Chamber Connection Newsletter | March 2020

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chamber connection

THE GREATER BELLEVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MARCH 2020

ARTICLE NAME

ARTICLE NAME

ARTICLE NAME

DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION


SPECIAL PARTNERS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Edmond Brown, President ELB Enterprises, Inc.

Platinum:

Memorial Regional Health Services, Inc.

Gold:

HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital

Kevin Vick, President Elect Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C.

Silver:

Illinois American Water Company

Bronze:

Ameren Belleville Boot Company Belleville News-Democrat Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C.

Friends:

Associated Bank Auffenberg Belleville Commerce Bank Eckert’s Country Store and Farms Four Fountains Nursing and Rehab Gonzalez Companies, LLC Grey Eagle Distributors Homefield Energy Regions Bank Scott Credit Union Southwestern Illinois College TerraSourceGlobal TheBANK of Edwardsville The ROHO Group

Alliance:

Abbott EMS Allsup, Inc Balke Brown Transwestern Bank of Belleville Belleville Area Special Services Cooperative BOS Metro East Banking Center Breakthru Beverage Group Cannon Utility Services, LLC. Casino Queen Chelar Tool and Die CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP Cooling Concepts ELB Enterprises, Inc. Empire Comfort Systems FCB Bank First Bank FKG Oil Company Hinshaw & Culbertson, LLP Holland Construction Services International Paper Jack Schmitt Chevrolet Korte & Luitjohan Lewis Rice LLC Liberty Bank Mathis, Marifian & Richter, Ltd. McDonald’s - Burris Management, Inc. Nothing Bundt Cakes Siteman Cancer Treatment Center McKendree University National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Print Master Sam’s Club SIHF Healthcare Southern Illinois Builders Association The Esquiline of Our Lady of the Snows Walmart Willowcreek Rehab & Nursing Center

Amy Richter, First Vice President Hospice of Southern Illinois Mary Lamie, Second Vice President Bi-State Development Mike McManus, Immediate Past President Memorial Regional Health Services, Inc.

Board of Directors

Lisa Adams, Adams Publications Jeff Bair, Grimm & Gorly Florist and POUR@322 Brett Baltz, Egyptian Workspace Partners Ryan Boike, Belleville School District #118 Cathy Dupertuis, People Ready a True Blue Company Mayor Mark Eckert, City of Belleville Jerril Jones, Center for Racial Harmony Dan Lovekamp, Auffenburg Dealer Group of Illinois Tracy McCollum, Standard Rule Promotions Brian Mentzer, Belleville Township High School Dist #201 Kayla Mitchell, Scheffel Boyle Paula Nixon, Ameren Illinois David Nosacka, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Jessica Orelt, Allstate Insurance Scott Schanuel, Holland Construction Services Ron Stephens, Bank of Belleville Ben Wanless, Commerce Bank

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Chairman Mark Kern, St. Clair County Christine Spargur, Scott Air Force Base

CHAMBER STAFF Wendy J. Pfeil, Executive Director wpfeil@bellevillechamber.org Peggy Schifferdecker, Membership/Event Manager pschifferdecker@bellevillechamber.org Diana Goebel, Marketing & Communications Manager marketing@bellevillechamber.org Alicia Slocomb, Main Street Manager bms@bellevillechamber.org Cathleen Lindauer, Director, Belleville Tourism clindauer@bellevillechamber.org

Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce 216 East A Street, Belleville,IL 62220 Phone: (618) 233-2015 Fax: (618) 233-2077 www.bellevillechamber.org

AMBASSADORS Rebecca Boyer, Kaskaskia Engineering Group, LLC Justin Chapman, TheBANK of Edwardsville Lynne Clapp, Vertical Performance Terri Dambacher, CompuType IT Solutions Julie Fetters, Associated Bank Mary Jo Foerste, Community Member Cari Frick, Metro Lock and Security, Inc. Sharon Goff, Self-Employed Patty Gregory, Art on the Square Dean Hardt, City of Belleville Dennis F. Korte, Sr., Community Member Tracy McCollum, Standard Rule Promotions Dorothy Meyer, St. Clair County Mark Mueller, Mueller Furniture Al Orelt, Albert Orelt Allstate Agency Lisa Phillipson, Hospice of Southern Illinois Joy Prigge, Dieterich Bank Leslie Schmidt, Abbott EMS Loretta Stammer, Community Member Brandy Steely, Community Member Anne Thomure, Memorial Regional Health Services Jack Weck, Community Member Sheri Welch, Independent Insurance Agent Susan Wobbe, Community Member John Wunderlich, Community Member Sharon Zika, Scott Credit Union

ADVERTISE IN THIS PUBLICATION 2020 Advertising Rates Business Card: (3.5 x 2.5in)

$25 per month

1/4 Page: (3.5 x 5in)

$50 per month

1/2 Page: (7 x 5in)

$100 per month

Full Page: (7 x 10in)

$200 per month

Ads must be received by the 15th of each month, electronically in JPEG or PDF form. Please call 618-233-2015 or email marketing@bellevillechamber.org to reserve your ad space.

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January 2016


COVER STORY belleville main street celebrates the return of spring in green

Help Belleville Main Street celebrate the return of spring and turn Belleville green at the St. Patrick’s Day – Belleville celebration! The fun kicks off at 9 am on Saturday, March 14th with the Lucky Leprechaun 5K run/walk. Last year over 600 participants took part, and we are hoping to have even more sign up this year. Union United Methodist Church kindly hosts the start and finish, providing us with their fellowship center as a perfect place to warm up and cool down. The run and announcements are concluded by 10:30 am, giving participants a chance to head a few blocks away to the rest of the festivities. The Ancient Order of Hibernian’s Parade starts at 11 am at 3rd and A Street, heads down 3rd Street to West Main, then heads west on Main Street to Oak Street. Upon conclusion of the parade around noon, East Main and many of the side streets will close down to traffic and open up to all kinds of shenanigans! The east end near Big Daddy’s and Tavern on Main will be party central for the adults with a DJ rocking the street. Head a block west to entertainment and treats offered up by The Wine Tap and Copper Fire. Bennie’s Pizza Pub will be offering up a DJ to keep your toes tapping. Abe’s Popcorn, Crafty Sugar Company, and Seven are crafting family-friendly activities including bounce houses and games, with Seven offering up live entertainment all day. So skip the bridge, and stay on the east side for your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations! (Should you need it, the Uber ride is so much cheaper!)

