2019 January-February Commerce Connection by Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

Volume 26 | Issue 1

years

25 b u s i n e s s - to - b u s i n e s s

p u b l i c at i o n

for

than

COMMERCE CONNECTION A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Your Chamber is Leading in

INSIDE:

Permit No. 29 Champaign, IL

PAID

Presorted Standard US Postage

C h a m pa i g n C o u n t y â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s

t ru s t e d

WORKFORCE & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Healthcare Careers Program

Chamber Launches CEO Roundtable

Help Us Welcome: Business Growth & Development Director

Building the Talent Pipeline Through Literacy

Grow Your Workforce: One Big Career Fair 1

Where would you rather be?

Stay in and stay warm with

Remote Deposits!

• Bank on YOUR schedule and utilize extended deposit times • Eliminate valuable time away from the office • Save on transportation costs • Streamline deposits and your accounting process

Darlene Johnson

Vice President Treasury Management 114 W. Church Street • Champaign 217-373-8136 djohnson@firstmid.com

Erich Franklin

Commercial Lending 114 W. Church Street • Champaign 217-398-0067 efranklin@firstmid.com

Kyle McFarland

Commercial Lending 114 W. Church Street • Champaign 217-398-0067 kmcfarland@firstmid.com

Champaign County Banking Centers: Champaign (Crossing) • 2911 Crossing Court, Suite 100 • 866-0356 Champaign (Downtown) • 114 W. Church Street • 398-0067 Champaign (Marketview) • 913 W. Marketview • 378-8023 Savoy • 1251 Woodfield Drive • 351-3526 Urbana • 601 S. Vine St. • 367-8451 Mahomet • 502 E. Oak Street • 318-3750 2

firstmid.com

303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org

FY19 TOP INVESTORS TOP INVESTORS GOLD Busey SILVER Carle University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign BRONZE A & R Mechanical Contractors Amdocs BankChampaign, N.A. Christie Clinic First Mid Bank & Trust Health Alliance Hickory Point Bank & Trust Midland States Bank OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical Center

CHAMBER STAFF Laura Weis President & CEO LauraW@champaigncounty.org

Stephanie McCullough Director of First Impressions StephanieM@champaigncounty.org

Matt Bradley Business Growth & Development Director MattB@champaigncounty.org

Brian Murphy Membership Sales Director BrianM@champaigncounty.org

Mindy Cain Director of Workforce Readiness & Member Relations MindyC@champaigncounty.org Garret Hill Public Policy Director GarretH@champaigncounty.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS Rachel Coventry

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Illini Radio Group - MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, Rewind 92.5, WYXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1, Hits 99.7 Stevie Jay Broadcasting - Q96-96.1FM, US105.9, Christian FM 95.3 & ESPN 93.5 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO

150 PERCENT CLUB Awards, Ltd. / Stamps Direct Dish Passionate Cuisine Hall of Fame Plaques & Signs Hyatt Place LongHorn Steakhouse TrophyTime, Inc. W.K. Cooper II Asset Management Corporation

Lindsay Quick Director of Marketing & Events LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

Curtis Orchard, Ltd.

Chip Craddock Clark Dietz, Inc.

Gary Hackler

WCIA - TV / WCIX 49

Zachary Hillard Busey

Susan Jepsen

Reynolds Towing Service, Inc.

Pradeep Khanna University of Illinois

Justin Overstreet Martin Hood LLC

Julianna Sellett

Dr. Jared Rogers

Chair OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical Center

Mike Estes

First Vice Chair Fisher National Bank

Kyle Emkes

Carle

Second Vice Chair Dodd & Maatuka

Rogards

Amie Smith

Dan Kirby

Dan Hurley FedEx Ground

Bill Walter

Chuck McReaken

Tonya Horn

R.J. Hynds English Brothers Company

BankChampaign N.A.

A & R Mechanical Contractors

FINANCIAL SERVICES Provided by CliftonLarsonAllen

Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen

Past Chair, TSM Ventures, Inc.

Laura Weis

Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce All information contained within this publication is property of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and cannot be reproduced without prior expressed or written consent. This publication contains paid advertising; the opinions expressed in those advertisements do not reflect the views of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information, contact the Chamber at 217.359.1791.

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between November 1 - December 31, 2018 Adept Content Solutions

The Buzz

Adept Content Solutions provides the complete range of book production services to publishers and individual authors worldwide. Our Urbana-based staff collaborate with each author to define our objectives and deliver precise results. Our services include writing; copyediting; proofreading; indexing; technical and illustrative art preparation; cover design; interior text design; translations; and project management. We assist religious publishers including Thomas Nelson and Scepter with Bible proofreading, Spanish translations, and map preparation routinely. Reference and educational publishers, including The American Philosophical Society begun by Benjamin Franklin, Merriam-Webster, and Cengage benefit from our experienced team. Aspiring authors work directly with our staff to prepare manuscripts for publication. Contact Lori Martinsek to plan your publication needs.

The Buzz is the fastest growing business network because it is like no other. Focused on building a culture of professionals who are not only providing each other quality referrals but also helping local businesses save, share and grow. The BUZZ is a team of people that have created an exclusive local business exchange and co-op group. The Buzz is the most cost effective and efficient way for business owners to get in front of loyal and local customers. Our group is private, invite-only and growing across the country. We are actively interviewing new members that are entrepreneurs, business owners, sales professionals and individuals looking to leverage the connections of a high caliber network.

