February Newsletter - Leading the Way

Contributed by Rick Schum, 2008 Chairman of the Board
Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce
February 2008

As I mentioned in last months article, we enter 2008 with a new structure to the Board of Directors that is in line with the long term strategic plan of the organization. I wanted to take a moment this month and focus on one of these strategic areas of the Chamber, specifically, the Action and Advocacy initiative.

Action and Advocacy encompasses the Chambers relations with governmental entities (local, state and federal). After hearing Senator Enzi’s presentation at the January luncheon, it is obvious that governmental relations and relationships have never been more important to the business community than they are today. Action and Advocacy is charged with the task of "Representing Business to Government" and encompasses two primary committees within the Chamber, Governmental Affairs and the Military Affairs Committee.

The Vice Chairman responsible for the Action and Advocacy efforts is John Balser, who is also serving as the 2009 Chairman-elect. The Chairman of the Governmental Affairs Forum is Mike Dowling, who is working to assure that programs on various governmental activities are presented to members and that issues impacting the Business Community are brought to the forefront. The Chairman of the Military Affairs Committee (MAC) is Ron Van Voast.

The relationship between the Greater Cheyenne Business community and the regional military is critically important to our community. A continued and/or expanded military presence in the greater Cheyenne area is a benefit to all members of the community. If you happened to see John, Mike or Ron, be sure to thank them for their hard work.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Annual Banquet on February 22nd and hope that you have a prosperous February.