0-5 years

Before joining the GSL team, Elizabeth worked as a registered lobbyist in Harrisburg. She assists the GSL team in communications and public affairs strategy, design and delivery.

Elizabeth attended Penn State University and received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations. Elizabeth was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society.

Elizabeth is an avid golfer and volunteers with LPGA*Girls Golf USA in the Central Pennsylvania area. She is also a member of the Harrisburg Young Professionals.

0-5 years

Leadership Iowa Graduate

Nick is an experienced government relations, public affairs, and public relations professional with a successful history of executing lobbying and issue campaigns. He began his journey in the political arena at a young age and has had the opportunity to work a number of political campaigns at the local, state, congressional, and even presidential level.

Nick's career has included leading extensive public affairs issue campaigns, communications and public relations efforts, and marketing campaigns across the Midwest and country influencing state and federal policymakers and garnering media attention. He also spent a couple of sessions being fully immersed in the legislative process while working for a committee chairman in the Iowa House.

These diverse experiences have all culminated in Nick's successful ability to execute strategic plans to introduce, pass, block, or amend legislation at the Iowa Statehouse for clients and build strong relationships with lawmakers and stakeholders. From legislative agenda development and interim planning to PAC management and issue campaigns, Nick specializes in elevating a client's message and executing legislative strategies. Nick also leads Advocacy Strategies' administrative rulemaking engagement and media relations efforts on behalf of our clients.

Nick grew up in Byron, MN and made his way to Iowa through Simpson College's John C. Culver Public Policy Center where he was selected as a Fellow. He graduated Simpson with the highest academic honor with majors in Political Science and International Relations and a minor in Religious Studies and also received his Master's Degree in Public Policy and a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration from the University of Northern Iowa.

Outside of work, Nick is actively involved in his church community, local political activism, the Simpson College Alumni Association Board, and serves as the President of the John C. Culver Public Policy Center Alumni Association. He graduated from Leadership Iowa, the state's premier professional leadership development program, in June of 2022.

20+ years

1) Top 40 Under 40 in Mississippi
2) Top 50 Businesswomen in Mississippi
3) Pollie Award Winner
4) Mississippi Human Trafficking Council: Policy & Legislative Subcommittee
5) EPA Fellow while working on doctorate degree

1) Mississippi Attorney General's Office
2) Mississippi Department of Public Safety
3) Public Employees Retirement System of Mississippi
4) Mississippi Gaming Commission

Doctoral work in public policy administration greatly enhances her ability to identify, define, and expand issues important to her clients. She was an EPA Fellow while completing her doctoral level course work. Echols develops a broad coalition of support, sometimes going
against conventional wisdom and status quo, to achieve a successful end result. She has a keen ability for trouble shooting an issue and predicting potential problems and anticipating their positive solutions. She has a proven ability to rapidly assess a situation, provide a workable plan of action, and develop pockets of support to achieve the desired outcome.

Remember... When results matter, you need The Echols Group!

Kelly Wright joined the Cornerstone Mississippi team as a vice president in December 2023.

Kelly brings over a decade of experience in government relations, showcasing a diverse skillset and proven ability to navigate the intricacies of both state and federal legislative landscapes. In her most recent role as the director of government affairs at the Mississippi Manufacturers Association (MMA), she actively engaged with state legislators to advocate for key issues relevant to the MMA. Kelly's responsibilities included monitoring committee meetings and floor actions, preparing detailed position papers on legislation and establishing crucial relationships.

Additionally, Kelly maintained membership activities at MMA, where she oversaw the policy and government affairs committees. She served as a liaison between member companies and various state agencies, ensuring open lines of communication and facilitating collaboration. Notably, Kelly demonstrated her leadership abilities by managing the MMA PAC. She identified candidates aligned with MMA's mission and made recommendations to the MMA PAC Board.

Kelly holds a bachelor's degree in history and psychology from the University of Mississippi.

6-10 years

Recently was a part of a successful lobbying effort in 2019 to pass into law a major energy transition legislation for renewable energy development across the state that's become one of the top national models, also helped pass updated oil and gas industry laws, successfully passed Scope of Practice legislation in 2017 for a healthcare client (which is no easy task in NM), assisted a racing-industry client in strengthening regulations regarding illegal drug use and tax protections.

