American Gas - February 2012 - (Page 2)

PreSidenT’S MeSSage Success Takes Teamwork By working closely with regulators and legislators, natural gas utilities can extend their winning record. O DAve mccurDy President and ceO dmccurdy@aga.org ur cover story this month profiles South Carolina Public Utility Commissioner David Wright, 2012 president of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC). The NARUC president has appeared on each February cover of American Gas for nearly one decade now—a great tradition and a wonderful opportunity for our readers to learn more about the priorities of this important association. I urge you to read David’s compelling story and learn how the events that have shaped his life have led him to this place in his career. David’s message is clear: The key to achieving results is teamwork. For years, AGA has been proud to team with NARUC—participating in its conferences, regional meetings and various forums to provide relevant and important information about natural gas and natural gas utilities. We value our role on this team and know that through this teamwork we will meet our shared goal of providing safe, reliable service to our customers. Over the years, we have worked with NARUC on a wide range of issues, from natural gas supply, to innovative rate designs encouraging energy efficiency programs, to pipeline safety. Our role on the team that David envisions is to be the “utility” player, providing NARUC with solid, factual information on these and other critical issues. In addition, several NARUC commissioners from around the country have spoken at AGA meetings, providing keen insight on the issues they face at a national level, as well as in their respective states. It is this sort of information exchange that helps the team produce results that benefit the consumers we all serve, which is our ultimate game plan. AGA is now looking to join additional teams. Throughout the country, a robust debate is occurring about our energy future. In many cases, states are leading the way when it comes to establishing environmental policies, reducing U.S. dependence on foreign oil and creating jobs through harnessing domestic forms of energy. It is AGA’s goal to become the go-to resource for governors, state legislators, local officials and other policymakers. David likened AGA to a “specialty coach” because of our ability to educate commissioners and staff, and we intend to replicate that effort with other groups around the country through heralding the benefits of greater use of natural gas and responsible development of this abundant resource. As well, we will promote policies that ensure the financial health of natural gas utilities so that our member companies can continue to grow and provide their customers with the safe and reliable delivery of our highly efficient, clean, domestically abundant fuel. Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver once said, “In baseball, my theory is to strive for consistency and not to worry about the numbers. If you dwell on statistics, you get short-sighted; if you aim for consistency, the numbers will be there at the end.” Similarly, the American Gas Association and its members strive to be consistent and productive, always showing up prepared and giving our all to ensure the best outcome for our customers. And in doing so, compiling a winning record. 2 february 2012 AmericAn GAs

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of American Gas - February 2012

American Gas - February 2012
Contents
President’s Message
In the News
Ask AGA
ROI
Go, Team!
Going for the Gold
Places to Be
Noteworthies
Jobline
Marketplace
Advertisers' Index
Facts on Gas

American Gas - February 2012