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UPS opens distribution centre at Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Feb 26, 2010

This past Monday, February 22, 2010, Brookline provided its expertise in media relations and event planning to UPS as it celebrated the highly anticipated opening of its new state-of-the-art distribution centre at the Calgary International Airport.

Brookline was on-site to ensure the grand opening event ran smoothly including event preparation, media interviews, and cueing the event run of show. 

This new distribution centre is UPS's largest in Canada and Brookline is honoured it was chosen to help spread the word.

BROOKLINE PUBLIC RELATIONS NAMED AGENCY OF RECORD FOR HYATT REGENCY CALGARY

Feb 18, 2010

CALGARY, ALBERTA - February 18, 2010 - Brookline Public Relations, Inc. (Brookline) today announced it will be the public relations agency of record for the Hyatt Regency Hotel Calgary.

"We are pleased to be working with Brookline Public Relations on some of our key 2010 activities," said Keith Butz, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Calgary. "Brookline provides creative ideas and solid results, and our team is excited to collaborate with them."

Brookline previously worked with Hyatt Regency Calgary on a number of activities around the 2009 Grey Cup, which took place in Calgary.

"Hyatt Regency Calgary is one of the top hotels in Calgary, and we are absolutely thrilled to be working with them," said Shauna MacDonald, Principal and Founder of Brookline, "The Hyatt brand is well-respected around the world, and the Calgary hotel in particular is the cornerstone to Calgary's downtown on the famed Stephen Avenue Walk."

Brookline's work with Hyatt Regency Calgary will include a variety of media relations activities and strategic public relations projects.

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About Hyatt Regency Calgary

Hyatt Regency Calgary; part of the Global Hyatt Corporation, one of the world's premier hotel companies with properties in 45 countries, provides authentic hospitality to guests through a passionate commitment to personalized service, cultural relevance, and genuine stewardship of the environment. Hyatt Regency Calgary is proudly partnered with Bullfrog Power, a provider of green electricity.

Hyatt Regency Calgary is situated on Stephen Avenue Walk in the midst of an exciting pedestrian mall, and as the city's newest luxury hotel affords the perfect setting for business and leisure travel. Possessing the largest hotel ballroom in Calgary and 22 meetings rooms, Hyatt accommodates meetings and events of all sizes while ensuring perfection.

From Canada and the U.S., reservations for Hyatt Regency Calgary may be obtained by calling 1-800-233-1234 or logging onto www.hyattregencycalgary.com.

Brookline Public Relations, Inc. Named Agency of Record for National Organization

Feb 16, 2010

Toronto, ON (February 16, 2010) - The Advancing Canadian Entrepreneurship (ACE) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Brookline Public Relations Inc. (Brookline) has been selected as the organization's public relations agency of record. The support from Brookline demonstrates their commitment to developing future industry leaders and enhancing the entrepreneurial culture in Canada.

"Brookline's expertise in the field of public relations is unparalleled when it comes to western Canada", explains ACE President, Amy Harder. "We are gearing up for our first-ever Calgary-based National Exposition in May, and we are grateful to have their assistance to help reach a wider audience,"  

As agency of record for ACE, Brookline will contribute to building awareness for both the Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) program and the Student Entrepreneur program across Canada. It will also provide ACE with the opportunity to expand their reach regionally and nationally via mass media outlets and the direct involvement of media executives.  

 "We are thrilled to be on board with ACE in preparation for this year's National Exposition," says Shauna MacDonald, Principal and Founder of Brookline, "ACE and Brookline share common entrepreneurial values, and we look forward to supporting the team and sharing the many incredible stories that help make this organization and its stakeholders so inspiring and unique."

Brookline Public Relations, Inc. joins a diverse list of over 30 corporations, foundations and generous individual donors helping ACE achieve its mission to teach and ignite young Canadians to create brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

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About ACE
Founded in the mid-1980s, ACE is a national, charitable organization that is teaching and igniting young Canadians to create brighter futures for themselves and their communities. Through a collaborative partnership between higher education and industry, ACE delivers programming that provides university and college students access to real world experience that compliments in-class studies. By creating and delivering business ventures and outreach projects, students make a meaningful contribution to their communities today, while also discovering their potential to achieve an even greater impact as the leaders of tomorrow.

Willowbrook Homes steals the show at Calgary HomExpo

Jan 19, 2010

Willowbrook Homes Inc. (Willowbrook) wowed visitors of the Calgary HomExpo 2010 last weekend. The Willowbrook booth was a must-see, with a stunning new backdrop of a Willowbrook home, a custom-made kitchen island and plush seating for three.

Brookline was thrilled to assist such a well known builder with tradeshow collateral, design choice and booth layout.

Willowbrook's luxury homes dress up every community they're built in with exquisite designs and functional layout. This family-run custom home company has been around since 1992. As their slogan goes, "Our Dream is to Build Yours."  

Willowbrook Homes' dazzling booth even had a few Brookliners dreaming of their very own custom-built home.

Original Joe's opens six new franchises across Canada

Jan 18, 2010

Brookline would like to congratulate Original Joe's Restaurant and Bar (Joe's) on opening up six new franchises across Canada. This brings the popular casual dining franchise to a total of 33 locations! The new Joe's are in Medicine Hat, AB; Richmond, B.C; South Surrey, B.C; Kelowna, B.C; Abbotsford, B.C, and Winnipeg, M.B.

Brookline is thrilled to handle the media relations and blogging for this thriving restaurant and bar franchise group. Check out the Joe's blog for news and updates.

Despite recessionary times, Joe's has experienced incredible growth in 2009 and will continue to expand in 2010. Joe's locations including Medicine Hat, Richmond and South Surrey will be unveiled in February 2010, while customers in Winnipeg, Abbotsford and Kelowna can look forward to grand openings in March 2010.

Brookline's favourite of Original Joe's famous "two sides" deal? Yam fries and mashed potatoes.

Brookline celebrates five years with Fairway Divorce Solutions

Jan 14, 2010

We are pleased to announce that Fairway Divorce Solutions, a leading alternative divorce solutions firm, has selected Brookline as its agency of record for a fifth consecutive year.  

Brookline has been working with Karen Stewart, divorce expert and CEO and President of Fairway, in the areas of media relations and franchise relations, and we would like to congratulate Karen on some of her major milestones during this time including:

  • The release of her book Clean Break;
  • Winning the 2009 Woman of Vision award; and
  • Growing her company from a single Calgary location, to more than 20 franchises in Canada and the U.S!

We are honoured to be a part of Fairway's continued growth, and we look forward to continuing to work with Karen and her growing team on new initiatives throughout 2010.

radiopark music room celebrates Grand Opening

Dec 19, 2009

radiopark music room (radiopark), Calgary's newest live music venue, held its Grand Opening party on Saturday, December 19th, to the delight of diverse music lovers from across the city.

 

ROCK-IT! Scientists, one of the hottest DJ teams out of the US, were the feature act, along with DJ Phatty and DJ TCOB. Brookline, who helped to support radiopark's launch efforts, was also on-site to celebrate the opening bash.

 

radiopark offers a variety of music genres from live, local bands and alternative rock, to world-class visiting DJs. Dubbed "Calgary's music playground," radiopark has quickly attracted music lovers from across the city.

Parking Made Easy at the Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Dec 16, 2009

Last week Brookline was thrilled to coordinate the media relations for the Grand Opening of the Calgary International Airport's new parkade. The parkade was officially opened when Bob Schmitt, Senior Vice President Planning and Engineering, YYC, and Gord Lowe, Deputy Mayor, cruised through the gates in a YYC Ford hybrid SUV. After nearly two years of construction, the new parkade will provide an additional 1,930 covered stalls, just in time for holiday travellers.

 

The event was the final phase of YYC's Parking Made Easy initiative, developed by Brookline. Parking Made Easy launched in November with a kick-off announcement of Express Pay, a new automated pay-to-park system. The initiative also included an integrated advertising campaign.

Hyatt scores Touchdown for Grey Cup fun!

Nov 29, 2009

Hyatt Regency Calgary celebrated the 2009 Grey Cup Festival in style. Brookline managed media relations for the hotel, including four stations broadcasting live for several days leading up to the big game. The hotel's football-inspired festivities included a Grey Cup festival tent complete with four plasma TVs, bar and a delectable menu of half-time meals and snacks.

Chefs from the hotel's own Thomsons Restaurant and Sandstone Lounge cooked up football favourites on Breakfast Television Calgary (BTV) that were enjoyed by CFL veterans Reggie Holmes, Herm Harrison and Damon Allen. Also on BTV, estheticians from Hyatt Regency Calgary's Stillwater Spa treated football fans, military guests and Stamps alumni to a relaxing manicure. Some of the special spa guests even wore blue and green nail polish in honour of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Montreal Alouttes!

Hyatt Regency Calgary also participated in a long-standing Stampeders Grey Cup tradition when staff and guests welcomed a four-legged friend - Tuffy the horse. Tuffy visited the Hyatt's hotel lobby, creating picture-perfect photo ops for guests and media.

Putting on the Bliss!

Oct 5, 2009

October 5, 2009 marked a star-studded day for Calgary as The Business of Bliss made its debut and you bet that the Brookline team was there to master the media relations behind this full-day inspirational speakers' series.

Included in this Fab-U-Bliss event was none other than Sex and the City Author Candace Bushnell; Oprah regular guest and organizational guru Peter Walsh; powerful author, speaker and writer Danielle LaPorte; Ben Barry of the Ben Barry Modeling agency; Martha Beck New York Times best-selling author and columnist for O; and many more!

Highlights from the day included: three exclusive VIP events; an exciting Pitchfest where five finalists presented their big business idea to a panel of celebrity judges for a chance at a $30,000 Business Booster Prize Package - congratulations to the Pitchfest winner Jane Walter, president of organicKidz; a fashion show and a style lounge filled with glitz and glamour!

Favourite quote from the day: "Wake up every morning and ask yourself 'what is the most Blissful thing I can do today?' then do it" - Martha Beck.

2009 Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure

Oct 4, 2009

It was the fifth year for Brookline Public Relations managing the media relations for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure, which raised more than $1.24 million dollars in Calgary for breast cancer education, awareness and research.

On a snowy Sunday, October 4th the 18th annual Run saw more than 8,000 participants brave the blizzard and run or walk one or five kilometers in support of breast cancer. The power of survivorship pink shone through the powdery white flakes with bright costumes, smiles and various sponsors, volunteers and supporters spreading joy for the grand occasion.

The Heebee-jeebees, a local quartet, were back bundled up with cheer and pink gear to entertain everyone's hearts with catchy tunes and hilarious commentary. The Ad-Hoc band played some recognizable beats which warmed up participants before and after the event.

Catriona Le May Doan, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and Honorary Chairperson, offered up inspiration and led the run for the fifth time.

Brookline was honoured to be included in the organization of such a widely recognized and accomplished event. 

