RGPPC EDUCATION SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE TUESDAY, JULY 9 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Luncheon and Policy Session I: (Governor Staff Only) The Year of Education Reform: A Look at 2013 Best Practices Republican governors are leading the way in education reform and 2013 was a marquee year for encouraging innovation, accessibility, and efficiency in education. In this panel, we will highlight several landmark education reforms passed by Republican governors and explore what is on the horizon for improving educational outcomes. Location: Iris Panelists: Erin Hames, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Laurie Smith, Education Policy Advisor, Mississippi John Huppenthal, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Arizona 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Staff Only Session (Governor Staff Only) Location: Poinsettia 1 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Reception and Dinner (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Valley Promenade WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Breakfast and Policy Session II: (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Advancing Digital Learning for a 21st Century Education The United States is on the brink of a paradigm shift in how we educate our students. Republican governors are working to replace outdated pedagogical models with innovative, interactive learning options to ensure students are prepared to enter a 21st-century workforce. In this panel, we will explore the movement toward digital learning, virtual schools and other transformative advancements in K-12 and higher education. Location: Iris Panelists: Dave Myslinski, State Policy Director, Foundation for Excellence in Education Julia Hammond, Director of Legislative Affairs and Policy Advisor, Virginia Mike Hanley, Commissioner, Alaska Policy Session III: (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Aligning Curriculum with Employers’ Needs: Opportunities for College and Career Too often, we hear stories of job openings being left vacant because employers cannot find enough skilled workers. This is particularly troubling in this era of high youth unemployment. Republican governors are leading the charge to make higher education programs work for both students and employers. In this panel, we will explore the ways Republican governors are reforming higher education to meet the needs of a global economy. 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Location: Poinsettia I Panelists: Michael Morrissey, Deputy Chief of Staff, Texas Rich Zipperer, Deputy Chief of Staff, Wisconsin Jon Hummell, Policy Director, Kansas Grab-n-Go Lunch (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Poinsettia Foyer RGPPC ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE TUESDAY, JULY 9 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Luncheon and Policy Session I: Trade Infrastructure: Investing in Our Ports and Waterways (Governor Staff Only) Exports are a vital facet of the American economy. American ports and inland waterways are an integral part of the export/import ecosystem. This panel will explore ways governors are investing in their state’s port and waterway infrastructure at a critical time for international trade. Location: Orchid Panelists: Ross Gunnells, Deputy Legislative Director, Alabama Paul Trombino, Director of Iowa Department of Transportation, Iowa Jon Allan, Director of Office of Great Lakes, Michigan 2:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Staff Only Session (Governor Staff Only) Location: Poinsettia 2 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Reception and Dinner (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Valley Promenade WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Breakfast and Policy Session II: (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Improving Your State’s Economic Development Climate Job creation is a top policy priority at all levels of government. In this session, we will examine the policies and reforms that state governments have enacted to catalyze economic growth. What role do tax cuts play? How can restructuring your economic development agencies improve your state’s competitiveness? How can governors use regulatory reform as an economic development tool? Location: Orchid Room Panelists: Carrie Roth, Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Virginia Bryan Stirling, Chief of Staff, South Carolina Sophia DiCaro, Deputy Director, Utah Policy Session III: Economic Gardening: How to Catalyze Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Economic gardening is one of the newer tools that can be used to support economic development. It has been successfully implemented in several states and localities in the United States such as Florida, New Mexico, Utah, and Mississippi. How can states adopt this strategy to help encourage growth for their citizens? 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Location: Poinsettia II Panelists: Tony Jeff, Innovate Mississippi, Mississippi Blannie Cheng, Advisor on Jobs and Economy, North Carolina Grab-n-Go Lunch (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Poinsettia Foyer RGPPC ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Luncheon and Policy Session I: In the States: An Overview of Energy Development, Regulatory Modernization, and Conservation Efforts in the States (Governor Staff Only) Across the country, governors are leading the way in encouraging and enabling the American energy renaissance. In this panel, we will explore what energy policies are helping to create an environment conducive to investment and economic growth. We will explore energy development, environmental regulatory modernization, conservation efforts, and new technology adaptation. Location: Iris Panelists: Shawn Reese, Policy Director, Wyoming Dan Sullivan, Commissioner, Alaska Patrick Henderson, Energy Executive, Pennsylvania 2:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Staff Only Session (Governor Staff Only) Location: Poinsettia 1 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Reception and Dinner (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Garden Pool THURSDAY, JULY 11 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Breakfast and Policy Session II: All of the Above (and Below) Energy Innovation: What’s Next? (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) This panel will explore energy innovations coming out of the states. Tomorrow’s energy technologies will play an increasingly important role in enabling a secure energy future. From hydraulic fracturing techniques to clean coal and new battery technology – they are all an important part of the “all of the above” portfolio. What role does academia and the private sector play in this vital sector? How can states set up regulatory frameworks that best catalyze R&D and innovation? Location: Iris Panelists: Leisa Brug, Director of the Office of Energy Policy, Arizona Cody Stewart, Energy Advisor, Utah Stacey Crowley, Director of the Governor’s Office of Energy, Nevada Alberto DePuy, Policy Advisor, Louisiana Policy Session III: Energy Efficiency: What’s Next and How Can States Conserve Energy and Promote Economic Growth? Energy efficiency is frequently touted as the “fifth fuel.” Efficient use of energy allows for increased economic growth without unnecessary increases of energy consumption. In this panel, our experts will explore some of the ways states can promote both economic growth and energy efficiency. (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Location: Poinsettia 1 Panelists: Kirk Sims, Chief of Staff, Mississippi Craig Butler, Assistant Policy Director, Ohio Rick