The BDLyles Files

A WRITER'S SCRAPBOOK OF LIFE, CULTURE & CREATIVE ARTS

Writi​ng

"My interest in the literary arts and writing was nurtured and developed at a young age. I began writing in elementary school, and in high school I wrote a play that was performed as a fundraiser and later won second prize in a national one-act playwriting contest. This led to a degree in English and Creative Writing, creating poetry and short fiction, and eventually a professional career where writing, editing and publications have always been a major focus." 

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Community
Relations

"​​Combining my experience in marketing and public relations with my interest in working on behalf of neighborhoods and cities, I have a dedicated interest in working with individuals and groups that focus on improving communities. I have achieved this for employers and freelance clients, and on occasion I have been asked to serve political candidates, non-profit organizations and others on a pro bono / volunteer basis...  Art and culture, education, urban development, historic preservation, and health care are included among my experiences." 

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Video & Multimedia

"​I have been a fan of television and movies since childhood. In fact, I purchased a quality digital camcorder long before I bought a good still camera for myself. During my career in communications, I have managed the production of many audio/visual projects (radio commercials, promotional videos, presentations, etc.) and coached presenters. I have also created short video and multimedia projects for freelance and pro bono clients... With hours of personal video clips, I occasionally edit and make videos available online. One clip was purchased for use in a documentary featuring legendary director John Waters."

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Photography

"​​My long-time interest in and love of photography assisted in my early jobs as a publications manager, as I selected photos for publishing. However, with the advent of digital photography, I began taking my own photos and soon developed a greater knowledge of and appreciation for all genres... Architectural, photojournalism, event, street, product, portrait and travel photography are included in my portfolio."

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Fundraising

"​My career with non-profits began in communications and publications for The Engineers Club at the Garrett-Jacobs Mansion, where I first became involved in membership and education efforts. This soon led to my work toward the creation of the 501(c)(3) created for the historic mansion’s renovation and preservation efforts. I later worked for a museum, several health care organizations, and a regional theater. Along the way I have helped to orchestrate and implement capital campaigns, fundraising galas, annual fund and major gift solicitations, corporate and foundation relations, grant writing, stewardship at all levels, and board development... Also, I have served on committees and boards of several organizations myself."

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Graphic Art

"​​My interest and talent in visual art includes graphic design for publications, from flyers, print advertisements and brochures to magazines and multimedia. However, I also enjoy a variety of fine art and using my imagination to make my own creations with pen, pencil, paint, pastel, mixed media, and more."

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Marketing

"​From retail sales and telemarketing to direct mail campaigns, event planning, advertising, media relations, trade show activities and more, I have a long history of planning, executing, tracking and analyzing sales and improving customer engagement. This includes work in educational publishing, regional magazine circulation, corporate and individual membership efforts for non-profit organizations, community outreach, and more."

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Performing Arts

"​​I am an amateur performer who has been in the spotlight more than a few times... as a talent show performer, a member of a comedy troupe, a movie extra, a brief and uncredited role in a fundraising campaign video, and as talent in voice-over projects... Behind the scenes I have more experiences — from co-directing my own play in high school to producing or co-producing radio spots and promotional videos, coaching speakers, stage management and fundraising for theater, and of course, being a fan of select stage, TV and motion picture performers and productions"

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