Annual DC Fly-In Preview

PRLog (Press Release) - Apr 27, 2009 -
(Spokane, Wash.) – This week’s 2009 Regional D.C. Fly-in comes at a critical time, as businesses and local governments wrestle with budget challenges.   Greater Spokane Incorporated (the region’s Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council - GSI for short) will bring a delegation of 30 leaders from around the Inland Northwest to Washington, D.C. the week of April 27th. Participating chambers include Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, GSI, Greater Spokane Valley and West Plains.

For the first time, we will have the opportunity to meet with the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the U.S. Air Force during the same visit. The 48-hour Fly-In also includes meetings with all four Washington and Idaho senators, four Congressional representatives and legislative staff.

“It’s especially important that the voice of business in the Inland Northwest is heard this year in Washington D.C.,” said Greater Spokane Incorporated CEO Rich Hadley. “This year presents three significant opportunities: one is reauthorization of the nation’s transportation bill (which is a 6-year bill); second, are key decisions about how the stimulus package relates to health information technology and alternative energy projects in our region.  Lastly, we’re expecting a decision on the U.S. acquisition of a new refueling tanker.  Bringing a unified team of business and government representatives from Eastern Washington and North Idaho allows us to present our case for fair funding and business-friendly laws,” said Hadley.

GSI’s delegation will be traveling from April 28th to April 30th.  You can read and comment about the trip on our blog, linked to our home page: www.greaterspokane.org