Call Out To Dateline NBC

I think what you have to consider is "what is a scam?" To me, a scam is being charged for goods or services you were promised, but never received. AMTC always has encouraged dreaming big, and staying realistic. After all, nothing replaces hard work and discipline.

I have had only incredible experiences with AMTC! And that is why I choose to stand by them every step of the way.

AMTC is not a nameless, faceless company. Even after my training, competitions, and callbacks, AMTC still stood up for me to help find that agent who matched my needs and goals. They truly do desire for everyone to become a success story!

Many blessings AMTC!

Having been in the modeling and talent industries for well over 35 years, owning an agency 20 of those years; I was disappointed to see the Dateline NBC piece presenting only the ugly side to modeling and talent development. Indeed that ugly side does exist, as it does in any business. Yet a number of us exist who truly do care about the aspirations of young people with an interest in pursuing our business. I have enjoyed Dateline NBC's approach to not slanting the news for years. This troubles me that they did not show the positive side with their viewers as well. This is an excellent idea for Dateline to come to AMTC and see exactly how positive this experience can be!

As a parent of two contestants, one 13 year old girl in the summer and a 19 year old boy in the winter, I found AMTC to be down-to-earth and sincere. The seminars were informative and professional, from my opinion every contestant was treated with respect and given adequate feedback. This experience gave my 13 year old enough information for her to make the decision of whether to pursue an acting career, she has chosen to keep with the sports, however my son is now a theater/film major at Stevenson University. The AMTC experience has added so much to his pursuit of theater.

Our AMTC journey began last summer when our son auditioned and was accepted to become a contestant for last winter's convention. Our experience was overwhelmingly positive. We believe the training and experience we received was worth every penney. We have also had the priviledge of working behind the scenes recently and it has increased our respect for the vision and people of AMTC. They work hard to give each contestant the training and tools necessary to give their best performance at the conference. It is a very positive, family friendly environment that brings out the best in everybody.

We are IN SUPPORT of AMTC. This organization has given my daughter Brianna Gardner opportinities she never would have had without them.

At 12, Brianna attended the January 2008 and received honorable mention in the Pop Singer category.

We gained so much knowledge at AMTC through the competitions and workshops. The judges provided constructive caring feedback. In addition to the work they also had healthy fun.

Since AMTC Brianna has:

Had lead roles in community theater productions

Been an extra in a movie called The Road To Emmaus which is being used as a Christian teaching tool all over the world.

One of the members of Main Street Song and Dance Troupe which recently performed at Vogel Hall at the Marcus Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Accepted into the Satellite Beach High School Fine Arts Academy.

We have to thank AMTC especially Carey Arben, Allie, Karen, Jaynie Jackson and Tootie Debenedetto and her local Milwaukee vocal and dance instructors Mark Baker, Ellen Winters, Jack Wilson and Jeremy Nicholai for giving Brianna the confidence in herself to reach out to others and to be the beautifully talented person she is THANK YOU ALL!!!!

We also want to comment on one of the other organizations we had experience with BEFORE finding AMTC.

We were first approached by John Robert Power's program, Milwaukee Wisconsin Branch.

This program entices people to audition saying they will be auditioning for some hollywood big wig, which that part is true, however, once you get there you find out you didn't get picked this time, but if you pay a bunch of money in our case $6000, they will provide the training needed for your child to do better and they will have first opportunity to audition for the people coming in. Additionally they will be able to audition to attend the IPOP competition held in Las Vegas. Which is even MORE money.

Well we paid our money and all the training Bri received was how to play games that is all they did in the classes.

When we confronted the manager they assured us classes would change or they would refund our money. It didn't change and no money was returned.

We want everyone to know that if you choose a competition to go to AMTC is the one to choose. They NEVER lied to us and they were helpful all along the way.

Hello, my name is Steve Terry. I just wanted to share a few words about AMTC. Ms. Carey and the whole AMTC bunch, are the real deal. I have taken my daughter to the event three times. This is the best event I have ever taken her to. She picked up an agent on her second trip. The third time, she got several call backs and we are going to New York this summer to follow up on them. AMTC cares about the dreams and help you realize your dream. The most important thing is, they keep God first. I second Ms. Carey and invite you to check them out. You will love every minute of the event and leave with a renewed attitude. We love being a part of the AMTC family. Sincerely, Steve Terry

Dear Dateline--My son attended AMTC in January 2008. I believe the training and experience he received was incredible. Not only did the competition provide him with real life experience in the field of performing arts, which he has chosen as a field of study and career, he received immeasurable feedback from various agents, managers and producers. He valued the experience so much, I am encouraging his sister to audition for AMTC to share the wonderful Christian learning environment he experienced.

