Fox Lake gives its businesses advertising

As part of an ongoing project, the Daily Herald asked local business and village leaders about what kind of economic development projects were on the way in their communities. Here are the answers from Fox Lake Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Linnea Pioro.

Q. What new businesses are coming to town or have just opened?

A. The new businesses have been Earth Elements Metaphysical and Magical Shoppe, a laundromat expanded to two stores, a hair salon, Realtor, resale shop, T-shirt/printing and coming up is one for kids to decorate cakes and offer parties.

Q. What is the best kind of support your village or city can give small business in your community?

A. I know with support of the chamber, our members have great opportunities to network with others, share information and see what support they can give each other. We are able to promote their businesses via our Web site, newsletter and in our office building.

Our chamber is located at the Fox Lake Parks & Recreation building where the village and chamber host all their events, so thousands of people come and go during the week. This building is rented for outside events/parties and weekly gatherings such as line-dancing, meetings and Weight Watchers, etc. The exposure we can offer our business members by posting their fliers and business cards is a huge benefit. What we have on our business racks is there year-round. The chamber also receives many requests for services and we only give out our business members' names. This referral service is another great benefit to our members.

Q. What can a chamber do to assist its membership, particularly in this challenging economy?

A. When times are economically challenging, joining a chamber is a great deal for the price. We can give them referrals, advertising and networking opportunities for one price.