rbb Public Releations - News

rbb and Digital Park VP featured in PR Week discussing “spokescreatures”

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Our own Christine de la Huerta's guide to social media spokescreatures and their impact on brands was featured in PR News. The article previously appeared on our Digital Park blog. Click below to read the full story.

rbb Public Relations Named Agency of Record for the American Council on Exercise

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI, Nov. 22, 2011 - rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, was named agency of record for the American Council on Exercise (ACE), America’s leading authority on fitness and the world’s largest nonprofit fitness and personal trainer certification, continuing education and training organization. rbb will provide ACE with marketing and promotions counsel, strategic public relations and comprehensive media outreach to consumer and trade audiences throughout the U.S.

According to Janet Frenkel, COO of the American Council on Exercise, America’s authority on fitness, rbb was selected for its strategic approach to public relations and reputation for delivering creative ideas and meaningful client results.

“ACE is combatting the obesity epidemic by providing industry professionals with innovative tools and resources, setting certification standards and empowering Americans to make healthy living an integral part of our society. We expect rbb to develop and implement a comprehensive public relations campaign aimed at furthering ACE’s thought leadership as the nation’s authority on fitness and helping ACE to bring critical fitness information to the public,” added Frenkel.

Committed to enriching the lives of the American people, ACE offers multiple resources to combat major health issues affecting our society. A crucial component of ACE’s work are the collaborative relationships created within the health and fitness arenas and the education provided nationally. The organization implements the most effective, research-proven training methods elevating the skillset and performance of fitness professionals. ACE prides itself on conducting continuous public education, outreach and research programs to engage Americans and promote healthier lifestyles.

“ACE has established itself as a leader in the fitness industry. rbb looks forward to enhancing awareness of ACE’s vision to inspire healthy living nationwide, through strategic marketing activities and media outreach highlighting the organization’s resources available to fitness professionals and consumers,” said Lisa Ross, president of rbb Public Relations.

About ACE

The American Council on Exercise® (ACE®), America’s premier fitness and personal trainer certification, continuing education, and training organization, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the benefits of physical activity and protecting Americans against unsafe and ineffective fitness products and instruction. ACE sponsors university-based fitness and exercise science research studies and is the world’s largest nonprofit fitness certifying organization. For more information on ACE and its programs, call (800) 825-3636 or visit the ACE website at www.acefitness.org.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three time winner of the “Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, consumer products, financial and professional services, travel & leisure, health and fitness, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450.

RBB PUBLIC RELATIONS ADDS JULIE JIMENEZ AS SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – Oct. 27, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm based in Miami, announced today that Julie Jimenez has returned to the firm as a senior account executive. Jimenez previously worked for rbb from 2006 to 2010. She will provide client and media relations support to the firm’s consumer, healthcare and corporate clients.

Jimenez has been practicing public relations for more than five years in a variety of industries including consumer, non-profit, real estate, entertainment and healthcare. Her past experience includes managing local and national public relations programs, as well as driving English and Spanish language media coverage for a wide range of clients including the Miami Dolphins, Goya Foods, the Nielsen Company and Common Threads. Before rejoining rbb public relations, Jimenez worked at República, and integrated marketing firm in Miami.

Jimenez holds a bachelor’s in political science from Florida International University. She currently resides in Miami.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations Selected as Top 50 Women-Led Business in Florida by The CommonWealth Institute

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – Sept. 27, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, was named one of the top 50 women-led businesses in Florida at the Sixth Annual Women-Led Businesses in Florida Luncheon & Award Ceremony.

The winners, which were derived from a survey by The Commonwealth Institute South Florida (TCI) and the JAE Leadership Institute at the University Of Miami School Of Business Administration, exemplify the characteristics of woman leaders and their businesses.

“Groups like TCI validate the success women-led businesses have achieved,” said Christine Barney, CEO of rbb Public Relations. “rbb is 100% women-owned and it is through the strength of the three partner’s leadership that we have become a nationally ranked public relations agency.”

