Eight hours of innovative arts performance will take place as a Swansea cultural website is launched this weekend.
The free city centre festival on Saturday, from 3-11pm, will feature live music and DJs, theatre, comedy, spoken word and performance art.
It will mark the launch of not-for-profit resource Artawe (www.artawe.com). The South Wales Evening Post carried a strong page three story on it yesterday.
The venue is Tapestri, a new arts café bar in Alexandra Road’s former central police station now redeveloped by Grwp Gwalia as arts and culture complex Llys Glas.
Artawe looks to have put together a lively day with lots of activities planned. It will give visitors an exclusive chance to experience what Tapestri is all about prior to its own launch next month.
Compered by DJ Stu Vox, the Artawe launch will allow visitors to meet artists and performers. Attractions include:
Big Draw Led by professional artist and printmaker Rosie Scribbler, this will see artists drawing to music. Rosie is a member of Swansea Print Workshop and has been involved in community art projects.
The Crunch Spoken word, poetry, prose and rants from Swansea’s twice-monthly evening at Mozarts.
Fernando Rey Band specialising in alternative pop/alternative country, adopting a mixture of great songs combined with an experimental approach. Harmonies, thoughtful lyrics and shoegazer sensitivity in a classic two guitar, bass and drums package.
Joan Jones Performance artist who sings, narrates and plays instruments.
MAD Swansea Music Art Dance (MAD) is a community interest company (CIC) which supports the arts and live music by providing opportunities and resources for local bands, musicians and artists.
Miles Lloyd and Simon Emmanuel South Wales comedy brought to Artawe by Garage at Monkey Bar, Swansea.
New Yohawks and AfterGlow Alternative punk.
ShellShock A Swansea theatre company who create original experiences which aim to entertain, confuse and question. ShellShock have performed in Swansea and Cardiff, created theatrical street games as far away as London and were invited to perform at the Bristol Old Vic and the Edinburgh Festival. ShellShock is run by Swansea performers Stephen Donnelly and Sian Stuttard.
Visual art Galleries invited include Elysium, The Shed and Oriel Bach.
David Williams Pianist.
Steve Woodman and John Ford Acoustic music.
Artawe’s website provides information on artists including a venue directory of Swansea galleries, music venues, theatres, arts cafes and bookshops.
Jonathan Powell, director of Artawe and the city centre Elysium Gallery, believes that Artawe is a vital resource for all creative people and organisations based in and working in Swansea.
Showing posts with label media. Show all posts
Showing posts with label media. Show all posts
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Arts hub boost for online Swansea
Arts folk across Swansea should welcome the city's latest web platform.
Artawe is a not-for-profit web resource that aims to pull together all areas of the local culture scene.
It looks good, feels good and I urge you to use it for both promotional and research purposes.
Creative types can flag up their offerings - just check out artist Tom Goddard's page and the preview for a Helen Watson gig this Friday at The Chattery.
Those looking for a bit of fun can plan their days and nights ahead - for a little New Years Eve fun check out this Brunswick event.
The official Artawe launch comes this Saturday, by the way, when new arts cafe Tapestri, in Alexandra Road's former central police station, hosts a free arts festival.
Artawe is a not-for-profit web resource that aims to pull together all areas of the local culture scene.
It looks good, feels good and I urge you to use it for both promotional and research purposes.
Creative types can flag up their offerings - just check out artist Tom Goddard's page and the preview for a Helen Watson gig this Friday at The Chattery.
Those looking for a bit of fun can plan their days and nights ahead - for a little New Years Eve fun check out this Brunswick event.
The official Artawe launch comes this Saturday, by the way, when new arts cafe Tapestri, in Alexandra Road's former central police station, hosts a free arts festival.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Facebook fear for Welsh marriages
Matrimonial lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners regularly use online platforms platforms such as Facebook to gather evidence in divorce cases.
Rash words can be costly
Millions of us use online phenomenon Facebook every day. To many it’s an addictive attraction of modern life; fun for friendship, brilliant for business. However, it should be handled with care. Here, solicitor Sara Plant, of Swansea law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, reveals how social media content is being used increasingly often in divorce proceedings across Wales.
The Social Network has been an astonishingly successful film since its release last month.
It tells the amazing true story of how internet social networking website Facebook came to be - and how it resulted in high-profile lawsuits.
The drama is built brilliantly on a wholly modern phenomenon, thoroughbred entrepreneurial spirit and the relationship changes that take place in an adrenaline-fuelled cocktail of friendship, ambition and global business.
Pals
Its stars include Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield as American college pals Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin, and Justin Timberlake as online music pioneer Sean Parker.
The jaw-dropping moments include a police raid which finds Parker arrested for cocaine possession whilst celebrating Facebook's millionth member.
Back in the here and now, however, Facebook and other social media sites are the subject of an increasing number of legal proceedings of a much different nature.
These are the cases that involve thousands of ordinary people from a much less rarefied background to that of multi-millionaire Zuckerberg.
They are the divorce proceedings happening in every community where Evening Post readers live.
It’ll come as a shock to many to learn that all our matrimonial lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners habitually use social media sites as they collect evidence on behalf of clients.
Thought
Why? Well, first, there’s the fact that many individuals simply don’t apply the whole thought process before they upload.
Hence, Facebook postings reveal wives being a little too open about their behaviour and husbands lying about their whereabouts. Photographs tie you down to a time and place. There’s little point trying to convince a court that you were somewhere else doing something far more innocent.
A recent court statement from a wife allegedly abused and harassed by her ex-husband may be: “I was devastated and couldn’t face anyone.” Yet we then produce Facebook photos showing her out laughing and joking at parties shortly after the split and during the alleged period of torment.
Social media also finds individuals bragging about business success or giving financial details that they choose not to deliver in the divorce court. Once it’s in black and white on a public computer screen it’s difficult to hide it from a solicitor.
