Publisher's Letter
	July/Aug 2006, By Candy Campbell

Each and every time the deadline comes around for me to write my next “publisher’s letter” I am mulling over the number of things that have happened since my last deadline. Two months is a long time in entrepreneurial days. The events, opportunities, people we’ve met – even the disasters that occur – picking just one is difficult. Ultimately however, one or two sort of stick out, and are somehow attached to a lesson. It’s funny how that works.

This issue we have the pleasure of profiling a few very amazing politicians (current and future) that offer a different opinion on many topics. That seems to be the focus of this last year for the magazine. A culmination of varying opinions, advice, free flowing information and ultimately, the realization that there are many ways to accomplish a given task, solve a problem or view a situation. In business and in life, there is not a single “right way” there is only the one that resonates with each individual. And that is what makes each and every one of us unique in our methods and opinions.

While profiling these great men, it came with a bit of controversy as the opinions of others were abundant. Our state is very fortunate that we have a number of brilliant minds. Even more impressive is the number of unique thoughts and approaches to solve issues that affect our state as a whole and each of us individually. I am of the mindset that the controversy that has stirred among the state’s leaders brings about immanent change that ultimately is good.

I have enjoyed watching the rollercoaster among many and the outcome of some of their greatest challenges. After all, what would business or politics be without controversy, difficulty or adversity. If it were too easy, it would have to be wrong!

To add to the excitement from this quarter, President Bill Clinton, who was in Denver attending the dedication of the Columbine Memorial paid a visit to Strings Restaurant for dinner.

It doesn’t surprise me that Noel Cunningham, proprietor of Strings, was the choice for the evening, however, it is certainly a testament to the notion, “you never know who or when”. Which is to say, many of us in business operate with tunnel vision, often forgetting you never know who you will meet or who will patronize your establishment.
Opportunities present themselves every day. As coincidence would have it, this particular issue focuses on a few of Colorado’s politicians. Each with their own set of experiences and battles along the way. I remember attending a cocktail reception at the Governor’s residence. There were about 100 of us or less. It was my first experience to meet Governor Bill Owens. I will never forget when I introduced myself and shook his hand his eyes and attention were already beyond me looking to the next person without even giving me a second thought.
That impression will last a lifetime. I firmly believe first impressions are everything. Consequently, I have met Mayor John Hickenlooper about 17 times. Given the number of people he meets and interacts with constantly, I never expect him to remember my name. To my surprise each time, he always, without fail, looks me directly in the eyes, shakes my hand and engages in conversation. Whether or not he remembers meeting me or who I am, he always treats me the same, with genuine interest.

At some point, in any politicians life, that will matter, with a seriousness that could make or break a career. The person on the receiving end of an introduction could very well be the most important person you’ve ever met in your life.

I take that philosophy to heart and can honestly say I have met and continue to meet, some of the most amazing individuals. As a member of the media, most of us realize you cannot always know who will be in the room with you. I have met heads of state, billionaires, brilliant scientists that have a hand in global matters, entrepreneurs with the next big launch. I certainly would not have recognized them, but with a willingness to engage in an introduction and conversation, I have never been disappointed by giving my full attention to each and every person I’ve met.

Candy A Campbell
Publisher
candy@siegelmedia.com