All 3 of my kids have been dreaming of becoming actors and singers since they were tiny. I had avoided all talent searches for years, fearing they were scams.

I learned about AMTC on my local Christian radio station, and felt compelled to take my kids to audition. I did not want them to become 35 years old, and wonder "What if?"

My two older kids were selected to participate in AMTC's Summer 2007 Convention. It was a phenomenal experience! It was absolutely everything that was promised and more! We all consider it one of the best expeiences of our lives, and plan to go back at some point with our youngest child.

My son had the opportunity to sit face to face with the Director of Casting for Nickelodeon! Where else would that happen!?!

AMTC shines like a bright star in an otherwise dark industry!

Hello!

When I first received a call from Adam She of AMTC encouraging me to check out AMTC and invite some of our students from REJOICE! Studio of Fayettiville, NC, my skepticism went on "alert." I knew I had to protect myself, family, and clientele from all "wolves in sheep clothing."

I did my homework, and still wasn't satisfied. Sometimes, the best way to make a judgment call is by experiencing it.

In short, we prayed, experienced the whole AMTC experience, and lived to share the truth about AMTC. Both daughters are signed with agents, working (yes, getting paid), and going on castings for modeling and acting at a national level.

The information learned at the convention in the workhops is priceless...and the whole experience HIGHLY professional, encouraging, and safe withOUT worrying about inappropriate music, monologues, or dances of any kind.

AMTC is your pathway to invade the "enemy's camp" and be a light for Christ...only for those called by God to do so...you know who you are :o).

After our experience, I was hired to be the Dance Coach for AMTC. I couldn't have asked for a better career move if I tried!

Sincerly,

Donna Doss-Spicer & Family

AMTC is a genuine Christian Company under the leadership of Ms. Carey Arban. The members of the company truly love people. I do mean truly! They continually do all they can to encourage present and former contestants to help them to succeed in the entertainment industry. Integrity is at the helm of the company's relationship with all of its clients. How do I know? I am a former AMTC contestant and the company has positively affected my life because they sincerely care about and wants all contestants to fulfill their GOD given potential. I will stand with AMTC for as long as I live for the company is a treasured jewel, completely priceless, in a world that so easily compromises morals without any conscious whatsoever. AMTC, fight on... the good "Fight Of Faith". GOD is with you and forever will be.

Hello, My name is Cassie Allen. I just wanted to take a moment to say a few things about AMTC. My daughter, Macey, attended AMTC in the summer of 08. I can't even begin to say what an amazing experience that it was. I, too, was skeptical in the beginning. But through the course of the "experience" I begin to realize that these people were the real thing...They cared about the contestants-and my daughter gained so much...once we finally got to convention-words just can't explain how blessed we feel to have been a part of AMTC...In a few short weeks, Macey and I will be leaving to go and live in NYC for the summer...Her dream is very much alive-and through much prayer, and AMTC's commitment to her...It may be getting ready to come true. I am an avid blogger-and I blogged during our entire AMTC experience last summer-be sure to check it out. We are proud to be a part of the AMTC family! God Bless...

AMTC = Photo shoot with Glynis Arban + Audition for 20th Century Fox + Interview with casting director of Army Wives...(etc.) DOES NOT = SCAM

Gregory Braunlin

Our daughter attended AMTC in January 2005 at the age of 8, she had the time of her life! Being skeptical at first we asked a lot of questions and did our homework. In the summer of 2004 a family friends daughter was a contestant at AMTC, we attended to check it out. It was a phenomenal experience! It was absolutely everything that was promised and more! The agents, managers, casting directors are the professionals you want to be seen by. If you went on your own to LA and NY, the cost would surpass what you would spend by going to AMTC, and this would not included the training.

Before going to AMTC we sent out pictures to several agents and managers with no response. When my daughter attended AMTC she received callbacks from industry professionals from LA & NY. Our daughter has had the privilege to be on TV shows like Criminal Minds, Out of Jimmy's Head, Independent and short films, PSA's, Music Videos, and more. All because she attended AMTC.

