Southern politicians to meet here

COLUMBIA -- About 2,000 politicians and guests from 15 Southern states will descend on Charleston this weekend for a conference on governing, bringing with them an estimated $3.5 million economic impact.

House Speaker Bobby Harrell, R-Charleston, announced Wednesday that the state will host the 64th annual Southern Legislative Conference. The conference kicks off Saturday and runs until Aug. 4.

No state tax dollars will be used for the conference. Harrell, who was elected conference chairman, said he spearheaded a fundraising campaign that began in September, raising nearly $1 million, primarily from South Carolina companies, to pay for the conference.

The projected $3.5 million impact could be even higher when indirect benefits are factored in, he said.

"Because of recent budget cuts, we felt it was important to dedicate taxpayer dollars to the most core government services and independently raise the funds needed to host this event," Harrell said in a statement.

"I want to thank the many generous members of our business community for all they have done to ensure that South Carolina, and all that our state has to offer, is properly and positively displayed during this conference."

Harrell said South Carolina has the opportunity to showcase what it has to offer. The conference participants and their guests are invited to tee off at Dunes West Golf & River Club, learn about the Gullah culture and Jewish heritage in the Lowcountry, tour Museum Mile and receive coaching on South Carolina homecooking from the Culinary Institute of Charleston.

The cost to participate in many events are part of the guests' registration fees.

All that is in addition to the policy work sessions scheduled for the politicians to discuss rural and economic development, strengthening education and providing public safety, among other topics, and how Southern states can work together on solutions.

The event will include such guest speakers as Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, who grew up in Dillon; U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.; and U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, D-S.C.

Country rocker and Charleston native Darius Rucker will perform for the conference guests at a special state dinner Monday.

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Harrell said the intent is to highlight South Carolina people and places.

"This event will bring in thousands of new visitors and will create a multi million-dollar economic boost for our state," Harrell said. "For many of the conference guests, this will be their first trip to our state, and we hope our hospitality makes return visitors out of many of them."

Events, open only to participants, will be held throughout the city, including at Charles Towne Landing and the South Carolina Aquarium.

The bulk of the work sessions will be held at the Charleston Place Hotel.