Commerce connection marchapril 2017 by Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Permit No. 29 Champaign, IL

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CONNECTION

Volume 24 | Issue 2

C O M M E R C E

MARCH / APRIL 2017

A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Youth Employment and Workforce Readiness - Why it Matters

TREASURY MANAGEMENT Run Your Business Smoothly

Business Fraud Protection Have the tools to catch fraud before it happens! • ACH BLOCK • ACH Fraud Filter • Positive Pay Champaign County Banking Centers: Champaign • 2229 South Neil • 359-9837 Champaign • 913 West Marketview • 378-8023 Urbana • 601 South Vine • 367-8451 Mahomet • 502 East Oak • 318-3750

Darlene Johnson

Vice President Treasury Management 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 djohnson@firstmid.com

Mike Krueger

Community President Commercial Lending 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 mkrueger@firstmid.com

Mitch Swim

Regional President Commercial Lending 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 mswim@firstmid.com

To learn more about First Mid or to see a complete list of locations, visit us online.

FIRSTMID.COM Member FDIC • Equal Opportunity Lender

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

FY17 TOP INVESTORS TOP INVESTORS GOLD Busey Carle SILVER BankChampaign, N.A. First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign BRONZE A & R Mechanical Contractors Amdocs Christie Clinic Heartland Bank & Trust Midland States Bank Presence Covenant Medical Center RSM US LLP

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, Sunny 95.3 & ESPN 93.5 WCIA-TV / WCIX-49 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO BUSINESS’S CIRCLE FOX, ABC and CW - TV

150 PERCENT CLUB Awards, Ltd. Carmike 13 Dish Passionate Cuisine Hyatt Place LongHorn Steakhouse Thomas, Mamer & Haughey, LLP TrophyTime W.K. Cooper II Asset Management Corporation

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

Stephanie McCullough Director of First Impressions StephanieM@champaigncounty.org

Mindy M. Cain Director of Workforce Readiness & Member Relations MindyC@champaigncounty.org

Lindsay Quick Graphic Design and Marketing Director LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

Garret Hill Public Policy Director GarretH@champaigncounty.org

Ariel Short Events & Programs Manager ArielS@champaigncounty.org Daniel Stebel Membership Sales Director DanS@champaigncounty.org

Caryn Isenhower Accounts Receivable & Office Administrator Caryni@champaigncounty.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS Jeffrey Baker Retired

Kyle Emkes

Dodd & Maatuka

Mike Estes

Fisher National Bank

David Farrar

Illinois American Water

Tabatha Helm DSC Logistics

Tonya Horn Rogards

Zachary Hillard Busey

Susan Jepsen

Reynolds Towing Service, Inc.

Pradeep Khanna University of Illinois

Kurt Lenschow

Becky Preston

Chair, Midland States Bank

Chuck McReaken

First Vice Chair, TSM Ventures, Inc.

Dr. Jared Rogers

State Farm

Second Vice Chair Presence Covenant Medical Center

Justin Overstreet

Beth Auterman

Martin, Hood, Friese & Associates, LLC

Rod Roberts

Thunderstruck Design

Julianna Sellett Carle

FINANCIAL SERVICES Provided by CliftonLarsonAllen

Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen

Jim Lyons

Past Chair, Birkey’s Farm Store

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.

2017 ATHENA® Award Luncheon Deb Reardanz, president & CEO of Clark-Lindsey Village, was named the 2017 ATHENA Award® recipient. She was presented the award at a luncheon held at the Champaign Country Club on Thursday, February 16, 2017. Reardanz is the 29th local recipient of the award. Deb was first hired at Clark-Lindsey in 1997 as the director of business services. She then went on to serve as the vice president and chief financial officer before being selected as the president and CEO in 2009.

Deb Reardanz, ATHENA In her current role as president and CEO, Deb Award® Recipient and Carly McCrory, ATHENA oversees a not-for-profit facility that has revenues of Young Professional Award® over $15 million and serves 275 residents. She acts as Recipient an advocate for older adults throughout the community and continues to find innovative ways to improve the facilities. In both professional and personal settings, Deb is known to be an incredible listener and advocate. She regularly utilizes resident feedback and suggestions when making decisions. Her passion for creating an environment that celebrates personal growth extends to all that she comes into contact with.

