The first event of the new Arkansas Economic Issues Breakfast series took place this morning.  Linking seven different locations around the state in a statewide videoconference presented some technological challenges, but we managed to pull it off without any serious problems.  Governor Beebe kicked-off the event, then we saw presentations by Kathy Deck in Fayetteville, Alan McVey in Jonesboro, and me in Little Rock.   The meeting also included a discussion group session where attendees talked about some of the issues relevant for their local economies.

In addition to the locations in Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Jonesboro, simultaneous sessions took place in Magnolia, Monticello, Pine Bluff and Fort Smith.  Across the state, we estimate that over 800 people participated.

All the background inforamation, presentation materials, and summaries of the discussion groups will be posted shortly on the Arkansas Economic Issues Breakfast website. 

– Michael Pakko