I attended the Kalo Foundation ‘Arts & Carafes’ event at the Country Club on Friday –what a fun event! In the auction, I won a breathtaking pearl necklace designed by Suzann Wilson, Beadphoria, that is just exquisite! For more information about joining the Kalo Foundation, go to the website at www.kalofoundation.org.
If anyone found a small, black digital camera at the golf outing, let me know. The owner is looking for it!
Intelimind & Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice BAH Thank you to Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice (Lisa Ross and LuAnn McNaughten) (847-692-3737) and also to Intelimind (Mark Voris) (www.intelimind.com) for hosting the Chamber’s September Business After Hours last Thursday! Catering by All on the Road (www.allontheroad.com). It was a nice evening of business networking in a fun, festive, and relaxed atmosphere!
Karen Larsen, Order My Gift and The Summit of Uptown WIB Thank you to Karen Larsen, Order My Gift, for speaking about the Personality Puzzle at the Chamber’s Women in Business event on Friday. Also thank you to The Summit of Uptown for the lovely breakfast buffet in their newly remodeled room!
Community Star Awards We’re asking for nominations for the Park Ridge Community Star Awards. Go to www.parkridgechamber.org on the 1st page under Announcements to download the letter and forms. We need nominations back to the Chamber no later than Friday, October 16 because we want to include the names in all our invitations and press releases. The awards will be given at the Annual Installation & Community Star Awards Dinner at the Country Club on Saturday, January 23, 2010.
October Membership Drive Announced! It’s Your Chamber – Get in the Game!
The Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce is kicking off it’s a fall membership drive for the month of October! It’s up to you to suit up and hit the field! It’s your chamber, so when you score a new member you win! Bringing in new members is vital to the Chamber; as our membership team grows so does your network of business partners & resources. In addition, building a strong, viable Park Ridge business community in partnership with your Chamber allows our voices to be heard when working with governmental agencies, political officials and others that influence our businesses. So don’t be a benchwarmer – start recruiting new members today!
Here’s the game plan:
For every new rookie you recruit in October, you’ll score the following:
• $20 Chamber Gift Certificate
• Special recognition in our weekly e-blast and monthly newsletter
• Chance to win big – prizes include a year in the Greeter Box Program ($250 value), free newsletter insert ($150 value) and a dedicate e-blast ($50 value)
What’s in our playbook for the new draft choice?
• Join in October and enjoy 3 free months of membership. Membership good until 2011!
• Choice of a dedicate e-blast or chamber member mailing labels. A $50 value!
• Plus, all the valuable benefits of being a part of an active, successful business community
What’s it like to be a part of our Chamber franchise?
Home field advantages include:
• Business After Hours – the opportunity to attend and host these excellent networking events
• Member-to-Member Discount Program – a great way to grow business and a nice perk for employees
• Referrals – word-of-mouth is the best form of advertising, the Chamber is constantly asked to recommend local businesses
• Free listing in the Park Ridge Community Guide distributed to over 14,000 households, businesses and organizations
• Free listing on the PRCC web site which receives over 10,500 hits a month
• Advertising opportunities include the PRCC website, monthly newsletter, dedicated member e-blast, member mailing labels, and more
• Special PRCC rate for the annual summer Business Expo in Park Ridge
• Opportunity to get involved and get connected through special Chamber committees such as retail, communications, special events
• Platinum upgrade available for even more value added benefits
Getting in the game is easy! Just refer a new member during the month of October. When the new draft pick signs up, be sure they list you on the application. For questions, contract Gail Haller by phone (847-825-31210 or email (gail.haller@parkridgechamber.org)
Mark your calendars for these Upcoming Chamber Events! September 30, Wed, 9 – 10:30 Membership Committee meeting at the Chamber offices to discuss October’s membership drive.
October 10, AutumnFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 50 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Live music by The Break, Speedfreak, Celtic Bikini! Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge! www.Prautumnfest.wordpress.com
October 13, 8:00am-9:00am New Member Orientation Regus, 350 S. Northwest Hwy, Suite 300, Park Ridge – Hosted by Chamber Ambassadors to familiarize newer members with Chamber benefits. Please rsvp.
October 14, 11:30pm-1:30pm Monthly Luncheon Riggio’s Ristorante, 7530 Oakton, Niles, 847-698-3346. Featured Speaker: Todd Wessel, editor Journal Newspaper, published author.
October 16, 7:00pm-10:00pm Fantastic Fun Friday! 720 Garden Street, Nonprofit Center. Games, Spa samplings, sweets and so much more!
October 21, 5:00pm-7:00pm Women in Business After Hours Networking Event. Dominic's Kitchen Store, 116 Main St. Park Ridge. Holiday Cooking - food, drinks and networking! Member $10 Prospective Member $15.
October 22, 3:00pm-6:00pm Multi Chamber Business to Business Expo & Taste. Bristol Court Banquets. 3 – 6 p.m. 9 Chambers participating! Free to attend! Bring your business cards – expect 600 coming through.
October 23, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 1 Park Ridge Executive Network Leads and referral group within the Chamber with just one person per profession. Chamber Offices, 720 Garden St. Park Ridge.
October 27, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 Park Ridge Executive Network Chamber Offices, 720 Garden St. One person per industry.
October 27, 5pm-7pm Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Houlihan’s Restaurant, 550 W. Touhy Ave. Join fellow Chamber members and Ambassadors and Mayor Schmidt as we welcome Houlihan’s to Park Ridge.
October 29, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking Morningfields, 800 Devon See their wine shop, bakery, specialty goods & more!
October 31, Halloween Northwestern Game (see details further down)
$100 Winner You can still buy Football Mania tickets!
Last week our winner in Football Mania was Debi Jordan who won $20! Her ticket is still eligible to win over the remaining 15 weeks too!
Each week our Chamber tickets include one winner!
Come to the Chamber to buy your ticket for just $20.
Oct 8 Lunch & Learn: Get Prepared for the Flu Pandemic Get Prepared for the Upcoming Flu Pandemic!
The Park Ridge Fire and Police Departments and the Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to a special informational luncheon on "Pandemic Influenza Planning for Businesses".
This ‘lunch and learn’ session will be held on Thursday, October 8th, 11:30 to 1:30 at the Park Ridge Nonprofit Center, 720 Garden Street in Park Ridge.
The purpose is to help Park Ridge plan and respond to the potential pandemic and seasonal influenza this fall to better protect our community. You’ll hear about H1N1 updates; Planning and Decision Making; and a Plan’s key elements which include surveillance, communication, training employees, infection control, and vaccine dispensing.
Lunch is catered by Noodles & Company at 847-292-6502, located at 510 Touhy Ave in Park Ridge. There is no charge for Chamber members to attend; $10 for Prospective Chamber members. Reservations are required as seating is limited. Call the Park Ridge Chamber at 847-825-3121 to reserve your spot! For more information about the Chamber, check out www.ParkRidgeChamber.org.
10/10/09
AutumnFest:
Windows on Parade! AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!
Check out the website: www.Prautumnfest.wordpress.com
For more information, contact the Chamber at 847-825-3121; or Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; hillschocolates@sbcglobal.net; 847-318-6801. Our list of themed windows is growing and we are past the goal of 50 participants!
South of the Tracks is coordinating the Fall Fest 2009. A family friendly halloween party!
Coordinating Sponsors are: All on the Road Catering and Bakery, Academic Tutoring Centers, and more!
Supporting Sponsors include: Dominic's Kitchen Store, Koenig Strey GMAC Real Estate, Pickwick Theater, Rainbow Hospice (partial list)
Friday, October 30 from 5pm til 8pm on Main Street between Prospect and Fairview.
Pumpkin Painting, Costume Contest, Fresh popped Popcorn, and candy filled goodie bags to the first 500 costumed attendees are just a few of the exciting FREE features.
There is a $1.00 per person entry donation to help offset costs.
More details to come around October 1.
10/22/09
Multi Chamber B2B Expo & Taste On Thursday, October 22, 2009, the Des Plaines, Edison Park, Greater Lincolnshire, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Park Ridge, Skokie and Wheeling/Prospect Heights Chambers of Commerce will hold a “TASTE” in conjunction with our 2009 Multi-Chamber Fall Business-to-Business Expo. Booths are available at no charge (value $300) to any member restaurant, caterer, deli or banquet hall who wishes to offer complimentary samples of their food during the event.
The Multi-Chamber Expo and Taste will be held at the Bristol Court Banquets, 828 E. Rand Road, Mount Prospect from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Expected attendance is 600 business people.
Member News Congratulations to Nick Straub – he’s owned Perry’s Pizzaria for 30 years! Ribbon Cutting celebration Nov. 3 – more details to follow!
Geri Balazs Opens New Office and new name:
Vive! Therapeutic Massage GB Therapeutic Massage opens at new location and changes name to Vive! Therapeutic Massage!
1416 S. Canfield, Park Ridge.
May your body allow you to love life and live it! Please call for an appointment. 847.331.8168.
Geri Balazs
Massage Therapist, NCTMB, LMT
Vive! Therapeutic Massage (a.k.a. GB Therapeutic Massage)
Life! Love it, Live it
PR Charity Classic 5K "Park Ridge Charity Classic 5K" Saturday, September 26th, 2009 - 32nd Annual Running!
Our very own Marci Derrick took 7th place in the women’s category! Congratulations Marci!
Uncle Dan’s Pizza & Pub October 2nd we have a salsa band starting at 8pm and October 9 Dakota is back!
Park Ridge Historical Society Come Join Us October 3! 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Park Ridge Historical Society
On Saturday, October 3, 2009, the Historical Society again offers tours of the Town of Maine Cemetery.
Tours depart from the cemetery chapel located just inside the main gate off Touhy Avenue. Groups will depart from the gatehouse every 30 minutes beginning at 10:00 am with the last group departing around 2:00 pm.
Admission Fees:
Society Members: $ 5
Adults: $ 10
High School Age and Under: $ 5
Family Admission: $20
Reservations: Not required. Admission fees will be collected at the chapel
Parking: Along the lanes in the cemetery or along South Rose Street
Refreshment: Coffee, cider and doughnuts will be available in the cemetery chapel
For additional information, please call the Society at 847.696.1973,
or direct queries to: george@pennyville.org www.pennyville.org
Pennee Lampres Opportunity is Knocking! Fall Open House Harvest
Saturday, Oct. 3rd & Sunday, Oct. 4th
We are opening the doors to hundreds of homes across Chicagoland!
For a complete list of Open Houses in your area, drop by our nearest branch, visit us online for interactive maps and more at bairdwarner.com, or contact Pennee Lampres at pennee.lampres@bairdwarner.com.
Blood Drive at South Park Church CONTACT: George Johnson (847) 823-3444 (708) 826-9678 cell
LIFESOURCE TO HOLD BLOOD DRIVE AT SOUTH PARK CHURCH Good deeds don’t have to cost a thing!
LifeSource, Chicagoland’s Blood Center, will be hosting a blood drive in the Park Ridge Community to help replenish the community blood supply. The drive will take place Monday, October 5, 2009, from 2 - 8 p.m. in the gym at South Park Church, 1330 S. Courtland, Park Ridge, IL.
Blood donations are a great way to give something back to the community without having to spend any money. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood donations make surgery possible, cancer treatments successful and trauma cases recoverable. One donation can save up to three lives.
All presenting donors will receive a free Mini-Wellness Check, which includes pulse, temperature, hemoglobin (iron), blood pressure and cholesterol screening. To schedule an appointment please call LifeSource at 877-543-3768 or sign up on-line www.lsbrighten.org, Code: RG40.
LifeSource, Chicagoland’s Blood Center, is a non-profit organization. As the largest blood center in Illinois, LifeSource distributes a half million blood products annually to approximately 60 area hospitals in meeting the need for patient transfusion therapy. Ninety percent of the population will need donated blood in its lifetime, yet fewer than three percent of eligible donors in the Chicagoland area regularly give the gift of life.
District 207 Attention Employers:
The Maine Township High School District 207 Supported Employment Program has potential employees who can meet your needs. The program has been in existence since 1988 when the district received a grant from the State of Illinois to help students with disabilities secure competitive employment. The benefit for you is prescreened students who are ready and eager to work. Job coaching is available for those individuals who may need guidance in learning the specifics of the job.
Some of the employers where students have been placed include Jewel Foods, Dominick’s, Panera Bread, The Summit of Uptown Park Ridge, TJ Maxx, Osco Drug, Walgreens, Kerasotes Theatre and Chuck E. Cheese. If your business can use a capable and hard working employee, please call Marcia Adelberg at 847-692-8489 or e-mail her at madelberg@maine207.org
Brickton Art Center Join us for the fifth annual Brickton Art Center Artistic Living home tour, slated for the weekends of October 16-18 and 24-25, 2009. Tickets are currently on sale, $25 for one weekend, $40 for two weekends. Call 847.823.6611 or download an order formhttp://www.bricktonartcenter.org/pdf/AL09Mailer.pdf to purchase all tickets, view homes, dates and times: http://www.bricktonartcenter.org/pdf/AL09Mailer.pdf
Also don't miss...
