KCR_Oswego Area Chamber Newsletter_Fall 2022

VETERANS FIND CAMARADERIE OVER BREAKFASTS

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

They call themselves a breakfast club, but it’s more than the scrambled eggs that brings people out each month.

The Fox Valley Veterans Breakfast Club is a chance for veterans from all branches of the military to enjoy a meal together and share a few stories, create a few friendships.

There are more than 100 members of the Fox Valley Veterans Breakfast Club, said co-president Rick Gardner. On the first and third Thursdays of the month group members meet for a breakfast at

the Oswego American Legion Hall, 19 W. Washington St. The doors open at 6:30 a.m. and the meeting starts around 7 a.m. The cost for breakfast is $10 per person plus $2 for tip. And guests should bring a few extra dollars for the raffles.

The club started with a group of Naval veterans including the late Herschel Luckinbill, who served for many years as the leader of the breakfast club for many years. Through the years they expanded the group to include all branches of the military, men and women.

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Today, many members represent those who served in the military 1960s, including veterans of the Vietnam War. Gardner said on average, 40 to 50 attend each breakfast and there’s plenty of room for more.

“We’d love to have more join us,” Gardner said. “We’re open to veterans of all wars, all conflicts. It doesn’t matter the era or if they served stateside.”

Co-president Jim Davidson joined the group not long after retiring about seven years ago.

“We all joke around a bit with the members of the different branches. It’s fun and we’re friendly,” Davidson said.

There are no dues to participate. Gardner said the group is primarily a social organization, giving members a chance to get out and get to know others in the community.

The meetings will include guest speakers as well as members having the opportunity to share stories and military experiences. The one mainstay in rules is no discussing politics.

630.638.5441

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Check us out online at www.OswegoChamber.org Call, e-mail, or stop on by! Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce

Ed, Matt and Johnny invite you to stop by and see how over 50 years combined experience can make your purchase truly pleasant.

specialize in vehicles under $10,000 - many in the $6000 - $10000 range. If you don’t see what you are looking for in our inventory regardless of the year, we will find that special vehicle for you. We truly appreciate the many loyal customers and referrals we have had over the last 17 years. Make your next vehicle purchase from us and we will exceed your expectations.

Ed Hettinger Owner

Chamber CEO Letter

ANGIE HIBBEN President/CEO Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce

73 W. Van Buren St. Oswego, IL 60543

Phone: (630) 554-3505

Fax: (630) 554-0050

Email: info@oswegochamber.org

Check us out online at www.OswegoChamber.org

Happy Fall! My name is Angie Hibben, President/CEO of the Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce. We are a strong and active chamber of 500+ members that was formed in 1984. Our members range from nonprofits to the some of the largest corporations in the area, and the industries/business types they represent is just as diverse. One third of our membership is from surrounding communities.

Work will begin soon on outside upgrades to our future permanent home for the chamber. In the spring of 2023, the chamber offices will be moving to 25 E. Jackson St., just across from Village Green Park and near the Oswego Post office. This is in the downtown district, and we are very excited about this opportunity and will be hosting a ribbon cutting/grand opening in late spring/early summer of 2023.

We just delivered our 1,100 New Resident boxes to the newest residents of Oswego –many of our businesses have received calls, website hits and business due to putting their information in these boxes. Call the office today to find out more. We had one of our most successful golf outings, and the

Fraidy Cat 5K/8K & Meow Mile is coming up at end of October. Our Hometown Expo is moving back to Oswego High School on Feb. 25 – sponsorships are available and booth registration will open Nov. 1. We are starting to book Coffee with the Chamber and Business After Business for 2023 – if you get your space reserved by Nov. 1, you will be included on a Save the Date card.

We are gearing up for Christmas Walk and planning activities for 2023 in downtown Oswego. Watch for 2023 Save the Dates to start popping up with popular downtown events such as the Cookie Walk, Chocolate Walk and more. We encourage everyone to #ShopSmall #ShopLocal #ShopOswego.

As always, I would encourage you as a business owner to join the Oswego Area Chamber. It is a great way to get involved in your community and learn more about other like-minded business owners/managers. Check out our calendar at www.oswegochamber.org and attend a networking event, or stop by the office at 73 W. Van Buren St. to learn more about the Oswego Chamber. You can also chat with us via our website or Facebook pages.

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE MONTH IS OCTOBER FOR THE OSWEGO AREA CHAMBER

It's Time to Take the Plunge!

If you have been considering an Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce membership October is the time to take the plunge.

Throughout the month of October, the Chamber is hosting its annual Fall membership drive. New members who join will receive incentives, such as having the $50 application fee cut in half to $25. Full membership dues are in effect.

“This is a great opportunity to get involved in a strong chamber who has many opportunities to network and be involved in the chamber and the community,” said Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce President Angie Hibben.

