Thank You to our House Tour Decorators

Transcription

Volume 107, Issue 1
January 2015
Geneva Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
It’s a NEW YEAR.
Try something NEW with Geneva Chamber.
Attend a Business After Hours – offered eight times during the year at different
member businesses. Awesome networking opportunities.
Attend a GWIB luncheon – twelve opportunities to network and help raise money
for charity.
Thank You to our
House Tour Decorators
Post a Special Online Offer – One of your many chamber benefits. These offers are
sent to thousands! Easy to post, easy to change.
Join the Marketing Advantage Co-Op – Chamber members can join this group and
receive discounted advertising through our partners. Radio, print, online, mobile are
all options. Get the most out of your advertising dollar.
Advertise in Soundings – For only $200, you can advertise your business in one of
our nine Soundings that are mailed to over 900 and receive countless views on our
website. Exclusive offer for Chamber members only!
Advertise in the Geneva Business 2015 Directory (aka “The Yellow Book”) – Each
year this book is sent to 12,500 Geneva residents and businesses.
Advertise in a Festival TAB section – This past year, at each festival (four), a TAB
section was produced by Chicago Tribune that reached over 235,000 each time. An
ideal way to reach hundreds of thousands of customers. Discount advertising is offered to Marketing Advantage Co-Op Members.
All Chocolate Kitchen
Volunteer at a Chamber event – Did you know that every event we present requires
many volunteers? Are you full of Geneva information? Like to work with kids? Enjoy
art? Do you love the holidays? Volunteering helps your community, helps the Chamber and most important it is FUN!
Send your information to Soundings – This is completely FREE to you. Send your
special event or important news to Laura (lrush@genevachamber.com) for consideration in Soundings. If you think it is news worthy, then it should be announced.
Be a sponsor – Every event we do encourages sponsorship. Without sponsors, many
activities wouldn’t take place at our festivals. Call Judy at our office to discuss sponsorship packages for 2015 events.
Elizabeth Wray Design and outside
lighting by Plandscape, Inc.
Discover everything your membership can do for you!
5
Area Code is 630 unless noted otherwise.
www.genevachamber.com
Gatherings by Design and outside
lighting by Plandscape, Inc.
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SOUNDINGS…The Geneva Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
New Member Profiles
We welcome new members and encourage you to familiarize yourselves with them
and make valuable connections. Profiles are supplied by new members.
Building Better Relationships Through Networking
December Luncheon
A big thank you to Geneva Golf Club for
hosting and Enticing Cuisine for providing
the delicious buffet at our delightful December holiday networking luncheon. Fun was
had by all to the tune of the “Twelve Days of
Christmas”, and many supported our organization by participating in the silent auction.
Your support to our December “Chancefor-Charity”, Anderson Animal Shelter, was
greatly appreciated.
January Luncheon
The January luncheon will be held at the
Northern Illinois Food Bank, 273 Dearborn
Court, in Geneva. Our speaker, Gloria Bunce,
the Executive Director for CASA Kane County,
will speak on how managing your time and
stress can help you achieve balance in your life.
Our “Chance-for-Charity” will be Fox Valley
Volunteer Hospice whose mission is to enhance the quality of life by providing the best
in compassionate services to persons with life
threatening illnesses and the bereaved.
American Midwest Bank • 2402 W. Main Street, St. Charles • 463-6300
www.americanmidwestbank.com
American Midwest Bank (AMB) is delighted to be part of the Fox Valley community! We opened
our full service St. Charles branch in August and have enjoyed getting to know our new neighbors.
AMB has been at the leading edge of community banking since 1973. We specialize in providing
superior customer service delivered with a friendly, hometown touch.
We offer a full range of deposit products, Treasury Management Solutions, internet and mobile
banking, 24-hour in-touch telephone banking, and our own AMB credit card for personal or business needs. AMB also offers our clients the convenience of Residential Mortgage Services, Investments Services, Independent Insurance Agency Services, Tax and Payroll Services, and Trust
Services.
AMB believes in building long-term relationships and delivering flexible and creative solutions to
every client’s financial needs. At American Midwest Bank…we’ll be there for you!