2020/2021 EVENT SPONSORSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE FOR LIMITED TIME Starting in March, the Chambers Total Resource Campaign officially begins, meaning 2020/2021 events and sponsorships are available now. It is an annual six-week campaign when the Chamber seeks our membership’s support for the year ahead including: 2020 Otto Golf Classic (includes teams), 2020 Chili Cook-off and Chili Chase 5K Run & Kids Pepper Dash, 2021 Business After Hours Hosts, 2021 Coffee Cup Connections Hosts, 2020 Annual Meeting, 2020 Government Officials BBQ, 2020 Past Presidents Luncheon, 2020 Teacher Appreciation Reception, 2020 Issues & Eggs, 2021 Annual Dinner & Silent Auction (includes tables), Leadership Belleville Class of 2020/2021 Class Days & Scholarships, Web Sponsorships, Weekly Email Update Sponsorships, & more! If you are interested in a sponsorship or joining the Chamber as a member and have not yet been contacted, call us at 618-233-2015. Hurry! Once the six weeks are up, your chance is gone! The Chamber Connection

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March 2020

Upcoming Chamber Events

Total Resource Campaign Begins 3/4 Weiss Insurance Ribbon Cutting 3/5 Ambassador Meeting 3/5 Business After Hours 3/10 Coffee Cup Connections 3/12 Healthcare & CSA Committee Meeting 3/12 70th Anniversary Enlisted Dinner 3/14 St. Patrick’s Day 5K & Block Party 3/17 Board of Directors Meeting 3/18 Leadership Belleville Committee Meeting 3/18 Young Professionals Luncheon 3/19 Belleville Main Street Diva Night 3/20 Leadership Belleville History, Culture & Religion Day 3/26 Lunch & Learn If you’re interested in getting involved with a committee, please call the Chamber at 618-233-2015.

advertise in this publication! NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING CONTRACT OUT NOW

Advertise with us here in our Chamber Connection newsletter! It is distributed the last week of each month (Example: April’s newsletter will be distributed the last week of March) via email to over 1,600 Chamber individuals and posted on our website all month long. Advertise once or all year long! Ad Sizes & Ad Rates: Business Card (3.5”w x 2”h) $25.00 1/4 Page (3.5”w x 5”h) $50.00 1/2 Page (7.5” x 5”h) $100.00 Full Page (7.5”w x 10”h) $200.00 Artwork must be received by the 15th of the month. If the ad is not received by this date, it is not guaranteed to make that newsletter. If it is a recurring ad, the previous ad will stay in it’s place . To find out more visit our website at www.bellevillechamber.org, you can email marketing@ bellevillechamber.org, or see the contract insert in this issue.

YOU’RE INVITED Please Join Us for an

Open House March 28, 2020 1:00 - 3:00 pm Complimentary Food & Beverage Provided Reservations are Encouraged

St. Clair Country Club 100 South 78th Street Belleville, IL 62223 618-398-3400 www.stclaircc.com 18 Hole Golf Course w Olympic Size Swimming Pool w 3 Clay Tennis Courts w Fitness Center w Banquet & Fine Dining Page 4

January 2016


CHAMBER NEWS THE GREATER BELLEVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INVITES YOU TO ATTEND

THE 70TH ANNUAL BELLE-SCOTT ENLISTED DINNER

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2020 IN HONOR OF THE MEN AND WOMEN OF SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE. THE SHRINE BANQUET CENTER | BELLEVILLE 6 PM | CASH BAR 7 PM | DINNER & PROGRAM $100 | Includes sponsoring dinner for attendees and one Enlisted Member $50 | Military members of the Belle-Scott Committee Please RSVP by Tuesday, March 3. Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce 618.233.2015

chamber says good-bye to long time ambassador Our long time Ambassador Rose Marie Fitzgerald gained her heavenly wings on January 31, 2020. Besides being an ambassador for the Chamber, she was a life-long active member of Zion Evangelical Church in Millstadt, a volunteer for Mind’s Eye and countless civic organizations during her banking career, her goal was to be the best she could be. Rosie was the epitome of style and grace and up until the end had a positive light surrounding her. While the world is a little dimmer today, we know Rosie’s light will continue to shine on.

The Chamber Connection

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MEMBERSHIP UPDATES

Welcome

to the following businesses and organizations who joined the Chamber in January.

160 Driving Academy 5720 North Belt West, #28 | Belleville (618) 334-2663 www.160drivingacademy.com

Weiss Insurance 2301 North Illinois | Belleville (618) 277-5048 www.weise-ins.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes 5915 North Illinois | Belleville (618) 416-8002 www.nothingbundtcakes.com

Thank you

to the following members for renewing their membership with the Chamber in January.

Allsup, LLC Ambassador Travel & Cruises Auffenberg Dealer Group Balance Coffee & Tea Bellecourt Banquet Center Belle Valley School District #119 Belleville Animal Clinic Belleville News-Democrat Belleville School Dist 118 Bi-State Development Breakthru Beverage Cambridge House of Swansea Catholic Holy Family Society Chelar Tool & Die, Inc. Cigar Inn Jazz Club, Inc. Commerce Bank Da-Com Corp Dave Raetz - State Farm Insurance David Chumley Empire Comfort Systems First Bank Gerold Moving & Warehousing Company Grand Rental Station Holland Construction Services, Inc. HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital

Illinois Math and Science Academy Jefferson’s Restaurant Jim D. Keehner, Ltd. Kelso Auto & RV Collision Center Kings Point Tennis, Fitness, Swimming KMA Certified Testing, Inc Martin Glass Company Memorial Hospital Moore & Simonin, P.C. Oliver C Joseph, Inc. Providence Bank Pyramid Electrical Contractors, Inc. Rice Sullivan LLC Schmale Insurance Agency, Inc. St. Clair County Historical Society Stifel Stein Automotive Terry Beach The Esquiline - Apartment Community of Our Lady of the Snows The Wine Tap Thomas, G. L., C.P.A. W.A. Schickedanz Agency, Inc. Yaekel & Associates Insurance Services Inc.

Did you know the Chamber has a members-only event calendar? Submit your event online at www.BellevilleChamber.org and click “Calendar” to see the calendar and submit your event! All events will be featured in our Weekly Friday E-blast. Page 6

January 2016


Ribbon Cuttings Belleville Community Development Corporation House Rehabilitation Tuesday, February 18 313 S. 9th Street | Belleville

For a complete list of our members, visit www.BellevilleChamber.org. For Membership Information, please contact Peggy at 618-233-2015 or PSchifferdecker@bellevillechamber.org

Advertise your organization’s job opportunities for free! Email your job descriptions to marketing@bellevillechamber.org or call 618-233-2015 for more information.

Celebrating a new business opening, anniversary or remodel?

Celebrate with a Ribbon Cutting! Contact Peggy Schifferdecker, Membership/Event Manager, for more info. Call the Chamber Office at (618) 233-2015.

