45. Gary Lewi

This master of public relations has been turning straw into gold for nationally known clients for more than three decades. He used to work his magic for former Sen. Alfonse D’Amato and now handles media for corporate bigwigs like Fortunoff and Carnival Cruise Lines. Lewi only slid down the list this year because others moved up, not because his power waned. And while this may seem a touch unfair, we feel confident that Lewi will find a positive spin.