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“Buy Local” sends ripples of good effects throughout your community BY CINDY WHITE Charleston Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
You’ve all heard the phrase “Buy Local” – most often from the lips of community leaders who are attempting to influence your shopping habits. And while it may be a trendy catchphrase, “Buy Local” represents a very real and positive benefit for our community. Studies show that money spent with a local business turns over within the community with three times the impact as dollars spent elsewhere. Supporting local businesses directly benefits our other businesses and organizations, as well as the citizens of our communities through increased employment opportunities, sales and property tax revenues, and charitable donations and contributions. We have many unique
products and services available right here in Charleston and local businesses are the heart of our economy. Sales tax generated from Charleston transactions stays in Charleston and contributes to the quality of life we enjoy, making every local purchase a good investment in our community. Every taxable dollar spent in Charleston helps fund important Cityprovided services like the police and fire departments, senior services, the publicf library, street maintenance, and parks and recreation activities. Whether you are buying food and household items for your family, clothes, shoes, office supplies, remodeling your home or office, buying a vehicle or enjoying a recreational activity; remember to support our local businesses first.
When you choose to “Buy Local” this is what you do: 1. You keep dollars in our economy. For every $1 spent, $1.66 comes back to the community. 2. You embrace what makes us unique. Today’s workers are choosing to settle in places that preserve their distinctive character. In an increasingly standardized world, it is important to support what is unique and special about our community. 3. You create local jobs. Small local businesses account for a large share of new jobs created each year and locally based businesses provide some of the most stable employment opportunities in a community. 4. You help the environment. Buying from a local business conserves energy and resources in the form of less fuel for
Shop Locally in Mattoon: Invest in your Community BY ED DOWD Mattoon Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
By shopping locally here in Mattoon you are helping to keep and create employment opportunities for our community. Shopping locally also supports funding for our schools and city services. The tax dollars generated from buying locally are used for improvements to city streets, police and fire protection and overall infrastructure enhancements. Mattoon and its business leaders have heavily invested in our community. The downtown revitalization continues as more small businesses are taking advantage of the improvements to the
downtown buildings. Many individuals are starting new businesses or growing existing businesses downtown and throughout Mattoon. We must support these new business ventures for their continued growth and development. It is critical for Mattoon's future to keep our young students and local entrepreneurs engaged and invested in the community. They need to see that our local businesses are supported and growing to keep them here in Mattoon to raise their families. Our local malls and small businesses need your support to continue to thrive and prosper. You simply cannot receive the personal touch and build
transportation, saving you gas and travel time which equates to money saved. 5. You nurture community. Ninety-one percent of local business owners contribute to their community by volunteering and making donations to the schools, nonprofits, community events, and more. 6. You conserve your tax dollars. Spending locally ensures that your sales taxes are reinvested where they belong – right here in your community. 7. You create more choice. Local businesses offer shoppers unique products and services, creating distinctive shopping experiences based on the needs and desires of the distinct market. 8. You take advantage of our expertise. Research shows that
small business owners compete by focusing on customer service and quality goods. They are passionate about what they do and take the time to get to know their customers. 9. You invest in entrepreneurship. Local entrepreneurship fosters economic innovation and prosperity. The success of locally owned, independent businesses provides reallife inspiration to our young people, proving that they can stay in Charleston and prosper on their own terms. 10. You make our community a destination. The more interesting and unique we are as a community, the more we will attract new neighbors, visitors and guests. So next time you need to do some shopping, think about supporting our local businesses first. The Charleston Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the support, retention and expansion of our local businesses. Make it your choice to invest in our community and help keep our local economy strong. Buy Local – It’s Your Choice!
Shop Local Intros 2016 Produced by JG-TC (Mattoon Journal Gazette & Times-Courier) 700 Broadway Avenue E. Ste 9A Mattoon, IL 61938 those unique and ongoing relationships by shopping in the bigger cities. Your friends, neighbors and their families are running these local businesses and rely on your continued patronage. On your next shopping trip save yourself the travel time and cost of a tank of gas and visit our local businesses. You might be surprised to see all that Mattoon has to offer and I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
(217) 235-5656 Publisher: Craig Rogers Advertising Director: Tammy Jordan Lisa Jackson, Retail Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6838 Michael Katz, Retail Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6834 Courtney McBay-Walker, Retail Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6832 Casianne Bailey, Retail/Sales Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6840 Connie Anderson, Classifieds/Niche’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6828
Layout and Design: Jill Koehl Advertising: To place a display advertisement, call (217) 238-6821 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or email advertising@jg-tc.com To place classified advertising, call 238-6828 or 238-6821 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.
