The Pursuit Begins... ADDY Kickoff MixerAll over Fort Worth, a secret war is being waged. The war of ideas.
Agents of Advertising roam the streets by day, indiscernible from the average civilian. But behind closed doors, these seemingly harmless hipsters must
use all their cunning and skill to outwit enemy minds.

The target: Best of Show Addy.
The time: February 2012.  The place: Ashton Depot.

Your mission, should you choose to accept, is to join the pursuit.
Keep your enemies close by joining us at Rahr & Sons Brewery on October 26
as we set the game afoot.

Your $10 attendance fee includes delicious Rahr beer and appetizers.
We’ll also have your ADDY submission envelopes ready to pick up and
take back with you to start preparing your entries.

WHEN
October 27, 2011   6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

WHERE
Rahr & Sons Brewery
701 Galveston Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104

FEE
Event Registration
Executive Member $10.00
Non Member $10.00
Professional or member of another AAF Club $10.00
Student $10.00

View Event Summary RSVP
October 26, 2011
Please respond by clicking one of the buttons below
Having trouble with the link? Simply copy and paste the entire address listed below into your web browser:
http://www.cvent.com/d/hTZp4QyiskG7phwgvKU1Xw/17ln/P1/1Q?

GCG Welcomes Kelsey McDaniel

GCG MARKETING WELCOMES KELSEY McDANIEL TO ACCOUNT SERVICES TEAM

Fort Worth-based GCG Marketing announced the addition of Kelsey McDaniel as account coordinator. As an integral part of
the account services team, McDaniel will be responsible for supporting client relationships to ensure client satisfaction and project completion. This includes coordinating meetings, special presentations, agendas and status reports for clients. McDaniel joins GCG Marketing following a position as account coordinator at Jackson & Flagg PR, where she assisted with events and reported press coverage. She graduated from Texas Christian University in 2010 with a degree in advertising and public relations and a minor in studio art. “Kelsey has incredible talents, and we are so excited to have her on board,” said Kelsey Mize, account executive. “I think her skills in project management and coordination will be a great asset to the account services team.”

About GCG
Fort Worth, Texas-based GCG Marketing is a full-service marketing firm providing
strategy and consultation, along with advertising and public relations services, to clients
in the healthcare, corporate, consumer and business-to-business arenas since 1973. For
more information, visit www.gcgmarketing.com or read the GCG blog at
www.gcgideas.com.

 

Job Openings at J.O.

J.O is currently looking for energetic, creative and hardworking individuals to add to their impressive team. They currently have two job openings: Production Artist and Copywriter / PR Account Executive. For more information please visit http://www.jodesign.com/where/jobopportunities/

Red Productions Adds Three New Team Members

Red Productions, a full-service, script to screen media production and
distribution company, is proud to announce three new additions to its team. Erin Ostenson as
Account Director, Scott Nichols as Marketing and Distribution Director, and Sherry Gaff as Office
Manager.

“As we grow, we’re dedicated to augmenting our client service team as well as exploring new
ways to help both our corporate and agency clients engage audiences in a more meaningful and
measurable way. Our team is fired up about adding these high-caliber individuals to help execute
and distribute the best possible media,” said Red Sanders, President of Red Productions.

Ostenson will spearhead Red Productions’ effort to build out a dedicated client services team. “I’m
excited for the opportunity to plug into an innovative company in the media space. Enabling our
team to execute best in class creative for our amazing clients,” said Ostenson.

Nichols has been charged with growing Red Productions’ marketing and distribution arm – helping
their clients better engage audiences through media. “Our community recognizes Red Productions
as a leader in content creation for the commercial and video space. That said, it is just as important
to develop strategic and innovative ways to help our clients reach and engage their audiences
through digital and broadcast channels,” stated Nichols.

Gaff brings a wealth of experience in Human Resources and Office Management, and will serve as
Red Productions’ Office Manager. Gaff explains, “The opportunity to join a company with a unique
culture and dedication to fulfilling a creative mission is an exciting one. I’m proud to leverage my
organizational skills to set our team up for success.”

After graduating from Texas Christian University with a degree in Advertising and Public Relations,
Ostenson went on to manage key accounts for The Wall Street Journal. Ostenson is a Board
Member of Cuisine For Healing.

Nichols is a graduate of Texas Christian University with a degree in Advertising and Public Relations. Upon graduation, Nichols joined the Balcom Agency where he served as Interactive
Account Executive.

Gaff is a graduate of Angelo State University and comes to Red Productions from the Fort Worth
Museum of Science and History.

“We believe these additions to our team will enable us to stay at the forefront of audience
engagement and help us continue our efforts to provide a top notch creative service to our
community,” Sanders stated.

