So thankful for our Chamber Members. Over 365 joined us in celebrating Sycamore at our 103rd Annual Meeting. We welcomed new board members, acknowledged retiring board members, and honored our Outstanding Business award recipients and the 2017 Clifford Danielson Outstanding Citizen.
“When one thinks of the Clifford Danielson Award, words like integrity, leadership, community, commitment, relationships and history all come to mind. And having the pleasure of knowing John for many years, these are some of the words defining his presence in the Sycamore community.
John is passionate about his family, farm and community. He is a leader, a communicator, a spokesperson, and more importantly an ambassador for Sycamore – a city that has always been connected to his family,” – Mark Tuttle, President of the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, in his nomination of John Ward.
John Ward clearly exemplifies the same vision that Clifford Danielson had many years ago, that if community leaders devote their time, offer their knowledge, and share their passion to enhance the quality of life in Sycamore we all would benefit.
We are proud to honor Mr. John David Ward as our 2017 Clifford Danielson Outstanding Citizen.
Our 2017 Business Awards – These awards are an acknowledgement of current significant achievements by our Chamber Members.
Outstanding Business of the Year – Opportunity House
This award recognizes businesses or organizations that have positively influenced the economic vitality of the Sycamore community and contribute to making Sycamore a great place to live and work. Opportunity House has invested in our community, built successful collaborations, and continues to enhance the quality of life in Sycamore for over 50 years. They are dedicated to helping people in our community with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead happy, healthy and productive lives. They have revitalized an old manufacturing building on California Street. They recently completed a vast remodeling of their building and the project “Building A Better Future” was said to have pumped $1,742,000 into our local economy. They offer 24-hour residential care, supported community living, supported community employment, developmental training, recreation activities and special Olympics. They collaborate with Sycamore School District 427, Kishwaukee College, Sycamore and DeKalb Kiwanis Clubs, Boy Scouts of America, and the Sycamore Public Library. They continue to expand and grow with the needs of our community. They undoubtedly are a vital organization for our community and clearly enhance the quality of life in Sycamore.
Spirit of Small Business – Taxco Restaurant Too
This award recognizes our small businesses that show community spirit and pride in Sycamore. Since opening their doors 25 years ago Taxco Restaurant has not only provided our community with genuine fabulous Mexican Cuisine, but they also truly understand the importance of supporting their community. They support our local non-profits in many ways. For over 20 years they have hosted the Cinco De Mayo celebration in downtown Sycamore. This event not only brings hundreds of people to our community every year but also has raised over one-hundred thousand dollars for our non-profits and over forty-thousand dollars in scholarships for local students. Taxco Restaurant Too certainly embodies the spirit of Sycamore.
Discover Diamond – Illinois Community Credit Union
This award recognizes those businesses that have made significant improvements to their business that show a commitment to our entire community. Our 2017 recipient, Illinois Community Credit Union, recently completed the construction of its new headquarters at 508 West State Street in Sycamore. This building was made possible through the vision of Bank Officials, and Board of Directors, and working in collaboration with the City. We appreciate the time and money spent to enhance a significant corner of our downtown.
Chamber Champion – The Suter Company
This award recognizes Chamber Member Businesses that have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the Sycamore Chamber. The Suter Company has built long lasting community and business relationships in and around Sycamore for over 90 years and they continue to be an essential partner and resource for our community and the Chamber today. Their employees have served as leaders for the Chamber by sitting on our board and committees. They participate in our Leadership Academy and our Kishwaukee Women’s Network. They support the chamber financially through annual sponsorships. It’s this type of dedication, commitment, and involvement that allows us to succeed as your chamber.
Looking forward to a fabulous 2018!