News
He Said, She Said!
Delores Blount – Strand Media Group, Inc., PublisherMember Since 1984
"CAMP has helped me professionally to network with my peers in the industry. Along with meeting new friends, it has also given me contacts that are invaluable."
John Trudeau - Better Business Bureau, President
Member Since 2003
"CAMP is the ONE organization that brings in quality speakers every month that can influence your professional career. Anyone in advertising and/or marketing should make every effort to support the local organization that promotes their profession. While I have only been a CAMP member for one year, I clearly see the value and importance of this organization. I have not served on a committee as yet but expect that to change soon. I worked very closely with Fran Tuite, Kacie Cuddington and others within CAMP to develop a Local Advertising Review Board. Also, I have already given the name of a great member prospect to Patti Urbanowicz."
Sally Peeples – Time Warner Cable, Account Executive
Member Since 1992
"I joined CAMP soon after being hired at my first Real Job (ironically the same one that I have now) with Time Warner. CAMP was a means to meet people and network in the industry. Approximately one year after joining, I was interviewed by my supervisor from Atlanta for an internal management position. He asked what my community involvement consisted of and I proudly told him that I was a CAMP member. His question back to me was "Do you attend, or are you INVOLVED?" That question changed everything! It was then that I realized the importance of not just attending monthly meetings, but actually joining committees in CAMP. Becoming an active member of the club has enabled me to form lifelong friendships, and make wonderful connections in advertising. Ten years later, I am a past CAMP President, and Governor Elect for the Third District of the AAF. My best advice to anyone is don't stand on the sidelines, but GET INVOLVED! CAMP offers many opportunites for involvement--find your area of interest and discover the many benefits of being a Happy CAMPER!"
Paulette Best – LHWH Advertising & PR, Traffic Manager
Member Since 1999
"My membership with CAMP and the American Advertising Federation makes me a participant in local, state and national efforts to protect our industry from unnecessary governmental interference."
Julie Bostian - Reliv Independent Centerr
Member since 1995
"I was fresh out of college working at my first "real" job when a co-worker asked me to attend a CAMP luncheon. Being a recent college grad on a tight budget, I jumped at the chance at a free lunch. Well, it wasn’t exactly free, my company paid for it. But, I admit, the free grub was my main motivation for attending. However, it didn’t take many meetings for me to come to the realization that CAMP was more than an opportunity for a meal. I quickly noticed involvement in CAMP would introduce me to the movers and shakers in the advertising and marketing industry.
Over the years, CAMP has given me the contacts I need to be successful in my career. No matter what job related questions I may have, there is most likely someone out there I know through CAMP that I can pick up the phone and call. Not only have I gained business contacts through CAMP, but I’ve also gained some lasting friendships.
CAMP also gave me the opportunity to stand in a leadership role. I served on the CAMP board of directors for five years, including one year as president. What a rewarding experience that was! As president, I was fortunate enough to have such an outstanding board of directors and club members by my side that CAMP won AAF National Club of the Year in 2002. I was so proud of the club and all that it had accomplished to be recognized on a national level.
My words of advice? Don’t wait for someone to ask you to be involved. Step up to the plate, serve on a committee, be a volunteer. Help CAMP be a second time National Club of the Year title holder! You only get out of the club what you put in."
Kathryn Tilghman - Sunny Day Guide, Regional Sales Director
Member since 1984
"I believe that my first year of belonging to ad club, was the second year of its existence. It was called Coastal Advertising Federation (CAF) and all of us in the ad "business" came together to commiserate on the clients and the atmosphere of sales. We formed lasting bonds of friendship and respect for each other in business that exist even today! We were all learning the ways and rules of sales and called on the more experienced to help us through our greenness!
That is much the same atmosphere that prevails in CAMP today. New, fresh people, with new, refreshing ideas, coming together with older, more experienced advertising pros, and both gleaning SO MUCH from each other! New blood always stimulates new ideas for all of us!
My children, sit at the knee of this old ad woman and take this advice: Join committees, get involved with all aspects of CAMP, and network with the members every chance you get! The rewards are countless and the blessings are many! This is a special group...give something to it ...and be remembered among your peers! Don’t waste your chance to make a difference in the community and in your life!"
Keri Martin - Strand Media Group, Inc, Account Executive
Member since 2003
"CAMP has been a wonderful experience for me both personally, and professionally. It has been an invaluable opportunity that continually helps the growth of my career, as well as my social calendar."
Julie Sluss - LHWH Advertising & PR, Media
Members since 2000
"One of the best things about CAMP is getting to network with people that I am in contact with regularly, but because we live in a world of technology, I don't actually get to communicate with them face to face; CAMP gives me the opportunity to do this.
One piece of advice I would like to give "CAMPers" is to get involved -- no matter how small of a task it may be. Getting involved is the best way to really get to know your fellow "CAMPers" and to get the most out of the organization. Showing up for meetings once a month is fine, but getting involved makes it more worthwhile. And another wonderful thing about CAMP is that there are all different kind of committees that you can be involved with, without having to turn it into a "second job."
