Welcome to the latest edition of the Berwyn Magazine!
As we kick off 2023, I am happy to share that the BDC has once again committed to implementing innovative resources in Berwyn. In fact, we are re-launching the Business Internship for Small Businesses, as well as the Berwyn Shops. These programs help entrepreneurs enhance their online presence and test out the market, respectively.
Outside of programming, the BDC also aims to connect our Berwyn community to available resources and educational opportunities. For example, we have started promoting our newest marketing campaign, #HireBerwyn, in hopes of connecting our small businesses with on-the-job training opportunities and available human resources.
Furthermore, the BDC will be collaborating with consultants to create a new economic development plan for the City of Berwyn in 2023. Funded by a $75,000 grant, this plan will allow us to better understand the current strengths and opportunities of the community, given the drastic market changes that the world experienced during the last few years.
Overall, I am so proud of the accomplishments we made and the partnerships we built in 2022. I look forward to continued dialogue and collaboration with our beloved Berwyn community in 2023!
Warmest Regards,
Board of Directors
Executive Board
Diane Salemi President Andy Sotiropuolos Past Board President
David Hulseberg Executive Director
Jamie Revell Vice President
Jousef Mondragon Vice President
Mario Manfredini Secretary
Libby Popovic Treasurer
Paul Macchione
Pierre Monice
Eddie Wilkowski
Tom Benson
Nora Laureto
Anthony Belcaster
Salvador Plascencia
Herman Vander Naald
Salvador Figueroa
Dr. Olivia Lares
Sandra Diaz
David Hulseberg
Executive Director
Sande Brennan Director of Operations & Special Events
Emily Block Special Events Coordinator
Patrick Greenacre Marketing Manager
Michelle Valle-Flores Marketing Coordinator
Gary Director of Emotional Support
Kendra Shaw Economic Development Manager
Paola Garibay Project Manager of Economic Development
Marcos Martinez Community Development Specialist
Claudia Thornton Chamber Manager
Genesis Valencia Chamber Administrative Coordinator
Tier
BAILA CONMIGO | DANCE WITH ME
6829 W Stanley Ave | Berwyn, IL. 60402
(708) 788-8960 • DanceWithMe.fun
BAIRD & WARNER | APEREZ REAL ESTATE
6347 Cermak Rd Unit B | Berwyn, IL. 60402 (312) 291-1157 • AngelPerez.BairdWarner.com
COLLABORATION FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD 171 S Oak Park Ave | Oak Park, IL. 60302 (708) 613-6122 • Collab4Kids.org
FARMERS INSURANCE | MELISSA TERRAZAS AGENCY
6729 W 26th St #203 | Berwyn, IL. 60402
(708) 749-4331 • FarmersAgent.com/MTerrazas
CENTURY
MARYVILLE 1150 N River Rd | Des Plaines, IL. 60016 (847) 294-1999 • MaryvilleAcademy.org
PLCCA, INC.
411 West Madison St | Maywood, IL. 60153 (708) 450-3500 x289 • plcca.org
SOY
ISKALI 1409 S 5TH Ave | Maywood, IL. 60153 (708) 574-2009 • Iskali.org
FORTRESS
JUST WALLPAPER
3151 Oak Park Ave | Berwyn, IL. 60402 (312) 702-0349 • Just-Wallpaper.com
Greetings neighbor,
We are springing into 2023 and with a new year, I hope we Stay Connected via the city’s new website at www.berwyn-il.gov, where Berwyn residents can pay their water bill online (please have your account/balance information), view/share opportunities to work in our City and view the City’s Community Calendar for upcoming municipal and community meetings.
There have been many updates to resident services and information available for New Berwyn Residents. The Beautification efforts continue to improve and I would like to thank you in advance for doing your part to Keep Berwyn Beautiful! Remember you can now Request a Container for residential garbage service online or by telephone, at 800-964-8988.
Recently, I had the honor of celebrating 11 women-owned businesses and their successful completion of the inaugural season of the Berwyn Shops: A Homegrown Project. These talented businesswomen are a community pride and I wish each of the vendors great success in their future endeavors. Our infrastructure projects also continue to advance, with our Depot District Project now in its Third Phase: Streetscape Beautification. I am happy to announce a recent grant from the Public Works Department will enable our city to inventory water main lead pipes per the federal mandate (Public Act 102-0613) and ensure we can continue to provide clean and safe water to our community. Check out the project survey link active in March for more information: https://bit.ly/3x5c8pu.
