Dameron Communication's Michael Downer, reviewing promotional campaigns for client. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Michael Downer began working at Dameron Communications, as a public relations freelance writer in October of 2010. Now in his role as public relations executive, he is responsible for handling the publicity needs of clients in media relations, copy writing, and event promotion.
“I am very excited about coming on staff full-time and working for Dameron Communications,” said Downer. “There is such a wide range of clients from practically every industry. It is fast paced, and requires you to use your skills in communicating their needs differently and uniquely for each one. It really is a fun place to work.”
Michael possesses a diverse background and experience, which garnered him two recognitions from the 2000 Communicator Awards, which honors excellence in the field of communication.
Prior to Dameron Communications, Michael was the managing editor for the Inland Valley News. Before that, he served as communications and special projects aid to Congresswoman Maxine Waters, manager of public relations at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science, account manager at Lagrant Communications and manager of community relations for PacifiCare of California.
His work within the entertainment industry as a public relations consultant to both individual and corporate clients has allowed him to create entertainment-focused publicity, special event promotion and marketing campaigns as well.
Some of the entertainment clients he has worked for include: Jazz At Drew, Patrice Rushen, Lance Henrickson, Billy Zane, Michael Gross, Karyn Parsons, Richard Karn, Middleman & Associates, Angel City Records, Promotion Management Network, Sony Music, Nike, Mervyns, Nordstroms, MCA/Universal and Sears & Roebuck.
Michael graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and a Minor in Marketing. He also has earned a Certification in Corporate Community Involvement from Boston College Carroll School of Management.
He currently lives in Pomona, California About Dameron Communications, LLC
Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues.
Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations.
Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, The Press Enterprise, The Sun, The Daily Bulletin, The Daily News, The Daily Press and many more.
Jennifer Castro joins Dameron Communications. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.) Before being hired, Jennifer Castro started at Dameron Communications as an intern in November of 2010, while still attending United Education Institute (UEI).
Upon graduating from UEI in December of 2010 with a degree in business administration, she was hired full-time as a public relations coordinator. Currently she is responsible for maintaining client and company press books, updating the Master Contacts database with more than 92,000 contacts, clerical work, Spanish translation and supporting Public Relations Executives in all functions.
Before going back to school, Jennifer was a stay-at home mom. As a mother of three, Jennifer said she wanted to show her children that it is never too late to go back to school and get your education to better yourself and improve your work environment.
“I enjoy the atmosphere here at Dameron Communications. I learn something new everyday. The office is very busy, and I like that. I look forward to coming here and doing what I can to help or clients meet their communication needs,” said Castro.
A native of San Bernardino, Castro says in her spare time she enjoys being with her children. About Dameron Communications, LLC
Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues.
Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations.
Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, The Press Enterprise, The Sun, The Daily Bulletin, The Daily News, The Daily Press and many more.
One of the projects Erica Velazquez worked on during her internship was to help design a logo for Body by Malaika. Photo by Chris Sloan
(San Bernardino, Calif.) Erica Velazquez interned at Dameron Communications while finishing her degree in graphic design at the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire. She is schedule to graduate in March of 2011.
An internship is a temporary 10-week training period at a company within the student’s field of study. During this time a student is trained to be a professional, as well as taught the basics of their field. Some interns are even hired on completion of their internship.
“If we want to make sure young graphic artist professionals are properly trained, we need to help train them,” said Carl Dameron, creative director of Dameron Communications.
Prior to attending the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire, Velazquez created paintings, textiles and photography. Her work was featured in art galleries in Pomona, Upland and Riverside since the age of 20.
She studied photography at Citrus Community College in Glendora California and it was here where Velazquez began working with the basic graphic design programs such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator.
In 2009 she worked for the Career Service Department at the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire were she created graphic design layouts for all the departments at the college while attending classes at the institute.
“Frank Houlihan, graphic design instructor and internship class instructor, recommended me to apply at Dameron Communications for my internship,” said Velazquez.
It was there that Velazquez learned how to better interact with business professionals.
