Permit No. 29 Champaign, IL
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b u s i n e s s - to - b u s i n e s s for
more
PAID
than
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CONNECTION
Volume 23 | Issue 5
C O M M E R C E
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016
p u b l i c at i o n
A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Experience the advantages of
SBA Financing. First Mid has a long-standing relationship with the SBA and is consistently one of the top providers of SBA 7(a) loans in Illinois.* These loans have provided area small businesses with funding for: • Business expansion, acquisition or refinancing • Equipment or machinery purchases • Inventory purchases • Building acquisition, construction or remodeling
First Mid is a Certified Lender and Express Lender with the SBA. We can help qualifying businesses take advantage of these flexible SBA terms: • • • • •
Up Up Up Up Up
to to to to to
a 7-year loan amortization on working capital a 10-year loan amortization on equipment and machinery a 25-year loan amortization on commercial real estate a 20-year fixed interest rate on certain eligible projects 90% project financing
2014 - 2015 - 2016
FIRST MID HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED BY THE ILLINOIS SBA THREE YEARS IN A ROW FOR OUR
COMMITMENT TO SMALL BUSINESS!
Mitch Swim
Regional President Commercial Lending 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 mswim@firstmid.com
Mike Krueger
Community President Commercial Lending 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 mkrueger@firstmid.com
Darlene Johnson
Vice President Treasury Management 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 djohnson@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 *Based on Illinois SBA Lender Performance Reports and the number of closed SBA 7(a) loans.
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
1 991
In honor of the Chamber’s 25th anniversary, let’s take a look back at what the staff was up to in Laura Weis President & CEO Now
In 1991, Laura was busy trying to figure out this whole “adulting” thing while channeling her inner Madonna.
Garret Hill Public Policy Director
Then
Karly Combest Director of Operations and Member Relations Karly was rockin’ the “mushroom cut” and took extra time each day to match her earrings to her outfit.
Then
Now
Now
For Garret, not much has changed. He still spends most of his days cheering on the Cubs - only now his efforts don’t seem so wasted. Then
Fun fact: the Chamber is older than our youngest staff member, Lindsay, who was born in December Lindsay Quick of 1992. Now Graphic Design and Marketing Director
Then
Ariel Short Events and Programs Manager
Now
Ariel, who was born in 1991, was busy wearing bonnets and patiently awating the arrival of her little brother.
Stephanie McCullough Director of First Impressions Then Now
Then
Then
Dan Stebel Sales Director Now
In the 90’s, Dan spent most of his summers at his family cabin and boating on Lake Superior.
In 1991, Stephanie could be found rockin’ colorful barrettes and enjoying her favorite snack: Cool Ranch Doritos.
303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org
FY16 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 Crystal Entertainment
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
Karly Combest Director of Operations and Member Relations KarlyC@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
Caryn Isenhower Accounts Receivable & Office Administrator Caryni@champaigncounty.org
Daniel Stebel Membership Sales Director DanS@champaigncounty.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS Jeffrey Baker
Pradeep Khanna
Becky Von Holten
Mike Estes
Kurt Lenschow
Chuck McReaken
David Farrar
Justin Overstreet
Beth Auterman
Clifford-Jacobs Forging
Fisher National Bank
Illinois American Water
Tabatha Helm DSC Logistics
Tonya Horn Rogards
Zachary Hillard Busey
Susan Jepsen
Reynolds Towing Service, Inc.
University of Illinois
State Farm
Martin, Hood, Friese & Associates, LLC
Rod Roberts
Thunderstruck Design
Dr. Jared Rogers
Presence Covenant Medical Center
Chair, Midland States Bank
First Vice Chair, TSM Ventures, Inc.
Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen
Jim Lyons
Past Chair, Birkey’s Farm Store
Laura Weis
Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce
Julianna Sellett Carle
FINANCIAL SERVICES Provided by CliftonLarsonAllen
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.
MEMBER ACCOLADES & NEWS
COLDWELL BANKER HONIG-BELL
REALTOR® Jim Waller, a licensed real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Honig-Bell in Champaign, has been installed as the 2016-17 president of the Champaign County Association of REALTORS®. Congratulations to local breweries DESTIHL, JT WALKER’S & TRIPTYCH for being named to Thrillist’s list of The 21 Best Breweries in Illinois.