Why should you consider joining? Visibility, for one. Many of our events reach out to the Oswego Area Community as well as local business owners. Keeping your business name in the

forefront helps people know and remember you.

Some of the annual events hosted by the Chamber throughout the year include Business

After Hours, Coffee with the Chamber, the Annual Dinner, Annual Golf Outing, Hometown Expo, and more.

The Chamber also acts as a social media ambassador for its members. The organization reposts member events, job listings, and promotions to the Chamber’s Facebook page, as well as uses its website, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn to help increase member awareness.

Those who are interested in learning more about the Chamber are encouraged to attend any event, stop by or call the Chamber office, or send an email to info@ oswegochamber.org

LOCAL

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

Illinois residents return to the polls for the next general election on Tuesday, Nov. 8 with early voting opening Thursday, Sept. 29.

And when it comes to voting, every ballot counts. Literally.

In June the Oswego Fire District’s referendum question was defeated by a single vote, with 4,150 no votes and 4,149 yes votes.

A close race isn’t a surprise to Jim Marter, chairman of the Kendall County Republicans. In 2021 Adam Dunsmoor won his seat as a Little Rock Township Trustee by a single vote.

“Even for write-in candidates, every vote is important,” Marter said.

One of the first steps for voters is understanding the people and issues on the ballot. To help voters become better familiar with candidates and issues, Marter said anyone can attend a monthly meeting for the Kendall County Republicans, where candidates are invited to speak.

Marter said the organization does it best to try and make its presence known, participating in parades and festivals and inviting all ages to participate in the election process. In addition to supporting candidates the organization helps to recruit election judges and poll watchers, from early voting through election day.

Linda Holmes

LOCAL COUPLE BRINGS ANCHOR BAR TO OSWEGO

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

The secret to success is more than a great recipe.

The right timing, the right location and the support of an incredible community are the ingredients that Samm and Laura Dimech are using as they launch the first Anchor Bar Restaurant location in Illinois right here in Oswego.

“We live in the area, our kids play athletics here and Oswego is a very family-orientated area,” said Laura Dimech.

The couple moved to the area in 2005 and previously owned a few Jimmy John restaurants in the areas. Laura said from the beginning, it’s been about family and the couple’s three children have all helped at the restaurants.

When the couple decided to look for a new business venture, they set their eyes on Anchor Bar Restaurant. The business was started in Buffalo, New York and according to restaurant history, is the home of the original Buffalo wing when restaurant owner fried up some chicken wings to feed some hungry guests and an instant sensation was created.

The Dimech family and their staff will bring the well-loved recipe

“People can reach out to us on our Facebook page or website,” Marter said.

While local groups want to see all eligible voters at the polls, it’s important to reach the young voters, high school seniors and young college students. Beth Kremer, chairwoman of the Kendall County Democrats said she remembers voting in her first election as a college student in the mid-1990s.

Kremer said the Kendall County Democrats will be getting the word

and other New York favorites on the menu, as well as a few local dishes. Laura Dimech said the first time she tried the food she loved it.

The new restaurant will feature a sports bar as well as table seating for families, a private party room and outdoor patio. The restaurant features 50 TVs throughout the restaurant and outdoor patio, making it a great spot for sports fans to watch a game.

Located in the Route 34 corridor, Laura Dimech said it’s a great addition to the area.

“We jumped at building there because that area needs more venues like this,” she added.

Oswego Economic Development Director Kevin Leighty said it’s estimated more than 30,000 vehicles pass through the village’s Route 34 corridor daily.

“It’s a major commercial corridor,” Leighty said.

He added there isn’t much vacancy along the corridor. Having the first location of Anchor Bar in the state right in Oswego is exciting, he said.

out about voting and candidates with local events as well as making calls, knocking on doors.

There’s opportunity for young people to connect politically as well. In addition to clubs at the high schools there is the Kendall County Young Republicans and Kendall County Young Dems.

“Local elections have the most direct impact on our day to day lives. Every vote matters and we should all make our voices heard,” Kremer said.

Boarding & Day

Laura Mae’s business “The Pet’s Home” says it all. Our two cats not only receive the care they need, but they also get the benefit of staying home where everything is familiar. This is much more preferable than hauling them to the kennel in their carriers where they get stressed by all the loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, and foreign smells of other animals. We also do not have to drop them off and pick them up during typical “office hours”. We appreciate being able to depend on The Pet’s Home.

Mark & Kitty Congdon

LauraMae is punctual, responsible and trust-worthy. She provides Pet’s owners in our neighboring communities the piece of mind to know our Pet’s are loved and well-cared for during our absences from home. She is a positive presence in our dogs’ daily life and actually our family’s as well. I would highly recommend that if you are in need of a Pet’s sitting service, The Pet’s Home is undoubtfully your only option.

