Borshoff

Borshoff Retreats and Re-Tweets

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:19:20 -0500

Borshoff Retreats and Re-Tweets

Borshoff staffers bonded through a number of activities at a staff retreat last week at the Indianapolis Zoo. A highlight was a photo scavenger hunt, where employee teams received clues via Twitter. Teams uploaded digital pictures to Flickr during the hunt, creating slide shows that they presented in afternoon team-building activities.

Leading up to the June 25 retreat, employees completed the StrengthsFinder online assessment, which identifies an individual’s top five strengths. Borshoff compared, explored and celebrated these strengths and incorporated them into the day’s activities.

After her first retreat with Borshoff, senior account director Allison Eckstein said she enjoyed the day and thought the balance of team building, business learning and social interaction was perfect.

Borshoff veteran of 22 years, financial administrator Evelyn Hutson said the retreat was one of the best. “It was very informative and fun,” she said. “It was a good one. I really enjoyed it.”

Borshoff principal speaks at Indiana Tourism Development meeting

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:48:22 -0500

Borshoff principal speaks at Indiana Tourism Development meeting

Borshoff principal Erik Johnson, APR, Fellow PRSA, shared his views on “Marketing in a recession: advertising agencies’ approaches to actively sustain client goals in the current economic environment.” Erik was part of a communications panel before executives from Indiana convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) or destination marketing organizations (DMOs) during a June 18 Indiana Tourism Council meeting.

Erik and other panelists spent much of the time stressing the importance of understanding today’s consumer mindset. They recommended giving special attention to your existing customer base, developing targeted audience lists, creating strong and well-thought-out key messages (including a break-through creative platform), and using efficient communications channels from advertising to news media to social media, as appropriate, to get the word out.

The program, held at Conner Prairie, also included Bruce Hetrick, CEO, Hetrick Communications; John Palmer, senior digital strategist, MediaSauce; and Jen Perry, account supervisor, Williams Randall Marketing.

Borshoff helps Homework Hotline set record year

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:06:17 -0500

Borshoff helps Homework Hotline set record year

School's out for summer and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s Homework Hotline completed another record-setting year helping Indiana middle and high school students with math and science homework. The Hotline answered 44,323 calls during the 2008-09 school year.

Borshoff’s Homework Hotline team (Kassie, Andrea, Danielle, Micah, Steve and Ryan) created posters, postcards, brochures, fact sheets, stickers, e-newsletters, advertisements, educator outreach materials and more to help spread the word about the free tutoring service.

“Each year, our creative approach targets students, educators and parents with a variety of materials and tactics,” said Kassie Mills, account associate at Borshoff. “It’s a privilege to help promote this great service that reaches all corners of our state.”

Borshoff has worked with Homework Hotline since 2003.

Borshoff principal returns from China trip

Tue, 26 May 2009 14:27:37 -0500

Borshoff principal returns from China trip

Borshoff principal Jennifer Dzwonar spent last week in China for a pharmaceutical client. Her number one observation? Good PR/ad agency people speak a universal language and have a universal style.

“In Shanghai, I met Chinese versions of Borshoff’s art director Ryan Noel (named Karlson), our media guru Linda Jackson (actually named Linda!) and founding principal Myra Borshoff Cook (Debby, said to be THE definitive person on PR in China)," said Jennifer.

Lucky for Jennifer, our Chinese colleagues used English when communicating. “It is both fascinating and disconcerting to spend time in a place where you cannot read or speak a word of their native tongue,” she observed. Actually, Jennifer did pick up a few words in Mandarin. So from all of us at Borshoff: nǐ hǎo.

Borshoff account director attends national media conference

Thu, 21 May 2009 13:10:39 -0500

Borshoff account director attends national media conference

Borshoff account director Linda Jackson spent the beginning of her week attending the Bulldog Reporter’s Media Relations Summit 2009 in New York. Linda, a member of the agency’s Media Relations Specialty Group, gained insight into the needs of today’s top journalists by attending the world’s largest conference on media relations, which included keynote presentations by Dan Rather, Daniel Abrams and leading reporters from The New York Times and other top-tier media outlets.

In this information age, people still want and need news; many are just shifting to online sources to get it. “In our work, we see that the media landscape is changing, and business models are being tweaked or even overhauled, but one thing is certain – readership is up,” notes Linda. “The same journalists who write an article in the daily paper also blog, tweet and post content to Facebook. As they adapt, we as media relations practitioners must follow suit, and reach them in traditional and new ways.”

Linda’s passion for a good angle has led to national media placements for several clients, including the Indianapolis Zoo, French Lick Resort and Casino, and West Baden Springs Hotel.