304 N. Maple St., Ste. 201 Urbana, IL 61802-2748 217.344.1100 http://www.adeptcontentsolutions.com Publishing Service Provider

Auto Club Detailing

2602 N. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61822-1053 217.717.9897 http://www.autoclubdetailing.com Automobile Detailing Auto Club Detailing was founded by three University of Illinois students who set out to create a modern detail shop with a focus on quality, service and mastery of the detailing trade. By utilizing the industry’s best products and techniques and by nurturing a more detail-oriented and personalized approach than their competitors, Auto Club was able to grow and specifically address the unique automotive needs of their customers. The company constantly strives for self-improvement, readily adopting new technologies, participating in training seminars, and staying on top of the evolving detailing industry. Over time, Auto Club Detailing has expanded their offerings beyond that of traditional automotive cleaning to include paint correction, rock-chip repair and high-end ceramic coatings. As a result of their portfolio of services, dedication to service and drive for constant improvement, Auto Club Detailing stands as the top destination for Champaign-Urbana’s automotive needs.

315 E. Front St. Bloomington, IL 61701-5213 309.532.8180 http://www.thebuzzIL.com Business Networking

Chris’ Water Gardens

2717 County Rd. 1250 N. Homer, IL 61849-9760 217.896.2225 http://www.chriswatergardens.com Water Gardens Imagine coming home from work or school and instead of turning on the TV or playing video games, the whole family goes outside and actually talks about their day, visits as a family and peacefully watch the fish dart among the rocks and peeks out from the plants as you wait for the night-blooming lilies to open. In the night life of a water garden–with underwater lights–the show never ends. There is nothing like the feeling of having a perfect pond paradise in your own backyard and coming home from work to spend a relaxing night beside your water garden -- listening to the gentle sounds of the waterfall. Owning a pond is an experience like no other. Water features come in all shapes and sizes and are today’s hottest trend in landscaping across America. High maintenance, boring expanses of lawn are being transformed into beautiful, low-maintenance water features. Every day millions of people enjoy a little piece of paradise—without leaving home. We invite you to visit us and browse through some beautiful water gardens and imagine “a piece of paradise” in your own yard. These beautiful water features can usually be installed in just one day.

Cookies By Design LLC

902 Meijer Dr., #2 Champaign, IL 61822-4201 217.344.3911 http://www.cookiesbydesign.com Bakers-Retail Cookies by Design Champaign-Urbana provides beautifully decorated cookie arrangements, an extensive gourmet cookie selection, decadent cupcakes, as well as other specialty gifts. We handle individual and corporate gift giving with custom cookie bouquets and gift ideas for any occasion. Our cookie experts are here to help you craft the perfect cookie for your celebration or gift giving needs. Each of our signature sugar cookies is freshly baked and hand-decorated right in our bakery and can be customized with a name, special message or even a photo. We offer 14 different cupcake flavors, soft serve ice cream and coffee. Grab a treat for yourself or have a gift basket or college care package delivered to a loved one. We offer cupcake and cookie delivery to the Champaign/Urbana area including University of Illinois, Decatur, Charleston, including Eastern Illinois University, Danville, Kankakee, Paris and surrounding cities. Same day delivery is available in some areas.

Grovestone

1707 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61821-5507 217.239.2700 http://www.grovestone.com Specialty Foods Grovestone offers over 100+ fresh spices, a large collection of fresh olive oils and vinegars, over 80+ varieties of select wines, a large collection of unique gifts, and cooking demonstration classes and wine tastings.

Iroquois Federal

2411 Village Green Pl. Champaign, IL 61822-7676 217.355.5096 http://www.iroquoisfed.com Banks We recently opened our second banking office in Champaign County located at the Village at the Crossing in Champaign. But Iroquois has been an active member of the Champaign County business community and the Chamber of Commerce since 2013. We also have an office in Savoy, as well as Bourbonnais, Clifton, Watseka, Hoopeston and Danville, and a loan production office in Osage Beach, Missouri. The new Champaign branch is staffed with well-known and experienced bankers who have worked locally for many years. Our tag line is “Different Rules” because at Iroquois, not only are we different, but we “think different”— and value others who do the same—like business owners and managers. Whether you sell insurance, manage property or make wedding cakes, we understand your vision and we’re here to help you achieve it. A different banking experience

starts with a different kind of bank. And we think different rules. Iroquois Federal has been making a difference in the communities we serve for over 135 years. Member FDIC.

Merle Norman Cosmetics

1123 Windsor Rd. Champaign, IL 61821-7804 217.359.8100 http://www.merlenormancosmeticstudios.com Spas-Beauty, Cosmetics & Perfumes-Retail Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, Merle Norman Cosmetics develops, manufactures and distributes its own full line of skin care and cosmetic products. These cosmetics are sold through independently owned and operated Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios in the United States and Canada. 85 years ago, Merle Norman formulated products to address the beauty needs of women—and empowered many to become successful entrepreneurs who owned their own Studios. Merle Norman ensures optimum quality control by researching, developing, manufacturing, and packaging its own products. We take pride in our pioneering efforts that optimize each product benefit—from advanced formulas to state-of-the-art packaging technology. Safety of our consumers is our highest priority. We utilize the latest advances in non-animal safety testing and human volunteer testing to deliver products of the highest safety and quality to our consumers. We do not test our products or ingredients on animals, or ask others to test on our behalf.

