STEPS TO SUCCESS

Congratulations to Harold Miller for his excellent column ("Regional Insights: Pittsburgh Needs To Encourage Entrepreneurs," Oct. 4). What timing and relevance to print it after all the celebration and great reviews of our hosting the G-20 Economic Summit.

Yes, our political leaders of all parties and stripes must take Mr. Miller's "recommended encouragement" to heart. Things around here must really Twitter and not be allowed to fritter. Otherwise, great things like the G-20 and its euphoria will fade so fast that we'll continue quickly losing ground in this lightning-fast, global economy.

Fortunately, there are some tremendous organizations that provide great resources and talent to "help all Post-Gazette readers plus Western Pennsylvania citizens survive, thrive and be proactive in the current economic climate."

Finally, a vital ingredient for entrepreneurship and all business success is excellent communication and leadership. Those skills can be gained through experience and practice, and you can practice the needed skills in person around our area, plus meet great people as well. Visit the District 13 Toastmasters' Web page at www.d13tm.com. There are 70 chapters/clubs covering much of Western Pennsylvania, along with parts of Maryland, Ohio and West Virginia. Go to one of those meetings and become involved.

Membership has helped me become more eclectic, educated and informed plus given me valuable leadership experience as a club officer.

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