Support Our Troops Gala 2009

Sep 26, 2009

Brookline is proud to have been a part of the Support our Troops Gala for the second year in a row. The gala, held September 26th at the Northlands centre in Edmonton, benefitted various causes such as the Military Families Fund, Hospital Comforts Fund, and the Soldier On Program.

 

Guests included dignitaries such as Premier Ed Stelmach, Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel and Chief of Defense Staff, General Walt Naynczyk.

 

The Juno award winning band, Blue Rodeo, was certainly one of the highlights of the evening, along with the hilarious commentary provided by Jessica Holmes, Royal Canadian Air Farce comedian. Lucky winners of the Live Auction went home with great prizes, including WestJet vouchers and a motivational speaking session with retired

General Rick Hillier.

 

The funds raised at the 2009 Support our Troops Gala will benefit military families across Canada faced with unforeseen and often immediate needs. For more information on the aforementioned charities please visit www.cfpsa.com.

 

Oil Sands Trade Show and Conference Draws Qualified Crowd

Sep 23, 2009

For the third year in a row, Brookline was pleased to manage media relations for The Oil Sands Trade Show and Conference, in Edmonton, AB.  Considered the largest and most significant oil sands event in the world, the show lived up to its reputation with a focused exhibition and newly expanded Athabasca Oil Sands Conference. The theme of the Conference was Optimal Outcomes: Changing the Face of the Oil Sands through Innovation and Collaboration and brought together several industry heavy weights for a Roundtable Discussion: Changing Perceptions of the Oil Sands in the International Market. 

Other show highlights included the Environmental Pavilion, featuring the latest in green technologies; the Fort McMurray Mine Site Tour, and the Heavy Oil 101 course.

The Great Canadian Head Shave

Sep 11, 2009

Brookline couldn't have been prouder of Deanna Vigeant who participated in the Great Canadian Head Shave on September 11, 2009 in support of the Terry Fox Foundation.

 

Deanna recently lost her father to cancer, and prior to the event, she put her PR skills to good use as she and her sister Amanda Vigeant, of Caliber Planning, raised more than $7,000 to donate through several fundraising means.

 

Deanna has truly inspired the Brookline team through her strength and passion over the last several months, and looks absolutely amazing!

2009 Loops for the Troops Run

Jun 21, 2009

Brookline was proud to volunteer our time and services to this year's Loops for the Troops run at North Glenmore Park on Father's Day. The run was established by Michael Hornburg, father of Corporal Nathan Hornburg from The King's Own Calgary Regiment, who was born on Father's Day and was killed in combat on September 24, 2007. The run not only honoured Corporal Hornburg  but remembered all the fallen members of the Canadian Forces. Nearly 2,000 Calgarians showed their support by participating in either the 5 or 10K run or by walking the Military Mile. Approximately 100 soldiers also took part in a similar Loops for the Troops run at the Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan.

BROOKLINE PUBLIC RELATIONS RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR SOCIAL MEDIA

Jun 15, 2009

"Brookline was honoured with a Silver Award of Excellence in the Social Media Category at the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) 2009 conference. The agency was acknowledged for the innovative "Young & Free" campaign for Servus Credit Union. To find out all the details, check out our press release below."

Prestigious Canadian Public Relations Society Awards Salute Leaders in the Public Relations Industry

CALGARY, ALBERTA —June 15, 2009 - Brookline Public Relations is pleased to announce that it was honoured with a Silver Award of Excellence in the Social Media Category at the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) 2009 conference in Vancouver on June 9th. Brookline was recognized for the extremely successful "Young & Free" campaign for Servus Credit Union that applied various methods of social media to engage youth between the ages of 17 and 25.

The CPRS Awards acknowledge outstanding performance and service by members of the society and showcases the talent within the industry. This particular award was based on effectively communicating a campaign by means of social media and overall results.

"Social media is more than a trend, it's an effective, prevailing form of communications that public relations professionals must understand and embrace," said Shauna MacDonald, principal and founder of Brookline Public Relations. "Brookline is known for its fresh and creative approach and we are privileged to be recognized as such with this award."

The award-winning Young & Free campaign was lead by senior account executive, Rebecca Eras, and supported by assistant account specialist, Deanna Vigeant. In October 2007, Servus Credit Union looked to Brookline for a way to connect with young people as a result of a decline in their youth membership. Brookline worked closely with Larissa Walkiw, the web-savvy self-proclaimed "spokester," to establish a presence on YouTube, Twitter, Flickr and Facebook.

The campaign received national recognition and Brookline generated weekly media hits in social media spheres, as well as traditional and industry media. As a result, the website saw 95,021 site visits, 1,381 blog comments, 128,014 YouTube video views and a 30 per cent increase in youth members.

In summer 2008, the initiative took home one of the most prominent social media awards in North America, a Forrester Research Groundswell Award.

"I always say one of the most rewarding things at Brookline is seeing employees grow and succeed, I am very proud of our team for achieving such success with this campaign," said MacDonald. "They deserve to be rewarded for the tireless effort they put forth on this account and I am confident Brookline will be honoured again in the future."

Today, youngfreealberta.com receives approximately 300 hits a day and Young & Free is still thriving as Servus signed on its second spokesperson, Myles Peterman, in fall 2008. 

Glinda Girls Kick Off Business of Bliss Event with 'Bliss in the City'

Jun 3, 2009

From sexy sling-backs to flirty flip-flops, Glinda Girls™ presented 'Bliss in the City: Change Your Shoes, Change Her Life,' the ultimate shoe therapy event that took place at Wild Ginger on Wednesday, June 3, 2009. Attendees were treated to an evening shoe fashion show, a complimentary 'Bliss-tini' cocktail, pampering foot stations and more! Over 320 new and gently-used business shoes were donated by attendees for Calgary's Walk-In Closet.