Red Roof Inn Champaign-University 212 W. Anthony Dr. Champaign, IL 61820-1218 217.352.0101 https://champaign.redroof.com Hotels

Red Roof Inn Champaign-University is one of the best non-smoking budget hotels in Champaign, IL that is right off of I-74 with easy access to I-57. We are less than three miles away from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign as well as close to Memorial Stadium, State Farm Center, Market Place Shopping Center, Lake of the Woods Golf Course, William M. Staerkel Planetarium, Orpheum Children’s Science Museum, Virginia Theatre, the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Station Theatre, Gordyville USA, the Canopy Club, University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI), Christie Clinic on University, the Carle Foundation Hospital and EnterpriseWorks Research Park. We offer our guests free Wi-Fi, a guest coin laundry facility and free coffee in the lobby as well as a microwave and mini-refrigerator in every room. Red Roof Inn Champaign - University is a pet-friendly hotel.

Rural Champaign County Special Education Cooperative

807 N. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821-2448 217.892.8877 http://www.rccsec.org Educational Cooperative Organizations Rural Champaign County Special Education Cooperative plans, advises, recommends and provides special education services for children who have special needs in our member districts. RCCSEC serves ten school districts within Champaign County encompassing approximately 5,000 students. Our staff work closely with member district teachers, administrators and parents in order to create the ideal Individualized Education Plan for students. RCCSEC operates an early childhood education program, Spectrum, for students ages three through five years. RCCSEC also provides professional development to its member districts in order to educate staff on the most prominent topics in Special Education. Our goal is to provide ample support to member districts and their stakeholders in order to meet the unique needs of students.

Scritchlow Concrete Lifting and Slab Jacking

1005 S. Maple St. Bloomington, IL 61701-6948 309.434-5646 http://www.scritchlowconcretelifting.com Concrete Contractors Scritchlow Concrete Lifting and Slab Jacking was started in 2008 as Lift It Concrete Raising, a division of MultiCraft Construction Inc. In the summer of 2015, Scritchlow Enterprises purchased the company and moved it to Central Illinois. During the move, the name was changed to the name you have come to trust for all of your concrete lifting needs -- Scritchlow Concrete Lifting and Slab Jacking. This name change was due to the recognition of excellence within the construction trade and community associated with the Scritchlow name.

Signarama-Champaign Urbana 11 E. Marketview Dr., Ste. 39 Champaign, IL 61820-7832 217.840.0174 http://www.signarama.com Signs

Signarama is the premier provider of a wide range of full service sign and advertising products. Our experts provide comprehensive consultation to ensure your sign displays a powerful, impactful message. Signarama is the sign industry leader with more than 30 years of experience and with locations around the world to serve your sign needs. From concept to completion, let our dedicated, professionals show you the way to grow your business. Signarama is the most comprehensive source 6

for all sign, messaging and advertising needs helping its customers to grow their businesses and communicate their messages. We offer a full range of comprehensive sign and graphic solutions from vinyl banners to digital signs to vehicle wraps. We also offer consultative services on marketing, branding and messaging to create customized solutions that are unique to each customer. Signarama draws upon a worldwide network of experts for creative ideas, design collaboration, and the kind of mass purchasing power that only the world’s largest sign franchise can provide.

Stratum Brokerage Company, LLC 3310 Fields S. Dr., Ste. 101 Champaign, IL 61822-3742 217.355.8190 http://www.stratummed.com Insurance

Stratum’s overall business strategy around insurance is simple - pool member volume within all coverage lines coordinated through a preferred broker with coverage underwritten by preferred carriers. This coordination and facilitation is provided by Stratum Brokerage Company, L.L.C, Stratum’s wholly-owned brokerage firm. This unique model allows us to leverage reduced premiums through consolidation, better track and manage brokerage commissions, achieve a higher level of service and accountability from our broker partners influenced by the volume of business our shareholders and clients represent, by pooling volume under preferred carriers we’re able to introduce enhanced coverage options typically not afforded stand-alone entities, and increased stability during adverse insurance market cycles.

Sola Salon Studios

105 N. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821-3053 513.444.8965 http://www.solasalonstudios.com Beauty Salons Sola Salon Studios is the premier salon studio concept with over 11,000 independent salon owners and over 400 locations. Sola Salons provides salon professionals a turn-key solution to start their own business without all the risk and overhead that occurs when opening a traditional salon. We provide new business owners with the freedom, control and opportunity to make more money, create their own schedules, and be their own boss. Sola Salon Studios Champaign offers 27 boutique studios, including three different sizes, floorto-ceiling sound insulated walls, full spectrum lighting that emulates natural daylight, high-end hydraulic chairs, custom cabinetry, utilities, Wi-Fi and other shared amenities.

West Quad

29 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820-6590 217.878.2350 http://www.westquad.com Apartments Over at West Quad, we believe in a different sort of student community. We believe that where you live is more than just the place where you sleep. That is why we’ve packed each apartment with upscale amenities, modern design features and luxury furnishing. That same attention to detail extends to public spaces we’ve specifically designed for the needs of a modern student. From our swimming pool and hot tub to our private study lounges and our game room to our fitness center, everything you need to work–and play– is right at hand at West Quad. We all know College is hard–but with West Quad, finding the perfect apartment doesn’t have to be.

Sola Salon Studios celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on December 6.