SNYDER COMPANIES
Grant Sloniger has been hired as Sales Manager and Commercial Insurance Broker for Snyder Insurance, a division of The Snyder Companies. His duties will include leading the Commercial, Personal, and Benefits Sales Teams, developing new customer relationships, and sourcing acquisitions, and partnership opportunities with other insurance agencies. His territory will cover the Snyder Insurance offices in Bloomington, Champaign, and Springfield. Since 2005, Sloniger was the Managing Director for a National Insurance Broker, overseeing their operations in Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri. He has been licensed as a Commercial Insurance and Benefits Broker in Illinois since 1992, earned his Certified Insurance Counselor designation in 1995 and served on numerous Agency Councils for some of the Nation’s top insurance companies. The Snyder Companies have a 110 year history of providing innovative solutions to customers seeking real estate, new home and commercial construction, business and personal insurance, hotel and apartment community development and operations.
BERNS, CLANCY AND ASSOCIATES
Congratulations to Chris Billing, vice president of Berns, Clancy and Associates, for being named the 2016 Mentor of the Year for the state of Illinois by the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers. The award recognizes an Illinois Society of Professional Engineers member who best exemplifies the ideal image of a mentor. Chris has mentored young engineers over the last 25 years through the Berns, Clancy and Associates mentorship program. He also mentors young students through the fifth grade Engineer in the Classroom program and Urbana High School’s internship program to provide guidance to potential future scientists and engineers.
EDWARD JONES
Financial services firm Edward Jones ranked No. 10 on FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For 2016” list in its 17th appearance on the prestigious list. In the FORTUNE survey of associates, for which the ranking is predominantly based, 94 percent of Edward Jones associates said they have pride in the work they do. And 95 percent of associates say that overall, Edward Jones is a great place to work. Edward Jones’ 17 FORTUNE rankings also include top 10 finishes for 13 years, top five rankings for six years and consecutive No. 1 rankings in 2002 and 2003. Last year, the firm ranked No. 6 overall. The full list and related stories appear in the March 15 issue of FORTUNE magazine and at www.fortune.com/best-companies. In addition to this most recent FORTUNE honor, Edward Jones was named a great place to work for women and for millennials by the Great Place to Work and FORTUNE magazine.
HICKORY POINT BANK
Hickory Point Bank announced that Kip McDaniel has been named Mortgage Loan Officer for the Champaign-Urbana area.
FIRST MID-ILLINOIS BANK AND TRUST
First Mid-Illinois Bancshares, Inc. (Nasdaq: FMBH) (“First Mid” or the “Company”) and First Clover Leaf Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: FCLF) (“First Clover Leaf”) announced that on August 31, 2016 each company’s stockholders voted in favor of the merger between the two companies. Approximately 99.2 percent of the votes cast by each of the First Mid stockholders and the First Clover Leaf stockholders voted in favor of their respective merger proposal. The company also announced that Mary Schwartz Westerhold has been appointed to the board of directors.
FLORA GEMS
Congratulations to Flora Gems for celebrating 160 years in business.
CARLE
Congratulations to Carle for being named to the Best Hospitals list by U.S. News and World Report.
ROGARDS
When Rogards opened for business on Monday, August 1, 2016 it only had one owner instead of the three owners it has had for the past five years. Chad and Catherine Hoffman have made the decision to sell their shares of the 110 year old company to their business partner Tonya Horn. The change comes after a successful time period for the three business partners, as they acquired the company from Horn’s father in 2011 and have steadily grown the business since then.
PARKLAND COLLEGE
David Charney and Adam Karch, Parkland College/Early College and Career Academy (ECCA) automotive instructors, recently took their dual credit engine team, consisting of eight ECCA high school students, to the Dual Champion Qualifying event for the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge, in Joliet. The Hot Rodders of America Engine challenge is a competition to see how fast high school students can tear down and rebuild an engine. After being disassembled, the engine is rebuilt to factory specifications, all while being timed and with up to five judges watching. Competing against fifty other teams, the ECCA Engine Team qualified for nationals with a time of 27 minutes and 50 seconds, with no errors or penalties. Karch says, “this is a great achievement for our team in its first season. The promoter of this contest told us early on that no school had qualified for nationals in their first season.” Students will compete in the national competition at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, in November. The winners of the competition will receive scholarship money. Have news to share with the local business community? Tell us about to 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
WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between July 15 and Septmeber 22, 2016 Action Inflatables Mega Events
Baxters American Grille
Angel Paws Pet Sitting & Pet Grooming
CIBC of Illinois, Inc.
