The EDGE CARD is a new initiative from the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and Edgewater Community Council.  It’s a community discount card you can show at participating local businesses to receive discounts, deals, and special promotions.  The EDGE CARD makes it easy for you to support local businesses and your neighborhood.  Use your EDGE CARD to try out local businesses you’ve never experienced.  Members of the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and the Edgewater Community Council each receive one FREE card as part of their membership.  If you have not received yours yet, you should be receiving it soon.

1,000 cards were printed, and approximately 500 of those are reserved for members of the Chamber and the Edgewater Community Council.  We have a limited supply available of additional cards, which can be purchased by members or residents for $15/card.  To purchase, contact the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce at 773-561-6000 or info@edgewater.org. 

For more details and information, including a list of participating businesses, visit www.edgewater.org/edge_card.aspx

Getting Started with Constant Contact

Tuesday, August 3rd
4:30pm to 6:30pm
(Program begins promptly at 4:30)

Featuring Steve Robinson
IL Development Director for Constant Contact

Loyola University
Sullivan Center 202-203
6339 N. Sheridan Rd
Chicago, IL 60660

Register Online:  http://emailmarketingworkshop.eventbrite.com/

Email marketing is a powerful promotional tool for any entrepreneur. Join us on Tuesday, August 3rd for Getting Started with Constant Contact. Beverages and snacks will be served.  

This event is co-hosted by the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce, Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce, Rogers Park Business Alliance, and Uptown Business Partners.

Workshop Overview

• Set up your account options
• Build and manage your contacts
• Create great looking emails
• Brand your emails to match your website
• Work with images
• Analyze email reports to maximize results
• Text editing
• Other shortcuts and tips!

Register Today

- $10 for Chamber members
- $20 for non-members

Register online at http://emailmarketingworkshop.eventbrite.com/

You can also contact the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce at 773-561-6000 to be added to the registration list.

• Promote your business to a community-minded, targeted Edgewater audience of 500+ people/businesses including the combined memberships of the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and the Edgewater Community Council who will each receive their own "Edge" Discount Card.
• Have your business be a part of the buzz for the card that we'll be spreading by featuring the card in Chamber and ECC e-mail blasts, which go out to 5,000+   e-mails, and on both of our websites.
• Spaces still available.  The first 80 businesses to respond will be featured in this promotion, so respond now to ensure your business receives this special, free marketing.
• In order to launch the program within the next few months, we are asking interested businesses to review the enclosed FAQ about the program and sign up to offer a discount.
• Deadline: Friday, July 2
  

Download the form and FAQ:

• Click here to access "The Edge" sign-up form.
  
• Click here to access "The Edge" Frequently Asked Questions.

“Summer Spectacular” Joint Chamber Networking Event with the Edgewater, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village and Wicker Park/Bucktown Chambers of Commerce

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

WhirlyBall, 1880 W. Fullerton

RSVP and pay online by midnight June 21: $30/person

Pay at the door: $40/person

Cost includes drinks and appetizers.

Parking is available in the parking lot at WhirlyBall

Please note that people will be able to play WhirlyBall and Lazer Tag, but do not have to. There will be general networking!

To RSVP, have your members go here:

http://lincolnparkchamber.chambermaster.com/directory/jsp/events/EventPage.jsp?ccid=371&eventid=313&qs=ccid=371|visibility=2|month=5|year=2010|context=month

We invite you to visit www.edgewater.org/Third_Saturdays.aspx for up-to-the minute information about participating businesses in this summer's Third Saturdays event.  We get the summer rolling on June 19th with a sidewalk sale from a diverse mix of businesses throughout the neighborhood.

Third Saturdays are community days. Snag deals at sidewalk sales, check out music and theatre, enjoy local art at our July 17th Edgewater Artists in Motion pop-up gallery Galeries de Granville and the Edgewater Arts Festival at Berger Park, sample food and drinks, and play games with the kids at the Armory at Osterman's July 17th Family Fun Day.

Brought to you by the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and SSA #26.

June 19

• Sidewalk Sales throughout Edgewater.