What PR Pros Should Know About the GLBT Community

Join the Fort Worth Public Relations Society of America for their annual diversity program, this year featuring Thomas Anable, president of Fairness Fort Worth (FFW). FFW comprises Fort Worth individuals, business leaders and organizations committed to ensuring everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect. (Note: GLBT is an acronym for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender.) The city of Fort Worth has mandatory GLBT training in response to what many remember as "The Rainbow Lounge" incident. FFW promotes the training to county, educational, corporations and more, and was created to increase understanding and promote civil dialogue and fairness throughout the community.

Aable's professional career includes positions as Senior Tax Manager at KPMG and PriceWaterhouseCoopers, trust tax and operations, chief financial officer of a multi-state engineering firm and until Dec. 31, 2010, the managing partner of Anable & Associates, a certified public accounting firm. He earned a BBA in Finance in 1976 from the University of Texas at Arlington and an MBA in Quantitative Financial Analysis in 1977 from Virginia Tech University.

Date:
Wednesday, August 10

Time:
11:30 am - Pre-lunch networking
Noon to 1 pm - lunch program

Location:
Colonial Country Club
3735 Country Club Circle
Fort Worth, TX 76109

Register Now

BALCOM AGENCY HIRED TO CREATE NEW TARGETED WEBSITE FOR TEXAS FFA

Fort Worth, Texas – August 4, 2011 – Balcom Agency, an award-winning advertising, interactive and public relations firm, has been chosen to develop a new website for Texas FFA. The mission of Texas FFA is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success.
 
The new website, www.MyTexasFFA.org , scheduled to launch in September, will serve as a rich, interactive source for students, parents, teachers, former members and sponsors. The site’s goal is to attract new members to the organization while keeping existing members and supporters informed of ongoing activities and news.
 
“Supporting Texas FFA in its mission to improve the future of young people right here in our own state makes this an especially enjoyable project for our team,” said Stuart Balcom, principal of Balcom Agency. “We understand the importance of developing business and community leaders and we’re proud to be working with an organization that is doing just that.”
 
Texas Agricultural Education/Texas FFA Association is based in Austin and boasts the largest state membership in the country, with more than 1,100 chapters and nearly 81,000 members statewide.  More than 112,000 Texas students are enrolled in agricultural education courses. Through Texas FFA programming more than $2 million in award and academic scholarships are given annually.
 
About Balcom Agency
Innovation meets inspiration every day at Balcom Agency in Fort Worth, Texas. Founded in 1993, the agency’s core services include branding, marketing communications, interactive, social media, public relations and media planning. Balcom makes great things happen for a roster of local, regional and national clients, including: Justin Boots, Tony Lama Boots, Alcon Laboratories, the Neeley School of Business at TCU, Norman Regional Health System, Adam Smith’s Texas Harley, ConvaTec, Southwest Bank, Cash America, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and the Barnett Shale Energy Education Council. Find us at BalcomAgency.com and on Facebook or Twitter to see What’s Next.

Join. Belong. Develop.

Don't miss one of the hottest speakers in America, Kelly McDonald, as she presents ideas from her hot-selling book "How to Market to People Not Like You" at the AAF Central Texas Summer Seminar, "Making Sense of Your Ad-venture!"

Breakfast, tremendous professional development opportunities, and lunch are all included in this half-day event Friday, the 5th, at the Harker Heights Activities Center at 400 Indian Trail in Harker Heights!

Eloise Owens kicks off the day with her high-energy presentation from her book, "Get Off the Beach!"! Great for sales professionals and anyone looking to grow their business!

Learn about managing and engaging social media sites from Aaron Hughling from Scott and White, Dan Elder from Top Sarge (two sessions!), and author/speaker Jerry Conrado of Marketing Edge Ventures on Mega Marketing Results!

Cost is $70 for AAF Central Texas members, $85 for non-members. Tomorrow at 5 PM is the registration deadline, so print out the from from the attached brochure and fax to the attention of Margo Moreno at 254-662-4878 or email Russ Nelson at rnelson@lamar.com for more details.

You can also register and stay up to date on all things happening with the chapter on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AAFCT !

Blanchard Schaefer Advertising & Public Relations Makes New Hires To Support Growing Client Roster

Blanchard Schaefer Advertising & Public Relations® (BSAPR), a full-service, integrated strategic marketing services firm, is proud to announce the addition of Bailey Lang as Advertising Account Coordinator and Kristin Moreno as Public Relations Account Coordinator. Lang and Moreno will support BSAPR’s growing roster of accounts and projects.
 