The Chamber Connection

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NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Upcoming Business After Hours March Memorial Hospital

RSVP for events online at www.BellevilleChamber.org! Just click on the event you wish to attend and log-in. Need help? Email your RSVP to marketing@bellevillechamber.org or call 618-233-2015.

April Olde Town Mall May The Weingarten June Belleville Area Humane Society & Breakthru Beverage July The EDGE August HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital September Fletcher’s Kitchen & Tap October Olde Town Mall November The Esquiline December Breakthru Beverage

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January 2016


BUSINESS AFTER HOURS On February 6, FCB Banks hosted Business After Hours at their 401 S. Illinois Street location in Belleville. Nearly 70 Chamber members were in attendance to network and “escape the cold� during their tropical theme gettogether. FCB Banks has served the Metro East for three generations, all with local family ownership and management. Their original banks opened in New Baden and Albers in 1901 and customers quickly associated FCB with quality service, competitive rates , and personal customer care. These qualities became the pillars of their business when First Collinsville Bank opened in 1990 and they began expanding throughout the area. Today they have sixteen locations through the St. Louis area and Metro-East. Thank you to FCB Banks for their hospitality at the February Business After Hours.

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For more information about FCB Banks: www.fcbbanks.com

Upcoming Business After Hours

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The Chamber Connection

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LEADERSHIP BELLEVILLE Government Day On February 21st, the 2019 - 2020 Leadership Belleville Class continued their program with Government Day. The day started with breakfast and a meeting with Jenny Gain-Meyer (City Clerk), Dean Hardt (City Treasurer), and Ken Kinsella (Alderman). The class then met with Mayor Mark Eckert and learned about various departments. The group then heard from Chad Phillips of Senator Tammy Duckworth’s Office and took part in a mock city council meeting. The day concluded with lunch and a mini retreat at Peer 151. Thank you to our day planners: Eric Schauster, Asst. Dir. of Economic Development, City of Belleville, Class of 2000 Meals, snacks and meeting rooms were sponsored by the City of Belleville, The Weingarten, Artigem/Peer 151, Bouse Properties and Eric Schauster To learn more about the Leadership Belleville Program, visit www.bellevillechamber.org.

Class Member Spotlight

Tasha DeProw

Mark Heffernan

Jacob Kotler

Being part of Leadership Belleville has Leadership Belleville is a When I began Leadership Belleville, been a very empowering and positive transformative leadership learning I was looking forward to learning experience for me. After each session, journey that challenges even the most more about various aspects of the I am filled with such positivity and feel seasoned leaders. Participants learn Belleville community. Not being from challenged to improve myself and more about themselves as leaders the area, I saw the program as a great working dynamics and relationships. I and discuss successful leadership have learned so much in such a short strategies in their respective fields. opportunity to learn about this new time. All the facilitators have shared Equally important, participants learn place I would be living and the various valuable insights to not only help us about all aspects of the Belleville business, and organizations in town. learn to expand our leadership skills, community that intertwine to make What I did not expect was to become but also how to grow on a personal the place we live and work great. The great friends with the 19 other people level. Each place we have visited, we staff and facilitators of the program have learned how each area impacts are highly motivated professionals in the program. Over the course of the another and how it all fits together It in the community that are invested program the bonds and friendships has opened my eyes to view areas in in making this program successful. I have made have truly been just he community that I did not even know Additionally, the networking as valuable as the content of the were there. Being able to talk within opportunities are perhaps the most program. I look forward to continuing our leadership groups to discuss goals invaluable take-away from this and improvement strategies has program. I would highly recommend to grow these relationships long after helped me gain valuable tools and Leadership Belleville to any individual the program has ended. ideas to expand upon. I have enjoyed interested in a quality leadership learning more about the community learning experience! and how things all come together to work, how to think outside the box and challenge each other in our diverse environments. I continually look forward to Leadership Belleville days. Page 10 January 2016


EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT Governor French Academy Governor French Academy was founded in 1983 by Phillip Paeltz and a group of investors committed to providing successful college preparation for any interested students in grades nine through twelve. The high school rapidly expanded and moved to its current location in a former furniture store on Main Street. The grade school was added so college preparation could begin in kindergarten. Governor French was soon recognized for academic prowess. The foundation for this success is an emphasis on traditional values of solid academics, hard work and individualized instruction to engage a student to achieve his or her highest potential. Today Governor French Academy (GFA) is run as a cooperative of its faculty members serving as a board of directors known as, “The College of Governor French”. Each faculty member now plays a role both in running the classroom and in running the school. They find that as a result much more thought goes into what resources are used in the classroom and how they are chosen and used. Conversations between faculty and families led to the addition of a 3-year-old preschool classroom in the fall of 2019. GFA students range from three-year-old preschoolers learning their letters, numbers and colors or four-year-old kindergartners learning to read and write to twelfth graders writing college-level research papers and competing in international science competitions. The mission of Governor French Academy is to prepare all its students for college or college-level education. This is accomplished through a curriculum designed to produce successful competitors in a global economy. This curriculum focuses on the basic skills of reading, writing, mathematics, science, social sciences, and world languages at all grade levels. It is constantly evaluated and revised to best fit the expectations of colleges. A traditional emphasis on math and science has evolved into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) experiences in recent years. GFA still has – and requires participation in – an annual science fair because science professionals want students to have experience in scientific research. Governor French faculty members do and teach whatever is necessary for each student to get into college, to graduate from college, and to be able to afford a college education. Governor French graduates have gone on to earn degrees and undertake careers as diverse as their set of classmates. They have earned undergraduate and/or graduate degrees at institutions as diverse as MIT, Marquette, the University of Illinois, and SWIC; they hold positions ranging from physicians, research scientists and professors to a butcher and a stand-up comedian. In other words, there is not a typical Governor French student -- or graduate. Yet they all hear the same advice each day before classes begin: “Do your best and go to class”. Regardless of ability level or learning challenges, each student is expected to put out top effort. As a result, some Governor French students have begun studying calculus as eighth graders. Others have entered the school as eighth or ninth graders functioning at the third grade level and progressed enough to be accepted into and graduate from college. The expectation that one will do one’s best has paid off through the years – the average college financial aid package per 2017 GFA graduate was $63,000. In the long run, paying school tuition can result in actual savings. Governor French Academy is not for everyone. The school has no classroom walls, bells or PA system. This takes getting used to, but also prepares students for the workplace where distractions abound. As a result, while there is no entrance exam, all prospective students are asked to spend at least half a day as a visiting student. If you haven’t visited Governor French Academy, stop in to see four-yearolds reciting the names of the Presidents or the fifty United States or speaking Spanish. Observe older students strengthening their own skills in the process of tutoring younger students. Walk through the Hall of Nations bearing flags of school families’ homelands or peruse the many academic trophies GFA students and teams have earned. Challenge a student of almost any age to a game of chess. Better yet, invite a child who is looking for a great school to spend the day at GFA. The investment that may result will be worth every penny and more. The Chamber Connection

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MEMBER UPDATES

FOOD PANTRY VOLUNTEERS SAFETY Recently, volunteers and board members of the Community Interfaith Food Pantry in Belleville attended a presentation titled, “Food Pantry Safety: Dealing with Difficult Situations” by Southwestern Illinois College Public Safety Officer Daryl May at Programs and Services for Older Persons in Belleville. The food pantry is also a Retired Senior Volunteer Program volunteer location. Pictured, left to right, Safety Committee Members Marti Frick of Belleville and Jeff Winter of Swansea, Governing Board President Susan Evers of Belleville, Volunteer Coordinator Joy Hudgins of Belleville and Officer May. For more information on the food pantry’s services or donating visit feedbelleville.org.