“I have learned how to work with others in an office environment, how to market to a target audience and how to collaborate with others to create the best product for a client.”
While working side by side with Thom Salisbury, Dameron Communications’ Senior Art Director, Velazquez learned new techniques in Illustrator and even learned how to you use Quark, a graphic design program she had not used prior to her intern.
One of Velazquez’s many projects was to create an identity for personal trainer Malaika Jacocks-Dameron. This included the logo as well as determining what message the trainer wanted to send to her target audience.
“I was honored to be able to create an identity for Malaika Jacocks-Dameron’s company Body by Malaika.”
Upon completing her degree in graphic design at the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire, she wishes to continue her education and earn a degree in environmental design. Velazquez then plans to pursue a masters’ degree in fashion design with an emphasis in graphic design.
For more information go to DameronCommunications.com or call (909) 888-0017.
About Dameron Communications, LLC Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues.
Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations.
Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, The Press Enterprise, The Sun, The Daily Bulletin, The Daily News, The Daily Press and many more.
One of the highlights of Jazmin Jett’s internship at Dameron Communications was meeting San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris. Photo by Chris Sloan
Jazmin Jett learned organizational skills and much more about working for a public relations firm through her internship with Dameron Communications. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Upon graduating from Cajon High school, Jazmin Eboni Jett started interning at Dameron Communications, a position she attained through the ASTERISK program.
The Accelerating Success Through Employment and Responsibility, Inspiration, Skills and Knowledge or ASTERISK program gives students in the San Bernardino City Unified School District an opportunity to work in a professional environment during school breaks.
Jett believes she was fortunate to be placed at a public relations firm. She is very happy to be placed in a work environment that directly relates to the field she is studying at the university.
Jett is studying communication: public relations this fall at California State University, San Bernardino and she is the first in her family to go to college.
“Interning at Dameron Communications has helped to better prepare me to start my college career,” said Jett.
While interning, she learned to be more organized and efficient, became more observant, learned how to multitask and learned how to prioritize. Jett walks away from her internship with a better understanding of working in the field of public relations, and a general feel as to how a business operates.
“I appreciate the importance that was placed into my care,” said Jett. “I felt like I was not only an intern, but a part of the staff.”
She feels that she has gained a sense of independence and realized that she is responsible for her actions. This internship was her first job experience.
Carl Dameron tells non-profit organization publicists how Dameron Communications gets the word out. He will give a similar presentation to Realtors on Thursday, Aug. 19. (Photo by Chris Sloan)
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Carl Dameron, creative director and founder of Dameron Communications, will present “Effective Advertising and Public Relations” to the Fontana/Rialto Real Estate Round Table 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 19 at El Rancho Verde Country Club, 355 E. Country Club Dr., Rialto.
Dameron will advise Realtors on how public relations and advertising can help businesses become more well-known and respected in the community. The presentation is open to the public.
“Carl will help Realtors (or anyone else) help their bottom line,” said Charles Radney, coordinator of the Fontana/Rialto Real Estate Round Table.
Dameron will explain there are multiple parts to public relations, including market research, media relations, government relations and community relations. In addition, he will explain the difference between the advertising and editorial functions of media, such as newspapers, radio stations and websites.
“Effective public relations and advertising begin with market research,” Dameron said. “A company must know who its customers are, where they live, their age, their sex what they like doing most, and what media they use to get their news.”
“They must also learn who their competitors are, and what fabulous product or services they can offer beyond what their competitors do,” Dameron said. “Then they can put together a plan for getting their message to the public, through advertising and all forms of public relations.”
Dameron gave a similar presentation to representatives of non-profit organizations on Friday, Aug. 13, as part of a panel discussion with local media outlets, including the Riverside Press-Enterprise, the San Bernardino Sun, and KABC-TV, Channel 7, Los Angeles.
About Dameron Communications
Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. We are an award-winning advertising and public relations agency that creates integrated communications solutions to increase sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues. We use our communications knowledge and experience to advance our clients’ objectives.