I have good professional relationships with several house and senate committees, committee chairs and legislative leadership, Governor's office, Environment Department and Energy and Natural Resources Agencies, NM Racing Commission

I was born and reared in Albuquerque, New Mexico and received my college education at the University of New Mexico. My father was a State Representative in the 70's and was a lobbyist for 37 years until his retirement in 2016, so New Mexico politics has been a big part of my family for a long time. My father started bringing me and my brother to the capitol when we were toddlers where I got to watch him in action and learn how things work at the legislature; and more importantly, how to talk and connect with people. Through many years of following my dad around the capitol and traveling with him around the state for work, I was able to receive a comprehensive, but also intimate education in politics, legislative affairs and the unique inner-workings of the political environment of New Mexico. This experience prepared me to be able to work effectively in the family business for the last few years of my dads career and
successfully carry on the business when he retired in 2016. I've also been successful in obtaining my own clients and working on a variety of important issues in the state ranging from healthcare to energy policy. I'm proud to have a solid reputation as an effective and trustworthy lobbyist and I enjoy advocating for my clients and helping them reach their legislative and regulatory goals.

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.

6-10 years

Gavin's engaging personality, dogged determination, and sincere interest in people have enabled him to develop meaningful relationships with legislators, support staff, other lobbyists, and government officials. These are the traits you want in a political affairs consultant.

Born and raised in Colwich, a rural Kansas community, he always knew he wanted to work for the betterment of his state and country. His political engagement began at age fourteen when he volunteered for two city council campaigns in nearby Wichita. Many campaigns later and after receiving a degree from Pittsburg State University, interning with Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, and working for the Hein Law Firm, Gavin established his own political affairs business.

His clients respect him for his tireless dedication to their issues and value his reputation as an honest, likable, committed, and savvy political consultant.

These are the traits you want in a political affairs consultant and are what make Kreidler Consulting the best choice for your legislative interests.

Adrian joined MHSA in 2002, and became a member of Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, LLC in 2015. Prior to that, he served as the Assistant Vice President of Legislative Relations for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Adrian collaborated with key stakeholders to improve Michigan's business climate with high profile legislation such as Next Energy and the establishment of the Broadband Authority. Adrian was also influential during the passage of legislation to create the Metropolitan Airport Authority Act, which was responsible for the building and modernization of the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Respected as one of Lansing's top lobbyists, Adrian specializes in economic development, energy and technology, environmental, insurance, banking and tax policy issues. Recent accomplishments include the passage of legislation that gave Jackson National the ability to expand their business. Adrian secured state investment for the Farmers Insurance expansion and the JW Marriott Hotel, both in Grand Rapids. He has been instrumental in the last three business tax code rewrites and worked on legislation to standardize college entrance testing.

Prior to his work at the MEDC, Adrian was the Legislative Liaison for the Department of Management and Budget where he was responsible for securing funding to build the Hall of Justice, Constitution Hall and the Vietnam War Memorial. Adrian began his career working as a legislative aide for three state Senators, later serving as director of public affairs. Adrian also worked as the public events coordinator for the Senate Majority Leader.

Adrian holds a bachelor's degree in Communications and Sociology from Western Michigan University (WMU), where he graduated with honors. While at WMU, Adrian served on the Board to Review the President's Address on Racial and Ethnic Harmony.

Adrian and his wife Erin live in East Lansing with their four girls.

Evelyn (Evie) Zois Sweeney joined MHSA in 2011. Evie previously lobbied on behalf of a multitude of corporate, non-profit and municipal clients at Dykema Gossett, PLLC. She has extensive experience with state procurement, local government and the appropriations process, specifically higher education, capital outlay, corrections and general government.

Prior to joining Dykema, Evie served as a legislative assistant to the Senate Appropriations Chair and Clerk for the Senate Appropriations Committee and Joint Capital Outlay Subcommittee. In addition to shepherding legislative agendas through the process, she was responsible for monitoring several departmental budgets, including corrections, community health and general government.

Evie is a 2004 graduate fellow of Michigan State University's Michigan Political Leadership Program, a multi-partisan leadership training program. Evie also serves as co-chair of the gift acquisition committee for the Children's Trust Fund, is involved with Habitat for Humanity and serves on the Michigan Political Leadership Program's Finance Committee. Evie also had the privilege of working on Governor Rick Snyder's 2011 Inaugural Executive Committee.

Evie graduated from Michigan State University's James Madison College with honors and earned a bachelor of arts degree. She was a double major in International Relations and Sociology. Evie also served as a research assistant at St. Peter's College, University of Oxford, Oxford England.