Not Your Average Opening Night – Friday, October 16, 2009, a cocktail reception in The Residences of Uptown penthouse unit from 7 to10 pm. Tickets to opening night are $40 per person, availability limited.
Central Baptist Village Come visit us at this year's Annual Holiday Craft Festival!
Featuring a variety Crafters and Vendors! Giveaway Table!, Bake Sale, Food Court!
Date: Saturday, October 24th
Time: 9:00am-2:00pm
Central Baptist Village, 4747 N. Canfield, Norridge, IL 60706
For additional information please contact: Karen Walther, Activity Director 708-583-8519.
Center of Concern St. Luke’s Bottle Band Concert Benefiting The Center of Concern
Founded in 1979 by Professor Paul Phillips, over the past few years the St. Luke's Bottle Band has been featured on National Public Radio, the NBC Nightly News, Wild Chicago and the Jenny Jones Show. The band has traveled to Atlanta Georgia to perform for the American Lutheran Church Musicians Conference, as well as Door County, Wisconsin, to present a concert at the Fish Creek Auditorium. The Bottle Band has appeared on An American Moment with James Earl Jones and twice on the Late Show with David Letterman A video of Auld Lang Syne is available on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16VDa65e3Qw&feature=related
Saturday, October 24, 2009
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 pm
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Olson Auditorium
WineStyles Park Ridge against Parkinson’s – WineStyles is hosting a wine tasting with appetizers to benefit those with Parkinson’s disease Friday October 23rd from 6-9 where you can taste over 30 wines and snack on lovely appetizers at Park Ridge Country Club.
$40 per person, all proceeds to go towards Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s disease research.
Tracy Bell/owner
WineStyles Park Ridge, 105 S. Northwest Highway
847-518-WINE (9463)
http://www.winestyles.net/impdates.asp?id=457625&page=1
St Paul of the Cross The Park Ridge Ministerial Association sponsors the Sunday Suppers Ministry that serves nutritious meals in a welcoming atmosphere to those in need on Sunday evenings. The suppers take place at St. Paul of the Cross Church in the Parish Life Center. With winter coming upon us, they are looking for donations of 75 warm winter scarves to give to those in need.
Their goal is to begin distributing the scarves the first Sunday in November...hopefully before the temperatures begin to drop or the snow flies. The need is for approximately 25 - Male; 25 - Female; 15 - Unisex; 5 - Boys; 5 - Girls.
Members of the Chamber can call Susan Raap at 773-416-0536 or email her at susan.raap@gmail.com for more details or to arrange for dropping off items - or - to have them picked up.
What a worthy cause – thanks Sue who works at member Rosewood Restaurant! If you can knit, please knit a scarf to keep someone warm (like a hug!)
Park Ridge Garden Club SAVE THE DATE: The Board is making plans for a FALL GARAGE AND MEMBERS PLANT SALE, tentatively set for Friday and Saturday October 2nd and 3rd. We're announcing it now because we'd like you to save your good "stuff" for our sale. If you're cleaning out a basement, closet, or garage, please hold onto the good things for our sale. The plant sale part will consist of member plants only.
LifeSource Donate blood and you could win a Viking Cooking School class!
You could win a cooking class for two, compliments of Viking Cooking School, 140-D N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, IL and learn to cook from the professionals.
From October 1-31, 2009 all participating donors at the Glenview, Skokie and Lake Zurich donor centers are eligible to win. There will be one winner from each donor center.
Additionally, when you make a blood donation with LifeSource, you will receive a free Mini-Wellness Check, which includes pulse, temperature, hemoglobin (iron), blood pressure and cholesterol screening.
To schedule your donation appointment, please contact LifeSource at 1-877-543-3768. Please do the following to prepare for your blood donation:
• Eat a good meal prior to your blood donation.
• Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your blood donation.
• Bring your photo ID and social security number (last four digits required).
Connie Clibourn
CDC Field Recruiter
LifeSource Chicagoland's Blood Center
Phone: 847-226-4848
E-mail: cclibourn@itxm.org
10/31 Football at Northwestern! 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
Contact me: 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. Home Comfort Heating & Cooling - 847.824.4336
5. J.C. Lilly Windows & Doors - 773-588-4332
6. Leys, Kirsten - Prudential Financial Services 847.627.3950
7. PC Medic Computer Repair - Jerry Flanagan 847.299.5556
8. Resurrection Health Care - Theresa Olson 847.813.3210
9. Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S.P.C. & Associates 847.825.1002
10. Sebastian Co. Real Estate - Don Sebastian, Jr. 847.823.3117
11. State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek 847.692.3260
12. The Exercise Coach - Chad Finney 847.823.0035
13. The McTigue Financial Group - Tom Canale 773.380.4025
14. You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services - Lynda Tourloukis 847.401.5787
15. Y-Tech Heating & Cooling - 847-696-0477
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
Gail's Weekly Chamber UDPATE
Fall is in the air! Enjoyed spending time with the family this weekend. We took my in-laws, Bob & Jeanne Haller, out to celebrate their 64th wedding anniversary!
We’re asking for nominations for the Park Ridge Community Star Awards. Go to www.parkridgechamber.org on the 1st page under Announcements to download the letter and forms. We need nominations back to the Chamber no later than Friday, October 16 because we want to include the names in all our invitations and press releases. The awards will be given at the Annual Installation & Community Star Awards Dinner at the Country Club on Saturday, January 23, 2010.
The Chamber held its monthly networking luncheon at member Park Ridge Country Club last week in honor of the Park Ridge Community Fund which kicked off its annual fall campaign! We served 109 meals so thank you to all who came.
The Country Club always does a beautiful and elegant luncheon and our meal was fabulous and the service superb. Thank you to Tom McHugh and his staff for always taking such good care of us!
Through the raffles, we raised about $500 for the Community Fund and, more importantly, raised awareness to the continuing need to help our neighbors. All donations to the PRCF help Park Ridge residents and stay within the community so please open your heart and your checkbook to give generously. www.prcommunityfund.org
David Barker, president of the PRCF, eloquently told the ‘Stone Soup’ parable similar to ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, it takes everyone pitching in to take care of our own community.
Pat Ahern, Rainbow Hospice, and Bob Okazaki, Avenues to Independence, both spoke of community, caring, giving and sharing. “We’re better because you’re here.”
Thank you to all those who donated prizes for our drawings! We had more than 30 raffle prizes to give away.
1. Four Park Ridge Taxi Gift Certificate: one-way trip to or from Park Ridge to O’Hare $20 each
2. Two Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Baskets –
3. Four Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce $20 gift
4. Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce $25 gift certificate (donated by John Barrett, men’s winner of Harry O’Brien Community Run/Walk)
5. Comfort Inn O’Hare/Des Plaines One Complimentary Night Stay for Two
6. Two Champagne Ticket for free glass of champagne at Fantastic Fun Friday Night on Friday, October 16th
7. Three Resurrection Health Care Blanket
8. “Pot o’ Soup Fixin’s” State Farm Insurance and Financial Services – Ann Witek & Dominic’s Kitchen Store, valued at $400
9. WineStyles – wine tasting for up to 20, 2 hours during store hours
10. Ceramic Vase created by Designs by Dorothy Dusold
11. Two Houlihan’s Restaurant Gift Card $25
12. All on the Road Catering $25 Gift Certificate
13. Four The Perfect Dinner $25 Gift Certificates
14. The 5 Senses Real Science Made Easy from Emily Kosaka, President of The Park Ridge Fine Arts Society
15. 4 Cubs tickets from Howard Frimark
16. Cold pack, screening and massage from Sarah Kovaleski-Kraut, Advanced Physical Therapy & Health Services
17. Order My Gift gift card catalog Ribbon Collection from Karen Larsen
Last Friday, Lenscrafters had their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Mayor Schmidt and City Manager Jim Hock and Chamber members, Ambassadors, and Board Members came out to celebrate the special occasion. Catering was by Jason’s Deli.
September 23, 8:45am-9:45am Retail Committee Meeting. Network and brainstorm ideas to bring more traffic through our stores. Meeting at Chamber.
September 24, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking
Intelimind - Mark Voris, co-hosts with Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice located at 10 S. Northwest Highway.
September 25, 8:00a.m.-9:30a.m. Women in Business Breakfast Meeting
The Personality Puzzle presented by Karen Larsen, Order My Gift. The Summit of Uptown, 10 N. Summit, Park Ridge. Member $10, Prospective Member $15.
September 30, Wed, 9 – 10:30 New Membership Committee meeting at the Chamber offices to discuss October’s membership drive.
October 10, AutumnFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 50 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Live music by The Break, Speedfreak, Celtic Bikini! Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge! www.Prautumnfest.wordpress.com
October 13, 8:00am-9:00am New Member Orientation Regus, 350 S. Northwest Hwy, Suite 300, Park Ridge – Hosted by Chamber Ambassadors to familiarize newer members with Chamber benefits. October 14, 11:30pm-1:30pm Monthly Luncheon Riggio’s Ristorante, 7530 Oakton
Niles, 847-698-3346. Featured Speaker: Todd Wessel, editor Journal Newspaper, published author.
October 16, 7:00pm-10:00pm Fantastic Fun Friday! 720 Garden Street, Nonprofit Center. Games, Spa samplings, sweets and so much more!
October 21, 5:00pm-7:00pm Women in Business After Hours Networking Event. Dominic's Kitchen Store, 116 Main St. Park Ridge. Holiday Cooking - food, drinks and networking! Member $10 Prospective Member $15.
October 22, 3:00pm-6:00pm Multi Chamber Business to Business Expo & Taste. Bristol Court Banquets. 3 – 6 p.m. 9 Chambers participating!
October 23, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 1 Park Ridge Executive Network Leads and referral group within the Chamber with just one person per profession. Chamber Offices, 720 Garden St. Park Ridge.
October 27, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 Park Ridge Executive Network Chamber Offices, 720 Garden St. One person per industry.
October 27, 5pm-7pm Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Houlihan’s Restaurant, 550 W. Touhy Ave. Join fellow Chamber members and Ambassadors and Mayor Schmidt as we welcome Houlihan’s to Park Ridge.
October 29, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking Morningfields, 800 Devon See their wine shop, bakery, specialty goods & more!
Chic Harley Book Launch Announced
“The One and Only,” the full-length biography of the life of Charles “Chic” Harley, written by family-member Todd C. Wessell, is available now. The book can be purchased online at www.chicharley.com and at special upcoming book-signing events. A free DVD with special Harley photos and other materials will be included in book purchases while supplies last.
Wessell is Published and Editor of The Journal & Topics Newspapers based in Des Plaines, Illinois.
The official launch party for “The One and Only” will be June 17 from 6-8 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 2930 S. River Rd., Des Plaines, Illinois. There will be a special live presentation by Wessell along with the first book-signing. The evening, complete with light hor d’ourves and a cash bar, will take place in cooperation with the Chicago Chapter of the Ohio State Alumni Association. The event is open to the public and admission is free. Please R.S.V.P. by emailing booklaunch@chicharley.com or by calling 847-299-5511. Free parking is available at the hotel lot as well as the adjacent lot, directly to the
For other events or for more details on the book, please visit www.chicharley.com or call 847-299-5511.
Football Mania tickets are still on sale! We have 16 winners left to announce – each week our Chamber tickets sold include one winner! Last week one of Tom Dombro’s tickets that he sold won $100! We would have had another $200 winner but that ticket didn’t get sold yet.
Come to the Chamber to buy your ticket for just $20.
AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!
Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, is the chair of the Chamber’s Retail Committee which is planning “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.
Events are a Costumed Pet Parade around the library at 9:30 a.m. Krisers is providing goody bags! Retailers will decorate their windows with a specific theme and the library will plan an I Spy Scavenger Hunt. Contests for best windows, tastings, live bands (The Break and Speedfreak are both confirmed!), store sales, and themed window displays are all in the works.
This is all being done with no budget so if you wanted to sponsor, we could get flyers, post cards, and book markers printed - we have a really cool logo designed for the event!
Check out the website: www.Prautumnfest.wordpress.com
For more information, contact the Chamber at 847-825-3121; or Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; hillschocolates@sbcglobal.net; 847-318-6801. Our list of themed windows is growing and we are past the goal of 50 participants:
On Thursday, October 22, 2009, the Des Plaines, Edison Park, Greater Lincolnshire, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Park Ridge, Skokie and Wheeling/Prospect Heights Chambers of Commerce will hold a “TASTE” in conjunction with our 2009 Multi-Chamber Fall Business-to-Business Expo. Booths are available (value $300) to any member restaurant, caterer, deli or banquet hall who wishes to offer complimentary samples of their food during the event.
The Multi-Chamber Expo and Taste will be held at the Bristol Court Banquets, 828 E. Rand Road, Mount Prospect from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Expected attendance is 600 business people.
Each Taste participant will be invited to showcase their delicacies/food samples, distribute menus, and meet potential customers. We ask that you provide an adequate quantity of food highlighting one or two of your specialties. The Chamber will provide a 6-ft. skirted table with two chairs in an 10x10 (wide) booth.