Borshoff's ohm moment

Mon, 18 May 2009 15:06:45 -0500

Borshoff's ohm moment

Once a week for the past few months, Borshoff employees have had the opportunity to close their eyes and take a deep cleansing breath. Mamayamayoga LLC offers in-office yoga classes as part of Borshoff's health and wellness initiative. Employees look forward to the classes and the relaxation that follows. Namaste!

Matthews back from IPREX09 annual meeting in NYC

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:46:29 -0500

Matthews back from IPREX09 annual meeting in NYC

Borshoff principal Susan Matthews, APR, has returned from what she calls “the best ever IPREX meeting” in New York City last week.

Joined with IPREX partners from 15 countries, Matthews met with editors at Bloomberg, took in a panel of seven top corporate communicators moderated by BusinessWeek Executive Editor John Byrne, and got a behind-the-scenes tour of Google.

“The amount of new and useful information we absorbed was amazing,” Matthews said. From tips on how Bloomberg operates (real time is the key), to how communicators are surviving economic challenges in a world where social media is changing the communications landscape, to a walk-through of Google’s tool kit for agencies – IPREX partners were privy to important and timely insights.

Matthews’ tweets from throughout the conference included:

Bloomberg editors' 5 F's: factual, first, fastest, final and future. Each is critical.
At Bloomberg: amazing tech tools combined with traditional journalism values. "Show, don't tell." Rpt facts, no opinions. Real time is key.
Just downloaded Bloomberg's app for the iPhone (tip from Bloomberg editors.)

(Read more of Matthews’ tweets.)

“It’s always energizing to be with so many smart and talented communications partners from around the globe,” Matthews added. “These meetings reinforce the benefits Borshoff realizes by being part of a strong, global communications partnership.”

Matthews named chair of IPREX Quality Assurance Committee

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:39:29 -0500

Matthews named chair of IPREX Quality Assurance Committee

During the 2009 IPREX annual meeting, Borshoff principal Susan Matthews, APR, was named chair of the Quality Assurance Committee. The committee is responsible for developing quality standards to guide how partners worldwide work together on assignments.

“This is an exciting time as IPREX continues to grow and thrive as an organization,” Matthews said. The IPREX 2.0 strategy plan, adopted last year, is charging the Quality Assurance Committee with further strengthening quality initiatives.

Working with Matthews are IPREX partners from Chicago, Milwaukee, Oklahoma City and Oslo, Norway.

Borshoff announces promotion and new hires

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:38:08 -0500

Borshoff announces promotion and new hires

Borshoff is pleased to announce two additions to the team as well as a promotion.

Jennifer Regnier returns to Borshoff as an account coordinator after serving as an intern last summer. Jennifer graduated from Ball State University with honors on May 9 with a degree in public relations. She feels fortunate to be employed in her chosen profession. Jennifer’s previous experience includes an internship at Bring the Hope, an online apparel company, where she helped coordinate communications and media relations efforts. Additionally, she served as the executive director and production team manager on Ball State’s student-run public relations firm, Cardinal Communications.

Lisa Tellus recently joined Borshoff as an account manager. Lisa will provide strategy and media relations services to numerous infrastructure accounts, including RW Armstrong, US 31 and 465. Prior to joining Borshoff, Lisa served as a communications specialist for Nordstrom, Inc. in Seattle, Wash. She was responsible for communicating health and wellness and benefits information to the company’s 55,000 employees. Lisa also worked as a marketing and communications coordinator for the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce in Bellevue, Wash. Lisa graduated cum laude from the University of Washington in 2004 with a degree in business administration and marketing.

Stefanie Prodouz has been promoted from account associate to account manager. Stefanie provides public relations counsel on a leading drug in its class for a global pharmaceutical company. Prior to joining Borshoff, Stefanie was an account executive with Porter Novelli in Chicago. Stefanie graduated from Purdue University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications with a concentration in public relations, organizational leadership and supervision.

Borshoff team speaks at Governor’s Council Partners in Policymaking conference

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:32:23 -0500

Borshoff team speaks at Governor’s Council Partners in Policymaking conference

Three Borshoff team members provided pro bono media relations counsel last month to approximately 40 attendees at a “Demystifying the Media” training session for members of the Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities’ Partners in Policymaking Academy. Erik Johnson, APR, Amy Hanna, ABC, and Kassie Mills shared information on newsworthy topics/events, how to increases chances of news coverage, and how to successfully work with members of the media, among other topics.

From October through May each year, the Partners in Policymaking Academy offers concentrated training to educate people with disabilities and family members to be active partners with those who make policy. Partners in Policymaking uses national, state and local presenters to promote the value of inclusion and the belief that people with disabilities should be respected and contributing members of their communities.