Evie and her husband Matt reside in DeWitt with their daughter and son.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Terry has worked at Aaron Read & Associates for more than two decades. Prior to joining ARA, he served as the Director of the California Fire Foundation and Consultant to the California Assembly Committee on Fire, Police and Emergency Services. In 2009, he was awarded the Director's Achievement Award on behalf of CAL FIRE. He led the successful campaign to develop the CAL FIRE brand.

Terry McHale was the press liaison for the California Assembly Committee on Police, Fire and Disaster. There, he handled crisis management in the MTBE campaign, and has expertise in public policy and strategic communications. Terry is currently an officer at Aaron Read & Associates as well as Marketplace Communications. He also serves as the editor of California Conversations Magazine. He has interviewed and written stories about such interesting Californians as Clint Eastwood, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Harrison Ford, Gary Condit, Governor Pete Wilson and Governor Gray Davis. Terence graduated from UCLA. He lives his family in Elk Grove.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office.

6-10 years

Stephen Susano is the Co-Founder and COO of Stones River Group, a Nashville-based public affairs firm serving both Tennessee, regional and national clients. He provides clients with strategic counsel on business opportunities and project management, regulatory matters, procurement, economic development, third-party engagement, and market positioning. Stephen leverages his lengthy private-sector experience and deep network of relationships with business leaders and key policymakers in state and local government across Tennessee to deliver solutions for clients in multiple industries.

Prior to Stones River Group, Stephen served as Executive Director of the Tennessee Business Partnership (TBP), an advocacy organization supported by many of the state's leading enterprises. He spearheaded its efforts to advance pro-business policies, including education and judicial reforms, to encourage job growth and economic development. In 2014, Stephen led the statewide "Vote Yes on 2" campaign in support of the Judicial Selection Amendment to the Tennessee constitution. Stephen built a broad coalition of business groups, trade associations, legal advocates and community leaders in favor of the amendment. This coalition's successful mobilization helped ensure the amendment was approved with overwhelming support, carrying 94 out of 95 counties in Tennessee

Prior to working in the public affairs space, Stephen had an extensive career in the financial services industry. He served in operating and business development roles for several investment advisers and asset management firms. He has consulted with and raised capital for both U.S. and foreign-based investment firms, and has negotiated distribution and trading agreements with multiple financial services companies. Through his work, Stephen navigated complex regulatory regimes in domestic and offshore jurisdictions

Stephen grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee and currently lives in Brentwood with his wife, Ana. He and Ana have four children. Stephen serves on the board of the Nashville Downtown Partnership.

20+ years

City Council Member, Windsor Heights

Leadership Iowa

Licensed Foster Parent

As President and CEO of Advocacy Strategies, Threase is responsible for the firm's overall business operations and strategy for delivering results. She has been serving clients before the Iowa Legislature for nearly 30 years. This experience has provided her with intimate knowledge of the legislative process and long-standing solid relationships with policymakers, staff, and key opinion leaders across the state. This allows her to tailor a strategy to meet the individual needs of our clients that deliver the best value to you. Advocacy Strategies' clients realize results when working with our team whether with a controversial legislative issue, securing and maintaining state appropriations, or working to find compromise to move issues forward.

In addition to lobbying, Threase has spent more than two decades developing and implementing successful public affairs and grassroots campaigns of all sizes from national campaigns across the country to smaller campaigns in Iowa communities. Her wealth of expertise in this area affords Advocacy Strategies a strong network of relationships with legislative and community leaders and a unique skill set in developing successful and innovative strategies to achieve policy goals that few firms can offer.

Threase started her lobbying career at the University of Northern Iowa as a student, then went on to work in the Iowa Senate on education issues before her employment with the American Cancer Society. From there, she took the position of Director of the Tobacco Use Prevention and Control division within the Iowa Department of Public Health, giving her the opportunity to use her passion to protect families from the hardships of illness and death from tobacco use. With multiple successes in the non-profit sector, Pfizer recruited her to be part of the Worldwide Alliance Development team. She has been an independent government relations contractor for 20 years helping organizations of all types and sizes.

Threase earned a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Iowa State University but remains loyal to her undergraduate alma mater the University of Northern Iowa where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies while serving as Student Body President. She also serves as an elected member of the Windsor Heights City Council and on many advisory committees and community organizations.

