The National Assn. of Electrical Distributors will hold its 99th annual meeting May 5-9 at the Marriott Wardman Park in Washington, D.C.

“Focus on the Future” is the theme for the meeting, and with that in mind, Ken Simonson, chief economist for Associated General Contractors of America, will examine the business climate for construction markets. He'll also analyze which materials could be facing price increases and shortages this year.

Also, Alan Beaulieu, a senior analyst and economist with the Institute for Trend Research, will give an economic forecast, “Preparing for Changes 2007-2008.”

This year's keynote speaker is political author and satirist P.J. O'Rourke, addressing “Pirates & Neckties: Government vs. Free Market, Which is Worse?”

For more information, go to www.naed.org.