The annual Book of Lists is one of the most fun, and most exhausting, features to work on at PRWeek. It's draining because it requires that the entire editorial staff review the past 12 months very carefully. This can be difficult to do when you're working on a weekly magazine and daily Web site, and are often absorbed in the most current events.

Though 2008 was dominated by a groundbreaking presidential election, there was still plenty of other news. PRWeek's editorial team reviews the year's PR hits and misses

As 2008 ends, PRWeek takes a look back at the year in communications with our annual Book of Lists. It also gives all PR pros a chance to reassess. While firms and corporate PR departments alike wait on 2009 budgets, it's time for a thorough housecleaning.

Ever since Eliot Spitzer hit the skids in the most spectacular fashion, I have been unfettered by expectations that the world will go on as usual.

The Illinois Bureau of Tourism (IBT) launched a new Barack Obama component to its ongoing "Presidential Trails" campaign following his election.

Katie Connolly spent this year covering the McCain campaign for Newsweek's special 2008 election project. Connolly was granted behind-the-scenes access to the campaign with the agreement that none of her reporting would be published until after Election Day.

Koppel leaves Discovery Channel, 'Meet the Press' speculation begins; Bauer cuts 'Life & Style' staff; Huffington Post raises $15 million

Ziff Davis to close 'PC Magazine' print edition; Time Inc. shutters 'Cottage Living'; Ailes to stay at Fox News

'Sports Illustrated' group to be hard hit; Tribune Co. and Sirius XM post heavy Q3 losses; MSNBC extends Olbermann contract

Placing clients on morning shows is becoming harder, but well-focused pitches increase visibility.