Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Georgia Power President/CEO Paul Bowers to Speak at Gwinnett Chamber on September 15

Bowers to Give an Update on the Energy Market and Discuss How Georgia Power is Working to Face Future Challenges

Duluth, GA- Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is honored to announce that the CEO of Georgia Power, Paul Bowers will be the guest speaker for the General Membership Meeting Presented by Rocket IT on September 14, 2011 at The 1818 Club from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Chamber members and guests will have the unique opportunity to get an update on the energy market from one of the leaders of the nation’s largest producers of electricity.

“We are excited and honored to have Georgia Power President & CEO Paul Bowers as the keynote speaker for our General Membership Meeting. Mr. Bowers has demonstrated excellent leadership skills in the energy market and is successfully servings thousands of Georgia citizens through his dedication to the nation’s largest producers of electricity,” said Jim Maran, President & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber. “His outstanding background of environmental and economic leadership has benefited local communities and abroad. Our Chamber members will be empowered and inspired by Paul Bowers’ accomplishments.”

Paul Bowers became president and CEO of Georgia Power January 1, 2011. Before becoming CEO of Georgia Power, Paul Bower served with the Southern company for 30 years and has obtained leadership positions such as being the chief financial officer and executive vice president of Southern Company. From 2001 to 2008, he has served as the president of the Southern Company overseeing fossil fuel and hydro generation, fleet operations, research, and environmental affairs. Bowers was named Southern Company’s chief financial officer and chief risk officer, where he directed accounting, finance, tax, investor relations, and treasury and risk management functions. Paul Bowers was recognized as one of the top three CFOs in the utility industry. Bowers serves on the board of Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited, the Atlanta Metro Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Georgia Department of Economic Development.

General Membership Meetings are held once a month providing an opportunity for Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce members as well as members of the community to stay abreast of important issues in Gwinnett and Metro Atlanta, network with other business professionals and have a chance to listen to renowned speakers from all types of industries.

The cost to attend is $45 for members and $55 for non-Chamber members. Advanced registration is required. Walk-ins at the event are not guaranteed a spot at the luncheon. Register online at www.gwinnettchamber.org/events.

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Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Congressman Rob Woodall Reveals Plan for Balanced Budget Amendment in Exclusive Interview with the Gwinnett Chamber

Woodall Gives Candid Feedback on Public Policy Issues Affecting Gwinnett Businesses

Gwinnett County, Metro Atlanta, Ga. (September 6, 2011) – The Gwinnett Chamber recently sat down with Congressman Rob Woodall for an exclusive interview on issues affecting Gwinnett businesses including the recent passage of the Budget Control Act. This legislation allows for the historic opportunity to pass a Balanced Budget Amendment. Woodall also discussed other key issues including fostering economic growth by removing trade barriers and excessive government regulation that place an undue burden on American businesses.

Speaking to the Budget Control Act, Congressman Woodall made this comment, “I knew this was something we could use as a tool. For the first time in American history, we tied a debt ceiling increase to a dollar for dollar reduction in spending. I think that’s something that is going to stick with America.”

“The Budget Control Act not only puts a cap on future spending, it puts a Balanced Budget Amendment back on the table for the first time in fifteen years—and we will do it before the year’s end,” continued Congressman Woodall. “A Balanced Budget Amendment will be a huge-game changer for this country. However, my colleagues and I cannot do it alone. A Balanced Budget Amendment requires the full support of the American people in order to pass it in Congress with a two thirds majority and be sent to the States for ratification. Voters must rally and call on their leaders to pass a Balanced Budget Amendment.”

Conducting the interview, Jann Moore, Senior Director of Public Policy and Education at the Gwinnett Chamber, also discussed other important issues with Congressman Woodall, which include removing trade barriers and excessive regulation of American businesses. On trade barriers, Congressman Woodall commented on the need to remove the barriers that make American companies want to relocate overseas. He then called on local business owners themselves to help make a difference.

“Local chambers are perfectly placed to bring rifle shot ideas,” said Congressman Woodall. “Your members are going to know more about their business than we ever will. We need these experts to bring their ideas to the forefront.”

Encouraging local business owners to get involved, Moore reiterated the importance of contacting your Senators and Representatives on business issues that matter, “Whether it is on the Balanced Budget Amendment, regulations that hinder your ability to do business or trade barriers, let your voice be heard.”

There are numerous opportunities for involvement in the Gwinnett Chamber’s Public Policy efforts. For more information, contact Jann Moore, Senior Director of Public Policy and Education, Gwinnett Chamber, at 678-672-2555 or jann@gwinnettchamber.org.


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