Borshoff promotes account associate

Tue, 05 May 2009 13:42:51 -0500

Borshoff promotes account associate

Emily Koch has been promoted from account associate to account manager. Emily provides public outreach and media relations efforts for a variety of clients, including St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers, US 31 Hamilton County road project, F.C. Tucker Company and RW Armstrong. Before joining the Borshoff team in 2007, Emily spent three years as a media and communications coordinator at Honda Center, a sports and entertainment arena in Anaheim, Calif., where she oversaw public and media relations initiatives for concerts, shows and sporting events, including the 2007 Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks. Emily graduated from Butler University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism with emphasis in public relations.

Borshoff professionals counting carbs one bite at a time

Fri, 01 May 2009 11:39:40 -0500

Borshoff professionals counting carbs one bite at a time

The 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is a major sporting event for many runners. Borshoff employees are celebrating Saturday’s upcoming race by hosting a mini food pitch-in lunch. Borshoff staffers are getting creative with their miniature entrees. Employees bringing in foods high in carbohydrates get “extra points.” Several staffers have participated in previous races and plan to cross the finish line again on Saturday.

Borshoff leader keeps it all in stride

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:33:55 -0500

Borshoff leader keeps it all in stride

Principal Myra Borshoff Cook participated as a "Celebrity Walker" for the American Heart Association's National Start! Walking Day in Indianapolis on April 8. She walked on a treadmill near Monument Circle to encourage people to start a walking program to keep their heart healthy.

Borshoff client J.D. Byrider is a corporate sponsor of the American Heart Association. Myra was requested to walk by Jim England, J.D. Byrider Advertising Group, Inc. president and chairperson of the 2009 Indianapolis Start! Heart Walk, which will be held Sept. 19.

Borshoff’s Green Footprint

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:14:04 -0500

Borshoff’s Green Footprint

Borshoff was featured in the March/April 2009 issue of Indiana Living Green magazine. Principal Susan Matthews was quoted about Borshoff’s green efforts in the article, “Chambers Boost Green Initiatives.”

About green practices, Susan says, “It might help save money, but the real bottom line is that it is the right thing to do.”

Last October, Borshoff was accepted as a member of the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Green Business Initiative based on our green business practices. We’re one of almost 50 companies with this distinction.

Borshoff’s Baby Program Makes Headlines

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:13:08 -0500

Borshoff’s Baby Program Makes Headlines

Indianapolis Woman highlighted our “Bring Your Baby to Work” program in an online story in February on the magazine’s Web site. The program began in 2000, and since then several babies have shared office space with their parents. Babies must be six weeks to six months old to enter the program.

Principal Susan Matthews says, "It's a great retention tool. It focuses on the well-being of our employees, and when they're feeling good about their family, they can be more productive."

Borshoff recognized as a “Company that Cares” 15 consecutive years

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 07:59:47 -0500

Borshoff recognized as a “Company that Cares” 15 consecutive years

Borshoff was one of 23 companies recognized at the 2009 United Way Annual Meeting for receiving the coveted Company that Cares designation for 15 years running. Of the 264 companies earning this distinction for 2008, only 23 have obtained this designation every year since the award’s inception in 1994. We are thrilled to be a part of such a special group!

The Company that Cares distinction is awarded to organizations that reach their United Way fundraising or participation goals and achieve benchmarks in volunteerism, community involvement, leadership giving and more. A Company that Cares also excels in educating employees about community needs and the best ways to meet them, and exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism by allowing employees to give time to United Way and its agencies.

“The United Way is the one community organization that we embrace as an entire company,” said principal Susan Matthews. “We appreciate that the United Way touches the lives of so many area citizens in meaningful ways.”

Borshoff Laughs for a Worthy Cause

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 13:46:44 -0500

Borshoff Laughs for a Worthy Cause

Laughter is good medicine and a great fundraising tool. The Wellness Community held its eighth annual “Laughing Matters” fundraiser last week, and Borshoff staffers shared in the funny moments. One even donned a quirky hat! Borshoff was a sponsor of the event, and principal Susan Matthews is on The Wellness Community board.

The Wellness Community is a non-profit organization that helps people affected by cancer enhance their health and well-being by participating in programs offering emotional support, education and hope.

Susan Matthews, Nichole Freije and Bill Lovejoy share a smile in between laughs.

Borshoff hires account associate

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:45:30 -0600

Borshoff hires account associate

Amanda B. Payne is the latest addition to the Borshoff family. She joins as an account associate with communications and media relations experience in health care and accounting. Prior to joining Borshoff, Amanda was a communications specialist for national accounting firm Crowe Horwath LLP. She pitched, managed and edited technical articles for trade journals. She previously served as the member communications manager for the Indiana Health Care Association. Amanda graduated with honors from Butler University in 2005 with undergraduate degrees in journalism and English. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America.

