Masters Games of Alabama
PRCM 4090 Campaigns
Dr. Lauren Smith
Aashana Vishnani
Ashley Mundy
Blake Menke
Haley Bagwell
Landrum Isaacson
Table of Contents
Executive Summary…………………………………………………………………………PAGE
Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………PAGE
Research Section ……………………………………………………………………………PAGE
Client Analysis …………………………………………………………………...…PAGE
Situation Analysis …………………………………………………………………..PAGE
Publics Analysis ……………………………………………………………………PAGE
Planning Section ……………………………………………………………………………PAGE
Implementation Section …………………………………………………………………….PAGE
Backgrounder ……………………………………………………………………….PAGE
Facebook Status Updates …………………………..……………………………….PAGE
Photographs for Facebook Page ……………………………………………………PAGE
Screenshot of YouTube Account Page ………………………...……………………PAGE
Screenshot of Video Collage ……………………………..…………………………PAGE
E-Newsletter Templates …………………………………………………………….PAGE
E-Newsletter How-To Explanation ……………………………………………….PAGE
Sample Email Blasts ………………………...………………………………………PAGE
Press Release: District Games ……………………………..……………………..…PAGE
Press Release: Before State Games ………………………………….…………...…PAGE
Press Release: During State Games ………………………………….…………...…PAGE
Press Release: After State Games …………………………………………..………PAGE
Media Advisory: District Games ………………………………..…………………..PAGE
Media Advisory: State Games ……………………………..………………………..PAGE
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Media Contact List ……………………………………………………………...…PAGE
Feature Story ……………………………………………………………………..…PAGE
Mission Statement …………………………………………………………………..PAGE
Logos and Quote Bank …………………………...…………………………………PAGE
Brochure …………………………………………………………………………….PAGE
Frequently Asked Questions ……………………………..………………………….PAGE
Evaluation Section …………………………………………………………………………..PAGE
Appendices ………………………………………………………………………………….PAGE
Appendix A: 2011 State Games Evaluation Form ……………………………….....PAGE
Appendix B: 2011 State Games Evaluation Form with Results ….………………...PAGE
Appendix C: Target Public Awareness Survey ……………………………………..PAGE
Appendix D: Target Public Awareness Survey With Results ……………………....PAGE
Appendix E: 2012 State Games Survey ………………………………………..…...PAGE
References …………………………………………………………………………………..PAGE
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Executive Summary
For three months, our group has been working vigorously on the Masters Games of
Alabama (MGA) campaign. MGA is an organization dedicated to improving the social and
physical well-being of adults in Alabama ages 50 and older through competitive events at district
and state Games.
The goal of the campaign was to generate awareness of MGA with a younger target
audience and to create a favorable perception within that audience. The public relations efforts of
the organization were minimal for this target public.
Our group’s plan was to penetrate this target public through tactics such as press releases,
a logo, a brochure and sample Facebook posts. Other tactics included creating video testimonials,
a feature story and a mission statement for the organization.
We hope this campaign will increase awareness of MGA within their target public and
create the groundwork for a more unified approach for future public relations efforts.
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Introduction
Public Relations Campaigns is the senior project course for students in the public
relations curriculum for the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University. The class is designed
for students to gain real-world experience by applying public relations theories, tactics and
principles they have learned in their classes to a campaign for a client from the local community.
Students select the members of their groups and then are assigned a client to work with
throughout the semester. After they meet with the client, the students conduct research on the
client, the client’s situation and their target publics. Each group then creates a campaign
reflecting their research and what suggestions they would give their client to address their
problem or opportunity.
Our group consisted of Aashana Vishnani, Ashley Mundy, Blake Menke, Haley Bagwell
and Landrum Isaacson. We were assigned to work with Alison Hall from the Masters Games of
Alabama (MGA), an organization devoted to encouraging activity in adults ages 50 and older
both physically and socially. MGA generates interest in activity by hosting district and state level
competitions each year. The organization has a board of directors comprised of members of the
Area Agency on Aging and parks and recreation departments across the state, but relies heavily
on volunteer support to operate actual events.
Ms. Hall, a board member for MGA and the community and special programs director for
the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department, believed a problem existed for MGA in trying to
attract younger participants for the state and district Games. As the age restrictions have recently
been adjusted to include a younger age bracket, Ms. Hall believed that MGA needed to place a
concentrated effort on engaging that audience. Ms. Hall remained the client contact throughout
the semester and advised us on ideas for the campaign.
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After meeting with Ms. Hall, our group conducted surveys of members of the target age
group to determine how best to go about reaching the organization’s goal of increasing
awareness within this new target audience. The survey results indicated an overwhelming lack of
awareness about MGA and the mission of the organization. Our research was completed by
analyzing our client, the organization’s history and culture, the situation they faced and their
publics.
Once the research portion was concluded, the group created multiple tactics to increase
awareness within the target public. Because the client works with volunteers on many levels
across the state, our group first focused on unifying the message delivered statewide by creating
a mission statement, logo, e-newsletter template and slogan for MGA. We also generated press
releases, media advisories, video testimonials, a brochure, a feature story and sample Facebook
posts for our client.
Our group hopes our campaign will create an increased level of awareness of MGA on a
state level and consequently increase the participation of younger publics. We would like to see a
significant number of 50- to 55-year-olds participating in the state Games in October 2013.
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Research
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Client Analysis
Organizational History and Goals
The Masters Games of Alabama (MGA) is an organization that was created in 1990 by
the parks and recreation department in Oxford, Ala. The Games are co-sponsored by the Area
Agency on Aging for East Alabama. According to the East Alabama Regional Planning and
Development Commission (EARPDC) website, which currently hosts the Web page for MGA,
the “Masters Games of Alabama is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting healthy
lifestyles for active adults age 50 and over through social, mental, and physical activities (East
Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission, 2010).” The state of Alabama is
divided into nine districts for the Games, and qualifying events are held in each district before
the annual state Games are held in October. To participate in the Games, one must be at least 50
years of age. The average number of participants ranges from 600-800 each year.
The EARPDC Web page for the Games says that “while the games provide an Olympictype atmosphere, the focus is not on competition, but fun and fellowship (East Alabama Regional
Planning and Development Commission, 2010).” The current goals of MGA are to keep seniors
active, social, healthy and “going.” The future goals of MGA are to attract more participants
from the ages of 50-65 and to promote the Games statewide.
The Organization’s Opportunity
As we sat down to meet with our client contact for the first time, it was abundantly clear
that the organization has enough issues and opportunities that it could benefit from multiple
public relations campaigns. Ms. Alison Hall, our client contact, mentioned that because the
Games are overseen by nonprofit organizations and run by volunteers, the workers are spread out
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across the state and it is difficult to know how to cohesively promote the event on both a district
and statewide level.
However, Ms. Hall mentioned an opportunity she sees for the organization. The
organization’s goal is to attract more members in the younger age group and encourage them to
participate in the Games. While the Games are open to everyone 50 years of age and older, the
younger portion of this age group (50-55 years of age) has not been able to participate prior to
this year, and the next portion of this age group (55-60 years of age) has had few participants in
the past. Ms. Hall believes there are two main reasons for the low participation. The first is that
many people in the younger age group are still working and, due to past branding, consider the
Games to be for “seniors” and therefore not applicable to themselves. The idea of attending a
“senior” event is not something that interests many people in this age group. The second reason
Ms. Hall thinks there is low participation is that members of the younger age group are more
technologically and socially savvy than some of their older counterparts, and MGA currently has
many members on its board that do not believe the event needs to be advertised on social media.
Consequently, they are having a difficult time reaching their target audience members with
traditional media instead of using the social media options available to them.
After pinpointing these two issues, our team decided that our campaign will focus on
creating material that can be used to attract members of this younger age group to the Games.
We want to be sure the material can be used not only for traditional media outlets like
newspapers and magazines, but for social media outlets as well. We have already discussed a
“rebranding” effort with our client and will create several new logos and catchphrases for her to
pick from and develop with us for this district. Our ultimate goal is that our material will be
accepted and implemented statewide.
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Organization’s Culture
The culture of MGA is primarily influenced by a board of directors, which is the top of
the chain of command. The board consists of a president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and
representatives from each district. Approximately half of the board members come from the Area
Agency on Aging (AAA), which falls under the State Department and is a branch under the
Council on Government Systems. The other half of the board comes from parks and recreation
departments in each district of the state. East Alabama falls under District 6. Each district is in
charge of its own qualifying events for the Games, but different Alabama cities may bid for the
opportunity to host the state Games. Once a city is chosen, it hosts the Games for two
consecutive years. Each district or city uses its own system of organizing volunteers; for
example, Florence turns to the University of North Alabama for college volunteers in its
community.
The culture of MGA affects the campaign because the board of directors must vote on
any major changes, especially those regarding the budget. For example, the board recently
agreed to provide a budget to develop a website specifically for MGA. If there are any major
changes to or monetary needs for the campaign, the board must approve the changes first. In
addition, the importance of social media in this campaign may be undermined, since many of the
board members are not as avid social media users as the target publics. Furthermore, because
members of the board of directors come from many different districts, they each try to use their
own public relations tactics in their particular district, creating a disjointed approach across the
state.
Public Relations Efforts
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Public relations efforts are compromised in the current Games because of limited funding
and a lack of cohesion in messages presented among districts. Our client does believe that
consolidated public relations efforts would be a valuable addition to the Games. Our client also
believes that a campaign in the months between the Games would draw more attention and
attendance.
According to Ms. Hall, the past public relations efforts have been limited and
unsuccessful. Because MGA is a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization, funding has been
limited. In the past, each district has been responsible for its own publicity of the Games, which
has caused inconsistency in the messages that have been released to the public. Most districts
have published press releases and fliers, but the majority of their public relations efforts have
occurred after the Games.