Since 2001, Angel Paws has been providing daytime and overnight quality care for your beloved pets while you are away. They have reasonable rates and treat your pets as family. Angel Paws also has two experienced groomers on staff at their new facility. They welcome walk-ins and appointments on the same day if you call before noon.
CIBC is a full-service specialist brokerage firm dedicated to the employee benefits industry. With over 100 years of combined experience, CIBC’s employee benefit specialists help over 400 employer groups in downstate Illinois navigate the everchanging environment of group benefits. CIBC’s staff are certified experts in the Affordable Care Act, and offer a level of personalized service that is over and above the traditional broker model. Located in the M2 building in downtown Champaign, the company prides itself in offering world-class expertise while providing personalized, local service.
2211 Wagon Trail Rd. White Heath, IL 61884 217.202.3139 www.aimegaevents.com Party Supplies-Renting
900 S. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821 217.359.1159 www.angelpawspetsitting.com Pet and Animal Sitting, Exercising & Daycare Services
100 Trade Center Dr., Ste. 101 Champaign, IL 61820 217.239.9299 www.baxtersgrille.com Restaurants 301 N. Neil St., Ste. 503 Champaign, IL 61820 877.936.3580 www.cibcinc.com Insurance Consultants
CRIS Healthy-Aging Center 201 W. Springfield Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 217.355.1543 www.agestrong.org Social Service Organizations
Devonshire Residential Management
Smoothie King celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on August 29.
210 W. Springfield Ave., 11th Fl. Champaign, IL 61820 217.403.3300 www.drmcu.com Property Management
Devonshire Residential Management (DRM), a full service property management company providing premier services to property owners, proudly offers clients a comprehensive range of services for their residential property management needs. Whether a single family home, apartment complex, or condominium association, services are customized to best fit not only the needs of the client but the property as well. Clients have the option of choosing from a menu of services including lease administration, maintenance, and accounting services.
Congratulations to Angel Paws Grooming & Petsitting on the opening of their new location.
From the initial walk through and inspection to meeting with prospective tenants their main focus is their clients’ satisfaction with all aspects of our service provision. They are committed to providing the highest quality service with competitive rates. Continuous and consistent communication, integrity, and dedication to our clients make DRM a leader in residential property management.
Eastland Apartments
1905 N. Cunningham Ave. Urbana, IL 61802 217.722.7063 www.eastlandapartmentsurbana.com Apartments
FYXIT Tech Repair & Services 202 E. Green St., Ste. 3 Champaign, IL 61820 217.697.4171 www.fyxit.net Computers-Service & Repair
FYXIT is a top-rated computer and phone repair shop which provides reliable and affordable tech repair and services to the Champaign-Urbana area. They fix all kinds of technology including PCs, Macs, iPhones, iPads, Android, and more. They also have technicians ready to mobilize and go on-site for troubleshooting IT issues, networking and system installations. If you’re a small business, FYXIT offers consulting and business support to keep you current on technology - to increase productivity and save money. They will help you develop your online web presence and adapt to the latest computing solutions such as “the cloud”. They are dedicated to providing the best tech repair and services and have served over 10,000 happy customers.
Hamilton Walker’s
201 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.350.0363 www.hamiltonwalkers.com Restaurants
Topline Consulting/Sandler Training celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on September 19.
Congratulations Illinois National Bank on the opening of their new location. They celebrated with a ribbon cutting on September 27.
Hamilton Walker’s weaves premium ingredients, time honored recipes, traditional culinary crafts, classic 1940’s Hollywood ambiance, and exceptional service into a vivid dining experience for every taste and preference.
Lynn Insurance
354 N. Park Ave. Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 847.971.3203 Insurance Lynn Insurance is an independent insurance agency that specializes in helping self-employed people and small business owners reduce their health insurance premiums and deductibles. They also have dental plans and life insurance.
Illinois American Water celebrated the completion of the new water tower with a ribbon cutting on September 28.