Deb has an intense passion for lifting up and developing future leaders which led her to establish the Clark-Lindsey student internship program in 2012. Since its creation, the program has helped over 40 individuals gain experience and knowledge in the senior care industry. Since 2005, Deb has been actively involved in LeadingAge Illinois, an organization that represents over 500 providers of services for older adults throughout the state. She was instrumental in developing the LeadingAge Illinois Leadership Academy in 2012. Deb has also served in various roles within her church congregation at University Place Christian Church. She has served as both president and treasurer for Executive Club of Champaign County, which aims to promote the progress of women in professional and management careers. Deb volunteers with an education, mentoring and networking organization called Leadership Illinois and at the Champaign County YMCA. Carly McCrory, assistant director of the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation, was named the 2017 ATHENA Young Professional Award® recipient. Her strengths and skills in social media and community development earned her recognition as one of the 40 Under 40 by the Central Illinois Business Magazine. In her professional career at the EDC, Carly uses her skillset to develop programs and initiatives that highlight the community. She has been instrumental in developing both the “You’re Welcome” campaign, the Made in Champaign County initiative and the Innovation Celebration. Carly also serves on the Illinois Economic Development Association board of directors. Along with her impact at the EDC, Carly volunteers for a number of organizations in Champaign County. She serves on the board of directors for 40 North 88 West, which is Champaign County’s art council.

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between January 10, 2017 and February 28, 2017 AdvanceDeck & Sunroom Company, LLC 2603 Appaloosa Ln. Mahomet, IL 61853-9773 217.586.4840 www.advancedeckandsunroom.com Contractors - General

AdvanceDeck & Sunroom Company, LLC is owned and operated by Tom Parker of Mahomet. Tom has been custom designing and building outdoor projects for nearly 25-years in Central IL. AdvanceDeck & Sunroom Company, LLC custom designs and builds decks, sunrooms, screen rooms, pergolas, lanais, virtually anything you can imagine for your outdoor living space. AdvanceDeck & Sunroom Company, LLC also have affiliate companies in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Indiana. Tom has also earned the highest level of recognition with the Trex Company, the manufacturer of composite decking material. To become a Trex Pro Platinum status, you must have demonstrated the ability and expertise to design and build outdoor living projects with Trex. AdvanceDeck & Sunroom Company, LLC is the only company in Central IL to reach this status and one of only a few in the State of Illinois.

Agricultural Soil Management, LLC 2106 County Rd. 1000 E. Champaign, IL 61822-3655 217.356.5756 www.asmlabs.net Agricultural Consultants

In 1982 when ASM opened its doors for business, their goal was to create a full service soil management company that not only was professional in all of its actions but was an independent consultant to its customers. In an industry that is filled with consultants, finding an independent one is tough. Over the years, ASM has been built by customer trust and hard work, and is proud to say it is still the independent consultant it has always been. Their staff of Agronomists have over 50 years combined experience in Agronomic Consulting. Over the years, ASM has been blessed to steadily grow and become a top soil management company in the Midwest, specifically in Central Illinois. The services offered by ASM include GPS mapping, soil sampling & in house laboratory testing, VRT application recommendation, integrated pest management: crop scouting, crop inspection, agronomic consulting.

Jeff Baker

Individual Member

Mark Bjornbak

Individual Member

Bowmentum Archery, Inc.

625 U.S. Hwy. 45 Tolono, IL 61880-9709 217.485.3500 www.bowmentum.com Archery - Ranges, Equipment & Supplies Bowmentum Archery - where passion for archery excellence and first class customer service collides. Established in 2016, Bowmentum Archery is a retail business that focuses on creating a safe, fun and familyfriendly place for new and experienced archers to learn, exchange ideas and simply shoot their bows. There are many features that make Bowmentum Archery a unique experience and a great addition to Champaign County. Bowmentum Archery is committed to excellence in all that they do including offering the best equipment, archery tuning, customer service and a one of a kind 24hour archery range. This climate-controlled 20-yard range allows for members to access the facility any time day or night - 24/7/365. Bowmentum Archery also offers how-to archery classes, birthday party packages and competitive leagues throughout the year. Finally, the technical service and advice is truly professional grade for those archers who are looking to maximize every possible part of their archery setup, including equipment recommendations, repairs, and bow super-tuning. If you want to experience the best archery shop anywhere around then make the drive to Bowmentum Archery south of Champaign in Tolono, Illinois.

Courtyard by Marriott 1811 Moreland Blvd. Champaign, IL 61822-1223 217.355.0411 www.marriott.com/cmpcy Hotels

Courtyard Champaign hotel is located near the University of Illinois and Parkland College. The Illinois hotel is conveniently located near many local attractions such as Market Place Mall, Memorial Stadium, and the State Farm Center. They offer close proximity to fine dining in downtown Champaign, as well as many restaurants within a few blocks. The Courtyard Champaign hotel is a five minute drive from University activities and downtown Champaign, making it an ideal location for both business and leisure travelers. Their hotel is a short drive from Willard Airport and near plenty of things to do in Champaign, IL. Guests can cheer on the Illini at U of I

football and basketball games or participate in the Illinois Marathon. While staying at this Marriott hotel you will find all of the modern amenities including free WiFi, The Bistro, a hotel gym, The Market, an indoor pool and hot tub.

