LAYTON -- Issues identified as critical by businesses in Davis County -- health care, energy, jail expansion, transportation and education -- will be the focus of the March 17 Northern Utah Business and Economic Summit. Hosted by Weber State University's Davis Campus, 2750 N. University Park Blvd. in Layton, the 2006 Summit will supply business owners and managers with information essential in making the right business decisions. Speakers from the worlds of businesses, government, education, transportation, law enforcement and economic development will offer a "straight from the horse's mouth" perspective of the issues.

According to Chris Dallin, president and CEO of Davis Chamber of Commerce, a summit sponsor, anyone concerned with the future of business and economic growth in Davis County will want to attend.

"Make a list of the top 10 issues of interest to business owners and we've got them," he said, "education, energy costs, community preparedness, commuter rail, the Entrepreneurial Center and more. Our speakers include the top authorities in their fields -- Questar CEO Alan Allred, Legacy Highway Director John Thomas and UTA CEO John Inglish, among others."

The cost to take part is $50 per person. But there's a 50 percent discount for anyone bringing a guest along (two for $75). Those desiring to attend are encouraged to RSVP by calling 295-225 today.

The summit will start at 7 a.m. with registration and breakfast networking and will culminate with with the presentation of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Enterprise Award to Utah Congressman Rob Bishop at 12:40 p.m. Lunch and adjournment will follow.

Joining the chamber as co-sponsors of the event are the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, American Family Insurance, Utah Transit Authority and Weber State University Davis Campus.

"The event is so valuable," said Dallin, "that the Department of Commerce -- Division of Real Estate -- and the Utah State Board of Continuing Legal Education has offered attendees continuing education credits for real estate agents and attorneys."

bmickelson@davisclipper.com