Krysiak, State Energy Program Director, Oklahoma Grab-n-Go Lunch (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Poinsettia Foyer RGPPC HEALTHCARE SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Luncheon and Policy Session I: (Governor Staff Only) ACA Implementation: What States Are Seeing on the Ground Implementation of the federal health law has, in many cases, been inundated with administrative delays, unanswered questions and impractical deadlines. Earlier this year, a key author of the Affordable Care Act warned of a “train wreck coming down” in reference to the law going live. With open enrollment rapidly approaching, how are states working to prevent major disruptions in their healthcare markets? States on this panel represent a broad range of implementation preferences; what is your state seeing on the ground? Does your state anticipate that the infrastructure will be in place by October 1? Location: Orchid Panelists: Jon Hager, Executive Director of Silver State Health Insurance Exchange, Nevada Keith Gardner, Chief of Staff, New Mexico Seema Verma, Consultant, Indiana 2:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Staff Only Session (Governor Staff Only) Location: Poinsettia 2 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Reception and Dinner (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Garden Pool THURSDAY, JULY 11 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Breakfast and Policy Session II: (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) ACA Impact on States and Businesses The Affordable Care Act is having a significant impact on state budgets and businesses’ bottom line. From the optional Medicaid expansion and non-optional “woodwork effect” to the substantial IT build-up and administrative costs, states continue to experience a wide range of increased health costs as a result of the ACA. What impact is this having on state coffers and how can states prevent the crowding out of other essential services? Similarly, businesses are facing increased costs and high levels of taxation as a result of the law. Several massive taxes in the ACA – including the health insurance tax, the medical device tax, and the prescription drug tax – will be passed down to consumers in the form of higher premiums and costlier medical bills. The Joint Economic Committee anticipates the total ACA tax burden to reach $4 trillion by 2035. What options does the private sector have to mitigate the impact of these harmful taxes? Location: Iris Panelists: 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Kathy Kliebert, Secretary of Health, Louisiana Robert Spendlove, Deputy Chief of Staff for State and Federal Relations, Utah Matthew O’Donnell, Deputy Policy Director, Pennsylvania Policy Session III: (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Improving Access and Delivery: Scope of Practice, Technological Advances and Price Transparency Despite federal headwinds, Republican governors are leading the way with innovative reforms to state health programs. If given the appropriate level of flexibility, states can design programs that cut costs, expand access, and improve delivery. A few areas of opportunity for reforming the healthcare system are scope of practice reform, technological advances, and price transparency. What are some of the challenges and opportunities associated with these aspects of healthcare reform? What other prospects exist for delivering healthcare efficiently and effectively? Location: Poinsettia 1 Panelists: Martin Kent, Chief of Staff to Governor Bob McDonnell, Virginia Carol Steckel, Director, North Carolina Michael Bousselot, Policy Advisor, Iowa Grab-n-Go Lunch (Governor Staff and RGPPC Members) Location: Poinsettia Foyer SENIOR STAFF RETREAT SCHEDULE THURSDAY, JULY 11 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia 2:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Senior Staff Only Session (Governor Staff Only) Location: Poinsettia 3 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Reception and Dinner Location: Valley Promenade and Edge Pool FRIDAY, JULY 12 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Registration and Hospitality Location: Gardenia Regional Breakfast North Location: Iris South Location: Poinsettia 3 West Location: Orchid Plenary Session I: 2013 Accomplishments This year has been a banner year for accomplishments in Republican-led states. States like North Carolina, North Dakota, and Virginia have seen major transportation funding packages and other infrastructure investments. Governors also are leading the way on reforming our education systems with bold reforms in states like Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. In energy policy, governors are creating climates ripe for the development of their states’ natural resources while protecting the natural environment. States like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, and Louisiana are reaping the benefits of an energy boom that has inspired, among other benefits, a renaissance in American manufacturing. How can governors take these accomplishments to the next level? Location: Poinsettia 1 & 2 Panelists: Scott Roy, Vice President, Government Affairs and Communications, Range Resources Corporation Beth Snyder, Program Officer, ExxonMobil Andrew Johnsen, Assistant Vice President, State Government Affairs, BNSF Railway Company Senior Staff: Erin Hames, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Martin Kent, Chief of Staff to Governor Bob McDonnell, Virginia Tony Young, Deputy Chief of Staff, Wyoming 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Plenary Session II: Fiscal Health of States As the United States economy slowly emerges from the “Great Recession,” budgets, more than ever, are driving state and federal policy. The nation’s 30 Republican governors are safeguarding the health of their state budgets by holding the line on taxes, curbing entitlement spending, and reducing long-term liabilities. This panel will traverse the spectrum of policies impacting the fiscal health of states, focusing on three major areas: taxes, healthcare and pensions. States with Republican governors have reaped the benefits of pro-growth policies that prioritize spending and lower the tax burden on individuals and businesses. Case in point: in March 2013, the average unemployment rate in states with Republican governors was 0.8 percent lower than in Democratic-led states. Further, an April 2013 GAO report projects widening state budget gaps through 2060, primarily driven by rising health care costs for residents and public employees. How are Republican governors addressing these very real challenges to the fiscal health of their states? How can the federal government be a better partner in improving the fiscal outlook for both state and federal governments? Location: Poinsettia 1 & 2 Panelists: Susan Bittick, Principal and Public Practice Leader, Ryan Industries Alissa Fox, Senior Vice President, Office of Policy and Representation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association George Leong, Managing Director, Public Finance Department, Citigroup Management Corporation Senior Staff: Landon Fulmer, Chief of Staff, Kansas Stafford Palmieri, Policy Director, Louisiana Eric Schutt, Chief of Staff, Wisconsin 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Networking Lunch Location: Vista Terrace 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Closing Reception and Dinner Location: Garden Pool EDUCATION SYMPOSIUM STAFF ATTENDEES: Mike Lesmann, Policy Advisor, Alaska Mike Hanley, Commissioner, Alaska Dale Frost, Policy Advisor, Education, Arizona John Huppenthal, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Arizona Stacy Morley, Executive Director