The Commonwealth Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to the cultivation of women entrepreneurs, CEOs, and senior corporate executives, providing support during critical stages of business so as to promote growth. In addition to announcing the top 50 list, their studies found that women leaders are very optimistic about the future and are looking forward to the challenges facing them in the next year.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three-time winner of “PR Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, financial and professional services, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450.

RBB PUBLIC RELATIONS HIRES ANDREA SPER AS ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – Sept. 30, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm based in Miami, has added Andrea Sper as an account coordinator. Sper will provide administrative, marketing and media relations support to the PR agency’s corporate, consumer and travel accounts

Relocating from New Jersey, Sper previously served as a marketing associate for Langenscheidt Publishing Group. In this position, she worked with diverse companies such as Berlitz, Insight Guide, and Michelin Travel Guides.

Sper holds a B.A. in English, with a concentration in film from Barnard College in New York City. She currently resides in Miami.

About rbb Public Relations

RBB PUBLIC RELATIONS HIRES ANDREA SPER AS ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – Sept. 30, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm based in Miami, has added Andrea Sper as an account coordinator. Sper will provide administrative, marketing and media relations support to the PR agency’s corporate, consumer and travel accounts

Relocating from New Jersey, Sper previously served as a marketing associate for Langenscheidt Publishing Group. In this position, she worked with diverse companies such as Berlitz, Insight Guide, and Michelin Travel Guides.

Sper holds a B.A. in English, with a concentration in film from Barnard College in New York City. She currently resides in Miami.

About rbb Public Relations
rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three time winner of the “Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, consumer products, financial and professional services, travel & leisure, health and fitness, and food and beverage. For more information, call (305) 448-7450.

rbb Public Relations Wins Silver Anvil Award of Excellence for “Zumba Fitness' Party in Pink” Program

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Agency celebrates five years of Anvil wins in multiple categories

MIAMI, Aug. 5, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm was awarded a Silver Anvil Award of Excellence with Zumba Fitness, a Latin-inspired dance-fitness program, in the Business Products/Consumer Services category by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) at the recent 2011 Anvil Awards Ceremony in New York. Con-sidered the Oscars® of the PR industry, the Anvil Awards honor organizations that have successfully addressed a contemporary public relations issue with exemplary professional skill, creativity and resourcefulness.

In partnership with Zumba Fitness, rbb received the Award of Excellence for the “Goodbye Walkathon, Hello Zumbathon! Zumba Fitness’ Party in Pink” program, created for the countless breast cancer survivors who relied on their Zumba classes for physical and emotional support during their fight against the disease. The cause-related marketing campaign spurred a nationwide movement involving thousands of Zumba Fitness’ instructors who rallied more than 50,000 supporters to participate in 788 Zumbathon® fitness classes in all 50 states to raise funds for Susan G. Komen For the Cure®, the global leader of the breast cancer movement.

“The Silver Anvil Award of Excellence is one of the PR industry’s most coveted awards and we are truly honored to have worked with Zumba Fitness to develop a campaign that became the company’s gold standard for future corporate responsibility programs,” said Lisa Ross, president of rbb Public Relations. “Knowing the success of this program helped raise half-a-million dollars for such an important cause as Breast Cancer awareness, is extremely gratifying. This award validates the quality work and professionalism that rbb strives to consistently produce.”

The inaugural Party in Pink™ raised a whopping $550,000 for Komen and proved to be one of the year’s most innovative initiatives for breast cancer awareness month.

About rbb Public Relations
rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three-time “PR Agency of the Year,” rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, financial and professional services, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450.

rbb Public Relations Named Among Florida's Top 15 “Best Companies to Work For”

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

National PR Agency Showcased as Outstanding Workplace by Florida Trend Magazine

MIAMI, Aug. 4, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, has been recognized in Florida Trend’s annual survey of the “100 Best Companies to Work For.” The survey ranks 100 Florida-based companies in categories of small, medium and large.

The award-winning agency landed the 13th spot in the survey’s “Best Small Companies” category and was one of only three companies included from South Florida. The annual survey highlights companies that know how to keep good employees through sophisticated, enlightened approaches to training, communicate the company's values clearly, and listen to employees as they try to improve the workplace and make the company more productive.