There will be no cooking allowed on site so food will have to be transported from your business location. There is a $25 charge for use of an electrical outlet.
The available food booths are limited so we ask that you RETURN the completed contract by September 25th. This will allow all the chambers of commerce time to promote your name on event materials. It is important that you respond quickly. Booths will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Email me for the contract.
Spring Fest Idea Begins To Blossom
Journal & Topics Newspapers Online
Spring Fest Idea Begins To Blossom
By CRAIG ADAMS Journal & Topics Reporter
Although still in the planning stages, a possible Red Geranium Festival in Park Ridge is taking shape.
"I've gotten a lot of interest," said Gail Haller, Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce executive director. "We are looking at next spring."
She explained that she was researching festivals in other towns that are based on different flowers, and then she discovered that Park Ridge has an official flower: the red geranium.
"I didn't see an official bird; I didn't see an official anything else," she said. "I thought that would be so cool to have everyone growing red geraniums."
Haller spoke to several business owners in town and received a lot of positive interest. One of the interested businesses is TeaLula where owner Sheila Duda agreed to research and create a red geranium tea for the event.
Haller hopes to involve the Park Ridge Garden Club in judging of red geranium gardens and to bring in the schools and art classes with a logo contest. She foresees parades, pageants, and games in coming years.
"It could grow and take a life of its own like the Taste of Park Ridge," she said.
Story posted Wednesday, September 16, 2009
I visited:
Accents by Jenny
Park Ridge Public Library
Oakton Ice Rink
Tom Canale, McTigue Financial Group
Noodles & Co.
Lenscrafters Optique
Jewel Foods
Walgreens
WineStyles
Potbellys
Regus
Dominic's Kitchen Store & Just Chef It.com was on WGN News Around Town segment with Ana. We want our very own Dominic to become a regular on WGN and here’s how.
WGN relies on the feedback from viewers. Chef Dom will post it on his website soon www.justCHEFit.com so send WGN a quick email saying that you enjoyed seeing Dominic from Dominic's Kitchen Store on the Around Town Segment on Sept. 10.
Include:
Your FIRST Name Only
Your Town
Your Zipcode
Brief Note saying that you loved the Tailgating Cooking Demo on Around the Town on Sept. 10!
Send the email to: wgntvnews@tribune.com
I did it and it was easy and fast!
The Kalo Foundation is hosting their ‘Arts & Carafes’! Friday, September 25 at the Park Ridge Country Club!
Experience an amazing evening of wine, food, music, and art. Enjoy a sit-down wine tasting perfectly paired with delicious gourmet food, great entertainment and a lively silent auction.
$50 per person. www.kalofoundation.org for more info.
"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
Park Ridge against Parkinson’s – WineStyles is hosting a wine tasting with appetizers to benefit those with Parkinson’s disease Friday October 23rd from 6-9 where you can taste over 30 wines and snack on lovely appetizers at Park Ridge Country Club.
$40 per person, all proceeds to go towards Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s disease research.
Tracy Bell/owner
WineStyles Park Ridge, 105 S. Northwest Highway
847-518-WINE (9463)
http://www.winestyles.net/impdates.asp?id=457625&page=1
The Park Ridge Ministerial Association sponsors the Sunday Suppers Ministry that serves nutritious meals in a welcoming atmosphere to those in need on Sunday evenings. The suppers take place at St. Paul of the Cross Church in the Parish Life Center.
With winter coming upon us, they are looking for donations of 75 warm winter scarves to give to those in need.
Their goal is to begin distributing the scarves the first Sunday in November...hopefully before the temperatures begin to drop or the snow flies. The need is for approximately 25 - Male; 25 - Female; 15 - Unisex; 5 - Boys; 5 - Girls.
Members of the Chamber can call Susan Raap at 773-416-0536 or email her at susan.raap@gmail.com for more details or to arrange for dropping off items - or - to have them picked up.
What a worthy cause – thanks Sue who works at member Rosewood Restaurant! If you can knit, please knit a scarf to keep someone warm (like a hug!)
SAVE THE DATE: The Board is making plans for a FALL GARAGE AND MEMBERS PLANT SALE, tentatively set for Friday and Saturday October 2nd and 3rd. We're announcing it now because we'd like you to save your good "stuff" for our sale. If you're cleaning out a basement, closet, or garage, please hold onto the good things for our sale. The plant sale part will consist of member plants only.
Donate blood and you could win a Viking Cooking School class!
You could win a cooking class for two, compliments of Viking Cooking School, 140-D N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, IL and learn to cook from the professionals.
From October 1-31, 2009 all participating donors at the Glenview, Skokie and Lake Zurich donor centers are eligible to win. There will be one winner from each donor center.
Additionally, when you make a blood donation with LifeSource, you will receive a free Mini-Wellness Check, which includes pulse, temperature, hemoglobin (iron), blood pressure and cholesterol screening.
To schedule your donation appointment, please contact LifeSource at 1-877-543-3768. Please do the following to prepare for your blood donation:
• Eat a good meal prior to your blood donation.
• Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your blood donation.
• Bring your photo ID and social security number (last four digits required).
Connie Clibourn
CDC Field Recruiter
LifeSource Chicagoland's Blood Center
Phone: 847-226-4848
E-mail: cclibourn@itxm.org
“Buy 4 TribLocal ads and get 2 for free!”
TribLocal is the Hyper-local weekly newspaper that is produced through the joint cooperation and participation of TribLocal journalists and residents of your community. It is distributed weekly within the Chicago Tribune on the top of the front page of the home delivered papers as well as inserted inside the single copy papers. It is a great way to reach your immediate trade area!
Call Erin Foley for more information at 708-836-2773
http://www.d64.org/site/files/strategicplan_8_09_flyer.pdf
http://www.d64.org/form.php?fid=d02925373b593a7352246ee84106f59d&admvw=y
Volunteers Invited to Join School District 64 Strategic Plan “Action Teams” by September 25
More than 100 volunteers are needed to assist with planning work this fall as Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 tackles the next phase in developing its strategic plan. Community residents are invited to join with teachers and other District 64 staff to craft the steps needed to implement the draft plan’s five broad strategies.
“What will District 64 schools be like in 2020? We are inviting community members of all ages and backgrounds to help us answer this question by joining an action team to work with us from October through January,” Superintendent Sally Pryor stated. “The action team topics are wide-ranging, and we hope community members will step forward for a team that sparks their curiosity, inspires their passion, or matches their interests or expertise,” she added.
Volunteers are invited to complete a brief form on-line via the District’s Web site (www.d64.org) or e-mail or call Dr. Pryor’s office (spryor@d64.org or 847-318-4300) by Friday, September 25. At least 15-20 volunteers are needed for each action team, which ideally will have a balance of community members and District staff.
The five action teams are:
1. Accelerating the Advanced Use of Technology – We will accelerate the use of advanced technology as an integral component of the educational program and to effectively manage our system.
2. Building a Model for Personal Student Goals – We will develop and implement a model for setting, measuring and achieving personal goals for each student related to academics, civil behavior, talents and interests.
3. Collaboration within Our Partnership – We will develop and implement plans to ensure all members of our vital partnership (staff, families, community members and organizations) are working collaboratively to help us achieve our mission.
4. Expectations for Student Learning and Instructional Practices – We will define and clarify expectations for student learning, ensure all staff effectively differentiate instruction, and use assessment data to support students in meeting or exceeding the District’s targeted benchmarks.
5. Providing Support and Tools for Change – We will develop and implement plans to ensure staff and community members understand, are committed to, and have the tools to carry out changes within the system that are needed to achieve our mission and objectives.
The action teams will begin their work on Thursday evening, October 8 at Emerson Middle School. Dr. Howard Feddema, the District’s Strategic Plan facilitator, will lead a general orientation and the teams will then begin work. The teams will set their own pace through the fall, and will wrap up in January.
The key components of the draft plan were developed late this spring by a separate planning team and presented to the Board of Education in May. The key components include: beliefs; mission; objectives; strategies; and, parameters. The full plan is available on the District 64 Web site (www.d64.org).
As stated in the draft plan: “The mission of District 64, a vital partnership of staff, families and community, is to inspire all students to embrace learning, discover their strengths and achieve personal excellence in order to thrive in and contribute to a rapidly changing world by providing a rich, rigorous and innovative curriculum integrating civil behavior and fostering resilience.”
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
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. Home Comfort Heating & Cooling - 847.824.4336
5. J.C. Lilly Windows & Doors - 773-588-4332
6. Leys, Kirsten - Prudential Financial Services 847.627.3950
7. PC Medic Computer Repair - Jerry Flanagan 847.299.5556
8. Resurrection Health Care - Theresa Olson 847.813.3210
9. Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S.P.C. & Associates 847.825.1002
10. Sebastian Co. Real Estate - Don Sebastian, Jr. 847.823.3117
11. State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek 847.692.3260
12. The Exercise Coach - Chad Finney 847.823.0035
13. The McTigue Financial Group - Tom Canale 773.380.4025
14. You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services - Lynda Tourloukis 847.401.5787
15. Y-Tech Heating & Cooling - 847-696-0477
We’re asking for nominations for the Park Ridge Community Star Awards. Go to www.parkridgechamber.org on the 1st page under Announcements to download the letter and forms. We need nominations back to the Chamber no later than Friday, October 16 because we want to include the names in all our invitations and press releases. The awards will be given at the Annual Installation & Community Star Awards Dinner at the Country Club on Saturday, January 23, 2010.
The Chamber held its monthly networking luncheon at member Park Ridge Country Club last week in honor of the Park Ridge Community Fund which kicked off its annual fall campaign! We served 109 meals so thank you to all who came.
The Country Club always does a beautiful and elegant luncheon and our meal was fabulous and the service superb. Thank you to Tom McHugh and his staff for always taking such good care of us!
Through the raffles, we raised about $500 for the Community Fund and, more importantly, raised awareness to the continuing need to help our neighbors. All donations to the PRCF help Park Ridge residents and stay within the community so please open your heart and your checkbook to give generously. www.prcommunityfund.org
David Barker, president of the PRCF, eloquently told the ‘Stone Soup’ parable similar to ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, it takes everyone pitching in to take care of our own community.
Pat Ahern, Rainbow Hospice, and Bob Okazaki, Avenues to Independence, both spoke of community, caring, giving and sharing. “We’re better because you’re here.”
Thank you to all those who donated prizes for our drawings! We had more than 30 raffle prizes to give away.
1. Four Park Ridge Taxi Gift Certificate: one-way trip to or from Park Ridge to O’Hare $20 each
2. Two Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Baskets –
3. Four Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce $20 gift
4. Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce $25 gift certificate (donated by John Barrett, men’s winner of Harry O’Brien Community Run/Walk)
5. Comfort Inn O’Hare/Des Plaines One Complimentary Night Stay for Two
6. Two Champagne Ticket for free glass of champagne at Fantastic Fun Friday Night on Friday, October 16th
7. Three Resurrection Health Care Blanket
8. “Pot o’ Soup Fixin’s” State Farm Insurance and Financial Services – Ann Witek & Dominic’s Kitchen Store, valued at $400
9. WineStyles – wine tasting for up to 20, 2 hours during store hours
10. Ceramic Vase created by Designs by Dorothy Dusold
11. Two Houlihan’s Restaurant Gift Card $25
12. All on the Road Catering $25 Gift Certificate
13. Four The Perfect Dinner $25 Gift Certificates
14. The 5 Senses Real Science Made Easy from Emily Kosaka, President of The Park Ridge Fine Arts Society
15. 4 Cubs tickets from Howard Frimark
16. Cold pack, screening and massage from Sarah Kovaleski-Kraut, Advanced Physical Therapy & Health Services
17. Order My Gift gift card catalog Ribbon Collection from Karen Larsen
Last Friday, Lenscrafters had their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Mayor Schmidt and City Manager Jim Hock and Chamber members, Ambassadors, and Board Members came out to celebrate the special occasion. Catering was by Jason’s Deli.
September 23, 8:45am-9:45am Retail Committee Meeting. Network and brainstorm ideas to bring more traffic through our stores. Meeting at Chamber.
September 24, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking
Intelimind - Mark Voris, co-hosts with Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice located at 10 S. Northwest Highway.
September 25, 8:00a.m.-9:30a.m. Women in Business Breakfast Meeting
The Personality Puzzle presented by Karen Larsen, Order My Gift. The Summit of Uptown, 10 N. Summit, Park Ridge. Member $10, Prospective Member $15.
September 30, Wed, 9 – 10:30 New Membership Committee meeting at the Chamber offices to discuss October’s membership drive.
October 10, AutumnFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 50 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Live music by The Break, Speedfreak, Celtic Bikini! Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge! www.Prautumnfest.wordpress.com
October 13, 8:00am-9:00am New Member Orientation Regus, 350 S. Northwest Hwy, Suite 300, Park Ridge – Hosted by Chamber Ambassadors to familiarize newer members with Chamber benefits. October 14, 11:30pm-1:30pm Monthly Luncheon Riggio’s Ristorante, 7530 Oakton
Niles, 847-698-3346. Featured Speaker: Todd Wessel, editor Journal Newspaper, published author.