of Policy Development and Government Relations, Arizona Dave Myslinski, State Policy Director, Foundation for Excellence in Education Erin Hames, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Vincent Leon Guerrero, Guam Doug Hoelscher, Director, State-Federal Relations, Iowa Linda Fandel, Special Assistant for Education, Office of Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, Iowa Eileen Hawley, Communications Directors and Press Secretary, Kansas Jon Hummell, Policy Director, Kansas Jonathan Nass, Senior Policy Advisor, Maine Laurie Smith, Education Policy Advisor, Mississippi Brian Mitchell, Policy Advisor, Nevada Dion Terry, Senior Policy Analyst, North Carolina Kimberly Kutschbach, Cabinet Secretary, Ohio Andrew Silvestri, Deputy Policy Director, Oklahoma Chelsea Barnett, Deputy Director of Federal Affairs, Oklahoma Katherine Veldran, Legislative Affairs, South Carolina Rachel Card, Policy Manager, South Carolina Michael Morrissey, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Rick Perry, Texas Whitney Broughton, Policy Advisor, Texas Christine Kearl, Director of Education, Utah Generra Peck, Assistant Director of Legislative Affairs & Strategic Initiatives, Virginia Julia Hammond, Director of Legislative Affairs and Policy Advisor, Virginia Rich Zipperer, Deputy Chief of Staff, Wisconsin ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE SYMPOSIUM STAFF ATTENDEES: Jon Barganier, Senate Liaison, Alabama Ross Gunnells, Deputy Legislative Director, Alabama Rachel Bylsma, Special Assistant, Office of Governor Parnell, Alaska Jeff Jones, Policy Advisor, Alaska Kim Sabow, Director of Public Affairs, Arizona Ryan Serote, Director of Federal Relations, Arizona David Werner, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Brian San Nicolas, Special Assistant-Health Care, Guam Franklin Arriola, Chief of Staff, Guam Adam Gregg, Legislative Liaison, Iowa Doug Hoelscher, Director, State-Federal Relations, Iowa Paul Trombino, Director, Department of Transportation, Iowa Ted Stopulos, Policy Advisor, Iowa John Butera, Senior Economic Advisor, Maine Bill McBride, Director, Washington D.C. Office, Michigan Eric Brown, Senior Federal Policy Representative, Michigan Jon Allan, Director, Office of the Great Lakes, Michigan Tony Jeff, Innovate, Mississippi Ryan McGinness, DC Representative, Nevada Blannie Cheng, Advisor to NC Governor Pat McCrory on Jobs & the Economy, North Carolina Hugh Johnson, Policy Analyst, North Carolina Andrea Travnicek, Senior Policy Advisor, North Dakota Kimberly Kutschbach, Cabinet Secretary, Ohio Craig Perry, Sr. Legislative Liaison, Oklahoma John Callahan, Deputy Policy Director, Pennsylvania Bryan Stirling, Chief of Staff, South Carolina Rebecca Schimsa, Staff Counsel-Economic Development, South Carolina Hunter Roberts, Energy Policy Director, Governor’s Office of Economic Development, South Dakota Matt Konenkamp, Policy Advisor, Governor’s Office, South Dakota Nathan Lukkes, Deputy Commissioner, Governor's Office of Economic Development, South Dakota Nathan Sanderson, Policy Advisor, Governor's Office, South Dakota Christin Sullivan, Policy Analyst, Tennessee Colin Parrish, Policy Advisor, Texas Michael Morrissey, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Rick Perry, Texas Carlos Braceras, Acting Executive Director, Utah Sophia DiCaro, Deputy Director, Utah Carrie Roth, Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Virginia Jeffrey Palmore, Director of Policy Development and Deputy Counselor, Virginia Eileen Schoenfeldt, Policy Advisor, Wisconsin Waylon Hurlburt, Senior Advisor, Wisconsin ENERGY SYMPOSIUM STAFF ATTENDEES: Ross Gunnells, Deputy Legislative Director, Alabama Jon Barganier, Senate Liaison, Alabama Daniel Sullivan, Commissioner Dan Sullivan, Alaska Jeff Jones, Policy Advisor, Alaska Randy Ruaro, Policy Director/Special Counsel, Alaska Leisa Brug, Director, Office of Energy Policy, Arizona David Werner, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Franklin Arriola, Chief of Staff, Guam Stephen Goodson, Special Assistant for Energy and Natural Resources, Idaho Dan Schmidt, Policy Director for Energy, Environment, Transportation and Gaming, Indiana Adam Gregg, Legislative Liaison, Iowa Doug Hoelscher, Director, State-Federal Relations, Iowa S. Brenna Findley, Legal Counsel, Iowa Jon Hummell, Policy Director, Kansas Alberto Depuy, Policy Advisor, Louisiana Patrick Woodcock, Director, Governor’s Energy Office, Maine Eric Brown, Senior Federal Policy Representative, Michigan Bill McBride, Director, Washington D.C. Office, Michigan Kirk Sims, Chief of Staff, Mississippi Ryan McGinness, DC Representative, Nevada Stacy Crowley, Director, Governor’s Office of Energy, Nevada Janel Anderson, Director of Policy & Federal Relations, New Mexico Blannie Cheng, Advisor to NC Governor Pat McCrory on Jobs & the Economy, North Carolina Hugh Johnson, Policy Analyst, North Carolina Andrea Travnicek, Senior Policy Advisor, North Dakota Krista Carman, Washington Representative, North Dakota Craig Butler, Assistant Policy Director, Ohio Kimberly Kutschbach, Cabinet Secretary, Ohio Andrew Silvestri, Deputy Policy Director, Oklahoma Rick Krysiak Jr., State Energy Program Director, Oklahoma Christopher Gray, Special Assistant to the Director of Policy and Planning, Pennsylvania Patrick Henderson, Energy Executive, Pennsylvania Bryan Stirling, Chief of Staff, South Carolina Douglass Mayer, Deputy Communications Director, Governor Nikki Haley, South Carolina Rebecca Schimsa, Staff Counsel-Economic Development, South Carolina Hunter Roberts, Energy Policy Director, Governor's Office of Economic Development, South Dakota Matt Konenkamp, Policy Advisor, Governor's Office, South Dakota Nathan Lukkes, Deputy Commissioner Governor’s Office of Economic Development, South Dakota Nathan Sanderson, Policy Advisor, Governor’s Office, South Dakota Melissa Blanding, Policy Advisor, Texas Jonathan Stinson, Policy Advisor, Texas Alan Matheson, Governor’s Energy Advisor, Utah Cody Stewart, Energy Advisor, Governor Gary Herbert, Utah Carrie Roth, Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Virginia Jeffrey Palmore, Director of Policy Development and Deputy Counselor, Virginia Shawn Reese, Policy Director, Wyoming HEALTHCARE SYMPOSIUM STAFF ATTENDEES: Mike Lesmann, Policy Advisor, Alaska Sharon Leighow, Press Secretary, Alaska William Streur, Commissioner, Alaska Don Hughes, Deputy Director Policy, Arizona Ryan Serote, Director of Federal Relations, Arizona Erin Hames, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Katie Rogers, Health Policy Advisor, Georgia Brian San Nicolas, Special Assistant-Health Care, Guam Amy Wernsing, Special Assistant, Idaho Tammy Perkins, Sr. Health Policy Advisor, Idaho Brian Neale, Policy Director, Indiana Josh Pitcock, Federal Representative, Indiana Seema Verma, Consultant, Indiana Michael Bousselot, Policy Advisor to Gov. Branstad, Iowa Doug Hoelscher, Director State-Federal Relations, Iowa S. Brenna Findley, Legal Counsel, Iowa David Kensinger, PAC Director, Kansas Mark Dugan, Chief of Staff, Office of Lieutenant Governor, Kansas Anne Cassity, Policy Advisor, Louisiana Beverly Moore, Special Counsel, Louisiana Calder Lynch, DHH Policy Director, Louisiana Kathy Kliebert, Secretary of Health, Louisiana Timmy Teepell, Senior Advisor, Louisiana Kirk Sims, Chief of Staff, Mississippi Brian Mitchell, Policy Advisor, Nevada Jon Hager, Executive Director, Silver State Health Insurance Exchange, Nevada Keith Gardner, Chief of Staff, New Mexico Carol Steckel, Director, North Carolina Dion Terry, Senior Policy Analyst, North Carolina Krista Carman, Washington Representative, North Dakota Kimberly Kutschbach, Cabinet Secretary, Ohio Denise Northrup, Chief of Staff, Oklahoma Katie