20+ years

Rocco founded the firm of Pugliese Associates in 1980 working from a small office in Harrisburg with a single client. The firm now maintains offices in Harrisburg and Philadelphia with close to 50 clients including: non-profit organizations, universities, government authorities, venture capitalists, state and national corporations, and trade associations.

Rocco has more than 35 years of lobbying and state government experience. Starting his working years in the mid-70's employed in the State Senate; he was later hired as an aide to the House Transportation Committee. In his years of lobbying, Rocco has been active on a number of highly visible, diverse and complex issues. They include such topics as gaming, corporate initiatives and ventures, appropriations, tobacco settlement, economic development, workers' compensation, state procurement, along with a variety of other policy and legislative issues.

Rocco graduated from Gannon University in 1975 with a BA in Political Science, and he also holds a Masters degree in Public Administration from Penn State University.

Experience, Integrity, and Results- Rocco's motivation, commitment, leadership and direction are what make Pugliese Associates what it is today.

JOHN Y. BROWN III was elected as Kentucky's Secretary of State at the age of 32, the second youngest in the nation, and re-elected without opposition, serving from 1996-2004. His accomplishments as secretary of state include becoming a national voice for election reform, creating nationally recognized e-government services as well as programs to promote entrepreneurism and small business development, all while saving Kentucky taxpayers nearly a million dollars through efficient management measures. Before entering politics, John headed up franchising for Roaster's Inc., developing fast food venues in 37 states and several foreign countries. John served as vice-president of ResCare, working in government relations and public affairs for the Louisville based human services company with over 40,000 employees in over 40 states and several foreign countries. He served several years as an adjunct professor of business law at Bellarmine University. In 2007, John ran unsuccessfully as the lieutenant governor running mate on a ticket with gubernatorial candidate Jody Richards (Kentucky's Speaker of the House) in a seven slate Democratic primary. John graduated magna cum laude from Bellarmine University, earned a law degree (with distinction) from University of Kentucky, and then went back to Bellarmine University for his M.B.A.

20+ years

Forty Under 40 (2004) Recognition by statewide newspaper of those under 40 making an impact in NH.

President's Award - NH Dental Society (2011)

Extra Mile Award (2014) NH Manufactured & Modular Housing Association

0-5 years

Jordan Bice joined Oxley & Associates in 2018. He works on a myriad of issues, including energy, transportation, and tax policy. He helps clients navigate Oregon's transition to a lower carbon emissions future and a cleaner transportation system by keeping his finger on the pulse with legislators and key state agencies, such as ODOE, DEQ, and ODOT. Whether it is helping transit programs run smoothly, businesses get goods to market, or troubleshooting carbon reduction programs, Jordan uses his policy and regulatory background, communication skills, and relationship building to help clients serve their customers better.

Before joining the Oxley team, Jordan worked in government affairs for the electric utility, Pacific Power, specializing in Oregon legislative issues and transportation electrification policy and programs. Prior to returning to Oregon, he worked in Washington, D.C. as a Legislative Aide for U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley on energy, environment, and agriculture issues. Jordan has campaign experience from his time working on a successful U.S. Senate race.

Jordan grew up in Lake Oswego and graduated from the University of Washington with a political science degree and a minor in music. Aside from work, he sits on the Board of Directors for the youth mentorship non-profit, Friends of Baseball, and lives in Southeast Portland with his wife, Samantha, son, Elliott, and Chihuahua, Griffey.

James H. "Jay" Roberts is the most recent member of our team. Prior to joining GeorgiaLink, Mr. Roberts served in the Georgia State House of Representatives (2003-2015) while in the House, Jay was elected as both Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the House Majority Caucus by his peers. Former Gov. Sonny Perdue asked him to serve as his Administration Floor Leader in his second term. He served in that capacity for 2 years. Jay was named the Chairman of the House Transportation Committee by the Speaker of the House in 2010. He served as Chairman of the House Transportation Committee for 6 years. During his tenure in the House, Jay served on the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Ethics, Economic Development & Tourism, Ways & Means, Appropriations, Rules, Game & Fish and Transportation Committees. Jay has served several communities during his 13 years in the House. He served Irwin, Ben Hill, Tift, Turner, Coffee, Telfair, Wheeler, Wilcox and Jeff Davis counties. Governor Nathan Deal appointed Jay to the distinguish position of Director of Planning for the State of Georgia at the Georgia Department of Transportation. He was tasked with the planning of the State's Transportation projects including developing and implementing the STIP. Governor Kemp asked Jay to serve on his Transition Team. He was then asked by Governor Brian Kemp to continue to serve him as the Director of Planning. In September, 2019 Mr. Roberts joined GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group. He and his wife Sarah have two children, and they reside in Irwin County.

0-5 years

ASSOCIATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS
Maryland Government Relations Association; Keep Punching Haymakers Inaugural Class 2019-2020; Maryland March for Life, Vice President; Prince George's County Healthcare Alliance, Secretary; National Trauma Education & Policy, Board Member

AWARDS
The Daily Record's 2020 Leading Women; 2019 & 2020 Public Policy Fellow, Society of San Sebastian

20+ years

Gary Oxley established Oxley & Associates, Inc. in 1992, after serving as the Development & Government Affairs Manager for The Southland Corporation, a multi-level corporation that included the 7-Eleven Store chain and its subsidiaries. He has grown the firm into a multi-state, independent, full-service political and public affairs firm that represents a distinguished list of clients, including some of Oregon's largest employers. The broad range of issues that impact the firm's large portfolio of clients reflects the depth of public policy knowledge and related strategic skills that he brings into every advocacy situation he is asked to engage in at any point in time.