 

As the agency of record, Brookline Public Relations facilitated media relations at Bliss in the City. The event was dedicated to the upcoming Business of Bliss event, being held in Calgary on Monday, October 5, 2009. This highly-anticipated inspirational speaker series will present internationally acclaimed celebrities featuring Candace Bushnell (author of Sex and the City and Lipstick Jungle), Martha Beck, Moreah Ragusa, Ben Barry, Peter Walsh and celebrity Glinda Girl judges. Follow the Business of Bliss group page on Facebook for more details!

BROOKLINE PUBLIC RELATIONS NAMED AGENCY OF RECORD FOR 'THE BUSINESS OF BLISS' EVENT

May 7, 2009

(Calgary, Canada, May 7, 2009)  Glinda Girls Inc., a Calgary-based event producer and e-boutique of beauty and lifestyle brands, has chosen Brookline Public Relations, Inc. ('Brookline') as the agency of record for its first-ever, highly-anticipated The Business of Bliss event taking place October 5, 2009 in Calgary.

Held at the TELUS Convention Centre, The Business of Bliss is a full-day event featuring internationally acclaimed speakers such as Candace Bushnell, author of Sex and the City, Trading Up, Lipstick Jungle and One Fifth Avenue; Martha Beck, New York Times best-selling author and columnist for O, The Oprah Magazine; Brilliance Specialist and psychotherapist Moreah Ragusa; and Peter Walsh, organizational guru from TLC's Clean Sweep and New York Times best-selling author of How to Organize Just About Everything and Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat. Walsh is also a regular guest on the Oprah show and can be heard weekly on The Peter Walsh Show on the Oprah & Friends XM radio network.

"We are incredibly honoured to be The Business of Bliss's public relations agency of record," said Shauna MacDonald, Brookline's Principal and Founder. "This event brings together some of today's most inspiring speakers, and provides women a unique forum to connect and learn from each other. We are looking forward to hearing from world-renowned speakers and working with the strong entrepreneurial women behind the Glinda Girls in bringing this event to fruition."

Designed to inspire women to discover their purpose, live their passion and create a life they love, The Business of Bliss will also be looking for a new Glinda Girl with a 'Pitchfest,' a competitive pitch session where five female finalists present their big idea to a panel of judges. The winner will walk away with a $25,000 Business Booster Prize Package that includes a public relations strategy session with Brookline to help the budding entrepreneur analyze and establish a solid market presence.

"We are excited to have Brookline Public Relations as our agency of record," said Kari Dunlop, event producer and President and CEO of Glinda Girls Inc. "We chose Brookline because of its longstanding history in supporting women's causes as well as the company's winning approach of combining fresh, creative, solid and professional campaigns. We believe both our organizations are strongly aligned, and we look forward to the great work that Brookline is known for in the industry."

The Business of Bliss also features a series of VIP events on October 5, including: The Morning with Martha (a VIP continental breakfast); a VIP Glinda Girls awards luncheon; and the Fab-U- Bliss After Party  with special guests.

For tickets and additional information, please call toll free 1-866-944-0455 or visit www.GlindaGirls.com.

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About Brookline Public Relations, Inc.
Brookline Public Relations, Inc. ('Brookline') is one of Canada's leading boutique public relations agencies with a superior track record for planning and executing award-winning public relations programs. Dedicated to helping organizations build awareness, credibility and strong reputations worldwide, Brookline is different because it delivers public relations campaigns that achieve a balance between strategic planning, creative programming and relentless execution. Brookline is committed to providing both established market leaders and emerging players with the winning combination of fresh, creative, solid and professional campaigns that lead to measurable results and reach new levels of success. For more information, please visit www.brooklinepr.com.

About The Business of Bliss
The Business of Bliss is a speakers' series designed to inspire women to discover their purpose, live their passion and create a life they love. This inspiring and life-changing full-day event boasts a blockbuster roster of individuals whose stories are sure to open people's minds and touch their hearts. For tickets and additional information, please visit www.GlindaGirls.com.

About Glinda Girls Inc.
Glinda lives within all women. She is the part of us that has a dream to accomplish, a passion to pursue and a difference to make. Inspiring women across the country, Glinda Girls Inc.™ created an online boutique (www.GlindaGirls.com) where visionary, entrepreneurial women can showcase their beauty and lifestyle brands as well as share their stories of success. Some of these acclaimed brands include DuWop, Cake Beauty and Anastasia Beverly Hills. Glinda Girls Inc.—the creators of cool and purveyors of possibility—celebrates their innovation, respects their triumphs, admires their entrepreneurship and loves their products. Founder Kari Dunlop hopes their stories inspire your desire to create your own road to a happy, rewarding life that you love! For more information, please visit www.GlindaGirls.com.

 

Media Contact:
Arlene Worsley
Brookline Public Relations, Inc.
P: 403-538-5641 ext. 106
C: 403-650-7086
aworsley@brooklinepr.com

World Renowned Dancer Visits Young Canadians School of Performing Arts

Apr 24, 2009

The Calgary Stampede Foundation's Young Canadians School of Performing Arts was recently honored with a visit from internationally distinguished ballet dancer, Rex Harrington.  Mr. Harrington was in Calgary to teach a master ballet class to the schools Senior dancers and to participate as a guest adjudicator at the schools second annual Ballet Adjudication.

 

The ballet program at the Young Canadians School of Performing Arts plays a significant role in developing students skills in all dance forms and maintaining the schools standard of excellence.