Borshoff’s Presidential Moment

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:44:17 -0600

Borshoff’s Presidential Moment

Borshoff has five presidents in its ranks. They’ve all led the Hoosier Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Principals Myra Borshoff Cook (1987), Erik Johnson (1996) and Jennifer Dzwonar (2004), and senior account director Bob Schultz (2006) have held the helm. Account manager Jennifer Mahoney is the current Hoosier Chapter PRSA president. Past presidents were recognized at the PRSA luncheon earlier this month.

The Hoosier chapter has been in existence 50 years and is one of the largest nationwide with more than 400 members.

Borshoff principal had front row seat to Tony Dungy’s retirement announcement

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 08:31:00 -0600

Borshoff principal had front row seat to Tony Dungy’s retirement announcement

After seven seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, Tony Dungy retired as head coach, and Borshoff principal Myra Borshoff Cook saw it all firsthand. “It was an emotional day for everyone,” Myra said. “I respect Tony for not only what he has done on the field but off the field. He is a great role model for so many people.”

Succeeding Dungy is former Colts Associate Head Coach Jim Caldwell. Myra has worked directly with Colts Owner Jim Irsay for several years. As she always does, Myra provided valuable counsel as Dungy retired and Caldwell took the helm in early January.

Borshoff account manager networks with PR professionals from around the globe

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:13:47 -0600

Borshoff account manager networks with PR professionals from around the globe

Andrea Farmer, account manager, was among 30 public relations (PR) professionals who attended the IPREX Global Leadership Conference in Atlanta in January. In addition to honing her PR skills, she shared ideas with PR professionals from Norway, Ireland, the UK, Germany and China. Journalists from the Wall Street Journal, Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Associated Press addressed the group as part of a media panel on “The Impact and Importance of Social Media.”

Andrea especially enjoyed the keynote address by PR pro and “social media guru” Peter Shankman, “It’s not Web 2.0. It’s not Web 3.0. It’s Simply Life.” Shankman is the creator of the well-known Help a Reporter Out (HARO) e-mail query that connects journalists with sources via a social media platform. (Andrea and Peter are pictured below.)

“The IPREX conference was a wonderful educational and cultural experience. Not only did I learn a great deal about Twitter, Facebook and other social media networks, but I also networked with professionals from our partner agencies around the country and the world. I’m excited to use the new information and contacts for future Borshoff projects.”

While in Atlanta, Andrea also visited the “Tutankhamun: The Golden Kings and the Great Pharaohs” exhibit, which will make its way to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in June. Borshoff is working to promote the exhibit to educators.

Inauguration Day, Borshoff Style

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:08:37 -0600

Inauguration Day, Borshoff Style

As nearly 38 million Americans watched the television coverage of President Barack Obama’s inauguration, Borshoff staff members gathered to experience the historical moment together.

Borshoff employees also enjoyed pizza and a patriotic homemade dessert. Megan Bulla, account associate, made a cake especially for this occasion. “I thought it would be festive to bake a red, white and blue cake for the inauguration viewing party, complete with an edible Obama logo on top,” Megan said. “It took about 20 minutes to get the logo just right. The cake had to be worthy enough for such a special day!”

Borshoff employee grows long locks for a reason

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:47:31 -0600

Borshoff employee grows long locks for a reason

Art director Shannon Zajicek is rooted in her love for children. For the past two years, she has grown her hair specifically for Locks of Love, a non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada, who are experiencing long-term hair loss from a medical condition.

After a year of meticulously washing and conditioning her thick, healthy light brown hair, Shannon donated 11 inches of her hair. This was her second donation to the organization in two years. "My cousin inspired me to grow my hair," Shannon said. "I'm always excited to make a donation because I feel like I'm doing a good deed and helping someone who needs it." Shannon may be sporting a shoulder-length bob for now, but she has plans to grow long locks again.

Borshoff staffer volunteers time on health care board

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:46:10 -0600

Borshoff staffer volunteers time on health care board

It's no secret to our clients that Mandy Dorn is an excellent communicator. Now, in a volunteer capacity, she's lending her skills to increase the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association's (HBA) visibility in Indiana. She has served on the HBA Indiana Chapter board as marketing director for two years and has been an HBA member since 2004. The organization is dedicated to helping women in the health care industry advance.

With the New Year comes a new board responsibility for Mandy. She will serve as secretary. "Many of my clients are in the health care industry. Getting involved in HBA is a great way to network and enhance my health care knowledge and leadership skills," Mandy said.

