Scotland County leaders sought for DC business summit

LAURINBURG —Scotland County business and civic leaders will have a chance to bend the ears of officials in Washington about issues important to them.

The 20th Annual N.C. Business and Economic Development Summit held in Washington D.C. on Sept. 12 and 13.

“The NC Summit is a chance for business leaders in North Carolina to learn components to help our national economy prosper,” said Chris English, director of the Laurinburg/Scotland County Area Chamber of Commerce, one of the groups helping round up local attendees.

English said that local leaders can provide new ideas and initiatives that strengthen the economy of Laurinburg and Scotland County. The summit will include a congressional briefing, leadership panels and breakout sessions. Nationally-known journalists and cabinet sectaries have spoken at past events.

“We are excited for the opportunity to meet with government officials in D.C. to discuss policies which affect our community” English said.

He added that joining with other businesses from across the state, the group will have the chance to network, collaborate, and discuss common concerns. Also expected to attend the event, also known as “Taking Care of Business North Carolina” will be representatives from the chamber, city of Laurinburg and Scotland County.

The summit will be hosted by U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson of the 8th District and other representatives from the North Carolina congressional delegation.

North Carolina’s businesses are a vital component of our national economy and must be afforded every opportunity to prosper, grow and create jobs,” Hudson said in statement. “In an effort to give community leaders the opportunity to meet with federal government officials and discuss policies that affect our local economies, I invite you to attend the 2016 North Carolina Business & Economic Development Summit.”

On Monday, participants will have a chance to hear from U.S. Reps. G.K. Butterfield, Renee Elmers, Walter Jones, David Price, Virginia Foxx, Mark Walker, David Rouzer, Robert Pittenger, Patrick McHenry, Mark Meadows, Alma Adams, George Holding, and U.S. Sens. Richard Burr and Thom Tillis.

The following day, the group will have breakfast with the North Carolina representatives, and attend a seminar before heading home.

For questions about the annual summit, contact kbuie@laurinburgchamber.com or cenglish@laurinburgchamber.com. You may also contact the chamber offices at 910-276-7420.