Feeling
Compromising photos are posted – having a cuddle at an office party, for instance. These can trigger bad feeling in marriages and ultimately, separation.
Now, I do hope that I’ve not painted legal firms as the pantomime baddies here. That, of course, is far from the case. Most social media information is public - that’s the nature of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and so on; it’s what makes them so addictive and popular.
It’s within everybody’s rights to access this information so lawyers are only doing what any member of the public can do.
And don’t think it’s just divorce cases that are being affected by Facebook. Employment law is another big area, as are contact and residence disputes. We are also being asked to advise more and more on defamation following highly contentious postings.
Damning
As long as Facebook users continue to inform “friends” about personal issues and give frank personal details, lawyers will continue to look there for damning evidence.
Of course, legal proceedings should be avoided where possible; they can be expensive and traumatic.
So here’s what I suggest when it comes to using social media:
Partner Sara Plant got together with the South Wales Evening Post to explain how this modern legal phenomenon has downsides as well as all the ups.
Here's the full draft of her feature.
Rash words can be costly
Millions of us use online phenomenon Facebook every day. To many it’s an addictive attraction of modern life; fun for friendship, brilliant for business. However, it should be handled with care. Here, solicitor Sara Plant, of Swansea law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, reveals how social media content is being used increasingly often in divorce proceedings across Wales.
The Social Network has been an astonishingly successful film since its release last month.
It tells the amazing true story of how internet social networking website Facebook came to be - and how it resulted in high-profile lawsuits.
The drama is built brilliantly on a wholly modern phenomenon, thoroughbred entrepreneurial spirit and the relationship changes that take place in an adrenaline-fuelled cocktail of friendship, ambition and global business.
Pals
Its stars include Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield as American college pals Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin, and Justin Timberlake as online music pioneer Sean Parker.
The jaw-dropping moments include a police raid which finds Parker arrested for cocaine possession whilst celebrating Facebook's millionth member.
Back in the here and now, however, Facebook and other social media sites are the subject of an increasing number of legal proceedings of a much different nature.
These are the cases that involve thousands of ordinary people from a much less rarefied background to that of multi-millionaire Zuckerberg.
They are the divorce proceedings happening in every community where Evening Post readers live.
It’ll come as a shock to many to learn that all our matrimonial lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners habitually use social media sites as they collect evidence on behalf of clients.
Thought
Why? Well, first, there’s the fact that many individuals simply don’t apply the whole thought process before they upload.
Hence, Facebook postings reveal wives being a little too open about their behaviour and husbands lying about their whereabouts. Photographs tie you down to a time and place. There’s little point trying to convince a court that you were somewhere else doing something far more innocent.
A recent court statement from a wife allegedly abused and harassed by her ex-husband may be: “I was devastated and couldn’t face anyone.” Yet we then produce Facebook photos showing her out laughing and joking at parties shortly after the split and during the alleged period of torment.
Social media also finds individuals bragging about business success or giving financial details that they choose not to deliver in the divorce court. Once it’s in black and white on a public computer screen it’s difficult to hide it from a solicitor.
Feeling
Compromising photos are posted – having a cuddle at an office party, for instance. These can trigger bad feeling in marriages and ultimately, separation.
Now, I do hope that I’ve not painted legal firms as the pantomime baddies here. That, of course, is far from the case. Most social media information is public - that’s the nature of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and so on; it’s what makes them so addictive and popular.
It’s within everybody’s rights to access this information so lawyers are only doing what any member of the public can do.
And don’t think it’s just divorce cases that are being affected by Facebook. Employment law is another big area, as are contact and residence disputes. We are also being asked to advise more and more on defamation following highly contentious postings.
Damning
As long as Facebook users continue to inform “friends” about personal issues and give frank personal details, lawyers will continue to look there for damning evidence.
Of course, legal proceedings should be avoided where possible; they can be expensive and traumatic.
So here’s what I suggest when it comes to using social media:
- Never be disrespectful of your spouse (or others)
- Don’t flaunt your extra-marital exploits
- However tempting it may be, don’t post those photos which could later be misconstrued
- Keep extreme matters to yourself – don’t brag about expensive new buys or incredibly glamorous holidays
- Use your common sense and think carefully before any posting. Assume that everything you put on Facebook can - and will - be used against you in court one day.
Friday, November 12, 2010
A marketing boost - from the PTA
It's always good to welcome an enterprising new avenue for Wales' PR and marketing needs.
So that's why Effective Communication today applauds the parent teacher association at Gower's Pennard Primary School.
The fund-raising body has gathered together its collective sales and publishing nous to plan a local business directory.
Good on 'em!
"Advertise your business locally for just £10," encourages their poster.
"Whether you’re a plumber, gardener, financial services advisor or make cakes in your spare time, we're compiling a list of businesses who wish to advertise their services locally in a full-colour A5 business and information directory."
The publication will be circulated to around 140 families of Pennard Primary School in the new year.
A full page ad is £30 and those interested should phone Ian Ambrose - 07702 832 552 by December 1.
Profits will go to PTA funds, helping to provide additional school resources.
So that's why Effective Communication today applauds the parent teacher association at Gower's Pennard Primary School.
The fund-raising body has gathered together its collective sales and publishing nous to plan a local business directory.
Good on 'em!
"Advertise your business locally for just £10," encourages their poster.
"Whether you’re a plumber, gardener, financial services advisor or make cakes in your spare time, we're compiling a list of businesses who wish to advertise their services locally in a full-colour A5 business and information directory."
The publication will be circulated to around 140 families of Pennard Primary School in the new year.
A full page ad is £30 and those interested should phone Ian Ambrose - 07702 832 552 by December 1.
Profits will go to PTA funds, helping to provide additional school resources.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Danny's tasty PR treat
Chef Danny Illingworth starts serving food to Christmas party guests in the next week or two.
