On December 15, State and Federal Communications celebrated the season with an office holiday extravaganza! It began with an eclectic array of sushi, pulled pork, and brisket, and beverages and desserts to please any palate. Before long, though, the time for camaraderie was over and claws came out during the fast-paced treasure hunt and controversial Ethics Jeopardy, both of which pitted departments against each other in a quest for prizes.

All participants in the cubicle decorating contest received prizes for their efforts, and the winner was awarded first possession of what will become our traveling trophy—an authentic leg lamp, straight from “A Christmas Story” (which was filmed in our neighbor to the north, Cleveland, back in the ‘80’s). The day ended with the finals of our second annual Cornhole Tournament.

While we took the time to celebrate another successful year, State and Federal remained true to our philosophy of giving back and remembering it’s never all about us. For the second year in a row, our aforementioned activities were “pay-to-play,” with all non-perishable items collected going to the Greater Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.

All of us at State and Federal Communications wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday season!

An English proverb states, “A man is known by the company he keeps.” On Monday, September 13, State and Federal Communications, Inc. thanked News You Can Use Editor Jim Sedor for keeping company with us for ten years.

Almost the entire company walked or drove to Downtown Akron’s Bricco restaurant for a celebratory lunch.  Also in attendance were Jim’s sister, Mary Ann LoBue, and her husband, Joe, who drove in from Mars, Pennsylvania for the occasion.

The meal was followed by a tribute to Jim by President and CEO Elizabeth Bartz, along with the presentation of a recognition book with photos and warm wishes from our staff. Everyone returned to the office to enjoy a beautiful and wonderfully chocolate cake.

In 2000, Elizabeth determined there was a need for governmental movers and shakers to know what was going on in the worlds of campaign finance, lobbying, and ethics, but there was no vehicle for that information to be provided in a timely manner. Then Jim Sedor walked through State and Federal’s doors. Since that day, Jim has taken the idea from a small, in-house proposition to what it is now, a piece that has virtually taken on a life of its own. For ten years, Jim Sedor has kept our clients—and our staff—on top of the accolades and escapades of elected officials throughout our country, and for a few hours, we took time to let him know how much we appreciate him.

As for the fact Jim is a great guy and deserving of the praise?

Well, that’s just icing on the cake.