Fox River Distilling Company • 204 Dearborn Court, #110 • 402-0027
www.foxriverdistilling.com
Fox River Distilling Company, headquartered in Geneva, is now producing premium handcrafted
artisan spirits using traditional distilling methods. Local organic grains are used in the small batch
production of our founding spirits Herrington Premium Vodka, Geneva’s Preservation Gin, and Rev.
Mike’s White Lightning Moonshine. A Single Malt Whiskey and Bourbon will be barreled soon.
FRDC will be handcrafting seasonal spirits starting in 2015. Free tours and tastings are given to the
general public Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and at other scheduled times for private tours of 10
or more and private events. FRDC also has a monthly First Friday which is our Open House where
you can meet the distiller, learn the process and socialize with others while tasting our spirits. Our
artisan spirits, glassware, flasks, t shirts and hats can be purchased at the distillery.
William Germanetti - iMPACT Business Coaching, Inc. • 587 Windett Lane
847-544-6878 • wgermanetti@iMPACTbizcoaching.com • www.iMPACTbizCoaching.com
iMPACT Business Coaching believes in unleashing the power of teamwork in the Business setting.
We work with our clients to clarify Owner Vision, facilitate Senior Manager Strategy and engage Action Team Members. Committed owners receive higher performance leading to higher profits and
less frustration on all sides. The work environment is less stressful and we bring the ‘fun’ back to
work.
iMPACT works with every aspect of the business; Sales, Operations and Finance. We work with
purpose, people, processes through improved expectations, communication and coordination as
well as accountability and feedback. We especially concentrate on the relationships within the
company as most family owned businesses extend the concept of family to include their employees
and even their customers.
Please contact Bill Germanetti to set up an initial consultation to see if you are ready to take your
business to the next level.
3 Ways to Make
Luncheon Reservations
• Go to www.genevachamber.com, click
“Calendar of Events”, then GWIB event
• Call the Chamber at 232-6060
• Email etownsley@genevachamber.com
• Reservations required. Walk-ins seated if
room. Cancel via email/fax by prior Thursday
at 4 pm. If not canceled, you will be billed.
• Request vegetarian meal in advance.
Price
• Members: $30 w/reserv; $35 if invoiced
• Nonmembers: $35 w/reserv; $40 if invoiced
Heather Bundgaard - Tradetec Skyline • 1136 North Garfield Street, Lombard • 376-1538
www.ttchicago.com • www.ttskyline.com • htb@ttskyline.com
Heather Bundgaard and TradeTec Skyline serve the Tradeshow industry by designing, building,
shipping, installing, and storing exhibits. TradeTec Skyline is a turnkey exhibit house providing
tradeshow material from bannerstands to multi-level custom island exhibits. Heather’s clients appreciate her services before (design, pre-show marketing, and project management), during (install, lead generation, and last minute attention), and after the show (dismantle
and storage). She works with clients to achieve the highest results: without stress, on-time, and
within budget. Companies that want to maximize marketing impact, increase their ROI, and simplify their processes, trust Heather and TradeTec to handle all of their tradeshow needs.
Reach out to Heather with any tradeshow inquiries, or ask to be put on her free “Lunch and Learn”
seminar list. These free events are strictly an informational/educational seminar open to the public
(clients and non-clients). In the meantime, you can obtain free tips on how to drive tradeshow
results by following her on LinkedIn and Twitter. Area Code is 630 unless noted otherwise.
Member News
If you have news to be considered for Soundings, email Laura (lrush@genevachamber.com)
by the 10th of the preceding month. See website for double month issues.
Did you get a new electronic device for Christmas? Geneva Public Library can help
you download Library eBooks. Stop by the Library anytime we are open with your
Library card, device and passwords. If further instruction is needed to answer your
questions, we will make an appointment for you to receive additional individualized
assistance. You can also call 232-0780 x251 to make an appointment.
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House Tour
Decorators
Continued:
Congratulations to one of our Small Businesses in town, Peaceful Parlour, for the
mention in Forbes.com in November. Read the article here http://www.forbes.com/
sites/nicoleleinbachreyhle/2014/11/13/black-friday-fading-away-and-customers-arenoticing/.
The Kane County Cougars have officially announced “The Strike Zone” premier seating for the 2015 season and 25th anniversary of the Cougars franchise. Fans can
call the Cougars at 232-8811 to reserve their dates today. Fans can also view and
download a 2015 game schedule at kccougars.com.