You can safely predict that he and his expert staff at Swansea's Village Hotel won't wish to see a turkey on their own plate come December 25 - they'll be working rather a lot with that particular bird in the coming weeks.
It's good news for Village manager Andrew Petherick and his team that Danny has been chosen by Swansea Sound to give Christmas dinner tips to listeners.
In the four or five weeks leading up to the holiday, Danny will appear on a weekly basis on the Leighton Jones show (Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm).
The two got together for the first time yesterday at Swansea Sound's Gowerton studios to run through a few ideas.
As the fella who brought them together on behalf of an Effective Communication PR push, I was fortunate to sit in on their meeting.
They've some goods things planned ... and the on-air relationship looks like it may even develop into the new year.
You can safely predict that he and his expert staff at Swansea's Village Hotel won't wish to see a turkey on their own plate come December 25 - they'll be working rather a lot with that particular bird in the coming weeks.
It's good news for Village manager Andrew Petherick and his team that Danny has been chosen by Swansea Sound to give Christmas dinner tips to listeners.
In the four or five weeks leading up to the holiday, Danny will appear on a weekly basis on the Leighton Jones show (Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm).
The two got together for the first time yesterday at Swansea Sound's Gowerton studios to run through a few ideas.
As the fella who brought them together on behalf of an Effective Communication PR push, I was fortunate to sit in on their meeting.
They've some goods things planned ... and the on-air relationship looks like it may even develop into the new year.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Welsh Uni: Social media benefits for business
A free workshop on how Welsh business can benefit from social media takes place tonight (November 9) at Swansea’s Marriott Hotel.
It is being hosted by Software Alliance Wales, a £13m all-Wales project led by Swansea University - and I urge business people to attend.
The hour-long workshop, from 6.30pm, will be delivered by Dr Max L Wilson, lecturer at the uni’s Fit Lab (Future Interaction Technologies).
The event - Social Media as a Business Tool - will offer valuable info on how enterprises can use online resources as great communication and marketing tools.
Feedback
Two weeks ago, Effective Communication hosted its own client presentation on the issue and received fabulous feedback.
Dr Wilson, who has an international research and publication record, told me: “Social media is the single most influential change to how individuals and businesses gather information and communicate messages.
"With over 90m tweets posted each day, and with many people spending more time on Facebook than Google, the power of these tools shouldn’t be ignored.
“Some businesses may have flirted with social networking and social media, but few are truly comfortable with the potential that it has.
“This workshop aims to provide businesses and individuals with the knowledge and confidence to fully utilise the opportunities available for their business via social media platforms.”
Details 01792 606663, events@softwarealliancewales.com, www.softwarealliancewales.com/events.
It is being hosted by Software Alliance Wales, a £13m all-Wales project led by Swansea University - and I urge business people to attend.
The hour-long workshop, from 6.30pm, will be delivered by Dr Max L Wilson, lecturer at the uni’s Fit Lab (Future Interaction Technologies).
The event - Social Media as a Business Tool - will offer valuable info on how enterprises can use online resources as great communication and marketing tools.
Feedback
Two weeks ago, Effective Communication hosted its own client presentation on the issue and received fabulous feedback.
Dr Wilson, who has an international research and publication record, told me: “Social media is the single most influential change to how individuals and businesses gather information and communicate messages.
"With over 90m tweets posted each day, and with many people spending more time on Facebook than Google, the power of these tools shouldn’t be ignored.
“Some businesses may have flirted with social networking and social media, but few are truly comfortable with the potential that it has.
“This workshop aims to provide businesses and individuals with the knowledge and confidence to fully utilise the opportunities available for their business via social media platforms.”
Details 01792 606663, events@softwarealliancewales.com, www.softwarealliancewales.com/events.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Video blog: Melanie's Welsh media advice
Melanie Davies is working hard on Press support as she bids to create a £10m therapy centre for disabled people.
The Treat Trust centre is planned for Swansea's Morriston Hospital - and it's a major undertaking.
Melanie already has the support of stars such as Michael Sheen and Paul Potts, and in this video made after an address to Swansea Business Club she explains why media support will be crucial ... and how she's going about getting it.
The Treat Trust centre is planned for Swansea's Morriston Hospital - and it's a major undertaking.
Melanie already has the support of stars such as Michael Sheen and Paul Potts, and in this video made after an address to Swansea Business Club she explains why media support will be crucial ... and how she's going about getting it.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Blogger's next up for Swansea Business Club
Dr Paul Thomas has some ideas that many of today's Welsh bosses may feel uncomfortable with.
His website's tagline is: "Eradicating the Mad Management Virus."
His blog includes statements such as:
His message will be broadcast loud and clear when he addresses Swansea Business Club over lunch on December 10.
Today, the club greets inspirational guest speaker Melanie Davies, of Treat Trust Wales, and she'll be a hard act to follow.
Will Paul manage it?
Well, you can decide for yourself by checking out his blog to get some idea.
Blogging's an increasingly important weapon in the armoury of a business and Paul uses it beautifully, managing to drive traffic to and from his other online platforms which include his website and his Twitter feed.
Those interested in Paul's ideas also have reason to keep going back to the blog - it's regular, opinionated and witty.
Can't wait to meet the fella! Book your December 10 place at the Towers Hotel through Lisa Williams at Effective Communication - 029 2064 6860, email lwilliams@effcom.co.uk.
His website's tagline is: "Eradicating the Mad Management Virus."
His blog includes statements such as:
- "Our government in Wales is top-heavy and costly."
- "Rules, procedures and regulations normally used by managers to control staff limit the organisation's ability to evolve."
- "Managers cause so much unhappiness in organisations through a focus on targets."
- "In most organisations there are limited options for employees to function and there are inflexible structures."
He believes we should ditch the traditional way of managing and, instead, give every member of staff a say in running the business.
His message will be broadcast loud and clear when he addresses Swansea Business Club over lunch on December 10.
