OUR PEOPLE

VISTAGRAPHICS STAFF

Our employees are experienced, dedicated and loyal, and we are proud that the majority of our staff members have grown along with us.

The average employee tenure is eight years, and most upper management has 15+ years with the company.

Our culture also recognizes the enormous talent of recent grads to seasoned professionals. This is what creates the synergy which leads VistaGraphics.

SALES

RANDY THOMPSON

Chief Executive Officer & Publisher

Randy’s education, a BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration), BS (Bachelor of Science in Distributive Education) and an MBA (Master’s in Business Administration) was early preparation for founding and growing VistaGraphics, Inc., a regional media company.

After four-and-a-half years in sales and sales management for an international consumer goods company, Randy took the entrepreneurial leap by purchasing the rights to a local market of a national travel magazine in 1985. Literally a one-man operation working from his garage, Randy launched his first independent guide in 1987, the Virginia Beach Visitors Guide. Under Randy’s leadership, VistaGraphics has grown to more than 30 publications in a 5-state area. His leadership has included a balanced business approach with revenue comprised of approximately 30% lifestyle publishing and event marketing, 40% tourism/destination publishing, and 30% digital media. Away from work, Randy enjoys time with his family; 3 children and two grandchildren on the way. Most fall weekends find him cheering on his beloved JMU Dukes football team. He enjoys a round of golf from time to time but mostly loves being on his tractor at his home in the rural Pungo area of Virginia Beach, always building or working on the next home project.

PAUL BRANNOCK

President & Associate Publisher

Paul Brannock has been a member of the VistaGraphics family for over 30 years and has played a major role in the company’s growth, expansion and product development. He has contributed to every aspect of the company’s daily operations and manages a talented team of sales, circulation, marketing and administrative professionals.

Upon graduating from Old Dominion University, Paul signed on as a Visitors Guide Account Executive in our Outer Banks market. The then three-year-old Outer Banks Visitors Guide Magazine was still developing and evolving. Paul’s dedication to excellence, combined with his commitment to quality, helped him foster relationships with advertisers, community leaders and hospitality officials that resulted in a drastic increase in the distribution and visibility of the guide throughout the Outer Banks. His pursuits laid a strong foundation for the current team, which has surpassed the million-dollar mark in product sales. Paul’s success in the Outer Banks advanced him to the management level for the hospitality division. In 2000, when the company launched Coastal Virginia Magazine, Paul moved to the lifestyle division and has grown and expanded Coastal Virginia Magazine for the last 2 decades. As Vice President of Sales and Distribution, Paul contributes to every aspect of the company’s daily operations and manages a talented team of sales, circulation, marketing and administrative professionals. With his acquired and extensive knowledge of the travel and hospitality industry combined with his dedication to the product line, Paul has greatly contributed to the overall success and stability that VistaGraphics enjoys. Paul is a graduate of Old Dominion University with a BSBA in Business and a Minor in Marketing.

JAY BELLAMY

Digital Sales Director

Jay Bellamy has over 25 years of sales marketing and management experience. He is extremely proficient in the areas of digital sales, SEO (Search Engine Optimization), SEM (Search Engine Marketing), websites, mobile apps and most recently programmatic advertising.

Jay Bellamy has been with VistaGraphics/VistaDigital Agency for 25 years. He has served as an Account Executive, Sales Manager, Corporate Trainer and currently as Director of Digital Sales. He is highly proficient in the utilization of numerous digital tactics to aid customers in reaching their desired audience. These include SEO, SEM, website development/design, Programmatic Advertising, mobile solutions, a myriad of video streaming services and Targeted Email Marketing. Jay has experience working with online display dashboards that includes creating and recommending inventory, uploading ads, priority settings and impression levels. VistaDigital Agency under his leadership was recognized in CIO Review publication as “One of the 10 most promising digital marketing companies” in 2022. Jay is a graduate of the University of Virginis’s College at Wise with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. In his spare time, Jay enjoys fishing , camping, and all outdoor activities. He is married to his wife, Jackie of 18 years. They have a 15 year old daughter who keeps them busy.

CHRISTIE BERRY

Account Executive: Coastal Virginia Magazine

FRANK MOORE

Account Executive: Coastal Virginia Magazine

Frank is a dedicated and enthusiastic Account Executive with VistaGraphics, Inc. having 40 years experience in B2B sales, sales management and marketing.

