Lufkin, TX -- State Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) today welcomed more than 400 guests to the East Texas Economic Development Summit at the Pitser Garison Civic Center in Lufkin.

"The response to this event reflects people's commitment to bring economic vitality to their communities," said Nichols. "It is a time when leaders can come together, share ideas, tell success stories and develop new strategies to meet the unique economic needs of East Texas."

This year's event attracted many top-level speakers including:

• Keynote speaker Gov. Rick Perry
• Lt. Governor David Dewhurst
• Comptroller Susan Combs
• Commissioner of Agriculture Todd Staples
• legislative and area elected officials
• economic development experts and specialists

"With such a field of expertise, I think everyone will walk from today's event with new information and insight," said Nichols.

Nichols hosted the event along Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples and the Texas Forest Country Partnership, a regional economic development organization. Staples hosted the first summit in 2004 when he represented Senate District 3.

"Hosting this event with Commissioner Staples is an honor," said Nichols. "It was his leadership and hard work that started this important tradition."

Nichols also praised the important work of the Texas Forest Country Partnership.

"I want to thank the Texas Forest Country Partnership for lending so much support to this event," said Nichols. "Without their contribution, the event would not be possible."

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