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Headlines of August/September |
August/September 1999 |
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Membership Savings Program The McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce is continually encouraging all members to utilize the goods and services of other members. One of the ways we accomplish this goal is through our Membership Savings Program. Each member and his employees also receive a Chamber Membership Savings Card when they first join our Chamber. This card is then shown to participating businesses to receive various discounts or incentives. Some of the offers include: a percentage off, free gift, free inspection, specific dollar discount, or two for one specials. A list of members offering discounts to fellow Chamber members was published in the recently distributed 1999-2000 Chamber Membership Directory in a special yellow-colored section. This list is updated and included in each edition of the Spectrum newsletter. If you or your employees need a Chamber Membership Savings Card to take advantage of this member benefits program, please call the Chamber office at (815) 385-4300. Attendees also had the opportunity to register to win over 15 prizes that were donated by generous Chamber members. According to the results of a survey that was given to all attendees, the event was a real success (please note survey results on page 8 in this newsletter). The Chamber would like to thank all the companies and organizations that attended the event, as well as those who helped make it happen! Thank you especially to Merrill Millman, Elm St. deSIGN, Pat Hupke and Hi Point Promotions for their donations of signs and bags. Keep on the look out for information on future Networking Scrambles in upcoming issues of the Spectrum newsletter! |
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Chairman’s Column Hello to you all. I hope your summer is going well. As I write this, I do not have the luxury of knowing how Fiesta Days went this year because I am submitting this prior to the event. However, I trust that it went well and a great time was had by all. The reason I am confident is because of the volunteerism we have from our membership. The committee works very hard to leave no stone unturned. However, we always look for feedback. As always, I would like to encourage anyone who would like to make new business contacts and make a positive difference to participate in the planning of our events. The people who have given their time to the chamber are truly some of the best people I have met this year, as chairman. The purpose of my comments in this issue are not only to encourage the participation of those who haven’t, but also to express my sincere thanks to those who take time away from their businesses and families to make our chamber something to be proud of. With common goals in mind, Keith |
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President/CEO’s Report The Chamber’s Annual Golf Outing is right around the corner. If you haven’t made your reservations for a foursome, be sure to call the office and make them. Next month is our 7th Annual Country Meadows Craft Show at Petersen Park. A whole new booth layout is being designed at the beach front. In October, we will be having our first Annual Celebrity Dinner. Waiting on us will be Senator Dick Klemm, Congressman Don Manzullo, State Representative Jack Franks, former Republican Chairman, Al Jourdan and States Attorney Gary Pack just to name a few of the 25 celebrities we will have on hand. More information is available further in this newsletter. Get your reservations in early as seating at the McHenry Country Club is limited. In addition, to all these events your chamber will be offering a new Web Design promotion plus an affordable health care program. Your Chamber keeps looking into ways that will bring more benefits and value to our membership as we enter the new millennium. Have a wonderful summer and I hope to see all of you at one of our upcoming events. Debbie Harr Debbie Harr |
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Guest Editorial Tips For A Positive Networking Experience "Cold Call" Networking If you find it difficult to attend a meeting without knowing anyone, here are some tips to make those first few dreaded minutes work for you by building your confidence, not eroding it. 1. Prepare. Before arriving at a meeting, find out as much as you can about the agenda and the group hosting the event. It’s often a good idea to make contact with someone at group headquarters beforehand. Ask a question about the speaker or the length of the program, for example. This way you will have forged a connection and will have a friendly face to look for when you arrive. 