The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry's "Century 2012: Economic Futures Forum" is an information-packed, day-long policy event and its coming to Kearney. This special forum will be held Nov. 12 in LaVista and repeated the following day on Nov. 13 in Kearney.
The Nov. 12 forum will be at the La Vista Conference Center, starting at 10 a.m. The Nov. 13 forum will be at the Yonnes Conference Center in Kearney, also beginning at 10 a.m.
In recognition of the State Chamber's 100th anniversary, the forum will feature policy experts and nationally recognized speakers who specialize on the issues and ideas that will impact Nebraska in the near future – including tax burden, economic development, education and energy.
Speakers will include:
- Joseph Henchman, VP of Legal and State Projects for the Tax Foundation, based in Washington, D.C. Mr. Henchman will address how states successfully compete for economic opportunities.
- Jonathan Williams, Director of Tax and Fiscal Policy for the American Legislative Exchange Council, based in Washington, D.C. Mr. Williams will outline strategies for building economic success at the state level.
- Michael Whatley, Executive VP for the Consumer Energy Alliance, based in Houston. Mr. Whatley will offer perspective on current and future energy policy and how it could impact Nebraska.
- Jaime Matthews with the U.S. Chamber's Institute for a Competitive Workforce. Ms. Matthews will discuss how higher education and employers can work together to meet workforce needs.
In addition to the speakers above, the forum will feature some of Nebraska's top economists, energy experts, lawmakers and University of Nebraska officials.
Steve Ford, CEO of Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of Lincoln and Chairman of the State Chamber said "Even in the midst of slow national economy, Nebraska's economy continues to expand. But to ensure continued success, we must devote special attention to the economic areas that hold the potential for extraordinary growth."
"This gathering will give Nebraska business professionals and community leaders more insight on our state's current economy and competitiveness, while highlighting important steps that need to be taken as we settle into the 21st century. By fostering innovation and expanding our private sector, Nebraska's economic future can be even brighter," said Ford.
This summit is open to all Nebraska residents and the public. The registration fee is $75 and includes lunch.
To register or for more information, call Carol Sibley at the State Chamber at (402) 474-4422, or e-mail csibley@nechamber.com, or register online at https://www.nechamber.net/dnn/Registration/EconomicFuturesForum.aspx.
