Who Said That?

As a 30-year practitioner of public relations who has served a number of “Business Week 1,000” companies, I commend Ron Rogers’ remarks.

I have but one bone to pick: A major problem with the practice of public relations is that it is NOT a profession--as much as the Public Relations Society of America would like to see it called one.

All real professionals--accountants, doctors, lawyers, dentists--must pass rigid examinations to become licensed to practice. Many, such as MDs and CPAs, must take refresher courses to stay licensed. Even real estate agents, life insurance agents, barbers and beauticians are required to have licenses to be in business.

By contrast, anyone can, without a license, hang out a shingle saying “public relations counselor.” I have been urging such a requirement for 10 years. Unfortunately, a majority of even the most respected persons serving the industry can never seem to agree on this subject.

Yes, there is still too much BS in PR.

C. PETER DAVIS

Marina Del Rey