Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

From Mike Evans: Chamber Website Rollout Means More Opportunities for Your Business

Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Earlier this year I wrote about some feedback I had received since taking over. The importance of updating and modernizing our website was at the top of the list. While our existing website surpasses many of our peers in functionality and accessibility, it had outlived its productive life to you – our Members and customers.

After reviewing some of the industry’s best examples, we embarked on an ambitious path to modernize our digital presence. I had one goal in mind throughout the process - an overhaul of our Chamber’s website needs to make it easier for you to advertise, market and connect with potential customers.

We are well on our way to implementing the site and providing additional opportunities for you to market and feature your business. Every level of membership will benefit from this upgrade, but there are some new features that your company might be interested in taking advantage of.

Our partner on this project, Weblink International, will be hosting meetings with interested Members, Monday, May 20 through Thursday, May 24. During these meetings Nick Thompson, our project consultant, will:

• Discuss ways to promote and grow your business on the new site;
• Demonstrate the limited featured business positions available; and
• Review the advertising portions available on the Chamber’s most visited webpages.

Scheduling your visit is simple, just go online to http://naper.cc/100u001 or call Nick at 877-231-4970 ext. 187.

All of the Chamber’s staff is excited at the opportunity our new website will provide. Your website is your digital presence to the world and we are very pleased to be bringing you what is sure to be the best in our industry throughout Illinois.

I know Members will appreciate the care and focus we’ve paid to marketing our membership. While finding information about the Chamber, our events, programs and services is important, it is vital that the website contributes to the return on investment you receive.

I encourage you to schedule a meeting for an exclusive first look at where our website is going and take advantage of the marketing opportunities afforded through this new initiative.

Thank you for your continued involvement and support.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Congratulates Small Business of the Year Award Winners

Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Local Small Businesses Awarded for Excellence in Six Categories

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce awarded six businesses during the 16th annual Small Business of the Year (SBY) Awards. This year's awards gala, sponsored and presented by BMO Harris Bank, took place Friday, May 10 from at the Wyndham Lisle.

“The Chamber thanks and congratulates this year’s overall winner, Naperville Dental Specialists, and all of the category winners for their hard work, innovation and outstanding service,” said Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Chamber. “I also want to acknowledge that all of our nominees are great businesses in their own right, and congratulate them on all of their success.”

The SBY Awards are divided into six categories with one overall winner: Business-to-Business, Business-to-Consumer, Professional, Not-for-Profit, Retail and Excellence in Business. Members nominate one another for the awards. Once nominations are submitted, the winners are selected by a panel of previous winners.

The winners of this year’s SBY Awards are:

Business-to-Business: Paul Gregory Media

Business-to-Consumer: Players Indoor Sports

Professional: Naperville Dental Specialists and General Oral Health Care

Not-for-Profit: Giving DuPage

Retail: Le Chocolat du Bouchard

And the 2013 overall SBY winner is Naperville Dental Specialists and General Oral Health Care.

During the awards gala, a Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to a business or civic leader for their commitment to Naperville’s business community, excellence in business stewardship, contributions to the region’s quality of life, and leadership in support of economic progress.

The recipient of the 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award is actually several individuals – the Anderson family, owners of Oswald’s Pharmacy, Anderson’s Bookshop and Two Doors East.

“For five generations the Anderson family and their businesses have been a Naperville institution. The current generation - Bill, Becky, Tres and Peter – demonstrate the strength of family-owned businesses and dedication to the community through volunteerism,” said Evans. “The care they have for their costumers is why they thrive in competitive industries.”The Chamber would like to thank all 29 of this year’s nominees, panel judges and attendees for a very successful 16th anniversary event.

For more information on the SBY Awards or the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.naperville.net.

About the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest suburban Chamber in Illinois with an active membership of 1,400 organizations of every size and from every sector, who participate in more than 400 briefings, committee gatherings, events, and programs annually. Through its programming, the Chamber provides leadership for the benefit of region’s business community by promoting economic growth and advocating the interests of business. For its efforts in promoting free enterprise and the business community, the Chamber has been recognized with 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an honor bestowed on only 1 percent of Chambers, out of the nearly 7,000 in the nation.

The Chamber Congratulates the 2013 Leadership Institute Graduates!

Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

The Leadership Institute honored its fourth class of graduates on Tuesday, May 7, at Seven Bridges Golf Club in Naperville. The event was an opportunity for all 25 graduates to share their gratitude with facilitators and thank them for their time and knowledge.

Leadership Institute is a five-month long educational program aimed at giving our Members expert advice and assistance in enhancing their leadership skills. Not only does this involve sessions based around specific elements of leadership, it also incorporates interactive discussions so that each participant receives a more personalized program.

The Leadership Institute is offered annually to Chamber Members and future Chamber Members as an educational resource to employees.

Congratulations to the following 2013 Leadership Institute graduates:

• Will Armistead • Kara Carpenter • Christina Caton Kitchel • Matt Chicola • Emily Erickson • Shoshana Frank • Rachel Grundner • Jessica Hall • Jennifer Herrman • Bruce Jones • Zakery Kates • Adam Johnson • Brett Lindahl	• Jeremy Link • Mike Lyzun • Andrew Matura • Brian Minnis • Ken Parcel • Peggy Pelkonen • Kristen Refness • Jason Schroeder • Ashley Smith • Kristi Solberg • Kristin Sattayatam • Niki Thurkow

The Chamber thanks the outstanding facilitators for their involvement and dedication of time.

	Rick Lochner		Deborah Chambers Chima

	Don Emery		Kevin Harris

The Chamber would also like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the Leadership Institute:

Event Sponsors

Session Sponsors

In-Kind Sponsor

Federal Flood Disaster Assistance Now Available for Naperville Residents

Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Naperville residents impacted by the April 17-18, 2013, flood event are now eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance to aid in their recovery.

Both DuPage and Will counties were included in a recently issued Presidential Disaster Declaration. This federal declaration makes assistance available to flood victims, including grants to individuals and households to help with temporary housing, home repairs or replacement and other disaster-related expenses, as well as low-interest Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to residents and businesses.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the assistance program. Registration can be done online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Hearing and speech impaired individuals should call TTY at 1-800-462-7585.

For more information on the City of Naperville, visit www.naperville.il.us. Sign up to receive the latest news on the City of Naperville's projects and initiatives via email at www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx.

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 145,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city's diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several city boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned living history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.

For more information, contact:

Linda LaCloche
Communications Manager
(630) 420-6034
laclochel@naperville.il.us

Kate R. Houlihan
Communications Specialist
(630) 305-5341
houlihank@naperville.il.us

From Mike Evans: Young Entrepreneurs Academy Receives Enthusiastic Response from Naperville Community

Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Our Chamber officials are overwhelmed at the interest in teaching the next generation of business owners is strong in the community. Over 300 parents, guardians and interested residents attended the informational meetings for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) that is being launched in partnership with School Districts 203 and 204.

I’m thrilled the community is excited and interested in this wonderful new program. It’s encouraging to see so many students, parents and businesses invested in the entrepreneurial spirit. By encouraging entrepreneurship, we’re not only providing important, relevant education to current students, we’re also creating opportunities for our economy to flourish in the future.

The response from the community was enthusiastic, as both parents and business leaders expressed interest in the program and there are still opportunities to get involved. Business leaders can take part by lending their expertise as a guest lecture, offering tours of their business for field trips and acting as mentors to the students.

The goal is to give students hands-on experiences creating a business from the ground up. By learning each element of the process, students will understand the necessary steps to take an idea and turn it into fully realized and functioning business by the end of the program.

YEA encourages innovation, with practicable tools about all aspects of business from learning how to adapt plans, to seeking investors and filing DBAs. YEA is new to Naperville, but has a strong record of success in other communities that have the program. Past students have created businesses that are still operating.

The course runs from October through May, with the class taking place once a week after the school day. Instruction will be held at North Central College, with some off-site trips planned. The program sponsored by the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce and Bloom Women’s Network.

The application deadline is May 31 or until the committee receives 100 applications. A total of 24 spots are available. Additional applications may be considered if there are still available spots after the initial review. The selection committee is comprised of Chamber leaders and representatives from Bloom Women’s Network who will conduct in-person interviews with selected students.

The program has a three-year contract with School Districts 203 and 204 so students that are not selected this year will have an opportunity to reapply.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Why Travel is Good for Your Business

Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

When we finally start to break free of winter, there’s something about the warming temperatures and sunshine that brings out the adventurer in us all. The cabin fever begins to subside and we daydream of venturing out and exploring the world around us, but there’s always some excuse for why we don’t act on this desire. Whether it’s the price, the daunting task of planning or simply indecision on where to go that’s holding you back, the Chamber has a solution for you.

As business leaders and owners, finding time or having the ability to get away is a lot to ask. But, we encourage you to explore the trips we are offering and see the business value in international travel. Of course we will see historic and famous landmarks, and experience the food and culture of the countries we visit, but we want you to get a sense of how businesses operate throughout the world.

The point of the Chamber’s travel program is to create an enriching experience that inspires you to take what you’ve learned and apply it to your own business. By visiting other parts of the world, you are given an edge that will set your business apart. The more knowledge you gain, and the more culture you absorb, the more global your company becomes.

Building on the success of the Chamber’s trip to China last year, we have a return trip planned for this fall featuring a new itinerary. Our president & CEO Mike Evans has traveled to China several times, and has barely begun to scratch the surface of all it has to offer. China’s established influence on the global economy makes it a key destination for business leaders and travel junkies alike.

We’ll be traveling to Beijing, the capital of China, where you’ll be greeted by a local tour guide and visit Forbidden City. One of the highlights will be a dinner with local economic and commerce officials. You’ll also travel to Shanghai to tour the ancient gardens and temples in Suzhou. From there, a short bus tour will take you to Hangzhou, where you’ll visit the Economic Development Zone and see an ancient 64.3 foot-high Buddha within the Lingyin Temple.

Or, if a European trip is on your wish list, we will be traveling to Tuscany in early November. Highlights include a walking trip through Florence and a chance to discover intimate shops while wandering through medieval streets and villages. You’ll visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa among other architectural marvels in the region.

The Chamber arranges for your transportation, accommodations, entry into points of interest, and meals while arranging meetings with locals who can share their experiences as business owners and leaders with you.

The trips are open to Chamber Members and the community, because we want to encourage all area residents to branch out and develop relationships with each other while seeing the world and having valuable experiences.

We look forward to the memories we will make while abroad. This is a tremendous opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of the international market, while exploring exotic locales and bonding with fellow travelers.

Our next informational meeting is Thursday, May 9 with the final meeting taking place Thursday, May 16. Registration for both trips will close at the end of the month.

If you are interested in learning more about our travel program, please contact Mike Evans at (630) 544-3382

China Brochure | Tuscany Brochure

You're Invited...Grand Opening Carnival, May 3rd at Infiniti of Naperville-Lisle

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Your School Could Receive a $1,000 Donation!

Infiniti of Lisle has moved to a new location and is now Infiniti of Naperville. Our family owned business is hosting a Grand Opening Carnival on Friday, May 3rd. Bring your family to enjoy games, entertainment, food, fun and prizes. Also, you will have TWO opportunities to win a $1,000 cash donation to a Naperville area school.

TWO WAYS TO WIN!

Facebook Contest: Our monthly "Choose Your Charity" community outreach program will be called "Choose Your School" during the month of April. You must have a Facebook account, once logged in please visit our Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/InfinitiOfNaperville. While on our Facebook page you will find a list of schools located in Naperville or nominate your own Naperville school. Vote for one school by clicking the corresponding box. The school with the most votes at the end of April will receive the $1,000 donation.

Grand Opening Carnival Contest: The second way to win the "Choose Your School" contest will be held for ONE DAY ONLY at Infiniti of Naperville on May 3rd from 2pm - 7pm. During our Grand Opening we will be handing out ballots to all attendees. Each attendee may cast one vote for one elementary school, one junior high school, and one high school. At the end of the Grand Opening Carnival ballots will be tallied. One school in each category with the most votes will win a $1,000 donation! There will be three winners totaling $3,000 in donations on May 3rd.

Where: Infiniti of Naperville
1550 W. Ogden Ave.
Naperville, IL 60540
630-241-3000
Directions (Click Here)
www.infinitiOfNaperville.com

When: Friday, May 3rd from 2pm - 7pm

Entertainment: Preview the All-New 2014 Infiniti Q50 in person.

Food: Appetizers, drinks, corn dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and more!

Fun: Magicians, Face Painters, Balloon Twisters, carnival games and more.

Prizes: Hourly drawings and carnival game prizes.

Nominated schools must have a Naperville address or be associated with the 203 or 204 School District. The winning schools donations will be delivered to their school location by May 20th, 2013. Infiniti of Naperville reserves the right to approve nominated schools.

Steve Camp
Executive Manager
Infiniti of Naperville-Lisle
1550 W. Ogden Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
Phone: 630-241-3000
Fax: 630-852-7286

eMail: Scamp@infinitiofnaperville.com
web: http://www.infinitiofNaperville.com

From Mike Evans: Chamber Meets with Officials and Joins Coalition to Advocate for Business in D.C.

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last week I led a small delegation from the Chamber to our nation’s capital to meet with members of Congress and share with elected officials the business community’s priorities on several pieces of legislation. We had an opportunity to team up with several other Chambers from across the country, amplify our voice and demonstrate the business community’s desire for action.

This was an informative and productive trip, and I especially want to thank the Members that went with us. Taking time away from their businesses to emphasize the Chamber’s support for action is an important element of our advocacy agenda. We’ve included additional information on the substance of our meetings and visits in today’s Current newsletter, but I also wanted to share a few personal anecdotes about what I observed darting through the halls of Congress.

There are several once-in-a-generation pieces of legislation and other important bills under consideration by Congress. Some of these issues, like immigration and tax reform, will directly impact your business while numerous others will have a significant yet understated impact on your daily life and the goods you buy.

For instance, I was unaware of the full impact the reauthorization of the Water Development Resources Act will have on our region and economy. It’s now something on our radar and something we will keep an eye on in the weeks and months ahead.

It was absolutely inspiring to be in town as two critical pieces of legislation were being debated and heard in the Senate. The gang of eight’s immigration reform proposal was being heard in committee and the Marketplace Fairness Act was on the floor of the Senate.

While I won’t proclaim success or even predict an outcome on any of these issues, the fact that we are having substantive, bipartisan debate and discussion on several fronts is a major step in the right direction.

There is no shortage of items pending the attention of Congress and the President. Everyone agrees that the tax code and immigration system are dysfunctional and broken, but agreement on the best path forward remains elusive.

Our elected leaders must continue to debate, discuss and draft solutions that will fix each of these issues. Saying it is too difficult isn’t an acceptable outcome. We – the business community – must encourage progress and compromise.

While in the Capitol, I also learned that the Naperville Chamber has a strong reputation. In meeting after meeting we heard, “We know where the Chamber stands and your opinion has been heard.”

That is a testament to the dedication, leadership and willingness of the Members on the Legislative Committee and Board to tackle tough issues, do the research and follow-through on issues over the years.

This trip was also a reminder of our chamber network’s scope and the power of our grassroots efforts. We teamed up with other regional organizations, the Greater Boston Chamber, Greater Philadelphia Chamber, Greater Durham Chamber, and the Austin Chamber to widen our net, create additional meeting opportunities and demonstrate the business community’s commitment to high-skilled H-1B immigration reform. This was a model of success and something we intend to replicate at the state and federal level soon.

While you might look at the headlines and grow frustrated, know that our efforts and the time you spend away from your business to attend a Legislative Committee event, or send an email to an official makes a big difference. If you don’t speak up and let your officials know what you think, others will fill the void.

Through your involvement our Chamber is fortunate enough to have the membership, budget and ability to be a definitive voice for businesses in the western suburbs and across Illinois. We take this responsibility seriously and we intend to continue making an impact.

We did good work last week in Washington, but our efforts are never complete. Thank you for your support, which enables our efforts.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Chamber Advocates for Tax Reform and Immigration in D.C.

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Last week a delegation of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for the interests of our membership on three issues at the top of our agenda.

Our Chamber, along with a coalition of other Chambers, visited with 15 members of Congress or their staff throughout the week, demonstrating the strength of support for action on a variety of policy fronts.

“Our objective in heading to the Capitol is to reinforce that we are committed to seeing these issues through,” said Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce. “We made our case on several fronts and it is important that we keep the momentum building in the days and weeks ahead.”

The Chamber is especially appreciative of the hospitality and attentiveness of the congressional offices we visited. Our delegation had substantive and important conversations with elected officials and staff on a variety of fronts.

Below are in-depth summaries of where items on our agenda stand:

Immigration Reform:

A comprehensive reform proposal drafted by a bipartisan group of eight senators, including Assistant Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin, was being heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee during our visit last week.

We had an informative briefing with the staff of the Senate Judiciary Committee and met with members of Congress from North Carolina and as far away as Texas.

While a lot of attention is focused on the Senate, our coalition also visited with several key members of the House of Representatives. Our delegation met with Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), an influential former chairman of the Judiciary Committee; key staff for Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas), who chairs the Homeland Security Committee; and Rep. John Carter (R-Texas), who is a member of a bipartisan working-group in the House drafting legislation.

Based on our conversations and briefings, we believe the Senate Judiciary Committee will advance a bill for floor consideration within a few weeks, with a wide-ranging floor debate and amendment process to follow.

Action in the House is likely to be split into smaller, piecemeal legislation, though there is a growing chorus for a larger bill to be offered.

Throughout this process it is vital that reforms to the H-1B visa process improve the system and allow American businesses to hire and retain the best, brightest and most qualified workers.

There are numerous other beneficial elements of the bill, including the creation of a new entrepreneurial visa classification, a new W visa category for lower skilled work such as agrarian and construction, and reform for how we classify immigrant family members as part of the overall cap.

This is a complicated issue and the Chamber will continue to provide timely updates as progress continues. Based on our March Legislative Committee meeting, the board of directors has approved a platform to guide the Chamber’s evaluation of immigration proposals.

Marketplace Fairness Act:

This legislation co-sponsored by Sen. Durbin (D-Ill.) has been a longstanding priority of the Chamber’s federal agenda. The legislation would establish a national framework for the collection of sales tax owed, but often not collected for online purchases.

Initially scheduled for a final vote on the floor of the Senate, final consideration has been held until May 6, allowing for a series of technical and drafting amendments to be added to the bill.

Earlier procedural motions attracted as many as 75 yes votes, but the Chamber will be in constant communication emphasizing the benefits this bill delivers for our community and membership.

If final passage is achieved in the Senate, we must focus our efforts to have the bill called for a vote in the House. While in D.C., the Chamber met with Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Peoria), who is a cosponsor of the legislation in the House.

Local business groups like the Chamber will be critical to getting this bill passed into law. Over the past several months we have made great progress in making our case to elected officials, but we must continue our efforts.

You can view an earlier summary of the legislation and why the Chamber supports the legislation here.

Tax Reform:

On the heels of Tax Day, conversations are continuing on how to modernize the tax code, which has grown unwieldy and is riddled with loopholes, exemptions and credits. The result of all of these changes and modifications is that according to the Tax Foundation’s economists, compliance with the tax code requires 6.6 billion hours of work each year.

We also learned that the House Ways & Means Committee and Senate Finance Committee are working diligently on drafting proposals on comprehensive tax reform. These conversations and working groups are bipartisan and span almost every element of the tax code.

Earlier this year at a briefing in the Chamber’s board room, Chief Deputy Whip Peter Roskam noted that all tax reform efforts are “cumulative,” and that the Chamber and our membership should pay close attention to the work of the tax writing committees.

In the months ahead the Chamber’s Legislative Committee will continue to offer informative briefings on this wide-ranging topic. We look forward to your participation and encourage your feedback at these events.

From Mike Evans: The 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award Goes to…

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

One of our most popular events, The Small Business of the Year Awards, is just around the corner. This is our opportunity to recognize the outstanding businesses and leaders in our community. Last year, we celebrated the 15th anniversary of the awards, and this year, the celebration continues during the Chamber’s 100th year anniversary. Milestones in business don’t come easily, but rather they are achieved through dedication, determination and plain old hard work.

In addition to recognizing businesses each year, we honor a worthy recipient of our civic community with the Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is given to people that have made significant contributions to our community through their business, philanthropy and dedication to making Naperville a great place to live. Today, we are pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Anderson Family, and I ask that you join us on May 10 to help us honor the vital role their family has had in Naperville for five generations.

While the Chamber has been around 100 years, our Small Business of the Year Awards is still relatively new. That is why we have chosen the Anderson family, who through multiple generations, have been committed to the Chamber, our community and their employees.

Simply put, without the leadership of the Anderson family, we wouldn’t have a Chamber celebrating a centennial anniversary. For more than a century, this family of entrepreneurs has been serving their customers and helping Naperville grow and expand.

The family’s first business, W.W. Wickel Pharmacy, opened its doors over 130 years ago. Since then, the business has been handed down from generation to generation, expanding and changing to meet the needs of their customers.

The original business has moved out of downtown and operates as Oswald’s Pharmacy, but continues its legacy of great service with personal care. The first incarnation of Anderson’s Bookshop opened in 1964 under the name Paperback Paradise and has been inspiring generations of children to read and enjoy the experience of learning. Two Doors East opened its doors just a few years ago and is a great addition to downtown’s retail community. Both Oswald’s and Anderson’s are past recipients of the Small Business of the Year Award.

Becky, Bill, Tres and Peter Anderson are the latest generation to uphold the family tradition of providing top-notch services to the citizens of Naperville. In addition to the daily operations of running the family’s businesses, they also are heavily involved with various local organizations.

We aren’t just honoring the current generation of the family either, we want to recognize family members past and present, for paving the way and establishing a solid foundation for each subsequent generation to build on.

Whether you know the Anderson’s personally, have patronized their shops or worked side by side with them on community projects, we hope will you join us at the Small Business of the Year Awards on May 10 to congratulate them on all of their success.

In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Award, you’ll have the opportunity to recognize several of your peers nominated in five categories for the Small Business of the Year Award. This is a great opportunity to cheer on your fellow Members and let them know you appreciate their business and leadership. To view this year’s nominees, click here.

I want to thank BMO Harris Bank for their longstanding sponsorship of this event. There are dozens of other longtime supporters and I thank you all as well.

If you’d like to be involved with the festivities, sponsorship opportunities are still available. If you haven’t submitted your RSVP, you are highly encouraged to do so. This is one of our most popular signature events, so you’ll want to secure a spot for you and your guests as soon as possible. It’s going to be a great evening and a chance to mingle with hundreds of local business leaders.

The Small Business of the Year Awards takes place May 10, from 6 – 10 p.m. at the Wyndham Lisle. I look forward to seeing you all there.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Chamber April Anniversaries

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

From Mike Evans: Let's Talk Taxes

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Today, April 15, is a date that is ingrained in the minds of every American. With your taxes being due today, millions of Americans have already taken the necessary steps to fulfill a civic duty. Doing taxes reminds us all that we carry a burden for the government we have and use in every facet of our daily lives.

There is ample discussion of reforming the tax code to make preparing our taxes easier by removing the innumerable breaks and credits, and revamping the system that exists today. The Chamber is encouraged by this discussion and we’ll be heading off to Washington D.C. next week so we can report back on what we learn.

While some elements of tax reform were included in the deal to avert the fiscal cliff, there is more work to be done. Finding good solutions takes time and although we are anxious for answers, a quick fix is not acceptable. The respective chairs in the House and Senate are seriously vetting and discussing various elements of reform.

It is too soon to predict whether tax reform and votes will take place but this process is something to pay attention to. We recently had Chief Deputy Whip Peter Roskam visit the Chamber and he reminded us that all efforts to reform the tax code are cumulative in nature. His point was that it takes time, effort and consensus to reform tax statutes and we – the business community – need to be involved in the process.

That is why the Chamber will support the efforts of our elected leaders to take a look at how to make the tax code simpler. These discussions and proposals are to be welcomed, not feared.

Dissenting opinions and multiple ideas allow for better discussion and well-rounded decisions, but the focus should remain on how the tax code affects citizens, and how it will affect future generations of citizens.

We can all agree to some extent that the current tax code is pretty much broken, but every decision, credit and break was created for a reason. However, that makes the task of running your business even more difficult.

We will use the opportunity in D.C. to learn more about the work our elected officials are doing to establish a simple, reasonable tax code. Since the creation of federal income tax, the amendment has inflated from 30 words to 4 million, so the revision and reformation of it is no small feat.

We cannot sit on the sidelines and hope for reform, we must take a role in achieving it. The Chamber always works to improve the business climate, and this includes what tax liabilities you’re exposed to and how this determines the decisions you, as a business leader, have to make. Our dialogue on tax reform is just one of the many fronts we are working on to help your business.

If there is anything you would like to suggest for our agenda while we are in Washington, please feel free to reach out to me.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Chamber Heads to Washington, D.C.

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Next week, the Chamber will be heading to Washington D.C. to advocate for the interests of our membership and receive informative briefings. Thanks to the support of our region’s congressional delegation, several appointments are on the agenda and we will be teaming up with several other influential metro-Chambers to discuss immigration reform.

“This year our Chamber’s voice will be amplified by our peers from the Greater Boston Chamber, business leaders from Philadelphia, and even Austin, Texas. This is really grassroots organizing at its best,” said Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber. “We’re there to show our support, learn the details of legislation and find out how we can help.”

In addition to discussing immigration reform, the delegation will discuss the Marketplace Fairness Act, tax reform and Western Access to O’Hare. While the Chamber has an aggressive schedule of in-district meetings with our congressional members, it is important to visit the Capitol, get updates from key staff and show our support for measures that improve the business community.

Each of these issues has come up in Chamber discussions and meetings, and the Chamber is looking forward to taking an active role in making sure elected officials hear your concerns and vote to improve the business community.

If there are any issues you would like to add to the agenda, please contact Mike Evans, president & CEO at 630-544-3382.

Election Tomorrow: Have a Say in the Future of Your Community

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Tuesday, April 9 is the Consolidated Municipal Election Day for communities across the state, providing citizens the opportunity to elect leaders at the local level. The Naperville Area Chamber PAC, the Chamber’s affiliated political organization, has offered 11 endorsements this cycle. You can review the profiles of the Chamber PAC’s endorsed candidates at www.napervillechamberendorsements.com.

Additionally, earlier this year the Chamber’s board of directors affirmed our opposition to the institution of aldermanic-wards for the City of Naperville, concerned that “the institution of ward-based elections for the Naperville City Council will create an incentive and environment for increased taxes, spending and debt.”

The Chamber recommends a “yes” vote on the question for voters within the City of Naperville.

NACPAC Website | Chamber Wards Referendum Webpage

From Mike Evans: Chamber Launching Entrepreneurship Program in Schools

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

I’m excited to announce a new program the Chamber is hosting aimed at developing the minds of our community’s burgeoning entrepreneurs. The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) is a one-of-a-kind afterschool program for middle school through high school students that gives them detailed instruction on the ins and outs of starting a business. I’m positive you and your company will want to get involved in this inspirational and rewarding program.

We are partnering in this endeavor with the Bloom Women’s Network, an organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life both personally and professionally for women in the Naperville area. Part of their focus is empowering young ladies and helping to propel them into the business world. Their support through the YEA program will be instrumental to our success.

I would be remiss to not mention the incredible leadership we have received from the Chamber’s Women in Business and Young Professionals Network. These two committees will be in charge of administering the YEA program in partnership with Bloom. If you’re involved in either of these committees please speak with your respective chair and co-chair on how you can help with the program – your involvement is key to having broad perspectives for all of our students.

For our country to continue to succeed, we need to have the next generation filled with individuals that have the drive, will and desire to take an idea and turn it into a viable, successful business. The best way to cultivate ideas and give inspiration to tomorrow’s entrepreneurs is to start engaging with students in school - today. The Chamber is partnering with YEA because it provides kids a step-by-step breakdown of how to turn an idea into reality.

A lot of factors contribute to the long-term prospect of our economy, especially how we educate and introduce our children to the benefits of risk-taking in the free enterprise system. Entrepreneurship doesn’t just drive business success, it empowers and encourages society to advance, innovate and provide for individual achievement.

To give you a little background on the program, the Young Entrepreneurs Academy was established in 2004. It is a thirty-week long, hands-on experience that will teach students how to conduct research, write a business plan, pitch ideas and ultimately launch their own company.

Students are encouraged to work together, present their ideas and are actually rewarded with the seed money to turn their idea from concept into reality. At the end of the program, students are encouraged to enter the real economy and put their ideas to work.

Instilling the importance of a healthy business environment and the role entrepreneurs play at an early age is essential. While we are all busy working in our businesses and closing the next sales cycle, we can’t forget to see the bigger picture and make sure our future business leaders are confident, prepared and well-rounded. Participating in the Chamber’s YEA program is a way for you to give back and inspire a new class of entrepreneurs.

In the coming months you will see our Chamber become more involved in our schools and education system. The Chamber has a proud history of involvement and partnership, and we will build on that strong foundation through enhanced discussions, attention and programming. The cause is clear; we – the business community – must secure our economic future through increased responsibility and accountability for the results of our massive investment in education.

A recent article in the Washington Post stated that, “the U.S. is the only developed country where those retiring from the workforce are more educated than those entering it.” While this is the result of many complex factors, we cannot sit on the sidelines. This is our responsibility and cause.

If you would like to be involved, we are offering sponsorships for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy. I know many businesses want to give back to the community and local schools, and the YEA program is a great way to get started. Our sponsorships will enable us to deliver a first-class program aimed at improving tomorrow’s generation, today. We have various levels of sponsorship available and are also looking for our Panel of Investors. These investors will be asked to contribute $1,000 toward seed investment. The money will be given to our new entrepreneurs under the advice of their mentors.

Through sponsorship you will also have a chance to interact directly with class participants, families and community leaders. Sponsors can present on various topics during the YEA courses, demonstrate their business expertise at the YEA Big IDEA trade show, or host on-site field trips for our YEA students, and many other great events and community recognitions.

If you’d like to know how you can become involved through sponsorship, please contact me. I look forward to engaging our business community in this generational program in the days to come.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

From Mike Evans: Planning for the Future

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

I’ve been bringing you a lot of news regarding changes and updates at the Chamber. This time, I wanted to provide a little insight into how these decisions are made, and what your board is doing to ensure the Chamber exceeds your expectations and delivers meaningful results.

The board of directors always looks at the long-term vision of the Chamber but like most organizations, hosting a strategic planning retreat helps channel everyone’s ideas. Just a few weeks ago, the board completed their annual retreat. This was an opportunity to look at what has or hasn’t worked for us and focus on the changes that the Chamber has to make to get to the next level.

This year’s planning session had special meaning because of our centennial anniversary. Having an opportunity to lead during this momentous organizational achievement is something to celebrate; but it is also motivation to look toward the future. Your board is focused on how we can serve the membership and community for years to come.

“We have always been one of the premier business associations in the country, but resting on our laurels won’t propel us to future success.” said Tom Kallay, chairman-elect for the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “As a board we have to be asking questions like ‘What are the challenges our members will face in this volatile and changing business environment?’” Kallay continued.

To guide our way forward we’ve set benchmarks and we will measure the Chamber’s performance on a variety of fronts. While we need to look around geographically, we also need to measure our performance against our peers from across the country.

With these metrics, we have set expectations for what the board needs to accomplish both as a group and as individual directors. Through your continued support and involvement, the Naperville Area Chamber has achieved a lot, including 5-Star Accreditation. By setting benchmarks, and looking at other organizations, we can develop a clear path that tells us where we want and need to be.

Retention and growth are the keys to success in the years ahead and that will force all of us out of our comfort zone. We often live in a bubble in our Chamber community. We establish relationships with the people we see at various Chamber functions, but don’t focus on the fresh faces in the crowd. Continued growth and new Members will encourage us to seek new relationships. We need to remain focused on attracting new Members because the more ideas, talents and businesses we have in the mix, the more opportunities we will have to learn from each other.

It was a great weekend with a successful discussion and sharing of ideas, and I think we’ve put together some great starting points to work from. I’d like to give special thanks to former chairman Kevin Harris of Bedrock Assets for keeping us on target as he guided us through the retreat. His ability to captivate and lead was a tremendous boost to our day and provided some solid direction to establishing our goals for this Chamber.

“Guiding a group of business leaders to consensus is no easy task and Kevin Harris did a great job of keeping us on our target,” added Dr. Cathy Subber, chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

I hope you are excited as I am about what’s in store for the Chamber. Meeting our goals will take a little time and require us to try new things. Along the way, a few hurdles will be climbed and we may even swerve off course, but our target remains the same – providing a top performing organization for our Members. Most importantly, achieving our goals is a team effort - all hands on deck and contributing.

We’re fortunate to have a great team in place, from our leadership at the board level to the dedicated employees at our Main Street Promenade office. In addition, the Chamber has the most diligent group of volunteers serving as committee and program chairs and we would not be able to achieve our goals without you, the Members.

I know we have what it takes to continue our legacy of being a top chamber in Illinois and across the country. There is much we have accomplished, but the opportunities are endless. Let’s do something great together.

Thank you for your membership and continued support!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Chamber Hosts Economic Development Reform Hearing, April 4

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, April 4, a hearing will be hosted at the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce to discuss Senate Bill 2 – legislation intended to reform how Illinois conducts its economic development affairs. The legislation is sponsored by Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill) and Sen. Mike Connelly (R-Lisle). They are working together to gather input from business leaders across the state on how Illinois can do a better job attracting and retaining employers.

“I’d like to thank Sen. Connelly for encouraging the field hearing to take place in DuPage County. He is a valuable resource to us as we establish our advocacy efforts and strive to be an informed resource for our membership regarding the policies affecting business,” said Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce.

The hearing takes place from 1-3 p.m. in the Chamber’s Conference Room A in the Main Street Promenade.

The witnesses scheduled to testify are:

• Senators Andy Manar (D–Bunker Hill)
• Melinda Bush (D–Grayslake)
• Michael Connelly (R–Wheaton)
• Michael Mini - Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
• David Hinderliter – Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce
• Christine Jeffries – Naperville Development Partnership;
• Greg Bedalov – Choose DuPage
• Mike Evans – Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

“It’s an honor to host such a critical hearing and allow our area’s business leaders the opportunity to speak out. Thank you to all of the participating panelists– it’s so great to see the democratic process in action as business leaders and citizens are asked to give important insight into creating measurable reform,” continued Evans.

Pension Reform Moves Forward - Slowly

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Last week the Illinois House took a major step forward in advancing legislation that deals with one of the most contentious and difficult aspects of pension reform. This vote occurred after a series of votes and debates on other proposed modifications to the state’s retirement systems.

“The Chamber’s top state priority is the enactment of meaningful and actuarially sound pension reform legislation,” said Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce. “There is unanimous agreement that the current system is unsustainable, but little agreement on how to move forward.”

While much work still lies ahead, the roll call votes from last week is a positive sign that officials are on the path to dealing with the state’s multi-billion dollar unfunded pension liability problems. For several years the Chamber has been educating lawmakers, business officials and residents on the fiscal challenges confronting the state and pension systems.

Despite the 66 percent increase in income taxes, the state is no closer to reducing its backlog of bills or removing the unfunded pension liabilities.

“We understand that there are no easy choices in this debate and that passions run high, but our officials must vote in favor of the reform that they feel will save the state from fiscal ruin,” continued Evans. “The Chamber pledges to continue to serve as a source of community dialogue and education.”

In addition to the vote in the House, a Sangamon County judge made an important ruling dealing with the severability of retiree health care benefits. The decision, while likely to be appealed, provides insight into how reform proposals will be judged by the courts.

“There was an important court decision last week and everyone expects this issue to go before the judiciary,” concludes Evans. “But that resolution cannot happen unless our elected officials vote on reform measures that passes both chambers and is signed into law. The General Assembly must pass real pension reform this session, the time is now.”

Roll Call for HB 1165
Illinois House approves major pension reform bill – Chicago Tribune
Statehouse Insider: Did Madigan have the right approach all along? – State Journal Register
Illinois Senate OKs pension-reform bill that won’t affect current retirees – Chicago Sun Times

Chamber Applauds Passage of Amendment in Support of Ending the Online Sales Tax Exemption

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Last week during a series of votes on the budget, the U.S. Senate voted 74-25 in favor of an amendment in support of the Marketplace Fairness Act (S. 336). This legislation seeks to end the exemption granted to online-only retailers for the collection of locally applicable sales tax. The Chamber has been a long-time supporter of the bill.

“First and foremost we thank Sen. Durbin for his leadership on removing this unwise tax loophole,” said Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce. “Only congressional action can modernize the tax code to ensure that an outdated exemption doesn’t make online-only retailers winners, and put a disincentive on the backs of retailers.”

Because of the way the amendment was offered during the budget process, it was not binding and the legislation still must be brought up during regular processes. The Chamber is pleased the amendment received large bipartisan support and offers renewed momentum for the legislation’s ultimate passage.

“The Chamber also thanks Sen. Durbin for his efforts to secure a strong bipartisan showing of support for the bill and we stand with him in support of getting this legislation a vote in the House and Senate,” continued Evans. “We are pleased that Sen. Durbin and Sen. Kirk voted in favor of the amendment and are committed to removing this unwise exemption from the tax code.”

The Chamber will advocate in favor of the bill during its upcoming trip to Washington D.C. later this spring and during visits with members of Illinois’ congressional delegation.

Read More online:

Senate overwhelmingly endorses collection of online sales tax - The Hill
Senate embraces Internet taxes - cnet
Senators warn against online tax vote - The Hill
Will the Marketplace Fairness Act Succeed in 2013? - Governing
Supporters of Internet sales tax battle headwinds - Politico

From Mike Evans: Why We Endorse

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

As we enter the home stretch of the local election season, the Chamber’s PAC has made its endorsements and I wanted to explain how these decisions are made and why we get involved in elections in the first place.

The Chamber has an active Legislative Committee and we take positions across the state and country. From City Hall to Congress, the Chamber is a conduit for our membership to offer insight, opinions and reactions to legislative developments that affect your business. But advocacy doesn’t occur in a vacuum.

Citizens are regularly asked to vote for candidates at every level of government. Sitting on the sidelines during the election season means that we allow outside groups, individuals and candidates to control the agenda. With a tool like NACPAC, the Chamber is able to mobilize the collective voice of our Members and offer endorsements in a variety of races each cycle to help you make your decision on whom we recommend to elect.

Offering endorsements isn’t easy and the PAC’s board of directors spends hours in interviews and deliberation sessions. The Chamber’s leadership understands that the endorsement decisions we make may make us unpopular with certain candidates, members, citizens – and incumbent elected officials who don’t earn our endorsement. However, making these tough decisions is what having a leadership position and credibility all are about.

The Chamber doesn’t shy away from offering our opinion on opposing legislation or proposals that could hurt our members, and we equally applaud decisions that improve the business climate on a regular basis. We believe that our affiliated political arm, NACPAC should do the same.

This cycle NACPAC has endorsed several quality candidates for the City Council, District 203 Board of Education and District 204 Board of Education. The Naperville Park District doesn’t have any contested election. We take a pass on the township races as the Chamber doesn’t have an invested agenda at that level this year.

• Naperville City Council Endorsements
• District 203 Board of Education Endorsements
• District 204 Board of Education Endorsements

To give a little background, and I will speak from my role as Chairman of the Naperville Area Chamber PAC, we offer each candidate an interview with our board to make a case on why we should endorse them, and provide an equal platform for individuals to demonstrate why they are the strongest voice for the businesses we represent.

After hearing from the candidates we deliberate and offer our endorsements based on our judgment of the individuals who will best encourage job creation, business growth and improve the economic climate. We hope that whether you agree with our recommendations or not, it serves as a resource to the community and encourages dialogue about the candidates running for office.

The Chamber pledges to continue working with whoever is ultimately voted into office and offer our thanks for those who ran for office. Campaigning at any level is a serious time commitment and we thank every candidate for their contribution to our democratic process.

I encourage you to share the information, links and backgrounds on the candidates with your friends, colleagues and employees. You can access all of our voter education materials at www.napervillechamberendorsements.com.

That said, the Chamber’s endorsements can only be communicated as far as the funding from our supporters allows. If you believe that the business community should help encourage the election of highly qualified, pro-business candidates to office, you should contribute to our efforts. No funds from the Chamber are contributed to NACPAC. We also do not use any membership investment revenue for political purposes. Therefore, it is critical that NACPAC has the ability to raise the necessary contributions to support the candidates they endorse. The simple fact is, elections cost money, I am asking for your support in these efforts.

As a great leader of our Chamber, I am asking for a contribution of $250 to NACPAC, however any amount $150, $100 or $75 is appreciated. Every dollar you donate to NACPAC goes directly to our outreach efforts. Your donation can be mailed care of NACPAC to 55 S. Main St., Suite 351, Naperville, IL 60540-5381. Please return your contribution or notify me of your pledge amount. Contributions may be made with either a corporate or personal check, consistent with state law.

The decisions our community makes on Tuesday, April 9 will affect all of our businesses. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or concerns you have.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the Chamber.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

From Mike Evans: New Membership Investment Plans Available

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last week I told you about our new website and this week I’d like to announce another step the Chamber is taking to give you more choices and add value to your membership. When I was first given the opportunity to take the helm of this organization, I knew that the best suggestions for improving the organization would come from you. Continuous improvement is made possible through your input and feedback.

Your board of directors and I have been working on updates to the Chamber’s membership plans, with our focus being on providing you more flexibility and choice. We’ve recently finalized the new packages, and are in the midst of rolling them out to the membership. As you can imagine, with 1,400 customers, this will take a little bit of time. I wanted to give you a quick overview, because you’re probably wondering, what’s changed?

Most importantly every membership plan has changed to provide you with more options on how you want to allocate your membership investment. Some of our Members value our events and programming, while others look for more traditional marketing opportunities. The plans will allow you to select the packages where you find the most value that best fit with your business’ needs.

Here are some highlights of what has changed:

• Improved brand development and educational resources available to all Members through the Basic Gold Membership plan.
• The ability to co-host lunch and learn sessions in partnership with the Chamber rather than just using our conference room space for a meeting.
• A focus on overall value and annual investment, no more nickel and diming features and benefits. Each package is different based on the needs of the member.
• New, exclusive events focused on business development and relationship building for senior leadership and our most premier members.
• A strategic consultative approach to the Member-Chamber relationship for business growth, from small business development tools available to all Members to one-on-one counseling and strategic introductions made by the Chamber on behalf of our Members.
• The formation of a new President’s Club, an elite level of membership for those companies capable of investing between $5,000 and $20,000 annually. These Members are recognized throughout the year for their support.

The Naperville Chamber led the way in our industry with the introduction of the tiered membership packages. Previous Chamber leadership rightly determined that membership plans should be based on a business’ commitment and interest, not on how many employees they have. Many Chambers across the country, and in our region, have introduced some variation of our plans.

We haven’t changed the fundamental element of our membership philosophy that every organization should have choice in determining how involved they want to be. This allows for an inclusive environment that welcomes businesses of every size and background.

That said the Chamber has refreshed the way our plans are designed and managed by you, our Members. At each plan level you have the option of selecting between options and benefits. The higher the level of plan, the more you have to select from. We never want an interested business to walk away because a membership package was too rigid, or didn’t offer what they were looking to get out of the Chamber.

While the new plans put a little more responsibility in your hands, we know that you are the best decision maker for your business. Providing you with opportunity to select the benefits that work for your business is better than the Chamber trying to guess.

You can expect to learn more about the new plan features in the coming weeks and around the time of your membership renewal. If you are curious today, you can always reach out to us to learn more in advance of your annual renewal.

I pledge to continue working with the board and membership to improve the value you receive from your investment in the Chamber. The new website and revised membership packages are just part of our overall improvement plan. This is truly an exciting time to be affiliated with the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce.

When you have time to explore the new options, you will see how we have restructured them to allow you to use your membership in your yearlong plan for your business. Our goal is to have you a happy, satisfied customer who has gotten a positive return for your business.

This is just the beginning of many improvements the Chamber will strive for during our centennial year and beyond. We welcome your comments and suggestions.

Thank you for your continued involvement and support.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382

Basic Gold Membership Plan

Classic Gold Membership Plan

Premier Membership Plan

Executive Premier Membership Plan

Chamber Now Offering Exclusive Online Marketing Opportunities

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with WebLink International, is excited to share valuable online advertising opportunities for your benefit available through the website and online business directory.

In order to ensure members understand all opportunities available, a WebLink representative will be calling members to arrange meetings with Internet Marketing Consultant Nick Thompson. These appointments are very limited so request your meeting right away.

During these brief meetings Nick will discuss:

Utilizing the website to promote and grow your business

Limited featured business positions now available

Limited marketing opportunities on the website's most visited pages - enhancing your exposure to customers looking for local information and businesses

Click here to schedule a meeting with Nick, our Internet Marketing Consultant.

Nick is only available March 18-29; meeting times are filling up quickly so click the link above or call him at 877-231-4970 ext. 187 to schedule your meeting today.

From Mike Evans: Improving Our Website to Better Serve You

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Thank you all for providing your feedback and suggestions on ways we can improve the value of membership. Every business needs to undertake continuous improvement and the Chamber is no different. A common source of constructive criticism from the membership is about the Chamber’s website. In all honesty, I agree with you. We can and will do better.

Today I’m announcing that plans are already underway to build an entirely new website – one befitting of our membership and our status as one of the elite chambers in the nation. The new site will help the Chamber better achieve its mission of promoting Members and our community, while providing better functionality and exposure for all of our events, advocacy and committee programs.

Like everything here at the Chamber, our website doesn’t belong to us; it belongs to you our Members. While we must promote our community and organization, rest assure that marketing our membership and your ease of use is just as important to us in the redesign.

We will work with Weblink International, who is recognized as the top provider in our industry. By partnering with Weblink, this important update will come at no cost to the membership or our general budget. Instead, the project will be a self-sustaining upgrade. This will allow us to continue to invest the Chamber’s resources toward improving our programming. Weblink has a strong history in Naperville and across the country and we look forward to another successful campaign.

Working with Weblink also provides the Chamber with internal efficiencies, which are important to our overall operations. Having the website work with our membership and event management database is a necessity. Given the breakneck pace of events, committee meetings, ribbon cuttings and briefings an efficient system is vital.

Along the way if you have suggestions or ideas, please let us know. You will also be invited to participate and visit with representatives from Weblink to explain how we will improve the marketing and advertising benefits of the new website. Currently, we receive 550,000 page views each year from all over the world. With the new site, we will surpass that which means your business will have the opportunity to have even more exposure.

Within the industry the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce has a reputation of being a leader, providing excellent value, and quality programs and services. This reputation is well deserved. With the leadership of the board we will never stop looking for ways to improve and increase the return on your membership investment. We will take a few chances and try out new things.

We have some other important and exciting updates to announce in the coming weeks that you may have heard about already, all about providing you an even better return on your investment in your Chamber. Thank you for your continued involvement and support!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Statement on Water Street District Approval

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Statement on Water Street District Approval
Chamber President & CEO Statement on Historic Development Approval

Naperville, Ill. (March 5, 2013) – In reaction to the Naperville City Council’s approval of the comprehensive redevelopment plan for the Water Street block in downtown Naperville, Mike Evans, president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce released the following statement:

“This decision will usher in a new era of economic development and growth for the business community. We applaud and thank the champions on the City Council who realized the possibility of this site and worked with the developer to seize this opportunity.

“Projects like the Water Street District are a rare generational opportunity for the entire community. This was a momentous decision in the history of Naperville, and will make a positive difference in the growth and vitality of Naperville’s economy.

“We are fortunate that the fundamentals of our community, combined with a developer with the means, desire and capability, can unlock the economic potential of this underutilized property.

“The Chamber thanks the development team lead by Marquette Companies, for their patience, savvy and dedication to make this landmark investment. We expect a fantastic development to rise on Water Street that will bring new jobs and guests to Naperville.”

Based on policy, the Chamber does not take a position on individual zoning and development issues before the City Council and instead opines on the city’s long-term planning process. The Chamber was an enthusiastic supporter of a comprehensive redevelopment proposal for the Water Street Block, endorsing the Downtown 2030 plan, and TIF financing in previous years.

The Downtown Naperville Alliance, an affiliate of the Chamber and the marketing arm of the downtown business district, explicitly endorsed the proposal at the direction of its Management Council.

###

About the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest suburban Chamber in Illinois with an active membership of 1,400 organizations of every size and from every sector, who participate in more than 400 briefings, committee gatherings, events, and programs annually. Through its programming, the Chamber provides leadership for the benefit of region’s business community by promoting economic growth and advocating the interests of business. For its efforts in promoting free enterprise and the business community, the Chamber has been recognized with 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an honor bestowed on only 1 percent of chambers, out of the nearly 7,000 in the nation.

From Mike Evans: Spotlight on Small Business

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

As you may know, we host an annual award gala, the Small Business of the Year Award, to give recognition to our area’s best and brightest small businesses. But before we get to the ceremony, we have to have nominations from our membership. Anticipating which businesses will be nominated is always an exciting process.

Nominations are accepted through March 12, and I encourage you to examine the requirements and think about your business or the organizations you’ve come in contact with. Have you experienced outstanding service, or is there a product you cannot live without? Are you wowed by an organization’s practices or staff? These are the types of things we want to acknowledge.

We are proud that 95 percent of our membership is comprised of small businesses. It’s an entrepreneur’s unique ideas, approaches and services that create the charm and appeal of a community. It provides character and makes a city worth visiting and residing in. Naperville is home to a variety of such businesses and we want to give them proper recognition for contributing to the landscape of our community.

Nominating a business not only shows that someone’s work is valued, it also provides an opportunity for businesses to focus on their operations in a more critical manner. Many of our past winners have stated that one of the unexpected benefits was being able to examine their business and discover its strengths and weaknesses. The nomination process allowed them to evaluate what changes could be made to continue growing and improving.

New businesses can qualify for a special award. With the Emerging Business award, organizations less than two years old receive recognition for the exceptional work they’ve done in such a short amount of time. What better way for a new business to gain exposure and establish a stellar reputation than to be recognized by their peers in front of family and friends.

We cannot put on events such as the Small Business of the Year Award without the generous support of our sponsors. BMO Harris Bank will once again sponsor the evening and we thank them for their continued involvement.

The Small Business of the Year Award takes place May 10 at the Wyndham Lisle. Details on registration will follow. For more information please visit www.naperville.net.

To nominate a business, please fill out this form and return it to Lisa Spaeth, at lspaeth@naperville.net or by fax at 630-544-3366.

Good luck to everyone!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

From Mike Evans: It’s Your Business Fight For It!

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The Chamber devotes part of our programming and energy toward advocacy initiatives and government affairs outreach. The collective work we do to represent the interests of the business community is some of the most meaningful work we can accomplish to help your organization. The business community cannot speak up often enough at every level of government.

So while I know you are busy running your business, meeting customer demands and prospecting for new clients, I ask for your continued involvement. We have had tremendous success on a variety of issues, but there’s always room for improvement. You are the best advocate for your business and you need to fight to defend what you’ve built. Here are several great opportunities available to you through the Chamber.

Whether you are an issue expert or a political novice, you are invited to have a seat at our roundtable series on the fourth Friday of each month. We invite an elected official to have an in-depth conversation about two or three policy issues with attendees.

We just had a great conversation with Illinois Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) last week and I know we’ll have an informative discussion on March 22, when Chief Deputy Whip Peter Roskam, from the U.S. House of Representatives visits with the Chamber.

We are still working with our partners at the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce on finalizing the details for our annual day in Springfield. With chambers from every corner of the state converging on the capitol, your participation will demonstrate the desire of the business community for the General Assembly to improve the economic climate. Stay tuned for more information.

On April 29 through May 1 we will travel to Washington, D.C. to advance our federal legislative priorities. Notable on our list is the Marketplace Fairness Act, an item I wrote about last week. Your personal advocacy is crucial to getting this legislation a vote on the floor of the U.S. House and Senate.

Of course, we will still have our monthly Legislative Committee meetings at Hotel Arista and you are always welcome to stop by and share your thoughts on items on the agenda. These meetings keep business, civic and elected leaders informed on a variety of issues and on March 11, we will have an informative panel on the status and priorities of immigration reform.

Your involvement, ideas and suggestions richen our outreach with officials. I strongly encourage being active and involved in the Chamber’s efforts. Our outreach is made more effective through your direct engagement. You can help lead the charge for improving the business climate for all of Illinois and the nation.

We cannot let others define and set the agenda. Business must take a noticeable stand.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

From Mike Evans: A Call to Action - End the Online Tax Exemption

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last week Senator Durbin and two Republican colleagues introduced the Marketplace Fairness Act, picking up the debate over how to collect sales tax that is owed on purchases made over the Internet. The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce endorses this legislation and hopes for its swift passage.

Why should you care and what’s at stake? You may have noticed that sometimes when you purchase items online – depending on the website – you aren’t charged sales tax. Under state law you still owe the tax, but unlike the purchases you make in a store, the business selling you these goods online doesn’t have to collect the tax from you. Instead, when you complete your state taxes, you are expected to self-report and pay what you owe for purchases over the past year. It is this disparity that the Chamber believes needs to end. It’s time for a conclusive and nationwide approach to collecting sales tax for goods purchased over the Internet.

The Chamber views this legislation as an issue of compliance, fairness and revenue balance for our communities in a new retailing environment. A principle of the Chamber’s legislative platform – and one shared by many of our peer organizations – is to support and promote a competitive and fair tax climate.

As business leaders in our community we cannot continue to support an environment where legally required taxes are collected, tracked and remitted by some, while other businesses get a pass. Retailers fight for market share everyday, but they shouldn’t be forced to compete on the collection of sales tax.

The Chamber believes that local, regional and state governments will receive additional revenue as a result of this legislation. But that is not an inherently bad thing. During the recession the Chamber worked with our partners in government on measures that would stabilize budgets that had quickly fallen out of balance. Broadening the base of receipts will help local business leaders work with their locally elected officials to adjust and refine the local tax environment to best support economic growth going forward.

Sales tax receipts are widely accepted as a form of local, regional and state tax structures. These receipts enable our local communities to provide for various items critical to a healthy business environment: maintained roads and highways, improved public infrastructure and public safety functions, just to name a few.

These services controlled and appropriated at the local level cost money, and when revenue due is not collected, government must turn to other sources to make up for the shortfall. The federal government must stop exempting some businesses, particularly online-only businesses, from collecting and contributing to our local community’s tax structure. The status quo simply shifts the burden to other taxpayers, consumers and businesses.

Some argue that this proposal is a tax increase – the Chamber disagrees. Consumers are already responsible for the taxes that will be collected by the seller under this legislation. The collection and payment of taxes otherwise owed is not a tax increase.

The Chamber doesn’t believe this legislation will “save” Main Street businesses from online competition either. Regardless of the implementation of this legislation, retailers across the country will have to continue finding strategies to compete with online-only retailers and the emerging trend of “e-tailing.” Big-box chains will likely continue downsizing their stores and focus on back-end warehouse logistics and rapid consumer response.

Requiring sales tax collection will not delay, thwart or prevent this business model from moving forward. Providing a national framework for collection of sales tax on online purchases will modernize the tax code to recognize the change in the consumer environment.

The Chamber doesn’t believe government should use tax policies to provide some businesses with an advantage over others – or unfairly target a narrow class of businesses with a tax burden. The ending of the online tax collection exemption ends a distortion in the business environment.

The business community has no shortage of issues pending before the 113th Congress. Our federal officials face a host of complicated and difficult decisions in the months ahead. Resolution of these issues will require allocating financial resources, adjusting tax rates or deductions, and making difficult choices on spending programs.

While all of those matters are urgent, we strongly encourage passage of legislation that will generate revenue for governments, end a distortion in the tax code and bring uniform compliance to businesses that sell items to consumers. The Marketplace Fairness Act needs to receive prompt attention from our lawmakers, be voted on in committee hearings and proceed in a bipartisan manner in both the House and Senate.

The time has come for action on this very important legislation that will affect every community in the nation. We ask for your public support and advocacy for this bill. Together we can champion a positive result for our business community.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

From Mike Evans: The Springfield Report – Be Prepared to Take Action

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last week Governor Quinn delivered the State of the State address and legislators are busy filing proposals, preparing amendments and gearing up for the substantive process of passing legislation. My advice is to watch your wallet and bunker down your business, because this is going to be a very aggressive and active session.

In addition to the ongoing fiscal crisis regarding the budget and pension reform, the following proposals have been filed: a special tax on gym shoes to provide job training for high school drop-outs, a 20 percent increase in the minimum wage, requiring every business to register with the state and pay an annual fee of $25 to $50, and an imposition of a graduated income tax through a constitutional amendment.

We cannot emphasize enough how important it is that the business community communicates with elected officials. Through the Chamber’s grassroots website, www.napervillevoteraction.org, we make it easy for you to write our officials. In the coming weeks we will set up action alerts and ask you to encourage your colleagues, family and friends to speak up in support of the business community through the website.

Here are just a few bills that we’ve added to our watch-list:

Pension Reform/SB 1 & HB 98:

Without a doubt the most important legislation that can be enacted this session is comprehensive pension reform. The Chamber applauds Senate President Cullerton for assigning pension reform as SB 1. We remain hopeful that reform legislation will receive votes in both the House and Senate this session.

We will closely monitor developments and amendments to these bills and share updates with you as necessary. While the Chamber continues to have reservations regarding the proposed cost-shift to local school districts, we commit to evaluating reform legislation in totality.

Legislative Text SB 1, Legislative Text HB 98

Reforming the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity / SB 2:

Senator Andy Manar briefed chamber leaders from across the state on his intent to file legislation that would help refocus the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

Over time the agency has had innumerable programs and mandates assigned to it, and the focus is on attracting and retaining businesses in the state, as well as promoting Illinois to the nation and globe.

We view this proposal as an opportunity to positively influence how the state spends its precious resources on helping businesses relocate, stay and expand.

Legislative Text SB 2

Amending the Freedom of Information Act / HB 943:

This bill would extend the definition of "public body" for the purpose of FOIA to include any association of units of local government or any not-for-profit corporation with membership consisting of units of local government.

As we read the bill, this would extend FOIA to organizations like the Chamber, or any entity where government bodies are members. This is an overly broad definition that would impose a significant burden on not-for-profit corporations that happen to have government entities as members.

I would also note, it is ironic that a proposal such as HB 943 would be filed while the members of the General Assembly remain exempted from FOIA requirements.

Legislative Text HB 943

We had the occasion to travel to Springfield last week to participate in an Illinois Chamber meeting of chamber executives from across the state. After the program, we stopped by the capitol and there were hundreds of activists opposed to pension reform in the lobby.

Every day your elected officials receive messages from various constituent groups. The business community cannot be heard from enough, so don’t be shy and please share your thoughts. Through the Legislative Committee and other outlets, the Chamber will fight to protect your business and support proposals that improve the economic climate. But we need your help and involvement.

While I know you are busy running your business, please know that your efforts make a difference in how votes are cast.

Thank you for your membership and support.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

Roundtable Discussion with Sen. Linda Holmes, Feb. 22

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Chamber is pleased to welcome Sen. Linda Holmes to the next session of roundtable discussions with members of the General Assembly on Friday, Feb. 22 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the Chamber’s Conference Room A, Suite 375 in the Main Street Promenade.

Members are encouraged to attend the luncheon and share their ideas, analysis and suggestions on policies and legislation under consideration. Holmes will also provide the latest update from Springfield.

Holmes has been in the Illinois Senate since 2007 and previously served on the Kane County Board. In the Senate, Holmes serves on Local Government and Agriculture and Conservation committees, is vice-chair of the Labor and Commerce committee and is chair of the Environment Committee.

Holmes has been a tireless champion for Edward Hospital and voted against SB 282, which would have required companies to publicly disclose confidential tax information.

Illinois Senate District 42 is compromised of parts of DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will counties, including a portion of western Naperville.

The luncheon will take place at the Chamber offices, located at 55 S. Main Street, Suite 373. In order to help us plan, we ask that you please preregister.

Three Local Restaurants Participate in Chicago Restaurant Week, Feb. 1 – Feb. 10

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Chicago Restaurant Week began this past Friday, and continues through Feb. 10. This popular annual event features over 250 restaurants in the Chicagoland area. The Chamber is proud that three of our local restaurants and Members are participating! Basils Greek Dining, Catch 35 and Sullivan's Steakhouse will take part in this celebration of Chicago’s famous dining scene.

You can experience this Chicago event right here at home by visiting these restaurants and enjoying the special prix-fixe menus they have prepared. Lunch costs $22 for a three-course meal, and dinner costs $33/$44 for three courses. This is an exciting opportunity for our community to not only gain recognition for the outstanding amenities we have to offer but to support Chamber Members doing something extraordinary!

The restaurant and dining industry is one of our city’s largest drivers of revenue. Naperville is home to many famous eateries, and is a destination for consumers looking for dining and entertainment options.

We encourage you all to experience a special opportunity to receive three-course meals at bargain prices for this large-scale event taking place across Chicagoland by making reservations today for our local participating restaurants.

From Mike Evans: Untethering from our Desks and Seeing the World in 2013

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Acclaimed author John le Carré once wrote “A desk is a dangerous place from which to watch the world.” At first, that passage may seem only applicable to the espionage characters in le Carré’s works, but the simple fact is that our business community needs to take this advice to heart. Douglas Oberhelman, the CEO of Caterpillar quotes similar advice in his public presentations and strives to have this culture throughout the ranks of his organization.

Whether you are visiting suppliers, customers, a bustling town center or attending trade shows or expos, it is important to untether yourself from your desk and be inspired by the world around us. That is why the Chamber is dramatically increasing our global travel and leisure program and why I think you should make time to join us.

This year, the Chamber will be building on the success of our inaugural trip to China last autumn by offering three overseas trips. This coming May we’ll be going to the Azores Islands in Portugal, followed by a trip to China in October featuring a new city of interest and lastly we’ll visit Tuscany in November. We hope that this mix of locations appeals to the adventurer in all of you. There are links to information about the trips at the bottom of this message and we will be sharing more in the weeks to come.

These trips provide you with a window into the cultures, customs and businesses of communities across the globe. International travel isn’t for the elite executives of large corporations; it is something every business owner should do. There is no better way to gain a competitive edge or be inspired for a new product offering than to go and personally meet with people all over the world.

As an avid traveler myself I can attest that there is no better way to get to know people than taking a trip together. People out of their element are often more daring, more willing to try new things and are more open to new experiences. Over the course of these trips you’ll develop new relationships with people you may not have ever had contact with previously, strengthen existing partnerships and gain a new understanding and appreciation for one another.

This is why we also hope members from the community join us as well. If you’ve been wanting to travel but haven’t had the opportunity, or weren’t sure how to even begin planning a trip, we’ve taken care of the hard work for you. These trips are as much for the casual or leisure traveler as it is for the business owner.

The points of interest we’ve selected cover a wide-range of interests in hopes that there is something for everyone and by the end, our travelers gained so much more than they could have ever expected.

The Chamber is always looking for new opportunities to broaden our Members’ horizons, and travel is part of the industry’s best practices. We are pleased to offer our membership and the community increased travel opportunities in 2013. We are confident these trips will offer unmatched educational, personal and professional opportunities.

Introductions to this year’s trips are available, as well as on the Chamber’s homepage. Please feel free to explore, or you can reach out with any questions.

Happy Travels!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

Azores - May
China - October
Tuscany - November

2013 Chamber Trip - Azores Islands

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Chamber is gearing up for its next international adventure; this time we’re heading to the Azores Islands! Join us for this exciting trip May 24-31 as we island hop, explore local culture and experience this exciting way to bond with fellow Members and guests.

The cost is $2399 for double occupancy which includes 4-and-5-star accommodations, three meals a day, entrance to points of interest and airfare. For single occupancy, add an additional $469 to the cost. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis and a deposit of $500 per person is required to reserve your space.

This is an amazing opportunity to not only travel the world but have access to special tours, experiences and first-class amenities. The Chamber is always seeking new ways to not only bring our Members together, but enhance the education we provide through home-based programs and committees. Businesses of every size benefit from having knowledge of how other companies operate in other countries.

This trip is open to Members and the public, and we hope you will consider joining us on the first of three international trips the Chamber will be taking this year.

View the Azores brochure here.

For additional information please contact Michael Evans at (630) 544-3382.

2013 Chamber Trip - China

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Chamber is returning to China Oct. 9-16! This year, we will visit new points of interest in Beijing and Shanghai as well as a new city, Suzhou, for those of you that traveled with us last year. If you weren’t able to join us, here’s your chance! China is a must-see for the leisure traveler as well as the business professional.

The cost is $2599 for double occupancy which includes 4-and-5-star accommodations, three meals a day, entrance to all points of interest and airfare. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis and a deposit of $500 per person is required to reserve your space.

This is an amazing opportunity to not only travel the world but have access to special tours, experiences and first-class amenities. The Chamber is always seeking new ways to not only bring our Members together, but enhance the education we provide through home-based programs and committees. Businesses of every size benefit from having knowledge of how other companies operate in other countries.

This trip is open to Members and the public, and we hope you will consider joining us for the second of three international trips the Chamber will be taking this year.

View the China brochure here.

For additional information please contact Michael Evans at (630) 544-3382.

2013 Chamber Trip - Tuscany

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Chamber is traveling to Tuscany Nov. 4 – Nov. 12! This trip is part of the Chamber’s goal to increase its international reach and provide an opportunity for our Members and the community to travel and learn together.

You’ll travel to some of Italy’s most beautiful and historic locations like Montecatini, Florence, San Gimignano and have the option of adding Venice as an extra day in your itinerary.

The cost is $2599 for double occupancy which includes 4-and-5-star accommodations, three meals a day, entrance to all points of interest and airfare. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis and a deposit of $500 per person is required to reserve your space.

This is an amazing opportunity to not only travel the world but have access to special tours, experiences and first-class amenities. The Chamber is always seeking new ways to not only bring our Members together, but enhance the education we provide through home-based programs and committees. Businesses of every size benefit from having knowledge of how other companies operate in other countries.

This trip is open to Members and the public, and we hope you will consider joining us for the second of three international trips the Chamber will be taking this year.

View the Tuscany brochure here.

For additional information please contact Michael Evans at (630) 544-3382.

Members’ Lunch and Learn Featuring Converga, Feb. 12

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Members’ Lunch and Learn will kick off on Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Chamber’s Conference Room A, Suite 375 in the Main Street Promenade. Converga, a leader in helping companies navigate the difficulties in becoming a paperless workplace, is hosting the lunch.

Have you ever left a file behind at the office, or wondered how you could reclaim much needed office space? Going paperless can help keep your office organized and focused. Many small businesses want to go paperless, but the process of converting hard documents into an all-digital system can often be overwhelming, especially when staff and time is limited. Converga will explain how their business helps eliminate the inefficiencies and strategies to help your office become an all-digital enterprise.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided and it is free for Members and the community. You can pre-register by contacting Ian Davidson at 312-515-2568.

About Members’ Lunch and Learn:

As an added benefit to premier Members, the Chamber is offering the opportunity for your company to rent our conference room space and we’ll help promote your event. Whether you offer services that you think would be beneficial to fellow Members and the community, or you’re just looking for additional marketing exposure, partner with the Chamber as your event cohost.

For the fee of renting our conference room space, the Chamber will provide assistance in marketing the program and getting attendance. This is being offered as an additional feature to help add value to your membership. For questions, or if you’re interested in hosting a Members’ Lunch and Learn, please contact the Chamber at 630-355-4141.

The Chamber is a paid membership organization invested in representing the interests of Chamber Members through an open and competitive business environment. The Chamber does not endorse, Member or otherwise, any individual, business, product, offer or otherwise and this event should not be construed as an endorsement of the advertiser or representation as to the content presented at the event.

Local Not-For-Profits to Benefit from First Look for Charity Event at the Chicago Auto Show

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Naperville is home to several successful car dealerships, of which the majority of our sales tax revenue is derived. The Chicago Auto Show, beginning in just four days, is the largest and longest-running show of its kind in the nation. Even though it takes place in Chicago, the charity event that precedes it benefits many of our own local nonprofits through the First Look for Charity event.

Some of our own Members will benefit from the annual gala including March of Dimes, Ray Graham Association, Catholic Charities of Diocese of Joliet, and The Boys & Girls Club. We are grateful that the event provides an opportunity for such large-scale exposure and potential for support. These funds help keep our organizations running and serving those in need.

About First Look for Charity

First Look for Charity stands as one of Chicago's greatest one-day fundraisers, regularly generating about $2 million for 18 area nonprofits. Held at McCormick Place the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens its 10-day public run, the benevolent event is anticipated by socialites and car buffs alike.

The tuxedo-mandatory gala affords participants the chance to stroll the show floor amid opulence not present during the public portion of the Chicago Auto Show. Tickets are $250. Guests are treated to champagne, wine, soft drinks, elegant hors d'oeuvres and desserts - all while being the first to explore that year's edition of the nation's largest auto show.

From Mike Evans: Perspective on the State of our Local Economy

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Today was one of the highlights of the Chamber’s year; when we get to host the State of the City address. The Mayor’s speech covered a lot of the tremendous work that you all have been part of this past year. Naperville is a community of partnerships and volunteerism, and your contributions help us maintain our high quality of life.

While the Mayor discussed a lot of important achievements, I want to reflect on a couple of important business and economic updates. Each of these items will have a major impact on our business environment and regional economy.

Edward Hospital & Health Services Merger

No update on the local economy would be complete without discussing the recently announced merger between Edward Hospital & Health Services and Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare. Edward is the largest private-sector employer in Naperville and their continued campus expansion has been a boon to the local building and construction trades.

The health care industry is in the midst of a period of transformation and consolidation. Increasing regulatory changes and an ever-uncertain payment cycle from the government have made hospitals rethink their long-term strategies.

The Chamber is confident this merger will benefit the residents, patients and economy of Naperville. Edward Hospital has an outstanding record and we know that this will be a major milestone for the community. Once complete, the merged entity will have approximately $1 billion in revenue with more than 50 locations. Congratulations to all of the Chamber’s friends at Edward.

Update from Washington: Elgin-O’Hare Western Access Clears Regulatory Hurdle

While not directly in our community, the Elgin-O’Hare Western Access Project means easier access from the western suburbs to one of the world’s largest airports. Last week the project took an important step forward when a key regulator signed off on a crucial element of the expansion plan.

It is important to note that for several years our congressional delegation has been diligently working in a bipartisan manner to secure approval and funding for this critical infrastructure project. At the state, regional and local level, everyone appreciates and understands the economic impact having direct access to the airport will offer our region. In addition to thousands of immediate construction jobs, Western Access will create a new pathway for commerce, job creation and tourism in the region.

I want to congratulate and thank DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin and Choose DuPage President & CEO, Greg Bedalov, for their leadership on this project. Given the regional importance, Choose DuPage has been monitoring progress and organizing support. We will keep you updated on progress, but this project remains one of our top priorities in 2013.

Route 59 Expansion Project

We are closer than ever before to having Route 59 widened to relieve congestion at the tollway intersection. A major roadway expansion like Route 59 involves painstaking planning, land acquisition negotiations and working with area residents and businesses to mitigate the impact of the multi-year construction schedule. The Illinois Department of Transportation and the City of Naperville have made tremendous progress over the past several months.

I want to thank the city and Christine Jeffries at the Naperville Development Partnership (NDP), for pledging to work with the Chamber and the affected businesses during the construction phase.

Together the city, NDP and Chamber will work to support the businesses that will be disrupted by the activities. Notably, signage is the most important factor in helping businesses during a multi-year project. Along with our partners, we will do our best to support the businesses that will bear most of the burden of this investment.

We will do our best to keep you up to date on the Route 59 expansion project. This will be one of the most visible and important infrastructure upgrades in a generation.

Projects for 2013

During his speech Mayor Pradel mentioned the economic development that occurred during the past year. As we look forward to 2013 we have two major developments either permitted or proposed for the downtown. Main Street Promenade East will provide renewed investment to the north part of our downtown, which has had a flurry of activity over the past year.

We are also optimistic that after a decade of planning and proposals, 2013 will be the year that the Water Street Development becomes a reality. This needed investment on the south portion of the downtown will be an anchor of shopping, dining, offices and tourism. Having a project of this caliber proposed for downtown is a testament to the outstanding demographics and opportunity offered by our economy.

There are also a host of other developments that have already been approved by the City Council that will provide a boost to the local job market through construction activity. Long-term these projects will increase the equalized assessed value of our community and provide permanent job opportunities. Expansions of car dealerships, apartment complexes and medical office buildings are all very important to our continued economic growth.

The future looks bright for Naperville and we must continue to welcome and encourage business investment.

A special thank you to Mayor Pradel and the City of Naperville for the strong relationship and partnership we enjoy. The Chamber and the city are committed to providing you with an excellent business climate. We might not always agree on every policy, but we will always work together to forge consensus and do what’s right for our business community. The State of the City address is a testament of the strength of the relationship between business and municipal leaders.

Thank you for a wonderful past few days, it has been a pleasure to see so many Chamber Members together at the Gala and State of the City. Thank you BMO Harris Bank for being a presenting sponsor of both events!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

From Mike Evans: Channeling the Passion and Drive of the Inauguration

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

This past weekend President Obama took the oath of office in a small ceremony at the White House beginning his second term and on Monday the nation participated in a large public ceremony. Whatever your politics and persuasions, the recently completed presidential inauguration and administering of the Congressional oath of office are celebrations of the American political system and should serve as inspiration to businesses, small and large, new and established.

Just think for a moment about how remarkable and fortunate we are to live and operate in a country where the rule of law protects our businesses, families and intellectual property. Turning on any nightly news broadcast reminds us that for so many in the world free and fair elections do not occur, let alone the ability to freely petition government leaders. As business leaders, we have the greatest advantage in the world, and it is the ability to operate in the United States of America.

This opportunity also carries with it the responsibility to help our elected officials while they grapple with some monumental challenges. Our help and assistance can take many forms, ranging from responding to a survey, returning a phone call, or telling them directly that you supported, or opposed, a recent vote. This is an invaluable service to elected officials.

While winter’s frigid temperatures have returned, the cold does not tame the fury of legislative activity underway in Washington and Springfield. Coalitions are being assembled. Legislative text is being shared as recently elected and re-elected legislators are filing legislation on a host of topics and issues.

Undoubtedly legislation will be filed that advocates for the business community will champion, and other bills will be introduced that we steadfastly oppose. This is the nature of the legislative process. While some may want to step back and let the “system work,” we must continue to aggressively identify, promote and support policies that will improve the economic climate and facilitate business growth.

It can grow frustrating and disheartening that many legislative issues seem to be perennial challenges, but we mustn’t be deterred. We have always persevered through any political, fiscal and economic challenges we have faced as a nation and we will again. Consensus on complex and difficult legislation can take years to build.

Through the twists and turns that await the business community through this session of Congress and the Illinois General Assembly, and the upcoming municipal election cycle, the Chamber will serve as a source of community collaboration.

Whether it’s at events like the State of the City address on Monday, Jan. 28, or at our Legislative Committee meetings and special advocacy briefings, we will bring together diverse viewpoints, speakers and backgrounds to educate, inform and mobilize our business community.

We appreciate your support, involvement and time. We will make a difference.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

Register Now: The Inaugural Gala is Just One Week Away!

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

The Inaugural Gala & Silent auction is just one week away! The Chamber is looking forward to a spectacular event kicking off its centennial anniversary and there is still time to make your reservation. With more than 450 attendees already registered, this event will be an opportunity for you to connect and market with fellow Members, families and friends. All while you enjoy an evening of dancing, camaraderie and celebration.

We hope you will join us for this special occasion, not only to thank our outgoing board members and welcome our newest board members, but also to toast to the start of another year and reflect on the achievements of the business community over the past century.

Thank you to all of the Members who have donated items to the silent auction, there are outstanding packages available for guests to bid on.

If you haven't registered already, you still can. Register online or call the Chamber at 630-355-4141 and make plans to be with the community's best and brightest executives and business leaders from all size and industry of business.

Preview of Silent Auction Items:

Angel Whitney
Be one of the twenty owners of this year's Downtown Naperville Alliance Hometown Holidays snowmen sculptures when you take home Design Inspirations Angel Whitney, a beautifully gem-decorated snowman by the artists at Design Inspirations.

For Hire
Do you ever wish someone could really understand what you and your company do? Here is your chance to 'hire' Chamber President & CEO, Mike Evans along with select Board of Directors and staff for a day to show first hand what your company does.

Snow Cue-T
Be one of the twenty owners of this year's Downtown Naperville Alliance Hometown Holidays snowmen sculptures when you take home Sikich LLP's Snow Cue-T, the perfect addition to any game room designed by Sikich Graphic Design & Marketing Team.

From Mike Evans: The Chamber is Your Resource - Use It!

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The Chamber’s goal is to always serve the needs of Members and the community. Once you join the Chamber, you are part of a dedicated membership that is committed to helping one another achieve success. Over the years the board and membership have wisely created new programs to provide you with the value you seek through your investment and involvement.

We strive to create the opportunity for growth for owners of small businesses and their employees in every program we offer. Groups that meet monthly provide education, as well as the chance to develop and nurture business relationships. While time is a precious commodity, the monthly programming of Women In Business, the Young Professionals of Naperville, Business Resource Network, Speakers Bureau, Sustainability Forum, Not-for-Profit Network, and General Membership Luncheons, aren’t additional meetings to attend rather they are resources for your business.

The Chamber is proud to have a diverse base of Members, from small start-ups that just opened its doors, to titans of industry Fortune 500 organizations. At Chamber events you might run into an old neighbor, or a new community relations officer for a company you’ve been trying to set an appointment with for months.

You can expect to walk away from any Chamber meeting, program or event having learned something useful or been introduced to someone new. We have high standards for everything we do and are committed to continued improvement.

We also seek balance in our offerings, because let’s face it work should be a little fun too. That’s why the Chamber hosts more social-orientated events like the Inaugural Gala and Silent Auction, Business After Hours, and the YPN Social. These meetings provide a platform to establish credibility for yourself and your business through grassroots marketing. Members will feel more comfortable referring potential clients to your business when they get to know you better.

Over the next few months we will be expanding our reach internationally, putting you in touch with government officials and business leaders from across the globe. Learning from other cultures and being exposed to different markets, communities and ways of doing business gives you an edge. The Chamber’s travel programs aren’t just a chance to see the world; they will provide you new ideas for your business.

View the upcoming year as a clean slate. Make your membership work for you by meeting fellow Members and encouraging your employees to attend committee meetings. We’ve spoken about the uncertainty we face, but if we continue to assist each other, encourage development and build strong foundations we can rise to the challenges.

We welcome your comments and suggestions as well. If there is a particular area of interest that you feel is not being recognized, tell us and we’ll do our best to make sure our programming is as well-rounded as possible.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

From Mike Evans: Join Me for the State of the City

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Every January, the Chamber has the honor of hosting the State of the City address given by Mayor A. George Pradel. This program is an opportunity to hear him reflect on the year that was for Naperville. Often covering a variety of topics, the inspirational speech is always a hit. This year the address will take place Monday, Jan. 28 at the General Membership Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Chicago Marriott Naperville.

Thank you to BMO Harris Bank for their longstanding commitment to this community celebration. Without their support, we could not produce a first-class event for the consistently sold-out crowd.

In times where it seems there is more bad news than good, Mayor Pradel dedicates a portion of his presentation to highlighting the successes our community experienced throughout the year. This is a reflection of the Mayor’s outstanding character and motivates us all to improve ourselves professionally and personally, while making a positive difference in our community.

The address is not just an opportunity to hear about all the great things that the city has done, but it also recognizes all of the individual contributions made throughout the year that allow our community and region to have a high quality of life for residents and businesses alike.

The State of the City, held during our General Membership Luncheon, serves as a fantastic opportunity to meet with high-level executives, business leaders and residents to grow your business and create new relationships. One of the benefits of attending large events is the ability to establish leads with fellow Members who appreciate the importance of doing business with other Members.

You’ll want to make your reservation early to ensure you have a seat. Only Members who pre-register can be guaranteed seating at the lunch. Make your reservation by going online to www.naperville.net or by calling the Chamber at 630-355-4141.

Please make a note that the State of the City address has moved back to the lunch hour based on your feedback. I hope you also make plans to attend the Inaugural Gala & Silent Auction on Friday, Jan. 25 and I’ll see you at the State of the City address on Monday, Jan. 28.

Here’s to a wonderful and prosperous 2013!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

From Mike Evans: Investing in Your Leadership Potential

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Being a leader is anything but simple. It’s not enough to be smart, to know your job, or to be charismatic. You have to be all those things and more. The most productive organizations share a common trait; they have great ranks of leaders inspiring employees, subordinates and teams to strive for their very best.

The progression of being a good leader is ongoing because having a position of power isn’t a static process. Being an effective manager requires you to seek out additional ways to educate yourself on how to be better, accept constructive criticism and evolve with changes in the environment and workplace.

This is why I am proud that our Chamber Members have a program that allows them to go above and beyond the work they’re currently doing. Leadership Institute is your chance to improve your skills through intensive professional development.

We all have unique qualities that make us assets in different ways. Whether you are trying to explore what those qualities are, or seek new ways to showcase them, the Leadership Institute delivers outstanding results and value.

During times of uncertainty, organizations of every size are starved for leaders to emerge, take the baton and pave the way for success. Are you prepared to step up and inspire those around you to adapt and thrive?

By gathering together top business leaders and entrepreneurs in our region, participants can see the real world applications as well as the personal insight into the tools used by successful professionals.

The program isn’t simply composed of classroom lectures; instead it creates an interactive learning environment where participants can freely discuss topics, questions and personal stories with our panel of experts, and receive coaching that will help each person learn what they can do at their specific organizations.

I hope you will consider joining the 2013 class, and if not this year than consider it for the future. Space is limited and we have just a handful of seats left.

Our community will always be in need of leaders, and we are fortunate enough to be in an area that has such a variety of industries, organizations and individuals with so much to offer.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
E: mevans@naperville.net
D: (630) 544-3382 *Please note my extension and number has recently changed.

Voting Ends Tomorrow for Downtown Naperville Snowman!

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

This year, Downtown Naperville offered a special opportunity for local sponsors and artists to put their work on display in a festive way. Over the course of the holiday season, you have been able to vote for your favorite snowman, and it’s almost time for the winner to be announced.

But before that happens, you need to cast your vote if you haven’t already. Even the Chamber got in on the excitement and featured its own Snowman, Chamberlein, which can be seen in front at the corner of Jefferson and Main. We’d like to give special mention and thanks to local artist Marianne Lisson Kuhn for taking the time to design our snowman.

Winners will be announced on Friday, Dec. 28. Good luck to everyone who participated, and thanks to all of you for voting!

About Marianne Lisson Kuhn

Marianne Lisson Kuhn is a fifth generation Napervillian. Her fond memories as a child led to a desire as an artist is to preserve these memories in her work. After her father’s passing, she drew one of his favorite toys, a John Deere B tractor against the backdrop of his childhood farm on Lisson Road, named for Marianne’s grandfather. As Naperville continued to grow and change, Marianne started drawing scenes around town making them available as Limited Edition Prints. She currently has more than 45 different Naperville scenes and over 70 farm and tractors available.

In addition to working in many homes, schools and businesses, Marianne, along with Liza Netzley Hopkins, completed the 24th installment in the Naperville Century Walk in 2005. The mural, entitled “The Way We Were,” depicts Naperville in the 1960s and can be seen from Washington Street in the alley just north of Jefferson Avenue. In 2009 she was commissioned to paint a mural on the Naperville Art League building designed by nationally known author Mike Venezia. The mural, “The World’s Greatest Artists,” depicts 32 famous artists at work on their masterpieces. Marianne also met with the Freemason’s and helped them design a mural that told a story of their past and their ongoing mission and commitment to Faith Hope and Charity, which is the title of the 40th Century Walk installment. Marianne did a great deal of research which she found very interesting and inspiring which enabled her to accurately portray the Freemasons.

She began working on her next mural, “Naperville Loves A Parade,” in 2011 with artists Dodie Montero and Adela Vystejnova. They will continue to work on this mural until the entire 150 foot wall is filled.

Avoiding the Fiscal Cliff: Write Congress Now

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The year-end deadline to avert the fiscal cliff is fast approaching and lawmakers are still deadlocked. While we’ve pleaded with our officials to move past party lines and work together to create actionable and sustainable solutions, progress remains sluggish at best.

If Congress and the Administration fail to come to agreement, the combined effect of spending cuts and tax increases would result in a fiscal policy reduction of more than $600 billion or about 4 percent of the GDP - a perfect storm of tax and spending policies that could push an already fragile American economy back into recession.

The business climate has recovered too slowly to withstand more inaction. Regardless of your affiliations, it is our responsibility to reach out to the officials we have elected and let them know that we need results. Visit our voter action site and let your General Assembly know that their work isn’t done until there is resolution.

Leadership Institute: Providing Expert Advice from Community Business Leaders

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Leadership Institute is a six-month long educational program aimed at giving our Members expert advice and assistance in enhancing their leadership skills. Not only does this involve sessions based around a specific element of leadership, it also incorporates interactive discussions so that each participant receives a more personalized program.

Leadership Institute panelists include some of the region’s most successful business leaders and entrepreneurs. Their expertise is based on the methods, lessons and successes they’ve experienced first-hand. With diverse backgrounds from small businesses, to large corporations, our panelists are able to work with participants to answer questions, share experiences and provide a complete educational process.

The comprehensive approach used by Leadership Institute ensures that attendees will walk away with new tools to help your business move forward through outstanding employee leadership.

David Hass, 2011 Leadership Institute graduate noted the importance of having the panelists as part of the education, “The panelists were from the highest tier in their organizations and they helped drive home the relevance of each leadership topic discussed.”

The purpose of this approach is to provide a comprehensive series of lessons that build upon each other to create a complete picture of leadership that is adaptable to any size organization, in any industry, for any level of leader.

Leadership Institute kicks off Jan. 10 and spots are limited. To learn more about this year’s panelists, click here.

From Mike Evans: The Chamber’s Role Today, Facilitating Community Collaboration

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Thank you to all of the Members and businesses that reached out to offer a kind message or provided an invitation to an event to get to better know you. I want to learn more about your successes, challenges and opportunities in the year ahead. Hearing what’s going on in your business will help the Chamber provide better programming and ultimately deliver better results for our membership and community.

A question that came up in almost every conversation last week was, “what is the agenda for the Chamber in the upcoming year?” The answer remains the same as it was 100 years ago when Naperville’s business leaders were organizing the Chamber and soliciting the very first round of membership commitments.

The Chamber’s role is to facilitate community collaboration, growth and prosperity. We accomplish this by bringing together the numerous voices of area businesses, providing education and encouraging individuals to work together.

Despite the fast-paced and flat business world, having a strong community matters. The characteristics of our town are a reflection of who we are and where we are headed. The best companies cannot attract talent if they operate in an area that is substandard. Talent, capital and innovation travel rapidly, so we must always be working together to have the strongest neighborhoods possible.

Naperville and the surrounding area have a great foundation, but we’ve got to continue to grow, adapt and improve if we want to remain a great place to live, do business and raise a family.

So in addition to providing our Members with services and products that help them run their business better, the Chamber needs to serve as a clearinghouse of policy, ideas and debate, because no one has it right all of the time and we will always stand up for the interests of the business community.

Being a collaborator requires us to foster conversation and we hope you will join in the dialogue. It also requires us to be involved and hear different points of view from a variety of organizations. There are innumerable groups working for the betterment of our community and just last week I had the opportunity to visit with a few of them.

The Downtown Naperville Alliance, Naperville Development Partnership and School District 203’s Naperville Education Foundation, are just some of the Chamber’s many partners in the community that help us complete our mission. I want to thank them for their work and the many groups that educate and inform the Chamber’s staff, membership and board of directors.

As we wrap up business in our 99th year of operation the Chamber and our membership’s futures are bright. We are uniquely poised to do great things for our businesses and the communities where we live.

Next year will be a time of celebration for the Chamber, but also a period of great opportunity. I hope you will join in our efforts, realize untapped potential and ride the wave of positive economic momentum.

Sincerely,

Mike Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
e: mevans@naperville.net
(630) 544-3382

Chamber December Anniversaries

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

First Midwest Bank

Commitment. Character. Client focus. Community. That’s First Midwest Bank in a nutshell. In these times, when banking has become ever more impersonal – and many banks encourage customers to transact with their machines instead of their people – you’ll find First Midwest is more than a little different. Trust your financial life to professionals who share your values and know your neighborhood. We’ll help all your hard work pay off.

Great Western Flooring Company

For over 25 years, Great Western has transformed homes with flooring design and installation. Their high-quality products can bring style, function and flow to your rooms. They provide you the skill, creativity and materials that make your home a more defined expression of you. Great Service. Great Products. Great Western.

Casey’s Foods

Casey’s Foods is Naperville's alternative for service and quality, featuring the finest meat, poultry, and seafood, Casey's Good Food to Go entrees and more. As one of the area’s last remaining independent grocery retailers, Dan Casey commits himself and his staff to serving the customer’s needs each and every day. Exceptional customer service is what makes Casey’s a cut above all other area stores. Experience the Casey's Difference!

Michael R. Trauscht, CPA, P.C.

Michael R. Trauscht, CPA, P.C. offers tax planning and tax preparation with over 30 years experience. As a tax expert, Trauscht has dealt with Internal Revenue Service Audits and was admitted to practice before U.S. Tax Court. Whether you need help with business valuations or resident alien and non-resident alien returns, non-filers and filers alike are always welcome, or any other variety of tax needs, Michael R. Trauscht, CPA, P.C. can help.

25 years:

Koshgarian Rug Cleaners

From Oriental rug cleaning to upholstery to carpeting, trust Koshgarian to get the job done right. Since 1906, the Koshgarian family has been the preferred Chicago rug and carpet cleaner. They didn’t just set up shop like those other franchise cleaners. Their family-owned, three-generation business has been around for more than 100 years. Over the years, they have established a loyal customer following who trust Koshgarian for handling delicate Oriental rug, cleaning wall-to-wall carpet and keeping upholstery cleaning fresh and, most of all, doing a good job.

Colbert Custom Framing & Art Printing

They are a third-generation, family-owned business in their 25th year, providing friendly, creative custom framing and custom art printing, as well as a wide array of related products and services, including in-store Photoshop usage and classes. The new super store is located in the Market Meadows Plaza.

DuPage Radon Contractors, Inc.

DuPage Radon Contractors, Inc. have been involved in Radon mitigation since 1990, providing radon mitigation services in the Western suburbs. They are licensed by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and carry general liability, workers compensation and vehicle insurances. They provide free radon mitigation quotes and can take care of your sump issues.

30 years:

O’Donovan’s Landscaping

O’Donovan’s Landscaping has a proven track record with thousands of satisfied homeowners who have increased the value as well as enhanced the beauty of their homes. In addition, hundreds of commercial clients can readily attest to O’Donovan’s efficient, professional results. It is precisely this flexibility in accommodating minor to major scale projects that has contributed to their success and expansion rate.

Congress, Springfield and City Hall Have Never Been So Close – A New Tool For Members

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Chamber has an active advocacy agenda. Through the monthly Legislative Committee and our ongoing programming, Members are constantly connected with their elected officials. The Chamber now offers a new tool to connect with your elected officials through our grassroots advocacy website.

Accessible at www.napervillevoteraction.org the website allows you to write your elected officials and share your thoughts on policy with them. We’ve tried to make it as easy as possible, all you have to do is enter your home or business address and the website will make sure the message is sent to the right elected officials. This eliminates the hassle of staying up-to-date on official’s addresses, while using state-of-industry technology to ensure your message is sent to the right place.

By accessing the website today you can send a letter to Congress urging their action on the “fiscal cliff” or you can send a quick note encouraging the General Assembly to enact public pension reform. Members have the ability to tailor their message or start a message from scratch.

As part of the Chamber’s mission to educate and mobilize the community about issues affecting the business climate, the website is open to everyone. Members are welcome to encourage their employees to use the site as well.

Chamber November Anniversaries

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Every month the Chamber, in partnership with Naper Settlement, pays tribute to long-standing Members who have reached important milestones. These organizations have achieved success and have been involved of numerous community initiatives. Their continued support strengthens the Chamber and the business community.

In addition to recognizing them here, the following Members received a token of our appreciation at the Nov. 19 Membership luncheon:

5 Years:

Eissner Enterprise, Inc.

iGenMedia Web Design

iGenMedia is a Naperville-based award winning web design and internet marketing company servicing Chicago and the Midwest. Their web marketing consultants specialize in providing internet marketing services that promote clients’ corporate image, products and services. iGenMedia partners with clients to ensure the design and resulting web site not only appeals to the target audience but also delivers a measurable return on investment.

Jalapeno Paint Werx, Inc.

You will discover that Jalapeno Paint Werx is not an ordinary painting company. The professionalism, thoughtfulness and genuine interest in your needs will set the tone for the best painting experience you’ve ever had! Jalapeno Paint Werx is committed to quality workmanship, courteous customer service and beautiful, lasting results. Whether you have a small house painting job or a large, complex project, they have the skills and experience to revive the beauty of your space.

Maggiano’s Little Italy

Maggiano's Naperville invites you to enjoy fine Italian food in their dining room or banquet facilitates. When it comes to Italian dining, Maggiano's Naperville location is ideal for group lunches, festive gatherings or a romantic dinner for two. Check them out for your next business or family gathering.

Windscape of Naperville

Discover Windscape of Naperville Apartment Homes, a unique blend of suburban comfort and contemporary design in a picturesque and convenient setting. Windscape of Naperville is located within walking distance to the train station and historic downtown Naperville. With only a 45-minute drive to downtown Chicago, you'll have the best of both worlds.

Gordon Flesch Company, Inc.

At the Gordon Flesch Company, they take a refreshing approach to office technology. They are here to provide solutions that help you meet your business objectives. Whether you're looking to save time or save resources, their print management consultants will analyze your current printing, copying and document management configuration, make recommendations for improvement and help you implement a plan that has a positive impact on your business' bottom line.

Sebold Capital Management, Inc.

Sebold Capital Management offers individuals, entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals practical solutions for financial management that will help determine and achieve economic, life and legacy goals. They offer independent, fee-only wealth management and expert personal financial counsel provided strictly in your interest to help you realize your perfect day.

Law Offices of Brian L. Garvey, P.C.

The Law Offices of Brian L. Garvey, P.C. provides family law services exclusively in the area of Collaborative Divorce Law. His practice mainly services DuPage, Will, Kane and Kendall counties. Other counties are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. If Brian does not service your county, he would be happy to refer you to a qualified Collaborative Lawyer who does.

10 Years:

Alma Jones & Associates, Inc.

Alma Jones & Associates infuses quality, creativity and service into every logo design, brand awareness campaign, collateral piece, TV commercial/video/website production, media plan, direct mail piece, and unique strategy they produce. They have over 25 years of award winning experience in "moving you from confusion to clarity in marketing your business."

Delta Dental of Illinois

Delta Dental of Illinois is a not-for-profit dental service corporation that administers and underwrites easy-to-use and cost-effective dental benefit plans for employers based in Illinois. Founded in 1967, having the ability to provide dental benefits has been their only business. It continues to give them an edge in quality assurance, cost control and innovation.

Law Firm of Sullivan Taylor & Gumina

The law firm of Sullivan Taylor & Gumina, in Wheaton, is devoted exclusively to the practice of family law and the issues that surround divorce. Their attorneys are committed to developing a comprehensive relationship with clients that allows them to protect clients’ emotional and financial interests, as they work through complex family law matters.

Phillips Flowers & Gifts

Since 1923 Phillips Flowers & Gifts have been providing beautiful fresh flowers and plants for any occasion. They deliver to Chicago and more than 150 suburbs daily and offer same-day and next-day nationwide flowers by wire. An Illinois Merchant of the Year, Phillips Flowers specializes in wedding flowers, event decorations, and sympathy expressions.

River Brook Shopping Center

Ryan Hill Realty

Ryan Hill Realty is a full service residential and commercial brokerage providing unparalleled service to clients seeking to buy, sell or lease a home. Ryan Hill Realty agents are dedicated to meeting clients’ needs with their “best-in-class” creative marketing, personal attention and positive results. Ryan Hill represents a diverse group of builders, as marketing agents for their properties and developments.

Weeks Financial Group

Whether it's developing a fee-based financial plan, creating a customized executive benefits program for your business, or preparing a detailed asset allocation analysis, Weeks Financial Group’s mission is simple: to provide up-to-date and cost-effective financial strategies to our valued clients.

Midas

Midas continually services thousands of vehicles a year making sure that each and every vehicle gets the best workmanship that they can possibly deliver. Midas is committed to earning your trust by providing you with the expertise, value and responsiveness you expect every time you visit.

15 Years:

Center for Health & Healing, S.C.

The center provides integrative health care, an intelligent blend of natural and conventional medicine, to determine the underlying cause of a health disorder. You will receive the benefits of cutting-edge diagnostic tools, time with your physician and a healing environment, all working together to bring optimal health. Healing fine arts are also available for purchase in the Healing Arts Gallery.

Suburban Gastroenterology, Ltd.

Suburban Gastroenterology is particularly dedicated to colon cancer screening and prevention. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and women in the United States and is the second highest cause of cancer deaths. These cancers can be prevented by removal of adenomatous polyps, the precursor of colon cancer. Our group regularly tracks and monitors colonoscopy quality indicators in an effort to enhance our performance.

Jimmy’s Grill

Visit Jimmy’s Grill for a thirst quenching drink, to bask in the sun and enjoy the company of family and friends. Bring the whole gang for some great old fashioned home grilling. All of their ingredients are of the freshest quality and prepared with you in mind.

Leadership Institute: Changing Business Results, Making a Difference in Careers

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Leadership Institute is the Chamber’s premier leadership and professional development program. The intensive six-month program is designed to help you or an employee develop and enhance your leadership skills. You’ll learn from the area’s top business leaders during a series of sessions, each focusing on one element of great leadership, followed by coaching sessions that will allow you to develop an individualized program to meet your specific needs.

The format of Leadership Institute provides attendees with great experiences and has produced outstanding results that enabled growth and development. David Hass of Northern Illinois University and 2011 Leadership Institute graduate, said, “The panelists were from the highest tier in their organizations and they helped drive home the relevance of each leadership topic discussed.”

One of the highest rated aspects of the program are the panel discussions featuring notable leaders from around the community. The interactive discussions are focused on the element of leadership that students are studying that session.

Scott Brown, Kraft Foods and 2011 graduate, believes the Leadership Institute provided practical tools and real-world scenarios he related to, “Upon completion of the class, I can truly say that I am utilizing many of the techniques taught during the class. I strongly recommend the course for anyone looking to assess their leadership style and build a foundation for continuous improvement.”

Employers who have sent individuals to Leadership Institute have also reported good outcomes. In addition to being a panelist, Ray McGury, executive director of the Naperville Park District, has been sending employees to Leadership Institute every year.

“The topics discussed throughout the program covered many facets of leadership, which could be applied to independent business owners, large organizations, for-profits, nonprofits or government,” said McGury. “Leadership Institute is a great educational opportunity that will improve your effectiveness as a leader and improve the performance of your organization.”

Good leaders never stop seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth. The early bird registration ends on Dec. 7, and the Leadership Institute begins Jan. 10. Be sure to take advantage of the special discount, and help you and your employees achieve more through leadership development.

Register online at www.naperville.net or call Lisa Spaeth at 630-544-3365 for questions about enrolling in the 2013 Leadership Institute. Class size is limited.

From Mike Evans: Looking Forward to Accomplishing Great Things Together

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

November 21, 2012

Dear Members:

Throughout the world, chambers of commerce continue to serve one of the most important roles in advancing a productive business climate. I am thrilled to be taking the helm of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, which has an outstanding reputation as an advocate for business and economic development in the region.

Together with the respected team of volunteers and staff, I look forward to leading the organization to even greater heights. But first, I want to thank the board of directors, and selection committee for their support and vision, as well as offer a special thanks to my colleague, interim CEO Tami Andrew.

As one of the few chambers in the nation to receive 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, I plan to reinforce our proven track record of leadership, service to Members and commitment to the entire region. We will build upon our legacy of successes, while continuing to look for new and innovative ways to improve the economic well being of our Members and the citizens of Naperville.

We have a talented staff of membership professionals. Together we will grow our ranks by reaching out to new generations of business leaders and involving them in this great association. Members, current and future, should expect an engaged servant-leadership organization working tirelessly to provide and develop the services your businesses require.

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce has one priority - the personal and professional growth of our investors - and we will strive to exceed your expectations each and every day.

I am looking forward to getting to know better the community of Naperville, from Mayor Pradel and the City Council, to the business and civic leaders who have made this city such a great place to build a business and raise a family.

I've been blessed to create wonderful memories in Naperville with my family, which includes my wife Erin and my daughter, Ryan whom will turn three this March. Over the years Naperville has always been a special place to us. We are excited to build new relationships and celebrate new milestones with you.

The challenges ahead of us are great, but Naperville and this Chamber have consistently overcome adversity and championed new growth and prosperity. With the economic outlook uncertain for businesses and families, the Chamber must remain the community consensus builder. We can help deliver solutions for citizens and businesses alike.

We will advocate with every level of government, on both sides of the aisle, and in all industries we serve to promote pro-economic growth policies for the greater Naperville region. We are the only association whose business is business and we will continue to fulfill this obligation to our Members.

Throughout my career I have enjoyed meeting so many dedicated professionals and it is your enthusiasm and optimism that motivates the work of the Chamber. It will be my goal to meet each of you personally and be invested in your success.

At almost every level of business, one principle remains consistent; people do business with people. At the Chamber, this is more than a saying it is our foundation and charter.

Members provide the energy that drives every success we have. You are a nationally acclaimed Chamber because of your dedication, involvement and desire to improve the business environment.

I can't wait to meet all of you. Feel free to reach out to me at anytime. I will always be accessible at the office, over email, or on my cell phone. Connect with me on social media and please share your business' success and struggles.

This is an exciting time for the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce and I am honored to have this opportunity to lead. Thank you for your confidence and I am eager to get started serving the needs of the membership.

I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season and remember to shop Chamber!

Sincerely,

Mike Evans
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
e: mevans@naperville.net

Biography of Mike Evans

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Evans is the president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, the leading business advocacy organization in the western suburbs. The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors named Evans to the position in November of 2012.

Evans has an extensive chamber background, having served as president & CEO of the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce from 2007 until 2012. When named to the position, Evans was one of the youngest executives in the industry. Despite taking the Chamber over on the cusp of the recession, Evans charted the organization to growth by aggressively focusing on non-dues revenues and value-added services.

During his tenure at the Bolingbrook Chamber Evans grew revenues through developing affinity programs and top-level support from major employers. The Chamber created a robust legislative advocacy program and worked with local, regional and state leaders to reduce vacancy rates and attract economic development to Bolingbrook.

Equally important during his time in Bolingbrook, membership involvement increased and overall investment in the Chamber increased more than 25 percent.

Evans is committed to being civically involved above and beyond his professional capacities. He served as a member of the board of education for Valley View School District 365U from 2007 until 2011.

In addition to public service, Evans was involved in legislative and policy discussions through roles with the American Chamber of Commerce Executives Government Affairs Council and the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Government Affairs Committee.

Evans also believes in supporting civic organizations. He helped the Bolingbrook Hospital Foundation raise money and chaired several of their annual events.

Evans earned a bachelor’s degree in politics and government, with an emphasis in public administration from Illinois State University in Normal, Ill.

Evans lives in Bolingbrook with his wife Erin and daughter Ryan.

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Selects Mike Evans as President & CEO

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announces the selection of Mike Evans as president & CEO. The board’s vote occurred after an extensive search and selection process, and deliberations among directors.

“I am thrilled to be taking the reigns of the Naperville Area Chamber, which has an outstanding reputation as an advocate for businesses and a resource for Members,” said Mike Evans. “Thanks to the board and staff, in particular my colleague and interim president Tami Andrew, this Chamber is in an extremely strong position.

“I am confident we will capitalize on past successes and deliver outstanding results for the membership,” Evans said.

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman Shane Beard said Evans exhibited the skills, experience, energy and vision required to lead the Chamber during a time of change in the industry and a sluggish economy.

“We selected a leader who is innovative and results-driven,” said Beard. “Mike Evans has the creativity, vigor and track record that will help the Chamber achieve success for our membership and community.”

Evans currently serves as president & CEO of the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce, a position he has held since 2007. Under his leadership the Bolingbrook Chamber experienced significant growth in membership, brought new programs to market and developed a reputation as an advocate for the business community.

“The Naperville Area Chamber has a well deserved 5-Star reputation and is considered one of the elite business advocacy organizations in the country,” concludes Evans. “While the staff has helped lead this Chamber to success, I know ultimately it’s the outstanding Members who make this Chamber second to none in the region. I look forward to accomplishing great things together.”

Dr. Cathy Subber chaired the selection committee, which included several board members and outside community business leaders. The selection committee recommended Evans based on his record, but was also swayed by his passion and enthusiasm for the chamber industry.

“Leading a chamber requires a unique mix of talents; being a great networker, connecting the community’s varied interests, having an outstanding work ethic, possessing political savvy and having the ability to channel the talents and interests of 1,400 businesses,” said Dr. Subber, who is also the incoming chair of the board. “I know when the membership has a chance to meet and work with Mike, they will be impressed with his dedication to help our business community succeed.”

Evans is anticipated to officially assume duties of the president & CEO of the Chamber effective Dec. 10, 2012.

About the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce: The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest suburban Chamber in Illinois with an active membership of 1,400 organizations of every size and from every sector. The Chamber’s membership participates in more than 400 briefings, committee gatherings, events, and programs annually. Through its programming, the Chamber provides leadership for the benefit of region’s business community by promoting economic growth and advocating the interests of business. For its efforts in promoting free enterprise and the business community, the Chamber has been recognized with 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an honor bestowed on only 77 Chambers, out of the nearly 7,000 in the nation.

Downtown Naperville Holiday Events Schedule

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The holiday season has arrived, and the events in Downtown Naperville will be in full swing. As always, the festivities will begin the Friday following Thanksgiving. There is an exciting new event to the lineup this year; Snowman Fest will bring in the holiday spirit starting at 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 23. Fans of the Little Friends Parade of Lights should note it has been moved to Saturday, Dec. 1.

For a full listing of all the events and Black Friday sales, please visit www.downtownnaperville.com.

Snowman Fest, Friday, Nov. 23, beginning at 4 p.m.

New to the downtown’s holiday festivities this year is Snowman Fest. During this event, there will be holiday music and the unveiling of 20 5-foot tall painted snowman sculptures will take place. Maps will be available at Main & Jefferson directing people to each snowman’s location, where children will receive prizes, while supplies last. You can cast your vote for your favorite snowman online, and the winning sponsor and artist will be announced in late December.

Free Holly Trolley rides will loop the downtown with six convenient pick-up locations:
• Main Street Promenade
• Northern entrance of Nichols Library
• Jackson and Eagle
• Chicago Avenue near Sugar Monkey Cupcakes
• Washington, near Barnes & Noble
• Van Buren Parking Deck

There will also be complimentary hot chocolate at the Main Street Promenade and free photos with Frosty the Snowman from 4-6 p.m. inside Country Curtains and from 6-8 p.m. inside Elan Boutique. For more details visit www.downtownnaperville.com

Little Friends Parade of Lights, Saturday, Dec. 1 at 4:30 p.m.

This popular parade was moved back a week this year to allow residents and children a better opportunity to enjoy it, and to avoid the busy shopping day which will allow for more accessible parking. The parade will also have a more central route, launching from Water Street, heading north on Main Street and west on Van Buren. Santa and Mrs. Claus make their official arrival to Naperville during the parade and will visit with children at the Santa House on Jackson, by the Dandelion Fountain. It will be musical, merry and bright at the Little Friends Parade of Lights on Saturday, Dec 1.

For all details regarding the schedule of events, visit downtownnaperville.com.

From Tami Andrew: The Chamber is Grateful For All of You

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The holiday season is a wonderful time to reflect on the many blessings we have in business and in life. On behalf of the Chamber we are most thankful for you our valued Members. Without your involvement and support, the Chamber wouldn’t be an influential force for positive change in our community.

Every day, our community’s businesses and job creators positively contribute to our organization and the broader community. Over the past year we’ve celebrated successes, achieved milestones and helped entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

Our work isn’t over and we shouldn’t rest on our laurels. However, we should take a moment and be thankful that for many in our community, this holiday season is brighter than those previous.

We have a brighter economic outlook for next year because of you, the outstanding businesses in our community.

During periods of reflection and celebration, we are often reminded that for some of our neighbors the holidays are a period of great angst, trepidation and concern about the future.

It is continually humbling to observe the charity and compassion of our Chamber and community. So many of you have donated and supported the dozens of agencies and charities that help those who have fallen upon hard times.

It is this charity and kinship that makes the Chamber so very grateful to have you as proud Members. Your support of those who need a helping hand is inspiring and a reminder of how very fortunate and blessed we are.

In the weeks and months ahead, we will make a positive impact in lives of our neighbors and employees. Enjoy your time with your family and friends.

Thank you for everything.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Welcome the New Board Members at the 2012 Annual Meeting

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Next Monday, Nov. 19 is the Annual Meeting of the membership of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce. The board of directors designated the meeting to take place during this month’s General Membership Luncheon at the Marriott Chicago Naperville, located at 1801 N. Naper Blvd. At the Annual Meeting and General Membership Luncheon the membership will elect a new class of directors to serve on the board for the next three years.

The time commitment your fellow Members have offered is considerable. You may be surprised that some chambers across the country struggle to find members to serve on their board. We are fortunate that we have so many individuals and organizations willing to invest their time and talents in our organization.

As with any membership organization, we are only as strong as our board. Through their leadership and vision they set a strategy for our growth and monitor our monthly progress. This new class of directors, slated to begin their terms on Jan. 1, 2013, are dedicated Members who are passionate about the Chamber and the positive role we play in our community.

This year’s class is intentionally made up of a healthy mix of individuals from small organizations and representatives of our region’s major employers. The board always seeks to have an appropriate mix of directors so that all segments of our membership are represented.

You can view the list of board nominees here. The Nominating Committee had a difficult chore in making their recommendations this year, because so many great Members applied for just a handful of openings. I encourage you to join your fellow Members at the Annual Meeting to be introduced to the directors who will represent you for the next three years.

Three years ago we were battling the throes of the difficult recession and through it all, this Chamber and our membership have been an indomitable force for progress on public policy that improves the business climate, championing economic development and providing support to fellow business owners.

It is through the board’s leadership and guidance that the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce remains the premier business advocacy and membership organization in the suburbs. There will be additional opportunities to thank the current and outgoing members of the board as they have all devoted countless hours away from their business to guide the Chamber.

Registrations for the Annual Meeting and General Membership Luncheon can be made online at www.naperville.net or by calling the Chamber at 630-355-4141. Walk-ins are welcome, but preregistration is preferred.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Special Guest Commentary from Tom Donohue, U.S. Chamber President & CEO

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Friends:

Since January, we have talked about conducting the largest voter education effort in the U.S. Chamber's 100-year history, and in five days, America will head to the polls.

We are grateful for your help carrying the message that economic growth and a vibrant free enterprise system are fundamental to the cause of creating jobs, prosperity, and opportunity for all. In the final days of the campaign, we have one final request.

Please send a note to your employees, members, and stakeholders reminding them of the importance of voting. I'd encourage you to direct them to VoteForJobs2012.com to find their polling location and compare their candidates on key business issues.

The truth is that every vote and voice matters in this election. It's pretty simple--if we want our voice to be heard, we need to make sure that those who support and believe in American enterprise and economic freedom vote in this critical election.

Thank you again for all you have already done and for your readiness to stand up again for American enterprise.

Sincerely,

Tom Donohue
President and CEO
U.S. Chamber of Commerce

From Tami Andrew: Vote Early, Advocate Often

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The great horse race comes to end and for many of us, we simply cannot wait for the winner to be called. Many business leaders, entrepreneurs, job creators, employees, and citizens feel this campaign cycle has been too small, and the politics overwhelming. The result unfortunately is that Americans and Illinoisans head to the polls as divided and uncertain as they were when the race began.

As this election cycle comes to an end, a wide variety of business leaders are taking a public stand urging solution-based governance, no matter who wins. Their message is the campaigning must end and the legislating must resume, providing definitive answers on the major entitlement, regulatory, spending and tax revenue challenges our country faces.

While no one would blame the business owner for wanting to sit on the sidelines, letting the politicians argue, we cannot let that happen. There are two fundamental and unalienable rights that we possess as Americans and that the business community must continue to use.

The first is to have a direct say in the governance of our lives through regular and free elections. The second is the freedom of speech, providing us the ability to present our concerns those in government.

I urge you, no matter how frustrated you may be, to not walk away. Tomorrow, join the tens of millions of Americans who have already made their wishes known through early voting. Take charge of your greatest right and responsibility of citizenship. Encourage a friend or colleague who is thinking of sitting the election out to head to the polls.

In our community there are races at various levels that are so close every vote truly matters. Your involvement will decide who gets to vote on your behalf in office, what policies the government will keep and which they will abandon.

On Wednesday the fundamentally more difficult process of governing begins. As always, the Chamber will work for the enactment of policies that make it easier for your business to grow, expand and operate. We ask you to join us in taking public stands and explaining how specific proposals will help or hurt your business.

The Chamber cannot do it alone and we need your continued involvement in our efforts. Attend our monthly Legislative Committee meetings, join us on our trips to Springfield and Washington D.C. Together the business community can encourage our officials to deliver on the promises they’ve made and implement pro-growth policies that benefit every American.

Do not grow disenfranchised by the smallness of the rhetoric that we’ve endured. Instead, remain committed to improving the business climate so that our nation, state and region can prosper.

Join the Chamber in our efforts, be an advocate for your business and help us deliver a brighter economic future for businesses, employees and citizens.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: Uncertainty With A Scattering of Optimism

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last Thursday the 2013 Regional Economic Forecast provided attendees with an interpretation of the mixed economic indicators we see every day. The Naperville Sun and Daily Herald's coverage can be found by following the links below.

While all of our panelists agreed that the economy has stabilized, they shared a sobering assessment that the “fiscal cliff” combination of year-end tax increases and spending cuts would have – and may already be having – a negative impact on the economy.

I walked away from the event with a sense of optimism because the reasons cited for the sluggish economy are largely political problems – a dysfunctional tax code, untenable deficits, regulatory uncertainty, to name a few – and we can solve political problems through our democratic processes.

However difficult it may seem, it is far easier to encourage our officials to enact real and meaningful reforms, than it is to have government jumpstart or intervene in our economy. After a newly elected Congress and General Assembly are sworn in, we – the business community – must work with our officials and speak clearly on the steps they should take to get our economy and your businesses growing faster.

While governmental policy can’t create lasting economic prosperity (our panelists were vocal on that topic), it can improve the business climate and remove barriers to dramatic and real growth. For instance, in the area of trade agreements and doubling exports, American companies and workers have lost their competitiveness to global peers by a lack of leadership and action.

The business community, especially organizations like our Chamber, need to continue to press our officials to level the playing field and encourage access for American-made products to the 95 percent of consumers outside our borders.

The clouds of uncertainty aren’t just international or national in scope either. We have challenges in Springfield, Chicago and elsewhere in our state that threatens our region’s long-term economic vibrancy. We must keep a steady eye on Springfield and ensure that our community isn’t saddled with uncompetitive schemes to balance the budget and improve the funding ratios for public-sector pension plans.

Again these are political problems, and however difficult they may seem, they are not insurmountable. It is time for the General Assembly to act, not just talk, about major policy reforms. When the General Assembly finally does act, and if the reform is true and lasting, our state’s economy and fiscal health will begin to improve.

Thanks to your dedication, hard work and savvy, our regional business community is growing. We are stronger today than we were a year ago on several measures of local and regional economic activity.

Most importantly Naperville’s unemployment rate was down 1.4 percent to a rate of 6.4 percent for the month of September. Job creation and business growth are underway in our region and that is a positive sign for the rest of Illinois.

The economic outlook isn’t clear sailing, but we know where we want to head. Balancing the competing needs of government and the free market system is our most paramount challenge, but I always am optimistic about America’s prospects.

Let’s finish the calendar year strong – and of course VOTE!

Articles:

The Naperville Sun - Chamber's economic forecast: Nervous but Optimistic

Daily Herald - Economy likely to remain shaky, economists tell Naperville chamber

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Chamber Board Convenes Taskforce to Study Proposed Referendum to Abort Move to Aldermanic Wards

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Last week, on the recommendation of Members at the October Legislative Committee, the Chamber’s board of directors voted to constitute a taskforce of directors to study whether to support or oppose the placing of a referendum question regarding how individuals are elected to the City Council.

“We’ve received interest from individuals on both sides of the issue on whether the Chamber supports or opposes the idea of having another referendum on this question,” said Tami Andrew, interim president & CEO. “Since our Members have asked, the board has agreed to look into the benefits and drawbacks of another referendum and share their thoughts with the community at large.”

At the October Legislative Committee, Members in attendance heard a point, counterpoint discussion on the merits of having another referendum question. The Chamber hasn’t yet taken a position on whether we support or oppose an additional referendum and the board charged a group of directors to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of having the voters weigh-in again.

“As Members we invest our time and energy into having a strong and effective advocacy program because we value the importance of educating the community on issues that affect the business climate and community, said Rosemarie Breske Garvey, chair of the Legislative Committee and co-chair of the board taskforce. “Like any issue, whether individuals agree or disagree with the Chamber’s findings or recommendations, we want to serve as a source of discussion for the community.”

The Chamber provided Members and the community extensive, balanced and well sourced research on the issues of aldermanic ward representation in 2010. These materials were produced after ample discussion with Members at the Legislative Committee over several months and remain accessible online at: http://naper.cc/a6WOM1.

Voters in 2010 approved the referendum question calling for the creation of a hybrid system of electing city council members, with five elected from aldermanic wards and three elected via an at-large election and the mayor. Since the election the City of Naperville has drawn ward maps and all candidates running for the 2013 election are running for an abbreviated two-year term.

The board voted unanimously to create this taskforce of directors. Members wishing to share their thoughts with the group should contact Tami Andrew at 630-544-3356 or tandrew@naperville.net, or the Chamber’s vice president of advocacy, Patrick Skarr at 630-544-3368 or pskarr@naperville.net.

From Tami Andrew: Why We Weigh In

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

In just a few days the Naperville Area Chamber Political Action Committee will release its endorsements for the contested elections this November. In the chamber industry there are two schools of thought; whether to be involved or sit on the sidelines. Honestly there are good points to be made on both sides. That said, the Chamber’s leadership made the determination and has repeatedly affirmed that being involved in the electoral process best serves our Members.

We feel we offer every candidate a fair opportunity to make their case on why we should endorse them, and provide an equal platform for individuals to demonstrate why they are the strongest voice for the businesses we represent. After hearing from the candidates we deliberate and offer our endorsements based on our judgment of the individuals who will best encourage job creation, business growth and improve the economic climate.

The Chamber and our leadership are fully aware that taking these positions may make us unpopular with certain candidates, Members, citizens – and incumbent elected officials. However, that’s what having a leadership position and credibility are all about.

Naperville and our region are truly wonderful places to start, have and grow your business, and raise a family. Getting to this place wasn’t easy and it is even more difficult to maintain this leadership position. We believe elected officials have the responsibility to build on our collective past successes, avoid lost opportunity and vote consistently to secure the brightest economic future for all citizens and businesses.

Elections are a matter of individual choice – our democratic governments belong to the citizens. We have the opportunity to weigh in every election cycle. We hope that our endorsements serve as a resource to our membership and the community.

Whether individuals like our recommendations or hate them, by encouraging dialogue about the candidates running for office we believe we are best serving the community and the Members we represent.

No matter who wins the elections in November or next April, from the moment after the last votes are counted we will work with the officials you’ve elected.

Our doors and programs are always open. We will serve as a source of community dialogue on the economy and business environment.

We are all well served by having choices on the ballot and we owe a debt of gratitude those who run for office. It can be a thankless job and before we announce whom we’ve supported, we want to thank them all for running.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Chamber October Anniversaries

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

10 Years:

Techmaster Incorporated

Techmaster Incorporated is a 19-year-old American company headquartered in Naperville. The company has regional offices in Nicosia, Cyprus, Cairo, Egypt, and Bethlehem, Palestine. The company's highly qualified, experienced managers and engineers are strategically positioned to efficiently carry out various business activities that have made them an internationally recognized engineering, procurement and construction company.

Bolingbrook Golf Club

The Bolingbrook Golf Club opened in May of 2002 offering the best in public golf and world class catering. The 76,000 square foot clubhouse offers amenities usually found only at private clubs. This southwestern suburban setting features a grand ballroom accommodating 30-750 guests with covered verandas overlooking the picturesque golf course. The clubhouse also features private hospitality suites, a casual bar and grill. There is nothing else like it!

American Chartered Bank

American Chartered Bank is an employee-owned, full-service commercial and retail bank with more than $2.1 billion in assets. The bank, located at the intersection of Diehl and Winfield roads in Warrenville, focuses on the Chicago area, and has earned a reputation for excellence by consistently achieving high levels of customer satisfaction.

15 Years:

Searcy Medical Solutions Inc.

SMSI is a full-service EMS firm. They are an emergency medical education and Consultation Company and an independent EMS provider. With a varied resource of many health care and public safety professionals, they provide CPR/AED/FA Instructor and Provider Education as well as EMT/FR Education.

Not-For-Profit Strategies & Solutions

Not-For-Profit is a strategy –not a desired outcome. The only practical hope for any not-for-profit organization to advance its mission is to devise and execute effective strategies and solutions to create the resources required to grow and succeed. Thus their company’s name – Not-For-Profit Strategies and Solutions LLC!

Culver’s

Culver's is a thriving business in the Naperville/Aurora community. Culver's is famous for fresh, frozen custard and ButterBurgers - quality products made the old fashioned way! Their ButterBurgers are made from fresh, never frozen chuck that is generally 5-to-6 percent leaner than the meat listed in major fast food chains.

B & L Auto Body

"Quality" is more than just a word at B&L Auto Body in Naperville. They are proud of their superior craftsmen and the quality repairs produced. From small dents to major collision, their technicians can expertly restore your vehicle. All insurance is accepted and free estimates gladly given.

Chamber Board Nominees Announced and Annual Meeting Designated

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The Chamber's Board of Directors has approved a slate of nominees for the open board positions beginning Jan. 1, 2013. The board has also designated the Nov. 19 General Membership Luncheon as the Annual Meeting of the membership. Eligible nominees will be voted on by Members in attendance at the luncheon.

The nominating committee received dozens of applications for the open board positions. After reviewing credentials and conducting interviews with each applicant, the nominating committee recommended eight candidates. The eight Member nominees are:

Tom Kallay, Nicor Gas
Mike Squire, North Central College
Mike Stengle, Sequoia General Contracting
Adam Russo, Edgewood Clinical Services
Tom Okarma, Vantage Point
Karyn Glogowski, Delta Dental
Kimberly Rodgers, DeSio, Franzen & Associates
Deena Giordano Ullom, Nyberg & Cassioppi

This marks the first time that existing board Members have been selected for a second term. Allowing board members to serve consecutive terms was a change in the bylaws ratified by Members in 2011. Nominees Kallay and Squire have been recommended to serve consecutive three-year terms.

The nominating committee and board recommend approval of this slate of nominees.

Additionally, Tom Kallay of Nicor Gas, has been recommended for the 2013 board chair position. In accordance with the bylaws, Kallay and other board officers will be elected by the board later this year.

For more information regarding the nomination process and the bylaws, refer to the bylaws available at: http://www.naperville.net/cwt/external/wcpages/chamber/chamber_bylaws.aspx.

Congratulations to all of the nominees!

From Tami Andrew: Election Special: YPN Leads the Way

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

As a Chamber with 1,400 business members we have to provide a variety of programs to cater to professionals of all ages, positions and stations in their career. We are very proud of one particular group, the Young Professionals of the Naperville Chamber that fosters relationships and a sense of responsibility in the next generations of business and civic leaders. If your organization isn’t taking advantage of this benefit, you are missing a great opportunity to develop your employees.

Once a month, YPN hosts a Friday morning development series that provides an informal, but useful professional development opportunity. If I think back to where I was in my late twenties and mid-thirties, going to an optional development series on Friday morning wouldn’t have been on the top of my list - but that just shows the dedication and accountability amongst YPN’s membership.

As we inch closer to the final weeks of the election, this month YPN has stepped up and programmed an “Election Special” meeting for Friday, Oct. 19. Friday’s briefing won’t be a partisan affair. Instead, we are fortunate to have two community leaders offering their insights about being involved and engaged citizens and explaining how individuals can make a positive difference in the communities where they live. Joining us will be Doug Krieger, city manager of the City of Naperville, and Ray McGury, executive director of the Naperville Park District.

As the top administrative officers in Naperville, they will share their expertise and help young professionals make informed decisions when it’s time to vote. By allowing attendees to ask questions about the topics they are most concerned about, they can in turn gain understanding of the policies that effect businesses both on a local and national level.

Numerous surveys and polls have noted an enthusiasm gap in younger generations, and Friday’s professional development series will encourage YPN members to participate in the upcoming election and encourage them to take part in our democratic process.

Even if you think you aren’t interested in politics, you will walk away from this briefing better informed about the election and know more about how you can get involved in the civic process.

At the risk of alienating one Chamber group over another, I want to call special attention to YPN and encourage you to have your employees get involved in this wonderful organization. If you want your organization to be involved with the building and fostering of the next generation of community leaders, they need to be a part of YPN.

YPN Members are extremely enthusiastic, dedicated and successful business people in their own right. What is amazing is that these professionals care a great deal not only about how they can improve themselves, but demonstrate a commitment to improving the organization they work for and most importantly – contributing positively and being active citizens in the communities where they live.

Visit their website at www.napervilleypn.com, follow them on Twitter @YPNaperville or like them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/YPNnaperville.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: Making the Most of Your Resources

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

On Thursday, Oct. 11 the Chamber is hosting its first ever Job and Resource Fair for People with Disabilities. We are very excited to provide this resource to our Members and the community at large. As with any new initiative, it is because of the volunteer leadership we receive from our Members that we are able to create new events that help us further our mission to better the entire business community.

Thank you to the dozens of businesses and organizations that have stepped up to support this event by exhibiting at the fair. The Chamber is in ongoing conversations about the job environment and we are shocked that too often companies are reporting that they cannot reach qualified applicants to fill the open positions they have.

With your support and involvement, we’ve decided to take action and have had positive results for our actions thus far. Thursday’s disability job fair and our previous veteran’s hiring events allows the business community to reach out and match willing employers with job seekers.

You may be wondering, why is the Chamber hosting a disability job and resource fair? Given the uncertainty of the overall job market, the Chamber felt it was important to bring together the membership to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to providing jobs and economic opportunity to the disability community. Action and positive results are how we will measure our impact.

Secondly we are hosting this fair because as every business struggles to find new market share, too often the disability community an untapped resource. As our planning committee’s research made clear, there are demonstrable economic benefits to hiring and involving the disability community in our workplace.

While we have hosted job fairs before, the Job and Resource Fair for People with Disabilities will be a learning experience for the Chamber. Given the great interest we’ve had thus far, we know it will be a success in one of our objectives; highlighting the positive impact the disability community can play in our organizations.

We are looking forward to a fantastic event and hope it provides many job leads and positions to both individuals with disabilities, their families and friends who understand how valuable it is to support organizations that open their doors to all business professionals.

There is still time to sign up if your business is interested in exhibiting. Thanks again for all of your support and to all those who will be in attendance.

You can find the registration information here or call the Chamber at 630-355-4141 for more information.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: Give Yourself a Competitive Advantage: Attend the Regional Economic Forecast

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

One of the Chamber’s most popular and informative programs, the Regional Economic Forecast, returns Thursday, Oct. 25 and you should block time in your schedule to attend this educational breakfast. Of all the hundreds of events the Chamber hosts every year, the Economic Forecast is the most practical and useful to you in planning ahead for the next several months.

In survey after survey, small business owners and corporate executives lament the uncertainty of the economic, regulatory and tax climate. We’ve focused this year’s discussion to provide you with a forecast into how the elections will affect the economy. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office has estimated 2 million jobs are at stake and the reemergence of a recession depending on how Congress resolves the mix of tax increases and spending reductions known as “the Fiscal Cliff.”

This event is designed specifically for Chamber Members and our panelists will discuss how these decisions will impact your business and your customers. While our panelists have different backgrounds and expertise, they share the ability to translate complex economic and political issues into what it means for your business.

This year’s panel includes Ben Taylor, executive director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Great Lakes Regional Office; John P. Calamos Sr., chairman, CEO and co-chief investment officer of Calamos Investments; and the most popular economist in the event’s history, Dr. Michael S. Miller, associate professor of economics with DePaul University.

Thanks to your feedback, we have updated the event format and the entire event will feature a moderated panel discussion involving all of our panelists. Dr. Stephen Maynard Caliendo, the head of North Central College’s political science department, will serve as event moderator and ensure there is a lively discussion between the panelists and our audience.

We’ve been battering terms like Fiscal Cliff, comprehensive tax reform and regulatory policy into you all year. But with the election following just days after this presentation, these terms are no longer abstract. You need to know what Washington’s decisions mean for your business, no matter how the election turns out. Take advantage of this resource to better prepare yourself and your businesses for the year ahead. We hope this year’s new format is an invaluable resource to you as you begin to formulate your business plan for next year.

We hope by providing you with the insight that will come from our panelists that you will be able to face 2013 head on and make it a successful year. Our sincere thanks are extended to Navistar for their sponsorship and to Calamos Investments for serving as co-host again this year! Without their support this first-rate program would not be possible.

Visit the Chamber’s homepage at www.naperville.net or call us at 630-355-4141 to register or for event information.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Chamber September Anniversaries

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

From Tami Andrew: It Can't Be Said Enough: Thank You for Your Membership

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

One of the most rewarding aspects of working at the Chamber is the opportunity to get to know, interact and most importantly, learn from the 1,400 businesses that our Members of the Chamber. Several years ago in preparing for my first day, I began wondering how the Chamber brings together so many businesses of every type, size and background.

It didn’t take long to realize that there isn’t a magic business model at the Chamber; instead our successes are the result of you our Members and your belief that together we can build something that is greater than we achieve individually.

Looking back on my first day, I now realize that I missed the truly amazing part of the Chamber. While it is impressive that so many businesses support the Chamber through annual dues, what is phenomenal is the commitment of time, energy and the outright passion individual Members contribute day-in and day-out. Members have established an ethos and culture that membership requires being active. It is our Members who created a culture of mutual benefit and support for one another. The Chamber’s fortunes and future successes can only be attained through your ongoing support and involvement, which you so diligently provide.

Over the past several years, we have averaged more than 400 briefings, committee programs, TEAM referral meetings, events, and ribbon cuttings annually. (We checked around and this pace is practically unmatched in a Chamber of our size.) We don’t host all of these programs to give ourselves a merit badge; we do this because you’ve asked for all of these opportunities to grow, develop and learn something new.

The Chamber is a not a top-down organization; instead it is a federation that belongs to you. As staff, our primary responsibility is to create, facilitate and maintain the venues for success, achievement and business growth that you need and want.

We are always on the lookout for new concepts, opportunities and venues. Some of our most successful and valuable programs and services have come from suggestions from our Members. It isn’t your responsibility to figure out how to make new ideas work, after all that’s why you pay dues.

If you have a concept or unmet need, I would encourage you – actually I would ask you – to reach out to me and share your thoughts.

This Chamber’s greatest days are ahead of us. Next year marks the Chamber’s centennial anniversary, and while we will pay tribute to our past successes, we will play as relevant and powerful role in our business community as ever before.

I know this is true because we have the commitment of our community’s greatest business leaders. Every day you contribute to the vibrancy of our Chamber. I thank you for your belief in our cause and investment in our organization.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Alert to Members Regarding Electric Bill Phone Calls

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The City of Naperville has asked for all business customers to please be advised of possible fraudulent activity in regard to utility accounts. It has been reported that customers are receiving calls requesting payment, even if the account is current. The caller announces themselves as being with the electric company and must receive money or service will be disconnected.

Please note, this is NOT the City of Naperville making these phone calls. In the event a call is necessary to address a past-due electric bill, customers are informed that the caller is from the City of Naperville, not the ‘electric company.’ In addition, the City of Naperville should appear on the caller ID screen along with a (630) 420-6059 telephone number.

If you believe you have been a victim of these calls you can file a report with the Naperville Police Department at their non-emergency phone number 630-420-6666.

From Tami Andrew: An Uncertain Future: Our Ambivalence Has Lead to Deadlock

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

It’s more than likely that Congress will take a quick exit and leave town without taking action on the underlying issues of the “fiscal cliff.” While listening to the impact of the fiscal policies of tax increases combined with spending reeducations sound like notes from an arcane economics lecture, this indecision is impacting your business, customers and quality of life.

Here’s how: successful businesses don’t lurch from crisis to crisis; instead they produce forecasts and craft long-term plans. Business owners and executives work diligently to meet customer demand, focus on improving quality and plan for the future. Businesses are getting the exact opposite from today’s state and national government. Instead the message is, “We’re out campaigning, we’ll get back to you later.”

This indecision leads to inaction by the private sector. The price we all pay is lost advancement and opportunity. Every day that businesses are pensive about the future is a day where they defer their plans for growth and expansion.

I don’t lay this dollop of blame on our elected officials either. Our government is of, for and by the people. We all bear responsibility for the deadlock afflicting our economy.

Recently I came across the quote of the philosopher and psychologist William James, “When you have to make a choice and don’t make it, that is in itself a choice.”

Collectively we’ve made a choice; unfortunately we’ve continually supported inaction and delay.

During the next 50 days we will be subjected to the final stretch of “the most expensive and important election in history,” until the next one. Throughout the barrage of positive character commercials, contrast ads and outright attack pieces, we will be presented some facts, a little (or a lot) of hyperbole and poll tested slogans focused on action and change.

Instead of focusing on the policy differences we pay attention to the personality conflicts between our political leaders. We’ve fallen victim to an environment of the constant campaign.

The machinations of the campaign horse race are more prominent than open debates about what policies office holders could enact to better our lives. Unfortunately this is true at almost every level of government! It’s easier to campaign than govern, and on whole, we’re getting a lot more campaigning than governing.

As businesses and leaders in the community we can lay a wrench in this vicious cycle of inaction. If a policy is languishing for political expediency we can demand accountability.

We should talk with our employees about what standing between them and a better paycheck. We the citizens control the debate, conversation and election; not party leaders, candidates, campaign strategists and the media.

There is an old and overused joke that your business was safe when Washington wasn’t in session. The opposite is becoming truer; inaction by government may very well cost us dearly.

If we ride off the fiscal cliff and into a recession because our officials refuse to act, it should serve as a wake-up call to us that we can’t continue to survive under the governance-by-election model.

Let’s hope that we don’t have to pay the price of economic pain to obtain better results from our elected leaders.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: Relationships Built to Last

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last week we had another successful Women in Business breakfast focused on the importance of trust in our business and personal relationships. In business and in life we associate with the individuals and organizations that we trust most.

Would you rather have a network of people that continually say, “What can I do to help you?” as opposed to, “What can you do for me?” By the way, if you can’t think of the last time you unconditionally offered to help someone, you need to seriously evaluate your approach to networking and the brand you are developing for yourself.

Building a relationship isn’t about building a bank of goodwill to be called upon like a scene from an old mobster movie. It isn’t about finding a way to do business together either. Healthy relationships are predicated on the establishment of mutual trust, by instilling confidence that you will deliver on your promises.

The title of this column is relationships built to last and that is what the Chamber is all about. In today’s age of fly-by-night networking and social networking, you can gain friends, followers and likes at the click of the button, and just as quickly they are gone or have blocked your updates and tweets. While valuable, these relationships should not be your only focus but rather augment your strategy for developing bonds that transcend your business.

How does the Chamber offer this to our Members, or rather, how can you trust that you are spending time in an organization that makes a difference? The answer is simple, because the Chamber is made up of Members just like you. If you have faith and confidence in yourself and your products, you should feel optimistic about the Chamber and the quality contacts you can develop.

The Chamber is a vehicle for you to get out of your comfort zone and meet individuals you otherwise wouldn’t connect with. By establishing a rapport and finding out how you can offer assistance with the varied attendees at Chamber functions, you can build a relationship based on trust, mutual development and success.

Make sure you aren’t visiting with the same people each month, get out there and take advantage of what this Chamber has to offer. How often do you attend the Chamber luncheons or events that are focused on the important community dialogues and efforts to improve the business climate? When is the last time you attended a ribbon cutting to congratulate a fellow business owner?

These events bring together individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their community, not where the next order will come from.

After being an involved Member and now having spent several years on the other side of the fence, I’ve gained tremendous appreciation for the thousands of opportunities you have through the Chamber.

It’s not because of the events the Chamber facilitates, it is because of the quality of the Members that attend, get involved and participate.

No one can develop trust for you. You have to do it one step at a time. You must commit to being a supporter not a taker, and listening to others more than you talk at them.

I firmly believe we are a Chamber building relationships to last, one Member and one event at a time. I hope you will commit to joining us and building an environment of assistance, support and trust.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: What Businesses Can Learn From the Ryder Cup

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

In just a few short weeks one of golf’s greatest traditions, the Ryder Cup, will bring tens of millions in revenue to the region when the tournament is played at Medinah Country Club. This will provide an excellent boost to the economy as we transition from summer to autumn.

I thought it would be seasonal to take a moment and explore the everyday lessons businesses can take away from the sport. It’s often said that a lot of business gets done on the golf course, but the game also provides great lessons for leadership and personal improvement.

Golf is a game of concentration, focus and patience. When I reflect on the great business leaders chronicled in books and within the community, these same three attributes often come to mind.

Athletes of every type are character profiles in concentration. Over the screams of thousands of fans and spikes of adrenaline, athletes rise to the occasion to sink the birdie, catch the touchdown or hit a homerun on a full count.

Business leaders too must exhibit this same form of concentration and discipline. Balancing the needs of the upcoming payroll, accounts receivable, the new business pipeline, community involvement, product development, mentoring your staff, and keeping your personal life in order is a pressure cooker just as intense as a sold-out stadium.

To be an effective executive, owner or manager, requires discipline and concentrating on the items that matter. Do we spend our time thinking about office politics and the minor disturbances that arise, or are we using our analytical skills to anticipate our clients’ needs and how we can provide better service? Blocking out the distractions is necessary for a thriving workplace where our employees operate at their best.

I am also inspired by the ability of great golfers to completely let go of the missed shot and remain focused on what lies ahead. Too often we can begin overanalyzing and focusing too much on the past, instead of what’s next. On the course, if we’re not careful one bad swing will begat other bad shots and before we know it, the round is over and our stroke count resembles that of a bad bowling score.

Just like in business, bad swings are just a part of the game whether you’re a professional or an occasional player. In business we never foray into something expecting to fail. Instead, after putting our best efforts into it, we can end up with a bad result. That’s life let it go.

A missed business opportunity or a lost client is a learning opportunity. Spending our time wallowing won’t help us get a better result tomorrow and it certainly doesn’t build momentum toward future success. In business, we have to remain focused on our end goal and our organization’s mission.

Finally, what makes a great golfer and an outstanding business leader is patience. It seems as if patience is a virtue that has gone the way of dinner jackets. It’s not to say that we are impatient, but rather we are connected to everything and everyone from the moment we wake up, to the moment we go to bed. In this environment we can quickly be overwhelmed, overtaxed and easily agitated.

We have to take a moment, take a step back and remember that things take time, especially good things. Today’s issues are forgotten tomorrow and having a healthy appreciation for the ebb and flow of today’s workplace is critical to success.

Like a champion golfer we’ve got to play things for the long term.

In a few short weeks we will get to personally witness some of the best golfers in the world competing against each other. This will be an exciting time for our region and a time for personal reflection.

Since this was a golf-themed column, I hope to see many of you next week at the Mayor’s Golf Outing. Thank you for your continued support and membership.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: Helping You Connect With Potential Customers

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The Chamber has a number of important constituencies we serve, but none is more important than our membership. We want to provide every business with a positive return on your investment and serve you with the products, programs and advocacy you need. However, sometimes we need you to take action to help make sure you’re getting everything you’ve paid for.

To that end, I strongly encourage each of you to take a few minutes and log in to the Members’ Only section of www.naperville.net. Through this portal you can update all of the contacts in our system for your company, but most importantly, you can review and edit your 50-word business description.

Consumers continually use the Chamber’s online business directory to search for companies and organizations in the community. Having an up-to-date and accurate description can lead to additional revenue for your company.

The Chamber’s website is a valued source of information by consumers and having the most current information is essential to differentiating your business. Last year the top ten categories of the membership directory were displayed 159,361 times!

Every day thousands of consumers are searching and accessing our database and we want to make you look as good as possible. So take a moment to review and update your listing.

If at anytime you are having difficulty accessing the Members’ Only section, or you would like a personalized visit to review the benefits of your membership, please call us. We will talk you through the process or schedule a time to visit with you.

We are deeply appreciative of your Membership and want to help you gain the most exposure and business through your involvement in the Chamber.

Have a wonderful holiday weekend and thank you to all of the volunteers who will donate their time to this weekend’s festivities at the Naperville Jaycee’s Last Fling.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Illinois Chamber of Commerce Presents First Small Business Conference: 21st Century Strategies to Move Your Business Forward

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

On Sept. 25, 2012, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce will present the first Small Business Conference at the Tinley Park Convention Center from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Business experts will provide an innovative program, including educational workshops, inspirational keynote speakers, vendors, and networking opportunities.

The Naperville Area Chamber and other organizations across the state are co-marketing this event to our membership to encourage businesses of all types and backgrounds to attend. Employees at every level will walk away from this one-day conference with something to improve your organization.

Keynote speakers include Christine Corelli, author of the best seller, “Wake Up and Smell the Competition – They’re Closer than You Think,” and Edward J. Wehmer, president and CEO of Wintrust.

The information-packed agenda includes four sessions of workshops following seven tracks with multiple sessions in the following areas:

• Social media and technology
• HR & employment law
• Workplace and ownership issues
• Procedures and policies
• Legal and more
• Sales and management
• Marketing and public relations
• Business planning and strategy
• Government opportunities for small business

In addition, you can get a free headshot taken for LinkedIn profiles and your company website. Attendees present at the conference can win prizes for free publications, webinars, seminars and other giveaways from sponsors and exhibitors.

Register before September 5 and receive the early bird special price of $119. Naperville Chamber Members will receive discount pricing

Click Here to Register

Chamber August Anniversaries

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

In addition to recognizing them here, the following Members will receive a token of our appreciation at the August 27 Membership luncheon:

5 Years:

Dan Wolf Chevrolet of Naperville
At Chevrolet of Naperville, we are your #1 source for new and used cars, trucks and SUV’s. Chevrolet of Naperville is committed to providing you with the highest quality of service. We offer specials and incentives for our online customers, so check out our new and used inventory from the comfort of your own home.

Danada House
Rich in beauty and history, Danada House in Wheaton, Ill. provides an ideal location for you to host your special event whether it’s a wedding, banquet, meeting or party. Danada House can accommodate up to 90 people for a cocktail party or 110 people for a sit down affair in the main level of the house. Space for up to 250 people is available in our all-season Atrium.

DKM Consultants, Inc.
DKM Insurance Advisors is a full service brokerage firm specializing in employee/group benefits. DKM offers a wide variety of insurance products to a wide variety of employers. If you are a small employer looking to install your first benefits program or a large firm looking for a solution to your current benefits issues, we offer the experience and knowledge necessary to help you make informed decisions.

10 Years:

ServiceMaster Commercial Cleaning Services
Owner Dave Moore has a history with ServiceMaster that spans almost three decades. He worked for ServiceMaster Corporate offices for 15 years helping franchises with system training, system implementation and business development. He has owned the Carol Stream franchise for almost 15 years.

15 Years:

Fairfield Inn & Suites
Conveniently located near I-88 & Rt. 59, we are just minutes away from the Chicago Premium Outlet Mall, Naperville Riverwalk, Westfield Shopping Center-Fox Valley, and numerous restaurants. Only Fairfield Inn & Suites provides you with everything you need at an exceptional value. We give you the confidence that your trip will succeed, because we know you well enough to consistently deliver a hotel experience that’s just right.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott
The Naperville TownePlace Suites by Marriott is a residential-style hotel with 50 percent more space than traditional hotel rooms. We offer separate living and sleeping areas, ample work space, multiple phone lines, personal voice mail, fully equipped kitchens, indoor pool, spa, exercise room, complimentary deluxe continental breakfast Monday-Sunday, newspaper and exceptional service!

20 Years:

Brennan & Brosnan, L.L.C.
Margaret M. Brennan and Betsy K. Brosnan, Certified Public Accountants, each have over 20 years experience in tax, financial and management accounting. Brennan & Brosnan serve as business advisors for closely held businesses and their owners, providing tax planning (including estate planning), tax preparation (business, individual, estate and trust), accounting and financial consulting services.

From Tami Andrew: How Embracing Change Will Improve Your Bottom Line

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Next week’s luncheon speaker will address one of the great challenges confronting today’s executives and managers; how to manage four, and soon five, generations in the workplace. To succeed and have a competitive advantage in this environment, leaders must find ways to incorporate the differing expertise of these disparate generations.

Our speaker, Tom Klobucher, has great ideas to share and a fair amount of street credibility. His firm has won the Best Places to Work In Illinois Award three times! We’re excited about this luncheon because it symbolizes the work and transformation of the Chamber, and the community we care so deeply about.

Each business has its own culture and value system. The Chamber needs to be inclusive and welcoming of all of our Members, their employees and customers. We’ve made good strides over the past several years, but our work is far from complete.

The needs of our longest-serving Members are very different from the desires and expectations of our newest and younger members. The Chamber has been rethinking, retooling and recreating new programs, services and communications to better engage and attract the involvement of the evolving workplace.

To this end, the Chamber’s board wisely founded the Young Professionals of the Naperville Chamber. This dynamic group has been a rapidly expanding and is a great resource for the next generation of business leaders.

They deserve recognition for all they’ve accomplished, as several long-time Members of YPN are already successful entrepreneurs and community leaders. We may need to stop saying they are the “next” generation and give credit where credit is due to the YPN’ers business acumen and contributions to our community.

We recognize that the Chamber needs to more accurately reflect our business and consumer community. It’s not good enough to have generational balance in our ranks; we must do a better job of bringing the shared cultures, backgrounds and experiences that make up our regional society.

It’s the Chamber’s responsibility to bring about this change, to forge relationships between different groups and serve as a catalyst for inclusion and mutual benefit. It’s our responsibility because diversity and acceptance is the path to prosperity in this century.

Chicago is one of the greatest economic cities in the world and we compete across the globe for talent, capital, investment and consumers. Ideas, innovation, people and prosperity will flow back and forth, and we sit just a few miles away from one of the true economic titans.

We’ll go about this, one step at a time and hope you join us along the way.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: School is in Session, Today’s Lesson: $3.7 Billion Reasons to Oppose the Cost-Shift

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

If it wasn’t such a dire situation, we might find irony in the fact that as our sons, daughters and grandchildren relish their last moments of summer vacation, the General Assembly prepares for a Friday, August 17 special session to deal with the urgent matter of pension reform.

Over the past several years the Chamber has discussed, educated and held debates on the policies that could solve our state’s fiscal crisis. A never ending backlog of bills, perennial budget deficits and rapidly increasing unfunded liabilities have created an economic, regulatory and tax uncertainty that is among the worst in the nation.

The Chamber believes our officials must continue to debate, discuss and analyze measures that truly reform the state’s public employee retirement systems and set the state on a path to fiscal solvency. However, the Chamber does not support cost-shift proposals that unfairly and unduly burden suburban property taxpayers. You might be wondering why, after years of advocating for change, we would oppose this specific proposal.

The Chamber doesn’t believe simply shifting the ongoing burden for the responsibility is actual reform. Instead, it’s simply passing along an unsustainable retirement model to taxpayers who are already dealing with high property tax bills. Thankfully our delegation in the General Assembly have stood firm in their opposition to the cost-shift thus far.

We crunched the numbers provided by the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget and based on earlier iterations and discussion drafts of the cost-shift, local taxpayers in school districts 203 and 204 would assume up to $610,628,927 in pension funding obligations through FY 2045. To make the shift more tolerable, officials have recently amended their proposals and modified the split over the first several years.

No matter how you square it, under the cost-shift hundreds of millions of pension funding obligations would be added your local property tax bill over the next 30 years. This funding shift would occur at a time when state financial support for our local schools continues to decline.

If the cost-shift passes, you would have to continue to pay the state’s sales tax, income tax, corporate income tax and personal property replacement tax. No relief is proposed or on the horizon.

The issue of cost-shifting and employer responsibility is a debate worth having, but should be part of a broader debate over the issue of education funding. Thus far, the debate has focused between threats of future funding cuts, or accepting of this funding responsibility. There is no discussion of relief for school districts that receive minimal overall funding from the state, in exchange for the assumption of pension funding.

The Chamber accepts and applauds that our community has high standards for our educational community. We expect an excellent return on our sizeable investment in our schools. In fact, over the years the Chamber has endorsed several referendums for our local schools, rather than wait for the state to send money it doesn’t have.

We’ve learned through experience that the best way to ensure efficient use of our tax dollars is to maintain local control and oversight. During FY’s 2000 through 2010 local taxpayers paid $3,723,201,413 in local taxes to support school districts 203 and 204, covering everything from operations, capital expenditures and interest. The State of Illinois contributed $579,767,093, or a little more than 13 percent of total funding during this period.

Contrast this with the funding sources of the Chicago Public Schools, who budgeted to receive 33 percent ($1.62 billion) in state support, with local sources projected to make up 47percent ($2.27 billion) in their 2012 proposal.

The suburban business community cannot support a reform pension proposal that increases suburban and downstate funding liabilities by $20 billion over 30 years, while providing no relief for the extraordinarily high burden of funding our local schools.

We believe our officials in Springfield can do better than the cost-shift, which divides Chicago against everyone else. At the Monday, August 13 Legislative Committee meeting we heard an insightful presentation from Rep. Mike Fortner of West Chicago on a comprehensive pension reform bill that doesn’t shift responsibility to local taxpayers. Fortner’s legislation is HB 6204.

Solutions and compromise can be found, but it will require the General Assembly to actually function and debate. There are honest differences of opinion about how best to implement reform.

We’ll hold our breath and keep an eye on our check-books as the legislation is called for floor debate.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Chamber Sends Letter to Planning & Zoning Commission Regarding Water Street Development

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The Chamber took a rare step this week and sent a letter to the members of the City of Naperville Planning & Zoning Commission regarding cases 12-1-39 and 12-1-40, commonly referred to as the Water Street project.

As a matter of policy the Chamber does not involve itself in individual developments petitions and zoning matters. Rather, the Chamber supports all economic development, job creation and new investment in our community.

In recent weeks the development has been the subject of letters to the editors, op-ed columns and public discussion. As “the business voice,” the Chamber wanted to contribute to the community discussion and call attention to the matter to encourage individuals and businesses to participate in the process.

Last year, the Legislative Committee held several sessions on the Naperville Downtown 2030: Planning the Downtown Experience comprehensive development plan. These meetings allowed the business community to offer their thoughts and perspective on how to achieve balanced growth in downtown.

Those discussions and the subsequent endorsement of the plan are recounted in the Chamber’s pro-growth letter to the Commission. Interim president & CEO Tami Andrew writes:

“After taking part in its crafting and educating our Members, the Chamber endorsed the ratification of Downtown 2030. We’ve pledged our support to the City to work with the business community to make its vision and goals a reality. This letter is part of our commitment to champion a brighter future.”

The Commission will hear the case at its Wednesday, August 8 hearing in council chambers at City Hall, 400 S. Eagle Street in downtown Naperville. Interested citizens can access the agenda and meeting packet at: http://naper.cc/QFuLbD.

You can access the entire letter to the commission at: http://naper.cc/Nf2UKl.

President & CEO Search and Selection Committee Update: Position Announcement Now Available

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

View the Position Announcement - Download Announcement: Word | .PDF

The President & CEO Search and Selection Committee has posted the position announcement on the Chamber’s website. Interested individuals can review the positing at http://naper.cc/Ru3Q1J or on the Chamber’s homepage, www.naperville.net.This step formally opens the application process and prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their information by close of business on Friday, August 31.

“Through the input we received from the membership and the board’s discussions, we have a firm understanding of where we want the Chamber to head over the next several years,” said Cathy Subber, who serves as chair-elect of the board of directors and chair of the search and selection committee.

Materials submitted before the close of business on Friday, August 31 will receive priority review. Applicants are requested to provide a cover letter, current resume and three references. Materials should be sent to csubber@aol.com, only submissions sent to this address will be accepted.

“The announcement describes the profile and characteristics we think our next leader needs to posses to be successful,” continued Subber. “We will provide the membership and community with updates on significant milestones as we reach them.”

The President & CEO Search and Selection Committee is on schedule with their announced timeline. In July the committee heard from Members at a forum and conducted intensive reviews with current leadership.

For information about the search and selection process contact Cathy Subber, Chair-Elect of the board of directors at 630-355-8998 or csubber@aol.com.

From Tami Andrew: Be a Part of Our Special Centennial Edition of the Membership Directory

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

You may not know this, but next year is the Chamber’s centennial anniversary! Preparations are underway to celebrate this momentous achievement. Through the leadership investment and entrepreneurial prowess and those of generations before us, Naperville’s business community has lifted the economic fortune of our region, citizens and employees. To coincide with our 100-Year Anniversary, we will be dedicating the 2013 edition of our printed membership directory to the past and provide insight into the future.

We are continuing our partnership with the industry leading team of Village Profile. Mike Holmes will return as project manager for this special edition. Many of you have gotten to know Mike through his involvement with the past two directories.

This special 100-Year Anniversary magazine will feature stories about the past, present and future of Naperville and the Chamber. This celebratory edition is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business through an advertisement. You can reach out to Mike at 630-544-3374 or mholmes@naperville.net, or I’m sure he’ll reach out to you.

Through our selection with Village Profile, we are utilizing industry-leading technology to provide you with ample return on your investment. Thousands of copies will be sent to visitors, businesses and residents. In addition, it will be available online and as an ebook.

Information regarding how you can advertise with us in the magazine will be sent to all Members this month. If you have advertised with us before, you will be contacted directly and choose from the best available ad positions.

As we reflect on the past 100 years, we are amazed and proud of the growth Naperville has seen. Despite trying times, Naperville continues to endure and thrive by welcoming new ideas, businesses and the entrepreneurial spirit. But, our work is far from over. Each day there is a new policy that demands our attention, a new initiative that impacts our local businesses and a need for continuing advocacy. This magazine is as much about reflection as it is about a call to action to continue our mission of serving you, our Members.

Thank you for your century of dedication and for serving as the inspiration to bring on the next century as your business voice.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: What Friday’s Economic Reports Mean for Small Businesses

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Two widely watched reports were released by the government last week demonstrating continued sluggishness in the economy. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis found that the economy had slowed in the past quarter, primarily due to softening consumer spending. The White House Office of Management and Budget also released its Mid-Session Review to Congress.

The White House’s mid-year forecast of the nation’s fiscal solvency and forecast of economic growth was consistent with a variety of other economic projections. On the issue of job creation the report predicts unemployment will decline modestly to 7.9 percent by the end of the calendar year.

However, the most important conclusion in the report for small businesses is the forecast that national unemployment will remain above 6 percent through 2016. Thankfully Naperville has recovered more robustly than other communities in Illinois and across the nation.

In the past year Naperville’s unemployment rate has dropped almost an entire point and stands at 6.9 percent. This progress in economic recovery has instilled confidence in our local business community and real growth is occurring.

The Finance Department at the City of Naperville has reported strong growth in sales tax receipts, a key barometer of local economic activity. However, broader economic forces will impact Naperville’s businesses large and small. In particular, a blanket of uncertainty hovers over our small business community.

The unease over future demand, tax rates and business costs, weighs heavily on the minds of business owners and executives. Last week’s reports predict this environment to continue for the foreseeable future.

Until the fog of the election and the so-called “fiscal cliff” is lifted and a pattern of consistent growth emerges, small businesses will continue to do more with less. After living through the economic turbulence of the past few years, the reluctance to incur new debt, make new hires or reinvest is understandable.

However, the turbulence in the economy doesn’t mean small businesses should turn a deaf ear to opportunity or stop your quest for new customers. Just the contrary, in a world of tepid growth, great entrepreneurs take a step back and try to reinvent their business, enter new markets or provide additional value to their existing customers. This creative process will ultimately lead to new growth and additional job creation.

Don’t be deterred by the doldrums of the past few years. Continue to push your business, your employees and yourself to achieve success in spite of the headwinds. Now is the time to innovate and take risk.

In a world of uncertain economic data and I’m absolutely confident about one thing: small businesses will figure out a path to prosperity and the economic analysts and budget experts will be the last to know. For more than two centuries, America’s entrepreneurial class has lifted the economy and defied expectations.

Thank you for your continued membership and support.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Chamber July Anniversaries

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Each month the Chamber likes to begin our General Membership Luncheons by recognizing those businesses celebrating anniversaries as Chamber members. We cherish our Members and like to give thanks for their membership but also recognize them for their success of remaining in business for years if not decades often during trying economic times.

What better venue than the luncheons provided for Members, an audience completely made up of their peers and who truly understand the accomplishment of celebrating an anniversary. Naper Settlement understands the importance of creating a history in our area and thus sponsors our special anniversary recipients.

John Buckley, vice president of institutional advancement at Naper Settlement, sums up why it was so important that Naper Settlement be involved, “The histories of these businesses is the history of this community which is why Naper Settlement wanted to be the sponsor of our program.”

This month, we recognize the following businesses celebrating anniversaries with the Chamber:

10 Years:

Ronald Passarelli, Koehler & Passarelli, LLC

Attorneys concentrating in representing management only in labor and employment law matters. Vast litigation experience in Federal courts, State courts and numerous administrative agencies. Strong focus on client counseling and preventative strategies through education. They get to know their clients and businesses in order to provide the best representation possible.

John Haskins, Viking Travel/Cruise Shop

A comprehensive travel company offering travel solutions to businesses, associations and the general public. Viking is comprised of five components, including a full meeting and incentive travel division, cruise only division, condominium and villa vacations and Viking Corporate Travel Services and Viking Leisure.

Heather Sudnik, AMLI at River Run

Beautifully landscaped grounds and views of the DuPage River create the perfect setting. Well-appointed apartment homes and incomparable amenities combine to make your home an oasis of luxury and comfort. All conveniently located in Naperville with diverse choices for dining, shopping and nightlife. There’s a lot to love about life here.

Barry Greenberg, The Greenberg Law Firm

Don't let a legal problem control you. Let The Greenberg Law Firm help you take charge of your situation. With them, you can count on more than 33 years legal experience in Illinois and Florida. Contact them with your inquiry, as there is no cost for the initial consultation and no obligation to contract their services.

15 Years:

Jay Demarco, Rosebud Italian Specialties & Pizzeria

Rosebud Italian Specialties & Pizzeria provides an innovative perspective on traditional Italian cuisine. Another fresh addition is Chicago-style pizzas, a novelty in the Naperville market. Offering both lunch and dinner seven days a week, Rosebud is the perfect destination for a casual business meeting or festive celebration!

Dave Miller, Chef By Request Catering

Chef By Request has proudly catered to thousands of corporate companies and social clients throughout the Chicago Suburbs since 1996, offering the best in gourmet food, professional service staff and full event planning. They excel as a premier wedding caterer at venues throughout Chicago and surrounding areas.

Natalie Nelson, The Iroquois Club Condominiums

The Iroquois Club Condominiums in Naperville offers luxury resort style residences at competitive prices. Stop by seven days a week and experience why the Iroquois Club is the destination in Naperville to call home. Call to meet with their sales staff today.

25 Years:

Alden Vala, Naperville Town Planner Calendar

The Naperville Town Planner Calendar is direct mailed each year to residents and families of Naperville as well as the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce membership. The Town Planner is sent free and is totally supported by local businesses and services through sponsorship and advertising.

From Tami Andrew: Spread the Word and Help Our Local Veterans

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Towards the end of the civil war President Lincoln gave his second inaugural address that contained the following charge even more urgent in today’s society, “To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.”

These timeless words adorn the Veterans Administration in Washington D.C. and serve as the mission statement of the agency. The business community is doing its part to care, honor and provide for our nation’s heroes and their families.

On Thursday, July 26, 80 employers, who all have jobs available, will be at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn for a job fair specifically for veterans and their spouses. The response from the area business community has been overwhelming and registration is full for employers, but we need your help and assistance spreading the word to veterans.

Tell your neighbors, friends, and fellow parishioners, anyone who has a connection to a veteran. This job fair is for them. The least we can do after their tremendous service is to help them find a job. There is no charge to attend and all of the companies at the fair have open positions.

As more and more veterans return home to an economy already struggling to keep up with the demand for jobs, the Chamber has taken on a special mission to do our part to provide our nation’s heroes opportunities to find employment.

Businesses from across the country have joined in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative. Already 200 job fairs have been held across the country and we’re not done yet.

The 80 employers participating in the July 26 fair range from America's biggest employers to dozens of small companies from across the state. Individuals with all backgrounds and experience levels are welcome. Interested job seekers should register for free at hoh.greatjob.net, though walk-in registration is also welcome.

Many of us took extra steps to show our support for the troops while they were deployed overseas and it is just as important that the men and women of the military know that we still care now that they have returned home.

The job fair at College of DuPage is part of “Hiring 500,000 Heroes”, an initiative launched by the U.S. Chamber, National Chamber Foundation and Capital One to encourage businesses to employ 500,000 veterans and military spouses by 2014.

We thank all of the wonderful partners and officials who are helping with the upcoming fair. In the coming months we’ll partner together again to provide another opportunity for area companies to meet with and take applications from the local veterans community.

Please take a moment and reach out to any veteran or their spouse that you know. For those struggling to re-enter the workforce after their deployment, there is no summer vacation. Help us match talented veterans with the companies looking to hire them.

The job fair takes place at the Glen Ellyn campus of College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd. The fair opens at 9 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m., preregistration saves time at the event, but is not required.

Tami Andrew is interim president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, the largest suburban Chamber in Illinois. She can be reached at 630-544-3356.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: What the 'Business Voice' Means for You

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The Chamber’s tagline is “the business voice,” but what does that mean to you our members? Your investment and involvement in the Chamber powers our advocacy agenda, but what’s in it for your business?

The answer is a more efficient business climate conducive to economic growth. Collectively we have a voice that is respected and can bring about positive change in the regulatory and tax environment.

Some of our advocacy efforts are very specific and narrow, such as updates to the sign code, reviewing annual budgets, or endorsing (or opposing) referenda questions, but others are at a global level and help drive the conversation about how to help our economy grow faster and create more jobs.

At every step along the way we make sure we are spending time on efforts that impact our members and will improve the business climate.

We undertake this work, on issues large and small, because collectively the Chamber believes that all businesses benefit from an environment that fosters individual achievement, supports educational attainment and rewards entrepreneurship and business success.

This requires hard work, constant monitoring of the environment and working together with government to improve the playing field. Through your ongoing membership and involvement in our efforts, you are helping drive success for the broader business community.

Over the past few years the Chamber and our community have scored victories that laid the foundation for growth. Whether it’s repealing taxes that no longer make sense, or getting funds reinvested in critical infrastructure such as widening Route 59.

Most small companies and most business people haven’t thought of having a government affairs program until they run into an issue obtaining a permit or receive a friendly letter in the mail from an regulatory authority. If you ever have an issue or concern, please don’t’ hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help you navigate the political and regulatory arena.

It is the Chamber’s honor and privilege to represent the interests of our outstanding and diverse membership base. From independent start-ups to Fortune 100 companies, we have the cross section of America’s economy in our Chamber. This provides an endless talent pool of individuals with the expertise, knowledge and background to help advance commonsense and meaningful reforms that will facilitate growth and prosperity for our community and region.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Chairman Shane Beard: An Update On Our Search and Selection Process

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

As you know, the Chamber is in the midst of a leadership transition. In taking on this process, it is a good time to have a conversation about the role of the Chamber and what our members seek in the leader of our organization.

The Chamber’s president and CEO is not only the head of a multi-faceted business, this executive is the spokesperson for our business community, analyst of public policy, counselor to executives and entrepreneurs, community ambassador at-large, and visionary for where our community needs to go.

Our process moving forward isn’t a simple “replacement” of the Chamber’s president. Instead, we are focused on taking the time to define the outcomes that we believe our next leader needs to achieve. This will help us make sure we are selecting the person best suited for the job.

This will require some time, research and, most important, engaging with you, our members, and other community and civic leaders. While we do this, our solid, talented staff and interim leadership of the Chamber will remain in place, working for you, our members.

We are confident that as a board we can take a step back and focus on this decision, while the staff executes the remainder of this calendar year’s key objectives.

The board is mindful of the Chamber’s broader role in our community. We are on the eve of celebrating our centennial anniversary and look forward to building on our success for another century.

It is our goal to make our selection before the Thanksgiving holiday. We will post a formal job description, begin accepting resumes and start the interviews process in a few weeks.

The search and selection committee is hosting a membership forum on Wednesday, July 18, from 7:30 – 9 a.m., at Cafe N Play, 1767 W. Ogden Ave., Suite 155. You’re encouraged to attend and participate and can make your reservation online or by calling the Chamber at 630-355-4141.

You are our most important customer and we want you to be engaged in this process. If you can’t make the membership forum, please reach out to your representatives on the board and selection committee.

Sincerely,

Shane Beard
2012 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

President & CEO Search and Selection Committee Named

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Following the leadership transition of May 2012, the board of directors of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce has appointed a search and selection committee made up of board members and community leaders to assist in the Chamber’s selection of its next president & CEO.

“We are moving forward with a search and selection process, not simply a replacement strategy,” said Dr. Cathy Subber, 2013 chair-elect of the board of directors. “The Chamber is going to take the time to figure out where we want to be in a few years and then determine the skills, qualifications and characteristics of the leader who will take us there.”

The search and selection committee is hosting an open membership forum on Wednesday, July 18, from 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., at Cafe N Play, 1767 W. Ogden Avenue, to provide individuals with an opportunity to contribute their opinions on the long-term vision, mission and role the Chamber plays.

“The Chamber is all about our members and we welcome their ideas on how we can better serve the community,” said Dr. Subber.

The board is fully confident in the Chamber’s interim leadership and staff, allowing the search and selection committee to take the necessary time to diligently complete their work.

“There is a great deal of comfort with the current leadership and staff at the Chamber. We have an aggressive schedule of programming and services this summer,” noted 2012 chairman Shane Beard. “While the board, membership and community engage in this dialogue, the Chamber will continue to run at full speed.”

The search and selection committee will convene in July to begin its work and use the input received through the membership forum and numerous individual meetings within the community. In late July the committee will formally post the position, including a job description, qualifications and resume submission procedures.

The members of the search and selection committee are:

• Nicki Anderson
• Shane Beard, FASTSIGNS
• Don Emery, ProfitLink
• Ray Kinney, Minuteman Press
• Debra Lellbach, Lellbach Builders
• Ray McGury, Naperville Park District
• Charles McLimans, Loaves & Fishes Community Pantry
• Tom Miers, Naperville Bank and Trust
• Chris Michalski, BMO Harris Bank
• Dr. Cathy Subber, Advanced Health Naperville, Naperville Moms Network and Cafe N Play

It is the Chamber’s goal to announce a selection before the Thanksgiving holiday. The committee will post a formal job description, begin accepting resumes and start the interview process in a few weeks.

For more information about the Chamber’s leadership transition contact chairman Shane Beard at shane.beard@fastsigns.com or interim president & CEO Tami Andrew at tandrew@naperville.net.

From Tami Andrew: Last Call for China

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members,

I am thrilled to announce that we have exceeded our initial goal for our journey to China’s Golden Route! With over 20 travelers already signed on, we still have plenty of room for more. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop new relationships or solidify existing ones with your fellow members and the community. The Chamber is fully committed to helping our members become better acquainted both professionally and personally to create a unique, tight-knit business community. By having members and the community share this experience, it will only serve to strengthen the connections the Chamber values so highly.

China is becoming a cornerstone of international business. It is essential for us to learn as much as we can about the culture and business climate to better understand how we can work with them and take advantage of this lucrative market. The Chamber, along with Nexus Holidays, have arranged for travelers to not only see historic sites but also visit China’s modern, bustling centers of industry. It is because of the special opportunities China has to offer that we chose it for our first trip overseas.

Along the Golden Route, you’ll travel to three of China’s most prominent and historic cities; Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai. In Beijing, you’ll see Tiananmen Square and step inside the Forbidden City, where 24 emperors resided for 500 years. In Xi’an, you’ll see the Great Wall and the famous Terra Cotta Warriors. Thousands of soldiers, horses and weapons were created centuries ago to depict the first Chinese emperor’s armies and were only recently discovered and restored. In Shanghai, you’ll get to see one of China’s oldest industries in action at a silk spinning mill, and enjoy the legendary feats of a Chinese acrobatic show.

Just as a reminder, the cost is $2799 for the 10-day journey. This includes all airfare, travel visa, accommodations, tours, entry to points of interest, and breakfast lunch and dinner for the duration of the trip. This also includes an English-speaking guide and all transportation between sites and cities. If you are a solo traveler, the cost is only an additional $290 for single occupancy. We will be traveling Friday Oct. 16 through Saturday Nov. 3. The last day to sign up and submit your $500 deposit is Saturday, July 28. We look forward to traveling with you along China’s Golden Route!

If you need more information, head over to our blog (link here), or contact me at tandrew@naperville.net or 630-544-3356.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Tami Andrew: A Holiday Week Teeming With Volunteerism and Community Spirit

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Over the next several days we will celebrate the founding of our nation and spend time in the company of family, friends and colleagues. Independence Day provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the freedoms we have and the sacrifices made by previous generations that afforded of us the liberties, prosperity and comforts we enjoy today.

At the Chamber’s offices we are constantly reminded of the inspiring contributions made by the members of our armed services and their families. Several staffers of the Hiring Our Heroes initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have been working out of our facilities for the past several months. Their presence in our office is great reminder that the freedoms we enjoy in our business and life are continuously defended by the noblest of citizens.

These brave men and women volunteer to go to some of the most dangerous spots on the planet and they – and their families – deserve our admiration and praise.

We live in the greatest country on the planet and with our freedoms, so many of us choose to give back to a cause. This sense of community giving is abundant in Naperville and over the next several days hundreds of volunteers will help the Naperville Exchange Club produce Ribfest.

In addition to providing families with a first-class entertainment activity, the event raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for worthy charities in our area. (In full disclosure I have been affiliated and involved with the Exchange Club for years and think they perform an excellent service for our community.)

Without the support of the volunteers, corporate sponsors and patrons these charities would have to turn to other sources for funding. There is a growing academic field of “social entrepreneurship,” and we can look back on the past 25 years of success of the Ribfest as a model for the future.

Naperville’s business and civic leaders have always taken the burden of solving problems and finding ways to help those most in need. While we are celebrating our nation’s independence, we should also recognize the talented and devoted members of our community that step up and give generously of their time, talents and treasure to helping those in need of assistance.

Naperville has always been home to business leaders who value others before self and strive to leave the community in a condition better than they found it. I find this characteristic to be worthy of honoring this holiday week and hope you do too.

Thank you for your continued membership and support.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

An Update to the Chamber’s Accepted Forms of Payment

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Effective July 1, 2012 the Chamber will no longer accept American Express as a form of payment for event registration, sponsorship or invoice payments. In our continuing efforts to watch expenses, eliminating this form of payment will help save the Chamber money in transaction fees. Reducing outside fees enables the Chamber to continue to offer programming at efficient rates.

The Chamber accepts all other forms of credit card and debit card transactions, as well as allowing for payment by check. For Members seeking to spread out their membership payments we offer an automated ACH payment, allowing you pay your membership on a monthly basis. Enrollment in the monthly ACH program is free of charge.

Contact Tami Andrew, interim president and CEO at 630-544-3356 Members with questions or comments about this change.

From Tami Andrew: Explore China’s Golden Route With the Naperville Chamber

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

One of the newest and most exciting programs the Chamber has unveiled this year is the new travel program, where we arrange for all of the details and you are our guest. We consulted with Chambers from across the country to learn best practices so we can provide you with outstanding service.

For our inaugural voyage we will visit the historic and influential Golden Route of China. Guests will travel Friday, Oct. 26 through Saturday, Nov. 3 and experience an action-packed cultural and educational junket.

We’ve negotiated a fantastic, discounted price that makes the trip affordable and something you should consider. At just $2,799, including your airfare, hotel, travel visa and food, this is an amazing opportunity.

The delegation will begin their journey down the Golden Route in Beijing, spending three nights and two days soaking in the rich cultural and societal history of the capital, including the Forbidden City and taking in an evening performance.

From Beijing the delegation will travel to Xi’an for two days and then end their travels in the booming economic powerhouse of Shanghai, leaving time to take in an inspiring acrobatic performance.

You can learn more about the trip to China by clicking here, or by calling the Chamber at 630-355-4141. Reservations and deposit for the trip must be made by Saturday, July 28. You can register by calling the Chamber or emailing me at tandrew@naperville.net.

All of the travel details for each day of the trip have been taken care of by the Chamber and our travel provider, Nexus Holidays. You don’t have to worry about a single travel detail; we’ll take care of all of it for you.

This trip is open to Members and community non-members, so spread the word, invite a friend and block out the dates in your calendar. We look forward to continuing to offer new programming and opportunities for Chamber Members.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

Congratulations to the Chamber’s Newest Employee

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The Chamber would like to congratulate Ashley Smith on her recent accomplishment of graduating from North Central College. Smith has been an intern with the Chamber since fall of 2011 while she completed her final year of study. As an intern, Smith helped manage and update the Chamber’s communication portfolio and will take an expanded role at the Chamber.

“Balancing attending North Central College and interning with us is good preparation for the rigors of the Chamber,” said interim president and CEO, Tami Andrew. “We’re very excited Ashley has joined us and we know she will be a great addition to our team.”

Upon graduation Smith accepted the position of website coordinator and will take responsibility for managing the Chamber’s website, newsletters, print collateral and other communications.

Smith, originally from Jacksonville, Ill. is excited about the opportunity to work full-time at the Chamber and get to know the many Members who make this Chamber stand out from the rest.

“I’m very excited to join the team at the Chamber who were so supportive and helpful during my college studies. I feel like the Chamber has already helped to give me a great start as a young professional and I am very anxious to dig in and experience all of the great things the Chamber stands for.”

In regards to what she hopes to accomplish, she says, “Making the Chamber’s website a more valuable resource for our Members and the community is my top priority.”

The entire Chamber staff congratulates Smith on her accomplishment and welcomes her to the Chamber. Smith can be contacted at asmith@naperville.net or 630-544-3367.

Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency incentives help redevelop and revitalize communities through building upgrades

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

New Economic Redevelopment Program supports energy efficiency improvements

Improving energy efficiency reduces operating costs and enhances comfort in existing buildings. Investing in energy efficiency should be an obvious choice when renovating a building, but many building owners face roadblocks that make the process challenging. They might need expert advice on which energy efficiency upgrades to implement, or they might have trouble financing the improvements. A new program through the Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program (EEP) makes investing in energy efficiency easy and affordable for owners of commercial, industrial and multi-family buildings.

The Nicor Gas EEP Economic Redevelopment Program focuses on serving communities that are in need of economic redevelopment, as well as businesses and organizations that create jobs, offer social services or provide affordable housing. The program offers financial incentives and extensive technical assistance, helping building owners with every step of the process from evaluating energy efficiency needs to applying for rebates and finding qualified contractors.

“The Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program is a helping hand to our customers and communities,” says Jim Jerozal, Nicor Gas Director, Energy Efficiency. “This new Economic Redevelopment Program allows us to target resources to make sure building renovations in challenged areas are as cost-effective as possible. By leveraging energy efficiency to lower lifetime operating costs, entities in TIF districts and Enterprise Zones can spend less on their buildings and more on other improvement initiatives.”

Projects that complete the recommended energy efficiency upgrades can qualify to receive up to $100,000 in rebates. The exact amount of incentive is based on the energy efficiency features implemented and energy saved. The more the upgrades improve energy efficiency, the larger the incentive. In addition to receiving incentives, projects that complete energy efficiency improvements will benefit for years to come, enjoying lower energy costs and greater occupant comfort.

In addition to financial incentives, the program offers extensive technical assistance (valued at up to $20,000) to help building owners through every step of the process. Qualifying projects receive a complete evaluation of the building and a report detailing recommended energy efficiency upgrades, estimated savings and incentives available from the Nicor Gas EEP and other programs. The program also assists customers in applying for incentives, provides design review and offers construction oversight to ensure quality results.

Projects that qualify for this program include those that are located in, or promote economic development in, Enterprise Zones, TIF districts, or other economically challenged areas. Other projects that could qualify are those that create jobs, offer social services, rehabilitate brown fields or vacant buildings, or provide affordable housing. Qualifying facilities should be at least 10,000 square feet.

To apply for this program or for more information, please contact the Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Economic Redevelopment team at 773.328.7040 or ERP@cntenergy.org or visit NicorGasRebates.com/programs/economic.

Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program offers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This offer is subject to change or termination without notice at the discretion of the Economic Redevelopment Program. The Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program is a multi-year program funded by Nicor Gas ratepayers in compliance with state law through a small charge identified on bills as “Energy Program.”

An Update on the Chamber's Leadership Transition

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Thank you for your continued membership and support. As you know, over the past few weeks the Chamber has undergone a transition of leadership, but our focus remains the same: we will measure our ultimate success by your success.

While the near-term national economic outlook is uncertain, we should not be deterred. Throughout the Chamber's history, generations of outstanding business leaders have believed that being proactive and controlling our destiny is the best strategy for progress, in any economy.

The last quarter century has seen our local business community transform itself into an commercial powerhouse. This economic evolution provides for the high quality of life that defines our community today. And, of course, to remain vibrant, we must continually improve, grow and change.

Along the way, we'll hit some bumps in the road and have to deal with events that are out of our control. But through it all, we, the business community, will continue to create an environment that fosters prosperity and economic security for our employees, customers and community.

The Chamber, and its 1,500 Members, is an organization that harnesses and draws together thousands of different businesses of every size and sector. You choose to invest your time and talents in the Chamber for a number of reasons. However, we are all united by a common desire to attain individual achievement, expand our businesses, and contribute positively to our community.

The Chamber's staff and I are committed to you. It is our privilege and honor to work for one of the best Chamber's in the nation. We are a 5-Star Chamber of Commerce because of you, our extraordinary Members.

This period of transition will not slow us in our efforts to work with the membership to find new ways to provide additional value and returns on your membership investment. We will continue to grow and improve our product offerings. Your business doesn't rest and the Chamber won't either.

Again, thank you for your membership and support.

Sincerely,

Tami Andrew
Interim President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3356

From Shane Beard: Chamber Leadership Status Update

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

June 4, 2012

Dear Members:

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Executive Committee is pleased to announce that Tami Andrew has been named Interim President and CEO of the Chamber. Tami has been the Vice President of Operations and Member Services for the Chamber since 2009 and will continue to run the day-to-day operations and report to the Board of Directors.

Tami has been a key member of the Chamber leadership team during the last three years and has played an integral role in identifying and developing our award winning staff. As we all know, it takes a great team to be an award-winning business and it takes a great staff and active membership to have a 5-Star Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to working with Tami during this time of transition.

Chair elect Cathy Subber is in the process of forming a search committee to identify candidates to fill the permanent president and CEO position. If you have any suggestions on filling the position please forward your thoughts to Cathy’s attention at the Chamber office.

During June, we start our search for candidates for the 2013 Board of Directors. If you are interested in serving on the board please send your resume to my attention at shane.beard@fastsigns.com or to Tami Andrew tandrew@naperville.net. Our nominating committee is almost assembled and our Board will have 10 seats open at the end of this calendar year. Past Chamber board members are also welcome to apply, as our bylaws allow for multiple terms. We have several current board members that have served previous terms and their dedication and experience is greatly appreciated.

