Lamplighters Present AD CLUB of GREATER SAINT LOUIS REUNION

80 current and former members of Ad Club Saint Louis, America’s oldest club of its kind, gathered for an evening of networking and rekindling friendships of yore, Thursday, November 20, 2014, at Herbie’s Vintage 72. Sponsored by the Lamplighters, the young arm of the Ad Club during the late ’70 until the mid-90’s, the party involved a trip back in time when the “Mad Men” influenced society’s attitudes and beliefs.

The choice of the venue, originally Balaban’s, made sense because it represented a Lamplighters’ hangout back in the day. The surroundings had a certain familiar appeal as guests began to connect and re-establish old ties. The turnout attracted not only current members and alumni but also the next generation of Ad Clubbers. This success in reaching out to the past, leveraging the deep history, and rebuilding synergies enabled the Lamplighters to raise approximately $2500, which is targeted to the Ad Club Scholarship Fund.

John Grizzell, Terry Baer, and Bob Vogel served as the event chairs. The committee comprised Bob Kochan, Kim Boyer, Liz Brenden, Kathy Bernard, Del Schwinke, Sharon Tucci, Ken Ohlemeyer, Mary Hediger, Joy Elder, Maria Tovrea, Bob Bess, Jaron Wright, Nan Hartley, Katie Zimmerman, Krista Tucciarone, and Glynelle Wells.

One of the highlights came during a brief presentation by Terry Baer and Robert Vogel. Nan Hartley, long time assistant and then executive director, received a lifetime service award for her dedication and commitment to the Ad Club St. Louis. When she retired, she maintained and preserved all the archives until the St. Louis Public Library’s Central Branch could take possession. A video spanning 100 years of Ad Club history, produced by the St. Louis Media History Foundation, validated Nan’s efforts.

The committee also recognized Frank Absher, long-time media personality for his industry contributions. He worked for KMOX nearly thirty years and subsequently has published three pictorial history books, the latest St.. Louis Advertising.

The Ad Club is celebrating its one hundred thirteenth year of existence, one of the oldest chapters of the American Advertising Association. Its mission is elevating the awareness of St. Louis advertising, educating and inspiring, fostering a community, and celebrating the profession. The vision of the Advertising Club of Saint Louis is enhancing the allure of St. Louis advertising as a product and a profession.

Everyone who attended received an Ad Club logo votive candle to remind them to keep the flame burning, perhaps with an annual event. The committee encourages all past members to become involved and re-engaged in a club that is moving into the next century. For more information on rejoining at the new alumni rate, please contact the Ad Club at 314.231.4185.