Friday, December 18, 2009

Interesting Website



Check out this great new website – AlikeList.com. Here you can quickly find the right local businesses to help you save money and time. ALikeList is based on the principle that people trust referrals from friends and family. This site is word-of-mouth referrals at your fingertips! You can create and save your most trusted U.S. businesses, make recommendations and rank them. Go ahead and invite your family and friends, share list and connect each other with business too. You can also connect through your Facebook and/or Twitter accounts. It’s the fastest way to get trusted recommendations whenever and wherever you need them!

www.ALikeList.com

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Lombard Community Table

I attended the Lombard Community Table dinner on Wednesday, December 2. The Community Table began this past August with 2 attendees, and now, just months later, has upwards of 150 attendees. The Northern Illinois Food Bank supplies the food, which is cooked by Sandra Hill of Walk-in Ministries, Outreach House and First Things First infant program. The meals are nutritious, healthy meals that serve people from all walks of life at no cost to them. A goodwill donation jar is on hand for those who care to contribute. There are children, teens, adults and Senior citizens in attendance, and all enjoy conversation and fellowship, which many people don't get, as they generally eat alone. This is a chance once a week to get together and make new acquaintences and share a meal. Volunteers help with the final preparations and serving, then join the diners to eat and converse.

There have been some volunteer local chefs that have given of their time and talents. Last night Rock Bottom Brewery was present, with a large staff that came along to serve the meal sit-down style. The food was professionally prepared, and very delicious! No one left hungry! I encourage people to either volunteer their time to help out at this wonderful community program, or to sit down and join someone new for a meal. The experience will leave you with a sense of goodwill, and the desire to return again. I know I will be back!

Yvonne Invergo
Executive Director
Lombard Chamber

Friday, November 13, 2009

5 Signs You May Be a Bad Coworker

by Alison Green
Friday, November 13, 2009
provided by: US News and World Report

I get a lot of mail at Ask a Manager from people consumed with fury over habits their coworkers have -- habits that I bet most of those coworkers aren't even aware of.
Here are five signs that you might be the one pushing your coworkers to the limits of their sanity: (Read More)

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Connect 4 Lunch

Have you heard of Connect 4 Lunch? Check it out - it just might be the thing you're looking for!



Now that the weather is growing colder, State Senator Dan Cronin is once again asking area residents to think about the less fortunate when cleaning out their closets this winter. This year, due to the struggling economy, requests are already coming in for coats from local agencies that provide for those in need. Cronin’s office is sponsoring its 12th Annual Winter Coat Drive, which has collected and distributed over 26,000 coats since it began in 1998, and will now accept donations beginning the first week in November.

“Many people are struggling along with our economy,” said Cronin. “This year my office is already receiving requests for coats from local agencies that help those in need, so we are really trying to get the word out about our drive and have added several new drop-off locations.” To meet these demands, gently used coats, jackets, scarves and mittens are accepted at any one of fourteen locations throughout the area, including the Lombard Village Hall and Cronin’s district office at 313 S. Main Street. These items are then distributed to many organizations that help the needy, such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society, York and Addison Township Public Assistance, Ray Graham Association, Peoples’ Resource Center, veterans’ organizations and local school districts, to name just a few.

Cronin and his staff continue to be amazed by the outpouring of generosity each year as the community responds to this effort. “I never fail to be amazed by the generosity of the public. Over the years we’ve seen groups and individuals hold their own coat drives to contribute to the collection and to make it a success, such as scout troops, churches and civic organizations. And not to be forgotten are the firefighters and village employees who generously provide the drop-off locations where boxes overflow with donated coats.”

For more information on this year’s coat drive, please call Senator Cronin’s district office at 630-792-0040.


Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Disabled Workers; Employer Fears Are Groundless

Studies show that hiring the disabled does not lead to higher accommodation costs, worker comp, or sick leave, yet these myths persist (Read More)



This article was submitted by:
Paul Engman
Parents Alliance Employment Project
www.parents-alliance.org

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Check It Out!

The all new 2010 Cadillac Escalade and SRX will be on display at EXPO 2009!
Be sure to stop by to check out these beauties!



EXPO 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Westin Lombard Yorktown Center
10 AM to 3 PM
FREE ADMISSION ~ ALL ARE INVITED

Networking Reception ~ Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
4 PM to 6 PM

FREE to Exhibitors or $25 per person

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Tap the world's collective wisdom with social media

By Brian Tomkins - Business Ledger October 15, 2009

Brian Tomkins is chief of operations for Nextvoice247, a multimedia company that combines traditional marketing and PR techniques with innovative social media strategies. He helps his clients brand themselves and build strong relationships by supplementing traditional marketing techniques with online social media. He utilizes Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, Blogs and other online tools to build communities and connect his clients to their target audience. Contact him at BrianTomkins@nextvoice247.com or follow him on twitter @BrianTomkins.