 
July 17

• Pop-up art gallery Galeries de Granville along Granville between Broadway and Kenmore (10am-5pm)
• Edgewater Art Festival at Berger Park featuring a juried art show (Sat., 10am-5pm and Sun, 10am-5pm)
  
• Osterman's Family Fun Day in the Broadway Armory parking lot featuring magicians, face painting, games & sno-cones
  
• Strolling musicians & entertainers throughout Edgewater
  
• Special entertainment and more at the Edgewater Farmers Market at Broadway and Norwood
  
• Sidewalks sales throughout Edgewater
  

 
August 21

• Live art on Bryn Mawr
• Strolling musicians & entertainers throughout Edgewater
  
• Special entertainment and more at the Edgewater Farmers Market at Broadway and Norwood
  
• Sidewalks sales throughout Edgewater
  

 
For more information, contact info@edgewater.org or call 773-561-6000.

Join us for a fun evening of networking and idea sharing on how to make this a successful summer!

Date: Tuesday, June 15
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Place: Julian | Marc, 6054 N. Broadway
Cost: FREE
Space is limited. REGISTER TODAY! Register by email to info@edgewater.org or call 773-561-6000.

The Chamber is hosting a Chamber Connections event on Tuesday, June 15 from 5:30 - 7:00 pm at Julian | Marc. This event will feature discussions about how you can harness the power of merchandising to drive traffic to your storefront during the summertime and, especially, during the Chamber and SSA's Third Saturdays events.

Merchandising pros Julian | Marc will be on hand to offer tips and Chamber staff will be speaking about the upcoming Third Saturdays events and how you can maximize your brand impact with sidewalk sales, entertainment, and promotions. In addition, you can enjoy wine and appetizers while you de-stress from your busy day with a FREE Dagny & Lane hand massage or mini-facial.

This is a can't miss FREE Chamber Connections! You'll leave with the tools to make this a great summer for your business and a 20% off upholstery coupon from Julian | Marc.

Call 773-561-6000 or email info@edgewater.org with any questions or to register for this FREE event.

A white cat with one blue eye and one green eye was found on Friday, June 11 at 1242 W. Hood by Gina (Asstant Director of the Dept. of Community Development at the City and also an Edgewater resident). If you are the owner or know the owner, call Steve at 773-502-6229 or Gina at 312-802-9290 or email Gina at g_m_caruso@yahoo.com. Any information would be much appreciated.

The Edgewater Chamber held its 2010 Annual Meeting on Friday, May 21 and honored State Rep. Harry Osterman with the Pride of Edgewater Award and former executive director Sheli Lulkin with a Lifetime Achievement Award.  The Chamber also honored seven businesses, each receiving a Best of Edgewater award.

Congratulations to Rep. Osterman and Sheli Lulkin on their awards.

Sen. Dick Durbin addresses the crowd

State Sen. Heather Steans addresses the crowd

Ald. Patrick O'Connor addresses the crowd

State Rep. Harry Osterman with the Pride of Edgewater Award (L-R: Chamber President/CEO Jay Delaney, Rep. Harry Osterman, Chamber Executive Vice Chair Jennifer Clark, and Chamber Board Chairman Diane Otteman)

Sheli Lulkin with the Lifetime Achievement Award ((L-R: Chamber President/CEO Jay Delaney, Chamber Vice Chair of Fundraising Rae Ann Cecrle, Sheli Lulkin, Chamber Executive Vice Chair Jennifer Clark, and Chamber Board Chairman Diane Otteman)

The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce held its 2010 Annual Meeting on Friday, May 21st.  In addition to honoring Rep. Harry Osterman with the Pride of Edgewater award and Sheli Lulkin with a Lifetime Achievement Award, seven local businesses received Best of Edgewater awards.

This year, nominations were accepted during an open call, and online voting took place to allow the community an opportunity to vote for their favorite Edgewater businesses.  Congratulations to all of the winners and to all of the nominees.

Green Business of the Year - True Nature Foods (accepted by Dave Frederickson on True Nature's behalf)

Restaurant of the Year - Uncommon Ground

New Member of the Year - Steep Theatre

Storefront of the Year - Edgewater Artists in Motion

Community-minded Business of the Year - Metropolis Coffee (accepted by Jennifer Clark on behalf of Metropolis)

Growing Business of the Year - Ethiopian Diamond

Customer Service of the Year - Bark Bark Club

Nominees:
B & R Developers
Bananas Foster
Bark Bark Club
Broadway Cellars
Edgewater Artists in Motion
Edgewater Athletic Club
Ethiopian Diamond
Fig Media
Friends of Peirce
Granville Gallery
Greene & Proppe
Indie Cafe
Julian | Marc
Loyola University
Metropolis Coffee
The Morgan at Loyola Station
Patch Landscaping
Raven Theatre
Ryan Swanson Design
Sabai Dee 
Sacred Heart Schools
St. Andrews
Steep Theatre
That Little Mexican Cafe
The UPS Store on Bryn Mawr
Tracy Poyser photoART
True Nature Foods
Uncommon Ground

Join us at the Chamber’s 2010 Annual Meeting & Luncheon! We are excited to announce that we will honor State Representative Harry Osterman as our Pride of Edgewater winner and Former Edgewater Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Sheli Lulkin, as our Lifetime Achievement award winner. We will also be honoring the Best of Edgewater Award winners. We hope you can come celebrate our award winners and mingle with your fellow Chamber members, local elected officials, and neighbors.