Stockholm’s is the first Geneva restaurant to partner with Fox River Distilling Company
carrying their Geneva Gin and Herrington Vodka for patrons to enjoy.
Congratulations to Director of State Street Dance Studio’s Ashlie Andersen and her
husband Joe on the birth of their baby boys in November. Cooper Paul Andersen and
Connor Robert Andersen.
Thank you to CPR Printing Inc. for all their additional newsletter assistance last
month.
Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center
MURRAY COMMERCIAL PLACES NEW TENANTS IN GENEVA! Veiled in Elegance
and Elizabeth Wray Design are set to open in the former “Fashion Walk” space on
Third Street. For more information go to www.murraycommercial.com.
Geneva School District has been ranked the 12th Best School District in Illinois by
Niche (formerly College Prowler).
Visit the new history gallery and orientation room inside the historic Peck Farm House at Geneva Park District Peck Farm Park. Winter hours M-F (9 am – 5 pm); Sat (10 am – 5 pm).
GreenRoom Improv has extended its stay as resident improv group at The Hemmens
Cultural Center through December 2015! Shows are the first Friday of the month
February through December at 8 pm.
SG Geneva
The Little Traveler
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Member Events
Member to Member Blasts
For the new year, our Member to
Member Blasts have a new look.
The Marketing Group and Dale,
Smith & Associates Inc. assisted
in creating a design similar to our
website. Offered at the same low
price of $100, Member to Member
Blasts are only offered to Chamber
Members and reach almost a thousand people via email.
Since this is a new process, please
make sure you are receiving our
Member to Member Blasts by adding us to your approved sender list.
We wouldn’t want you to miss out
on this valuable information.
If you have news to be considered for Soundings, email Laura (lrush@genevachamber.com)
by the 10th of the preceding month. See website for double month issues.
Winter Reading Program – January
Fetch a good book at Geneva Public Library! Register for the Winter Reading Program in
person or at www.gpld.org. Read books and earn prizes. Whatever your age (Youth, Teen
or Adult), we have a program just for you. Through March 9
Support and Community Programs – January
TriCity Family Services offers many support and community programs. Please visit www.
tricityfamilyservices.org for class schedules, dates and times. You can also call 232-1070.
Deli Luncheons – January
Seniors can enjoy luncheons Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 am – 12:15 pm at
the Geneva Township Senior Center. Reservations must be made by the prior Thursday;
call 232-3602. Suggested donation for age 60+ is $3, $6 for under age 60.
Lunch & Tour – Wednesdays in January
Oscar Swan Country Inn welcomes you to enjoy lunch and tour of this historic mansion.
Choose your lunch from soups, salads, sandwiches, desserts and beverages. Groups
welcome. Call to arrange a special day - 232-0173.
Afternoon Tea – Thursdays & Saturdays in January
You are formally invited to spend the day with us and stay for Afternoon Tea from
2 – 4:30 pm in Little Traveler’s legendary tea room. Please call 232-4200 for more information.
Sunday Breakfast Buffet – Sundays in January
The Oscar Swan Country Inn offers a Sunday buffet from 9:30 – 11 am. Reservations
required; $15.95/person. Visit www.oscarswan.com or call 232-0173.
Geneva Park District’s Parent’s Night Out – January 2 & 16
Enjoy an evening away while the kids have a blast with games, snacks, movies, crafts and
more at Parents Night Out from 6 – 9 pm at the Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center.
Participants ages 3-12 must be toilet trained and have an emergency contact card on file.
Pre-registration is required. Cost is $15 per child ($20 non-resident). For more information, call 232-4542 or visit genevaparks.org.
Knitting Club – January 5
Come knit at Geneva Public Library from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Whether you are a beginner
or experienced knitter, you will enjoy this casual club. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.
gpld.org to register.
Learn to Draw Dog Portraits – January 6
From 7 – 8:30 pm at Geneva Public Library, learn to draw a dog portrait in pencil from
artist Christine Thornton. Bring in a photo of your dog or use one of Christine’s examples.
Beginners welcome! Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.
Dr. Vito Spadafino, Ginsberg
Chiropractic, donated gift cards
for 40 turkeys to TriCity Family
Services.
