a bountiful thank you - geneva nov 2015 soundings.pdf · volume 106, issue 8 november 2015 geneva...

Volume 106, Issue 8

November 2015

Geneva Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

www.genevachamber.com

Bath Planet – Sponsor BoothChampion Windows · Sunrooms · Home Exteriors – Sponsor BoothCharles Schwab & Co., Inc. – Entertainment Stage & Trolley Rides

Chicago Tribune – Sponsor BoothChiro One Wellness Centers – Sponsor Booth

Costco Wholesale – Sponsor BoothGeneva Bank & Trust, a Wintrust Community Bank – Kids’ Patch

Gerald Subaru North Aurora – Entertainment Stage Great Western Flooring – Dining Tent

The Home Improvement Network – Sponsor BoothKane County Chronicle – Entertainment Stage

Kyuki-Do Martial Arts of Geneva, Inc. – Sponsor BoothLebin Financial Planning – Dining TentNorthwestern Medicine – VolunteersPlandscape, Inc. – Stage Sponsor

Savant Capital Management – Print SponsorSavWay Fine Wines & Spirits –Trolley Rides

Shodeen Homes – Festival of the VineValley Insurance – Entertainment Stage

Wilson Travel & Cruise Agency – Sponsor Booth

Thank you to our Banner SponsorsBria Health Services of Geneva

PartnerMD

A Bountiful Thank YouIt is the season to be thankful for what we have and at the Chamber we are so thankful, at every festival, for our sponsors, our merchants and members for in-kind donations and services, our

restaurants, our hard-working volunteers, Kane County and the City of Geneva.

Much gratitude goes out for our most recent festival, Festival of the Vine.

The Festival of the Vine has been made possible through the generosity of numerous sponsors.

THANK YOU to our sponsors:

THANK YOU to our Harvest Stage Demo-ers:

Continental Envelope “Pushing the Envelope” FarmFreshGround RoastingGeneva ACE Hardware

Northern Illinois Food BankThe Olive Mill

THANK YOU for in-kind services:

Advanced Disposal, Comfort Inn & Suites of Geneva, County of Kane, Fagans Graphic De-sign, Geneva Park District, Gregg Giesche, Nova Communications, Windy City Amusements, Bill Grossklag & Our Partners the City of Geneva

Special THANK YOU to Art Sanchez for the use of his truck and his trailer to pick up the many cases of pop and water (that we sold almost all of) and to Pat Hofstetter and his winning personality

for selling 50/50 tickets through the crowds all weekend.

And for all the awesome volunteers, who festival after festival, give 110% with a smile!

Three days of fun at Festival of the Vine, we thank you for your contributions,that made this event extremely fine!

Local meets local – Paula Krapf, Geneva Public Library gets lunch from Kit Willadsen, Bien Trucha

during Friday’s Flavor Fare.

Eric Andersen, FreshGround Roasting provided great information about coffee beans and roasting

during Saturday’s presentation.

Dining tent, sponsored by Lebin FinancialPlanning & Great Western Flooring, was busy

from Friday opening to Sunday closing.

Nobel House was one of 22 restaurantsparticipating in the Flavor Fare this year.

Happy, smiley volunteers sponsored by Northwestern Medicine, strike a pose in front of Geneva Ace Garden

Center’s display on the courthouse lawn.

Sending Warm Wishes

This Thanksgiving Season and

Throughout the Coming Holidays.

Geneva Chamber of Commerce

2 SOUNDINGS…The Geneva Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Area Code is 630 unless noted otherwise.

Building Better Relationships Through Networking


3 Ways to MakeLuncheon Reservations

• Go to www.genevachamber.com, click “Calendar of Events”, then GWIB event

• Call the Chamber at 232-6060• Email [email protected]• 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.• Members: $30 w/reserv; $35 if invoiced• Nonmembers: $35 w/reserv.

New Member ProfilesWe welcome new members and encourage you to familiarize yourselves with them

and make valuable connections. Profiles are supplied by new members.

Spetember LuncheonThanks to Eagle Brook Country Club for adelicious lunch. City of Geneva was out of commission; but Mary McKittrick, City Ad-ministrator, presented the “State of Geneva” report, bringing us up to date on what’s hap-pening in our fair city..

October LuncheonPrairie Landing Golf Club deserves a big round of applause for the marvelous lunch we were served in October. Our networking event gave us a chance to meet someone new as well as introduce them to all the attendees. The new GWIB Board was introduced.

A check was presented to our September and October “Chance for Charity”, Marklund. The donation was greatly appreciated.

November LuncheonThe November luncheon, November 17, will be held at Oscar Swan Country Inn, 1800 W. State Street in Geneva. Don Cummings of Blue Haven Capital, and a regular GWIB luncheon attendee, will share some money saving tips for small business owners. The No-vember “Chance for Charity” will be Northern Illinois Food Bank, whose mission is to solve hunger by providing nutritious meals to those in need in Boone, DuPage, DeKalb, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Will & Winnebago counties. Visit their website, solvehungertoday.org to see how you can help.

