To compliment the November Chamber trip to Beijing China, Chairman Ted Doran has announced a formalized program of outreach and education on an annual basis, The Global Trade Initiative.

"Because of the large interest of Chamber members to visit China and other destinations, like our sister cities of Campeche, Mexico and Bayonne, France, I think it is imperative we use our contacts and expertise to acquaint our members and their families with the culture, customs and business trade opportunities throughout the world," said Doran. "We had such a great response of 121 attendees on this first China trip that we have already secured our second trip to China, scheduled for October 15, 2010. This trip will include prepaid attendance to the Shanghai World Expo, where 70 million people are expected to attend." Details on this trip will be mailed to members in April 2010, but reservations and deposits will be accepted beginning in January.

In addition to an annual trip to China, there will be one annual trip to a city in Europe. "I am very pleased to announce our first trip to Europe will be to Tuscany, Italy! We will leave March 24 and return April 1. This coincides with Spring Break in Florida so feel free to bring your children. The flight will leave from Miami and fly non-stop to Rome. We will visit DaVinci's birthplace, Chianti, and Pesa. A flyer is enclosed in this newsletter with all the details. The only shortcoming is that we are limited to 100 attendees on this trip and it will sell out fast with this announcement."

For more information, please visit the Chamber's website at www.daytonachamber.com/Italy2010. Deposits for your space will be accepted immediately, and final payment is due December 25, 2009.