Chamber Advantage
December 8th, 2024
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Hi OPRF Chamber!
As a new local business owner, the OPRF Chamber of Commerce has been an exceptional resource in welcoming Ace Handyman Services to the neighborhood and helping me build valuable personal and professional connections.
We had a blast sponsoring the Spotlight Soiree! Now, I’m honored to co-chair the annual Bite Nite event coming up on January 31st, 2025! As a foodie myself, this event is a fantastic opportunity where food from local businesses is celebrated and the community comes together to discover new bites from around town.
I encourage restaurant owners in the area to reach out to find out how you can get involved with the upcoming Bite Nite -- it's a great opportunity to connect, contribute, and grow together!
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We've recently partnered with the Village of Oak Park to create a fun holiday marketing campaign to encourage shoppers to Keep the Cheer Here in Oak Park! Apply now opt-in your business to our incredible gift card program, completely free to you!
The digital gift cards are a great holiday gift, get your own today!
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View upcoming community events! |
No plans for the weekend?
Check out Keep the Cheer Here website in the "Community events" for what's happening around town.
If you want to see your event on our list? Submit your event here.
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Open Opportunities for YOU! | |
Food Vendors, we need your help to make the 8th Annual Bite Nite 2025, the most delicious event of the year!
Warm up a crowd this winter by serving unforgettable culinary delights and/or drinks. We'll take care of the rest! The Nineteenth Century Club's historic ballroom will be filled with live music and hungry guests!
We're carefully picking over 30 local eateries, caterers, and food brands for ONE NIGHT ONLY to treat food enthusiasts to an array of savory bites and sweet treats.
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Ready to take on the challenge to serve your specialties to locals?
Sign up today!
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Showcase your health and wellness business by vending at our premier event, where you'll connect with hundreds of engaged residents and network with over 80 health-related businesses, including owners and managers. Early bird pricing ends 12/31/24.
With marketing that reaches an audience of 70,000+ through e-blasts, social media, and print advertising, sponsorship is an affordable and
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effective way to grow your brand!
You'll get premium booth placement, waived booth fees, and more- but they sell out quickly, so act fast! Find out more on our event page.
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Like to plan ahead? Plan Your Month!
Here are some events we have coming up over the next month so you can register now and receive a reminder right before the event.
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Tuesday Dec 10,
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The Holiday BAH hosted by Byline Bank is always one of the biggest Chamber networking events of the year - expect 100+ attendees, delicious food, festive decor, and a celebratory spirit in the air!
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Friday Dec 13,
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Join us in December for an end-of-year Women in Business informal gathering. As in previous years, the December meeting will be a welcoming space to reflect on the year, swap survival strategies for the holidays, and express hopes for new beginnings--with a little more time than usual for networking following the discussion.
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Monday Dec 16,
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Celebrate the season and the incredible community of BIPOC participants with a festive evening of connection and cheer! Join us on Monday, December 16th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at Styles for Kidz as we gather for one last hurrah before the New Year.
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To participate in the gift exchange, please bring a wrapped gift valued at $5-$10. | |
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Thursday Dec 19,
2:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Perfect for new members and those who need a refresher. This fast-paced seminar will review all of your digital benefits to maximize your digital advantage.
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Friday Dec 20,
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Join us for Meet Me for Lunch at Rustico! A favorite for chamber members: enjoy a business lunch in a casual setting, with small group networking. Come enjoy the food while you connect and get to know Chamber members
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2025 Minimum Wage Increase | |
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On December 1, Cook County issued a notice to employees regarding the Minimum Wage Ordinance (MWO).
Effective January 1, 2025, the minimum wage for non-tipped workers increases to $15.00 and the minimum wage for tipped workers increases to $9.00. These increases are required in alignment with the Illinois State minimum wage.
The updated "Notice to Employees" and "Frequently Asked Questions" documents are available here.
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Holiday Office Closure Notice | |
Our incredible team has worked tirelessly this year, and it’s time for a well-deserved holiday break!
Our office will be closed from Monday, December 23rd through Monday, January 6th as our fantastic staff takes time to celebrate and recharge with their families.
We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to reach out with any time-sensitive matters before our temporary closure. Thank you for your support, and we wish you a joyous holiday season!
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