 

The Young Canadians School of Performing Arts is a year-round program that teaches aspiring performers voice, musical theatre, gymnastics and several disciplines of dance. 

Government of Canada Clean Energy Funding

Mar 24, 2009

Today, at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology ("SAIT"), Natural Resources Minister Lisa Raitt announced the selection of Enhance Energy by the Government of Canada to receive funding through the ecoEnergy Technology Initiative. Enhance Energy's proposal was chosen along with seven other companies pledging to develop clean energy technologies. Each of the selected projects will receive an investment between $3 million and $30 million, up to a combined total of $140 million. The funding for Enhance will be used for engineering and design of its carbon capture and storage and enhanced oil recovery project.

The Young Canadians Present "Heartbeat"

Mar 20, 2009

For three fun-filled days in March, the University of Calgary was home to the Calgary Stampede Foundation's Young Canadians (YCs).  The YC Spring Show, "Heartbeat" ran March 20 - 22 and Brookline had the pleasure of managing  media relations for the event.  Show highlights included a variety of high-energy lyrical pieces and dance numbers from hip-hop to ballet and jazz. In addition to a heart-stopping production, the Young Canadians paid tribute to the outgoing President and Chairman of the Calgary Stampede, George Brookman.

 

The Young Canadians Spring Show is an annual event with proceeds used to help aspiring Calgarians study voice, musical theatre, gymnastics and dance at the Young Canadians School of Performing Arts.

Triple Flip Celebrates First Birthday in Saskatoon

Mar 14, 2009

Brookline's fashion retail client, Triple Flip, known for providing high-quality activewear for stylish pre-teen girls, celebrated its first birthday in Saskatoon on March 14, 2009.

Both familiar friends and new customers alike came to Midtown Plaza to enter the Saskatchewan Flip Girl photo shoot draw, show off their Minky Dimples and take advantage of some great in-store deals. And of those out-of-towners who couldn't make it, 200 still sent their birthday wishes.

A live remote radio station was on-hand to capture the action live throughout Saturday, and the Flip Girl photo shoot took place on Sunday. Overall, the birthday party rocked with hundreds of Triple Flip fans attending to show their flip love!

Check out Triple Flip's blog at www.flipgirl.ca for more photos of the party.

 

The Next Brookliner!

Mar 5, 2009

When the Brookline team discovered one of their clients was expecting, a true Brookline-style welcome was in order. A Build-a-Bear was created for the newborn, which proudly bore a Brookline T-shirt. The team thought it would make for the perfect gift.

 

When newborn Jagger's parents handed him over the present, being too young to open it himself, his big sister Niya was asked to help. From the moment she laid her eyes on the Brookline bear, her parents knew it was game over for Jagger. Niya hasn't let go of the bear since. The bear accompanied the family to Montana, and even as Niya sleeps, she still keeps a tight grip.

 

The team may have just secured a future Brookliner.

ConocoPhillips - 2008 Christmas Party

Dec 12, 2008

This December, Brookline was honoured to organize and manage the ConocoPhillips Christmas Party for the third consecutive year. ConocoPhillips employees and their guests arrived at the Telus Convention Center where they were entertained by Christian Laurian Kerr, a sensational eight-year-old pianist, who played a mix of holiday classics and his favorite piano pieces.  Guests dined on a delicious Christmas themed meal and three lucky guests went home with incredible door prizes!  After the prizes were given out, guests danced the night away to the soulful music of The Mocking Shadows.

Triple Flip Opens in Edmonton

Nov 29, 2008

After much anticipation, Triple Flip, a high-quality fashion retailer for active and stylish pre-teen girls, opened its first store in Edmonton on November 29, 2008. With versatile, stylish clothes that fit young girls growing bodies and stand the test of time, Triple Flip clothing and culture empower young girls to live actively in style and in comfort.

 

Leading up to the launch event, Brookline prepared a comprehensive media list, mailed out media teasers, along with a detailed media kit, and followed up with key media interested in Triple Flip's Edmonton entrance. As a result of pre-event pitching, Brookline secured some substantial coverage in the business section of the Edmonton Journal; specifically two print stories and one on the Journal's website, as well as a radio spot.

 

On opening day, another radio spot was secured, as well as another story in the Edmonton Journal; this time in the fashion section. Overall, the launch turned out to be a smashing success, breaking previous opening day attendance and sales records from the Calgary and Saskatoon stores, and a buzz was definitely created in Edmonton to leverage moving forward.

 

The Edmonton store, located in Edmonton South Common is Triple Flip's third in Western Canada with its head office based in Calgary.

"Making it Happen" Telethon

Nov 16, 2008

Brookline Public Relations was excited to be a part of Shaw Communications' first "Making it Happen" Telethon, a nation-wide live auction that was held to raise money for Canada Athletes Now Fund. On November 16,  70 athletes, including members of the 2008 Men's 8 Gold Medal Rowing Team; Carol Huynh, Gold Medalist Wrestling; and Paralympic 100m Gold Medalist Earle Connor, managed the phones for eight hours taking bids from generous viewers. In addition to the athletes, 250 volunteers worked hard to ensure the event was a success.

In total, the country raised more than $150,000 to support high-performance athletes training for 2010. Shaw graciously matched the contributions to provide a grand total of $300,000. The Brookline team provided media relations to raise awareness across the county as well as helped secure sponsorship and auction items.

Enhance Energy Open House

Nov 5, 2008

Brookline Public Relations was pleased to be part of Enhance Energy's Open House in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. It was one of eight Open Houses along the route of their proposed CO2 Pipeline System, to inform stakeholders of the proposed project and welcome questions, concerns and suggestions. Brookline managed the media relations and coordinated interviews prior to and at the Open House. The Open House was well attended by government and industry representatives as well as the general public.

