What You’ll Experience

🧠 Presentation: Messaging Mistakes That Put Your Organization at Risk

This session breaks down the most common messaging mistakes organizations make when trying to inform, advocate, or lead in today’s polarized environment. You’ll learn how to avoid missteps that lead to backlash, how to clarify your messaging strategy, and how to speak up without sacrificing credibility.

Featured Presenter: Gary Lewi, Managing Director, Rubenstein

When it comes to navigating high-stakes public discourse, few bring the depth of experience and insight of Gary Lewi. A leading authority in strategic communications and crisis management, Gary has spent decades helping organizations protect their reputations and deliver messages that resonate—no matter the pressure. With a background that spans broadcast journalism and service as a press secretary at both federal and municipal levels, Gary understands the media from the inside out.

You’ll start the morning learning how to craft the right message—then put it into action.

Immediately following Gary’s session, you’ll have the opportunity to pitch your story live to the media. You’ll hear firsthand what journalists are looking for—and what they avoid. Every time we do this, someone walks away with a news story. That someone could be you.

🎙️ Live Panel: Meet and Pitch the Media

Media Panelists (check back for more confirmations): 

• Cecilia Dowd, Reporter, News12
• Macy Egeland, Anchor/Reporter, NewsdayTV
• Scott Eidler, Deputy Director Long Island Desk, Newsday
• Chantee Lans, Long Island Reporter, WABC-TV Eyewitness News
• Keith Lopez, Long Island Bureau Videojournalist, PIX11
• Jill Conway McDowell, Host, Secrets of Powerful Women Podcast
• Jennifer McLogan, Long Island Reporter, CBS New York
• Joe Ostapiuk, Long Island Desk Reporter, Newsday
• Terry Sheridan, Senior Director of News and Education, WSHU Public Radio

This isn’t theory—it’s access.
Join a live, interactive panel of working journalists. Learn what editors and reporters are looking for right now, how they decide which stories to cover, and how to present your organization’s work in a way that earns attention.

You’ll also get the opportunity to pitch your story and receive on-the-spot feedback.
Whether you’re looking for media coverage, a stronger pitch strategy, or simply want to understand what makes journalists say “yes,” this session is for you.

It’s a Fact: At every FMC pitch session, at least one organization secures media coverage. 

📘 Bonus: Free Copy of The Media-Savvy Blueprint™

All attendees receive a complimentary copy of Fair Media Council’s strategic communications guide: The Media-Savvy Blueprint™: How to Build PR, Community & Media Relations Teams in a Misinformation Age.

👥 Who Should Attend

• Nonprofit and advocacy professionals
• Communications and public affairs teams
• Executive directors and C-suite leaders
• Anyone responsible for messaging, branding, or media engagement

Pricing

• FMC Members: $99

• Nonmembers: $125

Includes networking, Q&A, presentation and panel access, continental breakfast, and a copy of The Media-Savvy Blueprint™.

All ticket sales are final. No refunds. For this event, substitutions allowed with advance notice.

❓ FAQs

Is this event in-person or virtual?
It’s fully in-person, held at 58 S. Service Road, Melville, N.Y. There is ample on-site parking. After entering the building, take the stairs or the elevator down one level.  

Can I really pitch the media?
Yes—during the panel session, you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and get feedback directly from journalists.

What should I bring?
Bring your curiosity, questions, and (if pitching) a short summary of your story. A notepad or laptop may be helpful.

Will the event be recorded?
No. To encourage open discussion and real-time feedback, this is a live-only event.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
Yes. If you can’t attend, you may transfer your ticket to a colleague by notifying us in advance at info@fairmediacouncil.org.

✅ Space is limited and this session is expected to fill up fast. Don’t miss this chance to sharpen your messaging and make valuable media connections.