October 16, 7:00pm-10:00pm Fantastic Fun Friday! 720 Garden Street, Nonprofit Center. Games, Spa samplings, sweets and so much more!
October 21, 5:00pm-7:00pm Women in Business After Hours Networking Event. Dominic's Kitchen Store, 116 Main St. Park Ridge. Holiday Cooking - food, drinks and networking! Member $10 Prospective Member $15.
October 22, 3:00pm-6:00pm Multi Chamber Business to Business Expo & Taste. Bristol Court Banquets. 3 – 6 p.m. 9 Chambers participating!
October 23, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 1 Park Ridge Executive Network Leads and referral group within the Chamber with just one person per profession. Chamber Offices, 720 Garden St. Park Ridge.
October 27, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 Park Ridge Executive Network Chamber Offices, 720 Garden St. One person per industry.
October 27, 5pm-7pm Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Houlihan’s Restaurant, 550 W. Touhy Ave. Join fellow Chamber members and Ambassadors and Mayor Schmidt as we welcome Houlihan’s to Park Ridge.
October 29, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking Morningfields, 800 Devon See their wine shop, bakery, specialty goods & more!
Chic Harley Book Launch Announced
“The One and Only,” the full-length biography of the life of Charles “Chic” Harley, written by family-member Todd C. Wessell, is available now. The book can be purchased online at www.chicharley.com and at special upcoming book-signing events. A free DVD with special Harley photos and other materials will be included in book purchases while supplies last.
Wessell is Published and Editor of The Journal & Topics Newspapers based in Des Plaines, Illinois.
The official launch party for “The One and Only” will be June 17 from 6-8 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 2930 S. River Rd., Des Plaines, Illinois. There will be a special live presentation by Wessell along with the first book-signing. The evening, complete with light hor d’ourves and a cash bar, will take place in cooperation with the Chicago Chapter of the Ohio State Alumni Association. The event is open to the public and admission is free. Please R.S.V.P. by emailing booklaunch@chicharley.com or by calling 847-299-5511. Free parking is available at the hotel lot as well as the adjacent lot, directly to the
For other events or for more details on the book, please visit www.chicharley.com or call 847-299-5511.
Football Mania tickets are still on sale! We have 16 winners left to announce – each week our Chamber tickets sold include one winner! Last week one of Tom Dombro’s tickets that he sold won $100! We would have had another $200 winner but that ticket didn’t get sold yet.
Come to the Chamber to buy your ticket for just $20.
AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!
Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, is the chair of the Chamber’s Retail Committee which is planning “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.
Events are a Costumed Pet Parade around the library at 9:30 a.m. Krisers is providing goody bags! Retailers will decorate their windows with a specific theme and the library will plan an I Spy Scavenger Hunt. Contests for best windows, tastings, live bands (The Break and Speedfreak are both confirmed!), store sales, and themed window displays are all in the works.
This is all being done with no budget so if you wanted to sponsor, we could get flyers, post cards, and book markers printed - we have a really cool logo designed for the event!
Check out the website: www.Prautumnfest.wordpress.com
For more information, contact the Chamber at 847-825-3121; or Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; hillschocolates@sbcglobal.net; 847-318-6801. Our list of themed windows is growing and we are past the goal of 50 participants:
On Thursday, October 22, 2009, the Des Plaines, Edison Park, Greater Lincolnshire, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Park Ridge, Skokie and Wheeling/Prospect Heights Chambers of Commerce will hold a “TASTE” in conjunction with our 2009 Multi-Chamber Fall Business-to-Business Expo. Booths are available (value $300) to any member restaurant, caterer, deli or banquet hall who wishes to offer complimentary samples of their food during the event.
The Multi-Chamber Expo and Taste will be held at the Bristol Court Banquets, 828 E. Rand Road, Mount Prospect from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Expected attendance is 600 business people.
Each Taste participant will be invited to showcase their delicacies/food samples, distribute menus, and meet potential customers. We ask that you provide an adequate quantity of food highlighting one or two of your specialties. The Chamber will provide a 6-ft. skirted table with two chairs in an 10x10 (wide) booth.
There will be no cooking allowed on site so food will have to be transported from your business location. There is a $25 charge for use of an electrical outlet.
The available food booths are limited so we ask that you RETURN the completed contract by September 25th. This will allow all the chambers of commerce time to promote your name on event materials. It is important that you respond quickly. Booths will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Email me for the contract.
Spring Fest Idea Begins To Blossom
Journal & Topics Newspapers Online
Spring Fest Idea Begins To Blossom
By CRAIG ADAMS Journal & Topics Reporter
Although still in the planning stages, a possible Red Geranium Festival in Park Ridge is taking shape.
"I've gotten a lot of interest," said Gail Haller, Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce executive director. "We are looking at next spring."
She explained that she was researching festivals in other towns that are based on different flowers, and then she discovered that Park Ridge has an official flower: the red geranium.
"I didn't see an official bird; I didn't see an official anything else," she said. "I thought that would be so cool to have everyone growing red geraniums."
Haller spoke to several business owners in town and received a lot of positive interest. One of the interested businesses is TeaLula where owner Sheila Duda agreed to research and create a red geranium tea for the event.
Haller hopes to involve the Park Ridge Garden Club in judging of red geranium gardens and to bring in the schools and art classes with a logo contest. She foresees parades, pageants, and games in coming years.
"It could grow and take a life of its own like the Taste of Park Ridge," she said.
Story posted Wednesday, September 16, 2009
I visited:
Accents by Jenny
Park Ridge Public Library
Oakton Ice Rink
Tom Canale, McTigue Financial Group
Noodles & Co.
Lenscrafters Optique
Jewel Foods
Walgreens
WineStyles
Potbellys
Regus
Dominic's Kitchen Store & Just Chef It.com was on WGN News Around Town segment with Ana. We want our very own Dominic to become a regular on WGN and here’s how.
WGN relies on the feedback from viewers. Chef Dom will post it on his website soon www.justCHEFit.com so send WGN a quick email saying that you enjoyed seeing Dominic from Dominic's Kitchen Store on the Around Town Segment on Sept. 10.
Include:
Your FIRST Name Only
Your Town
Your Zipcode
Brief Note saying that you loved the Tailgating Cooking Demo on Around the Town on Sept. 10!
Send the email to: wgntvnews@tribune.com
I did it and it was easy and fast!
The Kalo Foundation is hosting their ‘Arts & Carafes’! Friday, September 25 at the Park Ridge Country Club!
Experience an amazing evening of wine, food, music, and art. Enjoy a sit-down wine tasting perfectly paired with delicious gourmet food, great entertainment and a lively silent auction.
$50 per person. www.kalofoundation.org for more info.
"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
Park Ridge against Parkinson’s – WineStyles is hosting a wine tasting with appetizers to benefit those with Parkinson’s disease Friday October 23rd from 6-9 where you can taste over 30 wines and snack on lovely appetizers at Park Ridge Country Club.
$40 per person, all proceeds to go towards Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s disease research.
Tracy Bell/owner
WineStyles Park Ridge, 105 S. Northwest Highway
847-518-WINE (9463)
http://www.winestyles.net/impdates.asp?id=457625&page=1
The Park Ridge Ministerial Association sponsors the Sunday Suppers Ministry that serves nutritious meals in a welcoming atmosphere to those in need on Sunday evenings. The suppers take place at St. Paul of the Cross Church in the Parish Life Center.
With winter coming upon us, they are looking for donations of 75 warm winter scarves to give to those in need.
Their goal is to begin distributing the scarves the first Sunday in November...hopefully before the temperatures begin to drop or the snow flies. The need is for approximately 25 - Male; 25 - Female; 15 - Unisex; 5 - Boys; 5 - Girls.
Members of the Chamber can call Susan Raap at 773-416-0536 or email her at susan.raap@gmail.com for more details or to arrange for dropping off items - or - to have them picked up.
What a worthy cause – thanks Sue who works at member Rosewood Restaurant! If you can knit, please knit a scarf to keep someone warm (like a hug!)
SAVE THE DATE: The Board is making plans for a FALL GARAGE AND MEMBERS PLANT SALE, tentatively set for Friday and Saturday October 2nd and 3rd. We're announcing it now because we'd like you to save your good "stuff" for our sale. If you're cleaning out a basement, closet, or garage, please hold onto the good things for our sale. The plant sale part will consist of member plants only.
Donate blood and you could win a Viking Cooking School class!
You could win a cooking class for two, compliments of Viking Cooking School, 140-D N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, IL and learn to cook from the professionals.
From October 1-31, 2009 all participating donors at the Glenview, Skokie and Lake Zurich donor centers are eligible to win. There will be one winner from each donor center.
Additionally, when you make a blood donation with LifeSource, you will receive a free Mini-Wellness Check, which includes pulse, temperature, hemoglobin (iron), blood pressure and cholesterol screening.
To schedule your donation appointment, please contact LifeSource at 1-877-543-3768. Please do the following to prepare for your blood donation:
• Eat a good meal prior to your blood donation.
• Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your blood donation.
• Bring your photo ID and social security number (last four digits required).
Connie Clibourn
CDC Field Recruiter
LifeSource Chicagoland's Blood Center
Phone: 847-226-4848
E-mail: cclibourn@itxm.org
“Buy 4 TribLocal ads and get 2 for free!”
TribLocal is the Hyper-local weekly newspaper that is produced through the joint cooperation and participation of TribLocal journalists and residents of your community. It is distributed weekly within the Chicago Tribune on the top of the front page of the home delivered papers as well as inserted inside the single copy papers. It is a great way to reach your immediate trade area!
Call Erin Foley for more information at 708-836-2773
http://www.d64.org/site/files/strategicplan_8_09_flyer.pdf
http://www.d64.org/form.php?fid=d02925373b593a7352246ee84106f59d&admvw=y
Volunteers Invited to Join School District 64 Strategic Plan “Action Teams” by September 25
More than 100 volunteers are needed to assist with planning work this fall as Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 tackles the next phase in developing its strategic plan. Community residents are invited to join with teachers and other District 64 staff to craft the steps needed to implement the draft plan’s five broad strategies.
“What will District 64 schools be like in 2020? We are inviting community members of all ages and backgrounds to help us answer this question by joining an action team to work with us from October through January,” Superintendent Sally Pryor stated. “The action team topics are wide-ranging, and we hope community members will step forward for a team that sparks their curiosity, inspires their passion, or matches their interests or expertise,” she added.
Volunteers are invited to complete a brief form on-line via the District’s Web site (www.d64.org) or e-mail or call Dr. Pryor’s office (spryor@d64.org or 847-318-4300) by Friday, September 25. At least 15-20 volunteers are needed for each action team, which ideally will have a balance of community members and District staff.
The five action teams are:
1. Accelerating the Advanced Use of Technology – We will accelerate the use of advanced technology as an integral component of the educational program and to effectively manage our system.
2. Building a Model for Personal Student Goals – We will develop and implement a model for setting, measuring and achieving personal goals for each student related to academics, civil behavior, talents and interests.
3. Collaboration within Our Partnership – We will develop and implement plans to ensure all members of our vital partnership (staff, families, community members and organizations) are working collaboratively to help us achieve our mission.
4. Expectations for Student Learning and Instructional Practices – We will define and clarify expectations for student learning, ensure all staff effectively differentiate instruction, and use assessment data to support students in meeting or exceeding the District’s targeted benchmarks.
5. Providing Support and Tools for Change – We will develop and implement plans to ensure staff and community members understand, are committed to, and have the tools to carry out changes within the system that are needed to achieve our mission and objectives.
The action teams will begin their work on Thursday evening, October 8 at Emerson Middle School. Dr. Howard Feddema, the District’s Strategic Plan facilitator, will lead a general orientation and the teams will then begin work. The teams will set their own pace through the fall, and will wrap up in January.
The key components of the draft plan were developed late this spring by a separate planning team and presented to the Board of Education in May. The key components include: beliefs; mission; objectives; strategies; and, parameters. The full plan is available on the District 64 Web site (www.d64.org).
As stated in the draft plan: “The mission of District 64, a vital partnership of staff, families and community, is to inspire all students to embrace learning, discover their strengths and achieve personal excellence in order to thrive in and contribute to a rapidly changing world by providing a rich, rigorous and innovative curriculum integrating civil behavior and fostering resilience.”
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
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. Home Comfort Heating & Cooling - 847.824.4336
5. J.C. Lilly Windows & Doors - 773-588-4332
6. Leys, Kirsten - Prudential Financial Services 847.627.3950
7. PC Medic Computer Repair - Jerry Flanagan 847.299.5556
8. Resurrection Health Care - Theresa Olson 847.813.3210
9. Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S.P.C. & Associates 847.825.1002
10. Sebastian Co. Real Estate - Don Sebastian, Jr. 847.823.3117
11. State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek 847.692.3260
12. The Exercise Coach - Chad Finney 847.823.0035
13. The McTigue Financial Group - Tom Canale 773.380.4025
14. You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services - Lynda Tourloukis 847.401.5787
15. Y-Tech Heating & Cooling - 847-696-0477
Monday, September 14, 2009
Gail's Weekly Chamber UPDATE
Hasn’t this just been beautiful weather? I worked in my garden for several hours yesterday and have the aches and pains to prove it. I wanted to go to the bunco party for the Center of Concern on Friday but Lian and I went to the Washington Back to School picnic instead. Lian got a lemon ice from Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice! The kids were dancing to a DJ and having a blast! Hope you’re out enjoying the lovely weather too for you know it will be winter all too soon!
