Welcome to the first issue of the NECA 2008 Chicago Circuit, an electronic newsletter offering you an inside look at all the valuable education, networking, business opportunities and fun that await you at NECA 2008 Chicago!This not-to-be-missed event is occurring October 4-7 at the McCormick Place Lakeside Center in exciting downtown Chicago.There’s no doubt about it, you’re going to learn something in Chicago, and you’re going to enjoy learning it!

With a variety of valuable educational workshops and seminars, you and your staff will gain the knowledge you need to remain competitive and boost your company’s productivity in an increasingly competitive and challenging environment.You’ll also explore new markets and gain all the leading-edge information and technical expertise you’ll need to break into the rapidly expanding green construction markets.An entire section of the show floor, the “Green Alley,” will be dedicated solely to alternative and renewable energies, so you can meet face-to-face with the manufacturers of the latest environmentally-minded products and services.

Exciting guest speakers, entertainment, and even a private closing celebration featuring Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby are just some of the highlights you have to look forward to, and future issues of the Circuit will give you all the information you need to prepare. But while you’re in town, don’t forget to check out some of the excitement the city of Chicago itself has to offer.

Chicago boasts cosmopolitan culture and scenic lakefront beauty. It’s the ideal place to bring the kids and spend a little extra time. Must-see attractions range from the historic Navy Pier—where NECA 2008 Chicago will be starting off the fun with the Party at the Pier occurring Saturday, October 4 from 6-9pm-- to brand-new Millennium Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo and world-renowned museums. If you’re looking for exciting nightlife, you can catch live blues and jazz in eclectic nightclubs all over town. The city also offers more than 200 theatres, showcasing Broadway musicals, award-winning drama, and hilarious improvisational comedy If shopping is your passion, you’re in luck. The Magnificent Mile, one of the world’s great shopping boulevards, is just steps from downtown hotels, as are chic shops on Oak Street and the historic department stores on State Street. And, if food’s the thing, note that Chicago has been called “America’s Best City for Dining” by the National Restaurant Association. Its 5500+ restaurants feature everything from prime steakhouses to the famous deep-dish pizza that bears the city’s name and every imaginable ethnic cuisine.

Chicago means business. But, it’s also a city pulsating with fun things to see and do! Don’t miss your chance.Early registration begins June 2 and will be available at www.necaconvention.org. Questions? Call Katie at (301) 215-4506, or e-mail her at Katie@necanet.org