Friday, June 06. 2008
I just attended the Orlando Business Journal's Economic Outlook Event, and it was well worth the time and money invested. I heard perspectives and opinions from state and federal leaders, experienced economists, and lots of local business leaders. It was very interesting, enlightening, and sometimes very funny ( to me!)...
It is always refreshing to hear Hank Fishkind speak bluntly about issues that many others choose to tip-toe around, or convert into politico speak. He is always well prepared with research and has a talent for cutting to the bottom line. I was also very impressed by Alex Sink, the CFO of our state, and her straight talk on our state’s fiscal condition. She is experienced and had some good perspectives on our current condition.
Many people attended this event and I applaud the OBJ for making it happen. Knowledge, vision, communication and our collective cooperation has cushioned our region during this economic time and it is the key to our competitive edge in the future. Today, I had a glimpse of the expansive vision, intellectual talent, and the economic muscle that Central Florida has to offer the state. We can accomplish anything that we decide to do as a region, which is exciting. We can emerge from this re-defining economic time as a shining example of creativity and innovation as a region, and as a state. We have what it takes… I saw it in a room at the airport today.