Title
Proclamation commending Alan Smith for being named the 2008 Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year at the Western Pennsylvania Small Business Network's 32nd Annual Small Business Awards.
Body
WHEREAS, the Allegheny County Conference on Community Development and the Western Pennsylvania Small Business Network held its 32nd Annual Small Business Awards at the Sheraton Station Square Hotel on May 23, 2008; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Alan Smith was honored at the event as the 2008 Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year for his work as an advocate and supporter of the growth of veteran-owned businesses in Western Pennsylvania; and
WHEREAS, a field representative for U.S. Representative Mike Doyle since 2000, and a former Major in the U.S. Air Force, Mr. Smith's primary duties are to serve as a liaison between local veterans and military personnel and the myriad of federal agencies that assist them; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Smith also advises local veteran business owners on how to search for federal contracts and how to make strategic contacts to secure these projects; and
WHEREAS, additionally, Mr. Smith has been involved as a committee member to fight the Base Realignment and Closure of local military bases and serves on the Veteran Advisory Council for the Community College of Allegheny County Department of Veterans Affairs; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Smith also devotes his time to American Legion Post 673, where he serves as commander;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council congratulates Mr. Alan Smith on being named the 2008 Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year. Furthermore, we commend you on your commitment to providing our local veteran business owners with the resources that they need in order to establish and maintain successful businesses.