According to Christine Barney, rbb’s managing partner and CEO, this honor is a reflection of the merits of rbb’s culture and open-office structure, which has contributed to the firm’s continuous success.

“rbb’s distinction as an outstanding workplace is a direct indication of our commitment to building, protecting and growing a dynamic work environment for our staff,” said Barney.

Just last month, rbb was similarly honored by Inc. Magazine and Winning Workplaces’ as a winner in the 2011 “Top Small Company Workplaces” national competition from among 350 companies.

About rbb Public Relations
rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three-time winner of “PR Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including consumer products, B2B, financial and professional services, travel & leisure, health and fitness, food and beverage real estate and crisis communications, . rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450.

rbb Public Relations Named Among Inc. Magazine and Winning Workplaces' “2011 Top Small Company Workplaces”

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – June 9, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing PR agency, was named a winner in the 2011 Top Small Company Workplaces competition presented by Inc. Magazine and Winning Workplaces.

rbb was recognized for its success in creating an employee-driven workplace that engages its employees while delivering bottom-line results to clients. The contest’s winners are listed in Inc.’s June issue.

Finalists were judged by a national panel of experts in leadership and small to mid-sized business. Selections were based on specific metrics and qualitative assessments of the finalists’ success in creating the kind of workplaces that engage employees and deliver bottom-line results.

“Being named one of the nation’s Top Small Company Workplaces is a tremendous validation of rbb’s work and culture,” said Christine Barney, CEO of rbb Public Relations. “Everyday our staff delivers innovative programs, deep client relationships and extraordinary results.”

About Inc. Magazine

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures, Inc. Magazine is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies that delivers real solutions for today's innovative company builders. With a total paid circulation of 708,450, Inc. provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing and technology.

About Winning Workplaces

Winning Workplaces is an Evanston, IL-based not-for-profit, whose mission is to help the leaders of small and mid-sized organizations create great workplaces. Founded in 2001, Winning Workplaces serves as a clearinghouse of information on workplace best practices, provides seminars and workshops on workplace-related topics and inspires and awards top workplaces through its annual Top Small Company Workplaces initiative.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three-time winner of “PR Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, financial and professional services, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450.

rbb Public Relations has a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms.

RBB PUBLIC RELATIONS PROMOTES ONE STAFF MEMBER AND HIRES TWO ACCOUNT COORDINATORS

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – June 7, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a national PR agency, has promoted Emily Taffel-Schaper to senior account executive and hired Leticia McCadden and Rebecca Stella as account coordinators. In her new role, Taffel-Schaper will provide strategic media relations and marketing counsel to rbb’s corporate and consumer accounts, while McCadden and Stella will provide administrative, marketing and media relations support to the PR ageny’s corporate, consumer and travel accounts.

Taffel-Schaper was previously an account executive and has been practicing public relations for 10 years in a variety of industries including consumer, non-profit, luxury and entertainment. Her experience includes work on national public relations campaigns and event management for such diverse clients as FELD Entertainment, the AmericanAirlines Arena, Patrick Knowles Designs, Baltus Collection and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. She holds a B.S. in international business from Nova Southeastern University.

McCadden was the communications and external affairs manager for the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, prior to joining rbb. In this role, she assisted with all of the chamber’s marketing and public relations efforts. McCadden has previously interned with the Georgia Aquarium, CNN and The Weather Channel. She holds a M.A. in journalism and mass communications from the University of Georgia and a B.A. in mass media arts with a concentration in radio, television and film from Clark Atlanta University.