Gary has been actively involved in local politics and has been appointed to serve on a variety of state and local policy committees. He is a co-founder of the Retail Task Force (a coalition of real estate developers, realtors, national commercial tenants, and land use consultants). Gary previously served as a member of the Portland City Club's Land Use and Economic Development Committee, the State Health Department's Food Service Advisory Board, the Liquor Control Commission's Package Store Advisory Committee, and the Board of the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross. Gary is a member and past director of the Capitol Club.

Part of Boston's State and Local Affairs practice, representing clients ranging from Fortune 50 companies to non-profits. Represents a diverse set of clients; i.e., energy, high tech, healthcare, finance, consumer, and non-profit. Mulvey manages Boston's state and municipal procurement practice.

Prior to coming to DSG, Mulvey was a Principal at Fort Hill Advisors, a boutique lobbying firm located on Beacon Hill in Boston. Mulvey also worked in the Government Law & Strategies Legal practice at the Law Firm of Brown Rudnick. He also served as General Counsel for the Retailers Association of Massachusetts.

Mulvey was born and raised in Belmont, MA. He currently resides in Reading, MA with his wife and four sons. Mulvey is a 1991 graduate of Stonehill College and a 1997 graduate of the Massachusetts School of Law.

6-10 years

Kate has a strong background in public policy and brings over fifteen years of government experience to the Dupont Group. She has served on the staffs of US Congressman Charles F. Bass, US Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart, US Senator John E. Sununu and US Senator Kelly A. Ayotte. Kate also served as the Political Director for the New Hampshire Republican State Party's House PAC in 2010. She has also spent time in the private sector, focusing on the communications and marketing fields and aiding candidates in message development, presentation and design. Kate's professional focus includes communications, energy and health care. Additionally, she works with the Dupont Group public relations division White Birch Communications Group where she manages the firm's public policy conferences. Kate is currently an adjunct faculty member at New England College Graduate Programs and Granite State College.

Kate hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Anselm College and a Master of Science in Political Science with a concentration in Professional Politics from Suffolk University. Kate serves as the co-chair of the New Hampshire State Society Annual Golf Tournament, which benefits the group's Education Stipend Fund, providing stipends to NH College students pursuing internships in Washington DC. Kate also serves as Secretary on the Manchester Development Corporation Board, which is a 501 (C)(4) non-profit development corporation that supports the economic development initiatives of the City under the direction of the Board of Mayor & Aldermen and is a member of the Board of Speedway Children's Charities. She also serves as the Executive Director for the NH Association of Counties and is a member of the board of the National Council of County Association Executives.

0-5 years

Blair MacDonald joined the firm in 2015 as the director of client relations and was promoted to lobbyist following the 2018 legislative session.

Before joining us, Blair worked on a number of political campaigns including serving as campaign manager. In addition to her political work, she was the campaign coordinator at the Archdiocese of Omaha, for the nonprofit's successful $52 million "Ignite the Faith" capital campaign. Blair's campaign background and development experience has been a great complement to O'Hara Lindsay's strategic work and clientele.

Originally from Fremont, Nebraska, she now lives in downtown Omaha and loves a chance to speak Italian! You can find her running with her Kerry Blue Terriers or heading to regional music festivals.

15-20 years

With twenty years of senior leadership experience in public policy and external affairs, Michael is a valued partner for business leaders navigating the intersection of the public and private sectors at the state level. Michael helps lead the state health care practice, while his passion for emerging technology has translated to a thriving practice in this space for Tremont Strategies.

Before his role as a founding partner at TSG, Michael served as Vice President for External Relations at an international medical services where he led government affairs, communications, business development and community relations.

Prior to that, Michael was Executive Vice President at a top healthcare public affairs firm, as well as Managing Partner at a multistate and federal government relations firm. Michael began his career in working in the Maine State Senate and later served as senior staff member for the Massachusetts Democratic Party.

Michael is on the Board of Directors of the Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center and a Liaison Board Member for the Goldfarb Center for Public Affairs. Michael graduated with distinction with a degree in Government from Colby College.

0-5 years

Samantha joined Oxley & Associates in 2020. She works on a myriad of issues, including health care, transportation, public defense and agricultural policy. Samantha's strong background in public relations, communications and government affairs allows her to help clients navigate complex policy and regulatory issues with agencies, in the legislature and through media.

Prior to joining the Oxley team, Samantha worked in public relations and government affairs for Hubbell Communications. There, she helped clients develop robust communications, marketing and media relations strategies to support successful outcomes. Samantha also served as the Government Affairs Director for the Chronic Disease Coalition, a national nonprofit, managing the organizations state and federal legislative advocacy portfolio. She also served as the Executive Director for the Northwest Kidney Council, a regional advocacy association.

Samantha is a native Oregonian and graduated from Oregon State University with a Master's degree in Communications and Political Science. She's a competitor at heart and competed on Oregon State's Women's Basketball team, helping lead the team to their first Final Four appearance. Outside of work, she sits on the Board of Directors for Our Beaver Nation and Varsity OSU.

20+ years

We are available to discuss past achievements in many areas of government relations.

We work across branches and across all agencies of state government.

Ben Patterson grew up in Florence, Alabama. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Alabama where he taught seminars in State and Local Government and American Politics until 1996.

Prior to joining Fine Geddie in 2004 he served as the Deputy Finance Director for the State of Alabama under two governors and helped guide both administrations' legislative efforts on fiscal issues. He also held the position of Chief Information Officer, overseeing the state's technology acquisitions in the late 1990s. During his tenures in state government, he gained a thorough understanding of government operations, procurement, information technology, state budgets and controls, and the complexities of Alabama's tax structure.

