CLLA 129th National Convention

Happy 2023! Spring is sure to arrive soon, which can only mean we will be in Chicago for CLLA’s 129th National Convention! I found the below quote that, to me, describes Chicago perfectly:

“It is hopeless for the occasional visitor to try to keep up with Chicago-she outgrows his prophecies faster than he can make them. She is always a novelty; for she is never the Chicago you saw when you passed through the last time.” Mark Twain, Life On The Mississippi 1883

I think about the many times I have been in Chicago for CLLA and each and every time I discover something new about the city or new about the League. Open your mind to all this great city and this great organization have to offer.

We are planning an action-packed three days of education, keynote speakers, awarding of the President’s Cup, installation of new volunteer leaders; and, of course, networking opportunities. Please join us Friday to celebrate this year’s winner of the President’s Cup and to welcome our new President, Bill Thrush.

Your First Lady of the League, Maria Kozelek is putting together the first community outreach program for the Women’s Empowerment Networking Event. Maria is working with staff and Dress for Success Worldwide. The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. More information about this event can be found on the insert.

As I head into the final months of my term as your President, I am still amazed at the amount of time and effort our volunteer leaders spend in making this organization the premier trade organization that it is. So please, in your travels take the time to thank our volunteer leaders who spend countless hours each year on your behalf.

Please do not hesitate to let me know if I can be of any assistance in helping to make your membership with the League a success.

Jim Kozelek,
CLLA President 2022-2023

Convention Events

• Business Session – Town Hall Meeting that includes the Annual Report from the League President and the Treasurer’s Report.
• Nominating Debates (when necessary) – Make informed decisions on candidates running for office.
• Change of Officers – Introduction of the newly installed officers.
• President’s Cup – Recipient recognition.
• Goosechase – The CLLA is sending you on a goosechase.
• Game Show – Bring your best brain-teasing solving mind.
• Prohibition Tour – This tour of several local Speakeasies is an in depth look at prohibition. There is an extra charge for this tour. The limit is 40 people so sign up when you register for the convention!

General Sponsorships:

• Evening Receptions – $750
• Thursday Luncheon – $750
• Breakfasts – $500
• Networking Breaks – $350
• General Convention Sponsor – $250

A Note from the National Education Committee Chair

“The Education Committee has been working hard to finalize the education programs for the National Convention and is proud to announce that the CLLA will again offer dual track programming to provide more choices to our members, as well as a program presented by a professional speaker!

At the National Convention, our members will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of topics addressing bankruptcy, creditor’s rights, and advanced commercial issues. We also have the honor of welcoming multiple distinguished speakers on our education panels, including several current/past judges and law school professors. Also, our Government Affairs Committee will provide an update on our legislative efforts. We are confident that these education programs will meet our members’ wide-ranging interests and will provide any required education credits.

We look forward to seeing everyone in person in 2023!”

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Friday, April 14, 2023

*Disclaimer: CLE credit is available to attendees from qualifying states who register on or before March 17. We cannot guarantee state accreditation after March 17.
**One registration form per member.
***Please note that business colleagues are not eligible to register under this category.

Virtual Registration Fee Includes:

• Access to all Educational Sessions
• Keynote Speaker
• Continuing Education: CLE/CEU
• Thursday’s Business Meeting
• Friday’s Annual Awards Program

ACCOMMODATIONS

Hotel Reservations

Make your hotel reservation as early as possible to ensure you receive the discounted rate (subject to availability).
Making your reservation by phone, call the Reservations Department at 1-888-737-9477 or the Global Reservation Centre at 1-800-441-1414. Be sure to mention you are with the Commercial Law League of America-CLLA to receive the group rate.

On-line reservations can be made by clicking the link below:
https://book.passkey.com/e/50371135

Room Rate: $269/night, single/double occupancy, plus applicable taxes (currently 17.4%) (NO resort fee). Room cut-off is Friday, April 14, 2023.

Parking

Swissotel: Valet Parking overnight with in/out access is $78/night

Nearby Self-Parking Garages:

• 303 East Wacker Garage (303 E. Wacker Dr.)
• Coast Parking (345 E, W. Wacker Drive)
• The Tides at Lakeshore East (360 E. South Water St)
• Illinois Center (111 E. Randolph)
• Park Millennium Parking Garage (221 N. Stetson Ave.)

To find discounted parking near the hotel, download the SpotHero app to your mobile device and search the area.

Weather
Average Chicago temperatures for early May are high 70 / low 50. Rain is always a possibility. Be prepared, it’s Chicago!

Transportation
Visit this link  for driving directions: https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/chicago/explore-hotel/