Skip to main content
Crisis ManagementNewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
September 15, 2023

The Four Pillars of Crisis Communication: What, How, When and Where

In the world of crisis communications, it's easy to focus solely on the message—what you will say to manage a situation effectively. While the message itself is crucial, the framework in which it's delivered—how, when, and where you communicate—can dramatically affect its effectiveness. Let's break down these four pillars and understand why they are the linchpin of successful crisis management.…
Crisis ManagementNewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
August 25, 2023

7 Reasons Why It’s Crucial for Companies to Update Their Crisis Communications Plan

In the dynamic realm of business, for any company, possessing a blueprint for challenging times (often termed a "crisis plan") isn't a luxury—it's essential. However, merely drafting such a plan isn't the endgame; it's pivotal for it to be routinely revisited and refined. Here's why:  Ensuring Clarity and Smooth Execution: Imagine a mobile application. If not updated, it tends to…
NewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
July 12, 2023

Embracing Generative AI: Transforming Communications in the Digital Era

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, the realm of communications is evolving at an unprecedented rate. The advent of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in a new era of possibilities, empowering professionals in the field to revolutionize their strategies and redefine success in the communications world. Recently, the Sinclair PA team had the privilege of attending Meltwater’s Annual Summit in…
Awards
June 16, 2023

Our Awards: 2023

As the year unfolds, Sinclair Public Affairs has emerged as an exceptional leader, consistently setting new benchmarks of excellence. With its unwavering expertise and commitment to the field of public relations and communications, Sinclair PA has established itself as a trusted name. The MarCom Awards  Sinclair PA garnered three Gold MarCom awards. The recognition came for their outstanding work on…
Candidate AccomplishmentsNewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
May 16, 2023

Beyond the Presidential Race

Exploring the Significance of Municipal and Special Elections Most people associate election season with the presidential race in November, but did you know that there are also many municipal and special elections held outside of the general election season?  In the years between presidential elections, people especially tend to overlook the importance of municipal elections, which have the power to…
AwardsMedia RelationsNewsSinclair News
May 5, 2023

Sinclair Public Affairs Receives Awards for 2022 Client Work, including Prestigious Gold Pollie Award

Sinclair Public Affairs Receives Awards for 2022 Client Work, including Prestigious Gold Pollie Award  The Gold Pollie was awarded for the firm’s social media program for the City of Raleigh Parks Bond Campaign; Hermes Creative Awards feature firm’s expansion into creative content for range of clients Sinclair Public Affairs, a North Carolina-based public affairs consulting firm with offices in Raleigh…
Crisis ManagementNewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
April 19, 2023

To Engage Or Not To Engage?

How a corporate framework helps organizations assess the risks and rewards of taking public stances on social issues Now, more than ever, organizations face the challenge of addressing sensitive issues that may impact their stakeholders. From social and environmental concerns to political and economic issues, taking a stance on every issue can be risky. Having a corporate framework is essential…
Digital AdvertisingNewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
April 5, 2023

From Cable to CTV: How Cross-Platform Advertising is the Key to Success

In our last blog, we delved into the evolving landscape of advertising and emphasized the significance of maintaining a presence across all digital platforms. There are several reasons why people are streaming more: Convenience: Streaming services offer convenience and flexibility, allowing viewers to watch TV and movies on their own schedule. Cost: Streaming services are often less expensive than cable…
Senator Lisa S. BarnesClients in the News
March 30, 2023

Domestic violence bill passes NC Senate, heads to House

Source: Restoration News Media A unanimous N.C. Senate voted Tuesday to enhance protections for domestic violence victims by allowing them to testify against defendants remotely. Senate Bill 51, named Kayla’s Act in memory of a Lumberton homicide victim, won passage on a 49-0 vote. Sen. Danny Britt, R-Robeson, introduced the bill with Sens. Dave Craven, R-Randolph, and Lisa Barnes, R-Nash,…
Clients in the News
March 30, 2023

