Should I take next Thursday off?

I'm going to give Ben a call on his cell phone around 12:15pm on 10/16. Just to make sure his ringer is off. Here's why.

The Public Relations Network of the Quad Cities is pleased to announce that Ben Chiswick, Director of Broadcasting & Media Relations for the Quad Cities River Bandits, will be the featured speaker at the October meeting.

On Thursday, October 16, Chiswick will speak about how the baseball franchise utilized innovative marketing techniques to achieve a new image in the Quad Cities. Lower ticket prices, an emphasis on improving the fan experience, and a number of additions to Modern Woodmen Park have enabled the River Bandits to have a record-breaking year in 2008.

Check-in for the program starts at 11:35, lunch served at 11:45, with the program following at 12 noon at Modern Woodmen Park in Davenport. Cost is just $12 for PR Network members, $15 for non-members, and $5 for students (no-shows will be billed).

This is just a way for me to lead-in to mentioning the Timber Rattler Speaker's Bureau. If your community service organization, club, or group wants to hear a little about the Timber Rattlers, please send an e-mail to rattlerradio@aol.com. I'll pass it along through the proper channels and someone from the Rattler front office will stop by to talk baseball with you.

PS. We may bring along some schedules and ticket information. But, won't charge you.