Altshuler, Policy Director, Oklahoma Matthew O'Donnell, Deputy Policy Director, Pennsylvania Katherine Veldran, Legislative Affairs, South Carolina Andria Franco, Policy Advisor, Texas Robert Spendlove, Deputy Chief of Staff for State & Federal Relations, Utah David Patton, Executive Director, Utah Department of Health, Utah Generra Peck, Assistant Director of Legislative Affairs & Strategic Initiatives, Virginia Julia Hammond, Director of Legislative Affairs and Policy Advisor, Virginia Martin Kent, Chief of Staff to Governor Bob McDonnell, Virginia Kevin Moore, DHS Deputy Secretary, Wisconsin SENIOR STAFF RETREAT STAFF ATTENDEES: Ross Gunnells, Deputy Legislative Director, Alabama Jon Barganier, Senate Liaison, Alabama Sharon Leighow, Press Secretary, Alaska Randy Ruaro, Policy Director/Special Counsel, Alaska Joe Sciarrotta, General Counsel, Arizona Kim Sabow, Director of Public Affairs, Arizona Ryan Serote, Director of Federal Relations, Arizona Brian Robinson, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Chris Riley, Chief of Staff, Georgia Ryan Teague, Executive Counsel, Georgia David Werner, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Erin Hames, Deputy Chief of Staff, Georgia Brian San Nicolas, Special Assistant-Health Care, Guam Franklin Arriola, Chief of Staff, Guam Vincent Leon Guerrero, Guam Heather Neal, Legislative Director, Indiana Josh Pitcock, Federal Representative, Indiana Ryan Streeter, Senior Policy Director, Indiana Doug Hoelscher, Director, State-Federal Relations, Iowa Jeff Boeyink, Chief of Staff, Iowa S. Brenna Findley, Legal Counsel, Iowa David Kensinger, PAC Director, Kansas Eileen Hawley, Communications Director and Press Secretary, Kansas Jon Hummell, Policy Director, Kansas Landon Fulmer, Chief of Staff, Kansas Mark Dugan, Chief of Staff, Office of Lieutenant Governor, Kansas Beverly Moore, Special Counsel, Louisiana Bill McBride, Director, Washington D.C. Office, Michigan Dennis Muchmore, Chief of Staff, Michigan John Roberts, Deputy Chief of Staff, Michigan Kirk Sims, Chief of Staff, Mississippi Ryan McGinness, DC Representative, Nevada Maria Comella, Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications, New Jersey Janel Anderson, Director of Policy & Federal Relations, New Mexico Keith Gardner, Chief of Staff, New Mexico Sidonie Squier, Cabinet Secretary Human Services Department, New Mexico Blannie Cheng, Advisor to NC Governor Pat McCrory on Jobs & the Economy, North Carolina Krista Carman, Washington Representative, North Dakota Kimberly Kutschbach, Cabinet Secretary, Ohio Alexander Weintz, Communications Director, Oklahoma Denise Northrup, Chief of Staff, Oklahoma Katie Altshuler, Policy Director, Oklahoma Bryan Stirling, Chief of Staff, South Carolina Douglass Mayer, Deputy Communications Director, Governor Nikki Haley, South Carolina Katherine Veldran, Legislative Affairs, South Carolina Rebecca Schimsa, Staff Counsel-Economic Development, South Carolina Dusty Johnson, Chief of Staff, South Dakota Nathan Sanderson, Policy Advisor, Governor's Office, South Dakota Michael Morrissey, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Rick Perry, Texas Teresa Spears, Senior Advisor, Texas Ally Isom, Deputy for Communications, Utah Mike Mower, Deputy Chief of Staff, Utah Robert Spendlove, Deputy Chief of Staff for State & Federal Relations, Utah Jasen Eige, Counselor and Senior Policy Advisor to the Governor, Virginia Tucker Martin, Director of Communications, Virginia Martin Kent, Chief of Staff to Governor Bob McDonnell, Virginia Eric Schutt, Chief of Staff, Wisconsin Keith Gilkes, Senior Political Advisor, Wisconsin Mike Huebsch, Department of Administration Secretary, Wisconsin Stephan Thompson, Campaign Manager-Friends of Scott Walker, Wisconsin Shawn Reese, Policy Director, Wyoming Tony Young, Deputy Chief of Staff, Wyoming ATTENDING RGPPC MEMBERS: David Beightol, Vice President, Dutko Grayling Stoney Burke, Director of Federal Legislative Affairs, Southern Company Elena Butkus, Regional Vice President, Government Affairs, Midwest, Aetna, Inc. Kris Frank, Regional Vice President, Government Affairs, West, Aetna, Inc. Philip Geiger, Senior Vice President, MAXIMUS Julia Gonzales, Director of Government Relations, Amplify Brett Graham, Managing Director, Leavitt Partners Mary Kay Hogan, Vice President, Dutko Grayling Anthony Mader, Anthem Blue Cross Loren Monroe, Principal, BGR Group Nicole Monroe, Spouse of Loren Monroe Steve Palmer, Senior Vice President, Dutko Grayling Mark Pratt, Senior Vice President of State Affairs, America's Health Insurance Plans Michael Prosio, Regional Vice President, State Affairs, Wellpoint Heidi Tringe, Consultant, MAXIMUS Brad Viator, Director, External Affairs, Edison Electric Institute Amanda Weaver, Senior Director, Government Relations and External Partnerships, HCSC ATTENDING CORPORATE MEMBERS: STATESMEN ($250,000 +) Elena Butkus, Regional Vice President - Government Affairs, Midwest, Aetna, Inc. Kris Frank, Regional Vice President, Government Affairs, West, Aetna, Inc. Bill McManus, Senior Director of Government Affairs, American Beverage Association Jonathan Dinesman, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Centene Corporation Randal Johnson, Southern Strategy Group in Louisiana, Centene Corporation Brent Layton, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Centene Corporation Jamie Schlottman, Plan President & CEO for Louisiana Healthcare Connections, Centene Corporation Charlie Sutlive, Vice President, State and Local Government, Coca-Cola Refreshments Kelly Durham, Senior Director, Business Development, Corrections Corporation of America John Malloy, Corrections Corporation of America Brad Regens, Vice President, Partnership Relations, Corrections Corporation of America Beth Snyder, Program Officer, ExxonMobil Amanda Weaver, Senior Director, Government Relations and External Partnerships, Health Care Service Corporation Allen Richardson, Regional Manager - Government Affairs, Koch Companies Public Sector Steve Baas, Director, Governmental Affairs, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Buddy Julius, The Firm, LLC, Guest of Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Robert Garvin, Wisconsin Energies, Guest of Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Jim Wall, Government Affairs Director, Microsoft Corporation Paul Pereira, Director, State and Local Affairs, Motorola Solutions Andy Antrobus, Senior Director, Government Relations and Public Affairs, Pfizer, Inc. Melissa Bishop-Murphy, Government Relations Manager, Pfizer, Inc. Daniel Wolter, Government Relations Director, Pfizer, Inc. Pete Martinez, Senior Director, State Government Affairs, PhRMA Jeff Woodhouse, Senior Director, State Gov't Affairs, PhRMA Ken Flechler, Vice President, Pike Electric, Inc. Jerry Grantham, Vice President, Range Resources Corporation Michael Mackin, Regional Communications Manager, Range Resources Corporation Scott Roy, Vice President - Government Affairs, Range Resources Corporation Rich Haselwood, Senior Director, State Government Relations, Reynolds American Inc. Susan Bittick, Principal, Public Affairs, Ryan Industries Tom Bittick, Spouse of Susan Bittick Karla Kiriako, Senioir Manager, Government Affairs, Sanofi Rachel Farmer, Vice President, State Government Affairs, UnitedHealth Group Jake Logan, Regional Vice President, State Government Affairs, UnitedHealth Group Jodie Tierney, Vice President, State Government Affairs, UnitedHealth Group Dan Brouillette, Senior Vice President, USAA Eric Brewer, Senior Director, Public Affairs and Government Relations, WalMart Stores, Inc. John David White, Government Affairs, WellCare Health Plans Inc. Amy Odom, Vice President of State Affairs, WellPoint, Inc. Michael Prosio, Regional