Wingstop

512 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820-5232 217.690.9464 http://www.wingstop.com Restaurants-Delivery Service What began as a small buffalo-style chicken wing restaurant in Garland, Texas continues to soar to great heights with more than 1,100 restaurants open across the United States, Mexico, Colombia, Panama, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, UK, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Wingstop quickly became a fan favorite when we first opened our doors in 1994 and our proprietary recipes, outstanding food and superior customer service created a demand that could only be satisfied by more locations. 1997 saw the opening of our first franchised Wingstop location and by 2002, we had served the world one billion wings. Today, we are one of the fastest-growing concepts in the country, attracting top entrepreneurs and operators with the drive and passion to own their own business. Wingstop is the destination when you crave fresh never frozen wings, hand-cut seasoned fries and any of our famous sides. For people who demand flavor in everything they do, there’s only Wingstop - because it’s more than a meal - it’s a flavor experience.

IVme Wellness + Performance celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on November 29.

Iroquois Federal celebrated the grand opening of their new location on December 10.

The Legends Apartments celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on December 12.

Rosecrance celebrated the grand opening of their new facility with a ribbon cutting on January 9. 7

Healthcare Careers Program

Building Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Healthcare Employees According to the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 18% between 2016â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2026. This growth will add 2.4 million new jobs in the US. Who will fill the healthcare jobs available in our community? The Healthcare Careers Program is working on that. Premiering in the spring of 2018 with just one healthcare facility and 20 students, this innovative program has now grown to encompass four healthcare facilities and four high schools, with 57 students participating fall of 2018, with even more expected in 2019. Students in the program learn about and experience the many options for careers in healthcare through two-hour job shadowing rotations in up to eight different areas/departments chosen by the student. Career pathway educational requirements are also outlined for students to help them with their career decisions. This program will ultimately help to provide our area healthcare facilities with the qualified and trained workforce they need.

Sponsoring Organizations

Chamber Launches CEO Roundtable Program The Chamber has launched a CEO Roundtable for C-level executives. The purpose for the roundtable is to create a confidential environment for CEOs/ owners to learn from each other, provide solutions to business challenges and to motivate and challenge each other. The first meeting of the selected CEO participants was held on Wednesday, January 9. The CEO Roundtable, which meets monthly, provides a safe environment to explore business challenges with peers through a facilitated process. Participants will receive real feedback and guidance from people who share similar experiences in their own companies. 8

Those interested in participating, should a new CEO roundtable group be formed can apply online at the following link: http://www.champaigncounty. org/form/view/16188. In order to create a second CEO roundtable group we will need a minimum of ten new participants. Priority consideration may be given to any applicants from the first round who were not selected for the first group. Roundtable groups will be created based on many factors including types of industries, business size, diversity, etc.

HELP US WELCOME

Matt Bradley Business Growth and Development Director In October of 2018, Matt joined the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team. Matt oversees the Chamber initiatives to aid in the economic development and business growth in Champaign County.

Matt manages the Business Advisorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Council (BAC), a volunteer group of the Chamber intended to utilize the skills and expertise of volunteer business professionals to cultivate, encourage and foster business development and growth of startups and existing businesses. BAC uses direct and/or indirect mentorship, education counseling and networking to grow business throughout the community. Matt will also utilize round tables, business success seminars and workshops, partnerships with other organizations in the community as well as new programs to help businesses grow and succeed. Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse background includes non-profits, manufacturing, insurance and operating his own businesses. Matt is excited to join the dynamic Chamber team and is looking forward to making a positive difference in the community. Ready to start or grow your business? Matt may be reached at MattB@champaigncounty.org or by calling 217.359.1791.

New Website, New Opportunities

With the new site, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also excited to introduce a new digital marketing opportunity for your business to gain exposure: website banner ads. Our website draws over 400 unique views PER DAY. Advertise on our website and take advantage of the opportunity to engage with thousands of potential customers each month. Website banner ads will be sold in 3, 6 or 12 month commitments: 3 MONTHS $300

Standard Pages: 6 MONTHS $500

12 MONTHS $1,000

3 MONTHS $500

Premier Pages: 6 MONTHS $800

12 MONTHS $1,500

To schedule your website banner ads, contact director of marketing & events, Lindsay Quick, at lindsayq@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791. A limited number of banner ads are available and will be sold on a first-contact-first-sold basis. Ads in the same location will NOT be sold to direct competitors. 10

Dream big. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here. We remain as dedicated to our community today as when we were founded in 1868. Whether weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re supporting local charitable organizations, providing energetic volunteers for area events or establishing small business startup initiatives, Busey is your source to bridge community needs.

Busey. Your Dream. Our Promise. busey.com 217.365.4500

Member FDIC

February is

Career and technical education, or CTE, is education that directly prepares students for high-wage, high-demand careers. CTE covers many different fields, including health care, information technology, advanced manufacturing, hospitality and management and many more. CTE encompasses many different types of education, from classroom learning to certification programs to work-based learning opportunities outside the classroom.

Learn more at: https://www.acteonline.org/ 11

Building the Talent Pipeline Through Literacy Written by: Brian Murphy

Workforce Development is a broad term and includes many different facets—internships, skills training, employee development and more. Literacy is a facet that is not often thought of as a workforce development skill, but it is extremely important to the quality of an area’s workforce. Before third grade, students are learning to read. After third grade, students are reading to learn. The Illinois State Report Card marks Champaign Unit 4 schools with only 32% of third graders meeting or exceeding the standardized reading tests. Unit 4 teachers and district personnel are doing everything they can to change this, but they simply do not have the capacity to tackle this alone. This is why the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce proposed an initiative to help tackle the issue with the iRead • iCount program. Several local organizations are partnering to help this program achieve its goals, including the Champaign County YMCA, Champaign Community Coalition, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, United Way of Champaign County, Champaign Unit 4 School District and CU Schools Foundation. Beverly Baker, director of community impact for United Way, is enthusiastic about the opportunity to help in this capacity.

