chamber connection MARCH 2021
ARTICLE NAME
ARTICLE NAME
ARTICLE NAME
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
SPECIAL PARTNERS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Kevin Vick, Chairperson Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C.
Platinum:
Memorial Hospital & Care Center
Gold:
HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital
Amy Richter, Chairperson Elect & Treasurer Hospice of Southern Illinois
Silver:
Illinois American Water Company
Bronze:
Ameren Illinois Belleville Boot Company Belleville News-Democrat Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C.
Friends:
Associated Bank Auffenberg Belleville Busey Bank Commerce Bank Eckert’s Inc. Gonzalez Companies, LLC Grey Eagle Distributors Scott Credit Union Southwestern Illinois College TerraSource Global
Alliance:
Abbott EMS Allsup, Inc Balke Brown Transwestern Bank of Belleville Belleville Area Special Services Cooperative Bi-State Development 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 Holland Construction Services Jack Schmitt Chevrolet Knipp Roofing & Exteriors, Inc. Mathis, Marifian & Richter, Ltd. McDonald’s - Burris Management, Inc. McKendree University National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Nothing Bundt Cakes Print Master Serra Honda O’Fallon SIHF Healthcare Southern Illinois Builders Association Southern Illinois University Edwardsville The Esquiline of Our Lady of the Snows Willowcreek Rehab & Nursing Center
Mary Lamie, First Vice Chairperson Bi-State Development Ryan Boike, Second Vice Chairperson Belleville Public School District #118 Edmond Brown, Immediate Past Chairperson ELB Enterprises, Inc.
Board of Directors
Lisa Adams, Adams Publications Jeff Bair, Grimm & Gorly Florist and POUR@322 Jeff Baker, The Esquiline Brett Baltz, Egyptian Workspace Partners Mayor Mark Eckert, City of Belleville Amy Gould, Illinois American Water Ericka Logan, Logan & Logan Mngt & Accounting Service Dan Lovekamp, Auffenburg Dealer Group of Illinois Tracy McCollum, Standard Rule Promotions Brian Mentzer, Belleville Township High School Dist. #201 Paula Nixon, Ameren Illinois Jessica Orelt, Allstate Insurance Kirk Schilling, Invelope LLC Laura Schrick, Mathis, Marifian & Richter Stephen Sedlak, Schmale Insurance Ron Stephens, Bank of Belleville John Ziegler, Memorial Hospital
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Chairman Mark Kern, St. Clair County Christine Spargur, Scott Air Force Base
CHAMBER STAFF Wendy J. Pfeil, President/CEO 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, Busey Bank 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 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 2021 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 2021/2022 EVENT SPONSORSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE After a unique 2020, the Chamber is looking to the future in hopes of still being able to host some of our signature events during the second part of 2021 and into 2022. Starting in March, the Chambers Sponsorship Campaign officially begins. It is an annual six-week campaign when the Chamber seeks our membership’s support for the year ahead including: 2021 Otto Golf Classic (includes teams), 2021 Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, 2021 Chili Cook-off and Chili Chase 5K Run, Business After Hours Hosts, Coffee Cup Connections Hosts, 2021 Annual Meeting, 2021 Government Officials BBQ, 2021 Teacher Appreciation Reception, 2021 Issues & Eggs, Leadership Belleville Class of 2021/2022 Class Days & Scholarships, Web Sponsorships, Weekly Email Update Sponsorships, & more! If you are interested in a sponsorship, call us at 618-233-2015. Hurry! Once the six weeks are up, your chance is gone!
chamber recap of february’s #Showsomelove campaign As the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce, we know our businesses rely on us for many different resources. During February, we wanted to highlight our businesses on our Facebook page to help them get publicity to over 3,000 of our followers and beyond. We put a call out to all of our members to submit themselves to be a part of it and had a great turnout! We appreciate your help to help us spread the word about some of our many wonderful businesses in the community. Businesses highlighted included: Week 1: Day 1: Refresh. Recharge. Relax. Day 2: National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Day 3: Eye on Design Window Treatment & More Day 4: Abe’s Gourmet Popcorn Shop & Sugar High Day 5: Tactical Towing & Recovery, Inc. Week 2: Day 6: Schaefer Autobody Centers Day 7: Logan & Logan LLC Management & Accounting Services Day 8: Egyptian Workspace Partners Day 9: Scott Credit Union Day 10: Hospice of Southern Illinois, Inc.