Shareholders Patrick B. Mathis Kevin J. Richter Mark J. Stegman Mark S. Schuver Gregory W. Coffey William J. Niehoff Kelli E. Madigan Bradley W. Small Deanna L. Litzenburg Philip D. Speicher Laura E. Schrick Beth K. Flowers William W. Asa Rebecca K. Wohltman Associates Natalie T. Lorenz Colin C. Clark Melissa C. Meirink Amy C. Randazzo Allyson T. Schwab Chad J. Richter

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January 2016


MEMBER UPDATES Oates Associates Celebrates 40 Years This year is a momentous occasion for Oates Associates as we celebrate our 40th anniversary. We have kicked off 2020 with a progressive outlook for the future while reflecting on our past. From 1980 to 2020 we have been shaped by our people and projects, clients and partners, and family and friends – and have highlighted some noteworthy accolades: • What began as a small office in Glen Carbon, Illinois soon grew to a 45-person firm with offices across Illinois and Missouri. Founder David Oates is still a familiar face around the office. • Our versatile staff continues to grow and includes licensed Professional Engineers, Structural Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Professional Traffic Operations Engineers, ADA Coordinators, Competent and Qualified Persons in Fall Protection, and LEED Accredited Professionals. • We have designed projects that have shaped the landscape of our region, both transportation and building infrastructure. Our more historical projects include the design of new interstate, bridges, and interchanges along Interstate 255 totaling $70 million in construction and the original design of over $100 million of new campus buildings at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. • Oates leaders have been the face of engineering associations that continue to build and advance the engineering profession, including Bruce Schopp as the Board Chair of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Illinois and Joseph Hagerty, who served as the Chairman of the Board of ACEC of Missouri last year. Oates Associates’ 40th year is in honor of our many dedicated employees and clients – and we look forward to celebrating throughout 2020. Oates Associates, celebrating its 40th year, is a multi-disciplined design firm with offices in Collinsville and Belleville, Illinois and St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri. Oates provides engineering and surveying services for transportation and building projects. Specifically, this includes transportation planning, traffic engineering, highway and street design, building and bridge structural design and inspections, site design, stormwater management and survey services. For more information, visit www.oatesassociates.com or call 618.345.2200.

IMPACT Strategies Completes Work on Siteman Cancer Center at Memorial Hospital East IMPACT Strategies has completed construction on the new Siteman Cancer Center at Memorial Hospital East’s Shiloh campus. The new building added approximately 70,000 square feet of treatment facilities and office space to this Illinois campus. The first floor of the three-story building is occupied by Siteman Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute – designated Comprehensive Cancer Care Center in the region. The new facility contains 2 reinforced concrete vaults for Siteman’s LINAC (linear accelerators). It also houses labs, a pharmacy, medical oncology infusion clinics, and radiation oncology clinics, giving patients access to innovative, lifesaving technology and treatments. Paintings by regional artists will be featured at the facility and a healing garden will be located on the west side of the building. Approximately half of the second story has been finished out for primary care physicians. IMPACT Strategies received critical support from several design professionals on this project including Archimages Architecture, David Mason & Associates Structural Engineering, and IMEG Corp. Engineering. The project was constructed by over 25% minority and women-owned business entrepreneurs. IMPACT Strategies provides client-focused construction management, design/build, and general contracting services. The firm offers a full continuum of innovative design/build service capabilities including proven construction management processes and site development. IMPACT Strategies serves a regional and national client base in the Healthcare, Senior Living, Multifamily, Office, Retail, and Warehouse/Distribution markets. To learn more visit BuildwithIMPACT.com or call 618-394-8400 or 314-646-8400. The Chamber Connection

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MEMBER UPDATES American Cancer Society Relay For Life of St. Clair County Needs Event Volunteers The American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay For Life of St. Clair County needs volunteers for its annual Relay For Life event on Saturday, June 13, 2020 at O’Fallon Township High School. We are looking for individuals interested in donating their time or talent as our community comes together to defeat our biggest rival – cancer. Volunteers are the heart and soul of ACS and are critical to our success at every level. By joining the Relay For Life movement, volunteers help us save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer. Relay For Life continues to be the largest peer-to-peer fundraising event with 2.5 million participants globally uniting to save lives from cancer. A meeting will be held for interested community members on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at 6:00 PM at O’Fallon Township High School Cafeteria. Funds raised at Relay For Life events help the ACS fund and conduct breakthrough research, and give cancer patients and their families the resources they need, like free rides to chemo, free places to stay near hospitals, and a live 24/7 helpline for answers and support. Other ways to join the Relay For Life movement include: • Attend the kickoff celebration • Start or join a fundraising team • Make a donation • Invite a cancer survivor to be celebrated. Or if you’re a survivor, join us. To learn more about Relay For Life, visit RelayForLife.org or relayforlife.org/stclaircountyil.

Downpayment Plus® Program at FCB Banks The Downpayment Plus® Program is back at FCB Banks! Qualified buyers could receive up to $6,000 when purchasing a home. The Downpayment Plus is an annual grant program and funds are available until the grant is depleted, so act now. For more information, call FCB Banks - Belleville at 235-9090 and ask for one of our Loan Officers. FCB Banks has 16 locations throughout the metro-east and is committed to helping our neighbors and communities grow by providing quality financial products and services to meet individual needs. To open an account or apply for a loan, stop by any of our locations or visit fcbbanks.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Revolutionary New Device for Addiction Withdrawal A small device used to help in the fight against opioid addiction is now available in Southern Illinois. RecoverUs Centers in Carbondale, a non-narcotic, treatment facility is the only facility in the state using a small device, to help clients fight their addictions to Heroin and other opioids. The device so small it will fit in the palm of your hand has been created by a Midwest company, and is attached behind the ear. The device works by sending electrical signals from the nerve points on your ear to the brain, allowing the brain to “calm down.” It works almost immediately from the time it is attached. The device allows clients not to need to swallow a pill when they are already combating the horrible nausea and severe pain associated with withdrawal. A member of our medical staff will only need a few minutes to attach the waterproof device you will wear for 5 days. During those 5 days you are able to continue to work, spend time with your family and live your daily life without any disruptions. Clients who have used it are very thankful coming from a time of helplessness. Please call RecoverUs Centers Carbondale, (618) 519-9444, for additional information on the use of this device in your treatment and starting your path to Recovery.