You should take a look at all sides before putting everyone in the same pot. Ms Arban has invited you and your staff to take a look into AMTC. You will have a renewed attitude & spirit of what a positive influence AMTC stands for.

Where to start on what AMTC has done in my life, is a hard thing to do. The story of how I even got to AMTC was all God's doing, but once I got to AMTC, an impact was made. Not only did I grow in myself as a person (now I know that I can truly do this!), but I grew tremendously in my walk with Christ! Going to the AMTC competition in January of 2009, I was just a normal kid going to high school as a senior and trying to figure what I was going to do with the rest of my life. The experience I had couldn't even be described in words...Going to AMTC and being put in front of some of the most powerful people in the world was absolutely incredible. Meeting so many people with so much to give to this world was just one thing that made it for what it was. On top of that, I got the chance of a lifetime to audition for a lead role in a film for 20th Century Fox, audition for a lead spot in a new T.V. series for Nickelodeon, and meet with many powerful agents, C.D's, and managers! Now I am moving to NYC in a couple months, were some huge stuff is waiting for my brother and I. AMTC is the farthest thing from scam...it was the experience you could only dream of!

Sincerely,

Chris Sierra

AMTC is an amazing event and i am so glad that god gave me the chance to experience it. The people are so nice and it is a once in a life time opportunity! Thanks AMTC for helping me reach my dreams!

I am a VIP at AMTC for the past 17 years I've attended 45 convention, it amazes me to see how professorial this origination runs with honesty, integrity fairness with a great many successful placements.

This is a family run operation It is an absolute sin to lump all business together I'm in the recording business and I resent the implications. This is not fair and I think it's a lack of good judgment on your part. It's like assessing all rock artist as being drug attics. It's ludicrous.

I go to many shopping centers find all those magazines at the cashier stand saying malicious thing about singers and actors. Do you believe those rag sheets I guess you didn't think to get the right information. You should give AMTC a chance to prove themselves. It's totally different from what you said in print. It will be an eye opener compare to the others origination.

I believe a retraction is in order give credit where credit is do.

We were very skeptical when our daughter wanted to audition for AMTC (she heard about it on the radio -and we travelled 100 miles to participate). We had been foolish and went to Miami, 4 years earlier, with that awful Lou Pearlman deal. We were checking everything out, and questioning everything. It turned out to be one of the best or THE best experience of my daughter's life. She felt like a star (every child did). She got an agent and now she has been accepted into one of the few excellent high schools for the performing arts. AMTC offered classes to make sure we parents understood the entertainment industry and did not find ourselves in an unfortunate situation. It would be a shame if this heart warming family affair were damaged by any misconceptions.

I'm the Mom of two AMTC "graduates", if you will, and I'am here to tell you that AMTC is one of the BEST talent companies out there!! They have done soooo much to help my 2 boys achieve their dreams. They continue to this day to pour into them the wisdom of this industry, at the same time they constantly assure them of their guidance & loyalty, because they truly "care" Yes, there are those who are out to scam you for money, but if you knew the people who own & operate this company, then you would also know that they run this business with integrity. I have been given the opportunity to meet and become friends with a lot of the staff and I can assure you, their hearts are in the right place. They are more concerned with helping individuals achieve their dreams then they are about their pocketbooks.

When you choose to live to glorify God with your life, as AMTC has choosen to do, then HE will bless in return. The AMTC staff chooses to put "others" before themselves and in return God has blessed them in so many ways. I'am honored and blessed to call them family!! Please don't be so quick to place the label, "scam" on this company until you have had the opportunity to experience them first hand.

When I was approached about teaching a limited class for AMTC, I already had nearly four decades in this business, and had pretty much learned to expect the worst, hope for the best, and roll with the punches. Yes, it can be a rotten industry and it's safe to say that I had learned to "love the art, but not the business." The moment I walked through the AMTC doors, I was stunned. These were nice people! Not just the first one, not just the second and third....I have been teaching with AMTC for almost a year now and will continue as long as is possible, and as long as they will have me. The atmosphere - the coaches and staff - are nurturing, responsible, caring, accomplished individuals who have true concerns for the welfare, happiness, and education of each other and every - every - student who walks in. The is truly a unique situation that I have not previously encountered. This is a safe and professional entry. Carey Arban, her family and extended family, offer a beacon in the darkness. In an industry in which integrity is in short supply, AMTC offers it bountifully. Hey,Dateline,there's a story here that deserves to be told. Take a look at the light that is AMTC.