Week 3: Day 11: St. Clair Country Club Day 12: Serra Honda O’Fallon Day 13: Makenzie Fietsam, Realtor, Beth Ortega Group at RE/ MAX Preferred Day 14: The Arcades Center Day 15: Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. Week 4: Day 16: Challenge Unlimited, Inc. Day 17: Busey Bank Day 18: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois Day 19: Holland Construction Services Day 20: Belleville Americorps
To see the full list with links to each, you can visit the Chamber’s recent blog post on our website at bellevillechamber.org. Remember: as a member of the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce, we want to help you promote your business! You are always welcome to send in a write-up for this publication, share info in our weekly emails, on social media and more. To find out what is best for you, email marketing@bellevillechamber.org.
advertise in this publication! 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 are listed in the blue box to the left. 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, email marketing@bellevillechamber.org, or see the contract at the end of this issue. The Chamber Connection
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MEMBERSHIP UPDATES
Welcome
to the following businesses and organizations who joined the Chamber in January.
Joe & Onie’s 18 East Main Street, Belleville www.joeandonies.com
Thank you
Light Source Counseling 114 East Lincoln, Belleville www.findyourlightsource.com
to the following members for renewing their membership with the Chamber in January.
Adam’s Auction & Real Estate Services, In Albert Orelt Allstate Agency Allsup,LLC Althoff Catholic High School Ambassador Travel & Cruises Ambrosia Land Investments Beach, Terry Belle Valley School District #119 Belleville School Dist 118 Belleville Supply Company Bouse Properties, LLC Cambridge House of Swansea Casper Stolle Quarry Co. Catholic & Community Credit Union Catholic Holy Family Society Crafty Sugar Company Da-Com Corp Dave Raetz - State Farm Insurance Division of Rehabilitation Services Egyptian Workspace Partners Enjoychurch.tv Express Employment-Professionals First Bank FKG Oil Company Gateway Region YMCA George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Inc. Gerold Moving & Warehousing Company Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois Grand Rental Station Grey Eagle Distributors Grimm & Gorly Florist & Gifts
Holland Construction Services, Inc. Huntleigh Securities Corporation IMPACT Strategies, Inc. Johnson & Johnson Law Office Keehner, Jim D., Ltd. Kelso Auto & RV Collision Center Kings Point Tennis, Fitness, Swimming Mailing Methods, Inc. Martin Glass Company Memorial Hospital & Convalescent Center National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Nothing Bundt Cakes Pinnacle Electronic Systems, Inc. Providence Bank Regions Bank Schaefer Autobody Centers Schmale Insurance Agency, Inc. Scott Credit Union SIHF Healthcare St. Clair County Historical Society St. Clair Village Apartments St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Stein Automotive Tactical Towing & Recovery, Inc. The Esquiline: Apartment Community at Our Lady of the Snows Thomas, G. L., C.P.A. Toots Cake & Candy Supply Town Hall Sports, Inc. Tribout Distributors. Yaekel & Associates Insurance Services In
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
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 4
January 2016
EVENTS AND INFORMATION
March 2021
Upcoming Chamber Events All events will be held via Zoom and more information can be found on the Chamber’s website. 3/4 3/9 3/11 3/16 3/17 3/25
Virtual Happy Hour Coffee Cup Connections Healthcare & CSA Committee Meeting Board of Directors Meeting Young Professionals Lunch Hour Lunch & Learn
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.
More information and registration available online at www.bellevillechamber.org.
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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Edward S. Bott, Jr. Belleville, IL John H. Chassaing Belleville, IL Thomas F. Hennessy, III Swansea, IL Paul E. Petruska Belleville, 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.
Southern Illinois businesses… ... count on Greensfelder’s attorneys to protect their hard work and grow their businesses. We address the legal needs of business organizations in all sizes and industries and take the time to learn our clients’ needs and goals and help them stay on course.
Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. • www.greensfelder.com 12 Wolf Creek Drive, Suite 100, Belleville, IL 62226 Offices in Southern Illinois • St. Louis, MO • Chicago, IL
MEMBER UPDATES St. Clair County moving to include Phase 1b Part 2 individuals for Vaccination appointments as outlined by IDPH St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD), – in conjunction with St. Clair County Health & Medical Alliance – East Side Health District, Memorial/BJC Hospital, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, SIHF/Touchette Hospital – is moving to include all individuals in Phase 1b Part 2 for vaccine appointments as outlined by Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) as vaccine supply allows. Phase 1b Part 2 includes persons aged 16 to 64 with high-risk medical conditions, which include Obesity, Diabetes, Pulmonary Disease, Heart Conditions, Chronic Kidney Disease, Cancer, Immunocompromised State from a Solid Organ Transplant, Sickle Cell Disease, Pregnancy and Persons with Disability. St. Clair County Health & Medical Alliance will continue to vaccinate those individuals in Phase 1a and Phase 1b, along with scheduling second vaccine doses. Those interested in receiving a vaccine that live in Illinois or work in St. Clair County can sign up on the St. Clair County Vaccination Notification List on our website at: https://Health.co.st-clair.il.us. Appointments are based on vaccine availability and are given as outlined by IDPH guidelines. Individuals may also check the Illinois Vaccination Locations portal for all available vaccine location options. Documentation at the time of your appointment may be required to show that you are eligible for a vaccine as part of a priority group. For more information on this documentation, please visit the State of Illinois Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response site. Those needing assistance with signing up for vaccine notifications can call our COVID Call Center at 618-825-4447 - 7 days a week between 8 am and 6 pm. Our call center is also available assist with vaccine related questions and to assist with vaccine appointment information. Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/SCC.HealthDepartment or follow us on Twitter @stclairhealth Nationally Accredited by PHAB Vaccine appointments for the Mass Vaccination Clinic at Belle Clair Fairgrounds are set off our Vaccine Notification List. When vaccine is available, we will send emails from our notification list with instructions on how and when to schedule your vaccine appointment. For individuals without an email, please call the COVID Call Center at 618-825-4447 for assistance. Our Partner Providers – East Side Health District, Memorial/BJC Hospital, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, SIHF/Touchette Hospital – are also scheduling vaccine appointments from the St. Clair County Vaccine Notification List. You may be contacted by one of our Partner Providers by phone, email, or text message. We respectfully request that you do not call our Partner Providers for vaccine appointments unless you have been notified to do so. We all are working as quickly as possible to get everyone vaccinated as quickly as possible. For second vaccination appointments, please try to arrange that appointment with the same location where you received your first vaccine. Each vaccination location has their own appointment schedule and process to set appointments. Your second appointment cannot be before 21 days after the Pfizer vaccine or before 28 days after the Moderna vaccine, however, it can be set AFTER those dates for each. For second vaccine appointments with the Mass Vaccination Clinic at Belle Clair Fairgrounds, individuals will be notified 2 to 3 days prior to the date they are eligible to receive their vaccine. Appointments cannot be set through our website at this time. As a reminder, please continue to be safe: Wash your hands often, Wear your Mask and Watch your distance from others, even after you have received your COVID vaccination. Your vaccination may protect you from becoming ill from the COVID-19 virus – however - you can still carry the COVID-19 virus and possibly transmit it to others. For up-to-date information, visit our website: https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/health-department and follow us on Social Media: Facebook: @SCC.HealthDepartment Twitter: @stclairhealth. For St. Clair County daily COVID-19 updates, join St. Clair County (SCC) Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD) at 3:30 pm daily, Monday-Sunday, on Facebook live @stclaircoilema.
The Chamber Connection
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MEMBER UPDATES Memorial Hospital East to host Red Cross Blood Drive March 2 The American Red Cross will hold a Blood Drive on Tuesday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Memorial Hospital Belleville, Auditorium, 4500 Memorial Drive, Belleville, IL 62226. Please note you must be 16 years of age or older to donate; feeling healthy and well the day of the Blood Drive; and a photo ID is required. Lunch is provided to all donors. Appointments are recommended but not required. To make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive visit www. redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code MemorialBelleville or call 1-800-REDCROS (733-2767).