Borshoff bags it

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:44:34 -0600

Borshoff bags it

Paper or plastic? We’ll take reusable, thank you. As a holiday gift, Borshoff provided clients with reusable bags that can be used for many things, including grocery shopping. Additionally, Borshoff donated 500 canned goods on behalf of clients to Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation of Indiana, Inc., (HVAF), a United Way of Central Indiana agency.

The bags are available in khaki or black and help us reduce our carbon footprint, as well as live up to our green designation from the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Green Business Initiative. Employees were given bags, too.

Borshoff marks 24 years of service

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:51:03 -0600

Borshoff marks 24 years of service

With art and style, Borshoff celebrated 24 years of client service by hosting 24/7, a gallery show, in conjunction with the Herron School of Art and Design. Art students created original pieces to reflect the 24/7 communications culture we live and work in.

Borshoff staff voted “Stones and Spectrums” by Alexander Peace as the Selected Winner for 2008. This print will be added to Borshoff’s permanent collection and displayed in our Indianapolis offices. “The creative partnership with Herron is part of Borshoff’s efforts to support young, aspiring Indiana artists,” said Erik Johnson, APR, PRSA Fellow, principal.

Borshoff was founded in 1984 with just three full-time employees and a handful of clients. Today, Borshoff has a staff of 40 and 70 clients. “When I look back on our humble beginnings in 1984, I am amazed at how far we’ve come. I am grateful to our faithful clients and talented staff. It takes both to have a successful business,” said Myra Borshoff Cook, APR, PRSA Fellow, founding principal.

From Borshoff to HVAF: 500 food items

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 16:39:05 -0600

From Borshoff to HVAF: 500 food items

Borshoff employees are giving thanks this Thanksgiving holiday by putting food on someone else’s table. From canned vegetables to rice, 500 non-perishable food items will be donated to Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation of Indiana, Inc. (HVAF), a United Way of Central Indiana agency. This follows a Bake Off fundraiser in which employees raised $248 to benefit HVAF.

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Bob Schultz to join Borshoff team of communications professionals

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 04:49:24 -0600

Bob Schultz to join Borshoff team of communications professionals

Bob Schultz, APR, will join Borshoff as a senior account director on Jan. 5, 2009. Bob spent 10 years at the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association (ICVA), where he was director of communications and public relations. He often served as the “face and voice of Indianapolis” with local media, and he oversaw a staff of six that was responsible for all collateral materials, Web site content, social media and all regional and national media activity promoting Indianapolis.

Bob is incoming chairman of Lacy Leadership Association board of directors. Additionally in 2006, he served as president of the Hoosier chapter of Public Relations Society of America. Bob earned his bachelor of arts from Purdue University and a master of arts from Loyola University Chicago.

Borshoff bake-off to benefit a United Way agency

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 07:22:34 -0600

Borshoff bake-off to benefit a United Way agency

Delicious smells wafted through the offices of Borshoff as employees donated homemade baked goods for a special silent auction to help others this Thanksgiving season. Employees baked cakes, cookies, brownies, cupcakes and bread and then bid on items to purchase. The Borshoff Bake Off raised $248 to benefit Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation of Indiana, Inc., (HVAF) a United Way of Central Indiana agency.

This is just one way Borshoff is supporting the United Way of Central Indiana and its agencies. Employees also pledged more than $17,000 during this year’s United Way campaign.

“Special kudos go to Erin Pipkin and Holly Havener, our United Way co-chairs,” said Jennifer Dzwonar, APR, principal. “This year they have given extra effort to ensure that Borshoff does its part to help meet the needs of our community.”

Borshoff hires account associate

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:19:26 -0600

Borshoff hires account associate

Megan Bulla joins Borshoff as an account associate with experience in media relations and marketing. Prior to joining Borshoff, Megan was the communications coordinator for Indianapolis Downtown, Inc. where she focused on marketing downtown as a leisure destination through strategic outreach, media relations and advertising. Megan graduated with a bachelor of arts in journalism with high distinction from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) in 2006.

Borshoff’s trash is a treasure

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:18:55 -0600

Borshoff’s trash is a treasure

Borshoff’s trash becomes Teachers’ Treasures. The agency donated approximately 10 boxes of old stationery, envelopes, note cards and labels to Teachers’ Treasures. This non-profit organization serves the educational and creative needs of children in the greater Indianapolis area by providing a unique means to transfer donated merchandise from businesses and individuals to teachers for use in their classrooms and school.

Our old stationery became obsolete when Borshoff rebranded over a year ago. “We’re excited to help such a good cause,” said Susan Matthews, principal. “Finding good use for items we no longer need is part of our continuing effort to be a good steward of resources.”

Earlier this year Borshoff was accepted as a member of the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Green Business Initiative.

