The American Advertising Federation-Southwest Florida to reactivate in 2019
The American Advertising Federation-Southwest Florida (AAF-SWFL) will reactivate effective July 1, 2019. AAF-SWFL is a professional advertising club and political action organization devoted to the protection and promotion of advertising in Southwest Florida. Now accepting membership applications, AAF-SWFL is open to advertisers, agencies, media companies and advertising service providers in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry Counties. In addition, the relaunch officially brings back to the region the American Advertising Awards®, home of The ADDY®, which is the nation’s oldest and largest advertising competition honoring creative excellence.
Incoming President Tim Hennessy explained, “AAF is an important voice for our industry. It is charged with protecting advertising and showcasing great creative and talent. Southwest Florida needed a place at the table and now is the time.” Hennessy further expressed, “Because of the considerable growth in population, advertising spend, and new business growth, there was demand to reactivate the local club.”
“We are thrilled to have the collective, creative talent of the Southwest Florida market as part of the American Advertising Federation. To have received such a tremendous response from so many new members, agencies and more in this market is a direct reflection of their commitment to further the community and industry while reaping the benefits of membership within our organization,” said Dawn Reeves, AAF national vice president of member services.
AAF-SWFL was first recognized by the State of Florida as a 501(c)6 in 1981. Southwest Florida ad industry veterans, all Past-Presidents, make up the new organization’s Board of Trustees. Wendy Payton will serve as Chair; other members include Christopher Spiro, Stephen Gray-Blancett, Gary Firestone, Kerri Goldsmith, Lee Susdorf, and Steve Hagewood.