Joy Klein - Coastal Federal Bank, Creative Director
Member since 2002
"A day in the life of a CAMP member.... hmmmmm, I was asked to give a testimonial for CAMP. A member in 2002-2003 and a member of the board from 2003-2004, I would have to say this has been an enlightening experience. Always wanting to get involved with the direction of advertising in our own little corner of the world, which is not so little, I found myself accepting a position on CAMP's board this past year. I have seen a select group of people do a lot of good for our club and they should be commended for it. Long hard hours go into planning meetings, gathering speakers, planning out charity auctions, involvement in the ADDYs, accelerating CAMP to the #1 position in our district, protecting our freedom of speech and countless other items. The few make up the many and I am proud to be a part of this group. As Communications Director for this fair group, I would hope that my heart-felt words would encourage you not only to be just a member of this organization, but to be an active member. CAMP is a stepping stone into protecting your rights as advertisers and a vessel through which one can keep up with the rest of the country. A collective group of people, we are, whom share the same interests which bond us as a collective community. I hope to see all of you at future meetings and hope you share the same thoughts on CAMP. "
Diane DeVaughn Stokes - Owner Stages Video Productions and Host and Producer for "Southern Style" on Time Warner Cable.
Member Since 1985
"My first introduction to C.A.M.P. was in 1985, six months after I moved here when some friends invited me and Chuck to the Addy awards. I had just gone to work for Cox Cable (now Time Warner Cable) hosting and producing "Southern Style". Back then, the evening was filled with song and dance acts because there were fewer awards to be given out. Let's face it, in the good ole days of yesteryear (now I'm REALLY sounding OLD) there were very few ad geeks and marketing gurus in town. At that time, Cox Cable, was the only Television station!!! WBTW opened up their Myrtle Beach office later that year, thanks to Chuck who hung their first lights and became their first production manager.
Thanks to Cox Cable I soon became a member, and in 1989 when Chuck and I started Stages Video Productions, even though we were broke, C.A.M.P. was the second organiztion we joined behind the Chamber of Commerce. We are proud of the club's growth and of it's achievements throughout the Southeast. Meeting new people in the advertising business and networking with them is our primary reason for membership.
Even though I was honored with the Silver Medal in 1994, my most rewarding C.A.M.P. moment came in 1992 as the Chairperson of the Public Service Campaign. That year our incredible committee won every single Gold Addy Category possible for the Sea Haven Youth Center campaign. Now that's TEAMWORK, and that's what C.A.M.P. is all about!"
Jeannie Reid - Brandon Advertising, Production Manager
Member Since 1997
"CAMP has been like a 2nd family to me. I've been a member since 1997 and served on several committees and became a board member before moving away. Upon returning to Myrtle Beach I attended a luncheon after being away for about 1.5 years and I was welcomed back like a family member. The warmth, generosity and friendliness of everyone in CAMP over the years has kept me coming back. Along with the monthly luncheons and great social events I feel rewarded professionally and personally."
Jon Jones - WFXB Fox 43, Account Executive
Member Since 2003
"For advertising professionals who strive to break through the client perception of being a "salesperson" and to have clients and potential clients realize they truly are a consultant CAMP can be nstrumental in their continuing education."
Ian Robinson - CPIP Associates, Inc., Owner
Member Since 2002
"This is now my second year in CAMP, and I must be honest I was a little skeptical about joining. At my first meeting as a guest, I discovered that I already I knew two or three people there, but previously some of the advertising people I'd met in my prior life were, to tell the truth, a tad odd.
There are however, degrees of odd-ness. I have found this group to be a great source of business leads for me, as well as supplying first rate speakers, and good social events. I cannot see how anyone who works in an Advertising/Marketing role is not a member. To be able to network with fellow professionals is always a good thing to be able to do.
Any organization one joins needs to fulfill 2 things. Firstly, the opportunity to network, and secondly the opportunity to be educated. CAMP does both of these things."
Susan Willard - Next Media Group, Account Executive
Member Since 1999
"I have been a CAMPer since 1999 (?) and have had the opportunity to meet many great people in the industry. Not only are the monthly luncheon and social events opportunities to see old friends and meet new ones, but I have always been able to take something back with me. I definitely gleaned something from the speakers throughout the years, implementing and practicing some of their suggestions and philosophies whenever possible. It was a welcome challenge last CAMP year to serve as Club Achievement Committee Chairperson. This position put me in the heartbeat of the organization as I had to collect and organize information throughout the year. I could not have done it at all without Paulette Best's help! Talk about dedication!! It is members like Paulette who are 100% committed in doing a great job and taking CAMP to the top that make a difference. My experiences with CAMP continue to help me grow professionally, as well as personally. I look forward to another fabulous year!"
Fabrianne Lockhart - Adams Outdoor Advertising, Creative Director
Member Since 2003
"CAMP has been a wonderful eye opener for me in regards to all the market segments I have been missing. As well as giving me a greater understanding of the term 'beachy'. Thanks!"
LIsa Sellers - The Sellers Group, Co-Owner
Member Since 1985
I have been a member of CAMP, well... for a long time, for the 20 years that I have been involved with advertising and marketing on the Grand Strand!
