Joliet Chamber Celebrates 100th Anniversary with Week of Events

The Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry will celebrate its 100th birthday with a series of “100 Hours For 100 Years” celebrations next week, capping off with the Sept. 20 Centennial Galal.

The chamber was founded in 1914.

Here’s a roundup of what’s happening next week:

• Tuesday, Sept. 16: An open house with champagne and hors d’oeuvres is set for 2 to 4 p.m. at the chamber office, 63 N. Chicago St. Call 815-727-5371 or email tblacklock@jolietchamber.com to RSVP. A Business After Hours with Alianza is scheduled for 5 p.m. at 176 West, 1100 NE Frontage Rd, Joliet, for $15 per member or $150 per table of 10. Non-member price is $20 per person. The after-hours will kick off National Hispanic Month with mariachis, Ballet Folklorico and a charro roping exhibition. Reservations can be made by calling the Chamber office at (815) 727-5371 or online at events.jolietchamber.com. Reservations are due Sept. 10.
• Wednesday, Sept. 17: The Athena Award Luncheon, hosted in conjunction with the Council for Working Women, is set for 11:30 a.m. at the Patrick Haley Mansion, 17 S. Center St. This year’s award recipient is Joliet Township High Schools Superintendent Cheryl McCarthy.
• Thursday, Sept. 18: A Birthday Bash celebration is set for 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Victorian ballroom at the Jacob Henry Mansion, 15 S. Richards St. The event includes hors d’oeuvres, two drink tickets, a bar, a DJ, dancing and birthday cake. The cost is $20 per member. RSVP by Sept. 15 by calling the chamber office at (815) 727-5371 or register online at events.jolietchamber.com.
• Friday, Sept. 19: The Honorary Past Presidents’ Breakfast is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. at Harrah’s Casino, 151 N. Joliet St. All past and present chamber board members are invited. RSVP by Sept. 16. Cost is $20 per person.
• Saturday, Sept. 20: The Centennial Gala is scheduled for 6 to 11:30 p.m. at the Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St. in downtown Joliet. The evening begins with cocktails at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 8 p.m., then dancing, entertainment and the Van Buren Street Experience. Reservations are $150 per guest. Period formal wear is welcome; black tie optional. RSVP to the chamber office no later than Sept. 10 by calling 815) 727-5371 or register online at events.jolietchamber.com.