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Yoder Gazebos brings business back home to family farm From the JG-TC
ARCOLA — John Schrock, owner of Yoder Gazebos since 1999, has brought his business home to the family farm this past year. The Schrocks have lived at the farm since 2009. It is located just two miles north of Cooks Mills at 2885 E. County Road, 1700N, Arcola. Yoder Gazebos, formerly owned by Schrock's cousin Paul Yoder, was located south of Arthur since 1996. A grand opening celebration was held in October. "It's still a work in progress," he said. "We are very happy with the move, and the customers have been great." Schrock said they broke ground for their 2,800square-foot shop in March and their 2,000-square-foot office/showroom in May. The move allowed the family to be closer together and kept his wife Barbara at home more. "Now she can step outside the house, and she's in the store," said Schrock. The business owner said they spent the last year dedicated to building the shop and office buildings and will soon finish out landscaping and building displays. He plans to have a pavilion and a gazebo or two on display in the near future. Both vinyl and wood gazebos are available
through Yoder's. In addition to gazebos, pavilions, pergolas, and cabanas, Yoder's also sells alternative heating units and gas refrigerators. Some of the heating products include: indoor wood, coal, pellet, and gas stoves; wood burning and gas fireplace inserts; and gas fireplaces. Also, outdoor wood furnaces are available. He said in-floor radiant
flooring with gas boilers have become more and more popular. "Our mainstay has been indoor radiant heating with gas boilers," he said. "One thing we're really excited about are the new EPA certified outdoor furnaces. It's very efficient." The company has one on display. "We've been very thankful for the
customers. We cherish the relationships with customers over the years. Without the customers we couldn't have what we have here." He said he had the same gratitude for his customers at the previous facility. Currently, he has a 28foot gazebo in the works as a summer project. He and his wife Barbara and their four children all work with the business.
2038 CR 1800E, Arthur, IL 61911 | 217-543-3624
Schrock said they are looking into offering additional product lines that fall in line with their current offerings and complement what they already have at their business. For more information, call the business at 217543-3624.
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The Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio is a fixture in Midtown Mattoon, having resided at 1608 Broadway Ave. for more than 40 years. For the past 11 years, the studio has been owned by Renee England, who opened her first Merle Norman franchise in 1995 in Sullivan. “I love helping people find the right skin care and cosmetic products,” England said. “Merle Norman makes this easy for me as a franchise owner because they provide us with ‘try before you buy’ products.” England employs four part-time beauty advisers and an esthetician trained in skin care. “We are a retail store that provides the help ladies need with their cosmetics and skin care,” she said. “We give full-face makeovers, help with brows, finding the right color foundation base and
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other beauty needs. We do special-occasion makeovers, as well, such as for prom, homecoming and weddings.” England, a graduate of Sparks Business School, admits that as a small business owner it is sometimes a challenge to find and keep qualified employees. “With the addition of our esthetician, I hope to add more clients. We have many long-term customers who buy our products several times a year. I have customers that bought from the previous owner
and customers that I had at the Sullivan studio.” England said she and her staff strive to offer excellence customer service. “We are here to help out and please each and every customer,” she said. “If I do not have a product in stock, I try my best to get it as soon as I can. We also have samples of most items.” The Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.
217-234-4277
1608 BROADWAY AVE, MATTOON, IL INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED BY RENEE’ ENGLAND
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The Paap Auto Body team is ready to take collision-damaged vehicles and bring them back to a like-new look again.
Tim and Sara Paap
Second generation taking on challenges at Paap Auto Body From the JG-TC
A Charleston resident who launched his own auto body shop is now preparing for the second generation as he brings his son into the trade. Tim Paap is proud to bring his son, Zack, 19, into his business, Paap Auto Body. He said Zack has been hanging around the shop since he was 5 years old, and he is now working his way up from the ground level. “We’re grooming Zack to take over the shop,” he said. “That’s the main reason I’ve been doing this.” Paap Auto Body began in Paap’s garage as a result of a do-it-yourself repair. “I had an old car – it was my first car in high school. It needed body work, and I fixed it up myself.”
