For 14 years, Dick Vermeil has been a "popular
pitchman" for Philadelphia-based Independence Blue Cross and
Pennsylvania Blue Shield, according to Jane Von Bergen in
the PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER. But after being named GM/head
coach of the Rams Monday, "whether he will continue pitching
the Blues remains to be seen." Independence VP/
Communications Dick Doran was unsure if Vermeil's deal with
the Rams will allow him to continue as a spokesperson, or if
Vermeil will have time. Vermeil also has a contract with a
group of East Coast Cadillac dealers, but both deals expire
in August. PA-based Elkman Advertising & Public Relations
VP Mary Ann Sesso says Vermeil will "probably have to be
dropped. The whole reason behind Dick Vermeil was that he
was a local hero-celebrity, a credible person who meant
something to the community." Philadelphia-based Tierney &
Partners Chief Creative Dir Rich Russo disagrees, "If he is
successful now, even though he has been out of football for
so many years, then he is entrenched in the hearts of
Philadelphia. Then, they should wait a while before pulling
the plug" (PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, 1/22).