He is known for the ability to establish trust quickly with his clients by possessing a high level of personal and professional integrity. Passionate in building strong client relations, Frank has a high degree of self-motivation with the ability to analyze opportunities for his clients and make good decisions. He thrives in highly competitive markets and is focused on delivering best results for both his clients and the organization. Recently he was named Account Executive of the year. His greatest strengths consist of possessing excellent people skills, providing world class customer service and building long-term relationships. You can count on Frank to deliver what he promises. Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife of 38 years and their three dogs. To this day, he plays competitive golf having been a member of the East Tennessee State University golf team while earning his BBA degree.

ROBERTA PERRY

Account Executive: Coastal Virginia Magazine

JENNIFER LAMB

Account Executive: CoVa

MISSY THOMA

Team Leader: Lynchburg, VA

As a senior account executive and Sales Team Leader for the Lynchburg area , she is passionate about maintaining her clients’ trust and friendship.

Previously she was an account representative for Lynchburg Living, Lynchburg Business, and Central Virginia Bridal Guide beginning in the fall of 2012 when they were owned by Prototype media. She was made Sales Team Leader for the Lynchburg market and prides herself on the leadership role working closely with new Account Executives. A graduate from Lynchburg College, with a BA in Business, she has spent most of her life in Lynchburg raising her two children. A recent newlywed, she enjoys traveling with her husband. Missy joined the VistaGraphics team in the fall of 2014.

CINDY BRYANT

Account Executive: Lynchburg, VA

Cindy is passionate about the Greater Lynchburg Area and prides herself in building lasting relationships with local businesses from every industry, finding their need and then offering a solution to fulfill that need.

In her downtime with her husband of 32+ years, she enjoys volunteering, time with her furry babies and fishing on the James River. Cindy has had a vast career from Computer Programming at our local hospital to Business Development Specialist in radio for over a decade. She has double A.A.S. degrees and attended Liberty University.

JEFF PERKINS

Digital Sales: Lynchburg, VA

Jeff has a well-rounded background in sales which VistaGraphics and VistaDigital Agency has benefitted from highly.

He was recently promoted to Digital Sales for Lynchburg, VA and the surrounding areas. Jeff has an understanding of the Lynchburg area that is not easily matched. He understands what it takes to find the best solutions for any business. Jeff prides himself on his ability to predict digital trends and has the tools and wherewithal to develop a customized strategy for his clients.

JEFF WALSTON

Account Executive: Brunswick Islands, Crystal Coast

EILEEN SPERRY

Account Executive: VisitVirginia.guide, goWilliamsburg

Eileen is Virginia born and raised with more than 20 years of media experience.

A degree in Journalism quickly translated into a career in media. Specializing in software training, as well as digital and print solutions, Eileen is a familiar name and face to Virginia DMOs and attractions.

NEIL BROWN

Account Executive: Delaware Beaches & Ocean CIty

After joining VistaGraphics in 2006, Neil proved his understanding of the Ocean City market and that he knows what it takes to find the best solutions for any business.

Neil prides himself on his ability to predict the trends of the Ocean City visitor market.

JEFF DONOHUE

Associate Publisher/Editor: Outer Banks Coastal Life, Wedding Guide to the Outer Banks and Outer Banks Visitors Guide Magazine

Jeff Donohue has been part of the VistaGraphics family for more than 25 years.

During this time, he lead the Outer Banks office to becoming the company’s strongest Visitors Guide Magazine market. He was recently promoted to Associate Publisher & Editor of our Outer Banks publications.

BRITTANY PROCTOR

Account Executive: Virginia Beach

JULIE GOODE

Sales Associate: Digital Operations

Julie's role includes management of digital campaigns such as custom emails, Ad Messenger and lifestyle e-newsletters, as well as sales for newsletter products.

Julie was born and raised in Virginia Beach and graduated from Old Dominion University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in Marketing. In her free time, she enjoys reading, going to the beach and working on any projects involving creative design.

MAZIE LOCKLEAR

Associate Account Executive

PRODUCTION

HOLLY WATTERS

Vice President of Production

Holly has been at the helm of VistaGraphics’ production department for 32 years and has successfully built a design team that creates beautiful, quality and creative products.

