Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce

Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce Statement: Inspector General Reports on Parking Meter Fiasco

2009-06-03T08:45:00.001-07:00

As headlines continue to fill the news about broken meters and unhappy aldermen, the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) applauds City of Chicago Inspector General David Hoffman for holding City Council members accountable for leasing the City’s meters for the next 75 years.

“We commend Inspector General David Hoffman’s inquiry into the value of the parking meter lease and for his efforts to hold our elected officials accountable,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce. “Despite City Alderman’s efforts to include a required review period for future deals, the issue of the hasty lease of a precious asset remains.”

Although the LPCC supports parking meters to encourage business turnover, a 75-year lease and deferred control of costs and meter times is both of detriment to businesses and the vitality of neighborhoods,” Schilf continued. “With costs increasing by as much as 400% in some neighborhoods – to start – only time will tell as to how high they will climb.”

“Between increased taxes, higher fees and parking costs, the LPCC asks aldermen to think about the price point at which consumers will simply go elsewhere for their goods and services,” Schilf concluded. “With approximately $1 billion left on the table with the privatization of our city’s parking meters, we worry that the financial well-being of businesses is at risk as well.”

Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce Statement: DePaul’s Master Plan

2009-05-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

As DePaul University prepares to unveil their updated Master Plan and Community agreement to the Lincoln Park neighborhood, the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) is looking forward to the final outcome of those documents.

“We are excited to see DePaul University’s final Master Plan after their diligent and strategic approach to the site,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce. “DePaul University has been transparent, open and inclusive throughout this process. The LPCC is honored and appreciative of being able to provide feedback throughout the planning process. The community agreement being developed with the Master Plan represents DePaul’s continued commitment to the neighborhood and the residents and businesses that reside near the university.”

As a business organization, one of our main concerns is how any new development or change in the neighborhood will impact parking. DePaul University’s Master Plan has studied the impact changes to the campus and new buildings will have on parking and has incorporated plans for additional parking options into their plans,” Schilf continued.

“The new music and theatre buildings will provide students access to a world-class education and residents another cultural outlet in their neighborhood,” Schilf concluded.

New Edition of The Source Now Available

2009-05-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

The spring 2009 edition of The Source, the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce's quarterly newsletter is hitting streets today.

For an electronic copy of The Source, please click here. If you'd like to get on the mailing list or find out more about membership, feel free to email us today.

Business Updates

2009-04-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

In an effort to keep LPCC members informed about various issues affecting businesses throughout Lincoln Park – or even nationally – we bring you Business Updates regularly. For more information, please our website.

Public Use Permits
Despite popular opinion, sidewalk cafes are not the only outdoor item for which businesses are required to obtain a public use permit. Annual fees for public use permits range from $0 to $400. Public Use Permits are obtained through the new Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. They can be reached by calling (312) 74-GOBIZ.

Permits are required for all items that touch or hang over the public way including: bike racks, bay windows, canopies, decorative lights, all facades and balconies, fire escapes, flagpoles, landscaping, murals, park benches, pavers, signage, trash containers and many more.

Please visit the Business Resources page on our website - http://www.lincolnparkchamber.com/business/business-resource/ - for a complete list of permits required, fees and information on how to obtain the necessary documents.

Door Hangers and Hand Bills
Often, businesses hit the streets with materials to be distributed door-to-door to residents. Unfortunately, this canvassing practice is against city ordinance and will result in a fine of $200 for each offense. Section 10-8-271 of the Municipal Code of the City of Chicago prohibits the distribution of “door hangers” or “handbills” as advertising material.

The complete ordinance is available in the Community News section of our website. The LPCC is reminding businesses of this ordinance to ensure they aren’t fined.

Broken Parking Meters
There’s been a lot of discussion lately about the cost, regulation and even maintenance of the parking meters in Chicago. The LPCC wants every business – and resident for that matter – to understand the policies associated with parking meters that are not functional. Simply putting a bag over it – although a widely-used technique – is not a guarantee you will be free from a parking ticket.

If would like to report a broken or missing parking meter please call (312) 744-4500 or complete the form available on the City of Chicago’s website (search: “Broken Parking Meters). If you have any comments, ideas, or complaints related to parking meters, please call 311. Tickets will be written at meters that are not working.

And of course, don’t forget your quarters! Meters throughout Lincoln Park are now at least $1 an hour, and areas closer to downtown range from $2 to $3.50 an hour.

Sandwich Boards
A popular tool to draw foot traffic into your business is in fact illegal. AS the ordinance states: “…any such sign, structure or de¬vice that is placed, installed or maintained on the public way in violation of this section is hereby declared a public nuisance and may be removed at any time at the expense of the person re¬sponsible for the violation.” This violation is subject to a fine of up to $500 for each offense.