Ben Patterson also served as the Director of Government Relations for the Alabama Bankers Association from 2000 until 2003 where he was the principal advocate for the state banking industry. He began his lobbying career as a Manager of Legislative Affairs for the Business Council of Alabama in 1996.

0-5 years

DAVID A. SMITH is a partner in the Princeton Public Affairs Group, is a veteran of the public affairs arena and has successfully managed public affairs campaigns impacting auto insurance, life insurance, tort reform and environmental legislative initiatives. Mr. Smith received national acclaim when he was honored with a ""Pollie Award"" by the American Association of Political Consultants and named to their United States ""Public Affairs Team of the Year." Mr. Smith was also named one of the most influential players in New Jersey's Healthcare arena by the Annual HealthSense Listing. Since 2005, Mr. Smith has been a Commissioner on the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (nominated by the Governor for two separate four year terms and confirmed by the NJ Senate) and currently serves as an Officer on the Commission (Secretary). Mr. Smith serves on the National Board of Directors of the Public Affairs Council, and was one of the few contract lobbyists in the Country to be appointed to a National Task Force charged with creating ethical standard for lobbyists throughout the United States. Mr. Smith is a founder and member of the Board of Directors of ProtectingAmerica.org, an advocacy organization Co-chaired by James Lee Witt, former Cabinet member under President Clinton and Admiral James Loy, Deputy Director of Homeland Security under President Bush. Mr. Smith also serves as an Officer (1st Vice President) of the New Jersey Hall of Fame Foundation Board of Directors and also serves on the Executive Committee (Secretary) of The Advocacy Group (TAG). Finally, Mr. Smith serves on the Board of Directors as an officer (Treasurer) of the State Capitol Insurance Company RRG, the first professional liability company for lobbyists headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Mr. Smith has appeared on television and radio stations representing clients' interests, authored dozens of articles on politics/policy issues in New Jersey and is a frequent guest speaker/lecturer at national and state conferences, legislative hearings, meetings and seminars. He has been a consultant to statewide and legislative political campaigns and is a member of the Executive Finance Committee of the Assembly Democratic Leadership Committee as well as the New Jersey State Democratic Committee. Prior to joining the firm in 1995, Mr. Smith served as Director of Policy and Planning for the New Jersey General Assembly Democratic Office. In that capacity, Mr. Smith supervised the partisan staff of all Assembly Committees and Task Forces while serving as senior staff aide to the insurance and commerce legislative committees. He was a Director with the New Jersey Dental Association from 1985 to 1990 and served on several national and state health care and insurance advisory committees.

Mr. Smith was awarded a Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS) Degree from the Richard D. Irwin Graduate School of The American College. He is a Graduate Fellow of the Public Affairs Institute, a three year educational program of the Public Affairs Council located in Washington, DC. Mr. Smith also graduated with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Political Science from Gettysburg College.

Martin Hubert brings a wealth of state government experience to the clients of Cornerstone Government Affairs. From his early career as chief counsel to the Senate Natural Resources Committee to his gubernatorial appointment as a commissioner of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to his eight years as the deputy comptroller of Texas, Hubert has managed thousands of employees and millions of taxpayer dollars under both Democrat and Republican administrations.

Martin was the 2008 recipient of TSABAA's Administrator of the Year Award. Presented annually, this prestigious award was established to formally recognize state employees who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and who have made significant contributions to state agency business administration.

As the final general counsel to legendary Lt. Governor Bob Bullock, Martin learned the mastery of government relations from some of the most influential leaders in Texas history. His knowledge of agriculture stems from generations of the Hubert family's cow/calf and farming operations in South Texas and serving as the Texas Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture for eight years. Martin offers a unique combination of legal, natural resources, tax policy and state government procedural expertise.

Hubert is a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center and St. Mary's School of Law. He was Brigade Executive Officer in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Ross Volunteers Honor Guard and the Singing Cadets. He successfully completed Army Ranger School and served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He is a marathon runner and coaches his son's little league teams.

Hubert is a second tenor and helps raise money for Legal Aid through the Travis County Bar Association's "Bar and Grill" fundraisers. He and his wife Celeste live in a historic home in Austin, where they are involved with the Austin Symphony, St. Theresa's Catholic Church and School, and the happily busy lives of their children Belle and Patrick.

15-20 years

Prior to a 15 plus year stint at a Concord based law firm, I served as an assistant to former Manchester Mayor Raymond Wieczorek, where the duties included constituent services and policy planning.

I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Politics from St. Anselm College, and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of New Hampshire. Prior community involvement includes participation on board of directors for the American Red Cross of New Hampshire, the Manchester Development Corporation, the City of Manchester's Conduct Board, Moore Center Services, and coaching various youth sports.

0-5 years

U.S. Senate; U.S. House of Representatives; Illinois Department of Transportation

Before joining the firm, Greg Bales worked for U.S. Senate Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin for more than a decade, serving as senior advisor in the Senator's government office as well as his campaign manager for his 2020 reelection. During his time with the Senator, he oversaw special projects throughout Illinois, and worked as a liaison to elected officials, businesses, community organizations, and other constituencies across the state.

Prior to joining Senator Durbin's staff, Greg worked as a policy advisor for the Illinois Department of Transportation. He was a staffer for former Illinois Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson, and he has worked on numerous political campaigns in California, Illinois, and Indiana. Before managing Senator Durbin's recent reelection, Greg took leave to elect Illinois Congressman Sean Casten to his first term in 2018, and served as Illinois state director for Secretary Hillary Clinton's 2016 Presidential campaign.