A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a BA in Arts, Holly brings a creative eye and structured leadership principles to ensure impressive design standards with each product. Through the years, Holly has developed an effective and efficient workflow that encompasses members of the sales team, client relations managers and design staff. By fostering strong communication with all parties involved, she successfully meets and exceeds deadlines while preserving the integrity of the design and the client’s brand. Holly views every title and each client as “most important” and enthusiastically works to exceed goals and expectations. She works with her team of designers to skillfully blend various styles resulting in high quality publications that stand apart from the competition. She tasks herself with consistently monitoring our competition and collaborates with members of our management team to ensure that VistaGraphics stays ahead of the curve— especially with regard to technological advances, design techniques and print and press industry standards.

DAVID UHRIN

Creative Director

As Creative Director, David's artistic influence is seen on the covers of our magazines, in editorial layouts and many advertisements within the publications.

His photography has grown in the two and a half decades in publishing and enjoys exploring new techniques and artistry, whether it's photographing jewelry, food, fashion, real estate and many more. David obtained his BFA from Kutztown University’s Communication Design program in Pennsylvania, with a focus at Buckinghamshire, England for editorial design. David Uhrin has been a part of the VistaGraphics team for more than 26 years.

CHRIS MELIGONIS

Art Director, Lynchburg Publications

With a degree in Mass Communications specializing in Creative Advertising, this background has provided the basis to being the Art Director of the Lynchburg publications.

His creative work ranges from designing the magazines, branding and production for all Lynchburg titles. Chris has been with VistaGraphics for over 15 years.

CHRISTINA SINCLAIR

Art Director, Outer Banks Publications

Christina was recently promoted to Art Director over Outer Banks Coastal Life and Outer Banks Wedding Guide magazines.

Christina has lived in the Coastal Virginia area for over 30 years and has been with VistaGraphics since 2015. She loves working with like-minded professionals, designing, producing and managing projects, including all the Outer Banks publications and Virginia’s Blue Ridge Visitor Guide.

JOSH HARALSON

Lead Designer

Josh graduated from Old Dominion University in 2011 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts focused in Graphic Design.

He started as an intern with VistaGraphics before being brought on part time. He started with the company full time as a Sales Collateral artist in 2013 before being promoted to a Lead Designer.

ROBIN CATHER

Production Manager

Most of Robin's emphasis is on print production and paper acquisition, working very closely with the Art Department and outside vendors to ensure quality publications and timely delivery.

Robin has been with VistaGraphics for over 20 years.

JULIE MATTHEWS

Project Manager/Visitors Guide Editor

Julie enjoys collaborating on projects and cultivating strong relationships with team members and clients.

Julie's previous roles have included marketing communications, project management and editorial services. She attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English. Eventually Julie relocated to Oregon before deciding to call Coastal Virginia home. Julie came to Vista early in 2022 taking on the role of Client Relations Manager.

EDITORIAL / MARKETING / EVENTS

LEONA BAKER

Editor-in-Chief, Coastal Virginia Publications

Leona is a writer, editor, creative, communications professional, food fanatic, news junkie, arts and nature lover, wife, and mother of a college student.

In her published writing, she has covered a broad range of topics from arts and culture to public policy and politics. She previously served as Senior Editor for Port Folio Weekly, Director of Marketing & Communications for Virginia Wesleyan University, and Senior Copywriter for Spark451, a New York-based marketing agency specializing in higher education.

BETH HESTER

Managing Editor of Coastal Virginia Business Magazine

As Managing Editor of Coastal Virginia Business Magazine (CoVa BIZ), she’ll be responsible for helping VistaGraphics grow the magazine, and expand the content and reach of the publication’s digital assets.

She’s also looking forward to working with Outer Banks Coastal Life, and products devoted to highlighting Coastal Virginia’s many outdoor adventure and tourism opportunities. Beth has been writing for VistaGraphics on various magazines since 2007.

MEGAN WILLIAMS

Managing Editor, Lynchburg Publications & Virginia Travel Editor

With a background in communications and marketing, Megan is passionate about telling an authentic story that gets readers excited about the people, places, and experiences that make up this community.