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January 2016


MEMBER UPDATES HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital expands hours of imaging services in downtown Belleville HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital will expand its open days and hours for 3D mammography and X-ray procedures at the downtown Belleville imaging center beginning February 3, 2020. The HSHS Imaging Center-Belleville is located at 180 S. Third Street, Suite 101, and the new hours will be Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Walk-in X-ray services are available and 3D screening mammograms are set by appointment. To schedule a mammogram, patients can call 618-222-4639. State-of-the-art equipment, including a Quantum Carestream Digital Radiographic (DR) unit and a 3D Hologic Mammography unit with breast tomosynthesis system, are in use at this location to provide patients with the highest quality imaging scans. “St. Elizabeth’s strives to provide our patients access to the latest screening technologies in convenient and accessible locations throughout the region,” said Jeff Worman, Manager of Radiology at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “We feel the expanded hours and an additional day of operation at our Belleville center will further serve our patients’ imaging needs in a close to home setting.” This latest expansion of hours continues an ongoing series of investments by St. Elizabeth’s Hospital’s Imaging Services program that includes the addition of low dose CT lung screenings, heart calcium CT scans and high-level Interventional Radiology services. Screening 3D mammograms can detect lesions with improved clarity and save lives. This 3D technology allows radiologists to exam the breast tissue layer by layer. So, instead of viewing all the complexities of breast tissue in a flat image, as with traditional 2D mammography, fine details are more visible and no longer hidden by the tissue above or below. Greater accuracy results in earlier detection. It also allows for fewer unnecessary call-backs which can reduce patient anxieties and reduces the potential for unnecessary biopsies. The public is reminded that Illinois legislation passed Senate Bill 466 in to law in 2016, which requires that all insurance plans throughout the state cover 3D mammography. If a person’s individual insurance plan states differently, patients are encouraged to contact their plan administrator. The X-ray unit has a free-floating table that can accommodate patient types from pediatrics to adults and those in wheelchairs. Its low dose technology reduces radiation by approximately 40% and drastically improves image quality to allow the physicians to see changes to the patient body. Other services available at St. Elizabeth’s Belleville Health Campus include HSHS Physical Therapy services, walk-in HSHS Laboratory services, SIHF Healthcare clinics and other physician offices. For more information about HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, visit the hospital’s web site at www.steliz.org. HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital is part of the Southern Illinois Division of Hospital Sisters Health System, which also includes HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, HSHS Holy Family Hospital in Greenville and HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland.

Adams Publications, Inc. Magazines, Directories, Brochures, PrograMs, Writing, eDiting & More John Wunderlich Account Manager

Adams Publications, Inc. phone: 618-410-5308 5343 Belleville Crossing St., PMB 44 john@marketplacemagazineonline.com Belleville,The Ill. 62226 www.marketplacemagazineonline.com

WriteWay

Adams Publications, Inc. 5343 Belleville Crossing St., PMB 44 Belleville, Ill. 62226

(618) 210-3626 cell; (618) 416-1839 office lisa.adams@marketplacemagazine.biz

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The Chamber Connection

Page 15


MEMBER UPDATES Belleville Provides Sense of Hometown Community for Military Family Ash and Emily Smith have lived a lot of places – Ohio, Arkansas, North Carolina, and Italy, just to name a few. As children of parents who made careers in the military, they both were used to a childhood of new homes, schools, cities and even countries. Perhaps that’s why they gravitated toward one another in 2006 when they met as undergraduate students at Fayetteville State University. The couple wed in 2008, and like their parents before them, dedicated themselves to a life of military service. “Before we came to this area, I was selected for a mission that was either going to put us in Washington D.C. or at Scott Air Force Base,” said Ash, who is an air operations planner at Scott Air Force Base. “I had the opportunity to telework for about six weeks between Scott [Air Force Base] and Charlotte, where I was stationed at the time, and with that, I got to explore this region and became really drawn to it.” Then, orders came down, and the Smith family was officially stationed to Scott Air Force Base. “We were thrilled to be stationed here,” said Emily, who works as a freelance marketing and writing professional. “We looked all over the area – O’Fallon, Shiloh, Fairview, Mascoutah – but Belleville drew us in. It kind-of hit us when we learned of the charming downtown, the historic neighborhoods, and the community centeredness that Belleville offers.” In fact, it was those historic neighborhoods and homes that sealed the deal for the Smiths, who had always dreamed of rehabilitating a home to make their own. So, that’s what they did in 2017, when they bought a 5,000 square-foot home on Belleville’s historic Abend Street. “We’re basically living in a piece of art,” said Emily. “The craftsmanship, details, history and stories of this home make it unlike any other, and this is where I want by boys to grow up. I want to provide them with a sense of a hometown and lifelong friends and connections, and I want to do that right here.” Not only has the home rehabilitation connected the Smiths to other like-minded individuals in their neighborhood, of which there are plenty, but the couple also connected with a strong homeschooling organization as they homeschool their boys, Ben, 10 and Wes, 7. “We’re part of a completely secular and diverse group of homeschoolers,” said Emily. “That has connected us to surrounding communities and other families who want to provide this kind of education to our children. That’s made this move a seamless transition for our boys.” While the couple has made a concerted effort to make friends and become involved in their new city, the atmosphere in Belleville has made that unusually easy for them. “Belleville is one of the most welcoming communities we’ve ever lived in, and that allowed us to get involved quickly,” said Emily. “Belleville’s really easy to plug into. Between the old house culture and meeting other people who are renovating or restoring houses, we’ve made a lot of good friends. We made friends quickly here, enjoy the variety of festivals downtown, and have connected to a lot of other people our age who are working to shape this community for the future.” Another attractive aspect for the Smith family is the progress they’ve seen throughout the city. “Belleville is changing and with that, there is a focus on culture, art, and creating a vibrant city,” said Ash. “That is not only attractive as a homeowner and father, but to see a community come together and support things like the Mural Project, Art on the Square, and other cultural enhancements going on, well, it makes us want to be part of it.” To learn more about the City of Belleville visit www.belleville.net.

