Just to let you know - showlowfire.org - SmarterMail http://mail.showlowfire.org/Main/frmPreview.aspx?folder=Inbox&messa...

Date Thu 9/30/2010 2:18 PM

From "Sign, Chris" <CSign@abc15.com>
To "camhunter@azstatefire.org" <camhunter@azstatefire.org>
Cc "kevinboness@azstatefire.org" <kevinboness@azstatefire.org>, "eneitzel@showlowfire.org"
<eneitzel@showlowfire.org>
Subject Just to let you know
View HTML | Text | Header | Raw Content | Attachments (2 - 4k)

Hello Cam!

I hope all is well with you!! It has been quite a while since we’ve last talked – hopefully you’ll be stopping by the station
sometime soon to catch up with the newsroom staff..

I just wanted to drop you a line regarding my deepest appreciation for Eric Neitzel.

In the past 12-years as a reporter, I have come in contact with many great PIO’s and unfortunately – some difficult PIO’s.

One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that the moment you get to a scene and greet a PIO – you can immediately
determine if that PIO will be helpful.

The biggest factor as it relates to an effective PIO is whether or not that person actually enjoys their job.

As you know, covering dozens of wildfires in Arizona, I have had many different experiences with PIO’s. There have been
some (as you know) who I have complained about and there are others I have commended for their dedication and
courtesy.

I can honestly tell you, when I get to a scene and learn Eric Neitzel is there – I am truly happy.

I have had similar discussions with other members of the media who feel the same as I do.

There is no longer a “set news cycle” in the broadcast news industry. As you know, we operate on a 24-hour news cycle,
most importantly with constant updates for our newscasts, websites and various social networking websites.

Eric Neitzel may be the only PIO who I’ve worked with who truly knows and understands how to use Facebook, Twitter,
Skype and other social platforms to inform the media instantly.

ABC15 has used Eric many times early in the morning and late at night using Skype. His ability to distribute photos through
Twitter has often times alleviated concerns for members of the media who cannot get “close” to a scene.

I have never once had a negative experience with Eric and I have never ever heard a single negative comment regarding
Eric.

My most recent experience with Eric was at the Schultz Fire. ABC15 had multiple crews working around the clock – and
Eric was there every step of the way day and night without one single complaint!

In fact, I spoke to the Schultz Fire incident commander at length about Eric’s great attitude, ethic and understanding of the
news media.

Without a doubt, Eric’s love and passion for his job is clear which places the entire fire fighting team in a positive light.

Cam, you’ve known me and my work for quite some time now and I hope you understand how critical it is to have people
like Eric Neitzel on board during these serious events.

I will not discuss the names of other PIO’s in which I have had positive or negative experiences. This is about sharing my
wonderful experiences with Eric Neitzel.

I have worked in various cities across the U.S. and I can tell you – Eric is a great person who represents your staff
extremely well.

1 of 2 10/4/2010 12:48 PM
Just to let you know - showlowfire.org - SmarterMail http://mail.showlowfire.org/Main/frmPreview.aspx?folder=Inbox&messa...

Thanks so much for your time! Thanks for always being available and willing to listen.

Cam, you know you can call my cell anytime!

Hope to hear from you soon!

Have a great weekend!

Chris

Christopher Sign
KNXV-TV Multimedia Journalist
515 N 44th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008
P: 602.685.6374 F: 602.685.6363
C: 602.432.2179
csign@abc15.com

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2 of 2 10/4/2010 12:48 PM