ABC Limousine Services, Inc.1770 S. Randall Rd., Ste. A/103 • 232-9077 • abcchicagolimo.comServing Chicagoland since 1999. Long distance travel in our comfortable Sedans, SUV’s, or Stretch Limousines can make your travel easier. We cater to all events such as service to air-ports O’Hare, Midway, Rockford and Milwaukee. Also to Chicago downtown or Gary, Indiana even if someone likes to go little farther distance (for those who don’t want to fly). 24 hour service. Reservations can be made via email [email protected] or by calling us be-tween 7 am to 9 pm M-S 232-9077. We are conveniently located in Kane County. Comparative rates and friendly family owned business, we guarantee once you use our service you will never use any other service.

First American Bank1789 S. Randall Rd. • Kelly Brizzolara • 547-8809 • [email protected] If you’re looking for a bank with the expertise and range of financial offerings you want, plus the personal attention and service you deserve, then First American is the bank for you. Our size and management philosophy make it possible for us to give you the best of both worlds: big bank financial services combined with the personal attention only a local community bank can provide.

First American Bank is an Illinois-chartered, privately held, full-service bank with 50 locations in Illinois and Florida and more than $3.4 billion in assets. For over 40 years, First American has been putting the customer first – with personal attention, superior solutions and financial expertise. For sophisticated products and personal service, there’s no better choice than First American. The bank that does more for your money…and for you.

HealthMarketsAgents.healthmarkets.com/kniemann • [email protected] • 674-4808I am a Licensed Insurance agent specializing in Health, Life, Dental, Vision, Medicare and Supplemental Insurance including Critical Illness Insurance, Cancer Insurance and Accident Insurance along with Disability and Long-term Care Insurance. I provide free health plan guidance for coverage on or off exchange. I help customize benefits for individuals and small businesses. My goal is to keep you and your family protected from unforeseen events that happen in life. Choosing insurance plans can be difficult. I will help you compare plans that fit your needs. I work with nationally recognized insurance companies and give you the quality, affordable insurance you are looking for. Please call or email with any questions.

Kane County Mutual Insurance Company232-0762 * www.kanecountymutual.comWe are proud to announce the celebration of our company’s 90th anniversary. We provide property insurance coverage for farms, homes, rental properties, condos, structures under construction, as well as certain types of boats and RV’s which can be added to a homeowner policy. Kane County Mutual is a small company that markets its products through various inde-pendent agencies as listed on our website.

Kane County Mutual Insurance takes pride in the fact that as a farm mutual insurance com-pany it is owned by the policy holders, which helps keep premiums reasonable since there are no stock holders to satisfy. As we move forward, the company and staff remain focused on providing its customers with a service that exceeds their expectations as we maintain good relationships with our agents and policy holders.

SOUNDINGS…The Geneva Chamber of Commerce Newsletter 3



Ribbon Cuttings

Hart Chiropractic2172 Blackberry Dr., Ste. 102

November 912:30 pm

Epic Med Spa,5 N. Third Street

November 115 pm

AJ Hughes Design Build27 N. Second Street

November 184 pm

New Member Profiles (cont.)

ANNIVERSARIESCongratulations to chamber members who have celebrated

business anniversaries in the last couple of months.

Fox River Distilling Company – 1 year

Elements Massage – 3 years

FreshGround Roasting – 4 years

Summers Real Estate – 7 years

Geneva Family Dental – 10 years

The Olive Mill – 10 years

LivingWell Cancer Resource Center, part of Northwestern Medicine – 10 years

Coffee Drop Shop – 35 years

If you have an anniversary to be share with Soundings, email Laura ([email protected])

Kiwanis Club of GenevaP.O. Box 808 • 642-0007 • https://www.facebook.com/KiwanisofGenevaKiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time. The Geneva Kiwanis Club views its role within our community with a great deal of foresight. We are Ordinary people performing EXTRAORDINARY WORK - We continually evaluate children’s issues and community needs on an ongoing basis, conduct ser-vice projects to respond to those identified needs, and maintain an active membership roster of community-minded people who have both the desire and the ability to serve the Tri-Cities and Kane County through community service projects in support of our youth, senior citizens, and the community at large.

The Club meets at Noon at the Northwestern Delnor Fitness Center in Geneva on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. Thursday meetings include lunch, programs/speakers and Club updates. Call the number above for volunteer and/or membership opportunities.

McAlister’s Deli1492 S. Randall Rd. • 402-0340 • 402-0652 (Fax) • www.mcalistersdeli.comMcAlister’s Deli is NOW OPEN!Founded in 1989, McAlister’s® Deli is a fast casual restaurant chain known for our sandwich-es, spuds, soups, salads, desserts and McAlister’s Famous Sweet Tea™. In addition to dine-in and take-out service, we also offer catering with a selection of sandwich trays, box lunches, desserts, a hot spud bar and more.