Vice President, State Affairs, WellPoint, Inc. CABINET ($100,000) Bill Dudley, Vice President, Government Affairs, AFLAC Inc. Keith Hansen, Director, Airports, Allegiant Air Bob Broadus, Director, State Government Affairs, Allergan, Inc. Nate Elias, Director, State Government Affairs - Midwest Region, Allergan, Inc. Jessica Wolfe, Director, State Government Affairs, Allergan, Inc. Matt Godlewski, Vice President, Auto Alliance Maureen McDonnell, Vice President, Health Reform Integration and External Communications, Amerigroup Corporation Calise Munoz, Vice President, Government Relations, Amerigroup Corporation Pamela Perry, Vice President, Government Relations, Amerigroup Corporation Alden Schacher, Vice President Government Affairs, Apollo Group, Inc. Marshall Cohen, Vice President, Government Affairs and Communications, Babcock & Wilcox Co. Alissa Fox, Senior Vice President, BlueCross BlueShield Association Clay McClure, Director of State Legislation and Regulatory Affairs, BlueCross BlueShield Association Andrew Johnsen, Assistant Vice President, Government Affairs, BNSF Railway Company Robert Sweeny, Citigroup Management Corp. John Gibbs, Vice President of State Government Affairs, Comcast Kathleen Hawkins, Director, Government Affairs, Duke Energy Corporation Hilda Pinnix-Ragland, Vice President - Corporate Public Affairs, Duke Energy Corporation Cindy Laubacher, Express Scripts David Dederichs, Director, State Government Affairs, Express Scripts Holding Company Kim Decker, Manager of Government & Industry Affairs, Farmers Insurance Group of Companies Frank Galitski, Director, Government and Industry Affairs, Farmers Insurance Group of Companies Kerry Hayden, Manager, Government and Industry Affairs, Farmers Insurance Group of Companies Cloid Shuler, Vice President, Business Development, GEO Group, Inc. Craig DeRoche, President, Justice Fellowship Jack MacDonald, Executive Vice President, Golden Living Scott Gunn, Senior Vice President, Global Government Relations and U.S. Business Development, GTECH Corporation Chris Shaban, Vice President of US Sales and Business Development, GTECH Corporation Rollin Downs, McKenna Long & Aldridge Suzanne Duda, Director, Government and Industry Relations, Healthways Vicki Shepard, Vice President, Government and Industry Relations, Healthways Maria Cino, Vice President, Government Relations for the US and Americas, Hewlett-Packard Company Jon Dickinson, Manager, Western Region, State & Local Government Relations, Hewlett-Packard Company Bob Cook, Vice President, Government Affairs, HNTB Corporation Kimberly Hudgins, Director of Government Relations, Southeast Division, HNTB Corporation Joe Lileikis, HNTB Corporation Mark Martinez Area General Manager, Johnson Controls, Inc. Brian Kennedy, Consultant, K12 Inc. Don Lee, Vice President of Government Affairs, K12, Inc. Hugo Gutierrez, Manager, Governmental Affairs, Marathon Oil Corporation Doug Thierwechter, Director, Marathon Oil Corporation Doug Howard, Senior Vice President, MAXIMUS Akbar Piloti, President Human Services, MAXIMUS Heidi Tringe, Consultant, MAXIMUS Melissa Patack, Vice President & Counsel, State Government Affairs, MPAA Stephen Gallagher, Vice President, State & Local Political Operations, National Association of Home Builders Jerry Howard, President and CEO, National Association of Home Builders Chuck Cunningham, Director, State & Local Affairs, National Rifle Association Randy Kozuch, Director, Political Affairs Office of Advancement, National Rifle Association Erika Scheffer, Deputy Director, Political Affairs Office of Advancement, National Rifle Association Rick Knapp, Executive Director, State Government Affairs, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation Catherine McGeehan, Associate Director Government Affairs, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation Mike McGarey, Director, State Outreach, Nuclear Energy Institute Ryan Aldridge, State and Local Government, SAS Institute, Inc. Jayme Cox, Manager, State Government Affairs, South Central, Shell Oil Stoney Burke, Director of Federal Legislative Affairs, Southern Company Jim Barnett, Vice President, Political Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform Marvin Smith, Government and Public Affairs Manager, US Cellular Walter White, Vice President, State & Local Government, Verizon Communications Casey Cesnovar, Director, State Government Relations, Walgreens Michael Smith, Senior Manager, Walgreens BOARD ($50,000) Doug Stang, Public Affairs, 3M Dave Wefring, Public Affairs, 3M Katherine Grady, Office of Government Relations, Accenture Damian Jones, Senior Manager Government Relations, Accenture Eric Sildon, Office of Government Relations, Accenture Drew Bernato, Manager, Legislative & Public Affairs, AmeriHealth Mercy Health Plan Katie Hopkins, Manager, Government Relations, AmeriHealth Mercy Health Plan Steve Mitchell, Director, State Government Affairs, Astellas Pharma US, Inc. Connie Mitchell, Spouse of Steve Mitchell Tom Clemons, Vice President, Roads & Bridges Solutions, Bentley Systems, Inc. Bonnie Clemons, Spouse of Tom Clemons, Mike Hiltner, Director, Government Relations, Best Buy Co., Inc. Ann-Louise Kuhns, Associate Director, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Mary Kay Turner, Director, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Bill Miller, Senior Vice President, Business Roundtable Debbie Efremidis-Plevin, Business Development, State Government, Cerner Corporation Lindsay Vogtsberger, Strategist, Government and Industry, Cerner Corporation Michelle Wright Conn, Senior Manager, State and Local Affairs, Cisco George Leong, Citigroup Management Corp. Alan West, Vice President & Counsel, State & Local Government Relations, Citigroup Management Corp. Cindy Stevens, Partner, Deloitte Dwayne Kratt, Senior Director, DIAGEO Brandon Peck, Associate, Dutko Grayling, Guest of Energi Insurance Services, Inc. Megan McCarthy, Director of Government Relations, Energi Insurance Services, Inc. Holly Deshields, Vice President, McGuireWoods Consulting, Energy Future Holdings Jeremey Shepherd, Principal, Schreiber & Associates Ken Walsh, Principal, Schreiber & Associates Amy Dempster, Senior Manager, State Government Affairs Mid Atlantic Region, Genentech Sandra Pizarro, Director, West Region, Genentech Hal Lenox, Regional Director, State Government Relations, General Motors Bryan Roosa, Executive Director, State Government Relations, General Motors Leslie Fox, Director, Legislative Outreach, International Council of Shopping Centers Josh Wilkens, Account Executive, Johnson Controls, Inc. Michael Bolen, Director, Government Affairs, Medtronic, Inc. David Stevenson, Vice President, Government Relations - Wireless Generation, Amplify Bill Guidera, Senior Vice President, News Corporation Nial Patel, Vice President, Cornerstone Government Affairs Angela Nordstrom, Regional Director, NIC Inc. Garrett Brown, Government Relations Coordinator, NuStar Energy L.P. Jessica Pacheco, Director of Government Affairs, Arizona Public Service Michael Vargas, Government Affairs Representative, Arizona Public Service Tim Reynolds, Principal, Highstar Capital Matt Ottiger, Director, Government Relations, ResCare, Inc. Adam Zubowsky, Government Affairs, Smithfield Foods, Inc. David Grow, Counsel, State Farm Insurance Thad Hellman, Senior Group Manager, Target Corporation Rob Kincaid, Director, State Government Affairs, TEVA Pharmaceuticals USA Jerry Moore, Director, State Government Affairs, TEVA Pharmaceuticals USA Peter Jaskoski, Director Governmental Relations US pipelines central, TransCanada Corp. Joe Arbona, General Director, Policy and Partnerships, Union Pacific Corporation Cheryl Arbona, Spouse of Joe Arbona Judith Zink, Principal, Capitoline