Hoffman business show goes western
"Business Under the Big Top" will move "out west," incorporate a Western motif and eliminate its past circus theme to become a Wild West teaser.
The popular community business promotional event sponsored by the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce and Industry is an effort by the chamber to introduce folks to its businesses. Held for the past few years at Barrington Square, it will move to the western part of the village to Poplar Creek Crossing at Higgins Road and Route 59.
Considered a full day of fun and open to the community, it will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 an opportunity to fill goody bags with offerings from local merchants, meet business owners in person and even conduct future business, according to newly hired chamber President Cheri Sisson.
"Big Top" spokeswoman Gloria Katz said an arts and crafts tent will be new this year and provide at least three kinds of crafts to keep children involved. Katz, of Sand Art Creations, said one of the crafts would feature a sand-art pony necklace that youngsters may take home. The first 50 children - it's open to adults, too-who pay a $3 fee for materials will receive a gift.
On the rodeo turf, however, the committee snagged Rope Warrior David Fisher, an athlete, entertainer and author who calls himself "a lean, mean, jumping machine," and is a Guinness World Record holder for the most rump jumps in one minute. He shows what can be done with a jump rope at 1 p.m.
Katz said the committee selected Fisher because he is "interactive with kids" and fits the Western theme.
Tony Saviano, president of Realty Executives Experts, will present the acclaimed "Antique, Classic and Custom Car Show" and present trophies.
The creative and able committee consists of Chairwoman Mary Jane Garvey, Gary Skoog, Linda Scheck, Karen Mills, Joanne Curtis (Mumm the Clown,) Sisson and Katz.
No sooner will the Wild West tent be dismantled than the chamber business office will open for a membership drive with food, prizes and networking at two open houses: 7:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 for breakfast and 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11 for a hot dog lunch in the chamber facilities, Suite 201 of 2200 W. Higgins Road.
Membership chair Katz said those who join the chamber in September would get a 10 percent incentive off the first year's fee.
Space to rent "Big Top" booths is filling rapidly but Sisson will make arrangements for those who call her at (847) 781-9100.