CFM history

CFM was formed in 1990 with a single-minded focus of helping clients achieve success through strategic communications and lobbying with integrity.

"We still hold those values," says CFM president and co-founder Gary Conkling. "It is the core of our business."

Over two decades, CFM has expanded from lobbying to become one of the region's top public relations agencies and research firms.

"CFM is known for getting legislative results for clients in Salem and Washington, D.C." says co-founder Dave Fiskum, who leads the firm's state lobby practice. "But today clients require a more integrated approach to problem-solving. Effective lobbying demands good research and strategic communications."

The discipline CFM uses to get legislative results translates into success in marketing products or selling ideas. "While we offer a range of services from federal lobbying to crisis communications," explains Conkling, "all of our staff follows the same proven path to success – solid research, compelling arguments, creative ideas and hard work."

Involved in major issues

CFM began as a spinout from Tektronix, Inc. and as a joint venture with the law firm Stoel Rives. In its history, CFM has been involved with major issues that touch the lives of people in the Pacific Northwest, such as campaigns to allow assisted suicide, discourage teens from smoking and investing in roads and bridges. CFM handled media relations for the restoration of Portland City Hall, sent a staff member to New York after the 9/11 attacks and introduced the first Whole Foods Market to Portland.

"We've had a great run and we still have the energy and zest to dive in to help clients," Fiskum says. Adds Conkling, "The Internet and social media have added amazing new dimensions to our work, which keeps us on our toes and continuously on the lookout for new, effective ways to solve problems for clients. We have talented young professionals that team with seasoned veterans to give clients practical advice with a dash of excitement."

Read highlights of examples of CFM activity over the last two decades.