January 31, 2015 To Whom It May Concern: I have worked in the communications field for 27 years. In my experience, one of the most important qualities a successful communicator can possess is something you don’t find on a resume. Call it passion, call it enthusiasm, it is a certain spark that fuels people. Those who are self motivated, driven, engaged have it. In my experience, when it comes to doing business, people like to engage with people who are approachable, likeable and again, passionate about what they do. With any business, success comes when you can develop a strong team. A sense of team play is only possible when individuals are dedicated and accountable. Finally, all the passion, charm and team spirit in the world is useless if you do not have the skill set to get the job done. Many can claim they are excellent writers; I have found those who are organized, systematic and highly detailed always lead the pack. I have had the pleasure of working directly with Samantha Rhodes while she interned with Emerald Coast magazine over the summer of 2014, and she possesses all of the qualities I mention above. She is the total package: intelligent, reliable, curious, skilled, engaging and passionate. If I were building a communications team, I would not hesitate to make Samantha a key player. Sincerely, Zandra Wolfgram Editor Emerald Coast magazine (850) 218-8805