ARLINGTON, Va. - The Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) is inviting its members to the first annual ARI Cool Connections Public Policy Symposium, which will take place in Washington Feb. 11-12, 2004. According to ARI, the symposium is intended to strengthen attendees' understanding of critical issues facing the industry while facilitating the development of personal relationships with elected officials. ARI members will have the opportunity to discuss issues with key decision makers.

On Feb. 11, Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, will provide the keynote address. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Sen. Grassley will talk about energy, tax, and competitiveness issues. The senator will also receive ARI's first public policy award for his leadership and support of the air conditioning and refrigeration industry.

Congressman Billy Tauzin, R-La., chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, will provide the keynote address on Feb. 12. He has been invited to speak about the challenges the country faces in developing a balanced energy policy that supports funding for electricity reliability and promoting adequate domestic supplies and energy conservation.