Tom Burke was born, raised, educated, and started his own businesses right here in the Mohawk Valley. The son of an Air Force pilot, Tom has always been fond of aviation, but instead of becoming a pilot like his dad, he chose to let his creativity "soar." He grew up in Oriskany graduating from Oriskany Central School in 1983, received an AAS in Media, Marketing and Management from Mohawk Valley Community College in 1986, and a BS in Public Relations from Utica College (of then Syracuse University) in 1988. Following his college career, Tom worked in radio broadcasting until starting his advertising agency, AD-Ventures in ADvertising, in 1991. www.ad-venturescny.com
   As president, Tom is involved in all facets of the advertising process at AD-Ventures In ADvertising, including account services, creative development and production.
     "Advertising shouldn't be a burdensome task, it should be an adventure," Burke says. He prides himself and his staff on simplifying advertising and making it a fun approach for advertisers. Another product of AD-Ventures is Dee Jay On Hold, which provides professional voice overs and music for on-hold messages. www.deejayonhold.com
   On the entertainment side, Tom operates The Dee Jay Network, a mobile DJ company that provides professionally trained and experienced DJs and entertainment systems. The Dee Jay Network has provided entertainment for weddings, parties, trade shows, corporate events and celebrations. www.deejaynet.com
   Tom has received recognition for both his talents and community service including Ad Person of the Year, Follow The Leader, the Silver Microphone Awards, among other awards.     
   Tom serves on the board of directors for the Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce and various committees, Leadership Mohawk Valley, the Business Training Institute and is a member of the Mohawk Valley Advertising Club. Tom and his wife, Dawn, have two children, Aaron & Marissa, and reside in Whitesboro along with their two golden retrievers, Darby & Kasey. Aside from spending time with his family, he enjoys writing and recording music, skiing, volleyball, movies, darts, getting together for a good 'old fashioned card game at Burke's Tavern, and enjoying the seasons and sights the Mohawk Valley offers.
   "I'd rather happily acheive than acheive to be happy," Burke says. "The Mohawk Valley lifestyle allows me to work at what I love to do as well as work and network with many fine people."