מה דעתך?

 

 

Hi Matan,

 

Nice speaking with you again.

 

Here is my summary of the phone call between Itay, you and me.

 

MABAL visit: Arrive evening of Monday, June 11^th. Have full days, June 12^th and 13^th and depart afternoon of Thursday, June 14^th.

 

Overall US visit will focus on national security thru American eyes, unique ties between US & Israel; defense policy, public affairs and economy.

 

Chicago/Midwest focus: Society and Economy. Possible topics and visits discussed:

 

1)    Midwest “rust belt”- Visit steel plant that was reopened.

 

2)    Economics and politics of Midwest- Council on Global Affairs Fellows- closer to original plan for last year. Can also bring in Professor from U. of Chicago Business School (Gleacher Center downtown).

 

3)    Urban communities at risk- Visit T.UR.N. Center (with Pastor Harris) where NATAL call center dealing with PTSD. This visit can be followed by a visit to one of Chicago Police Depts. New high tech violent crime prevention centers nearby on South side.

 

4)    Politics 2018- Midwestern perspective- Institute of Politics/ David Axelrod.

 

5)    Other meetings: Mayor Emanuel;

 

6)    Suggestion we did not discuss- Immigration issue- meet with advocates for Hispanic community?

 

7)    Visit small towns in Midwest.

 

For April 9^th advance visit: Mayor’s office, CCGA, university.

 

If I missed anything, let me know.

 

Best,

 

Bob

 

 

 

Matt,

Thank you so much for your flexibility. Thursday or Friday (May 18^th / 19^th) morning (830-1000) can work for us. We are not sure what will make more sense:  

Option A: start at the Chicago Council on Thursday and then explore "Trump Land"…

Option B: explore "Trump Land" on Thursday and then do the session at the Chicago Council.

 

What seems more logical to you?

 

Matan

 

 

 

Thanks, Matan. Just to clarify, would you be interested in Thursday, May 18 or Friday, May 19?  Hosting a meeting from 8:30 am – 10:00 am would be possible for us on either date, and please let me know your preference.

 

Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions, and thank you for the opportunity to engage with the group.

Best,

Matt

 

 

 

Thank you very much for all your help. We are putting the schedule now and we wanted to check another option – if it is possible to do it on Thursday May 19^th 0830-1000?

 

Regards,

 

 

Matan

 

 

Thanks Matt,

 

I echo Itay’s comments about how much we appreciate the Council’s willingness to create a program for the group. As soon as Haim and Matan sort out the logistics, Itay will let you know what time works best. They were very impressed by the program suggestions from you and Niamh.

 

 

 

Hi Itay and Bob,

 

Thanks for the opportunity to meet with Ambassador Waxman and Major Or today. I hope they had a productive visit to Chicago.

 

I checked our calendar for Friday, May 19, and we could organize a briefing for the delegation from 10:00 am – 11:30 am or 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm. Would either of these times be convenient for them?

 

Itay - the fellows we mentioned in the meeting were Dick Longworth, Phil Levy, and Dina Smeltz. Once we confirm a time, I can let you know who would be available to speak with the group.

 

Thanks for thinking of the Council for this opportunity, and please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions.

Best,
Matt

 

Matt Abbott │ Director, Government and Diplomatic Programs

+1 312-256-8506 │ mabbott@thechicagocouncil.org



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