Introduction to Social Media Platforms – January 7
Learn the various options for communicating online and what may work best for you
at Geneva Public Library from 7 - 8 pm. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to
register.
“Veronica’s Room” – opens January 9
Steel Beam Theatre in St. Charles presents this play Fri & Sat (8 pm); Sun (3 pm). This
chilling mystery thriller by the author of Rosemary’s Baby explores the thin line between
fantasy and reality, madness and murder. Please visit steelbeamtheatre.com or call
587-8521 for tickets and more information. Thru February 8.
Continued on Page 5
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Member Events (Cont.)
“Willy Wonka Auditions – January 9 & 10
“Come with me & you’ll be in a world of pure imagination...” Geneva Park District’s
first family musical will hold auditions, from 5 - 9 pm (1/9) and 1 – 4 pm (1/10) at
Playhouse 38. Those wishing to audition must prepare a musical theater song of
no more than 32 bars to be performed a Capella and a monologue or cutting from
a short story or poem of no more than 1 minute in length to be read. Auditionees
may be asked to read from the script. Invitation-only callbacks will be held January
11 from 1 - 4 pm. Once cast, the show fee of $245 ($265 non-resident) for youth,
a $50 registration fee is required for adults and a completed registration form are
required. An additional costuming fee of no more than $50 may apply based on
casting. To schedule your audition, call 232-4542. Show dates are March 20 – 22
& 27 – 29.
The Science of Snow- opens January 10
Join us at Geneva Park District’s Peck Farm Park’s free Winter Exhibit: The Science
of Snow, as we investigate this unique form of precipitation and its role in the environment. This exhibit is open to the public Monday-Saturday from 10 am - 4:30 pm. For
information about scout troops, church groups, field trips and more, call 262-8244.
Thru February 28.
Bucek Chiropractic, SC
2562 W. Fabyan Parkway, Batavia
January 15
4:30 pm
H & R Block
1772 S. Randall Road
January 21
5 pm
Start the Year Out with Yoga – January 11
From 1 – 2 pm at Geneva Public Library, Laurie Milbourn from Going to My Happy
Place Yoga will teach yoga for all levels. Please bring a mat or towel. Folding chairs
will be provided for people who need them. Office yoga tips will be shared as well!
Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.
Get Covered Illinois – January 13
Need healthcare insurance? Need to renew your current health insurance? We can
help you apply/renew with free assistance! At The Hemmens Cultural Center from
6 – 9 pm.
Community Conversation with Christine – January 14
Did you miss the last conversation? It’s not too late! From 12 – 1 pm at Geneva
Public Library, join Library Director Christine Lazaris in a conversation aimed at
helping us better understand your aspirations for our community. Bring a sack
lunch if you like.
Afternoon Tea – January 15
Atwater’s is honored to host Afternoon Tea the third Thursday of the month. Choose
from a selection of tea from Coffee Drop Shop while nibbling on finger sandwiches,
warm scones, pastries and delicious desserts! Afternoon Tea is from 3 – 4:30 pm
and is $19.50 per person plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required. Please
call Atwater’s at 208-7433.
The Party Kitchen 11-17-14
Geneva Fit 11-18-14
“No Way to Treat a Lady” – opens January 15
A serial killer is on the loose, and Detective Morris Brummell is on the case. You’ll
be on the edge of your seat as he chases a murderous master of disguises through
New York City, unraveling a complex tale involving befuddled detectives, meddling
mothers, and glamorous socialites. Fox Valley Repertory at Pheasant Run Resort.
Please visit foxvalleyrep.org for performance schedule or call 524-5071 for more
information. Thru March 8.
Continued on Page 9
The HoneyBee Wellness Center 11-20-14
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If the Chamber
Didn’t Who Would?
At our Annual Dinner in November, we
presented “A Trip Through the Decades”.
Geneva and Geneva Chamber highlights
were described. Below is one of the
many articles we found from past Chamber newsletters. This one titled “If the
Chamber Didn’t Who Would?” is from August 1947. Almost 70 years later, many
of these still hold true, but some…we just
had to give up because of the changing
times. ENJOY!
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Advertise the City
Aid industry
Answer community problems
Assist the City government when
possible in civic matters
Collect statistical data
Investigate all solicitations
Maintain a room service
Maintain an organizational file of
Geneva’s Clubs, etc.