Nora & Paul Lombardo

FRAIDY CAT 5K/8K

BACK FOR ITS 12TH YEAR Sponsors and volunteers needed

The 12th Annual Fraidy Cat 5K/8K and Meow Mile will kick off at 9 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 30. We bring in runners from all over the Chicagoland area for this annual event. For more information go to www.fraidycat5k.com. There are sponsorships available including a new hot beverage sponsor. Day-of registration is available and many volunteers are needed for this annual event.

We had one of our most successful golf outings ever on July 28 at Fox Bend Golf Course. A huge thank you to our Event Sponsor Weblinx Inc. and all of the sponsors, golfers, volunteers and businesses who donated baskets. We appreciate all that you do for the Chamber.

Mike Operations Manager Debbie Owner Paul Service Manager

Area Chamber member event

The Oswego Area Chamber has several members who offer event venue space. On the website at www.oswegochamber.org go to the directory and search under Event Venues and under Banquet Halls. There you will find the several that are our members.

Social Studio is a veteran, Minority and women owned location on Cherry Dr in Oswego. www. thesocialstudo.com

The Matrix Club is one of our newest members and is located out near Fox Valley Mall in Naperville. www.matrixvenue.com

IS COMING

Is your furnace or boiler ready?

Your heating system is made of many moving, interdependent parts that require proper attention and maintenance.

Call today to schedule our 20 point furnace and boiler check.

White Stone Events is our newest event venue and is located in Sugar Grove west of the airport. We will be hosting our New Member Dinner there this year. www.eventsatwhitestone.com

Other venues that are in the chamber are: American Legion Post 675, Christina’s Grill and Gatherings at the Fox Bend Golf Course, FV Kickers Club Oswego, Northfork Farm and Venue 5126 (was Emerson Creek), all in Oswego. Brighter Daze Farm is in Newark and in Yorkville you will find the Kendall County Fairgrounds and, Whitetail Ridge Golf Course

Please call the chamber office at 630-554-3505 or email info@ oswegochamber.org if you need help finding an event venue or caterer for your special event.

announce the Oswego Area Chamber of Commerce Hometown Expo, will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2023 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm at Oswego High School.

and community organizations will have the opportunity to promote their products and services by exhibiting at this spectacular event. Registration opens November 1.

is Free.

Meet Our Newest Members

ADRI’S NAIL STUDIO

RIVERSIDE PIZZA & PUB

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF WILL & GRUNDY COUNTIES

EDWARD JONES

FRIENDS OF KIT KUHRT

STAMP ACT PAC

KENDALL COUNTY YOUNG REPUBLICANS

JACKS HOME RESTORATION

PRAIRIE STATE GAMING

COLDWELL BANKER MELISSA WALSH GROUP

BIG LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH

ALDRIDGE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

THE DAIRY BARN

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE FOX RIVER VALLEY

HOLY CROW KRAV MAGA LLC

LAW HESSELBAUM LLP

HEAVENS BEST CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

COMPLETE HEALTH AND FITNESS

JOHN CROUSE WITH GUARANTEED RATE

V2M2 GROUP, INC PORTILLO’S

SOUTHWESTERN REAL ESTATE

KIM GRANT, JOHN GREENE REALTOR

STEAMGARD CARPET UPH CLEANERS LLC

SHOP BFWG, LLC

BY FAITH WE GOOD MINISTRY INC.

AURORA FASTPRINT

WHITE STONE EVENTS

M&M OUTDOOR DESIGN AND HARDSCAPING RESCUED RASCALS

BLOOMING SUCCULENTS STUDIO, LLC INCREDIBLE CHICAGO INFLATABLES

LEARN LOCALLY – OR ONLINE

40K+

people have graduated from Waubonsee since its founding in 1966.

Waubonsee Community College provides affordable, accessible education and opportunities to in-district residents. As a resident of District 516, you get our lowest tuition rate, plus the convenience of campuses close to your home.

Our network of four campuses includes:

• Sugar Grove: the main campus located on a beautiful 243 acres

• Aurora Downtown: a full-service campus in the heart of downtown

• Aurora Fox Valley: home to our health care programs located near Rush-Copley Medical Center

• Plano: known as the Innovation and Design Center due to its core programs of CAD, Cybersecurity and Welding

Waubonsee does not discriminate on the basis of any individual’s actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, veteran’s status, military status, unfavorable discharge from military service, marital status, order of protection status, pregnancy, disability, citizenship status or any other characteristic protected by law in its programs or activities. Inquiries regarding this policy may be directed to: Michele Needham, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator, Route 47 at Waubonsee Drive, Sugar Grove, IL 60554, compliance@waubonsee.edu.