Ms. Hall felt that many seniors do not recognize the logo and what the organization
represents due to the inconsistencies in past public relations efforts. Many previous efforts in
several districts consisted solely of a board member calling a local newspaper to get a photo on
the front page after the event was over. Ms. Hall, on the other hand, has a working relationship
with many of the local newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations in the District 6 area
and works through her personal contacts from her parks and recreation department job to reach
many of her audiences. Her efforts have been relatively successful, however, much of the
participation in MGA is still composed of veteran participants. Awareness, when it is created, is
usually helped heavily through a city’s parks and recreation department or senior programs. The
organization has not seen a cohesive, statewide strategy for promotion in its past public relations
efforts.
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As part of its current public relations efforts, MGA is working toward having a local
magazine produce the program book given to each participant of the Games. This partnership
could mean an increase in local companies’ ads and a more professional representation of the
Games. The details of the partnership are still developing, but according to Ms. Hall, this is the
newest addition to the public relations efforts that are going on for this year’s Games.
The organization is also working with a Web developer to create a separate website for
its event instead of relying on a Web page hosted on various local government websites across
the state. The website may also include a quarterly e-newsletter for any past, present or future
participants of the Games and will be available for the 2013 State Games.
Client Needs and Resources
Ms. Hall believes the methods of reaching the target audience for the Games needs to
develop with their changing target audience. She wants MGA to be distinguishable from its
competitors and to embrace using different media vehicles to engage all members of their
audience. Ms. Hall also believes a new logo, slogan and color scheme could help boost
awareness and allow for a revived organization.
Each district is in charge of its own qualifying events for the Games. Our campaign will
be developed with the purpose of creating a consistent brand for materials distributed throughout
the state; however, the details on these materials can easily be adjusted to reflect state or district
information. Ms. Hall intends to first implement this campaign in District 6 before launching the
materials statewide.
The organization has limited funding for public relations and promotion efforts. The
budget presents an issue due to the requirement that all funding allocations must be approved by
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the organization’s board members. Without access to funding, our team will be using resources
already available to the client as well as developing resources for the future.
Ms. Hall created a Facebook page for the organization, but it has not been consistently
maintained in the past. The team plans to use this social media outlet as a part of our campaign
for increasing awareness of the organization in younger target audience members. The website
that is currently being developed for MGA will be a focus of our development of public relations
efforts for the future.
The city of Auburn’s senior programs, maintained through the parks and recreation
department, also provide a valuable resource to this campaign. Accessibility to the target publics
will allow team members to receive feedback on what types of promotion efforts are most
effective in attracting the younger age group’s attention and what they would like to see in terms
of raising awareness for MGA. Along with the local senior programs, the volunteers at the
Games receive feedback from surveys filled out by participants of the Games each year. The
team will use these surveys as a resource for creating a campaign tailored to the target publics.
Team Vision
As a team, we feel the public relations efforts for MGA need to be structured in such a
way that they will develop with the generations that will soon become new target audiences and
still reach their current target publics as well. Although the organization is grounded in its
history, the team feels that MGA needs to be rebranded.
Past public relations efforts have been inconsistent in that fliers and other handouts have
had varied information and, at times, different logos for MGA. Recreating the brand for the
organization will provide our client with a consistent standard for its future promotion efforts.
The organization needs a campaign that can be put into place that will include press releases, e-
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newsletters, social media updates and other public relations efforts being implemented for every
cycle of district and state Games. This plan will allow the organization to have consistent public
relations efforts to raise awareness and increase participation with each subsequent year.
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Situation Analysis
The Issue
Because this is the first year that the youngest age bracket (50-55 years old) has been able
to participate, this is the first time the Masters Games of Alabama (MGA) is dealing with the
issue of awareness from them. Seniors who are currently involved in MGA have most likely
been involved in past years. There are many participants in the overall Games, but there is a lack
of participation from the 50- to 60-year-old age range. Many of the 50- to 60-year-old adults are
still working full-time jobs and remain active in the community. Ms. Hall believes these adults
feel as if they are too young to participate in “senior” games and wanted our team to work to
change this perception.
The difficulty in reaching the younger age group is a recent development for MGA. Our
client is concerned with developing new and continuous participation among upcoming target
publics. She believes the public perception of the Games is that they are an event for people who
have already retired, not for those still active in the workforce.
The core issue described by our client is a lack of awareness within target publics and
little to no involvement of the 50-60 age group. Our client knows there are other competitors of
the Games, but does not believe they have a significant influence on the involvement of
participants in the Games. The only relationship affected by this problem, then, is the
relationship between MGA and its participants.
Ms. Hall said the organization's mission statement is that the “Masters Games of
Alabama is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles for active adults
ages 50 and older through social, mental and physical activities.” According to this statement,
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the mission of the organization would be harmed if there were no 50-year-olds involved in the
Games.
If new, younger participants do not get involved, there will be a drop in the number of
participants for future Games. According to the 2011 State Games evaluation form and results
provided to us by our client, the average age of the participants is early 70s (see Appendices A
and B), and they are getting older each year. The organization’s mission to promote healthy
lifestyles will not be successful if they have no voice among the younger generation of adults.
Still, MGA remains positive and views this issue as an opportunity to increase the
number of young participants. While they do not have any current public relations efforts and
there has been no research done about the problem, they are satisfied with the current number of
participants they have. Ms. Hall sees this as a campaign to increase awareness and participation
among 50- to 60-year-old adults so there will continue to be a strong number of people involved
in the future.
Ms. Hall feels that research on the competitors and what they offer would be useful.
While Ms. Hall mentioned the Alabama Senior Olympics (ASO) as the only competitor she
knows of, our team did some research and found that the Alabama State Festival (ASF) might
present competition as well. The main issue MGA faces though is not its competitors, but rather
the lack of participation of younger generations. To that end, both our client and our team feel
that research on the awareness and interest of adults ages 50-60 would be vital to the future
success of the Games.
Internal Environment
The communication resources that are available to MGA depend strongly upon personal
contacts. For example, Ms. Hall, who is employed by Auburn Parks and Recreation (AUPR),
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uses many of the same contacts that she has available to her from AUPR to promote MGA. For
Ms. Hall, who represents District 6, these include contacts at local radio and television stations
and editors of local magazines, such as East Alabama Living, Lee Magazine and AuburnOpelika Parent. Ms. Hall was quick to point out, however, that she has much better personal
contacts with local media than many of the other MGA board members do in their own districts.
The organization is supportive of public relations efforts, but they do not understand them
well enough to know how to begin to use them. They have, however, started developing their use
of social media and electronic media to generate awareness in future participants.
Because MGA’s product is an event, awareness is crucial to participation in the event.
Ms. Hall believes the Games have a good following with those who are aware of them, but they
need to increase awareness in the younger age groups in order to continue to have participants in
the future.
The quality of the Games is determined primarily through feedback from participants at
the state Games and from the host city’s observations. Those who participate in the Games are
given a survey to fill out and can give feedback at their local senior centers as well. The parks
and recreation director of whatever host city is selected immediately becomes an ex-officio
member of the MGA board for the next two years.
Ms. Hall believes the quality of the Games has stayed the same over the last couple of
years. The host city involved in the most recent Games had some logistical problems that
bothered participants, but that will not be an issue this year because they are in a different city.
The quality of the Games themselves has stayed the same as well, but Ms. Hall is concerned
about the potential decline if they continue to have issues attracting new participants.
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Ms. Hall believes the Games offer fitness, activity, travel and social opportunities. She
thinks the social aspect and the travel aspect of the Games are some of the biggest benefits to
participants.
One major disadvantage the Games have is the logistical concern of the host city
changing every two years. This can be seen as both a positive and a negative aspect of the
Games, as moving the host city for the Games may make them farther away for one senior, but
can also bring them closer to another. This movement also brings in the concern of expenses for
the seniors and is a major reason MGA tries to keep their registration costs low.
Another disadvantage is that compared to the ASO, MGA’s biggest competitor, Ms. Hall
believes MGA is not as well-recognized, especially on a national level.
MGA offers more events for seniors who are not able to be as physically active, which
allows them to offer more events for competitors than the ASO. MGA tailors some of their
events to their older participants and allows them to remain active through the limitations that
may develop with age. Another advantage for MGA is they try to keep the cost of competing in
the Games as low as possible. Other organizations charge higher registration fees and have
additional costs, but MGA has always tried to stay affordable for its publics.
Ms. Hall thinks MGA could offer more and varied kinds of activities, but they are staying
in touch with the requests of their clientele and are responsive to their requests. For instance,
MGA will be debuting two new events this year — Wii Bowling and Pickleball, a modified
version of tennis and racquetball. They also include games that are competitive for some of their
younger participants – golf, tennis and swimming are all sports that could be popular with their
newest target public.
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According to Ms. Hall, the Games are going to change slowly because of the board’s
traditional mindset and their lack of funds. However, they are working on moving to a more
interactive and online approach. They are currently developing a website and are working to
create more cohesive messages statewide for the Games next year.
MGA has a good relationship with the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and the Senior
Citizen Centers, but they need to develop their relationship with parks and recreation
departments. Ms. Hall views those departments as an untapped resource for reaching out to
younger and upcoming participants.
External Environment
After doing research, we discovered two other organizations in Alabama that offer
similar services and benefits to individuals ages 50 and older. These organizations are the ASF
and the ASO, which is closely associated with the National Senior Games Association (NSGA).