Promote Christmas decorations
Promote retail events
Provide a FREE Map Service of
all 48
Run a baby sitter service
Study and act on Legislative
matters
Welcome New Members
Donatelli Builders, Inc.
Fox River Distilling Company
H & R Block
Mobile Pallet Service, Inc.
N.S.E.W. Asphalt Co.
Thank you to all who helped bring
Holiday Magic to Geneva!
Teddy Bear ($1-$99)
Artemisia
Bien Trucha
Designers Desk
Hamilton House Dentistry
Intrinsic Partners ABC, Inc.
Solutions for Long Term Care – Carol Murin
Elf ($100-$149)
American Midwest Bank
Beyond Blinds Inc.
Cabooses Bar & Grill
Chianti’s
Comfort Inn & Suites of Geneva
Jamie Daniel
Elements Massage
First State Bank
Forever Vogue
G. Klemm Roofing Co.
Good Cents Children
Her Art Shoppe
Inglenook Pantry Catering & Concessions
InnoMat Handling, Inc.
Integrated Natural Medicine
IreeTec Incorporated
Jane Pabon Consignment Boutique
Kernel’s Gourmet Popcorn & More
Kilwins Chocolate & Ice Cream
Plato’s Closet Geneva
Riley Drug
Sacrey & Sacrey Dentistry
SavWay Fine Wines & Spirts
Spare Wheels Transportation, Inc.
The State Bank of Geneva
The HomeCourt Real Estate Inc.
Valley Lock Co., Inc.
Pat White Construction
Angel ($150-$200)
Santa Claus ($201-$500)
CPR Printing Inc.
Dancer’s Dream
E & T Glass and Mirror Inc.
Fox Chiropractic Center
Geneva Concours d’ Elegance
Geneva Family Dental
Mansio Montessori of Geneva
Ashland Ventures LLC
Blue Peak Tents
Cocoon
I.B. Quality Cabinets
Miscella Real Estate
OS2 Salon, Inc.
The Patten House of Geneva
Windy City Amusements, Inc.
Continued on Page 7
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In-Kind
Geneva Cleaners for storing Santa’s suit all year and keeping it in pristine condition so
he looked his best for all the children this past Christmas.
City of Geneva departments and staff for their extra contributions to ensure Geneva is
perfect for the season.
Comfort Inn & Suites of Geneva for their in-kind donation.
Graham’s Fine Chocolates for the candy cane pull and festive parade on Friday night.
All Chocolate Kitchen for hosting the Community Gingerbread Competition and candy
cane event on Saturday night.
Geneva Public Library for their assistance in the history of the homes.
Strawflower Shop/Rug Merchant and Cocoon for their help in furnishing a home on the
House Tour.
Fagans ~ A Graphic Design & Printing Company for the ticket layout and design.
Thank you to Wolf Bros. Carpet Cleaning, Inc. for extra special cleaning of Santa’s home.
Our media partners (print and online) for their outstanding coverage of the Christmas
Walk & House Tour via articles, event listings and special sections – Chicago Tribune/
TribLocal, Kane County Chronicle/Kane County Magazine, Daily Herald, Sun Times
Media/Beacon News, Neighbors of Geneva and Fox Valley eValues and Deals.
Owner of Sandra Webster, Sandra Webster
Lincheck retired last
month after 18 years in
business. She looks forward to spending more
time with family and possibly rediscovering her
love of weaving, dying
and knitting. The store
always represented designers who are talented,
creative and honorable
with fabulous fashions.
Good luck and enjoy
your retirement! The Geneva Chamber and State
Street will miss you.
Our Christmas Walk & House Tour Sponsors which include: Insurance through AAA,
Cadence Health now part of Northwestern Medicine, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.,
Geneva Bank & Trust, Kane County Chronicle, Lebin Financial Planning, The PrivateBank, Shodeen Homes, State Street Jewelers, and our partner City of Geneva.
Idea Book Contributors
All Chocolate Kitchen
Artemisia
Atwater’s
Country Naturals
Elizabeth Wray Design
Graham’s Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream
Lebin Financial Planning
The Little Traveler
Moveable Feast
Niche Restaurant
The Olive Mill
The Paper Merchant
SG Geneva (formerly Scentimental Gardens)
Shoppes at 127
State Street Jewelers
Sweet Natalie’s Bakery
All of our wonderful chamber members for creating
fa la la fun events in their businesses.