“This is an exciting time for Blanchard Schaefer. We’ve consistently grown, and to better serve our clients we’ve added two new positions that open the door for more clients and more projects while still delivering exceptional work that is synonymous with our brand,” Ken Schaefer, Blanchard Schaefer president, said.
 
Lang will work closely with clients including EmCare, JPs Health Network, Freeman, Fort Worth Zoo and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. “BSAPR has a unique culture and team atmosphere that provides the opportunity to work with a wide-array of clients. I look forward to jumping in with both feet to provide clients with strategic marketing initiatives that benefit their businesses,” Lang stated.
 
Moreno will assist with public relations accounts including Grade Results, Dallas County Community College Faculty Association, Macropsect, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Lone Star Film Society, as well as internal public relations efforts. “I am beyond thrilled to be apart of the BSAPR team. The diverse client base will constantly challenge my creativity and approach to public relations. I’m ready and willing to take on any and all opportunities, ” Moreno said.
 
Lang is an alumna of Texas Christian University (TCU) and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Neely Business School with a marketing degree and finance minor. While at TCU, Lang was a member of the Neely Fellows Program, American Marketing Association and the Mortar Board.
 
Moreno is a graduate of Baylor University, where she majored in public relations and minored in Spanish. While at Baylor, Moreno was a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America and garnered internship experience at Education Service Center Region 12, Profiles International, Baylor University’s College of Arts and Sciences and TSTC Publishing.
 
“We’re very enthusiastic for the future. Bailey and Kristin are great additions and are only the beginning of changes and growth for Blanchard Schaefer,” Schaefer stated.

GCG MARKETING WELCOMES CASEY MARCHBANKS AS ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Fort Worth-based GCG Marketing announces the addition of Casey Marchbanks as associate art director. Marchbanks will be responsible for the design and artistic direction of advertising and marketing materials. 


Marchbanks joins GCG following a position as associate campaign specialist for the Abilene Reporter-News, where she was responsible for designing ad campaigns for major clients’ newspaper and niche product advertising. Marchbanks graduated from Abilene Christian University with a bachelor of fine arts in graphic design. While studying abroad in Oxford, England, and Florence, Italy, she studied painting, art history and photography.

“I was blown away by Casey’s portfolio,” said Pat Gabriel, creative director at GCG. “The artwork she presented demonstrated a skill level well beyond her years. I have no doubt that Casey will be a tremendous asset to our creative team.”

Nissan Sponsors 2012 National Advertising Student Competition

Over the last 38 years, nearly 150,000 future advertising professionals across the nation have jump-started their careers through the American Advertising Federation’s (AAF’s) National Student Advertising Competition (NSAC), which provides college students with the hands-on, practical experience necessary to be competitive in the industry. And at the same time, 38 blue chip companies – one each year to sponsor the program – have had the unique benefit of getting the marketing insights of thousands of college students, trained in the art and science of advertising, and organized into teams that act as advertising agencies to focus their energies on their sponsor’s brand. The AAF today proudly announces that Nissan Americas will be the sponsor of the 39th annual NSAC.

The competition requires AAF college chapter members to develop a 32-page marketing campaign and 20-minute presentation in response to a case study co-authored by Nissan Americas and the AAF Academic Division. The case study will focus on the Nissan brand as it relates to multicultural audiences, expanding upon Nissan's innovation theme. Each student team will first participate at the district level, and then winning teams will advance to the national level. Student teams will pitch their campaign to a judging panel selected by the sponsor during the AAF’s National Conference, the annual ADMERICA!, to be held in 2012 in Austin, Texas from June 2-5.

Year after year, the quality of work and level of creativity surpasses the previous year, and sponsors have been known to implement the ideas generated by these impressive, high-caliber student teams.

“Nissan is extremely proud to support the creative minds of the National Student Advertising Competition,” said Jon Brancheau, vice president, Marketing, Nissan North America. “We are excited to see how the students can help Nissan deliver even more innovation to our communication platform.”

The AAF has 15 districts with over 200 college chapters represented. Last year, 148 AAF college chapters competed at the district level, and it is anticipated that that number will increase in 2012.

“The automotive sector is incredibly dynamic, and Nissan is an exciting and innovative brand in that sector, and so I know our students are going to be thrilled to learn that Nissan is the 2011-2012 NSAC sponsor. I am confident our partnership with Nissan will be a true testament to the quality of work our AAF college students can produce. Most of all, I thank Nissan for believing in and supporting the future of the advertising industry by providing our college students the kind of hands-on training these students cannot get anywhere else. We look forward to working with the Nissan Team,” said AAF president and CEO James Edmund Datri.

Nissan Americas will not only sponsor the NSAC this year, but will also host the 2011 AAF Student Conference in Washington, D.C. on October 27-28. This event connects students with a variety of professional development opportunities and encourages them to meet and network with industry leaders and AAF alumni.

