The Moore County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a State of the State luncheon from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 12 at the Pinehurst Member's Club

The guest speaker will be Joe Hackney, speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives. He will highlight how the state is continuing to work toward a business-friendly environment and how it is addressing other top issues including education, economic development and military affairs, a Chamber news release said.

"We are very fortunate to have Speaker Joe Hackney presenting at this event," said Patrick J. Coughlin, president and CEO of the Moore County Chamber of Commerce. "Many states, including North Carolina, continue to struggle with budget decisions affecting services in almost every area. Attendees will be given the opportunity to hear from the Speaker of the House how our legislative body will address this ongoing concern."

While budget decisions continue to be tough at the state and local levels, for the third consecutive year, Site Selection magazine has ranked North Carolina as the state with the "Top Business Climate." North Carolina has actually achieved this status six times in the last seven years.

States are ranked based on two equally weighted factors: a survey of corporate site selectors asking them to rank their "top 10" states and the amount of new plant activity in the state.

North Carolina has a wonderful quality of life, favorable business climate and access to top-notch academic and research facilities among the factors leading to its national recognition, the news release said.

The State of the State is in partnership with Fidelity Bank.

The cost for Chamber members is $25 and $50 for nonmember. Tickets at the door are $35 for members and $75 for nonmembers.

Reservations made after Jan. 5 will be invoiced in full.

Anyone planning to attend is asked to register by calling (910) 692-3926 or e-mailing atinfo@moorecountychamber.com.