Threase and her husband, Rick live in Windsor Heights. They have four children and are avid cyclists and licensed foster parents.

Marjorie affiliated with Jones Walker after serving as Secretary of the Louisiana Mineral and Energy Board and Assistant Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Office of Mineral Resources, where she oversaw the granting and administering of mineral leases, storage agreements, and alternative energy agreements on state-owned land and water bottoms. While serving as Secretary of the Louisiana Mineral and Energy Board, Marjorie undertook a comprehensive revision of Louisiana's statutory scheme relating to leases for underground storage.

In addition to her upstream oil and gas practice, Marjorie routinely serves as project counsel for large energy infrastructure projects, including pipelines, LNG and liquefaction facilities, crude oil and hydrocarbon liquids export facilities, hydrocarbon storage facilities (salt dome and depleted reservoir storage), solution-mining facilities, petrochemical and chemical plants and refineries and commercial saltwater disposal facilities. Marjorie also represents a number of energy service companies and renewable energy companies.

Marjorie understands that successfully and efficiently navigating regulatory and land use issues can dramatically increase the odds of success of a project and works tirelessly to help ensure that clients' projects proceed through the regulatory process in a timely and efficient manner.

Marjorie also has extensive experience in the construction and engineering arena with respect to contractor and engineering licensing, having assisted a number of clients in acquiring contractor and engineering licenses throughout the United States when numerous licenses are needed in short periods of time in connection with transactions or projects.

After clerking with the Honorable Frank J. Polozola in the US District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana, Marjorie was in the private practice of law from 1992 to 2006, during which time she concentrated on civil litigation, including environmental and toxic tort litigation. Previously, she served as campaign manager to her father, W. Fox McKeithen, during his initial campaign for the office of Louisiana Secretary of State.

Marjorie is currently an appointed member of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission and serves on the Board of the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association.

Drew Maddox joined the Cornerstone Mississippi team in February 2020 as a vice president with more than 10 years of experience in finance and education policy. Previously, Drew served as the chief financial officer of the Mississippi Department of Revenue, where he oversaw all administrative divisions of the department, including accounting, communications, processing, information technologies and logistics. As CFO, Drew also worked closely with state legislators and statewide elected officials to guide tax policy decisions, liquor laws, and revenue-generating activities.

Prior to his time at the Department of Revenue, Drew also worked as director of state engagement at EdBuild, where he used his knowledge of political and governmental structures to strategically place educational reform proposals in the best positions for success in state legislatures across the country. Drew has also worked at the Mississippi Legislative Budget Office as the Senate budget officer, where he worked closely with leadership to craft and pass balanced budgets.

Drew received his Bachelor of Arts in English literature and his Bachelor of Business Administration degrees from Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. Drew enjoys spending time with his wife and two children (Sam and Bee), baseball, and gardening.

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.

6-10 years

Successfully worked with two municipalities regarding approval to build two major warehouse centers in those districts.

Work with state economic development agency and key legislators for passage of legislation to benefit small business

Ongoing work with major state hospital system on all pertinent issues, including state and federal funding, healthcare, etc.

Successfully assisted in merger of large pharmacy retailer and insurance.

Hillary is a Principal at RSG. After 5 years as an Associate at RSG, in 2020 Hillary was promoted to Principal. Ms. Glass came to Connecticut from Virginia in 2013 to work at the State Capitol for Governor Dannel Malloy. She then took a position at the Connecticut Democratic Party, working directly for the State Party Chairwoman, Nancy DiNardo, serving as a liaison with elected officials, town chairs, and leaders in the state's 169 municipalities. Following her time at the State Party, Ms. Glass served as Finance Assistant for U.S. Representative Elizabeth Esty's 2014 successful reelection to Congress, working directly with the candidate to solicit and raise funds. Ms. Glass, who resides in Hartford, graduated in 2013 from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Minor in Journalism.

6-10 years

Track Record of Success
Ms. Jones consistently delivers results for clients passing legislation and seeking funding in each of the three budgets. Through her work during the last seven legislative sessions, Ms. Jones has served in both lead and supporting roles to pass and defeat legislation. Outlined below are just a few of her public policy achievements from the last two biennia:

* Passed legislation to authorize the extension of wastewater services beyond the urban growth boundary for partnerships between cities and tribes.
* Passed legislation to require repeat speeding offenders to participate in a program to stop dangerous, habitual speeding.
* Passed legislation to authorize transit agencies to produce, use and sell to the public green electrolytic hydrogen.
* Amended legislation to hold bus operators harmless for firearms enforcement on buses.
* Successfully amended legislation considered harmful to health care clients.
* Passed legislation to strengthen the workforce and education pipeline for certified registered nurse anesthetists.
* Passed legislation to strengthen communication between public employers and the Paid Family & Medical Leave program.
* Developed multiple coalitions comprised of public, private, non-profit and individual advocates to support state legislation.