2. Psyche Yourself Up. Your attitude is your most important asset. Refocus your preoccupation with your own anxieties by thinking about the other attendees. Pretend you are about to host a party and concentrate on helping others have a good time. Don’t think of the people at the event as a mass entity (you’ll be overwhelmed) but as individuals whom who can meet one-on-one. Rehearse what you’ll say. 3. Talk small. Have at least three "small talk" questions in mind that will serve as conversation openers. ("How did you find out about the meeting tonight?" Or "What are you hoping to learn from the speaker’s talk?) Ask open-ended questions that draw people out, then turn their answers into two-way conversations. 4. Seek Every Opportunity to Meet People. Don’t wait until you actually walk into the meeting room to begin networking. If you arrive at the meeting place by car and notice a group of persons in the parking lot, take the opportunity to strike up a conversation. "Are you going to the network meeting? Did you run into that traffic on the freeway?" Whether you are in the elevator, the washroom or waiting at the bar, start talking. 5. Use Your Nametag to Your Advantage. Attach your nametag to your right lapel. This way when you extend your hand to meet someone, the person’s eye moves easily to your nametag. Make sure the nametag itself is not only easy to read by stands out. When you meet someone new, use his or her nametag to establish common ground and strike up a conversation. Comments such as "My sister’s name is Eileen, too," or "I went to high school in that town," can do wonders for opening up the lines of communication. 6. Find Kindred Spirits. Making eye contact is one of the most crucial tools for successful mingling. When you are seeking out people to talk with, scan the reception area for eye contact and friendly smiles. A person who averts their eyes and turns their head will not be easily approachable. Also seek out persons who are by themselves. Instead of going up to a group of five people, find someone on equal footing—standing alone, looking uncomfortable. 7. Seat Yourself Strategically. If seats are not assigned at the event you are attending, use this opportunity to meet new people. Do not approach a round table where eight Second of a Three Part Series |
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City of McHenry News… by Mayor Steven J. Cuda SRA Corridor The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), along with consultant Civiltech Engineering are currently conducting a study of IL Route 120/Charles Road, from IL Route 47 in Woodstock to US Route 12 in Volo. IL Route 120 is one corridor from over 1,390 miles of roads that have been designated as a Strategic Regional Arterial (SRA) in Northeastern Illinois.The Strategic Regional Arterial (SRA) system is a network of existing arterial roads intended to supplement the expressway system by accommodating long-distance, high volume traffic in the region. The SRA study of these roads will help to identify needed road improvements such as additional right-of-way, turn lanes, access control, and signalization modifications, which will increase mobility. The study can be used by municipalities as a planning tool for future development along the corridor and will serve as a framework for future efforts when improvements are planned in IDOT’s funding program. Local municipalities along with the SRA corridor have and will continue to play an important role in helping to shape the study and develop the recommended plan. In 1996, individual Community interviews were held with municipalities along the route. From this input, the Alternatives/Design Report was drafted. The Alternatives includes initial recommendations for improvements in the Route 120 corridor and was presented to affected municipalities in May of 1999 at an Advisory Panel meeting held in McHenry. Municipalities were given the opportunity to provide input on the initial recommendations. This input will be incorporated into a revised report that will be presented at a Public Hearing to be scheduled later this summer. |
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Pictured representing the BizNet committee are Michael Splitt of In Sync Systems, and Cathy Dulberg of Complete Personnel. They are presenting Dr. Dan LaVista, President of McHenry County College with a check for $2,000, which was donated by the BizNet Committee. The money will be used for scholarships. BizNet is the annual business to business expo for McHenry County. BizNet ’99 will be October 12th at MCC from 3:00p.m. - 7:00p.m. Please call 815-385-BNET for more information. Patrick Coen, a partner in the Crystal Lake law firm of Militello, Zanck & Coen, P.C., has joined Home of the Sparrow, Inc.’s board of directors. Home of the Sparrow is a non-profit transitional housing