With record crowds and a wonderful holiday weekend enjoyed
by all we can’t wait to see what 2015 brings!
Geneva Chamber of Commerce is
pleased to highlight culinary excellence
by offering the first Geneva Restaurant
Week - an entire week of delicious discounted dining at some of Geneva’s finest restaurants! For ONE WEEK ONLY,
Monday, January 26 through Sunday,
February 1, foodies will be able to eat
their hearts out at participating restaurants that will offer lunch and dinner
menus for either $19 or $39. More info
will be available on our website soon.
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Highlights of 2014
58 businesses joined the Chamber.
The Chamber had the honor of welcoming 19 businesses with ribbon cuttings.
The Chamber produced four extraordinary festivals that brought over 350,000 people
to our wonderful city. Each festival surpassed 2013!
Let’s be Partners!
The team at the Geneva Chamber of
Commerce is very proud of the fact
that our festivals are winning awards
and drawing huge crowds (and their
dollars) to Geneva.
We are hard at work planning and developing new ideas for 2015 to ensure
that when it’s festival time the business community will reap the rewards
of these endeavors. The positive economic impact of these festivals affect
all local businesses as the tourism
dollar works its way through our local
economy. Since our biggest challenge
is funding the festivals, the Chamber is
seeking sponsors.
Please consider supporting the Geneva
Festivals in 2015 by becoming a sponsor. For more information on how festival sponsorship can help your business
contact Judy Carroll at jcarroll@genevachamber.com or call 232-6060.
The Chamber co-produced 60 Men Who Cook which brought hundreds of hungry
individuals out to support four local non-profits.
The summer Car Shows, were the best ever, providing another way to showcase
Geneva and the community.
More residents, than in previous years, signed up for the 3rd Geneva City-Wide Garage Sale bringing visitors to town to eat and shop.
12,500 Geneva residents and Geneva businesses received the 2014 Business Directory developed and published by the Chamber.
A Tourism Brochure with a detailed map listing Geneva businesses was co-created
by the Chamber and the City of Geneva; 100,000 were distributed throughout Illinois.
After a year in the making, our new website, utilizing our Picture Postcard™ brand,
was launched to rave reviews.
Ten Business After Hours were offered, including a New Member Reception and a
very successful Halloween Progressive event.
The Chamber partnered with local chambers to host legislative breakfasts and luncheons for our Chamber members.
Chamber produced two special events – the Golf Outing and Annual Dinner.
GWIB offered 12 months of successful networking luncheons and raised $2500+ for
local charities.
Nine Soundings newsletters were published highlighting merchant events, member
news, business information, ribbon cuttings, contributions and partnering.
450+ volunteers from the Tri-Cities helped at our festivals this year.
Over 1 million dollars in Gift Certificates have been sold.
The Chamber created four special TAB sections that included discount advertising
for Marketing Advantage Co-Op members. These were printed by the Chicago Tribune and reached over 100,000 households each time.
These achievements could not have happened without the hard work and support of
many – our Chamber Board and Staff, Ambassadors, Committee Members, Volunteers, Merchants, GWIB, Sponsors, Donors and our partners, City of Geneva.
9
Introducing:
ABOVE
& BEYOND
The decision of the winners for the Community Gingerbread
Contest at All Chocolate Kitchen was difficult for the judges including Chef Roby, Daily Herald’s Annie Overboe and
ABC Channel 7’s Linda Yu. Congratulations to winners:
Youth Category
Alyssa Binz
Adam Blackmore
Josh and Ryan Deardorff
Adult Category
Jason Holy
Cordogan Clark and Associates
Rosalind Lusk (who also received People’s Choice Award)
Starting off this year we are going to
add a new column called “Above and
Beyond”. We want to give a shout out
and a thank you when a fellow chamber
member does something above and
beyond. You can email me (lrush@genevachamber.com).
In November, Graham’s Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream received a call after
they had closed. The caller needed a
thank you gift and realizing they had
already closed was ready to hang up
and find something else. Debbie, at
Graham’s, offered to take the order
over the phone and then deliver it to
their sister store, 318 Coffeehouse to
be picked up. And that is exactly what
she did! Above and Beyond customer
service.