Technomic® recognized McAlister’s twice in its Chain Restaurant Consumers’ Choice Awards; in 2014 as the top kid-friendly fast casual chain and in 2013 as the top fast casual chain for food and beverage. In 2014, Nation’s Restaurant News named McAlister’s the top limited-service sandwich chain in its Consumer Picks Survey. Like us on Facebook: McAlister’s Deli - Geneva

Whole Human Health, Inc.www.wholehumanhealth.com • 487-1810Whole Human Health is focused on keeping patients healthy and functioning at their most optimal level regardless of age. We focus on finding the real problem and fixing it through chiropractic care, corrective exercise and nutritional counseling. Research and collaborative multi-disciplinary efforts have allowed us to develop the Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) De-fense Program to help with snoring and symptoms of OSA. This means a better night sleep for everyone in the house! Not to mention the many health benefits of reducing OSA symptoms for both the patient and their bed partner. In addition at Whole Human Health we offer personal and small group training in our full fitness studio. Patients love our rustically designed clinic and its warming, friendly environment. Come check us out today.

School of Art 8-27-15

StringWorks Violin Shop 9-9-15

McAlister’s Deli 10-9-15(read about in New Member Profile)




The Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society (PBATS) has announced that Kane Coun-ty Cougars athletic trainer Rafael Freitas has been selected by his peers as the 2015 Midwest League Athletic Trainer of the Year. Freitas now becomes one of eighteen league winners to be considered for Minor League Athletic Trainer of the Year, which will be announced and awarded at the Baseball Winter Meetings in December.

Jane Pabon Consignment Boutique is now accepting designer menswear clothing, coats, and accessories.

Shout out to Chianti’s, Gen Hoe Restaurant, Chick-fil-A Batavia and Stockholm’s for their generosity to the Geneva High School Varsity Boys Soccer team dinners.

Dr. Melissa Jentz-Cote and staff welcome Dr. Erica Kight as an Associate General Dentist to Geneva Family Dental, celebrating 10 years!

Thank you to Starbuck’s for providing coffee each month for the early morning Chamber Board meetings.

Bring Niche home this Thanksgiving. Dinner with no hassle, let us do all the hard work and preparation for you, and you deliver a delicious meal to your family and friends with Thanks-giving To-Go. Call 262-1000 for more information. In addition, Niche was one of the top 10 restaurants in small towns, full article at http://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/small-town-restaurants-il/.

Dan Ross Allstate Agency has moved to 301 Hamilton Street.

Geneva Chamber was ecstatic to be a part of Hart Chiropractic Random Acts of Kindness in September. Celebrating their 14th Anniversary they gave back to the community that has shown them so much support by doing a daily Random Act of Kindness. Thanks for the fall treat!

The Kane County Cougars finished in the top 30 across all Minor League Baseball clubs in terms of attendance and their overall attendance of 408,449 fans was second-best in the 16-team league. In addition to welcoming more than 400,000 fans during the organization’s 25th anniversary season, this year’s Cougars team went 84-54 (third-best record in franchise history) while winning the Western Division second half division championship.

Best wishes to Donna Steele, Steel Beam Theatre, who recently resigned as executive and artistic director of the theatre after 14 seasons. Marge Uhlarik-Boller will assume her position.

AAA St. Charles is now located at 540 N. Kirk Rd., St. Charles and their phone is 587-7700.

Comfort Inn & Suites Geneva is a proud sponsor of the newest edition at Fox Valley Ice Arena and Fitness Center, the Chicago Steel Hockey Team.

Thanks to the feedback provided on Geneva Public Library’s community survey last spring, they’ve added three iMacs to the computer work area to complement their eight PCs, and they’ve created a collaborative workspace area nearby for patrons. In addition, there is new, modern furniture in the Reference area.

Savant Capital Management has been ranked fifth in the nation as a Top Wealth Magnet in Accounting Today magazine. This is the fourth time Savant has been recognized in this prominent trade magazine.

The City of Geneva’s budget practices continue to garner national recognition after winning the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the sixth consecutive year.

Member NewsIf you have news to be considered for Soundings, email Laura ([email protected])

by the 10th of the preceding month. See website for double month issues.

Welcome New MembersFirst American Bank

Healthmarkets

James from the Kitchen

Kiwanis Club of Geneva

Land Home Financial Services

Longworth Prep

My Advisor & Planner LLC

Loy Williams, long time member and past president of Rotary Club of Geneva donated his $1000 prize for selling the winning ticket to the club to support

its scholarships, local and international service projects, grants to local charities, youth exchange

programs and other worthy causes.

Linda Williams, the winner of the 50/50 Com-munity raffle, with her husband Loy, receives the $11,113.93 from Geneva Chamber of Commerce

President Jean Gaines.

THEN




Continued on Page 6

Deli Luncheons – NovemberSeniors 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.

Support and Community Programs – NovemberTriCity 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.

Lunch & Tour – Wednesdays in NovemberOscar 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 wel-come. Call to arrange a special day - 232-0173.

Flat Bread & Wine Wednesdays at Preservation – Wednesdays in NovemberEach Wednesday from 4-9 pm, Preservation Bread & Wine ovens fire up strong and friends join us for flat bread pizza night, featuring five gourmet flatbreads & four different wines at $20/bottle.

Parkinson’s Disease Exercises – Thursdays in NovemberDelnor Glen Senior Living, part of Northwestern Medicine offers a weekly exercise class designed specifically to meet the needs of those with Parkinson’s Disease and movement dis-orders from 11-11:45 am. Classes run in 6 week sessions. To register please call 933-4234; TTY for the hearing impaired 933-4833. All participants will be required to sign a release on the first day of class.