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Media: If you would like any of the photos in the slide show below please send an email to Chris@DameronCommunications.com with the photo id number and i will have it to you within 24 hours. If you require the photo sooner please call Chris Sloan at (909) 888-0017.
Abdul Arogundade, a 2009 graduate of Cajon High School now studying journalism at California State University, Fresno, learned about the business of public relations during a summer internship with Dameron Communications. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.)Intern Abdul Arogundade did not know what to expect from his first time in a working environment; it was all new to him. In fact he did not know exactly what type of work he wanted to do in the communications field until he had a one-on-one meeting with Carl Dameron, the founder and creative director of Dameron Communications.
Abdul Arogundade is a San Bernardino native who graduated high school at Cajon High School Class of 2009. He is currently an undergraduate at California State University Fresno with the goal of becoming a public relations director for a sports team.
Margaret Hill, assistant superintendent of the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools office arranged a meeting with Dameron to advise Arogundade on his career options in communications.
At their first time meeting Carl Dameron gave Arogundade a tour of the Dameron Communication’s office.Dameron introduced Arogundade to all of the staff members and told him the history of the business.
This led to a summer internship, where Arogundade received the tools to succeed in the communications business.
“We are in the getting it done business and no job is too small or too big for anyone who wants to truly succeed,” Dameron stressed then, and on a daily basis thereafter. “Our job is to effectively increase the sales and profits of our clients by increasing the positive perceptions of their products, goods and or services through truthful, ethical and moral means.”
Arogundade took this to heart and put it to action the first day of his internship, when his first task was to stuff and mail more than 300 letters. His second task was to call community leaders inviting to a major city event.
Tasks during the internship were not limited to just stuffing envelopes and making phone calls. Arogundade worked on many projects, from organizing the offices to staffing major events that received Los Angeles and local coverage. He also coordinated meetings with government officials; and updated Dameron Communication’s databases of almost 85,000 general contacts and more than 10,000 media contacts.
Arogundade learned each task he completed was essential to the success of a PR firm and emphasizes Dameron’s saying “No job is too big or too small.”
“Abdul is a very smart young man with the drive and tenacity it takes to succeed in the tough work of communications.I am confident he will do very well in this business,” said Dameron.
Arogundade said, “I am very thankful for the opportunity to intern at Dameron Communications. I will take what I learned and the lessons that were instilled in me from interning at Dameron Communications and apply them to my pursuit of a career in public relations.”
To learn more about Dameron Communications or for an appointment please call (909) 888-0017.
About Dameron Communications
Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. We are an award-winning advertising and public relations agency that creates integrated communications solutions to increase sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues. We use our communications knowledge and experience to advance our clients’ objectives.
Shannan Gonzales, at work as a public relations coordinator for Dameron Communications. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Shannan Gonzales started at Dameron Communications in January 2009 as an extern while attending United Education Institute (UEI). After the completion of her extern, she was hired as public relations coordinator at Dameron Communications.
“Shannan is the hub of our office,” said Carl Dameron, owner and creative director of Dameron Communications. “She works with clients and the team to make sure projects get done on time.”
Her duties include maintaining client and company press books, updating the Master Contacts database with more than 92,000 contacts, clerical work, paying company bills and analyzing the value of press received.
“I enjoy the positive and friendly office environment and the opportunity to assist others,” said Gonzales.
After hours she returns to her most important life calling, being a mother to her 2-year-old son Marcos. Everyday she enjoys the blessings her son brings, from a simple smile to a goodbye hug when dropping him off at preschool.
“Marcos is my top priority,” said Gonzales. “His birth motivated me to focus on my professional career and set a good example for my son.”
Gonzales is a graduate of UEI with a degree in Business Administration. After graduating from Redlands East Valley High School in 2002, she began working for Office Depot as a copy center representative for three years. She also worked for Stater Bros Market as a courtesy clerk, replenished inventory and as a deli representative.
“My prior experience working at Stater Bros and Office Depot helped guide me to the career choice of business administration, for I quickly learned that I have a deep passion for assisting others,” said Gonzales “And I am now able to do this with our clients on a daily basis.”