Greg's relationships span across the state, including the Illinois Congressional delegation, the Illinois General Assembly, City of Chicago, Cook County government, and in numerous municipalities and local units of government. Greg has concentrated on infrastructure funding, economic development, and earmarks. He has worked with Illinois General Assembly leadership on legislative language to ensure millions of dollars in federal funding for election security were allocated to cybersecurity; managed multi-million-dollar campaign budgets; pitched stories and gone on the record with the media; and lobbied for state funding for public transit.

20+ years

Kevin E. Cunningham is a partner with Southern Strategy Group-Louisiana one of the preeminent Governmental Relations firms operating in the state.

He joined the firm 2009 and represents a varied client base before the legislature, federal and state agencies, local government etc. Having developed an expertise in property and casualty insurance law, Kevin was recently selected by the State Commissioner of Insurance to serve on the High Auto Insurance Rates Task Force, which is developing legislative and regulatory solutions to combat this growing problem. In addition, he serves as an active member of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry's Civil Justice Reform Advisory Council, to which he is also a past Chairman.

Prior to joining SSG, Kevin was a partner with Roedel Parsons Koch Blache Balhoff & McCollister, where he served on the firm's Executive Management Committee. From 1996 to 2001 he served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor Mike Foster, where he oversaw the $14 million dollar Urban and Rural Grant Program. In addition to other duties, he also chaired both the Transportation Infrastructure Model for Economic Development (TIMED) Task Force, which resulted in much needed infrastructure development and the Louisiana Task Force for the Reduction of Automobile Insurance Rates, which brought about significant insurance rate and civil justice reforms.

An avid tennis player, Kevin is the past President of the Greater Baton Rouge Community Tennis Association, where he oversaw the return of a challenger series tennis tournament to the City and a resumption of a grade school -- Introduction to Tennis -- program. During his tenure he also increased participation in the world-class Cajun Classic Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, which attracts top professional and amateur wheelchair players from throughout the world. Recently he was asked to serve on the Board of Directors for Metro YMCA. Other past civic involvement includes the Council for Judicial Excellence and a member of Kiwanis International.

The son of retired army officer and an educator who also served as an administrator with the State Department of Education, Kevin was born in Wurzburg Germany and graduated high school in Seoul Korea. He received his Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in 1985, where he was a member of the Southern University Moot Court Board (1984-1985) and Law Review candidate. While at Southern he was honored with the American Jurisprudence 2nd Award for Outstanding Achievement in the field of Corporations. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Old Dominion University in Norfolk VA, in 1982. Kevin is married to Helena R. Cunningham, also an attorney, CPA and affordable housing developer. They have two children, Kevin Jr., an attorney working in Baton Rouge and Sydne, a second-year law student at Tulane University School of Law in New Orleans

15-20 years

Former Mayor of Lincoln
Former Nebraska State Senator for 20 years
Served as Chairman for the:
Health and Human Services Committee
Retirement Committee
Rules Committee
Served as a Member of:
Public Works
Banking, Commerce and Insurance
Transportation and Telecommunications

Don amassed a wealth of experience that he brings to his job as a lobbyist at O'Hara Lindsay. Don delivers results for our clients with integrity, ingenuity and a mastery of public policy.

In 1999, Don Wesely was elected Mayor of Lincoln. As mayor, Don oversaw a budget of $293 million and a staff of more than 2,700 employees. Two of the more significant achievements during his four-year term include the Haymarket Park baseball stadium and the start of the Antelope Valley Project. He declined to run for a second term.

Don was elected to the Unicameral to represent Lincoln's 26th district at the tender age of 24. During his 20 years as a State Senator, he introduced or co-introduced more than 300 bills that successfully became law. He served as a member or chairman of six different committees including 14 years as the Chairman of the Health and Human Services committee.

Don was born in David City, Nebraska, but grew up in Lincoln, and lives there today. He has three grown children, Amanda, Andrew and Sarah; Sarah and her husband, Jay Steinkruger, are the proud parents of Don's grandchildren, Ezra and Evie.

6-10 years

Callie Michael joined The Southern Group in 2010 with over eight years of valuable experience in both the budget and policy areas for state and federal government. Callie maintained a top-secret security clearance from the United States Department of Defense and worked in the U.S. House of Representatives' Appropriations Committee on the Defense Subcommittee. In this capacity, Callie gained rare insight into the federal appropriations and committee process as well as the role and interplay of government relations in the legislative arena.Following Callie's work in Washington, DC, which provided valuable experience and contacts at the federal level, Callie returned to the South where she joined the Georgia Senate Budget and Evaluation Office as the Program Analyst for the Criminal Justice, Public Safety, and Judicial Subcommittees on Appropriations. Callie was soon promoted to the position of Principal Analyst, to assume the duties and responsibilities of the departing Deputy Director. As Principal Analyst, Callie oversaw the day-to-day operations of the office and the budget development process, briefed the director and Senators on budget and policy issues, supervised and assisted other budget staff members, and served as the main contact to the 56 Senators.Callie served as Senate President Pro Tem Tommie Williams' Policy Director during the 2010 legislative session. In this capacity, Callie provided key policy analysis and recommendations to Senate Leadership.Callie is a graduate of the University of Alabama.

Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Lawless was a legislative director for a health care network for over four years. In addition, she worked as a project manager for a real estate development company and was a policy consultant. She worked as a deputy policy director for a candidate for Governor, and she was the Pennsylvania state campaign director for the Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute (PHI National). Ms. Lawless was a public affairs/legislative director for the American Society for Pharmaceutical and Experimental Therapeutics and the American Society for Nutrition for 10 years.

20+ years

I received commendations from Governor Davis and Speaker Hertzberg for my leadership and work during the Energy Crisis, earned the Leadership in Communications award from CA Communications Association (CalComm), two leadership awards while at Edison, commendations from Assembly Members Henry Perea, Jackie Goldberg and CA Legislative Women's Caucus for work on their successful sponsored legislation, and commendations from Society of Government Meeting Professionals, CA WiE membership and the board of CA Low Carbon Fuel and Energy Coalition for leadership in policy forums and successful passage of legislation

I have strong working relationships with the Governor's Office, policy committee chairs and leaderships in both houses of the legislature, particularly with the Senate Pro Tem and Senate Majority Leader as well as leadership of Legislative Women's Caucus and Black Caucus and Assembly U&E, Agriculture, Natural Resources and Budget chairs, among others and with Governor's Office of Planning and Research, CalEPA, CPUC, CA Energy Commission, CARB, Resources Agency, CalFIRE, CalRecycle, CDFA, General Services, Department of Finance, Judicial Council, Gov's Office of Business Oversight (GoBiz) and others.

I'm a former regulator who started out in anti-trust matters involviing market abuse and mergers in the communications and energy sectors, as well as handling rate, infrastructure, valuation and auditing matters for all utility types. I served in the consumer advocacy unit at my agency much of my tenure and also wrote key articles for the agency on regulatory models, market trends, etc. During the state's energy crisis I was asked to serve as Chief Consultant in the Assembly's Energy Committee and also served on the Governor's and Speaker's Task Forces, writing and negotiating much of the key legislation that was passed during that period and serving as a negotiator with utilities. I also had to work with nearly a hundred legislators to manage which bills would go forward, ensure votes were in place and also ensure strong relationships were forged and maintained. From 2002-2009 I worked for law firms in the regulatory and legislative arenas as both a lobbyist and in the administrative law realm at agencies. My clients included Verizon Wireless, AT&T, LADWP, an association I formed of all of the smaller and mid-size communications companies, cable companies, Southern California Edison, auto recycling and emissions equipment providers, mining interests, water companies and their association, insurance companies, municipalities, non-profits and environmental and tech startups and alternative fuel providers and renewable energy providers. I spent 6 years running Southern California's state public affairs unit and completely revamped it, increasing Edison's profile and negotiating key pieces of market transformative legislation in addition to managing crisis communication and management for the company over issues as varied as wildfires, storm response and closure of our nuclear plant. Since leaving Edison I formed my own firm and recently formed a strategic alliance with a larger firm, handling primarily water, energy, environmental, family law, insurance and even some education issues for my own clients or for their clients. I have a large regulatory practice and work collaboratively with the heads and leadership teams of all key agencies and with the administration's key advisors and have strong working relationships with legislators as well as with key caucuses and their chairs. I have formed, am on the board of non-profits, and am a sponsor of many others, including Capitol Network, SheShares, CA Women in Energy, Equality California, Association of Women in Water and Energy, Hawthorne Club and others and serve and a mentor, speaker and facilitator to a number of networking and professional groups in and around the capitol.

20+ years

Johnston Planning and Zoning Commission?Member

Pioneer Lawmakers Association?Honorary Member

I received my B.A. in History at Coe College in Cedar Rapids. Specializing in American History, taking as many classes as possible from one of Coe's professors who had written several books on President Herbert Hoover. Received my J.D. with distinction in 1988 from the University of Iowa Law School. My first job out of law school was with West Publishing Company annotating statutes. In 1989 I took a job with the Iowa Legislature drafting bills and amendments and the rest is history. In addition to government practice, I am the Director of the Drake University Law School's Legislative Practice Center. I teach legislative classes and work with law student interns.

Stephen Ledet joined Cornerstone Government Affairs' Baton Rouge, Louisiana office in July 2018. Stephen has nearly 20 years' experience working in government affairs in Baton Rouge.

Stephen previously served as the director of public affairs for Entergy Louisiana, where he led and implemented their legislative strategy. Much of his time at Entergy was spent relationship building with legislators, leadership, and their staff. Stephen was also involved in the management of Entergy's political action committee (PAC) contributions and recruiting PAC membership.

Prior to his five years at Entergy, Stephen spent nearly 12 years on staff with the Louisiana Association for Justice, where he managed the Association's contract lobbyists and lobbying team. Stephen advised the Association's executive director and committee on legislative strategies and directed its legislative fundraising efforts.

Stephen serves on the board for the Salvation Army and is a member of the St. Aloysius Church Men's Club.

Stephen received his B.B.A in marketing from Mississippi State University. He resides in Baton Rouge with his wife Mackenzie, and their twins, Henry and Willis.

0-5 years

Director of Policy and Government Affairs, Maryland Energy Administration
Chief of Staff, Minority Leader Steven Hershey

John C. Fiastro, Jr. boasts extensive experience in government and public affairs. Prior to founding Fiastro Consulting, John served as Director of Policy and Government Affairs at Maryland Energy Administration as well as Chief of Staff to two Maryland State Senators. John maintains a strong relationship network within Maryland's legislative and executive branches as well as the state's regulatory commissions and offices.

John brings extensive knowledge of the legislative process and regulatory environment in a number of key policy areas including energy, public utilities, environment, budget, gaming, healthcare, financial regulation.

