www.sdchamber.org

President's Update

By Ruben Barrales, President & Chief Executive Officer

The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce serves as an advocate for business at the local, state and national level.  One of my priorities for the Chamber is to help create stronger relationships with decision makers in our state and federal governments.  

San Diego’s business community needs a stronger voice in Sacramento and Washington D.C.  The solutions to many of the issues facing our region, such as the need for reliable energy, water and transportation require the active support from these decision makers.

Because of our proximity and economic ties to Baja California, we also need to be more active in Mexicali (the capital of Baja California) and in Mexico City.

That’s why we’ve embarked on an ambitious plan to visit our region’s “four capitals” in 2008.  This “Capitol Connection” program gives us an opportunity to meet with decision makers, build relationships and be effective advocates for the needs of the San Diego region.

This year’s Capitol Connection schedule includes:

• Mexico City on April 7-10, 2008.  Learn more.

• Sacramento on May 6, 2008.

• Washington DC is tentatively scheduled for September 21-24, 2008.

• Mexicali will be in October or early November of 2008.

As our efforts in the halls of our state and federal governments grow, we will more effectively address important regional issues for our members.  As a result, we will be better advocates for the needs of business in San Diego.