Smooth Sailing with a Strong Team: Cheers and Thanks to the State and Federal Communications Team!

You may have noticed the events tab on our website always displays a nice array of events we’re attending each month. In most cases, I’m there in person—and if you follow me, you know I’m rarely at home. I often take the office on the road with me.

Of course, that could never happen without a tip-top team. Rarely can a 32-year-old company boast about having someone on staff for more than 28 years—but we can. From that seasoned veteran to the newest hire of just six months, everyone knows what needs to be done. And believe me, no one wants me to hear a complaint from a client about our work!

We stay connected with our clients all year long. Even when I’m traveling, our team ensures every compliance need is handled promptly and professionally. The mighty crew at State and Federal Communications is always available to help.

That level of service doesn’t happen by accident—it takes training and trust. Our research managers don’t rely solely on a state’s website when rules change; they’ve built strong relationships with staff across the states to confirm details and clarify updates.

The same is true for our compliance team. We know our clients travel frequently, and while many states accept electronic filings, some still require paper submissions. We make sure every report is filed on time—and can be sent anywhere in the world for signature.

Our behind the scenes teams—business development, finance, IT, and HR—keep everything running efficiently and smoothly. After more than 32 years leading this company, I can say we’re more structured, focused, and collaborative than ever.

My ultimate goal has always been to ensure our team speaks proudly of this company and the benefits we provide when they talk with their families.

All work and no play can wreak havoc on work-life balance. So I’m happy to share that I’m writing this from aboard Sea Dream, sailing from Rome to Nice and on to Málaga. I’ll be back next week, confident that the team has everything well in hand.

And one last note—I voted before leaving for vacation. Don’t forget: Election Day is November 4th. Let’s all do our part to Keep US Strong.

Thanks.

EB

@elizabethbartz

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I walked into my first State Government Affair Council (SGAC) Leaders Policy Conference in 2000 at the WigWam Resort in Arizona. I was stunned! The senior executives of our clients were at that meeting. I was having a Romper Room moment.

And I have never missed a Leaders Policy Conference since then.

Here is the skinny on SGAC. It is the premier national association for multiple state government affairs professionals for major U.S. corporations, trade associations, and service providers, and it celebrated its 50th anniversary earlier this year.

SGAC offers meaningful ways for members to get more involved in the community. Whether you are looking to expand your network, develop professionally, or help shape the future of our organization — there is a place for you.

State and Federal Communications encourages its staff to enroll in the professional certificate program and the advanced certificate program. These programs demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession.

The National Summit held in the spring of every year is specifically designed to offer educational programming, best practices, and engaging sessions for those in attendance.

The crème de la creme program is the Leaders Policy Conference held right before Thanksgiving with six (6) of the legislative leaders from every state eligible to attend. The legislators and SGAC members meet to discuss upcoming sessions and topics. It truly is my #1 favorite conference to attend.

Find out more about State Government Affairs Council at www.sgac.org and hope to see you in Naples, Florida.

Thank you.

Elizabeth Z. Bartz

@elizabethbartz

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

Women in Government Relations (WGR) will celebrate its 50th anniversary at its annual conference in Washington, DC, September, 18th and 19th. The organization is expecting more than 300 women in advocacy for leadership development, policy insights, and networking.

Attendees will expect inspiring keynotes and breakout sessions focused on outreach, engagement, governments affairs, and career growth. Specific sessions include grassroots advocacy, public speaking, and executive presence tailored for women in government relations.

This conference marks a significant milestone for WGR, celebrating its 50th anniversary and honoring the contributions of women in government relations.

State and Federal Communications is a sponsor and an integral participant in the program. If you have an interest in attending, please go to www.wgr.org for additional information and registration materials.

Until next month, please take advantage of professional development opportunities. In this case, WGR does not want cost to be a barrier. The 1975 Fund offers support for WGR membership, event registration, and conference attendance. Check it out.

