All aboard for China

If you'd like to play a bigger role in a shrinking world, we have one word for you: Zhongguo!

China!

A brainchild of new Coeur d'Alene chamber boss Todd Christensen will close the cultural gap between visitors from North Idaho and the people of China. Called a business and culture familiarization tour, guests are invited to join either of two nine-day trips scheduled this October.

If the last summer Olympics didn't whet your appetite to learn more about China, maybe a special meeting next Wednesday at the chamber will. It starts at 5:30 in the new chamber building, right across the street from Independence Point in the heart of Coeur d'Alene, and will explain all you want to know about these trips.

We're on board for China, and here's why:

• China is a global superpower to which our nation is culturally and financially indebted. The more we know, the better.

• While these fam tours aren't strictly business-oriented, they will likely lay the groundwork for some enterprising businesses to begin trade relations.

• The trips will be fun and luxurious yet still affordable. The fee of $1,899 includes airfare, stays in 4- and 5-star hotels, three full meals daily, deluxe tour buses and other assorted fees and admissions.

• The trips are actually a collaborative effort. Christensen has organized and participated in similar trips before. This time, the Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls and Sandpoint chambers are all pulling together. Our region needs more of that kind of teamwork.

• A small percentage of the trip fee will support the chambers. That's a better way to raise money than another auction or other fundraiser, in our opinion.

• The shoulder seasons, like October and March, are perfect times to go visit China.

We encourage North Idahoans with a broad view of the world and an eagerness to immerse themselves in it to attend the chamber's informational meeting next week. More than 100 people have already signed up for it, so don't delay. Call 415-0108 to reserve a seat.