To learn more about how to start an AAF college chapter and participate in the NSAC, please visit www.aaf.org/education.

BALCOM AGENCY HIRED TO REDESIGN WEBSITE FOR THE MODERN ART MUSEUM OF FORT WORTH

Balcom Agency, an award-winning advertising, interactive and public relations firm, has been chosen to redesign www.themodern.org , the website for The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. The Modern, located in Fort Worth’s cultural district, maintains a vast collection of modern and contemporary art—including works by Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol—and serves as host to several traveling exhibitions each year. The Modern made its decision after a nationwide review of multiple agencies.
 
As part of the redesign, Balcom will support The Modern’s mission to promote a welcoming environment for public appreciation of post-World War II art. The website will display the beauty of permanent and loaned collections, as well as highlight the architecture of the museum and its surrounding grounds. In addition to revamping the site’s navigation, the team plans a new calendar system to promote and communicate contemporary art exhibits and community events.
 
“While The Modern is praised worldwide as a premier cultural institution, it is also a favorite destination of our B team,” said Stuart Balcom, principal of Balcom Agency. “Supporting The Modern in its quest to improve its online presence and digital footprint will be a productive, and fun, endeavor for us.”
 
Planning for the website project has already begun, with a fall launch of the site planned.

Kearley Announces the Addition of Sara Neal to Team

Fort Worth based Kearley & Company, Inc., announced the addition of Sara Neal to the team as assistant copywriter.

“Sara is a skilled writer and has demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of how to contribute to our clients’ successes,” said Elisa Rode, agency president. “We are thrilled to have her as part of our team.”

In addition to her duties as copywriter, Neal will assist with some of the account management.

Neal started as an intern at Kearley 18 months ago and moved into a part time position while she was finishing her degree. She said she has enjoyed her time at Kearley, and is excited to continue working with the team.

“I’ve enjoyed learning from and working with everyone at Kearley. Everyone here has taken the time to mentor me on different projects, and I am so grateful,” Neal said. “The fact that I get to keep working here is just icing on the cake, I couldn’t be happier.”

In May, Neal graduated Cum Laude from Texas Christian University with a Bachelor of Arts in Writing, and minors in both Spanish and news/editorial journalism.

About Kearley & Company, Inc.:
In business since 1981, Kearley and Company, Inc., is a full-service advertising and consulting firm based in Fort Worth, Texas. The firm offers strategic and creative services for a variety of industry sectors in large and small markets across the country. The firm specializes in credit union industry marketing and retail merchandising—which accounts for roughly 75 percent of the agency’s client base.

GCG MARKETING WELCOMES CRYSTAL CARDWELL TO ACCOUNT SERVICES TEAM

Fort Worth-based GCG Marketing announces the addition of Crystal Cardwell as account executive. In this role, Cardwell will manage and promote client-agency relationships by overseeing campaign development and monitoring account processes. She will also play a key role in spearheading the agency’s business development initiatives.

Cardwell joins GCG following a position as client services manager for Studios 121, where she directed marketing initiatives, event coordination and business development. A graduate of The School for Film and TV in New York, she has also worked in Hollywood producing and promoting independent movies for Perles Films. Cardwell currently serves as a board member of the American Advertising Federation – Fort Worth.

“Crystal’s unique skill set perfectly complements our client services team,” said Neil Foster, GCG president. “Her background in video production and knowledge of diverse media types will allow us to better serve our clients, and that’s always our main goal.”
About GCG

Fort Worth, Texas-based GCG Marketing is a full-service marketing firm providing strategy and consultation, along with advertising and public relations services, to clients in the healthcare, corporate, consumer and business-to-business arenas since 1973. For more information, visit www.gcgmarketing.com or read the GCG blog at www.gcgideas.com. 


Drew Myers Named J.O. Director of Business Development & Administration

J.O, a Fort Worth-based full-service marketing agency, announced today that Drew Myers has been named Director of Business Development & Administration.

In this position, Myers will lead business development efforts to increase J.O.’s client and project base. He will set forth goals and milestones for the company and it’s employees to ultimately increase profits and productivity of the company.

Myers’ background includes extensive experience in marketing, public relations, and business-to-business sales, which makes him an ideal fit. His familiarity with the industry and networking skills will support J.O.’s efforts to build long-term relationships with current and prospective clients. Myers’ abilities supervising and leading staff through the years aligns with his new responsibilities of establishing an efficient work flow and positive environment.

“We are excited to bring Drew on board to help manage our growing base of clients and projects,” said Jennifer Henderson, J.O. president. “We love his creativity, his involvement in the community and especially his energetic ‘can-win’ spirit.”

