Monday, August 24, 2009

Gail's Weekly Chamber UPDATE

Did you miss getting my eblast last Monday? I spent 9 wonderful days in Maui with my husband, Gary, our 21 year old son, Dirk, and our 10 year old daughter, Lian.
We raced Hurricane Felicia to the islands, making for an exciting ride to which Lian happily yelled, “This is just like the rides at Kiddieland!” Thankfully, Felicia fizzled and ended up as a tropical depression by the time she arrived. The whole family had fun – Gary and Dirk ziplined through the canyons, biked down Haleakala volcano, and went snuba diving (cross between snorkel and scuba). Lian and I went to the pool, beach, shopping. We did a magic show and luau and drove to Hana.
The Chamber will move next Monday, August 31, into the Park Ridge Nonprofit Center (PRNC)! We’re very excited! So, the office will be closed that day for the move and our phones will be switched over. You’ll have to come visit us at 720 Garden Street!
Are you planning on going to Rainbow Hospice’s Lake Effect this Friday? I was thinking of getting a group together and maybe taking a limo to and fro – let me know if you want to be included!
Also, this Saturday is the Harry O’Brien Community Run/Walk! Please sign up!
I heard the monthly luncheon at the library was a huge success!

Thank you to Jan Van de Carr, Angela Berger, Dara Gocheski and Gretchen Kottkamp for the fabulous business presentation!

Also, thank you to Barb at All on the Road Catering for the delicious lunch that everyone raved about!

And, of course, to the Chamber’s President Elect, Dave Donovan, for being the master of ceremonies and to my staff, Marci Derrick and Dorothy Brownstein, for ensuring it all ran smoothly!

And I also heard that the Women in Business event on August 19 was great but that the storm moved it in-doors. Thank you to Theresa Olson from Resurrection Medical Center and all the staff who made it such a successful event at the Café Res.

Debbie Oberschelp, Affordable Interiors, is co-chair of the WIB and did most of the coordination for the event with Theresa so thank you to her too!

The Park Ridge Chamber Golf Outing will be held with the Skokie Chamber at Chevy Chase on September 9. We need golfers!
It will be a fun day! Please come out – bring your clients or employees or co-workers!
There are opportunities for sponsorships too. With 2 Chambers, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever so sign up now! Your August newsletter had the new form listing all the sponsorships or I can email it to you again!
Note: We’re pre-selling raffle tickets for a big flat screen tv – just $10 each (6 for $50). Both Chambers pitched in to buy it and we’re splitting the proceeds. You’ll be able to buy them at the luncheon this Wednesday at the library or anytime at the Chamber.
We’ll pull the winner at the dinner. We’ll also have a raffle for donated prizes at the event.

Back by popular demand! Football Mania is back for the entire 17 week long NFL season! Just $20 per ticket. Last year we had several winners – let’s try for several more this year! This is a fun fundraiser for the Chamber! The tickets are on sale at the Chamber office, at various events, and our board of directors will have them for sale too. Can you sell any? Let me know and I’ll assign some to you!

The Summit of Uptown to Host Chamber After-Hours Party this Thursday!

The Summit of Uptown will host the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce After-Hours Networking Party on Thursday, August 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests will be treated to culinary treats created by Applauze Catering, specialty beverages, door prizes, live music and a chance to be among the first to see Summit’s totally renovated apartments and Great Room.

Summit is located at 10 N. Summit Ave. (at Touhy) in Park Ridge. Parking is available in Summit’s underground parking lot, the Library lot across the street or underground at the new retail development next door.

Tours the evening of the party will provide a first-hand view of the new apartments. Please call the Chamber offices or Summit at 847-825-1161 for further information. www.parkridgechamber.com or www.summitofuptown.com


1st Annual Harry O’Brien Community Run / Walk - The Park Ridge Community Fund and the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce are co-hosting this event on Saturday, August 29th for the entire community.

It continues the legacy of Harry O’Brien, one of our most beloved community members who was often called ‘Mr. Park Ridge”.

Proceeds will support the social service organizations funded by the Park Ridge Community Fund all of which provide vital programs and services to Park Ridge. Due to severe State funding cuts, Park Ridge is in serious jeopardy of losing many vital human services.

This fun event will help ensure the survival of our community’s emotional well-being. See flyer or call the Park Ridge Community Fund office at (847) 825-5311. Register online at: www.prcommunityfund.org

We also need sponsors and prize donations!
AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!

The Retail Committee of the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce, chaired by Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, is planning an autumn festival they’re calling “AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!” All businesses and merchants in Park Ridge are invited to participate in the daylong event on Saturday, October 10.

