In a world where technology changes daily, Chris and Teri Haler are veterans of keeping up with the curve. The couple has been in the advertising, print and Web design and video fields for nearly 20 years, and they have owned their own company, Current Events Productions, since 2002.

However, to become the multimedia masters they are today the Halers took a long road. The couple graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta in 1991 just before computers would begin to be integrated into the workplace and home.

"Our last quarter the school actually brought in a computer lab, which allowed us to learn the digital side of things. We were on the cusp of these innovative breakthroughs, but we had learned the manual techniques behind the digital graphic arts. So we had a really good understanding of how and why behind design when digital technology first came into play," Teri said.

With just a basic introduction to digital design, the Halers had to continually learn on the job and teach themselves the newest software.

"As technology evolved we definitely learned quickly how to adapt. We have to keep on top of the trends and we're always learning some kind of new technology because have to be diverse," Teri said.

Over the years the Halers picked up skills in Web design, DVD design and video production and editing. Now video-related projects are their most popular service.

The couple specializes in producing wedding videos, as well as transferring VCR tapes and other film to DVDs. Teri said many people ask for video transferring before Christmas, but she said it can also make a great gift for Mother's Day, Father's Day and other holidays. People can even bring in whole VHS collections and have the couple work on the collection a little bit at a time over several months or a year.

"Those personal services are rewarding, because we get to see the customers enjoy the final product. Sometimes, they have old home movies they haven't seen in decades, and with wedding videos, the couples get to see so much of what they missed because it was a blur at the time," Teri said.

Current Events also works with many local businesses. They can produce corporate training videos, safety videos, DVD brochures, trade show videos and webmercials. The company produces the popular local TV show "A Taste of Newton."

The couple also does Web site and logo design and can produce a variety of print products including business cards, brochures and book and DVD covers.
Teri said the business has grown greatly, especially since moving to the square in November 2006. She said the last three years have seen around a 20 percent growth in business every year.

One reason is their ability to help businesses use the latest technology. Teri said they've recently become involved in email marketing campaigns and social networking marketing, including using Facebook, LinkedIn and You Tube. Teri said when they hear about a new service, they test it on their own business first before making recommendations to clients.

One local group Current Events has helped is the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce. Current Events designed the chamber's logo, as well as the site and logo for the Buy Local campaign. They've also served on numerous chamber committees and been as involved as possible.

That's why the couple recently won the chamber's annual Spirit of Excellence award.

"We did not expect it at all. It was very surreal and we're definitely flattered and honored to receive it," she said.