'Make things happen,' entrepreneur urges

Dream big, then get in the game.

This was the message last week from Andy Miller, guest speaker at the inaugural E2, or Entrepreneur to Entrepreneur Group, sponsored by Montana West Economic Development.

Addressing about 20 people, Miller, himself an entrepreneur and former Detroit Lions football player, tried to get the crowd excited about business opportunities waiting to be taken advantage of in the Flathead Valley.

"Things don't just happen to you," he said. "You make things happen to you."

In addition to anecdotes from his own life, Miller shared advice he'd learned from reading James P. Owen's "What Wall Street Can Learn from the Code of the West." The "code" includes living each day with courage, taking pride in one's work and being tough but fair.

"Don't compromise," Miller said, addressing the part of the code that says some things, such as reputation and self-respect, aren't for sale. "We live in a world today where people compromise."

Miller also urged people to brainstorm ways to get younger people involved in the business community.

If migration into the valley continues at its current rate, in 2010 the average age of Flathead Valley residents will be 67, he said. "I want to bring business and opportunity for young people."

As an example, Miller showed plans for Osprey Media, a 57,000-square-foot production studio he is planning to build at the south edge Kalispell. Joining Miller on this project are retired Gen. Paul Vallely, military analyst for Fox News, and Jerry Molen, producer of a long list of movies including "Minority Report," "Twister" and "Schindler's List."

In addition to attracting young workers with fun, exciting jobs, Miller said the facility would benefit the community as a place for meetings or cultural events. An attorney in Los Angeles is currently working to sign the first movie contract, and construction could begin as early as this fall.

Although he is concerned about the valley's seeming lack of appeal to young people, Miller also wants to keep experienced businessmen involved in the game.

"We don't utilize our mature people in the valley," he said. "Let's tap that resource." The E2 group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month. For more information, contact Kate Downen of Montana West Economic Development at 257-7711.

Reporter Kristi Albertson may be reached at 758-4438 or by e-mail at kalbertson@dailyinterlake.com.