Annual Meeting, Concurrent Roundtables and Reception
Thursday, February 15, 2006

Marriott’s Hunt Valley Inn
245 Shawan Road
Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031

Annual Meeting Summary

Chairman Rick Webb called the meeting to order.

Secretary Joe Biglin certified that a quorum was present.

Chairman Webb stated the mission of the forum and gave a welcoming address.

Treasurer Charles Feihe reported that the Forum was in good financial condition and detailed income, expenses and reserves.

Chairman Webb introduced the Board of Directors and identified those who had been nominated for reelection. A motion was made seconded and passed to elect the slate.

Jim Ports of the Maryland Department of Transportation gave an update on the re-opening of light rail on February 26 and the ceremony on the 27th.

Chairman Webb introduced Laura Gamble, President, Maryland, and Bank of America.

A brief summary of her address follows.

Laura shared with us the mission of Bank of America to create economic opportunities
by working with business leaders to learn the needs of Maryland businesses.

Challenges in the business climate today and tomorrow are in economics, globalization and risk management. In the economy we see a slowing of the housing market and in job growth. There is also an increase in creative credit card use.

The global economy becomes a defining factor with the development of the Chinese economy. Success in dealing with global competition depends on training and education. We must invent what we need and not try to hang on to what we have.

Risk management is a part of growth and business is about growth. Growth attracts capital which involves risk taking.

This was followed by questions from the floor.

Chairman Webb adjourned the meeting and invited all to the reception.