Perdue Announces G-8 Working Group to Ensure Top Notch Summit, Maximize Long-Term Impact
| Tuesday, July 22, 2003 |
Contact: Office of Communications 404-651-7774
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Teams to focus on security, environmental issues, education, economic expansion, heightened international trade
Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue today announced the formation of a G-8 Summit Working Group whose mission will be to coordinate with federal and international participants for next year's Summit on Sea Island and to enhance the long-term economic impact of the event on Georgia.
The group includes the following members (with more to be added as the Summit nears):
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Eric Tanenblatt, Governor's Chief of Staff (Chairman)
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Bill Hitchens, Director of Homeland Security
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Jim Lientz, Chief Operating Officer
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Tommy Hills, Chief Financial Officer
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Glenn Cornell, Commissioner, Georgia Department of Industry Trade & Tourism
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Mike Beatty, Commissioner, Department of Community Affairs
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Lonice Barrett, Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources
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Bill Donohue, Executive Director, Jekyll Island Authority
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Doug Marchand, Executive Director, Georgia Ports Authority
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Tim Connell, Director of Office of Planning and Budget
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Heidi Green, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs
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Morgan Perry, Director of Legislative Affairs
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Dan McLagan, Director of Communications
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Colonel George Ellis, Director, Georgia State Patrol
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Senator Jeff Mullis, Chairman, Senate Economic Development and Tourism Committee
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Butch Parrish, Chairman, House Economic Development and Tourism Committee
Perdue said that sub-groups would be formed and chaired by the group members to focus on issues such as security, environmental impact, educational opportunities, and international public relations. One major sub-group will focus on creating a substantial residual economic impact that will benefit Georgia for many years to come.
"This talented group of people will focus on making this Summit the standard by which future international gatherings will be measured," Perdue said. "Their other - and equally important purpose will be to use our status as an international venue to lure foreign investment to Georgia and develop new foreign markets for our products."
The group will work closely with federal law enforcement authorities, the state and federal departments of homeland security and others to provide all necessary assistance in security matters.
The last G-8 Summit held in North America created 2,500 temporary jobs. Governor Perdue is determined to use the Sea Island Summit to create many more permanent jobs for Georgians.