“We are very excited about this new partnership to support young learners at Unit 4. Working together as a community we can ensure they get their education started on the right track,” Baker said. The goal of the community literacy pilot program is to help close the achievement gap for area students. Volunteers will spend one hour a week or more at the schools working 12

one-on-one with students who need the most help with reading. Developed by Unit 4 literacy specialists, the curriculum is age-appropriate and all volunteers will be adequately trained to help students master the fundamentals of reading. Due to their extensive experience working with area children, the YMCA is also a great partner in this process. “The YMCA has always been committed to developing the youth in our community and this sounded like a great fit for the employees at the YMCA. The majority of our management team have worked with children in their roles at the Y. When our team heard about the opportunity to help with literacy development, they were instantly excited and eager to learn more,” said Jeff Scott, CEO of Stephens Family YMCA. “We are committed to helping our great schools further the academic progress of the students in Champaign. This is a great way to support teachers, families, and the children in our community. We are eager to get started!” Volunteers will work with up to 3-5 students for a one-hour time slot each week and they will be able to select a school and a time that works for them. The main objective will be to help students develop the skills necessary to build a firm foundation for literacy learning. Goals for students in the program include increasing letter identification, word knowledge and concepts about print, to grow in their confidence and to demonstrate improved performance on their assessments. Session activities will include tracing an alphabet book, completing a name puzzle, reading a familiar book, engaging in conversation with an adult about the book and more. Program partners have asked community professionals to volunteer for the program and

have received an excellent response so far. It is important to continue to make strides to improve the achievement gap and necessary to have the community working together to solve the problem. This program is intended to expand to more kindergarten classes and to first and second grade classrooms. If you missed the chance to be part of the pilot program, you will have many chances to volunteer next semester.

iRead • iCount PARTNERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS

“The Community Coalition is pleased to be a partner and supporter in the iRead • iCount program,” said Tracy Parsons, facilitator for Champaign Community Coalition. “Innovative Initiatives and with strong community partnership are critical in enhancing student academic success. We must do all that we can to support our future leaders.” Parkland College sponsors a program for adult literacy, called Project READ, which is a great complement to iRead • iCount. Tutors volunteer to help adult learners with low literacy or numeracy skills. Nearly 2.2 million Illinois residents have difficulty performing reading or math tasks or using printed or verbal information in English. Project READ wants to help change those statistics one learner at a time. For more information, contact Program Manager for Project READ, Dr. Amanda Harris at 217-353-2662. This Parkland program, coupled with the iRead • iCount program will help members of this community have the life-long reading and math skills necessary for the modern workforce. This ensures a higher quality of life for all and a better environment for the students of the future. In order for Champaign County to be an economically thriving community, the chamber is committed to establishing a pipeline of skilled workers through this long-term workforce development strategy with our partners. For more information about the iRead • iCount program, contact: Mindy Cain Director of Workforce Readiness & Member Relations 217-359-1791 MindyC@champaigncounty.org

Grow Your Workforce You asked for a qualified workforce and we are going to help you build it. Meet and interview potential students at:

One Big Career Fair Wednesday, April 17 Centennial High School Gym 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Hosted by: Champaign Youth Employment Services (YES), Urbana Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), Champaign Area Relationship Education for Youth (CARE4U)

• One Big Career Fair facilitates placing students from three community programs into summer youth employment positions with local businesses. • The Regional Planning Commission is the employer of record, so you don’t have to add the student to your payroll. • You will benefit from the extra help in the workplace; help shape workplace skills for students; and possibly get that one project completed that never seems to get done. • You will have full support by the school districts or CARE4U employees. Summer Internship Program Dates: June 3 – August 9

Urbana SYEP

June 17 – July 26

Champaign YES

June 3 – August 9

CARE4U

Learn more about each youth employment program

To participate in One Big Career Fair, RSVP to Jeanine Russell at russelje@u4sd.org by Friday, April 12. 14

Urbana High School Summer Youth Employment Program

Weekly Hours

Maximum of 105 hours total in 6 weeks; roughly 17.5 per week

Maximum of 200 hours total in 10 weeks; roughly 20 per week

Student, Employer Matching

YES matches students with employers: • Students are grouped into three tiers.

Mixed method: • Employers can provide a job description which CARE4U will use to select appropriate student applicants; employer interviews and selects the best candidate.

• Individual student expresses a career interest and is introduced to an employer in that field. Employer has the option to interview student or let CARE4U make the placement.

• Career Fair - Employers and students interact and may conduct mini-interviews at Fair. Employers submit top three student names; students submit top three employers.

• Students complete skills assessment for ideal career fields. • Employers can do mini-interviews with students at the Career Fair. • Students select their top three employers. • Employers select their top student choices. • YES staff will best-match student and employer for Tiers 1 & 2. • Tier 3 students have option to set up interviews with employers.

Total Cost for Employer

None (unless the employer wishes to provide funding or directly hire their student at any point during the program)

None (unless the employer wishes to provide funding or directly hire their student after program completion)

None (unless the employer wishes to provide funding or directly hire student beyond scope of the CARE4U program.)

Funding from Program

YES will cover all costs for the student unless employer hires students directly.

Full financial support available; employer-funding welcomed

CARE4U allocates funds to cover full cost of summer program.