In conjunction with the Edgewater Chamber's July Third Saturdays event, which will feature a Pop-up Gallery on Granville, Family Fun Day, strolling musicians, and great deals throughout Edgewater, the North Lakeside Cultural Center will be hosting an Arts Festival in Berger Park at 6205 N. Sheridan. The Fest will celebrate the Edgewater Community Council's 50th Anniversary and as a thanks for ECC's support of the park and cultural center. The Arts Festival will run Saturday, July 17, and Sunday, July 18 from 10 am to 5 pm and they are looking for artists to join the fun.

There are 50 artists spots available at just $50 per booth, if you are an artist interested in applying to be part of this community event, please contact Helen Murtaugh of the Edgewater Arts Festival Committee. She will give you more information about the application and jury process.

Address:

NLCC

6219 North Sheridan Road

Chicago, Illinois 60660

E-mail:

fnuff@earthlink.net

Phone:

773-338-5315

We are very excited to open up voting for the 2010 "Best of Edgewater" awards! Thanks to everyone that submitted nominations over the past few weeks. You have until Thursday, May 13 to vote for your favorites. Winners will be announced at our Annual Meeting and Luncheon on Friday, May 21 at the Breakers at Edgewater Beach. You can click www.bit.ly/edgewater-annual to register to attend the event. Feel free to review the list of nominees, categories, and criteria for each below the survey link.

Restaurant of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating a Chamber member restaurant in the Edgewater neighborhood. In terms of this award, the restaurant should have an exemplary ability to support their customers' wants and needs, increased product or scope, received special recognition by other groups, and/or simply be a community favorite.

New Member of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating a new Chamber member business or organization that has best combined components of social, physical, and collaborative efforts in Edgewater. This business or organization must have joined  or rejoined the Chamber in 2009-2010.

Storefront of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that has the most attractive storefront. Said storefront should contribute to the overall beautification of the community, entice commerce, and/or attract new shoppers to the area.

Community-minded Business of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization who exemplifies dedication to supporting the community, including but not limited to after-school programs, collaborative-minded events, neighborhood-focused products, and more.

Growing Business of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that has shown the most growth in commerce, reach, or staff within 2009-2010. In terms of this award, the Chamber defines growth as an organization's increase in scope, products, services, or recognition.

Customer Service of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that has the best customer service reputation according to the Edgewater community. In terms of this award, the Chamber defines customer service as an organization's exemplary ability to support their customers' wants and needs.

*All nominees are current, active members of the Chamber and when necessary were removed from a category if they won the award the previous year. Only one vote per category, per computer (i.e. IP address) will be captured.

Tuesday, May 18th, 3 P.M. to 5 P.M.
Broadway Armory, 5917 N. Broadway
Street Parking or Take the CTA

If your business is located in the Clark/Ridge TIF and you're wanting to remodel the exterior or interior of your business, you're considering expanding your business, or you're looking to improve fixed assets, you should plan to attend the upcoming rollout meeting for the Clark/Ridge SBIF. 

SBIF is the Small Business Improvement Fund, a city of Chicago grant program administered by SomerCor.  The SBIF program offers grants to businesses and commercial landlords of 25% to 75% of project costs for fixed assets.

On Tuesday, May 18th from 3 P.M. to 5 P.M., SBIF Program administrators Derek Walvoord and John Paulun of SomerCor will give a presentation on SBIF and the application process.  To come prepared, you can read Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the SomerCor website at http://www.somercor.com/sbif/faqs-3/

For a map of the Clark/Ridge TIF, click here.

To access a flyer with information on this meeting, including a before and after photo, visit here.

Meeting co-hosted by the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce, Andersonville Development Corporation, Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, Edgewater Development Corporation, Rogers Park Business Alliance, and West Ridge Chamber of Commerce.  In Partnership with Alderman Patrick O'Connor (40th Ward office), Alderman Mary Ann Smith (48th Ward office), Alderman Joe Moore (49th Ward office), City of Chicago, and SomerCor.