About Dameron Communications Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues. Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations. Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, CNNfn, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press and many more. For more information go to: http://www.DameronCommunications.com/ or call (909) 888-0017.
Thom Salisbury is the new senior art director of Dameron Communications. He brings more than 30 years expertise in creative design. Photo by Chris Sloan
Thom Salisbury works on an advertisement as the new senior art director of Dameron Communications. He brings more than 30 years expertise in creative design. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, CA) Thom Salisbury has been named Dameron Communications senior art director.
“As one of the Inland Empire’s leading public relations and advertising firms, we are proud to have Thom Salisbury lead our team to deliver the innovative, creative art direction our clients need to win in this competitive environment,” said Carl Dameron, president of Dameron Communications. ”
Salisbury has more than 30 years experience as an art director and artist. Recent work has included projects for the City of Redlands Redevelopment Agency, 1st Valley Credit Union and the Redlands Symphony.
Previously, he was the senior art director for Pacific Coast Sportfishing, a national full-color monthly magazine focusing on sportfishing on the West Coast, including Alaska and Mexico.
“”It requires a great deal of passion and enthusiasm when it comes to providing real value to people who trust me with their message and image, or the media I’ve worked with,” Salisbury said.
“Design is much more than making something pretty,” Salisbury added. “It requires God-given talent along with a bucket load of skills, not to even mention years of practice. These commodities are nearly extinct in today’s environment.”
Salisbury was also creative director for The Sun of San Bernardino County. His creative expertise was brought to bear on accounts including San Manuel Indian Casino in Highland, and the former Harris Department Store. He also served as assistant design supervisor for the Long Beach Press-Telegram and worked with Donrey Outdoor Media in Las Vegas.
Salisbury has a degree in fine art from Saddleback College, and also studied art at University of Nevada – Las Vegas and California State University, Long Beach.
“Solid design is essential, from one-time 1-inch by 1-inch relatively low-cost ads, to an expensive sign or vehicle wrap that will be around for years,” he said. “I thoroughly enjoy making every aspect of visual promotion powerful and effective, but most importantly cost-effective.
Salisbury also serves as the 2009-10 president of the San Bernardino Sunset Rotary Club, and the co-director of its Tinman Triathlon & 5K, and kid’s Triathlon & Tricycle Race.
About Dameron Communications Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues.Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations. Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, CNNfn, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press and many more.For more information go to: http://www.DameronCommunications.com/ or call (909) 888-0017.
Chris Sloan, former intern for Dameron Communications and photographer for the public relations agency and for the Poly Post at California Polytechnic University, Pomona has been hired as a public relations coordinator at Dameron Communications. He is now assisting with event promotion, writing press releases and other public relations. Photos by Matt Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, CA) Chris Sloan rejoins Dameron Communications as Public Relations Coordinator after having interned for Dameron Communications two summers ago.
Immediately after the completion of his internship, Sloan started to work for the agency as a freelance photographer. He is one class away from completing his bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in public relations at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
Sloan is currently a staff photographer for Cal Poly Pomona’s college newspaper, The Poly Post, and continues to photograph at Dameron Communications as well as write press releases and perform other public relations duties.
He was the 2008/2009 Cal Poly Pomona Public Relations Student Society of America chapter president and continues to contribute to the organization as a member.
Sloan is excited to be working at a public relations agency to which he can gain experience in the public relations field and continue to photograph.
“I am very fortunate to return to Dameron Communications,” said Sloan. “ There is nothing more rewarding than doing something you love and getting paid for it.”
Upon completion of his bachelor’s degree, Sloan looks forward to continuing his education by pursuing a degree in photography.
When he is not at work or in class, Sloan spends his spare time as a volunteer newspaper advisor to the San Bernardino High School’s student newspaper the Tyro Times. He is also a graduate of SBHS.
About Dameron Communications Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues.Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations. Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, CNNfn, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press and many more.For more information go to: http://www.DameronCommunications.com/ or call (909) 888-0017.