English Brothers Co.

807 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820-3014 217.356.0596 www.englishbrothers.com Contractors - General English Brothers Company is a privately owned commercial general contractor out of Champaign, IL. They have been performing work in East Central Illinois since 1902.

Helitech Waterproofing & Foundation Repair 1910 5th St. Lincoln, IL 62656 217.522.5595 www.helitechonline.com

Helitech has been and remains to be the industry leader in residential waterproofing and foundation repair solutions for over 30 years. While they have expanded into five states, they are still a family-owned business that takes pride in providing ideal, long-term, quality solutions to every home or business owner.

Their focus on using specifically engineered and designed products along with expertly trained and experienced installation technicians has emerged Helitech as the industry leader for your drainage and foundation repair solutions. Their commitment to customer service, which is second to none, has allowed them to serve several thousands of homeowners over the years - with many more thousands still to serve in the future. Backed by the proven performance of products, Helitech will ensure your largest investment, your home or business, is protected from the consequences of a settling, cracked or leaking foundation for years to come.

HERE Apartments

308 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 5609 217.310.4373 www.herechampaign.com Real Estate HERE is a new kind of student housing, one where every single detail was designed around the needs and wants of the modern student. Each apartment comes fully furnished with hip design elements and upscale features. Residents enjoy unmatched amenities such as their state-of-the-art fitness center, 24/7 valet parking garage, private terrace with hot tub and their brand-new bowling alley. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a superior residential experience designed to inspire a perfect student life balance. HERE Champaign is professionally owned and operated by CA Student Living (CA). CA offers exceptional residential communities with world-class design in desirable locations and a 5-star standard of service. They create extraordinary living experiences for students ready to move beyond traditional on-campus living. At CA, advanced technology and sustainability meets old-fashioned quality. The result is nothing short of amazing.

Latitude

RSM US LLP celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on February 8.

608 E. University Ave. Champaign, IL 61820-0002 217.355.1535 www.livelatitude.com Apartments Living at Latitude means living life unlimited. It means discovering innovation and experiencing new heights in all-inclusive student, graduate and professional living. Just steps from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign with unmatched amenities, Latitude is uniquely modern, distinctly different, and perfectly engineered with sophisticated style. If Google was apartment living, it would be Latitude, with everything you could ever need at your fingertips or steps from your front door! Choose to #LiveLatitude and elevate your living experience today!

Taco Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on February 13.

Lifeline-connect, Inc.

2107 N. Highcross Rd. Urbana, IL 61802-7795 217.621.9649 www.lifelineconnect.org Drug Abuse & Addiction-Information & Treatment Lifeline-connect Residential Recovery Center is a faith-based recovery program for men with drug and alcohol addictions. The recovery process is designed with whole-life treatment and a comprehensive curriculum which addresses the emotional, financial, physical, social and spiritual needs of the enrollee. This residential learning center provides a healthy and stable environment where men are able to focus on their recovery and receive community support. Lifelineconnect, Inc. has been in operation for ten and a half years providing a safe place for men to experience recovery and discover purpose. Lifeline-connect also provides support and training for the families of the enrollees. They offer several recovery and support opportunities for those in the Champaign-Urbana community who experience self-destructive behaviors and addictions. For the past two-years they have hosted a Recovery Conference for training and equipping others who are involved in recovery ministries and services throughout the US and Canada. They have been approved by CC Zoning and Planning to build a new dormitory for 24 residents. They are currently engaged in a ‘Pursuing the Purpose’ fund-raising campaign for this project.

Paxton Inn

980 W. Ottawa Rd. Paxton, IL 60957-4198 217.379.2316 Hotels

Precision Dent Removal

2009 Clayton Blvd. Champaign, IL 61821 217.778.1877 www.precisiondent-il.com Automobile Body Repair & Painting

Rincker Law, PLLC

301 N. Neil St., Ste. 400 Champaign, IL 61820-3169 217.531.2179 www.rinckerlaw.com Attorneys Rincker Law, PLLC is a general practice law firm focusing on food, farm and family law. With offices in Champaign, Illinois and New York, New York, Cari Rincker serves clients in the areas of family/matrimonial law, food and agriculture law, business law, estate planning, animal law and intellectual property. Rincker Law, PLLC also offers family law and commercial mediation services.