That one-person shop has grown into a full-service auto body shop with seven employees today. Since 2001, it has been located at the corner of Loxa Road and Illinois Route 316. Paap Auto Body specializes in collision work using state-of-the-art repair equipment, but also assists customers with rental cars, offers 24-hour towing services and completes glass repairs. “I enjoy it all. It’s stressful, but I enjoy it,” Paap said, and he is happy to share his success with others in the business. “I like working with other shops – friends from other states,” he said. “I give them tips on being more efficient and more productive. “We strive to be the best at everything we do,” he
said, fulfilling the business’ goal of “setting the new standard for excellence.” Paap is dedicated to operating an environmentally friendly business, even developing a bio-degradable cleaning solution that he calls Paap’s Magic Cleaner. “You can use it on anything to clean,” he said. “It takes bugs off the front of your car. It cleans grout.” And it’s free. Paap invites the public to stop by the shop to pick up a complimentary bottle. Paap is a longtime member of the community, having been born and raised in Charleston. Both he and Zack are graduates of Charleston High School. “We are here not only to take care of you and your
collision needs but to give back to the community. Without all of you we would not be where we are today,” he said. Paap said his favorite part of the business is pleasing people. “I like to see the look on their face when they come to pick up their car,” he said. Connie Anderson of Neoga is one of the shop’s many satisfied customers. “Paap Auto Body did a fantastic job with my vehicle repairs! This is first time we have used them, and I have been very, very happy with the outcome,” she said. “It was over the holidays and I wasn’t without a car long. When I picked up my vehicle it was clean inside and out. “If I find myself needing auto body repairs again, I
will definitely be calling Paap Auto Body.” Paap offers quality service on all auto body repairs, whether large or small, on a daily basis. But one job from 2007 especially stands out in his mind. “A customer wrecked their brand-new Corvette, and we had to put a whole new side on it,” he said. “The car had only 10 miles on it when it was wrecked. And it was like brand new when I gave it back.” Paap Auto Body is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and can be reached at 3455301. For more information, visit the website, www.paapauto body.com, or find the shop on Facebook.
1000 N. Loxa Rd., Mattoon, IL, 61938 | 217-345-5301 | www.paapautobody.com
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Slumberland gives back to community, has extensive selection From the JG-TC
MATTOON — Slumberland Furniture continues a mission of helping the community along with providing customers a full line of top-quality products. During its four years in business, the locally owned franchise has now contributed a total of 250 mattresses to a program that helps children who don't have beds. Its participation in the Slumberland company's 40 Winks foundation is one example of an important part of the store's role, franchise owner Scott Eggleston said. "We really, strongly believe in order to be in the community, you need to be part of the community," he said. "So, that's really why we've gotten involved with so many different organizations. You've got to be able to give back." Slumberland also works with local organizations such as The Fields Church, Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army along with social service agencies and schools. Those efforts identify families in need. The store also donates 10 percent of its profits to local charities and agencies. The effort extends to local sports programs, sponsoring Eastern Illinois University athletics, the Mattoon Junior Football League, the Mattoon Area YMCA and Charleston Chill
softball. In addition, Eggleston is the president of the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce board and also serves on the boards of the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation and the YMCA. Eggleston said he feels Slumberland is a good example of what local shoppers can find if they visit the merchants in their hometowns. "You don't realize all the shopping options you have," he said. "Those opportunities are there. Local businesses should get the first shot at your business." The store features 57 mattress options with several top brands on display including Sealy, Tempur-Pedic and Simmons. "Our sales team is able to custom-fit you into the right mattress," Eggleston said. Bedding items also include six adjustable beds, a full selection of pillows and a new selection of sheets. Slumberland also has a full La-Z-Boy recliner gallery, items from the Broyhill and Bauhaus brands and 100 percent leather furniture. The store also offers interest-free financing and 30-day product and lowest price guarantees. "Our greatest asset is our employees," Eggleston said. "They make for the true Slumberland experience."
