As 2008 ended, The Write Place (WP) hired an additional graphic artist, who will add another creative mind to the mix. Throughout the year, the company also built partnerships with web site experts offering specialized marketing and technical skills. Additionally, a fledgling book-publishing service attracted new authors, prompting The Write Place to build knowledge of the publishing industry.
Staff member added
Victoria (Tori) Watson has signed on to assist The Write Place part-time in 2009 as she completes a BFA in Graphic Design and a BS in Journalism and Mass Communications. She comes to The Write Place highly recommended and we are impressed by the range and quality of her portfolio. Tori will join the WP to provide timely response to customer needs during peak workloads-assistance that is needed as WP services to current clients and customer base both continue to grow.
Tori joins WP veteran staff members Carol Van Klompenburg, Alexis Thomas, Kathie Evenhouse, Donna Biddle, and Lynn Cutler. Carol, Kathie, and Lynn work from Pella. Alexis is based in Macomb, Illinois, and Donna in Kearney, Nebraska.
New Web site services available
The WP continues to offer web site creation through a partnership with Joel Vander Molen of VMT in Pella. In the past year, two Chicago, Illinois, technicians, Rob Hammel and Anthony Nelson, also assisted the WP with web site design, including custom animation and 3D modeling. And, as more clients count on their Web sites to target specific audiences and reach potential customers, specialized search engine optimization (SEO) services are offered through Garrick Baxter of Pella.
Author services expand
Interest in WP book services increased following the writing and publication of In Search of a Better Way for Vermeer Corporation's 40th anniversary. We assisted Charles Schafer, MD, in publishing Health and Humor, a book he is promoting by e-mailing copies to bookstores across the country. Alan Van Bodegraven's delightful essay collection, Adventures in Contemporary Yucatan is scheduled for release early in 2009.
The Write Place already plans work on at least four other books in 2009. The increased interest in publishing services is partially due to the availability of print-on-demand technology that has made the process more affordable for both individuals and for companies. The WP offers a free 15-minute consultation and preliminary estimate for its book services.
Demand strong for basic business services
Even in a lean economy, companies know that the need for good communication remains strong. The WP added several newsletter clients in 2008, and with the addition of a new staff member, has the capability to add more in 2009-along with brochures, direct mail pieces, catalogs, news releases, web sites, English-to-Spanish translation, and more.
The Write Place has been serving the communications needs of clients in the Midwest since 1995.