MGA’s competitors vary in both size and event structure. ASO offers 19 different sports
in which seniors can compete. The Senior Olympics are divided according to the sport, which
differs from MGA’s structure that uses age classification (Alabama Senior Olympics, 2012). A
representative said the number of participants range from 250-300; however, this number varies
from year to year. In contrast to the large scale of ASO, ASF is a youth focused event that has
events open to seniors if they wish to compete. According to a representative, 50-100 seniors
compete in the event.
According to an article on www.wsfa.com, the Governor’s Commission on Physical
Fitness and Sports sponsors ASO (Davis, 2012). In addition to this sponsor, ASO is recognized
on a national level, which generates a positive reputation at the state level. With ASF, awareness
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of events for seniors is not as high as for youth events. However, ASF is well-known in the state,
occurs yearly and is also endorsed by the Governor’s Commission on Physical Fitness.
ASO does not use social media; however, the NSGA, which is the parent organization to
ASO, uses Facebook, Twitter and an email newsletter (National Senior Games Association,
2010). NSGA has a well-built website, but the ASO website is difficult to navigate.
The ASO has a long list of sponsors, including “Downtown YMCA, Southeast YMCA,
East YMCA, Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery Parks and Recreation Department, Area
Agencies on Aging, Brunswick-Woodmere Lanes, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, River Region
Track & Running Club, Huntingdon College, Auburn Montgomery Wellness Program, Selma
Parks & Recreation Department, Haynes Ambulance and Prattville Department of Leisure
Services” (Davis, 2012). ASF also has a number of sponsors, including AT&T, Alabama State
University and the Governor’s Commission (ASF Foundation, 2012).
The winners of ASO go to the National Games, which will be held in Cleveland next
summer. According to the website, more than 13,000 people will compete at the national level
next summer. This creates an incentive for seniors to do well at the state level so they can have
an opportunity to travel and meet thousands of other seniors (National Senior Games
Association, 2010). ASF offers an opportunity for youth to compete, which means youth can
compete alongside their grandparents and develop that relationship. There are also more track
events offered, including a 10K race.
According to a representative for the Alabama Physical Fitness Commission,
participation for ASO has decreased in the last few years due to the economy. An additional
factor for varying participation is the entrance fee. The $35 fee, paired with the economy and its
impact on individuals’ finances, may result in some seniors being unable to participate.
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The National Olympics will be held in Cleveland in 2013, and the 2015 National
Olympics are scheduled to be held in Minnesota. There is not much information about how
these games will change in the next three years, on the state or national level (National Senior
Games Association, 2010).
Although there are no external groups with a mission to hinder what MGA does, the
board sometimes hinders the organization’s public relations efforts because it may not be
knowledgeable enough to be supportive of some of the efforts. The board controls the funding,
so the board can turn down public relations initiatives that require money. For example, the
board only recently approved a budget for the website, and it had been turned down in the past.
SWOT Matrix
Strengths:
 Supportive of public relations efforts
 Already has an audience to draw from
Weaknesses:
 Not aware of how to plan, use or
implement public relations efforts
 Lack of social media
 Lack of control over Web media
 Lack of control over funding
 Lack of participation from the 50-60
generation
 Not a well-known brand name
 Often gets confused with its opponents
Opportunities:
 Many local resources, including radio,
television and print
 New website being developed
 The ability to use Facebook as a tool
 Many senior centers from which to
draw participants
 Many other areas from which to draw
the 50-60 age group
Threats:
 Alabama Senior Olympics is a major
competitor
 Lack of support for public relations
efforts from the board of MGA
 Current audience is “dying” off and is
unable to participate any longer
because of immobility, inability to
travel or death
We will have a Weakness-Opportunity campaign.
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Publics Analysis
Target Publics
In an effort to stay competitive with other similar organizations, the Masters Games of
Alabama (MGA) has expanded their age of eligibility for this year’s state Games. MGA added
the 50-55 age group, which, according to our client, is an age bracket offered by similar
organizations on local, state and national levels. With this addition in mind, the client identified
the target public as adults ages 50-60, regardless of any prior knowledge they may or may not
have of the organization.
Because approximately half of this target public may consist of first-time participants of
MGA, research on the target publics does not exist. This target public has heretofore not been
able to participate in the Games, so no previous communications and public relations efforts for
this target public exist either. MGA is therefore unable to determine the public’s awareness,
knowledge or beliefs about the organization. The client was, however, able to provide us with
surveys that were distributed by MGA to participants of the 2011 State Games.
Our group designed a survey (see Appendix C) to gauge the target public’s views on
staying active both socially and physically. The survey also contained several questions for
respondents that were used to determine both the level of awareness about the organization and
what reputation, if any, MGA had with its target public. The group surveyed 58 individuals
across the state of Alabama.
Organization’s Reputation with Target Publics
The client’s perception of MGA’s reputation with the target public was that MGA is
viewed negatively, and the target public believes they are “too young” to compete in an event for
seniors. However, based on the results from the survey (see Appendix D) distributed by the
group, a large majority of the respondents, 74 percent, did not have any awareness of the
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organization. This lack of awareness does not allow for either a positive or negative reputation.
The results from the survey given at the 2011 State Games showed that MGA’s reputation was
overwhelmingly positive. However, the majority of respondents were outside of the age range of
our target public.
Previous Public Relations Strategies and Their Effectiveness with Target Publics
As previously mentioned, 2012 is the first year that the 50-55 age group is eligible to
compete. The lack of this age group’s presence prior to 2012 meant that previous promotional
efforts have not been specific to the target public. Overall, previous public relations tactics were
not effective. The client expressed that many promotional materials were inconsistent across the
districts and did not provide a clear organizational purpose or goal for the Games. Additionally,
the previously identified issue of limited funding has contributed to the ineffectiveness of past
efforts. Even when working with a limited budget, it is important to allocate funding for public
relations efforts. A poorly-funded public relations campaign can easily create disjointed
materials and does not provide the ability for continued positive presence in front of target
publics.
Regarding its communication strategies, MGA has successfully used local senior centers,
parks and recreation departments and the Area Agency on Aging as means to provide
information to publics. The organization’s reputation has been positively influenced by word-ofmouth communication. The client expressed that many of the Games’ participants have been
involved and competing with MGA for many years. These returning publics share their
experiences with other individuals they encounter outside of the Games. MGA has a loyal
following of participants; however, as these participants age and are no longer able to compete,
MGA must recruit younger participants.
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With the rapid growth of social media as a means of communication, our group wanted to
stress the importance of this channel for the target public. According to the survey results, social
media is increasing in popularity in 50- to 60-year-olds, especially for women.
MGA does not currently view social media as a key communication method. However,
the organization does have both Facebook and Twitter accounts created to promote the Games
and provide information to fans and followers. It is apparent that MGA must further develop this
method of communication in order to connect with their current target public. Our group views
social media as an important indicator of an organization’s reputation among its publics.
MGA needs to adjust their communication and promotion strategies based on the target
public. Of the respondents that said they worked out every day, most were retired. This fact
shows that many active adults over 50 could be reached through senior centers offering active
events and social activities. Therefore, it could be beneficial to promote the Games to younger
target publics in health clubs or gyms such as the YMCA.
In our opinion, MGA needs to place a stronger focus on streamlining its public relations
efforts so they can be recognized statewide. The lack of cohesion in the past paired with minimal
promotion efforts has led to confusion about the organization’s goals and what it offers to the
public.
Results from Group Survey
Our group created a survey designed to determine the target public’s perception and
awareness of MGA. The survey contained demographic questions to allow the team to determine
if age, occupation or gender had any effect on an individual’s level of activity during and after
retirement.
24
There were 58 respondents between ages 50 and 92. Of the respondents, 62.1 percent
were in the 50-59 age range; 10.3 percent were in the 60-64 age range; 8.6 percent were in the
65-69 age range; 6.9 percent were in the 70-74 age range; 3.4 percent were in the 75-79 age
range and 10.3 percent were 80 and older.
The respondents were asked about their employment status. This question was used to
determine how active the respondents were leading up to and following retirement. The surveys
showed that 53.4 percent of the respondents work full-time, 3.4 percent of respondents work
part-time; 6.9 percent of respondents do not currently work and 36.2 percent of respondents are
retired. When compared to the question about how often they worked out, respondents that
answered every day were either retired or not working. The majority of respondents that work
full-time, 61.2 percent, responded that they work out a few times per month or never.
According to the surveys, 72.4 percent of respondents were Caucasian; 15.5 percent were
African-American; 10.3 percent were Asian-American and 1.7 percent were Hispanic-American.
The surveys also showed that 67.2 percent of respondents were female and 36.2 percent were
male respondents.
Respondents were also asked about their use of social media, and 46.6 percent of
respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that they used social media as a form of
communication. Meanwhile, 41.3 percent of respondents either disagreed or strongly disagreed
on their use of social media while 10.3 percent did not agree either way.
When respondents were asked about their awareness of MGA, 74.1 percent of
respondents had no prior knowledge of the organization and what it provides to the public.
The group also wanted to determine how strongly the target publics valued staying both
physically and/or socially active leading up to and following retirement. When asked about the
25
importance of staying socially active, 85 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed
that this was important. When asked about remaining physically active, 93 percent of
respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that this was important.
Results from Organization Survey
Every year MGA provides a brochure to the participants containing schedules, sponsors
and a survey for them to complete about their experience at the Games. MGA offers a raffle
drawing for a few gift cards as an incentive to complete and return the survey.
The survey asks demographic questions, what events the individual participated in and
for feedback about the event location, facilities and efficiency. The feedback about the location,
facilities and efficiency is returned to the host city so adjustments can be made accordingly for
the next year’s Games.
