Out of all the economic casualties of COVID, the tourism and hospitality industry was undoubtedly among the hardest hit. Help is on the way via American Rescue Plan Act funds, with $10 million over the next three years allocated by Cook County to five suburban convention and tourism bureaus. Additionally, the State of Illinois recently authorized $50M in grants for restaurants and taverns as well as new grants to hotel operators.
As the war in Ukraine continues to fuel a humanitarian crisis of staggering proportions, Americans are looking for effective ways to help. In a special Ask the Expert virtual presentation, the Chamber welcomes Rotary International’s General Secretary John Hewko for a first-hand look at how the global organization has mobilized to provide aid for refugees.
The Annual Multi-Chamber Business Expo & After Hours returns to the Hilton Chicago Northbrook on July 25, welcoming guests to tour displays and engage with representatives from local businesses. Boost the visibility of your business by reserving your Expo exhibit space today.
The Village of Northbrook recently took steps toward giving shopping centers and restaurants more flexibility in specific areas. In proposing less-restrictive parking minimums for some shopping centers and codifying streamlined rules for outdoor dining, the Village is working to enhance a business-friendly environment.
With Earth Day coming up on April 22, this month is a natural opportunity to update Northbrook’s efforts to encourage environmentally sustainable practices. The Village’s new Sustainability Commission is discussing steps to advance the Village’s Climate Action Plan, including programs that would encompass the local business community.
Excitement is on the rise for the Chamber’s 2022 Golf Outing on June 10! Members are looking forward to a great day of golfing, socializing, and connecting at the Northbrook Park District’s Heritage Oaks Golf Club, followed by dinner and awards at Marcello’s. Our planning committee has moved into action; please be receptive if they contact you for a raffle prize donation or to purchase raffle tickets.
The Chamber Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Kathi Quinn, our current Membership Director, has accepted the position of Executive Director effective June 30, 2022. She will succeed Tensley Garris, who is retiring after 20 years as the Chamber’s President.
Northbrook continues its steady recovery from the pandemic, as reflected in recent Village reports on economic indicators and revenue. Those positive trends contribute to a budget for the coming year with no increase in the tax levy, above-minimum contributions to pension funds, and increased investment in Village facilities, staffing, and economic development strategies.
As hospitalizations from COVID continue to fall, Illinois is expected to end its five-month mask mandate for most public spaces on February 28. Cook County’s Department of Public Health has stated that it will repeal its own mask and vaccine-screening requirements at the same time, assuming that metrics continue to improve. The Chamber plans to move to a mask-optional format for its upcoming events.
Strengthen your Chamber relationships as well as your golf skills! The Chamber’s summer golf league will start its 2022 season on May 3 at Heritage Oaks Golf Club. Participants will play nine holes on Tuesday afternoons, followed by socializing at the clubhouse.