Triangle housing market ‘getting back to normal,’ ahead of spring

By: Cindy Bae Source: ABC 11 News RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- In the nine years that Melissa Geiseman has lived in Raleigh, she's seen people come and go in her neighborhood off Lead Mine Road, sometimes for double the price. "I couldn't believe that the houses in our neighborhood are selling for what they're selling for at this point," Geiseman said.…
Digital AdvertisingNewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
March 29, 2023

The Future of Advertising: Why Your Business Needs to Adapt

Advertising has come a long way from the days when a basic ad in the local newspaper was enough to generate awareness and attract key audiences. In today's digital age, technological advancements, such as the widespread availability of high-speed internet connections and the proliferation of digital devices capable of accessing online content, have revolutionized the advertising landscape. These developments have…
Clients in the News
February 28, 2023

Developer expands Copper District in JoCo with $10M land deal

By Evan Hoopfer Source: Triangle Business Journal One of the largest mixed-use projects in the entire Triangle region has made its expansion official. Craig Davis Properties, based in Cary, made seven separate land purchases in Clayton for a combined total of nearly $10.7 million, according to deeds filed Feb. 24. The purchases were made for the previously announced expansion of the Copper…
NewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
February 22, 2023

The Power of Digital Advertising Campaigns

Digital advertising campaigns have become a crucial component of any successful communications strategy, as they provide flexible and efficient ways to market to target audiences, measure impact, and cater to future strategies for success.  Targeting One of the key benefits of digital advertising is its ability to target the public based on specific audience characteristics- which includes a range of…
Clients in the News
February 3, 2023

Clayton native breathes new life into former family farm

By Judith Retana Source: CBS 17 News CLAYTON, N.C. (WNCN) – A development three times the size of the Fenton shopping center in Cary will soon start to take shape in Clayton. It’s another sign of growth for Johnston County. “Growth brings about its challenges but it brings a lot of opportunities,” Dean Penny, projects executive for Craig Davis Properties,…
Clients in the News
February 2, 2023

Triangle, Alamance MLS systems agree to merger

By Kayli Thompson Source: Triangle Business Journal Two multiple listing services are merging with the goal of providing better services to real estate agents in the region. Triangle MLS, with offices in Cary, and the Alamance MLS in Burlington are merging in an effort to streamline operations. The agreement is expected to provide long-term administrative and financial support for the…
Clients in the News
February 1, 2023

CUNA, Iowa League receive MarCom Gold Award for political ad

By CUNA Source: CUNA News CUNA and the Iowa Credit Union League (and media consultant Sinclair Public Affairs) were recognized with a MarCom Gold Award for Best Association Member Communications Digital Ad Campaign. The ad was in support of Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, who was one of CUNA’s top priority races in the 2022 election and defeated challenger Liz Mathis with…
Walk-in center ribbon cutting ceremonyClients in the News
February 1, 2023

Behavioral health center celebrates opening

By Vaya Health Source: The Daily Dispatch OXFORD — Local officials, law enforcement, health care providers, and other community partners came together last week to celebrate the opening of a new walk-in center in Oxford. The center will primarily serve residents of Granville County, offering support and services to help people experiencing a behavioral health crisis in the same way…
Real Estate Stock ImageClients in the News
January 23, 2023

What does 2023 hold for Triangle housing market? Experts say it is ‘cooling.’

By Chantal Allam Source: The News and Observer  After two-plus years of plummeting inventory and sky-high home prices, the Triangle housing market may finally be settling down. Mortgage rates have more than doubled from the historic lows seen in 2021, resulting in slower home sales and double the number of active listings, said Matt Fowler, executive director of Triangle MLS,…
NewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
December 12, 2022

The Sinclair Public Affairs Approach: 2022 Independent Expenditures

Sinclair Public Affairs has proven time and time again that successful independent expenditure campaigns don’t have to be negative in nature, or funded by dark money groups. Sinclair transforms this negative perception by disseminating positive media that focuses on what candidates have done for their constituents- highlighting specific and important voter interests.   This honest, strategic, and positively focused approach to…
Senator Lisa S. BarnesClients in the News
November 10, 2022

