AACC-American Arab Chamber of Commerce Banquet Addresses Michigan's Economic Future

posted on: Nov 26, 2008

The American Arab Chamber of Commerce’s 16th Annual Building Economic Bridges Banquet was a success thanks to the members, sponsors, and the more than 800 people in attendance.

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address, given by Senior Vice President of DTE Energy Ron May, who spoke about alternative energy and its role in Michigan’s economic future. Mr. May emphasized that investing in alternative energy would help to diversify energy resources, provide cleaner energy, and create jobs in the state of Michigan.

Attendees were able to network, and make important business connections with some of the area’s most prominent businesspeople. Taking into account the difficult economic situation, Mr. May remarked in his speech that the audience was the largest he had seen at any banquet all year. “The level of attendance tonight is a testament to the importance of the Chamber’s work,” says AACC Chairman Jim Allen. “The business community is facing many economic challenges, and the Chamber stands committed to creating more diverse opportunities to helping businesses succeed.”

AACC Executive Director Fay Beydoun added that, “As an advocate of small businesses, AACC urges many of our local banks to take a hard look at their credit practices and to work in partnership with our small business community.” Furthermore, “with over $100 billion of bilateral trade taking place annually, between the U.S. and the Middle East, such investments provide considerable opportunities to build economic relationships that are necessary to propel economic development. At the Chamber, we understand the importance of collaboration in helping to build these economic bridges” stated Ms. Beydoun.

“This event was a great opportunity for the regional business community and beyond,” says Chairman Allen. “The Chamber is the bridge that links so many parts of the business world together, which is especially vital in these times.”

Picture caption:
Board Members and Guests who attended the Annual Building Economic Bridges Banquet of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce on November 20th.