Press Release Format

Below are some basics about the format of a press release. Use 8 1/2-inch x 11-inch paper. Use a minimum of one-inch margins on each side of the page. Use a bold typeface for the headlines to draw attention. ALWAYS include a point of contact. Use title case. Capitalize the first letter of all words in the headline (with the exception of: "a," "an," "the," or prepositions such as: "of," "to," or "from"). The combination of upper and lower case makes it easier to read. Complete the paragraph on one page instead of carrying it over onto the next page. Use date or For Immediate Release to alert the reporter if the information can be used immediately. If the information should not be used until a specific date, include Embargoed Until [date] Use only one side of each sheet of paper. Use the word "more" between two dashes and center it at the bottom of the page to let reporters know that another page follows: - more End your press release with either three hash symbols (# # #) or -30- typed across the center of the page a couple lines below the end of your text. Include a city and state of origin in the dateline of the press release. Nothing screams amateur more than a press release that simply reads USA or nothing at all.

SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE FORMAT

1301 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Ste 700, Washington DC 20004 ==================================================================================== [date] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT PERSON:
Always include a header with address & identifying information of organization

HEADLINE
[state of origin] Your first paragraph should be a summary of the major idea/event or activity. Use active verbs and descriptive terms to draw the reader in. Be sure and provide the where, when and why in this paragraph. This ensures that if the first paragraph is the only text that the reporter or editor is able to read they are informed about the importance of the event and where it will take place.

2nd paragraph Include a quote from an official or spokesperson related to the event. Other paragraphs Use remaining paragraphs to expand on explanation of event and what benefits
are available from the activity/event. May also highlight the organizations work in community or area. ### To indicate to the reader that this is the end of the press release, place three number signs at the end.

ASPA is the largest and most prominent organization for public administration. It is dedicated to advancing the art, science, teaching and practice of public and non-profit administration. facebook.com/ASPAnational twitter.com/@ASPANational

1301 Pennsylvania Ave, Ste 700 Washington DC 20004 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Melissa Williams, Communications Manager mwilliams@aspanet.org or 202-585-4313

PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE DRAWS 1,100 PUBLIC SERVANTS TO LAS VEGAS

Washington, DC In the wake of a slow recovering economy and shifting landscapes for state and local governments, more than 1,100 public administrators and nonprofit public servants, students and scholars will convene in Las Vegas March 2-6, 2012 to discuss the changing relationships between government, individuals, and the public sector. For five days, the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) will bring together a diverse group of experts, practitioners, and scholars to address concerns and discuss creative solutions for the challenges facing government using the theme Redefining Public Service through Civic Engagement as a guide. The conference will feature keynote presentations by top federal and state officials, as well as renowned experts in the public management field. John Berry, director of the Office of Personnel and Management (OPM), will keynote the opening plenary on Saturday, March 2. He is among other exciting and high profile individuals who have shared knowledge of their experience and the role of public servants at the ASPA Annual Conference, including the former Secretary of Energy for Mexico Ignacio Pichardo Pagaza and Commissioner of Georgia Michael Thurmond. In addition, attendees will enjoy special events and lecturers featuring specialists and top scholars. Distinguished professor of Public Administration Walter Broadnax of Syracuse University will headline the Elliot Richardson Lecture on Sunday, March 3. On Monday, March 4, Dr. Camilla Stivers and Dr. Cheryl Simrell King will co-present at the Donald C. Stone Lecture. In its 73rd year, the ASPA Annual Conference is the largest and most comprehensive gathering of public administration professionals. It attracts public servants from the local, state and federal level, nonprofit executives and professionals as well as international experts and government workers. To find out more about the ASPA Annual Conference, visit www.aspanet.org/2012conference ###

ASPA is the largest and most prominent organization for public administration. It is dedicated to advancing the art, science, teaching and practice of public and non-profit administration. facebook.com/ASPAnational twitter.com/@ASPANational