Today, the club greets inspirational guest speaker Melanie Davies, of Treat Trust Wales, and she'll be a hard act to follow.
Will Paul manage it?
Well, you can decide for yourself by checking out his blog to get some idea.
Blogging's an increasingly important weapon in the armoury of a business and Paul uses it beautifully, managing to drive traffic to and from his other online platforms which include his website and his Twitter feed.
Those interested in Paul's ideas also have reason to keep going back to the blog - it's regular, opinionated and witty.
Can't wait to meet the fella! Book your December 10 place at the Towers Hotel through Lisa Williams at Effective Communication - 029 2064 6860, email lwilliams@effcom.co.uk.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Journos make Port Talbot progress
Progress is being made by journalists behind a plan to regenerate local news provision in Port Talbot.
Around 13 months ago, the town - along with neighbouring Neath - lost its sole dedicated news platform.
The Neath and Port Talbot Guardians have not been replaced but the professionals behind Local News Port Talbot wish to change that.
They have garnered influential community support and now aim to have their embryonic website regularly refreshed with quality local content.
A board meeting this week pledged to progress plans on several fronts, including hook-ups with organisations from the arts, photographic, business and academia.
Watch this space.
Around 13 months ago, the town - along with neighbouring Neath - lost its sole dedicated news platform.
The Neath and Port Talbot Guardians have not been replaced but the professionals behind Local News Port Talbot wish to change that.
They have garnered influential community support and now aim to have their embryonic website regularly refreshed with quality local content.
A board meeting this week pledged to progress plans on several fronts, including hook-ups with organisations from the arts, photographic, business and academia.
Watch this space.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Twitter: 5 reasons why it's useful
For those in any doubt about the usefulness of Twitter, here's a small cross-section of South Wales tweets from yesterday afternoon.
They're from a range of organisations and they're all very worthwhile - and I'll try to explain why after each.
Crucially, they all talk directly to their audience (or 'followers') and importantly they all lead to useful info.
Ignore Twitter at your peril.
Tweeter South Wales Police
Twitter name swpolice
Tweet Officers Seize Fireworks http://fb.me/Epte419i
Useful because It links to a news item about advice on storage, underage sales and the anti-social elements of Guy Fawkes Night. Good PR, good public info.
Tweeter Cardiff Business Online
Twitter name CardiffBiz
Tweet Any FREE DESSERT when you order a starter and a main course at Mocka Lounge with the voucher here http://ow.ly/33hBa
Useful because It links to a hot eating out offer - and hopefully a few extra sales.
Tweeter Swansea University Students Union
Twitter name SwanseaUnion
Tweet Taking action for broke and broken postgraduate students! http://fb.me/tqb3MrtV
Useful because It links to a blog about the union marching on London urging the UK government to not cut higher education. Good to rally support and deliver a political message.
Tweeter Wales In Style
Twitter name WalesInStyle
Tweet Andy Fisher is the 3rd person to Pack His Bags to WIN a stylish break in Wales. Enter now - http://ow.ly/33joF
Useful because It links to a promotional competition, creating strong PR, customer interaction and a little bit of fun.
Tweeter Bishop Gore School, Swansea
Twitter name bishopgore
Tweet Boys PE Extra Curricular Oct View http://bit.ly/94PYAh
Useful because It links pupils to important information.
They're from a range of organisations and they're all very worthwhile - and I'll try to explain why after each.
Crucially, they all talk directly to their audience (or 'followers') and importantly they all lead to useful info.
Ignore Twitter at your peril.
Tweeter South Wales Police
Twitter name swpolice
Tweet Officers Seize Fireworks http://fb.me/Epte419i
Useful because It links to a news item about advice on storage, underage sales and the anti-social elements of Guy Fawkes Night. Good PR, good public info.
Tweeter Cardiff Business Online
Twitter name CardiffBiz
Tweet Any FREE DESSERT when you order a starter and a main course at Mocka Lounge with the voucher here http://ow.ly/33hBa
Useful because It links to a hot eating out offer - and hopefully a few extra sales.
Tweeter Swansea University Students Union
Twitter name SwanseaUnion
Tweet Taking action for broke and broken postgraduate students! http://fb.me/tqb3MrtV
Useful because It links to a blog about the union marching on London urging the UK government to not cut higher education. Good to rally support and deliver a political message.
Tweeter Wales In Style
Twitter name WalesInStyle
Tweet Andy Fisher is the 3rd person to Pack His Bags to WIN a stylish break in Wales. Enter now - http://ow.ly/33joF
Useful because It links to a promotional competition, creating strong PR, customer interaction and a little bit of fun.
Tweeter Bishop Gore School, Swansea
Twitter name bishopgore
Tweet Boys PE Extra Curricular Oct View http://bit.ly/94PYAh
Useful because It links pupils to important information.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Welsh success given PR boost
"Come to Swansea Bay - Come to Life!" is the slogan from marketing unit Swansea Bay Futures.
And their regular e-newsletter is certainly full of life.
Don't be put off by its unwieldy title - Bay of Life Watch; just try to make use of it.
The latest edition is just out and has news on everything from the city topping a business start-up league for Wales to St Clears-based Sanclêr Organic providing 2012 Olympics cheeses.
Valued
Happily, there's also mention for two key news items from Grwp Gwalia, a valued client of Effective Communication.
One outlines how affordable homes are being built by Gwalia on Llanelli's former Buckley’s Brewery site.
The other details Gwalia's delight in seeing its Llys Glas scheme shortlisted for a regeneration award. The building was formerly Swansea's former central police station and is now home to an art gallery, an advice centre and 80 student rooms.
If you're not already hooked up with Bay of Life Watch, I suggest you are.
The woman in charge of the newsletter is Ruth Dockerty, communications and marketing executive with Swansea Bay Futures.
Phone her on 01792 635852, email her at Ruth.Dockerty@swansea.gov.uk or read more at http://www.abayoflife.com/.