Afternoon Tea – Thursdays & Saturdays in NovemberYou 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.

Geneva Wine Cellars Special – Saturdays in November Stop in at Geneva Wine Cellars for special wine flights all day & live local music 8-10 pm.

Sunday Breakfast Buffet – Sundays in NovemberOscar Swan Country Inn offers a Sunday buffet from 9:30-11 am. Reservations required; $15.95/person. Visit www.oscarswangeneva.com or call 232-0173.

Internet Security & Safety – November 3Learn how to avoid malicious computer software and reduce the chance of being the victim of identity theft, at Geneva Public Library from 10-11:30 am. Proven methods of securing your information and avoiding data theft will be explained. Please note: This is not a hands-on class, and there is no limit to the number of attendees. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.

Holiday Kick-Off for Merchants – November 4The City of Geneva hosts this annual event at 8 am at The Herrington Inn & Spa. Mayor Burns will present the Mayor’s Choice Award for Significant Contributions in Business and Real Estate Development. The meeting will focus on welcoming new businesses and details on holiday events and programs. Pastries and Coffee will be provided. Please RSVP to Pat Leonard by Thursday, October 29 with store name and number of attendees. Pat can be reached at 232-7494 X4203 or [email protected].

Book & Bag It – November 4Learn about the tragedy of the S.S. Eastland, its aftermath, and the ongoing legends that sur-round the 1915 sinking of the “Speed Queen of the Great Lakes,” at Geneva Public Library from 12-1 pm. This informative and thought-provoking commemorative program is presented by Terry Lynch. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.

Member EventsIf you have events to be considered for Soundings, email Laura ([email protected])

by the 10th of the preceding month. See website for double month issues.

ATTEND in 2016

A new group started this year to strengthen the local and business community by providing stra-tegic and meaningful professional development resources, including mentoring relationships, service projects, and networking opportunities for Rising Professionals through the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. For more information, http://www.genevachamber.com/rpn.php.

Anyone is welcome – look for new events in 2016.

The Leads Group is a valuable networking team. This group of Business Professionals work to-gether to help grow each other’s businesses through referrals and a power partnership.

Will meet 2x/month in Visitor Center (below our office) at 8 am.

****Industry Exclusive****Interested members should contact Judy [email protected].

LEADSGroup

BUS NESSafter hours

Business After Hours is a popular monthly event and an important facet of Geneva Chamber of Commerce networking. Who better to promote your business than you? Please come and take this opportunity to network with fellow Chamber members while you enjoy good food and drink. Reservations are not necessary. We hope to see you there!




Continued on Page 7

How to Find a Lasting Career in the New Age of Work – November 5Jobs with no guarantee of continued employment, wages becoming stagnant, automation, globalization and efficiency are affecting the availability and viability of future jobs. The way you work in the future will be much different than the way you worked before. Adapting to this new reality will be a challenge for both the young and old. Dr. James Huntington, author of 2 books on the changing work force, will discuss the new world of work and the 20 last-ing career principles you need to know now. Presented at 7 pm at Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove. More information on www.WaubonseeTickets.com

Fox River Distilling Anniversary Celebration – November 6From 5:30-8 pm celebrate with Fox River Distilling. First 100 purchasers will receive our Signature Cocktail Recipe Booklet. Gift card raffles, meet our local suppliers, live music, tastings from local restaurants and 1st Year Anniversary Signature Cocktail.

Playhouse 38 Open Mic Night – November 6Have you ever wished for the opportunity to perform your favorite instrument, poem, or improv skills in front of a live audience? This event at Geneva Park District’s Playhouse 38 is open to all ages. Admission is free; however, seating is limited and is available on a first come, first served basis. From 7-9 pm. If you are interested in performing, contact Elliott Bortner at [email protected].

First Fridays Improv – November 6100% clean. 99.27% hilarious. 90 minutes of complete improvisation a la “Whose Line Is It Anyway” from 8-9:45 pm. With competing teams, live music and a bar who knows what the night will hold at The Hemmens Cultural Center. General Admission.

Attend a Happy Hour Jewelry Making Party – November 6Expert jeweler Karen Hollis, K.Hollis Jewelers will help you handcraft your own beauti-fully conceived bracelet as she guides you through the basic concepts of jewelry design from 6:30-8:30 pm. Relax and socialize with friends as you enjoy a selection of wine, hors d’oeuvres and your own unique creations. A selection of premium beads will also be avail-able for purchase. More information on Waubonsee Community College’s ticket site -WaubonseeTickets.com.

Customer Appreciation - 2nd Annual Chili Cook Off – November 6Come join Inland Bank for some chili from 9 am-1 pm and vote to see who makes the best chili. The winner will receive the golden ladle award. We hope to see you there.

Geneva Park District’s Parent’s Night Out – November 6 & 20Enjoy a fun night away as your children play games, make crafts, watch movies, enjoy snacks, and more! Children 3 and up (must be toilet trained). Parents must fill out an emer-gency information card to have on file. Pre-registration is required at 232-4542. Cost is $15 per child for residents, and $20 per child for non-residents.