222 Broadway Ave. E., Mattoon, IL 61938 | 217-235-1400 | www.slumberland.com
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Sullivan Auto Center aims to develop, grow and expand with ‘no pressure’ From the JG-TC
Doug Dyer, the new owner of the Sullivan Auto Center, is motivated by the challenge of building his business. Dyer recently purchased the auto center, located at 924 W. Jackson, Sullivan, from Doug and Lori Ryherd. Now, he is working to differentiate his center from others in the auto business. “I enjoy the challenges of developing, growing and expanding my market and brand,” he said. “Of course, I love all different types of automobiles, so that makes it fun. But providing a transparent, hassle-free buying process, which is something you
don't typically get in the auto business, is my overall goal. “It's simple at SAC. You see it, you drive it and you buy it. There's no pressure, drama or bull!” Sullivan Auto Center offers affordable, preowned automobiles -- cars, trucks, SUVs motorcycles and more -- as well as an automotive detailing service. Dyer, who has been in professional sales, marketing and business development for 25 years, employs one salesperson, and his son, Cullen, helps with managing the lot and detailing the automobiles. “I really enjoy having my son in the business, working side by side with a
purpose. It's a great opportunity to teach him what I've learned in business throughout all aspects of my 25-year career, and I also learn from him as well,” Dyer said. “It's really special! “We aren't perfect, but we always give an honest effort. We want to do the right thing, and we are committed to providing the highest level of professional service to every customer, every time.” Dyer said it’s a challenge to select the best preowned inventory possible. “I want to ensure that the autos we buy reflect what we stand for – quality and affordability,” he said.
“We want to serve other people and give them a positive buying experience.” Dyer said his is a referral-based business. He has many repeat customers, but also meets new customers all the time. “We focus on transparency and simplicity. We do what we say we will do, every time and without hassle or question.” He said he looks forward to growing his new business, year after year. Sullivan Auto Center is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. For service
outside of normal business hours, call 217-433-8119. Dyer has a bachelor of arts degree from Eureka College. His wife, Karen, is a licensed physical therapist and has been director of Rehabilitation Services at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center for the past 19 years. They are the parents of Cullen, 15, and Kiley, 10. The Dyers reside in Sullivan and are lifelong residents of the Lovington and Sullivan area. They are huge sports fans and are supporters and members of the Sullivan Sports Boosters.
924 W. Jackson St., Sullivan, IL, 61951 | 217-728-7723 | www.sullivanautocenter.com
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Randall’s has tradition of dedication to appliance, electronics customers From the JG-TC
Rod Randall spent his childhood helping at his family’s appliance store and now is proud to continue his father’s work and build upon it. He is the owner of Randall’s Home Appliances and Consumer Electronics, which has been located at 412 N. Vine St., Arthur, since 1947. “I was born in the house next to my business and from an early age enjoyed being out in the store,” Randall said. “I helped with TV and appliance deliveries after school and in the summertime when I was in high school. I also enjoyed helping install the electrical wiring in new homes and building TV antenna towers. “When I was older, I did service work on TVs and appliances, attended refrigeration training school, became a licensed electrician, and took courses in retail management,” he said. “2016 is my 40th year working in this business since returning to Arthur after college.” Randall officially took over the business from his father in 1982. “I think owning your own business gives you the freedom to be as creative in your work as you want, to freely explore new opportunities,” he said. “For me, even though I may sometimes put in 60 hours per week at work, I can still utilize some of that time doing things for my community and other interests.” Randall’s employees also have demonstrated a dedication to the business. The primary service technician, Toby Diener, has been with the business
