Idaho Congressman Walt Minnick was guest speaker at the monthly KBOI/NNU Business Breakfast Series, held on Tuesday, February 16 at the Brandt Center. Representative Minnick was introduced to attendees by Dr. Bill Russell, who directs the Business Breakfast program from NNU’s perspective.  NNU administrative responsibilities relating to the events are handled by administrative assistance Kendra Lubiens.

Congressman Minnick discussed the current state of the Congressional legislative agenda.  He expressed doubt that any comprehensive health care or insurance legislation would pass in the Congress, but left open the possibility that bipartisan efforts would lead to legislative solutions to some elements of the health care issue.  He indicated great doubt that energy legislation, particularly involving “Cap and Trade,” would pass in the Congress.  He identified jobs legislation as the only real surviving issue, but indicated his opposition to spending any monies beyond those already authorized in the existing Stimulus bill.

Representative Minnick then fielded questions from the audience.  In response to a number of questions, he indicated that there is little possibility that any comprehensive immigration reform would pass before the November elections.  He also indicated strong support for nuclear energy, with an emphasis on federal loan guarantees for those seeking to build nuclear power capacity.

NNU and radio station AM 670 KBOI jointly sponsor a monthly business Breakfast for business leaders in the Treasure Valley.  Recent guest speakers include: Karen Sander, Executive Director of Downtown Boise Association; Bill Whitacre, CEO of J.R. Simplot Company; Idaho Governor Butch Otter; and Dennis Johnson, CEO of United Heritage financial Group. Co-Sponsors include the Idaho Business Review and others.  Upcoming Business Breakfasts will be held at the Holiday Inn on Vista and will feature Bill Conners, President of the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce and others.  Business Breakfasts are held on the third Tuesday of the Month, and are open to the public.  Alumni and friends of NNU are welcome.

The Business Breakfast is a part of the package of cooperative activities with KBOI.  On Monday mornings at 7:37 a.m. NNU presents the Business of the Week honoring a Boise Valley business (also typically hosted by Dr. Russell).

Article contributed by Bill Russell

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