Big Ideas for Iowa - Part One - Business

Support Entrepreneurs; Recruit; Tell Iowa's Story
JACK EVANS, a former CEO of SCI Financial Group, is president of The Hall-Perrine Foundation, Cedar Rapids, and a member of the Iowa Board of Regents.

We in Iowa are fortunate. Common sense has kept our state finances in reasonable shape. Good judgment has kept our commercial banking industry healthy. Education and health care in Iowa are the envy of other states.

Iowans are also realistic. Although our unemployment rate is well below the national average, we know we're in a recession. What can we do?
- Insist our elected leaders create an environment conducive to entrepreneurial development. Finding the next Maytag, Collins or Deere is vital.
- Go out more. Attend local events, particularly at institutions of higher education. See that play, enjoy the ball game. Interaction with others is healthy and intellectually stimulating.
- Recruit. When visiting with out-of-state friends and family, tell Iowa's story. Describe our schools, and stress our quality of health care. Take notes; relay the information to local economic-development professionals.
- Volunteer. It's often said, "You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give." Make a life by volunteering.
- Walk. A healthy state is a better state. Walking gives you time to think, time to evaluate progress on your personal goals. Pick up litter along the way to keep Iowa beautiful.
- Take pride. Iowa has wonderful communities and world-class colleges and universities. Celebrate their successes and nurture their growth.

We in Iowa have a great story to tell. Let us all accept cheerfully our responsibilities. We Iowans are loyal and happy to help influence our destiny. Together, today's challenges will become tomorrow's opportunities.


Support Growth of the Private Sector
PAUL SCHICKLER is president of Pioneer Hi-Bred, Johnston, and DuPont vice president and general manager.

As Gov. Chet Culver and our state legislators face tough choices ahead to manage the state's budget through the recession, they must continue to do what has proven to drive growth over time - support private-sector investment and emphasize Iowa's strengths.

Current policies have encouraged Pioneer to increase its investment in Iowa by more than $100 million over the last five years. At a time when unemployment is reaching record levels, Pioneer has added more than 120 new employees in Iowa so far this year.

Now is the time to put policies in place that will stimulate business growth. Private investment, combined with a focus on our agricultural base, will carry us through this recession.