Stella joins rbb after serving as an intern with various PR and event firms in Miami and New York including Zakarin Public Relations, Dukas Public Relations and The Patton Group. Her experience includes consumer and financial public relations and special events with a diverse array of organizations such as Viceroy Miami, Bass Museum of Art, SCOPE Miami Art Show, Smith & Wollensky, Mondrian and The Raleigh hotel.. She holds a B.S. in Mass Communication with a concentration in public relations from Florida International University. Stella will support several of the rbb’s clients in the entertainment, travel, sports and food industries.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations has a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique PR agency. Named The Holmes Report’s “2009 Boutique Agency of the Year” and PRWeek’s “2008 PR Agency of the Year,” rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, consumer products, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, food and beverage and crisis communications. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. To view rbb Public Relations’ award-winning work visit www.rbbpr.com.

PR Agency Awarded the 2011 Silver SABRE in the “Consumer Health PR” Category

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

rbb Public Relations celebrates five years of award wins in multiple categories

MIAMI – June 6, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing pr agency, was awarded The Holmes Report’s 2011 Silver SABRE in the Consumer Health PR category. This is one of the industry’s top awards programs that recognize the very best public relations campaigns annually.

The PR agency took home the award for its work on the “Goodbye Walkathon, Hello Zumbathon! Zumba Fitness’ Party in Pink” program.

The campaign was created by the PR agency in response to the countless breast cancer survivors who relied on their Zumba Fitness classes for physical and emotional support during their fight against the disease. In partnership with Zumba Fitness, rbb launched communications for a nationwide movement involving thousands of Zumba Fitness’ instructors who rallied more than 50,000 supporters to participate in 788 Zumbathon® fitness classes in all 50 states to raise funds for Susan G. Komen For the Cure®.

The inaugural Party in Pink™ campaign raised a whopping $550,000 for Komen and proved to be one of the year’s most innovative initiatives.

“rbb’s success has always centered around client success and best practices, which are at the foundation of everything we do,” said Lisa Ross, president of rbb Public Relations. “Being recognized with a SABRE award for the Party in Pink™ campaign with Zumba Fitness is a terrific accomplishment for our team, considering the strong competition that we were up against, and the win validates all the hard work and creative energy that the Zumba account team put into this program.”

About rbb Public Relations

About the SABRE Awards

The SABRE Awards are sponsored by Paul Holmes, the publisher of The Holmes Report to recognize Superior Achievement in Branding and Reputation. SABRE Awards are given in four categories – Gold (campaign awards), Silver (awards by industry), Bronze (public relations tactics) and Iron (public relations industry programs and products). The programs honored represent the best work of the public relations industry during the year 2011.

rbb Public Relations Welcomes Silver Anvil Nomination for Fifth Consecutive Year

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Agency celebrates four years of wins in multiple categories

MIAMI – April 15, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2011 Silver Anvil Awards from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). The program distinguishes and honors the very best public relations programs planned and executed each year. The Silver Anvil award, regarded as “Oscars” of the public relations industry, includes 122 finalists from 852 total entries

rbb was nominated for its campaign “Goodbye Walkathon, Hello Zumbathon! Zumba Fitness’ Party in Pink” program, which was nominated in the Anvil’s events and observances category.

The program was created in response to the countless breast cancer survivors who relied on their Zumba Fitness classes for physical and emotional support during their fight against the disease. In partnership with Zumba Fitness, rbb launched a nationwide movement involving thousands of Zumba Fitness’ instructors who rallied more than 50,000 supporters to participate in 788 Zumbathon® fitness classes in all 50 states to raise funds for Susan G. Komen For the Cure®.

The inaugural Party in Pink ™ raised a whopping $550,000 for Komen and proved to be one of the year’s most innovative initiatives for breast cancer awareness month.

“rbb is very proud to have designed a campaign that became the gold standard for Zumba Fitness’ future corporate social responsibility programs, and also raised half-a-million dollars for such an important cause,” said Sandra Fine, APR, account director at rbb and lead of the campaign.

The winners will be announced June 9 at the Silver Anvil awards ceremony held in New York.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three-time winner of “PR Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, financial and professional services, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450 or visit www.rbbpr.com.

rbb's Patricia Thorp Named Chair of The Miami Coalition of Christians and Jews

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – April 15, 2011 – Patricia Thorp, senior counselor with rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, has been named chair of the board of MCCJ (the Miami Coalition of Christians and Jews). Thorp will be assuming the role immediately for a one year term. MCCJ is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance a just and inclusive community in which all people can live in peace, dignity and mutual respect, through education, advocacy, dialog and conflict resolution.

