Statewide Public Affairs, Inc. is a full service government relations, communications and issue management firm providing consulting services throughout New York State. Our tenacity, emphasis on client service and dedication to maintaining the finest reputation is what sets our firm apart.

Firm Specialties:
Managing Complex Issues. Assisting clients with complex public sector issues involving the Legislative, regulatory agencies, the budget or those of a political nature is our specialty. We provide accurate, candid and effective advice to help our clients influence perceptions, uphold reputations and build support to achieve desired outcomes. What we do NOT do is sit on the sidelines. We roll up our shirtsleeves, become a part of the team and get to work.

Finding Funding. Of course, to seek and obtain government funding has become more and more difficult. Clients who desire funding have found success with Statewide because our firm has the experience of nearly 50 budget cycles. Statewide's history of success is based on a vast knowledge of the budget process, where the "pots" of money are, and broad relationships with key officials in state agencies, Division of Budget, the Executive Chamber, Legislative Leadership, as well as the Ways & Means and Finance Committees. Statewide has also become an expert in assisting clients who seek funding through the New York's Regional Economic Development Councils or other funding through the State's Consolidated Funding Application ("CFA").

Procurements Delivered. New York State procurement laws are extraordinarily complex. We specialize in assisting clients educate and shape a government agency's approach to fulfilling its needs. We have years of experience helping companies manage the RFP and procurement process to best position them for success, all while ensuring full compliance with the State's extensive procurement lobbying laws.

Concepts to Deliverables. Entrepreneurial concepts requiring partnership with government to achieve success are always challenging. Crafting concepts into "yesable" proposals requires comprehensive assessment, politically sound strategy and tenacity in execution. Our firm understands the decision to petition the government almost always requires the client to assume risk. Our full-service model ensures risk-assuming clients have the highest level of attention, interaction, political access, resources and resolve to deliver their project to success.

Ms. Farrah served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives before GCSI. While a member of the Legislature, she chaired the influential House Regulatory Reform Committee and was a member of the committees on labor, tax policy, insurance and local government. The former Southgate City Council president also worked 10 years for Wayne County in its Department of Environment. Barb earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Mr. Zaagman served as Director of Government Affairs for the Michigan Restaurant Association for four years before joining GCSI. He also worked for five years as a lobbyist for the Michigan Osteopathic Association. The Muskegon native is widely respected in Capitol circles for his expertise in and knowledge of transportation-related issues, election law, liquor control and tax policy. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from Central Michigan University and a master's degree in public administration from Western Michigan University. Bill is a 1996 graduate of the Michigan Political Leadership Program.

Before joining GCSI, Mr. DeVries served for 10 years as Chief of Staff to Senator Arlan Meekhof, the Republican Senate Majority Leader. During his time in the legislature, he managed many difficult legislative issues and became one of Lansing's leading experts on the legislative process. Bob has his bachelor's degree in political science from Grand Valley State University and his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.

Mr. Owen, formerly the Policy Advisor for Lieutenant Governor John Cherry in the Executive Office of Governor Jennifer Granholm. He was then appointed by Governor Granholm to serve as the Legislative Liaison in the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, and was reappointed by Governor Rick Snyder to serve in the same role. Gary is an expert on environmental and natural resources based initiatives. His relationships in these departments are fresh, and unparalleled amongst state lobbyists. Gary earned a bachelors degree in political science from the University of Michigan.

Mr. Hawks has consistently been voted among the 5 best lobbyists in the state of Michigan by an independent political insider survey. His distinguished career has spanned over 26 years representing many of GCSI's prestigious clients. In addition, Mike was also recently voted among the top 5 public affairs professionals in the state. Mike received his bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University and possesses a master's degree from Michigan State University.

Ms. Zandee is a Michigan attorney with a social work background and has served as Chief Policy Advisor for State Representative Brandt Iden, Chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee. Sam received her undergraduate degree from Hope College, and obtained her JD and MSW from the University at Buffalo. She has also worked in the family court system, for various legal aid clinics, a children's advocacy center, and with in house counsel for Buffalo Medical School.