The Katrina Effect


I went by to check out one of the rooms where two of the media events are being held later this week. I stopped by to see one of my favorite molders of young minds, Robin Street, PR instructor extraordinaire. Robin invited me to spend a few minutes with her PR class and share with them what we are working to accomplish during this week.

The reaction to my abbreviated lecture was what I’ve come to expect. Many of the students were engaged and animated – a couple fell asleep. But I will say that they all listened a little closer when I made the following statement: “Katrina was the single best PR event that ever occurred in Mississippi.” And in my opinion, it was. Read More »

The Level of Energy Rises


The energy on campus today was truly amazing. There were students everywhere welcoming us to campus and ready and willing to help with anything we needed. I even had a short conversation with Chancellor Khayat today. What a wonderful man. I have never seen another individual so passionate about what he does each and every day. He truly cares about this University and the students on this campus mean the world to him. Every time you say the words “Ole Miss,” his face lights up with a smile. Read More »

You Can Feel it in the Air


As I walked around campus this afternoon, it was easy to realize that today was the calm before the storm.

Streets are being blocked off, traffic is being rerouted and we passed a dozen or so satellite trucks that have already claimed prime real estate around The Grove. The campus is beautiful. Fall mums are in place at every turn and the grounds are manicured to perfection.

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Anticipation


In 2000, I had the pleasure of spending several days in Beijing just after being awarded the 2008 Olympics. I remember thinking how much hard work must be ahead of them. That thought comes to mind as we have worked with the great people of Ole Miss and EventWorks from Cleveland, Ohio, since the first of the year. Today, we have met together to review every detail in an effort to anticipate additional opportunities to insure a successful event. Everyone is double-checking lists and fielding calls from media around the world as we all prepare to become part of one of America’s most historical events.

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The Calm Before the Storm (of Media)


Media Filing Center

Media Filing Center

Excitement and anticipation are in the air here in Oxford. If you have never been to the Ole Miss campus, it is truly breathtaking. You’ve probably heard the stories of tailgating in the Grove (of ancient oak trees) before football games. I can understand why. The entire campus is a beautiful place, perfect for the gathering of students and the Ole Miss community. What a place for the first presidential debate: a university with unrivaled beauty and grace.

The Ford Center, where the actual debate takes place, is just down the street from the Grove. And, already the street in front of the Ford Center is blocked for media technical set-up. There are platforms built along the sidewalks in front of the Ford Center, where reporters will report live later in the week.

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Day 1 – Monday, September 22


The Cirlot Agency arrived on the University of Mississippi campus today for Day 1 of our week-long stay in Oxford to assist the University with PR efforts for the first of the 2008 Presidential Debates. After months of planning and preparation, it is hard to believe this week has finally arrived.

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Mississippi, Believe It!


Rick Looser, COO of The Cirlot Agency

Rick Looser

Rick Looser, COO of The Cirlot Agency, talks about the inspiration for the “Mississippi, Believe It!” ad campaign that raises awareness of the people and accomplishments that have come from Mississippi.

Source: The Clarion-Ledger
Video Link: Mississippi, Believe It!

Filed under:Cirlot News

Bringing the debate to Ole Miss


The Ford Center - University of Mississippi

Rick Looser, COO of The Cirlot Agency, talks about bringing the presidential debate to Mississippi.

Source: The Clarion-Ledger
Video Link: Bringing the debate to Ole Miss

Filed under:Cirlot News

Getting ready for The Debate


Getting ready for the Debate!

Getting ready for the Debate!

Team Cirlot is packing up and preparing to head north to Oxford on Monday. Today has been a busy day of PR strategy, determining the messages we want to distribute to the national and international media. Next week is incredibly crucial for the university, as it is the first time since 1962 that Ole Miss will be on such a worldwide stage. We will help media see who Ole Miss is today and the opportunities it offers. Check back on Monday as we post some of the first sights and “goings on” of debate week!

Filed under:Cirlot News