The British-American Chamber of Commerce for the Midwest, Inc. President's Update

	The British-American Business Council, Chicago	JOIN BABCC
		Member of the BABC global network

President's Invitation

Dear Colleague,

On behalf of the British American Business Council, Chicago, I invite you to join our unique US/UK business network.

Established in 1990, the British-American Business Council Chicago is the premier organization for developing business networking opportunities, accessing business and trade information, and making social connections and friendships for American and British business people involved in trade and commerce between the United States and the United Kingdom.

The Council also serves as a forum for expats to meet other Brits and to celebrate and express their British heritage.

As a member of the Council, you have the opportunity to take advantage of the Council's business benefits (See BABC Chicago Membership Benefits at a Glance). Plus, you automatically gain membership in the British American Business Council (BABC), the largest transatlantic business network with more than 30 chapters and 4,000 member companies based in major regions throughout North America and the United Kingdom. The BABC offers you additional opportunities to build and manage your business.

After you have reviewed the benefits and read about some of the major Council activities below, I hope you will JOIN ONLINE or download an application to fax or mail back to us. I am confident that becoming a part of our unique US/UK business network will benefit you both professionally and personally. Meanwhile, if you have any questions, please contact our Executive Director, Chris Brenkus, by phone at 312-828-9861 or e-mail .

Cheers,

Saul T. Caisman
President

British Consul-General Award Dinner
September 27, 2006
InterContinental Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Ave.

Exclusive Platinum Sponsor
Baker & McKenzie LLP

Gold Sponsor
Boeing

Silver Sponsor
Wells Fargo HSBC Trade Bank N.A.

Honoring 2006 British Consul General Award Recipient

JONES LANG LASALLE INCORPORATED

Small Enterprise Award Recipient
British School of Chicago

The United Kingdom and the United States share a deep and historical relationship. This relationship has been built on the values and qualities that our two countries and cultures share. While challenges have faced our countries and are rapidly growing in the era of globalization, decision-makers who display strong leadership and direction are helping our countries meet these challenges.

The British Consul General Award program was established to encourage companies and leaders who display these leadership qualities. The event recognizes corporations and/or individuals who have made significant contributions to furthering trade, commerce, civic, philanthropic, and/or cultural relations between the United Kingdom and the United States. Over 200 senior business executives attend the program. To learn more about the program, nomination criteria, and nomination form click on the following link: British Consul General Award

2003 Recipient - Former British Consul-General Robert Culshaw
2004 Recipients - Dyson. Smaller Enterprise Recipients: Mintel International Group Ltd and Newark InOne.
2005 Recipients - RR Donnelley. Smaller Enterprise Recipient: Gripple, Inc.
2006 Recipients - Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. Smaller Enterprise Award Recipient: British School of Chicago

We are currently accepting Nominations for the 2005 Award until April 30, 2005. We encourage you to forward qualified nominations.

Twelfth Annual Traditional British Christmas Gala
December 8, 2006 - 6:30-Midnight
Chicago Cultural Center - Yates Gallery

Exclusive Platinum Sponsor: American Airlines

No other people have observed the Christmas season as long as the British, celebrating it for more than a thousand years. To usher in the holiday season the BABC Chicago continues the British traditions of hearty feasting and merrymaking at its Annual Traditional British Christmas Gala-the premier holiday event for the British and American community in the Midwest. This year the BABC Chicago is partnering with Make A Wish Foundation of Illinois. A portion of the funds raised will be donated to the Foundation to help grant wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses.

This annual fundraising Gala is an evening you do not want to miss! As well as an elegant client entertainment venue, the gala is an opportunity for many to express their British heritage.

The event-packed evening begins with holiday music, cocktails, and hors d'oeuvres. In addition, there is an impressive silent auction display where you'll find some of the best Christmas shopping in town. Don't leave home without your gift list!

Next on the agenda is a short program. The 2006 program industry remarks from American Airlines, followed by a popping of crackers and dinner. During dessert, there is an exciting live auction. Then get ready to dance the night away to the energetic sounds of the Bill Pollack Orchestra. In addition, there is a traditional single malt scotch sampling, and other Christmas surprises!

Over 400 guests (business executives involved in trade, commerce, and tourism; British expats; and Anglophiles) join in the celebration. The gala is an event you don't want to miss!

BABC Transatlantice Business Conference, Loa Angeles, California -
May 16-19, 2007

The BABC Annual Spring Conference is an opportunity for you to make global contacts, access information, and advance business issues. Each Spring conference is attended by over 150 delegates represented by member businesses, government, and trade and investment agencies.

Some of the past conference key speakers included: The Honorable Al Gore, 45th Vice President of the United States; Ambassador Philip Lader, former U.S. Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s (1997 – 2001); David T. Johnson, Minister US Embassy; Jef McAllister, Bureau Chief, TIME Magazine London Bureau; Mike O' Brien, MP Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Department of Trade and Industry; Sir Nicholas Scheele, President & COO Ford Motor Company.

The BABC Chicago will host the 2008 BABC Transatlantic Business Conference in Chicago April 24-27, 2008.

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Traditional Ascot Day - June 15, 2007

The 2006 Ascot Day at Arlington International Racecourse was a sold out event! Over 200 guests enjoyed a lavish buffet, cocktails, private outdoor balcony, and the suspense and excitement of thoroughbred racing.

Other features of the day include the grand prize raffle and the women's best hat contest. All the ladies hats provide an eye-catching spectacle of color, style, and elegance.

See you at the races! Don't forget to make your reservations early as the event sells out quickly!

BABC Chicago
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AT A GLANCE

JOIN ONLINE NOW!

Attend informative business sessions with key business, civic and government leaders from both sides of the pond.

Learn about trends and issues in transatlantic business through the UK/USA magazine.

Receive news from our local e-mail bulletins and quarterly trade information and business opportunities from the British Consulate.

Promote your organization’s products and services with access to the Council's Member List, as well as online access to the national database of over 4,000 companies.

Work with Council staff to tailor marketing opportunities specifically for your company.

Develop social connections or entertain clients at an array of elegant social activities:

Showcase your facility by hosting one of the monthly pub nights, Council receptions or business seminars.

Participate in a new member reception at the British Consul General’s residence.

Bring qualified employees into the US for training by using the J1Exchange Visitor Program. The program provides a speedy, inexpensive way to process applications.

Participate in incoming UK trade missions.

Increase your involvement through committee participation.

MEMBERSHIP FEES

$2500 - Sponsor

$500 - Corporate

$250 - Business

$150 - Individual