Rosati’s Pizza

701 S. Gregory St., Ste. H Urbana, IL 61801-3705 217.328.2334 www.myrosatis.com Pizza Rosati’s Pizza & Catering of Urbana dishes out authentic Chicago style pizza, sandwiches and pastas. Located just off Lincoln Avenue, Rosati’s hosts two dining areas for casual seating, large groups and events. Serving freshly made dough, sauces and vegetables, Rosati’s takes pride in their made fresh daily motto to exceed their customers’ dining expectations. Their menu can be ordered for dine-in, carry out or delivery (some exclusions apply). Rosati’s Catering can serve 10-10,000 with our traditional menu items or customized menus for more specific tastes. Their commitment to excel in service, food quality and customer service has made Rosati’s one of the area’s leaders in the industry for the last 10 years.

Taco John’s

902 Meijer Dr. Champaign, IL 61822 217.607.5577 www.tacojohns.com Restaurants

Unyoked CrossFit

2413 Village Green Pl. Champaign, IL 61822-7676 217.390.4385 www.unyokedcrossfit.com Exercise & Physical Fitness Programs At Unyoked CrossFit they focus on teaching proper movement standards and techniques to help their clients. Unyoked CrossFit’s main focus is to help each athlete become the best person they can be. Inside and outside of the gym people face troubles that manifest into physical, mental, emotional and spiritual burdens. The purpose of “Unyoked” is to get rid of those burdens and that is where they have found their success. Shape, size, age or weight are not things that should limit people from living their lives to the full potential. They help people “Enjoy The Freedom” everyday at Unyoked CrossFit.

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

One Big Career Fair Wednesday, April 19 Centennial High School Gym 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Hosted by: Champaign Youth Employment Services (YES), Urbana Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), Champaign Area Relationship Education for Youth (CARE4U)*

• The Career Fair facilitates placing students from these 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 done that never seems to get done. • You will have full support by the school districts or CARE4U employees. • The three programs will best-match the students with employers, or you can choose to work with a specific program that best fits your needs.

Summer Internship Program Dates: June 5 – July 15

Urbana SYEP

June 19 – July 29

Champaign YES

June 5 – July 15

CARE4U

June 19 – July 29

CARE4U

Learn more about each youth employment program

To participate in One Big Career Fair, RSVP to Mindy Smith at smithmi@u4sd.org by Friday, April 7.

Urbana High School Summer Youth Employment Program

Weekly Hours

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

Student, Employer Matching

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

(90 hours total over a 6 week period)

About 15 hours a week

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

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 are introduced to an employer in that field. Employer has the option to interview student or let CARE4U make the placement.

• YES staff members assess the students’ skills and preferences along with employer picks and makes the best match.

• Career Fair - Employers and students interact and may conduct mini-interviews at Fair. Employers submit top three student names; students submit top three employers. CARE4U staff makes placements based on matches.

• Students and employers are notified of matches.

• University of Illinois Summer Youth Program

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

We will have another Worksite Mentor training session in May for employers who come on board after the March sessions.

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.

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

Kellie Anderson 217.239.7780 Kjande5@ilstu.edu

• They complete skills assessment to see their ideal career fields. • Employers meet students at the Career Fair and can do mini-interviews • Students select their top three employer sites at the end of the fair. • Employers select their top student choices and send to YES staff by the following week.

We will send assigned students to their worksite one time during the week of June 12-16 for an orientation visit. This will be arranged by their worksite coordinator.

Program Contact

Mindy Smith 217.531.6857 smithmi@u4sd.org

Early College and Career Academy (ECCA) is a collaboration between the Education for Employment System #330 (EFE #330) K-12 Career and Technical Education cooperative and Parkland College. ECCA was launched in fall 2015 and provides an opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to earn dual credit for completing Parkland College courses in manufacturing, automotive technology, computer networking, certified nursing assistant, emergency medical services, and criminal justice. Several programs provide an opportunity for students to earn licenses, industry-recognized certifications, and/or Parkland certificates.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the end of the day, ECCA provides a huge benefit, not only for area students, but also for local businesses who will benefit from the increased skill level of the incoming workforce.â&#x20AC;? - Nick Elder, System Director There is also an opportunity for local companies to be involved. Frasca International, Inc., HL Precision Manufacturing, Inc. and Litania Sports Group are all currently partnering with ECCA to not only sponsor students in the manufacturing program, but offer positions for students through internships and part-time work. EFE #330, located in Room A113 at Parkland College, works with Parkland to administer the ECCA. EFE #330 Director Nick Elder said he is excited to continue the partnership with Parkland College and expects the initiative to have a positive community impact. If you would like more information about ECCA or would like to explore partnership opportunities, please contact the EFE #330/ECCA office at 217-355-1382 or nelder@efe.k12.il.us.