Rockin’ Teen Night – November 6, 13 & 20School of Art has planned this event from 7:30-10:30 pm at their business. The event is an informal gathering for high school and middle school students. The $20 cost covers supplies. For more info call 338-3833.

Coffee Brewing with FreshGround Roasting – November 7Learn about the history of coffee and how it is grown, processed and sourced and why it’s important to know where your coffee originates, at Geneva Public Library from 9:30-10:30 am. We will also discuss and explore some of the major coffee processing methods and how that affects the flavor. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.

Fairy Garden Seminar – November 7Enjoy breakfast in The Little Traveler café, and then create your own mini winter wonder-land with a Fairyland Christmas Tree Lighting. $30; includes breakfast, seminar, and all supplies. Sign up online, littletraveler.com or by phone, 232-4200.

Member Events (cont.)ABOVE& BEYONDA customer was extremely pleased with the customer service given to her at Geneva Spice House. Even though her order was small, she was given the royal treatment.

Several people who have recently been to Riverside Receptions for events had told us of the outstanding meals they have been served.

Geneva Lions Club recently volunteered atNorthern Illinois Food Bank.

Congratulations to Miscella Real Estate on their first place in the City of Geneva’s Geneva Beau-tification Tour des Fleurs gardens contest. No

matter the season, Miss Ella always shines.




Continued on Page 8

Member Events (cont.)Candy Buy Back – November 7McCall Family Dentistry will be promoting a sugar-free smile this Halloween with their Candy Buy Back program supporting Operation Gratitude. Children can bring their excess unopened candy from 10 am-2 pm into McCall Family Dentistry and will receive $1 per pound donated, up to five (5) pounds. Please separate chocolate and non-chocolate. All participants will be entered in a raffle to win great prizes, and will be encouraged to deco-rate cards and letters to support our troops overseas.

Sunday Cinema – November 8Enjoy The Lunchbox (Dabba), a foreign film led by the International Cultural Exchange Committee of Geneva, at Geneva Public Library from 1-3 pm. A mistaken delivery in Mumbai’s famously efficient lunchbox delivery system connects a young housewife to an older man in the dusk of his life as they build a fantasy world together through notes in the lunchbox. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.

Wine Pairing Dinner – November 9This is Niche’s 2nd wine pairing dinner. Doors open at 6 pm; dinner at 6:30. $65/person for this four course dinner & wine pairing. Call 262-1000 for reservations.

Brown Bag Lunch Series – November 10From 12-1 pm at Geneva History Museum, presentation will be “Myths of the Civil War” with Vietnam Veteran, Van Stone. Reservations: $5/$3 Members.

Business Book Discussion – November 10The book is The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul by Danielle LaPorte. Join Cynthia Wade, an experienced facilitator, as she guides the discussion at Geneva Public Library from 7-8:30 pm. Books are available at the Check Out desk at the Library but you don’t need to read the book to participate. Handouts will be provided. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.

Monthly Caregivers Support Group – November 10Are you a current caregiver for someone with dementia? Could you use some additional support or resources? You’re invited to join the Monthly Caregiver Support Group at Arden Courts Memory Care Community from 1-2:30 pm. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month. Registration is NOT required; if you have questions about this group, please call 262-3900 or email [email protected].

Rightsizing Your Life & Treasures – November 10Whether you’re planning to move and don’t know where to start or you just want to get control of your space, downsizing expert Tammy Bilek will offer professional guidance when she presents ‘Rightsizing Your Life & Treasures’, at 10:30 am at The Holmstad. She’ll explore all aspects of what she calls ‘rightsizing’ - from space planning through sort-ing, downsizing, packing, moving and getting settled in a new location. For more details on this free event or to reserve a spot, visit TheHolmstad.org or call 226-7310.

Geneva Library Foundation Speaker Series – November 11 From 7-8:30 pm at Geneva Public Library enjoy Sport & Spectacle in Ancient Rome: Chariot Racing, Charioteers, and Sports Fans. This free event will be in the lower meeting room. Reservations are not required, but suggested. You can register at genevalibrary-foundation.org.

Holiday Decorating & Entertaining Seminar – November 12Don’t miss this festive evening. Wander The Little Traveler during this private shopping event to attend mini-seminars by the experts from 6-9 pm. We’ll have you covered from head to tabletop with tips and tricks for preparing party foods, sporting seasonal fashions, and adding extra sparkle to your home. $15 ticket includes hors d’oeuvres, cookies & drinks in the café, wine tastings in the Wine Room (for those over 21), and a $10 shopping coupon. Register online, littletraveler.com or by phone 232-4200.

THANK YOU to all the GenevaMerchants who year after year continue to participate in the

Painting the Town Blue tradition for Geneva Homecoming.

Geneva Tire & Auto

Geneva Cleaners

State Street Jewelers

Proud Fox Gallery

Evernia

Geneva Running Outfitters

*just a few who participated




“The Jungle Book” – November 13 – 15Enjoy the exciting adventure of “The Jungle Book Kids” with Mowgli, Bagheera, and Baloo. People of all ages will be captivated by the fun tale and creative characters you will meet through this intriguing story. Performances will be held at Playhouse 38 on 11/13 at7 pm; 11/14 and 11/15 at 3 & 7 pm. $10 tickets are available for purchase at Geneva Park District’s Sunset Community Center. For more information, call 232-4542.

