'Cheers' star to headline local Republican Committee dinner

The Douglas County Republican Central Committee will host a dinner and reception April 13 to discuss the manufacturing crisis in America and politics with John Ratzenberger.

Ratzenberger is best known for playing mail carrier Cliff Clavin on the sitcom "Cheers" and through his various voiceover roles, such as Hamm the Piggy Bank in "Toy Story" and P.T. the Flea from "A Bug's Life."

He is also the head spokesman for Manufacturing Crisis in America, "a problem that consists of the shortage of skilled labor positions in the United States," according to Ratzenberger's website.

The poor image of manufacturing during recent years - and still today - may be the most powerful factor driving the skilled workers shortage. Just this summer, the Department of Labor, in a candid overview, stated, "Manufacturing confronts a negative image, characterized by such phrases as 'declining,' 'dirty,' 'low-pay,' etc. Consequently, too few highly skilled workers seriously consider manufacturing career."

Ratzenberger produced and hosted "Made in America," a show for the Travel Channel, which led the way for a new series of shows, including "Dirty Jobs," "Deadliest Catch," "Ice Road Truckers," and more.

While recalling the knowledge gained while producing and hosting the 97 episodes of his show, Ratzenberger said, "Part of the problem is the media and Hollywood often portray manufacturing in a poor light, denigrating anyone who works with their hands."

"It is truly an honor to have Mr. Ratzenberger attending our dinner to discuss the critical topic of manufacturing in America," said Jon Wyss, the state committeeman for the Douglas County Republican Party. "Manufacturing means jobs. With the economy struggling, we need more manufacturing in our area that will bring more jobs to North Central Washington. Douglas County and the surrounding region are prime locations for manufactures as the area has easy access to transportation corridors, land, low cost power, and people ready to take the next steps."

For more information about the event, contact Wyss at 509-433-7260 or Melissa Mathison at 509-264-1222.

View Ratzenberger's Manufacturing Crisis in America website at ratzenberger.com/manufacturing.php.