Did you know that the Governor Quinn proclaimed this week, September 14 to 19, Chamber of Commerce Week in Illinois? Thanks to Rosemary Sajovic, the Journal did a nice 2 page spread with a picture of the Chamber staff last week – check it out! Pages 8-9A. (Picture by A Sterling Design!) And, the front page showed the colorful Harry O’Brien Community Run (which John Barrett won!) – thanks for the coverage!
October is our Membership Drive month – stay tuned for exciting info on it!
Golf Outing on Sept 9 with Skokie Chamber!
The Park Ridge Chamber Golf Outing was a huge success! Skokie was the perfect partner for us. Together we had about 72 golfers and with 30 more for dinner, so about 100 for dinner, open bar, raffle prizes galore! And, as promised, the weather was absolutely perfect that day – overcast, high 70’s, with nice cool breezes.
Our very own Karen Anderson, president of the Chamber and principal of Dental Auxiliary Placement Service won the $800 Sharp high definition flat screen television! I’m so glad one of our members won it – and especially my board president! Just so you know, I did NOT pull the winning ticket – someone else did!
A huge thank you to all our sponsors – we could not have been successful without you! The raffles brought in about $2400 which both Chambers will split equally.
Sponsors:
A Sterling Design – Diddy Blyth
Allstate Insurance Co. – Pat Riordan
Carlucci Rosemont
Dave Donovan and Pete Donovan
Ehlers, Shirlee (Realtor)
ING Financial Advisors – Tom Dombro
Liberty Bank for Savings
Maine Community Youth Assistance Foundation (MCYAF)
Parkway Bank
Rozovics & Wojcicki, PC
Ten til Two Chicago – North Shore
WSI (We Simplify the Internet)
Goody Bag Sponsors
Cathy Janus, Marc Printing & Graphic provided the bags
Duraclean Services
EJ Coyne Insurance
Park Ridge Public Library
Pioneer Press
The Bethany Terrace
Parkway Bank
Raffle Donors:
2 Sisters
Activision Electric, Inc.
Affordable Interiors
All on the Road Catering
Comfort Inn O'Hare
Duraclean Services
Erica's Jewelry
Houlihan's Restaurants
Hyatt Regency O'Hare
Jackie's Nails & Spa
Jewel Food Store
Journal & Topics
Le Peep Restaurant
MocteNet PC & Video, Inc.
Oakton Community College
Order My Gift
Outback Steakhouse
Parkway Bank
Positive Changes Chicago
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Savvy Salon & Spa
State Representative Rosemary Mulligan
Tasty Pup
WineStyles
WSI (We Simplify the Internet)
You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services
Volunteers:
Dorothy and Cindy, Chamber
Anna Wasyliw, Harris Bank
Karen Anderson, Dental Auxiliary Placement Service, Inc.
Mark Decker, Rosemary Mulligan's Office
Monthly Networking Luncheon Sept 16 The Chamber’s monthly networking luncheon this month is Sept. 16 – in 2 days! It will be held at the Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect, and is in honor of the Park Ridge Community Fund. We’re hoping for over 100 people as we had last year so please rsvp asap! If you get your reservation in by today 4:30, then we’ll keep it at $25. Starting tomorrow, its $30!
We’re accepting donations for the raffle and proceeds will go to the PR Community Fund. I hope you can make it. As you know, social agencies are hard hit by the economy and it takes all of us to do our part to help our neighbors. One of the wonderful things about the PRCF is that it stays within Park Ridge.
Here is who’s coming as of this moment – so if you don’t see your name, call now to reserve your spot (remember $25 today; $30 tomorrow and Wed):
First Name Last Name Affiliation
1 Paul Adlaf Park Ridge Historical Society
2 Pat Ahern Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
3 Brian Ahern Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
4 Dirk Ahlbeck NW Suburban Day Care Center
5 David Barker President, Park Ridge Community Fund
6 John Barrett barrett-TECH
7 Dick Barton Barton & Barton Ltd.
8 Diddy Blyth A Sterling Design
9 Nick Boudreau Edward Jones
10 Dorothy Brownstein Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
11 Kelli Christensen Ross E. Rubino, DDS
12 Cindy Clark Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
13 Connie Clibourn LifeSource Chicagoland's Blood Center
14 Maureen
Connelly
The Youth Campus
15 Dyan Dalesandro Frost, Ruttenberg & Rothblatt, P.C.
16 Wes Davis Wes Davis Insurance
17 Thom De Vries Loyola Center for Heart & Vascular Medicine at Park Ridge
18 Marci Derrick Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
19 Anthony
Dijohn
Frost, Ruttenberg & Rothblatt, P.C.
20 Dawn Disher Center of Concern
21 Tom Dombro ING
22 Richard Dusold Park Ridge Community Fund
23 Curt Edlund Larsen & Edlund
24 Jenny Fitzgerald Sabella & Graham
25 Diane Forsythe Brickton Mortgage (ABI Mortgage)
26 Kathleen Frey Pioneer Press
27 Marilin Goll Former Dir. United Way
28 Orit Gordon First Data Independent Sales - Northern Illinois
29 Randi Gurian The Harbour
30 Gail Haller Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
31 Linda Hills Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
32 Karen Hohl Center of Concern
33 Jim Huenink NW Center Against Sexual Assault
34 Dan
Kotowski
Senator
35 Sara Koveleski Kraut
Advanced Physical Therapy & Health Svcs.
36 Dick Larsen Larsen & Edlund
37 Sharon Lawson (guest 1)
38 Sharon Lawson (guest 2)
39 Amy Levell Autumn Green @ Wright Campus
40 Rita Lewandowski Prospective Member
41 Cara Lindell Fully Fit Lifestyles
42 Ken Madden Salvation Army
43 Sandee Main Park Ridge Community Fund
44 Juliana Maller City of Park Ridge
45 Tracy Martin Clearbrook Center
46 Jackie Mathews Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
47 Ed McCabe Park Ridge Community Fund
48 Jean McCabe Park Ridge Community Fund
49 Joshua Nichols Unbound Technology
50 Deborah Oberschelp Affordable Interiors
51 Millie O'Brien Park Ridge Community Fund
52 Bob Okazaki Avenues to Independence
53 Jeff Okazaki Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
54 Theresa Olson Resurrection Ambulatory Care Service
55 John Owens Owens, Owens & Rinn, Ltd.
56 Terry Parke Boy Scouts - Northwest Suburban Council
57 Beth Parsch Murphy Group
58 Ross Rubino Ross E. Rubino, DDS
59 Rosemary Sajovic Journal & Topics
60 Dave Samson Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
61 Donna Santoro Leyden Family Services
62 John Sasser Sasser Consulting
63 Norm Schaetzleim Norman Printing Service
64 Mike Sexton City of Park Ridge
65 Dave Sherman Pioneer Press
66 Gloria Skomasa Park Ridge Community Fund
67 Alan Spector Glenkirk
68 Aggie Stempniak City of Park Ridge
69 Sandy Svizzero Parkway Bank
70 Chris Valentine Edward Jones
71 Shelly Valenzia Park Ridge Community Fund
72 Anna Wasyliw Harris Bank
It’s $25 in advance (by this Friday) and $30 at the door. Don’t forget to bring your checkbook!
Football Mania Football Mania is back in full force! We opted into the program which guarantees that we’ll have a winner every week of the 17 weeks – if no one wins from our group then they’ll randomly pick a winner. We’ve activated over 100 tickets. You’re chances of winning are superb! The winner is notified every Tuesday.
Just $20 per ticket gets you an online digital entertainment package that you can download (music and more) – plus the chance to win the cash prizes!
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.
Autumnfest AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!
Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, is the chair of the Chamber’s Retail Committee which is planning “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.
Events are a Costumed Pet Parade around the library at 9:30 a.m. Krisers is providing goody bags! Retailers will decorate their windows with a specific theme and the library will plan an I Spy Scavenger Hunt. Contests for best windows, tastings, live bands (The Break and Speedfreak are both confirmed!), store sales, and themed window displays are all in the works.
This is all being done with no budget so if you wanted to sponsor, we could get flyers, post cards, and book markers printed - we have a really cool logo designed for the event!
For more information, contact the Chamber at 847-825-3121; or Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; hillschocolates@sbcglobal.net; 847-318-6801. Our list of themed windows is growing – we’re shooting for 50 and we’re already at 47!
Company Name Window Theme
1 2 Sisters Angels and Demons
2 Across the Street Floral Halloween
3 All on the Road Catering Witches
4 Allegro Music Center Autumnal Music
5 Al's Chicago's Italian Beef Pumpkins
6 American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
7 Amphora Bedknobs & Broomsticks
8 Baked by Betsy Cowboys & Cowgirls
9 Bob's Bike Shop of Park Ridge Pirates
10 Burke's Books of Park Ridge Twilight
11 Caruden Hair Design Spooky Halloween
12 Classic Cuts
13 CVS Pharmacy
14 Dominic's Kitchen Store Then & Now
15 Frame Gallery of Park Ridge Old Classic Horror Movies
16 High Society Jewelers Crime Scene
17 James Anthony Hair Design 1950's
18 Jazeh La Bell Beauty Shop Spooky Eyes
19 Le Peep
20 Lisa's Homemade Italian Ice Candyland
21 Living Sea Aquarium
22 Lynette's School of Dance Ghosts and Goblins
23 Magic Scissors Costumed Pets
24 Marios Family Hair Styling Center
25 Melendy & Wilson Jewelers Fall Back in Love
26 Nancy Sells Flowers & Gifts Pumpkins
27 New Prospects Spooky Spiders
28 Original Pancake House Trains
29 Park Ridge Paint, Glass & Wallpaper Autumn Colors
30 Park Ridge Public Library Once Upon A Time
31 Picture Us Different Dance Studio, Inc.
32 Prospect Mortgage
33 Raffia Gifts Witches and Warlocks
34 Re/Max Properties Northwest Monster Movies
35 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Harry Potter
36 Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S. P.C. & Associates Dental Theme
37 Saran Bridal & Boutique Princesses
38 Sebastian Co. Real Estate
39 Solari & Huntington
40 South Park Cleaners Halloween
41 State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek Scary Halloween Night
42 Summit Specialtees Halloween
43 TeaLula Tea Leaf Reading
44 The Perfect Dinner Pumpkin Patch Party
45 Uncle Dan's Pizza and Pub Pirates
46 Uptown Chiropractic Clinic Skeletons
47 WineStyles Ghosts and Goblins
Note: Chamber members are bolded – help me to get the others to join the Chamber and I’ll give you a reward!
Installation Dinner
Want to be a Director? SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, January 23, 2010!
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.
Mark your calendar for these Chamber events, meetings, networking and other fun times! September 16, 11:30am-1:30pm Monthly Networking Luncheon Fall Kick Off Campaign hosted by the Chamber for the Park Ridge Community Fund. Park Ridge Country Club. $25 with reservations; $30 at the door. (RSVP today for only $25 – tomorrow it goes to $30 for everyone!)
September 18, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at LensCrafters Optique, 140 N. Northwest Highway, Join Chamber Members and Mayor Schmidt as we celebrate this event along with catered food by Jason’s Deli.
September 22, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 (Park Ridge Executive Network) at the Chamber. One per profession – networking, leads, and referrals.
September 23, 8:45am-9:45am Retail Committee Meeting. Network and brainstorm ideas to bring more traffic through our stores – Shop Chamber Members First – Shop Park Ridge – Shop Locally!
September 24, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking
Intelimind - Mark Voris, co-hosts with Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice. 10 S. Northwest Highway. Network with Chamber Members and Prospective Members!
September 25, 8:00a.m.-9:30a.m. Women in Business Breakfast Meeting
The Personality Puzzle, presented by Karen Larsen, Order My Gift. The Summit of Uptown, 10 North Summit, Park Ridge. Member $10, Prospective Member $15.
September 29, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Focus on Asset & Income Realities (FAIR)
Chamber office.
October 10, AutumFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 30 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge!
October 16, Fun Fabulous Friday with games, spa samplings and the Sweet Taste of Park Ridge! $25pp
Member News Please let me know what’s going on in your business so we can tell the rest of the Chamber members as my eblasts go to 600 member contacts.
Raffia hosts Benefit
Thursday Raffia and True Vineyard Ministries host a benefit to aide widows and orphans in Rwanda
Please join local store owner Debbie Sigalos of Raffia Inc. located at 29 S Prospect Ave. and True Vineyard Ministries (TVM) for a benefit Thursday, Sept. 17th from 7pm to 9pm.
True Vineyard Ministries (TVM) is a non-profit, multi-denominational organization for widows and orphans impacted by the genocide, HIV, subsequent civil wars, and various tragedies in Rwanda.
