SEATTLE—BlackRapid, creator of The Original Camera Sling, has selected global public relations agency Porter Novelli and brand design firm Hornall Anderson to develop the company’s brand, create communications programs and to generate awareness for the company both nationally and internationally. The appointments are part of the company’s strategy to expand the appeal of its award-winning suite of camera straps and accessories from professional photographers to enthusiasts, amateurs and general consumers.

WASHINGTON, DC—The National Association for State Community Services Programs, an organization advocating and enhancing the leadership role of states in preventing and reducing poverty, has hired Environics Communications as its public relations agency. Environics will work with NASCSP to develop and implement an integrated communications plan using traditional and digital channels to raise the profile of the federal anti-poverty programs being administered through the states. Target audiences include state members, national partners, the media, and legislative and government officials.

APEX, NC—French/West/Vaughan has been engaged by TigerSwan as its first public relations agency of record. TigerSwan is an international corporation founded by service disabled veterans that specializes in vulnerability management, global stability and training for military and law enforcement officials.

WOODLAND HILLS, CA—JMPR Public Relations has been appointed as the agency of record for Omix-ADA, handling wholesale and consumer media outreach for the world’s largest independent manufacturer of Jeep parts and accessories. JMPR will take on a broad range of media relations responsibilities, including the launch of new products and creating brand awareness within the off-road and Jeep aftermarket/restoration industry and among key audiences.

CHICAGO—Pulmuone Foods USA has named Interpublic-owned Current Lifestyle Marketing as its agency of record for public relations in the United States. The agency will support the company’s portfolio of all-natural and organic food brands, including Wildwood Foods and Monterey Gourmet Foods.

CINCINNATI—RACO Wireless, preferred machine-to-machine partner for T-Mobile USA, is partnering with Calysto Communications. Calysto is offering RACO Wireless partners marketing and public relations support through five PR packages. RACO partners can also take advantage of Calysto’s consumption-based pricing model and work with the firm to develop a more customized PR, media relations and social media plan.

NEW YORK—Luster, an online photographic gallery and social community selling limited-edition fine art prints by commercial and editorial photographers, has selected Workhouse as agency of record. Workhouse will develop integrated promotional campaigns that synchronize communication efforts and will execute a comprehensive public relations plan on behalf of the collections, special events and promotions.

MELVILLE, NY—Thomas Public Relations, a public relations firm focused on consumer electronics, gadgets, technology, Internet, and social media, has signed two new high-tech clients: SolarFocus Technology Company, creator of practical solar gadgets; and PlanOn System Solutions, a leader in scanning and printing solutions for the mobile professional.

NEW YORK—Nancy J. Friedman Public Relations has been named agency of record for The Quin, a new luxury hotel designed by Perkins Eastman and scheduled to open in the fall of 2012. The firm has also been named agency of record for KTCHN, a new restaurant housed inside The Out NYC, a “straight-friendly” urban resort.

COLUMBIA, MD—Current and four-time world champion long jumper Brittney Reese has retained Maroon PR for her media and public relations needs. Maroon PR will work closely with Reese to increase her media exposure as she continues her march to the London Olympics in 2012.