Hello: My name is Yvonne McDaniel and my son Mark McDaniel and I will be going to the summer 2009 convention in Florida. Mark is a contestant at AMTC and he enjoyed going to the training classes and interacting with the other students and teachers Ms. Jill and Grace St. John-Berger. Mark has learned so much from his teachers and although I am not a contestant and I am Mark's mother, I have learned alot of data. AMTC is a Christian Industry and Ms. Carey Arban is a very nice lady and she always has words of inspiration on AMTC via newsletter. We are looking forward to the summer convention 2009 and whatever else God has in store for us.

Dear Carey - I am so very proud of you! What a great response to Chris Hansen's investigation. To God be the glory as you continue to lead AMTC with the wisdom and discernment that God has blessed you with. Being 52 years young and on my way to AMTC for the first time in July, I have had my moments of doubt; however, I have been only encouraged by the emails, training and your devotionals that I have have had the privilege of taking part in. Keep shining the light!

Yours in furthering His kindom, and hoping to meet you someday!

Carolyn Kennedy

AMTC's motto is THE DREAM STARTS HERE! My daughter Grace is proof of that. I was encouraged to allow Grace to audition for AMTC. I assumed it would be a 10 minute process, in and out, and that would be that. I was wrong! Grace advanced through the multi-tier selection process and then (due to our family situation) was offered a scholarship. A director and myself trained Grace for 6 -7 months. During that time, I checked with the Better Business Bureau many times to make sure this company was 'above board'. It always checked out with ZERO complaints! At AMTC Carey Arban was frank about the mission of AMTC, what to expect, what would be tolerated and not tolerated. (AMTC is family friendly.) I breathed a sigh of relief! Grace, my other 2 girls, and I had a life changing experience at AMTC convention. After attending a workshop entitled, "How to Keep Your Faith in the Industry" Grace decided that this could be her mission field. She would carry God's light into a dark industry. Grace has signed with Elite Model Management-Chicago,The Rock-Wisconsin, Wilhelmina -NY, LA, Miami. Jobs include Liz Claiborne with Tim Gunn, Nike, K-Mart, International Bridal Show. AMTC is the real deal!

I was thrilled to see Dateline do a piece on the Modeling and Talent scams that infiltrate our industry giving it a bad name. As a follow-up, I encourage you to give your audience the other side of the business. Provide research and facts so the general public can make wise decisions when it comes to achieving a dream in the entertainment field. I am a talent agent who has supported and endorsement AMTC for over 15 years.

I was a contestant at the Winter 2009 competition- at no time did AMTC staff promise me anything but their commitment to see me do my best. Yes, it costs a lot of money. Attending was financially challenging...but quality training and top-notch productions are expensive! AMTC gathers professionals from throughout the entertainment industry- it would be virtually impossible for "unknowns" such as myself to perform for such a group any other way. I appreciate the positive feedback I received, learned a lot, met wonderful people. I hope that Dateline will have the integrity to give AMTC equal time and have every confidence that it will shine under the toughest scrutiny.

Hi, I am writing in support of AMTC. My daughter attended the summer 2008 convention at age 12 with aspirations of dancing on Broadway some day. While she did not win anything or get 'called back' she did recieve positive feed back about her dance talent and to continue pursuing it but also that she needed to take voice lessons and become a 'triple threat' to make it in the dance world. We came back and found a voice teacher, my daughter has gone on to audition for and make the top choir at her middle school and is signed up for choir at the high school level. The classes at AMTC were well worth the cost. I probably will take her back to AMTC when she is older as that seemed to be the age they were looking for dancers - 18 +. She was thrilled to get to do the mock broadway dance audition and learned valuable information.

We made it a fun vacation and went into it not expecting anything so we would not be disappointed. They were definately not a scam.

Thank you Carey and all at AMTC.

AMTC has been an excellent way for us to find talented new actors and models. We have been able to book AMTC contestants in music videos, TV commercials and print ads. We appreciate that the event is so well organized and that the contestants we have listed with our agency have been very talented, properly trained, and ready to be sent out to our clients.

