Dear GBTA - Chicago Chapter Community,

Considering the unprecedented global challenge brought on by the COVID-19 virus, GBTA - Chicago Chapter has canceled its Q2 Meeting on April 27th. The Board made this decision out of an abundance of caution. Our first priority is the health of our members and all those around us.

This is really a test of our industry more than any other we’ve seen in our lifetimes.  The effects of COVID-19 will be long lasting AND as the virus continues to spread across the globe business travel is slowing at an alarming rate. While I’m sure this too will pass the uncertainty over how long it will last is more than disquieting.  Inevitably, there will be job losses in our industry.  GBTA - Chicago Chapter is committed to share knowledge of opportunities for its members.  Networking has never been more important than now and the GBTA - Chicago Chapter will do whatever it takes to keep that going.  If you know of any industry jobs, please share the information with us at https://chicagobta.org/classifieds.php.  Members can post positions on the GBTA - Chicago Chapter website at no cost.

On March 11, 2020 the President announced a 30-day travel restriction between Europe and the US. The countries in question are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. The UK, nor Ireland nor a number of other non-Schengen European countries are affected.

The ban does not apply to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, as well as their immediate families (spouses, unmarried siblings under 21, and children). Other excluded persons include health professionals that are part of international efforts to combat the spread of the virus, diplomats, air or sea crew, and asylum seekers.

The ban goes into effect today, Friday, March 13, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. U.S. eastern time. Passengers on flights headed to the U.S. that are in the air at the time the restrictions come into force will not be affected.

Link to the full statement which includes the list of who will be affected

Here are some resources that are updated often and with hopes the information that can assist you:

• World Health Organization 
• Center for Disease Control  

• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control

Please take care of yourselves and your families.  Let us know how we can help you and how we can help each other.

Best regards,

Bonnie Brabb
GBTA - Chicago Chapter President

Tickets

$100.00 Member registration
$120.00 after 5:00 pm April 24
$75.00 Earlybird rate before April 20

$150.00 Guest Registration
$170.00 after 5:00 pm April 24
$130.00 Earlybird rate before April 20