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January 2016


MEMBER UPDATES Learn Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital March 24 HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital’s Wound Care Center and Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate at HSHS Medical Group encourages the public to take a free Diabetes Risk Test on Tuesday, March 24 in support of American Diabetes Association Alert Day. This nationally recognized day is a “wake-up call” asking the American public to take a one-minute Diabetes Risk Test to find out if they are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The Risk Test, which is available for all ages, asks users to answer simple questions about weight, age, family history and other potential risks for pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. Preventative tips are provided for everyone who takes the test, including encouraging those at high risk to talk to their health care provider. Staff from St. Elizabeth’s Wound Care Center and Joslin Diabetes Center will be stationed in the O’Fallon Health Center Lobby, at 3 St. Elizabeth’s Boulevard, O’Fallon, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on this day to offer the free risk assessment test, answer questions and provide information for available diabetes resources. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes affects more than 30 million people in the United States, and a quarter of them – seven million – do not even know they have it. An additional 84 million Americans have pre-diabetes, which puts them at a high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Unfortunately, diagnosis often comes seven to 10 years after the onset of the disease, after disabling and even deadly complications have had time to develop. Everyone should be aware of the risk factors. The good news is – you can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Even if you have prediabetes, there are many factors you can control. Prediabetes is a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes and even heart disease. Your chances of having prediabetes go up if you: • Are 45 or older • Are African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American or Pacific Islander • Have a parent, brother or sister with diabetes • Are overweight • Are physically inactive • Have high blood pressure or take medicine for high blood pressure • Have low HDL cholesterol and/or high triglycerides • Had diabetes during pregnancy • Have been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome “If you or someone you know may be at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, we encourage you stop by our Diabetes Alert Day event to take the free assessment risk test, or visit www.diabetes.org/takeaminute. It’s also important to talk to your doctor about your concerns,” said Jeanette Martineau, RN, BSN and Program Director of St. Elizabeth’s Wound Care Center. “Early diagnosis is critical to successful treatment of diabetes and may allow you to delay or prevent diabetes related complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, nerve damage, problem wounds, amputation and death.” St. Elizabeth’s Hospital partners with Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate at HSHS Medical Group in O’Fallon to offer the residents of Southwestern Illinois world-class diabetes and endocrinology care. Joslin Diabetes Center, based in Boston, is the world’s leader in caring for diabetes in all its forms, combining comprehensive experience and expertise with the latest advances in research, education and treatment. Joslin Diabetes Center’s multi-disciplinary approach ensures that people with diabetes get state-of-theart medical care, patient education and aggressive prevention and management of complications. For more information about diabetes services, including St. Elizabeth’s Wound Care Center, visit www.steliz.org, or to learn more about Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate at HSHS Medical Group, call (618) 589-9051 or visit www.hshsmedicalgroup.org.

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The Chamber Connection

Page 17


MEMBER UPDATES first responders now equipped with lifesaving EpiPens Area ambulances are now better equipped to address allergic reactions in the field thanks to HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon with a donation of 24 EpiPens. EpiPens, which is a name-brand, is an auto-injecting device that delivers doses of epinephrine to stop severe and potentially deadly allergic reactions. In 2007, when the Mylan company bought the auto-injecting EpiPen device, the cost for a set of two auto-injectors was about $94. Today, the cost for an EpiPen kit (a pair of two pens) is over $700. “Anaphylaxis is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction. The most common allergic reactions are to foods, insect stings, medications and latex,” noted St. Elizabeth’s Manager of Emergency Management Brad Perry, NREMTP, FP-C. “If you are allergic to a substance, your immune system overreacts to this allergen by releasing chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.” Perry recognized that the high cost of this lifesaving treatment is often a prohibiting factor for many of our rural ambulance services, so they are often unable to carry them as standard equipment. “For many of our rural services areas, the communities tend to have fire department or first responders who are typically volunteers and the smaller departments are very limited with funding,” he said. “Because we know time is truly of the essence in an allergic reaction, the hospital chose to donate this added equipment for the safety of patients in our region and to support our health care partners in the field.” Along with these auto-injectors, training on their proper use will provide the much-needed assistance to these departments and their citizens they serve. St. Elizabeth’s is the Region 4 EMS System Resource Hospital, as designated by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), for eleven rural fire departments. As the Resource Hospital for EMS entities, St. Elizabeth’s assumes responsibility for the entire EMS program of partnering agencies, including the clinical aspects, operations and educational programs. This hospital also provides medical supplies and equipment for participating EMS vehicles. The ambulance services receiving EpiPen donations include Addieville Fire Protection District, Ashley Fire Department, Carlyle Fire Department, Coulterville Fire District, Grantfork Fire District, Highland-Pierron Fire Department, Marine Fire Department, Okawville Fire Department, St. Jacob Township Fire District, St. Rose Fire Department, and Swansea Fire Department.

Think Big

Shop Small

Grow Belleville

Page 18

January 2016


EXPANDED HOURS

AT HSHS ST. ELIZABETH’S IMAGING CENTER, BELLEVILLE Renovated space. Advanced technologies. Convenient to you. New hours for HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Imaging Center, located at 180 S. Third Street, Suite 101, are now Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Services include walk-in X-ray services and 3D screening mammograms by appointment.

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The Chamber Connection

Page 19


MEMBER UPDATES 2019 Shows Strong Economic Progress in Belleville Where Small and Big Businesses Thrive For 2019, the City of Belleville issued 115 commercial occupancy permits, welcoming new businesses and supporting many others who remodeled or expanded their businesses throughout the city. Some new businesses include Rainstorm Car Wash, 5600 N. Belt West; C & C Food for Your Soul, 1926 W. Main; Sugar Fix Bakery, 106 E. Main; and Sip & Chew Coffee Shop, 124 W. Main, to name a few. “Businesses are the backbone of Belleville,” said Mayor Mark Eckert. “We want folks to come to Belleville and see how great it is to open a business here, which is not only supported by the city, but by the close network of business owners and merchants who work together to support one another and the business community here.” In fact, the City of Belleville was cited as of the “next hot spots for development” by the St. Louis Business Journal in 2019. Big restoration projects include the Meredith Home/Lofts on the Square, which was approved for historic preservation tax credits, allowing the project to move forward. 2019 marked the first year that the Downtown Development/Redevelopment Commission granted funding for building improvements made to the exterior of buildings along Main Street as part of the Special Service Area Assistance Program. Margarita’s Restaurant and Circa Boutique completed major façade improvements on the 100 block of East Main, as part of this redevelopment initiatives, along with Olde Towne Mall, Ben’s Crafts & Floral, SPACE’S event center and Venue on Main. With that, owners of Circa Boutique, Andria and Christian Powell, completely updated the façade of the building which was originally all concrete. They cut out windows on the second story that had been filled in with concrete and replaced other windows. They removed the initial storefront display and extended it to its original height, finishing it with floor to ceiling windows. They also worked with craftsmen to recreate the original woodwork and soffits, having them re-milled and constructed for the renovation. “The building façade update gives customers and potential customers a better understanding of our aesthetic and the kinds of items we carry, which helps to draw people in,” said Andria. “Without the assistance of the grant program, we wouldn’t have been able to update the building, which is having a positive impact on the business.” The City of Belleville also financially assists businesses on a need-and-case-by-case basis. There are many special districts within the City that allow for different types of partnerships, including the Belleville Enterprise Zone Program, Tax Increment Financing Assistance Program (TIF) Districts, Business Districts, and Special Service Areas. Likewise, the City of Belleville has launched a pilot program to work with qualified, experienced developers to restore dilapidated buildings throughout the city as one of the its infill redevelopment efforts. Renovation for the first property in this program began in 2019, and another request for proposals recently went out for the second property in the pilot program. “The really great thing about our city is that we have a variety of different real estate opportunities for business developers, whether its establishing a business on our quaint Main Street or having access to highways and nearby interstates at the more industrial locations, Belleville has so much to offer those entrepreneurs who want to build a healthy and strong business and business culture,” said Eckert. To learn more about opening or expanding a business in the City of Belleville, contact Economic Development, Planning and Zoning Department at (618) 233-6810 ext. 1250 or edpz@belleville.net.

