To kick off the year, the Lake Norman Chamber has a discussion with North Carolina Senator Paul Newton – Republican District #36. Senator Newton has served three terms in the Senate and represents Cabarrus and Union County. He Chairs the Finance and Redistricting & Elections Committees. Senator Newton will give updates on the Long Session and expectations for the short session as well as focus on energy policies as they impact our region. We expect to also touch on redistricting.

The program, held Friday January 21st 8:30-9:30 am, will be live via ZOOM and members can contact the Chamber at Sylvia@lakenormanchamber.org or call 704-892-1922 for the Zoom credentials. It will also be recorded and available for later viewing on the Chamber’s website and social media.

Focus Friday is a public policy program of the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce which examines community and legislative issues from multiple perspectives. While intended for Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce members and community leaders, guests are welcome.

The program is presented by Novant Health - Huntersville Medical Center and sponsored by Business Today and WSIC 100.7 FM. The program will be moderated by 2021 Public Policy Chair Jeff Tarte.

The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce, with approximately 850 business members, represents the Huntersville, Davidson, Cornelius, and greater Lake Norman regional business community.

About Senator Newton:

Following five years of private legal practice, Paul Newton worked for 25 years at Duke Energy and eventually earned the responsibility to lead the company as an executive. While serving as General Counsel of its utilities, Paul was recognized by NC Business Magazine as one of North Carolina’s Legal Elite. He later retired in 2015 as North Carolina State President.

Paul’s work experience included leading the state’s largest private economic development organization. As a leader, he earned a reputation of integrity and gained respect for his down-to-earth concern for others. He is ready to put this private sector experience to work in Raleigh.

Serving his community started years ago as an Advisory Board member with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Cabarrus County. Paul also served on the CEO Advisory Council of the NC Center for Non-Profits, the Board of Directors of Leadership NC, and on the Executive Committee of the NC Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Raised by a father who worked in textiles at Fieldcrest Mills and a mother who worked with our community college system, Paul graduated from UNC – Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and a Juris Doctor degree. He also completed the Harvard Advanced Management Program.

Most important to Paul is his job as father and husband. The American Diabetes Association honored Paul with “Father of the Year” in 2008 for his commitment to his family.