John is the proud husband of Julianne and father to Leo and Caesar. A resident of Lutherville, in Baltimore County, John is a graduate of Towson University and Loyola Blakefield High School.

Arthur B. "Skin" Edge, IV is engaged in Governmental Relations and Consulting. Prior to joining GeorgiaLink, Mr. Edge served in the Georgia State Senate (1986-1996) and was Minority Leader of the Senate from 1992-1996. Mr. Edge served on the Appropriations, Special Judiciary (Chairman), Public Utilities and Health committees in the Senate. He also served on the Legislative Fiscal Affairs Committee and the Code Revisions Committee. Georgia Trend Magazine named Edge as one of "The 100 Most Influential People in Georgia." He was voted "The Top Registered Lobbyist in Georgia in 2018" in a poll of legislators, state officials and lobbyists. He was also named by Business to Business Magazine as one of "The Ten Most Influential People under the Gold Dome." He is a graduate of the University of Georgia (BBA 1977) and the University of Georgia School of Law (J.D. 1980). He was a participant in the Leadership Georgia Class of 1988. Skin and his wife, Bambi, have three children and six grandchildren. They reside in Newnan, Georgia.

Ms. Purpuro is a government affairs advisor in the firm's public policy and law group. She focuses on energy, sustainability, and agriculture innovation policy.

Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Purpuro served as senior policy advisor to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). She has more than 10 years of experience on Capitol Hill working for Senator Spencer Abraham (R-MI) as Deputy Chief of Staff, and for Congressman Jim Saxton (R-NJ) and Congressman Bob Davis (R-MI) as Legislative Director. Ms. Purpuro has advised Members of Congress on issues including the environment, energy, tax, interior, agriculture, and appropriations.

Ms. Purpuro has experience with energy efficiency programs including the Energy Star program where she assists clients in developing comments and engaging Members of Congress on Energy Star issues. Ms. Purpuro also works on emissions reduction policy including advocating on behalf of clients for policy to support carbon utilization. Her work on behalf of agriculture clients includes supporting establishment of an Office of Urban Agriculture as well as the Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AGARA) at USDA. In addition to her Capitol Hill experience, Ms. Purpuro served as Director of Government Relations for the American Forest and Paper Association, where she lobbied Congress on environmental and transportation issues.

20+ years

TCG passed legislation giving Medicaid recipients, many with chronic conditions, easier access to home services, supplies and medical equipment. The legislation was opposed by Department of Social Services and was a target for the agency throughout the session.

TCG was successful in leading a coalition to sustain a veto by the Governor that had overwhelming support by the legislature and the Connecticut Education Association. The legislation would have had unintended negative consequences to students with behavioral health issues. TCG secured its client a position on the working group.

TCG was the driving force behind successfully lobbying the Governor's Office, the Office of Policy and Management, and the Department of Corrections to issue a RFP for inmate medical services at UConn Health. TCG's advocacy on this issue reversed a twenty plus year relationship between UConn Health acting as the sole provider of health services to Connecticut's incarcerated population.

TCG defeated legislation proposed by the Governor's office that had a negative impact to its client. TCG created a legislative campaign plan leveraging the extensive alumni network of Norwich Free Academy, along with organizing a coalition.

TCG has direct lines to the all of Connecticut's Constitutional Officers and their senior staff. Constitutional Officers comprises of the Governor, Attorney General, State Comptroller, Secretary of State's offices, and the Treasurer's office.

TCG possesses a strong network within the legislative leadership along key staff members in the four caucuses.

TCG commands far reaching contacts state agency including but not limited to the Department of Consumer Protection, Department of Public Health, Department of Education, Department of Administrative Services, and the Department of Economic and Community Development.

John M. Bailey II has over two decades of experience in government relations and advocacy to the firm. His knowledge of the legislative and state regulatory process, long-standing personal relationships and depth of insight have made him an effective advocate for clients, which have included major national corporations, trade associations, non-profits, and organizations in the areas of education, housing, health care/medical supplies, gaming and waste management/recycling.

Drawing on his broad and extensive experience, John has distinguished himself as a knowledgeable, trusted and effective advocate for his clients in advancing their legislative goals. Prior to joining the firm, John served as Statewide Director of Legislative Affairs for the American Heart Association and has worked for a number of Constitutional officers and elected officials, including Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, Congressman Joe Courtney, and Comptroller Kevin Lembo.

Hailing from a family with deep history in both Connecticut and national politics, John's father, Jack Bailey, was Connecticut's longest serving Chief State's Attorney, his grandfather, John M. Bailey, served as head of the Connecticut Democratic Party as well as Chairman of the National Democratic Committee, and his aunt, Barbara B. Kennelly, was a former Connecticut Secretary of State and U.S. Representative. John is the Town Chair for the West Hartford Democratic Town Committee. He has been actively involved in local and statewide campaigns for every election cycle for the past 20 years.

Jim Monahan has a strong and established public affairs practice that focuses on representing businesses, trade associations and non-profit organizations before state and national governmental agencies. This work includes an emphasis on policy development, legislative advocacy and effective communications.

Jim's professional focus includes energy, transportation and environmental issues. He does work in the healthcare field, with an emphasis on Medicaid policy. In addition, Jim oversees the Dupont Group public relations division White Birch Communications Group.

Jim was elected as Merrimack County Treasurer in the Fall of 2008 and served one term. Currently, he serves on the Concord Zoning Board of Adjustment. Jim is well known for providing news media analysis on topics of politics and public policy. Formerly, Jim was a member of the Independent System Operator (ISO) New England Board Advisory Committee, and a contributing editor to the political website Primary Diner.