And their regular e-newsletter is certainly full of life.
Don't be put off by its unwieldy title - Bay of Life Watch; just try to make use of it.
The latest edition is just out and has news on everything from the city topping a business start-up league for Wales to St Clears-based Sanclêr Organic providing 2012 Olympics cheeses.
Valued
Happily, there's also mention for two key news items from Grwp Gwalia, a valued client of Effective Communication.
One outlines how affordable homes are being built by Gwalia on Llanelli's former Buckley’s Brewery site.
The other details Gwalia's delight in seeing its Llys Glas scheme shortlisted for a regeneration award. The building was formerly Swansea's former central police station and is now home to an art gallery, an advice centre and 80 student rooms.
If you're not already hooked up with Bay of Life Watch, I suggest you are.
The woman in charge of the newsletter is Ruth Dockerty, communications and marketing executive with Swansea Bay Futures.
Phone her on 01792 635852, email her at Ruth.Dockerty@swansea.gov.uk or read more at http://www.abayoflife.com/.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Mayor gets his teeth into PR
 |
| Swansea Lord Mayor Richard Lewis in today's South Wales Evening Post |
And that's good news for Swansea Council and the city in general.
It means that his 12-month stint as Lord Mayor is proving to be far from dull.
The councillor has enjoyed a colourful political career spanning several decades and has an eye for the media.
Soon after his May inauguration he was pictured with knotted hanky headgear to applaud Gower's beaches.
Today he's due to visit a conference at the Liberty Stadium, tomorrow an exhibition at the Grand Theatre.
Vampire
And this morning he makes the front of the South Wales Evening Post ... all made up and dressed as a vampire.
On page three, reporter Jason Evans tells us that the County Hall figurehead swapped the council chamber for the crypt to host a Halloween event.
The cellar of his official residence was transformed into a dungeon as around 70 guests enjoyed a fancy dress fund-raiser for charity.
Mood
A funeral home lent the Lord Mayor a coffin and Grand lighting experts helped create the mood.
Charities to benefit included the Air Training Corps and Splash, a project to build a swimming pool for children with special needs.
Happily, the Evening Post praises the effort.
In an opinion piece, they say: "In these austere times, questions are asked about the role and cost of the civic mayoralty. Councillor Lewis is providing some convincing answers."
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Video PR blog: Swansea networking
Members of Swansea’s vibrant Waterfront BNI chapter meet every Wednesday at the city’s Village Hotel.
Effective Communication play their part – and here I discover why three regulars see it as an essential part of their business’s marketing mix.
Here’s the short video – http://bit.ly/9kfGPA
Effective Communication play their part – and here I discover why three regulars see it as an essential part of their business’s marketing mix.
Here’s the short video – http://bit.ly/9kfGPA
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Welsh mag marks landmark year
Editor David Hardy has just produced the latest edition of Yr Ardd.
The A4 glossy is the magazine of the National Botanic Garden of Wales and this season celebrates the attraction’s 10th birthday.
Its features include a welcome from Garden director Rosie Plummer, arguing strongly for extended Assembly funding, news that rugby’s Gareth Edwards is now honorary president and a piece on a 10th birthday cake created by volunteer Alison Howell.
Favourite
My favourite items, however, remain the forthcoming events and activities.
As always, they’re a fragrant propagation of niche interest, super-popular and splendid curiosity.
Amongst the entries in the niche category flutters a lifelong learning course in January: Painting Leaves in Watercolour. Students will tackle the mixing of greens, will paint vein structure and wil capture a variety of surface textures.
Water lilies
On October 30, they can attend Painting Autumn Leaves and Berries; on November 13 it’s Painting Fruit and Vegetables. There’s more through the spring but I’ll be waiting for the water lilies course – apparently there’s money in them.
The most popular events in the coming weeks are likely to be Christmas-themed temptations such as a tree decorating competition for schools, Santa’s grotto and a December 11-12 craft and food fair.
One of the year’s most enchanting occasions at Llanarthne comes a week and a bit before December 25 when it’s Carols at the Garden evening.
Oddball
More oddball will be lifelong learning programme’s Doorstops to Die For sessions, with designs featuringchickens, turkeys and rabbits. Even the blurb describes it wonderfully as “something dfferent and a little silly.”
Failing that, there’s always improvers classes for beekeepers, quilting and cushion making for those “petrified” of patchwork and plenty of woodturning advice.
Now if that’s not worth Assembly funding, what is?
The A4 glossy is the magazine of the National Botanic Garden of Wales and this season celebrates the attraction’s 10th birthday.
Its features include a welcome from Garden director Rosie Plummer, arguing strongly for extended Assembly funding, news that rugby’s Gareth Edwards is now honorary president and a piece on a 10th birthday cake created by volunteer Alison Howell.
Favourite
My favourite items, however, remain the forthcoming events and activities.
As always, they’re a fragrant propagation of niche interest, super-popular and splendid curiosity.
Amongst the entries in the niche category flutters a lifelong learning course in January: Painting Leaves in Watercolour. Students will tackle the mixing of greens, will paint vein structure and wil capture a variety of surface textures.
Water lilies
On October 30, they can attend Painting Autumn Leaves and Berries; on November 13 it’s Painting Fruit and Vegetables. There’s more through the spring but I’ll be waiting for the water lilies course – apparently there’s money in them.
The most popular events in the coming weeks are likely to be Christmas-themed temptations such as a tree decorating competition for schools, Santa’s grotto and a December 11-12 craft and food fair.
One of the year’s most enchanting occasions at Llanarthne comes a week and a bit before December 25 when it’s Carols at the Garden evening.
Oddball
More oddball will be lifelong learning programme’s Doorstops to Die For sessions, with designs featuringchickens, turkeys and rabbits. Even the blurb describes it wonderfully as “something dfferent and a little silly.”