Cook County property owners will have an extra month to pay their First Installment property taxes this year, April 3, 2023, per the Cook County Treasurer’s Office. Property tax bills are already available online. To make a payment or download a copy of your tax bill, please visit www. cookcountytreasurer.com. Berwyn Township Assessor Jacqueline Pereda’s office will be available for questions at 708-788-6600 or by email at jacquelinepereda@berwynassessor.org.
I would like to close out this message by thanking Cassidy Tire Shop located at 7000 Ogden Ave. for the Catalytic Theft Deterrent Service available free of charge for Berwyn residents (valid driver’s license with Berwyn address required). Please contact Cassidy Tire Shop at 708-683-3739 to schedule an appointment (required).
Have a safe and healthy spring!
Sincerely,
Mayor Robert J. Lovero
The BDC hosted its first in-person Annual Meeting after a 3-year hiatus on January 12th. Thank you to Mayor Robert J. Lovero for his continued support of the BDC. I also want to thank the City of Berwyn officials, Diane Salemi, BDC Board President, BDC Board members, 2023 Annual Meeting Sponsors, and Paisan’s Pizzeria & Bar for hosting our event. Finally, a huge congratulations to Jamie Revell from W3Body - A Women’s Gym, recipient of the 13th Annual George W. Ashby 2022 Award and Pete Fejzuloski from Paisan’s Pizzeria & Bar, recipient for the 38th Annual Charles E. Piper 2022 Award.
The BDC in collaboration with our local Chamber businesses launched our #hireberwyn resource page. #Hireberwyn provides the connection of our local Educators/Teachers/Students with Business/Employers resulting in workforce success. The organizations listed are interested in partnering with local businesses who provide students and young adults employment opportunities within the community. For more information, visit: www.berwyn.net/hire-berwyn.
Our Berwyn Internship for Small Businesses (BISB) will kick off in February for our Spring 2023 session along with our monthly Women in Business meetings and Non-profit roundtable meetings. We are also introducing Quarterly Membership meetings for all Chamber members. Stay tuned for further details.
Thank you and I look forward to meeting each of you in the upcoming months.
Best Regards,
Claudia Thornton Chamber Manager
“I was recently hired thanks to the Hire Berwyn page you shared on LinkedIn. I happily accepted a position with Central States SER as a JTED Career Development Specialist.
Once again, thank you for sharing this resource and I hope more individuals find the Hire Berwyn page useful!”
Thank you, Arturo L.
BDC Hosted our Annual After Hours Holiday Party at Connie’s Family Restaurant & Cocktails on Thursday, December 8th.
Please reach out to Claudia Thornton at claudiat@berwyn.net or Genesis Valencia at genesisv@berwyn.net
if you are interested in hosting a Business After Hours in 2023.
2023 Berwyn
Window Clings are now available to all Chamber businesses. Lookout for your window cling at upcoming BDC events and meetings. This exclusive decal is one of many Chamber benefits!
-Standard listing in the online Business Directory and Community Resource Guide that mails out to over 33,000 residents and local businesses.
-Exclusive advertising in 3 annual publications that are mailed out to residents and local businesses.
-Exclusive invitations to our monthly Women in Business, Non-profit, and Membership meetings.
The George W. Ashby Award celebrates Berwyn’s “Business of the Year” and we are pleased to announce that the winner this year is W3Body - A Women’s Gym!
Learn more from Jamie Revell about how this full-service women’s gym has become more than a fitness center, but instead an integral part of the Berwyn community. Scan the QR code to watch the video!
JOIN CHAMBER TODAY! Scan the QR code for more information or call Claudia Thornton (708) 749-6579
Year” award honors Pete
of Paisans Pizzeria as the 2022 winner!
video!
The 13th Annual George W. Ashby Award Recipient
PETE FEJZULOSKI
- A WOMEN’S GYM
The Charles E. Piper Award a.k.a the Berwyn’s “Business Person of the
Fejzuloski owner
From “Paisans Cares” to sponsoring the Route 66 Car Show, learn how Paisan’s beloved Pete Fejzuloski gives back to Berwyn time and time again. Scan the QR to watch the
When you’re in need of professional services, look no further than here!