We signed up our daughter, Hannah, for the Winter 2009 conference for training and performance experience so she could develop her talent.

We received all we expected/desired before the conference even began. The preparatory workshops alone are worth all that AMTC asks.

Our experience at the conference was also fabulous. We learned more about the entertainment industry than we could have dreamed. Hannah was able to perform for and meet leading agents and casting directors; and develop wholesome friendships with children from across the Country who share a common joy of performing.

Since the conference, Hannah has auditioned and visited with agents and casting directors in New York and Los Angeles with the visits coordinated by AMTC.

All of our positive experiences, I believe, are due to the AMTC culture to do what's right and is best for each contestant. It is indeed scandalous for Dateline to imply by omission that all talent development organizations are some kind of scam. AMTC and its hard working and caring staff deserve better treatment than this.

My daughter attended the AMTC convention 2 summers ago in Orlando. The best thing about this organization is that it is run by Christians. The girls compete in a swimsuit competition if they want to and are not allowed to wear 2 piece bathing suits. No make up is allowed at this competition and they are told not to dye their hair, have any piercings or anything unnatural. I was so impressed with this as it is really just about the talent and being yourself. As compared to "pageants" that encourge young children to look like grown ups the AMTC convention is a breathe of fresh air.

My hand trembled as I held the pen and agreed to sign the bottom line of the contract to bring my daughter to AMTC. Through the classes, wardrobe checks, last minute auditions, etc. I wondered if the end would truly justify the means. Well, after one fullfilling week of competetitions, seminars, Bible Studies, fun with friends both old and new, I knew for a fact that the end justified the means. I would recommend anyone who is ready to get started in the entertainment field, to check out AMTC and their owner. I did. I felt like I knew Carey Arban prior to my daughter ever stepping foot on that stage. I did my homework, I tested the website for truths. I was looking for, (almost wanting to find) the "red flags", but never found them. Our experience with AMTC, Carey Arban, Advantage Model and Talent, and the staff of AMTC has been nothing short of professional. Everything we were promised was delivered. My daughter won overall best actress among other awards, and came away with several call backs, but most of all she left AMTC with new friendships and more self esteem than when this trip started. It is a fabulous place to let kids learn what true beauty is. They teach integrity and character in all that they do.

Wow...what an opportunity to show the good side. I have been working with Carey Arban for 30 years and with AMTC since it was establised. Their are different vehicles in the industry to succeed, and I have been blessed to be a part of a very prestigous one. I have discoverd several success stories such as Matt Czuchry/Gilmore Girls, Mena Suvari/American Beauty, Josh Strickland/Tarzan, Ashley Scott/Jericho, and many more. It's simple...just ask them where they were discovered...the good way.. AMTC!!!

I am the Director of Admissions for AMTC, but that is not where my story starts. I brought my nephew to the Winter 2008 event in Orlando. From the beginning, I was very skeptical. After doing MUCH research, I felt it was an ethical company and I was not disappointed! The coaching and training was exceptional! Stephanie Keel made every contestant feel very special and tremendously well prepared. What truly impressed me was the overwhelming support among the contestants themselves for each other! The entire atmosphere was very professional and family friendly. Nick did get the best possible outcome, receiving several callbacks and signing a modeling contract. But the big surprise was what I got out of AMTC! I have had serious medical issues for several years. Long story short, with God's help, I am now able to do things I haven't done in years! I often travel with search teams and have the privilege of working closely with the entire AMTC/Arban/She family. I cannot thank God and AMTC enough for the blessings I have received! It is so much better than you can imagine! I believe in AMTC and its mission with all my heart, and am blessed to be a part of it! You will be too!

AMTC provides exactly what they promise, a chance to follow your dreams. Navigating the entertainment business is very difficult. AMTC not only provides a service to help you find your way in acting, singing and dancing but AMTC is honest every step of the way. My oldest child, Mary-Charles Jones who attended AMTC 3 years ago could be called a "success" in that she has appeared in many commercials and also two hit TV shows. I have learned a lot and made many valuable connections. I would not need to send my youngest daughter through AMTC to give her the opportunity to audition with top agents. However, I will. The confidence and preparation AMTC gives a child is priceless. I encourage Dateline to come to AMTC. I invite you to compare AMTC to the conventions you previously reported on. Everyone has their own journey in this industry and I am glad my families journey began with AMTC.