Barnes re-elected in state Senate race

By Dave Cruz Source: Rocky Mountain Telegram State Sen. Lisa Stone Barnes, R-Nash, garnered 55 percent of the vote in defeating her Democratic opponent Mark Speed, 41,502 to 34,046 votes. Barnes, 56, is a former Nash County commissioner. She was elected to the board’s District 4 seat in 2012 and served in that post for six years. In 2018, she…
Clients in the News
November 10, 2022

Shellfish growers loan program now available

By Cheyenne Pagan Source: WNCT RALEIGH, NC – Thread Capital, a subsidiary of the North Carolina Rural Center, and Array Community Development Corporation announced Friday the launch of a new loan program designed to foster shellfish aquaculture in coastal North Carolina. The Shellfish Growers Loan Program, created in partnership with the North Carolina Coastal Federation, will provide loans of up to $50,000 to qualified…
Spectrum Local NewsClients in the News
November 8, 2022

Triangle voters to decide on hundreds of millions in public spending

By Charles Duncan Source: Spectrum News The races at the top of the ballot, for Congress, General Assembly and local leaders, have been getting much of the attention ahead of the midterms. But voters around the Triangle will also decide on hundreds of millions in bonds this election. The bonds include new parks in Raleigh and Wake Forest, school funding…
Clients in the News
November 8, 2022

Voters approve three Wake County bonds for parks and school

By Kristen Johnson Source: The News & Obeserver The three bonds on the ballot in Wake County were approved by voters on Tuesday, making way for improvements to schools, parks, and the expansion of Wake Technical Community College. On the ballot Tuesday was the Raleigh Parks Bond Referendum, Wake County Public School Bond, and the Wake Tech Workforce Forward Bond.
NewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
October 24, 2022

Sprinting to the Finish Line- The Importance of Messaging & Early Voting

With a little over two weeks to go until Election Day, many people are starting to see the light at the end of what has felt like a very noisy election season. But, as everyone starts to countdown the days until political ads cease- for those in the industry, the sprint to the finish line has only just begun.  Since…
NewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
October 6, 2022

The Short Truth About Smart Brevity

The gist of incorporating smart brevity in your work?   Stop thinking about what you want to say and start thinking of how the reader is going to consume what you’re saying. While the book Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less offers helpful tips for incorporating brevity and frankness into your own writing, critics have pointed out…
NewsSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
September 26, 2022

Looking toward campaign season

Summer has officially come to an end and we’re starting to settle into a fall frame of mind - back to school, football season and eventually, (maybe even in NC!), some cooler weather.  For folks who work in the political world it also means campaign season is in full swing.   While still weeks away, many voters are already seeing the…
Clients in the News
August 4, 2022

Clayton development eyes huge expansion to 4M square feet

By Evan Hoopfer Source: TBJ   CLAYTON, NC - One of the largest mixed-use developments in Johnston County is quadrupling in size. The development team behind the Copper District in Clayton said that plans for their project have ballooned in the past few months. The project, which started out at about 70 acres, will now encompass about 270 acres – and…
Clients in the News
August 4, 2022

N.C. Rural Center to administer $201M in funding for small businesses

By Staff Reporter Source: The Robesonian   WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of the Treasury has announced the approval of North Carolina’s application for up to $201.9 million in funding under the State Small Business Credit Initiative, SSBCI. President Biden’s American Rescue Plan reauthorized and expanded SSBCI, which was originally established in 2010. The new SSBCI is to provide $10…
Clients in the News
August 2, 2022

Federal government will distribute $200M to support small NC businesses

By Jason deBruyn Source: North Carolina Public Radio   RALEIGH, NC - According to a federal treasury department statement, North Carolina will use the funds to "operate three different programs, including a loan participation program to which it has allocated $160 million."North Carolina small businesses will soon get a financial leg up from the federal government. The U.S. Treasury Department announced it…
Awards
June 16, 2022

Our Awards: 2022

The American Association of Political Consultants This year, Sinclair PA took home a national silver award for our work with the South Carolina Association of REALTORS® Political Action Committee in the Columbia mayoral campaign. Through our political advertising work for mayoral candidate Daniel Rickenmann,  who was facing a candidate that had the endorsement of the previous mayor, he was able…
AwardsMedia RelationsNewsPublic AffairsSinclair News
June 3, 2022