"Going Green" Business After Hours

2009-04-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

Protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility. Business owners in Chicago – and across the planet – are in a unique position to help control their carbon footprint and energy use. Bringing the issue of energy-efficiency to the neighborhood, the LPCC hosted a special “Going Green” Business After Hours event in conjunction with Earth Day.

On Wednesday, April 22 more than 70 LPCC members and other Lincoln Park business leaders joined together for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and conversation at Aquae Sulis, a high end kitchen and bath fixture store in Lincoln Park.

“Environmentally-friendly products and business practices save more than our planet, they help save businesses money as well,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the LPCC. “The LPCC is committed not only to promoting local businesses, but also to shaping a healthy environment for generations to come.”

Sponsored by Premier Waste and Recycling, the “Going Green” Business After Hours” featured environmentally-friendly business tips and products, as well as a raffle that included recycled aluminum foil from Reynolds Wrap, tickets to a Chicago White Sox game a gift basket filled with green cleaning supplies. Everyone who attended the Going Green Business After Hours was presented with CFL light bulbs from the City of Chicago and a water bottle to help limit landfill waste created by bottled water.

Photos of the event are available here:

Thanks again to everyone who came out and made this a memorable and “green” event!

Cooperative Advertising Program Offers Savings

2009-04-23T09:08:00.000-07:00

The LPCC is pleased to announce our cooperative advertising program – a money-saving benefit of your LPCC membership!

In 2009, we have partnered with Chicagoland media and publishers to provide a variety of options for discounted advertising. In the coming weeks and months, we will send out reminders about each opportunity. Complete details are available at www.lincolnparkchamber.com/business/cooperative-advertising/.

Please note: Advertising rates are good for all of 2009 except through publications where specific issues are highlighted and only open to members of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce. Padraic Swanton at the LPCC at (773) 880-5200 can also answer general questions cooperative advertising.

Save the Date: The Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival

2009-04-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday and Sunday, August 8th and 9th

The LPCC is thrilled to announce the first annual Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, August 8th and 9th. This new event will replace past LPCC festivals including Pizza Fest, Fall Fest and the Whole Foods FlavorFest, encompassing the best of the three into one main event.

One of the festival’s biggest assets will be its central location. The Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival will be held on Racine, between Fullerton and Webster in the heart of Lincoln Park and just steps from DePaul University, public transportation and Trebes Park.

In the spirit of the Chicago street festival model, but with a more refined approach, the Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival will feature food and drinks from some of the neighborhood’s most famous restaurants and bars. LPCC members are currently being tapped to participate as food vendors at the event to represent the best of what the neighborhood has to offer.

In addition to quality food and refreshing drinks, the Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival will bring back two of Pizza Fest’s most popular attractions: a “bags” tournament and a pizza eating contest. These attractions are sure to bring a smile to your face whether you’re a participant or simply a spectator.

For additional entertainment, the event will feature premier live music on two stages on both Saturday and Sunday. Check the LPCC’s website regularly for information on confirmed headliners and a complete list of musicians scheduled to perform at the event.

LPCC members are also being invited to serve as vendors at the festival and to sell and display their wares. Artists from around the country will also be on-hand to sell and discuss their work. A special area will also feature activities and games for young children to ensure that visitors of all ages are entertained at the event.

The LPCC is currently soliciting LPCC and community members for volunteers at the event. With more than 20,000 people expected during the two-day festival, hundreds of volunteers will be needed to take tickets, collect entrance fees, pour beer, entertain children and assist revelers in whatever way necessary. Please contact Katie Freese, director of sales and events at (773) 880-5200 if you’re interested.

“I love volunteering at the festivals because it’s so much fun being outside, listening to great music, great for people watching and it feels good to doing something for the Chamber and the community,” said Lincoln Park Massage Spa’s Chris Ramsey, a past volunteer. “Of course enjoying a nice cold beer at the end of a shift is a great benefit.”

The Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival will serve as a vital fundraising effort for the LPCC and help sustain our mission to invest in new programs and activities that benefit our members and the surrounding community. Please contact the LPCC today if you’d like to join the new Festival Steering Committee.