Century 21 | GiaMarie.Benline@C21Affiliated.com
As a local Realtor, Gia Marie’s passion is Small Business. She is dedicated to supporting and promoting Small Business. She believes in hard work and perseverance to get the job done. Gia Marie is a go-getter who is dedicated to engaging with people and collaborating on ideas, knowledge, and success. She is focused on bringing new development, successful economic opportunities, and small business success to her community! Gia
State Farm Insurance | JillWilley.com
Jill Willey has been a State Farm agent working with communities to insure their homes, automobiles, and businesses in the Berwyn area for many years. In these years, she has developed experience in commercial auto insurance, small business insurance, life insurance, and renters insurance. As someone who runs a small business, Jill understands how to help protect our small business community. Make a visit to her office and find out how she can help keep you and your assets protected!
Century 21 Affliated jennifer.fernandez@c21affiliated.com
Jennifer Fernandez has lived in the Chicagoland area for over 25 years & has been a Berwyn resident for over a decade. From the start, she immersed herself in volunteering for events around the city & was embraced by her new community. She began her Real Estate career in 2020 by joining Century 21 Affiliated, with over 120+ offices across 6 states & recognized as the #1 Century 21 franchise in the world for 7 years in a row. She is a dedicated & professional Realtor, who prides herself on honesty & integrity, while always striving to provide her clients with the highest quality of service. She puts their best interest above all else. Jennifer believes that mindset is more important than skillset & that “nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care”.
The Dita Group has been delivering concierge-level service to Berwyn and beyond for 15 years and counting! Our objective is to provide outstanding customer service to our clients. We believe the consumer deserves a better-quality real estate experience. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we provide just that! We go above and beyond for our clients and pride ourselves on honesty and transparency. Our unparalleled service utilizes leading industry technology and offers the most effective marketing strategy. Thinking of buying, selling, or investing?! Contact us today to ensure an efficient process from beginning to end.
In 2022, the BDC committed more than $266,000 in Finish Line Grants to 11 projects, leveraging more than $841,000 in private capital investment. This means that every dollar spent using public grant dollars brought in an additional $3.16 investment into Berwyn.
Given the success of the program, the BDC has budgeted $650,000 for the Finish Line Grant program in 2023. These dollars are designated for the Roosevelt, Harlem/Cermak, and Depot TIF districts. Awards are committed on a first-come, first-serve basis! Funding is calculated as a percentage of the total project cost, with a maximum award amount of $50,000.00.
(708)788-8100
As a Community Navigator with the Cook County Small Business Source, the BDC strives to support small businesses with tailored educational opportunities. Specifically, we host informational webinars, group advising sessions, and one-on-one calls. These resources are provided at NO COST and can cover a range of topics, including marketing, property inquiries, and grant applications.
In 2022, the BDC hosted more than 60 informational sessions and facilitated more than 700 one-on-one advising sessions. Through these efforts, we helped businesses apply for available funding, expand their operations, and enhance their websites!
We understand that running a business is hard, so don’t hesitate to reach out to ensure that you receive the help you need in 2023!
“Business Advising has allowed me to learn new information which, in turn, has helped me to think outside the box. Through this program, I was able to meet with someone face-to-face, which is so much more engaging and beneficial. I received one-on-one help that was tailored to my specific questions about marketing and online platforms.”
$2.5 MILLION AVAILABLE TO BERWYN, CICERO, AND NORTH RIVERSIDE!
Our lending programs are expanding! The BDC is excited to announce that our Revolving Loan Fund is now available to small business owners in Berwyn, Cicero, and North Riverside!
Berwyn’s Revolving Loan Fund is made possible by a $2 million grant from the Economic Development Administration, with a $500,000 match from the City of Berwyn. With a maximum loan of $625,000, these funds are designed to support start-ups and small businesses who may not be eligible for traditional financing through banking institutions. Specifically, these small business loans can be used for working capital, inventory, equipment, construction, and renovation.
With this loan expansion, the BDC will be better equipped to facilitate growth and provide access to capital to small business owners throughout the region.
Are you a small business owner looking to expand your operations or secure additional equipment? You may be eligible for one of the BDC’s Small Business Lending programs!
The BDC Commercial and Micro Loan Programs are operated in conjunction with the City of Berwyn to retain and improve Berwyn businesses and to encourage new business investments. The loans may be used for almost any businessrelated expense including buildouts, façade improvements, equipment, inventory and working capital.
Loan applications may be submitted at any time. Applications are available on the BDC website at www.berwyn.net/small-business-lending or may be obtained by contacting Kendra Shaw at kendras@berwyn.net.
In early 2022, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded the BDC with a $334,900 grant to celebrate 100 years of the Mother Road. With part of these funds, a giant muffler man and mini car spindle were unveiled at the Route 66 Car Show.
