President’s Letter – 2022
Dear COLBA Members,
Where has the year gone? 2021 has passed quickly as we’ve continued to adapt to an ever-evolving way to live, work, and play in our forever changed world. But through it all, we have learned what is truly important in our lives. As we lean into 2022, we are hopeful and optimistic for a positive and healthy year.
Our resolve was tested in February with the passing of our beloved Audrey Lakin. Our community came together for the virtual Toast to Audrey event where we shared cherished memories, laughed, cried, and celebrated her life with many cocktails, and of course a raffle, because no Audrey event would be complete without a raffle! Audrey was instrumental in shaping COLBA into what it is today, and the COLBA journey continues with Audrey’s daughter, Lauren, taking over as our new Executive Director and continuing and expanding her legacy. We look forward to a new generation bringing fresh ideas to our community and are excited to work with Lauren in her new role.
We are proud that we provided a robust virtual events program which included the All-Female Tenant vs Landlord Panel, “The Show, The Tell” with the White Sox’s Len Kasper, and a conversation with Samir Mayekar, Chicago’s Deputy Mayor for Neighborhood & Economic Development, sharing his thoughts on the re-occupancy of downtown and Chicago’s recovery in a post-Covid world.
We were thrilled we were able to host the 34th Annual COLBA Classic, which could not have happened without the heroic efforts of our fearless golf event chairman emeritus Eric Kunkel and new Executive Director, Lauren Lakin.
Finally we were able to close 2021 with two live events: the third installment of world leading futurist and economist Andrew Busch and a joint COLBA/YOBA event at Studio at The Franklin by Tishman Speyerto catch-up in person and enjoy cocktails, food and good fun before the start of the holiday season.
As we turn to 2022, we look ahead with optimism and resolve. In light of the evolving COVID landscape, we are currently reviewing our calendar of events to ensure we remain as safe as possible and will follow all CDC, city and state mandates. We thank you on behalf of the entire COLBA Board for continuing to make COLBA the top commercial real estate organization in Chicago. Our membership is strong and represents the best of the best that our industry offers – we are Chicago strong!
Some great events already planned:
The ever-popular Tenant vs. Landlord Panel sparring match will take place on January 20th – look out for more details in your inbox in the coming weeks. *Pay your 2022 COLBA dues and enter to win part of $2022 in prizes at the conclusion of this event*
The Annual Golf Outing at Sunset Ridge Country Club will be held on June 20th, so reserve that date now as an early membership dues payment helps to get a spot at this perennially SOLD-OUT event.
…And more!
2022 Membership Dues
The COLBA Board has elected the following:
$250 for renewing members
$300 renewing members
Membership renewals will be emailed to you in the new year, but you can pay your dues online here if you want to cross it off your end of year to-do list!
Members are important for shaping the direction of COLBA, so we ask that you contact the Board with your ideas and thoughts.
We are often asked “Why Join COLBA?”
COLBA is the premier commercial real estate organization in downtown Chicago! Since its inception in 1982, COLBA members and leaders represent the most active and respected real estate firms in the Chicago area.
Your continued commitment to COLBA enables us to:
Provide a forum for the exchange of information regarding the real estate market and business as a whole
Support efforts in education and charitable endeavors
Provide a social network that unites brokers to promote common business interests
… and you can win some great prizes along the way from our generous sponsors!
The COLBA Board is committed to maintaining and strengthening the organization’s focus on relevant issues and topics affecting the commercial real estate office leasing market and industry.
We hope you all find some time this holiday season to pause and enjoy time with those most important to you. No matter what holidays you may celebrate, may this season bring you comfort, joy, peace, and gratitude. We wish you and your family health and happiness for the New Year! I am honored to continue as the COLBA President and look forward to serving you once again.
Dan Maslauski – COLBA President 2022