TVM develops fundamental programs that have lasting transformational impact on their lives, as well as future generations by meeting their spiritual, medical, social, educational and vocational needs.
The group has established a bakery for the widows' community and is teaching the women life skills so that they may earn a living, care for their families and develop their local economy.
Handmade items will be offered for sale and a short informational talk about the projects currently underway will be given.
For more information on the organization please visit www.truevineyard.org
Contact:Cynthia Glensgard, Director of Marketing cynthia.glensgard@truevineyard.org (630) 726-1111
Kalo Foundation The Kalo Foundation is hosting their ‘Arts & Carafes’! Friday, September 25 at the Park Ridge Country Club!
Experience an amazing evening of wine, food, music, and art. Enjoy a sit-down wine tasting perfectly paired with delicious gourmet food, great entertainment and a lively silent auction.
$50 per person. www.kalofoundation.org for more info.
All on the Road Catering All on the Road Catering and Bakery, 114 Main Street, still catering 7 days per week but store front now open Tuesdays through Saturday! Call 847-518-8958
The Summit of Uptown Cook County Board President to Speak at The Summit of Uptown
Cook County Board President, Todd Stroger, will host a town hall-style meeting for area residents at The Summit of Uptown on Tuesday, Sept. 29 starting at 1:30 p.m. The event is open to the public but seating is limited to the first 100 persons.
The event will take place in the newly renovated retirement community, located at 10 N. Summit Ave. in Park Ridge. Parking is available in the Library lot across the street and in the underground facility next to Summit.
For further information, please call Summit at 847-825-1161 ext. 129.
Halloween Day! 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 "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
Boy Scouts The Northwest Suburban Council Boy Scouts of America announces their 2009 Distinguished Citizen’s Banquet “Honoring those who serve their community.” The location will be The Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre 2401 W. Higgins Rd Hoffman Estates.
Date: October 28, 2009,
6:00p.m. Reception,
7:00 p.m. Dinner & Program.
This year’s honorees are: Melissa Bean (Congresswoman), William F. Kelley (Kelley, Kelley & Kelley), Paul Meincke (ABC 7 Reporter) and George A. Moser (Charter National Bank and Trust). The Keynote Speaker will be Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz. Please support area youth by attending this event or making a donation. For more information please call the Northwest Suburban Council office at (847) 759-2999.
Park Ridge Fine Arts Society 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"
Contact me: Gail Haller
Executive Director
Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
720 Garden Street
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
Did you know that the Governor Quinn proclaimed this week, September 14 to 19, Chamber of Commerce Week in Illinois? Thanks to Rosemary Sajovic, the Journal did a nice 2 page spread with a picture of the Chamber staff last week – check it out! Pages 8-9A. (Picture by A Sterling Design!) And, the front page showed the colorful Harry O’Brien Community Run (which John Barrett won!) – thanks for the coverage!
October is our Membership Drive month – stay tuned for exciting info on it!
Golf Outing on Sept 9 with Skokie Chamber!
The Park Ridge Chamber Golf Outing was a huge success! Skokie was the perfect partner for us. Together we had about 72 golfers and with 30 more for dinner, so about 100 for dinner, open bar, raffle prizes galore! And, as promised, the weather was absolutely perfect that day – overcast, high 70’s, with nice cool breezes.
Our very own Karen Anderson, president of the Chamber and principal of Dental Auxiliary Placement Service won the $800 Sharp high definition flat screen television! I’m so glad one of our members won it – and especially my board president! Just so you know, I did NOT pull the winning ticket – someone else did!
A huge thank you to all our sponsors – we could not have been successful without you! The raffles brought in about $2400 which both Chambers will split equally.
Sponsors:
A Sterling Design – Diddy Blyth
Allstate Insurance Co. – Pat Riordan
Carlucci Rosemont
Dave Donovan and Pete Donovan
Ehlers, Shirlee (Realtor)
ING Financial Advisors – Tom Dombro
Liberty Bank for Savings
Maine Community Youth Assistance Foundation (MCYAF)
Parkway Bank
Rozovics & Wojcicki, PC
Ten til Two Chicago – North Shore
WSI (We Simplify the Internet)
Goody Bag Sponsors
Cathy Janus, Marc Printing & Graphic provided the bags
Duraclean Services
EJ Coyne Insurance
Park Ridge Public Library
Pioneer Press
The Bethany Terrace
Parkway Bank
Raffle Donors:
2 Sisters
Activision Electric, Inc.
Affordable Interiors
All on the Road Catering
Comfort Inn O'Hare
Duraclean Services
Erica's Jewelry
Houlihan's Restaurants
Hyatt Regency O'Hare
Jackie's Nails & Spa
Jewel Food Store
Journal & Topics
Le Peep Restaurant
MocteNet PC & Video, Inc.
Oakton Community College
Order My Gift
Outback Steakhouse
Parkway Bank
Positive Changes Chicago
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Savvy Salon & Spa
State Representative Rosemary Mulligan
Tasty Pup
WineStyles
WSI (We Simplify the Internet)
You Can Say…Yes! Motivational Guidance Services
Volunteers:
Dorothy and Cindy, Chamber
Anna Wasyliw, Harris Bank
Karen Anderson, Dental Auxiliary Placement Service, Inc.
Mark Decker, Rosemary Mulligan's Office
Monthly Networking Luncheon Sept 16 The Chamber’s monthly networking luncheon this month is Sept. 16 – in 2 days! It will be held at the Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect, and is in honor of the Park Ridge Community Fund. We’re hoping for over 100 people as we had last year so please rsvp asap! If you get your reservation in by today 4:30, then we’ll keep it at $25. Starting tomorrow, its $30!
We’re accepting donations for the raffle and proceeds will go to the PR Community Fund. I hope you can make it. As you know, social agencies are hard hit by the economy and it takes all of us to do our part to help our neighbors. One of the wonderful things about the PRCF is that it stays within Park Ridge.
Here is who’s coming as of this moment – so if you don’t see your name, call now to reserve your spot (remember $25 today; $30 tomorrow and Wed):
First Name Last Name Affiliation
1 Paul Adlaf Park Ridge Historical Society
2 Pat Ahern Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
3 Brian Ahern Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
4 Dirk Ahlbeck NW Suburban Day Care Center
5 David Barker President, Park Ridge Community Fund
6 John Barrett barrett-TECH
7 Dick Barton Barton & Barton Ltd.
8 Diddy Blyth A Sterling Design
9 Nick Boudreau Edward Jones
10 Dorothy Brownstein Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
11 Kelli Christensen Ross E. Rubino, DDS
12 Cindy Clark Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
13 Connie Clibourn LifeSource Chicagoland's Blood Center
14 Maureen
Connelly
The Youth Campus
15 Dyan Dalesandro Frost, Ruttenberg & Rothblatt, P.C.
16 Wes Davis Wes Davis Insurance
17 Thom De Vries Loyola Center for Heart & Vascular Medicine at Park Ridge
18 Marci Derrick Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
19 Anthony
Dijohn
Frost, Ruttenberg & Rothblatt, P.C.
20 Dawn Disher Center of Concern
21 Tom Dombro ING
22 Richard Dusold Park Ridge Community Fund
23 Curt Edlund Larsen & Edlund
24 Jenny Fitzgerald Sabella & Graham
25 Diane Forsythe Brickton Mortgage (ABI Mortgage)
26 Kathleen Frey Pioneer Press
27 Marilin Goll Former Dir. United Way
28 Orit Gordon First Data Independent Sales - Northern Illinois
29 Randi Gurian The Harbour
30 Gail Haller Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
31 Linda Hills Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
32 Karen Hohl Center of Concern
33 Jim Huenink NW Center Against Sexual Assault
34 Dan
Kotowski
Senator
35 Sara Koveleski Kraut
Advanced Physical Therapy & Health Svcs.
36 Dick Larsen Larsen & Edlund
37 Sharon Lawson (guest 1)
38 Sharon Lawson (guest 2)
39 Amy Levell Autumn Green @ Wright Campus
40 Rita Lewandowski Prospective Member
41 Cara Lindell Fully Fit Lifestyles
42 Ken Madden Salvation Army
43 Sandee Main Park Ridge Community Fund
44 Juliana Maller City of Park Ridge
45 Tracy Martin Clearbrook Center
46 Jackie Mathews Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
47 Ed McCabe Park Ridge Community Fund
48 Jean McCabe Park Ridge Community Fund
49 Joshua Nichols Unbound Technology
50 Deborah Oberschelp Affordable Interiors
51 Millie O'Brien Park Ridge Community Fund
52 Bob Okazaki Avenues to Independence
53 Jeff Okazaki Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
54 Theresa Olson Resurrection Ambulatory Care Service
55 John Owens Owens, Owens & Rinn, Ltd.
56 Terry Parke Boy Scouts - Northwest Suburban Council
57 Beth Parsch Murphy Group
58 Ross Rubino Ross E. Rubino, DDS
59 Rosemary Sajovic Journal & Topics
60 Dave Samson Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
61 Donna Santoro Leyden Family Services
62 John Sasser Sasser Consulting
63 Norm Schaetzleim Norman Printing Service
64 Mike Sexton City of Park Ridge
65 Dave Sherman Pioneer Press
66 Gloria Skomasa Park Ridge Community Fund
67 Alan Spector Glenkirk
68 Aggie Stempniak City of Park Ridge
69 Sandy Svizzero Parkway Bank
70 Chris Valentine Edward Jones
71 Shelly Valenzia Park Ridge Community Fund
72 Anna Wasyliw Harris Bank
It’s $25 in advance (by this Friday) and $30 at the door. Don’t forget to bring your checkbook!
Football Mania Football Mania is back in full force! We opted into the program which guarantees that we’ll have a winner every week of the 17 weeks – if no one wins from our group then they’ll randomly pick a winner. We’ve activated over 100 tickets. You’re chances of winning are superb! The winner is notified every Tuesday.
Just $20 per ticket gets you an online digital entertainment package that you can download (music and more) – plus the chance to win the cash prizes!
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.
Autumnfest AutumnFest: Windows on Parade!
Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, is the chair of the Chamber’s Retail Committee which is planning “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.
Events are a Costumed Pet Parade around the library at 9:30 a.m. Krisers is providing goody bags! Retailers will decorate their windows with a specific theme and the library will plan an I Spy Scavenger Hunt. Contests for best windows, tastings, live bands (The Break and Speedfreak are both confirmed!), store sales, and themed window displays are all in the works.
This is all being done with no budget so if you wanted to sponsor, we could get flyers, post cards, and book markers printed - we have a really cool logo designed for the event!
For more information, contact the Chamber at 847-825-3121; or Linda Hills, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; hillschocolates@sbcglobal.net; 847-318-6801. Our list of themed windows is growing – we’re shooting for 50 and we’re already at 47!
Company Name Window Theme
1 2 Sisters Angels and Demons
2 Across the Street Floral Halloween
3 All on the Road Catering Witches
4 Allegro Music Center Autumnal Music
5 Al's Chicago's Italian Beef Pumpkins
6 American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
7 Amphora Bedknobs & Broomsticks
8 Baked by Betsy Cowboys & Cowgirls
9 Bob's Bike Shop of Park Ridge Pirates
10 Burke's Books of Park Ridge Twilight
11 Caruden Hair Design Spooky Halloween
12 Classic Cuts
13 CVS Pharmacy
14 Dominic's Kitchen Store Then & Now
15 Frame Gallery of Park Ridge Old Classic Horror Movies
16 High Society Jewelers Crime Scene
17 James Anthony Hair Design 1950's
18 Jazeh La Bell Beauty Shop Spooky Eyes
19 Le Peep
20 Lisa's Homemade Italian Ice Candyland
21 Living Sea Aquarium
22 Lynette's School of Dance Ghosts and Goblins
23 Magic Scissors Costumed Pets
24 Marios Family Hair Styling Center
25 Melendy & Wilson Jewelers Fall Back in Love
26 Nancy Sells Flowers & Gifts Pumpkins
27 New Prospects Spooky Spiders
28 Original Pancake House Trains
29 Park Ridge Paint, Glass & Wallpaper Autumn Colors
30 Park Ridge Public Library Once Upon A Time
31 Picture Us Different Dance Studio, Inc.
32 Prospect Mortgage
33 Raffia Gifts Witches and Warlocks
34 Re/Max Properties Northwest Monster Movies
35 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Harry Potter
36 Ross E. Rubino, D.D.S. P.C. & Associates Dental Theme
37 Saran Bridal & Boutique Princesses
38 Sebastian Co. Real Estate
39 Solari & Huntington
40 South Park Cleaners Halloween
41 State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek Scary Halloween Night
42 Summit Specialtees Halloween
43 TeaLula Tea Leaf Reading
44 The Perfect Dinner Pumpkin Patch Party
45 Uncle Dan's Pizza and Pub Pirates
46 Uptown Chiropractic Clinic Skeletons
47 WineStyles Ghosts and Goblins
Note: Chamber members are bolded – help me to get the others to join the Chamber and I’ll give you a reward!
