In another sign of the PR Industry's deteriorating self-image internationally, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal–Arroyo has declared the month of September as "Public Relations Month." Proclamation No. 1357 was issued today to reestablish "the public relations profession as a major contributor to national development and the socioeconomic well-being of the country."

Martin Turnbull, noted PR business analyst and professor at the Kepler School of Management, said: "The timing of this announcement is critical. The industry has lost its identity and is now generally viewed both internally and externally as sycophant gold diggers chasing ambulances and hearses. The WOMM and Me2Revolution stuff... Hell, we might as well be putting lipstick on postcards."

The announcement from the Philippine government stated that PR now "includes advertising and promotional activities" and "coexists with marketing and merchandising to create the climate in which all selling functions occur."

Arroyo also noted it is time to make "a reaffirmation of our commitment through personal reflection, change in attitudes, and solidarity for the public welfare and the development of our country."

She said the goal of peace and unity has, all too often, lost its relevance in a nation that is "beset by hostility, bitterness, constant conflict and too much politics."

SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 29 /PRNewsSpreader/ -- To keep up with the radical changes happening in the PR business, McGrath/Power Public Relations (MP) made a startling announcement today. To accommodate the enormous growth the agency experienced in 2006, the agency is on the move.

Outstripping Thorp & Co. of Coral Gables, Florida, for the 105th spot in O'Dwyer's Agency Rankings, MP has moved from 3945 Freedom Circle, Santa Clara to 333 West San Carlos Street, San Jose.

According to our sources, staff and the firm's clients are presently adjusting to the transition. They now: Head East on Freedom Circle toward Mission College Boulevard; Turn right at Mission College Boulevard; Turn right at Montague Expressway; Take the ramp onto US-101 South; Take the Guadalupe Pkwy/CA-87 exit; Slight left at CA-87 S/Guadalupe Pkwy; Take the Park Avenue exit toward CA-82/San Carlos Street; Turn left at Park; Turn right at South Almaden Boulevard; and then turn right at West San Carlos Street. The change is a little over seven miles.

Jonathan Bloom, CEO of McGrath/Power, said: "Reflecting back on our 25 years, we see this move as just the next step in the evolution of the agency. We are excited to mark this milestone with new facilities, and look forward to the continued growth and expansion of the agency."

In conjunction with the move and to "usher in a new era," the agency is also unveiling a new corporate logo. According to the press announcement, the re-branded logo is "representative of the evolution of the agency and the technology industry as a whole."

EDITOR'S NOTE: The agency's telephone number remains the same: (408) 727-0351.

We are just getting word so bear with us: The August 28 luncheon meeting of the Raleigh Public Relations Society (RPRS) apparently will now feature the winners of the 2007 Sir Walter Raleigh Awards for Excellence in Communication.

As you are aware, the Sir Walter Raleigh Awards competition is held annually by RPSR to showcase work by PRs throughout North Carolina.

Next Tuesday, representatives from Capstrat, Pines of Carolina Girl Scout Council, The Catevo Group, French/West/Vaughan, and Kelly MarCom are expected to make an appearance. Sources are also telling us that besides discussing their award-winning projects, the presenters intend to share ideas and inspiration with event attendees.

The event is scheduled to happen between 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bogart's American Grill, 510 Glenwood Avenue, in scenic downtown Raleigh. If you’re coming, please RSVP the lovely Kelly Hubbard, hospitality chair at kelly@largemouthpr.com by this Friday.

Cost to attend is $12 for members and $20 for guests and is payable at the door.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Lunch is included in the price of admission. Attendees will have a choice of: Grilled Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, onion rings, and mushroom gravy; Grilled Tuna Salad served over fresh greens; and Chicken Salad Wrap served with fresh fruit.