Since the car show, the remaining dollars have been used to install electric vehicle charging stations at Paisans Pizzeria and Bar and Zeigler Pre-Owned Of Chicago, as well as place a wayfinding sign at Buddy Bear Car Wash to guide and educate visitors on all the places to visit along Ogden Ave.
In 2023, the BDC will be seeking additional funding opportunities to further support our beloved Route 66. Our goal is to rehabilitate historical art pieces, enhance road signage, and promote tourism along the corridor. Stay tuned for more details and exciting announcements!
Located on Roosevelt Rd, the Berwyn Shops is a retail incubator designed to provide entrepreneurs with the support they need to succeed: a storefront, education, promotion, and resources. After only 6 months of on-site construction, the inaugural season launched with 12 women-owned small businesses, offering everything from baked goods and home décor to artisanal accessories and beauty products.
From the day they opened in June to the moment they closed in December, the 12 business owners poured their all into their mini storefronts. They were on site every weekend for almost 7 months, and spent countless hours making products, attending monthly trainings, and crafting marketing materials.
Their passion for their businesses paid off. Throughout the season, the vendors broke sales records, sold out events, secured new contracts, expanded their followings, and even represented the Shops on TV! Specifically, the Berwyn Shops were featured across 15 news outlets, on 2 podcasts, and at two state conferences. They are inspiring city officials and entrepreneurs alike across the entire country!
Given the success of the program, the Berwyn Shops will be returning for a 2nd season – with a few changes!
We are excited to share that the Shops will be re-opening in mid-2023 with 12 NEW small business owners, selected by a new jury committee of 13 community volunteers. We are also looking forward to re-designed Shops interiors, an enhanced artist corner, and a heated indoor bathroom!
Thank you again to all who have supported this homegrown project! We hope you continue to follow the journey of the Shops and look forward to the 2nd season of this homegrown project in mid-2023!
To our 2022 Berwyn Shops vendors: THANK YOU! It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you, your products, and your small businesses. We are incredibly PROUD of you and all the hard work you have put into the first season of the Berwyn Shops. You have demonstrated excellence, patience, creativity, and passion. CONGRATS on graduating from this homegrown project! We cannot wait to see what you do next!
Hard work, determination, and passion made the 2022 Homegrown Project a reality!
When you’re interested in staying in Berwyn, take a look at these couple of options for a fun and romantic night out!
6822 Windsor Ave | Berwyn, IL. 60402
GaiaItaliano.com
Take a trip down to Gaia Ristorante Italiano in Berwyn’s Depot District for an evening of flavorful traditional Italian dishes. In its almost 2 years in business, Gaia has made itself a must-try spot in the area with its beautiful space and warm service.
With 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, owner Maurizio brings to Berwyn a classic menu full of flavor that cannot be beat. One of his favorite dishes to make is the Pappardelle Bolognese. The effort and care that is put into the preparation of the meat sauce can be tasted in every bite of the dish. If pasta does not excite your taste buds, another favorite of his are the Grilled Lambchops that can only be described as absolutely delicious. As you enjoy your dining experience, make sure to take advantage of the full bar at Gaia. Try their Gaia Old Fashioned, or have a drink made to your liking when you visit. Can’t dine in? Call
Gaia Ristorante Italiano is not just a great place to dine in, but also provides a beautiful space to host events. With experience hosting events for local businesses and families alike, Gaia has what you need. Host your next party or celebration at Gaia!
6710 W Cermak Rd | Berwyn, IL. 60402
Offering a Mediterranean style menu, you can expect a variety of fragrant and flavorful dishes at La Parra Restaurant & Bar. Pair a delicious cocktail from their full bar with your choice of Tapas or browse through the different pastas and entrees when you dine in.
The Fettuccine Frutti Di Mare makes for a lovely dinner and is enjoyed by all who eat in or take out! Visit La Parra on your next night out to enjoy a fine dining experience with your friends, family, and loved ones.
Se habla espanol.
Whether you’re in need for a teeth cleaning or deep cleaning of your space -we have the right people for the job!
Olga A.
Mendez DDS &6844 W Cermak Rd Berwyn, IL. 60402
OlgaMendezAssociate.com
We invite you to the dentistry office of Dr. Olga A. Mendez, proudly serving Berwyn and surrounding communities! We offer preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care using the latest in dental technology. Our bilingual staff welcomes every patient personally and ensures they fully understand their treatment, answering questions and providing appropriate educational materials.