The objective is to have a community event which will bring residents and visitors into Park Ridge to see and enjoy the community and visit all the retail shops.

Some events planned are a Costumed Pet Parade around the library at 9:30 a.m. Merchants will decorate their windows with a specific theme and the library will plan an I Spy Scavenger Hunt. Contests, tastings, live band, sales, and themed window displays are all in the works.

Some participating stores and their window themes are listed below (Chamber members are bolded). All merchants, retailers, & stores are welcomed to participate whether they’re members or not – maybe they’ll want to join the Chamber when they see all that we do for our members!

For more information, contact the Chamber at 847-825-3121; or Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; hillschocolates@sbcglobal.net; 847-318-6801.


Company Name Window Theme

1 2 Sisters
2 All on the Road Catering Witches
3 Allegro Music Center
4 Baked by Betsy
5 Bob's Bike Shop of Park Ridge Pirates
6 Caruden Hair Design
7 Classic Cuts
8 Dominic's Kitchen Store
9 High Society Jewelers
10 Lisa's Homemade Italian Ice Candyland
11 Melendy & Wilson Jewelers Fall Back in Love
12 Nancy Sells Flowers & Gifts
13 Original Pancake House
14 Park Ridge Public Library Once Upon A Time
15 Raffia Gifts Witches and Warlocks
16 Re/Max Properties Northwest Monster Movies
17 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Harry Potter
18 Saran Bridal & Boutique Princesses
19 Summit Specialtees Halloween
20 TeaLula Fortune Teller (?)
21 Uncle Dan's Pizza and Pub Pirates
22 Uptown Chiropractic Clinic Skeletons
23 WineStyles Ghosts and Goblins

SAVE THE DATE!

The Park Ridge Chamber’s Annual Installation Dinner and Community Stars Award Night will be Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010! President Elect Dave Donovan will be installed as will the new board.

If you’re interested in serving on the Chamber board, let me know! The Chamber is looking for more talented, hardworking board members. The board meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 8:30 a.m. Board members set policy for the Chamber staff to follow, approve new members, and chair various committees. The commitment is for 2 years and is very rewarding plus you get to know so many Chamber members! Give me a call to discuss it further!
Note that all meetings held at the Chamber office will be at our new location: Park Ridge Nonprofit Center (PRNC) 720 Garden Street!

August 25, 8:45am-9:45am Park Ridge Executive Network (PREN) 2, Chamber Offices, 32 Main Street, Suite F. The second group of PREN; leads and referral group within the Chamber with only one person per industry. Included in your membership. Call Chamber to RSVP.
August 27, 7:30am-9:30am Multi Chamber Progressive Networking Breakfast. Holiday Inn North Shore, 5300 Touhy Avenue, Skokie 60077. After a delicious breakfast, you will be seated with other business people to spend several minutes to promote your business and exchange business cards. Then, you will switch to another table and then another! 200 people attended our last one! Cost: $25 for Chamber Members $35 for Non-members
August 27, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking The Summit of Uptown See the newly renovated Summit of Uptown and meet and greet other Chamber members! Included in your membership!
August 29, Saturday 9:00am – Harry O’Brien Community Run co-hosted by the Chamber and the Park Ridge Community Fund. Proceeds support social service organizations that provide vital programs/services to Park Ridge. Call (847) 825-5311or Register online at: www.prcommunityfund.org
September 2, 9:00am-10:00am Indira Salon & Spa Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Grand Opening. 520 West Touhy Ave. Park Ridge.
September 3, 10:00am-11:30 Entrepreneurial Knowledge Group (EKG) Meeting. At Regus.
September 4, 9:00am-10:00 Membership Committee Meeting at the Chamber Office.
September 9, 9:30am-6:30pm Park Ridge and Skokie Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing. Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. Call Park Ridge Chamber at 847-825-3121 to reserve.
September 16, 11:30am-1:30pm Monthly Networking Luncheon Fall Kick Off Campaign for the Park Ridge Community Fund. Park Ridge Country Club. Call Chamber to reserve.

Please let me know what’s going on in your business so we can tell the world!

Congratulations to Dave Nolte, Certa Pro Painters: he and wife had baby girl!