program for homeless women and children. The agency operates four shelter homes in McHenry, Woodstock, Crystal Lake and Palatine. Coen, an attorney since 1976 with a practice concentrating on non-profit entities among other areas, was president of the McHenry County Bar Association in 1989 and 1990. He also served as vice president of the Crystal Lake Jaycees in 1986. Coen resides in Crystal Lake with his wife, Susan and daughter, Leslie. "Pat brings a wealth of experience and solid operating practices to the board that will be invaluable to our rapidly growing organization," said Bob Shaw, board president and publisher of the Northwest Herald. For the second year, Crystal Lake Pontiac GMC on Route 14 has donated the use of a new automobile to the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation. The value of the automobile’s use will fulfill the dealership’s generous annual membership pledge. The dealership opened on Route 31 in 1995 and moved into its state-of-the-art facility at U.S. Route 14 and Teckler Boulevard in 1996. "I believe that when you do business in a community you have to give a lot back to help it grow," said owner Sam Oginni. Crystal Lake Pontiac-GMC is the only McHenry County dealership to receive General Motors’ coveted Leaders of Distinction award and has been ranked fifth in the nation for quality by GM’s Minority Owners Association. GM recently also recognized Oginni for his outstanding achievements. Kimberly’s Bridal & Boutique, Inc. / T n T’s Tuxedo’s celebrated it’s Grand Opening on July 10th, 1999. Doors opened at 10:00 a.m. with an impressive live fashion show til 5:00 p.m. Lines that were fashioned included: Jessica McClintock, Alfred Angelo, Mon Cheri, Bari-Jay, Ralph Lauren, Perry Ellis, Christian Dior, etc. Wedding cake was served in celebration of it’s opening and 20% off of all merchandise was given to all customers. Kimberly is pictured (center) surrounded by handsome couple, bride and groom. Stop by and take advantage of the ongoing 20% off all merchandise through the month of August. The store is located at 137 Route 120 in Lakemoor - The store hours are 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday - Sunday and Monday; by appointment only. For further information please call (815) 363-5700. In July, Deborah L. Harr, President/CEO of the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce became McHenry’s first woman president of the McHenry Rotary Club since the group’s inception in 1955. Debbie’s term will run from July 1999 through July 2000. Her main focus for the club will be to concentrate on bringing new members into the club, and to make the club more visible within the area. The new board consists of: Jay Adams, President Elect; Scott Siman, Vice-President; Jim Vyduna, Secretary; Earl Ferris, Treasurer; Tom Eppers, Assistant Secretary; Karen Lavin, Assistant Treasurer; Donna Nilsson, Community Service; Ed Gueroult, International Service; Karen Patel, Vocational Service; and Jeff Perley, Club Service. On Tuesday, June 18th, the McHenry Noon Kiwanis Club sponsored its annual Little Miss Peanut Contest. Pictured from left to right are: 1st Runner-up- Heather Matejka; Last Year’s Little Miss Peanut- Jenna Shabosky; Contest Judge- Miss McHenry 1998 Erin Kenton; the new Little Miss Peanut for 1999- Hailee Pecoraro; and 2nd Runner-up- Amber Wolff. Kwik Kopy Printing in Crystal Lake recently celebrated its 12th year anniversary in business. Husband and wife owners Marty and Luanne Welch began building their business in 1987 in a small storefront shop just down the street from their current location at 125 S. Virginia Street. Since then they have grown into a modern facility with more than 6,000 square feet, along with 11 full-time and 2 part-time employees. Marty and Luanne believe Kwik Kopy can trace its longevity to a strong commitment to their customers. Their dedication is apparent in the personal service each person who walks through their front door receives. They also constantly stay on the cutting edge of technology. The printer has recently become DigiPrint certified, enabling them to handle electronic digital file transfer, output and storage. This new distinction provides customers with added convenience by handling project files through the Internet. Kwik Kopy offers graphic design and printing services, along with high-speed copies, custom bindery and finishing services, and a growing mailing services department. The printer ranks among the top 100 Kwik Kopy franchises in the world. Kwik Kopy Printing can be reached at (815) 459-5066. Working World, Inc.. Staffing Services is offering two Scholarships to the college students who work thru their service this summer. To be eligible for the scholarships, college students must fill out an application, work a minimum of 300 hours