Worker’s Comp. & Other Costs

Covered by YES through our payroll agent, Regional Planning Commission

Covered by UHS SYEP and CARE4U in agreement with Regional Planning Commission

Covered by CARE4U in agreement with Regional Planning Commission

Additional Information

Employer orientations will be held in March.

Any student interested in UHS SYEP must complete the CARE4U program. In addition, they must attend at least one resume workshop.

CARE4U provides instruction in workforce readiness, financial literacy, and relationship education during our 24-week, school-based program. Those qualified for summer employment have completed sessions designed to lead to success in the workplace, in managing money, and in interpersonal skills. CARE4U staff have worked with participants since August and provide ongoing support to both student and employer through the summer program. Funds may be available for transportation to and from the work site.

Students will be sent to their worksite one time during the week of June 10-14 for an orientation visit arranged by their worksite coordinator.

Program Contact

Jeanine Russell 217.531.6857 russelje@u4sd.org

Sarah Bradshaw, M.S. 217.255.0986 sbradsh@ilstu.edu

Kellie Anderson 217.239.7780 Kjande5@ilstu.edu 15

SAVE THE DATE: 2020 BOOKING DAY MARCH 4, 2019 Beginning at 9:00 a.m. Interested in hosting a First Friday Coffee or Business After Hours? These events give you great exposure to the business community - donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss your chance to host in 2020. Reservations will be taken on a first call, first serve basis via phone call ONLY. No walk-ins, emails or early phone calls will be accepted.

To book your First Friday Coffee or Business After Hours for 2020

Call Lindsay at 217.531.4239

GET SAVINGS

GET HEARD

GET SALES GET SUPPORT GET INVOLVED

GET SEEN

Renew your membership today. Contact Mindy at MindyC@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE The Illinois General Assembly finished their work for the 100th General Assembly and was sworn into the 101st General Assembly. The last few days before a new General Assembly is sworn in is referred to as “lame-duck” session where legislators who are retiring or lost reelection have the ability to vote on bills without electoral repercussions. Often times, controversial legislation is passed during lame duck session and this year was no different. The lameduck session passed two bills. One would end the term of every director on the Illinois Tollway Board. Another would allow for 15 percent pay increases to all heads of agencies appointed by the governor. Both pieces of legislation were requested by governor-elect JB Pritzker. It is expected that in the early months of his administration Governor Pritzker will craft a capital bill for infrastructure projects and would like new leadership on the Illinois Tollway Board to oversee it. Pritzker also hired and appointed some of his top staff with the pay increases, while supplementing their salary out of his own personal wealth. Some of his top staff will see their salary doubled with Pritzker’s private funds. Senators and Representatives were also sworn in and elected the leaders of their respective Chambers. Senator John Cullterton was re-elected as Senate President with local Senators Scott Bennett voting for Cullerton and Chapin Rose voting for Republican Leader Bill Brady. In a show of bipartisanship, during the roll call Cullerton voted for Bill Brady and Brady voted for John Cullerton. Things were a bit different in the House where Representative Michael Madigan was re-elected Speaker of the House. Local Representatives Carol Ammons voted for Madigan while Dan Caulkins, Brad Halbrook and Mike Marron voted for House Republican Leader Jim Durkin. Madigan received votes from every Democrat in attendance except for newly elected Representative Anne Stava-Murray who voted ‘present’. The freshman representative says her ‘present’ vote is due to an “unsafe workplace” for women in the Illinois General Assembly and says she plans to file a discrimination claim against Speaker Madigan. A few days prior to being sworn in as state representative, Stava-Murray announced she would be challenging US Senator Dick Durbin in the 2020 Democrat Primary Election. While elected leaders are being sworn in to their respected offices, agencies from both the state and federal government are seeking public comment from employers regarding recommended policy changes. To submit public comment on the following

proposed changes from the State of Illinois, please contact our public policy director Garret Hill at garreth@champaigncounty.org: • The Illinois Capital Development Board would like to changes to the Illinois Energy Conservation Code to remove exemptions from state-owned buildings and add exemptions for privately owned buildings leased to the state. • The Illinois Gaming Board would like to be authorized to rule on petitions brought by terminal operators, licensed video gaming locations or other interested parties alleging that an agreement claiming to control the location and operation of video gaming terminals is invalid. • The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation would like to withhold professional licensing renewals to professional license holders who have outstanding disciplinary fees owed to the state. • The Department of Natural Resources would like to issue notices of noncompliance for oil and gas permit holders who are not fully compliant with the Illinois Oil and Gas Act due to unintentional violations not causing significant environmental harm. • To curb Legionella and lead contamination, the Illinois Department of Public Health would like to eliminate caulking from connecting steel pipes, eliminate dead end pipes, end water stagnation in seasonal water services, disinfect all decorative or aesthetic water fixture, eliminate fountains in hospitals, nursing homes or other health facilities and require all plumbing fixtures to be certified by a recognized national organization. • The Secretary of State would like to require businesses that process vehicle title transfers or payment for license plate renewals to have a brick and mortar location, include working printer and fax capabilities and require remittance agents to authorize background checks on employees. • The Illinois Department of Agriculture would like to create the Industrial Hemp Act, allowing for industrial hemp, setting regulations and guidelines for growing industrial hemp and fines for being out of compliance. The National Labor Relations Board is also seeking public comment regarding joint-employers. The board would like to define a joint-employer as an employer only if the two employers share the employees’ essential terms and conditions of employment, such as hiring, firing, discipline, supervision and direction. 17