Failing that, there’s always improvers classes for beekeepers, quilting and cushion making for those “petrified” of patchwork and plenty of woodturning advice.
Now if that’s not worth Assembly funding, what is?
Sunday, October 17, 2010
New focus for Wales media scene
The Welsh media comes in many forms – and the latest addition provides a signpost to the future.
The Swansea Economic Focus aims to provide information on current and planned regen activities across the city.
There’s a lot more too. Indeed, the first edition runs to 19 tightly scripted pages of news, stats and data.
It’s unlikely to challenge the South Wales Evening Post as the city’s most popular written media – but it will be well viewed around boardroom tables.
Together
Its publisher – the Swansea Economic Regeneration Partnership (SERP) – brings together public, private and voluntary sector organisations to deliver the city’s economic regeneration strategy – Swansea 2020.
Edition one includes articles on tackling economic inactivity, regenerating Swansea city centre through the Waterfront City project and promoting enterprise education.
One article looks at the impending public sector expenditure cuts, and the implications of these cuts for Swansea.
It states: “To counteract job losses it will be important to drive private sector jobs growth.
Exploit
“Swansea 2020 is seeking to exploit opportunities in six key sectors, to create new businesses and employment.
“These sectors are creative industries, information and communication technologies (ICT), life sciences, marine industries, professional business services and tourism.
“There are a number of existing and proposed developments to stimulate the growth of these sectors, including the Swansea Metropolitan University/Coastal Housing proposed Creative Industries Cluster in the Urban Village development, Swansea University’s Institute of Life Sciences and Swansea University’s proposed Bay Science & Innovation Campus.”
The Swansea Economic Focus aims to provide information on current and planned regen activities across the city.
There’s a lot more too. Indeed, the first edition runs to 19 tightly scripted pages of news, stats and data.
It’s unlikely to challenge the South Wales Evening Post as the city’s most popular written media – but it will be well viewed around boardroom tables.
Together
Its publisher – the Swansea Economic Regeneration Partnership (SERP) – brings together public, private and voluntary sector organisations to deliver the city’s economic regeneration strategy – Swansea 2020.
Edition one includes articles on tackling economic inactivity, regenerating Swansea city centre through the Waterfront City project and promoting enterprise education.
One article looks at the impending public sector expenditure cuts, and the implications of these cuts for Swansea.
It states: “To counteract job losses it will be important to drive private sector jobs growth.
Exploit
“Swansea 2020 is seeking to exploit opportunities in six key sectors, to create new businesses and employment.
“These sectors are creative industries, information and communication technologies (ICT), life sciences, marine industries, professional business services and tourism.
“There are a number of existing and proposed developments to stimulate the growth of these sectors, including the Swansea Metropolitan University/Coastal Housing proposed Creative Industries Cluster in the Urban Village development, Swansea University’s Institute of Life Sciences and Swansea University’s proposed Bay Science & Innovation Campus.”
Welsh media’s Christmas call
Don’t look now but the South Wales media is after a seasonal slice of your marketing budget.
Most print titles and commercial broadcasters who service the Swansea Bay area have launched their seasonal sales campaigns.
Two cases in point are Real Radio and the South Wales Evening Post.
Real sponsorship guy Alessandro Galea was first off the blocks with his call for a backer for the Win a Dream Christmas promotion.
Profile raiser
This is a high-profile feature that runs through November and has been a profile raiser in the past for businesses such as Barratt Homes.
Real’s Win a Dream Christmas 2010 will see a string of listeners winning £100 and one scooping a £3,000 prize package including goodies such as a 42” plasma TV, a digital camera, a coffee machine, Nintendo Wii … and a 6ft Christmas tree.
As well as bags of on-air mentions, the main sponsor gets a strong presence on the promotion micro website.
Unveiled
The Evening Post, meanwhile, has just unveiled its festive rate card.
It covers the Post, Llanelli Star, Carmarthen Journal, Swansea Herald and free weekly insert the Neath Port Talbot Courier.
It reveals an onslaught of Christmas-themed ad features from now until the end of December.
The theme is The Magic of Christmas and feature titles include Here’s My Card, Looking Good, Winter Warmth and At Home.
There are healthy discounts for multiple advertisers and I’d be happy to talk through the deals with any interested business.
Most print titles and commercial broadcasters who service the Swansea Bay area have launched their seasonal sales campaigns.
Two cases in point are Real Radio and the South Wales Evening Post.
Real sponsorship guy Alessandro Galea was first off the blocks with his call for a backer for the Win a Dream Christmas promotion.
Profile raiser
This is a high-profile feature that runs through November and has been a profile raiser in the past for businesses such as Barratt Homes.
Real’s Win a Dream Christmas 2010 will see a string of listeners winning £100 and one scooping a £3,000 prize package including goodies such as a 42” plasma TV, a digital camera, a coffee machine, Nintendo Wii … and a 6ft Christmas tree.
As well as bags of on-air mentions, the main sponsor gets a strong presence on the promotion micro website.
Unveiled
The Evening Post, meanwhile, has just unveiled its festive rate card.
It covers the Post, Llanelli Star, Carmarthen Journal, Swansea Herald and free weekly insert the Neath Port Talbot Courier.
It reveals an onslaught of Christmas-themed ad features from now until the end of December.
The theme is The Magic of Christmas and feature titles include Here’s My Card, Looking Good, Winter Warmth and At Home.
There are healthy discounts for multiple advertisers and I’d be happy to talk through the deals with any interested business.
S4C director’s call to Welsh business
S4C non-executive director Clive Jones gave a rallying call to South Wales business on Friday, October 8.
He gave a compelling argument as to why the Welsh should give their wholehearted backing to the country’s creative industries.
His key points to more than 100 members and guests of Swansea Business Club included:
He gave a compelling argument as to why the Welsh should give their wholehearted backing to the country’s creative industries.