on Working World, Inc.’s payroll while maintaining good attendance and a positive work attitude. Since 1995, Working World has awarded two $250 scholarships each summer to outstanding college students. Financial need and statements of their academic and career goals are required. A panel of local business people reviews the applications and makes the final selection for the scholarships. For more information about the scholarships, call Working World at (815) 455-4490. Founded in 1980, Working World, Inc. does short-term, long-term and temp-to-hire placement for office and industrial positions throughout the greater McHenry County area. Smith Marketing, Inc., an integrated marketing services agency, recently joined the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC). The MCEDC is a not-for-profit organization comprised of McHenry County businesses, which addresses the issues affecting industry in areas such as government, transportation, workforce development and legislative affairs. "Smith Marketing, Inc. is pleased to be a member of the MCEDC," said Steven Smith, President of Smith Marketing. "We look forward to being an active member, and contribute to the organization’s ongoing success." The firm also recently became involved with the MCEDC’s public relations committee. Smith Marketing, Inc., founded in 1992, offers advertising, marketing, public relations, and web site development services. The firm can be reached at (815) 455-4682, or through their website at www.smithmarketing.net. McHenry County P.A.D.S. (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) is hosting its Annual Fall Jamboree and Golf Outing, August 27, 1999 at the Golf Club of Illinois. Come out for the golf and take your chance to Win a Car, Beat the Pro, and more. Stay for Appetizers, Cash Bar, and an evening of Dinner, Silent and Live Auctions, Raffles and Dancing. It’s with this event PADS raises vital funds to provide emergency shelter and services during the months of October through April for the homeless men, women, and children of McHenry County. Call the PADS office at 815-477-1338 for more information. David Wahl, owner of Wahl Appliance Center, announced the celebration of Wahl’s 20th anniversary of serving McHenry residents. "We are proud to say, we have come a long way from our original beginnings in the family garage," said Dave. Wahl Appliance Center has indeed been a notable McHenry business. The organization, which grew from a garage to a location on Pearl St., found a home at its present site in Charlie Vycital’s original warehouse, expanding later to a service center in Lakemoor. The business has grown in many aspects throughout the years from their service to their showroom featuring new and reconditioned appliances and air conditioners as well as parts for many makes and models. Be sure to visit the Wahl Appliance Center showroom located at 1209 Court St. in McHenry and see for yourself the "extremely good prices" on refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, freezers, washers, dryers and dishwashers, both new and reconditioned. As always, all appliances are guaranteed. For more information, contact Dave Wahl at 815-385-1872. The Church of Holy Apostles announces its 10th Anniversary & 1999 International Fall Festival Running Friday, Sept. 17th (5 pm- 11 pm), Saturday Sept. 18th (12 pm - 11 pm), and Sunday Sept. 19th (12 pm - 9 pm). They will have great entertainment including a Jamaican One-Man Band, The Fireball 8 Dixieland Band, Dyed In The Wool, Irish Dancers, Amici Italiani Dancers, and more! Plum Garden, Warsaw Inn, the McHenry Jaycees and more will offer tasty food. For the kid in everyone, there will be amusements like Bumper Boats, the Bungee Run, a Moonwalk, and More! Plus, games, games, games! AND our raffles feature prizes such as a Trip to Walt Disney World, a big screen TV, CASH and a multitude of items for adults and kids. The Church of Holy Apostles desires to include many members of our Parish and local community in order to promote "fun raising" and community spirit. The Church is located at 5211 W. Bull Valley Rd. (corner of Bull Valley Rd. and Crystal Lake Ave.). For the festival schedule and more information, call (815) 385-5673, or visit their web site www.churchofholyapostles.com. John Swierk of Direct Design displaying his dancing abilities at the McHenry County Restaurant Association’s recent Hawaiian Luau. The fifth annual CAL Golf Outing, which benefits Home of the Sparrow, Inc. will be Aug. 4 at Chapel Hill Country Club in McHenry. Proceeds from the golf outing will be donated to Home of the Sparrow, a non-profit transitional housing program for homeless women and children. Home of the Sparrow provides shelter at four homes in McHenry, Woodstock, Crystal Lake, and Palatine. Tickets for the event