Page 20

January 2016


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mymemorialnetwork.com The Chamber Connection

Page 21


MEMBER UPDATES SWIC faculty and STL Blues announcer Tom Calhoun inducted into ST. Louis Sports Hall of Fame With a passion for communication, sports and a strong work ethic, it is no surprise that Southwestern Illinois College Adjunct Communications Professor and Blue Storm Radio General Manager Tom Calhoun was recently awarded three honors by the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the hall of fame by being presented the President’s Choice Award and also received a commemorative 1500th-game plaque at the 4th Annual Illinois Enshrinement Dinner on February 10. Previous inductees into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame include Bob Costas, Jack Buck and Dan Kelly; which Calhoun has had the pleasure of working with. Growing up, Calhoun had a love for sports. He played baseball while attending Belleville West High School and was especially fond of Stan Musial. He also played street hockey. As a child, Calhoun was a part of a church youth group. One day after delivering a sermon, a lady told him that he had a great speaking voice and that compliment would go on to pave the path for his future career. Calhoun went on to pursue a career in mass communications. While in college, he worked at the college radio station. After graduation, he took a position at WIBV, 1260 AM in Belleville and went on to work at several other radio stations throughout the years. In 1987, Calhoun started as the public address announcer for the St. Louis Blues hockey team. During his 33 years announcing for the St. Louis Blues, he has never missed a game. As of Feb. 24, he has announced over 1,514 games.

Calhoun was presented with a commemorative 1500th game plaque during the 4th Annual IL Enshrinement Dinner in O’Fallon, Ill. He also inducted into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame and received the President’s Choice Award. Pictured above, left to right: Tom Calhoun, Head of the St. Louis National Hockey League Off-Ice Crew Tom Morris and St. Louis Blues inspiration and “super-fan” Laila Anderson. Pictured below, left to right: St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame committee member Ron Jacober and Tom Calhoun.

“One of my fondest memories of my career will always be announcing for the 2019 Stanley Cup Finals series, where the St. Louis Blues took home their first Stanley Cup,” said Calhoun. “I was also blessed with my health and a strong family growing up; which helped teach me and guide me in the right direction.” In 2013, he began teaching at Lindenwood University in Belleville and in 2019, started teaching at SWIC and managing Blue Storm Radio. Calhoun enjoys seeing students light-up when they finally understand something. “It is gratifying,” he says. “I love to have the opportunity to connect with my students and help them achieve their future career goals.” Calhoun suggests that anyone looking to enter any mass communications field should put in effort in their language arts classes, understand phonics, be able to diagram a sentence and understand the English language better than the average person. At SWIC, he has taught Introduction to Mass Communication and Radio Production. Being inducted into St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame by receiving the President’s Choice Award and receiving a commemorative 1500th game plaque from the NHL off-ice officials meant a great deal to Calhoun.. “I am grateful that all my years of hard-work are being recognized and the effort I have put into my career is being highlighted,” said Calhoun. “That’s special stuff right there, it doesn’t get much better than that.” In the future, Calhoun hopes to continue announcing for the St. Louis Blues and to raise awareness of SWIC’s Blue Storm Radio. He would like to make it a recognized entity within the community. He earned his Associate in Arts degree from Belleville Area College; a Bachelor of Science from South Illinois University Edwardsville and a Master of Arts from Lindenwood University. In his free time, Calhoun and his wife train their seven chihuahuas and enter them into dog shows. He also enjoys woodworking. Calhoun and his wife of 42 years, Barb, live in Belleville. They have two children, Ian, 39 who lives in Vail, Colorado and Stewart, 35 who lives in San Diego. Stay connected with him via his social media channels: Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. For more information about SWIC classes and programs visit swic.edu.

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January 2016


MEMBER UPDATES Mount Hope Cemetery Clean-Up Scheduled for March 8 to Kick Off Belleville AmeriCorps Week AmeriCorps Week is slated for March 8-15, and together with the City of Belleville, Belleville AmeriCorps is set to clean up debris and litter at Mount Hope Cemetery, 9401 W. Main St., to kick off the week’s events. “The City of Belleville spends about $100,000 to maintain Mount Hope Cemetery, which is in receivership and doesn’t actually belong to the city,” said Mayor Mark Eckert. “In fact, it’s the state comptroller’s office that is responsible for the property, but this is something we’ve taken on to ensure property values remain stable on the west end and so that the cemetery doesn’t turn into a dumping ground or nuisance for our residents. The partnership we’ve built with Belleville AmeriCorps is huge in helping us maintain that property. If not for the efforts by our Public Works Department and volunteers like Belleville AmeriCorps, Mount Hope would look very differently than it does.” Funded in part by the Corporation for National and Community Service and the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, Belleville AmeriCorps supports neighborhood and school efforts to strengthen the community. To carry out that mission, Belleville AmeriCorps members increase academic success by tutoring, encouraging community engagement through youth and adult volunteerism, providing positive recreational and enrichment activities for youth during after-school hours and the summer months, and promoting computer literacy. Belleville AmeriCorps was established in 1995 in partnership with SWIC, Belleville School District 118, the City of Belleville and the Franklin Neighborhood Community Association. Since then, more than 1,200 members have served nearly 900,000+ hours tutoring students, serving as summer camp counselors, rehabilitating homes, promoting neighborhood beautification, and convening neighborhood watch groups. “There is a lot of both East St. Louis and Belleville history in that cemetery, which was established in 1896,” said Eckert. “It’s important to honor that history and our city by keeping it well maintained.” The Mount Hope Cemetery clean up will be held Sun., March 8 from 9 a.m. until noon and is open to anyone who would like to volunteer. To sign up for the volunteer event, contact Belleville AmeriCorps Program Director Jay Stokes at 618-235-2700 ext. 5711 or jay.stokes@swic.edu.

