Traffic Club of Chicago Hosts 117th Annual Dinner and Golf Outing

May 14-15, 2025 event culminates at Navy Pier’s Aon Grand Ballroom

CHICAGO—March 6, 2025 (James Street Media Services)—The Traffic Club of Chicago (TCC) will host its 117th Annual Dinner on Thursday, May 15 at Chicago’s Navy Pier. More than 700 guests are expected to attend the premier transportation and logistics networking event.

“We are thrilled that the Traffic Club of Chicago (TCC)—founded in 1907—will hold its Annual Dinner at Navy Pier, which opened in 1916,” says TCC President Steven Blinn. “Together, the Club and Navy Pier have thrived for over a century by continuously meeting the needs of one of the world’s great cities and regions.”

The event’s head table at the Annual Dinner will feature a who’s-who of C-level logistics and supply chain executives. Seating is reserved for top-level sponsors and other dignitaries. There is a special reception for head table guests prior to the dinner.

In addition to the dinner program, attendees will have the opportunity to network with executives and representatives from top companies—including Class I railroads, airlines, warehouses, freight carriers, truckers, shippers, and third-party logistics companies. Early reservations are recommended.

The evening’s featured speaker will be Frank Weisser, Navy Commander and two-time Navy Blue Angel Pilot, and Stunt Pilot for “Top Gun 2: Maverick”. He has accumulated more than 5,500 flight hours and nearly 500 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, three Strike Flight Air Medals, two Navy Commendation Medals, and various personal and unit awards.

Blinn, a former naval aviator, recently retired from a 30-year career of distinguished service in the railroad industry. He worked with the committee to secure Navy Pier as the location for this year’s Annual Dinner.

“We knew it would be a perfect location to welcome Commander Weisser as our speaker,” Blinn says, “Plus, as a Virginia Military Institute graduate and a highly decorated Naval aviator war veteran, I’ve always felt a strong connection to Navy Pier and its important role over the years.

“Our membership fully reflects the railroad and logistics industry, from young professionals to seasoned executives. We know everyone who attends will make new connections as they enjoy the rich history of the Traffic Club and Navy Pier.”

The reception and dinner will be held May 15 from 6–11 p.m. at the Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier in downtown Chicago. The club’s annual golf outing will be held the day before on Wednesday, May 14 at the Cog Hill Golf Club in suburban Lemont.

May 14 Golf Outing
Course 1: $230/person
Course 2 (Ravines): $265/person
Course 4 (Ravines): $375/person
Networking BBQ Only: $85/person Members, Guests & Non-Members: $150
Includes breakfast, greens fees, golf carts, course contests, and networking BBQ after golf with open bar
Cog Hill Golf Club
12294 Archer Ave., Lemont, IL
Shotgun start 9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.

May 15 Dinner
Members & Guests: $325
Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier
840 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL
6:00 p.m.—Reception
7:30 p.m.—Dinner
10 p.m.—Networking

The deadline to register is quickly approaching. Advance reservations are required for all the events, and can be made by the following methods:

  • Phone (312) 893-9976
  • Email Traffic Club staff
  • Online registration

Sponsorship & advertising opportunities

Sign up for an annual dinner sponsorship today to secure your company a seat at the head table.

The Traffic Club is now accepting sponsorship and advertising applications. All companies sponsoring the dinner at the $1,500 level or above will secure a seat at the head table for a senior executive from their company. Act quickly—head table seating is only guaranteed until capacity is reached.

Head table guests will enjoy an exclusive Networking Cocktail Hour before the event and will be announced upon entry to the annual dinner. Sponsors will also be recognized on signage for the event, the Waybill newsletter, and event mailings.

Proceeds from the annual dinner and golf outing are used to fund the Traffic Club of Chicago Scholarship Program, which distributes more than $25,000 in scholarships each year. To make this year’s event a success, please consider becoming an event sponsor or advertiser.

The deadline to sign up for a sponsorship or advertising is April 10, 2025. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About The Traffic Club of Chicago
The Traffic Club of Chicago, founded in 1907, is one of the nation's oldest transportation associations. The Club is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of the transportation and logistics industry, keeping its members abreast of industry happenings, while at the same time assuming a responsible role in civic, cultural, and charitable activities in the Chicago area. An annual schedule of programs and events provides opportunities to network with industry professionals. A scholarship program supports the organization's philosophy of direction and guidance. More information can be found at www.traffic-club.org and www.facebook.com/chicagotrafficclub.

MEDIA CONTACT
Bill Fahrenwald
James Street Associates
bill@jamesstreet.net
708-528-0681