include lunch, golf and dinner at Chapel Hill Country Club in McHenry. A 50/50 raffle will take place during the day, and a prize raffle will be held during dinner. A shotgun start will be at 11:30 a.m., with cocktails at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. For tickets or more information, call Lori Knaack-Kirkelie at (815) 385-7696. Richard Wimmer, manager of Mr. Don’s Cleaners, announced today that the dry cleaning establishment is 30 years old. Started in 1969 by Don Howard, Mr. Don’s is definitely and has always been a family owned operation. Son, Ron Howard with wife Cookie and granddaughter Kristie are joined by her husband Richard to all pitch in and develop promotions and ideas that have enabled this organization to thrive in a strongly competitive environment. Mr. Don’s Cleaners is a full service cleaner with all work accomplished on the premises. With an awareness of the hectic pace that families and businesses operate under, the business is open at 6:45 a.m. each morning and closes at 6:15 each night on weekdays. Saturday, Mr. Don’s is open until 5:00 p.m. Customers never need to leave their car with Mr. Don’s easy access drop off window. Be sure to take advantage of Mr. Don’s special program for repeat customers. With the purchase of a promotional $5.00 bag, Mr. Don’s offers 10% off on all incoming dry cleaning orders. Mr. Don’s Cleaners is one of the few organizations in McHenry to enjoy having a third generation local family operating the business. In some respects, the business could be termed a fourth generation company as Don Howard learned much about the care of clothing through involvement in his mother’s tailoring and alteration business. Mr. Don’s Cleaners is located at 1207 N. Third St. and can be reached at 815-385-2011. Boulder Ridge, one of Chicagoland’s finest private country clubs is opening its new state-of-the-art clubhouse in the summer of 1999. Their beautifully appointed banquet facility will be available to non-members for workplace meetings or special events. The facility will feature accommodations up to 400 people for banquets and 600 theater style, as well as 6,000 square feet of banquet or business meeting space. Call Boulder Ridge today to reserve your date. To arrange a tour or for further information, please call 847/854-3000 or e-mail victor@boulderridge.com. Parkland School in McHenry recently broke ground on a new addition. Pictured left-right are: Kathy Marinangel and Wayne Amore of McHenry Savings Bank; Debbie Harr, McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce; Dwight Hibicke, Principal of Parkland School; Kathy Pelz of McHenry Savings Bank; and Bill Dodds, Superintendent of School District 15.
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You Are Invited to the Chamber’s First Celebrity Dinner!On October 23rd, the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its first-ever Celebrity Dinner. Invited is all our Chamber membership and their guests to be served by area VIP’s at the McHenry County Club. In addition to the fun of being served a sit down dinner by our public servants, the Chamber will also host a raffle, music by "The Music Man" and a reception for people to network with our area celebrities. Celebrities waiting on Chamber members include: Senator Dick Klemm, State Representative Jack Franks, County Sheriff Keith Nygren, McHenry Alderman Andy Glab, County Coroner Marlene Lantz, County Treasurer Bill LeFew, States Attorney Gary Pack, McHenry City Clerk Pam Althoff, Johnsburg Village President Dave Dominguez, Township Supervisor Donna Schaefer, County Board Chairman Mike Tryon, McHenry County Road Commissioner Chuck Majercik, McHenry City Alderman Frank McClatchey, McHenry City Alderman Steve Murgatroyd, McHenry City Alderman Bill Baird, McHenry Mayor Steve Cuda, Former County Republican Chairman Al Jourdan, U.S. Congressman Don Manzullo, Johnsburg Police Chief Ken Rydberg, County Board Member District 4 Patty Dusthimer, County Board Member District 4 Dick Hoover. All tips gained by celebrities will benefit McHenry County Police Chairities. Be sure to contact the Chamber office at (815) 385-4300 early with your reservations. The demand for this event will be great! Invitations with ticket prices will be mailed in September. Event: Chamber Celebrity Dinner |
