it's my pleasure to introduce to you one of the national foundation's fellow and scholar nick schultz who will be moderating the next panel. nick has conducted original research on high-skilled innovation and its importance on america's competitiveness. in addition to his work with ncf, nick is the dewitt fellow at the american enterprises institute where he special ices in political, economic and technology research. he's the editor in chief of american.com. aei's online journal focusing on business, economics and public affairs. nick also so authored an acclaimed work on modern economic growth and development with arnold king called "from poverty to prosperity." this influential work is on ncf's list of books that drive the free enterprise to date. nick has already made an important contribution to ncf and policy efforts but most importantly, his critical thinking, creative research and thoughtful analysis are contributing immeasurably to the economic debate. please join me in welcoming nick schultz. >> thank you, al. thank you, al. and welcome, everyone, to this panel. on city case