Last year, at the 2011 State Games, 194 participants responded to and returned the
survey. Not all respondents answered every question on the survey. This discrepancy is reflected
in the results with the percentages calculated based on the number of respondents per question,
which is specified with each question.
Of the 194 participants who took the survey last year, 4.6 percent were in the 55-59 age
range; 10.3 percent were in the 60-64 age range; 19.5 percent were in the 65-69 age range; 23.7
percent were in the 70-74 age range; 20.6 percent were in the 75-79 age range; 11.8 percent were
in the 80-84 age range; and 9.2 percent were 85 and older.
When asked about their work status, 186 responded. Of those, 11.3 percent responded as
being employed, 85.5 percent responded as being retired and 3.2 percent responded as being
semi-retired.
26
Though about 194 participated in the survey, there were 565 sport participants. This
means each person who took part in the survey participated in more than one event.
Each survey participant was asked what event they took part in, and of the 565
participants in the events, the majority of the participants took part in basketball, Nerf ball,
dominoes, Frisbee, softball and horseshoes.
Of those who rated the registration, 92.9 percent said it was good or better, and 7.1
percent said it was fair or worse. Of those who rated the facilities, 94.4 percent said they were
good or better, and 6.7 said it was fair or worse. Of those who rated the schedule of events, 86.1
percent said it was good or better, and 13.9 percent said it was fair or worse. Of those who rated
the conduct of the staff, 97 percent said it was good or better, and 3 percent said it was fair or
worse. Of those who rated the meals, 79 percent said it was good or better, and 21 percent said it
was fair or worse.
When asked if cost was a deciding factor in participation, 177 people answered. Of those
who responded, 26.6 percent answered “yes” it was a deciding factor and 73.4 percent answered
“no” it was not.
When asked if they would recommend participating in the Games to others, 179
responded. Of those who responded, 98.9 percent responded that “yes” they would recommend it
and 1.1 percent responded that “no” they would not recommend participating in it to others.
When asked if there were any events that were not currently in the Games that they
would like to see added, 84 responded with a suggestion. Of those 84, the majority suggested
including Wii Bowling, pickle ball and hand and foot.
When asked if they are currently using any social media outlets, 63 responded they did
use one of the listed social media outlets. The overwhelming majority said Facebook and
27
Google +; however, it was apparent that some respondents may have misunderstood “Google+”
to represent their knowledge of how to use “Google.”
When asked how they receive news about district or state Games there were 280
responses. This increased number indicates that those who took the survey received information
from more than one media outlet. Of those who responded to this question, the majority received
information from the local parks and recreation department and their local Area Agency on
Aging.
The participants in the survey were asked to rank the media outlets they prefer in order of
importance. In this section, 144 said they preferred television, 84 said they preferred
newspapers, 42 preferred radio, 40 preferred Internet and 19 preferred magazines.
Our group got a chance to look at the state Games survey and revised it to acquire more
quantitative data out of respondents. Our version (see Appendix E) was used at the 2012 State
Games this year.
28
Planning
29
Planning Section
Strategy
As outlined in our SWOT matrix, we will attack our campaign from a weaknessopportunity standpoint. This means we will focus on strengthening areas of weakness for the
Masters Games of Alabama (MGA) and on taking advantage of the opportunities the
organization has to improve. This approach is best for MGA and its situation because instead of
defending the organization from external sources of pressure, the campaign will focus on
strengthening it from within and revamping the image it presents to its publics.
Goals
Our goals are primarily focused on reputation management for MGA, but will also be
closely followed by relationship management. Ultimately, MGA is trying to generate awareness
with a younger target audience and to create a favorable perception within that audience.
We are not going to focus on every public for MGA. Our campaign is focusing on the
key public of 50- to 60-year-olds and on delivering the key message that MGA is an engaging
opportunity for adults below 65 to celebrate their physical fitness with peers from across the
state. It is not just for retired “seniors,” but for working adults as well.
Objectives and Tactics
1. To increase MGA’s use of social and Internet media by engaging 200 members of their
key public by the 2013 State Games
a. Increase the number of “Likes” on MGA’s Facebook page from 15 to 200
i. Use information from backgrounder to fill out “about” and “basic info”
section on Facebook page
30
ii. Link the Facebook page to MGA’s new website, include Facebook page’s
URL in MGA’s e-newsletter
iii. Create sample Facebook status updates to use throughout the year
b. Create and promote video collage of participants discussing their experience at
the Games on MGA’s YouTube account
i. Link video to Facebook and their website
c. Create e-newsletter template for mailing lists
d. Create sample email blasts for four future events
2. To increase MGA’s traditional media promotional efforts by 15 percent in the next six
months
a. Generating three press releases for the 2013 State Games (before, during, after)
b. Generating a sample press release for the districts to announce their upcoming
qualifying events
c. Creating a statewide media contact list - contacts at every major newspapers and
television stations in each district
d. Creating media advisories for the state Games and qualifying district events
e. Writing a feature story about the Games
3. To unify MGA’s state promotional efforts by producing four copy pieces by the end of
this campaign
a. Create an official mission statement for the organization
b. Create a new logo and slogan for MGA
c. Create a brochure to be distributed to all parks and recreation departments, Area
Agency on Aging and senior centers
31
d. Create an FAQ sheet
32
Implementation
33
Masters Games of Alabama
www.mastersgamesalabama.org
Backgrounder
Masters Games of Alabama (MGA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting
healthy lifestyles for adults ages 50 and older through social, mental and physical activities. The
Games facilitate physical fitness through good-natured competition, provide an exciting social
atmosphere in which people can develop new relationships and advance mental well-being
through engaging activities.
Alison Hall, board member for MGA, said participants can expect an atmosphere of
“laughter, excitement and the competitive spirit.”
MGA began in 1990 in Oxford, Ala., as a way to encourage activity in seniors both
physically and socially. Now the state Games take place annually during the month of October in
various cities throughout Alabama.
To compete in the state Games, competitors must qualify at district events during the
summer months. The state is divided into nine districts for this purpose.
To learn more about MGA and what it provides, please visit your local parks and
recreation department, a local senior center or www.mastersgamesalabama.org.
34
Facebook Status Updates
We created an example plan for how to generate more activity on the Facebook page below.
The week leading up to the Games, post every day about the Games. Also, whenever there is
a deadline approaching (e.g. a registration deadline), post daily about the deadline as well. When
there is not much activity going on, post at least twice a week. This can either be a post about the
Games, an interesting fact or article, or a quote to motivate people to stay healthy.
Sample posts could be:
-
Before the Games: Eight days until the state Games! What event are you looking forward
to this year?
-
After the Games: Thank you to everyone who made the state Games successful this year!
We hope everyone had a blast!
35
-
Registration: Have you registered for the Games yet? Registration ends this week! Be
sure to send in your registration!
-
Day of Games: Today is the day! The state Games kick off at 8 a.m. with a parade
followed by the first events.
-
District Games: The District 5 Games begin today! Good luck to everyone competing
from that district!
36
Photographs for Facebook Page
We went to the 2012 State Games and took several pictures that can be used for the
Facebook page and the new MGA website. Here are a few representatives of the ones we took:
37
Screenshot of YouTube Account Page
In order to facilitate uploading our testimonial video for our client, we created a YouTube
account for them, seen below.
As YouTube now requires you to sign in with Gmail account information, we set up a generic
email account for them with Gmail as well. The sign-in information is below:
Username: mastersgamesal@gmail.com
Password: MGAlabama
Name: Masters Games
Birthday: Oct. 1, 1990
Gender: other
38
Mobile phone: 334-501-2940
Current email: ahall@auburnalabama.org
YouTube name: MastersGamesAlabama
39
Screenshot of Video Collage
Our group went to the state Games this year and took several pictures and videos of
participants to be used in advertising on the website or Facebook page. A screenshot of our
testimonial video is below:
40
E-Newsletter Templates
Our group also worked to find a resource that could help MGA generate and easily send
out e-newsletters for their audience and participants. The e-newsletters can include the same
information that is found within the press releases and media advisories – important information
on upcoming competitions, locations for qualifying events, etc. – but can also contain fun stories
on participants, letters from the board members or tips on how to stay healthy before
competition.
Important: Before beginning to work in the website to create a newsletter, our client will
need to go to their Gmail inbox and verify their email address.
We created sample e-newsletter templates (seen below) using the website
www.campaignmonitor.com. Information on how to adjust the current samples we have and send
out e-newsletters is located below the pictures. We understand the steps may seem confusing as
they are read out of this book, but once the client is logged in, the directions will make much
more sense.
41
E-Newsletter How-To Explanation
Wesbite: www.campaignmonitor.com
Login email: mastersgamesal@gmail.com
Login password: MGAlabama
Step 1: Import email list gathered from website sign-up
Step 2: Once you have decided to send a newsletter select get started or click on the
“Create & Send” tab on the top left side of the page.
Step 3: Follow the instructions on the page and provide the information necessary to
complete the information the recipients will view when they receive the email.
o For example: You can name your campaign according to the season and
newsletter (i.e., Masters Games of Alabama vol. 1.1).
Step 4: After providing the necessary information and moving to the next step, you can
choose to use a template we have already created for you, import your own template or simply
send an email with plain text.
o Three templates have already been created for you.
o Once you have selected your template, click “next.” If you have chosen a predesigned template, you will be able to click a section and edit with information or
pictures of your choice.
o If at any point you decide you have too much or too little information for the
format you have chosen, you can go back in the steps and choose a different
design.
42
Step 5: Once you have completed the information in your newsletter choose “preview” to
move to the next step. In the section “Who will receive this campaign?” you will select the
recipients for the newsletter. After selecting your recipients you will be able to send your first
newsletter.