An active member of the community, Thorp serves on the board of Baptist Health Systems’ Doctor’s Hospital, is secretary and a board member of The Commonwealth Institute and serves on the board of Suited for Success. In addition, she is a trustee and board member of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Three-time winner of “PR Agency of the Year” title, rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, financial and professional services, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450 or visit www.rbbpr.com.

Never, Ever: Why Your PR Firm Needs a No Multi-Tasking While Driving Policy

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Bulldog Reporter’s Daily Dog

Is responding to an email immediately worth your life? Public relations is one of the most 24/7 business models in the world and technology makes it easier every day for work to spill out of the office. And, while the argument about the impact of this change on staffers' work-life balance will continue for years to come, the reality is that most practitioners manage their work through mobile devices at home, at play and unfortunately, in the car. The majority of PR firms not only allow, but encourage staffers to make the car their "second office" in the name of client service. However, the choice to multi-task in the car is one that not only affects the staffer, the PR firm or the client, it risks the safety and lives of others. Read more

MARKETING PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM RBB PR NAMED NATIONAL AGENCY OF RECORD FOR BALTUS COLLECTION

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – February 23, 2011 – rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, was named national agency of record for Baltus Collection, a high-end furniture line from Spain with US showrooms in Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. rbb will provide Baltus with brand management counsel, strategic public relations and comprehensive media outreach to consumer and trade audiences throughout the U.S.

Based in Marbella, Spain, Baltus Collection is known for its devotion to quality furniture design, while never losing sight of function. The new showrooms feature a wide range of furnishings, from chairs and tables to bookcases, cupboards and more. Baltus prides itself on creating high-end, large-scale custom pieces that are contemporary interpretations of classic standards, combined with design innovations to form a truly breathtaking collection.

“There is no better client compliment than expanding our relationship,” said Lisa Ross, president of rbb Public Relations. “rbb helped Baltus Collection launch in Miami and now will continue that success nationwide.”

About rbb Public Relations

Headquartered in Miami, rbb Public Relations has a national reputation for delivering results. Named PRWeek’s “2008 Agency of the Year” and The Holmes Report’s “2009 Boutique Agency of the Year,” rbb delivers clients results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Its bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including consumer products, B2B, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450 or visit www.rbbpr.com.

rbb President Lisa Ross Named Chair of The Strategic Forum

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – Feb. 3 2011 --- Lisa Ross, president and a principal of rbb Public Relations, an award-winning national marketing PR agency, has been named chairman of the board of The Strategic Forum’s South Florida chapter, an organization comprised of CEOs and presidents of leading entrepreneurial companies who meet regularly to facilitate business opportunities among members and their respective networks.

Ross has served on the organization’s board for the past three years and has been a member for more than five years. The Strategic Forum has chapters in South Florida and New York, and its members are business leaders from diverse backgrounds who are mutually dedicated to exchanging ideas, developing long term personal and business relationships, and making business introductions.

Active in the community, Ross also serves on the board of Big Brother Big Sisters of Miami, is a member of the organization’s executive committee, and chairs its marketing group. She is also an active trustee member of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations has a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Named The Holmes Report’s “2009 Boutique Agency of the Year” and PRWeek’s “2008 PR Agency of the Year,” rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450 or visit www.rbbpr.com.

rbb PR Agency Launches “Never, Ever Initiative” to Curtail Risks of Multi-tasking while Driving

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MIAMI – January 4, 2011 --- rbb Public Relations, an award-winning national marketing PR agency, is taking a novel stance on multi-tasking while driving that encourages its employees to keep their eyes on the road. The PR agency is adopting what it calls the “Never, Ever Initiative,” a program that asks its employees to make a written commitment to put the brakes on distracted driving. In order to promote the safety of employees and others who share the same road, the initiative includes a specific list of banned activities for drivers, as well as provides incentives and company-paid tools to make compliance easier.

