The corner of Central and St. Johns circa 1911, the building where the Chamber office is now located upstairs

As consumers living on the North Shore, we constantly see signs in store windows urging us to “Shop Local”. From picking up the latest styles at the shoe boutique, to setting up a life insurance plan with the local agent, the possibilities are endless when it comes to buying from our neighbors in order to sustain a thriving community. The opportunity to get whatever we want, whenever we need it, happens to rings especially true in Highland Park.

The Highland Park Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 100 years of business growth and economic vitality during their Centennial Gala on November 14 at the Highland Park Community House. Not only will all those gathered be celebrating the past business endeavors of this historic North Shore town, but they will also be looking toward the future. Guests will have the chance to hobnob with business owners and leaders who have shaped Highland Park into the appealing and energetic business environment it is today.

Even though much has changed over the span of 100 years, there are some elements of doing business in Highland Park that has remained the same. “A constant throughout the years has been the commitment of individuals and businesses—a majority of whom are small, family-owned businesses—to improve the commerce climate for all,” explains Highland Park Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ginny Glasner. And amid all the festivity of cocktails, food, raffle items, and live music, Ginny, with the Chamber, is excited to debut an exhibit featuring rarely seen photographs and artifacts from Highland Park’s businesses, dating back 100 years.

Looking down Green Bay Road to the entrance of the Ravinia Festival.

During the course of the evening, Chamber members will be recognized during The Business Excellence Awards, calling out past and present members that have made significant contributions over the years. Any funds raised from the evening with go toward the Chamber’s ongoing effort to support local business through advocacy, education, networking, and promotion.

But there is not greater effort than that of the local shopper. “Believe it or not,” says Ginny with a laugh, “the founders of the Chamber were supporting ‘Shop Local” way back in 1911!”

Highland Park Chamber of Commerce’s Centennial Gala is on Sunday, November 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Highland Park Community House, located at 1991 Sheridan Road in Highland Park. Tickets are $100 per person, or $950 for a table of 10, may be purchased online at ChamberHP.com, by phone at 847-432-0284, or by mailing a check (made out to Highland Park Chamber of Commerce) to 508 Central Avenue, Suite 206, Highland Park, IL, 60035. Tickets must be purchased by November 9.