These were some of the stories that put public relations front and center throughout the year:
- Milwaukee being chosen as host of the 2020 Democratic National Convention
- The first full year of the Fiserv Forum brought thousands to downtown to a record number of concerts and shows as well as to cheer the NBA Bucks deep into the playoffs.
- Construction of a number of hotels and other major projects continued throughout downtown, along with Foxconn Technology’s factory near Racine accelerated with a projected 2020 opening, although what will be built there and how high-tech jobs will result remains in flux.
- Who will be leading the city, county, state and nation? Cong. Jim Sensenbrenner and County Executive Chris Abele announced they won’t run for reelection next year; several veteran politicians are opposing Mayor Tom Barrett as he seeks a fourth term; Gov. Tony Evers and Republican legislators continue to battle on a number of issues; and more than a dozen Democrats are seeking their party’s nomination to face President Donald Trump, who faces impeachment with the first primaries only a few months away.
Join PRSA for a year-end celebration and review of the area’s top stories and a look ahead to 2020.
Our Panelists:
- Evan Zeppos, APR, Senior Public Affairs Counselor at Michael Best Strategies. Zeppos is recognized as one of the top public affairs, issues management and crisis communications strategists in the Midwest. He is a longtime member (and former president) of the PRSA chapter and is a go-to person for reporters, business leaders and community leaders seeking advice and political insight.
- Beth Weirick, CEO of the Milwaukee Downtown BID #21, and one of Milwaukee’s biggest cheerleaders. For the last two decades, Weirick and her team have worked tirelessly to promote the positive and unique offerings in downtown Milwaukee. Through BID #21 assessments, Milwaukee Downtown funds specific initiatives aimed at creating a clean, safe and friendly downtown. The district currently manages 150 blocks representing approximately 500 commercial property owners.
- Steve Wexler, Vice President and Market Manager at WTMJ radio, commenting about the stories that will make a difference in our lives in the coming year, as well as the trends in news gathering and the media landscape.
Please note that this will also serve as PRSA’s annual meeting, where officers to lead the chapter in 2020 will be elected.
Reserve your place today – seating is limited!