Meatheads Burgers & Fries 1305 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.352.5555 www.meatheadsburgers.com Restaurants
At Meatheads, they believe in a very simple process of getting a meal to your plate that includes all-natural, fresh ingredients. From their French fries, which are fresh cut every
Bard Optical - Champaign celebrated their 20th anniversary on September 28.
day using a meticulous 32-step technique, to their burgers, made from Certified Angus Beef® without fillers, additives or scraps, If you’re eating at Meatheads, your meal has been prepared by a dedicated chef who has given your food the care it deserves. Their passion for great customer service and immaculate cleanliness is what makes them stand out from our local competitors. They extend this level of care and commitment to you because they’re not just satisfied with great food – they want complete satisfaction. They’re also passionate about your community and prove this by applauding the determination, hustle and hard work of area youth and supporting local educational programs and charities that matter. Visit them at the Champaign Meatheads or let them bring the food to you with Meatheads Catering!
Pearl’s
1306 N. Prospect Ave., Ste. 1 Champaign, IL 61820 217.607.0785 Gaming Café Pearl’s is Champaign’s new favorite location to play slots and video poker. Pearl’s provides a comfortable and contemporary atmosphere for guests, serving meals and light bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also available is a selection of beer, wine and soft drinks. Try a Pearl’s pizza or hot breakfast sandwich. The main attraction at Pearl’s is the five video gaming machines that offer an array of slot and video poker titles from WMS, Bally, IGT and Spielo. Customers can cash out instantly via the on-site payout device. Pearl’s is a 21-and-over establishment and those who wish to play slots and video poker can do so in a private atmosphere.
Prep Freeze Cook
2502 Village Green Pl. Champaign, IL 61822 217.607.2376 www.prepfreezecook.com Food Products
Roofs by Rodger
210 Sheridan St. Longview, IL 61852 217.834.3800 www.bestrooferil.com Roofing Contractors
Slowride Pedal Tours, Inc. is a new and unique entertainment experience in Champaign. Slowride is a 15-passenger, BYOB pedal bar. Grab 14 of your friends and family and enjoy your favorite beverages aboard an openair pedal bar that offers a great sound system to play your own tunes, water misters to cool you down on those hot days, seat backs for comfort, purse hooks for the ladies and USB charging ports should your cell phone need a charge. Oh and did we mention the on board 17” color monitor for business presentations, power points and need we say Karaoke. What a great way to host a company meeting, bachelor/bachelorette party, birthday party, anniversary, sporting event tailgate, family reunion or just a night out on the town. You owe it to yourself to experience the only rolling pedal bar in Illinois. Take Slowride for a night out on the town!
Smoothie King
1904 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 800.577.4200 www.smoothieking.com Restaurants
Tailor Made Property Services, Inc. AMO 1165 N. Milwaukee Ave., Ste. 1N Chicago, IL 60642 773.394.8273 www.tmpsinc.com Property Management
Tailor Made Property Services, Inc. (TMPS) is a full service property management company incorporated in Illinois, Michigan and Indiana. They offer a full menu of management, marketing, consulting and training services. Their purpose is not to be one of the largest companies but to be one of the best. They do this by focusing on the specific needs of each individual client.
Town Square Publications
155 E. Algonquin Rd. Arlington Heights, IL 60005 847.427.4633 www.townsquarepublications.com Publishers-Directory & Guide
Sentry Roofing
3245 W. US Hwy. 136 Covington, IN 47932 217.446.2133 www.sentryroofing.com Roofing Contractors
Slowride Pedal Tours, Inc. 201 W. Springfield Ave., Ste. 704 Champaign, IL 61820 217.979.1995 www.slowridepedaltours.com Bars & Taverns
SEARCHING FOR 50 NOTABLE ALUMNI & CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF PARKLAND SUCCESS! We want to hear from our alumni! Do you have a story to tell? Please contact us by visiting http://www.parkland.edu/alumni or call us at 217-351-2458.
PARKLAND COLLEGE
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Stop Party Politics and Put Champaign County back to work by voting Yes for a County Executive!
Change government where it matters most
Champaign County needs an independent leader who can work with both sides of the aisle to move the county forward. It’s time to change and reform Champaign County government!
On November 8 reform voters can create a new Champaign County champaign Executive who is accountable to voters from county the entire county and represents all of us government from the county fields to the urban areas of Champaign-Urbana.