Last Thursday’s E-mail marketing workshop was a tremendous success. Constant Contact Regional Development Director, Steve Robinson, showed us the nuts and bolts of email marketing strategy. He guided us through multiple case studies and provided attendees with a list of E-mail marketing best practices and tips. It was a useful event for all those that needed information about how email marketing can help an organization grow.

Additionally, the turnout was great! The event was co-sponsored by the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, Andersonville Chamber of Commerce, Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce, the Rogers Park Business Alliance, and Uptown Business Partners.

We’d like to thank all those that attended for making the event such a success. If you couldn’t make it, don’t worry, we’ll be sponsoring more networking events and information sessions in the near future. Hope to see you at the next one.

The April 7th Chamber Connections on Public and Media Relations 101 was a great success.  Audience Logic President, Ronna Hoffberg, shared a lot of helpful, practical tips for building buzz and traffic for your business.  She emphasized the importance of relationships in Public & Media Relations, discussed the differences and similarities between public relations and media relations, and provided specific steps businesses can take to play a more proactive role in connecting with the media and the public.  She also gave the attendees sample press releases Audience Logic has used.
 
This event was hosted at Hamilton’s Bar and Grill. We’d like to thank all those that attended for making the event such a success. If you couldn’t make it, don’t worry, we will be having quarterly Chamber Connections covering a wide variety of subjects to help you grow your business. Please plan to attend an event in the future!

The Edgewater Chamber’s 2010 Annual Meeting & Luncheon is coming up on Friday May 21, 2010. As you know, each year we honor someone with the Pride of Edgewater Award, but this year we are also giving out a special Lifetime Achievement Award, as well. To that end, we are excited to announce that we will honor State Representative Harry Osterman as our Pride of Edgewater winner and Former Edgewater Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Sheli Lulkin, as our Lifetime Achievement award winner. We will also be honoring the Best of Edgewater Award winners. 

Date:                Friday, May 21, 2010

Time:                11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Place:               The Breakers at Edgewater Beach (5333 N. Sheridan)

Cost:                $50 per ticket includes a FREE raffle ticket, $350 for a Table of 8

To Register:       Register and pay online at www.bit.ly/edgewater-annual, by email to info@edgewater.org or call 773-561-6000.

Seeking Sponsors, Raffle Prizes, and Goody Bag Items

We are also looking for Annual Meeting sponsors and donations for our highly anticipated prize drawings and goody bags.

• Platinum, Silver, and Bronze level sponsorships available.
  
• Donate gift certificates, products, or services for our raffle
  
• Donate valuable freebies with your business information or logo, e.g. insulated lunch bags, light bulbs with your business label attached, or pens.

Call 773-561-6000 or email info@edgewater.org with any questions about sponsorship, goody bags, donations, or to register for the meeting.

"Green" Business of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that best implements a variety of measures to save energy, water/other materials, and reduces waste. In addition, this business or organization should take measures to prevent pollution and conserve resources, as well as sourcing, manufacturing, and marketing products and services that fulfill environmentally sustainable goals.

Restaurant of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating a Chamber member restaurant in the Edgewater neighborhood. In terms of this award, the restaurant should have an exemplary ability to support their customers' wants and needs, increased product or scope, received special recognition by other groups, and/or simply be a community favorite.

New Member of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating a new Chamber member business or organization that has best combined components of social, physical, and collaborative efforts in Edgewater. This business or organization must have joined  or rejoined the Chamber in 2009-2010.

Storefront of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that has the most attractive storefront. Said storefront should contribute to the overall beautification of the community, entice commerce, and/or attract new shoppers to the area.

Community-minded Business of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization who exemplifies dedication to supporting the community, including but not limited to after-school programs, collaborative-minded events, neighborhood-focused products, and more.

Growing Business of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that has shown the most growth in commerce, reach, or staff within 2009-2010. In terms of this award, the Chamber defines growth as an organization's increase in scope, products, services, or recognition.

Customer Service of the Year - This award is aimed at celebrating the Chamber business or organization that has the best customer service reputation according to the Edgewater community. In terms of this award, the Chamber defines customer service as an organization's exemplary ability to support their customers' wants and needs.