The growing reports of DWT (“driving while texting”) dangers prompted rbb to create the “Never, Ever Initiative” to dissuade all types of multi-tasking behaviors while driving. In addition to texting, emailing and speaking on hand-held cell phones, the policy prohibits other potentially dangerous driver behaviors, such as operating the radio, eating, applying makeup or rummaging around for items in a purse or elsewhere in the car.

“Like many companies, we ask our employees to be available on demand to handle urgent client matters, and we give them the smart phones and laptops they need to accomplish this goal,” said Christine Barney, CEO and managing partner of the Miami public relations firm. “But we believe that if we are going to encourage rbb professionals to live wirelessly, then we have a responsibility to help keep them safe on the road, and we have a wider community interest in helping to put a stop to distracted driving.”

To encourage adherence among its smart phone-savvy staff, the PR agency is offering to purchase Bluetooth or hands-free devices for its employees. In addition, the company is providing iTunes gift cards toward the purchase of the SAFECELL application. This cell phone app automatically tracks a driver’s position and warns him or her about local no-text and no-cell rules. It also records the person’s safe driving behavior and awards safe driving points that are redeemable for cash rewards at top retailers.

“Telling dedicated PR practitioners not to communicate is a difficult task – even if it is just for a short while when they are in their cars,” said Barney. “We have to value safety as much as we prize productivity and responsiveness so providing people with the tools and guidelines to make communication safer turns out to be a win-win for everyone.”

rbb will emphasize the “Never, Ever Initiative” at new hire orientation sessions and is asking all current employees to take the “Never, Ever” pledge. rbb is also promoting the initiative among its clients, Facebook and Twitter followers and encouraging them to institute “Never, Ever” or similar driver safety plans in their own organizations.

rbb Public Relations Launches “Never, Ever Initiative” to Curtail Risks of Multi-tasking while Driving

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

New Policy Champions Employee Safety, Incentivizes Workers to Focus on the Road

MIAMI – December 17, 2010 --- rbb Public Relations, an award-winning national marketing public relations firm, is taking a novel stance on multi-tasking while driving that encourages its employees to keep their eyes on the road. The firm is adopting what it calls the “Never, Ever Initiative,” a program that asks employees to make a written commitment to put the brakes on distracted driving. In order to promote the safety of employees and others who share the same road, the initiative includes a specific list of banned activities for drivers, as well as provides incentives and company-paid tools to make compliance easier.

“Like many companies, we ask our employees to be available on demand to handle urgent client matters, and we give them the smart phones and laptops they need to accomplish this goal,” said Christine Barney, CEO and managing partner. “But we believe that if we are going to encourage rbb professionals to live wirelessly, then we have a responsibility to help keep them safe on the road, and we have a wider community interest in helping to put a stop to distracted driving.”

To encourage adherence among its smart phone-savvy staff, rbb is offering to purchase Bluetooth or hands-free devices for its employees. In addition, the company is providing iTunes gift cards toward the purchase of the SAFECELL application. This cell phone app automatically tracks a driver’s position and warns him or her about local no-text and no-cell rules. It also records the person’s safe driving behavior and awards safe driving points that are redeemable for cash rewards at top retailers.

Editor’s Note: For more information, read Christine Barney’s blog and download the “Never, Ever” Slideshare presentation at: www.rbbdigitalpark.com

About rbb Public Relations

rbb Public Relations is an award-winning marketing public relations firm with a national reputation for delivering results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique agency. Named The Holmes Report’s “2009 Boutique Agency of the Year” and PRWeek’s “2008 Agency of the Year,” rbb’s bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions, reputation management and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, financial and professional services, consumer products, crisis communications, travel & leisure, health and fitness, real estate, and food and beverage. rbb is a founding member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450 or visit www.rbbpr.com.

