AZ Democratic Party unveils Business and Entrepreneurship Council

by David Safier

I like the look and feel of this. Arizona Democrats have elected a smart, young-yet-experienced chair in Andre Cherny. More on the Business and Entrepreneurship Council when we know more.

Cherny, Pederson to unveil Business and Entrepreneurship Council

PHOENIX — Arizona Democratic Party Chair Andrei Cherny is joining forces with Valley businessman Jim Pederson to launch the Business and Entrepreneurship Council.

The council, which Pederson will co-chair, will include prominent business leaders from around the state advising Democrats on policies that will create new jobs, strengthen the business climate, make Arizona more hospitable to start-ups and entrepreneurs, and enhance our competetiveness in the 21st century economy.

"On a day when GOP lawmakers will be introducing bills to redefine birthright citizenship, Arizona Democrats will launch an initiative on job creation," Cherny said. "We will reach out to Arizona's business community — Democrats, Republicans, and independents who are interested in a real dialogue and new ideas."

What: Media conference call with ADP Chair Andrei Cherny and businessman Jim Pederson to discuss plans for the Business and Entrepreneurship Council.

When: 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 27

Call-in: 218-339-4600 #307057

UPDATE: Statement from Andre Cherny:

"Today, the Russell Pearce Republicans are choosing the extreme by introducing a bill to redefine birthright citizenship," Cherny said. "But we are choosing to work for Arizona's mainstream by helping turn our economy around. We invite Democrats, Republicans and independents to join us."

As for the Council's ongoing plans:

The council now begins its outreach to members of the business community and will meet regularly to have a dialogue and gather ideas. It will serve an advisory role by bringing those ideas to Arizona legislators, members of Congress and the Obama White House to share what these businesses need in order to thrive.