for 30 years. His secretary/receptionist has been with the business for 12 years. Randall’s wife, Carol, who is branch manager of the Arthur Community Bank, assists with the bookkeeping. Randall said his business is the only truly independent TV and appliance store in a threecounty area, and he admits that it’s sometimes difficult to compete with the Internet and chain stores. “Internet giants like Amazon have especially eroded TV sales,” he said. “For one sale event I priced and advertised a 50-inch LG LED HDTV lower than any price I could find on the Internet, but I did not sell one unit. I believe that was due to the growing mentality that you can always buy things cheaper from an Internet vendor or big box store. “That’s simply not the case, and by purchasing from those sources the customer sacrifices the quality service before and after the sale that a brickand-mortar store can provide.” Randall said he and his staff work hard to meet the needs of today’s shoppers and can offer the personal service that is lacking in online shopping. “We have wonderfully loyal customers, but today they are exposed to so many other ways to buy the things they want and need, and sometimes they do. Most of our customers still want to be able to talk with someone face-to-face and have service if they ever need it,” he said. “They are shopping for good value, which includes competitive prices, knowledgeable
salespeople, and service after the sale – not just the lowest price.” Randall said he is proud to feature products made in the U.S.A. “Over 86 percent of the brands of appliances we stock to sell are made in America. Our upholstered furniture, wood home entertainment centers and outdoor grills are all made in America. Unfortunately, there are no U.S. manufacturers of TVs any more, but we stock brands that are committed to good customer service. “We try to encourage our customers to consider products made in America, and one survey showed that 93 percent of consumers say they are willing to pay a premium price for American-made products, but the challenging reality is that people’s buying habits do not bear out those survey results. “More and more of the type of products we sell are being manufactured overseas, and more and more of them are being purchased by U.S. consumers, and that will ultimately become a challenge for all of us.” Even though the business climate has been tough for the last few years, Randall said he sees a strong future for his store. “Thankfully, our business has some deep roots that help us survive tough times, and we still provide an alternative to impersonal service from big box stores and online purchasing, which some
Rod Randall, right, and Toby Diener of Randall’s Home Appliances and Consumer Electronics have a combined 70 years of experience at Randall’s.
people still want,” he said. “At 93 years of age my father almost daily came to the store to check if everything was going OK. If I follow his example, Randall’s Home Appliance and Electronics will still be around for a long time.” Randall said he has many fond memories from his five decades in the business. “As a kid in the early ‘60s, I remember sitting in our car one evening in downtown Arthur, waiting for the new streetlights my father had just finished installing to come on for the first time. I remember the advent of color TV and how my father would open up the store on New Year’s Day and serve doughnuts and coffee to customers who wanted to stop in and see the Rose Bowl Parade in color. “I remember my mother and manufacturer representatives holding cooking seminars at the store when microwave ovens were first introduced to the public.” The Randall family has lived in the Arthur-Atwood area for seven generations. A native of Arthur, Randall is a graduate of Arthur High School and Elmhurst College, where he majored in political science and urban studies. His wife is a native of Hammond and has been in
the banking business for several years. Their daughter, Jennifer McCormick, is head women’s basketball coach at Beloit College, Wis., and son, Rob, is a senior software engineer for Riot Games in Santa Monica, Calif., where he works on the popular worldwide computer game “League of Legends.” Randall said his loyal customers are responsible for the business’ unofficial motto: “Since 1947.” “That says a lot. It speaks of consistency, of always being there for the customer and community, and that the customers and community have supported us for a long time so that we could remain in business. We are the oldest continuously operating retail business in Arthur, and that is because of support from our customers.” Randall’s Home Appliances and Consumer Electronics is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and can be reached at 543-3133. For more information visit the website, www.RandallElectric.biz.