People ask me all the time, “How do I advertise on social media?” Advertising is part of the equation, but if you go into social media with an advertising mentality, you may set yourself up for failure. Read More...

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Ghouls Night Out


Submitted by:
Kathleen Roberts, Potted Petals
630-620-0448

Emails no longer rule?

Here is a recent article from The Wallstreet Journal. What's your opinion? Do you agree or disagree?

Monday, October 12, 2009

Are You Getting the Respect You Deserve?

This article was featured in the Monday, October 12 Business Ledger.

A Business Perspective
By: Ramon Greenwood

No doubt about it, most of us at one time or another can identify with Comedian Rodney Dangerfield's trademark lament, "I don't get no respect."That's not surprising because our need to be appreciated along our career path is not always satisfied. But stop and think the next time you are tempted to moan and groan about not getting respect and appreciation on your job. Read more...

Thursday, October 8, 2009

EMPLOYEE GIVES TWO WEEKS’ NOTICE— EMPLOYER TERMINATES RIGHT AWAY— IDES SAYS EMPLOYEE IS ELIGIBLE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT!

An interesting article was recently posted on the Illinois Chamber Website regarding voluntary resignation of an employee, and their ability to collect unemployment. You can read it HERE

Read the October, 2009 News and Views Newsletter from the DuPage Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Community Forum

I attended the Community Forum that was held this past Saturday at the Westin. Tghis is a bi-annual event in which information is gathered from members of the community used to drive the Village Board's Strategic Plan. Over 50 Lombard residents were in attendance, as well as all of our Village Board of Trustees and departments heads from the Village of Lombard. The residents in attendance had replied to one of the over 1500 surveys that were sent out. They were then asked if they would like to participate in the upcoming forum. There was also a group of members from local govermental agencies that serve Lombard, that were on hand to observe the Forum, and were able to glean important information that residents feel is important in planning for the future of Lombard. The observers were from the Lombard Park District, Lombard Chamber of Commerce, School Districts 44, 45 and 88, Lombard Town Centre and the Helen Plum Library.

All participants were divided into groups that included a trustee and a department head. Each group chose a facilitator, and participated simultaneously in 3 group exercises.

The first exercise, "Success Stories" consisted of the groups coming up with and listing successes that they have recognized in Lombard. These successes could be associated with the Park District, Library , Village, Chamber, County etc. Many of the lists were similar to each other, and included such things as the expansion of Yorktown, the building of the Westin, Paradise Bay, Cruise Nights, and the Taste of Lombard. Each group came up with their top 10, which were then grouped according to "type" with all of the other groups, to see where the largest successes were recognized.

The second exercise was called "If I were King/Queen - this is what I would do". To get into the spirit of the exercise, every person in the room wore a crown. The residents were told to come up individually with things that they would like to see in Lombard, as if they were King. The groups then each compiled their top 10 items, which were then once again grouped together with the top 10 from the other groups to ascertain what types of things the residents would like to see. Some of the wishes were a skateboard park, community mono-rail system, (clever, huh?) a new theatre, and a new library.

The third exercise, "The Budget Game" was quite challenging. The groups were presented with a "village" budget. The budget needed to be reduced by 1.2 million. They were given a list of budget choices, and were asked to either cut spending, increase revenues and/or add spending in order to achieve a balanced budget. There were 15 items/areas identified as having possibilites for spending cuts. Each item was described, and had the pros and cons listed. The groups went through each item one by one to discuss the pros and cons, and whether or not they felt that the item should stay as is, or be cut in some way. None of the choices were easy - some involved cutting money to local social services, police or fire protection. Another would require a number of furlough days for Village employees, or reduce hours at the front desk. Groups were also challenged to decide if there should be an increase in revenues. For example, increasing the rate of vehicles stickers or having a referendum to increase property taxes. This exercise really helped all attendees to understand the tough choices that our Village Board is faced with when trying to keep our budget on track.

Over all, the Community Forum is a very worthwhile event, and every Lombard citizen should be involved at one time or another. As Lombard residents, we are very lucky that we have a Village Board that really listens and cares about the thoughts and feeling of it's residents. We have fabulous parks, library and school districts as well as dedicated police and fire fighters.

Even as layoffs persist, some good jobs go begging

Here is an interesting story from Yahoo News.

Friday, October 2, 2009

North and South







SOUTH: Have you checked out the Evening Farmer's Market at Yorktown Center - The Shops on Butterfield?


Make It Happen-DuPage and Yorktown Center have worked together to create an upscale, early evening market for DuPage County. It's a really unique concept for a mall, and certain to be beneficial to working families that don't have access to the many morning markets in the area.