Workforce Readiness - How the Chamber is Engaged

“

The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is committed to workforce readiness in order to provide our members with the trained workforce necessary to grow our business community. We dedicate our support and leadership to help leverage community resources for career awareness and experience; and to help foster a sense of community and cooperation among educational groups and businesses working together to create a pipeline of qualified youth prepared to enter into the local workforce. - Becky Preston Chair, Chamber Board of Directors

”

CUC2C is a collective group of concerned individuals and institutions working together to encourage greater alignment of organizations, education, business and resources for the betterment of our children. Workforce Readiness, one work group under the CUC2C and anchored by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, has two teams that have been methodically analyzing and piecing together information in preparation for a community-wide plan to make Champaign-Urbana students’ workforce ready. The Chamber is working closely with teachers and personnel from Unit 4 and Unit 116 as well as leaders from local youth organizations to identify how we can provide career pathway education for our students. Our students need social emotional and career technical education in the classroom, and in our local youth programs, to slowly start to eliminate the skill deficit for area employers. It will take all vested stakeholders rowing in the same direction. Although these efforts will not produce instant results, it is an investment in the future of your company because today’s student will become tomorrow’s workforce. Learn more at www.cucradle2career.org.

Committee Involvement: Healthcare Medical Youth Internship Program The healthcare field has many job opportunities with more projected in the coming years. So the Chamber, Champaign and Urbana Schools, Carle Hospital, and CUC2C leaders are investigating a model program where students interested in a career in healthcare can have the opportunity to work at the hospital in various capacities to get hands-on experiences. This program is in the initial stages of investigation, but one that we are committed to, in order to provide a pipeline of workforce-ready employees for the healthcare field.

Construction Trades Education Program Champaign County contractors have a need for a qualified work force and many open positions go unfilled due to the lack of skilled workers. The Chamber along with representatives from Broeren-Russo Construction, Inc., Parkland College, EFE #330 and ECCA has formed a committee to increase awareness and education for the trades. The goal is to provide construction career education in high schools and at Parkland by adding construction-based courses to the curricula. The committee is focused on getting more construction companies involved to provide funding for internships for students who are interested in careers in construction.

Summer Youth Internship Program The Chamber is working closely with Champaign Youth Employment Services (YES), Urbana Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and Champaign Area Relationship Education for Youth (CARE4U) to help provide more summer youth work experiences for students. We are coordinating volunteers to review student resumes and provide professional advice and are working to help provide assistance for students who need to get the correct identification needed to be employed.

HELP US WELCOME Mindy M. Cain Director of Workforce Readiness & Member Relations Mindy brings over 21-years of association experience with her to the Chamber. Prior to joining the Chamber, Mindy was a Meetings Manager at the scientific organization AOCS where she provided project management for numerous national and international meetings. Her skills in managing projects from the initial planning stages to completion will be valuable when collaborating with the many local organizations and committees

dedicated to workforce readiness. Mindyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role will allow the Chamber to align our community resources to help meet the need to provide a qualified workforce for our local businesses. In addition as the person charged with overseeing member relations, Mindy will help our members to utilize the wide portfolio of benefits available and will help members understand their return on investment as part of the Chamber. Mindy has been a local resident since 1990 and lives in Savoy with her husband, Kevin. Mindy may be reached at MindyC@champaigncounty.org or by calling 217.359.1791.

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Beautiful apartment homes in the heart of Champaign.

1712 Gentry Square Lane Champaign, IL 61821 www.GentrySquareApartments.com

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Sponsorship packages THURSDAY JUNE 1, 2017 Stone Creek Golf Club 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. HOLE AND CONTEST SPONSORS

RAFFLE/GOLF BAG SPONSORS

• Showcase your business at your hole with

Gain exposure for your company by reaching our golfers.

a display and promotional items giving you

direct access to all golfers and other sponsors • Sign with logo at your sponsored hole

• Raffle Prize Donation - item $50 or greater in value to be featured in raffle drawn during evening dinner

• Logo on scorecard

• Company name listed in brochure

• Mention in Commerce Connection

• Golfer Bag Donation - small items for each golfer

magazine after event

(120 pieces) or prizes valued at $5 each (20 pieces)

Hole Sponsorship - $300

to be distributed randomly in golfer bags.

Contest Sponsor - $375 (Longest Drive, Longest Putt, Closest to the Pin, Closest to the Line) *Hole

Will drop off:

Please pick up:

must be manned at all times • All benefits listed above, plus a complete list of participants and their workplace

Golfer registration will open

April 17

Name: Business: Address: City, State, Zip: Phone: Email: Signature: Check Enclosed Visa Mastercard American Express Discover

Account #: Expiration Date: 3 or 4 Digit Security Code: Name on CC: Billing Address on CC:

Please return completed forms to: Ariel Short via email at ArielS@champaigncounty.org Or mail to: Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

landscaping, personal storage and home security but exclude things such as insurance and healthcare.

