SPJ Regions 4 and 5 Spring Conference

Journalism 2011: Adapting to Change

Society of Professional Journalists Regions 4 and 5 Conference

Encompassing Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia

April 1 and 2, 2011

METS Center

3861 Olympic Blvd.

Erlanger, KY 41018

(859) 647-METS (6387)
www.themetscenter.com

What’s more challenging than chasing a great story? Trying to pin down the direction of the communications industry.

Don’t chase change.

Let SPJ help you lead.

This spring’s Regions 4 and 5 conference will provide valuable training for news industry veterans who need to keep their skills sharp to not only survive but flourish. And we’ll have lots of chances for students and young journalists to connect with peers and find out how to prepare for the opportunities out there. Yes, there are plenty of chances to get started in the journalism business – and we’ll show you the way.

Your registration price includes an opening reception, Saturday morning breakfast, lunch and an afternoon break, as well as information-packed sessions. Registration is significantly discounted for SPJ members, and you can join here.

A full schedule can be downloaded here: www.spjlouisville.org/events

Recception Friday night

The conference kicks off with a tour of the Cincinnati Enquirer and WCPO newsrooms early on Friday afternoon, April 1 (NOTE: this required advanced registration, and as of March 4, this option is FULL), and continues with a chance to relax and unwind at a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the conference hotel. Following the reception, we’ll provide transportation to some of the area’s hot spots so you can enjoy Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati as much as we do.

Keynote speaker

On Saturday morning, Jonathan Katz of The Associated Press will give a compelling presentation on his work covering the tumultuous world of Haiti during the 2010 earthquake, disaster relief and the recent cholera outbreak. He’ll describe how he managed to report, and even survive, in incredibly difficult circumstances.

Breakout sessions

Following his presentation, breakout sessions on a variety of topics will be available, including a panel discussion on how to turn a beat into a book and another discussion on creating a full and interesting freelance career. A panel discussion aimed at students and new journalists will feature young producers, writers and bloggers on how they secured a great job after college. Monica Dias of law firm Frost Brown Todd will present a media law update, and Mike Reilley, journalism instructor at DePaul University in Chicago and editor of The Journalist’s Toolbox, will demonstrate how journalists are using the iPad. We’ll also cover ethics in journalism at another panel discussion with contributors to a new book on ethics produced by SPJ, which will be available at the conference.

Mark of Excellence Awards

At lunch on Saturday, April 2, join us to honor the hard-working and talented students receiving Mark of Excellence Awards, SPJ’s recognition of the best of student journalism. Two separate luncheons, one for Region 4 (Ohio, Michigan, Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia) and one for Region 5 (Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky) will be held. Please indicate which one you will attend on our registration form.

Our thanks to our Title Sponsors, Scripps Howard Foundation and Frost Brown Todd LLC, Presenting Sponsor Toyota, and Corporate sponsors, Macy’s and Miami University of Ohio.

Got a question about the conference? E-mail Robyn Davis Sekula, Louisville Pro Chapter President, at robynsekula@sbcglobal.net, or call her at (502) 608-6125.

If you are also ready to book a hotel, the Courtyard Cincinnati Airport rate is $89 per night. The hotel is adjacent to the METS Center. To book a room, call the hotel directly at (859) 647-9900.