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois is seeking Male Volunteer Mentors What if you could be a part of something bigger than yourself - something that inspires the future? Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois is seeking to recruit 54 male volunteer mentors ages 18 or older who live in St. Clair, Madison, Monroe and Clinton counties by the end of 2021. Becoming a Big isn’t as complicated as you think. If you can commit 4-hours a month for 12-months to spend time with a child and to do things you are already doing like cooking, watching movies and chatting on the phone, you are halfway there! Inspiring the future of a child is not as daunting of a task as you may think. To accommodate today’s world, there is also virtual mentoring as an option. Dozens of Little Brothers in Southwestern Illinois are waiting to be matched with a Big Brother, and the only way to ensure they have someone in their corner to help them to reach their full potential is for more adults to step up and volunteer to become Bigs. Visit www.bbbsil.org/inspire to learn more about how to become a Big Brother. About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois is an affiliate of the oldest, most respected mentoring organization in the US. We are a mission driven, performance based organization that is professionally managed and provides high quality and safe 1:1 mentoring serving the most at-risk children and their families across four counties in southern Illinois: Clinton, Madison, Monroe and St. Clair.
Challenge Unlimited provides opportunities to individuals with disabilities allowing them to live, work and participate in their communities. Challenge Unlimited, Inc. is headquartered out of Alton, IL but serves Madison & St. Clair counties as well as surrounding areas. Services Offered: • Employment Services: We match individuals with documented disabilities and the desire to work in the community with employers looking to hire them. Our team offers a variety of services, including placement, transition, co-sourcing, and supported employment. • Skills Training Services: We offer skills training programs in which work-related and social skills are developed with a goal of community integration. • Contract Services: We provide award-winning janitorial services, grounds maintenance services, food services, shelf stocking, and warehouse services to federal, state, and commercial customers. CU’s facility support service contracts provide excellent training and work opportunities for individuals with disabilities. • Residential Housing: Our associate organization, Residential Options, provides quality housing and support services to individuals with developmental disabilities and mental illness. Our community-integrated group homes offer a safe and positive living environment. Whether you’re a job seeker looking for meaningful work, or an employer looking to diversity your talent pool, Challenge Unlimited can help. Contact Kelly Schillinger, Intake and Recruitment Coordinator, to get started today at kschillinger@ cuinc.org or 618-465-0044 x 1124. You can find out more online at www.cuinc.org. Page 8
January 2016
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MEMBER UPDATES Holland Construction Services Begins Second Phase of MidAmerica St. Louis Airport Terminal Project Holland Construction Services is beginning the second phase of the $30 million MidAmerica St. Louis Airport Terminal expansion project in coordination with the airport’s owner, St. Clair County. After completing Phase 1 of the four-phase project in 2020, Holland began preparations for Phase 2 in January, relocating the facility’s gas service and starting work on building the exterior shell for the expanded terminal building. The 41,000 square foot expansion is part of the airport’s four-phase Passenger Terminal Modification project. The new space will include a new security screening area, two additional boarding bridges, a service animal relief area, family restrooms, a nursing room, an expanded departure lounge, added room for concessions and renovations to accommodate people with disabilities. “While this is a four-phase and multi-year expansion project, the public will be able to see it progress quickly as the exterior shell of the new space is built,” said Steve Teipe, Holland project manager. “We’re excited to see the airport and Allegiant Airlines continue to grow and we’re proud to construct an addition that all of Southern Illinois and the St. Louis metro area can utilize.” “The expansion is monumental for the airport, especially when you consider how far it has come over 20 years,” said MidAmerica St. Louis Airport Director Bryan Johnson. “Holland was selected as the general contractor for this project because of their credibility, reliability and reputation within the industry. This project will allow travelers to have a smoother, more comfortable, and convenient experience traveling through our airport, and we’re excited to see its completion.” Construction on Phase 2 of the expansion project will be complete within a year with a cost of around $13 million of the $30 million total. Once complete, additional phases in the plan include improvements to the original terminal itself, including electrical work and other interior updates. Completion of the fourth and final phase is expected by late 2023.
SWIC WELCOMES NEW ECONOMICS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR DUSTIN sweet Southwestern Illinois College is pleased to welcome new Economics Assistant Professor Dustin Sweet, who recently joined the college in the Spring 2021 Semester. Sweet has a passion for economics and his ultimate goal is to help students understand the connection between economics and the real world. “I believe economics can be applied to everyday, real-life situations,” Sweet said. “I hope to be able to showcase that to my students and that they will leave my classes having a better understanding of why economics is so important.” He will be teaching ECON 115 Introduction to Economics, ECON 201 Principles of Economics (Macro) and ECON 202 Principles of Economics (Micro). When Sweet isn’t teaching, he enjoys refereeing youth soccer, running and golfing. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston and both his Masters of Arts and Doctor of Economics at the University of Missouri in Columbia. Sweet currently lives in St. Louis. For more information on economics classes or to search for courses offered at SWIC, visit swic.edu/courses.
