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Capitol Hill Corner What You Can Do For Your Industry Patrick Atagi, NWPCA Vice President, Advocacy & External Affairs J ohn F. Kennedy, in his inaugural address on January 20, 1961, now famously said, "And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country…With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love." You may wonder how does this affect pallets and the pallet industry? These past months and the last few issues of PalletCentral I've talked a lot about what I have been doing for you; congressional visits on Capitol Hill, meetings with administration officials, NWPCA member visits, and meetings with other associations and non-profits. I am only one person, and I lean heavily on you and your reputations to make this happen. You are leaders of your companies and businesses. You are the successful businesses that provide jobs, security and salaries to thousands of employees. So, I ask of you to be active in politics and policy. While I know many are weary of the last few election cycles, remember that politics is the precursor to policy. Relationships, and particularly long-term relationships, provide the basis of strong lines of communication and relevance. To that end, NWPCA has developed a Congressional Mill Tour handbook (details can be found on page 45). It is often easier for Members of Congress to find the time to visit you in their home districts than in Washington, DC with their hectic and unpredictable work schedules. We have already scheduled a congressional visit with U.S. Representative Bradley Byrne of Alabama with NWPCA member Jimmy Wilson, Bay Wood Products, hosting the congressional tour at his facility. Also, reach out to your customers, suppliers and others related to your business. As you all well know, it's all about relationships, connections and networking. As former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Tip O'Neill, was fond of saying, "All politics is local." So, let us go forth to lead the land and business we love. Pallets move the world.™ PC 12 PalletCentral • March-April 2015 palletcentral.com INSIDE NWPCA An industry collaborative award presented to Lowell Allen, Rodon Group, by Bill Schneider, Remmey – The Pallet Company.