When you think Shop Local think www.Kidwinks.com. Not only do we have a large local audience we are also a Park Ridge business. www.kidwinks.com
The site to know with kids in tow!
As seen on ABC, WGN, FOX & NBC

Lynnette's School of Dance had a successful OPEN HOUSE last Wednesday! For more information, contact:
Lynnette VanDien Bertolotti
Director Lynnette's School of Dance
517 Talcott
Park Ridge,Il. 60068
847-823-7334
lynnettedance@comcast.net
jazzn1@hotmail.com

STE ACCOUNTING & TAX FIRM, 3049 N. Thatcher Ave., Thatcher Woods Center (Belmont/Cumberland)
Free Business Incorporation!* call for details

Did you know…
The original social security card was designed by Fred Happel of Albany N.Y. in 1936. He was paid $60 for his work.

Did you know…
the cost of your prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses, including products to clean them, may be part of your deductible medical expenses?

Call us for more tax trivia & tips….we will mail you a free pamphlet! 773.583.9800

The Willow Wellness Center is pleased to announce the formation of a new group introducing career women to the exciting concept of Project Renewment--a new model for "retirement" that stresses renewal, purpose, and joy.

A structured group for career women considering alternatives to a traditional retirement, based on the recent book by Bernice Bratter and Helen Dennis, Project Renewment. Join a group of career women (50 & older), considering or new to retirement, to explore life possibilities within safe, supportive relationships, and to develop a creative plan for transitioning to a more abundant, meaningful future. Sessions will cover whether & how to retire, attitudes & images of aging; financial realities & myths; independence & freedom; developing enriching relationships; living with passion & growth. This is not a therapy group, not a support group, but something entirely new--developed by and for today's career women. Fee: $200 for 4 sessions. The group will be limited to 6 women, so please call Dr. Lisa Campbell now to register or for more information at the Willow Wellness Center at 847-318-8200 or by email at Lcampbell@willowwellness.com.

4 Monday night sessions (7:00-9:00 pm)
September 21 and 28, October 5 and 12

Lisa C. Campbell, Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
lcampbell@willowwellness.com

Willow Wellness Center
444 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 240
Park Ridge, IL 60068
(847) 318-8200
www.willowwellness.com

Abundant life for the rest of your life.
Nationally known education author and expert to speak locally

The landmark book, The Global Achievement Gap, will come to life when NSERVE hosts author and nationally known education expert Dr. Tony Wagner for an evening keynote address on Monday, August. 20. This free presentation is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at Glenbrook North High School's auditorium. Dr. Wagner will be available for a book signing afterward.

Dr. Wagner's presentation will interest educators, parents, business leaders and everyone else who cares about the quality of U.S. education and the readiness of young Americans to take their place and thrive in a global economy.

The Global Achievement Gap lays out what Dr. Wagner calls "The Seven Survival Skills for Careers, College & Citizenship in the 21st Century," a list that he developed after interviewing scores of senior business executives.

We hope you will join us at 7:00 p.m. on August 20th. Glenbrook North High School is located at 2300 Shermer Road, Northbrook. Please feel free to invite your friends and colleagues! For additional information or to ask questions, please call Martha Eldredge Stark, at 847.692.8023.

Come Party with Rainbow Hospice August 28

Don’t miss out on a fantastic evening, an even better value and a great cause. Put Lake Effect on your calendar for August 28th, 2009 from 5:00pm to Midnight at the Palmer House Hotel in downtown Chicago.

Lake Effect will include multiple entertainment venues, an amazing array of food, open bar, and more all for just $75 a ticket. Live music will continue through the night, headliners scheduled to appear are:

American rock band and Chicago area natives,
PLAIN WHITE T’S
The blues/jazz/rock stylings of Chicago Blues guitarist
MELVIN TAYLOR BAND

And the broad talents of a President Obama local favorite,
THE GENTLEMEN OF LEISURE BAND

100% of your ticket proceeds will also go to support the kids and families of Good Mourning, the most extensive family-focused children’s bereavement program in the Chicago Area, helping thousands of families cope with grief and loss for more than 30 years.
Tickets are limited so tell your friends and grab yours today at
www.LakeffectParty.com

2nd Annual College Football Day!
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Penn State Nittany Lions
Saturday October 31, 2009 3:30 p.m. Ryan Field

$26 per ticket ON SALE NOW:
Includes:
• Admission to the Nationally Televised Big 10 Game
• Wildcat Alley - Opens two hours before kick-off (closes at kick-off)
• Concession Stands featuring classic ballpark food as well as local Evanston vendors
• Goose Island Beer Garden - two free beers (21+) per ticket
• Meet Northwestern Men's and Women's Basketball teams and get autographs
• Balloon Twisters, Face Painters & Caricaturist
• Free entertainment and keepsakes
• Free games for kids: athletic skills zone, football toss & lacrosse target
• Northwestern Marching Band
• Appearance by Willie the Wildcat for photo opportunity!
• See the Park Ridge Chamber’s Name up on the Big Scoreboard
• Might be the last chance to see College Football’s All Time Winningest Coach – Joe Paterno
• Postgame Fireworks!
• Face value of ticket = $50.00!
• Come out and network while having fun!