 

Enhance Energy is an Alberta-based energy resources development company proposing to construct a CO2 Pipeline System that will connect the Industrial Heartland Area just south of Redwater, Alberta, to the oil production fields just east of Clive, Alberta.

 

Forrester Research Groundswell Award

Oct 31, 2008

Brookline is proud to announce our involvement in winning a significant award for our client, Common Wealth Credit Union (CWCU). CWCU took home one of the most prestigious social media awards in North America, a Forrester Research Groundswell Award, for its innovative social media program, Young & Free. The first place award in the Talking Category recognizes Young & Free for its success at engaging young people online through a microsite populated with blogs, vlogs and polls that cover everything from finance to pop culture. Check out details of the award here: http://www.forrester.com/Groundswell/talking.html.

CPRS Calgary - Golden Anniversary Gala

Oct 25, 2008

On October 25th, Brookline Public Relations toasted CPRS's 50th Anniversary in Calgary at the Fairmont Palliser hotel.

Since the inception of CPRS Calgary in 1958, its members have actively been a part of the evolution and growth of the Public Relations industry in Calgary. Brookline Public Relations is proud to be a part of this history and was honoured to share in this special evening.

The Gala, held at the Fairmont Palliser, hosted a range of Calgary's public relations professionals, from the celebrated to those just entering the field. The evening's program consisted of commemorations and speeches acknowledging the development of our profession throughout the years, and was topped off with dancing to the entertaining Prime Time Big Band.

2008 Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure

Oct 5, 2008

For the fourth year in a row, Brookline Public Relations worked with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure to raise more than $1.5 million for breast cancer education, awareness and research.

On October 5th, 2008 the 17th Annual Run saw more than 10,000 participants who came out to run or walk one or five kilometres in support of breast cancer. The Southcentre Mall parking lot was overflowing with outrageous costumes, pink balloons and various sponsors, volunteers and supporters fueling excitement for the big event.

Once again, local a cappella quartet, The Heebee-geebees, raised everyone's spirits with a performance of lively tunes and humorous commentary. This year, Calgarian singer/song writer, Crystal McGrath, also took the stage and dedicated a special song to breast cancer survivors.

Catriona Le May Doan, two-time Olympic Gold Medallist and Honorary Chairperson, offered up inspiration and led the run for the fifth time.

The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure is in 55 communities across Canada and is the largest volunteer-based, single-day fundraising event for breast cancer.

Brookline is proud to have been part of such a hugely successful event.

2008 Oil Sands Trade Show & Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Sep 23, 2008

For the second year in a row, Brookline provided media relations and crisis communications management for dmg world media inc. at the 2008 Oil Sands Trade Show & Conference in Edmonton, AB from September 23 to 24.

This year's show drew nearly 10,000 registered attendees to Northlands AgriCom  to view the latest technologies, products and services for the oil sands industry. A popular new feature was the GO GREEN Pavilion, where delegates and visitors were treated to the industry's most cutting-edge innovations focused on improving the environmental effects of extraction, upgrading, refining, and transportation of bitumen.

Other significant features and presentations included: Global Petroleum Career Exposition, 8th Annual Athabasca Oil Sands Conference, Welding & Cutting Automation Forum, Annual "Sand Trapped" Golf Tournament, Heavy Oil 101 seminar, VIP industry reception with opening remarks by Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel, and a sold-out Fort McMurray Mine Site Tour.

2008 Survivors Parade

Sep 9, 2008

Once again, Brookline Public Relations sported our Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) committee shirts at this year's Survivors Parade on Tuesday, September 9 at Bankers Hall.

For the fourth year in a row, Brookline supported the CBCF with in-kind media relations and waved our pink pompoms high in the air to honor more than 200 female and male breast cancer survivors.

The survivors came down the escalators in years of survivorship and gathered for an emotional program, emceed by CTV's Vickie Chase, with speeches from CIBC, the CBCF, a Run Director and a two time breast cancer survivor. The event finished off with survivors parading down Stephen Avenue raising awareness and celebrating their personal victories.

The Survivors Parade marked its fifth anniversary and kicked off Think Pink Week and the 17th annual Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure on October 5th at Southcentre Mall.

Photo courtesy of Sun Media

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sep 4, 2008

BROOKLINE PUBLIC RELATIONS FOUNDER NAMED ONE OF CALGARYINC MAGAZINE'S TOP 40 UNDER 40

Prestigious award salutes Calgary's brightest young leaders of 2008

CALGARY, ALBERTA—September 4, 2008 - Brookline Public Relations is pleased to announce Shauna MacDonald, Principal and Founder, has been selected as one of the recipients of CalgaryInc Magazine's highly anticipated Top 40 Under 40 Class of 2008. Selected by a panel of judges consisting of CalgaryInc's editorial staff and senior business leaders, nominees were selected for excelling in their careers, giving back to the community, and in the process, elevating the profile of Calgary. This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the award.

"I am thrilled to have been named a member of the Top 40 Under 40 Class of 2008," said Shauna MacDonald. "It is an honour and a privilege to be recognized with these outstanding business and community leaders."

Shauna founded Brookline Public Relations in October 2004, quickly growing the boutique PR agency and securing an impressive roster of clients based locally, nationally and internationally. Brookline is now recognized as one of Canada's leading boutique public relations agencies with a superior track record for planning and executing award-winning public relations programs.