If you wish to create a new template or newsletter, click on the templates tab on the top
right side of the page. To change a template, scroll over the settings button on the template
located in the bottom right hand corner. Clicking on this will allow you to duplicate a template to
make changes without losing your original, export a file with a screenshot, html format of the
newsletter, the images used and a zip file.
You can also create a new template from one of the website’s four pre-designed
templates. The following colors were used in creating the templates already provided:
o Red: B31919
o Black: 000000
o White: FFFFFF
o Gray: D9D9D9
You can choose any color you wish to change by clicking through the sections: “Header, Footer,
Content and Sidebar.”
By clicking on the colored square next to the 6-digit color code, you are able to scroll
through many colors and choose which best suits your color scheme for each newsletter.
In addition, the logo used as the header can be changed to simple title. This option is
available under the “Header” section.
After completing the new template, click “Finish & Save Changes” in the top right
corner. This new template will become an option when sending each newsletter.
43
Sample Email Blasts
We created sample email blasts to be sent to those who signed up for the e-newsletter.
Some sample circumstances and suggestions are listed below.
When registration has opened:
Registration for the district Games is now open! Follow these steps to register:
1. Go to www.mastersgamesalabama.org and click on the “Registration Form” on the home
page.
2. Download the form, fill it out and turn it in to a designated center along with your $10
fee.
3. To find a designated center, go to the “Districts/Eligibility” section and click on your
district.
Email for info about registration – week of deadline:
Have you registered for the district Games yet? Registration ends this week! Registration
paperwork must be turned in to your designated center by this Friday, April 10.
How to register:
1. Go to www.mastersgamesalabama.org and click on the “Registration Form” on the home
page.
2. Download the form, fill it out, and turn it in to a designated center, along with your $10
fee.
3. To find a designated center, go to the “Districts/Eligibility” section and click on your
district.
44
Email about upcoming district Games:
The District 6 Games are finally here! The following email contains directions, instructions for
the Games and a schedule of events.
Directions to the Games
Address: 555 Happy Lane
Valley, AL 33484
1. From Highway 85, take Exit 10
2. Finish out directions
Instructions
1. Park in the parking lot in the front of the building
2. Be sure to bring your x, y, and z
3. Registration begins at 8 a.m.
Schedule of events
1. 8 – 8:30 a.m. – Registration
2. 8:30 – 9 a.m. – Gathering of the players
3. 9 – 10 a.m. – Horseshoes in the basketball court
4. Finish out schedule
Information email before state Games:
The 2013 State Games are quickly approaching! Here is some helpful information as you plan
your trip to the Games.
Dates of the Games
Hotel information: Hotels that give discounts for the Games and their contact information
45
Information on sharing rides: if you need a ride to and from the Games from your district, please
contact your district representative. This information is available at
www.mastersgamesalabama.org under the “Districts/Eligibility” section.
Email week of state Games:
The 2013 State Games are finally here! The following email contains directions, instructions for
the Games, and a schedule of events.
Directions to the Games
Address: 555 Happy Lane
Valley, AL 33484
1. From Highway 85, take Exit 10
2. Finish out directions
Instructions
1. Park in the parking lot in the front of the building
2. Be sure to bring your x, y, and z
3. Registration begins at 8 a.m.
Schedule of events
1. 8 – 8:30 a.m. – Registration
2. 8:30 – 9 a.m. – Gathering of the players
3. 9 – 10 a.m. – Horseshoes in the basketball court
4. Finish out schedule
46
(Insert all press releases and
media advisories here)
47
Media Contact List
In order to facilitate distributing the press releases and media advisories that our group
created, we included a media contact list for each district in the state. District 6 is noticeably
larger, as it is Ms. Hall’s personal list for media contacts in the area. It was not adjusted by our
group at all, so as not to disturb her notes for herself. We tried to find two major newspapers, one
television station, one radio station and one magazine contact for each district.
District One
Newspapers
Lauderdale County
TimesDaily.com
256.766.3434
Editorial Lifestyle contacts:
Bobby Bozeman - Bobby.bozeman@timesdaily.com, 256.740.5722
Teri Thornton - Teri.thornton@timesdaily.com, 256.740.5742
Lauderdale County News
106 W. 5th St.
Tuscumbia, AL 35674
256.383.8476
Colbert County
Colbert County News
1414 N. Memorial Parkway
Huntsville, AL 35801
http://colbertcounty.waff.com/
Colbert County Reporter
106 W. 5th St.
Tuscumbia, AL
256.383.8471
Sheffield News
Shoals Insider
Muscle Shoals News
Lawrence County
The Moulton Advertiser
659 Main St.
Moulton, AL
256.974.1114
www.moultonadvertiser.com/
Ginger Grantham - editor@moultonadvertiser.com, ginger@moultonadvertiser.com
Winston County
48
Winston County News
205.489.2501
Double Springs, AL 35553
Marion County
The Journal Record
www.myjrpaper.com
205.921.3104
205.487.3278
jrpaper@centurytel.net
Mid-South Newspapers, Inc.
P.O. Box 430
Haleyville, AL 35565
Radio Stations
WALW-LP 98.3 FM – Moulton (Lawrence Co.)
531 Walnut St.
Moulton, AL 35650
256.905.4400
http://www.walw.org/
Television Stations
Lauderdale County
WFIQ – PBS station, ch. 36
WHDF – CW21 station, ch.15 – http://www.lbgtv.com/category/233177/valleys-cw
District Two
Newspapers
Limestone County
Limestone County News
The News Courier
http://enewscourier.com/
410 W. Green St.
Athens, AL 35611
Decatur Daily
www.decaturdaily.com/
201 1st Ave. SE.
P.O. Box 2213
Decatur, AL 35609
256.353.4612
Madison County
The Huntsville Times
2317 Memorial Parkway SW.
Huntsville, AL
855.848.7808
thehuntsvilletimes@htimes.com
http://www.huntsvilletimes.com
49
Speakin’ Out News
115 Wholesale Ave. NE.
Huntsville, AL
http://www.speakinoutweeklynews.com
256.551.1020
WSmoth3193@aol.com
Valley Planet
203 Grove Ave. NW.
Huntsville, AL
http://www.valleyplanet.com/
info@valleyplanet.com
256.533.4613
Tuff Times Gazette
1011 Oster Drive NW.
Huntsville, AL
256.489.4821
Jackson County
The Daily Sentinel
701 Veterans Drive
Scottsboro, AL
256.259.1020
support@thedailysentinel.com
http://thedailysentinel.com/
North Jackson Progress
128 Oak Hill Circle
Stevenson, AL
http://northjacksonprogress.com/
The DeKalb Advertiser
220 Gault Ave. N.
Fort Payne, AL
256.845.6156
Advertiser-Gleam
P.O. Box 190
Guntersville, AL 35976
http://www.advertisergleam.com/
news@advertisergleam.com
256.582.3232
Times-Journal
811 Greenhill Blvd. NW.
Fort Payne, AL
http://times-journal.com/
256.845.2550
news@times-journal.com
Mailing Address:
50
P.O. Box 680349
Fort Payne, AL 35968
Sand Mountain Reporter
1603 Progress Drive
Albertville, AL
http://www.sandmountainreporter.com/
256.840.3000
support@sandmountainreporter.com
Smith Newspapers Inc.
221 35th St. NE.
P.O. Box 680027
Fort Payne, AL 35968
http://www.smithnewspapers.com/
256.845.5510
Marshall County
The Arab Tribune
619 N. Brindlee Mountain Parkway
Arab, AL
http://www.thearabtribune.com/
256.931.2705
The Messenger
408 Broad St.
Gadsden, AL
http://gadsdenmessenger.com/
256.547.1049
info@gadsdenmessenger.com
Blount Countian
217 3rd St. S.
Oneonta, AL
http://www.blountcountain.com/
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 310
Oneonta, AL 35121
205.625.3231
countian@otelco.net
Cullman County
Cullman Tribune
219 2nd Ave. SE.
Cullman, AL
256.739.1351
Cullman Times
300 4th Ave. SE.
Cullman, AL
http://www.cullmantimes.com/
51
256.734.2131
Cullman Sense
101 1st Ave. NE. #230
Cullman, AL 35055
http://cullmansense.com
news@cullmansense.com
256.297.1TIP
cullmansense@cullmansense.com
Hartselle Enquirer
407 Chestnut St. NW.
Hartselle, AL
http://www.hartselleenquirer.com/
256.773.6566
Morgan County
Madison County Record
151 Hughes Road
Madison, AL
http://www.madisoncountyrecord.com/
256.772.6677
Erica.slone@madisoncountyrecord.com
Laura.samples@madisoncountyrecord.com
Radio Stations
WAFN-FM – 92.7 FM – Arab (Cullman/Marshall Co.)
Fun Media Group
981 N. Brindlee Mountain Parkway
Arab, AL 35061
256.586.9300
www.fun927.com
WAHR 99.1 FM – Huntsville (Morgan Co.)
1555 The Boardwalk, Suite 1
Huntsville, AL 35816
256.534.9900
256.536.1568
http://rocketcitynews.com/Radio/Star-99.html
producerbob@mystar99.com
Television Stations
WHIQ – Huntsville
(WBIQ ch. 10 Birmingham)
Alabama Public Television
http://www.aptv.org/
Channel 25
WHNT
http://whnt.com/
WHNT News 19
52
200 Holmes Ave.
Huntsville, AL 35801
256.533.1919
District Three
Newspapers
Lamar County
Crossroads Reporter
6820 U.S. Highway 43
Guin, AL 35563
205.468.2554
http://lamarleader.com
West Alabama Gazette
466 Columbus St.
Millport, AL
205.662.4296
Lamar Leader Inc
55071 AL Highway 17
Sulligent, AL
205.698.8148
http://lamarleader.com
Lamar Democrat
125 1st Drive NE.