Limited number of tickets! Reserve yours now!
RSVP to Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce (847) 825-3121 or
Rick Pucci of Park Ridge Financial Advisors (847) 759-0055
"Park Ridge Charity Classic 5K" Saturday, September 26th, 2009 - 8:00 am
Our 32nd Annual Running!

A flat, FAST, out and back course with only two right angle turns and one 180°. Split times at 1 mile and 2 mile.

"Illinois' fastest 5k course" as 32% of the all-time Illinois age group records were set on the Charity Classic course (source IL T & F).

The starting line and packet pick-up/registration area is located just behind the Pickwick Theatre, 5 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge, IL 60068. The major intersection is Touhy Ave. & Northwest Hwy.

Register on-line until Friday, September 25, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. for $18.00 by clicking the "Registration" tab above. Race day registration is from 6:30 - 7:30 a.m. and is $25.00.

http://www.runrace.net/images/cncLftBtmffffff.gif

Make it easier to manage your business by using databases to store, update, and analyze information. At Oakton Community College, you can learn how to utilize databases to make your company more efficient, productive, and profitable.
Regardless of a company’s size, budget, or function, business data must be organized and easily accessible. Databases and spreadsheets like Excel, Access, and Oracle simplify everyday work by helping to manage client records, maintain budgets, track sales and inventory, and much more.
Oakton offers database training for all computer skill levels. For those just starting, Microsoft Excel is an ideal program to begin gaining experience with spreadsheets and data management. Enroll in Electronic Spreadsheeting Using Excel for PCs (CAB 135), or for those already familiar with spreadsheets, try Advanced Spreadsheeting Using Excel (CAB 235).
Database Applications for PCs (CAB 140) teaches the fundamentals of Access, another popular Microsoft program designed to simplify the process of maintaining and accessing data.
For individuals whose work is devoted to data management, Oakton offers more advanced classes, including courses on Oracle. A 12-hour Oracle Database Administrator Certificate also is available. Other popular classes for database professionals include Web Database Management (WWW 205) and Database Programming for PCs (CIS 209).
Register now for fall classes. Semester begins August 24. For more information on featured courses, contact Michele Reznick at 847-635-1904.

The Park Ridge Fine Arts Society is holding their "Annual Fundraiser Benefit",
Saturday November 14th, 2009 featuring the "Brian Patti and his Orchestra"
6pm cocktails, 7:30pm dinner, silent auction 6pm to 9pm,
at the Park Ridge Country Club.
Black tie optional. $100 per person.
(Donations for the silent auction would greatly be appreciated.)

Please mark your calendar. Check out www.prfas.org for further information or contact Emily Kosaka at 312-595-8091 or email prfas@yahoo.com to add your name and address to the invite list.
Your participation will "Help Support our Summer Concerts in the Park"

Gail Haller
Executive Director
Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
32 Main Street, Suite F
Park Ridge, IL 60068
phone: 847.825.3121
fax: 847.825.3122
email: gail.haller@parkridgechamber.org
website: www.parkridgechamber.org

Thank you to our Platinum members
1. Affordable Interiors - Deborah Oberschelp 312.909.1255
2. barrett-TECH - John Barrett 847.823.1830
3. Cardinal Fitness of Park Ridge - 847.318.7550
4. Falkor Group LLC - www.falkorgroup.com
5. Home Comfort Heating & Cooling - 847.824.4336
6. J.C. Lilly Windows & Doors - 773-588-4332
7. Leys, Kirsten - Prudential Financial Services 847.627.3950
8. PC Medic Computer Repair - Jerry Flanagan 847.299.5556
9. Resurrection Health Care - Theresa Olson 847.813.3210
10. Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S.P.C. & Associates 847.825.1002
11. Sebastian Co. Real Estate - Don Sebastian, Jr. 847.823.3117
12. State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek 847.692.3260
13. The Exercise Coach - Chad Finney 847.823.0035
14. The McTigue Financial Group - Tom Canale 773.380.4025
15. You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services - Lynda Tourloukis 847.401.5787
16. Y-Tech Heating & Cooling - 847-696-0477

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Gail's Weekly Chamber UPDATE