Consulting Camille Fleenor, Vice President Government Relations, Unisys Corporation Dawson Hobbs, Vice President, State Affairs, Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, Inc. Laura Favinger, Vice President - Head of State Affairs, Government and Industry Affairs, Zurich North American Insurance Company Mike Moran, Associate Vice President, Federal Affairs, Zurich North American Insurance Company COUNCIL ($25,000+) Mike Shutley, Brinker International, Inc. Erica Sechrist, Director Government Affairs, Advance America Holli Hill, Director, Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. Jennifer McMullen, Director, DaVita Healthcare Partners Inc Jeremy Van Haselen, Vice President, DaVita Healthcare Partners Inc Geoff Segal, Senior Vice President, Macquire Capital Cameron Smyth, Vice President State Affairs, Molina Healthcare Tate Rosenbusch, Director, Grassroots Advocacy and State Affairs, National Mining Association Marsha Kwalwasser, Director, State Relations, Northrop Grumman Matt Lathrop, Director of Government and Community Relations, Yum! Brands, Inc. Jennifer Lathrop, Spouse of Matt Lathrop NATIONAL FINANCE COMMITTEE (NFC) Danny Cooper, President, U.S. Capitol Consulting Daryn Demeritt, President, D2 Public Affairs Mark Smith, President, Da Vinci Group Steve Arthur, Vice President, Stateside Associates Mark Hanna, President, Hanna & Associates Jeff Viohl, Viohl & Associates, Inc. Matthew Keelen, President, The Keelen Group, LLC Phil Smith, Philip C. Smith & Associates Randall Gerard, Principal, Podesta Group David Beightol, Managing Principal, Dutko Grayling Dennis Smith, Managing Director, McKenna Long & Aldridge Lee Cowen, Senior Consultant, Dutko Grayling Loren Monroe, Principal, BGR Government Affairs Nicole Monroe, Spouse of Loren Monroe Steve Palmer, Vice President, Dutko Grayling PROSPECT John Cusack, DLA Piper Larry Purpuro, DLA Piper GOVERNORS BOARD MEMBERSHIP $50,000 Annual Contribution or $100,000 Annual Raise (as of 2/1/08) The Governors Board membership program offers the ability to bring their particular expertise to the political process while helping to support the Republican agenda. Board members work in an advisory capacity with the Republican Governors on current issues and initiatives that directly impact American businesses, families and government. The objective is to work together and recommend “real life” solutions to underachieving and failed policies in the areas of lower taxes, education, crime, health care and environmental issues. This is accomplished through the RGA Governors Forums. They give Board members an opportunity to meet informally with Republican Governors and their key staff members to lend their experience on state and national issues. BENEFITS OF BOARD MEMBERSHIP “A CELEBRATION OF AMERICA’S LEADERS” GALA The RGA Gala is our biggest fundraising event of the year. Last year it brought in more than $10 million. This year we expect it to be even better. The event is attended by the President, our Governors, and our members. It is one of Washington’s biggest annual political events and should not be missed. The 2008 Gala is scheduled for Monday, February 25, 2008. For your convenience, the Gala is scheduled to coincide with the National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting. Board members receive four (4) tickets to this event - Including two (2) tickets to the Chairmen’s Reception and Photo-Opportunity (1 click). PRIVATE DC GOVERNORS BREAKFAST On the day of the RGA Annual Gala, RGA hosts an exclusive breakfast with the Republican Governors and members of their senior staff. The breakfast allows our members the opportunity to attend an intimate gathering with our Governors and their staff. Board members will receive two (2) tickets to the private breakfast. GOVERNORS FORUMS SERIES The Governors Forums are some of the most important events that RGA hosts. They started in 1995 as the focal point of membership in the RGA. At these regional events a group of 5-8 governors discuss the best policy practices from around the country on a particular topic. RGA members in attendance are encouraged to participate in the discussions and our Governors have greatly appreciated their questions and insights. The Forums offer a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and concepts with our Governors that are of foremost interest to the RGA membership. Forums last year took our members everywhere from dinner on the deck of the USS Missouri in Hawaii talking about Homeland Security to a lunch at Georgia’s Aquarium discussing Economic Development. Attendees at the events have included Governors, CEOs, industry leaders, and other experts. Board members are invited to send up to three (3) attendees to the Forums. The 2008 Forum series will be held in Texas, Georgia and Nevada. D.C. DISCUSSION BREAKFAST SERIES Board Members are invited to send three (3) representatives to all D.C. Discussion Breakfasts. Each breakfast features a special invited speaker of interest from our Governors’ policy and political staff members. These breakfasts enable members to have informal conversations with Republican Governors’ Washington, D.C. State Office Directors and other senior staff. The events always feature free-ranging discussion and important insights into the latest political happenings. Governors Board Membership Page 2 RGA SENIOR STAFF RETREAT Last year, RGA hosted the first ever Governors’ Senior Staff Policy Retreat. It was one of the first times that the Senior Staff for the GOP Governors had the chance to meet one another and share their ideas to move their states forward. The event took place at the Ritz Carlton, Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Georgia. It featured discussions moderated by Newt Gingrich, Karl Rove, Harvard healthcare expert Dr. Regina Herzlinger and other leaders. Our Governors were so impressed with the agenda that Governors Perdue, Blunt, Crist and Sanford joined us as well. The RGA Statesmen, Cabinet and Board members will be invited to attend the 2008 Retreat with the Republican Governors and their senior staff. The Retreat invitation to members will serve as a special “thank you” to those members who demonstrate the highest degree of commitment and dedication to our mission of electing and re-electing Republican Governors. Board members are invited to send up to two (2) attendees to the retreat. The 2008 retreat is scheduled for Charleston, South Carolina. ACCESS TO THE RGA’S “REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION WEEK EXPERIENCE” PACKAGES The 2008 Republican National Convention is scheduled for Sunday, August 31 – Thursday, September 4, 2008 in St. Paul, Minnesota. The RGA will be offering packages and sponsorship opportunities for our “Republican National Convention Week Experience” activities. Please note that participation with the RGA’s Convention packages and sponsorships will be separate from annual membership dues. Please contact the RGA Finance team at (202) 662-4920 for an updated schedule of events during Convention week and Convention benefits information. SUMMER RECEPTION AT NGA The RGA hosts an annual event in conjunction with the National Governors Association (NGA) Summer Meeting which features many of our Republican Governors. Board members are invited to send up to three (3) attendees to the event. The 2008 summer reception is scheduled for Sunday, July 13, 2008 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. DISCOUNTED EVENT SPONSORSHIP Sponsoring an RGA event brings special recognition and benefits. Packages vary at each Forum, but typically include a host reception, event recognition, and more. As a Board you will receive a 20 percent discount on sponsorship opportunities, unless otherwise noted. Contact our finance team to learn more. ROUNDTABLE POLICY PARTICIPATION At our Governors Forums and the RGA Annual Conference, Roundtable Participants will join 5-8 governors in discussing issues of particular interest to the Roundtable guests. These gatherings are a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and concepts with our Governors. Board members will receive a 20 percent discount on Roundtable Participation sponsorships, unless otherwise noted. 