As a bilingual dentist, Dr. Mendez is proud to provide outstanding care and support to the Hispanic community. Her goal is to ensure each patient’s oral health and satisfaction with the appearance and function of their smile. Dr. Mendez and her dental care team take a personal approach to dental care, involving each patient in all decisions through education, guidance, and respect for each person’s dignity and comfort. Todo nuestro equipo es bilingüe! Hablamos Español!
• Open Monday – Saturday
• Free off-street parking
• Most insurances and medical cards accepted
• Hablamos español Ask
3D Printing, sewing & embroidery machines, button makers, and more!
The North Berwyn Park District is featuring special events coming up such as Author for the Day-March 4th, One Day Workshops, Family Paint Alongs, Easter Activities-April 8th and Think Green-April 22nd!
This year, we would like to invite you to experience their 2nd Annual Art in the Park festivities- June 10th. This family friendly arts festival will showcase local food vendors, interactive art stations, performances by local groups, and a variety of booths featuring handmade art.
Come out and celebrate the arts in Berwyn! Discover more on their website at nbpd4fun.org/special-events.
OPC KICKS MACNEAL HOSPITAL | LOYOLA MEDICINE
DUARTE REALTY COMPANY
PIPER & ASHBY RECIPIENTS BODHI THAI BISTRO
BERWYN SHOPS GRADUATION CEREMONY
Entercode 81212 atcheckout
PetSuppliesPlusRewardsmembersonly.MayberedeemedatparticipatingPetSuppliesPluslocationsonly.Onecoupon perhousehold.Maynotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Restrictionsmayapply.Nocashvalueorcashback.Excludesgift cards,DirtyDogDiscountcardsandpriorpurchases.Validonin-stockitemsonly.Voidifaltered,reproduced,transferred, sold,orwhereprohibitedbylaw.Offermayberevokedatanytime.Discountpercentageswillbedeductedafterallother eligiblediscountsareappliedbutbeforesalestax.Purchaseminimumsmustbemetafterallotherdiscountsareappliedbut beforesalestax.Customerisresponsibleforapplicabletaxes.
PetSuppliesPlusRewardsmembersonly.MayberedeemedatparticipatingPetSuppliesPluslocationsonly.Onecoupon perhousehold.Maynotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Restrictionsmayapply.Nocashvalueorcashback.Excludesgift cards,DirtyDogDiscountcardsandpriorpurchases.Validonin-stockitemsonly.Voidifaltered,reproduced,transferred, sold,orwhereprohibitedbylaw.Offermayberevokedatanytime.Discountpercentageswillbedeductedafterallother eligiblediscountsareappliedbutbeforesalestax.Purchaseminimumsmustbemetafterallotherdiscountsareappliedbut beforesalestax.Customerisresponsibleforapplicabletaxes.
10% off EntirePurchase Additionalrestrictionsifapplicable Valid01/23/2023to03/31/2023
Entercode 81212 atcheckout
PetSuppliesPlusRewardsmembersonly.MayberedeemedatparticipatingPetSuppliesPluslocationsonly.Onecoupon perhousehold.Maynotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Restrictionsmayapply.Nocashvalueorcashback.Excludesgift cards,DirtyDogDiscountcardsandpriorpurchases.Validonin-stockitemsonly.Voidifaltered,reproduced,transferred, sold,orwhereprohibitedbylaw.Offermayberevokedatanytime.Discountpercentageswillbedeductedafterallother eligiblediscountsareappliedbutbeforesalestax.Purchaseminimumsmustbemetafterallotherdiscountsareappliedbut beforesalestax.Customerisresponsibleforapplicabletaxes.
10% off
EntirePurchase Additionalrestrictionsifapplicable Valid01/23/2023to03/31/2023
Entercode 81212 atcheckout
PetSuppliesPlusRewardsmembersonly.MayberedeemedatparticipatingPetSuppliesPluslocationsonly.Onecoupon perhousehold.Maynotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Restrictionsmayapply.Nocashvalueorcashback.Excludesgift cards,DirtyDogDiscountcardsandpriorpurchases.Validonin-stockitemsonly.Voidifaltered,reproduced,transferred, sold,orwhereprohibitedbylaw.Offermayberevokedatanytime.Discountpercentageswillbedeductedafterallother eligiblediscountsareappliedbutbeforesalestax.Purchaseminimumsmustbemetafterallotherdiscountsareappliedbut beforesalestax.Customerisresponsibleforapplicabletaxes.