The Park Ridge NonProfit Center is moving forward with activity! Duraclean cleaned the carpet and chairs. Chris’ Landscape cut down the overgrown junipers. Affordable Interiors and Amber’s Organizing have both offered to help pack, move and design our new furniture layout. The Chamber will move in by September 1st and we are very excited about it! I was a Certified Facility Manager in a previous life so the Chamber will be the daily presence, an anchor tenant and we’ll manage the building. We’re also looking for other nonprofits, service clubs and organizations to use the space, use the address in lieu of a post office box, and hold events and meetings there. The possibilities are excited and endless!
Do you have moving boxes we could borrow? If so, drop them off please! We need to start packing.
Best of Park Ridge, All on the Road Catering, will cater our August 12 Monthly Networking luncheon which will be held at the Park Ridge Public Library 1st floor meeting room.

‘Growing Your Business Using Library Resources’: Last summer, Lori Preston, did a great job explaining some of the business services and online research you can take advantage of through the library. This is not the same presentation - Dara Gocheski will be the featured speaker.

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $25

Here’s who has rsvp’d:

Nasser Afzali Accounteque Services, Inc.
Jo Anne Arnswald MB Financial Bank
John Barrett barrett-TECH
Angela Berger Park Ridge Public Library
Mary Carlson Liberty Bank for Savings
Tammy Cook 10 til 2- Chicago North Shore
Thom De Vries Loyola Center for Vascular & Heart Medicine
Dave Donovan E.J. Coyne Insurance
Curtis Edlund Larsen & Edlund
Perry Fisher Christian Science Reading Room
Diane Forsythe Brickton Mortgage Co.
Dara Gocheski Park Ridge Public Library
Catherine Johns Positive Changes Chicago
Gretchen Kottkamp Park Ridge Public Library
Dick Larsen Larsen & Edlund
Karen Larsen Order My Gift
Kirsten Leys Prudential
Karen Mack Marty Mack and Associates
Marty Mack Marty Mack and Associates
Carol Mooney Harris Bank
Tom Salzman Chicago Tribune
Susan Scatchell A-Abiding Care
Agnes Stempniak City of Park Ridge
Lynda Tourloukis You Can Say… Yes!
Kim Uhlig City of Park Ridge
Jan Van De Carr Park Ridge Public Library
Anna Wasyliw Harris Bank


The Park Ridge Chamber Golf Outing will be held with the Skokie Chamber at Chevy Chase on September 9. Did you realize the golf outing is only one month away!?! I sure hope you’ll come out and golf. There’s going to be a whole lot of networking going on and you really don’t want to be left out! Bring a client, co-worker, friend and join us for a rollicking great time with the Skokie Chamber! Right now we have 43 golfers signed up between the two Chambers.
There are opportunities for sponsorships too. With 2 Chambers, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever so sign up now! Your newsletter had the new form listing all the sponsorships.
We’re pre-selling red raffle tickets for a big flat screen tv – just $10 each (6 for $50). Both Chambers pitched in to buy it and we’re splitting the proceeds. You’ll be able to buy them at the luncheon this Wednesday at the library or anytime at the Chamber.
We’ll pull the winner at the dinner. We’ll also have a raffle for donated prizes at the event.

Back by popular demand! Football Mania is back for the entire 17 week long NFL season! Just $20 per ticket. Last year we had several winners – lets try for several more this year! This is a fun fundraiser for the Chamber! The tickets have been ordered and we’ll be selling them at the Chamber, at various events, and our board of directors will have them for sale too. Can you sell any? We’d be happy to farm them out for selling!

SAVE THE DATE!

The Park Ridge Chamber’s Annual Installation Dinner and Community Stars Award Night will be Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010! President Elect Dave Donovan will be installed as will the new board.

If you’re interested in serving on the Chamber board, let me know!
PRCC WIB Program: August 19, 2009
“The Balancing Act – Taking care of you while you’re taking care of everything else.”

The Chamber’s Women in Business invites you to a very special evening just for you and your health. Oftentimes we’re so busy taking care of everything and everyone else that we forget to take care of ourselves. Take time out to attend this informative program. We’ll talk about important preventative measures you shouldn’t put off, ways to stay healthy, and how to reduce your stress.