Borshoff bonds at staff retreat

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:17:49 -0600

Borshoff bonds at staff retreat

Beneath a beautiful sky and the falling leaves of Eagle Creek State Park, Borshoff employees navigated their way through the woods with maps and compasses, learning new things about their coworkers as they searched for designated checkpoints. Employee teams learned about leadership and teamwork under the guidance of Jeff Coates of TrueNorth & Associates.

The annual Borshoff Staff Retreat took place earlier this month. Employees spent the first half of the retreat discussing ways the firm is living and continuing to work toward its vision and mission. The annual retreat is a great way for employees to connect with coworkers outside the office.

A Blue Halloween

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:55:24 -0600

A Blue Halloween

There was a blue theme this Halloween at Borshoff as employees celebrated in a variety of creative costumes that included – dressing in blue to honor the Colts and in blue and gold to support the Pacers. Both are clients of the firm and both have games this weekend. The Pacers play Boston on Saturday, and the Colts square off against New England on Sunday.

Employees also feasted on theme-inspired foods that included blue tortilla chips, blue cheese and blue cake! We’re happy to show that there’s nothing scary about having blue food on a Blue Friday.

Borshoff supports the Indianapolis Prize

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:57:34 -0500

Borshoff supports the Indianapolis Prize

We certainly don’t work in tents in remote parts of the world, but we appreciate the animal conservationists who do. The Indianapolis Prize is the world’s leading award for animal conservation (a $100,000 prize) given every other year to an individual who has made extraordinary contributions to conservation efforts involving a single animal species or multiple species. The award is sponsored by the Indianapolis Zoo, a Borshoff client. Recently, Borshoff lent our support to the effort by serving as a table sponsor at the 2008 Indianapolis Prize Gala.

Borshoff principal mentioned in book about Jack Kerouac

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:56:51 -0500

Borshoff principal mentioned in book about Jack Kerouac

What does Myra Borshoff Cook have to do with author, poet and artist Jack Kerouac? A lot, if you read Offbeat: Collaborating with Kerouac by David Amram. She’s quoted on several pages, talking about the New York Public Library event celebrating Jack Kerouac’s original scroll manuscript of On the Road. Myra promoted the national tour for client Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts and also the famous scroll.

Myra also helped bring the scroll home this summer. She planned an event at the Indianapolis Museum of Art featuring Amram, a composer and conductor, who paid homage to Kerouac’s work and the scroll’s return to Indiana. Kerouac was a well known writer of the Beat generation, a term used to describe both a group of American writers who came to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and the cultural phenomena that they wrote about.

Borshoff is green

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:34:56 -0500

Borshoff is green

Green is not only the color of envy; it’s also the color of Borshoff. Our company has been accepted as a member of the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Green Business Initiative. In addition to printing documents on both sides of the paper, we recycle paper, newspapers, soda cans and plastic bags. We also share green-saving tips in our weekly staff newsletter and challenge each other to reduce our carbon footprint.

Members of the Green Business Initiative pledge to continually work toward environmentally safe and sustainable business practices to ensure that the greater Indianapolis region is environmentally healthy and viable.

Kudos to Holly Havener for driving Borshoff’s green initiative!

Borshoff founding principal honored by alma mater

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:33:22 -0500

Borshoff founding principal honored by alma mater

Ball State University recently honored Myra Borshoff Cook with a 2008 Distinguished Alumni Award. Myra was given the award during Homecoming. She remains active at her alma mater, often speaking to various classes. She graduated from Ball State in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in English.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is based on significant contributions by alumni in their fields, and significant activity in service to their community, district or to the university.

Borshoff hires new production artist

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:32:04 -0500

Borshoff hires new production artist

Jeremy Spinner, production artist, has 16 years of high-end print and prepress experience. Prior to joining Borshoff, Jeremy worked for Masco Support services as a prepress technician where he utilized his expertise with Mac software, Preps Layout, CTP and Preflight. He also has experience with Adobe CS3, Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign and Quark. Jeremy is a 1993 graduate of Franklin Central High in Indianapolis. He also received specialized training at Central Nine Vocational School.

Borshoff’s “Bring Your Baby to Work” program is in full swing

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 09:58:01 -0500

Borshoff’s “Bring Your Baby to Work” program is in full swing

Listen closely and you’ll hear coos and cries in the offices of Borshoff. Two-month-old Brody is sharing an office with his mom, account administrator Lisa.

“It’s such a blessing and a relief as a new mom to have my baby with me. The program made coming back to work after maternity leave much easier,” Lisa says. “Brody attends meetings with me and sometimes shares his input.”

Brody will spend the next four months at Borshoff as part of the company’s “Bring Your Baby to Work” program that allows babies, six weeks to six months old, to come to work with their parents. Several employees have taken advantage of the program over the years.