Getting her start in PR with a Boston-based public relations and strategic communication consulting firm, Shauna was able to provide strategic public relations expertise to companies of all sizes throughout the U.S. and the world. For five years, prior to starting Brookline, Shauna was Vice President and Managing Director of Western Canada for an international public relations firm, as well as the Technology & Marketing Communications Practice Leader for its Canadian operations.

Shauna has helped numerous companies in many industries launch programs, products and increase profile and awareness by developing comprehensive and strategic PR and IR strategies. Her extensive knowledge of both Canadian and U.S. markets has helped start-up and established companies gain and sustain market leader positions.

Shauna and the rest of the recipients will be profiled in a special section of the September issue of CalgaryInc. and honoured at a launch party at Flames Central on Wednesday, September 3. This is the 10th anniversary for CalgaryInc.'s Top 40 Under 40. This year, hundreds of outstanding nominations were received. For more information: www.top40under40.com/

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Volunteers Think PINK™ for Stampede Pancake Breakfast

Jul 9, 2008

Brookline PR kicked off its fourth consecutive year with pro bono client the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure with Southcentre Mall's annual Calgary Stampede Breakfast on Wednesday, July 9. The Brookline team coordinated media interviews and assisted volunteers with handing out information and CBCF merchandise, including popular temporary ribbon tattoos and stickers for the children.

Breakfast-goers were treated to sunny weather, a delicious breakfast featuring "PINK" pancakes (back by popular demand), live entertainment, and a pony decorated in pink for people to take photos with. New this year was a pink shrink wrapped truck courtesy of Cool Cars Cruising 4 Cancer.

The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure is Canada's largest single-day fundraising event dedicated to funding breast cancer research, education and awareness. In 2007, participants from across the country helped to raise more than $27 million for the cause and over $1.8 million in Calgary along. By increasing awareness, at events like the pancake breakfast, volunteers hope to make the 2008 CIBC Run for the Cure on Sunday, October 5, the most successful Run ever.

The Military Families Fund Gala

Jun 14, 2008

On June 14, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, The Military Families Fund (MFF) Gala marked another successful event for Brookline. More than 500 guests showed their support in raising an impressive $120,000 for deserving military families.

The high-profile function was attended by Lt. Governor Norman Kwong, Mayor Dave Bronconnier, MFF founder, General Rick Hillier and their respective partners.

The Brookline team worked hard to secure sponsorship, promote ticket sales and gain media attention and publicity for MFF - a charity that provides financial assistance to military families in cases of injury or tragedy during service.

Guests enjoyed a gourmet meal, music preformed by Juno winners, The Wilkinsons, and laughed along with popular Canadian comedian Mike MacDonald.

The gala included a live auction with big ticket items such as a West Coast cruise, a classic car and a once-in-a-lifetime diamond mine tour.

The highlight for many was an inspirational and entertaining speech given by General Hillier, the highly respected former Chief of Defense Staff, who recently retired.

Brookline was proud to have been part of such a successful evening benefiting a worthy cause and hopes to be involved in the MFF Gala for 2009 in Halifax, NS.

Global Petroleum Show 2008

Jun 10, 2008

Brookline was asked to return for the second year in a row as the public relations agency of record for the world's largest oil and gas event. Global Petroleum Show (GPS) 2008 took place at the Calgary Stampede grounds and broke the 2006 attendance record with nearly 62,000 registered attendees, making it the most attended GPS in the show's forty year history. On top of record breaking attendance, Brookline coordinated over 50 media interviews with show organizers.

GPS 2008 raised the bar with ten new features, including The Global Petroleum Conference, moderated by Peter Mansbridge, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's acclaimed news anchor, Siemens Exiderdome, Global Petroleum Career Exposition, Global Petroleum Show Charity Golf Tournament, in support of the Werklund Foundation, and The Global Petroleum Show Professional Bull Riders Invitational. With over 2,000 exhibiting companies and nearly 62,000 registered attendees from 97 countries, GPS is one of the most significant petroleum events in the world.  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 12, 2008

BROOKLINE PUBLIC RELATIONS MARKS THREE YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH WESTJET

Boutique Firm Maintains Strong Relationship with Canada's Leading
Low-Cost, High-Value Airline

CALGARY, ALBERTA—May 12, 2008 - Brookline Public Relations, Inc. (Brookline) today announced three years of service as the public relations agency of record for WestJet Airlines (TSX:WJA) (WestJet).  Brookline's work with WestJet includes all of WestJet's Canadian and international locations.

"We are incredibly honored to be WestJet's public relations agency of record," said Shauna MacDonald, Principal and Founder, Brookline Public Relations, Inc. "Working with a strong branded organization with such a phenomenal corporate culture presents challenging opportunities and significant projects for us and we look forward to our continued relationship."   

In 2005, WestJet approached Brookline to assist their corporate communications department, and since then, WestJet has continued to engage Brookline's services on a yearly basis.

"When we decided to bring in an outside public relations firm, it was important to find a company who valued WestJet's corporate culture and shared our vision," said Jackie Flegel, Corporate Communications Manager, WestJet.  "Brookline Public Relations shares these qualities, and employs a fresh approach to every project and situation, while always providing exceptional results."

Brookline has been an instrumental part of various WestJet projects, including the recent launch of their new hot locations, community investment initiatives, internal Apprenticeship Program, Annual General Meetings, executive profiling and ongoing internal communications and external public relations.

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Making it Happen

Apr 17, 2008

Brookline organized the launch of Shaw's Making it Happen initiative in April 2008 with an employee event that drew 700 to Canada Olympic Park. The leading communications company hosted an exclusive barbeque to celebrate Shaw's support for the Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton (BCS) team as they prepare for 2010.