HeartLands Conservancy Expands Kaskaskia River Forest Preserve HeartLands Conservancy, a nonprofit organization focused on land conservation in southwestern Illinois, announced today the acquisition of forest along the Kaskaskia River in Washington County between Okawville and Mascoutah. The properties, totaling 33.5 acres, are located within the floodplain of the Kaskaskia River and expand the organization’s Kathleen Scanlan Conservation Area to 173.5 acres. Working with numerous partners, these properties were identified as high-priorities for protection because of their locations and their significant natural features. One such feature is an oxbow lake, which was once a part of the river itself. It is home to native reptiles and amphibians, as well as, otters, warblers and bald eagles. The forest includes a mixture of oak, hickory and maple trees that provide habitat for bats, deer, and turkeys. “This expansion to the preserve is part of a 30-year effort to preserve Illinois’ largest connected forest blocks in the Kaskaskia River Basin. This forest provides critical habitat for migrating, tropical songbirds and many other plants and animals,” said Mary Vandevord, President & CEO of HeartLands Conservancy. “We look forward to hosting hikes and paddle events here in the future.” The Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation provided a portion of the funding to purchase the new addition as well as to protect the original Conservation Area with two different Land Acquisition grants. “The Foundation appreciates the strong commitment of HeartLands Conservancy to protect habitat along the Kaskaskia River, unique for its wilderness-like condition, for the people of Illinois to enjoy,” said Dennis O’Brien, Executive Director. Established in 1989, HeartLands Conservancy is nonprofit environmental organization serving southwestern Illinois. The organization works in partnership with landowners and communities to achieve its mission of conserving, connecting and restoring natural and cultural resources to sustain the communities of southwestern Illinois. To date, the organization has preserved over 9,500 acres of land and invested more than $35 million in the region’s natural resources.

The Chamber Connection

Page 23


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Community Happenings in March Great Pianist of the World | 7:30pm Sunday, March 1 Mostaccioli Dinner Fundraiser for Back- Philharmonic Hall | Belleville stoppers | 11:00am Thursday, March 12 Garden Place | Columbia Eastern IL Univ. & Belleville West H.S.Jazz Ensemble Show | 7:30pm Boardway Pops! Concert | 3:00pm Union United Methodist Church | BelThe Hett | McKendree University leville Monday, March 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 Saturday, March 21 Althoff Catholic Fathers & Friends’ Flea Market | 9:00am BINGO | 7:00 pm Belle-Clair Fairgrounds | Belleville CKL of I Country Club | Swansea Wednesday, March 4 Blood Drive | 9:00am SWIC | Belleville Thursday, March 5, 12, 19, & 26 Singer Songwriter Thursday | 7:00 pm Cigar Inn Jazz Club | Belleville Saturday, March 7 Daddy/Daughter Dance | 5:00pm Belleville West High School

Belle Valley Southern Illinois Camp Fair Belle Valley | Belleville | 11:00am

Wednesday, March 25 Savvy Senior Scam Summit | 9:00am Agesmart | O’Fallon Friday, March 27 Fish Fry | 4:30pm Garden Place | Columbia Saturday, March 28 Spring into Action Volunteer Day Signal Hill Outdoor Classroom | 9:00am Symphonic Spectacular | 7:30pm Church of Our Lady of the Snows | Belleville

The Traveling Salvation Show - A Tribute Monday, March 30 Coffee Concerts | 9:30am to Neil Diamond | 7:30pm Philharmonic Hall | Belleville Lincoln Theatre | Belleville Sunday, March 22 Flea Market | 9:00am Belle-Clair Fairgrounds | Belleville

Urban Forestry Luncheon | 11:00am Metro East Park & Rec | Collinsville

We are constantly updating our community calendar. Please visit www.bellevillechamber.org for an up-to-date list of events! To submit an event, visit the calendar page at www.bellevillechamber.org or email marketing@bellevillechamber.org.

Thank you for your Support. “Advancing Business. Supporting Community.” The Chamber Connection

Page 25


Edward S. Bott, Jr. Belleville, IL John H. Chassaing Belleville, IL John. C. Hanson Glen Carbon, IL Thomas F. Hennessy, III Swansea, IL Garrett C. Reuter, Jr. Belleville, IL William A. Schmitt Waterloo, IL Donald K. Schoemaker Shiloh, IL Kurt S. Schroeder Shiloh, IL Russell K. Scott Belleville, IL L. Kevin Vick Belleville, IL Donald E. Weihl Belleville, IL Andrew V. Wolkiewicz Waterloo, IL David W. Ybarra Fairview Heights, IL

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.

Page 26

January 2016


2020-2021 CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING CONTRACT Company Name: Contact Name: Phone:

Email:

Address: City:

State:

Please check below which size ad you would like to run: Ad Sizes:

Ad Rates:

$50.00

1/2 Page (7.5” x 5”h)

$100.00

Full Page (7.5”w x 10”h)

$200.00

The Chamber Connection Newsletter is distributed the last week of each month. Artwork must be received by the 15th of the month. If the ad is not received by this date, it is not guaranteed to make that newsletter. If it is a recurring ad, the previous ad will remain in place. Advertisers have the option of changing their ad monthly as long as new ad is received by the deadline.

Business Card (3.5”w x 2”h) $25.00 1/4 Page (3.5”w x 5”h)

Zip:

All ads must be submitted in JPEG or PDF format. Ads will be full color. Newsletters will be email distributed to more than 1,500 chamber member representatives. Please contact the Marketing & Communications Manager at (618) 233-2015 or marketing@bellevillechamber.org if you have questions regarding your ad.

What months in 2020-2021 would you like to purchase advertising space (check all months that apply): Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

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or partial amount of $

Payment by Credit Card (please fill out information below) Name on Card: Billing Zipcode: Card Type: Security Number

Number: Exp Date:

Amount: $

Signature:

Please mail to: Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce, 216 East A Street, Belleville, IL 62220, fax to (618) 233-2077 or scan and email to marketing@bellevillechamber.org. The Chamber Connection

Page 27


Keep Belleville Beautiful CITY-WIDE LITTER PICK UP

SATURDAY, APRIL 18 | 9AM - NOON FREE T-SHIRTS FOR THE FIRST 25O PARTICIPANTS! CONTACT INFO@BASICBELLEVILLE.ORG TO SIGN UP: NAME • # OF PEOPLE • SHIRT SIZE • PREFERRED LOCATION

Page 28

January 2016


The Chamber Connection

Page 29


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