Sandi Jones joined MHSA in 1996 and became a member in 2003. She adds over 20 years of governmental and community relations experience to the MHSA team and is considered one of Lansing's top ten lobbyists and one of the most powerful female lobbyists in Michigan.

Specializing in appropriations, judiciary, mental health, long term care, law enforcement, criminal justice, and education issues, Sandi enjoys influencing change in the legislative and regulatory processes.

Sandi holds a bachelor's degree in Communications with a minor in Marketing and a Master's in Public Administration, both from Western Michigan University (WMU). She holds the distinction of being the first female to have served as the president of the student body at WMU. Sandi is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Pi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration, the Michigan Political History Society, the American Society for Public Administrators and is a founding member of In Forum and The White House Project.

In addition to her education-related organizations and associations, Sandi is a member of the March of Dimes Board of Directors, the Michigan Society of Association Executives, the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police, and the Children's Trust Fund. She is currently Chair of the Public Affairs Committee for the Michigan Chapter of the March of Dimes. She has helped build homes for Habitat for Humanity and facilitates mock law-making sessions with the Michigan Youth Leadership Forum, a program to introduce high school students with disabilities to state government. She also sits on the Board of Directors of Montessori Children's House of Lansing and volunteers for various other youth initiatives, including her favorite, Impact Lansing.

Sandi and her husband John reside in Mason with their five children.

11-15 years

As President of Oxley and Associates, Evyan Andries manages the firm's operations and development of political strategy for its diverse client base. She brings over a decade of experience in helping clients navigate complex regulatory, legislative, and political issues with agencies, municipalities, and state and local governments. In her time at Oxley, she has built trusted relationships with legislators, local government officials and leadership at agencies across the state.

Evyan is an adept political strategist and negotiator. She has helped shape the political and regulatory environment on issues in health care, transportation, energy, criminal justice, agriculture, and labor and employment among others. When Oregon's decision makers debate controversial policies impacting corporations, businesses, associations, or nonprofits, Evyan ensures her clients have a seat at the table. She's supported several of Oregon's largest retailers in navigating an evolving regulatory and political environment, allowing them to build a a strong reputation within the community while maintaining their operational integrity. Her rapport, expertise, and work ethic have helped clients start important conversations in the state from modernization of the public defense system to bringing baseball to Portland through the Portland Diamond Project.

Evyan has built a strong reputation in crisis management, supporting clients through a challenging, ever-changing regulatory environment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and wildfires. With boots on the ground, she was able advise clients on required adjustments to their operations to ensure compliance and safety in the community.

Evyan received her Bachelors degree in International Management from Pepperdine University and a Certificate in Dispute Resolution from the Strauss Institute at the Pepperdine School of Law. She currently serves on the Executive Committee of LEAP, Leaders and Executives Across Professions, an organization of women executives focusing on career advancement, mentoring and referrals. In her spare time, Evyan enjoys being with her husband Colin and son Jack, exploring Oregon's beautiful scenery, hosting casual dinner parties, attending shows and traveling internationally. She has an adventurous spirit and has lived in Italy and London, where she became proficient in Italian and French.

Colonel Steve McCain retired from the Department of Defense (DOD) after twenty-six years of service and now provides national security policy and appropriations counsel to defense, energy, aerospace, and homeland security industries, academia, and other nonprofit organizations regarding federal business development, budget and acquisition, as well as congressional actions.

Prior to joining the firm, Colonel McCain was the director of legislative affairs, U.S. Pacific Command, and principal advisor to the combatant commander for all congressional liaison. He advocated directly with Congress and professional committee staff for programs, budgets, and policies, and executed legislative strategy which improved global defense force capability. Colonel McCain provided critical support for senior military leadership testimony before Congress regarding the Asia-Pacific region.

In the early stages of Operation Enduring Freedom, he served as commander of an Air Expeditionary Wing where he led support and combat operations of Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps and coalition forces in Afghanistan. He also commanded a combat search and rescue operations group, where he was responsible for flying, training, maintenance, and deployment of personnel and aircraft to combat operations worldwide.

In his capacity as the principal deputy legislative assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, he coordinated legislative efforts with senior military leaders which helped galvanize congressional support for billions of dollars in healthcare reform, operational readiness, and weapon modernization programs. Prior to his tour with the Joint Staff, he was the director of legislative affairs in the Washington, D.C., office of the U.S. Special Operations Command, where he built congressional advocacy for special operations missions and for significant funding increases in key classified programs.

His experience also includes service as a Branch Chief of Aircraft Systems at Warner Robins Air Logistics Center in Georgia, where he managed aircraft and helicopter modification programs. In this capacity, he resolved acquisition, contracting, and logistics challenges with the defense industry.

Colonel McCain has over 2500 hours in various aircraft as a navigator, including 150 in combat. His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Medal with one oak leaf cluster, and the Aerial Achievement Medal with four oak leaf clusters.

6-10 years

Served on the Georgia Department of Revenue Local Government Advisory Group. As a member of this group, Joel provided the Revenue Commissioner with feedback and suggestions on the impact of important tax issues on local governments.

Joel has developed extensive relationships with elected and appointed officials at the state and local level. Many of these relationships are concentrated in revenue and finance with strong relationships with finance directors all across Georgia's 538 cities and 159 counties. In addition to these local relationships, Joel has done extensive work with the Georgia Department of Revenue.

