There has been much news coverage in advance of the first-ever New Jersey Business Summit, which will bring together business and political leaders at the Borgata Hotel in Atlantic City on September 17 and 18 to brainstorm solutions to the state’s most pressing economic issues.
"We're not going to blame people, we're not going to finger point. We're going to look for solutions," Bracken said at a press conference on Sept. 2. The media event was attended by representatives of some of the 12 chambers of commerce and more than 20 business, labor and non-profit organizations that are supporting the Business Summit.
The Summit will feature audience participation by CEOs and owners of small businesses, as well as a panel featuring the state’s top-ranking legislators - Senate President Steve Sweeney, Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean, Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto and Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick.
Quotes about the Summit:
"When the Legislature talks to people like us, the leadership, they're getting a perspective from the leadership. But when they see and feel and hear the everyday businessperson, grass-roots person, saying 'these are the problems that we're having keeping our business open, employing people, making the state better,' I think it makes a much different impact."-Bob Prunetti, President, MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce
“I think under Tom’s leadership we’ve put together a broad coalition of business groups throughout the state together at one time to really reinforce to the legislature that it’s time to put politics aside about a whole bunch of issues.”-Jim Kirkos, President and CEO, Meadowlands Regional Chamber
“This type of dialogue happens … but it’s in meetings where individuals are meeting with the legislators and they all are bringing their own interests to the table. And this is where we’re saying let’s bring all the business leaders together with the legislative leaders and do it as a group.”- Melanie Willoughby, Senior VP of Government Relations, NJ Business and Industry Association.
Here is a sampling of the news coverage:
N.J. Chamber lays out framework for Atlantic City business summit (NJBIZ)
Calls For Action, Not Just Talk, to Save Business in New Jersey (NJTV News)
First New Jersey Business Summit set for Atlantic City (WHYY)
‘What’s wrong’ with NJ commerce? Officials plan discussion this month (New Jersey 101.5)
Legislative leaders to attend business summit at shore (The Associated Press/New Jersey Herald)
A.C. to host state, business leaders (The Press of Atlantic City)