One of the economic uncertainties for 2007 is the housing market. Have we seen the worst already and have a "soft landing" instead of a crash? Will the region's limited supply and continued demand shield us from a national slowdown? Or is this just the beginning of regional downturn? If so, will the ripple effect be severe enough to spark recession?

On January 30, join leaders from the public and private sector for a discussion of current trends and potential economic impacts.

Panelists and topics:

The Legislature is back in session and the Chamber is working hard in Olympia to represent the interests of our regional business community and the community at large.

Brad Boswell serves as the Chamber’s contract lobbyist and he will provide weekly updates on key bill and legislative action that affects you and your business. To view the latest update click here.

Starting next week, the Chamber will also periodically organize a delegation of volunteer executives to travel to Olympia and meet with the governor and leaders in the House and Senate. Key priorities for the Chamber include regional transportation, higher education, and Sonics/Storm legislation. February 28th is the next major milestone this session. That’s the last day that reports can be read in committee in their house of origin, except on fiscal and transportation matters. For more information contact Charles Knutson, vice president public affairs at 206.389.7295.

Known for his lifetime of progressive activism and fearless critique of corruption in American politics and society, Ralph Nader is getting personal.

In his latest book, The Seventeen Traditions, Nader reflects on his serene and enriching childhood in bucolic Connecticut with parents recently emigrated from Lebanon. It's his warmest and most introspective writing to date, and chronicles a time in American history when the family and the natural world were central in a child's understanding of how to be a conscientious adult.

Regardless of what you think about his presidential aspirations, join your fellow Chamber members on February 12 for a thought-provoking discussion.

Legends and Leaders featuring Ralph Nader
Monday, February 12
12:00 to 1:30 p.m.
Seattle Sheraton Hotel, 1400 6th Ave., Seattle, 98101
Members: $65 pre-paid; Non-members: $75 pre-paid
(includes copy of book and lunch)

Register online or contact Larry Pike, 206.389.7215.

In 2004, business partners Caitlin Friedman and Kimberly Yorio teamed up for their first book, The Girl's Guide to Starting Your Own Business. Their light tone combined with real information written by real women struck a nerve with many women in the business world. The Girl's Guide quickly became a BusinessWeek bestseller.

Now they’re back with The Girl's Guide to Being a Boss. This book addresses women’s unique strengths—and challenges—and provides straightforward, practical advice for women in charge. Whether you’re new to a managerial role or already running the show, The Girl's Guide will help you own your role and love it!

Author Series: The Girl's Guide to Being a Boss
Wednesday, February 7
7:30 to 9:00 a.m.
Rainier Square Conference Center, 1333 5th Ave., Seattle, 98101
$10 (includes continental breakfast)

Register online or contact Jessica Estrada, 206.389.7271.

You have a great business and we have the perfect way to show it off: the largest annual "Business to Business" tradeshow in our area. We're building on the success of last year's event that attracted more than 140 exhibitors and over 1,200 attendees.

The event is open to the public, but booths are available only to Chamber members. Reserve yours now and get:

• First choice of booth sections
• Opportunity to be in the Gold Circle (limited booths available)

More information and booth reservations

Event Details
Wednesday, May 9
3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Qwest Field, 800 Occidental Ave. S, Seattle
Attendees: $8 pre-paid, $10 after Monday, May 7
Register online or contact Larry Pike, 206.389.7215.

Sponsorship opportunities available, contact Emmy Jordan at 206.389.7247.

Seattle Chamber members are cordially invited to join the Trade Development Alliance on Thursday, February 1 for their semi-annual international business and trade networking celebration. This is your opportunity to connect with members of the Trade Alliance, enjoy Japanese cuisine and specialty beverages, and learn about Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, Japan, the destination of the Chamber and Trade Alliance's 2007 International Study Mission.

Trade Development Alliance Winter Schmooze
Thursday, February 1
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Roosevelt Hotel, 1531 Seventh Ave., Seattle, 98101
Cost: $35
Advance registration is requested. Register online or contact Eva Zemandl, 206.389.7319.

In 1918, an influenza pandemic hit Seattle, forcing the closure of schools and theaters and killing approximately 1600 people. Worldwide, more people died from the pandemic than were killed in World War I.

With the threat of Avian and other flu viruses now looming overseas, is Seattle prepared for the possibility of another deadly influenza pandemic? Will vaccines and antivirals be available to protect us? Should employers be making plans now to protect their employees and their businesses from the medical and economic effects of a pandemic?

Or is this all an overreaction to a bird flu that has seldom infected humans?

Join CityClub and the Chamber for a frank discussion with local experts:

The Chamber is proud to be participating in When Work Works, a nationwide initiative to promote workplace flexibility as a dual strategy that meets business objectives and employee goals. As part of this initiative, Chamber members are invited to apply for the Alfred P. Sloan Award for Workplace Flexibility. Participants will receive a free analysis of their business practices from the When Work Works team. Winners will be recognized this spring and receive national as well as local recognition.

Applications will be accepted online until February 16, 2007.

To see ideas from last year's winners, including Chamber members Macy's Northwest, NRG::Seattle, National CASA, and Puget Sound Center for Teaching, Learning & Technology, visit www.familiesandwork.org for the just-released business brief, Making Work "Work": New Ideas from the Winners of the Alfred P Sloan Awards for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility.

Thanks to Morton's, The Steakhouse - Seattle for welcoming Chamber members with a delicious and hearty breakfast to fuel their networking at the January 19 Toast of Seattle.

Thanks to Staples for generously sponsoring the Half-Day Business Conference on January 24.