Stress Busters - November 14Discover unrecognized causes of stress. Learn easy, effective tips to bust the cycle of stress ways from local Wellness Experts. Integrated Natural Medicine, LLC presents this seminar at 25N Coworking at 11 am. Enjoy yummy treats. $25 fee, register at stress-busters.eventbrite.com.

Birds of Prey: Migrating Majesty – November 14Get up close and personal with at least five different Birds of Prey as Stillman Nature Center will be on-site to discuss each bird and its lifespan. Also, dissect owl pellets and look through scopes to find birds. Cost is $5 per person. Please note: pre-registration is required. All children must be accompanied by an adult. At Geneva Park District’s Peck Farm; two times 11 am & 1:30 pm.

French Market – Sundays thru November 15An open air market located by the train station runs Sundays from 9 am-2 pm. For more information, http://www.genevachamber.com/festival_events.php.

A Tale of Two Memoirs – November 15The Little Traveler welcomes back entertainer, spy catcher & WWII bride Pauline Fraser and her biographer, Louise Brass. Hear amazing stories of Pauline’s experiences as an en-tertainer in London during the Blitz (as told in Presenting Pauline; I was a Dancer) and her life as a restauranteur during the mid-twentieth century near Naperville, IL, in the newly released book, The Secrets and Recipes of The Beef Steak Inn. Pauline and Louise will sign copies of both books. $15. Register online, littletraveler.com or by phone, 232-4200.

Pitch + Catch – November 17Pitch and Catch offers 25N Coworking members an opportunity to present their business plan, new idea, or sales pitch to an audience of mentors, advisers, entrepreneurs, and you! Pitchers prepare a 5 minute presentation and engage in 20 minutes of feedback and questioning. 25N members gain insight into possible ways they can improve their busi-nesses and gather real time feedback. Starts at 4 pm at 25N Coworking.

Financial Aid Process – November 18Going to college next fall? Get a head start at Geneva Public Library from 7-8:30 pm. with this introduction to financial aid, including grants, scholarships, student loans and FAFSA from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission Corps. Parents and students welcome. Call 232-0780 X251 or visit www.gpld.org to register.

Packing Your Suitcase – November 19This program at Oscar Swan Country Inn will show you how to pack using simple tech-niques to save space, taking clothing that you can mix and match, changing from one look to another and accessorizing. Lunch and program $25; from 12-1 pm. For reservations call 232-0173.

Evening at The Little Traveler – November 20Support the Geneva Academic Foundation as you enjoy private shopping, wine tastings and dinner. The Little Traveler will donate 15% of all purchases that night to the GAF. Prices are $25.00 per person and include the elaborate appetizer and dessert buffet. Indi-vidual wine tastings, of three wines each, will be available for $5.00 and glasses of wine are just $5.00 each! Only ticket holders may attend! Purchase $25 tickets at gafgeneva.org.

Member Events (cont.)

Continued on Page 9

Thank youto all the restaurants that donated to our awesome Business After Hours Member-ship Drive in September. We had many fu-ture members come and learn all the ben-efits of Geneva Chamber membership. A special thank you to Eagle Brook Country Club and Money Mailer of Fox River Valley.

Chez Moi Café & CateringMoveable Feast & Company

NoshThe Patten House of GenevaRiganato’s Old World Grille

Shakou of St. Charles

In addition, two tickets to the 1st Geneva Fashion Show were donated by fashion show participant C’est la Vie by Sylvie and recipient of the fundraising, Fox Val-ley Food for Health. This fundraiser, at Riverside Receptions, also included de-signs from State Street Jewelers, Evernia, Veiled in Elegance and Jane Pabon Bou-tique, along with many Chamber members sponsoring the event.

Sylvie Baumann, C’est la vie by Sylvie; Toni Paul & Marci Sterkel, State Street Jewelers and Susan Leigh, Fox Valley Food for Health perhaps discuss their collaborative October fashion show at September’s Business After Hours at Eagle

Brook Country Club.

Karen Gross and Patti Anselme, Gatherings By Design and Oliver Bulley, Zippy Shell Fox Valley

enjoy September’s Business After Hours.




Free Friday – November 20Try out a Free Trial day at 25N Coworking & experience what a coworking community is all about or to learn about the impact that coworking can have for you & your business. For more information 409-1030.

“Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings” – opens November 20Steel Beam Theatre presents this play Fri & Sat (8 pm); Sun (3 pm). Some Thursday per-formances. The legendary Plaids, an all-male vocal quartet, come back to earth to spread yuletide joy with the greatest Holiday hits of the ages. Hilarious and harmonious, the nostalgic touches provide heart-warming holiday entertainment. Please visit steelbeamtheatre.com or call 587-8521 for tickets and more information. Thru December 27.