Workshop: The Power of Email Marketing
Thursday, April 15
9:00am to 11:30am
Loyola University, Info Commons
Register Online: http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e2sb18mc668f421d

Chamber Connections:
Public & Media Relations 101
7 Tips To Attract Media & Build Traffic Featuring Ronna Hoffberg, President of Audience Logic, an arts marketing firm

Wednesday, April 7
5pm-7pm
Hamilton's Bar & Grill
6341 N. Broadway
Featuring light appetizers and one free drink

Are you maximizing your opportunities to tell your business's story in the media? To let your customers know of a sale, a new menu or a new location? 

Join us for a fun evening of networking and connecting with fellow Edgewater businesses featuring a brief discussion from Ronna Hoffberg on the fundamentals of public relations and media outreach. She will offer seven helpful, practical tips you can use to garner media attention for your business. 

Tickets

$10 - Chamber Members

$20 - Non-Members

To RSVP call 773-561-6000 or e-mail info@edgewater.org.

6 Questions with Sue Phelan of Home Instead Senior Care

Sue Phelan outside of Home Instead Senior Care at 4736 N. Marine Dr.

Can you tell us a little about your business and how long it has been located in Edgewater?
Home Instead Senior Care is an organization that provides assistance to seniors who need help in their homes. We’ve been servicing the areas in and around Edgewater for nearly six years.

Can you give us a brief overview of your health and wellness services?
Whether the result of an injury or hospitalization, or just the facts of aging, the simple things of everyday living become difficult or sometimes even impossible. The caregivers with Home Instead come into the home and assist with a variety of tasks – cooking, light housekeeping, bathing, dressing, medication reminders, transportation to appointments, etc. Each client will have a unique set of needs and areas where they may assistance. We help our clients retain their normal routine for as long as possible. Most of the time it is the family members who bring in our services because they are concerned about the safety and well-bring of a loved one.

What are the top three keys to Home Instead's success?
We have been extremely selective in choosing our caregivers – less than 4% of the applicants were hired in 2009.  We have a very dedicated office staff that oversees the direct care work with the clients. Our care philosophy is based on high levels of communication. Finally, we work to exceed client and family expectations and have benefited from word-of-mouth referrals as a result.

What do you like best about having your business located in/near Edgewater?
The history – not just of the neighborhoods, but of the people. We work with seniors who have lived in their homes for 40 or 50 years. They’ve raised their families there and would like to stay there for the rest of their life.

How has the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce helped your business?
The Chamber is a dynamic collection of business owners who are interested in succeeding, but also making the community better for everyone. The Chamber offers a variety of ways to connect to people with similar interests.

What advice do you have for other businesses in the neighborhood?
Edgewater is really a small town in a big city. It is important to reach out to others – even in businesses that have nothing to do with what you do – as a way of getting them to know about your work.

The Edgewater Farmers Market is now accepting applications. Our independent market at Broadway & Norway will run every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM starting July 3 through October 30, 2010. This year the Market returns to its original mission: a focus on affordable, sustainable foods. We're inviting farmers, experts, and artisans to sell everything from beautiful, fresh produce, jams, and fresh bread to local coffee, flowers, and cheese.

And for our neighborhood, we're developing educational and entertaining programs like tours of the True Nature beehives, meet-n-greets with Nate the BeeKeeper, music, donation opportunities, and places to sit while you enjoy the bustling Market and our new offerings. We look forward to seeing you there! More updates and a page devoted to the weekly Market events will be launched on this website very soon.

Farmers, processors, and producers please contact Libby Alexander to discuss your interest in applying to the Edgewater Farmers Market.

phone: 773-561-6000

email: info@edgeater.org

7 Questions with Dr. Leslie Bulyaki of Active Health Centers

Dr. Leslie Bulyaki inside Active Health Centers at 5315 N. Sheridan

Can you tell us a little about your business and how long it has been located in Edgewater?

In addition to Chiropractic Care, Sheri Lake, P.T. offers Physical Therapy with a yoga twist.  Active Health Centers has been a part of the Edgewater Community providing Chiropractic care and Physical Therapy since 2001!  We are located at the Breakers of Edgewater Beach at 5315 N Sheridan Road.

Can you give us a brief overview of your health and wellness services?

We are providers of Chiropractic care, Physical Therapy, and Massage Therapy. We treat all neuromusculoskeletal ailments and injuries.  We provide care for injuries resulting from auto, work, sports, and everyday activities.

What are the top three keys to Active Health’s success?

