JOLIET, ILLINOIS – Representatives of JULIE, Inc. (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) announced today that the not-for-profit corporation was the recipient of the Silver Trumpet award for distinguished achievement in public relations from the Publicity Club of Chicago (PCC). This prestigious award, presented for excellence in planning, creativity and execution, was recently presented to Kevin Chmura, public relations manager at JULIE, Inc. and a resident of Tinley Park, during the PCC Golden Trumpet Awards luncheon.

In 2002, JULIE, Inc. created and implemented a comprehensive, multi-dimensional statewide public safety and education campaign, entitled “Dig Safely Illinois.”   The program stressed the importance of safe-digging practices and calling the Illinois One-Call System before any digging projects.

“We are honored to receive this award from the largest and most progressive regional public relations organization in the country,” Chmura said.  “The record number of underground utility locate requests and significant increase in membership last year were both strong indications that our campaign was effective.  As we move forward, we will continue to focus on safety-related issues and expand outreach of our education campaign through a variety of proactive methods.”

This is the only awards program in the Midwest honoring distinguished individual achievement of public relations and other communications professionals.  JULIE, Inc. was the award recipient in the Public Service and Issues category, honoring programs that educate and inform about issues such as public safety, the environment, etc.  Each category was judged by a panel of expert communications professionals—veterans in their fields.  Many are members of the PCC and related organizations including the Public Relations Society of America and the International Association of Business Communicators.

JULIE, Inc., also known as the “Illinois One-Call System,” promotes an easier, safer digging environment and serves the entire state of Illinois outside of the city of Chicago with a toll-free number (1-800-892-0123), which is covered by DIGGER.  Illinois law requires all persons digging to call JULIE at least two working days prior to the start of excavation and to begin that project within 14 calendar days from the call.  The 48 hour notice does not include Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.  Operators are available to receive and process calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Established in 1974, JULIE represents over 1,670 members.  JULIE has 100 employees during peak periods and is located in a state-of-the-art facility in Joliet, Illinois.  For more information, visit www.julie1call.com.