October 18, 2005
PHILADELPHIA, PA -- A new SEPTA ad campaign offers a unique sample of the language, traditions and "ad-di-tude" (sic) that is "Genuine Philly". The primary message of the series of print ads is that SEPTA is the driving force and fabric that holds the Greater Philadelphia region together.
In one of the ads SEPTA's JoAnne Nuttle, who drives the Market-Frankford Owl bus says,"There's no debate, its called gravy, not pasta sauce." Another example of Genuine Philly comes from SEPTA's Toni Foster, "It's spelled Passyunk. It's pronounced Pashunk, don't ask me why." Both ads include the line, "Millions of things make this our home. She'll take you to every one."
Other SEPTA employees featured in the ads include regional rail Conductor R.D. Murray and Assistant Conductor Tia Kennerly as well as Bus Operators Angel M. Davila (Comly Transportation District) and Brian Kelso (Southern Transportation District).
The "stars" of the ads were selected through an internal open casting call held over two days.
The print ads debuting in mid-October will be posted on the sides and backs of SEPTA buses and subway-surface trolleys and on the interior of regional rail cars. R.D. Murray will be featured on a billboard overlooking interstate highway Route I-95. He's promoting the R1 Airport train.
In a bow to one of Philly's oldest traditions, its beloved sports teams, SEPTA will also produce trading cards featuring the stars.The trading cards, which will be available at SEPTA Sales locations in Center City, contain a money-saving coupon that can be used at participating merchants at Reading Terminal Market.
SEPTA has also created television ads with the "Genuine Philly" message. The "Love" statute, Mummers string bands and cheesesteaks are featured in the spots that will air on cable networks throughout the region. The television ads feature actors from the Greater Philadelphia region.
The ad campaign is SEPTA's most ambitious in years and is meant to increase ridership and improve the image of the transit Authority.