Help Celebrate the Recipients of the 19th Annual LPCC Awards

2009-04-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

WHAT: 19^th Annual LPCC Award Luncheon
WHO: Lincoln Park Business Leaders
WHEN: Thursday, May 14, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Salvatore’s Ristorante

Whether it’s a sound business model, entrepreneurial vision, community involvement or LPCC participation, the businesses, cultural organizations and non-profits of Lincoln Park play a key role in the vitality of the surrounding neighborhood. Highlighting the efforts of Lincoln Park’s leading businesses and individuals who helped shape the community over the past year, the LPCC will recognize the recipients of the 19^th Annual LPCC Awards on Thursday, May 14 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Salvatore’s Ristorante (525 W. Arlington).

Awards will be presented in the following categories: Business Person of the Year, Business of the Year, Community Contributor of the Year and the Frank Hasner Member Momentum Award. Applications for the awards were reviewed by a panel of LPCC members who developed a slate of award recipients for approval by the LPCC Board of Directors.

In 2008 awards were presented to the following members: Nancie King Mertz of Art de Triumph and Artful Framer Studios (Business Person of the Year); Fave Media, Inc. (Small Business of the Year); Victory Gardens Theater (Community Contributor of the Year); and Debbie Todd of the Lincoln Park Community Shelter (Frank Hasner Member Momentum Award).

For more information on the LPCC or the Annual Awards luncheon please call the LPCC at (773) 880-5200 or visit us online at www.lincolnparkchamber.com.

2009 Lincoln Park Residents' Guide

2009-04-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Lincoln Park Residents' Guide is out! The Residents' Guide includes information on local dining and shopping establishments, theaters, cultural institutions, parks, schools, hospitals, and neighborhood associations; a variety of maps; a list of LPCC members by category; and more! Contact the LPCC to get your copy today.

Social Networking Sites Can Drive Business Through Your Doors

2009-04-01T13:11:00.000-07:00

Social Networking Sites Can Drive Business Through Your Doors

Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, LinkedIn. It seems like every day there’s a new website out there promising to link you to all your “friends” in the cyber world. But what does it mean for business? With owners of businesses large and small already on a time crunch, why should we find time to track another series of websites? The answer is simple, if done correctly and updated regularly, your web of social networking sites can mean more business to your location.

For starters, what is social networking? Social networking has created new and direct ways of communication and information-sharing. Of all its benefits, social networking’s greatest feature is its cost – FREE. Linking with people across Chicago and the nation is completely free of charge, and can mean big dividends for business. Basically, social networking is the 21st Century equivalent of “word of mouth”.

One of the most important tips for a successful social networking plan for businesses is to remain active. This is the quickest and most effective way to get your brand into the social networking sphere. If you stay active with interesting news and innovative ideas, you will gain – and keep – hundreds of followers. In about an hour a day, a business can update all of their social networking sites clearly and visibly. Before you spend time on social networking, it is important to first understand how each site works.

Facebook
Boasting more than 175 million active users across the globe, Facebook serves as the most popular social networking site available today. Launched in the dorms and hallways of Harvard University in 2004, Facebook gives businesses a free resource to post photos, events and messages to help drive their network of friends locally or nationally to their location. After limiting itself to university and high school students only, Facebook has now become a popular resource for anyone looking to link their business – or themselves – to the masses.

LinkedIn
Launched in 2003, LinkedIn serves as a “professional networking site” that offers individuals and businesses the platform to make “connections” to both colleagues and friends. Members of LinkedIn can discuss current industry trends, browse available job openings and recommend current and past coworkers for other positions. A popular resource for businesses looking to connect is the “Groups” feature, giving members a free way to highlight news, events and general “goings-on” at their location.

MySpace
Also founded in 2003 and once the most popular social networking site, MySpace has waned in popularity over the past few years, being out-paced by Facebook in 2008. Also available free of charge, MySpace has become a haven for up-and-coming bands, comedians and more. Businesses can grow their network and expand their outreach through MySpace’s blogs, classifieds, forums and bulletins.

Twitter
Famous for asking its users to answer the question “What are you doing?” Twitter has continued to gain popularity and exposure over the past year. The first “micro-blogging” site of its kind, Twitter offers users a chance to share their news, interesting links and random thoughts in 140-word snippets. Through this resource, businesses can form instant, direct relationships with clients, colleagues and their competition.

To put it into perspective, it has been said that LinkedIn is your office, Facebook is the company picnic, Twitter is the water cooler and MySpace is the bar in your building.

On April 16, the LPCC will host its first Small Business Forum based on all of the chatter surrounding these various e-outreach tools. Digital Marketing and Social Networking explained the pros and cons for each social networking site and their potential benefits to businesses. Issues on what should and should not be posted, privacy issues and more were covered at the first of what will become a regular series of forums for LPCC members only.

