Dear Members, Friends and Partners of the Chamber,
I would like to extend a warm welcome our new and renewing members.
SMALL BUSINESS
ASSOCIATE
In this newsletter, see announcements on new postings for Ambassador Pierre Vimont with the European Union and Elsa Berry with sister chapter FACC-New York.
Read an update on the Programme Privileges: New offers from The Jefferson and LR Paris.
Find out what's new with our Councillor and Corporate members. We hope to see you at the Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration on Thurs. Nov. 18th at the Maison Francaise, Embassy of France.
Download presentations from the panel discussion on "Managing Business Risk in a Changing World." .
Are you trying to understand the new French pension bill and protest movements? Read our brief overview some of the key issues and concerns.
Finally, please consider offering your support to aid efforts to limit the spread of cholera and treat victims of the disease in Haiti.
Bien cordialement,
Carla de Chassy
Executive Director, FACC WDC |
Upcoming Event
November 18, 2010
7:00 - 10:00 pm
Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration
Don't miss this fun-filled & free-flowing annual tradition at the Embassy of France!
Throughout our "fête champêtre" at La Maison Française, enjoy three different types of this year's Beaujolais Nouveau as well as other libations, a delicious menu prepared by Cuisine Solutions, desserts by a traditional French pastry chef and live jazz by the Pete Muldoon Trio, followed by dance tunes mixed by DJ Jean Michel, the official DJ of the French Tuesdays in NYC! Try your luck at the raffle with a Grand Prize of two round-trip BizSeats to Paris, courtesy of Open Skies, the unique all-business class airline. This year, the silent auction will feature imported French decorative items from Washingtonian collector Claudine Sorel, a Sephora gift box, a Pasotti umbrella donated by Presse Bookstore, a one-night stay for two plus breakfast at The Jefferson, 4 seats to the Washington Redskins vs. Tampa Bay Bucchaneers game on December 12th, a one-night weekend stay at The Churchill Hotel and other one-of-a-kind items. A treasure trove for your holiday gift shopping! VIP CocktailFor an extra $25, you may enjoy a champagne tasting with delectable treats co-sponsored by the JustinBradley boutique financial staffing firm. Come mingle with top-tier members of the FACC and prestigious guests. Event detailsFor more information, please click here. Admission
FACC Members (with discount code) - Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration: $50 - Add $25 for VIP Cocktail: $75 total Non-Members- Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration: $70 - Add $25 for VIP Cocktail: $95 total TicketsWe encourage you to purchase tickets soon, as this event sells out quickly every year. Space is limited.
With Special Thanks to our Sponsors
MEAL SPONSOR
RAFFLE GRAND PRIZE SPONSOR
VIP COCKTAIL SPONSORS
SILENT AUCTION SPONSORS
|
Recent Event
Wednesday, Oct. 20th
FACC Business Breakfast Seminar:
"Managing Business Risk in a Changing World"
Our panelists, Isabelle Wheeler of BNP Paribas, Leigh Basha and Stephanie Bagot of Holland & Knight and Philippe de Dreuzy of Rutherfoord provided very informative presentations from on key financial, legal and insurance considerations for assessing and managing risk in today's volatile, interdependent and evolving global business environment.
With special thanks to
FACC Corporate Members:
|
|
|
6th Annual French-American Competition for Innovative Entrepreneurs
Competition Launch YEI'11
Retis, the French innovation network, is pleased to launch the "Young Entrepreneurs Initiative" (YEi) competition for innovative entrepreneurs interested in creating their ventures in France.
Between six and ten entrepreneurs will receive customized support from YEi and its transatlantic partners. Not only they will access the YEi's broad network of prestigious incubators, mentors, and investors but also benefit from a one-week mission to France to meet their potential partners.
Read the press release
Who can apply?
Any individual residing in the United States, regardless of age, nationality or professional situation, whose project encompasses the creation of an innovative company in France.
Visit:
www.yeifrance.com & www.retis-innovation.fr
|
|
FACC-New York: Elsa Berry to replace Serge Bellanger as
Chapter President
 The Board of Directors of the French-American Chamber of Commerce - New York Chapter announced that the Board of Directors has elected Elsa L. Berry as President, effective January 1, 2011.
Ms. Berry will succeed longtime President Serge Bellanger, who died in December 2009. Elsa Berry is Head of Cross-Border Consumer Coverage & Managing Director in the Consumer, Food and Retail Group at Houlihan Lokey, an international investment bank with expertise in Mergers and Acquisitions, Capital Markets, Financial Restructuring, and Valuation.
"It is a privilege and an honor for me to assume the role of President of the French-American Chamber of Commerce and to succeed Serge Bellanger who dedicated so many years to the association," said Elsa Berry. "I thank the board for its vote of confidence and look forward to working with the team in place. Together, we will embrace a new and dynamic future for the Chamber, and continue our work with the European bilateral Chambers of Commerce, to serve our members in the global world of today and tomorrow. Although born in NY and American by both parents, I was raised in France; this duality has provided me with a true appreciation for Franco-American business issues and cultural specificities. My business career and my passions have always mirrored that shared love and interest."
