Gov. Ritter Launches Video and Internet Message

Press Release

GOV. RITTER LAUNCHES VIDEO AND INTERNET MESSAGE

Gov. Bill Ritter today launched a new video and Internet message service that will help keep Coloradans informed about their state government and the Governor's Office.

The first video and Internet message focuses on the economy, particularly the important role Colorado's natural gas industry plays in the state's New Energy Economy and how the industry has helped position Colorado for a strong recovery out of the current downturn.

The video and Internet message will be posted on the Governor's website (www.colorado.gov/governor) and his YouTube channel and will be distributed via e-mail at least monthly or as events dictate. It adds to the e-newsletter, audio podcasts, Twitter, Facebook and other modern communications tools currently used by Gov. Ritter.

"It's more important than ever to communicate directly, clearly and frequently with the people of Colorado," Gov. Ritter said. "People deserve to know what their government and elected officials are doing, and why they're making the decisions that they do."

Here is the text of Gov. Ritter's message:

These are tough economic times all across Colorado and all across the country. Many of us are struggling, and hard times are still ahead. But I'm confident Colorado can and will emerge stronger than ever.

That's because we've established a forward-looking strategy that's positioned Colorado for a vibrant recovery. It's a strategy that focuses on energy, bioscience, aerospace and technology … knowledge-based industries of tomorrow that create sustainable and good-paying jobs.

It's a strategy that builds off the best of our strengths: One of the most educated workforces in the country; one of the highest concentrations of scientists, engineers and innovators; some of the best research labs and universities in the world.

And a New Energy Economy that's creating thousands of jobs across Colorado and leading the country toward a new energy future.

Colorado is blessed with abundant supplies of energy -- wind, sun and clean-burning natural gas -- and my administration is helping both the alternative and traditional industries thrive. We've developed new rules that will allow Colorado's oil-and-gas industry to grow in a way that's compatible with tourism, recreation and other industries.

These rules strike a balance that will encourage a healthy industry and healthy communities, water supplies and wildlife. Companies like Encana and Williams and Gunnison Energy are already leaders in a best-practices approach to drilling and exploration. They embody the true spirit of a sustainable Colorado these rules hope to achieve.

I've also directed my administration to look for other opportunities to help develop Colorado's natural gas resources with new pipelines, tax credits and fueling stations.

I'm optimistic about the future of the energy industry, our economy and our state. If we've learned one thing from this economic crisis, it's that there's no going back to old ways of doing business.

This is a new era, a new time, and a new opportunity for Colorado to emerge stronger and better than ever.

Thank you.

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