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Member Profile 3931 Main St. PHONE: 815/344-9630FAX: 815/344-3013 PARTNERS: Redmond P. Hidding , Tom Zurfluh , Eric Bloomquist BACKGROUND: The partners of MSF, Inc. have a variety of experiences in the commodities markets that have led them to their current business as brokers at Main Street Futures. Red Hidding, for example, grew up in the commodity business following his father to a successful career as a floor trader at the Chicago Board of Trade. After leaving the C.B.O.T. in 1985 Red has concentrated on using computers for his analytical research and trading.INVESTOR: "We find more and more people becoming interested in trading commodity markets, now more than ever," Red said. The bull market in stocks has broadened the market understanding of investors from all walks of life." The traditional agriculture markets have given way to Interest rate futures, stock indexes, foreign currencies, as well as the energy markets. These markets are global in nature and are being traded 24 hours a day somewhere in the world.MAIN STREET JOURNAL: To help investors keep current with the world commodity markets, M.S.F., Inc. publishes their own market letter, The Main Street Journal. "The markets change with ever increasing speed these days, and it is up to the individuals to keep themselves well informed. Our job as brokers, is to provide guidance for novice traders as well as experienced ones." Hidding said M.S.F., Inc. offers a one month free trial, with no obligation, to those interested in discovering more about the commodities markets. Contact Red Hidding, at 344-9630, if you are interested. |
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Member Profile ADDRESS: PHONE:
815/363-2471 PROFESSION: BACKGROUND: Nicette’s early years were spent in Alexandria, Egypt where she was born. She had a global beginning with her family living in a variety of European locations. This has proven to be a great advantage for Nicette developing in her a knowledge and facility with four different languages. Coming with her family in 1961 to the United States, necessitated adding an additional language, English. After High School, Nicette attended Patricia Stevens Modeling School, Wright College and worked part time. Following marriage and the raising of a family, Nicette re-entered the work force. It became readily apparent "early in my working experience that I was able to work with all types of people with varying requirements. I truly listened to their needs and was able to find the right product to fulfill their wishes. Then I discovered real estate 22 years ago and found that "I was born to be a Realtor!" COMMITMENT: Nicette has a commitment to serving the client. "No matter how tired I am or what the question is, I always return phone calls promptly." Nicette also shows a dedication to self-improvement as she continues her education on a variety of levels. MARKET’S FUTURE: "The Real Estate market is continually changing because the consumer is evolving. Buyers are more educated and many are already pre-approved before arriving in my office. There is so much available to the prospective homebuyer. Not only is the Internet used effectively, but I find the buyer is also reading more, resulting in a more confident, aware home buyer." B: Women’s Council of Realtors, Crystal Lake Network Group, McHenry Human Relations Committee CHAMBER INVOLVEMENT: Founder of Marketing Connection Group I and its President, Membership Committee, Board of Director, Fiesta Days and Annual Dinner Dance Committees. |
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Member Profile 4400 W. Elm St. PHONE: 815/344-8500 Years in Business: Casey Muffler & Brake has been in business in the Chicagoland area for 25 years, but has enjoyed 6 1/2 years of operation in McHenry. Products: Casey is a full service auto care shop. Not just limited to mufflers and brakes, Casey enjoys establishing a relationship with its clients to care for all their automotive needs. Background: Mark D’Alessandro has owned Casey Muffler & Brake for 2 years. He has an extensive auto care background, working from the bottom up as a technician, to store manager, to supervisor of a store set up. He purchased his Casey franchise due to the excellent reputation that Casey has maintained in caring for customer needs. Vision: Mark views expansion to a second store as a viable opportunity as the McHenry area is growing extensively. Personal: Mark lives in South Elgin with his wife and two children. |
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ANOTHER NEW BENEFIT FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS The McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to offer our membership a cost saving long distance telephone service by Qwest, the fourth largest service in the world. The simple solution for small business customer. Simple to use and packed with features. • Interstate (state to state calls)
7.9 cents per minute & intrastate (in state calls) 7.7 cents per
minute. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed. Free consultation is available. For more information contact the Chamber office at 815-385-4300. |
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Enhance Your Business’
Chance For Success Thursday, September 16, 23, 30