Great letter Carie. Maggie and I are proud to be associated with you, and AMTC.

Janet Zeanah

AMTC was one event in my life that will forever be cherished! The whole AMTC experience is something everyone would benefit from.

The people, the business, the things you learn about the entertainment industry are all collegic in my opinion. It was like going to a full year of college in a short period of time. It made me take a step back to look at my life and "then" I realized some things about myself and the industry. To truly be successful in the entertainment field, you have to have a deep desire to succeed in it and the will, along with patience, to go forward. My songwriting is still a passion, but it does not consume me. I think about where I would like to take my craft next. I want to persue it, but life and responsibilities keep it on the back burner. I'll keep dreamimg, planning in my mind, and someday I will sit down with the right people and equipment to do it right. Good Lord willing! In the mean time AMTC is always in my thoughts and prayers. I go there in my mind a lot, and re-live the events. God Bless AMTC, say hi to steph and dave. Janice I'm still waiting for that job!!! :)

When it comes to AMTC there is NO question about its Authenticity.I cant even Articulate the way I want to,to explain what a BLESSING and LIFE CHANGING event AMTC is, but I CAN Briefly say LOOK at the Fruit that AMTC Bears EVERYDAY! Thousands of Success stories and better yet THOUSANDS of people around the World that will Testify as to how much AMTC has blessed them.Whether is Be In their Self Confidence,Spiritually,Emotionally and even Physically,As Carey Arban STRIVES to make sure everyone who walks through AMTC's Doors are Healthy in every aspect of life,Even NUTRITION! AMTC is apart of my life! It Always will be ! And so many other peoples ! There IS a Company that exists to Obey Gods rules and do things in Great Moral Character and excellence and its AMTC !!!!!!!

Jordan Black

I was an AMTC contestant in 2008. My experience during that time was not only educational but inspiring. Their goal is not to "sell" people any false ideas, they wont allow you to go into the competition thinking your going to be a huge star, no matter the outcome at the end of the competition they continue to encourage you to believe in yourself and your dreams.

They want to create a safe, exciting and christian way of introducing new talent of all ages into showbiz. And they're VERY protective of what the child contestants are exposed to. AMTC should not be associated with or as any modeling/talent scam.

My comment is from a parent's perspective and from someone who had prior experience with one of the companies mentioned in your expose when I was younger. Believe me sirs, there is no comparison. My son attended AMTC in the Winter of 07. Of course having gone down that road before, I was obviously skeptical. However, I was thankfully surprised to see that AMTC was completely different from the others. It is a family oriented organization that takes a personal interest in their clients and works hard to see that they receive everything they need to succeed. They not only gave my son the information that he needed to compete but his confidence was heightened. As a result of this experience, he found new talent and abilities that he did not know he possessed. It was just what he needed at the time. We are truly blessed to have come in contact with such a wonderful organization. By the way, my son was an overall winner in several of the events, winning cash prizes and trophies and received several callbacks from agents that were present. He continues to receive support from AMTC in his current pursuits in the music industry. Thank you.

To Chris Hansen at Dateline NBC:

I have known Carey Arban since 1987, when I first learned of her convention, and subsequently have had a fair amount of business association with her, as a vendor, as a customer, and my friend. I viewed your segment on modeling schools and conventions, therefore, with great interest. While it and the items on the NBC web site were well done, they unfortunately have painted the entire industry with the same brush – a serious misstep when attempting to generalize such a complicated subject. I can tell you from experience the stories you broadcast are only a fragment of the picture, and, as is the frustrating tendency of our broadcast media, it concentrates on the negative. In some ways, I can understand this because that is what sells and helps ratings, along the lines of “if it bleeds, it leads”. But I hope NBC will consider another side to this picture and not sacrifice the entire truth for the sake of those all-important ratings. That complete perspective is important to a great many people, and its absence potentially damaging to some very hopeful individuals.