About J.O.
J.O. is an award-winning advertising, design, marketing and public relations agency with fresh ideas, solid concepts and proven results. Founded in 1998 by Jennifer Henderson, J.O. has grown to include eight staff members, three paid interns, two business partners and an impressive client base. J.O.’s mission is two-fold, to deliver great work and build long-lasting relationships with each client. J.O. transforms its creative thinking and innovative ideas into a product that meets the objectives, deadlines and budgets of each project, specializing in strategic planning, marketing, public relations, branding and web design. For more information please call 817-335-0100 or visit www.jodesign.com.

AAF-FW announces big wins at recent convention.

The American Advertising Federation's (AAF’s) 10th District hosted the Governor’s Ball - a gala and awards banquet on Saturday, April 16, 2011, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – which convened AAF chapters from Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

AAF-Fort Worth competed and won club achievement awards at the district level for 6 of the 8 possible categories including wins for Education, Communications, Membership, Public Service, Government Relations and Programs.

It’ was also announced at the gala that AAF-FW won three awards for club achievement at the national level including a 3rd Place for Government Relations and 1st Place for Education and a 1st place for Membership.

The evening concluded with AAF-FW being awarded Small Club of the Year for the 10th District.

In addition, a special honor was awarded to long-time AAF-FW member and former club President and past District Governor, and current AAF-Central Region Chair Susan Cook. Cook was awarded the District 10 Sterling Service Award.

AAF-Fort Worth Announces winners from AAF District 10 ADDY competition

The American Advertising Federation's 10th District ADDY® awards show was held on Friday, April 15, 2011, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma with D10 ADDY winners announced at that time.

During the awards gala, 23 awards were given to agencies, designers, and students from Fort Worth. Two professional golds were awarded to AAF-FW members - one to Concussion and one to Williamson-Dickies. Three student golds were awarded – two to David Heflin of the University of North Texas and one to Diana Tran of UTA.

Click here for the complete list of ADDY winners from Fort Worth and the entire AAF D-10.

More about the ADDY Awards:
The ADDY Awards are the advertising industry's largest and most representative competition, recognizing creative excellence and the very best advertising worldwide. Sponsored by the American Advertising Federation (AAF), the ADDY Awards represent the true creative spirit of advertising by recognizing all forms of advertising, from all types of media, created by all sizes and types of entrants, from anywhere in the world. This worldwide competition draws over 60,000 total entries annually.

Surviving & Thriving in the Fundraising Jungle: How to Build a Plan that Gets Results and Won’t Drive You Crazy

Tuesday, April 26, 9:00 – 11:30 AM - Registration begins at 8:30 AM

Held at La Mancha Business Center, Building 3, 3120 Merida St., Fort Worth 76109

It’s a jungle out there. And those who learn how to successfully fundraise in a tough and changing environment win the game.

You need a plan. A strategy that will allow you to reach your goals and keep your team organized. Fundraising is marketing with an “ask” – so what you need is a killer marketing plan.

This presentation will focus on how to build a marketing plan for your organization’s fundraising. You’ll learn how the principles of marketing are the same as those for fundraising and how to build an effective plan with concrete goals, strategies and tactics. You’ll learn how to bring cash to your door and increase donor engagement at every contact point, thereby creating a perpetual circle of donation and influence.

Additionally, in today’s diverse world, it’s more important than ever to learn how to do multicultural fundraising – how to raise funds from people and groups that may be very different from you and your organization. The 2010 Census reveals just how diverse our communities are, and in order to be effective at fundraising, you need to embrace this diversity and make it work for you.

PRESENTER: KELLY McDONALD

Kelly McDonald is a marketing and advertising expert with more than 25 years of experience working with companies and brands of every size. She has been featured on CNBC, in BusinessWeek, on CNNMoney.com and on Sirius/XM Radio.

She is also the author of “How to Market to People Not Like You: Know It or Blow It Rules for Reaching Diverse Customers”. The first 100 people to sign up for this event will receive a complimentary copy of this easy-to-read, easy-to-understand, step-by-step guide to growing your business. Kelly will also personally sign each book!

For more information about Kelly, please visit her website http://www.mcdonaldmarketing.com/

Cost: FIC member $35 per person if your ED/CEO attends
FIC member $45 per person
Nonmember $55

The first 100 people who sign up will receive a copy of Kelly’s new book, to be released 3/22/11, “How to Market to People Not Like You.” (This is a $25 value.)


To register, please visit the FIC website www.fic-ftw.org.

