Meet Eric Bergstrom, Patch's New Advertising Manager

is Patch's new advertising manager for San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point and Aliso Viejo.

But he's not exactly new to the area. He’s lived in San Juan Capistrano since 1983, so he knows the neighborhood.

Bergstrom has worked in advertising since he graduated from Cal State Fullerton with his degree in marketing. His first position was the director of client services for an advertising agency called Rogers, French & Company in Newport Beach. He joined Patch in May 2012.

In his free time, Bergstrom enjoys the beach, working out at , taking his son Alec surfing and trying out new restaurants in his neighborhood. You can see him around San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point and Aliso Viejo, introducing Patch to businesses and consumers alike. Feel free to say hi and ask him about your Patch!

Here's a little bit about Eric:

Patch: As an advertising manager, what's the best part of your job?

Eric Bergstrom: Helping local start-ups, small- and medium-size businesses grow and gain exposure. It’s fun to witness business owners who are new to advertising grow their business and discover the power of marketing done right. Hearing that they increased their profit margins and that customers are coming into their stores because they saw their ad on Patch gives me a warm feeling.

Patch: What's the best way for people to contact you about advertising on Patch?

Bergstrom: In person is always best. As an ambassador for Patch, I'm always at various Chamber of Commerce events and local happenings. However, Patch has kept its people well stocked with technology. I always have my phone with me: (949) 701-6640. Email is great too: eric.bergstrom@patch.com

Patch: What do you find special about Patch?

Bergstrom: Patch is a great tool to keep in touch with your community and to stay aware of what is happening in your neighborhood. Patch is always current and relevant. It is a perfect tool for people to use to reach out to their communities and get involved. I love that we have the “Give Five” initiative [that encourages all Patch employees to spend five days out of the year volunteering in their community]. It feels good to give back to your community.

Patch: What are your personal interests? What do you love about Southern California the most?

Bergstrom: I love to be outdoors, and I love all sports. I like to watch Little League games, major league games, football, baseball, basketball, volleyball, Olympic sports, EVERYTHING. And I love our communities.  We are blessed to be in the best place in America to live.