MEMBER ACCOLADES & NEWS ROSECRANCE Rosecrance is pleased to announce Lisa Primm has been appointed Vice President of Payer Relations. Primm’s primary responsibility will be elevating the visibility of Rosecrance and creating connections with key insurance companies. Prior to her new position, Primm was Director of Outreach at Rosecrance and she will maintain some of her responsibilities with national referral accounts. With more than 30 years of experience in the field, Primm began working at Rosecrance in 1994 as a Unit Counselor; she joined the marketing team the following year. Primm holds a master’s in Education from Northern Illinois University and is certified as a Licensed Practical Counselor and an Addictions Counselor. FIRST STATE BANK First State Bank announced that Kip McDaniel has joined the Champaign banking team as their newest Mortgage Originator and will be responsible for building strong, successful relationships with realtors and mortgage customers throughout Champaign County. Kip is a graduate of Illinois State University and has 17 years of experience in banking, marketing, and business administration. He was awarded the Forty Under 40 for Central Illinois and is actively involved within the community as a member of the several organizations. MARTIN HOOD LLC Martin Hood LLC is extremely pleased to announce that Justin Overstreet has been promoted to Partner at the firm. Justin graduated from the University of Illinois in 2006 with highest honors and joined the firm shortly thereafter. In addition to his CPA designation, Justin became a Certified Valuation Analyst under the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts in November 2012. During his time with the 18

firm, Justin has served clients over a broad range of industries, including construction contractors, small businesses, and employee benefit plans. MEYER CAPEL The law firm of Meyer Capel, A Professional Corporation, announces that Matthew D. Lee has become a shareholder with the firm. Mr. Lee received his law degree from the University of Illinois College of Law in 2003 and joined Meyer Capel in 2014. He had been employed with the McLean County State’s Attorney office for over 10.5 years. Mr. Lee will concentrate in criminal, DUI and traffic cases. He is a member of the Champaign County Bar Association, the Illinois State Bar Association, the Illinois Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys. O’SHEA BUILDERS O’Shea Builders welcomes Gene Alexander, superintendent. Alexander is based out of the Champaign office. Alexander comes to O’Shea from Nigro Construction, Inc. in Las Vegas, NV. While at Nigro Construction Inc., Alexander gained experience with project management and served as a superintendent for projects in retail, hospitality, and healthcare. He resides in Mahomet with his wife Dawn, two children – Chloe (3) and Miles (1) – and a third on the way. In his spare time Alexander enjoys watching football, fishing, and shooting. O’Shea Builders also welcomes Gary McCullough, superintendent. McCullough is based out of the Champaign office. McCullough joins O’Shea Builders from Integrated Facility Services in Fenton, MO. He earned his Associate’s degree in construction technology from Hillsborough Community College in Florida.

O’Shea Builders is a leading commercial construction-services provider in Illinois with offices in Springfield, East Peoria and Champaign. Founded in 1902, O’Shea provides General Contracting, Construction Management, Design Build, Civil and Building Maintenance services. FEHR GRAHAM Fehr Graham has joined forces with Phoenix Consulting Engineers. Phoenix Consulting Engineers was formed in Mahomet in 2010 by Tom Overmyer, a professional engineer with more than 29 years of experience in municipal engineering and land surveying. Overmyer employed six people at his firm and wanted to provide more services to his clients, so he decided to transition his business to Fehr Graham. Phoenix specialized in providing engineering and surveying services to municipal clients, developers and citizens in central Illinois. Fehr Graham offers those services and others such as health and safety, compliance, landscape architecture, water and wastewater, structural and funding solutions. Fehr Graham has 10 offices in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin and employs more than 170 people. The deal was finalized Jan. 1, and the Phoenix team started working out of Fehr Graham’s Champaign office at 1610 Broadmoor Drive on Jan. 2. They are also proud to announce the addition of Matthew Johnson to the ownership team. Johnson will continue his day-to-day duties managing the firm’s Champaign office. Johnson, who joined Fehr Graham in 2014, leads a team of professionals who have successfully completed significant civil and structural engineering projects in Champaign, Urbana, Savoy, Mahomet, Monticello and Villa Grove. He also has led engineering projects on the University of Illinois Urbana-

Champaign campus. A licensed civil and structural engineer, Johnson specializes in water and wastewater treatment plant design and construction. He most recently designed a $35 million wastewater treatment plant, which is under construction, in South Beloit. MINUTEMAN PRESS Minuteman Press was honored by Minuteman Press International with its 10 Star Club Award for professional excellence in customer service, quality and exemplary business performance. It is the first time the local franchise has received the award. “We have averaged 20 percent annual sales growth over the past five years, and this award underscores that our customers are pleased with the quality and level of service they receive,” owner Paul Conforti said. “It’s a tribute to our professional crew who work as a team to keep customers happy and returning.” The company provides marketing and design, full-service printing, branded promotional merchandise and mailing services for a wide range of products -- from brochures, posters, banners, business stationery, post cards and training materials to menus, pens, magnets, drink ware and much more. Conforti purchased the local franchise in 2004, and the staff has grown from three to nine during that time. The Champaign store is among nearly 1,000 independently-operated Minuteman Press locations worldwide. Have news to share with the local business community? Tell us about it and get featured in the Chamber’s next Commerce Connection. Email Lindsay Quick with your news, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org, or submit the news via our website: http://champaigncounty.org/ membership/member_accolades.aspx

Local ownership. Unmatched experience.

