WASHINGTON D.C. - This year's Aspen Summit agenda reflects The Progress & Freedom Foundation's expanded focus on the global technology economy. The discussion panel, "The Innovation Imperative - Engage or Retreat?" will examine strategic questions confronting the U.S. economy. The panel, which will follow Dallas Federal Reserve Bank President and CEO Richard Fisher's plenary address on globalization, technology, and monetary policy, will discuss such issues as trade, innovation, American competitiveness, the specter of protectionism, and other obstacles to global growth.

Confirmed panelists include:

• Katherine McGuire, Vice President of Government Relations, Business Software Alliance
• Peter Pitsch, Director, Communications Policy, Intel
• Steve Stewart, Director, Public Affairs, IBM Governmental Programs
• Timothy Stratford, Assistant US Trade Representative for China

In addition to the discussion panel on innovation and the global economy, this year's Monday night working dinners will include a discussion titled, "China: A Challenge of Olympic Proportions." More details on all the working dinners will be announced next week. Keynote speakers this year include NTIA Acting Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information, Meredith Attwell Baker; Verizon's Chief Technology Officer, Richard Lynch; and Patrick J. Esser, President of Cox Communications Inc. The Chairman's Dinner speaker will be Citizens Communications President and CEO, Maggie Wilderotter.

The 2008 PFF Aspen Summit will be held August 17th - 19th at the St. Regis Hotel in Aspen, Colorado. Further details can be found on our web site and registration can be performed online. Questions should be directed to Allison Bringardner at abringardner@pff.org or (202)289-8928. Members of the media are always welcome to attend and should contact Amy Smorodin at asmorodin@pff.org or (202)289-8928.

The Progress & Freedom Foundation is a market-oriented think tank that studies the digital revolution and its implications for public policy. It is a 501(c)(3) research & educational organization.