Installation Dinner
Want to be a Director? SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, January 23, 2010!
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.
Mark your calendar for these Chamber events, meetings, networking and other fun times! September 16, 11:30am-1:30pm Monthly Networking Luncheon Fall Kick Off Campaign hosted by the Chamber for the Park Ridge Community Fund. Park Ridge Country Club. $25 with reservations; $30 at the door. (RSVP today for only $25 – tomorrow it goes to $30 for everyone!)
September 18, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at LensCrafters Optique, 140 N. Northwest Highway, Join Chamber Members and Mayor Schmidt as we celebrate this event along with catered food by Jason’s Deli.
September 22, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 (Park Ridge Executive Network) at the Chamber. One per profession – networking, leads, and referrals.
September 23, 8:45am-9:45am Retail Committee Meeting. Network and brainstorm ideas to bring more traffic through our stores – Shop Chamber Members First – Shop Park Ridge – Shop Locally!
September 24, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking
Intelimind - Mark Voris, co-hosts with Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice. 10 S. Northwest Highway. Network with Chamber Members and Prospective Members!
September 25, 8:00a.m.-9:30a.m. Women in Business Breakfast Meeting
The Personality Puzzle, presented by Karen Larsen, Order My Gift. The Summit of Uptown, 10 North Summit, Park Ridge. Member $10, Prospective Member $15.
September 29, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Focus on Asset & Income Realities (FAIR)
Chamber office.
October 10, AutumFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 30 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge!
October 16, Fun Fabulous Friday with games, spa samplings and the Sweet Taste of Park Ridge! $25pp
Member News Please let me know what’s going on in your business so we can tell the rest of the Chamber members as my eblasts go to 600 member contacts.
Raffia hosts Benefit
Thursday Raffia and True Vineyard Ministries host a benefit to aide widows and orphans in Rwanda
Please join local store owner Debbie Sigalos of Raffia Inc. located at 29 S Prospect Ave. and True Vineyard Ministries (TVM) for a benefit Thursday, Sept. 17th from 7pm to 9pm.
True Vineyard Ministries (TVM) is a non-profit, multi-denominational organization for widows and orphans impacted by the genocide, HIV, subsequent civil wars, and various tragedies in Rwanda.
TVM develops fundamental programs that have lasting transformational impact on their lives, as well as future generations by meeting their spiritual, medical, social, educational and vocational needs.
The group has established a bakery for the widows' community and is teaching the women life skills so that they may earn a living, care for their families and develop their local economy.
Handmade items will be offered for sale and a short informational talk about the projects currently underway will be given.
For more information on the organization please visit www.truevineyard.org
Contact:Cynthia Glensgard, Director of Marketing cynthia.glensgard@truevineyard.org (630) 726-1111
Kalo Foundation The Kalo Foundation is hosting their ‘Arts & Carafes’! Friday, September 25 at the Park Ridge Country Club!
Experience an amazing evening of wine, food, music, and art. Enjoy a sit-down wine tasting perfectly paired with delicious gourmet food, great entertainment and a lively silent auction.
$50 per person. www.kalofoundation.org for more info.
All on the Road Catering All on the Road Catering and Bakery, 114 Main Street, still catering 7 days per week but store front now open Tuesdays through Saturday! Call 847-518-8958
The Summit of Uptown Cook County Board President to Speak at The Summit of Uptown
Cook County Board President, Todd Stroger, will host a town hall-style meeting for area residents at The Summit of Uptown on Tuesday, Sept. 29 starting at 1:30 p.m. The event is open to the public but seating is limited to the first 100 persons.
The event will take place in the newly renovated retirement community, located at 10 N. Summit Ave. in Park Ridge. Parking is available in the Library lot across the street and in the underground facility next to Summit.
For further information, please call Summit at 847-825-1161 ext. 129.
Halloween Day! 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 "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
Boy Scouts The Northwest Suburban Council Boy Scouts of America announces their 2009 Distinguished Citizen’s Banquet “Honoring those who serve their community.” The location will be The Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre 2401 W. Higgins Rd Hoffman Estates.
Date: October 28, 2009,
6:00p.m. Reception,
7:00 p.m. Dinner & Program.
This year’s honorees are: Melissa Bean (Congresswoman), William F. Kelley (Kelley, Kelley & Kelley), Paul Meincke (ABC 7 Reporter) and George A. Moser (Charter National Bank and Trust). The Keynote Speaker will be Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz. Please support area youth by attending this event or making a donation. For more information please call the Northwest Suburban Council office at (847) 759-2999.
Park Ridge Fine Arts Society 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"
Contact me: Gail Haller
Executive Director
Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
720 Garden Street
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, September 1, 2009
Gail's Weekly Chamber UPDATE
We MOVED!
The Chamber moved! We’re located on the east side of the Park Ridge Nonprofit Center (PRNC) at 720 Garden Street (between Prospect and Fairview)! Come see us! The PRNC owns the parking lot north of the building so you can park there.
The move went flawlessly because of the Chamber staff, Dorothy, Cindy and Marci!
But also because of Amber’s Organizing, Amber Kostelny-Cussen, 773-628-7404 who packed and unpacked us in record time! She’s a dynamo! Talk about an organizer!!! You need her in your office and in your closets!
And Debbie Oberschelp, Affordable Interiors, 312-909-1255, designed our furniture layout and hung all the pictures! What a talented eye she has! And wonderful to work with too!
Our movers were fabulous – I can’t recommend them enough. They arrived early and stayed until the job was done and the 3 guys (Steve, Dave, and Joe) were so nice – and didn’t even seem to mind when we asked them to move the same piece 3 times! Of course they joined the Chamber so call them: Wm Cunningham Movers, Inc. at 773-594-0398. They said they’d move anything – no job too small, even a piano or trash out of the basement!
And, thanks to John Barrett with barrett-TECH who moved all our computers, phones and printers and stayed into the night to make sure everything was ready for us to open this morning! Always a pleasure to work with John!
Thank you to Ken Wallace, District 207 superintendent, who magically came up with the desk we needed when we realized that one of our desks at 32 Main Street was built in and we couldn’t take it with us!
Thank you to everyone for helping out! Dave Donovan and Anna Wasyliw showed up to Everything magically fell into place and we’re very happy with our new home. Come visit us as we are once again open for business.
Of course we’ll have a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting – stay tuned as to the date!
Chamber Business After Hours last week at The Summit of Uptown! The Summit of Uptown hosted the Chamber Business After Hours last Thursday and what a beautiful job they did! There were at least 50 guests who were treated to culinary delights created by Chef Mike DeMilio, 847-825-8483,
Applauze Catering, and door prizes, live music plus tours of the Summit’s totally renovated apartments and Great Room. Thank you to Marc Dennison and his family and staff for turning out such a lovely event!
Harry O’Brien Community Run/Walk!
1st Annual Harry O’Brien Community Run / Walk - The Park Ridge Community Fund and the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce co-hosted this event last Saturday for the entire community. It was a glorious morning with perfect weather, live music, treats from Noodles & Co, cookies from Jason’s Deli, and lots of volunteers. Summit Specialtees printed up the t-shirts!
We had almost 200 who came out to run or walk and John Barrett, barrett-TECH, won the race! He graciously donated the Chamber gift certificate he won back to the Chamber.
Thank you to all our sponsors and to those who participated!
Ribbon Cutting Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2, is the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Indira Salon & Spa, 520 West Touhy Avenue, Phone: 847-698-0123. Mayor Dave Schmidt will be there to cut the ribbon! Please come out and congratulate them on being in Park Ridge!
Park underground for the event!
Golf Outing on Sept 9 with Skokie Chamber!
Women in Business Table! 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.
Women in Business Table at Dinner: Several WIB ladies are getting a table together – dinner is just $50 and there will be a lot of networking going on!
Football Mania Back by popular demand! Football Mania is back for the entire 17 week long NFL season!
Just $20 per ticket gets you an online digital entertainment package that you can download (music and more) – plus the chance to win cash prizes!
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!
Autumnfest 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. Our list of themed windows is growing – we’re at 42!
2 Sisters Angels and Demons
Across the Street Floral Halloween Theme
All on the Road Catering Witches
Allegro Music Center Fall Music Theme
Al's Chicago's Italian Beef Pumpkins
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
Baked by Betsy Cowboys & Cowgirls
Bob's Bike Shop of Park Ridge Pirates
Burke's Books of Park Ridge Twilight
Caruden Hair Design
Classic Cuts
CVS Pharmacy
Dominic's Kitchen Store Then & Now
Frame Gallery of Park Ridge Old Classic Horror Movies
High Society Jewelers Crime Scene
James Anthony Hair Design 1950's
Jazeh La Bell Beauty Shop Spooky Eyes
Le Peep
Lisa's Homemade Italian Ice Candyland
Living Sea Aquarium
Lynette's School of Dance Ghosts and Goblins
Marios Family Hair Styling Center
Melendy & Wilson Jewelers Fall Back in Love
Nancy Sells Flowers & Gifts Pumpkins
New Prospects
Original Pancake House
Park Ridge Paint, Glass & Wallpaper Autumn Colors Theme
Park Ridge Public Library Once Upon A Time
Picture Us Different Dance Studio, Inc.
Prospect Mortgage
Raffia Gifts Witches and Warlocks
Re/Max Properties Northwest Monster Movies
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Harry Potter
Saran Bridal & Boutique Princesses
Sebastian Co. Real Estate
South Park Cleaners Halloween Theme
State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek Scary Halloween Night
Summit Specialtees Halloween
TeaLula Tea Leaf Reading
Uncle Dan's Pizza and Pub Pirates
Uptown Chiropractic Clinic Skeletons
WineStyles Ghosts and Goblets
Installation Dinner
Want to be a Director? 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!
Mark your calendar for these Chamber events, meetings, networking and other fun times! September 2, 9:00am-10:00am Indira Salon & Spa Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Grand Opening. 520 West Touhy Ave. Join Mayor Schmidt and Chamber!
September 3, 10:00am-11:30 Entrepreneurial Knowledge Group (EKG) Meeting at Regus, 350 S. Northwest Hwy, Suite 300. Network with Chamber entrepreneurs!
September 4, 9:00am-10:00am Membership Committee Meeting at the Chamber Office. Network and strategize acquisition, retention and satisfaction tactics.
September 9, 10:00am-7:30pm Park Ridge and Skokie Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing. Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. Make your golf or dinner reservations now! Promote your business as a sponsor. Shotgun start at noon. Lunch, dinner, prizes – lots of networking!
September 10, 10:00am-11:00am Communications Committee Meeting at the Chamber. Write articles for the Chamber monthly newsletter!
September 11, 8:30am-9:30am PREN 1 (Park Ridge Executive Network) at the Chamber. One per profession – networking, leads, and referrals.
September 16, 11:30am-1:30pm Monthly Networking Luncheon Fall Kick Off Campaign hosted by the Chamber for the Park Ridge Community Fund. Park Ridge Country Club. $25 with reservations; $30 at the door.
September 18, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at LensCrafters Optique, 140 N. Northwest Highway, Join Chamber Members and Mayor Schmidt as we celebrate this event along with catered food by Jason’s Deli.
September 22, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 (Park Ridge Executive Network) at the Chamber. One per profession – networking, leads, and referrals.
September 23, 8:45am-9:45am Retail Committee Meeting. Network and brainstorm ideas to bring more traffic through our stores – Shop Chamber Members First – Shop Park Ridge – Shop Locally!
September 24, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking
Intelimind - Mark Voris, co-hosts with Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice. 10 S. Northwest Highway. Network with Chamber Members and Prospective Members!
September 25, 8:00a.m.-9:30a.m. Women in Business Breakfast Meeting
The Personality Puzzle, presented by Karen Larsen, Order My Gift. The Summit of Uptown, 10 North Summit, Park Ridge. Member $10, Prospective Member $15.
September 28, Lenscrafter, 140 N. Northwest Hwy, Ribbon Cutting, 5 to 7 p.m. Join Mayor Schmidt and Chamber members to celebrate Lenscrafter in Park Ridge!
September 29, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Focus on Asset & Income Realities (FAIR)
Chamber office.
October 10, AutumFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 30 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge!
Member News Please let me know what’s going on in your business so we can tell the world!
I visited:
Park Ridge Paint, Wallpaper & Glass (got the historical Williamsburg Raleigh Tavern Green for my office!)
Panino’s Pizzeria
Hay Caramba!
Jewel Foods
Shell Gas Station on Touhy (only gas station that is a Chamber member)
Affordable Interiors
Amber’s Organizing
Park Ridge Community Fund
Kidwinks.com
Park Ridge Public Library
TeaLula
Rainbow Hospice – I went their ‘Lake Effect’ event at the Palmer House which was a benefit for their ‘Good Mourning’ program – what a party! It was fabulous and so much fun – there were at least 800 people there!
Boy Scouts The Northwest Suburban Council Boy Scouts of America announces their 2009 Distinguished Citizen’s Banquet “Honoring those who serve their community.”
The location will be The Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre 2401 W. Higgins Rd Hoffman Estates.