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January 2016
MEMBER UPDATES SWIC welcomes Dr. Ashley Becker as the new Dean of Business, Health Sciences and Homeland Security Ashley Becker, Ph.D., has been named the new dean of Business, Health Sciences and Homeland Security programs at Southwestern Illinois College. Becker brings 19 years of experience in higher education and has held previous leadership roles including Vice President of Instructional Services at Kaskaskia College, Senior Director of Academic Affairs for the Illinois Community College Board and College Director of ITT Technical Institute in Little Rock, just to name a few. Becker is excited about working with SWIC students, faculty and staff. She enjoys and appreciates the mix of responsibilities and challenges that accompany her new role. “I love being a servant leader, someone who rallies their faculty and staff together to achieve the college’s mission,” Becker said. “It’s about impact, influence, inspiration and selflessness; I am truly blessed to be a part of this amazing institution.” In her free time, Becker enjoys watching her kids participate in activities such as tumbling, soccer, track, wrestling, basketball, dance, volleyball and spending time with family. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from University of Great Falls in Montana and both her Master of Business Administration and Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration at the University of Phoenix. Becker is also involved with the CAEL Military Advisory Board and the Illinois Articulation Initiative. Becker and her husband, Ian, live in Trenton and have three children, Kanyon, Grayson and Addison. For more information about SWIC, visit swic.edu.
CALLED to
®
Yes, the pandemic came to our hospital. So we showed it who we are. We are Called to Care. Thank a health care worker at steliz.org/calledtocare. The Chamber Connection
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MEMBER UPDATES Belleville Area Humane Society Names New Executive Director The Belleville Area Humane Society (BAHS), while enjoying over 60 years of service, has named Kim Hudgins Vrooman as their new Executive Director. Vrooman shares, “ I am coming in after and with the support of transformative leaders- two past executive directors Katie Nelson and Shoshana Mostoller, and an amazing staff already providing outstanding support in our community. I also have the incredible support of board members who believe passionately in animal welfare. She goes on to say, “I am excited to discover many more friendships in order to uplift the mission of BAHS and to empower our team! I look forward to serving our community.” Vrooman established roots in Southwestern Illinois over two decades ago when her father, a Colonel in the US Army, moved the family from the Chicago area to the Metro East. Vrooman now lives in Freeburg, Illinois with a spectacular family that includes a loving partner, two cool kiddos, and rescue pup Charity. Vrooman’s parents taught her that having a heart of service is the primary purpose of human existence. Supporting education and community causes, she is also a proponent for social equity and inclusion and believes in radical hospitality. She possesses 28 years of servant leadership experience. Moving to the area as part of a military family, she went on to earn an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts from Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Illinois, a Bachelor’s Degree in English Composition from Pierre Laclede Honors College at University of Missouri St. Louis, a Master’s Degree in Theory of Communication and Composition from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and most recently a Postgraduate Certificate from Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in Developing and Leading Effective Teams. She taught at SWIC, McKendree University, and SIUE while founding Tapestry of Community Offerings 501(c)(3) and the TOCO Shop and Textile Pantry, where she now serves as a volunteer. TOCO continues to serve 10,000 families annually through its location at 825 West Main in Belleville and beyond. During this period Vrooman learned about the transformative efforts of the Belleville Area Humane Society (BAHS), and with the help of enthusiastic volunteers, Kim initiated a relationship between TOCO and BAHS. Over the years TOCO has helped provide BAHS with needed supplies while working to also keep textiles out of area landfills. In her next role as Director of AmeriCorps in Belleville, Illinois at SWIC, Kim also helped strengthen the community partnership between BAHS and AmeriCorps. Many AmeriCorps volunteers have dedicated thousands of hours in service to the BAHS mission over the past twenty years. While serving as a Director at Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois, Vrooman partnered with BAHS’s first Executive Director Katie Nelson in order to empower the collaboration between these two national organizations that both emphasize the importance of regional and local impact. Vrooman has a deep respect for creating a compassionate place for animals within our communities. She understands the importance of humane education. She believes one need only look to how a community treats its animals to learn to what degree the community serves the greater good. About Belleville Area Humane Society (BAHS): The Belleville Area Humane Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has been serving St. Clair County, Illinois for over 61 years. Homeless animals in our community are valued, cared for, and treated with compassion. Funded 100% through donor support, BAHS strives to improve the lives of homeless animals in our community through foster, adoption, humane education, and community outreach. Services provided include: affordable spay/neuter options, low cost vaccine and microchip clinics, emergency veterinary assistance, free dog training, and a monthly pet food pantry. To learn more, please visit www.bahspets.org. Foster Program: BAHS’ Foster Program has also grown significantly in 2020, and is up 74%. Fosters are a vital component of the overall health of the shelter and help teach important social skills to new animals. They ensure the health of those in the younger pet population, who are especially susceptible to disease, by housing them outside of the shelter environment. In addition, older animals rest easier in foster care than they do in a noisy shelter environment. Fostering provides an important milestone for animals on the way to their forever homes. There is a great need for fosters, especially with the upcoming rescue transport. If you are interested in becoming a foster, email foster@bahspets.org. Both short-term and long-term fostering opportunities are available.
