Sam Crooks. Courtesy photo

By BERNADETTE LAURITZEN

Sam Crooks came up with the idea of selling his skills as a videographer to create commercials for clients.

He approached the Summer Youth Business Grant program, drafted a plan and pitched it to a committee as the school year came to a close. The Youth Business Grant program provided some startup funds for his business, offered some suggestions to ensure success and helped the young man with some promotion. 

“What I enjoy most about my commercials is the funny and clever ideas I’ll put in my commercials,” Crooks said. “I think I would enjoy watching my commercials on the big screen at the Reel Deal Theater.”

Crooks is working on an ad for the Juvenile Justice Advisory Board’s Assets in Action program. Crooks has been working during the summer to assist with promoting several Assets projects including Assets Month in September and Cookies and Conversation offered at Los Alamos High School and Middle School, among others.

“I always thought it was fun to take classes at PAC 8,” Crooks said. “When I watched the commercials shown at Reel Deal, I wanted to make my own.”

Crooks charges $100 for a 30-second spot, which includes some video time, editing and his expertise in the field of videography. Crooks then provides a theater quality copy that can be used to contract with the Reel Deal Theater for monthly, semi-annual or annual ad space.

Those interested in learning about Crooks’ services may contact him at SamsCommercials@gmail.com.

Small donations were assembled to fund 11 youth in 10 businesses through the Summer Youth Business Grant program for summer 2014. Additional donations are welcome and distributed through the Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation at 190 Central Park Square, 505.695.9139.

A list of 2014 recipients is available at AssetsInAction@att.net.