Elizabeth Z. Bartz

@elizabethbartz

For 26 of State and Federal Communications 32 years, it has been a part of the National Conference of Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit. This year we will be with NCSL to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

If you are in Boston, please check out the Learning Hub in the Exhibit Hall Tuesday, August 5th at 3 pm.

We are excited having Nola Werren, Esq. lead a session on “Compliance in the States: Spotlight on Political Giving.” Nola joined State and Federal Communications May 1997 and has been the company’s prime contact when our clients have direct corporate contributions questions, including vetting them and assisting with disclosure.

Plus we are joining NCSL, State Government Affairs Council (SGAC), and Women in Government Relations (WGR) as they all celebrate their respective 50th anniversaries.

NCSL Legislative Summits are not for the weary. We are up in the morning having breakfast together so we can review that day’s activities. The day ends after a number of receptions and late night events and we are dragging our bodies back to our rooms to rest before the day’s events.

We would not give it up for anything. It is the event where we see the lion’s share of our clients and always meet our future clients.

Watch for our activities on our digital media platforms…And, plan to join us in 2026 in Chicago where we have already chosen our space in the exhibit area.

Thank you.

EB

What started in 1993 has grown into a thriving business thanks to our incredible clients, resolute team, and supportive community.

In 1993, we opened our doors with a clear vision and a strong sense of purpose: to provide outstanding service, build trusted relationships, and make a lasting impact in our industry and community. Now, 32 years later, we are proud to celebrate more than just our longevity—we are celebrating the journey, the people, and the partnerships which brought us here.

Over the past three decades, we have weathered industry shifts, embraced innovation, and adapted to change—all while staying true to the core values that define us: integrity, excellence, and commitment. From our earliest days to our latest milestones, our success has been fueled by the trust of our clients and the dedication of our incredible team.

We know staying in business for 32 years is not just about doing good work, it is about building lasting relationships. Many of our clients have been with us for years, and some since the very beginning. That loyalty and support mean everything to us, and we do not take it for granted.

As we reflect on our journey, we are proud of what we have accomplished: the projects we have delivered, the problems we have helped solve, and the lives we have touched along the way. But we also see this anniversary as a time to look forward—with fresh goals, renewed energy, and an even stronger commitment to those we serve.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of our story—our clients, partners, staff, and friends. Here is to 32 years of resilience and growth—and to many more chapters still to be written.

Thank you for being part of our story and for making this possible.

At State and Federal Communications, we equate Joseph May with Corporate Social Responsibility. Joe started on the staff in 2007 working in our social media department. He took—what I call a brief leave of absence to train as a hospital chaplain in 2017. He realized it was not the full-time position he needed and returned to State and Federal, in our new department of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). And nothing has been the same.

We have defined CSR as our company’s efforts to operate in an ethical and sustainable way, considering its impact on society, the environment, and the economy. It goes beyond simply making a profit – it is about doing business in a way that benefits people and the planet.

This month, you will receive our 2024 Annual Report on our corporate social responsibility programs. It will show how State and Federal Communications has been involved locally, in the states, and nationally to show how we are corporate citizens wherever we go.

The work we do with United Way Summit/Medina is second to none. UWSM can count on us to help with donations to students with school supplies. We make sure our Akron Canton Foodbank and Good Samaritans have the food and help needed to distribute food to those in need. There are so many ways we can all help.

What we have found about CSR is easy to list:

• CSR improves brand reputation and trust.
• CSR increases customer and employee loyalty.
• CSR reduces regulatory and legal risks.
• CSR opens new market opportunities.
• CSR enhances long-term profitability.

In short, CSR is about businesses being good corporate citizens—not just focusing on what they can gain, but also on how they can give back.

We hope you enjoy our 2024 Annual Report. Call us at 330-761-9960 if you do not receive it—either digitally or printed. We will share it with everyone.

Until next month, enjoy your month.

Thank you.

Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

In today’s fast-paced world, longevity in a single organization is increasingly rare. That is why it is both an honor and a privilege to celebrate the great staff who have dedicated years to State and Federal Communications. The unwavering commitment, loyalty, and professionalism have left a lasting mark on our team and culture.

Since joining the staff, everyone has embodied the values that define who we are, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and service. From the early days in their roles to their current position this group has grown alongside the company, witnessing its milestones and playing a key role in many of them.

I receive many calls and emails describing our staff as people who lead by example, with a calm presence, a wealth of institutional knowledge, and a readiness to mentor others. Whether it is navigating challenging projects, training new staff, or simply offering a kind word of encouragement, the presence of the team has been a constant source of strength.

Longevity like this does not just happen, it is the result of passion, perseverance, and a deep-rooted belief in the work being done. It also speaks to the kind of workplace culture that values people as much as performance.

We will recognize our entire staff in September. Until then we extend our deepest gratitude for the decades of excellence and dedication. Hail to a legacy which inspires us all—and to the years still ahead.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

To quote Ellie Shaw from American Express, #FirstWoman is leading the Public Affairs Council in its 70-year history…And, I love it.

In October 2024, the Public Affairs Council announced Nneka Chiazor would serve as the organization’s next President. She follows Doug Pinkham who retired January 1st, thereby moving my status up as the second oldest member of the Council, next to Ken Gross!

The minute she was announced, I connected with her on LinkedIn; I sent an email congratulating her; I connected her with Gamble Hayden who had planned to be at Institute, but weather prevented her attending; and I invited her to join me for dinner at The Advocacy Conference. You know what she did next? She invited me to dinner at the PAC Conference!!! She wanted to get a small group of board members together to talk about their experiences with the Council.

Just so you know, I am usually the inviter, not the invitee.

I enjoy getting to know her, talking with her, and talking about my experiences. She has been readily available when needed and I appreciate she has a council staff member with her to make sure she has collected all the information from our conversations.

Prior to joining the Council, Chiazor served as Market Vice President at Cox Communications. She brought more than two decades of experience in communications and public affairs to her new role. At Cox, Chiazor leads a multimillion-dollar operation with more than 1,200 employees representing one of the company’s top five markets, fostering a culture to drive positive business outcomes and excellence. Prior to being promoted in this business leadership role, she also served as Vice President of Government and Public Affairs at the company. Before joining Cox, Chiazor spent 14 years at Verizon Communications, where she held several leadership roles, including Vice President of Public Policy. Chiazor was a member of the Council’s Board of Directors from 2018 to 2023.

I believe her next formal PAC appearance will be at the Spring Executive Board Dinner and Meeting April 23rd and 24th. Introduce yourself to Nneka. You will find you have a new friend.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

State and Federal Communications is 31 years old and, I believe, this is our third values statement. We are in the middle of our EOS program—Entrepreneurial Operating System—where we dissect how the company operates. One of our first major assignments is to create our Core Values.

This was not an easy assignment. We had a lot of suggestions and worked it down to what we have now.

1. Clients First—This is #1. We listen to every suggestion made by you to see if we can incorporate updates to our website and compliance system.
2. Commitment to Excellence is very important to us. You subscribe to find out what you can and cannot do. Our work is done because of our real research and not AI.
3. Solutions Oriented means we want to help you with your government relations work and not just hide under the wire. Again, this is done because everyone in our compliance department knows how to do research and obtain correct information.

We will introduce our updated website next month and know you will love it.

a. More Intuitive Search Features – We have redesigned our State and Federal Communications website (www.stateandfed.com) to give you better user experience. The website is more intuitive and user-friendly, and we have also significantly upgraded our search functionality. You will also be able to bookmark specific pages rather than just states and jurisdictions.

b. Upgraded Security – We have invested in upgrading State and Federal Communications security infrastructure to SOC 2 compliant servers to ensure the highest level of protection for our users. This gives you the confidence that we have provided the needed security for you — our customers, partners, and stakeholders – as you navigate our website at www.stateandfed.com.

c. Ease of Use – Tracks recently viewed pages – The State and Federal Communications website is now easier to navigate and use, and we have added a convenient “recently viewed” feature to help quickly return to pages already visited.

d. Tracks Most Current Changes – The State and Federal Communications website is constantly updated to reflect the most current changes, which are available with one click.

e. Increased Speed in Navigation – We have optimized the State and Federal Communications website for faster and more responsive navigation, optimizing the use of your time and making your work more efficient.

