"The Multi-Chamber Networking at the Chicago Bandits Pro Softball Game was fun! It was a great location and I liked how the area was exclusive from the rest of the spectators. We met some great people and had great conversations."

"My main Chamber activity has been regular attendance at the monthly networking luncheons.  Besides finding the speakers informative, I enjoy meeting other Chamber members and learning about their particular job responsibilities and services they are providing.  The introductions at these luncheons also give me an opportunity to invite the attendees to stop in at the Christian Science Reading Room at 13 N. Prospect, just a few stores north of Six Corners, for some quality quiet time during their busy days. The Reading Room is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm. I also bring with me about a half dozen recent copies of the Christian Science Monitor, a weekly  Pulitzer Prize-winning international magazine, for anyone to take with them at the end of the luncheon.  This enables me to provide to many who may not be aware of the quality and scope of articles in the magazine a periodical they would not otherwise read.  I am also the President Emeritus of the Park Ridge Cultural Arts Council, which is also a Chamber member.  As a Chamber member who appreciates the many services provided by the Chamber to its members, I will often make a special effort when dining at new restaurants in Park Ridge, to meet the owner and encourage them to join the Chamber, pointing out some of the benefits of doing so."

"Wow! What a fabulous event the Mega Connect was! The benefits of being a new Chamber member continue to be outstanding. From networking Luncheons, Breakfasts, and Business After Hours there are always so many events to choose from. Just wanted to pass along a thank you to all involved."

"When I turned my passion in teaching math into a business by opening Mathnasium, the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce was there for me from the beginning. They provided the right resources and networking opportunities to jump start my business and even more, feel like I'm part of the Park Ridge community. "

"I find the Chamber's many different networking functions are efficient and fruitful: Some of my very best clients are people I have met at Chamber functions! I also find I gain added credibility for my practice by being a board member of this prestigious organization."

I joined the Chamber to promote my hairstylist/makeup artist business and quickly gained enough visibility that I was hired to manage a salon while concurrently running my own business. The Chamber provides lots of ways to promote my business, including the "Shop Park Ridge" Facebook page and networking events with other Chamber members and the public. I joined the Chamber's Retail Committee, became the Chair, and am completely enrolled in First Fridays, Winterfest and other creative joint marketing programs. The Chamber has our backs, and whether your business is large or small like mine, the support of colleagues in our community makes all the difference.

"We were looking for a new accounting firm a few years ago and Gail Haller recommended Chamber member Sullivan & Johnson. They've been our accountants ever since and we've been very happy with them.  Thanks to the Chamber for a solid referral in a crucial business area."

"The Community Stars Dinner was a blast.  We knew so many people there.  It was like a class reunion! It was a great night to celebrate Pete’s accomplishments.  Plus, as a total bonus, we won four of the raffles and one of the silent auctions.  Quite a haul.  A great night to ward off the winter chill in the dead of winter.  So glad to be there!" 

I originally became a Chamber member at the urging of the owner of a store where I regularly shopped. I was reluctant to join at first because our business focus was on large associations not small businesses. However, over the years the Chamber has provided the Barton Marketing Group not only the opportunity to establish long-term, profitable business ties but lasting personal friendships as well. As a strong believer in the “shop local” concept, I love how the Chamber promotes local businesses.

We are already getting calls for appointments from customers who saw us at the Canopies on Courtland during the Taste of Park Ridge! Thanks for all of your support and fantastic coordination.