Borshoff staffer participates in United Way’s Day of Caring

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 09:59:05 -0500

Borshoff staffer participates in United Way’s Day of Caring

Children in homeless shelters will be able to decorate for Halloween thanks to help from Borshoff account associate Emily Koch. She spent several hours at the Academy of Hoosier Heritage in Mooresville Sept. 12 as part of the United Way’s Day of Caring. During her stay, Emily made crafts for kindergartners, preschoolers and homeless children, as well as wrote thank you letters to the troops overseas and archived old yearbooks.

"I felt honored to be able to show my gratitude to the many men and women fighting overseas,” she said. “I’m glad I had the opportunity to give back to the community through this special program.”

Emily was one of many volunteers donating their time across central Indiana. Borshoff has participated in the “Day of Caring” for several years and has a long-standing designation as a “Company That Cares.”

Borshoff promotes account associate

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:52:34 -0500

Borshoff promotes account associate

Andrea Farmer has been promoted from account associate to account manager. She provides counsel in media and community relations, event planning and strategic marketing communications to a variety of clients including INDOT’s 465 transportation project, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and Reis-Nichols Jewelers. Andrea graduated magna cum laude from Ball State University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations. She is also Director of Membership for the Hoosier Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. Andrea began her career at Borshoff as an intern in 2004 and was hired as a full-time staff member one year later.

Borshoff principal named PRSA Fellow

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:35:00 -0500

Borshoff principal named PRSA Fellow

Erik Johnson, APR, a Borshoff principal, was recently named to the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA’s) prestigious College of Fellows. He is among a select group of 19 honorees who will be inducted during a ceremony at PRSA’s 2008 International Conference in Detroit in October. This will bring the number of members of the College of Fellows to 455 out of a total of more than 22,000 PRSA members.

Election to the College of Fellows, based on lifetime achievement, is a professional honor awarded to senior practitioners and educators who have practiced or taught public relations for 20 or more years, demonstrated superior capability as a practitioner or educator, exhibited personal and professional qualities that serve as a role model, and advanced the state of the profession.

Erik now shares the honor with founding Borshoff principal Myra Borshoff Cook, APR, who became a PRSA Fellow in 2005.

PRSA, based in New York City, is the world’s largest organization for public relations professionals. Erik is a member and past president of the Hoosier Chapter of PRSA.

Borshoff hires two account managers, graphic designer

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:32:48 -0500

Borshoff hires two account managers, graphic designer

Borshoff has added three members to its team of communications professionals.

Nichole Freije, account manager, has more than four years of marketing and media relations experience. Prior to Borshoff, Nichole was lifestyle director for Del Webb and Pulte Homes where she developed and implemented strategic marketing and advertising campaigns, and managed multiple events. Nichole is also an active member in the community, volunteering for community events and serving on the Butler University Young Alumni Board of Directors. She graduated with a bachelor of arts in public and corporate communications from Butler University in 2004.

Josh Taylor, graphic designer, will provide a variety of clients with strategic and creative design solutions. He has three years of design experience and served as associate designer for Software Research Center in Anderson, IN. Last summer, Josh interned in Borshoff’s creative department. He graduated Cum Laude with a bachelor of arts in visual communications design and a minor in marketing from Anderson University in May.

Margaux Childers joins Borshoff as an account manager with more than four years of advertising and marketing experience. Prior to joining Borshoff, Margaux was an account executive at Adville USA, based in Pasadena, CA. She implemented strategic marketing and advertising campaigns for Dairy Queen® in five west coast markets. Margaux graduated with a bachelor of arts in telecommunications from Indiana University in 2004.

Borshoff’s baby boom

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:57:17 -0500

Borshoff’s baby boom

Borshoff is experiencing a baby boom. Four employees of the company’s 42-person staff recently welcomed five babies — three boys and two girls — within a two-and-a-half-month period! The bundles of joy include a set of twins. Collectively, the babies weigh 34 lbs 7 oz and measure almost 100 inches!

If they choose, the mothers and fathers can bring their babies to work. Borshoff allows infants, ages 6 weeks to 6 months, in the office while their parents work. Diapers and formula are not included — but there’s always someone willing to babysit for a few minutes.

Borshoff principal inspires as she leads

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:49:53 -0500

Borshoff principal inspires as she leads

Borshoff founding principal, Myra Borshoff Cook, APR, was recently honored by the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. Myra was among a select group of Indianapolis’ top female business, civic and community leaders deemed “Inspiring Women” by the professional female basketball team.

Myra was honored during halftime of the Fever versus Seattle game on July 18. Anne Donovan, 2008 USA women’s basketball coach, was among the honorees, and spoke at the event.

