Although most ACE programs deal with issues of local concern, the need to pitch a story with statewide appeal may arise. Program representatives may want to schedule an event, or distribute a local news release to accompany a statewide announcement or political initiative, possibly when a county or city is lobbying for increased support from the state Legislature during their annual session. The following summary provides tips that may be of assistance when pitching a television and newspaper story with statewide appeal.

Any discussion of Florida media as it relates to statewide coverage of issues, should include the Capitol Press Corps. The Tallahassee-based Press Corps is one of the largest semi-organized collectives of state "beat" reporters in the nation.

Either directly, or through news services, the 25 media outlets and the more than 80 reporters who comprise the Capitol Press Corps provide virtually all state news coverage.

Working with the Capitol Press Corps:

• During the legislative session, the Corps is overworked and pulled in many directions at once. To get their attention, one must have genuine news stories and sell them compellingly and professionally.
• One must also plan carefully around competing news stories (the Governor's daily schedule is available on-line (www.myflorida.com), as is a legislative calendar and committee schedule.
• Approximately half of the members of the Capitol Press Corps maintain offices in the Florida Press Center in Tallahassee. The Press Center operates a special press conference room that many consider an ideal spot to conduct a news conference in the capital area. A weekly list of events scheduled in this room can be obtaining by calling (850) 222-5790.
• Once the legislative session ends, securing coverage of news is less difficult, provided it does not conflict with Cabinet meetings, legislative committee meetings and other state news events.