David McMahon (Betty)

Like most retirees, I like to call myself a consultant. In October 2008, I retired from the U.S. Census Bureau’s communication directorate as a public affairs specialist. I joined the Census Bureau in May 1998 as web page designer and a Media Partnership Specialist team leader for the Charlotte Regional Census Center. During my time in the Queen City, I became quite familiar with the highways and byways of NC, SC, TN, KY and VA. Joined the Headquarters Staff in September 2000. My primary responsibilities in both positions involved Media, crisis and public speaking training.

Prior to joining the Census Bureau, I was a partner in Bungalow Ventures, a Charlotte-based business communication services team specializing in helping small businesses create and maintain a modern, professional image.

A former Public Relations Director for The Salvation Army in Columbia, SC, I also served as the civilian Deputy Chief of Public Affairs at Shaw Air Force Base, SC during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

No stranger to crisis communications, I've handled numerous crisis situations including terrorist bombings, hostage situations, kidnappings, murders, plane crashes, hazardous chemical spills, tornadoes, hurricanes Hugo and Andrew and a few top level management scandals.

I've been a guest lecturer at the University of Maryland, International Association of Business Communicator’s “Brown Bag” lunches, the National Association of Government Communicators Communications School and the Communication Media Manager’s Association.

Married my first wife, Martha in 1970. Bob Sanctis was my Best Man. We had two sons, David and Darren. Our marriage lasted 27 years. Guess the newness finally wore off.

I remarried in 2000 to a woman that even my sons love like a second mom. Her name is Betty and is originally from Norfolk, VA and has a definite southern accent. It's a shame it took us over 50 years to meet. She is my soul-mate. While we were living in Alexandria, VA, she worked for the U.S. Dept. of Education in the Office of Special Ed. My daughter-in-law is a special ed teacher at North Myrtle Beach H.S. and her husband teaches math and coaches Girls Varsity Basketball.

We packed up and moved in October '08 to the Myrtle Beach, SC area (actually a quiet town of a little more than 3,00 folks ... called Carolina Shores, NC). We invite our friends, past and present, to visit with us if they ever find themselves heading down to the beach (we're just about midway between the Burgh and Miami). I promise our rent won't be too high :)

If you can't consult for $$$, you volunteer, Right? I took a volunteer position as the Public Relations Director for the South Brunswick Interchurch Council.

I also voluntarily serve as the Chairperson of the Communications Advisory Committee for the Town of Carolina Shores, NC.