From The President’s Desk: 114 Years. And So Much is New.

I’m looking forward to the Chicagoland Chamber’s Annual Meeting, which is now just five weeks away. The event is June 5th at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. I hope you’ll be with us.

Our business community’s place in Chicago history is reflected in the fact that this is the Chamber’s 114th Annual Meeting. The roots of Chamber membership run deep. They’re spread even further by new and emerging businesses joining us every day. Together, we are the foundation of our ever-changing, ever-growing skyline and neighborhoods.

A theme of the Annual Meeting will be The Future. I’ve spent a lot of time talking with businesses like yours, across all industries and parts of the region, and I listened closely. I’ve been inspired by your thoughtful input and commitment to success – for your businesses, and for our whole community. It’s been a collaborative process. Now I’m putting your ideas into action. Building on the historic strengths and influence of the Chamber, I’ll tell you how we’ll leverage new tools and strategies to take us to the next level. The Chamber will be a better partner to your business than ever before. Our future is bright.

We’ve invited Mayor Emanuel to the Annual Meeting to speak about his vision of Chicago’s future. We’ll also announce the winner of this year’s James Tyree Emerging Business Leadership Award, which comes with a $50,000 cash prize, and we’ll celebrate the remarkable leadership of our Chairman, Stephen Ferrara of BDO as his two-year term comes to a close. Our incoming Chair, Bruce Lubin of CIBC, will receive an enthusiastic welcome.

Of course, the Annual Meeting is also one of the year’s best high-level networking opportunities. The room will be full of business decision makers. Please secure your organization’s table or an individual seat now.

114th Annual Meeting of Membership

David Reifman, the City of Chicago’s Commissioner of Planning and Development, wowed Chamber Directors at last week’s Board Meeting. We all know there’s a lot of development happening in our city – the cranes tell the story – but to see the thoughtful, strategic vision that Commissioner Reifman is deploying inspires confidence that truly great things are ahead. From transportation upgrades to new and renovated skyscrapers to expanding riverside access, we saw a plan that’s cohesive and greater than the sum of its parts. Congratulations and thank you to Commissioner Reifman and Mayor Emanuel on their vision, and for bringing it to fruition.

Sincerely,

Jack Lavin

President & CEO

Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce