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The Networker

The newslet ter for the Oak Lawn business community .

January 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE JACKIE TRUTY

Ah, Winter. It doesn’t really matter that I’m writing this in December. I know that when you actually read this in January, we’ll have snow, or rain, or sleet, in some form or another. And cold. Don’t forget the cold. Why anybody lives in this climate I don’t know. But, that’s another discussion entirely.

For January, 2008 I’d like to list a few of my Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce New Years resolutions.

1) We will end the year 2008 with expenses under budget. 2) On a related theme, we will end the year 2008 with a bank balance higher than it started. 3) Board members will sign up for at least one committee to which they can realistically contribute. 4) Each committee will set a realistic timeline for its activities, well in ad-vance of those activities. 5) I will work with the Board to remain sane before, during and after Jenni-fer’s double due date, and Jenny’s wedding. 6) We will develop a relationship with the Village of Oak Lawn based on mutual respect, common goals and shared love of the community. 7) I will lose weight. Sorry, but if I don’t have that one on my resolution list, I feel guilty.

I’m going to ponder very, very often how to accomplish these resolutions while managing my own business, one that has me traveling an average of 2 weeks out of each month. But, with the help of my dedicated Executive Board, the support and assistance of the Board at Large, and the direction and guidance of the ever-burgeoning Executive Director (and her valued assistant), I’m confident the Oak Lawn Chamber will, itself, blossom into the effective and proactive organization it is meant to be. Will I hold “resolute” to my resolutions? Well, I have no doubt that the first 6 will be accomplished before the 7th. “

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2008 OFFICERS President

Jackie Truty (Art Clay World) 1st Vice President

Glen Kato (Hortus Web Design & Marketing) 2nd Vice President

Rita Olsen (Gateway Motel) Treasurer

Ginger Morgan (Thompson & Kuenster F.H.) Secretary

Len Hiznay (Milex Tune-Up & Brake Center) Immediate Past President

Leo Gutchewsky (“A” Service Company)

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Phil Barry (Saturn of Oak Lawn)

Susan Beran (Bridgeview Health Care) Peggy Burke (First American Bank)

Dr. Sandra Bury (Complete Vision Care) John Crivellone (Illinois Security Services)

Larry Deetjen (Village of Oak Lawn) Dr. David Finkelstein (Oak Lawn Foot & Ankle)

Christy Hernandez (Standard Bank & Trust) Donna Herpich (Great Lakes Metals)

Carrie Horin (Founders Bank) Patti Johnson (Standard Bank & Trust)

Doug Kasper (Marquette Bank) Irene Lovitt (Bank Financial)

Rick Luemen (Coldwell Banker) Geno Mondello (Geno’s Decorating)

Linda Olsen (Oak Lawn Public Library) Tom Orlowski (Men’s Wearhouse)

Beth Purcell (Advocate Christ/Hope Children’s Hospital)

Christina Scobey (P.I.N.C.) Patricia Stasik (Oak Lawn Park District)

Paul Sterk (Merrill Lynch) Adam Woodworth (Children’s Museum in Oak

Lawn)

ADVISORY BOARD Milton Andersen (Andersen Builders) Brian Anderson (Hilton Oak Lawn)

Chris Augle (Christopher John Designs) Jack Baker (Marquette Bank)

Jim Buschbach (Buschbach Insurance) Joan Buschbach (Buschbach Insurance)

Anne Marie Casey (Annie's, Ltd.) Chuck Dinolfo (Century 21 Pro-Team)

Tom Gavin III (Southwest Messenger Press) Barbara Gliege (Kozlarek & Assoc. Realtors) David C. Kobak (Blake-Lamb Funeral Home) Robert Kuenster (Thompson & Kuenster F.H.)

Doris Marks (Park Lawn Assoc.) Laura Shallow (Fifth Third Bank)

Executive Director’s Report by Jennifer Busk

December closed out another successful year for the Chamber. Once again, we have much for which to give thanks. So, let’s get started!

Our holiday luncheon was delightful! We were enter-tained by the Oak Lawn Community High School Chamber Singers who blessed us with their beautiful voices by singing holiday carols. Thanks to Meredith Morris, Choir Director, and these young ladies for such a festive treat, and to the staff of the Hilton for a deli-cious holiday meal.

And let’s not forget all our events of 2007. Last year we continued Chamber traditions such as the Business Expo, Health & Wellness Fairs, Golf Outing and Fire & Public Safety Coloring Book. We also introduced many new events, such as the Sidewalk Sale.; we resurrected events like the Pet Parade; and we showed our support for the Village by participating in the Fall on the Green Festival. We’ve made great strides thanks in no small part to the support of our members.

The Chamber office staff already is busy preparing for a new year of activity. We’re finalizing plans for the an-nual Installation Dinner. I hope many of you will make an effort to attend and show support for your fellow members who will be installed as Officers and Direc-tors. I hope you’ll also join us to toast the winners of our annual Business Awards. Let’s celebrate the Cham-ber’s efforts of the past year and celebrate all that lies ahead in 2008. Come raise a glass to those who so will-ingly give their time and talent to benefit the Oak Lawn business community.

I look forward to a spirited and exciting 2008 (both per-sonally and professionally!) As always, we’ll be think-ing of new ways to benefit you and your business. Thanks for your continued support!

The Networker

LIBRARY NEWS

Oak Lawn Public Library Adult Programs 5300 W. 95th St. | 708-422-4990 | www.oaklawnlibrary.org Free admission | No advance registration | Lower level meeting room Sunday With Friends: The Katie Sullivan Band Sunday, January 6 from 2-4 p.m. This talented trio will perform a mix of Irish jigs and reels, favorite sing-alongs and Americana stan-dards from Patsy Cline to Janis Joplin. Sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Lawn Library. Oak Lawn Veterans Monday, January 14 at 7 p.m. The library’s Local History Coordinator Dr. Mau-reen Gilligan will give a multimedia presentation exploring the personal stories of local veterans from five major 20th Century conflicts. Visit the Local History Room to view the Oak Lawn Veterans of the 20th Century exhibit through May 2008. The Best IRA for You Thursday, January 17 at 7 p.m. Eric R. Degnan and Geoff Peterson of Waddell & Reed, Inc. will explain the qualifications and tax advantages of various types of IRAs. Preventing Bridezilla Tuesday, January 29 at 7 p.m. Bridal industry insider Linda Zec will help you get on track with planning the wedding of your dreams, without having to elope or seek counseling.

VILLAGE NEWS

Village Board Meetings The January meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, January 15 and Tuesday, January 29, respectively, at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Board Room .

PARK DISTRICT NEWS

Catering now available at Stony Creek Restaurant & Banquet Facility – Have Stony Creek Restaurant & Banquet Facility cater your next lunch, meeting or party. Orders accepted Mon – Fri from 9am - 4pm. All orders must be placed 48 hrs in advance. For more information, please call 708-857-2433 x2301. Friday Night Fish Fry - The Oak Lawn Park District Stony Creek Clubhouse, located at 5850 W. 103rd St., will be hosting a Friday Night Fish Fry every Friday, January 4 through March 21. Doors will open at 5:00 pm with the buffet beginning at 5:30 pm (open seating). Last seating will be at 8:30 pm. The all-you-can-eat buffet will feature Dixie crunch white fish, Corona battered cod, vegetables, double baked potato casserole, salad and fresh rolls with butter. Cost for the buffet is $12.99 for adults and $9.00 for children eight and under. A shrimp dinner and a baked tilapia dinner will also be available for $13.99. Beverages are extra. A cash bar will be available. Walk-Ins are welcome, but reservations are preferred. For more information, call the Stony Creek Clubhouse at (708) 857-2433. Broadway Matinee starring Dawn Schnolis (Open to all ages) - Come to Stony Creek Clubhouse on Wednesday, January 16 to enjoy an afternoon of songs from hit musicals performed by Dawn Schno-lis, one of the top local singer/dancer/actresses ap-pearing on community stages today. Audiences have seen her sing and dance in such Broadway musical favorites as Annie Get Your Gun. Miss Saigon, Beauty and the Beast and Cats. Doors Open at 12:15 pm with a buffet lunch at 12:30 pm. Fee is $12/Adult and $5/Child (10 years & under). A cash bar will be available. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 8. For more information, please call 708-857-2225.

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CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS January 1 New Year’s Day Village and Chamber closed January 11 Installation Committee Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. January 14 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. January 19 Installation of Officers and Directors Hilton Oak Lawn 6:00 p.m.

Holiday Luncheon Entertainment

Thanks to Meredith Morris and the Oak Lawn Community High School Chamber Singers for en-

tertaining us with Christmas carols at our December 11 Holiday Luncheon at the Hilton Oak Lawn.

Lunch with Alexi Giannoulias

On November 7, the Oak Lawn Chamber, along with the Bridgeview Chamber and Bedford Park

Clearing and Industrial Association hosted a lunch-eon with State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulis at Toyota Park. Below is a photo featuring Alexi and repre-

sentatives from the participating Chambers.

2008 Installation Dinner The 62nd Annual Installation of Officers & Directors will take

place Saturday January 19 at the Hilton Oak Lawn. Join us as we reflect on the accomplishments of

the past year and welcome with anticipation 2008. We also will recognize the winners of our

2007 Business Awards.

Cocktails 6:00 p.m. Installation 7:00 p.m. Dinner 7:30 p.m. Business Awards 8:00 p.m.

$70 per person includes open bar, dinner and enter-tainment. Contact the Chamber office to purchase

tickets.

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RESCIGNO’S ad to be placed here

D & D Printing Ad to be placed here

Evergreen Door & Window

Geno’s Decorating Ad to be placed here

Great Lakes Bank Ad To be placed here

Chicagoland Heating and Cooling

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NEW MEMBERS

Mary Kay Cosmetics 6636 W. 88th St.

Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (708) 599-2570 (708) 422-8988

www.marykay.com/yperillo

Bennigan’s Kim Jackson

6401 W. 95th Street Chicago Ridge, IL 60415

(708) 499-6808

CHAMBER & MEMBER NEWS

2008 Membership Dues Invoices for 2008 membership dues were mailed in early December. If you’ve not yet sent in your pay-ment, we ask that you do so promptly. We accept the following forms of payment: 1. Cash 2. Check—payable to the Oak Lawn Chamber 3. Visa and MasterCard

2008 Membership Directory & Planner The Directory will be sent to all Chamber members in late December and distributed to all homes in Oak Lawn in January.

January Luncheon Just a reminder that there is no January luncheon. The first luncheon of 2008 will be at Les Brothers Restaurant, located at 8705 S. Ridgeland Ave. The cost will be $15. Golf Committee There may be snow on the ground, but the Golf Committee already is thinking warm thoughts. The annual Golf Outing is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9 at Stony Creek. If you’re interested in becoming involved, please join us for the first committee meet-ing on Friday, February 1 at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek, 5155 W. 103rd Street.

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our December Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 Leo Gutchewsky $50 Fun Fun Fun DJ’S & Karaoke $25 Kathy McComb $25 Michael Sutko

And don’t forget to purchase your 2008 Bonanza Raffle tickets, now on sale in the Chamber office.

Members will receive their book of 10 tickets in the mail in the coming weeks. Each ticket costs $10 and

when entered by January 19, offers a total of 48 chances to win throughout the year. We award one

$100, one $50 and two $25 winners each month. And, if you sell one book of 10 tickets you get one

FREE ticket!

Save the Date! The Chamber’s annual Business Expo is scheduled for Saturday, March 15 at the Oak Lawn Community High School. The Expo is held in conjunction with the Spring Arts & Craft Fair. An application for this event will be included in the February newsletter, or available online at www.oaklawnchamber.com begin-ning next month. Don’t miss this great opportunity to market your business to hundreds of Oak Lawn residents!

The Networker

2008 Chamber Events At –A-Glance For quick reference, below please find a revised list of Chamber events scheduled for 2008. Please note that these events also are listed in your 2008 Business Directory and Planner.

January 19th 62nd Annual Installation of Officers & Directors February 1st Golf Outing Committee Meeting—8:00 a.m. Stony Creek Golf Complex 12th Chamber Board Meeting—11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Les Brothers) – 12:00 p.m. March 7th Golf Outing Committee Meeting—8:00 a.m. 11th Chamber Board Meeting – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Oak Lawn Comm. H. S.) -12:00 p.m. 15th Business Showcase (OLCHS) 10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. April 4th Golf Outing Committee Meeting—8:00 a.m. Stony Creek Golf Complex 8th Chamber Board Meeting – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Marriott Midway) – 12:00 p.m. 23rd Employee Appreciation Luncheon—11:30 a.m. Hilton Oak Lawn 30th Health & Wellness Fair (O.L. Senior Center) May 2nd Golf Outing Committee Meeting—8:00 a.m. Stony Creek Golf Complex 13th Chamber Board Meeting—11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Stony Creek Golf Course)—12:00 p.m. 26th Memorial Day (Chamber Closed) June 4th Farmer’s Market Opening Day (open 7:00 a.m. every Weds. through October) 6th Golf Outing Committee Meeting—8:00 a.m. Stony Creek Golf Complex 10th Chamber Board Meeting—11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Hilton Oak Lawn) –12:00 p.m. 14th Pet Parade and Shop Oak Lawn Event

July 4th Independence Day Parade / Chamber Closed 9th Annual Chamber Golf Outing (Stony Creek Golf Course) August 12th Chamber Board Meeting—11:00 a.m. Luncheon (location TBD) – 12:00 p.m. September 1st Labor Day (Chamber closed) 9th Chamber Board Meeting – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Hilton Oak Lawn – 12:00 p.m.) 5th Fall on the Green – 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. 6th Fall on the Green – 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. 7th Fall on the Green – 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. 16th Business to Business Expo – 9 00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (Tinley Park Convention Center) October 14th Chamber Board Meeting – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Stony Creek) – 12:00 p.m. 22nd Health & Wellness Fair (O.L. Senior Center) 29th Last day of Farmer’s Market November 11th Chamber Board Meeting – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Doubletree Hotel Alsip) – 12 p.m. 27th Thanksgiving Day (Chamber closed) 29th Holiday Parade/Santa on the Village Green 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. December 9th Chamber Board Meeting – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon (Hilton Oak Lawn) – 12:00 p.m. 25th Christmas (Chamber closed)

Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce 5314 W. 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 424-8300 Fax (708) 229-2236

e-mail:[email protected] Web Site: www.oaklawnchamber.com

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Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce

Mission Statement

“The Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce works to represent and advance the Oak Lawn business community, striving with

constant integrity, fairness and cooperation to promote and improve the economic at-mosphere, business climate and image of

Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

NO JANUARY LUNCHEON! Join us for the annual

Installation of the Board of Directors Saturday, January 19, 2008

Hilton Oak Lawn 9333 S Cicero Ave.

February Luncheon

Tuesday, February 12 Les Brothers Restaurant 87th & Ridgeland Ave.

$15 per person

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February 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!


After having such a fun installation dinner and ceremony, I’m very grateful I was talked out of the more dramatic aspects of the decorations. An exploding, fire-belching volcano in the background would have put a damper on the lighthearted, evening’s festivities. I’d like to thank everyone on the Installation Committee, especially Carol Madey, for their hard work and time in creating the centerpiece vases, head table bottles and other decorations. And thanks to Rita Olsen for printing out pictures of various Roman gods and goddesses to attach to the vases. Having had almost 5 years of Latin, I was familiar with them, but for others it’s a real chore to separate Pomona from Ceres. Already various Committee meetings are on the calendar, and we’re on our way toward another year of events and goals. I want to remind every Chamber Member that you don’t have to be on the Board of Directors to be on a committee. Anyone with ideas and a willingness to help out can volun-teer to be part of any committee (except Budget and Nominating). There are 11 active Committees in 2008: • Employee Appreciation Luncheon

• Speakers’ Bureau-helps find speakers for special events and monthly luncheon meetings

• Golf/Miniature Golf Outing—this is our main fundraiser and one of the Committees most in need of volunteers, especially on Event Day.

• Pet Parade/Shop Oak Lawn Days (Sidewalk Sale renamed)—help in planning or set-up.

• Health and Wellness—this event takes place at least twice a year at the Senior Center.

• Business Showcase—typically held in the Oak Lawn High School Gym, this year we want to do something different. We need your ideas!

• Ambassadors/Membership-help find new ways to attract new members and mentor them into Chamber life.

• Installation Dinner—plan the fun yet important night that new Officers are sworn into the Chamber.

• Legislative—keep abreast of legislative and local law changes that affect Oak Lawn businesses.

• Business Directory/Planner—help plan content and advertising for this important book.

• Fire/Safety Coloring Book—help offset the cost of this important publication by seeking ads. If you would like information about any of these committees, such as when they meet, what they’re about and when the event is, please call the chamber office. We should have the Committee Chairs’ names available by the time of this printing, so I’m sure you would be referred to the Committee Chair for more information. Obviously some committees require more of each member’s time than others, but the more members we have on each committee, the less each has to do. Being on a Chamber Committee is also the per-fect way to network, to get your business’ information out there, and to feel a personal part of Oak Lawn. I invite each of you to search your busy schedules and find just one or two hours a month to donate to make the Oak Lawn Chamber events successful. This way, when you’re asked, “what does the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce do for me?” you can answer honestly that it works for the betterment of all Oak Lawn businesses and know, with pride, that you’re a part of that work!

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Christy Hernandez (Archer Bank) Donna Herpich (Great Lakes Metals)


Doug Kasper (Marquette Bank) Rick Luemen (Coldwell Banker)

Geno Mondello (Geno’s Decorating) Linda Olsen (Oak Lawn Public Library)

Tom Orlowski (Men’s Wearhouse) Beth Purcell (Advocate Christ/Hope Children’s

Hospital) Christina Scobey (P.I.N.C.)

Patricia Stasik (Oak Lawn Park District) Paul Sterk (Merrill Lynch)

Adam Woodworth (Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn)

ADVISORY BOARD

Milton Andersen (Andersen Builders) Brian Anderson (Hilton Oak Lawn)







Our next event of the new year is our February member-ship luncheon, scheduled for February 12 at Les Broth-ers Restaurant. Our guest speaker will be Larry Deetjen, Village Manager. We hope to see many of you, and don’t forget to R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office!

Looking ahead to March, several area Chambers again will collaborate on the Southwest Business Cooperative Networking event, scheduled for March 12 at the Hilton Oak Lawn. Attendees will have the opportunity to net-work with members of 12 other Chambers in the South-land. Please see the enclosed flier for more details.

The Golf Outing Committee will hold its first planning meeting on Friday, February 1 at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek. All members are invited to participate on this committee. The Golf Outing is our largest annual fund-raiser, so we need plenty of volunteers to ensure its suc-cess.

The 2008 Membership Directories are on their way to you. If you’ve not received yours please contact the Chamber. The book also was distributed to residents and is a useful resource for all those who support our local businesses.

Thanks for your continued support to help make our Chamber one of the most supportive and progressive Chambers in the area. We hope you will do your part by supporting our various programs and activities.

The Networker

LIBRARY NEWS

Oak Lawn Public Library Adult Programs 5300 W. 95th St. | 708-422-4990 | www.oaklawnlibrary.org Free admission | No advance registration | Lower level meeting room Venice Travelog Thursday, February 7 at 7 p.m. Join Al Popowits on a journey down the Grand Ca-nal to learn about the historic bridges, churches and palaces of this Italian city comprised of 117 islands. Sunday With Friends: Polka Party Sunday, February 10 from 2-4 p.m. Eddie Korosa, Jr. and the Boys from Illinois will perform your polka favorites and much more! Sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Lawn Library. Quilting Tips & Tricks Tuesday, February 12 at 7 p.m. Local quilt artist Mickey Depre will lecture on vari-ous techniques, including machine appliqué, binding and machine quilting, followed by a trunk show and a question and answer period. Secrets of the Oscars Wednesday, February 20 at 7 p.m. SouthtownStar newspaper movie critic Josh Larsen will lead a discussion of this year's Oscar nominees and help you decide which ones are worthy of this most prestigious film award. Open Mic Readings Saturday, February 23 at 1 p.m. Local writers are invited to share original poetry and short stories. Five minute time limit. Light re-freshments.

2008 Chamber Luncheon Speakers Mark your calendar so you don’t miss the opportu-nity to hear about ways to improve your business! Luncheons cost $15 per person, payable at the door. February 12 Les Brothers (8705 S. Ridgeland Ave.) Larry Deetjen, Village of Oak Lawn Current happenings as they relate to OL businesses March 11 Oak Lawn Community High School (9400 Southwest Hwy.) Phil Kadner, Southtown Star Newspaper Changes in the Southland over the past 25 years April 8 Marriott Midway (6520 S. Cicero Ave.) Sandra Tice, MIP Corporation "The Source of Wealth, or Gray Matter Matters" May 13 Stony Creek Golf Course (5850 W. 103rd St.) Larry Bergnac Professional Networking June 10 Hilton Oak Lawn (9333 S. Cicero Ave.) Gloria Ambos, Asset Profiles "YOU Can Eliminate the Bad Hire" August 12 (Location TBD) James Rubenstein, Alert Consultants "Big Profits Now for Your Business" September 9 Hilton Oak Lawn (9333 S. Cicero Ave.) Jerilyn Willin, J Willin Consulting "How to Make a Presentation Without Passing Out"

The Networker

CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS February 1 Golf Committee Meeting 8:00 a.m. Stony Creek February 6 Pet Parade & Shop Oak Lawn Committee meeting Date Location February 5 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. February 12 Board of Directors Meeting 11:00 a.m. Les Brothers 8705 S. Ridgeland Ave. February 12 Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Les Brothers 8705 S. Ridgeland Ave.

New Offer for Members! Discount Advertising in Southtown Star

The Southtown Star newspaper will feature a Shop Oak Lawn Chamber page! The page will run on the sec-

ond Thursday of each month in the local section covering Oak Lawn and Hometown. Chamber members are invited to participate by purchasing advertising at a deeply discounted rate. For example, a 3” x 5” full color ad once a month will cost $85. This is an inexpensive way to reach your target audi-ence and show you’re a Chamber member.

For more information, contact Rita Walker at the Southown Star at (708) 633-4924.

The Chamber Needs You!

We currently are seeking members to join our many committees! Following is a list of active committees. Please contact the Chamber office if you would like more information or to sign-up. We welcome all volunteers.

• Ambassadors/Membership • Appreciation Luncheon • Business Showcase • Fire/Public Safety Coloring Book • Golf Outing • Health & Wellness • Installation Dinner • Legislative C • Membership Directory & Planner • Shop Oak Lawn • Speakers’ Bureau

VILLAGE NEWS Village Board Meetings

The monthly meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, February 12 and Tuesday, February 26, respectively, at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Board Room. Seeking Contractors The Village of Oak Lawn is currently seeking quali-fied contractors of minority-owned businesses to participate in the Community Development Block Grant Single Family Owner-Occupied Housing Re-habilitation Program. Interested contractors are encouraged to obtain pro-posal packages at the Oak Lawn Municipal Center, Lower Level, 9446 Raymond Avenue, Oak Lawn, Illinois. All questions regarding the rehabilitation program can be directed to:

Suzanne Kelly Grant Administrator

9446 Raymond Avenue Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 499-7806

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NEW MEMBERS

D-Lux Motel Eddie Sircher

4811 Columbus Drive Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 424- 8700


February Luncheon The first luncheon of 2008 will be at Les Brothers Restaurant, located at 8705 S. Ridgeland Ave. The cost will be $15. Our guest speaker will be Oak Lawn Village Manager, Larry Deetjen. PLEASE CALL THE CHAMBER WITH YOUR R.S.V.P. Golf Committee There may be snow on the ground, but the Golf Committee already is thinking warm thoughts. The annual Golf Outing is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9 at Stony Creek. If you’re interested in becoming involved, please join us for the first committee meet-ing on Friday, February 1 at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek, 5155 W. 103rd Street. Shop Oak Lawn Committee—Pet Parade and Shop Oak Lawn Day Please join us to help plan for this second annual event scheduled for Saturday, June 14. The commit-tee will meet on Wednesday, February 6 at 6:00 p.m. at the Chamber office. Membership Directories The 2008 Directories are being mailed. Please con-tact the office if you’ve not received yours.

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our January Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 Papa Joe’s $50 F. H. Leinweber $25 John Gonczy, Oak Lawn Public Library $25 PJ Phelan Tickets still are on sale in the Chamber office. Each ticket costs $10 and now offers a total of 44 chances to win throughout the year. We award one $100, one $50 and two $25 winners each month. And, if you sell one book of 10 tickets you get one FREE ticket!

Save the Date! The Chamber’s annual Business Expo is scheduled for Saturday, March 15 at the Oak Lawn Community High School. The Expo is held in conjunction with the Spring Arts & Craft Fair. Don’t miss this great opportunity to market your business to hundreds of Oak Lawn residents! Watch for more information.

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM IN

OAK LAWN

The 4th Annual “Destination Imagina-tion” Dinner Dance will be held on Sat-

urday, April 12 at the Hilton Oak Lawn. For more information, please call the Museum at (708) 423-6709.

Valuable offers from the Chamber to help you market to your fellow members!

Newsletter Advertising 8.5” x 11” insert in The Networker, our monthly newsletter is available for only $100. Member must provide 400 copies of the inserts to Chamber office by 21st of the previous month. We make sure they get stuffed and postmarked for delivery. Mailing Labels and Lists We offer mailing labels and membership lists for $50. Labels are printed by the Chamber office. Lists are available (in PDF only) and can be printed or emailed to you. Payment must be made upon deliv-ery of labels or lists—no exceptions.

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62ND ANNUAL INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS & DIRECTORS On January 19, Chamber members gathered at the Hilton Oak Lawn for the Installation of the 2008 Board of Directors. Also honored were the winners of the 2007 Chamber Business Awards. Winners were nominated by fellow members and received an engraved plaque which they may display in their business. Congratula-

tions to all the winners!

Shawn Richards, representative from Longhorn Steakhouse received the

Outstanding New Chamber Business from emcee Anne Marie Casey.

Joan Geary, formerly of the Hilton Oak Lawn received the award for

Outstanding Chamber Member and Business Person.

Dr. Sandra Bury of Complete Vision Care receives the award for Out-

standing Women-Owned Business.

The 2008 Chamber Officers The 2008 Chamber Board of Directors


(708) 424-8300 Fax (708) 229-2236


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Mission Statement



Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

February Luncheon Tuesday, February 12 Les Brothers Restaurant 87th & Ridgeland Ave.

$15.00 per person Guest Speaker: Larry Deetjen, Village Manager

March Luncheon

Tuesday, March 11 Oak Lawn Community High School

95th & Southwest Highway $15.00 per person

Guest Speaker: Phil Kadner, columnist for the Southtown Star Newspaper

The Networker


March 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!


I just got back from business in Ottawa, Canada. They've had 8 feet of snow this season, so far, along with freezing rain. The piles of snow are plowed into hills higher than some of the buildings. Yet, people are going about their business as though it was just another Spring day in the north. Sidewalks in front of businesses are shoveled and sanded or salted as a matter of course, since the alternative is to have no business at all. I haven't heard any grumbling about the Snow Ordinance, and the necessity of business owners having to have their sidewalks shoveled within a certain timeframe following a substantial snowfall, but we need to continually put ourselves in the footsteps of our potential customers. Everything else being equal, would you really prefer to trudge through slushy snow or skate over slippery ice to get to a business? Not to mention the potential hazards of such travel. Aside from that, I think we all need to let the Village know that we're excited about their new website, and the cable access of the village meetings. I know that they are planning on having "spotlights" on Oak Lawn businesses, and we need to suggest to the Village that these spotlights be on Chamber Businesses to start with. If the Chamber and Village work together, we can continue to show prospective members that there are tangible benefits to being a Chamber Member.

The Networker




















ADVISORY BOARD








I’ve always felt like we start to turn the corner in terms of the weather in March. We usually get a glimpse of Spring with a few 60 degree days, allowing us to thaw out. It’s a promising time as we look ahead to some of the Chamber’s biggest an-nual events. March 15 is our 9th annual Business Showcase at the Oak Lawn Community High School. This event usually draws a large number of participants and attendees. We’ve got some new things in the works, so come on out and join us. The Showcase runs from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Spartan Gym. Later this month we will honor of the winners of the annual Fire Safety & Public Safety Coloring Book. This valuable teaching tool is distributed to nearly 4,000 K-4th grade stu-dents in our community during Fire Safety Week each Octo-ber. The children can send in a drawing for a contest to pick the next cover of the book. This year, the winners will be rec-ognized by Village President, Dave Heilmann at the March 25 Village Board Meeting. Winners receive U.S. Savings Bonds. Don’t forget our monthly membership luncheon at the Oak Lawn Community High School on March 11. We will con-vene in the Auditorium Gym for lunch. Our guest speaker will be Phil Kadner, columnist for the Southtown Star. In the past, this has been a popular luncheon, and we’ve even run out of food(!) so PLEASE be sure to R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office. The cold temperatures have not deterred the golf committee which is meeting regularly to plan for this year’s outing. There’s still time to get involved – the committee meets the first Friday of every month at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek. The next meeting is Friday, March 7. On a closing note, the response to the distribution of the 2008 Membership Directory has been phenomenal. The office has received a number of calls from residents commending us on the book. Back in January, we received calls from residents anxious to receive the book! The Directory is a valuable re-source for all, but is costly to produce. I hope that you save room in your annual budget to advertise in this publication. We will begin soliciting ads in September.

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LIBRARY NEWS Oak Lawn Public Library Adult Programs Free admission | No advance registration | Lower level meeting room Excel Basics Mondays, March 10, 17 & 24 from 7-8:30 p.m. Learn to create a workbook and worksheets, navigate and view pages, use tools to create and edit equations, format and print. Registration began Friday, February 15. Pref-erence is given to Oak Lawn residents. A $5 deposit is required at time of registration. This money is refunded to all who attend the class. Limit: 6 students. Paper Management Thursday, March 6 at 7 p.m. Pam Colovos of Organizing Solutions Inc. will share tips for how you can reduce stress and save time by manag-ing your papers more efficiently. The Midwest Ramblers Cajun Band Sunday, March 9 from 2-4 p.m. An irresistible taste of Southwest Louisiana music, from the traditions of Cajun and Creole to high energy Zy-deco. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Getting Started with Irish Genealogy Monday, March 10 at 7 p.m. Our library's own genealogy expert, Kathy O'Leary, will cover how to begin researching your Irish ances-tors. Learn about Irish censuses, vital records, parish registers, tax records and explore useful genealogy web sites. This program offers valuable insights and research strategies for anyone interested in tracing their family's roots. How to Sell Your House Tax-Free & Other Tax Tips for Seniors Thursday, March 13 at 2 p.m. Certified Elder Law Attorney Amy Parise-Delaney will explain how to sell your house without having to pay capital gains taxes. See if you meet the tax exclusion requirements and learn about other tax planning strate-gies for seniors. Selling Your Home in Today's Market Thursday, March 20 at 7 p.m. Moving up, moving on or just wonder what your house is worth? Oak Lawn Realtor Dave Weinert will explain your many options and share tips to successfully sell your home.

PARK DISTRICT NEWS Friday Night Fish Fry Stony Creek Clubhouse will continue to host a Fish Fry every Friday through March 21. Doors will open at 5:00 pm with the buffet beginning at 5:30 pm (open seat-ing). Last seating will be at 8:30 pm. The all-you-can-eat buffet will feature Dixie crunch white fish, Corona bat-tered cod, vegetables, double baked potato casserole, salad and fresh rolls with butter. Cost for the buffet is $12.99 for adults and $9.00 for children eight and under. A shrimp dinner and a baked tilapia dinner will also be available for $13.99. Beverages are extra. A cash bar will be available. Walk-Ins are welcome, but reservations are preferred. Oak Lawn Park District Summer Softball Open registration begins March 8 for the Oak Lawn Park District Summer Softball Leagues. Leagues include Men’s 12-in., Women’s 11-in, Co-Rec. 16-in. and Men’s 16-in. All games will be played at Centennial Park, 93rd St. & Oak Park Ave. Games will begin the week of May 5. Fee for each team is $575. Leagues are open to adults 18 and older. Registration deadline for all teams is April 25. All teams will play 10 games in a round robin format. The top four teams from each division will play in a sin-gle-elimination tournament within their division at the end of the season. All teams are sanctioned under NSA, and one team from each division will get a tournament bid. The top two teams in their division and in the playoffs will receive monetary awards. Easter Brunch at Stony Creek The Stony Creek Clubhouse will host their annual Easter Brunch on Sunday, March 23. Families can enjoy an all-you-can-eat, elegant breakfast buffet. There will be one seating from 11am -1pm. Fee for the brunch is $14.99 for adults and $7.99 for children (8 and under). Reservations are required. Reservation deadline is Monday, March 17. To make a reservation, please call the Stony Creek Club-house at (708) 857-2433 X2301. Credit Card is required to hold your reservation. Jazz Favorites Starring Vince Clark and Megan Curran The Oak Lawn Park District is offering an afternoon of jazz music favorites at the Stony Creek Clubhouse on Wednesday, April 16. The afternoon will feature great food and great finger-snapping classical jazz music. Art-ist Vince Clark will be making his return performance accompanied by pianist Megan Curran. Doors Open at 12:15 pm with a buffet lunch at 12:30 pm. Fee is $12/Adult and $5/Child (10 years & under). A cash bar will be available. Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 8.

The Networker

CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 4 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. March 7 Golf Committee Meeting 8:00 a.m. Stony Creek March 11 Board of Directors Meeting 11:00 a.m. OLCHS 95th & Southwest Highway March 11 Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m. OLCHS 95th & Southwest Highway March 12 Southwest Business Cooperative Networking Event Hilton Oak Lawn 5:00 p.m.

VILLAGE NEWS Village Board Meetings The monthly meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, March 11 and Tuesday, March 25, respectively, at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Board Room.

The Oak Lawn Citizen Police Academy

What is it?

The Oak Lawn Citizen Police Acad-emy is designed to help the residents of Oak Lawn to un-derstand how their police department works in their com-munity. The Academy attempts to build a better relation-ship between members of the police department and the community in order to assist in keeping our community safe. The Academy consists of 10, two and one-half hour blocks of instruction designed to give the participants a working knowledge of the police department. Classes are held Wednesday evenings in the Oak Lawn Municipal center. They are taught by our own police officers in their various areas of expertise. The ensure a valuable learn-ing experience, class sizes will be limited. There is no cost to anyone who enrolls.

What is discussed?

Class topics include community relations, canine unit, court system, crime prevention, criminal law, identity theft, gang awareness, peer jury, telecommunications, traffic division, traffic laws, financial crimes and more.

Who can attend?

Applicants for the Academy must be at least 18 years of age and live within the Village of Oak Lawn. Applicants must be of a good moral character and will be subject to a background check.

When is it?

The next academy runs from March 12—May 21. Appli-cations are available at the Oak Lawn Police Front Desk, located in the Village Hall. For additional information, please contact Officer Jim Pacetti, Community and School Relations at (708) 499-7880 or [email protected]

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our February Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 FBK Management - Airway Trailer Park $50 Alphabet Soup $25 Drs. Van Lente & Leahy $25 Rich Marks Each ticket costs $10 and now offers a total of 40 chances to win throughout the year. We award one $100, one $50 and two $25 winners each month. And, if you sell one book of 10 tickets you get one FREE ticket!

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The Networker

NEW MEMBERS

The BookEnds Café 9427 S. Raymond Ave.

(located inside O.L. Library) Renee Lerner

(708) 636-1306

Maximum Rehabilitation Services, Ltd. Mubarak Ali Mirjat 4004 W. 111th St.

Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (708) 857-9000

Vanderwalker Land Surveyors Inc.

Mike Vanderwalker 5521 W. 110th St.

Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (708) 423-8202


Golf Committee The next committee meeting will be Friday, March 7 at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek, 5155 W. 103rd Street. March Luncheon The March luncheon will be at the Oak Lawn Com-munity High School on Tuesday, March 11. Our guest speaker will be Phil Kadner, columnist for the Southtown Star newspaper. The cost to attend is $15 per person. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office. Employee & Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon Save the date for this annual event scheduled for Wednesday, April 23 at the Hilton Oak Lawn. The theme is “Jackpot Party!” The cost per person is $22. See the enclosed flier for more information. Save the Date — Health & Wellness Fair Our first Health & Wellness Fair of 2008 is sched-uled for Wednesday, April 30 at the O.L. Senior Cen-ter. The event will be held in conjunction with a LifeSource Blood Drive. Watch the April newsletter for more information.

Chicago Southland Chamber Regional Consensus Luncheon

Taxes, Taxes, Taxes A panel discussion addressing business taxes to in-

clude updates, incentives, and a Question and Answers session.

Panelists include:

A Manager from

Illinois Department of Revenue

Commissioner Larry Rogers Cook County Board of Review

Morgan Wise

Area Manager, Internal Revenue Service

Monday, March 10 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Holiday Inn Select Hotel & Convention Center, 18501 Harlem Ave., Tinley Park

Cost: Members, $25; non-members $35 For reservations, call (708) 957-6950

Southwest Business Coopera-tive Networking Event

Join the Oak Lawn Chamber along with 11 other area

Chambers for this networking event. Download the applica-

tion off the Chamber website or call the Chamber to reserve your spot.

Wednesday, March 12 5:00 p.m.—8:00 p.m.

Hilton Oak Lawn $30.00 per person

includes cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. And structured networking activity.

The Networker

JOIN US FOR THE 9TH ANNUAL

BUSINESS SHOWCASE! WHEN: Saturday, March 15, 2008 10:00 a.m.— 3:00 p.m. (set-up Friday evening, 4:30 p.m.—7:00 p.m.) WHERE: Oak Lawn Community High School, Spartan Gym WHAT: A great opportunity to showcase your products and/or services to hundreds of attendees and local residents! The Business Showcase is held in conjunction with the annual Spring Arts & Crafts Fair. COST: (Per 8”x10” booth with covered table) Members: $85.00 Non-members: $170.00

RESERVE YOUR SPACE EARLY!

Business: _________________________________________________________________________

Contact Name: ______________________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________City/ST/Zip: ___________________________

Phone: ______________ Fax: ______________

Number of booths: _____ (Unless otherwise requested, multiple booths will be adjoined.)

Will you need electricity? Yes _____ No _____

Total amount enclosed: $__________ (Please make checks payable to the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce.)

Visa MasterCard Card # ____________________________ Exp: ___________

I agree to the fees, rules and regulations as set for this event by the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce and outlined in the agreement packet.

Signature (Company Representative) Date

Please return this application with payment to: Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce, 5314 W. 95th Street, Oak Lawn, IL 60453


(708) 424-8300 Fax (708) 229-2236


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Mission Statement



Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

March Luncheon Tuesday, March 11

Oak Lawn Community High School 95th & Southwest Highway

$15.00 per person Guest Speaker: Phil Kadner, columnist for the

Southtown Star Newspaper

April Luncheon Tuesday, April 8

Marriott Chicago Midway 65th & Cicero Ave. $15.00 per person

Sandra Tice speaks on “The Source of Wealth”

The Networker


April 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!


Did you ever look at your calendar for the months ahead and wonder where the heck the time went? It’s April already, one third of the year gone, and I can’t figure out how that happened! The Chamber has all of these wonderful events coming up, and the time is just flying by. The Employee & Volunteer Appreciation luncheon is at the end of the month, and I know it’s going to be a wonderful event for your employees. On the heels of that comes our first Blood Drive and Health & Wellness Fair of the year. June is the Shop Oak Lawn event, July is the Golf Outing and September is Oak Lawn Fall on the Green. Oc-tober is the second Health and Wellness Fair, which is round the corner from Christmas! What I’m saying is that the entire Board of Directors spends considerable time and ef-fort to put on these events so the Chamber can be funded for another year. We strive to bring new businesses into the Chamber and show them that they can have an advantage as a Chamber member, but it can’t happen without the support of all Chamber Mem-bers, even those not active on a regular basis. If you can’t come to meetings, if you can’t participate in events, show your support by purchasing ad space or, better yet, sponsor an event for either Shop Oak Lawn Days and/or the Golf Outing. Large events always begin as small events, and the Chamber would hate to cut events like the ones mentioned because we just can’t get the support from Oak Lawn businesses. It’s a Catch-22 isn’t it? We need new businesses to come to Oak Lawn by showing them that we’re supportive to their needs, but can’t do that unless we have the finances to fund the events that create that support! This is one of those circumstances in which each Chamber Member must say, “If not me, then who, and if not now, then when?” Just like voting, every business is vital to the Chamber’s success, and that means giving, in one way or another. Some give time, some give financial support, some give it all. We want to make Oak Lawn’s Chamber of Commerce so valuable that new businesses, indeed every business, wouldn’t think of NOT joining! But it can’t be done with just a core dozen members or so. So, if you can help sponsor an event at the Shop Oak Lawn days, call the Chamber Of-fice! If you can help sponsor an event at the Golf Outing, call the Chamber Office! Jen-nifer Busk will be leaving soon to have her twin girls, and it will be just Jenny Vrba in the office, with the help of that core group of Chamber members. We’ll certainly need your help, and you can help us by sponsorship, so we don’t have to spend days making phone calls to find businesses to help defray the costs of our annual events. Step up, Chamber Members, and be a part of the solution, not the problem!

The Networker




















ADVISORY BOARD








Three months of the year have come to a close. April is upon us! Let’s hope we have seen the last of the snow and look forward to budding tulips! Last month we hosted the Annual Business Showcase at the Oak Lawn Community High School. While our numbers were lower than years past, the event was still a success given the number of visitors. And, the committee has some great ideas for next year. Special thanks to Geno Mondello and his family that worked to make things come together without a hitch. New this year we honored the winners of the annual Fire & Public Safety Coloring Book contest at the March 25 Village Board meeting. Unlike previous years where the winners joined us for lunch at the Oak Lawn Community High School for their award ceremony, this year they were honored by the mayor and trustees! Thanks to Patti Johnson and Standard Bank & Trust for donating the U.S. Savings Bonds that the winners received. Thanks to Joe McCurdy and the staff at the Oak Lawn Com-munity High School for graciously hosting our March lunch-eon. As usual, the food was delicious! Linda Olsen and her committee have been working hard to prepare for the Employee and Volunteer Appreciation lunch-eon set for Wednesday, April 23 at the Hilton Oak Lawn. Join us for this “Jackpot Party” themed event. We’ve got a few surprises in store, as well as a delicious menu. Why not treat your employees and say “thank you” for all they do for you and your business? You can get a reservation form at www.oaklawnchamber.com or by calling the office. At the end of the month, on April 30 we will host a LifeSource Blood Drive in conjunction with the Spring Health & Wellness Fair at the Oak Lawn Senior Center. En-closed you will find an application for the Fair and informa-tion on the Blood Drive. Please consider donating. You may call the Chamber office for a reservation. On a personal note, the arrival of my twins is fast approach-ing. While my due date is mid-May and as of now my babies have every intention of remaining nestled inside my belly for the long haul (which pleases me and my doctors!), the rest of my body is beginning slow down. I anticipate a gradual de-crease in my office hours during the next month, but don’t worry—I’ll likely be working from home and accessible by phone and email. Jenny Vrba, our Admin. Assistant, will be increasing her increasing her office hours as necessary. When my leave officially begins I will be taking 3 months leave. During that time, Jenny will continue to work extended hours, with support from several Officers and Board mem-bers who have volunteered to come into the office and assist so your Chamber can continue to work for YOU!

The Networker

LIBRARY NEWS Library Offers Free Movie Online Rental Here is your ticket to the most acclaimed films from Hollywood and international movie studios! Oak Lawn residents may now download a selection of movies at the Oak Lawn Public Library's web site (www.oaklawnlibrary.org). To start, click on "Hollywood Movie Channels" and sign up for the free MyLibraryDV service. One film may be downloaded each day. The film will stay in your computer for thirty days, or until you watch it. Af-ter you start watching it, you will have 24 hours to view it before it is erased from your computer. There are five different movie collections to select from: Classics, Independent Films, Foreign Films, Hollywood Favorites & World Cinema and Sony Pictures Entertainment. Movies in the collection are at least three to five years old. Sorry, no new re-leases. Handwriting Analysis Tuesday, April 8 at 7 p.m. What does handwriting reveal about your personal-ity? Linda Annen will share the fundamentals of graphology. Bring a pen and be prepared for a fun analysis of your own handwriting. Sunday with Friends Concert: April in Paris Sunday, April 13 from 2-4 p.m. Claudia Hommel returns to perform a captivating cabaret concert, sung both in French and English, with pi-ano and accordion. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. How to Buy a House Thursday, April 17 at 7 p.m. Tired of that house, need more space or maybe your job is relocating? Find out the basics of home buy-ing and financing with Oak Lawn Realtor Dave Weinert of Century 21 Pro-Team and Mortgage Loan Consultant Carrie Horin of Founders Bank. Midway Airport: The First 75 Years Monday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Author Christopher Lynch will give a slide lecture presentation on Chicago's first official airport and the history of aviation. Copies of his book, "Chicago's Midway Airport" will be available for purchase and autographs.

PARK DISTRICT NEWS Adopt a Flowerbed - Thinking about spring yet? You are invited to be a part of beautifying our parks! Who can adopt a flowerbed? Gardeners, families, scout troops, clubs and all other flower and gardening lovers. We will provide the flowers and bed preparation, if you will provide the tender lov-ing care (weeding, cultivating) for the entire season. Your name will be featured on a garden sign to proudly let everyone know who cares for each flow-erbed. You may choose your site to care for but reg-ister early to get your desired site! Beds are assigned on a first come first serve basis. For a registration form, stop by the Administration Center, 9400 S. Kenton Ave., or call for more information; 708.857.2225. Ask for Dolly Foster. Plan ahead; attend one of the Information Meetings for this pro-gram on: Tuesday April 15th at 10 am or Wednes-day April 16th at 6 pm. Call to preregister for the meetings at 857-2200 Jazz Favorites Starring Vince Clark and Megan Curran The Oak Lawn Park District is offering an afternoon of jazz music favorites at the Stony Creek Club-house on Wednesday, April 16. The afternoon will feature great food and great finger-snapping classi-cal jazz music. Artist Vince Clark will be making his return performance accompanied by pianist Megan Curran. Doors Open at 12:15 pm with a buf-fet lunch at 12:30 pm. Fee is $12/Adult and $5/Child (10 years & under). A cash bar will be avail-able. Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 8. The Stony Creek Clubhouse is located at 5850W. 103rd St. Please call 708-857-2225, for more infor-mation. Catering now available at Stony Creek Restaurant & Banquet Facility - Have Stony Creek Restaurant & Banquet Facility cater your next lunch, meeting or party. Orders accepted Mon – Fri from 9am - 4pm. All orders must be placed 48 hrs in advance. For more information, please call 708-857-2433 x2301.

The Networker

CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 1 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. April 3 Golf Committee Meeting 8:00 a.m. Stony Creek April 8 Board of Directors Meeting 11:00 a.m. Marriott Chicago Midway 65th and Cicero Ave. April 8 Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Marriott Chicago Midway 65th and Cicero Ave. April 23 Appreciation Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Hilton Oak Lawn April 30 LifeSource Blood Drive and Health & Wellness Fair 9:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m. Oak Lawn Senior Center

VILLAGE NEWS Village Board Meetings The monthly meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, April 8 and Tuesday, April 22 respectively, at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Board Room.

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our March Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 Jim Moran, Allegra Print & Imaging $50 Alphabet Soup $25 G&L Trophies $25 Papa Joe’s

Moraine Valley Community College Presents… Go Green and Learn

How to Make Green Happen

Thursday, April 17 8:00 a.m. to noon

Silver Lake Country Club, 14700 South 82nd Avenue

Breakfast buffet at 8:00 a.m. Panel discussion at 9:15 a.m.

Roundtables at 10:30 a.m.

$45 per person, includes breakfast. RSVP by April 4 to Eda Schrimple,

(708) 974-5714 schrimplee@morainevalley

PANEL DISCUSSIONS How to Build Green

Tony Holub, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Envi-ronmental Design) Architect, Demonica Del Muro

Associates

How to Operate Green Stan Robinson, Director of Environmental Services,

The University of Chicago Hospitals

Programs to Go Green William Haas, Energy Division Representative, Illi-

nois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunities

ROUNDTABLES on alternative energy resources,

architectural design, construction industry, weatherization, and recycling.

If you are a vendor interested in having a GREEN

exhibit table, please contact Eda

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The Networker

NEW MEMBERS

The Courage Program Sister Nancy Swanson 9711 S. Kolin Avenue Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Oak Lawn Garden Club

Marci Stritch or June Curtis 9937 S. Massaoit

Oak Lawn, IL 60453

CHAMBER NEWS

Golf Committee The next committee meeting will be Thursday, April 3 at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek, 5155 W. 103rd Street. April Luncheon The April luncheon will be at the Marriott Midway Hotel (65th & Cicero Ave.) on Tuesday, April 8. The chef is preparing an extra special meal for us! Our guest speaker will be Sandra Tice from MIP Corporation. The cost to attend is $15 per person. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office. Employee & Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon Save the date for this annual event scheduled for Wednesday, April 23 at the Hilton Oak Lawn. The theme is “Jackpot Party!” The cost per person is $22. Call the Chamber office for more information or to register. Save the Date — Health & Wellness Fair Our first Health & Wellness Fair of 2008 is sched-uled for Wednesday, April 30 at the O.L. Senior Cen-ter. The event will be held in conjunction with a LifeSource Blood Drive. Look for the flier in this newsletter, and be sure to call the Chamber to reserve your time to donate blood.

MEMBER NEWS

Congratulations to Men’s Wearhouse for a success-ful Grand Opening celebration on March 19. Thanks to the Chamber members and village offi-cials who came out to enjoy a ribbon-cutting cere-mony, followed by food, music and special savings opportunities.

Best wishes to Chamber member George Les of Les Brothers as he recently broke ground for a new res-taurant in Hickory Hills. The new establishment will be located on property adjacent to the current Les Brothers Restaurant located at 7730 W. 95th Street.

Business After Hours

with the WindyCity Thunderbolts

Don’t miss out on batting practice with the WindyCity Thunderbolts Business After Hours Batting Practice! Network with business people from 10 other Cham-

bers!

Thursday, May 8 5:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m.

Standard Bank Stadium 14011 S. Kenton Ave.

See the enclosed flier for more details.

The Networker

2008 Business Showcase Hundreds of visitors walked the Spartan Gym of the Oak Lawn Community High School on Satur-day, March 15 to visit with participants in the 9th

annual Business Showcase. Many exhibitors were featured, including banks, cellular phone compa-

nies, clothing retailers and food suppliers, to name a few. A special thanks to the Showcase chairper-son, Gene Mondello and his committee, including

Pat Stasik who coordinated the visit from the Easter Bunny.

* Photos courtesy of Geno’s Decorating

Brian Anderson from the Hilton Oak Lawn. Representatives from Complete Vision Care.

Representatives from Pat’s Hobbies. Representatives from Century 21 Pro-Team.

Participants in the 2008 Business Showcase.


(708) 424-8300 Fax (708) 229-2236


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Mission Statement



Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

April Luncheon Tuesday, April 8

Marriott Chicago Midway 65th & Cicero Ave. $15.00 per person

Sandra Tice speaks on “The Source of Wealth”

May Luncheon Tuesday, May 13

Stony Creek Golf Course 5757 W. 103rd Street

$15.00 per person Larry Bergnac offers Networking Tips

The Networker


May 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!


Should we really believe what the media is telling us about being in a "recession?" We know business has slowed for most of us, and shipping and delivery costs have risen for all of us. And, if it is true, how can those of us who own businesses keep our costs down so that we can remain viable during this time?

We just had two employees leave. One of our ways to cut costs is to replace only one of the employees. The other's work is being absorbed by those remaining. Is it the best of solutions? Of course not, but it's better than raising our product prices.

Another thing we're doing is looking at our supply sources and trying to find less expensive costs for products and everyday supplies. Even sourcing paper products so that we don't have to pay shipping costs will save in the long run. And there are some places that will give free delivery if the order is large enough. So, will I order more, less frequently, so that I can save delivery charges? You bet.

We're also looking at cost saving light bulbs, using fans in the summer so we can keep the air conditioning costs down, even the amount of paper products we order. Every little bit sure does help.

All of these ideas may seem obvious, but we don't always reevaluate our spending procedures until just before our budget is due. Why not evaluate every month? We're always web-searching for more efficient or less expensive ways of spending. And the agreements we've had with vendors are being reevaluated as well. If we're all in the same boat, perhaps that vendor who supplies us with a certain product will give us a little better break because he wants to keep our business as much as we don't want to change vendors. Negotiation is the name of the game for us right now.

How long is this "cautionary spending" going to last? Of course, there's no way of knowing, but my bet is, until the election in November (depending on who wins, of course). In the meantime, businesses in Oak Lawn, if we want to stay in Oak Lawn, have to stay on top of our cost game. That also means complaining about our Property Taxes to the appropriate authorities, and challenging them if possible. Be vigilant in monitoring the candidates who are going to run for offices that affect our taxes. Especially Cook County and Governor. I only wish they would be as concerned with spending my money as I am!

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Lawn)








As of this writing my babies have not yet made their appearance. My official leave date is May 1. I am due mid-May and will be taking three months leave to become acquainted with mother-hood. While I am away, please know that the Officers and I have taken the necessary steps to make sure the operations of the Chamber continue to run as normal. The typical office hours will remain 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Jenny Vrba, our administrative assistant will be covering the office during my leave. She is scheduled to work 35-40 hours a week – nearly double her normal work schedule. Additionally, we have a number of consultants (website, accounting, computer, etc.) available upon request. As I’m sure many people are still somewhat uncertain as to the role of Chamber staff, I’d like to give you an overview of our responsibilities. In short, our primary job is to run the office. This means managing the day-to-day finances, including ac-counts payables and receivables; serve as communication liaison between the office and Board of Directors, and subsequently, the Board and general membership; handle phone, email and other correspondence; manage publicity for Chamber events; oversee all registrations for Chamber events; schedule monthly lunch-eons, produce the monthly newsletter, etc. To give a clearer pic-ture, approximately 50% of staff time (predominantly Jenny) is spent handling finances – whether that means sending invoices, following up on unpaid invoices (help us out and get those pay-ments in!), cashing checks, making bank deposits and paying bills. The remaining 50% is split among the newsletter, coordi-nating luncheons and other events, attending meetings and events, general office duties. Here’s what the office staff does not do: the work of a commit-tee person. It is not the job of the office staff to solicit donations and sponsorships for events and in this vein, this will not be ex-pected of Jenny, particularly since she will be wearing the hat of both administrative assistant AND executive director while I am out. Please help her out by getting payments and donations (e.g., for Golf Outing) in promptly. Collaboration is the key. I also ask for the following: patience. If it takes a day to return a phone call or email, please know it’s the staff’s best intention to meet your request. There will be times that necessitate Jenny being out of the office to run errands or attend meetings. There-fore, you may wish to call the office before you pay a visit, just to ensure someone can greet you. I thank you for being so supportive of your Chamber staff and wish you a peaceful and safe summer.

The Networker

LIBRARY NEWS

Free Public Programs at Oak Lawn Library

5300 W. 95th St. | 708-422-4990 | www.oaklawnlibrary.org

Sunday With Friends: Windy City Harmonica Club Sunday , May 18 from 2-3 p.m.

This lively troupe of more than a dozen harmonica

players will amaze you with high-energy performances of songs from the 1930s, 40s and 50s. This concert can certainly be enjoyed by the whole family. Sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Lawn Library.

Get to Know Your Digital Camera

Monday, May 19 at 7 p.m.

Professional photographer Glenn Carpenter will demystify the world of digital cameras by explaining which features are important (and which are not), how many mega pixels are really necessary, printing options, storage solutions and much more.

The Secrets of Selling on eBay

Tuesday, May 27 at 7 p.m.

Vivienne Porter of C3Solutions will teach the basics of selling on eBay. This lecture covers how to establish a seller's account, tips for photographing your items and what to include in a description. Also, learn how you can make the process easier by using eBay's Turbo Lister software.

PARK DISTRICT NEWS Statewide Kite Fly Saturday, May 10 at 10:00am The Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association are coordinating “Fly 4 Kids,” a statewide Kite fly designed to create awareness for the Park District Youth License Plate. The revenue generated from the sale of these plates helps support park district after-school programming in Illinois. On Satur-day, May 10 the Oak Lawn Park District will be partici-pating in the 4th Annual “Statewide Kite Fly.” Bring the whole family out to fly a kite and learn more about this wonderful program. For more information on location and time, please call the park district at 708-857-2420. (mc) 1000 Mile Walking Club 6th Annual 5K Walk Sunday, May 17, 2008 Stony Creek G.C. Parking Lot 7:45am Packet Pickup & Event Day Registration 8:30am 5K Walk $10 per Individual (Through May 4, 2007) $15 per individual (May 5th-Race Day) Registration forms will be available at all Park District Facilities. Refreshments will be served at the end of the walk. Please join us at the tent located next to the club-house. Participants that pre-register will receive a 1000 Mile Club 5K Walk T-shirt. Late registrants are not guaranteed a t-shirt. Red White & Blue & Flower Sale, Too - Memorial Day Special Event Monday May 26, 2008 Memorial Park, 102nd & Major, Oak Lawn 11:00am-3:00pm Events:8am-2pm - Oak Lawn Parks Foundation Fishing Derby - FREE 11am - Kids Treasure Hunt - FREE 11am-12noon - Perennial Drop-off 12noon-1pm - Kids Entertainment - FREE 11am-3pm - Miniature Golf at Stony Creek - $1.00 11am-3pm - Memorial Day Flower Sale ($12/flat, $6/half flat, $15/basket & bag) 11am-3pm - Lady Bug Give-Away - FREE 11am-3pm - Nature Table - FREE 11am-3pm - Children's Games - $.25 11am-3pm - Children's Bingo - FREE 11am-3pm - Open Swim at Children's Pool - $1.00 11am-3pm - Tattoos - $.25 1-3pm - Perennial Exchange 1-3pm - Sand-Castle Building - FREE 1-3pm - Chicago Outskirts, Jazz Orchestra - FREE 3pm - Salute to the Veterans

Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch The Hilton Oak Lawn will host a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch, Sunday May 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Grand and Astoria Ball-rooms. Adults- $44.95, children 4-12 - $19.95, chil-dren 3 and under are free. Reservations required. Call 708-229-8850.

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CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 1 Golf Committee Meeting 8:00 a.m. Stony Creek May 6 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. May 8 Windy City Thunderbolts Multi- Chamber Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. 14011South Keeton Avenue May 13 Board of Directors Meeting 11:00 a.m. Stony Creek Golf Course May 13 Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Stony Creek Golf Course May 26 Memorial Day Chamber & Village Closed

VILLAGE NEWS Village Board Meetings The next meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, May 11 and Tuesday, May 25 at 7:30 p.m. Farmers’ Market The Oak Lawn Farmers’ Market will open on Wednesday, June 4 at 7:00 a.m. in the back parking lot of the Village Hall. As always, the Chamber will sponsor the opening day so please join us for coffee and donuts in the morning.

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our April Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 Alphabet Soup $50 Rick Herpich $25 SportClips $25 Katelyn Hernandez

Pace will again be offering bus service directly from Oak Lawn to U.S. Cellular Field. Depar-ture is at Oak Lawn Metra Station (9525 S. Tul-ley Avenue). Bus stop is at 52nd and Yourell Drive. Parking is free on the Metra parking deck. No Parking fees collected around game time. For further details please check out Pace website. www.pacebus.com/sub/espd/us_cellular_express.as

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Back Row, left to right: Patti Johnson, representative from Standard Bank & Trust and Chamber Director; John Crivellone of Illinois Security Services, Coloring Book Chairperson and Chamber Director; Lieutenant Gary Pat-rick of the Oak Lawn Fire Department.

Front Row, left to right: (1st place Fire Safety) Raneen Bishawi, Grade 4 –Columbus Manor; (2nd place Fire Safety) Colin Schaafsma, Grade 3 – Southwest Christian; (3rd place Fire Safety) Kristyna Kresic, Grade 4 – St. Gerald; (1st Place Public Safety) Tara Carson, Grade 4 – Hannum Ele-mentary; (2nd Place Public Safety) Rafaello Ibrado, Grade 4 – St. Linus; 3rd Place Public Safety, Matt Ciara, Grade 3 – Columbus Manor.

2007/ 2008 Fire Safety Coloring Book Winners

Winners of the 2007/2008 Fire & Public Safety Col-oring Book were recognized by Village President, Dave Heilman at the March 25th Village Board Meeting. All the winners received U.S. Savings Bonds. Special thanks to Gary Patrick (OLFD) & John Crivellone (Chamber Director) for co-chairing the project & to Patti Johnson at Standard Bank for providing the Savings Bonds for the winners.

Oak Lawn Village President, Dave Heilmann recognizes the winners.

It was a “Jackpot Party” at this year’s Appreciation Luncheon held at the Hilton Oak Lawn. More than 60 people attended this year’s event. People dined on Italian themed food they all listened to the tal-ented Alex Babiy who sang various song from the “Rat Pack” era. Special Thanks to Vondrak Pub-lishing for donating the roses & to Pat Stasik from Oak Lawn Park District for the wonderful decora-tions. We would also like to Thank Linda Olsen & the Committee for their help.

2008 Appreciation Luncheon

Chamber Members enjoying the luncheon at the Hilton Oak Lawn.

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NEW MEMBERS

Alpha Janitorial Jim Laurin

5018 W. 121st Street Alsip, IL 60803

Murphy’s Law Mike Fredette

9247 S. Cicero Avenue Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Com Cor Mortgage

Loretta Kennelly 10922 S. Talman Avenue

Chicago, IL 60655

Veterantechs Computer Repair Timothy Galloway

9758 S. Lawndale Avenue Evergreen Park, IL 60805

Reliv International

Rita Kealy 9400 S. Ridgeway Avenue Evergreen Park, IL 60805

Tastefully Simple

Victoria Hamel 9439 S. 81st Street

Hickory Hills, IL 60457

Bath Fitter Steve Perrino

9960 W. 191st street Suite G

Mokena, IL 60448

McDonalds Stephanie Aucunas

9128 S. Cicero Avenue Oak Lawn, IL 60453

CHAMBER NEWS

Golf Committee The next committee meeting will be Thursday, May 1st at 8:00 a.m. at Stony Creek, 5155 W. 103rd Street. Grand Raffle tickets and reservations forms for the Golf Outing will be mailed shortly June Luncheon The June luncheon will be at the Hilton Oak Lawn on Tuesday, June 10. Our guest speaker will be Gloria Ambos from Asset Profiles. The cost to attend is $15 per person. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office. Shop Oak Lawn The Chamber now is accepting applications for businesses that wish to participate in the June 14 Sidewalk Sale on the Village Green. Participants must be able to sell a product at this event. See the enclosed flier for more details, or download an appli-cation at www.oaklawnchamber.com. Don’t miss the early-bird registration deadline of May 16th! Pet Parade The Sidewalk Sale will kick-off with a Pet Parade through Oak Lawn, down 54th Ave. to the Village Green. Sign up at Petco (6220 W. 95th St.) , Pet Supplies Plus (8717 S. Ridgeland Ave.) or download an application at www.oaklawnchamber.com All dogs must be vaccinated and on a leash. There is no cost to participate. Legislative Committee The Chamber is looking for a member to chair the Legislative / “Oak Lawn Tea Party” If you are inter-ested please contact the office.


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Mission Statement



Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

May Luncheon Tuesday, May 13

Stony Creek Golf Course 5757 W. 103rd Street

$15.00 per person Larry Bergnac offers Networking Tips

June Luncheon Tuesday, June 10 Hilton Oak Lawn

9333 S. Cicero Avenue $15.00 per person

Gloria Ambos ”You Can Eliminate the Bad Hire”

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June 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!


“Summer brings warm weather, kids out of school and (sometimes) under foot. But when you’re a Chamber member, summer also brings the call for help and sponsorship. It’s unfortunate that most of the fundraising events that occur with the Chamber do so in the summer months (thanks to the brief, Chicago weather window). The Shop Oak Lawn and Pet Parade event, Golf Outing, the Business Directory and this year, the Business Development Commission is adding an Antique Car Show. Everyone wants our money, our help, or both.

On the positive side, however, is that all of these events are real opportunities for each of us to help out, not only the Chamber, but ourselves. Each of our companies needs visibility; sponsorships offer a real opportunity to see our busi-ness’ name in print. Whether it says, “Miniature Golf Sponsored by Art Clay World, USA,” or Shop Oak Lawn Booth #12, Annie’s Ltd., it sends a message to everyone that this business and its representatives are involved, this business has something to offer Oak Lawn. You can’t sit back, be complacent and unin-volved, and then complain that the Chamber doesn’t do anything for you, or that business in Oak Lawn is down and you’re just not busy enough.

On the other hand, having my own business in Oak Lawn and knowing how hard I’ve worked to get it to where it is, I understand tight purse strings, being over budget and the lack of “extra” time. But we’ve all made those sacrifices and I, for one, am not prepared to let everyone else do all the work to make sure my Village is a great place to grow my business. When times get tough, as they seem to be now, we have to be prepared to work HARDER for the Chamber. Now is the time we need everyone’s help. Whether it’s scraping together the few dollars to buy raffle tickets, buy a booth to display and sell at Shop Oak Lawn Days, whatever. We need to take pride in ourselves, our businesses and our community and show Tinley Park, show Orland, show Palos, that Oak Lawn has terrific opportunities for development and growth as reflected in our own participation in Chamber events.

I’m asking each of you to step it up. Call the Chamber Office and offer your as-sistance. Buy that Booth at Shop Oak Lawn, sponsor that hole at the Golf Out-ing, offer the time to make some phone calls. If summer means physical warmth, let’s show our own Oak Lawn Community that it also means the warmth of our reaching out to benefit ALL business in Oak Lawn. Call it Karma, call it “what goes around, comes around.” I promise you that however you help your Chamber, in the end it will help your own business as well.

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Jennifer had her Babies on Thursday May 8th. At 11:16p.m. Madeline Rose arrived weighing 5lb 6oz and 18 inches long. One minute later her sister Abigail Claire ar-rived weighing 5lb 4oz and 17 inches long. Mommy and Babies are doing well.. Jennifer is on Maternity leave until August 1,2008.

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LIBRARY NEWS

2008 Summer Reading Program Oak Lawn students and residents of all ages are invited to take part in eight weeks of reading ad-ventures and fun activities, while earning a treas-ure trove of prizes. Registration begins Monday, June 2. The program ends Friday, August 1. Visit the library’s web site for more details: www.oaklawnlibrary.org

Calling All Art Lovers!

The Oak Lawn Public Library will host their First Annual Oak Lawn Artist Group Show during the months of June and July 2008. This special, two-month exhibition marks the one-year anniversary of the library’s public art gallery opening.

To further celebrate the creativity and talent of our community members, the library will host a “Meet the Oak Lawn Artists” event on Thursday, June 12 from 7-8:30 p.m., featuring live music and light refreshments. All are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Linda Atkins, 708-422-4990.

PARK DISTRICT NEWS 2008 Summer Concerts and Movie Nights The Oak Lawn Park District & The Village of Oak Lawn are pleased to announce the 2008 Friday Night Movie and Sunday Night Summer Concert schedule. These events are free, so bring your pic-nic baskets, refreshments, lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy some summer fun with the whole family! Concerts and movies will be held at the Village Green (directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Oak Lawn Library). The Friday night movies will begin at dusk. The Sunday night con-certs will begin at 7:00pm. The movies will be: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory on June 27, Transformers on July 25 and Cars on August 15. The concerts will feature performances by: Dyed in the Wool on June 15, Last Call on June 29, The Walk-Ins on July 13, Yard Fulla Cars on July 27, Railroad Gin on August 17 and Crawpuppies on Au-gust 31. Food will be available from the Oak Lawn Cub Scouts (hot dogs, soda, & chips), Christensen’s Wagon (popcorn & lemon shake-ups) and Millie’s Ice Cream.

Family Camp-Out! Come out and enjoy the beginning of summer camp-ing under the stars at The Oak Lawn Park District’s Wolf Wildlife Refuge (109th & Laramie) on Friday, June 13. Participants will enjoy games, a late night campfire, campfire activities, hot dog and marsh-mallow roast, and a continental breakfast. You must provide your own tent, sleeping bags and camping equipment. Fee per campsite is $8 for Oak Lawn residents and $10 for non-residents. Registration deadline is June 7th! For more information, please call 708-857-2200.

Catering now available at Stony Creek Restaurant & Banquet Facility – Have Stony Creek Restaurant & Banquet Facility cater your next lunch, meeting or party. Orders accepted Mon – Fri from 9am - 4pm. All orders must be placed 48 hrs in advance. For more information, please call 708-857-2433 x2301

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CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS June 2 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. June 4 Farmers’ Market Opens Village Hall Parking Lot 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. June 5 Golf Committee Meeting 8:00 a.m. Stony Creek June 10 Board of Directors Meeting 11:00 a.m. Hilton Oak Lawn June 10 Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Hilton Oak Lawn June 14 Sidewalk Sale & Pet Parade 10:00 a.m.

VILLAGE NEWS Village Board Meetings The next meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, June 10 and Tuesday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m. Farmers’ Market The Oak Lawn Farmers’ Market will open on Wednesday, June 4 at 7:00 a.m. in the back parking lot of the Village Hall. As always, the Chamber will sponsor the opening day so please join us for coffee and donuts in the morning.

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our May Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 Larry Lehman - Liberty Tax $50 Evergreen Door & Window $25 Kevin Kalufet $25 Kenwood Wine & Liquors

CHAMBER NEWS

Luncheon The June luncheon will be at the Hilton Oak Lawn on Tuesday, June 10. Our guest speaker will be Glo-ria Ambos from Asset Profiles. The cost to attend is $15 per person. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber of-fice. Pet Parade and Sidewalk Sale It’s only a few weeks away! Come walk with us in the Parade. We step off from Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School at 10:00 a.m. Be sure to decorate your stroller, wagon or bicycle, too! Then shop 60 local merchants — including bakeries, clothing shops, art & crafts shops, electrical shops, and more — under our big tent at the Sidewalk Sale from 10:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m. at the Village Green. Show your support for local business and SHOP OAK LAWN! Golf Outing The Chamber Golf Outing is only one month away! Grand raffle tickets were mailed in May. If you did-n’t receive yours, or would like more you can pur-chase them in the Chamber office.

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ANNUAL GOLF OUTING SPONSORED BY LES BROTHERS RESTURANT

Got Golf Grand Raffle Tickets? Check out these great prizes you could win when we draw the winners at our annual Golf Outing on July 9, sponsored by Les Brothers Restaurant. Winner need not be present!

Vacation getaway to The Lodge at Steamboat

Your choice of 4 day/3 night stay during winter, or 5 night/6 day stay during summer (subject to availability) at this beautiful two bedroom, two bath condo In Steamboat

Springs Colorado. Courtesy of Doug Kasper of Marquette Bank

Eagle Ridge/ Galena Gateway

Two night / three day stay in 2 bedroom, 2 bath Eagle Ridge home in scenic Galena Territory.

(valid 10/01/08 -4/01/09) Courtesy of John Crivellone of Illinois Security Services

Four tickets to Chicago White Sox plus parking pass

Enjoy the game from these premium lower level box seats Courtesy of Marquette Bank

TGIF+ Getaway Weekend Package

Includes one-night, deluxe accommodations for two, a Welcome Basket and $25 gift certificate to Whitney’s Bar

& Grille Courtesy of the Hilton Oak Lawn Hotel & Conference

Center

White Gold, Diamond and Ruby Ring Courtesy pf W.A. Jewelers

The raffle tickets are $10.00 each or 3 tickets for $25.00.

NEW MEMBERS

Jason’s Deli Kate Willett

6260 West 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Skyline Restoration Inc.

Jennifer Burton 5435 West 110th Street

Unit 7 Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Daley Mohan Groble

William McFadden 55 West Monroe

Ste. 1600 Chicago, IL 60603

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Ninth Annual Appreciation Day Luncheon

On Wednesday, April 23,2008 64 employees from area businesses came together for a fun-filled “Jackpot Party” featuring the musical styling's of singer Alex Babiy. Once again, Pat Stasik from the Oak Lawn Park District outdid herself by creating a casino-themed atmosphere through her colorful and clever centerpieces and room decorations. After the luncheon, a raffle prize drawing was held and all attendees were “winners’ as they received a beautiful long-stem rose when they left, a special touch generously donated each year by Vondrak Publishing.

The following local businesses donated a spectacular array of items for the door prize raffle drawing:

Archer Bank

Roberta Birmingham

Chicago Fire Soccer

Fannie May Candies

Great Lakes Metals Corp.

Oak Lawn Park District

Scissorhands Salon

Standard Bank & Trust Co.

Special thanks go out to all of the employers who participated in this event and to the Hilton Oak Lawn for their exceptional service and gracious hospitality.

This event was made possible through the time, efforts and energy of the Appreciation Day Luncheon Committee and the Chamber’s Office staff: Linda Atkins, Oak Lawn Public Library; Donna Herpich, Great Lakes Metal; Patti Johnson, Standard Bank & Trust Co.; Ginger Morgan, Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home; Pat Stasik & Nicole Walsh, Oak Lawn Park District; Jennifer Busk & Jen Vrba, Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce.


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Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

June Luncheon Tuesday, June 10 Hilton Oak Lawn

9333 S. Cicero Avenue $15.00 per person

Gloria Ambos “You Can Eliminate the Bad Hire”

August Luncheon Tuesday, June 10

Hawk Ford 6100 West 95th Street

$15.00 per person Gloria Ambos ”You Can Eliminate the Bad Hire”

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July 2008

Shop Oak

Lawn First!


“The weather was fabulous, the tent was abuzz with people and animals, the scent of ice cream and pork sandwiches filled the air. The success of the 2nd “Shop Oak Lawn” sale was evident in the enthusiasm of the vendors and the number of families that attended the event. The Pet Parade, which had taken place just earlier, had had a substantial increase of entries from the previous year, with more inventive costumes on both the animals and their owners. Fire trucks, a bagpipe band, and dozens on pets walked the route, including my daughter’s bearded dragon, Ozzie, which stirred constant interest from both adults and children.

I asked nearly every vendor if they were happy they had come to the event and, with very, very few exceptions, they said yes. Would they come again, I asked. Again, nearly every vendor said, “yes!” Now, I know there weren’t thou-sands of people there, and sales weren’t like the week before Christmas. But it was an opportunity for each business to have exposure, be right out there with the public and either sell product or give out literature, coupons, etc. Of course, that was the intent of the Chamber. To give our members an chance to reach new customers or renew relationships with previous ones. I, for one, found a new, exciting eatery in “R” Place, on Southwest Highway. And lots of people saw our product, Art Clay, at work at our booth. We sold quite a few dog charms, the proceeds of which went straight to our designated charity, the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure, a breast cancer charity that funds research and assistance programs for those affected with this increasingly prevalent disease. We even sold tickets to our upcoming fundraiser, happening on July 11, 2008 at Art Clay World headquarters in Oak Lawn. This made the whole day worthwhile for us.

Next year, having passed on the Presidency to Glen Kato, will I still participate in the “Shop Oak Lawn” days? You betcha. I’d like to get this wonderful event to the point where businesses are falling over each other to sign up to be vendors. They’ll be the smart ones, knowing that promotion and exposure is what drives businesses.

My sincerest thanks to Rita Olsen, of the Gateway Motel, Glen Kato of Hortus Designs, and all the others, like Christy, Rick and Carolyn, and Donna, for their hard work in making this event the success that it was. Rita, especially, takes this event very seriously, and worked almost to exhaustion to convince people of the benefit and importance to business and the community of coming out in support.

Thanks again to all. Looking forward to next year!”

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Jennifer and babies are doing well and en-joying there time together! Jennifer is still on Maternity leave and we expect her back in August. News You Can Use: Current Members of the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce are invited to attend a special member briefing to be held on Wednesday July 23, 2008 in East Hazel Crest Illinois call (708)957-6950 for more information

Classic Car Show coming July 13th on the Village Green. Come out and enjoy the fun or even consider entering a car with your company name on it. Check out the Classic Car Show’s website www.showcaseclassics.com or call 866-477-4697

Wanted The Networker is looking to do a “feature Business of the month” Please call the chamber office for details.

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LIBRARY NEWS

1967 Oak Lawn Tornado History DVDs The Oak Lawn Community Library Foundation is now offering two limited-edition DVDs that com-memorate the 40th Anniversary of the Oak Lawn Tornado. The first DVD is a narrated 27-minute video slide show featuring photographs, motion pictures and a live sound recording from that fateful day, all of which were drawn from the ar-chives of the Oak Lawn Public Library. This mate-rial was originally presented at a public program held at the library in April 2007. The second DVD is a video recording of twenty-four 1967 tornado survivors who came forth to share their firsthand experiences at an open mic forum held at the li-brary in April 2007. Each DVD costs $15, which includes a $10 tax-deductible donation to the Oak Lawn Community Library Foundation. Check or cash payment only. Purchase your copy at the Reception Booth of the Oak Lawn Public Library, 5300 W. 95th St. For more information, call Linda Atkins, public relations officer, 708-422-4990.

Free Passes to Brookfield Zoo Oak Lawn residents can check out free passes for Brookfield Zoo from the Oak Lawn Public Li-brary, 5300 W. 95th St. Each pass entitles four individuals to free general admission during all public hours. Parking and special exhibits not in-cluded. The library has four passes available for check out to adult Oak Lawn

Fresh Produce Has Arrived…

At the Oak Lawn Farmers’ Market! As is custom-ary, the Chamber sponsored opening day at the Mar-ket on June 4. A special thanks to Renee Lerner of the Book Ends Cafe for providing free coffee and to Huck Finn Restaurant for providing donuts. Pictured from left to right: Jennifer Torres, Oak Lawn Cham-ber; Christy Hernandez, Archer Bank; Glen Kato; Hortus Web Design and Leo Gutchewsky, “A” Ser-vice Company

CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS July 4 Fourth of July Parade 10:00 a.m. 95th street & 51st Avenue July 4 Independence Day Chamber Closed July 7 Officers’ Meeting Chamber office 8:15 a.m. July 9 Chamber Golf Outing Stony Creek Golf Course

BONANZA RAFFLE WINNERS Congratulations to the following winners of our July Bonanza Raffle drawing! $100 Kenwood Wine & Liquors $50 Bella Sosnovoski $25 Airway Trailer Park $25 Dominik Bartolini

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VILLAGE NEWS Village Board Meetings The next meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. Farmers’ Market The Oak Lawn Farmers’ Market is now open every Wednesday. The Market is located in the parking behind the Village Hall.

CHAMBER NEWS

ANNUAL GOLF OUTING SPONSORED BY LES BROTHERS RESTURANT

Got Golf Grand Raffle Tickets? Check out these great prizes you could win when we draw the winners at our annual Golf Outing on July 9, sponsored by Les Brothers Restaurant. Winner need not be present!

Vacation getaway to The Lodge at Steamboat

Your choice of 4 day/3 night stay during winter, or 5 night/6 day stay during summer (subject to availabil-ity) at this beautiful two bedroom, two bath condo In

Steamboat Springs Colorado. Courtesy of Doug Kasper of Marquette Bank

Eagle Ridge/ Galena Gateway

Two night / three day stay in 2 bedroom, 2 bath Eagle Ridge home in scenic Galena Territory.

(valid 10/01/08 -4/01/09) Courtesy of John Crivellone of Illinois Security

Services

Four tickets to Chicago White Sox plus parking pass Enjoy the game from these premium lower level box

seats Courtesy of Marquette Bank

TGIF+ Getaway Weekend Package Includes one-night, deluxe accommodations for two, a Welcome Basket and $25 gift certificate to Whitney’s

Bar & Grille Courtesy of the Hilton Oak Lawn Hotel & Conference

Center

White Gold, Diamond and Ruby Ring Courtesy pf W.A. Jewelers

The raffle tickets are $10.00 each or 3 tickets for $25.00

NEW MEMBERS

Southwest Center for Healthy Joints Mike Anastasia

9618 Southwest Highway Oak Lawn, IL 60453

CMT Productions Christopher Tarlaba

7130 West 96th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Joon Lee’s Martial Arts

Michael Pendleton 5301 West 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Express Cabinetry Inc.

Bill Vranicav 6345 West 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

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Going Green The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office on July 1 is launching the Cultivate Illinois: Green Energy program, an exciting new environmental initiative to assist busi-nesses, non profits, and local governments finance the purchase or installation of energy equipment. Here’s how it works: under the state statue. The Treasurer’s Office makes be-low-market rate deposits at financial institutions that use the capital to make low-interest loans to qualified borrowers. Please visit www.treasurer.il.gov and follow the Cultivate Illinois link to learn more about Green Energy or contact Mike Wakeland at (217)557-6436

FYI The Illinois Department of Revenue recently released the sales tax numbers for the fiscal year ended 2007. The Village of Oak Lawn ranks 24th out of 1,294 municipalities in the state of Illinois. For a Village that has approximately 57,000 residents, no major mall, and no large university within its boundaries- this is and amazing feat for our community.

Annual fourth of July parade The Parade will step off at 10:00a.m. on Friday July 4th portions of 95th Street will be closed the day of the event. Please consider decorating your store front for this event. Remember this event will draw in a lot of new faces to our area consider using this opportunity to promote your business. Have a Safe and Wonderful Holiday.

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Shop Oak Lawn & Pet Parade 2008 Check out our Website for more photos of this

Great Event.


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Oak Lawn.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

August Luncheon Tuesday, August 10

Hawk Ford 6100 West 95th Street

$15.00 per person

September Luncheon Tuesday, September 9

Hilton Oak Lawn 9333 South Cicero $15.00 per person

Chamber Celebrates the Fourth The Chamber celebrated the fourth of July in true patriotic fashion by participating in the Oak Lawn parade. Glen Kato, Laura Shallow and Jackie Truty passed out candy to the crowd of party-goers while member Bob Olsen got his truck decorated with red, white and blue. Bob gave St. Gerald School a hand by pull-ing their trailer complete with

the band known as “ 7 Stories Back,” featuring Bob Olsen, Ryan Rumchaks, Joe Colesby and Nick Hendreich.

Calendar of Events

August Luncheon Hawk Ford

August 12 11:30 a.m. James Rubenstein “Big Profits Now

for Your Business”

September Luncheon Hilton Oak Lawn

September 9 11:30 a.m. “How to Make a Presentation

Without Passing Out”

October Luncheon Stony Creek Golf Course October 14 11:30 a.m.

Inside this issue:

Message from the President 2 Executive Director Speaks 2 News You Can Use 3 Annual Golf Classic 3 First Ever Classic Car Show 7 Fire Safety Coloring Book Celebrates 8


Since 1947

NETWORKER August 2008

Business of the Month

David A. Noyes & Company

NEW

FEATURE David A. Noyes & Company is a full-service invest-ment firm founded in 1908 with branches in the Midwest, includ-ing one in Oak Lawn. The firm provides retirement planning, portfolio management, financial planning and other financial ser-vices, with an emphasis on personal service and customized solu-tions. To celebrate its 100th anniversary, David A. Noyes & Company is embarking on “A Year of Service” campaign focused on volunteer efforts for children’s charities in our local Chicago-land and Indiana communities (for more information, visit www.danoyes.com). The Oak Lawn office of David A. Noyes & Company is located at 4710 W. 95th Street, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, 708-229-1711.

President’s Message Jackie Truty

Executive Direction Jennifer Busk

Change. It is inevitable. And for many of us, it is not easy. (With newborn girls, I understand that better than anyone these days!) Nowhere is change more evident than in today’s economy. It’s impacting each and every one of us, and we as a Chamber are feeling its impact too. But, as certain as change will come, so we must adapt and overcome. This past month we held our annual golf outing. With fewer golfers in attendance this year, we skipped the goodie bags and a few other things, but it didn’t deter us from providing an enjoyable event. And, we expect that despite the turnout, the outing remains our most profitable annual event. Thank you to all who joined us and to Stony Creek for hosting a great event. We’ve already begun work on our 2009 membership directory, but not without a few adjustments. Many of you may have been contacted by Bob Splett of Village Profile, the company which will be creating and publishing our directory. Bob is soliciting adver-tising for the book on behalf of the Chamber. When published, the directory will be a slick, 4-color piece more reflective of the progressive Chamber we strive to be. It will be on par with what other area Chambers of our size are offering. And, it will ensure we turn a profit – something not easy to achieve in the current economy. On the downside, we will not be able to distribute the book to every home in Oak Lawn. Instead, we will have copies available at locations around town, like the Village Hall, Library and Park District location, where residents can obtain one. Again, adapt and overcome. We see change in our office too. Jenny Vrba recently resigned from her position as administrative assistant. The Executive Board currently is conducting interviews and hopes to have the position filled by the time this newsletter goes to press. So as we continue to endure change, we must work collaboratively to show businesses and residents alike that Oak Lawn remains steadfast in its commitment to making our community a great place to live, work and shop. I appreciate your support and am ex-cited to return to work as your Executive Director.

Well July has come and gone. Summer never seems to last long enough. July is the center of summer for many. As for the Chamber, we were involved in three events; the annual Golf Classic at Stony Creek Golf Com-plex, the Village’s 4^th of July parade and the 1^st annually Classic Car Show. Golf outings seem as much a part of summer as swimming and barbecues. It seems that there are at least a half dozen golf outings starting in late spring and going through the fall. Virtually every area organization and founda-tion has golf outings. I’ve been told by some past Chamber presidents that our event seems to be a shadow of what it once was. There are many reasons why this could be. Do we just have too many outings in the area? Is it a result of the changing business community found in Oak Lawn? Is it the economy? I think It is probably a little of all of those factors. Oak Lawn now has one of the largest concentration of Medical and Banking facilities in the region. Golf seems to me to go hand in hand with Medical Professionals and Financial people. I would imagine those groups alone could float an entire outing. Toss in all of the other entrepreneurs and business people found in the Oak Lawn area and we could have a golf outing that is “The Place to be.” I think that the Golf Committee and Chamber in general just needs to reevaluate how we run and market this event. With a healthy and respectful mix of old and new ideas, the annual golf classic can be a must attend event once again. Ginger Morgan, Glen Kato and I helped decorate the Art Clay World van for our participation in the 4^th of July Parade. We frugally used recycled brown paper shopping bags, green and white chamber balloons and helium already stored in the chamber office. They were placed on top of the van. The bags had stickers that pro-claimed, “Shop Oak Lawn.” Laura Shallow stopped by and helped us pass out candy to parade spectators. The weather was perfect and it was a perfect day to be in a parade. We also had a booth at the Village’s 1^st annual Classic Car Show. There were 200 classic cars. We had a $50 gas card raffle and handed out directories and maps to help promote our members. It’s being involved in these types of events that keep the Chamber and its members in the spotlight. We will participate in events in the fall and winter months as well. Come join us!

“Come

join

us!”

News You Can Use And the raffle winners were... Michelle Maglaris

Lodge at Steamboat Getaway Courtesy of Doug Kasper of Marquette Bank

Donna Herpich

Eagle Ridge/Galena Getaway Courtesy of John Crivellone of Illinois Security Services

G & M Imports

Four White Sox Tickets Courtesy of Marquette Bank

Yolanda Sosnowski

TGIF and Getaway Weekend Courtesy of Hilton Oak Lawn & Conference Center

Katie Baum White gold, diamond & Ruby Ring

Courtesy of W.A. Jewelers

Congratulations and thanks to all who graciously donated prizes and baskets!

Annual Golf Classic Success

Several members provided services for this outing.

Special thanks to

Geno’s Decorating

for all the signs needed,

Oak Lawn Park District

for the publicity and fliers,

Rutledge Printing

for tickets and

Phelps Chiropractic Center for the massages that were soothing to those of us with aching muscles!

“Golf is a game in which you yell “fore,” shoot six, and write down five.” Paul Harvey

Golf Winners

Men’s Long drive Don McKenna Women’s Long drive Maddie Kelly Closest to Pin (men) Joel Craig Closest to Pin (women) Joan Buschbach Gross Winner Team 12 George Les, Steve Loulousis Dominic, Jim T. Net Winner Team 16 Tim Clark, Pete Nielsen, Tom Krippel, Tom Wogan

On Wednesday, July 9 nearly 100 hundred golfers en-joyed the day at Stony Creek Golf Complex here in Oak Lawn. The weather was near perfect as the par-ticipants enjoyed lunch followed by the shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Not all eighteen holes of golf were serious, however, with a few challenges such as “Roll the Dice” and “Beat the Pro”, included for fun.

This year the event was sponsored by

Les Brothers Restaurants.

Bell West Community Credit Union is sponsoring a “Shred Day” August 9, 2008 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at our Oak Lawn branch located at 9930 Southwest Highway. We are offering “free shredding” of up to 2 boxes, a free drawing, and a free seminar on “Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft”.

Bonanza Raffle Winners

Congratulations to our July Raffle Drawing:

$100 Gateway Motel

$50 Patrick Elward, Chicago Web Management

$25 Complete Vision Care

$25 Jerry Olsen





Great Lakes Bank Ad

To be placed here


First Ever Car Show

“To catch the reader's attention, place an interesting sentence or quote from the story here.”

Page 5

2008 OFFICERS

President Jackie Truty (Art Clay World)

1st Vice President Glen Kato (Hortus Web Design & Marketing)

2nd Vice President Rita Olsen (Gateway Motel)

Treasurer Ginger Morgan (Thompson & Kuenster F.H.)

Secretary Len Hiznay (Milex Tune-Up & Brake Center)

Immediate Past President Leo Gutchewsky (“A” Service Company)

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Phil Barry (Saturn of Oak Lawn) Susan Beran (Bridgeview Health Care)

Peggy Burke (First American Bank) Dr. Sandra Bury (Complete Vision Care) John Crivellone (Illinois Security Services)





Linda Atkins (Oak Lawn Public Library) Tom Orlowski (Men’s Wearhouse)

Beth Purcell (Advocate Christ/Hope Children’s Hospital) Christina Scobey (P.I.N.C.)

Patricia Stasik (Oak Lawn Park District) Paul Sterk (Harris Bank)


ADVISORY BOARD





Tom Gavin III (Southwest Messenger Press) Barbara Gliege (Kozlarek & Assoc. Realtors) David C. Kobak (Blake-Lamb Funeral Home)

Robert Kuenster (Thompson & Kuenster F.H.) Doris Marks (Park Lawn Assoc.) Laura Shallow (Fifth Third Bank)

And the winners were… Donna Carvelli,

whose husband entered his 1970 Mach 1 Mustang in the show and

Nathan Schroedle,

who gave the $50 gas card to his Dad!

SHOP OAK LAWN SUCCESS STORIES…..

Hawk Ford sold a car

Memory Lane stables booked a pony party, held here in Oak Lawn

Saturn sold a car

On July 13, there were ap-proximately 200 classic cars in the 1st Annual Classic Car Show sponsored by the Vil-lage of Oak Lawn. The event took place in the library parking lot on a perfect sum-mer day. During the show, the Chamber sold tickets to win $50.00 worth of gas. Residents were also encour-aged to sign a petition asking IDOT to reinstate parking on 95th Street in Downtown Oak Lawn. The initiative is spearheaded by Village Man-ager, Larry Deetjen. The goal is to obtain signatures of consent from all businesses along 95th Street between Cicero Ave. and Central Ave. If you are interested in helping, please contact the Chamber.

The book goes to every school and every preschooler to 4th grader in Oak Lawn and Hometown. Advertising deadline is August 31st. The book comes out for fire safety week which is the 2nd week in October.

According to John Crivellone, chairman of the project, “Over the years, the project has given over $25,000.00 in scholarship money to the winning entries and has reached over 150,000 kids in Oak Lawn and

Hometown.”

To put an ad in the book, call the Chamber office at 708-424-8300.

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5314 W. 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 424-8300 Fax (708) 229-2236 e-mail:[email protected]

Web Site: www.oaklawnchamber.com


Mission Statement

“The Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce works to represent and advance the

Oak Lawn business community, striving with constant integrity, fairness and

cooperation to promote and improve the economic atmosphere, business climate and

image of Oak Lawn.”

OAK LAWN FIRE SAFETY

COLORING BOOK CELEBRATES

30TH ANNIVERSARY


Since 1947

THE NETWORKER September 2008

Business of the Month

Cell Air Communications Cell Air is the place to go for all your cell phone needs. We

have more than 25 makes and models of phones as well as accessories for all cell phone carriers. We have a cell phone

technician who can check out your phone if you need service for any carrier: Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint/Nextel. We also in-stall car alarms and remote car starters. Chamber members get a $25 discount on all installations. Cell Air/Verizon Wireless is owned by John Lesniewski, a retired Oak Lawn police officer, and

Linda Weigand. We have been in business for more than 15 years and are now offering ser-vice with the nation’s most reliable network, Verizon. This year, Verizon Wireless once again received the JD Power award for Cus-tomer Satisfaction. We also now offer push-

to-talk capable, rugged, reliable Motorola cell phones. Try it for free today! Call or stop in and we will be happy to analyze your cell phone bill. We offer monthly discounts to thousands of busi-nesses. Let us see what we can do for you. Cell Air is open everyday. We are located at 11238 Southwest Highway, Palos Hills, 60465. Call us at 708-974-1717. We can be found on the Internet at www.cellairpalos.com

Would you like to have your business featured in our newslet-ter? Call or email the Chamber office.

NEW

FEATURE

Chamber to Support Fall on the Green The Chamber once again will participate in this year’s Fall on the Green festival sched-uled for September 5-7 on the Village Green. Stop by our booth located in the parking lot adjacent to our building at 95th and Raymond Ave. to purchase your raffle tickets for a chance to win a gas card good at Spitzer’s Marathon (5500 W. 95th St.) or any Mara-thon gas station nationwide. Visitors also can spin our Chamber wheel for a chance to win one of several other raffle prizes. If you are interested in donating items for the raf-fle, or would like to represent your business by staffing our Chamber booth, please con-tact our office. Volunteers are encouraged to wear shirts and other apparel affiliated with their business.

Calendar of Events

September Luncheon

Hilton Oak Lawn September 9 11:30 a.m.

Paul Kovacs of the IL Tollway Authority will speak about the

I-294 Expansion Project

Fall on the Green 95th St. and Cook Ave.

September 5-7

October Luncheon Stony Creek Golf Course

October 14 11:30 a.m.

Inside this issue:

Message from the President 2 Executive Director Speaks 2 News You Can Use & Legislative Matters 3 Employer News 5 Business to Business Expo information 6 Chamber Bits 7 Networking Oppor-tunities 8

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I’d like to extend a warm welcome to Julie Miller, our new Administrative Assistant. Julie has been a resident of Oak Lawn for more than 20 years and has worked locally assisting many area businesses with their admin-istrative and accounting needs. With Julie joining our office, we have new office hours which are as follow: Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Do you like the new design of The Networker? A special thanks to Carol Madey, Chamber member and So-cial Occasion Specialist for her help in updating the design and layout. Ad sales for the 2009 Membership Directory are complete. Thank you to those members that supported the publication of the book. Anticipated delivery of the book is this December. And thanks to those members who purchased an ad in support of the 30th printing of our Fire & Public Safety Coloring Book. The book will be distributed to children in grades K-4 in October. Thank you to chairperson and Board member, John Crivellone, for his hard work soliciting support.

The summer is almost at an end. School will be starting soon, and our summer events are soon to come to a close with the advent of Fall on the Green. As with last year, the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce will have a booth in the Not-for-Profit area. We’re hoping to pass out all the usual directories and maps, and have a little fun as well with a raffle of some sort. It will involve a wheel. You’ll just have to check it out!

The Chamber was also present at the Village’s “Night Out,” sponsored by the Oak Lawn Police Dept. Thankfully, not as warm as last year, and a friendly turn out. Right now, the Chamber is working with the Village Profile to put together a business directory that we can all be proud of. It will have full color pic-tures, with features on not only Oak Lawn businesses, but on our educational offerings, health care, sites and even maintain a calendar of events. We hope all the businesses in Oak Lawn will want to be a part of this publication. It will go to all Chamber members with copies at the Chamber Offices, in the Library, the Village hall, and available to all who request it. If everything goes as planned, it will be printed and distrib-uted in time for the New Year.

Speaking of which, 2009 will be Oak Lawn’s Centennial. The Chamber and Village will be planning some special events. If anyone has anything particular in mind, please contact the chamber office and give us your ideas!”



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From the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce: Springfield Legislative Roundup The Illinois General Assembly met on August 12 and 13 in Springfield in Special Sessions called by the Gov-ernor ostensibly to deal with education funding and a capital infrastructure program. Neither topic was ad-dressed in a substantive way, nor any significant related legislation considered. Instead, the Illinois Senate met in regular session on August 12 to reject the recommendation of the Illinois Compensation Review Board to increase the salaries of legislators and other state officials (House Joint Resolution 132). While the Senate seemed to bow to mounting constituent pressure to reject the recom-mended 7.5 percent increases, all legislators did re-ceive a more modest cost of living increase July 1. The House had previously rejected the salary increases in May. Meanwhile, in the Illinois House, two bills with guber-natorial amendatory vetoes were considered amid much debate as to whether the Governor had over-stepped his constitutional authority in rewriting them. The discussion also included a suggestion by Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie that acceptance of these amendatory vetoes might give the courts an opportu-nity to decide on their constitutionality. House Bill 5289 was amendatorily vetoed to permit dependent insurance coverage through age 29; and a TIF bill for Downs (House Bill 4201) was changed to include property tax relief for disabled veterans. In the end, both amendatory vetoes were accepted by the House. The Illinois Senate has 15 days to act on these amendatory vetoes. As of this writing, the Sen-ate has not announced plans to return to Springfield. The Illinois House also passed an amendment to Sen-ate Bill 1460 which increases the state general obliga-tion bond authorization as follows: $240,000,000 for roads and bridges statewide for matching federal SAFETEA-LU funding and $120,000,000 for rail and mass transit facilities statewide. For more information, visit the Chicagoland Cham-ber online at www.chicagolandchamber.org

Business to Business Expo

The 3rd annual Business to Business Expo will take place on Tuesday, September 16 at the Tinley Park Convention Center located at I-80 and Harlem Ave. Exhibit booths still are available for busi-nesses interested in participating. The day begins at 8:00 a.m. with a networking breakfast. Don’t miss this chance to meet business professionals from more than 15 area Chambers. Visit our Chamber website at www.oaklawnchamber.com for an application. Or see page 6 of this newsletter for more details.

Can’t reserve a booth? Admission to the Exhibit Floor is free when you present your business card at the door.

Legislative Matters That Matter News You Can Use

Moraine Valley Seeking Employers for Seasonal Job Fair

Retailers and employers who have part-time or temporary seasonal positions to fill can find ideal candidates at Mo-raine Valley Community College’s Seasonal Job Fair. The event will be on Thursday, September 25, from 2 to 5 p.m., in the Moraine Rooms, in the College Center, 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills. Employer check-in is at 1 p.m.

The Seasonal Job Fair is a prime opportunity for employers to review resumes, conduct interviews, and secure the right candidates. Fair attendees will be current Moraine Valley students, graduates, and community members who are job ready.

The registration fee is $65 for a table and lunch for two recruiters. The deadline to register is Friday, September 12. Registration forms can be downloaded from the col-lege’s Web site at www.morainevalley.edu/jpc.

For more information, contact Tamima Farooqui, place-ment specialist in the college’s Job Placement Center, at (708) 974-5313 or [email protected].

4





Great Lakes Bank Ad

To be placed here


5

2008 OFFICERS





Secretary Len Hiznay (Milex Tune-Up & Brake Center)


BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Phil Barry (Saturn of Oak Lawn) Peggy Burke (First American Bank)










ADVISORY BOARD







“Never fear the want of business. A man who qualifies himself well for his calling, never fails of employment.”

Thomas Jefferson

Job Opportunity

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is seeking a full-time Administrative Assistant. The person will report to the Executive Director, but also sup-ports the Program Director and Spe-

cial Events Director. The Assistant is responsible for providing general secretarial support and administra-tive coordination for the Museum, as well as coordi-nating a variety of logistical elements related to special events, external meetings and program reservations. For more information, please contact Adam Woodworth at 708-423-6709 or [email protected]

Job Cook County Board President Todd Stroger’s 18th Annual Operation Access to Employment for Persons with Disabilities

An Employment and Resource Fair

Friday, October 17, 2008 Hilton Oak Lawn

9333 S. Cicero Ave.

Pre-Workshop for Job Seekers begins at 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m.—1:00 p.m. General Job Fair

Meet with employers and community-based or-ganizations, get news ideas for resumes, meet

with job search counselors, learn how to conduct a job search. For more information or special ac-commodations, contact 312-603-0200. TDD 312-

603-020, or visit www.nationalable.org/accessregister.htm

Employer News

7

Did you know…

The Oak Lawn Lions’ Club collects used eyeglasses?

You are welcome to drop your old eye-glasses at the Chamber office or bring them to a

luncheon.

Welcome New Members!

Baja Sol Tortilla Grill (Opening in November)

Mark Wicks 5273-75 W. 95th Street

Oak Lawn, IL 60453 708-305-4956

www.Baja-Sol.com

H & R Johnson Brothers Tom Ollenburger

10024 S. Kedzie Ave Evergreen Park, IL 60805

708-424-7850 www.hrjohnson bros.com

Illinois Center for Urogyynecology

Dawn Swanson 5716 W. 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

708-499-9800 www.IULTD.org

PayChoice

John Ghilardi 15941 S. Harlem

Tinley Park, IL 60477 888-591-5151x317

www.paychoice.com

IL Tollway Authority Chief Engineer to Speak at September Chamber Luncheon

We will gather at the Hilton Oak Lawn on Tuesday, September 9 for our monthly membership luncheon. The cost is $15 per person, payable by cash, check, Visa/MC at the door. Paul Kovacs of the Illinois Toll-way Authority will speak on the plans currently under-way for the I-294 expansion and how it impacts local business. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office.

Extra! Extra!

Got news you’d like included in our monthly newsletter or weekly email blasts? Send it to [email protected] and we’ll do our best to include it. Please note that information for The Net-worker monthly newsletter will be included space per-mitting.

And don’t forget that the Chamber offers mailing la-bels of our membership for purchase to our members. The cost is $50 and pre-printed labels can be picked up at the Chamber office.

Chamber Bits


Congratulations to the winners of our August Raffle Drawing:

$100 Scott Atkins, Oak Lawn Community High School

$50 Frank Mancari, Mancari Chrysler Plymouth Jeep

$25 F.H. Leinweber

$25 Carpet Interiors

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Mission Statement





Join members of the Chicago South-land Chamber of Commerce at

Lifetime Fitness!

Thursday, September 11

5:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m.

16333 S. LaGrange Road

Orland Park

R.S.V.P. to the Chicago Southland Chamber at www.chicagosouthland.com or

call (708) 957-6950.

Upcoming Networking

Opportunities!


Since 1947

THE NETWORKER October 2008

Chamber Participates in Fall on the Green

Thanks to everyone who supported our booth at Fall on the Green September 5-7. We made more than $250 on our Gas Raf-fle, and people visiting our booth were ex-cited to spin our wheel for the chance to win a free raffle ticket. A special thanks to all our volunteers: Jackie Truty, Rita Olsen, Glen Kato, Larry Lehman, Julie Miller, Phil Barry, Ginger Morgan, Mickey Krejczyk and his friend Dolores. Congratulations to the winners of the raffle: Audrey Begeske, Diana Thompson, Karen Miller and Mau-reen Kasper.

Calendar of Events

October Luncheon Tuesday, October 14

Stony Creek Golf Course 11:30 a.m.

Guest Speaker: Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook

County

OLCHS Homecoming Parade

Thursday, October 2 6:00 p.m.

Varsity Football Game Friday, October 3

7:00 p.m.

Health & Wellness Fair Oak Lawn Senior Center Wednesday, October 22

9:00 a.m.

Inside this issue:

Message from the President 2 Executive Director Speaks 2 News You Can Use & Legislative Matters 3 New Chamber Initia-tive 5

Health & Wellness Fair Information 6 Chamber Bits 7 Networking Oppor-tunities 8

Business of the Month The credit union was chartered in 1936 to provide financial ser-vices to employees of Illinois Bell

in the near western suburbs and its first location was in the district office in Cicero. Since then, the credit union has expanded its charter to include people living or working in eight suburbs including Oak Lawn and approximately fifty small companies. The credit union is governed by a volunteer board of direc-tors elected by its membership. The credit union maintains two full-service lo-cations in Oak Lawn and Westchester and offers a complete line of financial ser-vices. For more information, please visit our website at www.bwccu.org or call us at 708-449-4800. Our Oak Lawn office is located at 9930 Southwest High-way.

Want your business featured in our newsletter? Call or email the Chamber office.

2

It’s October and the temperature is dropping, so grab a cup o’ joe to enjoy while you read this month’s Chamber happenings. We’ve got some exciting things just around the corner, like the publication of our first-ever Check Awards Chamber gift check book. (See page 5 for more details). We’ve also got the Oak Lawn Community High School Homecoming Parade on October 2. Our very own John Crivellone will serve as Grand Marshal this year. Check out the Spartans as they march down 95th. And thank you to the Hawk Ford and Mancari Chrysler Jeep for providing the cars for the parade. We’ll gather at Stony Creek golf course for our October luncheon. Our guest speaker will be Dorothy Brown, the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Don’t miss out! Call the office with your R.S.V.P. today. October is Fire Safety Month. The 30th edition of the Fire & Public Safety Coloring book will be distributed to school children in grades K-4 during Fire Safety Week. If you have a child in these grades, encourage them to send in their drawing for a chance to be featured on the cover of next year’s coloring book. A special thanks to students at Oak Lawn Community High School for providing the safety illustrations for the children to color. Lastly, for those of you that may not be aware, last month Dr. Floyd Woods passed away. Dr. Woods was an oph-thalmologist in Oak Lawn and a longtime Chamber member who once was recognized as the Chamber’s “Man of the Year.” Our sympathies go out to the family of Dr. Woods.

One of the more important issues to rise to the fore in Oak Lawn lately is the active attempt by the Village and Chamber to reestablish street parking in the downtown section of Oak Lawn. I must admit, I wasn’t involved during the previous resurfacing project, during which the parking on the active section of 95th St. was removed. I only know that I suddenly couldn’t park in front of the establishments I used to, and finding parking behind the buildings wasn’t easy. I really don’t know why the parking was taken away in the first place. I didn’t question it, thinking that more savvy, and more village-wise minds than I must know something I didn’t.