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Susan Gilden, Sandra Fine and Jennifer Valdes Accept Leadership Roles with Boards of Public Relations Society of America's Miami and Gulfstream Chapters

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

rbb Public Relations Commends Staffers for Supporting PRSA South Florida Chapters

MIAMI – November 17, 2010 – Three associates of rbb Public Relations, an award-winning national marketing public relations firm, have assumed leadership positions with South Florida chapters of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Account director Susan Gilden was named president of PRSA Gulfstream in Broward County, and account director Sandra Fine, APR, and account coordinator Jennifer Valdes were elected secretary and treasurer, respectively, for PRSA Miami. The women were named to their chapter’s Board of Directors in October, and will officially begin their tenures in January 2011.

Ms. Gilden has been a member of PRSA Gulfstream since 2007. She was chair of the membership committee for two years, and is currently serving her second term as treasurer. Ms. Fine, a three-year member of PRSA Miami, had previously served one-year as a board member at large and two years as college relations chair. Ms. Valdes joined the association’s Miami chapter in 2008 while finishing her master’s degree in mass communication from the University of Florida.

“rbb strongly supports its staff’s professional development and involvement with industry organizations for numerous reasons, including its role in helping practitioners to stay ahead of the curve in today’s dynamic media environment,” said rbb CEO and managing partner Christine Barney, who served as a PRSA Miami past president. “Susie, Sandra and Jennifer are rising stars at rbb as well as PRSA who exemplify this leadership role with their peers, and we congratulate them for continuing to support our industry.”

Ms. Gilden and Ms. Fine have been with rbb for more than five years each. As account directors, they lead integrated media and marketing campaigns for a number of the firm’s high profile clients including Adler Group, American Airlines Arena, Feld Entertainment, FPL and Zumba Fitness. Ms. Fine was accredited by the PRSA in 2008 and won PRSA Silver Anvil awards in 2007 and 2008 for leading firm campaign work with FPL and TracFone. She was also named to PR News “15 to Watch” list, honoring promising PR professionals under the age of 30. Ms. Valdes provides media relations support to corporate, consumer, and travel accounts that include AMResorts, Canyon Ranch, Flagler and the Florida Marlins.

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About rbb
rbb Public Relations has a national reputation for delivering results. Named PRWeek’s “2008 Agency of the Year” and The Holmes Report’s “2009 Boutique Agency of the Year,” rbb delivers clients results on par with the largest national firms, but with the individual attention of a boutique PR agency. Its bilingual staff excels in media relations, corporate communications, digital/social media, product introductions and crisis counseling. The firm’s capabilities encompass a variety of practice areas, including B2B, consumer products, travel & leisure, health and fitness, luxury goods, real estate and food and beverage. rbb is a member of the Converge network of PR firms. For more information, call (305) 448-7450 or visit www.rbbpr.com.

Media Contact

Mary Sudasassi / mary.sudasassi@rbbpr.com / 305-448-6163

Miami PR Industry Veteran Patricia Thorp Named a Finalist in the 7th Annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Latest Honor Marks Third Nomination for rbb Public Relations’ Senior Counselor

MIAMI – November 9, 2010 – Patricia Thorp, senior counselor with rbb Public Relations, a leading national marketing public relations firm, has been named a finalist in the 2010 Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Stevie Awards is an international competition recognizing the accomplishments of outstanding women executives, entrepreneurs and the organizations they run.

Thorp is nominated in the category for “Best Entrepreneur in an Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations Business” with up to 100 employees. She was the founder and president for 21 years of Thorp & Company, a Miami-based PR agency, which specialized in reputation management and professional and financial services. Thorp sold her company to the award-winning agency of rbb Public Relations in September, for which she is now senior counselor of issues and reputation management. She was named a Stevie Awards finalist twice before in 2007 and 2008 in the “Women Helping Women” Award category.

The 7th Annual Steve Awards are produced by the creators of the prestigious American Business AwardsSM. More than 1,200 entries – a record for the competition - were submitted this year for consideration in 54 categories. Winners will be announced at this year's awards dinner on Friday, November 12 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York.

Media Contact

Mary Sudasassi / mary.sudasassi@rbbpr.com / 305-448-6163