Part 1 (blog is longer than allowed)

Second, ethics has always been the governing principle behind the convention and its policies. Mille and Carey worked patiently with modeling and acting schools to instill their principles, and those who didn’t measure up are inevitably encouraged to make right any disputes or questionable practices with their clients. Many agencies who stray are never invited back. They both applied these same standards to agents and casting directors, and I’ve seen a few escorted off convention premises when ethical lapses were discovered. In every way possible, the executives at AMTC watch over their contestants and their families, who are, as your piece pointed out, vulnerable to those out there who are less than honorable in their business practices. I have lost count of the times I’ve seen Carey Arban take aside a parent or contestant and spend time encouraging or consoling them when something didn’t go right for them. All of this falls perfectly in line with the Christian principles espoused by their company. (Part 2)

I sincerely hope you will take Mrs. Arban up on her invitation to come to AMTC and look for yourself. You and your viewers will be pleasantly surprised.

Sincerely,

Terry J. Stone

(Longer letter is available from AMTC)

This goes out to everyone in the world....

I was saddened my Dateline's airing of the modeling industry and its "scam-like" Conventions. Saddened because they may have deterred some hopeful people from ever reaching their dreams. I can only hope and pray that AMTC will continue to shine brightly in this industry and RETURN that hope to all the bright new faces of tomorrow.

Our event is something that I can't really describe; you have to see it to believe it! It's full of hope, friendship, truth, love, spirituality, dreams and most of all God. We deliver what we promise: the experience of an absolute lifetime. Many of the bloggers above have become not only friends of mine through AMTC, but also family members. To watch them soar above even my expectations is a gift I will carry for the rest of my life. As a contestant, part of the Millie Lewis family and finally a coach for AMTC, I can boldly state that there is nothing I have ever been more proud to be a part of.

AMTC is a loving place where industry hopefuls can sprout their dream seeds safely and ethically. What a wonderful concept! The world is a better place for having AMTC in it.

Onward and upward!

Love always,

Steph

I am a Casting Director in New York City and I have been attending AMTC since 1992 and it is by far the best Convention of its kind. Yes there are scams out there but this is not one of them.

There are actors/models working all around the country because of the learning and contacts that have been gotten from AMTC. Programs such as this like to show "horrors" because that makes for a better story regardless of accuracy. Come to AMTC Dateline and see if your story was unjust.

As a model/talent agency owner since 1991, I have worked with Carey Arban and the AMTC since 1998. While the AMTC event is not the only way for talent to be introduced to larger markets, I feel it is by far the safest and most productive way. The family-oriented, Christian environment creates a positive experience for everyone concerned.

AMTC is a "light" in what can be considered a sometimes dark industry.

Thank you, AMTC, for providing a safe-haven for people of all ages to showcase their talent and live their dreams.

My daughter has known she wanted to be an actress (specifaclly) on Broadway since she was in 4th grade. My daughter first auditioned for AMTC in the spring of 2006 at only 14 years old with the Donna Groff Agency. Mrs. Groff and her husband and staff really went above and beyond to make sure that all of our questions were answered and that Tessa was well prepared to attend the AMTC event that winter. Spending the time in the practices with DGA preparing for AMTC really helped Tessa grow to be who she is today. We went to competition that year and were extremely pleased with not only the amount of extremely talented children and adults that were there, but with the multiple oppertunities we had to attend seminars and learn many new things. We enjoyed the event so much and it was such a big learning experience for Tessa that we went back to competition the following year when Tessa was 16 years old, from that AMTC event Tessa was awarded a scholarship to the New York Conservatory, which she attended last summer and is going back to this summer and will be auditioning for college there! THANK YOU AMTC for everything! We are 100% supportive of you!

My name is Grace St. John-Berger, I attended the winter 2008 competition and competed in Runway, Photo, and Swimsuit. Since AMTC I have signed with Elite Chicago, Wilhelmina NY, LA, and Miami, and the Rock in Wisconsin. I have been blessed to work for Liz Claiborne (w/ Tim Gunn), Nike, Kmart, 4 days at Chicago Fashion Week, and Elise Bergman. I have had the honor to meet with people from Target, Allure, Sportscheck, Bon Ton, and many more. I have gotten to shoot with Jose Amigo, Angelo Kritikos, Kevin Sinclair, and Michael Creagh. Clearly AMTC produces results. I have been able to meet with so many other success stories as well who have done so many bigger and better things than myself too! But more than AMTC actually making the dream a reality, they become an extended family! With every contract I received I contacted Lexy or Carey and they gladly assisted me and told me how proud they were. AMTC is a group of encouraging people who really believe in you and your talents! More than anything however, I LOVE that AMTC is a proudly christian organization, I am hoping to use modeling to shine a light and I am so glad to be apart of a company that is doing the same!