Left to right:

Steve Tock TreMayne Joyner Dan Marker Jan Miller Kirk Harney Bobbie Butler Chuck Eyman Chris Haile

HICKORYPOINTBANK.COM

CHAMPAIGN

DECATUR

PEORIA

SPRINGFIELD

MEMBER FDIC

2019 ATHENA AwardÂŽ Luncheon Sponsored by:

Thursday, February 21 Noon - 1:30 p.m. Champaign Country Club Thank you to all the individuals who continue to set great examples for women in Champaign County. We look forward to honoring two more people this year at the awards luncheon. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Cost to attend is $33 for members and $41 for non- members.

Register now at www.champaigncounty.org/events/calendar/ Registrations can also be made by emailing Lindsay at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or by calling 217.359.1791.

The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Foundation is a 501c3 charitable subsidiary of the Chamber. The Foundation aspires to develop philanthropic support for building a thriving economy through workforce, community, talent and economic development initiatives. Interested in learning more about the Foundation? Email Laura at LauraW@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791

CHAMBER STORE MAILING LABELS

EVENT SPONSORSHIP

An exclusive benefit of Chamber membership, we sell mailing labels containing the names and addresses of Chamber member businesses for the purpose of member-to-member communication. Target the local business community. Two lists are available for purchase:

From monthly First Friday Coffee and Business After Hours to our annual Golf Outing, the Chamber hosts a number of events each month. By sponsoring a Chamber event, your business obtains great exposure not only at the event itself, but also within all promotional materials (emails, mailings, e-newsletters, Commerce Connection, website, etc.). Here’s what’s coming up:

Long list (approx. 2,000 names and businesses): $175 Short list (approx. 900 names and businesses): $125 Contact Caryn Isenhower to order, Caryni@champaigncounty.org

• Booking Day - 202 Business After Hours and First Friday Coffee: Monday, March 4, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

E-CONNECTION

Additional information for events available upon request. Contact LindsayQ@champaign county.org or call 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.

Our electronic newsletter is sent to nearly 2,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County each week. Sponsor an e-Connection and get your business seen by thousands.

COMMERCE CONNECTION

Header sponsorship (one week.): $100 Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

WEBSITE MARKETING

With over 400 unique views PER DAY to the Chamber website, you’ll have the opportunity to reach thousands of customers each month. With pricing starting at just $300 this affordable and effective.Contact Lindsay Quick at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

EMAIL BLAST

Do you have a new product, service or information you would like to share with our entire Chamber membership? Take advantage of this exclusive offer to send broadcast emails to our entire nearly 2,000 email list. Email Blast Advertisement: $500 Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES:

Rental of laptop computer; conference space and LCD projector; Certificate of Origin; Notary service; information, assistance and resources.

Reach thousands on a small budget. 22

This is a bi-monthly publication that is distributed to over 2,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County. Content varies, but is always relevant to local business. There are a variety of ad sizes available. Ads start at only $90. Ask about the exclusive cover package that allows your business to gain exposure before the reader even opens the publication. Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty. org or 217.359.1791.

EMAIL FOOTER SPONSORSHIP

For a great price, place an ad in every email that is sent out of the Chamber office. That’s an average of over 12,000 emails per week. The best part? Link the footer wherever you would like. Footer (one wk.): $75 Contact Lindsay for details at, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

WEBSITE DIRECTORY ENHANCEMENTS

Enhance your listing on the Chamber’s online business directory. The directory gets hundreds of thousands of views each day-turn your standard (complimentary) listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized advertisement. Basic upgrade: included w/membership Value upgrade: $20/year Deluxe upgrade: $50/year Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

calendar of events Connect@Lunch

Monday, February 11 Noon - 1:00 p.m. Hamilton Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 201 N. Neil St., Champaign

A.L.I.C.E. Active Shooter Training Presented by Deputy Chief Tod Myers

Tuesday, February 12 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Ribbon Cutting

First Friday Coffee

Friday, March 1 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Wells Fargo Advisors 2237 S. Neil St., Champaign

Booking Day 2020 Business After Hours & First Friday Coffee Monday, March 4 Beginning at 9:00 a.m. *Phone calls only. No walk-ins or emails will be accepted. Bookings will be taken on a first call, first serve basis.

Business After Hours

Tuesday, February 19 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. 1813 Kirby Ave., Champaign

Thursday, March 14 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Busey 100 W. University Ave., Champaign

ATHENA Luncheon

First Friday Coffee

Carle Medical Supply

Sponsored by Spherion Staffing and Busey Wealth Management Thursday, February 21 Noon - 1:00 p.m. Champaign Country Club 1211 S. Prospect Ave., Champaign

Friday, April 5 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Habitat for Humanity & ReStore of Champaign County 119 E. University Ave., Champaign

Business After Hours

Fast Facts

4.1% Champaign County Unemployment Rate in November 2018

18 business licenses applied for in Champaign County in December 2018

105.5

December 2018 U of I Flash Index for Illinois

920,718 rides were taken on CUMTD in December 2018

3,768 visits to the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s page, champaigncounty.org in November 2018

3,819 number of unique searches on the

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory in December 2018

2014 The year that the Champaign County

Chamber of Commerce was named the Illinois Outstanding Chamber of the Year

Thursday, February 21 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. ATI Physical Therapy 1806 N. Market St., Champaign

www.champaigncounty.org/events/calendar/

303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org 23

YOUR OFFICE DOESN'T HAVE TO

FEEL LIKE THIS DURING WINTER. HEATING REPAIR AVAILABLE 24/7.

217-367-4227

AR-MECH.com 711 E Kettering Park Drive Urbana, IL 61801 24