Member Events (Cont.)
Winter Blues Bash 2015 – January 17
Make sure to get your tickets for this great festival at The Hemmens Cultural Center
at 5 pm. Five different blues groups performing from 5p into the wee hours of the
night! Altered 5, Aaron Williams Hoodoo, Alex Wilson Band, Reverend Raven, and
Jim Liban. Call 847-931-5900 for ticket information.
Geneva Library Foundation Speaker Series – January 21
As another frigid winter grips Chicagoland, join the Geneva Library Foundation on
a journey to the Land Down Under with Waltzing Australia presented by Cynthia
Clampitt from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Geneva Public Library.
Super Shuffle 5K – February 2
Sign up now for the Geneva Park District’s 5th annual Super Shuffle 5K at Geneva
Middle School South! On-site registration & check-in will be available from 9 – 9:45 am.
The race begins at 10 am. Register at signmeup.com/103726, by calling 232-4542 or
in person at Sunset Community Center or Stephen D. Persinger Rec Center. Early bird
fee before Jan. 12 ($34). Generous sponsors include chamber members Fox Valley
Orthopedics, Geneva Running Outfitters, The Chiropractic People and Culligan.
Santa Lucia and her attendants
by the Great Tree sponsored by
Shodeen Homes
10
Take advantage of every holiday this year!
February 2: Groundhog Day. This holiday helps to shake off the cobwebs from the winter freeze and get excited
for a new season.
Idea: Get your customers excited by offering conditional deals. For example, you could propose a winter offer if
the groundhog goes back in its burrow, or a new product release or update if the groundhog says spring is here.
February 14: Valentine’s Day. Ah, Valentine’s Day. The holiday of love and appreciation. Perfect for retailers to
market products that are romantic and sweet; you can transform your own offerings to make customers swoon.
Idea: Add a swipe of red to your company logo and offer “companion” deals: When customers refer others to
your business, they get rewarded.
Insurance through AAA kept the
crowds warm with hot cocoa.
February 16: Presidents Day. This national holiday, which marks the birth of George Washington, sees a boost
in retail sales because so many people are off from work and school. And what else is there to do when you’re
not working but shop?
Idea: Create day-only deals to spike sales and create a sense of urgency.
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day. It’s the celebration of the Irish in America. Although its roots are religious, the holiday
is celebrated by all manner of people (even the non-Irish). Characteristic colors are green and the holiday is
associated with good luck—and maybe a few beers.
Idea: Create a “lucky” campaign in which winners are randomly selected to receive a prize.
April 5: Easter. For this religious holiday, brands often opt for levity by incorporating secular Easter staples into
their marketing, such as the Easter Bunny, candy, and pastel colors.
April 1: April Fool’s Day. Not for the fainthearted brands, April Fool’s is one of those days when you can infuse
some carefully crafted humor into your marketing—the key words here being “carefully crafted.” It’s not about
playing tricks on your customers, but rather offering surprise and delight.
When to start: the day of, as a surprise.
April 22: Earth Day. It’s about preserving all that is natural and green. Today would be a good day to pledge funds
to an eco-charity, or cease direct mail for a time to honor the holiday and save paper.
Santa House sponsored by
Geneva Bank & Trust
May 10: Mother’s Day. The holiday when we honor moms everywhere.
May 25: Memorial Day. A day for remembering those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s
also unofficially known as the first day of summer, when many seasonal venues such as pools and amusement
parks open.
June 21: Father’s Day. The holiday when we honor dads everywhere.
June 21: First Day of Summer. The changing of seasons is often a great time to make product changes, introduce new services, or give a general refresh of your business.
July 4: Independence Day. This holiday, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, is all
about celebration and patriotism.
Graham’s Candy Cane Parade
September 7: Labor Day. Considered the unofficial end to summer, Labor Day—when we honor the nation’s
workers—is the time retailers give deep discounts on seasonal inventory in preparation for new stock.
September 23: First day of fall. September is the precursor to a very busy three months containing the busiest
holidays of the year, so use this date as a benchmark to ramp up and start planning for all of the holidays to
come.
October 12: Columbus’ arrival to the Americas.
Idea: Reward customers who embark on a journey to your brick-and-mortar location rather than shop online,
then wow them with your personalized customer service.