Through CAMP, I am able to meet new contacts in advertising while maintaining established relationships that I have had for many years. CAMP is a great way to get involved with your peers and make a difference in the advertising community. I encourage members to join a committee and get to know some of the great people involved in CAMP. You'll benefit more than you know!
Rebecca Feagin - Broadway at the Beach, Marketing Director
Member Since 1997
"I have been a member of CAMP for a few years now and noticed that in the beginning it seemed cliquish. However, I have participated in several committees from Addys to the Charity Auction and now programs and I feel that I really make a contribution to the club. It's a very rewarding experience plus it looks good on a resume. Being a member of CAMP has also helped me towards credit for obtaining my professional designation of Senior Certified Marketing Director from the International Council of Shopping Centers amongst other achievements I have. As a current board member, I attended the Third District conference this summer and it was so worthwhile. I gained a lot of helpful information that I've been able to use at our club level and meet some great people, too. I highly recommend getting involved and pitching in where you can! It's just like they say, "You get out of it what you put in."
Kenneth McIver - Burroughs & Chapins, Operations Manager
Member Since 2000
I have been a member of CAMP for three years. While I do not work in the advertising or marketing field, I have gained valuable information from the meetings and met several contacts in the Myrtle Beach area that I can use as resources. I currently serve as Treasurer of CAMP, a position more in line with my professional training, but have served on other committees in the past. My point: CAMP is not only for people in this industry. Join CAMP and get involved!
Verlon Wulf - Carolina Cooling & Plumbing, President
Member Since 2004
I have belonged to CAMP for nearly a year now. I belong to many various trade and social organizations, and CAMP is by far the most entertaining and enlightening. CAMP allows for many networking opportunities, and the speakers provide great education and ideas. The excellent food, The Dunes Club, the view of the ocean, the speakers, and most of all the networking and camaraderie all make this a monthly event not to be missed. This is one reoccurring appointment that is permanently posted in my outlook. I appreciate the volunteer work by all the players that bring it together so efficiently, and I am sure as time goes along, I will be more a part of the many events.
Kevin Krawchuk - Town Planner, Publisher
Member Since 2004
My experience with CAMP has been extremely rewarding. I’ve developed more local industry contacts and relationships during the first year of CAMP compared with my 12 previous years publishing along the Strand. The guest speakers and trade knowledge is enlightening for anyone involved in our industry. CAMP is a "Must" for professionals who are involved in advertising & marketing in our area.
Patty Urbanowicz - WBTW, Senior Account Executive
Member Since 1994
I "accidentally" joined CAMP in 1994 when my then LSM knew the chairperson of the Public Service Committee and offered me to help out. Little did I know what I was getting into - one of the most rewarding experiences of my life! I became a full fledge member shortly thereafter and was fortunate to join the Board of Directors. Over the next 10 years, I held many positions on the Board (including a less than memorable Addy Chairmanship) leading up to President in 2003. This is a tremendous organization and I am proof positive that you get out of it what you put into it. Get involved, meet people, attend the socials - the personal and professional growth opportunities available to you are worth the effort!
Abby Pinder - Brandon Advertising, Special Projects Art Director
Member Since 2004
Being a member of camp is very rewarding for me. I enjoy getting the opportunity to spend time with other creative professionals and to be active in the club with various committees. I always have a good time and come away with the feeling that I have accomplished something good for myself and the community.
Tanya Given - Palmetto Restaurant Group, LLC, Marketing Assistant
Member Since 2004
Last year was my first year as a CAMP member, and I must say I truly look forward to the monthly meetings. I have enjoyed the variety of speakers that have provided us with new insight into our profession. CAMP has given me the opportunity to meet other creative professionals in the Myrtle Beach area that are otherwise difficult to find hiding behind their computers. My network of business as well as personal contacts has grown exponentially. I am excited to be on the membership committee this year, and I can't wait to become more involved. I look forward to getting to know each CAMPer a little better this year and challenge everyone to invite at least one guest to a meeting; as this is a great way to help our organization grow.
April Garner- Prudential Source One Properties, Director of Marketing
Member since 1993
"There is something about CAMP that keeps me coming back year after year. Could it be the professional connections and industry knowledge that I have gained from attending meetings and being a part of the committees year after year? Could it be the sense of fellowship and nurturing that I get from being able to communicate and share battle scars with marketing and advertising professionals who truly enjoy the ins and outs of this industry? Could it be the priceless friendships and acquaintances that I have made along the way that have helped me to stay focused and determined to reach my professional goals?
It is definitely all that and then some. CAMP has helped me to grow and afforded me opportunities to develop as an individual and even educate and inspire others to learn more about the industry. I enjoy being a part of this organization and I look forward to helping it grow in the future."
Carol Blonowicz - The Sun News, Research and Promotion Manager
Member since 2006
“As a new member of CAMP, I’m looking forward to the energy, perspective and shared learning that is inherent in an organization of advertising, marketing and public relations professionals mobilized and positioned as a conduit for social and business betterment.”
Submit your testimony to pjohnson@lhwh.com and you could appear in the CAMPwire newsletter!