Dear ECCI Members:
As we step into June, I’m thrilled to reflect on some exciting developments for our city and share advocacy efforts by our Chamber.
Many of you may have already seen the May 21 article in the New York Times’ “Living In” section, which posed the question, “Is This Chicago Suburb for You?” The piece captures Elmhurst’s evolution from its well-known reputation as a quiet bedroom community to a vibrant and increasingly sought-after enclave for professionals. It truly highlights what we already know and love about Elmhurst. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and spirit of our residents and businesses, and it’s something we can all be incredibly proud of. If you haven’t had a chance to read it yet, I highly encourage you to click HERE to read more.
On the legislative front, ECCI is in alignment with the United States Chamber of Commerce, which recently took a stand to protect American businesses. At the end of April, we signed a letter to Congress urging federal lawmakers to preserve the B-SALT (Business State and Local Tax) deduction. Learn more HERE.
Expressing concern, the U.S. Chamber notes that some policymakers support limiting the deduction for state and local business taxes. The U.S. Chamber emphasizes that capping the B-SALT deduction could significantly hurt the positive effects of the 2017 tax cuts and ultimately harm the U.S. economy by reducing the resources businesses have to invest, hire people and grow. The state and local tax (SALT) deduction permits taxpayers who itemize when filing federal taxes to deduct certain taxes paid to state and local government.
On May 16, ECCI and the Glen Ellyn Chambers of Commerce in partnership with the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC), hosted an impactful Zoom forum featuring U.S. House of Representatives Sean Casten (D- Illinois District 6) and Delia Ramirez (D-Illinois District 3). Our discussion included the impact of tariffs on small businesses, with the Representatives Casten and Ramirez addressing the concerns of non-for-profit organizations navigating potential funding challenges. The forum touched on other hot-topic issues such as health insurance and its impact on small businesses.
ECCI is excited to provide forums where our members can interact with their elected officials. Policymakers also consistently encourage constituents to reach out with questions and concerns so that is another great way to make your voice heard.
On a lighter note, thank you to our volunteers who walked in the 107th Annual Elmhurst Memorial Day Parade on May 26. I’m proud to be part of a community that comes together to remember and honor. Thank you to everyone who lined the streets, waved their flags and stood in remembrance with us.
As always, thank you to our members and sponsors who joined us for Lakeside Bank’s Business After Hours, Spring Road Pet Parade and Multi-Connections After Hours!
We are looking forward to the summer and are kicking it off with this month’s Chamber Business After Hours, hosted by the DuPage Cycling Foundation at the Wilder Mansion on Saturday, June 7, from 3 to 6:30 p.m., in conjunction with Elmhurst Cycling Classic.
Each Chamber member will receive two (2) free entries ($20 per person value) into the Phase Three Beer Garden, reserved seating in the Wilder Mansion and food from Armand’s Pizzeria and RoughEdges Confectionery.
On Monday, June 30, from 5 to 8 p.m., in partnership with ECCI, Sal’s Beverage World will host an Around-the-World Wine Tasting featuring a curated selection of wines from around the globe The event will feature at least five vendors, each sampling a half-dozen varieties of their wines. Aunt Tina’s Kitchen will cater food.
As we embrace the summer months, let’s continue to advocate and support our business community.
Kind regards,
Jennifer Veremis
Please visit our website and explore the community calendar and Hot Deals pages. You’ll find member-exclusive discounts, events and more.
Save The Date:
35th Annual New Teachers Luncheon on Tuesday, August 6, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in conjunction with Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205’s New Educator Academy.
“Networking on the 9s,” ECCI’s 77th Annual Golf Outing, Friday, September 12. Registration check-in and lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. Sponsorships available!
Happy Anniversary
Four members are celebrating their Chamber anniversaries in June as follows: 20 years—Fleet Feet Sports Elmhurst; 10 years—Byrnes & Walsh and See Your House Right Here; and 5 years—Edie Boutique.
New Members
The following five businesses joined our Chamber in May: Hi-Fidelity Dental, Paul’s Landscaping, Rose Dante – Baird and Warner, Special Strong Western Chicagoland and The Aesthetic Drop.
Dropped Members
The Chamber dropped four members in May as follows: A-Way Training & Tactical, Connie J. Catalano/Life Transition Coach, Science Olympiad and Synergy Healing Arts.
Gone, But Not Forgotten
Shirley L. Myers, 82, long-time Chamber member while representing her late husband’s real estate company (Thomas O. Myers Jr.), passed away while a resident of Park Place of Elmhurst. Her extensive list of community connections included the Elmhurst Senior Citizens Commission, First Congregational UCC, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187, Elmhurst University, York Community High School and IC Catholic Prep