More than 700 Shaw employees, their families and Canadian Olympic athletes gathered together to mingle, enjoy dinner, have their picture taken in an official Shaw bobsleigh and learn more about what Shaw will be doing to support athletes.

Conservation & Cuisine Gala

Jan 26, 2008

A decadent five-course meal, paired with exquisite wines, in the company of some of Calgary's brightest...and all for a good cause! The second annual Conservation & Cuisine Gala was this and more, offering patrons a "Culinary Delight with the Cross Conservation." This is the second time Brookline has partnered with the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area, and the results were no less than fabulous.

The evening was hosted by Matt O'Neill of JackFM. Chef Michael Smith of The Food Network's Chef at Home/Chef at Large returned to Calgary to dazzle us with his culinary creations, using the evening's theme of conservation as his inspiration. And if that wasn't enough, Mr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. gave an inspirational keynote speech about the importance of conservation. Brookline was honoured to work on the Conservation & Cuisine Gala for the second consecutive year, and would like to offer a big thank you to everyone who supported the event.

ConocoPhillips - 2007 Christmas at the Jazz Club

Dec 7, 2007

Hot jazz, cool cats and a swinging good time! This was the theme of ConocoPhillips 2007 Christmas Party, held at the Telus Convention Center, which Brookline organized and managed for the second consecutive year.

The night kicked off with the sultry sounds of local jazz sensation Zoe Theodorou and was followed by an amazing meal and fabulous door prizes. The Dino Martini's got everyone out of their seats and onto the dance floor as they performed their always popular dance hits through out the night.

2007/2008 Choose to Drive Safe Campaign

Oct 29, 2007

The Brookline team was proud to work with our long-standing client, Enform - the training, certification and health and safety services arm of the upstream petroleum industry - on the second installment of an Alberta-wide multi-media campaign encouraging drivers in the petroleum industry to Choose to Drive Safe.

Based on province-wide research obtained from evaluating the 2006/2007 campaign, Brookline worked with Enform to tailor the new campaign and focus directly on a new target audience - petroleum industry drivers.

From creative concept to media launch to the powerful new commercial, Brookline facilitated all elements of the campaign, and even leveraged Facebook as a new social medium to reach the target audience and increase awareness.

Visit www.enform.ca/1012 to learn more about both Choose to Drive Safe campaigns, as well as view the TV commercial or listen to the radio advertisement.

Survivor's Parade & CIBC Run for the Cure

Sep 11, 2007

The Brookline Team was pleased to return, for the third year, as the official public relations firm for the 2007 Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Survivor's Parade and CIBC Run for the Cure. It was an honour to support this honorable cause and be part of two outstanding events.

The Survivor's Parade celebrated its fourth anniversary this year and featured close to 200 breast cancer survivors. The Parade welcomed back Honorary Chairperson Catriona Le May Doan and Emcee Vickie Chase of CTV Calgary.

On Run day, Brookline was there as over 10,000 Calgarians created a sea of pink and helped raise over $1.7 million dollars for breast cancer research, education and awareness programs. It was an inspiration to see the community come together and support Canada's largest volunteer-based, single-day fundraising event for breast cancer. To top off a perfect day, Canadian singer/songwriter Beverley Mahood flew in from Toronto to perform!!

Brookline Pre-Stampede Party

Jun 21, 2007

 "It's not yahoo, it's yahoo dahling!"

Brookline Public Relations thanked clients, media and friends for their support and business at the Company's Pre-Stampede Party, held June 21 at Bonterra Trattoria. Close to 200 guests donned "Cowboy Chic" wear and sipped the evening's signature drink, the Cosmopolitan, while mingling and enjoying the warm summer night. The event was mentioned in Patricia Best's column "Nobody's Business" in The Globe and Mail with photos later published in the Calgary Herald courtesy of Tonya Zelinsky and the "Bright Lights" column.

Divas and Diamonds

Apr 26, 2007

Brookline Public Relations encouraged 200 women to bring out their inner divas at Milestone Asset Management's inaugural Divas and Diamonds - A Night of Women and Wealth event. Women arrived at the GOGO Thomas Gallery, dressed in their best Diva attire, and were treated like queens with mini manicures, makeup applications and other treats to make the diva in all of us smile! The GOGO Thomas Gallery was dripping in diamonds and pink accents.

Conservation & Cuisine Gala

Jan 27, 2007

We were proud to work with the Board of Directors for the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area to plan and execute the inaugural Conservation & Cuisine Gala: A Culinary Delight with the Cross Conservation held January 27, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency Calgary.

Hosted by Kevin Brauch of Food Network's The Thirsty Traveler, and featuring a decadent five-course meal created by Chef Michael Smith of Food Network's Chef at Home, 320 guests savoured the finest ingredients from across Canada, as well as world-class wines paired to each sumptuous course.

Choose to Drive Safe Campaign

Oct 17, 2006

In 2006/2007, the Brookline team was proud to work with our long-standing client, Enform - the training, certification and health and safety services arm of the upstream petroleum industry - on an Alberta-wide multi-media campaign encouraging drivers in the petroleum industry to Choose to Drive Safe.

Working closely with Enform, Brookline facilitated all components of the advertising and PR campaign. From creative concept to media launch to the popular and thought-provoking (and AMPIA award nominated) commercial, Brookline was at the helm every step of the way for this very important public information campaign. 

The 2006/2007 campaign focused on the families of drivers in the petroleum industry, and was such a success that Brookline and Enform are currently working on the second instalment of this campaign - which will focus directly on the drivers in the Alberta petroleum industry.

Visit www.enform.ca/1012 to learn more about the campaign.