Below are her most recent budgetary achievements over 2024 and 2025 legislative sessions, where she served as the lead lobbyist:
* $2 million in capital budget funding for a health sciences building at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU, 2025 session).
* $400,000 in capital budget funding for La Center's downtown expansion (La Center, 2025 session).
* $500,000 in capital budget funding for transit-oriented, workforce housing in Lynden, WA (Whatcom Transportation Authority, 2025 session).
* $1.3 million in transportation budget funding for transit signal prioritization (Pierce Transit, 2024 session).
* $1 million in transportation budget funding for the Pacific Highway Shared Use Path (City of La Center, 2024 session).
* $250,000 in capital budget funding for community center upgrades (City of La Center, 2024 session).

Hanna has established relationships with legislative leadership, key policy staff within Governor Ferguson's office, and committee chairs across the Washington State Legislature. She has established relationships with legislative leadership, key policy staff within Governor Ferguson's office, and committee chairs across the Washington State Legislature. She also regularly interacts with - and maintains strong working relationships with - staff at the Department of Revenue, Health Care Authority, Department of Health, Department of Ecology, Department of Transportation, and the Washington State Transportation Commission.

Hanna Jones has nearly a decade of experience as a state lobbyist, representing clients to the Washington State Legislature, Governor's Office and executive agencies. She is registered as a lobbyist with the PDC. Ms. Jones represents clients with a wide range of issues, including water, local government, health care, higher education, technology and budget appropriations. This background means she has relationships with many legislators and with both partisan and non-partisan staff. Throughout her tenure at the firm, Ms. Jones has represented numerous public, private and non-profit clients, including associations. This means that she is adept at meeting client needs regardless of the organizational structure and is accustomed to providing varying levels of service depending on the needs of the client.

Ms. Jones has demonstrated a successful track record in assisting firm clients with development and execution of legislative strategy at each step in the process, including, but not limited to stakeholder outreach, policy research, legislative agenda development, and execution of legislative strategy during each session. Evidence of Ms. Jones' diligent approach to lobbying is exemplified through successfully securing millions in legislative budget appropriations for her clients, and in executing creative public policy solutions to achieve client objectives.

Ms. Jones holds a master's degree in public administration from Seattle University, a bachelor's degree in political science from Gonzaga University, and resides in Seattle with her husband.

MIKE TOMAN is responsible for the firm's day-to-day business operations. He is known for keen attention to detail and a grasp of such varied fields as health care, organizational budgeting, and procurement processes. Mike has been with The Success Group since 2000. Prior to joining The Success Group, he spent five years lobbying as a senior policy analyst with the County Commissioners Association of Ohio, worked for the Ohio Legislative Budget Office, and worked for the Ohio Supreme Court. Mike served as President of the Ohio Lobbying Association (OLA) and was a member of the OLA Board of Trustees for seven years. Currently, Mike serves on the Board of Trustees for The Advocacy Group (TAG) and on The Ohio State University's President's Advisory Board. Mike sits on select alumni committees at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs' Alumni Advisory Committee. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Criminal Justice at Eastern Michigan University and a Master of Public Administration at The Ohio State's John Glenn College.

15-20 years

John S. "Trip" Martin, III is the founder of GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group. GeorgiaLink is a governmental affairs consulting firm which has been recognized by James magazine seventeen years in a row as the top lobbying firm in the state of Georgia. Mr. Martin began his Government Affairs career in 1981 as the Director of State Government Affairs in Georgia for Southern Bell. In 1986, he was promoted to the position of Director of Legislative Affairs for BellSouth in Washington, D.C. where his major responsibilities included the development and implementation of strategies for dealing with Congress on national telecommunications policy issues. He has served as the Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Southeastern Public Affairs Council and was a participant in the Leadership Georgia Class of 1983. He is the former Vice President of the University of Georgia National Alumni Association. Mr. Martin currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Advocacy Group, an international network of lobbying firms with offices in forty-eight states. Trip is married to Julie Brown, a native of Atlanta and President & CEO of Georgia Foreign-Trade Zone. Trip and Julie split their time between residences in Atlanta and Blue Ridge, Georgia, where he is a licensed realtor with the Blue Ridge office of Premier Mountain & Lake Property, Inc., and owns and operates Big Creek Alpaca Farms. Trip has three grown children and five granddaughters.