October 31: Halloween. The day to celebrate everything frightful and ghoulish. ,
November 11: Veteran’s Day. A day to honor those who served our country in the armed forces. Many restaurants offer 50 percent off the meals of veterans who provide their credentials. Consider a similar offer.
November 26: Thanksgiving.
December 25: Christmas.
Chestnuts roasting by
Geneva Ace’s open fire.
December 31: New Years Eve.
Stacey Acevero is the social media community manager at Vocus. A version of this story first appeared on the Vocus blog.
11
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairman
Scott Lebin......................... Lebin Financial Planning
Vice Chairman
Mark Spero............ Money Mailer of Fox River Valley
Treasurer
Susan Huang.................. Fox Valley eValues & Deals
Past Chairman
Gordie Hard........................Valley Insurance Agency
Secretary
Lisa Nelson......................................Carlson’s Floors
BOARD MEMBERS
Steve Burnham........................ The Paper Merchant
Jamie Daniel.................................. Member Emerita
George Havlicek.................... Geneva ACE Hardware
Neil Johnson...................................Sperry Van Ness
Robert Langeness....... Yurs Funeral Home of Geneva
Michael Olesen...................................... Stockholm’s
Tim Riley..................................................Riley Drug
Martha Sanchez....................... State Street Jewelers
Mike Simon...................................The Little Traveler
Darla Yhost.............................. Geneva Bank & Trust
STAFF
Jean Gaines.............................................. President
jgaines@genevachamber.com
Judy Carroll..........Membership/Sponsorship Director
jcarroll@genevachamber.com
Mary Miller....................................... Office Manager
mpmiller@genevachamber.com
Laura Rush......................Communications Manager
lrush@genevachamber.com
Jeanne Sawtell...........................Member Services &
Events Coord, jsawtell@genevachamber.com
Ellen Townsley............................Member Services &
Volunteer Coord, volunteergeneva@aol.com
MISSION STATEMENT
The primary mission of the Geneva Chamber of
Commerce is to be the voice of its members and the
business community on matters of economic, social
and cultural concerns, and to develop, maintain and
monitor selective programs of action which identify
issues, provide support in areas of concern and
foster community pride and recognition.
SOUNDINGS IS PUBLISHED
BY THE
GENEVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
8 S. Third St., Box 481, Geneva, IL 60134-0481
Layout and Graphic Design
Printing
3N497 N. 17th Street, St. Charles
377-8420 • Fax 377-8584
HOURS......................................... Weekdays 9-4:30
EDITOR.................................................. Laura Rush
PHONE (630) 232-6060........... FAX (630) 232-6083
WEBSITE.......................... www.genevachamber.com
EMAIL................chamberinfo@genevachamber.com
12SOUNDINGS
Geneva Chamber of Commerce
8 South Third Street
PO Box 481
Geneva, IL 60134-0481
PRSRT
FIRST CLASS
US POSTAGE
PAID
ST CHARLES, IL
PERMIT #663
We have started planning our four festivals and we wouldn’t want anyone to
miss out on the excitement in 2015!
Each one promises surprises alongside the favorite things that make them
award winning and must do’s each
year. As you are filling out your calendars, make sure Swedish Days, Geneva
Art Fair, Festival of the Vine and Christmas festivities are part of your year.
Swedish Days
June 23-28
Geneva Arts Fair
July 25-26
Festival of the Vine
September 11-13
BUS NESS
after hours
Christmas Walk and House Tour
December 4-5
Also back:
A(attic) B(basement) C(closet)
Geneva Garage Sale
April 24 & 25
Wondering how you might tie in your
business with the festivals? We are offering a seminar in February on just
that with marketing expert Kristine
Raino-Ogden. Look for information on
registering to be emailed soon.
Working together, 2015 will be a year
to remember!
Thursday January 8
5 – 7 pm
COSTCO WHOLESALE
221 S. Randall Rd., St. Charles, IL 60174
Join us as we partner with St. Charles and Elgin Chambers of
Commerce for this Multi-Chamber Event. This January Business After Hours is in place of our usual fourth Tuesday event.
Costco Wholesale Corporation is an American membershiponly warehouse club that provides a wide selection of merchandise.

Thank You to our House Tour Decorators

Transcription

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