GCG MARKETING WELCOMES LINDSAY HENDON TO ACCOUNT SERVICES TEAM

Fort Worth-based GCG Marketing announces the addition of Lindsay Hendon as account executive. As a primary liaison between clients and the agency, Hendon will be responsible for promoting and managing agency relations with clients. This includes monitoring timely delivery of projects, providing team members with necessary resources for project completion and ensuring
client needs are met.

“Lindsay has exemplary marketing skills and solid experience in project management,” said Allyson Cross, account services director at GCG Marketing. “Simply put, she is proactive and diligent. I am delighted to have her join our team.”

Prior to joining GCG Marketing, Hendon was marketing consultant at Skyline DFW Exhibits & Events, where she provided consultation and direction to clients and spearheaded the company’s first-ever internship program. She graduated from Texas State University in 2007 with a degree in mass communication and is a board member of the American Advertising Federation –Fort Worth.

About GCG
Fort Worth, Texas-based GCG, is a full-service marketing firm providing strategy and consultation, along with advertising and public relations services, to clients in the healthcare, corporate, consumer and business-to-business arenas since 1973. For more information, visit www.gcgmarketing.com or read the GCG blog at www.gcgideas.com.

Texas Legislative Alert

BACKGROUND
HB1 (the House version of the state budget bill) was filled in mid-January, and includes a drastic proposed reduction to our industries’ crucial and successful incentive program. The Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program provides incentives for film, TV, commercials and video game production to be filmed in Texas.

The current incentives may be cut from $60 million to just $10 million during this legislative session under the cloud of a $27 billion state budget deficit.

RATIONALE AGAINST ANY CUT
Yet in the face of that, we have a great story to tell - our incentive program has generated over $610 million dollars in new in-state spending and has accounted for over 56,000 jobs for Texans. We strongly believe that cutting our program won't save Texas money, it'll cost us - both in terms of business and jobs. In fact, the Comptroller's Office recently released a study that found for every $117 in incentives granted, $1,000 in Texas production spending has been generated, reporting "Texas has proven to be successful." Our incentives are working, and putting Texans to work in Texas.

ACTION TO BE TAKEN
So what can you do? Now more than ever, we need your support. We call on all industry professionals working in film, television, commercials and video games across the state to let their state representatives know your opposition to the proposed cut in support of the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program. If possible visit with you state representatives or at least write them, You can find your proper state representative at http://www.capitol.state.tx.us. Who Represents Me is on the bottom right of the home page.

The Texas Motion Picture Alliance will have Lobby Day on for Wednesday, March 9 at the Texas Capitol in Austin to discuss this subject with state representative. Please mark your calendars and join them in representing our industries. They will announce more details soon, as TXMPA Board members are hard at work with their advocacy firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP and Lawrence Collins to navigate this especially challenging, high-stakes legislative session.

Contacts:
-Frank Kopec, AAF Dallas Legislative Chair and Executive Director, frank@aafdallas.org, 972-488-8227
-Don Stokes, Texas Motion Picture Alliance President, 214-362-0162, dstokes@postasylum.com

The 2011 ADDY Photos are In!

Photos from the 2011 ADDY Gala are now posted on the AAF-FW Facebook page. Find us at AAF-Fort Worth and tag yourself for a chance to win two free tickets to the 2012 ADDY Gala.

And, stay tuned for information on where to get your ADDY Golds and order additional awards.

Become an Advertising Education Sponsor (AES)

Nineteen area colleges will be vying for the District 10 title in the AAF National Student Advertising Competition, April 13 - 15 in Oklahoma City. Last year's winner, Texas State, went on to place second nationally. In previous years, TCU, SMU, Texas State, UT Austin, Texas Tech, Houston and San Antonio College have all taken home national championships. Teams from AAF District 10 (Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma) have won more national championships than any other district.

Become an Advertising Education Sponsor to help students.
Getting an AES membership will support District 10 schools in their efforts to win future National Advertising Competitions. They also support annual scholarships and add bright talent to this area's advertising industry. There are several levels of memberships available, including the $75 Bronze, $150 Silver, $300 Gold up to the $2,500 Business Level.

You can send your donations to:
AAF-Fort Worth
c/o AES Membership
3000 S. Hulen St., Suite 124, #218
Fort Worth, TX 76109

For more information, please contact Lindsay Hendon at lhendon@skylinedfw.com.

Red Productions Brings Home Best of Show at 2011 AAF – Fort Worth ADDY® Awards

Local video production firm, Red Productions, took home top honors as recipient of the Best in Show award at the American Advertising Federation – Fort Worth (AAF-FW) annual ADDY® Gala Saturday night at The Ashton Depot. This is the company’s first time to receive the Best in Show award.