Join Us:

August 19, 2009
5 pm – Networking
5:30 pm – Program

Café Res Garden Courtyard
(Outside hospital cafeteria)
Resurrection Medical Center
7435 West Talcott Avenue, Chicago

Enjoy:

Wine, Cheeses & Appetizers
Pampering Goodie Bag & Raffle Prizes

Speakers:
Florence Huang, MD
Family Medicine
Resurrection Medical Network

Carrie Giordano, DO
Obstetrics/Gynecology
Resurrection Medical Network

Cooky Kraus
Certified Massage Therapist
Resurrection Medical Center

Members $13; Prospective Members $17

RSVP by August 14 to the Chamber 847-825-3121
Twelve Chambers of Commerce have joined forces to bring you this fast-paced networking experience: Des Plaines, Chicago Area Gay & Lesbian, Evanston, Glenview, Highland Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Park Ridge, Skokie, Wheeling/Prospect Heights and Wilmette.

After a delicious breakfast, you will be seated with other business people to spend several minutes to promote your business and exchange business cards. Then, you will switch to another table and then another! Over 200 people attended our last one!

Thursday, August 27, 2009
Holiday Inn North Shore
5300 Touhy Avenue, Skokie 60077

Registration/Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Networking Program: 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Cost: $25 for Chamber Members $35 for Non-members

Table Sponsorships Available: Place your brochures on a
networking table (signage included) for an additional $35

You must be pre-paid! Absolutely No walk-ins!

Deadline for registration: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 (No Exceptions)

All payments must be received by August 19th to confirm your reservation. No refunds or cancellations after August 19th or for non-attendance.
Mail form and payment to: Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce, 32 Main St, Suite F, IL 60068. Phone (847)825-3121. If paying by credit card, fax to (847)825-3122. Email info@parkridgechamber.org

The Summit of Uptown to Host Chamber After-Hours Party

The Summit of Uptown is hosting a Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce After-Hours Party on Thursday, August 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests will be treated to culinary treats created by Applauze Catering, specialty beverages, door prizes, live music and a chance to be among the first to see Summit’s totally renovated apartments and Great Room.

Summit is located at 10 N. Summit Ave. (at Touhy) in Park Ridge. Parking is available in Summit’s underground parking lot, the Library lot across the street or underground at the new retail development next door.

“We are excited to show off our newly renovated senior community with its modern architecture and state-of-the-art facilities,” says Marc Dennison, Executive Director of Summit.

After over a year of total renovation, phase-one new apartments are now available at the Summit and residents have recently started to move in. The spacious apartments have the finest in modern features. The Summit of Uptown offers a wide range of services to fit any lifestyle.

Tours the evening of the party will provide a first-hand view of the new apartments. Please call the Chamber offices or Summit at 847-825-1161 for further information. Visit www.parkridgechamber.com or www.summitofuptown.com as well.

Submitted by Dick Barton

1st Annual Harry O’Brien Community Run / Walk - The Park Ridge Community Fund and the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce are co-hosting this event on Saturday, August 29th for the entire community.

It continues the legacy of Harry O’Brien, one of our most beloved community members who was often called ‘Mr. Park Ridge”.

Proceeds will support the social service organizations funded by the Park Ridge Community Fund all of which provide vital programs and services to Park Ridge. Due to severe State funding cuts, Park Ridge is in serious jeopardy of losing many vital human services.

This fun event will help ensure the survival of our community’s emotional well-being. See flyer or call the Park Ridge Community Fund office at (847) 825-5311. Register online at: www.prcommunityfund.org

We also need sponsors and prize donations!
August 12, 11:30am-1:30pm Monthly Networking Luncheon, Park Ridge Public Library, “Grow your Business Using Library Resources!” presentation with a delicious lunch catered by All on the Road Catering! $20 Chamber members with rsvp by 8/7; $25 at the door & Future Members
August 14, 8:30am-9:30am PREN 1: Park Ridge Executive Network, Chamber Offices. Leads and referral group within the Chamber with one person per profession. Included in your Chamber membership fees.
August 14, 9:30am-11:00am Communications Committee Meeting, Chamber Offices. Submit articles for the Chamber Connection newsletter!
August 19, 5:00pm-7:00pm Women in Business After Hours Networking, Resurrection Health Care, 7435 West Talcott. Park Ridge Physicians talk on women's whole health issues (mind, body and spirit). Catered by Resurrection Medical Center Kitchen. $13 Members; $17 Prospective Members.
August 25, 8:45am-9:45am Park Ridge Executive Network (PREN) 2, Chamber Offices, 32 Main Street, Suite F. The second group of PREN; leads and referral group within the Chamber with only one person per industry.
August 27, 7:30am-9:30am Multi Chamber Progressive Networking Breakfast, Holiday Inn North Shore, 5300 Touhy Avenue, Skokie 60077. After a delicious breakfast, you will be seated with other business people to spend several minutes to promote your business and exchange business cards. Then, you will switch to another table and then another! Over 200 people attended our last one! Cost: $25 for Chamber Members $35 for Non-members
August 27, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking The Summit of Uptown See the newly renovated Summit of Uptown and meet and greet other Chamber members! Included in your membership!
August 29, Saturday – Harry O’Brien Community Run co-hosted between the Chamber and the Park Ridge Community Fund

Tell me what’s going on in your business! Including your business news in these Monday eblasts is what makes them so successful!