Now that you’re ready to dive into the world of social networking, be sure to find the LPCC on all of the sites listed above and join our groups. Information on upcoming and past events, breaking news and general LPCC details are updated daily and all link to the appropriate pages on the LPCC’s website. Let the LPCC’s social networks be your launching pad into the digital marketing world!

LPCC Provides Businesses a Resource to Make “Going Green” a Reality

2009-03-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

WHAT: “Going Green” Business After Hours
WHO: The Chicago Business Community
WHEN: Wednesday, April 22, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Aquae Sulis
2211 N. Elston

COST: Pre-Registration: LPCC Members $20; Non-Members $30 After April 20: LPCC Members $25; Non-Members $35

Protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility. Business owners in Chicago – and across the planet – are in a unique position to help control their carbon footprint and energy use. Are you looking to learn more about energy efficiency and its benefits to both the environment and your business? Have a new product or service you think will help save businesses money on their energy costs? Then the LPCC’s “Going Green” Business After Hours event is for you.

Join the LPCC and community business members on Wednesday, April 22 at 5:30 p.m., for conversation, networking and more. Aquae Sulis, a high end kitchen and bath fixture store in Lincoln Park, located at 2211 N. Elston will serve as host of the event sponsored by LPCC member Premier Waste and Recycling. LPCC members and other business owners are welcome to enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and conversation at this unique event.

“Environmentally-friendly products and business practices save more than our planet, they help save businesses money as well,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the LPCC. “The LPCC is committed not only to promoting local businesses, but also to shaping a healthy environment for generations to come.”

Pre-registration for the event is now open. The pre-registration price is $20 for LPCC members and $30 for non-members. The price after April 20, or at-the-door, is $25 for LPCC members and $35 for non-members.

"Ring in the New Year" Coffee Connection

2009-03-12T08:23:00.001-07:00

They say that diamonds are forever. At networking events organized by the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC), connections made with fellow Chicagoland businesses can be lasting as well.

On March 11 the LPCC offered its first Coffee Connection of 2009 and provided members an opportunity to "Ring in the New Year" with networking, coffee and breakfast treats at Robbins Bros., an engagement ring store in Lincoln Park. Approximately 40 members of the LPCC community attended the event which included the raffle of a silver necklace an earring set donated by the Robbins Bros. staff. Coffee was made possible at this event through a partnership with Gibson's Restaurants.

“With an uncertain economic landscape affecting the bottom line for nearly every business nationwide, now is the time to make the connections that will help promote your product or service,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the LPCC. “I encourage both LPCC members and Chicago businesses to attend our first Coffee Connection of 2009 to network with the community’s business leaders.”

LPCC Elects New Board of Directors

2009-02-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) recently approved its slate for the 2009 LPCC Board of Directors, as well as Officer positions including Board Chairman, Board Chair-Elect, Secretary, Treasurer and Marketing and Membership Council Chairs. On February 18 the LPCC held its first official meeting of the Board of Directors for 2009 and voted unanimously to approve its new Officer positions, securing the leadership necessary to move key initiatives forward for the year.

The 2009 LPCC Board Officers include:
· Chairman: Mark Rogers, National City Bank
· President-Chair: Chris Ramsey, Lincoln Park Massage Spa
· Secretary: Tim Lane, Goose Island BrewPub
· Treasurer: Gail Zelitzky, Silver-Robins Consulting, LLC
· Marketing Council Chair: Colette Rodon Hornof, Vesta & 2RZ
· Membership Council Chair: Chris Ramsey, Lincoln Park Massage Spa

Rogers is taking over as Chairman of the Board after new treasurer Gail Zelitzky served in the position throughout 2008. During her tenure, Zelitzky was vocal in the LPCC’s planning and implementation of a new mission statement and strategic plan that will move the LPCC into the future. The new strategic plan focuses on how the LPCC serves its members and creates benchmarks for participation, execution and interaction.

Joining the Board of Directors in 2009 are Joseph Utschig of digitalife, LLC, for a three-year term and Chris Matern, Attorney at Law, who is returning to the Board for a two-year term. Vacating the Board are David Wiercinski of the Juvenile Protective Association who served for six years, Frank Mylander from Frank's on Clark who also served for six years, and Bethany Winkleman from Bank of America after one year of dedicated service.

The LPCC Board of Directors and Officers are responsible for providing and creating innovative programs and initiatives that support both the LPCC membership and the surrounding neighborhood. The LPCC’s Board of Directors is an integral piece of the membership puzzle, working to further link members to necessary services, serving as ambassadors in the community and developing key policies and procedures.

“It is my distinct pleasure to welcome our new Board Members and Officers for 2009,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the LPCC. “The expertise and experience our Officers and Board bring to the Lincoln Park neighborhood are paramount to the success of our business community.”