Joel began his career in local government by providing planning, zoning, and land use support with over 63 cities and 17 counties for one of Georgia's Regional Commissions. Joel then moved to Talladega, AL where he assisted the city manager in all planning and community development projects. It was in this capacity that Joel first started learning municipal budgeting and operations. Joel's work in Talladega caught the eye of a state trade association, and Joel got his introduction to lobbying with the Alabama Manufactured Housing Association (AMHA) in 2013.

As AMHA's Deputy Director, Joel learned the business operations of one of Alabama's major industries and lobbied on their behalf both locally and on the state level. After nearly four years with AMHA, Joel decided to combine his local government and lobbying experience by taking a job with Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). While at GMA, Joel specialized in a wide array of tax issues and lobbied on behalf of Georgia's 538 cities. Joel's knowledge of local government operations, business operations, and public policy development allowed him to develop a broad array of relationships at the General Assembly, while effectively advocating for all of Georgia's cities.

Joel graduated from Georgia College and State University with a BA in political science and Masters of Public Administration. Joel grew up in Byron, Georgia and currently resides in Atlanta with his wife Lucy and daughter Willow.

Prior to joining K&L Gates, Ms. Diehl served as Deputy Secretary of Legislative Affairs to the Pennsylvania Governor, a senior staff position that involved the development and implementation of legislative strategy intended to advance the Governor's legislative priorities for several state agencies, including the Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Revenue, the Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Lottery. Ms. Diehl was directly and integrally involved in the enactment of several major legislative initiatives, including the historic transportation funding package of 2013, numerous pieces of legislation impacting energy and environmental policies and programs for the state, as well as, significant reforms intended to enhance operations and funding for the Pennsylvania Lottery. She was also directly involved with negotiations with the House of Representatives and the Senate relating to the enactment of the annual General Fund budget and related enactments.

Prior to working in the governor's office, Ms. Diehl served as Director of Legislative Affairs for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. During her tenure as Legislative Director, and prior to that, as Assistant Legislative Director, she advocated for legislative priorities related to taxation and the Pennsylvania Lottery, including significant business tax reform packages that dramatically changed state tax administration and tax compliance.

Before joining the Department of Revenue, Ms. Diehl worked in a senior staff capacity for the House Democratic Caucus. Her responsibilities included monitoring House floor activities and advising House Democratic Leadership in message development and legislative strategy.

DOUGLAS STRUYK joined Carney Appleby P.L.C. as an associate in 2013. Doug is a native of Council Bluffs, Iowa, graduating from Saint Albert High School in 1988. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Iowa State University in 1992. Doug received his Juris Doctorate from Creighton University School of Law in 1996 with Cum Laude honors and was admitted to the Iowa Bar in June of 1996. He is also a past president of the National Association of Bar Executives' Government Relations Section.

After graduating from law school, Doug was Chief of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship's Agricultural Diversification Bureau. After working at the Department of Agriculture, Doug returned home to manage his family's business, Struyk Turf, Ltd. In 2002, Doug was elected to the Iowa House representing Council Bluffs. During his time in the Iowa House, he was elected Assistant Minority Leader and was the Ranking Member of the House State Government Committee. He also served on the Judiciary, Economic Development, Commerce, and Agriculture Committees. Doug retired from the House 2010. In November of 2010, Doug was named Chief Legal Counsel to the Iowa Secretary of State's office. Doug also served as the office's senior legislative liaison. In May of 2012, he was selected by the Speaker of the House to serve as his Executive Officer, a position Doug held until joining Carney Appleby Law.

Doug has nearly two decades of government relations experience including time as a lawyer, lobbyist, and legislator. He has worked at the highest levels of both the executive and legislative branches of Iowa's government. Doug is well known at the Iowa Capitol as a skilled problem solver with a proven record of working with both parties to resolve controversial issues. He was a respected leader in the Iowa legislative process with a well-developed network and skill set.

Tim Peckinpaugh's practice focuses on energy, environmental, and natural resource legislative and funding issues.

Mr. Peckinpaugh has represented clients for over thirty years in all aspects of energy policy, including nuclear (fission and fusion), hydroelectric, coal, oil and natural gas, electricity, as well as a variety of clean technology and energy efficiency issues. He also represents major international corporations and local communities on Department of Energy nuclear waste cleanup, nuclear security, and contracting issues. In addition, Mr. Peckinpaugh represents regional chambers of commerce and companies from the Pacific Northwest on appropriations, grant funding, energy, technology, natural resource, trade, agriculture, workforce, and economic development opportunities.

Mr. Peckinpaugh provides assistance on appropriations and legislative drafting, and counsels many of the firm's clients on campaign finance, lobbying, and governmental ethical issues. Finally, he is a previous chair of the firm's public policy group and currently manages the K&L Gates Political Action Committee, one of the largest law firm PACs in the country.

Mr. Peckinpaugh came to the firm in 1985 from Capitol Hill, where he had five year's experience as a professional staff aide to the House Science Committee, former U.S. Congressman Sid Morrison (R–WA), and the Republican Study Committee. While on the Hill, he focused on energy, natural resource, science, technology, and defense issues.

DOUG NELSON spent five years as Missouri's State Commissioner of Administration working with all branches of government and every executive branch department on contracting and procurement matters. As Commissioner, he oversaw more than 2,000 active procurement contracts, information technology and cybersecurity issues, bond issuances and budget matters. Along with Doug's unmatched experience in all types of government contract issues, his extensive network of national and state contacts makes him a great resource to clients. Doug also spent more than 18 years as an Assistant Missouri Attorney General focusing on consumer and contract litigation and administrative/regulatory matters. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1987 from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and Law degree in 1990 from the University of Missouri, Kansas City.