From Novmber 1, 2011 -
Now in its third year, West Chicago’s Brilliance in Business recognition program once again shines a deserving light on six outstanding businesses helping to shape the community. The program is one more way in which the City hopes to build greater awareness and appreciation for the strides being made daily to industry best practices, innovation, creativity, and sustainability.
From a global leader in the energy economy, a manufacturer which prioritized a spirit of generosity, and an internationally recognized arborist to a family dentistry which has become a downtown mainstay, an innovative merger of two successful organizations which aims to advance economic prosperity in the larger business community, and a small but mighty not-for-profit whose core mission is one of nurturing the values of good citizenship and character-building in America's youth, this year's six winners set the bar high and surpassed it.
GREEN INITIATIVES AWARD
- Siemens Industry, Inc., located at 1500 Harvester Road is a global company whose roots run deep in America, including here in West Chicago, Illinois. The company has been a leader in sustainability and green initiatives for decades and the West Chicago manufacturing plants are a perfect example of the changing landscape of manufacturing in America. Siemens recently invested approximately $10 million upgrading two buildings located on Harvester Road, one of which will support the growing demand for solar power in the United States – converting blue-collar jobs to green collar jobs. Its SINVERT solar inverters produced at this location are being shipped to solar projects across the country, allowing the power of the sun to be harnessed.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD - Sleep Innovations, Inc., located at 1750 Downs Drive is being honored for its compassionate response to a devastating fire that swept through the 513/515 Carriage Drive apartment building in the Aspen Apartment complex in West Chicago on Monday, July 11, 2011. Fortunately, residents escaped the fire unharmed, however many suffered the trauma of seeing their possessions destroyed and finding themselves homeless. Upon learning of the tragedy, Sleep Innovations, Inc. stopped the production of customer orders and began producing 100 queen-size memory foam mattresses and pillows for donation to the victims of this fire. On July 14, 2011, a 53-foot semi-trailer was parked at the West Chicago Police Department for distribution to these families in need.
COMMUNITY IMAGE AWARD - Kramer Tree Specialists (KTS) has grown in stature since 1974 as a family-owned business committed to its philosophy of empowering the consumer in the role of caretaker of their trees for the benefit of future generations to the internationally recognized leader in the arboricultural industry that it is today. Owner Joe Kramer and family have built a state-of-the-art facility at 300 Charles Court that has advanced the image of the West Chicago business community and captured the attention of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). The ISA selected KTS from all the greater Chicago area tree care companies as the host company for its 2010 international conference tour. Closer to home, KTS contributed to the community's annual Frosty Fest holiday event last year by donating its services to remove a 35' live spruce tree that had become too large for the front yard of a West Chicago resident, transporting it and fully decorating it for the enjoyment of the entire community.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD - Main Street Family Dentistry, office of Dr. Richard Smith, is located in the historic downtown district of West Chicago at 119 Main Street. The dental practice was originally opened by Dr. Wesley Watanabe and has served the community for several decades. The practice is an example of the staying power of a small business which has succeeded by providing quality care in a relaxed, friendly manner and by remaining committed to advancements in all phases of general dentistry including teeth whitening, veneers and implants. The office continues to be very involved in charitable and community events such as Blooming Fest, Frosty Fest, the downtown Trick or Treat, the West Chicago Public Library Children's Summer Reading Program and the West Chicago Senior Fair, as well as community sporting events. Main Street Family Dentistry contributes time to the children in the community's schools, teaching good dental health and providing them with dental products. Dr. Smith currently serves as President of the West Chicago Rotary Club. He has participated in charitable dentistry locally and abroad, and periodically provides care to military service personnel.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD - A strategic partnership between the West Chicago Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Warrenville Chamber of Commerce earlier this year has resulted in the formation of the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce, and now provides members with more contacts, a greater depth of service, additional programs and access to a dedicated staff with over 25 years of combined experience in the business of helping business. Through networking events, training grants, legislative advocacy, and more, the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce is a strong business ally in today's challenging business environment. It is an organization dedicated to helping their members succeed, which translates to healthy economic development for the communities it serves. Headquartered in downtown West Chicago at 306 Main Street in the Wayne and Helen Fox Community Center, the Chamber has recently overseen the renovation of an underutilized space at the Center and furnished it to create a boardroom-style setting which will be used to host member training sessions and committee meetings, among other things.
OUTSTANDING NOT-FOR-PROFIT AWARD - Since 1909 when W.D. Boyce brought scouting to America, the guiding principles of the Boy Scouts of America has remained the same; preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Deicke Scout Shop, which is operated by the Boy Scouts of America Three Fires Council, supports the mission of scouting through its large inventory of uniforms, camping equipment, achievement recognitions and more. Plus, the shop serves as a resource center for information and registration of upcoming group outings and activities of the Three Fires Council. In 2010, 357 Eagle Scouts, 16,304 Cub Scouts, 6,574 Boy Scouts, 708 Venturers, and 1,547 Explorers were registered members; plus the Council is proud to serve one of the largest special needs packs in the country. Deicke Scout Shop, which is located at 155 West Roosevelt Road has become a regional destination, bringing scouting families from all over the western suburbs to West Chicago.
Special recognition will be held for the six winning businesses at the City Council meeting on Monday, December 5, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at 475 Main Street and will feature a commemorative video highlighting their accomplishments which will be made available on the City's website, www.westchicago.org after December 5th.
"By celebrating the success stories of these six brilliant businesses, we are trumping the perception that this economy has our businesses stalled in a survival-only mode and are acknowledging the reality that they are moving forward, and that we are moving forward. Our businesses have continued to contribute, create, innovate and invest in their future and ours," said West Chicago Mayor Mike Kwasman.
