Congressman Bill Thomas Addressed CaliforniaÂ’s Independent Grocers
Congressman Bill Thomas addressed members of the California Independent Grocers Association (CIGA) at a private luncheon on Monday, August 22, in Bakersfield, California, at the Seven Oaks Country Club. The luncheon was sponsored by CIGA Associate Member Classic Wines and was coordinated with the assistance of the Kern County Independent Grocers Association.
Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) August 28, 2005
The Congressman’s presentation was preceded by an introduction from California State Assemblyman Kevin McCarthy from Bakersfield. Assemblyman McCarthy once served under Congressman Thomas in Washington DC, and was invited to share a few words prior to the Congressman’s speech. He currently serves with Governor Schwarzenegger and the leaders of both parties in the Senate and Assembly as a member of the “Big Five.” The Big Five—the governor, the speaker of the Assembly, the Senate president pro tempore, and the minority leaders of both houses—are arguably the five most powerful leaders in Sacramento.
As Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, Congressman Thomas has a strong influence on economic development, international trade, health care and wealth retention—many of the same issues facing California’s independent grocers. The Committee’s jurisdiction includes measures relating to revenue agreements such as Social Security, Medicare, and welfare. In his first two years as Chairman, Congressman Thomas led the charge on several vital pieces of legislation to help improve the lives of all Americans. He drafted the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act, which delivered much-needed tax relief to hard-working American families, and worked to create jobs and open trade channels through the Trade Act of 2002. He also worked to deliver affordable prescription drugs to all seniors by authoring the Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act.
In his presentation, Congressman Thomas recapped some of California's eight initiatives that will be presented to voters at a special election on November 8, 2005. He particularly stressed the importance Proposition 77 that will require legislators to be accountable to their respective districts. The proposition will prohibit elected representatives from “redistricting” by redrawing voter lines, allowing voters—not politicians— more control over the outcome of elections. “Government representatives are only as strong as the people who elect them,” he stated, adding “right now, legislators can select voters instead of voters electing legislators.”
Referencing international trade initiatives, the Congressman addressed product labeling laws and his belief that product origin labeling should remain optional, stating a “one size fits all” government-controlled policy is not the way to go. He feels a responsible, well-designed, voluntary program is more appropriate, at least initially.
Regarding wealth management, Congressman Thomas stressed the importance of tax relief for families passing estates to their children. He also shared his philosophy for revising pension programs in a way that structurally makes sense, offering a reasonable way to grow funds—not just cash—to secure lifetime income upon retirement. He feels current 401(k) accounts are “too chaotic,” and the traditional pension program concept is becoming “extinct.”
Congressman Thomas then opened the meeting for questions and comments from the grocers, addressing issues ranging from Social Security to the war in Iraq. The Congressman shared stories of his long-time shopping experience at Green Frog Market, owned by current CIGA Chairman Scott Hair. “It’s not just about the price or inventory—it’s because they know you as a person,” he stated. Congressman Thomas feels independent grocers are “very important” to local communities.
Sharon Paxton, Executive Director for the CIGA, agrees. “Our member/grocers keep thousands of Californians employed, and the issues of economic growth and tax relief are vital to the successful operation of our businesses.” said Paxton. She applauded Congressman Thomas’ support of independent business owners and commitment to fighting unnecessary government control.
CIGA Chairman Scott Hair concluded the meeting by reiterating the importance of CIGA’s grassroots activism efforts, and called upon members to take action. He encouraged the independent grocers to utilize CIGA’s handbook - Big Box and Superstore Development in California—to help them better understand the land-use approval process. “It’s more important than ever to improve communications with city and county governments, and to keep up to date on all local land use and zoning issues as they pertain to our industry and competition.”
CIGA recognized special guests at the luncheon including CIGA First Vice Chairman Del Clegg; Former CIGA Chairman John Denney; Mike Anderson, President of Kern County Grocers, Johnny Leung of Food Maxx/Save Mart, and John Schekel from Classic Wines.
Headquartered in Sacramento, California, CIGA has continued to represent the Independent Retail Food Industry since the early 1900s. Today, more than 1,200 independent grocers and supplier companies make up its membership. CIGAÂ’s vision is to be the best possible association by promoting, supporting, educating, protecting and fulfilling the needs of the independent grocer.
For more information, call Sharon Paxton at (916) 929-9741.
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