Date: October 28, 2009,
6:00p.m. Reception,
7:00 p.m. Dinner & Program.
This year’s honorees are: Melissa Bean (Congresswoman), William F. Kelley (Kelley, Kelley & Kelley), Paul Meincke (ABC 7 Reporter) and George A. Moser (Charter National Bank and Trust). The Keynote Speaker will be Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz. Please support area youth by attending this event or making a donation. For more information please call the Northwest Suburban Council office at (847) 759-2999.
Roberta Stevens Roberta Stevens, Raymond James, owns a building at 928 Busse, currently Happy Hounds which will be closing end of October 2009. Call her if you’re interested, 847-825-4447. Roberta said it’s a great space for a dog trainer and another doggie day care.
Energy Efficient Business Service Providers From the Illinois Chamber of Commerce:
The Illinois Chamber of Commerce invites you to submit your member’s information -- free of charge -- to be included in our new Illinois Energy Smart website, which provides resources to Illinois businesses looking to save energy and money through efficiency and conservation. Once unveiled in September, this website will be a tool used by businesses across the state to learn about energy-saving upgrades they can perform to realize energy and cost savings, while providing them with information on state, federal, and utility programs they can access to help finance their efforts.
A key part of the website is a comprehensive contractor database, in which YOU can be included! We want to offer Illinois’s most comprehensive listing of energy-efficient contractors, and your participation in this project will give your company exposure to Illinois businesses interested in energy efficiency upgrades. There’s no fee. There is no catch. If you offer services to businesses that can make them more energy efficient, just sign up on our website. When the website goes live in September, companies will enter information on what they are looking for and will be guided to vendors in their area to contact.
Our goal is simply to connect experienced energy efficiency vendors with those interested in their services. This website is about to be launched and your contribution will help make it as useful as possible to Illinois businesses.
Sign up today at http://www.ilenergysmart.biz/register.html. When you get there you’ll see we’re still working on the final language and look of the site, but we want to get as many vendors on board as possible before we go live in September.
You may contact Tom Wolf at 312-983-7109 or twolf@ilchamber.org with any questions.
Willow Wellness Center 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.
Halloween Day! 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 "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.
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Park Ridge Fine Arts Society 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"
Contact me: 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
The Chamber moved! We’re located on the east side of the Park Ridge Nonprofit Center (PRNC) at 720 Garden Street (between Prospect and Fairview)! Come see us! The PRNC owns the parking lot north of the building so you can park there.
The move went flawlessly because of the Chamber staff, Dorothy, Cindy and Marci!
But also because of Amber’s Organizing, Amber Kostelny-Cussen, 773-628-7404 who packed and unpacked us in record time! She’s a dynamo! Talk about an organizer!!! You need her in your office and in your closets!
And Debbie Oberschelp, Affordable Interiors, 312-909-1255, designed our furniture layout and hung all the pictures! What a talented eye she has! And wonderful to work with too!
Our movers were fabulous – I can’t recommend them enough. They arrived early and stayed until the job was done and the 3 guys (Steve, Dave, and Joe) were so nice – and didn’t even seem to mind when we asked them to move the same piece 3 times! Of course they joined the Chamber so call them: Wm Cunningham Movers, Inc. at 773-594-0398. They said they’d move anything – no job too small, even a piano or trash out of the basement!
And, thanks to John Barrett with barrett-TECH who moved all our computers, phones and printers and stayed into the night to make sure everything was ready for us to open this morning! Always a pleasure to work with John!
Thank you to Ken Wallace, District 207 superintendent, who magically came up with the desk we needed when we realized that one of our desks at 32 Main Street was built in and we couldn’t take it with us!
Thank you to everyone for helping out! Dave Donovan and Anna Wasyliw showed up to Everything magically fell into place and we’re very happy with our new home. Come visit us as we are once again open for business.
Of course we’ll have a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting – stay tuned as to the date!
Chamber Business After Hours last week at The Summit of Uptown! The Summit of Uptown hosted the Chamber Business After Hours last Thursday and what a beautiful job they did! There were at least 50 guests who were treated to culinary delights created by Chef Mike DeMilio, 847-825-8483,
Applauze Catering, and door prizes, live music plus tours of the Summit’s totally renovated apartments and Great Room. Thank you to Marc Dennison and his family and staff for turning out such a lovely event!
Harry O’Brien Community Run/Walk!
1st Annual Harry O’Brien Community Run / Walk - The Park Ridge Community Fund and the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce co-hosted this event last Saturday for the entire community. It was a glorious morning with perfect weather, live music, treats from Noodles & Co, cookies from Jason’s Deli, and lots of volunteers. Summit Specialtees printed up the t-shirts!
We had almost 200 who came out to run or walk and John Barrett, barrett-TECH, won the race! He graciously donated the Chamber gift certificate he won back to the Chamber.
Thank you to all our sponsors and to those who participated!
Ribbon Cutting Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2, is the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Indira Salon & Spa, 520 West Touhy Avenue, Phone: 847-698-0123. Mayor Dave Schmidt will be there to cut the ribbon! Please come out and congratulate them on being in Park Ridge!
Park underground for the event!
Golf Outing on Sept 9 with Skokie Chamber!
Women in Business Table! 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.
Women in Business Table at Dinner: Several WIB ladies are getting a table together – dinner is just $50 and there will be a lot of networking going on!
Football Mania Back by popular demand! Football Mania is back for the entire 17 week long NFL season!
Just $20 per ticket gets you an online digital entertainment package that you can download (music and more) – plus the chance to win cash prizes!
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!
Autumnfest 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. Our list of themed windows is growing – we’re at 42!
2 Sisters Angels and Demons
Across the Street Floral Halloween Theme
All on the Road Catering Witches
Allegro Music Center Fall Music Theme
Al's Chicago's Italian Beef Pumpkins
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
Baked by Betsy Cowboys & Cowgirls
Bob's Bike Shop of Park Ridge Pirates
Burke's Books of Park Ridge Twilight
Caruden Hair Design
Classic Cuts
CVS Pharmacy
Dominic's Kitchen Store Then & Now
Frame Gallery of Park Ridge Old Classic Horror Movies
High Society Jewelers Crime Scene
James Anthony Hair Design 1950's
Jazeh La Bell Beauty Shop Spooky Eyes
Le Peep
Lisa's Homemade Italian Ice Candyland
Living Sea Aquarium
Lynette's School of Dance Ghosts and Goblins
Marios Family Hair Styling Center
Melendy & Wilson Jewelers Fall Back in Love
Nancy Sells Flowers & Gifts Pumpkins
New Prospects
Original Pancake House
Park Ridge Paint, Glass & Wallpaper Autumn Colors Theme
Park Ridge Public Library Once Upon A Time
Picture Us Different Dance Studio, Inc.
Prospect Mortgage
Raffia Gifts Witches and Warlocks
Re/Max Properties Northwest Monster Movies
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Harry Potter
Saran Bridal & Boutique Princesses
Sebastian Co. Real Estate
South Park Cleaners Halloween Theme
State Farm Insurance & Financial Services - Ann Witek Scary Halloween Night
Summit Specialtees Halloween
TeaLula Tea Leaf Reading
Uncle Dan's Pizza and Pub Pirates
Uptown Chiropractic Clinic Skeletons
WineStyles Ghosts and Goblets
Installation Dinner
Want to be a Director? 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!
Mark your calendar for these Chamber events, meetings, networking and other fun times! September 2, 9:00am-10:00am Indira Salon & Spa Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Grand Opening. 520 West Touhy Ave. Join Mayor Schmidt and Chamber!
September 3, 10:00am-11:30 Entrepreneurial Knowledge Group (EKG) Meeting at Regus, 350 S. Northwest Hwy, Suite 300. Network with Chamber entrepreneurs!
September 4, 9:00am-10:00am Membership Committee Meeting at the Chamber Office. Network and strategize acquisition, retention and satisfaction tactics.
September 9, 10:00am-7:30pm Park Ridge and Skokie Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing. Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. Make your golf or dinner reservations now! Promote your business as a sponsor. Shotgun start at noon. Lunch, dinner, prizes – lots of networking!
September 10, 10:00am-11:00am Communications Committee Meeting at the Chamber. Write articles for the Chamber monthly newsletter!
September 11, 8:30am-9:30am PREN 1 (Park Ridge Executive Network) at the Chamber. One per profession – networking, leads, and referrals.
September 16, 11:30am-1:30pm Monthly Networking Luncheon Fall Kick Off Campaign hosted by the Chamber for the Park Ridge Community Fund. Park Ridge Country Club. $25 with reservations; $30 at the door.
September 18, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at LensCrafters Optique, 140 N. Northwest Highway, Join Chamber Members and Mayor Schmidt as we celebrate this event along with catered food by Jason’s Deli.
September 22, 8:45am-9:45am PREN 2 (Park Ridge Executive Network) at the Chamber. One per profession – networking, leads, and referrals.
September 23, 8:45am-9:45am Retail Committee Meeting. Network and brainstorm ideas to bring more traffic through our stores – Shop Chamber Members First – Shop Park Ridge – Shop Locally!
September 24, 5:00pm-7:00pm Business After Hours Monthly Networking
Intelimind - Mark Voris, co-hosts with Lisa’s Homemade Italian Ice. 10 S. Northwest Highway. Network with Chamber Members and Prospective Members!
September 25, 8:00a.m.-9:30a.m. Women in Business Breakfast Meeting
The Personality Puzzle, presented by Karen Larsen, Order My Gift. The Summit of Uptown, 10 North Summit, Park Ridge. Member $10, Prospective Member $15.
September 28, Lenscrafter, 140 N. Northwest Hwy, Ribbon Cutting, 5 to 7 p.m. Join Mayor Schmidt and Chamber members to celebrate Lenscrafter in Park Ridge!
September 29, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Focus on Asset & Income Realities (FAIR)
Chamber office.
October 10, AutumFest: Windows on Parade! Visit over 30 stores with decorated themes in their windows. Costumed pet parade at 9:30. I Spy Challenge by Library. Other activities and fun planned for the whole family! No charge!
Member News Please let me know what’s going on in your business so we can tell the world!
I visited:
Park Ridge Paint, Wallpaper & Glass (got the historical Williamsburg Raleigh Tavern Green for my office!)
Panino’s Pizzeria
Hay Caramba!
Jewel Foods
Shell Gas Station on Touhy (only gas station that is a Chamber member)
Affordable Interiors
Amber’s Organizing
Park Ridge Community Fund
Kidwinks.com
Park Ridge Public Library
TeaLula
Rainbow Hospice – I went their ‘Lake Effect’ event at the Palmer House which was a benefit for their ‘Good Mourning’ program – what a party! It was fabulous and so much fun – there were at least 800 people there!
Boy Scouts The Northwest Suburban Council Boy Scouts of America announces their 2009 Distinguished Citizen’s Banquet “Honoring those who serve their community.”
The location will be The Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre 2401 W. Higgins Rd Hoffman Estates.
Date: October 28, 2009,
6:00p.m. Reception,
7:00 p.m. Dinner & Program.
This year’s honorees are: Melissa Bean (Congresswoman), William F. Kelley (Kelley, Kelley & Kelley), Paul Meincke (ABC 7 Reporter) and George A. Moser (Charter National Bank and Trust). The Keynote Speaker will be Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz. Please support area youth by attending this event or making a donation. For more information please call the Northwest Suburban Council office at (847) 759-2999.
Roberta Stevens Roberta Stevens, Raymond James, owns a building at 928 Busse, currently Happy Hounds which will be closing end of October 2009. Call her if you’re interested, 847-825-4447. Roberta said it’s a great space for a dog trainer and another doggie day care.
Energy Efficient Business Service Providers From the Illinois Chamber of Commerce:
The Illinois Chamber of Commerce invites you to submit your member’s information -- free of charge -- to be included in our new Illinois Energy Smart website, which provides resources to Illinois businesses looking to save energy and money through efficiency and conservation. Once unveiled in September, this website will be a tool used by businesses across the state to learn about energy-saving upgrades they can perform to realize energy and cost savings, while providing them with information on state, federal, and utility programs they can access to help finance their efforts.
A key part of the website is a comprehensive contractor database, in which YOU can be included! We want to offer Illinois’s most comprehensive listing of energy-efficient contractors, and your participation in this project will give your company exposure to Illinois businesses interested in energy efficiency upgrades. There’s no fee. There is no catch. If you offer services to businesses that can make them more energy efficient, just sign up on our website. When the website goes live in September, companies will enter information on what they are looking for and will be guided to vendors in their area to contact.
Our goal is simply to connect experienced energy efficiency vendors with those interested in their services. This website is about to be launched and your contribution will help make it as useful as possible to Illinois businesses.
Sign up today at http://www.ilenergysmart.biz/register.html. When you get there you’ll see we’re still working on the final language and look of the site, but we want to get as many vendors on board as possible before we go live in September.
You may contact Tom Wolf at 312-983-7109 or twolf@ilchamber.org with any questions.
Willow Wellness Center 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.
Halloween Day! 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 "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.
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Park Ridge Fine Arts Society 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"
Contact me: 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
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