The Dump
As I embark on a different path of this writer’s journey, I’m introducing a blog to share those stories usually told at dinner tables, with topics as varied as the guests, the moment or the weather dictates. It will include true stories that range from my college days as a waiter in a Georgetown restaurant, to rookie copywriter for a medical advertising agency on Michigan Ave in Chicago, to co-founder of a thriving communications agency specializing in pharmaceuticals and biotech.
In 1985 two fabulous colleagues invited me to partner with them in creating our own medical communications company among the hills and trees of northern New Jersey. The result, Integrated Communications Corp., proved to be one of the best decisions I ever made. While the three-way partnership eventually came unraveled, the business thrived even while our third partner went on to build another successful company. My remaining business partner is still a good friend 25 years after we sold the company and my life partner—my wife—was introduced to me by a mutual friend at a client of ours. Thirty-three years and two daughters later we still laugh a lot.
All my life the written word has been my best voice, at times describing what is, or what could be, and often with the intent of linking the fleeting moment to more enduring truths. Either that or just for laughs. Ideas became my stock and trade as we built brands out of chemical entities. Words gave form and substance to meetings and events, and I learned to tell stories to engage, inspire, connect, compel and persuade. Advertising done right is an art form, though sadly most advertising is not done right. Not every frog can be a prince.
A now deceased client once paid me my favorite compliment when he said, “You take nothing and turn it into something.” That comment is the essence of creativity, its what my entire journey has been about.
The accompanying photograph of my daughter’s dog (who I love beyond all reason) depositing a pot o’ gold at the end of a rare morning rainbow captures what I’m after with this blog. From ordinary moments arise amazing creations. Welcome to The Dump.