Among her many achievements, Myra was inducted into the Public Relations Society of America’s College of Fellows in 2005, the highest achievement in the profession. She is the only female fellow in Indiana. Approximately 450 of the 20,000 PRSA members are fellows. Additionally, Myra became one of fewer than 10 women inducted into the Central Indiana Business Hall of Fame when she received the Junior Achievement Award earlier this year. The Central Indiana Business Hall of Fame was started in 1989.

Borshoff vice president selected for prestigious leadership program

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:24:36 -0500

Borshoff vice president selected for prestigious leadership program

Katherine Coble, APR, vice president, is among 25 young executives chosen to participate in the Stanley K. Lacy (SKL) Executive Leadership Series as members of Class XXXIII. This highly competitive program aims to expand the ranks of community leadership by providing attendees with the knowledge and incentive to confront the needs of central Indiana.

Class members are selected on the basis of significant community involvement and professional achievement, demonstrated interest in community issues, a record of participation and achievement in voluntary community activities, and willingness to expand their leadership within the community. Former Mayor of Indianapolis Bart Peterson will serve as moderator of the program.

Borshoff principals Susan Matthews, APR, a member of the Lacy Leadership Association board of directors, and Jennifer Young Dzwonar, APR, are SKL graduates. The series is named for a local banker and active community leader who died in a car accident in 1973 at the age of 27.

Borshoff plays role in city’s successful bid to host Super Bowl 2012

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:53:45 -0500

Borshoff plays role in city’s successful bid to host Super Bowl 2012

When the NFL team owners met in Atlanta in May to vote on which city should host Super Bowl XLVI, Borshoff principal Myra Borshoff Cook witnessed the win firsthand. She was in Atlanta, traveling with Indianapolis Colts’ owner Jim Irsay, a longtime client. “The atmosphere was electric,” Borshoff says. “There was so much anticipation about whether or not Indianapolis would get the bid. It took four rounds of voting, but Indianapolis eventually prevailed. It was wonderful to be there for this experience,” she adds.

Back in Indianapolis, Borshoff staffers were awaiting the news with baited breath. Several team members worked on the local bid committee account, coordinating media and details of the unique program to have eighth graders hand-deliver the bids to team owners earlier in the month. The entire Borshoff team is excited to have played a role in helping Indy host its first Super Bowl.

Borshoff vice president helps homeless veterans

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:13:52 -0500

Borshoff vice president helps homeless veterans

For the past few years, Katherine Coble, Borshoff vice president, has been on a mission to improve the lives of homeless veterans through her volunteer involvement with HVAF of Indiana, Inc., an organization focused on helping homeless veterans and their families. Coble has served as chairman of the board of directors for the past three years. During her term, she helped lead several substantial initiatives for HVAF, including:

Rebranding the organization and changing its name
Securing United Way designation, resulting in more than $2 million in extra funding in less than three years
Opening a new facility for headquarters and intensive substance abuse treatment
Opening a new facility providing 40 apartments for homeless veterans
Opening doors to new funding and volunteer streams, including relationships with major businesses in central Indiana

“I am excited to have been a part of all the excitement happening with HVAF in recent years,” Coble said. “Most importantly, though, I’m pleased to see that our efforts have provided homes and hope to veterans who have served our country and now need our help.”

Coble is stepping down as chairman in June, but will continue to serve on the HVAF board and as a volunteer at special events.

Borshoff creative director and account manager attend Opportunity Indianapolis

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:12:31 -0500

Borshoff creative director and account manager attend Opportunity Indianapolis

Opportunity Indianapolis (OI) was an unforgettable experience for Borshoff creative director Jennifer Berry and account manager Valarie Wallace. The two attended the leadership program, presented by Lacy Leadership Association, in June. OI provides participants with an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the city as they travel on a tour bus visiting multiple venues. The program also features intimate conversations with city leaders and decision makers.

Berry and Wallace join several other Lacy alumni at Borshoff who’ve attended this and other leadership opportunities. Additionally, Borshoff principal Susan Matthews, APR, is a member of the 2008 Lacy Leadership Association Board of Directors.

Borshoff helps Hoosier flood and tornado victims

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:10:32 -0500

Borshoff helps Hoosier flood and tornado victims

Central and southern Indiana tornado and flood victims are getting a helping hand from Borshoff employees. Borshoff employees donated $1,540 to the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis in June. The local Red Cross chapter is responsible for helping flood and tornado victims throughout the state.

“The damage is unbelievable. Some people lost everything,” said Erik Johnson, a Borshoff principal and volunteer member of the Red Cross board. “We hope our donation gives hope to families devastated by the flooding and tornadoes.”

For more information about the work of the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis, go to www.redcross-indy.org.