Megan is a Central Virginia native who is quick to tell newcomers where to find the best pizza, beer, and fries in the area (ask her about it sometime).

JEFF DONOHUE

Assoc. Publisher/Editor: Outer Banks Coastal Life and the Wedding Guide to the Outer Banks

Jeff Donohue has been part of the VistaGraphics family for more than 25 years.

KELSEY THOMAS

Director of Marketing

Kelsey joined the VistaGraphics team in 2021 and manages a wide range of digital products and platforms.

Her management includes social media, event marketing, web/email marketing, contest facilitation, lifestyle e-newsletters and more. She is also the Editor of our Virginia Beach, Lake Anna, Crystal Coast and Cape Fear Coast Visitors Guides and a contributing writer to Coastal Virginia Magazine and CoVa BIZ Magazine. Kelsey graduated from James Madison University in 2020 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance and a Minor in Creative Writing. She can often be found behind the camera at our many events, out and about in the community trying local bites or at a local dance studio where she also teaches children K-12.

MERCEDES BETHUNE

Marketing Associate

As a Marketing Associate, Mercedes role includes management of all contests, such as the Best Of Readers’ Choice Awards, as well as client relations for the print publications in all markets, both lifestyle and visitor guide based.

Although she is extremely passionate about connecting with others, Mercedes is always looking for new ways to engage and inspire. Outside of work, Mercedes can often be found enjoying the beach, getting lost in a good book, or diving into creative projects. Mercedes Bethune joined VistaGraphics in 2024 as a Marketing Associate and brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies with a concentration in Public Relations at James Madison University in 2020 and later went on to earn her MBA from Regent University.

HAYLEY THOMAS

Director Of Events

Hayley studied Hospitality Management at James Madison University, where she found her passion for events.

She plans and organizes several events throughout the year including our annual WineFest, Wedding Showcase, CoVa Cocktail, and Battle of the Burgers. Hayley started with VistaGraphics in 2022 as our Event Coordinator.

I.T. / WEB

SHAWN THOMAS

I.T. Administrator

Shawn came on board in 2020 as VistaGraphics I.T. Administrator. In this role, he provides I.T. Support for all company networks, phone and user systems. He has been providing Network Engineering, Administration, and I.T. Support for programs and projects within the defense industry for over 15 years.

Born on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Shawn was raised in Northampton County. Currently he working toward a B.S. in Network Management. In his free time, Shawn enjoys spending time with family, FOOD!, RV’ing, golf, and travel. He is always looking for an adventure outdoors and is a huge sci-fi and horror movie fan. Shawn is a U.S. Army Veteran who served at several stations including Hawaii and Iraq.

CHRIS MURPHY

Web Creative Director

As Web Creative Director, Chris is a seasoned digital professional with over 25 years of experience. Leading our creative web team, she excels in designing and developing visually stunning, user-friendly websites that adhere to ADA Compliance standards.

As a key member of the VistaDigital Agency team, Chris oversees the entire web development process, from initial concept to launch. She ensures brand consistency across all platforms and manages project timelines to meet tight deadlines. Her extensive portfolio includes over 40 client websites, including prominent Virginia DMOs like the Virginia Beach Hotel Association and the Williamsburg Hotel & Motel Association. In addition to client projects, Chris has designed and manages 26 corporate websites for VistaGraphics, our parent company. For these sites, she is responsible for creative direction, priority setting, and inventory management. A native Texan with over 25 years of residency in Virginia, Chris enjoys spending her free time outdoors, camping, and hiking with her family.

I.J. JAMES

Senior Web Developer

As Senior Web Developer at VistaGraphics, I.J. has been instrumental in the development and optimization of all client and internal web projects

She brings technical expertise and strategic oversight to every site, ensuring it’s SEO-ready and optimized for peak performance. With a meticulous focus on ADA accessibility, IJ ensures compliance with WCAG and Section 508 standards while leveraging SEO best practices and Google Analytics 4 to enhance site visibility and user experience. Since joining the Vista family in 2019, IJ has continued her commitment to crafting web experiences that are both accessible and impactful.

ACCOUNTING / ADMINISTRATIVE / DISTRIBUTION / CIRCULATION

MARIA PARKE

Accounting Manager