Stay tuned. We will be conducting in person training on our site in DC and provide everyone the opportunity to take a tour of our website.

In the meantime, rest well … We have this under control.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

On January 20, 2025, the 47th President of the United States was sworn into office…And, there has not been a quiet day since.

I am not taking this political at all. You can agree or not agree. Regardless of your side, it is time to step up and make sure you have facts before spouting opinions.

On my personal Facebook page, I usually write, “My page, my opinion.” I have my beliefs and have no problem conveying them to my community. If anyone does not agree they can certainly have their own post.

But, people, there are changes being made and, just this week, it seemed to affect many people. On Wednesday, I received emails from the Greater Akron Chamber and the Akron Urban League concerned about the federal grants they both might not receive.

It will involve all of us opening our pocketbooks to help organizations we support just a little more. More than ever, public universities will ask for your support to help provide scholarships to students if work-study programs are cut. If the order includes the Older Americans Act, it “would  halt service to millions of vulnerable seniors who have no other means of purchasing or preparing meals,” Meals on Wheels said in a statement to CBS MoneyWatch. “The lack of clarity is creating chaos for Meals on Wheels providers not knowing whether they should be serving meals today.”

It is a lot to comprehend, but we can get through this, as we always do. I can do without ordering more clothes, which would make my husband incredibly happy, if it helped to make contributions to nonprofit organizations in need of assistance.

Let us step up and help our brothers and sisters where needed. This is our way of showing the country we can get through all the changes being made not only on a federal level but also in all our states.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

Every month, Gamble Hayden provides a column about DEI and our efforts at State and Federal Communications. This month is no exception. And, now more than ever, we are sticking with it because we are reading all over the country of corporations dumping DEI programs.

Even my favorite Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., the CEO of SHRM, has dropped Equity from its Inclusion and Diversity program.

All I am asking is you read Gamble’s columns every month to learn how you can stay involved.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year. See you soon.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz 
@elizabethbartz

While predicting specific events in 2025 is difficult, we can anticipate some exciting developments across various fields based on current trends and progress. Here are some good things we are working on at State and Federal Communications.

Technological Advancements

• Website: For the better part of 2024 and going into 2025, State and Federal Communications has been working on updating its website. We know it is important to stay on top of technology to help our clients navigate the website more efficiently. We will provide a lot of opportunities for you to see the changes being made.
• Search Engine Optimization: SEO is the process of improving the quality and quantity of website traffic to www.stateandfed.com from search engines. SEO targets unpaid traffic — or organic results — rather than paid traffic. This originates from various searches such as images, video, news, and industry searches. Basically, when you input key words, your search will take you to www.stateandfed.com.
• FedALERTS^TM: After our work on the website is done, we will upgrade our FedALERTS program to help you with your federal compliance work. While there are challenges ahead, 2025 has the potential to be a year of positive change, driven by great technological advancements.

Stay tuned to other developments we have planned, especially for Corporate Social Responsibility.

In the meantime, on behalf of this great team at State and Federal Communications, we wish you a happy holiday season and a great New Year.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

I learned a long time ago people donate resources to three, five at the most, organizations. In my case, those three are the Greek Orthodox church, Kent State University, and United Way of Summit/Medina (UWSM) — not in that order.

Helping the United Way can be a great way to make a positive impact on your community. United Way works on various issues such as education, financial stability, and health, and they collaborate with local organizations to create long-term solutions.