Vernon, AL
205.695.7029
Cattle Today, Inc.
204 Temple Ave. S.
Fayette, AL
205.932.8000
Times Record
P.O. Drawer 159
Fayette, AL 35555
205.932.3300
http://www.mytrpaper.com/
trnews@centurytel.net
Journal Record
320 Bankhead Highway
Winfield, AL
205.921.3104
205.487.3278
http://myjrpaper.com/
jrpaper@centurytel.net
Tuscaloosa News
315 28th Ave.
53
Tuscaloosa, AL
205.345.0505
http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/
Fayette County
The Crimson White
923 University Blvd.
Tuscaloosa, AL
205.348.6144
Daily Mountain Eagle
1301 Viking Drive
Jasper, AL
205.221.2840
Pickens County
Boone Newspapers, Inc.
15222 Freemans Bend Road
Northport, AL
205.330.4100
Tuscaloosa County
Moundville Times
298 Market St.
Moundville, AL
205.371.2488
Onion
9770 AL Highway 69
Tuscaloosa, AL
205.342.0350
Latino Tuscaloosa
1427 22nd Ave.
Tuscaloosa, AL
205.866.0173
Bibb County
Centreville Press
32 Court Square W.
Centreville, AL
205.926.9769
The Clanton Advertiser
1109 7th St. N.
Clanton, AL
205.755.5747
Selma Times Journal
1018 Water Ave.
54
Selma, AL
334.875.2110
Western Star
1709 3rd Ave. N.
Bessemer, AL
205.424.7827
Mule Trader
8473 AL Highway 145
Clanton, AL
205.646.3456
Hale County
Greensboro Watchman
1005 Market St.
Greensboro, AL
334.624.8323
Demopolis Times
315 E. Jefferson St.
Demopolis, AL
334.289.4017
Greene County Democrat
206 Prairie Ave.
Eutaw, AL
205.372.3373
Greene County Independent
106 Main St.
Eutaw, AL
205.372.2232
Marion Times Standard
414 Washington St.
Marion, AL
334.683.6318
Greene County
Sumter County Record Journal
210 Washington St.
Livingston, AL
205.652.6100
Northport Gazette
401 20th Ave. #5
Northport, AL
205.759.3091
Marengo County
55
Thomasville Times
24 W. Front St. N.
Thomasville, AL
334.636.2214
Clarke County Democrat
261 N. Jackson St.
Grove Hill, AL
251.275.3375
Choctaw Sun
13440 Choctaw Ave.
Gilbertown, AL
251.843.6397
Wilcox Progressive Era
16 Water St.
Camden, AL
334.682.4422
Radio Stations
WFFN 95.3 FM – Coaling (Tuscaloosa Co.)
95.3 The Bear
142 Skyland Blvd. E.
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
205.339.4953
monk.monk@townsquaremedia.com
todd.livingston@townsquaremedia.com
http://953thebear.com
WBEI 101.7 FM – Reform (Pickens Co.)
http://b1017online.com/
B 101.7
142 Skyland Blvd.
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205.345.7200
205.345.1017
greg.thomas@townsquaremedia.com
todd.livingston@townsquaremedia.com
Television Stations
WCFT - ABC
(ABC 33/40 in Birmingham)
P.O. Box 360039
Birmingham, AL 35236
205.403.3340
www.abc3340.com
800 Concourse Parkway Suite 200
Birmingham, AL 35244
WDBB
56
Satellite channel of WTTO ch.21 in Birmingham
“CW 21”
Bessemer
District Four
Newspapers
Blount County
St. Clair News Aegis
1820 2nd Ave. N.
Pell City, AL
205.884.2310
http://www.newsaegis.com/
North Jefferson News
1110 Main St.
Gardendale, AL
205.631.7244
http://www.njeffersonnews.com/
Anniston Star
4305 McClellan Blvd.
Anniston, AL
256.236.1551
http://www.annistonstar.com
Mailing address:
P.O. Box 189
Anniston, AL 36202
St. Clair County
St. Clair Times
1911 Marin St. S.
Pell City, AL
205.884.3400
The Daily Home
1911 Martin St. S.
Pell City, AL
205.884.3400
Trussville News
6259 Service Road
Trussville, AL
205.655.6379
Black & White
2210 2nd Ave. N.
Birmingham, AL
205.933.0460
Jacksonville News
4305 McClellan Blvd.
57
Anniston, AL
256.435.5021
Etowah County
Reporter Newspaper
532 Broad St.
Gadsden, AL
256.547.3357
Cherokee County Herald
107 1st Ave. W.
Centre, AL
256.927.5037
Calhoun County
Calhoun Community Press
1812 Wilmer Ave.
Anniston, AL
256.237.7888
Cleburne County
The Cleburne News
926 Ross St.
Heflin, AL
256.463.2872
Georgia Alabama Advertiser
71 Pollard St.
Ranburne, AL
256.568.5958
Piedmont Benevolence Center
20222 State Route 9
Piedmont, AL
256.447.2211
Clay Times Journal
60132 AL Highway 49
Lineville, AL
256.396.5760
Cherokee County
Cherokee County Herald
107 1st Ave. W.
Centre, AL
256.927.5037
The Dekalb Advertiser
220 Gault Ave. N.
Fort Payne, AL
256.845.6156
58
Fort Payne Newspaper Inc
811 Greenhill Blvd. NW.
Fort Payne, AL
256.845.2550
Smith Newspapers Inc
221 35th St. NE. #A
Fort Payne, AL
Times-Journal
811 Greenhill Blvd. NW.
Fort Payne, AL
256.845.2550
Radio Stations
WBHK 98.7 FM - Warrior (Blount Co.)
CMG Birmingham
2700 Corporate Drive
Suite 115
Birmingham, AL 35242
205.322.2987
david.dubose@coxradio.com
darryl.johnson@987kiss.com
http://www.987kiss.com
WHMA-FM 95.5 FM – Hobson City (Calhoun Co.)
http://www.whmabig95.com/
256.236.1274
texbig95@cableone.net
801 Noble St. 8th Floor
Suite 30
Anniston, AL 36201
Television Stations
WJSU – ABC Anniston, Ala.
(ABC 33/40 in Birmingham)
P.O. Box 360039
Birmingham, AL 35236
205.403.3340
www.abc3340.com
800 Concourse Parkway Suite 200
Birmingham, AL 35244
District Five
Newspapers
WalkerWeb, LLC – 205.221.1278
905 Airport Road S.
Jasper, AL 35501
The North Jefferson News – 205.631.9902 (fax)
59
P.O. Box 849
Gardendale, AL 35071
Editor: Melanie Patterson, editor@njeffersonnews.com
Shelby County Reporter – 205.669.3131
P.O. Box 947/115 N. Main St.
Columbiana, AL
Lifestyles editor: Katie McDowell, katie.mcdowell@shelbycountyreporter.com
Chilton County News – 205.755.0110
P.O. Box 189
Clanton, AL 3046
newscc@bellsouth.net
Radio Stations
WEWN – 205.672.2888
1500 High Road
Vandiver, AL 35176
WKLF – 205.755.0980
20747 AL Highway 22
Clanton, AL 35045
Television Stations
FOX6 WBRC-TV – 205.583.4333 (news department)
P.O. Box 6
Birmingham, AL 35201
District Six
Bell Media Indoor, Inc.
2101 Eastern Blvd., Suite 315
Montgomery, AL 36117
334-356-4906
Sales Exec. Nathan Yates
Lamar Companies (Digital and Regular Billboards)
55 Industrial Park Blvd.
Montgomery, AL 36117
334-281-0780
Sales Rep. Kris Burdette
OnMedia: Precision TV Advertising
7290 N. Lake Drive, Suite 508
Columbus, GA 31909
334-749-0244 or 706-596-1004
FYI…This group handles the crawl message on the weather channel, in addition to other stuff.
Auburn Network
P.O. Box 950
Auburn, AL 36831-0950
334-826-2929
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WANI Newstalk 1400 – Andy Burcham, General Manager
East Alabama Living Magazine
Scarlotte Vaughn, Managing Editor
P.O. Box 950
Auburn, AL 36831-0950
334-826-2929
svaughn@eastalabamaliving.com
Auburn Opelika Parents Magazine
Kendra Sumner
Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com
Lee Magazine
editor@lee-magazine.com
Qantum of Auburn, LLC
915 Veterans Pkwy.
Opelika, AL 36801
334-745-4656
Mix 96.7 FM
Kicker 97.7 FM
The Touch 910 AM
John Bodiford, General Manager: john.bodiford@qantumofauburn.com or 334-745-4656, ext. 302
Ben Taylor, Director of Sales: ben.taylor@qantumofauburn.com or 334-745-4656, ext. 304
Meagan Roy, News Director
Van Riggs, 97.7 on air talent: van.riggs@qantumofauburn.com
Donny, 96.7 on air talent: blankdo1985@gmail.com
Tiger Communications
Traci Ivey
334-887-9999
2514 S. College St., Suite 104
Auburn, AL 36830
The Tiger – 93.9 FM, 95.9FM, 104.9FM
WAUD Total Sports 1230AM
Kate FM - 99.9FM
Ami Tuck: ami@thetiger.fm
Brooke: brooke@thetiger.fm
McNutt & Company Creative Solutions, LLC
P.O. Box 2708
Auburn, AL 36831-2708
334-501-4807
Advanced Graphics
Sean Snow, Owner
334-501-8600
sean@advanced-graphics.net
Sign World
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Jackie Lewis, Owner
334-821-6303
1715 Opelika Road
Auburn, AL 36830
Opelika-Auburn News
P.O. Box 2208
Opelika, AL 36803-2208
2901 Society Hill Road, Opelika
334-749-6271
To add an Event to their online calendar: http://events.oanow.com/listings
Donathan Prater: dprater@oanow.com
Vasha Hunt, Photographer: 334-444-7755
Auburn Plainsman
255 Heisman Drive, Suite 1111
Auburn, AL 36849-5343
Student Center 1111 (Physical Address)