His key points to more than 100 members and guests of Swansea Business Club included:
- Local newspapers are a cornerstone of our communities and key to democracy
- TV programme makers now look to Wales for skills rather than the Welsh looking elsewhere
- S4C gets healthy viewing figures considering the small nation it covers and is pivotal to the Welsh language’s resurgence
Clive was warmly applauded by his audience.
They were won over with points such as how the multi-million pound benefit brought to Stratford-upon-Avon by the RSC could be mirrored in some way by Welsh towns and cities.
Clive’s talk will have opened the eyes of many in the room to the major role creative skills and employment can play as we batten down the hatches for the spending review.
Valleys-born Clive, incidentally, is an ex-boss of GMTV, formerly Britain’s most popular breakfast TV station, and is a fellow of the Royal Television Society.
Award
He holds the society’s highest award and holds a CBE for services to broadcasting.
In a time of enormous change for commercial broadcasters, he has been chief executive of ITV News and Regions, managing director of the ITV Network, CEO of Carlton Television, managing director of Central Television, and managing director of the London News Network.
Swansea Business Club members met him at the city’s Village Hotel.
Impressive
It was the first meeting of the club’s new season and the turn-out was impressive … as were the chocolate bars offered to each guest by Effective Communication.
Each carried a slogan explaining why it’d be a good idea for business to contact Effective to discuss their PR and marketing needs.
Celebrate Swansea’s grassroots!
The latest magazine to grace the Swansea Bay media scene will be officially launched soon – and you’re all invited.
Nigel Dudley, the man behind The Eye on Gorseinon, has issued a general invitation to the event at Celtic Mitsubishi, Gorseinon, from 6-8pm on October 21.
He promises light refreshments – it’s teatime, Nigel, so I hope there’s a mountain of them – and a valuable networking opportunity.
Advertisers in his first issue, being distributed free door to door as I write, include Swansea law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, Jenkins Photography and Bartlett Carpentry and Joinery.
Great
Nigel tells me: “It’d be great to have as many people there as possible.
“I’ve given out hundreds of invitations to local businesses and expect between 50 and 100 guests.
“It’ll be a good way of meeting new business contacts and will include a fascinating talk by Marianne Pettifor who’s one of Swansea’s leading lights in sales and customer service.”
Nigel, incidentally, is also the driving force behind Swansea Valley mag Valley View and sister title Neath Gnolledge.
They’re mainly advertorial-based glossies and Nigel likes to prove their worth to his clients by offering a service which tracks response rate via unique phone numbers.
Nigel Dudley, the man behind The Eye on Gorseinon, has issued a general invitation to the event at Celtic Mitsubishi, Gorseinon, from 6-8pm on October 21.
He promises light refreshments – it’s teatime, Nigel, so I hope there’s a mountain of them – and a valuable networking opportunity.
Advertisers in his first issue, being distributed free door to door as I write, include Swansea law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, Jenkins Photography and Bartlett Carpentry and Joinery.
Great
Nigel tells me: “It’d be great to have as many people there as possible.
“I’ve given out hundreds of invitations to local businesses and expect between 50 and 100 guests.
“It’ll be a good way of meeting new business contacts and will include a fascinating talk by Marianne Pettifor who’s one of Swansea’s leading lights in sales and customer service.”
Nigel, incidentally, is also the driving force behind Swansea Valley mag Valley View and sister title Neath Gnolledge.
They’re mainly advertorial-based glossies and Nigel likes to prove their worth to his clients by offering a service which tracks response rate via unique phone numbers.
Celebs rally for good causes
Big names from around South Wales helped drive ticket sales for last week’s EuroMillions draw.
They understand that good causes around the UK benefit from sales – and it was good to see them doing their bit in the media and PR drive.
The October 8 EuroMillions draw had an incredible £112m jackpot.
And celebrities asked to detail how they’d use such a life-changing windfall came forward with their thoughts.
The media used some of them.
Lifeboat
They range from buying a new Mumbles lifeboat (The Wave radio presenter Badger) to creating a world-class Tour of Wales cycle race (Swansea-born Olympic and world champion Nicole Cooke).
Swansea panto star Kev Johns would buy everybody a copy of Big Issue; Port Talbot charity fundraiser Captain Beany would help the environment.
Haverfordwest-born Jamie Owen, the BBC Wales newsreader, said: “I’d share the money with my brothers to keep the peace.
“I’d buy some mountain land to save it for the nation; I’d buy land in towns and cities to turn into parks for people to enjoy and to encourage the natural world to prosper. Wide open spaces are good for everyone’s health.”
The jackpot was the fourth largest ever available in the UK.
Celebrity dreams – How would you spend a £112m jackpot?
Captain Beany Charity fundraiser and campaigner, Port Talbot Simple. I’d divide the entire £112m equally between charitable fundraising efforts, local community-based projects and environmental and ecological organizations.
Badger Breakfast presenter on The Wave It sounds bizarre but I have a list for such eventualities – and have had for a few years! I’d buy mum and dad a house closer to ours and there’d be lots of charitable causes I’d help anonymously, Of course, I’d give the RNLI £2.7m for a new Mumbles lifeboat; it’s been a tough job for all the fundraisers to hit that target in these difficult times.
Kev Johns Actor and broadcaster, Swansea Wow! £112m … with that sort of money you could do some good and spoil yourself! I’d buy four houses … a dream home in Swansea and one of those lovely seaside homes in Tenby. Next would be a mews home in London and an apartment overlooking the Hudson River in New York! I’d set up a foundation to support young people training for a career in the arts and I’d buy a Big Issue for everyone.
Nicole Cooke Olympic and World Champion cyclist, born in Swansea The bulk of the money would be spent on charities and medical research. I think cycling could be involved as a way of helping children and people in need to enjoy the fun and freedom of cycling – using tandems, tricycles or electric bikes as part of therapy or care. I’d also like to set up the best international race in the women’s cycling here in Wales – something like a Tour of Wales that brings international stars to all parts of our beautiful country and also create a women’s cycling team that trains hard, races hard and plays hard! Finally, I’d like to put something aside towards my Mum and Dad’s retirement.