“We were delighted to see Red Productions win Best in Show,” said Lindsay Lee Hendon, chair of the ADDY competition for AAF-Fort Worth and marketing consultant for Skyline DFW Exhibits & Graphics. “Red Sanders and his crew have produced fabulously creative work since opening shop in Fort Worth and we look forward to the Red Productions team continuing to be a strong leader in the Fort Worth advertising community for years to come.”
The award-winning entry featured a series of trailers produced for the Lone Star International Film Festival. In addition to winning the competition’s most prestigious award, Red Productions took home seven ADDYs, including one gold, one silver and five bronzes.

Other big winners at the gala, which recognizes the year’s best in local advertising, included Concussion, which received Best in Show Print for a branding campaign for WDS Logistics and a Special Judges’ Award for a TV spot created for the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. The agency took home the most local honors, including 18 gold, 22 silver and 26 bronze ADDYs for a total of 63 awards.

Last year’s Best in Show winner, Warren-Douglas Creative Brand Marketing, received Best in Show Electronic for its website created for Wright Brand Bacon. The agency was additionally recognized with six gold, three silver and four bronze ADDYs. Ardent Creative received Best of Identity for its Untyed logo, in addition to one gold and one silver ADDY. JO Design and Blanchard Schaefer Advertising and Public Relations were each awarded Special Judges’ Awards for the Arts Council of Fort Worth Annual Report and the Fort Worth Zoo Holiday card respectively. JO Design received one gold, two silver and three bronze ADDYs, while Blanchard Schaefer took home six gold, three silver and four bronze ADDYs.

Other notable winners included Balcom Agency with a total of 17 ADDY awards and GCG Marketing with 13.

The Student Best of Show was awarded to David Heflin of the University of North Texas. Other big winners in the student category included the following:
• Diana Tran of the University of Texas at Arlington, Student Best Brand Campaign
• Aaron Kotara of the University of North Texas, Student Best Copywriting
• Andrew Bui of the University of North Texas, Student Best Art Direction
• Kirby Sandifer of the University of North Texas, Student Special Judges’ Award
• Jordan Henderson of the University of North Texas, Student Special Judges’ Award
• Madison McDaniel of the University of North Texas, Student Special Judges’ Award

The ADDY Awards Competition is a three-tiered national competition conducted annually by the American Advertising Federation. Entries awarded Gold ADDYs at the AAF-Fort Worth competition will automatically advance to the District competition to be judged alongside entries from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Texas. Entries winning Gold at the district level will automatically advance to the National level. With more than 40,000 entries across the country, the National ADDY competition is the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition for creative excellence. National ADDY winners will be announced at the National Awards Show and Gala on June 4, at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel.

About American Advertising Federation – Fort Worth (AAF-FW)
American Advertising Federation – Fort Worth (AAF-FW) is an organization of advertising professionals with a common goal to encourage and enhance the education and advancement of the advertising community in Fort Worth. Formerly the Advertising Club of Fort Worth, AAF-FW celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2009. For more information, visit www.adclubfw.org.

RATIO DIGITAL MEDIA WELCOMES RYAN CORMIER AS DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Fort Worth-based interactive agency Ratio Digital Media announces the addition of Ryan Cormier as digital marketing specialist. In this role, Cormier will develop and deploy a range of marketing initiatives, including interactive strategic planning, search engine marketing, search engine optimization and social media marketing. He will also play a key role in managing new business initiatives and fostering client relationships.

“Ryan not only has a solid foundation in interactive development, he has a genuine passion for this industry,” said Bruce Natale, Ratio co-founder and president. “He’s always tuned-in to the latest digital trends – that’s invaluable in the fast-paced world of interactive marketing.”

Prior to joining the Ratio team, Cormier worked as interactive director at Glint Advertising & Design, where he managed all of the agency’s interactive marketing programs and spearheaded business development initiatives. He graduated from Texas Christian University in May 2009 with a degree in advertising and public relations and is an active member of the American Advertising Federation-Fort Worth.

About Ratio Digital Media
Fort Worth, Texas–based Ratio Digital Media offers digitally based strategic interactive programs to clients across a variety of industry segments. For more information about Ratio, visit www.ratiodigital.com. To schedule a meeting with the Ratio team, please call 817-529-5555 or e-mail hello@ratiodigital.com.

Ratio Digital Media Launches in Fort Worth, Texas

Today marks the official launch of Ratio Digital Media, a comprehensive digital and interactive agency with offices in Fort Worth, Texas. The new agency is spearheaded by Neil Foster, president of GCG Marketing, and Bruce Natale, owner and founder of SiteSmart Interactive.

“GCG Marketing and SiteSmart Interactive have been working on projects together for years,” Foster said. “As our relationship continues to expand and the digital needs of our customers grow, it makes sense to form a partnership to explore new opportunities in the digital realm.”