The Illinois Senate is continuing to negotiate parts of what they are calling a “grand bargain” budget for the State of Illinois. Three bills were debated and voted on including local government consolidation, procurement reform, local government tax receipt reform and pension reform. When the Senate’s pension reform legislation failed to reach a majority, many feared the “grand bargain” could have lost its momentum. Senate President John Cullterton’s press spokesperson released a statement that says, “the overall deal remains under construction” and “basically, there are procedural avenues to keep the grand bargain negotiations going. Bottom line: Grand bargain still alive.” All of this to say the negotiations are fluid and the current frame work may not be the end result. One fluid part of these negotiations is the proposed “Opportunity Tax”. Reports say the Senate has already dropped the proposal and replaced it with a sales tax on food and medicine while lowering the overall sales tax rate from 6.25 percent to 5.75 percent. Another new tax still on the table is a proposed service tax. This would include services such as personal care (hair cuts, nail and tanning salons, etc.),

Since negotiations are so fluid at the moment, just as quickly as the “Opportunity Tax” has been negotiated out of the budget, it could be negotiated back in. At the local level, the City of Champaign is entertaining a three percent annual increase to their Storm Water Usage Fee. This fee, while billed as an increase for inflation, greatly impacts the local business community. One of the largest property owners in Champaign pays $300,000 yearly for their Storm Water Usage Fee. This increase could potentially cost them $9,000 compounded each year. Building codes also require businesses to install their own drainage system meaning some businesses handle their own drainage yet are still paying a fee for a service they do not use. The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce has formed a committee to discuss the increase, the projects the city wishes to fund and potential credits the business community could take advantage of to offset the costs with elected officials and city staff. If you would like to be a part of these discussions and let the city know the impact this will have on your business, contact our Public Policy Director Garret Hill at garreth@champaigncounty.org.

Job #: 34899-41 Size: 8" x 5" Branch: 21 Champaign

Color(s): 4C Bleed?: N Pub: Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBER ACCOLADES & NEWS ROSECRANCE Rosecrance’s Champaign/Urbana location is now accredited by The Joint Commission after a successful survey visit in February. The survey covered more than 300 behavioral health care standards and encompassed the majority of programs and services at six sites. The surveyor reviewed policies, standard operating procedures, walk-throughs, data, inspection reports, facility safety, personnel records, strategic planning and organizational structure. A significant amount of time was also spent interviewing staff throughout all levels of the organization. COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL DEVONSHIRE REALTY CBCDR is pleased to announce Tim Harrington’s induction into the 2016 Midwest Real Estate News’ Hall of Fame. This is the publication’s seventh inductee class with the Hall of Fame being created in 2010. Harrington is being recognized as being one of the leading commercial real estate professionals throughout the Midwest. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County is one of 23 organizations recognized by Habitat for Humanity International as an “Affiliate of Distinction”. The Affiliates of Distinction program was established by Habitat for Humanity to honor local Habitat organizations that meet or exceed best-practice standards and to uphold their work across the Habitat network. Sheila Dodd, Habitat’s Executive Director since 2011 states, “Our affiliate has set high goals, and is pleased to receive this recognition of our team approach. The Habitat staff, volunteers, donors, partners and families share this award with the Champaign County community we work so hard to support.” For 25 years, Habitat for Humanity has worked in Champaign County to help local families

achieve strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Through our new construction, home rehab, A Brush with Kindness, and Neighborhood Revitalization programs, more than 100 Habitat homeowners have built or improved a place they can call home. FEHR GRAHAM Fehr Graham, a leading Midwest engineering and environmental firm, was awarded two 2017 ACEC-Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC-IL). The firm was awarded a Special Achievement Award in the Waste and Storm Water category for the Second Street Pump Station & Force Main in Champaign and received a Merit Award in the Small Projects category for the Auburn High School Tennis Court Improvements in Rockford. CURTIS ORCHARD The “Best Tasting Honey in the World” now comes from Illinois farm Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch just outside Champaign. The Center for Honeybee Research awarded its prestigious grand prize to the downstate agri-tourism destination, which just found out that it beat out international entries from Italy, Israel and others. Curtis Orchard’s entry in the Black Jar Honey Contest also takes top prize in the Central U.S. for the second straight year. The fourteen-state region is defined as all states within the Mississippi River watershed and includes Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, North and South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming. LAND OF LINCOLN GOODWILL INDUSTRIES CARF International announced that Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries has been accredited for a period of three years for its Mentor Services, Organizational Employment Services and Governance Standards. The latest accreditation is the second consecutive Three-Year Accreditation that the international accrediting body, CARF, has given to Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries.

This accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be given to an organization and shows the organization’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable and of the highest quality. RSM US LLP RSM US LLP, the nation’s leading provider of audit, tax and consulting service focused on the middle market, recently named Ryan Pierson as director of risk advisory services in their Central Illinois practice.

advisory services to clients of all sizes across a myriad of industries in the firm’s Great Lakes Region and across the country. Ryan also has extensive international experience, performing on-site services for clients in 12 countries spanning 5 continents. 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

Pierson is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) with more than 15 years of experience in information technology internal audit, IT governance, risk and compliance and Sarbanes-Oxley. Based in the firm’s Peoria office, he will be responsible for providing IT risk

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Learn how these Chamber members are making an impact the workforce readiness of students on our community.

Broeren Russo Providing Mentorships in the Trades for High School Students Broeren Russo Builders is celebrating 40 years of excellence in Construction Management, General Contracting and Design-Build services by giving back to the community that makes it all possible. Broeren Russo seeks to continue our commitment to improving our community by investing in the lives and educations of youth in this community. This mentorship program will provide young men and women with an invaluable inside-look into trade careers like carpentry and joining, ironworking, plumbing and pipefitting, electrical work and others. We have partnered with Prosperity Gardens, a local urban farming non-profit, to give accepted applicants hands-on experience building their new wash and pack facility, to be used for their summer program in which they grow and farm produce. Mentees will be paired with Broeren Russo leaders while completing real projects on a live construction site. They will learn valuable skills and receive one-on-one attention from some of our most experienced trade professionals. Mentees will have the chance to build lasting relationships with trade professionals, network with possible future employers and team members, earn a valuable OSHA certification, earn a stipend, and more.

Applicant Requirements: • Have a real interest in working in the trades • A positive attitude and willingness to be taught • Detail-oriented and attentive (as some activities may present a safety risk) • At least age 16 • Enrolled in a Champaign or Urbana high school • Be able to commit to 40 hours from program start to finish There is a shortfall in female and minority entrance into trade careers in Champaign-Urbana and nationally. Though all applications will be accepted, priority will be given to underrepresented applicants.

Each applicant will need to submit an application form by April 14, 2017. The application form is available at www.broeren-russo.com/contact/ or contact Jaime Jones at jjones@broeren-russo. com. Completed application forms can be turned into high school counselors, or forms can be emailed to tpeisker@broeren-russo.com with the subject line of “Mentorship Program Application—applicant’s last name” with the form as attached. If there are any questions, contact Jaime Jones at jjones@broeren-russo.com or 708-557-8480.

Clark-Lindsey is a premier retirement community located on 28 acres in Urbana. For nearly 40 years they have provided residents with exceptional services which has earned them an outstanding reputation in the community as well as nationally.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We find that we are not only teaching the students about how to do the work according to our standards, we are also teaching them about how to be a responsible and dependable team member.â&#x20AC;? - Krista Borbely Director of Human Resources

Each year, Clark-Lindsey employs over 25 high school students to work in their Dining Services department. They work closely with the area high schools to get connected with the students that

they need to fill their positions. On average each student will devote over 300 hours to Clark-Lindsey throughout their internship. For most of the students this is their first job â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a distinction that Clark-Lindsey takes very seriously. By the time the students are finished at Clark-Lindsey, they will have gained irreplaceable experience in an award-winning culture, deep, meaningful relationships as well as invaluable skills, knowledge and understanding in a variety of environments. Through their internship program, Clark-Lindsey hopes to act as a starting point for the careers of the students. The objective of the program is to help students reach their goals and teach them usable skills along the way. For more information about this program visit www.clark-lindsey.com/internship-program or contact Laura Beyer at LBeyer@clark-lindsey.com.

Join us for the last breakfast of our Spring Series:

The University of Illinois: Defining the Land-Grant University for the 21st Century Featuring:

University of Illinois Chancellor Robert J. Jones Thursday, April 13 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. City Center 505 S. Chestnut St. Champaign, IL 61820 The cost to attend this breakfast is $19 for members and $39 for non-members. To register, please contact Caryn at caryni@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791. Registration deadline is April 12, 2017. No refund will be given for cancellations or failure to attend, although substitutions may be made.

IMPORTANT: Final drop date is coming soon! Members must be in good standing to be included in our upcoming printed Membership Directory.