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January 2016
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Page 13 8/27/2020 11:03:37 AM
MEMBER UPDATES What Landlords Should Know About the December 2020 COVID-19 Rent Relief Act By Paul Petruska, Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. There has been extensive press coverage about the need for an eviction moratorium during the COVID-19 pandemic, but little about the effect that moratorium has on residential landlords. Congress attempted to help landlords indirectly in the original CARES Act, by making money available for rent relief. However, there was insufficient money, tenants were at a loss where to go to ask for such relief, and some tenants had no incentive to even ask for relief. The $900 billion December 2020 COVID-19 relief bill includes $25 billion for the Emergency Rental Arrears Program (ERAP). The new law allows landlords to apply for the tenant, if necessary. Both the tenant and landlord will benefit from this new rent relief law. Quick Action With Some Initial Answers When then-President Trump signed the new COVID-19 relief bill into law, the Department of Treasury took quick action on the rent relief money. Within days, a deadline of January 12, 2021, was set for eligible state and local governments to apply for money. An eligible local government is any such entity with a population of at least 200,000. St. Clair County applied for $7 million, and Madison County applied for $7.8 million. As of mid-February, the money had been received by Madison County and St. Clair County. However, like most jurisdictions, neither was ready to begin accepting applications. Both jurisdictions were working diligently to take the steps to be ready, such as modifying the forms, determining staffing issues, and ensuring compliance with federal rules. Based on currently known information, each jurisdiction will manage the program differently. St. Clair County is working with the Illinois Housing Department Authority, while Madison County was planning to use local municipal governments and public assistance groups to accept and process applications. Landlords and tenants will need to stay alert and watch for updates. It is expected, but not guaranteed, that landlords will be allowed to apply for the full amount of past rent due (as opposed to a flat amount). It is expected that there will be a six-month maximum for past rent and a monthly rent maximum. It is known that landlords who apply for and receive funds must agree not to evict a tenant for a fixed period of time after the application is filed. The Required Elements for Tenant Eligibility A landlord is only allowed to apply for relief if the tenant qualifies as an “Eligible Household.” The landlord will apply to the “Grantee” (the state or local government). A tenant qualifies as an eligible household if: • One or more individuals are obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling, and with respect to those individuals: • One or more individuals within the household has: • Qualified for unemployment benefits; or • Experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship due to COVID-19; • One or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, which may include: • a past-due utility or rent notice or eviction notice; • unsafe or unhealthy living conditions; or • any other evidence of such risk, as determined by the grantee; and • The household has a household income that is not more than 80 percent of the area median income for the household. The conjunction “and” was used with respect to these three requirements. Thus, an eligible household must have economic difficulty, be in danger of eviction, and meet the median income requirement. The grantee is responsible for setting a standard for the median income determination. Finally, there will a prioritization of funds for those eligible households whose income does not exceed 50 percent of the area median income and for those eligible households where one or more individuals have not been employed for the 90 days preceding the application. Landlord Action for Back Rent and Future Rent Under the express terms of the law, the landlord can seek (for the tenant’s benefit) past due rent and future rent for up to three months. The landlord must obtain the signature of the tenant on the application and must provide documentation of the application once it is filed. Any payment received by the landlord must be used to satisfy the tenant’s obligations to the landlord. There are some limits on awarding relief for future rent. Conclusion This program has the ability to solve an impending residential eviction crisis while at the same time ensuring that small business landlords can stay in business. Congress is also discussing an additional $25 billion for the ERAP in President’s Biden’s proposed COVID-19 relief plan. Landlords and tenants are not typically on the same side when a tenant falls behind in rent, but this program allows the two sides to work as team to address both of their needs. Any business owner who would like guidance may contact Paul Petruska at ppetruska@greensfelder.com or your regular Page 14 January 2016 Greensfelder contact.
