I just wrote this email to Doug and Marta and for whatever reason, decided to share it here. Doug, Marta and their companies have been a part of my professional career dating back to the early '80's!
The Announcement:
"Since the founding of ProWolfe Partners (which began as Hawthorne/Wolfe in 1982), we’ve been fortunate to attract great clients with challenging work, a talented team of designers, and long-term alliance partners. Together we’ve created corporate communications with meaningful results — and many memorable moments along the way.
Now, the people of ProWolfe Partners are setting off in new directions.
Beginning July 1, Bob Prow and Jo Kincaid will independently serve their longstanding clients. They’ll work hard to exceed expectations, just as they have as principals at ProWolfe. Many of the same team members and alliance partners that they’ve collaborated with on past projects will support them in their new ventures.
Bob has formed ProwAlliance to help his clients communicate with their most important stakeholders by focusing on branding, financial and Corporate Social Responsibility reporting."
My Email to Doug and Marta:
Wow . . .
As I write this, so many images flood into my head. . .
I remember the first time I met you, after walking up the stairs to your small but perfect office somewhere on the top floors of the Shell Building (at the time, seemed like the tallest building in St. Louis). I remember shooting sunrises and sunsets all over the place with you. I remember climbing to the very top of a power plant in Illinois during the flood of ’92. I remember how proud I was to be invited to the event celebrating your becoming an AIGA Fellow. All happy and memorable images.
You and your companies have been part of the fabric of the legend and legacy of St. Louis design and communications since the early 80s. You hired designers and helped most become the best that they could be . . . you launched many careers, many of whom will (or have) go on to make their mark in their own way.
I’m happy and proud to have been a part of it. You pushed me and made my photographs better. You helped me understand and appreciate the passion and dedication necessary to really excel and have impact . . . and you did.
I’m pleased to have been a part of the ride!
Thanks Doug and Marta!
You can see/read the entire announcement here.