Sinclair Public Affairs Wins Series of Political and Creative PR Industry Awards 

Sinclair PA, a leading regional communications firm, continues to expand client base and offerings with award winning campaigns and increased social, digital and design-focused communications programs Sinclair Public Affairs, a regional communications firm with offices in Raleigh and Charlotte, recently received several top national political and creative industry awards for a series of communications campaigns in 2021.  The firm won…
Clients in the News
June 3, 2022

Spring clean your finances: reflecting on financial literacy month

By Fred Robinson (Guest Columnist) Source: The Tennessean Tax Day was April 18 and April was Financial Literacy Month. It was the natural opportunity for many people to take stock of their financial situation and plan for the months ahead to ensure their financial house is secured moving forward.  Unfortunately, preparing and getting organized is not as simple as it…
Clients in the News
June 3, 2022

Developer Mariana Molina breaks into Wilmington projects

By Cece Nunn Source: WilmingtonBiz Magazine To Mariana Molina, a vacant car dealership on prime Wilmington real estate presented a unique opportunity. Molina is a fledgling developer and a rarity in an industry where much fewer women are at the helm of major projects. The Wilmington resident's company, Bella Vista Development Group, along with partner Craig Davis Properties, bought a…
Clients in the News
June 3, 2022

New front door to Clayton

By Evan Hoopfer Source: The Triangle Business Journal A 69-acre mixed-use project in Clayton gained approval this week and is set to help reshape the Johnston County town. The Copper District, previously referred to as 'Lumen' in town council meetings, will deliver hundreds of thousands of square feet of Class A office space to Clayton – a rarity for Johnston County and…
Campaign/Issue ManagementIntegrated Situation Management
April 6, 2022

Paid Digital Media: Trusted Strategy, Proven Results

Gone are the days of cookie cutter promotion tactics that target the generalized masses with one generic angle. With the rise of social media and the 24 hour new cycle, personalized content has become crucial to catch the public’s attention amid the noise. Paid digital marketing is a strategy that allows companies to reach their key markets in a way…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCrisis ManagementIntegrated Situation ManagementMedia monitoring
March 11, 2022

Plugged In: The Importance of Media Monitoring in Communication Strategy 

By: Kaitlin Coogan Media monitoring is an invaluable tool in today’s communication landscape. Gone are the passive audiences of the past, content to consume any information placed in front of them. Now, more than ever, the audiences we’re interacting with are extremely engaged and active, and, above all, particular. Successful communication must be aware of that factor and adapt, which,…
NewsSinclair HiresSinclair News
February 2, 2022

Sinclair Public Affair’s 2021 Wrap-Up

Since the dawn of the new decade, the world has witnessed unimaginable change. From enduring an ongoing global pandemic, to requiring a new way of life, the modern 20’s have forced people and businesses to adapt- Sinclair Public Affairs included.  2021 provided a new direction for Sinclair Public Affairs, including an expanded client base that spans new industries, award winning…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCase StudiesCrisis ManagementIntegrated Situation ManagementMedia Relations
December 8, 2021

2021 Independent Expenditure Campaign: South Carolina Association of REALTORS®

Author: Kaitlin Coogan Challenge   When it comes to the world of realty, local elections are extremely important. Whether it be issues of development or property rights discussions, having the right leaders in place is essential to the success of small businesses and the growth of communities. There were many influential candidates in the race this municipal election cycle, particularly in…
Crisis ManagementIntegrated Situation ManagementMedia RelationsPublic AffairsSinclair Advice Column
October 26, 2021

Fact or Fiction? Let’s Talk PR

By: Kaitlin Coogan and Kailey McSwain When people talk about PR, the first question is “So, what exactly do you do?” That question is almost always immediately followed by some iteration of the words spin, underhanded, and sometimes even liar. It’s not exactly a great picture, and it’s pretty much the only one that exists in the media today. TV…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCase StudiesCrisis ManagementIntegrated Situation ManagementMedia Relations
September 17, 2021