Renew your membership today. To renew or to check the status of your membership, contact Caryn at caryni@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791.

the local purchasing challenge

We challenge you to make one simple decision that will transform our local economy; ultimately improving the bottom lines of our members â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all without spending any more money than your company currently spends. How? Take the Local Purchasing Challenge. It really is simple. Shopping local is not just a consumer activity. By simply reallocating your purchasing dollars for products and services from a non-local vendor to a local one (again, not spending more), your company will be part of creating significant economic impact in Champaign County. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in it for me you ask? The more companies that agree to shift some of their purchasing back to Champaign County means more local companies will see increased sales. As much as you want local companies to buy your goods and services, your fellow Chamber members want you to buy more locally as well. It means better customer service, quicker turnaround and no shipping. More local purchasing means more money in the local economy. It means more money to keep jobs and create jobs. Your commitment to this grassroots effort, along with other local businesses, will make the dollars add up. Again, without spending more than you have already budgeted. In fact, did you know that according to Civic Economics West Michigan that $140,000,000 of new economic activity means 1,600 newly created jobs and $50,000,000 in new wages. Imagine being part of creating 1,600 new local jobs without spending more than you already spend. Take the Local Purchasing Challenge. Help make a difference in our community. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get easier than this: Step 1

Identify the categories/line items in your budget where you spend money outside of Champaign County.

Step 2

Commit to reallocating a small portion of that purchasing back to a business in Champaign County. Use the Chamber as a resource to find a local vendor.

Step 3

Take the Challenge and return this card to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.

Step 4

Honor the promise.

Step 5

Update the Chamber on your status when asked (quarterly update).

Step 6

Sit back and feel good about your decision to help improve your business and our economy. Watch our local economy and local businesses grow.

Yes, please list and promote our company as a local business committed to purchasing more locally. I understand our actual pledge will not be published. Name ________________________________________________________________________ Business ______________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ E-mail ________________________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________________________________________________________ Between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2017, our company commits to reallocating purchasing dollars spent with vendors outside of Champaign County to local businesses by (at least) the amount indicated below:

____$10,000 ____$7,500 ____$5,000

____ $2,500 ____ $1,000 ____ $750

____$500 ____$100 Other: $_________

The Chamber will track the collective amount pledged. We will report the numbers back to the membership all while keeping your pledge confidential. Please return form by April 30, 2017.

Have questions? Contact Lindsay at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791. Please complete this form and fax to 217.359.1809 or mail to: Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave. | Champaign, IL 61820

Cham ber Sto re Mailing Labels

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:

e-Connection

Long list (approx. 2,400 names and businesses): $175 Short list (approx. 1,000 names and businesses): $125

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.

Contact Caryn Isenhower to order, Caryni@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Header sponsorship (one wk.): $100

Email Blast Advertisement 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 or 217.359.1791.

Commerce Connection

This is a bi-monthly publication that is distributed to over 2,400 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 (Add footer to the e-Connection for an additional $50.) Contact Lindsay for details at, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

EXCLUSIVE

AFFORDABLE

Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Website Marketing With over 7,000 visits/month to the Chamber website, this is where you want to be. Market your business to locals and those looking to move and/or visit here. Want more information? Contact Lindsay Quick at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org.

Event Sponsorship

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.). We have numerous opportunities throughout the year, here’s what’s coming up: • Golf Outing Title Sponsorship - $3,000 (available) • Annual Meeting Title Sponsorship - $3,000 (available)

Additional information for events such as Business Success and Solutions Seminars is available upon request. Contact ArielS@champaign county.org or call 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.

Online Business 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 or 217.359.1791.

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.

calendar of events Ribbon Cutting

First Friday Coffee

Giordanoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Wednesday, April 12 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. 2000 N. Neil St., Champaign

Spring Breakfast Series:

Featuring University of Illinois Chancellor Robert J. Jones

Thursday, April 13 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. City Center 505 S. Chestnut St., Champaign

Golf Outing Registration Opens

Monday, April 17 To register, contact Caryn at caryni@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791.

Connect@Lunch

Monday, April 17 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Outback Steakhouse 2402 N. Prospect Ave., Champaign

Business After Hours

Thursday, April 20 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. County Plaza, LLC 102 E. Main St., Ste. L104, Urbana

Friday, May 5 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. First State Bank 101 Windsor Rd., Champaign

Business Success & Solutions Seminar Emerging Workforce

Presented by Patti Dunning, Senior Vice President, Spherion Staffing Services

Wednesday, May 10 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Ribbon Cutting

Talecris Plasma Resources

Tuesday, May 16 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. 241 S. Mattis Ave., Champaign

Shred Day

in partnership with Confidential On-Site Paper Shredding (C.O.P.S)

Friday, May 12 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Fast Facts

6.0% Champaign County Unemployment Rate in January 2017

32 business licenses applied for in Champaign County in February 2017

104.1

February 2017 U of I Flash Index for Illinois

857,837 rides were taken on CUMTD in December 2016

4,633 visits to the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s page, champaigncounty.org in February 2017

6,022 average amount of referrals PER DAY the

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory received via search engines and online sources in February 2017

2014 The year that the Champaign County

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

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