Jamie Owen BBC Wales newsreader, born in Haverfordwest If I won, I would share the money with my brothers to keep the peace. I would buy some mountain land to save it for the nation, and buy land in towns and cities to turn into parks as breathing spaces for people to enjoy and to encourage the natural world to prosper. Wide open spaces are good for everyone’s health young and old.
They understand that good causes around the UK benefit from sales – and it was good to see them doing their bit in the media and PR drive.
The October 8 EuroMillions draw had an incredible £112m jackpot.
And celebrities asked to detail how they’d use such a life-changing windfall came forward with their thoughts.
The media used some of them.
Lifeboat
They range from buying a new Mumbles lifeboat (The Wave radio presenter Badger) to creating a world-class Tour of Wales cycle race (Swansea-born Olympic and world champion Nicole Cooke).
Swansea panto star Kev Johns would buy everybody a copy of Big Issue; Port Talbot charity fundraiser Captain Beany would help the environment.
Haverfordwest-born Jamie Owen, the BBC Wales newsreader, said: “I’d share the money with my brothers to keep the peace.
“I’d buy some mountain land to save it for the nation; I’d buy land in towns and cities to turn into parks for people to enjoy and to encourage the natural world to prosper. Wide open spaces are good for everyone’s health.”
The jackpot was the fourth largest ever available in the UK.
Celebrity dreams – How would you spend a £112m jackpot?
Captain Beany Charity fundraiser and campaigner, Port Talbot Simple. I’d divide the entire £112m equally between charitable fundraising efforts, local community-based projects and environmental and ecological organizations.
Badger Breakfast presenter on The Wave It sounds bizarre but I have a list for such eventualities – and have had for a few years! I’d buy mum and dad a house closer to ours and there’d be lots of charitable causes I’d help anonymously, Of course, I’d give the RNLI £2.7m for a new Mumbles lifeboat; it’s been a tough job for all the fundraisers to hit that target in these difficult times.
Kev Johns Actor and broadcaster, Swansea Wow! £112m … with that sort of money you could do some good and spoil yourself! I’d buy four houses … a dream home in Swansea and one of those lovely seaside homes in Tenby. Next would be a mews home in London and an apartment overlooking the Hudson River in New York! I’d set up a foundation to support young people training for a career in the arts and I’d buy a Big Issue for everyone.
Nicole Cooke Olympic and World Champion cyclist, born in Swansea The bulk of the money would be spent on charities and medical research. I think cycling could be involved as a way of helping children and people in need to enjoy the fun and freedom of cycling – using tandems, tricycles or electric bikes as part of therapy or care. I’d also like to set up the best international race in the women’s cycling here in Wales – something like a Tour of Wales that brings international stars to all parts of our beautiful country and also create a women’s cycling team that trains hard, races hard and plays hard! Finally, I’d like to put something aside towards my Mum and Dad’s retirement.
Jamie Owen BBC Wales newsreader, born in Haverfordwest If I won, I would share the money with my brothers to keep the peace. I would buy some mountain land to save it for the nation, and buy land in towns and cities to turn into parks as breathing spaces for people to enjoy and to encourage the natural world to prosper. Wide open spaces are good for everyone’s health young and old.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Welsh press guided through complex hearing
Media training and advice worked well for Swansea professional Sandra McAlister yesterday.
Sandra is founder of Wales-based insolvency practitioners McAlister & Co tasked with the emotional proceedings for one of Swansea's most respected businessmen.
Roy Thomas got into enormous difficulties when his bank devalued his multi-million pound property portfolio.
Sandra knew there'd be great media interest - and she wasn't wrong.
Training
She asked Effective Communication to manage the press interest and used her interview training by Effective's Alastair Milburn when she was quizzed by BBC Radio Wales' Tom Singleton.
The result has been a smooth flow of accurate and timely information to the South Wales media, a complex issue presented calmly and with sobriety by the media - and an enhanced profile for Sandra and her company.
Today you'll find yesterday's creditors' meeting covered by the Western Mail, The South Wales Evening Post and BBC Wales online.
It attracted around 25 creditors' representatives, tough lines of questioning and an atmosphere that could have been hard to handle by an individual less on the ball than Sandra.
Writer
The meeting lasted two hours and one attendee, on behalf of creditor Northcliffe Newspapers was South Wales Evening Post business writer Rupert Hall.
He asked for a technical clarification or two in the hours after the gathering - and the McAlister team were prepared to answer them.
Hats off to all at McAlister.
Sandra is founder of Wales-based insolvency practitioners McAlister & Co tasked with the emotional proceedings for one of Swansea's most respected businessmen.
Roy Thomas got into enormous difficulties when his bank devalued his multi-million pound property portfolio.
Sandra knew there'd be great media interest - and she wasn't wrong.
Training
She asked Effective Communication to manage the press interest and used her interview training by Effective's Alastair Milburn when she was quizzed by BBC Radio Wales' Tom Singleton.
The result has been a smooth flow of accurate and timely information to the South Wales media, a complex issue presented calmly and with sobriety by the media - and an enhanced profile for Sandra and her company.
Today you'll find yesterday's creditors' meeting covered by the Western Mail, The South Wales Evening Post and BBC Wales online.
It attracted around 25 creditors' representatives, tough lines of questioning and an atmosphere that could have been hard to handle by an individual less on the ball than Sandra.
Writer
The meeting lasted two hours and one attendee, on behalf of creditor Northcliffe Newspapers was South Wales Evening Post business writer Rupert Hall.
He asked for a technical clarification or two in the hours after the gathering - and the McAlister team were prepared to answer them.
Hats off to all at McAlister.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)