First and foremost we treat every patient as if they are our family! We also offer quality care to all who enter our office. Finally, with a combined total of over 30 years of experience, Sheri and I integrate Chiropractic and Physical Therapy to get our patients back to their active lifestyles!

What do you like best about having your business located in Edgewater?

We love the diversity that Edgewater has to offer.  We enjoy visiting the various restaurants and retail stores.  We especially love the close proximity to the lakefront!

How has the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce helped your business?

The Edgewater Chamber offers networking and instructional opportunities with other business owners. Just as importantly the Chamber offers smaller businesses like Active Health Centers the opportunity to be heard as part of a community when it comes to municipal affairs.

What advice do you have for other businesses in the neighborhood?

The most important thing for a small business is teamwork.  A small business in any neighborhood must become a part of the community in which they serve.  To understand how you can be a better business member is to understand the people of your community.

Do you have any exciting news you would like to share with Chamber members and the neighborhood?

Absolutely!   Come and visit us at State Representative Harry Osterman’s 2010 Senior Health Fair on Friday, March 19^th.  Please visit us online, anytime at www.activehealthcenters.com Our website offers a wealth of health related information and more!

On Wednesday, February 17 join us at the Sweetheart of Edgwater party at Ethiopian Diamond located at 6120 N. Broadway from 5:45pm to 7:45pm. The night will be filled with delicious Ethiopian food and the presentation of the "Sweetheart of Edgewater" award.

Plus, we've invited Michael Slater, founder of SpeedNetworking.com, to host a round of networking fun. Speed Networking was developed to effectively match business professionals for the advancement of career and business objectives, so don't forget your business cards! We've also asked the Rotary Club of Chicago Far North to present during the evening, so you'll have the opportunity to meet a few local Rotarians and learn more about their great organization.

RSVP & Tickets

RSVP to the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce at 773-561-6000 or info@edgewater.org.  Admission is $20 for Chamber members and Rotary members who pre-register. $25 for non-members and tickets purchased the evening of the event. You can also purchase tickets online at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/97713.

7 Questions with Ras Dashen owner/chef, Zenash Beyene

Owner/Chef Zenash Beyene in front of Ras Dashen at 5846 N. Broadway

7 Questions with Zenash Beyene

Can you tell us a little about your business and how long it has been located in Edgewater?

My business is Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant. We are located at 5846 N Broadway. We have been open almost 9 years now, our anniversary is coming up on March 24.

Can you give us a brief overview of your cuisine and menu?

We serve traditional style Ethiopian cuisine served in a family style setting. We are vegetarian and vegan friendly and we also serve Beef, Lamb, Chicken, and Fish.  Our most popular is the Omnivore dinner for two which allows you to sample a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes. We also have a vegetarian sampler which lets you choose 5 veggie sides. My chef experience gives me pride in my food and this is the skill that has motivated me to open my own restaurant. I come from generations of famous chefs and cooking was taught to me by my grandparents.

What are the top three keys to Ras Dashen’s success?

1. Fresh ingredients made from scratch every day. 2. My loyal customers who give me confidence 3. I’m always here!

What do you like best about having your business located in Edgewater?

Originally, my intention was to open a restaurant in Hyde park, but every chance I got, I found myself in Edgewater during all of my free time and I just fell in love with this community. This is a very friendly neighborhood which is expanding tremendously and it makes me feel good to live here and have my business here.

How has the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce helped your business?

The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce has really been key in helping my business get recognition over the past several years. They always have fun events planned throughout the year and they really try to keep Edgewater as safe and enjoyable as possible. Thank you Edgewater Chamber of Commerce!

What advice do you have for other businesses in the neighborhood?

Never give up!

Do you have any exciting news you would like to share with Chamber members and the neighborhood?

In the future, I am planning to open a new location but for now, I am looking to sell my special sauces to participating grocery stores. Other than that, my success is my excitement.

For additional information, visit Ras Dashen's website at www.rasdashenchicago.com

Celebrate Edgewater’s rich history with a poster of one of Chicago’s most enduring iconic architectural gems.
 


Professionally designed and illustrated by local Edgewater artist John Garrison, The Edgewater Beach Collectible Poster allows you to revel in our rich community while also supporting your neighborhood.  When you purchase your poster from the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, those proceeds go to benefit our organization and the work we do here in Edgewater.

The poster comes in a standard size (36”x 24”) making it a perfect decoration for your office and/or home.  Although we do not provide the framing, feel free to have it framed at a local framing shop like Granville Gallery and Picture Framing (6200 N. Broadway, 773-764-1919, Chamber member).
 