412 N. Vine St., Arthur, IL 61911 | 217-543-3113 | www.randallelectricarthur.com
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Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home continues its 5-star exceptional care From the JG-TC
MATTOON — A time may come when the obligations of living on your own become too much, and the staff at Odd FellowRebekah Home in Mattoon want to be there to help. “Our exceptional people are our greatest asset,” Administrator David Standerfer said of his 145 employees. “Our families trust us because we are a family. Each of our residents becomes a special part of our larger extended family — treated with the utmost compassion and respect, while receiving an optimum health care experience when care needs unexpectedly change. Our staff loves their work and our residents, which has played a significant role in making us one of the highest rated facilities in Coles County.” Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home is a five-star rated home in Coles County. According to Standerfer, Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home is the leading short- and long-term care facility in Coles County with more than 116 years of experience serving seniors in the area. “Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home has become the trusted name for returning patients back to their lives,” Standerfer says. “Our therapy department not only provides inpatient therapy for you or your loved one but for
outpatient therapy patients as well. Our highly skilled and professional staff is committed to getting you on the road to recovery and independence as quickly as possible using the RESTORE Therapy program. Our therapists utilize state-of-the-art equipment in our bright and inviting therapy gym to individualize treatments and programs that achieve maximum success and outcomes.” Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home is located at 201 Lafayette Ave. East in Mattoon, which is a location Standerfer calls a “breath-taking location on sprawling, park-like grounds.” Additional perks of the community are a chapel, private family rooms, a hair salon/beauty shop, respite care, hospice care, and physical, occupational, and speech therapies. “Whether they are here for short-term rehabilitation or longterm, every person is treated as family,” Standerfer said. “Odd Fellow-Rebekah is unique in that a large portion of the staff has been a part of the organization for years. The care residents receive here is focused on each person as an individual and based on their needs not only physically but emotionally. I am proud to be a part of the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home family as we continue
caring for our community for many years.” Many years is right. Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home started in 1898. “Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home's original building was part of a private community consisting of a farm, housing for staff, and ‘The Old Folks Home,’” Standerfer said. “The old three-story building was torn down and replaced in 1976 with our current single-story building. The Harmony Center, a memory care unit, was added in 1996.” The Harmony Center is a state licensed memory care unit. The facility is owned by the Odd Fellows Organization and the Rebekah Assembly of Illinois and is operated by
Heritage Enterprises. Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home also works closely with health and wellness organizations throughout Coles County. “Our facility has built trusting relationships with Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System, Lake Land Community College and the Lake Land and Lakeview School of Nursing, gaining the latest information on geriatric nursing from the students,” Standerfer said. “We participate as an active member of the local Chamber of Commerce and other charitable events. We also have volunteers from Eastern Illinois University working with our residents. Our facility has many community relationships
that provide continuing individual care for our nursing home residents.” All that collaboration is about creating the best care for patients. “Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home has a long tradition of providing quality nursing home care in central Illinois,” Standerfer said. “Having been a fixture in the community since 1898, not only to fraternal members but to the entire senior community, our facility has gone through several expansions to bring us to where we are today. However, we still remain committed to providing one simple thing — quality care that families can consistently count on and trust.”
201 Lafayette Ave., Mattoon, IL 61938 | 217-235-5449 | www.heritageofcare.com
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Green Mill Village team committed to serving local community at hotel, convention center, assisted living facility, and theater From the JG-TC
ARCOLA — Live. Stay. Play. This is the slogan of Green Mill Village: Live at Carriage Crossing. Stay at Best Western, and Play at Green Mill Village Events & Theatre. This 65-acre development and its companies are located at 917 Green Mill Rd. in Arcola and are locally owned, despite their nationally recognizable brands. Green Mill Village’s first property opened in 2012 with a full-service Best Western Plus Hotel and Suites and Convention Center; expanded to include Carriage Crossing Senior Living, an allinclusive assisted senior living facility in 2014; and added the Green Mill Theatre in 2015. Carriage Crossing Senior Living offers a philosophy, unlike any other assisted living facility in the area, when it comes to senior living, according to Cassie Yoder, Green Mill Village Marketing and Development. The facility provides senior care for those with an independent spirit and includes a separate wing for memory care, an ideal offering for those with Alzheimer’s/dementia care needs. With the private memory care wing, Carriage Crossing allows individuals and couples to stay at the same location that compassionately provides exemplary senior housing options while respecting a person’s desire for independence. "Finding the right place for a loved one can be such
The Green Mill Village management team includes, from left, Carriage Crossing Senior Living's Assistant Executive Director Dawn Ard, Executive Director, Brenda Hearn, Green Mill Village Marketing and Development, Cassie Yoder, Best Western Plus Green Mill Village Hotel and Suites Convention Center General Manager, Tammy Fox, and Carriage Crossing Senior Living's Community Relations Coordinator, Andria Baszis..