2020-2021 Phantom Fireworks Case Study

Challenge   With global supply lines still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Phantom Fireworks found itself looking at a potential fireworks shortage for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. This probable shortage, coupled with Phantom’s focus on spreading safety focused messaging, led to challenges for the nation’s largest consumer-based fireworks retailer about how to best incentivize consumers to purchase fireworks ahead of the major holiday. Additionally, Phantom…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCase StudiesIntegrated Situation ManagementMedia Relations
September 10, 2021

The Sinclair Mantra: Shape Reliable Outcomes – Effect Tangible Change

Real Estate, Housing and Development Case Study At Sinclair Public Affairs, we do more than just social media and reputation management- we strive to shape reliable outcomes and affect tangible change. Our firm’s vision is rooted in the belief that organizations, individuals and businesses hold the power to produce real change in their communities and beyond.  One of the ways…
BrandingCampaign/Issue Management
July 2, 2021

How To Be the Loudest in a Crowded Room:

Article by Sarah Wallace and Kailey McSwain An In Depth Guide to Mastering a Recognizable Brand Voice Millions of brands are competing for a following via social media every second, so how does one break through the noise and differentiate themselves from all others? The answer lies in a recognizable brand AND voice. Just like J.K. Rowling has a completely…
Campaign/Issue ManagementIntegrated Situation Management
June 28, 2021

Four Tips for Bridging a National Campaign to a Local One

You may know the struggle of taking a national campaign or brand and attempting to implement it district by district across the state, region or nation. With each district, you lose a little bit of control as you realize that certain messages don’t apply to the same areas. You now have to learn the nuanced ‘do’s and don'ts’ with each…
BrandingIntegrated Situation Management
June 18, 2021

Why is brand consistency important?

Have you ever wondered why some websites, blogs or social media accounts gain more traction and engagement than others? Or why some consumer products are purchased over and over again compared to the same products made by different brands? In today’s digital world, where online users have thousands of messages flooding their screens each day, building a strong and recognizable…
AwardsCampaign/Issue ManagementCandidate AccomplishmentsNewsSinclair News
June 14, 2021

Sinclair PA Does it Again…

Sinclair Public Affairs, an award-winning political communications firm in Raleigh, North Carolina, won a silver award for the Best Overall Direct Mail Campaign (Republican) for Senator Susan Collins’ Senate race. During the election cycle in November 2020, Sinclair Public Affairs delivered an effective advertising campaign for Senator Collins who won reelection in Maine for a seat in the US Senate.…
Integrated Situation ManagementSinclair Advice ColumnSinclair News
May 25, 2021

Sinclair Advice Column: Maneuvering the Post-College Void

It’s that time of the year again- caps and gowns are dawned, pictures are taken, and congratulations are given and received. College graduation is an exciting milestone, but it is often one without direction. Up until this point, your life has been paved for you. School is structured- filled with requirements, boxes to check and peers to measure yourself against.…
Crisis ManagementIntegrated Situation Management
May 10, 2021

5 things you need to know if you’re reopening a business in North Carolina

Blog 5 in the Emerging From COVID-19 series 1. Make a plan Planning out your reopening should happen before your doors open. There are a lot of different factors impacting how and when your business may reopen, but having a plan will help you identify and address various aspects that may stall or prevent you from reopening. While making a…
Crisis ManagementIntegrated Situation Management
April 26, 2021

No Communication Strategy? No Re-opening Plan

Blog 4 in the Emerging From COVID-19 series During periods of rapid change, communication becomes even more important. If a company does ultimately decide to send its employees back to the office under the safety of the vaccine, business owners need to remember that some people are still concerned for their health in the wake of re-opening. Utilizing basic crisis…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCrisis Management
April 5, 2021

Is Work From Home Here To Stay?

Blog 3 in the Emerging From COVID-19 series As we entered this pandemic, many expected to work from home (WFH) for no more than a month or so. Now, here we are one year later- 365 days that have shaped our society in unforeseen ways- culturally, physically, and economically. Though rapid shifts to remote work were largely seen as temporary,…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCrisis Management
April 5, 2021

COVID-19 Tech: History Repeats Itself

Blog 2 in the Emerging From COVID-19 series At the start of the pandemic, everyone buckled down to weather an unfamiliar storm- hoping that the end would be marked by a return to life as it was. However, amid the unexpected societal shift, business and consumer behavior were changed indefinitely. History has shown us that mass societal disruption accelerates technology…
Crisis ManagementIntegrated Situation Management
March 30, 2021

What You Need To Know Before Reopening Your Business.