For a limited time, we have autographed versions available too.
 
Poster: $20
Autographed Poster (by the artist): $30
 
To order your poster, contact the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce:
Phone at 773-561-6000
E-mail: info@edgewater.org
Address: 1210 W. Rosedale, Chicago, IL 60660

The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for their annual Sweetheart of Edgewater! As usual we'll be handing out the coveted Sweetheart of Edgewater award. This year we're opening up the nomination process to the Edgwater community. Past winners include:

2009 -- Allen Stryczek (Edgewater Beautiful)
2008 -- Mary Ann Collins (Heart to Heart Program @ St. Gertrude's Parish)
2007 -- Derrick McClinton (Edgewater/Rogers Park Black Family Network)
2006 -- Patrick Hulne (Patch Landscaping)
2005 -- Lita Lopez (Metropolis Coffee) & Moseth Sample (Broadway Armory)

Sweetheart of Edgewater Award Criteria: The Sweetheart of Edgewater award is intended to honor an unsung hero or group of heroes with a connection to Edgewater. Nominees must be an individual or group of individuals that over a period have contributed outstanding dedication and service to the Edgewater community. The individual/individuals should exhibit fair and honest business practices. Recipients should either live, work, or own a business in Edgewater.
 

Click here to download the nomination form. Nominations must be returned via mail, fax, or email by February 3, 2010.
 

Send nominations to 1210 W. Rosedale Chicago, IL 60660 or fax to 773-561-8584 or email info@edgewater.org.

Community Tree Lighting at the Broadway Armory
(Photo: Erin Kitzinger)

This past Saturday, December 12, the community enjoyed roaming carolers, two FREE trolleys, plus food, crafts, and entertainment at the Broadway Armory.  The Edgewater Artists in Motion also held two art fairs in vacant storefronts.  Everything was topped off with a holiday sing-along and tree lighting at the Broadway Armory.  For pictures from the event, visit

This event was a collaboration by State Rep. Harry Osterman, the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, and SSA #26 with additional support from the Edgewater Community Council, Edgewater Development Corporation, and Bryn Mawr Task Force.

Thank you to all of the businesses participating in the 2009 Storefront Decorating Contest as part of the Holidays Around the World Celebration.  It's great to see the neighborhood looking so festive this holiday season.

Below are this year's winners and participating businesses:

Best Overall Theme: Julian | Marc (6054 N. Broadway)
Best Overall Design: Edgewater Antique Mall (6314 N. Broadway)
Best Overall Design: Anna Held Flower Shop & Cafe (5557 N. Sheridan)
Most Creative: Frank Event Design (5555 N. Sheridan)

Honorable Mentions:
Bananas Foster Cafe (1147 W. Granville)
Conn's Catering (1535 W. Devon)
Curves Chicago Edgewater (1354 W. Devon)
Indie Cafe (5951 N. Broadway)
The UPS Store - Bryn Mawr (1055 W. Bryn Mawr)

Thank you to the following businesses who also participated:
Bark Bark Club (5943 N. Broadway)
Bryn Mawr Jewelry Company (1125 W. Bryn Mawr)
Pier 1 imports (5304 N. Broadway)
Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant (5846 N. Broadway)
Salon Echo (1134 W. Bryn Mawr)
The Sovereign (1040 W. Granville)
St. Andrew's Inn (5938 N. Broadway)
Subway (1139 W. Granville)
Third Coast Comics (6234 N. Broadway)
True Nature Foods (6034 N. Broadway)

The Roaring '20s Gatsby Party held on December 3rd, 2009 was a lot of fun!  Thank you to our sponsors, our silent auction donors, and everyone who came out and had a roaring '20s time with us.  We hope many existing friendships were furthered and new friendships made.

For pictures from the event, visit our Photo Gallery at www.edgewater.org/News/Photo_Gallery.aspx


Performers from Joel Hall Dancers (Photo: Erin Kitzinger)

Platinum Sponsor
Patch Landscaping & Snow Removal

Gold Sponsors
Kindred Chicago Lakeshore, Loyola University Chicago

Silver Sponsors
B&R Developers, The Breakers at Edgewater Beach, Broadway Bank, Holsten Real Estate, Senator Heather Steans

Bronze Sponsors
Ansonia Properties, Bark Bark Club, Chicago Gold Gallery, Dave Frederickson State Farm, Dominick's, Edgewater Athletic Club, The First Commercial Bank, Indie Cafe, MacMaster Properties, LLC, Moody's Pub, The Pumping Company, Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant, St. Andrew's Inn, and Vranas & Chioros Realty Group

Holidays Around the World Celebration
Saturday, December 12th, 2009
Throughout Edgewater

Visit our Holidays Around the World page for the most up-to-date information

Festive Streets, Storefronts, and Shopping
Noon-4pm * Two free trolleys along Broadway & Devon
Enjoy roaming carolers, a storefront decorating contest, and special holidays promotions from area businesses.

