A Message from Larry Ceisler
Wherever Americans have gathered to chat in recent weeks – even if most of it is in Zoom conferences – talk has centered on the 2020 election.
It’s no different here at Ceisler Media. One of the aspects I appreciate about this company is how many smart people we have who understand politics and can analyze exactly what the results mean.
And that’s the focus of this month’s newsletter – sharing our expertise on what the outcomes and numbers portend for the commonwealth. Managing Director Kurt Knaus takes a statewide look at a split-decision election that leaves Pennsylvania more purple than red or blue.
Director Brian Dries explains how Philadelphia should benefit from a Biden-Harris administration expected to be supportive of many of the city’s projects and priorities. Special Projects Manager Keegan Gibson focuses on western Pennsylvania – arguing that Pittsburgh had more to do with Biden’s victory than did Philadelphia.
Director Meredith Montalto adds a humorous piece on how the Four Seasons Total Landscaping Company turned its 15 minutes of Rudy Giuliani infamy into a winning marketing opportunity.
It kicks off with my own analysis of Nov. 3 – why the results came out as they did, who benefits politically, and what the state legislature must do to improve the election process in the future.
We’ve got interesting news about our clients, and some updates on people within the firm. Give it a read and let me know your thoughts.
And from all of us at Ceisler Media, we wish you and yours a happy and safe Thanksgiving. There’s good reason to believe that better days lay ahead.
Larry Ceisler in the News
During the campaign, major media outlets sought out Larry Ceisler for his political expertise. In this New York Times op-ed, Larry was quoted on voter exhaustion over the deluge of candidate advertising. And in this article in the British magazine New Statesman, Larry explained the long-term enthusiasm of suburban voters who aimed to defeat President Trump ever since his 2016 victory.
Client News
10.27 Healing Partnership
Comcast NBCUniversal
Comcast NBCUniversal, along with Bank of America and the Lenfest Foundation, have invested nearly $1 million to launch Coded by Kids OnE (Opportunity and Equity) Philadelphia initiative. The company’s investment in the project is part of Comcast’s multi-year $100 million commitment to fight injustice and inequality and its mission to create a more connected and equitable society.
Entercom
KYW Newsradio will begin simulcasting on crystal-clear 103.9 FM on Nov. 23. For the last 55 years, the iconic station has broadcast “All News and All That Matters to You” on 1060 AM. As part of its commitment to increase diversity, equity and inclusion across the company, Entercom is looking for a Human Resource Director who will own, champion and promote all of Entercom’s diversity, equity and inclusion strategies and initiatives. Share the posting with your network today.
Western Governor’s University
PRWT
Congratulations to Malik Majeed, President & CEO of PRWT Services, Inc./U.S. Facilities, on being named to the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia’s Executive Board of Directors. As the head of the largest minority-owned firm in Philadelphia, Mr. Majeed’s involvement on the Executive Board will be paramount in helping the city foster an inclusive economic recovery. Mr. Majeed was also recently honored by the Philadelphia Tribune as one of the city’s “Most Influential African Americans.”
Philadelphia Children’s Alliance
Client Highlights
Make Something Workshop
Make Something Workshops held a political poster design class for aspiring artists taught by renowned artist Steve “ESPO” Powers, a Philadelphia native. This video from the event teaches how anyone can put their creative ideas on paper and promote democracy one sign at a time.
Fitler Club
Fitler Club, the members-only club for socially conscious, forward-thinking Philadelphians, introduced its inaugural Nonprofit in Residence program, providing free workspace and resources to a Philadelphia-area nonprofit. Through a competitive application process, nonprofits will vie for a yearlong residency at Offsite at Fitler Club, the five-star private workspace powered by the luxury hospitality team at Fitler Club in Center City. Applications are live now and submissions will be accepted through December 15, 2020.
Dynegy
Dynegy announced a long-term tree planting partnership with the non-profit organization Tree Pittsburgh. To mark the collaboration, 50 trees were planted along the Eliza Furnace Trail. Mayor Bill Peduto and employees from the city’s forestry department were there to celebrate.
Independence Blue Cross
The Well City Challenge, launched by the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia with the support of Independence Blue Cross, is a citywide initiative seeking community-oriented collaborative ideas to solve the physical and mental health challenges facing millennials. The program is currently calling for applicants with innovative ideas that can be developed into pilot programs. Semi-finalists will be selected and prepped by Economy League mentors to further develop their concepts. They will then enter into a virtual “Shark Tank” pitch event, presenting to a panel of judges. Winners will receive funding to help turn their concepts into fully-fledged programs.
Chester Housing Authority
Chester Housing Authority resident Betty Dorsey overcame multiple obstacles to start her own business and help others achieve self-sufficiency along the way. This story in the Philadelphia Inquirer’s UpSide section tells how Betty became an author and mentor. You can also support Betty’s business and buy one of her recently published step-by-step cleaning books.
Women’s Community Revitalization Project
The Women’s Community Revitalization Project celebrated the groundbreaking of the Mamie Nichols Townhomes. The project adds 33 affordable rental homes, including nine wheelchair accessible units, to Philadelphia’s Point Breeze neighborhood. Its name honors Mamie Nichols, the late founder and executive director of the Point Breeze Federation. “Like its namesake, the Mamie Nichols Townhomes project puts the needs of the local community first while also serving as an inspiration for the next generation of affordable housing advocates,” said WCRP Executive Director Nora Lichtash.
Ceisler News
Mike Ferko Is Retiring
Mike Ferko, Ceisler Media Director of Business Development for Western PA, is stepping down at the end of November to enjoy more leisure time in Florida. Mike has done a great job in recent years of connecting our firm with businesses and nonprofits. His impressive four-decade career – much of it spent in TV and radio broadcasting – focused on creating, selling, and executing customer-focused marketing campaigns. “I truly appreciate everything Mike has brought to our firm in Pittsburgh and statewide,” said Ceisler Media Principal Larry Ceisler. “Mike’s experience and reputation brought us great value and his calm demeanor was an asset to all, especially in our Pittsburgh office. We are going to miss him. We wish him the best in the next chapter of his life.”Sean Coit, Greg Pizzoli Welcome New Arrivals
May His Memory Be a Blessing
Christopher D. Chimicles, a dear friend and client of our firm, former spouse of Ceisler Media COO Kate Wilhelm, and father to their six-year-old Lizzie, passed away of a non-COVID related illness on November 15. Chris was founder and CEO of Angeion Group, based in Philadelphia. Read about his life, the legacy he leaves and how you can contribute to continuing his vision here.
ICYMI
Larry Ceisler accurately predicted back in June that a slow vote count and narrow loss in Pennsylvania would prompt the President to charge voter fraud. Read Larry’s analysis here.