Beaujolais Bash – November 20Enjoy the release of this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau at 7 pm at Chez Moi Café & Catering! A fun, drinkable wine. Live music with Dennis O’Brien. Reservations required

Breakfast with Author Margaret Philbrick – November 21Local author Margaret Philbrick will read from and discuss her books at The Little Traveler. Back to the Manger is a picture book retelling of Margaret’s family history with The Little Traveler crèche. In her novel A Minor, she tells a love story that explores the healing power of music for those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. Breakfast presentation begins at 9 am in the Atrium Cafe. $18.00; includes a $10 shopping coupon. Register online,littletraveler.com or by phone, 232-4200.

Thanksgiving Food Drive – November 23 – 25Bring your non-perishable food items to The HomeCourt Real Estate. Last year over 1300 lbs were donated to a local pantry.

Meetup After Hours – November 2625N Coworking is hosting “Coworking in Geneva” Meetup at 25N. Come meet and network with local professionals in the area. Open sign up at the Community Manager’s desk or online at: http://www.meetup.com/Geneva-Coworking-Meetup/events/222236428/. Cash bar by Nobel House.

Giving Trees & Crèche Display open – November 24Visit Geneva History Museum’s gallery of Christmas trees decorated by local charities. Marvel at their 18th century Crèche, a history nativity scene originally displayed at The Little Traveler. Both on display thru December 23.

Thanksgiving Eve Gratitude Yoga – November 25Going To My Happy Place Yoga will be hosting a special session from 7:30-8:30 pm! Led by Happy Place instructors, this traditional yoga will focus on blending gratitude with yoga in an uplifting and serene atmosphere. Open to the public, this session is included in membership or can be attended with the drop-in rate of $17!

Thanksgiving Dinner – November 26Enjoy an old-fashioned Thanksgiving dinner at Oscar Swan Country Inn. Roasted turkey will all the trimmings, live music and the ambience of a 1902 historic mansion. Two seatings: 11:30 am and 2:30 pm. Reservations please at 232-0173.

10th Anniversary Celebration – November 27 – December 4The Olive Mill is celebrating its 10th anniversary on November 25. To celebrate The Olive Mill will have special samples and offers during the anniversary week of November 27 through December 4. Please stop in 315 James Street and see what we have in store for you!

Holiday Lights at Mooseheart – opens November 27 Visit one of Chicagoland’s largest light displays at Mooseheart. Over 1.8 miles of holiday light displays! Open 5-9 pm nightly. $10/car. Visit mooseheart.org for more info.

Member Events (cont.) Crime Prevention TipsFor Business Owners

Theft and retail theft in particular, are not anything new in the Tri City area, unfortunately. While it may be impossible to eliminate all retail theft, there are steps which merchants can and should take to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of retail theft.

As we leave summer behind and start to transition into the busy holiday shopping season, it is impor-tant to be more vigilant since stores may become more crowded, people are wearing more clothing in which to hide things they do not pay for and holiday displays tend to block your view of shop-pers. The single best way to prevent theft is good customer service. As a merchant, you should trust your instincts when you find someone suspicious. Ask them if they need help and continue to provide them with good customer service. If they are plan-ning to commit a theft, they will know you are on to them. If they are not, they will be pleased with your attentiveness. Security mirrors which turn blind spots into easily seen locations are a good deterrent, as are cam-eras. Checkout registers should be located at the front of the store near the entrance/exit area to deter those who may try to slip out the door un-noticed while making off with merchandise. More expensive items should be kept in a display case if possible, and always in easy view of the person working the register. Finally, if you are dealing with anyone suspicious who you feel may be of any danger or you are un-comfortable approaching, you should call 911 im-mediately rather than confront the person yourself. If you would like further information, you can con-tact the Geneva Police Department at 232-4736.

Written by Geneva Crime Prevention Officer Chuck Parisi

Merchant Alert Chamber Program

One of your many Chamber benefits, and one way to stay informed and diligent about retail theft, is the opportu-nity to participate in the Merchant Alert program. The purpose of the Merchant Alert program is to warn fellow merchants of shoplifters, suspicious checks, counterfeit currency or anything else that is detrimental to legitimate consumer/merchant relations. It is a calling tree between businesses. At most, your staff would only make two calls to continue the calling tree.

There is no cost for you to participate -- we just need your guarantee that your staff will make their calls as quickly as possible so that a minimum of time is lost informing your fellow merchants.

If you need more information, call Mary at 232-6060. If you want to sign up email her at [email protected]




And all through the town…Geneva’s Christmas Walk is truly the beginning of the holiday season and we want to offer that feeling of peace on earth & goodwill to men. Let’s offer the best of the sea-son with twinkling lights and fresh greens, where people come to greet their friends and share in the merriment of Christmas Walk. Geneva is the destination to dine with friends and family and to find that special gift in one of our shops. This is where par-ents bring their children to enjoy a carriage ride and get a peppermint stick from Santa or a fresh roasted chestnut.

We are most fortunate to have the City contribute labor to install all the greens and lights but it takes a substantial budget to create this “picture postcard”. The dollars raised through this request help us pay for all the greens, the lights, the candy and Santa’s trip from the North Pole. We depend on this fund drive to help us cover a por-tion of the cost.