The Board of Directors would like to thank the staff for their continued support during this transitional period. And thanks to you, our members, for your membership.

Sincerely,

Shane Beard
2012 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

A Message From Chamber Chairman Shane Beard: Leadership Transition at the Chamber

Thu, 24 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

May 24, 2012

Dear Members:

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced today that we have released John Schmitt from his duties as President and CEO of the Chamber.

As you well know, many businesses are taking a hard look at the cost of benefits, pension funding and the balancing of budgets - so is the Chamber. Although the chamber is on solid financial ground, it is still challenged with the same budgetary issues, including additional revenue generation and containing escalating expenses we all have faced during these tough economic times.

The Chamber Board of Directors and John could not find common ground on the required steps the Chamber needed to take to move forward and therefore we are choosing to part ways, we believe it is in the best interest of both parties. We have thanked John for his three years of leadership and a career of service to the Naperville area community.

It should be noted that this decision received a unanimous vote of approval by your Board of Directors at a special board meeting held on Wednesday, May 23rd.

In the short term, I as your Chairman of the Board along with the Executive Committee will oversee the Chamber business. Tami Andrew, who is our Vice President, Operations and Member Services, will continue to run the day to day operations and report to the Board of Directors. An interim President and CEO should be named shortly while the search for a permanent successor has been initiated. If you have suggestions for the new CEO please forward them to the Chamber's office - we will look for input from our membership in making this important decision on the future of our organization.

We will keep you updated as we move forward through this process. The Board of Directors want to thank you for your continued support and most importantly for your Chamber membership.

Sincerely,

Shane Beard
2012 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

From John Scmitt: Congratulations to all SBY Nominees, Finalists and Winners

Mon, 21 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

The Small Business of the Year Awards is one of the highlights of the year. Last week’s ceremony was another wonderful celebration of the outstanding small businesses in our Chamber. We laughed, cheered and toasted the best of Naperville’s entrepreneurial class.

My congratulations are extended to this year’s winners and all of the nominees for this prestigious award. The competition was tough and I know the judges had difficulty making their selection. The wonderful team at Clark’s Car Care really spoke to the success, frustrations and overall opportunity afforded by taking the plunge and opening your own business.

I wish Matt and Laura continued success as they take advantage of the American dream and the promise afforded by our entrepreneurial system. As they say, good fortune is the residue of hard work.

All of the organizations nominated for this year’s award put all of their energy into their businesses, hoping to succeed and grow their business, one client at a time.

This week’s column is brief, as I’m off to Washington to participate in the U.S. Chamber’s annual small business summit. We have a series of meetings on the hill with the offices of Illinois’ congressional delegation, and will take advantage of numerous policy briefings while we’re in town.

These past few days are an example of the outstanding value the Chamber strives to provide you, our Members. We celebrated the best of our Members on Friday evening and are now off to Washington to advance policies that will help the small business community grow and thrive.

Congratulations again to all of this year’s winners and may they continue to achieve success.

Sincerely,

John Schmitt

President & CEO

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

D: 630-544-3370

E: jschmitt@naperville.net

Naperville Chamber Presents Small Business of the Year Awards: Local Small Businesses Awarded for Excellence in Six Categories

Mon, 21 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Naperville, Ill. (May 21, 2012) – The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the winners of the 15th-annual Small Business of the Year (SBY) Awards.

This year's awards gala took place Friday from 6-10 p.m. at the Chicago Marriott Naperville, located at 1801 Naper Boulevard.

“The Small Business of the Year Awards is the Chamber’s top honor,” said Chamber President & CEO John Schmitt. “It’s the business community's way of recognizing outstanding work done of, for and by the Members. And every business nominated is a true winner.”

The SBY Awards are divided into six categories with one overall winner: Business-to-Business, Business-to-Consumer, Professional, Not-for-Profit, Retail and Excellence in Business. Members nominate one another for the awards. Once nominations are submitted, the winners are selected by the blue-ribbon committee—a panel of last year's winners.

The winners of this year’s SBY Awards are as follows:

Business-to-Business: Vintage Tech Recyclers

Business-to-Consumer: Clark’s Car Care

Professional: Jeffrey Ross Photography

Not-for-Profit: Naperville CARES

Retail: Two Bostons

Excellence in Business (awarded to companies established fewer than five years): WAR Chest Boutique, Profit Focused Principles, and Top Level Fitness

And the 2012 overall SBY winner is Clark’s Car Care.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s winners,” Schmitt said. “Several past winners of these awards have gone on to receive regional, state and national recognition for their businesses, and I have no doubt these new winners will do the same.”

One more special award is also presented at the SBY Awards: the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given each year to one business and civic leader for their commitment to Naperville’s business community, excellence in business stewardship, contributions to the region’s quality of life, and leadership in support of economic progress.

The recipient of the 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award is longtime resident and Sun Times columnist Tim West.

“Tim is committed to the idea that a free and vibrant press, combined with the input and thoughts of a variety of decision makers, creates positive outcomes for the community. No one person or group has all the answers and Tim, along with the Naperville Sun, will continue to be a forum for debate about our community's future,” said Schmitt.

The Chamber would like to thank all of this year’s nominees, panel judges and attendees for a very successful 15th anniversary event.

For more information on the SBY Awards or the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.naperville.net.

$85 Billion Reasons to Act – Businesses Must Speak Up

Mon, 14 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Members:

Last week the Chamber was invited to participate in a press conference with the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce. Our message was simple; doing nothing is unacceptable and now is the time for action. For several years groups like the Illinois and Naperville Chambers, Civic Federation, Civic Committee and several other policy orientated groups have decried the perilous nature of our state’s finances.

Gov. Pat Quinn noted this year was a “rendezvous with reality,” and last week in a rare appearance in Springfield Mayor Rahm Emanuel referred to this opportunity to drastically change our state’s fiscal course as a “moment of truth.”

They are both right and all of the legislative leaders including President John Cullerton, Speaker Mike Madigan and minority Leaders Christine Radogno and Tom Cross, deserve praise for acknowledging that reform must occur. All four leaders and Gov. Quinn have spoken of the bold reforms that are needed to fix our state’s finances for the long-run. Obviously the details matter, but the tone, direction and blueprints are a step in the right direction.

At the May 14, 2012 Legislative Committee meeting we heard from Representatives Mike Connelly and Darlene Senger who told attendees of the possible solutions. Our local representatives affirmed that opponents of reform are being vocal, active and often using erroneous or specious information.

The Chamber will continue to provide you with the facts, our analysis and evaluation of proposed reforms. We hope that you will speak up and let your officials know what you think, whether you agree or disagree with our analysis.

In preparation for our visit to Springfield last week, I reviewed the Civic Committee’s latest publication, “Just The Facts,” and was struck by a figure included in the report, which is included below. The chart details that 44 percent of the underfunding of the retirement systems is the result of past General Assemblies and Governors not making their required contributions.

The other 56 percent of the shortfall is the result of lower-than-expected returns and changes in actuarial assumptions and factors.

The business community thinks it’s time to move past the debates about how we got in this awful mess –there are multiple reasons. Instead, we need to focus on the solutions that will put our state on the path towards fiscal solvency. The time for endless debate and analysis is over; we need our officials to deliver real reform.

Illinois’ public pension systems are underfunded by $85 billion – and the problem is only getting worse. The assets in the system aren’t sufficient to cover current retirees, let alone the current workers who are paying into the system. Pension funding is crowding out every other element of the budget, even with the 67 percent increase in the tax rate. These facts are all true and cannot be distorted or changed.

We need bold and real reform and we need our officials to act this session. Right now, we need a bill that can be reviewed, debated and amended.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to fix our state. In the next two weeks our General Assembly and elected officials will be challenged like never before. The magnitude of the problem is almost unfathomable.

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce offers our praise and unyielding thanks for their service during this difficult time. We urge all our officials to do right by the next generation and use this historic opportunity to get our state back on track.

Sincerely,

John Schmitt
President & CEO
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
D: 630-544-3370
E: jschmitt@naperville.net

Meet the Nominees for the 15th annual Small Business of the Year Awards! Excellence in Business and Retail Categories

Fri, 11 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Meet the Nominees for the 15th annual Small Business of the Year Awards!
As the 15th annual Small Business of the Year Awards approaches, the Chamber would like to highlight each of our nominees so our Members can become better acquainted with them. Each business is unique and brings something special to our area. Without these businesses, Naperville would not be the booming, diverse city it has become. This week, we recognize those businesses nominated in the Excellence in Business and Retail categories. Check out the nominees, and don’t forget to register to attend for the May 18 event!

Excellence in Business:

Extra Edge, LLC

All business owners need some assistance now and then. Extra Edge provides a network of respected experts and business resources to help businesses grow into productive and prosperous enterprises. From educational monthly events, cause marketing, one-on-one consulting, to creative marketing strategies –Extra Edge handles it all!

GJK Associates

GJK works closely with businesses to develop a business plan which best leverages their time and money into an effective and affordable online marketing and social media strategy. We provide management, resources and training as part of our holistic approach to becoming a trusted partner for the business owner.

Kicks Shoes

“Kicks Shoes” is a Women’s Shoe Boutique. Our shoe assortment is fun, flirty and fashionable, and in many cases, comfortable too. We're doing our best to give our community the popular items that are all the buzz, but also give them some unique items they don't see everywhere.

Profit Focused Principles

"We Help Business Owners That Have A Dream & Their Dream Isn't Accounting." Many business owners don’t have the background or time to perform necessary accounting tasks. That is where we step in. We are different. We focus on our clients & their profits, and then the necessary forms.

Top Level Fitness

Top Level Fitness is a fitness facility that offers top-notch fitness instructions, nutritional coaching and motivational training. Our group and personal training programs are designed to get people in the best shape of their life, making them leaner, healthier and stronger, in the shortest, safest possible time regardless of their current fitness level. Results are guaranteed and we offer an unconditional 30-day money back guarantee.

WAR Chest Boutique

The WAR Chest Boutique is a nonprofit store-front operated by Women At Risk, International, giving people a permanent location to shop the jewelry and fine gifts made by, sourced by, or sold in support of the precious rescued and at-risk women who flow through our programs.

Retail:

Bri-Zan Couture

Bri’Zan Couture is a dress boutique in the heart of downtown Naperville. We offer over 50 of the top dress designers from around the world. Whether a customer is looking for prom, homecoming, cocktail, black tie, pageant, quinceaneras, bridal, bridesmaids, mother of the bride, flower girl, first communion, and everything in between – Bri'Zan Couture has the dress of their dreams.

Eddie Z’s Blinds

Eddie Z’s Blinds and Drapery celebrates 20 years in business as being family owned and operated. We provide the highest quality blinds, shades, shutters and organizational systems to our clients. Services are provided by our professional decorators in the client's home or in one of our seven showrooms.

Odyssey Fun World

Odyssey Fun World, the premier destination for family fun, now serving Naperville and the surrounding area for 12 years. We feature a wide arrangement of arcade games and attractions such as laser tag and paintball. We have a full service cafe so you can enjoy pizza and burgers with a group or for your next birthday party.

Two Bostons

Two Bostons is a lifestyle pet supply store with two locations in Naperville. We focus on selling fun and supporting our community. We strive to provide an outstanding experience and match our customers with their perfect purchase during every visit to our stores and events.

The 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Is...

Mon, 07 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

On Friday, May 18 the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce will host the fifteenth installment of our Small Business of the Year Awards. The gala ceremony allows us to recognize the outstanding small businesses in our community, and pay tribute to someone's commitment to our community with the Lifetime Achievement Award. I am deeply honored and proud to announce that our 2012 recipient is Naperville Sun columnist, Tim West.

Officially, the Chamber gives this award to a business and civic leader for their commitment to Naperville's business community, excellence in business stewardship, contributions to the region's quality of life, and leadership in support of economic progress. Tim West exceeds the mark in every category.

Tim has been working at the Naperville Sun since 1973 and held a variety of positions, including reporter, photographer, associate editor, managing editor and viewpoint editor - a post he holds today. Over the years, his work and dedication to journalism has been recognized with numerous statewide and professional awards.

More important than all of those awards though, is the fact that Tim has influenced opinions as a respected columnist and championed Naperville's growth and transformation. For nearly 40 years, his coverage, columns and opinions have helped shape decisions made by the City Council, business leaders and residents.

In typical fashion when I told Tim he has been selected as this year's recipient he offered a joke, "You sure you have the right Tim West?" Tim quickly returned the favor and offered the following praise, "As a journalist, I've always had a great deal of respect for the Chamber and have enjoyed seeing it grow over the years to become one of the premier Chambers in the United States."

The respect has always been reciprocated and everyone in the Chamber and community respects Tim West. The Chamber hasn't always agreed with Tim and I know he hasn't always agreed with our positions, but we've enjoyed our exchange of ideas and viewpoints. Tim even generously provides the Chamber with the opportunity to contribute our thoughts in the opinion pages of the Sun.

Tim is committed to the idea that a free and vibrant press, combined with the input and thoughts of a variety of decision makers, creates positive outcomes for the community.

No one person or group has all the answers and Tim, along with the Naperville Sun, will continue to be a forum for debate about our community's future.

In an economy and society where politics and discourse over issues of the day are fought in increments of 140 characters, shouting matches on cable news programs or how many fans or likes a position has, having a public servant and devoted newsman like Tim is a rare find and true community asset.

Naperville has been blessed with Tim's service and dedication to the betterment of our community and we look forward to his continued contributions. I was clear with Tim that he can't coast just because he's received this honor. As our community confronts today's challenges, we need Tim and the Sun to continue their journalist works and be a source of community dialogue.

I'm looking forward to Tim's remarks at the event, he may even dabble in the history of Tudor-Stuart England - he once taught courses on the subject - but I'm sure he will reflect on the past, present and future of Naperville, and share some fun stories from the archives.

I hope you will join the Chamber at the Marriot Chicago Naperville on Friday, May 18 as we celebrate and honor the outstanding small businesses in our community and the contributions of Naperville's columnist, Tim West.

The event is open to Chamber members and non-members so I encourage you to make your reservation early. You can register online by visiting www.naperville.net or by calling the Chamber at 630-355-4141.

John Schmitt is the president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, the largest suburban chamber in Illinois and one of 75 organizations to receive the prestigious 5-Star Accreditation ranking from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Meet the Nominees for the 15th Annual Small Business of the Year Awards! Not-for-Profit and Professional Categories

Fri, 04 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Not-for-Profit:

Fair Lady Productions, Inc.

Fair Lady Productions, Inc. promotes the life-changing experience of live theater.
Our not-for-profit includes a non-audition children's theater group, audition-only youth theater program and Center Stage Theater. We provide a beautiful venue for our young actors and local community groups.

Giving DuPage

Giving DuPage exists to promote giving and volunteering. Through days of service, volunteer fairs, an annual giving guide, an interactive website and the 5K Human Race, Giving DuPage provides year-round opportunities for businesses and individuals to share their time, talent and resources with nonprofit organizations serving our community.

Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873

Located just west of Downtown Naperville, Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 offers a distinctive atmosphere for a variety of events. We are not your typical VFW. We have a beautiful view of the Riverwalk, which makes for a marvelous back drop for a wedding reception or anniversary party. We are WiFi equipped and an affordable choice for your next business meeting or training seminar.

Naperville CARES

Naperville CARES provides short-term financial support and resources to meet the basic needs of local families in crisis. During 12 years of service to the community, our Emergency Assistance Program has provided over $1.2 million in assistance and our Car Program has donated over 500 cars to families needing critical transportation to get to work.

Naperville Education Foundation

Since 1992 the Naperville Education Foundation Trustees have embraced the mission “to encourage creativity, innovation and excellence in our students,” and our community has responded with immense generosity. Through private and corporate donations and fundraisers, NEF proudly sponsors signature programs that improve the educational experience for District 203 students.

Our Children's Homestead

Our Children’s is a foster care and adoption agency whose mission is to build strong, stable foundations of support for each youth we serve, and develop opportunities that enable them to discover and sustain a positive future. We provide children with a safe home, therapy, mentoring
and additional services to help them heal.

Project H.E.L.P.

Project H.E.L.P. (Healthy Environment for Little People) was established by The Exchange Club of Naperville in 1992 and is accredited by the National Exchange Club. Project H.E.L.P.’s programs provide families with the information, training, and support they need to raise children in a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment.

Rotary Club of Naperville

For 71 years, The Rotary Club of Naperville has provided Service Above Self by helping others both locally and worldwide. Through the commitment of our members, we provide community leadership, volunteers and funding for humanitarian causes including scholarships, school and medical supplies, clean water, food, shelter, and disaster relief.

Teen Parent Connection

Teen Parent Connection is the only nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization, in DuPage County providing comprehensive programs and services related to teenage pregnancy, parenting and prevention. The mission of Teen Parent Connection is to serve the community through education on the realities and responsibilities of teenage pregnancy and through long-term assistance to adolescent parents for their development of self-esteem, parenting skills, and empowerment towards self-sufficiency.

Professional:

Ameriprise Financial

Sandra Price is an award winning financial advisor. She started her practice with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in 2000 with a focus on making financial planning a resource for every one – not just the very affluent. With a “whatever it takes” philosophy, Sandra and her team specialize in divorce recovery. She is passionate about helping her clients and their families.

BrightStar

BrightStar provides the widest range of in-home care services, from companion care to medical services provided by RNs. Live-in and hourly services are offered along with “live answer” by a staff member 24/7 to take your call. BrightStar is Joint Commission Accredited for Home Care and Skilled Nursing to assure the highest quality. We also provide medical staffing solutions to other healthcare providers.

Buth Group, Ltd

As your trusted advisor for both business and personal financial needs we help you make better business decisions to drive growth and profitability. We offer a range of customizable services based on your unique needs including: outsourced bookkeeping, payroll services, tax planning and preparation, financial management, business solutions and more.

Cowart Chiropractic Clinic

Cowart Chiropractic has been an advocate for healthy lifestyles for 27 years. Educating patients about wise choices in their lifestyle promotes active participation and a responsibility toward their own health. The patient who sees health as an investment will reap the dividends of quality as well as quantity of life.

Innovative Orthodontic Centers

Innovative Orthodontic Centers offers a state of the art facility, featuring the latest innovations in orthodontic treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Ibrahim’s passion for dentistry, as well as her loving approach towards her patients, sets her apart from the rest. She enjoys treating patients ages 7 to 70+ by customizing treatment goals to suit their individual needs.

Jeffrey Ross Photography

With over 15 years of experience, Jeffrey Ross Photography specializes in corporate photography and portraits that bring marketing to life. From print photography for advertisements, magazines, and annual reports, to online photography used in digital campaigns and websites, their diverse portfolio and unique approach will make your company stand out.

John S. Irving, D.D.S., P.C.

The practice of Dr. John S. Irving, originally founded in 1954 by Dr. William H. Kopperud, has always focused on a very personal approach to the dental needs of our patients. We strive to provide the utmost care in a warm, home-like and friendly environment.

Klein, Hall & Associates, LLC

Klein, Hall & Associates, LLC is a full service CPA firm with over 30 years of experience. Our firm provides outstanding accounting services to our clients through dedication to our three underlying principles of professionalism, quality and responsiveness. At Klein, Hall & Associates, LLC, we promise to provide partner-level quality service that is beyond comparison.

Law Firm of Sullivan Taylor & Gumina

The Law Firm of Sullivan Taylor & Gumina is devoted exclusively to the practice of family law including divorce, parentage and adoption. Our lawyers are experienced litigators but also skilled in alternative dispute resolution methods which provide a forum to negotiate family law settlements in a non-adversarial environment. www.stglawfirm.com

Naperville Dental Specialists & General Oral Health Care

Naperville Dental Specialists & General Oral Health Care is a multi-specialty practice offering services for pediatric, general, implant, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Led by owner and founder Dr. Anthony LaVacca, Naperville Dental Specialists offers a state of the art facility that is friendly, warm and inviting. Dr. LaVacca is a Board Certified Prosthodontist and is joined by six associates.

West Suburban Education Associates

West Suburban Educational Associates provides outstanding academic tutoring services. Over the past 26 years, WSEA has helped thousands of students in Naperville and the surrounding areas build skills, build confidence and foster success. Their supportive environment and highly individualized approach empowers students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of learning and to achieve their greatest academic potential.

Wheaton Eye Clinic of Naperville

The Wheaton Eye Clinic has proudly served the community for 70 years. The mission of the Wheaton Eye Clinic is to provide comprehensive eye care services of the highest quality and value. We strive to surpass each patient's expectations in the delivery of competent, timely and compassionate eye care.

Meet the Nominees for the 15th annual Small Business of the Year Awards! Business to Business and Business to Consumer Categories

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

As the 15th annual Small Business of the Year Awards approaches, the Chamber would like to highlight each of our nominees so our Members can become better acquainted with them. Each business is unique and brings something special to our area. Without these businesses, Naperville would not be the booming, diverse city it has become. This week, we recognize those businesses nominated in the Business to Business and Business to Consumer categories. Check out the nominees, and don’t forget to register to attend for the May 18 event!

Business to Business:

Awards & Fine Gifts, Inc.

For 25 years, Awards and Fine Gifts has achieved success by recognizing the success of others. Highly respected throughout the industry, the company offers clients high quality gifts, beautiful design, and trusted service. Founder John W. Robbins gladly shares his unique gifts with others by donating awards to many nonprofits and serving on their boards.

E2 Services, Inc.

The success of your entire organization depends on your technology. Partnering with E2 Services provides your business with technical expertise and service levels that are unparalleled in the industry. Whether we’re monitoring and maintaining your systems, providing hosted or cloud-based solutions, or augmenting your IT department on specific projects, technology never has to be your problem again.

IT Solutions, Inc.

IT Solutions, Inc. is a Naperville company providing relationship-based IT Services since 1998. We are client focused to serve small and medium sized businesses. Our goal is to make our clients’ businesses succeed by making their computer and phone systems work effectively so they can focus on their business, instead of their IT.

Paul Gregory Media

Paul Gregory Media helps businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace through award-winning branding, marketing and web design. With extensive experience in technology, business and marketing, coupled with extreme design savvy, PGM implements strategic marketing programs across a variety of mediums and technologies. It’s not just about making clients look great, PGM dedicates themselves to the absolute success of their client’s businesses.

RPC Leadership Associates, Inc.

Sustainable Leadership is habitual. RPC Leadership Associates, Inc. was founded on this singular premise. We assist for-profit and nonprofit organizations align their strategy, people and processes to achieve customer loyalty. We coach business owners and individual professionals to achieve sustained success by helping them make leadership a way of life!

The Price Group

The Price Group, Inc. is Smart Marketing for Small BusinessSM. This full-service marketing company has been serving small to mid-sized businesses for the past nine years. They offer online and offline marketing campaigns that get results. From marketing strategies to websites, and print design to social media, they’re a one-stop marketing shop.

Vintage Tech Recyclers

Vintage Tech is a woman -owned electronics recycling company. In seven years, Vintage Tech created over 100 jobs, recycled over 54M lbs., and has created thousands of recycling programs for communities, businesses, and schools. As an award-winning company, we give our clients reassurance that we process end of life electronics in a compliant, safe, and responsible manner.

Business to Consumer:

Acceleration Sports Training Centers

If you want to get better at your sport, Acceleration is your answer. We train athletes of all sports and ages to be faster, quicker, stronger and more explosive. Our proprietary training equipment, expert trainers, and results-backed protocols provide cutting edge training to help every athlete reach his/her goals.

Bob Jung Panting & Decorating, Inc.

“When quality and value count, count on Bob Jung Painting, Inc.” Our goal is to provide the highest quality craftsmanship, service, and customer satisfaction to our residential and commercial clients in Chicago’s western suburbs. As Naperville’s premier full-service painting contractor, we are fully licensed, insured, and affordable. Satisfaction guaranteed!

Clark’s Car Care

Clark’s Car Care full service auto repair proudly celebrates its 10th anniversary of business. Owned by Matt and Laura Weber, Clark’s prides itself on providing outstanding customer service through its highly trained staff and state of the art technology. Clark’s encourages a strong sense of community, shown through family friendly working hours and a commitment to local charities.

Exterior Designers, Inc.

Exterior Designers, Inc. has been serving Naperville since 1985, offering the highest quality material and workmanship at a fair price. We specialize in all types of windows, siding and roofing. Many offer similar services, but few pay attention to the "DETAILS" that we have made our "STANDARD." Call us TODAY!!!

Kuma’s Asian Bistro

Kuma’s serves the tastiest collection of Asian dishes including Korean, Japanese, Thai, Chinese, and other South East Asian cuisines. Chef Kuma Kim believes in using only the most natural of ingredients. Kuma makes its own sauce recipes in order to enhance authentic Asian dishes, thus creating a contemporary – new Asian flair.

La Sorella di Francesca

La Sorella di Francesca, located in the original city hall at 18 West Jefferson Avenue in a beautiful grey-stone building, features the zesty cuisine of Rome and the surrounding areas of Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio. Francesca’s encourages the lively art of dining with a contemporary, casually sophisticated trattoria ambiance, good, rustic cooking, friendly service and fair prices.

Naperville Patch

Naperville Patch (Naperville.Patch.com) is a hyper-local news, information, and community engagement site driven by passionate and experienced new media journalists Mary Ann Lopez and Collin Czarnecki. Featuring breaking news, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, a business directory and a blogging platform, Patch is revolutionizing the way Naperville neighbors connect with each other, their community and the national conversation.

Seven Bridges Golf Club

Seven Bridges Golf Club is a premier golf course in the western suburbs. Since 1991, guests have enjoyed its finely manicured championship golf course with a majestic natural setting, memorable golf outings, first-class banquets with panoramic views, delicious food and personal attention while consistently providing superior customer service.

Shinto Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

Shinto Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar is the innovator in its industry and class. As a unique, contemporary, and upscale experience in Japanese steakhouses, first class service and products meet an urban and trendy atmosphere. We boast the top six Hibachi chefs in the Midwest, as well as a team of Sushi chefs with a combined 30+ years of experience with numerous local and national awards.