MEMBER UPDATES hospice of southern illinois celebrates 40 years of caring Support, safety, and solicitude lead Hospice of Southern Illinois into the New Year as we continue our service to our patients, their families and our community as we have for the last 40 years. We celebrate 2021 with 40 years of caring. With the challenges of COVID-19 and the rapid evolution of healthcare as we know it, we maintain our reputation for excellent endof-life care. First, you can expect our caregivers to provide support and education you can trust. Next, since 1981, we constantly evolve our care model to ensure compassion, dignity and excellence. Finally, we stand by our mission to enhance the quality of life for individuals and their loved ones touched by a terminal illness. The tradition of living life to the fullest, no matter what time we have left, remains our focus. So, we ask you, as we do every one of our patients, “what is important today?” Find out what that is. Because no matter your age, gender, nationality, race, or diagnosis, quality of life matters. We started as a grassroots movement in 1981 in Belleville, Illinois. Let’s talk a bit of history before we continue on. After hospice care became widely known from a nurse, Dame Cicely Saunders, in England in 1967, it was recognized in the United States in the late 70’s. Hospice of Southern Illinois was on the forefront in caring for individuals and their families faced with a life-limiting illness. We have heard for 40 years, “I wish I had called hospice sooner.” Hearing these words far too often, we continue to advocate for peace and comfort for all individuals. Don’t delay the unique and individualized care that hospice and palliative care offers to patients and families. After 40 years of caring, you can count on your local, not-for-profit hospice. Our medical team, caregiver support, and alternative therapies extend our commitment to our end-of-life services and the communities we serve. Further, community engagement and giving back is part of our DNA. It’s a privilege and honor to be available to answer questions when you need us. Take this away from our anniversary message: don’t let the call to Hospice of Southern Illinois wait. The sooner you ask for help, the sooner your loved one receives this special type of care, and the sooner our team of individuals with a hospice heart can focus on the unique needs of your loved one’s end-of-life journey. Everyone deserves a peaceful and comfortable journey. When you think of dignity, ask for us by name. Thank you for trusting 40 years of caring with Hospice of Southern Illinois.
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, call any of our locations or visit fcbbanks.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
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MEMBER UPDATES busey bank helps improve the quality of life in our local area At Busey, we’re committed to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve. Supporting our neighbors leads to vibrant, thriving communities—places we’re proud to call home. This is exemplified through our new Busey Drives Generosity monthly campaign. Each month, Busey supports a cause to fully maximize the impact in our communities. So far in 2021, Busey has collected and donated socks in January for Poverty Awareness Month and new and unused dental supplies for those in need in February in our Dental Supply Drive. Through March 20, Busey is collecting funds for the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. Customers are encouraged to donate at their local southern Illinois Busey branch. All proceeds will go towards cookie donations for healthcare workers and food banks.
busey bank announces volunteer of the year Busey associates make a difference. From coaching little league and leading adventures to offering financial tools and advice to nonprofits, we give more than $1 million and countless volunteer hours annually to the places we call home. That’s been our promise since we opened our doors more than 150 years ago and it remains our promise today. Keeping that promise, Busey is proud to announce John McDole as our 2020 Volunteer of the Year! Throughout 2020, John completed an impressive 181.5 hours of service. In addition to serving on the Board of Education for Edwardsville School District #7, John serves on various boards and committees for organizations including the City of Edwardsville, Rotary Club of Edwardsville and the Edwardsville Nickel Plate Station. John also coaches both baseball and basketball for leagues within the community. For his efforts, Busey provided John with $1,000 to donate to his charity of choice, Edwardsville Neighbors.