For All of Champaign County
Why Yes Makes Sense
The County Exec… • …is elected by and accountable to all Champaign County voters • …leads the County Board by presiding over meetings • …Is an independent voice from party politics • …has the binding authority to move county government forward • …will create checks and balances where there has been none
• …leads the county budgeting process while allowing the board to maintain their legislative responsibilities • …will not increase the costs of county government unless the county board fails to perform their budgetary responsibilities • …will force bi-partisanship with the veto authority; to override an Exec veto, 3/5ths of the board must work together— eliminating action based on party lines
reform champaign county government
fb.com/CountyExecYES
Paid for by Champaign County’s Business Empowered PAC and the Champaign County Farm Bureau Political Involvement Committee. A copy of our reports are filed with the Illinois State Board of Elections.
Champaign COUNTY Chamber of Commerce Written by Lindsay Quick In 1991, the Champaign and Urbana chambers merged to create the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce. For years, business leaders in the community had pushed for one unified chamber that would improve efficiency in resources, services and programs. To many business leaders who often found themselves supporting both chambers, this merger was also very cost-effective. Fast forward 25 years, and the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce has grown beyond Champaign-Urbana. Currently, the Chamber represents businesses from 58 cities and towns throughout the county and the surrounding areas. This inclusive, efficient model has proven to be incredibly beneficial for all types of business owners. “We find great value in partnering with local chambers who help us market our business and stay connected to the communities that we do business in,” says Sarah Greider, senior communications coordinator for Consolidated Communications. The scope of the Champaign County Chamber
R U O T E E M : S T R E P X E Thank you to all members that participated as experts and for the work you do to better our local workforce and community.
of Commerce covers a diverse area. This can at times be challenging, but the goal is to connect and create a unity amongst those doing business in Champaign County regardless of their physical location. Todd Modglin, owner of TeeMo Event Photography based in Rantoul, explains, “I do think it can be a disadvantage to be located outside of the urbanized Champaign-Urbana area. I have to work much harder to create relationships with organizers and gain recognition.” However, Linda Hamilton, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Iroquois Federal whose corporate offices are in Watseka, finds benefit in that aspect: “We find that being located outside of C-U is an advantage. We are able to develop relationships with our customers who are our neighbors and friends.” The Chamber has, and will continue to hold events and programs as a way of keeping our members connected to each other as well as the greater Champaign-Urbana Community. Modglin adds, “There should always be a way for those locally needing work done to connect with local businesses.”
Consolidated Communications
Spherion Staffing
Iroquois Federal
TeeMo Event Photography
Sarah Greider Senior Communications Coordinator 121 S. 17th St. Mattoon, IL 61938 www.consolidated.com 217.234.9955 Linda Hamilton Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer 108 Arbours Dr. Savoy, IL 61874 www.iroquoisfed.com 217.531.1718
Cindy Somers Franchise Owner 1805 Woodfield Dr. Savoy, IL 61874 www.spherion.com 217.359.4488
Todd Modglin Owner 1010 Lancaster Dr. Rantoul, IL 61866 www.teemophotography.com 217.377.6950
For a number of reasons, a good number of those doing business in Champaign-Urbana choose alternative locations to have their businesses.
Somers adds, “ Champaign County must continue to bring in reputable and growing companies. We also need to retain the talent we currently have in our community.”
According to Cindy Somers, Franchise Owner of Spherion Staffing in Savoy, “We are near a bus line, get good visibility and are easy to get to.”
At the Chamber, we advocate for our members and help them get what they need in order to thrive in our community.
Regardless of where our members choose to locate themselves, they all still have similar goals and needs in mind.
Greider adds, “It is very important to us to have a strong, local presence in the commmunities that we serve. We do this by being deeply engaged in the communities.”
As with most business owners, growth and expansion are always hot topics.
Representing Champaign County and those in surrounding areas over the past 25 years has had it’s challenges, but at the end of the day, the Chamber is in business for business.
Hamilton explains, “In order to continue to grow in Champaign County, we need to keep the economy strong with a pro-buiness environment.” No matter the type of business, everyone wins when the local economy is thriving. In order for businesses to do well there needs to be prosperity throughout the region.
The Chamber is invested in the community and will continue to act as a resource for anyone in business or wanting to get into business in the area. Together, the Chamber and its members will continue to create a stronger, more prosperous business community.
On the go? Busey has your MoneyPass®! Whether you’re across town or across the county, enjoy access to 25,000 surcharge-free ATMS—always open and now, always free!
Busey. Your Dream. Our Promise.
busey.com 217.365.4500
Member FDIC
n g i a p m Cha t
wes Chu rc h & Neil facing
In the past 25 years, Champaign-Urbana has undergone some major changes. Take a look at some of the areas most recognizeable locations and how they have changed overtime.