Many companies partner with United Way to organize workplace giving campaigns. We have a great workplace giving program. If your workplace hosts one, you can get involved by contributing financially or helping to promote the campaign to your colleagues. I currently serve on the UWSM Executive Committee and in 2023/2024, I was the campaign chair helping to bring in new workplace campaigns.

Let me say State and Federal Communications’ work with United Way started decades ago. We had just hired Nola Werren to the staff and she asked why we didn’t donate to United Way. Her father, Chuck Hogan, had led the United Way in Trumbull County. I called Bob Kulinski, then president of United Way in Summit County and our program started.

We built our workplace campaign after speaking with other leaders in Akron. We learned from a past campaign chair about the Fair Share + Program. This took the UW Fair Share amount — average 1.5% of someone’s salary — and added $1 per paycheck. In our case, which would be $24 more a year.

The local United Way provided a free PTO day at Christmas if they brought in 100% participation. We adjusted it a bit and now provide the day before Thanksgiving off for 100% participation. We reached it most years, but we did not in 2024. It really is okay; our campaign exceeded all other goals.

There are a lot of ways to help United Way. Some include:

• Volunteering your time — United Way offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. You can help by participating in community service projects, mentoring, tutoring, or assisting with special events. My staff particularly likes Stuff the Bus and Read-to-Me day.
• Advocate — This is easily done by spreading awareness about United Way’s mission by sharing their work on social media, writing to local leaders, or organizing events promoting their initiatives.
• Join a committee — If you are interested in a leadership role, consider joining one of United Way’s committees or their board. This is a way to contribute your professional expertise to help the organization succeed.

State and Federal just finished its 14th Annual Donuts and Cider campaign. We started this to add to what we were pledging to UWSM. We take orders from the community and Joe May and Nicolette Koozer lead the team to set up our table on Halloween Day. We donate all sales to UW. It does not bring in a lot, but we usually donate $1,000 to UWSM and a lot of people enjoy delicious donuts and apple cider.

What can I tell you about our company’s campaign, which just ended:

• 43 people pledged $65,022
• 22 people pledged Fair Share +
• 30 people pledged at leader levels starting at $500

People have their thoughts about the United Way. All that is known is in Summit/Medina County we are making changes with our Bold Goals, which are:

1. Ready for Success — 65% of Akron Public School third graders read at or above grade level.
2. Youth Success — College and Career Readiness where 90% of APS high schoolers graduate in 4 years, with 60% college/career ready and Youth Opportunities and Success where 60% of Akron youth employed or active in extracurriculars.
3. Financial Empowerment — 11,000 people in Summit County and 2,500 people in Medina County.
4. Health Equity — Reduce the Black infant mortality rate in Summit County to 6 per 1,000 live births.

There are 11,000 United Ways in this country. Find yours and make a difference.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz

In the midst of a turbulent political landscape, every four years we are reminded the choice we make at the ballot box shapes our country’s course for the next generation. This November’s presidential election is no exception — the stakes are higher than ever before.

We have serious issues, and we need serious people heading all levels of our governments (Yes, The American President from 1995 is one of my favorite movies). We need to talk about climate change, healthcare, economic inequality, housing, reproductive rights, and immigration. These are not issues we can keep pushing off to another year or another decade.

Do not even get me started on the U.S. Supreme Court and the long-term influence it has on all of us. Take a look at the Justices. They are not spring chickens. And let us get some ethnic reform for them.

Unlike any midterm election, this one carries a weight affecting us globally due to our position in world politics. This election will impact different demographics — young voters, marginalized communities, and different economic classes. It is not just for us. Remember everyone in your circle. For me, it definitely includes my daughter, son-in-law, two grandsons, and three nephews. They will never hear me say I did not think it was important to vote or get involved.

This November, the choice is clear: vote not just for yourself but for the future of your community, your country, and your planet. Every vote is a thread in the fabric of democracy, and in this election, more than ever, that fabric needs your voice.

Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz   
@elizabethbartz