2008 RGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE The Annual Conference is RGA’s premier event for the year. It is attended by almost every Republican Governor and their staff. The 2008 RGA Annual Conference is scheduled for November 12 – 14 at the Fontainebleau, Miami Beach, Florida. This three-day event provides Board members with direct interaction with Republican Governors, Chiefs of Staff and other key staff from the state offices. Board members will have the opportunity to attend the business plenary sessions where Republican Governors exchange policy ideas and accomplishments. In addition, the social schedule includes the RGA State Dinner, various breakfasts, receptions and optional activities where Board members can meet and talk informally with Republican Governors, their staff or other Conference attendees. Board members are invited to send up to three (3) attendees to the Annual Conference. RGA COMMUNICATIONS CLIPS AND BLOG As a Board member, your online profile will also give you access to exclusive blogs from our Governors and their staff and allow you to read in-depth analyses of innovative policies that Republican Governors are implementing. You will also receive the daily news clips which will keep you up to date on all the news affecting our states and elections. Governors Board Membership Page 3 RGA DIRECTORY As a Board member, you will receive the RGA Directory which will be your guide to all of our Governors’ offices. You will have handy contact information for Chiefs of Staff, DC Directors, Schedulers, and Policy Advisors. It also includes additional information about RGA including contact information. THE EXECUTIVE QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER The Quarterly Newsletter will keep you up to speed on the latest RGA events and election and policy news. Every quarter you’ll get an inside look at important races and learn what RGA is doing to help our candidates win. In addition, you will learn about some of the innovative policies that our Governors are developing and how they are improving their states. Lastly, the RGA Chairman will include a special message on RGA’s latest plans and strategy. MYRGA.COM ACCESS Your membership will give you special access to a new section of RGA’s website: MyRGA. MyRGA utilizes the latest technology, to keep you informed of everything happening at RGA and give you access to exclusive content. This members only section of our website allows members to pro-actively review and upgrade your membership benefits and account, change your contact information, donate to RGA, and register for events. The secure website will be your one-stop shop for all things RGA-related and will allow you to really put your membership to use. MEMBERSHIP GUIDELINES RGA Governors Board membership dues require a $50,000 contribution to be made payable to the RGA or a commitment to raise a total of $100,000 in a calendar year for annual membership. Membership runs on a 12month cycle from date of receipt of initial contribution. Questions regarding RGA Board membership or events may be directed to Angela Meyers in the RGA offices at (202) 662-4141 or ameyers@rga.org. Contributions or gifts to the RGA are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. There is no federal statutory limit on the amount a corporation, individual or PAC may contribute to the RGA. Contributions will not be used in connection with any federal election. Contributions from foreign nationals are prohibited. RGA * 1747 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Ste. 250 * Washington, D.C. 20006 * (202) 662-4920 ph * (202) 662-4924 fax * www.rga.org Paid for by the Republican Governors Association. GOVERNORS CABINET MEMBERSHIP $100,000 Annual Contribution or $200,000 Annual Raise (as of 2/1/08) The Governors Cabinet membership program was created to meet the expanded financial needs of the Republican Governors Association during the year of 36 gubernatorial elections. Due to its success, the Governors Cabinet has remained a vital part of RGA ever since. It has emerged as one of the premier levels of membership and provides a unique relationship with the Republican Governors. Members of the Governors Cabinet enjoy a variety of membership benefits. Events throughout the country are designed to give Cabinet members the greatest opportunity possible to meet and talk informally with the Republican Governors and their key staff members. BENEFITS OF CABINET MEMBERSHIP “A CELEBRATION OF AMERICA’S LEADERS” GALA The RGA Gala is our biggest fundraising event of the year. Last year it brought in more than $10 million. This year we expect it to be even better. The event is attended by the President, our Governors, their senior staff and our members. It is one of Washington’s biggest annual political events and should not be missed. The 2008 Gala is scheduled for Monday, February 25, 2008. For your convenience, the Gala is scheduled to coincide with the National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting. Cabinet members receive six (6) tickets to this event - Including four (4) tickets to the Chairmen’s Reception and Photo-Opportunity (2 clicks). EXCLUSIVE DC GUBERNATORIAL DINNER During the weekend of the RGA Annual Gala, RGA hosts an exclusive Gubernatorial Dinner in Washington, D.C. Cabinet members will receive two (2) tickets to this intimate gathering with the Republican Governors and special Republican VIP guests. Last year’s event was held at the Willard Inter-Continental Hotel and featured Ambassador John Bolton, Governor Rick Perry, and Governor Sonny Perdue. This year’s dinner will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2008 at the Willard. PRIVATE DC GOVERNORS BREAKFAST On the day of the RGA Annual Gala, RGA hosts an exclusive breakfast with the Republican Governors and members of their senior staff. The breakfast allows our members the opportunity to attend an intimate gathering with our Governors and their staff. Cabinet members will receive two (2) tickets to the private breakfast. GOVERNORS FORUMS SERIES The Governors Forums are some of the most important events that RGA hosts. They started in 1995 as the focal point of membership in the RGA. At these regional events a group of 5-8 governors discuss the best policy practices from around the country on a particular topic. RGA members in attendance are encouraged to participate in the discussions and our Governors have greatly appreciated their questions and insights. The Forums offer a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and concepts with our Governors that are of foremost interest to the RGA membership. Forums last year took our members everywhere from dinner on the deck of the USS Missouri in Hawaii talking about Homeland Security to a lunch at Georgia’s Aquarium discussing Economic Development. Attendees at the events have included Governors, CEOs, industry leaders, and other experts. Cabinet members are invited to send up to four (4) attendees to the Forums. The 2008 Forum series will be held in Texas, Georgia and Nevada. Governors Cabinet Membership Page 2 D.C. DISCUSSION BREAKFAST SERIES Cabinet Members are invited to send four (4) representatives to all D.C. Discussion Breakfasts. Each breakfast features a special invited speaker of interest from our