Well, it’s 2008, and I’m still trying to figure out why the parking was taken away. Did removing the parking make the streets look less cluttered? Probably. Do they make 95th St. more visibly appealing? Perhaps—but only if you’re driv-ing through Oak Lawn, and not trying to stop there. If you’re trying to shop in downtown Oak Lawn, you don’t much care how nice the curbs are, only that the parking’s darned difficult to find. And, if you’re the Chamber of Com-merce, and concerned about the businesses in Oak Lawn and trying to help them stay viable, you see all that nice, pristine street space as unfulfilled potential business: shoppers being dissuaded from shopping by virtue of their inabil-ity to park their cars. Do not Stop. Do not collect $50. Keep right on going. Not a good message to send if you’re a business owner on 95th St. The petition is still circulating. You don’t have to be a business owner to sign. You don’t even have to live in Oak Lawn. You just have to support the idea that being able to park in front of or near businesses in Oak Lawn is a good idea. We’re vying for State Funds, such as they are, and we want our fair share to improve the convenience of shop-pers in Oak Lawn. Therefore, the petition is important. You can call the Oak Lawn Village Hall or the Chamber of Commerce to find out how you can get involved with the petition drive, or just to sign it yourself (don’t forget your spouse and relatives!)



3

Legislative Matters That Matter News You Can Use

Moraine Valley to Host a Breakfast with Legislators

Moraine Valley will host a breakfast with legislators on Friday, October 24. Participating Senators include Jacqueline Collins, Maggie Crotty, Emil Jones, Edward Maloney, Christine Radogno and Louis Viverito. Par-ticipating representatives include Jim Brosnahan, Jim Durkin, Mary Flowers, Kevin Joyce, Renee Kosel, Mi-chael Madigan, Kevin McCarthy, Robert Rita. The breakfast will take place at Moraine Valley, Build-ing C in the 2nd floor Moraine Rooms. The session begins with networking at 7:30 a.m., followed by a buffet breakfast at 7:45 a.m. and the legislator com-ments and Q&A at 8:15 a.m. Call (708) 974-5714 to obtain a reservation form. The cost to attend is $25

From the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce... County Board Rushes Approval of Assessor’s

Scheme in the Name of “Clarity and Simplicity” Despite Chamber Warnings of Tax Hikes

Late Wednesday afternoon, the Cook County Board ap-proved Assessor Houlihan’s ordinance to change the Property Tax Classification Ordinance from six assess-ment levels to two – 10% for residential property (from 16%) and 25% for commercial and industrial property (from 38% and 36% respectively) While it may sound like a good idea that will lower taxes, the Chicagoland Cham-ber opposed the measure because experts predict it will result in a shift of property taxes from residential to com-mercial taxpayers. The Board approved the measure de-spite the fact that President Stroger’s Task Force charged with analyzing the proposal has not completed its work. The Assessor said the measure must be adopted now so the new assessment levels can be incorporated in the City of Chicago 2009 triennial reassessment. The Chamber was appointed by President Stroger to par-ticipate in the Property Tax Classification Ordinance Task Force to review the ordinance that the Assessor says will provide more clarity, simplicity and uniformity to the as-sessment process and to allow homeowners to more eas-ily determine their fair market value and resulting assess-ment. The Assessor maintains that reducing the assess-ment levels and adjusting the estimated property value to more truly reflect the actual market value will not change a property’s taxes bill. However, given the actual, or de facto, levels of assessment for commercial and industrial property, we believe that an increase in commercial and industrial taxes is likely to occur. Illinois Department of Revenue studies indicate that the de facto assessment level for residential property in Cook County is 10%, so this proposal is unlikely to change resi-dential taxes. However, studies on commercial and in-dustrial property indicate a de facto assessment level closer to 20%. Therefore, changing the ordinance level to 25% could result in a tax increase for commercial and industrial property. In addition, we believe the lower as-sessment levels may further increase the state multiplier, resulting in higher taxes for all taxpayers. While the As-sessor’s Office disagrees that a tax shift will occur, the Task Force has not made that determination due, in part, to a lack of data or evidence to back up that asser-tion. We will continue to seek release of the Assessor’s data. In the meantime, the County Board chose to roll the dice and gamble that this change will not increase taxes on businesses and homeowners alike.

The Cook County Office of the Purchasing Agent will host the first-ever Cook County Business Op-portunity Expo on Wednesday, October 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.)

The Expo will serve as a platform for businesses to meet with representatives of numerous Cook County departments and discuss their services and procurement needs. There is no fee to attend. Free workshops will be held throughout the day. To register for this event visit www.cookcountygov.com. The information can be found under the “Features” section.

4





Great Lakes Bank Ad

To be placed here


5

2008 OFFICERS






BOARD OF DIRECTORS











ADVISORY BOARD







The Chamber is launching an ex-citing new marketing initiative to encourage Chamber members, business owners and residents to patronize local businesses. The Chamber is collaborating with Check Awards™ to produce and distribute gift check books. These books contain 29 valuable coupons – or gift checks – redeemable at a variety of local businesses, including restaurants, clothing shops, automotive dealers and more. Check Awards al-ready has launched successful programs with Chambers in Naperville and Oswego, and now we are the first Chamber in our area to partner with the company. Each book will contain approximately $1,000 in valuable coupons for Oak Lawn businesses – imagine those savings! Once the books are published in mid-November, they’ll be for sale to the general public, but you can reserve your books now. Once you pay for and receive your books, you may distribute them however you choose. Keep them for yourself, sell them at your place of business to encourage others to spend their dollars locally, or give them as a gift. Don’t forget, the holidays will be here very soon. Why not reward your employees with a gift of a Check Award book? They also make great stocking-stuffers! Only 500 books total will be made available for sale, so be sure to reserve yours early. Are you excited yet? We hope so! With your par-ticipation we can reinforce how important it is to “Shop Oak Lawn!” Remember, we only have 500 books available, so place your order now so you don’t miss out! Call the Cham-ber office for more information.

New Chamber Initiative

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During the September luncheon we welcomed the new Chamber members pictured below. From left to right are Debra Opitz of Ammo Design, Bill Stock-hausen of Oak Lawn Firestone, Monica Peterson and Brian Magnabosco of Evergreen Healthcare Center, and Shari Wyatt and Mark Wicks of Baja Sol Tortilla Grill.

Ammo Design, Ltd, Debra Optiz

9345 S. Menard Oak Lawn, Il 60453

www.ammodesign.com

Evergreen Health Care Center Monica Peterson/Brian Magnabosco

10124 S. Kedzie Ave. Evergreen Park, IL 60805

Oak Lawn Firestone

Bill Stockhausen 10327 S. Cicero Ave Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Denny’ Restaurant

Jesus Aguirre (not pictured) 9217 S. Cicero

Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy Brown to Speak at October Chamber Luncheon

We will gather at Stony Creek on Tuesday, October 14 for our monthly membership luncheon. The cost is $15 per person, payable by cash, check, Visa/MC at the door. Our guest speaker will be Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Cook County Circuit Court. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office.

Health & Wellness Fair

We will host our second Health and Wellness Fair of the year on Wednesday, October 22 from 9:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m. in the Oak Lawn Senior Center. The cost per 8-foot table and 2 chairs is $25.00. Please see page 6 in this newsletter for a reservation form.

Chamber Member to Serve as Grand Marshal of Oak Lawn Community High School Homecoming Parade

We are pleased to share that Chamber Director, John Crivellone, will serve as the Grand Marshal of the Homecoming Parade. John is a long-time Chamber member and each year serves as chairperson of the Fire & Public Safety Coloring Book. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the publication. We appreciate John’s continued efforts and congratulate him on his role as Grand Marshal. Come cheer on John and the Spartans at the Parade on Thursday, October 2. The parade kicks off at 6:00 p.m from 95th and Raymond Ave. and pro-ceeds west to the high school. A pep rally will follow.

On Friday, October 3 at 7:00p.m. the OLCHS Spartans will take on Argo Community High School in the Varsity football game. Come on out and enjoy a fun time sup-porting our local athletes.

Chamber Bits


Congratulations to the winners of our September Drawing:

$100 Oak Lawn Montessori

$50 F.H. Leinweber

$25 Helen Makina, Allegra Print & Imaging

$25 Rick Luemen, Coldwell Banker

New Members

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Mission Statement





November 13, 2008

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony ChiroOne Wellness Center of Oak Lawn

5116 W. 95th Street

December 3, 2008 Business After Hours Fannie May Candies

95th & Ridgeland Ave.

December 17, 2008 Business After Hours

Archer Bank 5400 W. 95th Street

Save the Date for these Oak Lawn Chamber Networking

Opportunities!


Since 1947

THE NETWORKER November 2008

Chamber Cheers on Spartans! OLCHS Celebrates Homecoming

Friends, family and the community joined the spirit of the students in support of the 2008 Oak Lawn Community High School Homecoming Parade held on Thursday, Oc-tober 2. The theme of Homecoming was “Spartans Under the Sea.” The parade stepped off from 95th & Raymond and pro-ceeded to the OLCHS. A special thanks to Hawk Ford and Mancari Chrysler Plymouth Jeep for donating converti-bles and to Bank Financial and for donating cash prizes awarded to winners of the float contest (see list below). Thanks also to the Chamber members who served as drivers: Leo Gutchewsky and Glen Kato. Best Walking Float—Ecology Club; Best Use of Theme—Nat’l Art Honor Society; Best Vehicle—Dance Team and Most Spirited Group—Senior Class.

Calendar of Events

November Luncheon Tuesday, November 11 Doubletree Hotel Alsip

5000 W. 127th St. 11:30 a.m.

Ribbon-Cutting

Ceremony November 13, 2008

ChiroOne Wellness Center of Oak Lawn

5116 W. 95th Street

Santa on the Village Green

November 29, 2008 3:00 p.m.—5:00 p.m. 94th and Cook Ave.

Inside this issue:

Message from the President 2 Executive Director Speaks 2 News You Can Use & Legislative Matters 3 Check Award Gift Check Books 5

2009 Board of Direc-tors Slate 5 New Members & Chamber Bits 7 Networking Oppor-tunities 8

Business of the Month Drs. Van Lente & Leahy and Associates, located at 4445 W. 95th Street (corner of 95th & Kilbourn), has been in business for over 60 years. We opened our present location 12 years ago to meet our growing practice. During these years, optometry has made many significant advancements as a profession. Our office has remained on the cutting edge with state of the art equipment to diag-nose and treat eye diseases. Visit our office for the latest in contact lenses and the most current frame styles. We carry many designer frames and have a large selection of sunglasses. We accept most vision insurance as well as Medicare and BCBS. Call our office at 425-6500 for more information or visit our newly designed website: www.eyecrew.com. Want your business featured in our newsletter? Call or email the Chamber office.

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People always ask me, “What will Chamber membership get me?” or “What will the Chamber do for me.” My initial response is, “What can we do together?” As a whole, we can do so much more! If we all work together and empower each other, the burden is lighter, the results are greater. Empowerment is about making a lasting difference, and who among us does not want to be part of such a great ef-fort? Much of what we do as a Chamber is about empowerment. Chamber membership provides the opportunity to connect and network with more than 300 business owners and/or managers. These are people who, like you, have dreams and visions for their business. Now imagine the possibilities if each one of us served as cheerleaders for each other and our dreams and visions? Even in these tough economic times it would make a lasting difference in our community. This past week I learned of three Chamber success stories which I think serve as examples of Chamber members working to empower each other. • When Jackie Truty of Art Clay World needed sleeping accommodations for business associates who were in

town for a workshop, she contacted Bob and Rita Olsen of the Gateway Motel, who made the arrangements. • Christy Hernandez of Archer bank recently connected with Mike Riordan, superintendent of the Oak Lawn

Community High School. A discussion about hosting a student seminar on savings and banking led to Archer bank creating a checking account program designed specifically for students at OLCHS.

• The Oak Lawn Park District’s Stony Creek Golf Complex contacted the Chamber to ask for assistance in creat-

ing a “Preferred Vendor” list that they will provide to people interested in booking wedding and banquets. The list will include florists, limousine companies, tuxedo rentals and feature Chamber members first.

If we all work together, the burden is lighter, the results are greater. By empowering others to realize their vision, everyone benefits. We can build a strong economy and community in Oak Lawn and make a lasting difference. Get on board and let’s see where it takes us.

Budgets....ah, the time that businesses look at what income they anticipated, what income they actually made and what they think will happen next year. Would anybody rather tackle their budget than get a stick in the eye? Especially a non-profit Chamber of Commerce? We don’t have a tangible product to sell, our income depends on voluntary membership and events, and we’re in the middle of a recession/downturn in the economy. All that aside, I think the Budget Committee and Executive Board did an amazing job, looking at

events, expenditures, and how we can be more effective and efficient. I can’t say anything more specific before the Board of Directors approves the budget at the November Business Meeting, but I do think that we succeeded in ad-dressing some issues on how to keep events fresh, at the same time inviting new businesses in and helping current members keep and increase their business. The Chamber has already taken steps to make its budget more easily understood and visualized by breaking down many of the accounts into subcatagories. The Board of Directors also has approved its slate of Officers for next year, and we have many new Directors joining us, as well as the return of familiar faces. As you enjoy the remainder of your Fall, pumpkin season and Halloween, try to remember that in order for all of our businesses to succeed in these difficult times, we need to make them more visible, bring in new customers and attempt to keep the customers we have. That’s what the Chamber of Commerce is all about. Support your Cham-ber. It’s good for your business.



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Legislative Matters That Matter

On the Nov. 4th ballot you will be asked if you are in favor or oppose a Constitutional Convention (Con Con). This decision is presented to the voters every 20 years, so either way you will be making a decision on an issue that will impact on how Illinois operates for years to come.

If the ballot measure passes, the state legislature will be required to call and fund a new constitutional con-vention. Two delegates from each state senatorial dis-trict – 116 delegates in total – will be elected to re-view the present state constitution and propose any changes they deem necessary in how the state is run. Any citizen may run as a delegate from his or her dis-trict. The recommendations of the constitutional con-vention will then be either accepted or rejected by the voters of Illinois. Some say holding a constitutional convention will be a dangerous move and too expen-sive, others say it's time for the citizens to effect change. What will you decide?

Currently, the public remains largely unmoved – for now. Recent polling by proponents of the Con Con reportedly shows the public divides roughly in thirds between support for Con Con, opposition and unde-cided. Some reports of this poll suggested that pro-ponents were within striking distance of the 60% threshold necessary for passage. However, the higher support levels were achieved only after several “push” questions had been asked.

Although the decision whether to vote “yes” is yours alone, the Illinois Chamber is urging every business that can to contact APIC at www.protectillinoisconstitution.org. APIC is ramping up its activities against the Con Con. It has reportedly raised more than $1.5 million and is getting ready to launch both a downstate radio program and Chicago area television.

While the Con Con has yet to catch fire, several events could ignite a surge of support: Governor Blagojevich’s stunning unpopularity; legislative gridlock, anger at property tax increases, the overwhelming sentiment of Illinois as an “wrong track” state. But

here are the APIC’s top five reasons to oppose the Constitutional Convention:

Initiative and Referendum – Would allow voters to legislate at the ballot box by passing laws di-rectly. The California initiative system cost employ-ers millions of dollars each cycle to ward off dramati-cally anti-business proposals.

Cont’d

The Flat Tax – Illinois ’ flat tax is one of the few protections taxpayers, especially business taxpayers, have to hold onto their money. Proponents of a graduated tax are already aggressive in the legisla-ture. They are sure to target the Convention heavily.

8:5 Ratio – Corporations also enjoy tax protection from the current 8:5 ratio in the Constitution. The Constitution requires all income tax rates to vary no more than 8:5 between corporations and individu-als. The ratio prevents legislators from hiking corpo-rate rates without also raising individual rates.

Single Issue Agendas – Did you know the Illinois Constitution already has a clean environment arti-cle? Employers face single issue agendas like health care and global warming enshrined in a new Constitu-tion.

Cost – Does Illinois really have an extra $100 million to spend on a Convention? This figure does not in-clude millions of dollars business would need to spend to elect delegates, lobby the Convention and then weigh in on the final statewide approval vote.

For more information on the Con Con and other state leg-islative matters, contact the Illinois Chamber Government Affiairs Division at (312) 983-7100 or visit www.ilchamber.org

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2008 OFFICERS






BOARD OF DIRECTORS











ADVISORY BOARD







Are you ready? The Chamber’s new Check Awards™ gift check books are due to arrive in the coming weeks. Each book (which resembles a check book) will contain 29 valuable coupons – or gift checks – re-deemable at a variety of local businesses, including restaurants, clothing shops, automotive dealers and more. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the retailers participating in this inaugural book:

Archer Bank Annie’s, Ltd.

Oak Lawn Ice Arena Papa Joe’s SportClips

The 95th Street Grille (in the Hilton Oak Lawn) Touch of Sun Tanning

The books are available for $30 each, providing you with more than $700 in savings in each book! Only 500 books total will be made available for sale! Want to reserve yours now? Complete the order form in this newsletter and return it to the Chamber office. We’ll contact you when your books arrive. You may distribute them however you choose. Keep them for yourself, sell them at your place of business to encourage others to spend their dollars locally, or give them as a gift. And don’t forget, the holidays will be here very soon. Why not reward your employees with a gift of a Check Award book? They also make great stocking-stuffers!

Check Awards Gift Check Books


Congratulations to the winners of our September Drawing:

$100 Robert Kuenster

$50 Spitfire Automotive

$25 Jan Bochinski

$25 F.H. Leinweber

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2009 CHAMBER SLATE OF OFFICERS & DIRECTORS

Below please find the official ballot for the 2009-2010 Board of Directors. Please cast your vote. If there are additional nominations, please fill the name(s) in the space provided. Be sure to sign and print your name and fax this form to the Chamber office no later than December 1. (Ballots received after that date will not be valid.) Thank you for your cooperation!