334-844-9109 or 334-844-9108 (office) or 334-844-9021
Robert E. Lee, Editor: editor@theplainsman.com
The Auburn Villager
P.O. Box 1633
Auburn, AL 36831-1633
334-501-0600
Coffee News
Gina Buckley, Publisher
Coffeenews25@gmail.com
The Corner News
117 N. College St.
P.O. Box 3240
Auburn, AL 36831-3240
334-821-7150
Carla Nelson: cnelson@thecornernews.com (story ideas)
Elizabeth Snider: esnider@thecornernews.com (advertising)
WTVM Channel 9 News (ABC)
Elizabeth White, East Alabama Reporter: ewhite@wtvm.com
334-524-4985 or 334-745-3517
Taylor Kinkade: tbarnhill@wtvm.com
1909 Wynnton Road Columbus, GA 31906
706-494-5400 or 706-494-5458 (Newsroom)
WXTX Channel 13 News (Fox 54) (Affiliated with WTVM)
P.O. Box 12188
Columbus, GA 31917
706-494-5458 or 706-568-2900 (advertising)
WRBL Channel 3 News (CBS)
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706-324-6397 (News Room) or 706-323-3333 (Business Office)
1350 13th Ave.
Columbus, GA 31901
WSFA Channel 12 News (NBC)
12 East Delano Ave. Montgomery, AL 36105
Sally Pitts: spitts@wsfa.com (Auburn grad)
Katie Clardy Bright: 334-300-8520 (engaged to Auburn police officer, daughter of former Montgomery
Mayor)
Donna Wallace-King, Community Web Producer: dwallaceking@wsfa.com
District Seven
Newspapers
Call News – 251.866.5998
7870 State St.
Citronelle, AL 36522
Baldwin County Press
www.baldcopress.com
baldcopress@yahoo.com
Mobile Press-Register – 855.249.2984
circulations@press-register.com
Radio Stations
WHIL – Alabama Public Radio – 205.348.6644
Box 870150
166 Reese Phifer Hall
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Television Stations
WKRG-TV – 251.662.3002
555 Broadcast Drive
Mobile, AL 36606
producers@wkrg.com
WEAR ABC-TV3 – 850.456.3333
4990 Mobile Highway
Pensacola, FL 32506
District Eight
Newspapers
Andalusia Star News
News editor: Stephanie Nelson, stephanie.nelson@andalusiastarnews.com
Choctaw Sun – 251.843.6397
P.O. Box 269
Gilbertown, AL 36908
Email: choctawsun@millry.net
Radio Stations
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WMLV – K-LOVE
Television Stations
FOX6 WBRC-TV – 205.583.4333 (news department)
P.O. Box 6
Birmingham, AL 35201
District Nine
Newspapers
Montgomery Advertiser – 334.262.1611
435 Molton St.
Montgomery, AL 36104
Executive editor: Wanda Lloyd, 334.261.1509
Radio Stations
WLWI-AM – 334.240.9274
One Commerce St., Suite 300
Montgomery, AL 36104
Television Stations
WSFA 12-NBC – 334.288.1212
12 E. Delano Ave.
Montgomery, AL 36105
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Masters Games of Alabama
www.mastersgamesalabama.org
The Masters Games of Alabama: Bringing Life Back to the Community
Each year more than 600 adults ranging from the ages of 55 to early 90s come together
and compete in a four-day event known as the Masters Games of Alabama. The event attracts the
attention of people from all across Alabama for many different reasons. Some come for the
competition while others are there for the social aspect, but to a few the Games are more than
free throws and friends; they are a matter of connecting families and renewing life.
A pair of sisters from Florence, Ala., is known each year as the ones to beat. After 22
years of competing, Martha Hill and her sister Charlene Cooper are just as excited as ever to
compete in this year’s Games. “We love it and wouldn’t miss it. It’s the highlight of our year,”
Hill said. The two practice together during the week, and the training keeps them close. They
have always competed together, and their sisterhood is a special component of the Games for
them. This year marked a new chapter for the sisters as their respective daughters joined in the
competition, making it even more of a family affair. For this set of women, the Games are a way
to bring the family closer in a fun and active environment.
When Betty Parker lost her husband after being married for 40 years, she did not know
where to turn. After feeling lost for long enough, one of her friends suggested she check out the
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senior center to see if she could get involved there. That is when she found the Games and the
women of District 1. “I needed something to do. I was really lonely, and when I found the
Games, the ladies welcomed me in with open arms,” Parker said. She said it has been a great
way for her to have good clean fun and a community of friends who are there to support her and
laugh with her. Friends of Parker who were right beside her competing in this year’s Games said
she is full of life again.
The Games have not only changed Parker’s life; they have been changing the lives of
many other seniors all across Alabama. Bill Lane, the center manager from Woodland, Ala., said
that he sees them bring life and joy to people every day.
“I’m a center manager so I bring them (the seniors) every year. I look forward to it, they
look forward to it and it gives them a purpose in life. When [the Games are] over and we’re on
the way home, they’re like little kids in the back comparing medals,” Lane said. Not only has he
seen how the Games bring joy to people, Lane said he has seen them bring people back to life as
well. “Six months ago a lady came to my center. She was coerced into coming because her
husband had died, and she was all alone out in the country. She was only going to come one
time, but she liked it so much that she came back, and now she comes every day. She told us that
it was a lifesaver to her. She said the people at the center hugged her and brought her back to
reality. That’s what the Games are all about,” Lane said.
While the Games are about friendly competition and three days of social events, they are
also about so much more. Each year there are different stories about how the Games have
changed someone’s life or brought them closer to friends and family, and this year was no
exception. When thinking about why he is involved in the Games and what keeps him coming
back each year, Lane said it is the sheer joy that he sees the Games bring to people. “As I sit and
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listen to them comparing medals I’m like that’s what it’s all about. Happiness and enjoyment is
not an age-related thing; it’s a whole spectrum.”
To find out more about how to get involved in the Masters Games of Alabama, visit
www.mastersgamesalabama.org, or visit your local senior center or parks and recreation
department.
###
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Masters Games of Alabama
www.mastersgamesalabama.org
Mission Statement
“Masters Games of Alabama is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy
lifestyles for adults ages 50 and older through social, mental and physical activities. The Games
facilitate physical fitness through good-natured competition, provide an exciting social
atmosphere in which people can develop new relationships and advance mental well-being
through engaging activities.”
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Logos and Quote Bank
We created several new logos for our client to choose from. Below are some of our
samples:
69
We also created a quote bank for the client to use as possible slogan ideas. The first quote
was the most popular, both with our group and with the client:
"Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter." - Mark Twain
"Old age is no place for sissies." - Bette Midler
"The greatest wealth is health." - Virgil
"Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength." - Betty Friedan
"Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional." - Chili Davis
"Forty is the old age of youth; fifty the youth of old age." - Victor Hugo
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Brochure
We created a two-sided brochure to be distributed at parks and recreation departments,
senior centers and other locations where the target audiences might be reached around the state.
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Masters Games of Alabama
www.mastersgamesalabama.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Masters Games of Alabama?
Masters Games of Alabama is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles
for adults ages 50 and older through social, mental and physical activities. The Games facilitate
physical fitness through good-natured competition, provide an exciting social atmosphere in
which people can develop new relationships and advance mental well-being through engaging
activities.
How did Masters Games of Alabama start?
Masters Games of Alabama was created in 1990 in Oxford, Ala., by the local parks and
recreation department.
What events are included in Masters Games of Alabama?
Some of the events available include swimming, golfing, tennis, rook, pickle ball, bowling, Wii
Bowling and quilting. For a complete list, see the website www.mastersgamesalabama.org.
How do I become eligible to compete?
Alabama is divided into nine districts for the Masters Games of Alabama. Each district holds
their own qualifying events at some point from April to August. Those competitors who qualify
at the district level compete in the state Games in October.
Where are the state Games held?
The host city for the state Games changes every two years. This year, the state Games will be
held in Valley, Ala.
Is there a fee to participate?
There is a one-time registration fee for each participant. Depending on which events you register
for, however, additional fees may be included.
Who can I contact for registration information?
Registration information is available online at www.mastersgamesalabama.org or at your local
parks and recreation departments or senior centers.
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Evaluation
73
Evaluation
In this section, we layout the ground rules for how our client should look at each
objective and evaluate whether it was successful or not. If the objective has not been a clear
success, we offer possible solutions for how the client may address the problems and try to
achieve each objective.
Objective: To increase MGA’s use of social and Internet media by engaging 200 members of
their key public by the 2013 State Games
To evaluate the success of this objective, in October 2013 look at the number of “Likes”
on your Facebook page to see if you have reached the targeted 200 goal. If the number has not
increased by October 2013 to 200, reference our sample Facebook posts to increase traffic on
your site. Furthermore, track the number of views of the video via YouTube and the number of
“Likes” for the video on the Facebook page. The number of people who sign up for the enewsletter also plays into the assessment of this objective’s success. Next year, however, be sure
to include a question related to the e-newsletter and email blasts on the post-Games survey to
find out if those who are receiving them find them beneficial.