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.

20+ years

Successfully worked with two municipalities regarding approval to build two major warehouse centers in those districts.

Work with state economic development agency and key legislators for passage of legislation to benefit small business

Ongoing work with major state hospital system on all pertinent issues, including state and federal funding, healthcare, etc.

Successfully assisted in merger of large pharmacy retailer and insurance.

Kevin N. Reynolds is a principal of RSG. Prior to that, Mr. Reynolds was a principal and member of the Board of Directors at the law firm of Updike Kelly & Spellacy, PC, serving as Chair of the firm's Government Relations & Public Affairs practice group for eight years. Mr. Reynolds has most recently represented clients such as Amazon, CVS/Caremark, Diageo, Goodwin College, Eversource, Tesla, Red Bull, Trinity Health of New England, Live Nation/Ticketmaster. Mr. Reynolds has great experience representing numerous insurance organizations over the years including, but not limited to, AHIP, Mutual of Omaha, Unum and AFLAC.

As a lawyer, Mr. Reynolds also routinely handles matters in the areas of administrative, elections and municipal law. He was integrally involved in representing Essent Healthcare, over a two-year period, in the state's first non-profit to for-profit hospital conversion.
Prior to attending law school, Mr. Reynolds served for several years on the legislative staff of U.S. Senator Christopher J. Dodd. While working in Senator Dodd's office, his responsibilities included drafting legislation on domestic issues, preparing legislative statements and handling federal casework.

Mr. Reynolds serves in a leadership capacity in various professional, political and community organizations. Since 2000, he has served as Legal Counsel for the Connecticut Democratic Party. Mr. Reynolds is a Corporator of Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center. He also has served as Chairman of the International Council of Shopping Centers, Connecticut State Government Relations Committee. He serves as Parliamentarian for the West Hartford Democratic Town Committee and is an alumnus of Leadership Greater Hartford, Class of 1999. In 2012, Mr. Reynolds received the prestigious William A. O'Neil Award for lifetime service on behalf of the Connecticut Democratic Party.

Mr. Reynolds received his J.D. at the University of Virginia School of Law in Charlottesville, Virginia and his A.B. in English at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio.

11-15 years

Lindsay Thompson is a partner at Providence Strategies and a lifelong resident of Maryland's Eastern Shore. Bringing more than a decade of experience in government relations in Maryland and Delaware, she holds a degree in Political Science from Washington College and a Masters in Public Policy from the University of Maryland, College Pak. Lindsay began her career in the Maryland General Assembly and founded her own firm in 2016, specializing in agricultural, natural resource and environmental issues. Recognized as a 2024 Woman to Watch by Shore Magazine, Lindsay has received multiple awards including the 2022 Don W. Beise Award, the 2017 Reaching for Excellence Award, and the 2016 Urbanski Grassroots Award. She and her husband operate a farm in Queenstown, Maryland where they reside with their three children and their retrievers, Breezy and Cash.

6-10 years

I have been recognized by the Nashville Post list of In-Charge: Government & Politics for 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022

Our firm was recognized nationally by the Public Relations Society of America for our comprehensive public affairs campaign to bring Major League Soccer to Nashville

Mark Cate is the Founder and President of Stones River Group, a Nashville-based public affairs firm serving both Tennessee, regional and national clients. He formerly served as Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam's chief of staff, where he was his top advisor, strategist and negotiator.

During his tenure with the Haslam Administration, Mark led several legislative policy initiatives, including K-12 education reform, workers' compensation reform, civil service reform, an alternative approach to Medicaid expansion, and postsecondary education reform, including the nationally-acclaimed Tennessee Promise program.

Prior to serving in state government, Mark successfully managed Governor Haslam's first gubernatorial campaign in 2010, which led to a record-setting general election victory. He previously worked as an executive in real estate management and development and served for 16 years as a higher education leader. Over the course of his career, Mark has served as a chief development officer, chief planning officer, chief marketing officer, and as a chief financial officer - working on budgets ranging from $10 million to $30 billion.