The new agency’s services will include creative, web and software development; search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM); social media marketing; development and management of online media marketing campaigns; strategic marketing; tactical planning; e-mail and direct marketing; research and promotions (among other services).

Ratio will also offer a proprietary measurement system, designed specifically for regular reporting of consumer interaction and return on investment metrics.

“In today’s ever-expanding digital world, our clients are challenged to provide interactive programs that are not just compelling, but that also drive relationships with their consumers,” Natale said. “By bridging the marketing expertise of GCG with the technical expertise of SiteSmart, we are able to deliver fully integrated programs that drive customer response.”

About Ratio Digital Media
Fort Worth, Texas–based Ratio Digital Media offers strategically based integrated digital and interactive programs to clients across a variety of industry segments. For more information about Ratio, visit www.ratiodigital.com. To schedule a meeting with the Ratio team, please call 817-529-5555 or e-mail hello@ratiodigital.com.

Silver Medal Award Nomination Due

The Fort Worth chapter of the American Advertising Federation invites you to submit a nomination for the 2011 Silver Medal Award Program.

The American Advertising Federation’s Silver Medal Award Program was established in 1959 to recognize men and women who have made outstanding contributions to advertising and who have been active in furthering the industry’s standards, creative excellence and social responsibility.

Nominees are judged by community business and advertising leaders on the basis of several criteria:
• Contributions to his/her company
• Creative ability
• Contributions to the general advancement of advertising
• Contributions to the community

If you know someone who should be considered, please write a one-page explanation of why he or she meets these prescribed standards. Include the nominee’s professional marketing credentials, community service accomplishments and reasons why the candidate should be considered. Be sure to include your contact information.

Send nominations to aaf.fortworth@gmail.com by February 18, 2011.

GCG MARKETING PROMOTES ALLYSON CROSS TO ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Fort Worth-based GCG Marketing announces the promotion of Allyson Cross to account director from her previous position as senior account executive.

Cross will serve as the primary liaison to clients in the agency’s healthcare division. As the chief administrator of one of GCG’s account services teams, Cross is expected to guide the teams on a daily basis and spearhead the establishment of necessary processes and protocol standards. Her responsibilities include promoting and managing senior-level relationships and ensuring clients’ needs and requirements are met.

As senior account executive, Cross was instrumental in creating and executing account plans that fostered new relationships. She brings these relationships with her in her advancement, along with seven years of experience.

“Allyson has continually shown dedication exemplified in her abilities to manage and maintain relationships with clients over the years,” said Neil Foster, president of GCG Marketing. “She has grown with the company and I have great faith in her as director.”

Prior to joining the GCG team in 2004, Cross worked in the Media Relations department at RadioShack Corporation. She graduated from Texas Christian University in 2002 with a degree in advertising and public relations. She currently serves as president-elect/vice president of membership for the Greater Fort Worth Public Relations Society of America and treasurer of the American Advertising Federation-Fort Worth.

About GCG
Fort Worth, Texas-based GCG Marketing is a full-service marketing firm providing strategy and consultation, along with advertising and public relations services, to clients in the healthcare, corporate, consumer and business-to-business arenas since 1973. For more information, visit www.gcgmarketing.com or read the GCG blog at www.gcgideas.com.

2011 FORT WORTH ADDY® FINAL ENTRY DEADLINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 7

We will accept final entries on Friday, January 7, at Branch-Smith Printing for the local level of the 2011 ADDY Awards.

“Mark your calendars and prepare your entries,” said Keith Powell, president of the American Advertising Federation-Fort Worth chapter. “If last year was any indication, this will surely be a competition to remember.”

The Fort Worth ADDY Awards are the local component of a three-pronged competition, which seeks to recognize and reward creative excellence in the art of advertising. Advertising students and professionals are being encouraged to enter their work in various categories, including sales promotion, collateral material, direct marketing, non-traditional advertising, newspaper, radio and television.

Fort Worth ADDY entrants have a chance to win Gold, Silver or Bronze awards in each category. Awards are also given for Best of Show and Special Judges Awards. Entries receiving a Gold ADDY award are automatically entered into the District ADDY Awards competition, where entries are judged alongside Gold winners from District 10 clubs in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas . Entries winning Gold at the district level are automatically entered into the National ADDY Awards competition, the world’s largest advertising competition.

The 2011 Fort Worth ADDY early submission deadline was Friday, December 10, and its final submission deadline is Friday, January 7, 2011. The American Advertising Federation-Fort Worth accepts ADDY entries online at www.addysmackdown.com. Submission costs vary and can be found online.

Fort Worth ADDY winners will be announced at the annual ADDY gala to be held at the Ashton Depot on Saturday, February 26, 2011.