To read the full press release, please click here.
|
|
LR Paris Joins the Programme Privileges
LR Paris www.lrparisusa.com is a member company of the FACC that provides end-to-end solutions for corporate gifts and branded promotional items. They have a wide-ranging portfolio and can custom design and source unique items. LR Paris is a family-owned enterprise, founded in France in 1959 and with operations in China, France, and the U.S. since 2001.
The Company has worked with the President of the United States and First Lady Michelle Obama, former President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, The Department of State, FACC members Areva and EADS North America and The Washington Redskins as well as a myriad of other companies, NGOs, academic institutions and governmental agencies in the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area.
Upon presentation of the Programme Privileges card, FACC members may benefit from the following offer from LR Paris:
LR Paris is pleased to offer a 10% discount on your first order. This discount does not apply to the set-up fee or transportation. A minimum order of $500 is required to participate.
For more information, please email Charles Dolige, President, LR Paris USA or call 703-652-1132.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| FACC WDC Top-tier Members
in the News
COUNCILLOR
EADS
The U.S. Army's fleet of UH-72A Lakota Light Utility Helicopters reaches its 40,000 flight hour milestone in operational service.
The New CEO of Orange Business Services says Cloud Computing will be a number one priority for the Company's future development
Sogeti USA
Sogeti USA Wins 2010 Microsoft Application Compatibility Factory Partner of the Year Award
Airbus renews its support for the UN biodiversity campaign
Arnold & Porter
Andrew Varner Joins Arnold & Porter's Corporate Practice In Washington, DC Areva AREVA Advancing Proven Solutions at Offshore Wind Power Summit
ATR
Caribbean Airlines becomes new ATR customer with the purchase of 9 ATR 72-600s Baker & McKenzie
Baker & McKenzie named Strongest Law Firm Brand Worldwide
BNP Paribas
Ace Manager - The Third Set For the third consecutive year, BNP Paribas is to run an online contest designed to increase brand awareness in universities worldwide Cuisine Solutions
Client Testimonial from John Taylor, Research & Development for the Customer Experience for Panera Bread
Delta / Air France / KLM
Aerolíneas Argentinas, the flag carrier of Argentina, will sign an agreement by the end of October to officially start the process of joining SkyTeam as the first South American member of the airline alliance
EDF and Constellation Energy Announce Comprehensive Agreement
Ernst & Young
Ernst & Young LLP announces 11 national winners of 2010 Entrepreneurial Winning WomenTM program
Holland & Knight
Holland & Knight Honored for Helping to Promote Employment for People with Disabilities
JustinBradley
JustinBradley is a proud sponsor of the VIP Cocktail at the Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration on November 18th
Consuelo Bangs, Senior Program Manager, speaks on challenges associated with issuing and using PIV credentials
Omega World Travel
Omega World Travel is Honored as a Top 100 Minority Business Enterprise in the Mid-Atlantic Region
Good news travels fast...but never fast enough, a blog entry by OpenSkies CEO Dale Moss
Nearly half of private company CEOs believe healthcare reform may have a notable financial impact on their business Rutherfoord Marsh & McLellan
Marsh & McLennan Agencies Geared For Growth
Sanofi-Aventis Sanofi-Aventis Initiates Phase III Study to Further Explore Clinical Benefits in Multiple Sclerosis Spot Image
SPOT Satellite Imagery to Update Statewide Mapping of Alaska in more than 25 years Williams Mullen
Best Lawyers' names Five Williams Mullen Attorneys as Best Lawyers' 2011 Lawyers of the Year |
|
The Jefferson Joins the Programme Privileges!
The Jefferson hotel has long been known as Washington, D.C.'s most discerning hotel, catering to the world's elite travelers. It enjoys one of the city's most prestigious and strategic locations, at the corner of 16th and M Streets - just four blocks from the White House and within a short walk of the Smithsonian museums, national monuments and various embassies. It is convenient to the dining, shops and nightlife of Georgetown and Penn Quarter, as well as the Washington, D.C. downtown business district and Dupont Circle.
 As of January 1, 2010, The Jefferson has gained acceptance into the prestigious ranks of the Relais & Châteaux luxury hotel collection.
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants in 55 countries. Established in France in 1954, the association accepts only the most outstanding properties with truly unique character .
The Jefferson is pleased to offer the following benefits to active FACC Members in good standing, upon presentation of the Programme Privileges card :
- A welcome glass of wine/sparkling and 10% discount on Food & Beverage at the Plume restaurant on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
- A corporate rate of $325 for Deluxe King Rooms (discounted from daily rates of up to $650/night) with no production obligation.
- Access to the Spa with 20% discount from Monday to Thursday with personalized welcome treatment and gift.
- Waiver of the rental fee for conference with Lunch or Dinner for 10 or more depending on availability.
- Free access to the East and West Cabinet Rooms adjacent to Quill for 4 hours with the purchase of a lunch or dinner at the above rates, depending on availability.
