HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 3, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry will hold its 19th Annual Chamber Dinner on Monday, Sept. 22 at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center.
The premier annual gathering of Pennsylvania's decision makers and business leaders will feature lawyer, teacher, actor, comic, economist, novelist, essayist and expert on finance, Ben Stein.
"The Chamber is proud to have Ben Stein as keynote speaker," said Floyd Warner, President of the PA Chamber. "Word of Mr. Stein's appearance at this year's dinner has generated an enthusiastic response. We are expecting a sell-out crowd."
In his diverse career, Ben Stein has gained national attention for articles about issues of fraud in the Milken Drexel junk bond scheme, while also earning pop culture icon status for his role as a boring teacher in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and as host of his own television game show.
"Attendees are in for a real treat. Mr. Stein brings a unique business perspective to the podium, and a blend of wit and wisdom truly his own. His address is sure to be a highlight of the evening," Warner added.
Also on the agenda is the presentation of the PA Chamber's 2003 Economic Survey, an anticipated and important measure of the state's business climate. This year's survey was conducted by renowned polling and marketing research and information firm Zogby International. John Zogby, president of the firm and considered the most accurate and respected pollster in the United States, will personally discuss the results.
Each year at the dinner, the PA Chamber recognizes a distinguished Pennsylvanian who has made significant contributions to business and commerce in the Commonwealth and to a local community that has played a major role in revitalizing Pennsylvania.
The 2003 recipient of the "Small Business Leadership" award is R. Yvonne Campos, creator, owner and president of Pittsburgh-based Campos Market Research. Ms. Campos is the first woman to be so honored.
The 2003 "Outstanding Pennsylvania Community" is Carlisle, Cumberland County, which will be represented at the dinner by Mayor Kirk Wilson.
The reception begins at 5 p.m., with the dinner and program starting at 6:30 p.m.
Warner said there still is time to make reservations. PA Chamber members, as well as non-members, who have not yet reserved seats for the dinner may do so by visiting the Chamber's website at www.pachamber.org or emailing lbelding@pachamber.org.
EDITORS PLEASE NOTE: A photo of Ben Stein is available upon request by emailing lsmith@pachamber.org.
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry logo is available at: http://media.primezone.com/prs/single/?pkgid=353