Most business owners and department heads know their company on a gut level. That isn’t enough in today’s fast-paced world. In this workshop, you will be guided through a detailed analysis of your business. With this analysis, you will have at your fingertips a strategic bedrock of information concerning your company. You, your managers, and your advisors will use this information to make quick and insightful decisions that affect your company’s future. This workshop will be presented by Alison Harkins and David Schaak, Principals of Group DAS, a business development group dedicated to using innovative management practices to improve companies that are either growing or that have reached a plateau. The deadline for registration is September 1 st. Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance. Look for the registration form enclosed in this newsletter. |
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The Illinois Chamber Exec Report SBA Starts Y2K Loan ProgramThrough a Y2K Loan Program effective April 24th, the SBA may guarantee 90% of loans up to $100,000 and 85% over $100,000 for year 2000 computer problem solving and/or to relieve substantial economic injury caused by year 2000 computer problems. Regular application forms are used. Apply through any bank. The SBA guarantee could mean a lower rate and a longer repayment term. The maximum SBA guarantee is $1 million. Illinois Unemployment Down The Illinois unemployment rate inched up one-tenth of a percentage point in April to 3.9% (seasonally adjusted), while the number of people employed sets a new record for the eighth month in a row. The state jobless rate has remained below the nations for the past five months. In March and April, Illinois experienced its lowest unemployment rates, below four percent, of the last 24 years and also posted a record number of people employed. Copyright: 1999 Illinois Chamber of Commerce |
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NEW ADDITIONS TO MEMBERSHIP SAVINGS PROGRAM The Membership Savings Program is delighted to add the following companies to those included in your new 1999-2000 Membership Directory. Remember, this program offers considerable savings to Chamber members. COMPUTERS SALES AND SERVICE/INTERNET
PROVIDER NEWSPAPER
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Marketing Connection Group III Marketing Connection III would like to welcome several new members to the group. They are Chris Rowley of LaSalle Bank; Greg Mayer of MetLife; Dian Micklevitz of Illinois Employment & Training Center (IETC); Merrill Millman of Elm St. deSIGN; David Quinn of Millennium Mold Design, Inc.; and David Womack of Dynamic Digital Imagery. This referral group meets between 7:30am-8:45am on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at Green St. Café in McHenry. Marketing Connection III has a few business categories they are looking to fill. Those categories include: computers, cellular phones, office machine sales and service, staffing service, and travel agency. To visit Marketing Connection III, please contact Mark Gilblair, Chairman, at (847) 259-5175. |
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Marketing Connection I Testimonial Does becoming involved in the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce help a business grow? Can an individual attend Business After Hours functions and obtain a new client? Do leads referral groups work for those who seek to develop their business through their small support groups? You bet!! I became a member of the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce February of 1996, upon the advice of Nicette Crawford of Re/Max Plaza. She told me that the Chamber would help me make contact with business owners and their employees in the area. She also advised that Chamber membership lends credibility to any contractor seeking to establish himself as an ethical supplier of services. Was she ever right! Since the time I joined the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce my business has grown. Not only have I developed my customer base substantially, but the shared ideas I have gained from other business owners and power partners in the Marketing Connection Group I have been invaluable. My recommendation to non-chamber members is to join immediately. My advice to members not committed is to get involved! The Marketing Connection Groups provide a perfect forum in which to gain from the combined expertise of other non-competing business owners and support for those desiring to obtain referrals leading to beneficial accounts. Marketing Connection I welcomes visitors. Please call President of Marketing Connection I Nicette Crawford and arrange for a free visit (385-6770). Breakfast is on us! Henry Dagens
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