Blog 1 in the Emerging From COVID-19 series.... For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, however, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Campaign/Issue ManagementCandidate AccomplishmentsIntegrated Situation Management
March 3, 2021

Noisy Election? No Problem

How the South Carolina Association of REALTORSⓇ ensured their messages stood out during an unprecedented election season Successful independent expenditure campaigns don’t have to be negative in nature, or funded by dark money groups to help our clients’ campaigns stand out. Sinclair transforms this negative perception by disseminating positive media that focuses on what candidates have done for their constituents-…
NewsPublic AffairsSinclair News
February 12, 2021

Sinclair PA’s Mission & Vision

A mantra that exemplifies who we are and what we value Roughly two years ago, I was provided an opportunity of a lifetime: to buy full ownership of my previous firm, Cornerstone Solutions NC, and rebrand under a new company. This risky venture turned out to be the best move of my personal and professional career. This company became Sinclair…
News
February 8, 2021

Sinclair Public Affairs Builds Staff, Expands Expertise for New Year

Sinclair PA, a leading regional communications firm, expands client base and offerings with award winning campaigns, successful ballot initiatives and broader social media, videography capabilities  Raleigh, N.C. – Sinclair Public Affairs announced team expansions and reorganization to provide its growing client base additional expertise following successful ballot initiatives and award winning social media campaigns for clients in 2020. The firm, recently named a…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCase StudiesIntegrated Situation Management
January 26, 2021

Above the Noise

How the North Carolina Association of REALTORSⓇ ensured their messages were heard amid an unprecedented election season Sinclair Public Affairs has proven time and time again that successful independent expenditure campaigns don’t have to be negative in nature, or funded by dark money groups. Sinclair transforms this negative perception by disseminating positive media that focuses on what candidates have done…
NewsSinclair Hires
January 13, 2021

Our Year Review: 2020

Although Sinclair Public Affairs is in part a crisis management firm, where we are trained to expect the unexpected- like most people throughout the world, there was nothing that could have prepared us for all that 2020 had in store. This year was full of firsts, adjustments, and along the way, a lot of team building. While we look back…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCandidate AccomplishmentsIntegrated Situation Management
December 14, 2020

Don’t Judge A Campaign By Its Cover

How to facilitate an honest, and influential Independent Expenditure campaign without playing dirty  Throughout every campaign season, voters are exposed to countless, dozens (or hundreds!) of election cycle advertising. From television and radio to social media and mailers, campaign ads are seemingly everywhere and then abruptly gone on election day.    What may be less obvious to voters are what are known…
Campaign/Issue ManagementCandidate AccomplishmentsNews
December 3, 2020

Congratulations, Sinclair Candidates!

The Sinclair Public Affairs team would like to congratulate two of our legislative candidates, Senator-elect Lisa Stone Barnes of District 11 and Representative John Szoka of District 45 as well as the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and partners who were the team behind the city-wide affordable housing bond – the Citizens Supporting Raleigh committee.   These three Sinclair PA clients won…
BrandingNews
November 30, 2020

Sinclair is Grateful For…

Following this unique, socially distanced Thanksgiving holiday, the Sinclair team has reflected and shared the things we are particularly thankful for this year. As the world dawned a new decade, we have endured a global pandemic, unimaginable hardships, and an unprecedented presidential election- but despite this, Sinclair Public Affairs would like to acknowledge all the light that has come out…
AwardsCase StudiesNewsPublic Affairs
November 23, 2020

Sinclair Public Affairs Awarded Four 2020 MarCom Awards in Annual National Competition

The North Carolina firm, serving regional and national clients with offices in Raleigh and Charlotte, specializes in social media and traditional PR services for associations, corporate clients and legislative session/election cycle political communications Sinclair Public Affairs has been awarded national MarCom Awards in four categories - including the top tier Platinum Award, a Gold level award and two honorable mentions.  …