Recently I have visited:
Jackie’s Nails & Spa
Indira’s Salon & Spa
Panera Bread
Park Ridge Rotary Club


Congratulations to Debbie Harris and TriPilates, LLC 833 West Touhy Avenue, Park Ridge for celebrating two years in business! Call and congratulate her at 847-698-6338 - and sign up for a class!

MB Financial Bank in Park Ridge was named as having the best Customer Service in all the MB branches! Call Jo Ann Arnsward at 847-745-3580 to discover first hand why her branch was #1 in Customer Service!

Jo Ann is also co-chair of our Ambassador committee and served on the Chamber board last year when I was hired!

Please join MB Financial Bank for their College Savings event!

August 10th-14th, 12 noon to 4 p.m.
mb financial investments
Located at MB Financial Bank
1014 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Tony Shir, Financial Advisor - 847.583.7809
Call today to schedule your appointment: 847.745.3575


Come join us at the Heineken with a Heart Event to benefit the Friedrich’s Ataxia Research Alliance.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009
6:00pm-9:00pm
Outback Steakhouse
8101 Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631
(773) 380-0818

Share your time and heart with FARA and enjoy complimentary Outback Steakhouse appetizers and ice cold Heineken & Heineken Light.

Donation $20 (All proceeds benefit FARA)

Heineken with a Heart is a social event created to benefit local charities and is sponsored by the Outback Steakhouse, SafeCall and Heineken USA.

Must be 21 years old to attend; photo ID required. Please plan ahead-designate a driver. www.EnjoyHeinekenResponsibly.com

The Park Ridge Fine Arts Society is holding their "Annual Fundraiser Benefit",
Saturday November 14th, 2009
featuring the "Brian Patti and his Orchestra"
6pm cocktails, 7:30pm dinner, silent auction 6pm to 9pm,
at the Park Ridge Country Club.
Black tie optional. $100 per person.
(Donations for the silent auction would greatly be appreciated.)

Please mark your calendar. Check out www.prfas.org for further information or contact Emily Kosaka at 312-595-8091 or email prfas@yahoo.com to add your name and address to the invite list
.
Your participation will "Help Support our Summer Concerts in the Park"

Residents are frequently cautioned to be on the alert for scams involving home improvement contractors. This caution applies to flood control projects as well.

Additionally, residents are cautioned that they should not purchase a flood control system based on any representation by a contractor that the city will provide a rebate to the resident to help offset the expense. No such program exists at this time, and it is very possible that it never will in light of the City's fiscal crisis and questions about the value of such a program to the city as a whole.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Dave Schmidt
Please join us Thursday, August 20,2009 5 to 7 pm

For wine, cheese and a sneak preview of the 5th annual Brickton Art Center Artistic Living Home Tour - Not Your Average House Walk!
Help us get Park Ridge talking about this unique event!

RSVP to Alyssa Kulak 847-823-6611

Proceeds from the October 16-18 and 23-25, 2009, Home Tour will benefit Brickton Art Center's efforts to provide the greater Chicago and Northwest suburban region with year round fine arts classes, supporting and promoting artists through free professional art exhibitions and bringing the arts to community groups and underserved populations.

Heather Johnson, Marketing Director for Tri-Land Properties who is the land lord of Village Green Shopping center, told me:

Village Green is having a sidewalk sale on Aug. 22nd and Aug. 23rd. Along with the sale, there will be a bounce house and free popcorn (while supplies last).

Nationally known education author and expert to speak locally

The landmark book, The Global Achievement Gap, will come to life when NSERVE hosts author and nationally known education expert Dr. Tony Wagner for an evening keynote address on Monday, August. 20. This free presentation is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at Glenbrook North High School's auditorium. Dr. Wagner will be available for a book signing afterward.

Dr. Wagner's presentation will interest educators, parents, business leaders and everyone else who cares about the quality of U.S. education and the readiness of young Americans to take their place and thrive in a global economy.

The Global Achievement Gap lays out what Dr. Wagner calls "The Seven Survival Skills for Careers, College & Citizenship in the 21st Century," a list that he developed after interviewing scores of senior business executives.