Holiday Fair & Community Tree Lighting
2pm-5pm * Broadway Armory Park * 5917 N. Broadway
Join us and local ethnic organizations to celebrate with food, crafts, music, and information about how the winter holidays are experienced around the world and participate in a holiday sing-a-long!  The entertainment program will begin promptly at 4:00pm with the tree lighting immediately following.  Additional entertainment program details coming shortly - check back soon!

Edgewater Artists in Motion Holiday Art Fest
11am-6pm * Two locations: 5501 N. Broadway & 6056 N. Broadway
Enjoy an art fair from the Edgewater Artists in Motion and purchase work from local artists for the holidays!

Holidays Around the World is a collaboration by State Rep. Harry Osterman, the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, and SSA #26 with additional support from the Edgewater Community Council, Edgewater Development Corporation, and Bryn Mawr Task Force.

2009 Chamber Holiday Mixer & Silent Auction:
A Roaring 20’s Gatsby party
Thursday, December 3^rd, 2009, 5:30pm – 9pm
at The Breakers at Edgewater Beach, 5333 N. Sheridan
Complimentary Valet Parking

Join us for a festive holiday evening with 1920’s style fun!  Revisit a bygone era with sultry 20’s music by the lovely Rebecca Sullivan, a Charleston performance by Joel Hall Dancers, and black and white silent films.  Enjoy delicious exotic dishes prepared by the talented Chef Peter.  And cap it all off with special and unique finds at our silent auction.  Attire of the era encouraged but not required.

Tickets
$40 Member pre-purchase price
$50 Regular Price and night of the event
Purchase your tickets today! Call 773-561-6000, e-mail info@edgewater.org, or visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/87491

THANK YOU SPONSORS

Platinum Sponsor
Patch Landscaping & Snow Removal

Gold Sponsors
Kindred Chicago Lakeshore
Loyola University Chicago 

Silver Sponsors
B&R Developers
The Breakers at Edgewater Beach
Broadway Bank
Holsten Real Estate
Senator Heather Steans       

Bronze Sponsors
Ansonia Properties
Bark Bark Club
Chicago Gold Gallery
Dave Frederickson State Farm
Dominick's
Edgewater Athletic Club
The First Commercial Bank
Indie Cafe
MacMaster Properties, LLC
Moody’s Pub
Ole St. Andrew's Inn
The Pumping Company
Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant
Vranas & Chioros Realty Group

7 Questions with Ethiopian Diamond owner, Almaz Yigizaw

Owner Almaz Yigizaw with a platter of Ethiopian cuisine

7 Questions with Ethiopian Diamond owner Almaz Yigizaw

Can you tell us a little about your business and how long it has been located in Edgewater?

The business opened 13 ½ years ago as one of the first Ethiopian restaurants in Chicago.  Ethiopian Diamond is a comfortable atmosphere with live entertainment on Friday and Saturday.  We can accommodate up to 175 guests and we provide a private area for special events.  We are open from 11:30 to 10:30 Sunday through Thursday and 11:30 to 11:30 on Friday and Saturday.  We have a variety of dinner packages to choose from and a full bar is also available.

Can you give us a brief overview of your cuisine and menu?

From the Traditional to the unexpected, Ethiopian Cuisine is a variety of flavors.  It all starts with our bread called Injera.  Injera is used to soak up the flavors and also used as your utensil.  Ethiopian cuisine is eaten with your fingers.

We serve a variety of vegetarian items and several meat choices; lamb, beef, chicken and seafood.  You have your choice if you want it spicy, mild or plain on most entrees.  There is a little of something for everyone.

What are the top three keys to Ethiopian Diamond’s success?

We take pride in (1) our consistency, (2) the friendly environment, and of course (3) our flavorful, authentic cuisine.

What do you like best about having your business located in Edgewater?

Edgewater is a multi ethnic neighborhood where people are not afraid to try something different.  It is close to Loyola and Northwestern colleges which brings a lot of new faces to the area.