Key events and initiatives for 2009 include the LPCC’s Annual Awards Luncheon, increased legislative visibility, neighborhood and business marketing, social networking and end of the year Holiday Gala.

LPCC Encourages All to “Ring in the New Year” at Networking Event

2009-02-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

WHAT: “Ring in the New Year” Coffee Connection
WHO: The Chicago Business Community
WHEN: Wednesday, March 11, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: Robbins Bros., 2184 N. Elston
COST: Pre-Registration: LPCC Members $10; Non-Members $20
After March 9: LPCC Members $15; Non-Members $25

They say that diamonds are forever. At networking events organized by the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC), connections made with fellow Chicagoland businesses can be lasting as well. Are you looking to expand your business throughout the Lincoln Park neighborhood and across Chicago? Have a new product or service you think will be beneficial to colleagues or competitors? Then the LPCC’s first Coffee Connection of 2009 is the resource your business needs to succeed.

Join the LPCC and dozens of community business members on Wednesday, March 11 at 8:30 a.m., for coffee, conversation and a large selection of diamonds. Robbins Bros., an engagement ring store in Lincoln Park located at 2184 N. Elston will serve as host of the event sponsored by LPCC member Lincoln Park Network.

“With an uncertain economic landscape affecting the bottom line for nearly every business nationwide, now is the time to make the connections that will help promote your product or service,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the LPCC. “I encourage both LPCC members and Chicago businesses to attend our first Coffee Connection of 2009 to network with the community’s business leaders.”

Pre-registration for the event is now open. The pre-registration price is $10 for LPCC members and $20 for non-members. The price after March 9, or at-the-door, is $15 for LPCC members and $25 for non-members.

LPCC Launches New Website

2009-02-17T11:01:00.000-08:00

New Site Targets Member News and Events, Legislative Agenda

CHICAGO (February 17, 2009) – In an effort to further enhance the way they communicate with and understand their membership, while offering unique tools for members, residents and visitors alike, the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) is proud to announce the launch of their redesigned website. The site – still located at http://www.lincolnparkchamber.com/ – now focuses on the benefits of LPCC membership, important business and legislative news and members-only features.

“Our old website was outdated, and we saw an opportunity to learn more about our membership and their collective needs while updating the site,” said LPCC President and CEO Kim Schilf of the new site. “In addition to updating our website, we are also increasing our efforts to market the website as a tool for the community and to our members. With more traffic headed to our site, LPCC members can expect more traffic through their doors.”

Through the ChamberMaster database program being used by the LPCC, members are given a dedicated username and password as well as access to their own profile, contact information and members-only website features. In an effort to better track event attendance, registration and payment for LPCC events are now being done exclusively through our the online system.

The partnership of the new website with the ChamberMaster database system also allows a unique “Hot Deals” program that allows LPCC members – free of charge – to post special sales for visitors to the site. Restaurants, boutiques and more can include special savings in addition to sales already taking place or as a unique benefit to those who frequent the site. As an added benefit, members can also post available job openings at their business on the site, free of charge.

In 2008 the LPCC launched a Government Affairs Committee to help businesses stay in touch with the issues affecting their bottom line on a local, state and federal level. Helping support these efforts, the LPCC’s new website features interior pages dedicated to key legislative issues, proposed ordinances and contact information for our elected officials as well as news stories updated daily. In addition, members are free to post news about their own organization that they want to share with the LPCC and more.

“In addition to an updated website and communication outlets, our members and Lincoln Park residents and visitors can look forward to LPCC profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook and other web-based networking sites,” Schilf said.

The new website also offers an opportunity for members to advertise their business on the site visited by more than 4,700 unique users each month.

Welcome!

2009-02-17T08:50:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce's very own blog!

Founded in 1947, the LPCC has grown into Chicago's largest neighborhood chamber. We lead numerous initiatives in support of our mission - helping businesses in Lincoln Park succeed and grow.

While we define the Lincoln Park neighborhood as the area north of North Avenue, south of Diversey Parkway, west of the Lake Michigan and east of the Kennedy Expressway, our members include businesses throughout the Chicago area. We hope you enjoy visiting our website, and learning more about our organization, the benefits of LPCC membership and Lincoln Park.

The LPCC is dedicated to helping our member businesses succeed and grow. Hence, our new blog! We have created this resource as another tool to reach out to our membership and learn more about the needs of Lincoln Park businesses during these difficult economic times. We hope this blog will help complement the newly-designed website, as well as our pages on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Check us out throughout the e-world and stay connected!