MEMORIAL FAMILY CARE BIRTHING CENTERS OFFER CLASS FOR BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Memorial’s Family Care Birthing Centers will offer its next Breastfeeding Support class for expectant mothers on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Memorial Hospital Shiloh. This class, taught by certified lactation consultants, reviews breastfeeding techniques and is ideal for new mothers or as a refresher course. If you are considering breastfeeding or have chosen to breastfeed your baby, this class will provide information, encouragement and support for a successful breastfeeding experience. Both parents are encouraged to attend. For a list of all class dates, times and locations, go to mymemorialnetwork.com/family-care-birthing-center and click on Obstetrics/Birthing Classes. There is a $10 per couple fee; advance registration is required and can be made by calling 618-767-3627 (DOCS), toll-free at 833-607-3637 (DOCS) or online at mymemorialnetwork.com/events.
Website: www.efgreatersil.org Phone: (618) 236-2181 Contact us for more information on our full spectrum of comprehensive services including: Free Epilepsy Education, Service Coordination, Support Services, and Advocacy. Page 16
January 2016
MEMBER UPDATES SWIC to hold tuition rate steady for fourth consecutive year Good news for Southwestern Illinois College students. The Board of Trustees has voted unanimously to keep the tuition rate at $113 per semester credit for the 2021 school year. The college has not raised its tuition or $6 information technology fee or $3 student services fee since 2017. SWIC students pay only $122 tuition and fees per semester credit for classes, the lowest tuition rate in the state. “The pandemic has caused financial hardships for so many people in our community,” said SWIC President Nick Mance. “The Board felt it would be in our students’ best interest to keep the tuition at an affordable, steady rate. We want to ensure a college education is accessible to all.” SWIC students pay a fraction of state and private university costs. The average cost for a full-time student to attend SWIC for two years is $7,808. The average tuition for two years at a public university is $19,374 and a private university is $70,174, according to usnews.com. “Students can save money by earning their associate degree at SWIC, then transferring to a university to complete their bachelor’s degree,” Mance said. “Or they can train for a variety of well-paying jobs in two years or less. Graduates can enter the workforce without massive student loan debt.” Residents of Missouri and other surrounding states can also attend SWIC for only $122 per semester credit. “We have a number of academic programs that community colleges in other states don’t have, so last year we opened the door to out-of-state students,” Mance said. “Out-of-state tuition was previously cost prohibitive; we’ve removed that barrier.” Some of SWIC’s more popular programs include: Aviation Maintenance Technology, Commercial Maintenance Mechanics, Industrial Maintenance Mechanics, Massage Therapy and Welding Technology. The college recently added new programs such as Brewing Operations and Fermentation Science, Cannabis Industry Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Medical Laboratory Assistant, and Practical Nursing. For more information, visit swic.edu/tuition-fees.
Holland Construction Services Hires Eric Eggers as Senior Pre-Construction Manager Holland Construction Services has hired Eric Eggers to join the Pre-Construction Department as a Senior Pre-Construction Manager. Eggers comes to Holland with nearly 30 years of industry experience and over 20 years of experience in the St. Louis market. Paul Gansauer, Director of Pre-Construction Services, said “We are very fortunate that we have another Holland employee to thank for referring Eric to us. Eric has the level of expertise, experience, and detailed knowledge of pre-construction services and estimating that we were looking for and we are excited to have him join our team.” Eggers spent the previous 21 years working with a St. Louis based construction company as a senior estimator prior to joining Holland. Eggers also has experience working as a project manager and jobsite superintendent. “I was attracted to Holland because it is a company that is interested in growth, while also being committed to its core value of integrity,” said Eggers. “They have a family-friendly atmosphere and also have a strong technology focus which I appreciate.”
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World-Class Expertise is Memorial Hospitals are proud to be part of BJC HealthCare, which connects us to the area’s top specialists from BJC Medical Group of Illinois, Siteman Cancer Center, and Washington University Physicians in Illinois, Inc. Memorial offers focused, coordinated care from our experts in breast health, orthopedic care, and heart care. When you need world-class expertise, it’s right here where you live.
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January 2016
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