The following press release was issued to the news media this morning.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2008
T. BOONE PICKENS HEADLINES 2009 MACKINAC POLICY CONFERENCE
Early Registration for the Annual Public Policy Event is Now Open
DETROIT – Today, the Detroit Regional Chamber announced T. Boone Pickens as a 2009 Mackinac Policy Conference speaker and the opening of early registration for Michigan’s most influential public-policy gathering. Pickens, founder and chairman of BP Capital Management and a nationally recognized energy expert, will outline his vision for how the U.S. can achieve energy independence. The session featuring Pickens will include a moderated discussion to engage the audience about Michigan being a leader in the alternative energy industry.
“Michigan’s economic future depends on its ability to diversify with jobs and investment in the new economy,” said Tammy J. Carnrike, COO for the Detroit Regional Chamber. “Alternative energy is a large part of our state’s plan to get the state’s economy moving again. We are thrilled T. Boone Pickens will be a part of the discussion about Michigan being a leader in this exciting industry.”
The Mackinac Policy Conference is an annual event that brings together 1,700 of the state’s top business, community and political leadership to address the tough issues and challenges confronting Michigan. Mackinac provides a tremendous platform for dialogue and action on the solutions for turning the state’s economy around. The 2009 conference will be held May 27-30 at the historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.
Alternative energy was among the top five issues for action identified by the business community at last year’s Mackinac Policy Conference. The Pickens session will build on that discussion and provide concrete steps needed for properly positioning the state in this growing sector of the national economy.
For more information or to register for the 2009 Mackinac Policy Conference, visit www.detroitchamber.com/mpc.
About the Detroit Regional Chamber
With over 20,000 members, the Detroit Regional Chamber is the largest chamber of commerce in the country. The Chamber’s mission is carried out through business attraction efforts, public policy advocacy, strategic partnerships and quality products and services for members.