Darren Jones of Brandenburg, Ky., grabbed his video camera and won $2,500 in tools courtesy of Ridgid Tools.

The TeamRidgid member was named the grand-prize winner in an online video contest called “How I Build My Reputation With Ridgid Tools.”

The contest, which ran from December 2007 to April 30, invited TeamRidgid members to record and post an original one- to three-minute video illustrating how they  improve business with Ridgid tools. Ridgid chose five finalist videos, which were posted on the TeamRidgid Web site for member voting. Videos were judged based on persuasiveness, creativity and entertainment value. All five finalists received a free trip to attend the June 6-8 Ridgid Roundup Customer Event in Elyria, Ohio, where the announcement was made.

It included social events, product training, open discussions on industry topics, tool-related competitive games, a tour of the Ridgid headquarters and manufacturing facility and a chance to meet with Ridgid employees and executive staff.

“The contest was a fun way for TeamRidgid members to express their passion for Ridgid tools and how they have greatly impacted the way they do better business,” said Josh Sooy, e-marketing manager for Ridgid. “The video contest added an element of excitement to an already action-packed, fun-filled customer event. The feedback from Ridgid forum members has been unanimously positive about the contest and the Roundup Customer Event. Forum members are eagerly anticipating next year’s events.”

TeamRidgid is a new, free Ridgid customer club Web site that allows members to share their insights, successes and needs with both Ridgid and its members. Members receive discounts at RidgidGear.com, e-mailed feeds from trade publications, and the Ridgid Forum in which members can provide and ask for feedback from other members.