2010 BRILLIANCE IN BUSINESS AWARDS
From October 20, 2010 - The 2010 Brilliance in Business Award Winners have been
chosen and will be honored at the City Council meeting of Monday, November 15, 2010. These businesses have demonstrated excellence in the categories for which they were chosen, and the City wishes to thank them for their contributions to the community. To learn more about these outstanding businesses, a commemorative awards video will be available after November 15, 2010 on this web site.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
- Casa Rios Bridal Boutique is one of Main Streets longest surviving businesses. Beyond serving her customers' bridal, baby and Quinceañera needs, owners Emma and O Rios have actively supported the community through charitable works. Specifically cited were their annual coat drive and efforts to assist members of the Hispanic community with finding shelter, clothing, and health care resources; as well as bridging the communication gap by providing a venue for language instruction. 204 Main Street; (630) 231-7130
GREEN INITIATIVES AWARD -
The Jel Sert Company's commitment to environmental sustainability efforts is admirable. As a leader in freezer bars, diet drinks, gelatins, puddings and frozen desserts, its programs to reduce waste and energy consumption and its re-use of existing resources and recycling initiatives are evidence of its leadership in eco-friendly
business practices and set an example for other manufacturers. 351 Conde Street; (630) 231-7590
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD -
Natural Healing Whole Dog Wellness has been a welcome addition to our business community and has elevated the level of West Chicago's reputation as a compelling destination. Offering the first pools in the Midwest specifically designed for the therapeutic treatment of dogs, plus a store devoted to products designed for whole dog wellness, this business has set a new bar for entrepreneurial innovation and quality, and has developed an industry niche with a wide regional reach. 946 N. Neltnor Blvd. (Rt. 59); (630) 483-9843
COMMUNITY IMAGE AWARD -
Ball Horticultural Company has been a welcome addition to our business community for over 80 years. Quality and innovation have been its trademarks, and the presence of its headquarters in West Chicago has elevated the community's image and reputation. Clearly a global leader in all facets of floriculture with a presence in over 20 countries in six continents, the company has still managed to maintain a family tradition which nurtures its core values with an unwavering commitment to its customers and its community. 622 Town Road; (630) 231-3600
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD - Buck Services, Inc. has demonstrated
commitment as well as a significant investment in our community. The evolution of its business headquarters from a school janitor's closet to the basement of a family home, leading to the purchase earlier this year of a 17,000 square foot building, illustrates the growth of its business and its commitment to investing and securing a future in West Chicago. 401 Industrial Drive; (630) 876-8184
OUTSTANDING NOT-FOR-PROFIT AWARD - We Grow Dreams is being recognized for the valuable service it provides through the job training and employment opportunities it offers to people with disabilities. Teaching useful work skills in a supportive, safe and caring environment provides its Team Members the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives while producing and providing quality products and services to the community. We salute its efforts which honor the concepts of human dignity, respect, hard work, fellowship and friendship. 1055 West Washington Street; (630) 293-0100
2009 BRILLIANCE IN BUSINESS AWARD WINNERS
From November 9, 2009 - A new program introduced this year by the City of West Chicago brings five local businesses to the forefront for recognition. Dream in Color Yarn, Tastee Freez, Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli, Extra Value Liquor, andbehindthechair.com, are all winners of the Brilliance in Business Awards and will be in the spotlight at an upcoming City Council meeting where they will be formally acknowledged for their achievements in one of five specific categories.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Dream in Color Yarn has taken the market for quality hand-painted yarn by storm. The company has evolved from retailing to manufacturing and wholesale distribution through the development of an exciting new product line created through an innovative, breakthrough technique which speaks volumes about the ingenuity, determination and commitment to American manufacturing of co-owners Veronica Van and Nancy Leuer.
COMMUNITY IMAGE AWARD - The West Chicago Tastee Freez has been an icon of old-fashioned fun and quality since it first opened in 1955. Through painstaking efforts to refurbish original architecture and signage while modernizing the kitchen and service area, Teresa and Jeff Riner have demonstrated exemplary support of the City’s revitalization efforts and contributed to the image of our historic downtown as a destination rich in heritage and local “flavor.”
GREEN INITIATIVES AWARD – Cathy and Jerry Morelli’s switch to the use of corn-based products for disposable eating utensils and biodegradable packaging materials for beverage service, as well as other menu items at Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli, is evidence of the restaurant’s leadership in the eco-friendly dining experience and sets an example for other food service providers. Participation in worldwide public awareness campaigns further serves the green cause.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD - Active involvement with the West Chicago Lions Club, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce and Industry and School District 33’s Foundation for Educational Excellence epitomizes the corporate citizenship of John Churillo, owner of Extra Value Liquor, who believes local business should give back to the community through service.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD – behindthechair.com, a cutting-edge business serving the professional salon industry with original content, resources and education via website and printed publications, has transformed a vacant building and community eyesore into a magnificently creative space and credit to the neighborhood and the City. Residents Mary and Mark Gables’ vision, dedication and investment lovingly restored worthy elements of a 1939 roller rink and created a sleek, loft-style space perfectly suited for their business headquarters.
The City hopes that the formal awards program will build awareness for the level of diversity, creativity and corporate citizenship that epitomizes its business community. "We tip our hats to the five businesses chosen for a 2009 Brilliance in Business Award,” said Mayor Mike Kwasman. “We are proud to have them doing business in West Chicago.”
Special recognition will be held for the winners at the City Council meeting on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. which will feature a commemorative video highlighting each of their accomplishments. The video will be made available on this website after November 16th. Additionally, a large wall plaque containing the names of winners will be permanently displayed at City Hall and street banners will also be hung in their honor on Main Street.