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Photos courtesy of the City of Champaign Planning and Development Department and the City of Urbana.
Creek and S Golf Cou r ubdiv ision se
Branch: 21 Champaign
Pub: Champaign Chamber of Commerce
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Slip into your best blue jeans, put on a bow tie and be prepared to pop some bubbly as we celebrate our 25th anniversary at the
2016 Chamber Annual Meeting sponsored by:
Friday, October 28, 2016 Noon to 2:00 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn 1501 South Neil Street Champaign, IL 61820 Receive a complimentary bow tie with registration. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. The program starts promptly at noon. Full lunch and entertainment included. The 2016 Small Business of the Year will be named at the event. Individual attendance is $39. Table sponsorship (seats eight) is $425. To reserve your seat, contact Caryn Isenhower via email, caryni@champaigncounty.org or by phone at 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 – 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. What’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 doesn’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 October 31, 2016.
Have questions? Contact Karly at KarlyC@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
PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE November 8 is Election Day and the Champaign County’s Business Empowered PAC announced its endorsements for the upcoming election. The Business Empowered PAC is a subsidiary corporation of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce that endorses and supports candidates with a pro business mind set and agenda. Endorsed candidates are Michael Madigan for State Senate District 52, Mark Shelden for County Recorder, John Farney for County Auditor, Julia Reitz for State’s Attorney and Jon Rector for County Board District 5. Garret Hill, spokesperson for the PAC, said “The Business Empowered PAC’s goal is to support and endorse business-friendly candidates running for state or local office and the PAC board of directors believes they have accomplished that goal for the upcoming election. Each of the candidates who have been endorsed will be strong advocates for the business community and will serve Champaign County well.” Also appearing on the ballot this November is a referendum proposed by Champaign Unit 4 Schools that is asking the public to approve a $183.4 million property tax increase. The new revenue will be used in part to renovate and repair Central High School, Franklin Middle School, Spalding Park, McKinley Field and Centennial High School and demolish and rebuild Dr. Howard Elementary School. It is estimated the tax increase will increase Unit 4’s property tax bill $280 per every $150,000 of market value.
The Champaign County Board also passed language for two ballot referendums. The first is asking the public to approve a ¼ cent sales tax increase. It is estimated the increase will raise $4 million per year and would sunset after twelve years. The new revenue will go to facilities repairs and maintenance of which the county has over $50 million in debt. At the County Board’s Committee of the Whole meeting, it was stated that this is the first time the Champaign County Board has come forward with a long-term facilities maintenance plan. The second referendum the county board passed on the November ballot is whether the people of Champaign County would like to elect the County Board Chairman At-Large. A County Board Chairman At-Large is similar to the Chamber and Farm Bureau proposal to elect a County Executive in that both are elected by the people of Champaign County, not the politicians on the board, but does not come with the new structure and extra authority that a County Executive would have. Voters will have the option to vote for both and in the event that both pass, according to Champaign County Clerk Gordy Hulten, the County Executive would take precedent since it is a structural change to the board. The deadline to register to vote is October 11. The Chamber of Commerce can help assist in voter registration if you or your employees would like to update your registration. Please contact our Public Policy Director, Garret Hill, at garreth@champaigncounty.org for further assistance.
When two good things collide – The result is greatness! Michaels’ Catering is now the official caterer for Hilton Garden Inn.
217-359-1151
NG-1321947
217-351-2500
217 Heating and Cooling 807 Dennison Dr. Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217.281..1650 www.217inc.com
First Community Title Service, Inc. 1101 W. Windsor Rd., Ste. B Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 217.351.9940 www.fctitles.com
BankChampaign, N.A. 2101 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217.351.2870 www.bankchampaign.com
First State Bank 101 Windsor Rd. Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217.239.3000 www.fsbcorp.com
Dish - Passionate Cuisine 45 E. University Ave., 4th Fl. Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217.586.2300 www.dishpassionatecuisine.com
Habitat for Humanity 119 E. University Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217.819.5111 www.cuhabitat.org
Dr. G’s BrainWorks 114 Lincoln Square Urbana, IL 61801 Phone: 217.607.2427 www.drgsbrainworks.com
Illini Home Improvements 2705 Bartlow Rd. Urbana, IL 61802 Phone: 217.352.9770 www.illinihomeimprovements.com
Edward Jones - Darrold Kennedy 1912 Round Barn Rd., Ste. E Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 217.398.6562 www.edwardjones.com
Marine Bank 2434 Village Green Pl. Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217.239.0100 www.ibankmarine.com
Parkland College Business Training 1315 N. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 217.353.2101 www.parkland.edu/businesstraining
Residence Inn by Marriott 502 W. Marketview Dr. Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217.398.0000 www.marriott.com/cmpri
Reynolds Towing 1417 W. Kenyon Rd. Urbana, IL 61801 Phone: 217.337.0913 www.reynoldstowingserviceinc.com
new addition to the chamber board: PRADEEP KHANNA,
University of Illinois Associate Vice Chancellor for Corporate Relations and Economic Development
Welcome and thank you for your service.