Please help us continue this wonderful tradition … send your donation. We will put your name on Santa’s list and in an upcoming newsletter.

Christmas Walk December 4-5, 2015

Please return this form with your check.

Scrooge 0___________________________

Teddy Bear $1-$99______________________

Elf $100-$149__________________

Angel $150-$200__________________

Santa Claus $201-$500__________________

Name:_____________________________________________________Please list personal or business name exactly as you would

like it to appear in recognition listing

Address:___________________________________________________

___________________________________________________

Please return to:Geneva Chamber of Commerce- Christmas 2015

PO Box 481Geneva, IL 60134-0481Geneva, IL 60134-0481

Paste Magazine recently listed the top 7 suburbs worth leaving Chi-cago for - #3 Geneva, along with Nosh, Bien Trucha, Graham’s Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream and Swedish Days getting mentioned. Read the full article at http://www.pastemag-azine.com/articles/2015/09/the-bucket-list-7-suburbs-worth-a-trip-out-of-chicago.html

50/50 Community Raffle Wrap Up By the Numbers

Total amount brought infrom selling tickets - $22,327.86

Amount paid to seller ofwinning ticket - $1,000

Number of non-profitsinvolvement; each receivedmonies for their organization - 9

Months of raffle - 5

Winner of $11,163.93 (see picture in this issue) - 1

Coming together as a community with the participation of CASA Kane County, Geneva Academic Foundation, Geneva Community Chest, Geneva History Museum, Geneva Lions Club, Geneva Music Boosters, Rotary Club of Geneva and TriCity Family Services.

PRICELESS.

CharityRAFFLE5050

Play With a Purpose



BOARD OF DIRECTORSChairman

Scott Lebin ........................ Lebin Financial PlanningVice Chairman

Mark Spero............ Money Mailer of Fox River ValleyTreasurer

Susan Huang.................. Fox Valley eValues & DealsPast Chairman

Gordie Hard........................Valley Insurance AgencySecretary

Lisa Nelson......................................Carlson’s Floors

BOARD MEMBERSSteve Burnham........................ The Paper Merchant Jamie Daniel.................................. Member EmeritaGeorge Havlicek ................... Geneva ACE HardwareNeil Johnson ..................................Sperry Van NessRobert Langeness .......................Yurs Funeral HomeMichael Olesen ..................................... Stockholm’s Tim Riley .................................................Riley DrugMartha Sanchez ...................... State Street JewelersMike Simon ..................................The Little TravelerDarla Yhost ............................. Geneva Bank & Trust

STAFFJean Gaines.............................................. President

[email protected]

Judy Carroll .........Membership/Sponsorship [email protected]

Mary Miller ...................................... Office [email protected]

Laura Rush......................Communications [email protected]

Jeanne Sawtell...........................Member Services & Events Coord, [email protected]

Krista Andersen

.........................Member Services &

Volunteer Coord, [email protected]

MISSION STATEMENTThe 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

HOURS ........................................ Weekdays 9-4:30EDITOR ................................................. Laura RushPHONE (630) 232-6060 .......... FAX (630) 232-6083WEBSITE .........................www.genevachamber.comEMAIL [email protected]


3N497 N. 17th Street, St. Charles377-8420 • Fax 377-8584

Layout and Graphic Design Printing

Congratulations to Firehouse Pizza & Grill, winner of the 2015 Lencioni Best Presentation Award at Fes-tival of the Vine. This is the sixth year for the award

named after Flavor Fare starter Chuck Lencioni.

Five Star Professional and CHICAGO magazine have named Fox Valley State Farm Agent Bill Nelson a

recipient of the Five Star Home/Auto Insurance Profes-sional Award for the FIFTH consecutive year. This honor is bestowed upon less than one percent of Chicago area insurance professionals. Nelson is celebrating 25 years

with State Farm Insurance this year.

Shout out to Comfort Inn & Suites of Geneva for advertising Festival of the Vine through an email blast to their database in

September.

PRSRT FIRST CLASSUS POSTAGE

PAIDST CHARLES, ILPERMIT #663

Geneva Chamber of Commerce 8 South Third StreetPO Box 481 Geneva, IL 60134-0481


12 SOUNDINGS


Christmas WalkDecember 4th @ 6 pm

Join us we continue this special Geneva holiday tradition. With carolers, Santa Lucia, lighting of the Great Tree, roasted chestnuts, candy canes and the jolly old elf himself! Stores stay open late.

Christmas House TourDec 4 @ 11 am – 8 pmDec 5 @ 11 am – 5 pm

Five lovely homes are decorated in holiday splendor and open to visitors for self-guided tours. $30 price of the ticket includes a traditional tea and a booklet with delightful Christmas decorating and entertaining ideas. Proceeds are used to decorate Geneva for the season. Buy tickets at our office or order at 232-6060.

Interested in volunteering as a host/hostess in a home? Don’tdelay, contact Krista today, at [email protected]

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GenevaILChamber

GenevaILChamber

Geneva, IL – Chamber ofCommerce & Tourism

a bountiful thank you - geneva nov 2015 soundings.pdf · volume 106, issue 8 november 2015 geneva...

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