Governors’ policy and political staff members. These breakfasts enable members to have informal conversations with Republican Governors’ Washington, D.C. State Office Directors and other senior staff. The events always feature free-ranging discussion and important insights into the latest political happenings. RGA SENIOR STAFF RETREAT Last year, RGA hosted the first ever Governors’ Senior Staff Policy Retreat. It was one of the first times that the Senior Staff for the GOP Governors had the chance to meet one another and share their ideas to move their states forward. The event took place at the Ritz Carlton, Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Georgia. It featured discussions moderated by Newt Gingrich, Karl Rove, Harvard healthcare expert Dr. Regina Herzlinger and other leaders. Our Governors were so impressed with the agenda that Governors Perdue, Blunt, Crist and Sanford joined us as well. The RGA Statesmen, Cabinet and Board members will be invited to attend the 2008 Retreat with the Republican Governors and their senior staff. The Retreat invitation to members will serve as a special “thank you” to those members who demonstrate the highest degree of commitment and dedication to our mission of electing and re-electing Republican Governors. Cabinet members are invited to send up to four (4) attendees to the retreat. The 2008 retreat is scheduled for Charleston, South Carolina. ACCESS TO THE RGA’S “REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION WEEK EXPERIENCE” PACKAGES The 2008 Republican National Convention is scheduled for Sunday, August 31 – Thursday, September 4, 2008 in St. Paul, Minnesota. The RGA will be offering packages and sponsorship opportunities for our “Republican National Convention Week Experience” activities. Please note that participation with the RGA’s Convention packages and sponsorships will be separate from annual membership dues. Please contact the RGA Finance team at (202) 662-4920 for an updated schedule of events during Convention week and Convention benefits information. SUMMER RECEPTION AT NGA The RGA hosts an annual event in conjunction with the National Governors Association (NGA) Summer Meeting which features many of our Republican Governors and their senior staff. Cabinet members are invited to send up to four (4) attendees to the event. The 2008 summer reception is scheduled for Sunday, July 13, 2008 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. DISCOUNTED EVENT SPONSORSHIP Sponsoring an RGA event brings special recognition and benefits. Packages vary at each Forum, but typically include a host reception, event recognition, and more. As a Cabinet you will receive a 25 percent discount on sponsorship opportunities, unless otherwise noted. Contact our Finance team to learn more. ROUNDTABLE POLICY PARTICIPATION At our Governors Forums and the RGA Annual Conference, Roundtable Participants will join 5-8 governors in discussing issues of particular interest to the Roundtable guests. These gatherings are a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and concepts with our Governors. Cabinet members will receive a 25 percent discount on Roundtable Participation sponsorships, unless otherwise noted. RGA REGIONAL EVENT(S) The RGA is hosting special regional events with many of the Republican Governors and community and business leaders across the country. These events often incorporate a luncheon/reception with our Republican Governor(s) and are in addition to annual RGA membership. Cabinet members are invited to send up to two (2) attendees to the event. For more information and an updated schedule, please contact the RGA Finance staff at (202) 662-4920 or rga@rga.org. Governors Cabinet Membership Page 3 2008 RGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE The Annual Conference is RGA’s premier event for the year. It is attended by almost every Republican Governor and their staff. The 2008 RGA Annual Conference is scheduled for November 12 – 14 at the Fontainebleau, Miami Beach, Florida. This three-day event provides Cabinet members with direct interaction with Republican Governors, Chiefs of Staff and other key staff from the state offices. Cabinet members will have the opportunity to attend the business plenary sessions where Republican Governors exchange policy ideas and accomplishments. In addition, the social schedule includes the RGA State Dinner, various breakfasts, receptions and optional activities where Cabinet members can meet and talk informally with Republican Governors, their staff or other Conference attendees. Cabinet members will receive priority seating at the State Dinner. Cabinet members are invited to send up to four (4) attendees to the Annual Conference. PRIVATE GOVERNORS LUNCHEON Cabinet members are invited to send four (4) attendees to the Private Governors Luncheon held during the Annual Conference. The lunch is RGA’s chance to thank you for your support over the last year. The luncheon is attended by our Governors and their Senior Staff. RGA COMMUNICATIONS CLIPS AND BLOG As a Cabinet member, your online profile will also give you access to exclusive blogs from our Governors and their staff and allow you to read in-depth analyses of innovative policies that Republican Governors are implementing. You will also receive the daily news clips which will keep you up to date on all the news affecting our states and elections. RGA DIRECTORY As a Cabinet member, you will receive the RGA Directory which will be your guide to all of our Governors’ offices. You will have handy contact information for Chiefs of Staff, DC Directors, Schedulers, and Policy Advisors. It also includes additional information about RGA including contact information. THE EXECUTIVE QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER The Quarterly Newsletter will keep you up to speed on the latest RGA events and election and policy news. Every quarter you’ll get an inside look at important races and learn what RGA is doing to help our candidates win. In addition, you will learn about some of the innovative policies that our Governors are developing and how they are improving their states. Lastly, the RGA Chairman will include a special message on RGA’s latest plans and strategy. MYRGA.COM ACCESS Your membership will give you special access to a new section of RGA’s website: MyRGA. MyRGA utilizes the latest technology, to keep you informed of everything happening at RGA and give you access to exclusive content. This members only section of our website allows members to pro-actively review and upgrade your membership benefits and account, change your contact information, donate to RGA, and register for events. The secure website will be your one-stop shop for all things RGA-related and will allow you to really put your membership to use. MEMBERSHIP GUIDELINES RGA Governors Cabinet membership dues require a $100,000 contribution to be made payable to the RGA or a commitment to raise a total of $200,000 in a calendar year for annual membership. Membership runs on a 12month cycle from date of receipt of initial contribution. Questions regarding RGA Cabinet membership or events may be directed to Angela Meyers in the RGA offices at (202) 662-4141 or ameyers@rga.org. Contributions or gifts to the RGA are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. There is no federal statutory limit on the amount a corporation, individual or PAC may contribute to the RGA. Contributions will not be used in connection with any federal election. Contributions from foreign nationals are prohibited. RGA * 1747 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Ste. 250 * Washington, D.C. 20006 * (202) 662-4920 ph * (202) 662-4924 fax * www.rga.org Paid for by the Republican Governors Association.