President Glen Kato (Hortus Web Design & Marketing)

1st Vice President Rita Olsen (Gateway Motel)

Treasurer Christy Hernandez (Archer Bank)

Secretary John Crivellone (Illinois Security Services)

Immediate Past President Jackie Truty (Art Clay World)

Directors: Term Expiring 12/31/09 Linda Atkins

(Oak Lawn Public Library) Phil Barry

(Saturn of Oak Lawn) Peggy Burke

(First American Bank) Larry Deetjen

(Village of Oak Lawn) Greg Foertsch

(Harold L. Richard H.S.) Donna Herpich

(Great Lakes Metals) Rick Luemen

(Coldwell Banker) Geno Mondello

(Geno’s Decorating) Ginger Morgan

(Thompson & Kuenster F.H.). Beth Purcell

(Advocate Christ/Hope Children’s Hospital) Patricia Stasik

(Oak Lawn Park District)

Term Expiring 12/31/10 Karen Boll (Hawk Ford)

Dr. Sandra Bury (Complete Vision Care)

Tom Cusack (Cusack Insurance Agency)

Dr. David Finkelstein (Oak Lawn Foot & Ankle)

Carrie Horin (Founders Bank) Don Murphy

(American Family Insurance) Patti Johnson

(Standard Bank & Trust) Tom Orlowski

(Men’s Wearhouse) Michael Riordan

(Oak Lawn Community High School) Marks Wicks

(Baja-Sol Tortilla Grill) Adam Woodworth

(Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn)

Additional Candidates: _____________________________________________________________

VOTING MEMBER & COMPANY NAME: _______________________________________________

SIGNATURE: ____________________________________________________________________

Please fax to the Chamber office (708) 229-2236.

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Advance Vein Treatment Cathy Heinberg 3900 W. 95th St.

Evergreen Park, IL 60805 (708) 424-8346

www.advancedtreatmentcenter.com

Clear Direction, LLC (Consulting & Marketing)

Denise Stillman 10621 S. Tripp Ave. Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 638-8891 www.mycleardirections.com

Chicago Parent Magazine

Walter Burden 141 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302

(708 386-5555 www.chicagoparent.com

Excellent Care, Inc.

(Caregiving Services) Maria Natanawan

16513 Pawpaw Ave. Orland Park, IL 60467

(708) 257-3659 www.excellentcareinc.com

Frank Zapolis - State Farm Insurance

Bryan Kovach 5360 W. 95th Street Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 424-8654 www.statefarm.com

Kelly Services

(Staffing) Ryan Zastro

10320 S. Cicero Ave. Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 425-3559 www.kellyservices.com

Installation Dinner Committee meeting

We will hold our first meeting to plan for the 2009 Installation Banquet dinner on Monday, November 3 at 9:30 a.m. in the Chamber office. The commit-tee is open to anyone looking to become involved, so please come and share your ideas.

November Chamber Luncheon

Join us for our November 11 membership luncheon at the Doubletree Hotel Alsip. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch at noon. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office.

Holiday Parade

The Village will host its annual holiday parade and Santa on the Village Green festival on Saturday, No-vember 29 from 3:00 p.m.—5:00 p.m. The Chamber again will sponsor free horse-drawn carriage rides during the festival. We’ll also be selling our new Oak Lawn Gift Check books. Stock up on your holi-day gifts for co-workers, friends and family.

Chamber Bits

New Members

Serendipity

(Children’s Clothing Resale) Tracie Baldino or Beckie Deir


(708) 424-1610

Studio 21 Salon & Spa Barb Harmison


(708) 425-0000 www.studio21salons.com

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Mission Statement






Fannie May Candies 95th & Ridgeland Ave.

December 9, 2008

Chamber Holiday Luncheon Hilton Oak Lawn

9333 S. Cicero Ave.



Save the Date for these Oak Lawn Chamber

Holiday Networking Opportunities!


Since 1947

THE NETWORKER December 2008

Chamber Helps Promote Health & Wellness We held our second Health and

Wellness Fair of the year on

Wednesday, October 22 at the Oak

Lawn Senior Center. Thanks to the

many businesses that participated

including Advocate Christ Medical

Center (which offered flu shots)

Cardinal Fitness, ChiroOne

Wellness Center, Oak Lawn

Foot & Ankle Center, Joon

Lee’s Martial Arts, Jason’s Deli,

Southwest Center for Healthy

Joints, and more.

Calendar of Events

December Luncheon Tuesday, December 9

Hilton Oak Lawn 9333 S. Cicero Ave.

11:30 a.m.

Business After Hours Wednesday, December 3

Fannie May Candies 107th & Cicero Ave.

5:00 p.m.

Business After Hours Wednesday, December 17


5:00 p.m.

Inside this issue:

Message from the President 2 Executive Director Speaks 2 Check Award Gift Checkbooks 3 News You can Use 5 Legislative Matters 6 New Members & Chamber Bits 7 Networking Oppor-tunities 8

Business of the Month Augle Studios “Let us be a part of your memories” 1400 weddings later, Steve Augle preserves a strong passion for the art and a creative flair for photojournalism that’s 23 years in the making. Augle Stu-

dios will expand on the business and artistic value encompassing photography to accom-modate the community of Oak Lawn. It doesn’t stop at weddings; Augle Studios is excited to offer new services that include family portraits, modeling, and commercial photography. In addition to high-end digital shooting, we offer state-of-the-art video services. Our prices are second to none and represent the timeless quality we hold so dear in creating ever-lasting memories. Oak Lawn is a great community enriched by family values and traditions we are honored to be part of. With great pride, we announce the grand opening of Augle Studios located at 9830 S. Cicero Ave. To schedule your special event today, call us at 708-522-2480 or 708-907-5030. You may also contact us via e-mail at [email protected]. To view a sample of my works, visit www.backprint.com/augle. We look forward to serving the community and working to provide the best services at the highest level for your special occasion.

Want your business featured in our newsletter? Call or email the chamber office.

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Another year is nearly over. Where has the time gone? Where has the economy gone? (Insert your own obvious comment here.) Looking back over the past year, it’s been a tumultuous one with regards to the financial landscape. Who knows what 2009 holds in store. What I do know is that we, as Chamber members and residents, can continue to support our economy by patronizing local merchants. I may sound like a broken record, but truly, it is our economy that is broken. But there are many simple things we can do to stay strong here in Oak Lawn. The holidays are approaching, so skip the drive down-town to shop the Magnificent Mile department stores and take a closer look at what we have to offer here in Oak Lawn. Retailers and restaurants – we have it all. And if you walk into a business and aren’t quite sure what that one person on your list might like, then let them decide themselves when you surprise them with a gift certificate. We as a Chamber are seeking new ways to entice people to keep their dollars in town. In the past few is-sues of the newsletter I’ve included information on our Check Awards gift checkbook program that we’ve launched. The books contain 29 coupons to local merchants such as Annie’s, Ltd., Studio 21 Salon & Spa, SportClips, Papa Joe’s, Tuzik’s Bakery, and more. With the purchase of a $30 book you’re getting more than $600 of valuable discounts at businesses right here in town. We’ve already had a large number of requests for the books. They make an excellent gift for family, friends or co-workers. Check out our web-site or call our office to obtain an order form. Let’s make it everybody’s business to keep your business in business. Safe, warm, healthy and Happy Holi-day wishes to you and yours! See you in 2009.

This being my last “president’s message,” it’s traditional to reflect over the past year and a half (I actually stepped into the President’s position in April, 2007). My Executive Board and I had wanted to try new ways of reaching businesses in Oak Lawn. We wanted to be more public, and take a more active role, trying to lure businesses to the Chamber by showing them what they could expect from us. With the advent of the Sidewalk Sale and Shop Oak Lawn, I think we succeeded. But there were difficult times as well. When Jen-

nifer went on maternity leave, it left a void in the office that resulted in our Executive Assistant leaving, and a virtual standstill of any forward motion. It’s exciting to see our incoming President, Glen Kato, formulat-ing his own plans and creating his own direction for the future of the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce.

What’s the one thing I learned in my time as President? It’s not easy to balance your daily workload with the amount of time needed to attend to Chamber issues and events. And, it’s much harder than it looks to implement change. Change is frightening, change is intimidating, and change is absolutely essential to the survival of any volunteer group. Change must keep pace with the world around us, and if we continue to be resistant to change, our volunteer groups will suffer. We’ve made some positive changes in the past year and a half, and I’m very proud to have been a part of them. The Oak Lawn Chamber offices have been revamped and updated, we’ve added financial software to more accurately and easily record and track our funds, and we’ve begun to be more in the public eye. Had I hoped to do more? Of course, but I’m also very pleased with what was accomplished. I’m looking forward to passing the gavel to Glen, and seeing what he and the new Executive Board will accomplish in 2009.



3


2009 CheckAwards™ Gift Books

Participating Merchants:

Annie’s, Ltd.

Archer Bank

Art Clay World

Augle Ppotography Studios

Avenue Florist

Baja Sol Tortilla Grill

Beggars Pizza

Chez Paul Limousine

Coldstone Creamery

Deja Brew

Heaven Sent

Huck Finn Donuts

Les Bros. Restaurant

Liberty Tax Service

Nancy J. Koss Salon

Oak Lawn Car Wash

Oak Lawn Park Dist. Pools

Oak Lawn Ice Arena

Papa Joe’s

Serendipity

SportClips

Studio 21 Salon & Spa

The BookEnds Cafe

The 95th Street Grille

The Children’s Museum

Top Notch Beefburgers

Touch of Sun Tanning

Tuzik’s Bakery

Vino Tinto Wine Bar

Shop Oak Lawn!

$30.00 each This incredible collection of gift checks is valued at more than $600. Present one for a monetary discount applied to your purchase when shopping or dining at any of the participating

Oak Lawn businesses.

Gift Checkbooks are an easy and convenient holiday gift idea for friends, family employees and

valued supporters of Oak Lawn businesses. They also make great stocking-stuffers!

Purchase gift checkbooks at the Chamber of Commerce

Office, 5314 W. 95th Street.

We accept cash, checks, Visa/Mastercard/Discover.

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Great Lakes Bank Ad

To be placed here


5

2008 OFFICERS






BOARD OF DIRECTORS











ADVISORY BOARD







New Employment Eligibility Document

Acceptable for I-9 A new type of identification is now accept-able for employers to fulfill the I-9 docu-ment completed by new hires. The new US Passport Card may be used as a “List A” document that proves both identity and work authorization. This card may also be accepted by employers participating in the E-Verify program. The new card provides a less expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book, and will expedite document processing at United States land and sea ports-of-entry for US citizens travel-ing to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Ber-muda. The new card may not be used for international air travel. For more information: www.uscis.gov or call US Citizenship and Immigration Services at 800-375-5283.

Chicago Southland Annual Holiday Sports Luncheon

The Chicago Southland Chamber of Com-merce Annual Holiday Sports Luncheon, sponsored by the Chicago Fire, will take place on Tuesday, December 9 at the Odyssey Country Club (19110 S. Ridgeland Ave, Tinley Park) The event begins at 10:30 a.m. The fea-tured speaker is Hub Arkush, voice of the Chicago Bears on WSCR Radio 670. Tickets cost $40 per person. For more information or to make a reservation, contact the Chicago Southland Chamber at (708) 957-6950.

2009 Village of Oak Lawn Centennial Calendar

The Oak Lawn Community Library Foundation is now offering a commemorative 2009 calendar celebrating the Village of Oak Lawn’s 100th anniversary with more than 70 historic photographs from the library’s Local History archives. This colorful spiral-bound piece is printed on heavy cardstock that opens to 10” x 16”. Each month highlights a different aspect of Village history. The cost is $12 per calendar. Copies are available for purchase at the Reception Booth. It’s the perfect holiday gift! For more information, call 708-422-4990.

News You Can Use

6

Legislative Matters That Matter

Senate Pursues Costly Renewable Energy Stan-dards The Senate returned to town on Wednesday to dust off several issues left over from the spring and summer sessions. One of those issues includes a bill that threatens to impose higher utility rates for businesses and consumers that purchase their electric-ity through competitive retail electricity suppliers. SB 1987, as amended, passed the House in mid-July, but has lie dormant in the Senate until this week when the bill was pushed before the Senate Environment and Energy Committee. The Chamber opposes SB 1987 creating the Clean Coal Portfolio Standard Act. The bill, as amended, attempts to clear the way for the Nebraska-based Tenaska to construct a new clean coal power plant in Taylorville, but the legislation also imposes a costly mandate on the unregulated market to procure at least 5% of their power by 2015 from a power plan that utilizes renewable energy sources. The legislation will mean higher energy costs for businesses regardless of whether the new Tenaska power plant is constructed or not. The Chamber and other opponents of the legislation have re-peatedly asked Senate and House sponsors to limit the legislation to a feasibility study for the plant to allow more time for stake-holders to sort through critical questions surrounding financing, rates, and regulatory issues. Although the legislation moved through the House with relative ease, passing by a vote of 86-5-0, these unanswered questions bogged down the legislation in the Senate and legislators were forced to hold the concurrence motion in committee until next week. Minimum Wage Increase for Teens Resurfaces The Senate also resurrected another Chamber-opposed measure providing a minimum wage increase for teen workers. HB 5141 provides minimum wage parity for teenage employees by elimi-nating the provision in the state’s current minimum wage law that allows employers to pay teenagers under the age of 18 fifty cents less than adult employees earn. The bill was unable to muster enough votes for passage at the end of the spring session, but the Senate sponsor, Senator Lightford, made another push to move the bill this week. Although the bill did not receive a com-mittee vote this week, HB 5141 could re-emerge when senators return next week. Chamber Pursues Ethics Compliance Clean-Up For the past several months, the Chamber has been heading up a work group to address critical clean-up provisions to the state’s new pay-to-play law. HB 824, now P.A. 95-971, prohibits cam-paign contributions from state contractors while requiring busi-nesses with state contracts or bids for state contracts to submit to onerous reporting requirements under a new registration process with the State Board of Elections set to begin early next year.

In an effort to address problematic compliance issues, such as the small turnaround time allowed for reporting changes to registration information, the Chamber worked closely with the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform and the State Board of Elections to draft language that will fix these prob-lems. Due to the short time frame of the fall veto session, however, pursuing the proposed trailer bill will prove difficult. The Chamber has since talked to key legislators who appear open to pursuing a six-month delay in the implementation of the new registration requirements in order to afford more time for the pursuit of these critical changes during the spring session. State’s Fiscal Health Weakens The Department of Revenue recently released new projec-tions for the state’s revenue sources that place estimates nearly $1 billion below what was expected for FY 2009. The news does not bode well for efforts to restore some of the $1.4 billion the governor previously carved out of the FY 2009 budget. Legislators sent the governor SB 1103 in late Septem-ber seeking restorations for various health and human ser-vices-related programs, as well as money to keep historic sites and state parks open. The governor has not yet signed that legislation despite having approved a bill to sweep over $220 million from dedicated state funds. The state’s financial situation was further soured this week by a letter sent by the Comptroller to the governor and legisla-tors warning that the state’s pile of unpaid bills is fast-approaching $4 billion. Nearly half of that amount represents unpaid Medicaid bills. The Comptroller’s analysis of the state’s amassing debt also warns that unpaid bills could easily reach the $5 billion mark by next spring if nothing is done to correct the situation. The state’s fiscal outlook has also taken several other hits in recent weeks with an earlier U.S. Department of Justice opin-ion questioning the legality of state lottery privatization. The Department’s ruling that states must maintain full control over their lotteries all but kills the governor’s hope to lease 80% of the Illinois Lottery in order to generate $10 billion for a new capital bill. The weak stock market has also taken a toll on the state’s already shaky pension system. The Commission on Govern-ment Forecasting and Accountability is expected to publish a new certified contribution schedule for FY 2010 next month, which could show the state owing the system much more than originally anticipated due to the plummeting investment re-turns.\ For more information on these and other legislative updates, please visit www.ilchamber.org

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We welcomed 10 new mem-

bers at our No-vember lunch-eon! Pictured here (from l-r) are representa-tives from Clear

Directions, Southwest Cen-ter for Healthy Joints, Serendipity, Heaven Sent and Augle Photography.

Welcome new members!

AAA Chicago Motor Club Fannie Brown


(708) 229-8470 ext.158 www.aaa.com

Augle Studios

Steve Augle 9830 S. Cicero Ave. Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 522-2480 www.backprint.com/augle

BullsEye Telecom

Adam Ekstam 300 Wacker Dr., Ste. 2300

Chicago, IL 60606 (888) 268-1213

www.bullseyetelecom.com

Heaven Sent Specialties Anne Marie Haugh 9519 S. Cicero Ave. Oak Lawn, IL 60453

(708) 422-7739

Oak Lawn Baseball Gary Gudino P.O. Box 341

Oak Lawn, IL 60454 (312) 718-4324

www.oaklawnbaseball.com

United Trust Bank Leon Mesho

8028 S. Harlem Ave. Bridgeview, IL 60455

(708) 728-9900

Installation Dinner Committee meeting

We will hold its next committee meeting on De-cember 1st at 9:30 a.m. in the Chamber office. The committee is open to anyone looking to become involved, so please come and share your ideas.

December Chamber Luncheon

Join us for our December 9 holiday membership luncheon at the Hilton Oak Lawn. We will wel-come the OLCHS Chamber singers who will enter-tain us with holiday carols. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch at noon. Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber office. Don’t forget to bring extra money so you can pick up Check Awards gift checkbooks as holiday gifts!

2009 Luncheon Fees

To accommodate rising costs, beginning in February 2009, the cost of our monthly membership lunch-eons will increase to $20 per member. Please make a note.

2009 Chamber Newsletter

In an effort to reduce costs, beginning in January The Networker will be produced and mailed every other month for a total of six times a year, versus 12. If you have news you’d like considered for in-clusion in our newsletter, please note that the dead-line is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Chamber Bits New Members


Congratulations to the winners of our November Drawing:

$100 SportsClips

$50 Helen Cuprisin — Alphabet Soup

$25 Pat Bock — Annie's Ltd.

$25 Gene Furmanek — G&L Trophies

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Mission Statement





January 31, 2009 Installation of Officers & Directors

Hilton Oak Lawn 9333 S. Cicero Ave. 6:00 p.m. Cocktails 7:00 p.m. Program 7:30 p.m. Dinner

First Membership Luncheon of the

new year!

February 10, 2009 Location TBA

11:30 a.m. Networking 12:00 p.m. Luncheon

Save the Date for these 2009

Chamber Events!

the networker - olpl r. degnan and geoff peterson of waddell & ... seen her sing and dance in...

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