Objective: To increase MGA’s traditional media promotional efforts by 15 percent in the next
six months
To evaluate the success of this objective, keep track of the number of press releases and
media advisories that are distributed within the next six months. The more stories that are picked
up and published by local newspapers, radio and television stations, the better. Also, examine
whether or not the feature story has been published in any local newspapers or magazines. If it
has not, revisit the media contact list and determine if you can approach other media outlets
about publishing it or another feature story.
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Objective: To unify MGA’s state promotional efforts by producing four copy pieces by the end
of this campaign
Our group achieved this objective during the campaign. We created an official mission
statement, a new logo and slogan, a brochure and an FAQ sheet. However, in order to make sure
this objective is fulfilled in the future, MGA should use these materials in everything they send
out to maintain consistency. For example, the brochure should be distributed to all parks and
recreation departments, Area Agencies on Aging and senior centers. Also, whether it is the
website, a media kit or other publications, the same mission statement, logo and slogan should be
used on all publications issued by the organization.
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Appendices
76
Appendix A
This appendix is the attached file named “Appendix A - 2011 State Games Evaluation
Form.” It will be incorporated into our final printed book here.
77
Appendix B
This appendix is the attached file named “Appendix B - 2011 State Games Evaluation
Form with Results.” It will be incorporated into our final printed book here.
78
Appendix C
Our group created and distributed the following survey to determine the level of
awareness of members of our client’s target audience.
1. How often do you work out?
A - Everyday
B - A few times a week
C - A few times a month
D - Never
2. Do you play/engage in any of the following sports/activities? Please circle all that apply.
Basketball
Billiards
Bowling
Checkers
Dominoes
Double Dominoes
Frisbee
Golf
Horseshoes
Line Dancing
Nerf ball
Ping Pong
Quilting
Rook
Shuffleboard
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Walking
3. Have you ever competed in any of the above sports/activities at a state or national level?
A – Yes
B – No
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4. I have a good awareness of what the Masters Games of Alabama (MGA) is and how it works.
A - Strongly Agree
B – Agree
C - Neither agree nor disagree
D – Disagree
E - Strongly Disagree
5. I am enthusiastic about participating in MGA’s state Games.
A - Strongly Agree
B – Agree
C - Neither agree nor disagree
D – Disagree
E - Strongly Disagree
F - I do not know what the state Games are
6. I currently use social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) to communicate with family, friends, etc.
A - Strongly Agree
B – Agree
C - Neither agree nor disagree
D – Disagree
E - Strongly Disagree
7. It is important to stay socially active and involved with others leading up to and following
retirement.
A - Strongly Agree
B – Agree
C - Neither agree nor disagree
D – Disagree
E - Strongly Disagree
8. It is important to stay physically active and involved with others leading up to and following
retirement.
A - Strongly Agree
B – Agree
C - Neither agree nor disagree
D - Disagree
E - Strongly Disagree
9. What is your age?
______________________
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10. What is your current employment status?
A – Retired
B - No job
C - Part-time job
D - Full-time job
11. What is your sex?
A – Female
B – Male
12. What is your ethnicity?
A – Caucasian
B - African-American
C - Hispanic-American
D - Asian-American
E - Other: __________________
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Appendix D
This appendix shows our survey with the results indicated beside each answer.
1. How often do you work out?
A - Everyday 9 / 15.5%
B - A few times a week 17 / 29.3%
C - A few times a month 19 / 32.8%
D - Never 13 / 22.4%
2. Do you play/engage in any of the following sports/activities? Please circle all that apply.
Basketball 3 / 5.2%
Billiards 3 / 5.2%
Bowling 5 / 8.6%
Checkers 7 / 12.1%
Dominoes 8 / 13.8%
Double Dominoes 0
Frisbee 3 / 5.2%
Golf 8 / 13.8%
Horseshoes 3 / 5.2%
Line Dancing 4 / 6.9%
Nerf ball 0
Ping Pong 4 / 6.9%
Quilting 1 / 1.7%
Rook 3 / 5.2%
Shuffleboard 2 / 3.4%
Softball 0
Swimming 7 / 12.1%
Tennis 1 / 1.7%
Walking 38 / 66.6%
3. Have you ever competed in any of the above sports/activities at a state or national level?
A – Yes 4 / 9.8%
B – No 47 / 92.1%
4. I have a good awareness of what the Masters Games of Alabama (MGA) is and how it works.
A - Strongly Agree 1 / 1.8%
B – Agree 3 / 5.4%
C - Neither agree nor disagree 9 / 16.1%
D – Disagree 7 / 12.5%
E - Strongly Disagree 36 / 64.3%
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5. I am enthusiastic about participating in MGA’s state Games.
A - Strongly Agree 1 / 1.7%
B – Agree 1 / 1.7%
C - Neither agree nor disagree 8 / 13.8%
D – Disagree 5 / 8.6%
E - Strongly Disagree 6 / 10.3%
F - I do not know what the state Games are. 37 / 63.8%
6. I currently use social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) to communicate with family, friends, etc.
A - Strongly Agree 13 / 22.8%
B – Agree 14 / 24.6%
C - Neither agree nor disagree 6 / 10.5%
D – Disagree 8 / 14%
E - Strongly Disagree 16 / 28.1%
7. It is important to stay socially active and involved with others leading up to and following
retirement.
A - Strongly Agree 39 / 67.2%
B – Agree 14 / 24.1%
C - Neither agree nor disagree 5 / 8.6%
D – Disagree 0
E - Strongly Disagree 0
8. It is important to stay physically active and involved with others leading up to and following
retirement.
A - Strongly Agree 29 / 51.8%
B – Agree 25 / 44.6%
C - Neither agree nor disagree 2 / 3.6%
D – Disagree 0
E - Strongly Disagree 0
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9. What is your age?
50 – 8 / 13.8%
51 – 2 / 3.4%
52 – 6 / 10.3%
53 – 4 / 6.9%
54 – 3 / 5.2%
55 – 3 / 5.2%
56 – 2 / 3.4%
57 – 4 / 6.9%
58 – 3 / 5.2%
59 – 1 / 1.7%
60 – 2 / 3.4%
62 – 1 / 1.7%
63 – 2 / 3.4%
65 – 4 / 6.9%
66 – 1 / 1.7%
72 – 2 / 3.4%
73 – 1 / 1.7%
74 – 1 / 1.7%
75 – 1 / 1.7%
79 – 1 / 1.7%
82 – 2 / 3.4%
84 – 1 / 1.7%
90 – 1 / 1.7%
91 – 1 / 1.7%
92 – 1 / 1.7
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10. What is your current employment status?
A – Retired 13 / 22.8%
B - No job 4 / 6.9%
C - Part-time job 2 / 3.4%
D - Full-time job 31 / 53.4%
11. What is your sex?
A – Female 38 / 65.5%
B – Male 20 / 34.5%
12. What is your ethnicity?
A – Caucasian 42 / 72.4%
B - African-American 9 / 15.5%
C - Hispanic-American 1 / 1.7%
D - Asian-American 6 / 10.3%
E - Other: __________________
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Appendix E
This is the survey our group created for MGA to use at the 2012 State Games.
Name: ________________________________________
City: _________________________________________
Email: ________________________________________
Age: ________________
Gender: _____________
1. Please list the events that you participated in: __________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
2. Please rate the following: (only circle one)
Registration/Check-in: Excellent
Facilities:
Excellent
Schedule of Events:
Excellent
Conduct of Staff:
Excellent
Meals:
Excellent
Good
Good
Good
Good
Good
Fair
Fair
Fair
Fair
Fair
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
3. Cost is a factor in deciding whether or not you participate in the state Games.
Strongly Agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
4. I would recommend participating in MGA’s state Games to my friends and family.
Strongly Agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
5. I currently use the following social media outlets: (circle all that apply)
Facebook
Twitter
MySpace
Email
6. How do you receive news about the state Games? (circle all that apply)
Area Agency on Aging
Senior Center
Radio
Television
Recreation Department
Local Newspaper
Magazine
Internet
7. What is your current job status?
Full-time job
Part-time job
Retired
No job
8. I enjoyed my overall experience in the state Games.
Strongly Agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
9. I will return to participate in the next state Games.
Strongly Agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
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10. How many years have you participated MGA’s state Games? _________________
11. If this is your first year, how did you hear about MGA?
Friends
Family
Senior Center
Internet
Radio
Television
Newspaper
Area Agency on Aging
Recreation Department
Other (Please Specify) _____________________________
Please detail any suggestions or comments you have in regards to the 2012 State Games,
any of the items mentioned above or ways in which we can improve for the 2013 State Games on
the back. Thank you for your time!
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References
Alabama Senior Olympics (2012). Alabama Senior Olympics. Retrieved September 30, 2012
from https://sites.google.com/site/2010alabamaseniorgames/Alabama-Senior-Olympics
ASF Foundation (2012). Thank You 2012 Partners. Retrieved September 28, 2012 from
http://www.alagames.com/index.php?page=info_sponsor
Davis, J. (2012, April 17). Governor’s Commission on Physical Fitness and Sports to host 2012
Alabama Senior Olympics. Lowndes County News. Retrieved from
http://lowndescounty.wsfa.com/news/news/155389-governors-commission-physicalfitness-and-sports-host-2012-alabama-senior-olympics
East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (2010). Masters Games of
Alabama. Retrieved September 14, 2012 from http://www.earpdc.org/pages/?pageID=48
National Senior Games Association (2010). National Senior Games Association. Retrieved
September 28, 2012 from www.nsga.com
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