Paying attention to govt. is our right, duty

Published November 29,2010 in the Culpeper Star Exponent

“Our destiny is in our hands” is a common quote. Yet, The phrase makes me think about our uncommon opportunity to shape our future. I say opportunity, but is it really our obligation to our children to shape our future? Our Democracy was established by those who held our right to a voice in Government, worthy of defending with one of our most precious resources, the lives of our soldiers. Thus as a sacred honor, we have the opportunity, right, and obligation to pay attention to what happens in our Government and express our views thru the orderly process of working with our elected officials.

On December 2nd, the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce will host our Virginia Senator, Edd Houck, and Delegate, Ed Scott to hear from you the community regarding your organization’s needs, concerns, and legislative ideas. The Legislative Breakfast is a long standing service that the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce provides to members and to the community. This allows our elected officials to hear from many voices in one meeting that may not otherwise be feasible. Senator Edd Houck and Delegate Ed Scott will be able to take the information that they glean from the Legislative Breakfast to consider as they represent us in the Virginia General Assembly. The General Assembly convenes on January 12th in Richmond. As we know, the state and local budgets are being stretched due to the effects of a tough economy. It is up to us to make the case for support or supporting legislation for our needs. Our representatives are skilled legislators, with established experience in advancing opportunities for their constituents when possible. Click here to register now

The meeting will be held at the Country Club of Culpeper, breakfast begins at 8 AM and presentations start at 8:30 AM. We will be taking prewritten outlines (required and subject to approval) from those interested in speaking thru 5 PM, Tuesday November 30th. The meeting is open to the public with pre-registration and payment ($20 per person including breakfast). Register at CulpeperChamber.com or in person at the Culpeper Chamber office at 109 S. Commerce Street – The Depot.

If you are interested in understanding more about the legislative process in Virginia, the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce members, thru the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, are invited to attend Chamber Day at the Capitol on January 26, 2011. Join the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce as a member, mark your calendar, and join us in Richmond to hear from and interact with State Government in person for a rewarding experience.

"Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning." ~  Maya Angelou

Jim Charapich, President/CEO Culpeper County Chamber of Commerce

jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com