soda. Mix and mingle without feeling like you are stuck at a table in an assigned seat. Enjoy emcee and KTVK anchor Javier Soto, dance to the sounds of Mr. P-Body, and capture the evening’s magic with Flipbook Memories.

To learn more and register, see below.

PRSA Phoenix Chapter 2010 Copper Anvil Awards Reception

WHEN: Thursday, September 16th at the Valley Ho Hotel. 5:30pm.

Purchase advance tickets for $40 (members) and $50 (non-members). Raffle tickets for fabulous prizes also can be purchased to support the Chapter’s student scholarship fund.

You can also purchase advance event and raffle tickets online at phoenixprsa.org.

Questions? E-mail chaptermanager@phoenixprsa.org

Comments

Beth Wilkinson Says:
September 7th, 2010 at 9:05 am

Thanks for sitting down with us, Charlotte. I think you’re right – sometimes people don’t realize how some of our programming might help them become better practitioners. This event not only teaches people what it takes to run a successful campaign (or a single tactic), but it’s FUN too. I’m looking forward to seeing the great group that will be in attendance at this year’s event.

Scott Hanson Says:
September 7th, 2010 at 10:32 am

The video tour is classic. Abbie, maybe the “guy” should be called “Copper Manvil.”

Liam Says:
September 7th, 2010 at 11:00 am

Charlotte,
I attended two years ago and didn’t submit
anything. It’s a good forum for MarComms and
agency professionals. I had a conflict and missed it last year, but
I am going next week. I submitted two entries and
even though neither won, I still look forward to seeing
all of the winning categories and interacting with
industry acquaintances. I think the different format
has appeal so people won’t feel trapped at their designated
table.
In changing climates, award entries and attendance face challenges of
cost, application effort, staff turnover, priorities within organization and perhaps even a jaded sense of local or industry award overload (or the mentality of already winning in recent years for some categories).
It’s still a great annual event, and members should try to make it out
to stay apprised of the Valley’s great campaigns from the past year.

Amy Says:
September 7th, 2010 at 11:44 am

The whole Phoenix Allison & Partners office will be there…we’re all looking forward to it! Only a few of us are members, so I think it will be a great opportunity for the whole staff to meet and mingle with some great PR pros!

Paula Pedene Says:
September 7th, 2010 at 4:42 pm

When I first became involved in the Phoenix Chapter this was the event I worked on and I can tell you those friends that were on the committee are still my friends today including Michelle Olson and Regina Frieden were among them. Two great people!!! One other great thing the Anvil Awards offer is the presentation of scholarship funds to a few PR students. It’s a great way of giving back and celebrating PR in Real Life. Hope to see you all there!!!

Abbie S. Fink Says:
September 7th, 2010 at 11:04 pm

Charlotte — thanks for this post. The HMA team will be there. Scott, you’re right… Manvil might be the better than the “six-pack ab guy.”

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