For additional information, please contact:
Shelley Kissel
Group and Event Sales Manager
The Jefferson
1600 M Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 448-3252
skissel@jeffersondc.com
www.jeffersondc.com
|
|
Ambassador Pierre Vimont appointed Secretary General of the EU's new diplomatic service
 His excellency, Pierre Vimont, has been appointed Secretary General of the European Union's new diplomatic service. This is the most senior post under EU Foreign Policy Chief, Catherine Ashton of the UK.
EEAS chief Catherine Ashton made the highly anticipated announcement at an EU foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg on Monday (25 October) after a final agreement between member states, MEPs and her own bureau on the legal architecture of the corps.
Baroness Ashton said in a written statement, "I promised to appoint the brightest and best and in Pierre Vimont as the executive secretary general, and David O'Sullivan as chief operating officer I have done just that. Pierre is held in the highest regard by the diplomatic community and will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise on foreign policy issues. David has served in the highest capacity in the European Commission, as well as having a diplomatic background."
EU foreign ministers have approved the structure and funding of the European External Action Service (EEAS), which is expected to be launched in December. The EEAS, set up under the Lisbon Treaty, is aimed at giving the EU a bigger, more united voice globally. The EEAS will have up to 7,000 staff. The new service will include officials seconded from national diplomatic services as well as from the European Commission and the Council of Ministers - the body representing the 27 member states' governments.
The FACC extends our warmest, most heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Vimont for the utmost success in the accomplishment of his mission. Ambassador Vimont has been an outstanding champion of French-American relations and economic cooperation. He will be truly missed in Washington, DC. |
|
3Cholera Outbreak in Haiti
Aid group CARE fighting to keep cholera from reaching camps of Haiti earthquake survivors in Port-au-Prince
 As you may be aware from recent newscasts, over 300 people have died from a cholera outbreak in the Artibonite and Centre regions of Haiti and 4,722 cases have been confirmed by the World Health Organization. Highly contagious and spread by water, cholera can cause dehydration and death within hours, especially for children, if not treated.
In response, CARE is amassing cholera prevention and treatment supplies to help avert an catastrophe should the disease spread. They are especially concerned about a possible outbreak in Port-au-Prince.
An outbreak in the capital city's extremely crowded and unsanitary tent camps, where 1 million survivors of the January 12 earthquake now live, would be devastating. The rainy season is underway and flooding, coupled with unsafe water conditions, can worsen the crisis. Prevention is critical.
Since the earthquake struck on January 12, CARE has been tirelessly working to help Haiti recover, including building durable shelters for families; constructing latrines, showers and hand-washing facilities; making sure clean water is available; and promoting good health and hygiene through awareness campaigns, community trainings and more.
Click here to make a tax-deductible donation.
|
|
A Brief Look at France's Pension Reform and Protest Movement
France's lower house, the National Assembly, voted Wed. Oct 27th with 329 legislators in favor and 233 opposed, to pass Nicolas Sarkozy's controversial plan to increase the retirement age, as unions vowed to continue their strikes and protests. On Tues. Oct. 26th the reforms, which involve raising the retirement age from 60 to 62, were passed by 177 votes to 151 in the French Senate. French President Nicolas Sarkozy is expected to sign the bill in mid-November. The principal measures include pushing the retirement age from 60 to 62 years in 2018 in order to be eligible to begin receiving retirement benefits, and extending the age for full pension coverage with no discount from 65 to 67 years.
French protesters say that pension reform should not be forced as debate on the issue is scheduled to take place in 2013. Detractors also say that pension reform should concentrate on giving priority to salaried employees over shareholders. Millions of private and public sector workers have participated in protest demonstrations during a nationwide strike over pension reforms. They feel that the quality of life and work-life balance achived in France is a model to be upheld and defended.
The country's transport and energy sectors have been hit by weeks of strikes with millions of French people marching through France's main cities to make their voices heard and push officials to give up the reforms. The strikes have hit a wide swath of the economy and life in France, sporadically in some cases, like at schools and post offices. A national train strike that started Oct. 12 has been tapering off, but oil refinery workers, who had been striking steadily for about two weeks, are chipping away at the economy.
A weekend poll showed that over 50 percent of French people support the pension reform, but another poll by Ifop for Ouest France illustrated that 70 percent of the public support the strike. With neither side backing down, France could be heading for a general strike like the one of 1995, when the country was paralyzed for more than two weeks. That did not end until then Prime Minister Alain Juppe dropped his plans to reform France's pension system.
Socialist lawmaker Marisol Touraine charged that the law punishes the poor. "You've spoken a lot about courage," she told Labour Minister Eric Woerth, the architect of the law. "But you've chosen to make the weakest pay, to attack those with the least means." And Socialist leader Martine Aubry accused the government of abusing parliamentary procedure to shut down democratic debate, and pledged to fight on to delay the law being enacted. "I tell the president, you won't win against the French people," she said. |
|