This Farmer's Market will feature nearly 25 vendor spaces with items such as pasture raised antibiotic free pork, farm fresh milk, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, squash, gourds and pumpkins, olives, vinegars, jams and jellies, pies, chocolates, salsa and sauces, breads and scones, kettle corn, fresh and dried flowers, loose leaf teas, honey, hand-made soaps and so much more.
There are also samplings from many of the area restaurants such as Egg Harbor, Brio Tuscan Grille, Rock Bottom Brewery and Adobo Grill.
This 4 week test market has 2 weeks left, and will determine the viability of running it for the entire season next year. The market starts at 3 PM and ends at 7 PM, and will be open on October 7 and October 14.
It is located outside at the Shops on Butterfield at Yorktown Center, and located near Forever 21. Check it out - you won't be disappointed!






NORTH: The Lombard Metra Train Station Has a New Look!
Two years ago, the Village of Lombard and Metra entered into an agreement to modernize and update the station in downtown Lombard. Both interior and exterior changes were made, including a new roof, clock tower and the installation of a video security system, plasma television, a book case and washrooms that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

"The Perk" coffee and snack shop is open daily from 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM with fresh coffee, drinks, donuts, fruit and more. Village President, William Mueller told everyone that they "don't need to be taking the train in order to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, and to stop on by during operating hours".

On October 1, a ribbon cutting was held at the Metra station in honor of the new enhancements. Representatives from Metra, the Village of Lombard, Chamber of Commerce, Lombard Park District and Lombard Town Centre were among those in attendance.
















Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Economic recovery cannot come fast enough

Jeremy Stoltz, Editor of the Business Ledger, had a good article in yesterday's edition. You can read it here.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

EXPO 2009 is coming soon!





The Lombard Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the members of the planning committee are very excited about this year’s 13th Annual EXPO 2009 which will take place on Friday, October 30, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center.


This event presents a wonderful opportunity to meet a wide variety of Lombard Area Businesses all in one place. Local area restaurants will have samples of their menu items to try, and along with hourly door prize drawings and a Networking Reception held at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse from 4 PM to 6 PM for exhibitors, EXPO 2009 will prove to be a worthwhile event for all. Admission is free!

Businesses interested in having a booth at the EXPO can call the Chamber Office at 630-627-5040 for more information or go to the chamber website , click on “EXPO” and download an application. Business category types will be limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.


Monday, September 28, 2009

Social Media Helps Chambers of Commerce "Connect"


This article was recently featured in the Business Ledger newspaper. It was written by Brian Tomkins of Nextvoice247.

State of Illinois Cuts MAP Grants

Approximately one in four Illinois (primarily low income) college students will be left out in the cold come January 1, 2010, because the State of Illinois has cut funding for the Monetary Award Program (MAP) by nearly $200 million. Because of these cuts, students who have been awarded MAP grants this year will now only be getting half the amount they were eligible to receive. Without legislative action in the upcoming veto sessions in October, nearly 138,000 Illinois college students will lose MAP grants pledged to them last spring.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) has established the web site: saveillinoismapgrants.org to update the public on this issue. They have also created an online: www.thepetitionsite.com/1/saveillinoismapgrant for people to express their opinion to lawmakers.

There is a short window of opportunity in October (during General Assembly’s veto sessions) for lawmakers to address the second semester funding of the MAP grant. People need to let their lawmakers know that it is not OK to balance the state budget by cutting funds to low income students.

MAP Grant Facts:
The mean taxable income of MAP recipients was just $23,558

77 percent of students receiving MAP grant assistance had a household income of less than $40,000 per year

130,000 eligible students did not receive ANY award because the program ran out of funding on May 15

Demand for the need-based Monetary Award Program (MAP) increased nearly 25 percent from last year

The General Assembly’s veto session, which takes place on October 14-16 and October 28-30, is the last opportunity to fund the MAP grant program for the second semester.



Submitted by:
Joseph Orsolini, CFP
®College Aid Planners, Inc
630-469-6776
www.notpayingforcollege.com

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Spagno Cafe Ribbon Cutting!

Spagno Cafe recently held their Ribbon Cutting along with a Business After Hours. Those in attendance were pleasantly greeted with a warm wood and soothing color palette. Spagno has plenty of seating with tables, booths, along with several comfortable conversation armchair groupings. They are fully equipped with WiFi, which will give folks a wonderful atmosphere in which to work, or visit.

Suzanna Toska and her crew provided attendees with a variety sampling of sandwiches, salad and fresh, hot homemade chips, as well as soft drinks. Their menu has a wide variety of items to please everyone. One of the sandwiches we tried was the Bistro Roast Beef that was served on a pretzel baguette. We also tried out the Turkey Avacado PLT. Both sandwiches had us going back for more!



Did you know they even serve breakfast on a daily basis? Try one of their breakfast sandwiches like the Pepperjack Chicken Sausage Panini, or perhaps the Veggie Breakfast Wrap. They also have staples such as Bagels, Muffins, Oatmeal and more.

Oh, and one more thing - they have catering service and they deliver! Try them out sometime soon! They are located at 621 East Roosevelt Road in Lombard with ample parking in both the front and rear. Their phone number is 630-627-8500.