Mark grew up in Maryville, TN and currently lives in Brentwood with his wife Cathy who serves as the Executive Director of Leadership Tennessee. He and Cathy have two daughters, Bailey who is a recent graduate at Rhodes College and currently serves as a fellow at the Crop Trust in Bonn, Germany; and Abbie who is rising junior at George Washington University.

Cate received a B.S from Carson-Newman College, an M.S from the University of Tennessee, and Harvard University's Institute for Educational Management certificate program. He's served on a wide variety of non-profit boards and was an elected member of the Maryville Board of Education.

Thomas Prasol serves as the Managing Director for Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol Inc. He has been providing strategy, lobbying, and association management for clients since 2011. He brings a myriad of experience in State and Federal government beginning his professional career as a Project Assistant to U.S. Senator Judd Gregg and as Policy and Field Coordinator for several State and Federal campaigns. In 2008 he transitioned to the position of Project Director for Senator Gregg where he handled federal appropriations in the areas of first responders. Upon Senator Gregg's retirement, he moved to the New Hampshire State Senate where he was a Legislative Aide to the Senate Education Committee. With his experience in federal and state government, Mr. Prasol brings another dimension to the firm in areas of strategy, management of special projects, and government affairs implementation. He continues to bring his experience and knowledge to assist State and Federal campaigns with strategy and policy research. In addition to his work for Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol, he serves on the Town Planning Board and has previously served as Chair of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in his local community He received his Bachelor's degree in Politics from Saint Anselm College where he served as an Ambassador to the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, and his Master's degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University. He currently resides in Hooksett, NH with his fiance' Maria and two dogs Zeus and Tyson.

11-15 years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Jennifer Tannehill brings her decades of experience under the dome to Aaron Read & Associates. Beginning her career with an internship for then Governor Deukmejian, Jennifer served two governors and six legislators in several capacities. In addition to her experience in both houses of the legislature and the governor's office Jennifer has served candidates for office as an account manager for a prominent political fundraising team, giving her insider knowledge of Sacramento and a broad perspective of state government and politics. Jennifer has worked on several issues in her capacity as a legislative staffer. Some of these include: Business and Professions, Education and Budget. A Sacramento native, Jennifer holds a B.A. in Government from CSU Sacramento. When not working on legislative issues she enjoys time with her family, camping, road trips with her husband and walks with her rescue dog.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office.

6-10 years

I worked for two years for the majority whip then the budget chairman in North Carolina.

Logan Martin is a versatile and experienced state lobbyist with a proven track record of advocating for a wide range of clients in the political arena. With years of experience navigating the complex legislative landscape, Logan has developed a deep understanding of the issues and policies that shape the state's political climate. His expertise in coalition building, strategic communications, and legislative analysis have helped him to successfully advance his clients' agendas in a variety of areas, including economic development, healthcare, education, and alcohol policy. Logan is passionate about public service and is committed to ensuring that his clients' voices are heard and their needs are met in the halls of power.

Past and current clients include the American Conservative Union, the North Carolina Medical Genetics Association, the North Carolina Dermatology Association, the North Carolina Bar Owners Association, yes, every kid and a myriad of many more ranging from private businesses and nonprofits to trade associations and startups, all of which have national, state, and local interests and objectives. Logan has a long history of assisting organizations across every sector and has extensive policy and political experience with a nationwide network across the political spectrum.

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.

20+ years

Led the passage of legislation to provide for Ready to Go Drinks in grocery stores, convenience stores and restaurant licensees.

Secured funding for the 15 Community Colleges including passage of the State Board of Higher Education.

Led the passage of legislation to provide for the addition of the federal judiciary in the Pennsylvania Protective Class Law.

Worked to advance client's legislative goals in the reauthorization of the Commonwealth's One Call System.

C&G Strategies has focused its practice on working both sides of the aisle. We have relationships in all four Caucus Leadership Teams

Co-Founder/Chief Financial Officer

With over two decades of executive experience, Rob's career has placed him at the highest level of local and state government. As a public affairs professional, he has shaped public policy and legislation for clients in non-profit organizations, for-profit companies, trade associations, unions, and more. Rob provides individualized services that support clients' specific needs and has successfully represented clients in a variety of sectors. Whether navigating state or local government, facilitating introductions with decision makers, working with stakeholders, or developing and executing strategies, he is focused on allowing each individual client to meet their goals.