The debate about the economic worth of hosting a Super Bowl will be among the hot topics next week at a luncheon featuring the league's COO Tod Leiweke and Vikings owner Mark Wilf.
The two will be on a panel of three and take questions during the November luncheon of the Economic Club of Minnesota on Nov. 15. The event runs from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Minneapolis Hilton's Salon Ballroom on the third floor.
On the dais with the two will be Alexis Glick, former TV personality and CEO of GENYOUth, a nonprofit that "empowers young people." Ecolab's Doug Baker will moderate the discussion. US Bank's Richard Davis and Carlson Cos.' Marilyn Carlson Nelson will provide the introduction.
Baker, Davis and Nelson are on the executive board of the Super Bowl Host Committee.
The panel will discuss a variety of topics, including the economic impact of hosting Super Bowl LII, and professional sports generally; the prospects for international expansion for the NFL; various league rules; and the organizations' impact on youth fitness and nutrition, among others.
The event won't settle the debate over the economic impact of hosting a Super Bowl, which is ten days of events capped by the game Feb. 4, 2018, at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Organizers have estimated the festivities will bring $338 million to the state. But it's tough amount to quantify with no small cadre of detractors.
Those interested in attending can contact Michelle Hanson at (612) 432-6790 or Michelle@ecomn.org.
The Economic Club of Minnesota provides a "top-tier audience of business executives" for discussions on business, finance and public policy.
Leiweke has Minnesota connections. He was the first president of the Minnesota Wild in 1999.