a burdensome and emotional time, but our team provides education & compassion to those families to show how our reputation is built on longterm experience," she said. Carriage Crossing has made it their mission to protect the integrity and respect for the lives of their residents, she said. That mission has proved to be successful for the growth of the company as the assisted living branch is expanding its facilities to Champaign in the near future. Green Mill Village's hotel, the Best Western Plus, is perfect for families
and business travelers who may be traveling to visit Illinois backroads, Amish country, or some of the best area festivals/ festivities. Visitors can get a taste of the beauty of prairie, as the hotel rooms and public spaces are furnished with items hand-crafted locally by Simply Amish, located just down the road. Plus, the hotel is adorned with picturesque views of our rural countryside with artwork by Richard Herschberger of Herschberger Gallerie of Arthur. Every piece of artwork has a local theme or story
behind it, which is what visitors are looking for. It was an opportunity to showcase Amish Country of Illinois and the hidden gems of the prairie. She said customers don’t want a cookie-cutter hotel or experience. Therefore, from the furniture to the artwork to our events, everything has a story of exactly where it was taken, such as along a specific road or intersection or the symbolism of this area. "Our hotel serves as a launching pad for visitors," she said. "Whether it is business travelers, wedding guests or families, they are able
to go off on their excursions in the area and retreat to a hotel unlike any other." Some of the many experiences visitors opt for include shopping in Tuscola, watching local craftsmen in Arthur, visiting Lake Shelbyville and Sullivan, or eating at hometown restaurants like Sweepers in Arcola. Along with the hotel, the local Best Western Plus convention center offers space for weddings, family get-togethers, and antique and trade shows – premium space without paying Chicago prices, Yoder stated. They have
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www.jg-tc.com also offered an artisan showcase known as Taste of the Prairie in the past. “We aren’t in a metro area, yet our Best Western Plus stands out,” Yoder continued. “It has been awarded everything from Trip Advisor accolades to Best Western awards annually.” She said the honors have set them apart from all of the 4100 hotels within the Best Western brand. The Green Mill Village development itself hosts a variety of events. With its annual Holiday Walk/Festival of Trees, Green Mill Village serves as the hub for donations of decorated trees and wreaths that are donated by area businesses and auctioned off, with all the proceeds going to the donor's choice of nonprofit organization. Plus, the entire convention
center is turned into Santa’s Workshop with crafts for kids, breakfast with Santa and free reindeer games! "It's our way to give back to the community, when so many organizations are in need of financial donations. This event kicks off the holiday season and the non-profits reap the benefits. It’s a blessing to help these great organizations in Central Illinois," Yoder said. "Illinois, and our region specifically, are destinations for tourists. As an added bonus, we have Green Mill Village events that give bus groups and locals another option for entertainment," she said. In April, the Green Mill Village Events & Theatre will announce the new season lineup. The familyfriendly outings will
Festival goers sort through beads to craft necklaces at the Green Mill Village annual Taste of the Prairie festival.
include comedians, musical acts, and more. “We have a lot to be proud of and the success at Green Mill Village can be
attributed to our dedicated staff who are passionate and committed to this area,” said Yoder. "It is our way of being able to
provide a service to the community we believe in and be able to do what we love every day.”
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2016
1955
Kull Ace Hardware and Lumber, in its fifth generation, continues to offer personal touch From the JG-TC
MATTOON — With five generations of service, Kull Ace Hardware and Lumber has continued to offer the residential housing sector as well as area customers a personal touch in providing them with the resources they need in building and/or maintaining their homes. The business is run by co-owners Bill and Mike Kull. Mike said his grandfather bought the business in 1947 in the post WW II era when there was a housing boom. "Our primary business has always been more about residential housing," he said. He said the business has always been at its current location and was an operating yard when it was first started in 1888. "It's been Mattoon's focal lumber store since 1888," he said. The full-service building center offers home, duplex, pole barn, and garage packages. The staff of 14 has a strong background in the building industry with a wealth of
experience with subdivisions and area contractors and homeowners. "I'm seeing lifelong friendships that go generation to generation," said Kull, who has personally been in the business for the past 35 years. "We offer a lot of personal attention to families." He said he is now working with the grandchildren of some of the people he first worked with as a young adult. Kull added its ACE Hardware identification in 1995. The store offers lawn and garden items, custom kitchens including cabinets and countertops (quartz and granite) as well as roofing supplies. In this spring season, he said, many homeowners are focusing on siding and roofing projects as well as indoor enhancements such as updating their kitchen cabinets. "What we have is our personal experience in homebuilding projects," he said. "We can help the doit-your-selfers (DIYs) with tips. That is something we
can offer to a new homebuyer." Store hours at Kull are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday
through Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The store is located at 1700 Richmond Ave. Find Kull
Ace Hardware and Lumber on Facebook or call 217234-6495.
