Serving the marketing, public relations and crisis communication needs of local government, businesses, nonprofits and professional associations
since 2004. View our brochure here. | |
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Hello fall! The start of a new season is the perfect time to pause - before the holidays begin and suddenly it’s New Year’s Eve! Take time to reflect on where you are, and think about where you want to go. That could be personal, business - or both!
As you look ahead to 2027, consider the goals you’d like to achieve, the connections you’d want to strengthen, and the fresh ideas you plan to put into motion. Small steps today can lead to meaningful changes tomorrow!
In line with that mindset, I'm thrilled to be part of a professional development panel;, When Crisis Hits: Own the Narrative, Build Trust, Lead with Confidence in mid-November for the Illinois City/County Management Association (ILCMA). I'm passionate about crisis communications consulting and training - it's something I've been doing for more than a decade - and always open to opportunities to share my experiences to help individuals and organizations through challenging times.
In this edition you'll find:
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An interview on the Once Upon a Business podcast with Adam Pietka of ACDC Closets - a custom design closet company. Adam shares how he built his business, and how his team can make your dream closet a reality!
- St. Steven PR gives back to an important cause, and is recognized for its work with local government leaders by the Chicago Publicity Club.
- Vicarious Multimedia welcomes new team member, Olivia!
- PR Perspective and Marketing Methods articles provide insights on how to strengthen communications to better reach your target audience.
- Information on Wheeling Township and services available for residents - as well as ways to give back and help neighbors in need.
Enjoy the season!
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Melanie Santostefano
St. Steven Public Relations & Vicarious Multimedia
Want to connect? Email me!
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Once Upon a Business Podcast:
Adam Pietka, Founder and President | ACDC Closets
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In Chapter 6 of the Once Upon a Business podcast, you'll meet Adam Pietka of ACDC Closets (Adam’s Closet Design Culture)! Hear how Adam came to the U.S. at a young age and followed in his parents’ footsteps to pursue his own American Dream - and, how he turned that dream into a thriving custom closet business.
Are you dreaming of a new closet? Mention "Once Upon a Business" when you place your order by December 31, 2026, and receive 20% off! View the latest episode here (or click the video above). View previous chapters here.
| | St. Steven Presents Check to JOURNEYS | The Road Home | | Welcome to the Vicarious Team: Olivia Martin | | | |  | Olivia Martin has joined our team as a Communications Associate! Olivia recently graduated with a degree in Communications and a minor in Media Studies from Colorado State University - which makes her background a strong fit for the projects she works on. These include editing and copywriting, graphic design, video production/editing, content creation and social media management for Vicarious Multimedia, and sister company, St. Steven Public Relations. Welcome Olivia! | | | St. Steven Recognized at Golden Trumpet Awards | | |
St. Steven Public Relations was honored to receive an award at the 68th annual Golden Trumpet Awards earlier this month, recognizing our work with local government leadership in the Public Affairs category. We’re incredibly grateful for the recognition and proud to partner with townships, cities, villages and counties to assist them in communicating, connecting and engaging with the people they serve.
The Golden Trumpet Awards are sponsored by the Chicago Publicity Club, and recognize firms that specialize in public relations, marketing and communications. They celebrate the creativity, leadership and impact behind stories that connect organizations and communities.
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'PR Perspective'
Reputation vs. Attention
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Public Relations isn't just about grabbing headlines - it’s about protecting your image and reputation, and establishing a relationship with the people you intend to reach.
For your audience to internalize the messages you share, adopt Nancy Duarte’s core philosophy: Your audience is the hero; you are just the guide.
Address Their Tension: Lead by addresing immediate emotions and concerns, not just logic.
Bridge the Gap: Determine what the current struggle is, and what the ideal future is - and build a strategy around that.
When you empower your audience, that’s when your messages make the most impact.
Providing thoutghful and strategic communications for our clients is St. Steven Public Relations' mission. Learn about our PR Management.
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'Marketing Methods'
What are YOUR Social Media Channels?
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Is your business, organization - or you yourself - on the ‘right’ social media platforms? The decision about if or where you share your messages in the social media world should always be strategic. Ask yourself the following questions:
Is your target audience there?
Is the channel (itself) compatible with your industry, organizational message or personal identity?
Are you maximizing engagement through best practices for each unique channel?
Social media exposure can be impactful, but to ensure you're reaching your target audience where they are - it should be done after considering the reasons why you are there in the first place.
In an oversaturated social media market, finding ways to reach your audience is critical. Learn more about Vicarious Multimedia's Marketing Communication Services.
| | | Vicarious Client Spotlight: Wheeling Township | | |
This edition’s Client Spotlight shines on Wheeling Township. Townships are in part, a "social service arm" of local government. While there are programs that benefit all residents, many of them serve those experiencing financial hardships and other challenges. Another group that is well-served by Townships - and in particular by Wheeling Township - are older adults, through educational programs, senior resources and transportation services.
For Older Adults: Medicare Open Enrollment opens on October 15 and counselors are available to assist Wheeling Township seniors with Part D and Part C Medicare Advantage plans. Appointments fill quickly, so call 847-259-7730 to schedule yours. If you or someone you know is an older adult and don't live in Wheeling Township, contact the Township you live in for assistance.
Holiday Giving Programs: These offer support for in-need families living in Wheeling Township and opportunities to give back and support them:
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Thanksgiving Baskets: A basket full of holiday meal fixings and a gift card for meat are provided to families.
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Holiday Adopt-A-Family: Donors fulfill family gift wish lists for the holiday.
For Wheeling Township families who would like to benefit from one or both programs, call 847-259-7730. To become a donor, click here.
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