In the time I’ve spent at the nation’s capital advocating on behalf of the MN Air National Guard – 148th Fighter Wing, I’ve noticed something: Senate tradition is a funny thing.

On a normal day, it is extremely unlikely that one would see a US Senator meeting with a US Representative in the Representative’s office. Likewise, it is extremely unlikely that one would see a US Representative meeting with a US Senator in the Senator’s office. The two legislative bodies simply do not conduct inter-office visits.

Yet, in a rare move, Senator Mark Dayton (MN) broke tradition and traveled to the office of US Representative Jim Oberstar to conference with Oberstar; representatives from Sen. Norm Coleman’s (MN) office; representatives from Sen. Herb Kohl’s (WI) office; represenatives from Sen. Russ Feingold’s office (WI); Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce representatives; Duluth Mayor Herb Bergson; and staff members about the future of the Duluth-based 148th Fighter Wing.

Most likely Dayton's move, while unconventional, will form a new Senate tradition: when warranted, tradition is waived.

Duluthians can take a lesson from Dayton’s maneuver. Unequivocally, the 148th Fighter wing is a major player in Duluth’s economic viability. The area’s ninth largest employer, the 148th Fighter Wing has an estimated $85.1M impact on the Northland’s economy, according to an article in today’s Duluth News Tribune. With over 1,100 full- and part-time jobs on the line and the potential economic repercussions, it is about time we Duluthians join forces and advocate for the 148th.

Next week, Pentagon officials will host a community meeting about proposed base closures and military realignments in Grand Forks, ND. The 148th Fighter Wing will have 30-mintues to illustrate that it is a vital aspect of the Duluth area community – both economically and socially - and prove that it is one of the best units in the entire United States. Our work in Washington DC will serve as a spring board to develop a plan to achieve this very goal. With the kind of congressional leadership we witnessed in DC and full community support, we will get the job done. After all, when a community pulls together, anything can be achieved.

** In light of the urgency of the situation regarding the 148th Fighter Wing, I will write about the Chamber’s pending economic development policy at a later date.**