“Mentors to America’s Small Business.” Upcoming Workshops:
Interested in being a mentor?
October 20 - Writing a Business Plan
You get what you give. You’ve been a successful member of the business community. You have created jobs. You have managed people. You have managed finances. You’re a wiz with tax documents. You know the importance of a good business plan. You have benefited from those who have come before you.
November 3 - Financing a Business November 10 - Non-Profits November 17 - Crowdfunding 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Now, it’s time to take what you know and share it with the next generation.
November 17 - Financing a Business All workshops held at Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign *Unless otherwise noted, all workshops are held from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
To get started, visit: www.core.score.org or call 217.359.1791
To get matched with a mentor to help you start or grow your business today visit
To register, call Stephanie at 217.359.1791
score.org
Ready to Grow? But not sure how?
Do you have a specific business challenge that if you could just solve it... it would unlock so many opportunities for your company? We are now accepting applications for our next Economic Gardening Company. Through our partnership with the Edward Lowe Foundation, the Chamber can assemble a specialized team of researchers to provide you with real time data and executable strategies specific to your company’s needs that will take your company to the next level. This is a proven economic development strategy in which the Chamber can help to grow our local companies. To apply, visit: www.champaigncounty.org Applications will be evaluated by a panel of our sponsoring companies.
Chuck Eyman Kirk Harney Jan Miller Dan Marker Steve Tock
LOCAL. EXPERIENCED. INVESTED.
MEMBER FDIC HICKORYPOINTBANK.COM
CHAMPAIGN
DECATUR
PEORIA
SPRINGFIELD
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
Recently redesigned, 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 list? 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: 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 Writing a Business Plan
ECI SCORE Thursday, October 20 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Business After Hours
Thursday, October 20 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Lincolnshire Fields Country Club 2000 Byrnebruk Dr., Champaign
Ribbon Cutting
Pearl’s Thursday, October 20 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 1306 N. Prospect Ave., Ste. 1 Champaign
Business Success & Solutions Seminar New Overtime Rules
presented by Malcohm Smith, US Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division
Tuesday, October 25 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Hilton Garden Inn 1501 S Neil St., Champaign
Ribbon Cutting
Eastland Apartments Wednesday, October 26 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. 1905 N. Cunningham Ave., Urbana
Chamber Annual Meeting Friday, October 28 12:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Chamber Office Hilton Garden Inn 1501 S Neil St., Champaign
Financing a Small Business ECI SCORE Thursday, November 3 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
First Friday Coffee
Fast Facts
5.1% Champaign County Unemployment
Friday, November 4 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Christie Clinic 101 W. University Ave., Champaign
Rate in July 2016
Ribbon Cutting
Champaign County in July 2016
Wausau Homes Monday, November 7 4:30 - 5:00 p.m. 2901 W. Springfield Ave. Champaign
Non-Profit Organization (NPO) Workshop
ECI SCORE Thursday, November 10 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Business Success & Solutions Seminar Crowdfunding
Co-Sponsored by ECI SCORE presented by Alan Singleton of Singleton Law Firm
Thursday, November 17 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Financing a Small Business ECI SCORE Thursday, November 17 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
28 business licenses applied for in 104.8
August 2016 U of I Flash Index for Illinois
914,406 rides were taken on CUMTD in August 2016
5,757 visits to the Chamber’s page, champaigncounty.org in June 2016
8,300 average amount of referrals PER DAY the
Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory received via search engines and online sources in August 2016
2014 The year that the Champaign County
Chamber of Commerce was named the Illinois Outstanding Chamber of the Year
Business After Hours
Thursday, November 17 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham 101 Trade Centre Dr., Champaign
303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org
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