I am a 50 year old African American grandfather who participated in AMTC summer convention 2 years ago. AMTC was not my first introduction into the world of talent search, modeling, acting, etc....I was taken by a local model agency 25 years ago in my hometown. I was skeptical as proceeded through the process and times thought of backing out. I found the entire AMTC staff, contestants, trainers, and follow-up to be totally honest and candid throughout every step of the process,,,even during the convention.

I met former contestants who were working in the entertainment & modeling business, as well major agency representatives. Scholarships were presented form the New York School of the Arts, I may have the name wrong, and everyone had the opportunity to meet agency representatives and present ourselves to those who were interested.

I know a couple of people who auditioned for "American Idol" and they spent more and had one shot to even get selected to return to only sing. AMTC contestants are selected well before any cash changes hands, they are trained and the total package is explained and each person has several entertainment areas to present their talent.

I was so impressed I served as aid for the winter class after I went to the audition and if I had the time I would serve during the convention. If my grandchildren ever show a desire to entertain I will work with AMTC.

It is unfortunate that DATELINE had to portray all model and talent conventions in such a poor light. As an agent in the business for almost 5 years, and an attendee of AMTC for nearly 3, I can certainly say with conviction that AMTC is one of the best out there. It is family owned and operated, and they treat all of their agents, casting directors, and talent like family as well. The event itself is a wonderful positive experience for all. Many of the talent showcased at AMTC come from otherwise smaller markets and AMTC gives them the platform that they need to be considered for larger markets like NY, ATLANTA, or LA. So many of the talent I have signed from AMTC have become successful working models and actors, proving that ALL conventions are not scams-- its just important to find the good ones. The Lewis', Arban's and their team put on an amazing event, and anyone looking to succeed in the business would be smart to attend.

My daughter and I attended AMTC in Winter of 2009. AMTC didn't just deliver on their promises, they EXCEEDED them. Since AMTC, my daughter and I gained representation by multiple agencies. I have done more than a dozen auditions for commercials, film, and television. We would never have had these opportunities had it not been for AMTC. My daughter will be going back to AMTC this summer to compete along with her younger sister. Needless to say, we believe in and support this incredible organization for the education it gives and the amazing opportunities it provides.

Dear Dateline:

After viewing your story on the scam agencies out there, I think you should investigate AMTC. What you will see is that the organization is an outstanding talent search agency that really helps their participants to be the best they can be. My brother is heavily involved with AMTC, and when he first told our family about his dream, we were very skeptical. We didn't know if this was legitimate. We prayed with him, stood beside him, and encouraged him to follow his dream. He went to his convention and received over 9 offers from agents. All of a sudden, his dream took off. We were shocked (not by his talent), but by the encouragement and training he received from ATMC. They stood beside him every step of the way and gave him the tools and training he needed to be successful in the industry. As I watch his continued success, I am amazed and so appreciative of AMTC for their guidance and support of my brother. The high level of professionalism they all exhibited is only a testament to their morals, Christianity, and knowledge of the Industry. AMTC is not a scam. They are the "real deal", and I personally challenge you to show the good side of the industry. AMTC is the best out there. God will deeply reward AMTC for their faithfulness and diligence in the Industry. I just can't wait for everyone in the world to see it.

I will have to add my support of AMTC and reiterate the validity of this event.

I've worked hard to build a solid, trustworthy reputation in the music industry from tenures at Sony/ATV and Atlantic Records to So So Def Productions and my own companies, Icon Studios and Prolific Music Publishing. I would not attach myself nor my name to a company built on immoral, illegal or unethical practices.

In fact, several notable conferences could stand to take note at how efficient and excellent AMT operates.

I look forward to participating in future AMTC events and endorse it without waiver.

Long after the AMTC event ends, the lights go off and everyone goes home I continue to receive positive stories and updates. What is unique, is that these stories come to me first hand. As a videographer for AMTC, my crew is onsite recording all of the competitions. Afterwards, we assemble unique video reels for contestants. From time to time, these contestants call me or e-mail with updates. I have been told by them that AMTC has served as a springboard into the industry. I am proud of my association with AMTC. I wish AMTC and its contestants all of my best.