We hope you will join us at 7:00 p.m. on August 20th. Glenbrook North High School is located at 2300 Shermer Road, Northbrook. Please feel free to invite your friends and colleagues! For additional information or to ask questions, please call Martha Eldredge Stark, at 847.692.8023.

Come Party with Rainbow Hospice August 28

Don’t miss out on a fantastic evening, an even better value and a great cause. Put Lake Effect on your calendar for August 28th, 2009 from 5:00pm to Midnight at the Palmer House Hotel in downtown Chicago.

Lake Effect will include multiple entertainment venues, an amazing array of food, open bar, and more all for just $75 a ticket. Live music will continue through the night, headliners scheduled to appear are:

American rock band and Chicago area natives,
PLAIN WHITE T’S
The blues/jazz/rock stylings of Chicago Blues guitarist
MELVIN TAYLOR BAND

And the broad talents of a President Obama local favorite,
THE GENTLEMEN OF LEISURE BAND

100% of your ticket proceeds will also go to support the kids and families of Good Mourning, the most extensive family-focused children’s bereavement program in the Chicago Area, helping thousands of families cope with grief and loss for more than 30 years.
Tickets are limited so tell your friends and grab yours today at
www.LakeffectParty.com

2nd Annual College Football Day!
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Penn State Nittany Lions
Saturday October 31, 2009 3:30 p.m. Ryan Field

$26 per ticket ON SALE NOW:
Includes:
• Admission to the Nationally Televised Big 10 Game
• Wildcat Alley - Opens two hours before kick-off (closes at kick-off)
• Concession Stands featuring classic ballpark food as well as local Evanston vendors
• Goose Island Beer Garden - two free beers (21+) per ticket
• Meet Northwestern Men's and Women's Basketball teams and get autographs
• Balloon Twisters, Face Painters & Caricaturist
• Free entertainment and keepsakes
• Free games for kids: athletic skills zone, football toss & lacrosse target
• Northwestern Marching Band
• Appearance by Willie the Wildcat for photo opportunity!
• See the Park Ridge Chamber’s Name up on the Big Scoreboard
• Might be the last chance to see College Football’s All Time Winningest Coach – Joe Paterno
• Face value of ticket = $50.00!
• Come out and network while having fun!

Limited number of tickets! Reserve yours now!
RSVP to Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce (847) 825-3121 or
Rick Pucci of Park Ridge Financial Advisors (847) 759-0055
"Park Ridge Charity Classic 5K" Saturday September 26th, 2009 - 8:00 am
Our 32nd Annual Running!

A flat, FAST, out and back course with only two right angle turns and one 180°. Split times at 1 mile and 2 mile.

"Illinois' fastest 5k course" as 32% of the all-time Illinois age group records were set on the Charity Classic course (source IL T & F).

The starting line and packet pick-up/registration area is located just behind the Pickwick Theatre, 5 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge, IL 60068. The major intersection is Touhy Ave. & Northwest Hwy.

Click for an interactive map to our race starting line: Go there or Go there in new browser

Register on-line until Friday, September 25, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. for $18.00 by clicking the "Registration" tab above. Race day registration is from 6:30 - 7:30 a.m. and is $25.00.

Click for a report and lots of photos (no race in 2008): 2007

http://www.runrace.net/images/cncLftBtmffffff.gif

Gail Haller
Executive Director
Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
32 Main Street, Suite F
Park Ridge, IL 60068
phone: 847.825.3121
fax: 847.825.3122
email: gail.haller@parkridgechamber.org
website: www.parkridgechamber.org

Thank you to our Platinum members
1. Affordable Interiors - Deborah Oberschelp 312.909.1255
2. barrett-TECH - John Barrett 847.823.1830
3. Cardinal Fitness of Park Ridge - 847.318.7550
4. Falkor Group LLC - www.falkorgroup.com
5. Home Comfort Heating & Cooling - 847.824.4336
6. J.C. Lilly Windows & Doors - 773-588-4332
7. Leys, Kirsten - Prudential Financial Services 847.627.3950
8. PC Medic Computer Repair - Jerry Flanagan 847.299.5556
9. Resurrection Health Care - Theresa Olson 847.813.3210
10. Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S.P.C. & Associates 847.825.1002
11. Sebastian Co. Real Estate - Don Sebastian, Jr. 847.823.3117
12. State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek 847.692.3260
13. The Exercise Coach - Chad Finney 847.823.0035
14. The McTigue Financial Group - Tom Canale 773.380.4025
15. You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services - Lynda Tourloukis 847.401.5787
16. Y-Tech Heating & Cooling - 847-696-0477