1700 Richmond Ave., Mattoon, IL 61938 | 217-234-6495 | www.acehardware.com
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The annual Mattoon Bagelfest draws a large crowd to the community.
This mural downtown has enhanced this section of Mattoon and is part of the concentration on the arts led in part by tourism officials.
Mattoon tourism staffers lead the way in promoting the community From the JG-TC
MATTOON -- The impact of tourism activities goes far beyond that of the people who attend Bagelfest or another Mattoon event, city tourism Director Angelia Burgett says. It ranges from people staying in motels and dining in restaurants to the mutual benefit for groups who volunteer to help at the events, Burgett said. "Obviously, there's a return on the investment," she said. "But it's a function of those events to create an economic impact as well." For example, the total economic impact of last summer's Bagelfest came to more than $1.5 million. That's factoring in money spent by those who
attended the festival itself as well as related events such as the softball and baseball tournaments that take place in conjunction with Bagelfest. Burgett also mentioned how the Mattoon High School Junior ROTC and local Boy Scouts benefit from volunteer experiences for its members by helping out at Bagelfest. In turn, the Tourism and Arts Office donates to those organizations as well, she said. "There are things that happen that impactful to those groups," Burgett said. The tourism office's partnership with the Mattoon
Arts Council and their current homes in offices at the Mattoon train depot at 1718 Broadway Ave. have also helped tourism "really take off," Burgett also said. Their locations helped add events for the depot's Lone Elm Room and in the downtown area, sometimes using the nearby Pioneer Plaza for activities with the city's large mural as a backdrop, she said. There was a planned effort to develop the two offices and each took part in investing in and helping with the train depot and Lone Elm Room's
Mattoon is known as the “Baseball Capital of the World.�
remodeling, Burgett said. The financial responsibility of the depot was planned in thirds with each group responsible for a third of the costs. The tourism department invested over $50,000 in rehabilitation of the office and Lone Elm Room and is responsible for arts parttime staff and office costs. The arts council raised money for programming and the Lumpkin Family Foundation provided funding for creating an
arts space in the Lone Elm Room. The overall economic impact of tourism in all of Coles County in 2014 was nearly $50 million, Burgett also said. And last year, there were nearly 84,000 motel room bookings. Mattoon funds its tourism efforts through grants that use the city's hotel-motel tax for revenue. More than $100,000 is invested each year.
1718 Broadway Ave., Mattoon, Illinois 61938 | 217-258-6286 | www.mattoon.illinois.gov
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Experienced cleaner starts new business with natural cleaning products From the JG-TC MATTOON — A Mattoon resident with more than 20 years of experience in the cleaning industry has launched a new business that uses natural cleaning products. George Miller opened an SSC Chem-Dry franchise earlier this month based at 1001 Dewitt Ave., Mattoon. “We have been in the cleaning industry for over 21 years and have used hot water extraction, but failed to clean carpets correctly by leaving them wet for days,” he said. “I wanted an alternative toward a healthier way to a cleaner carpet and something that would dry much faster utilizing natural cleaning
products.” SSC Chem-Dry offers a wide variety of cleaning that includes deep carpet, upholstery, tile and grout, rug, leather, and spot/stain removal. Miller said it was a job maintaining industrial facilities throughout Central Illinois that brought him experience in the cleaning industry. He and his staff are committed to fulfill the company’s motto, “The Natural Way to Cleaner Carpets” and “Drier, Cleaner, Healthier.” “We offer a completely different way of cleaning from others,” he said. “ChemDry gives us the proprietary system that uses hot
carbonation extraction, which produces millions of effervescent bubbles that penetrates the carpet’s fibers. This process brings the dirt to the surface, which allows us to use nearly 80 percent less water than hot water extraction.” Miller employs four parttime employees but expects to expand to six to eight fulltime employees in the coming year. These positions include office personnel, cleaning techs and CSRs. Miller said he and his staff stay very busy working on the many functions and operations of both SSC ChemDry and his other business, AquaNixx Inc., a manufacturing company of a
new environmentally green disinfectant made right here in Mattoon. “I found a way, through the help of a friend, to produce a new generation of disinfectant that is environmentally friendly but kills bacteria faster than bleach. Then came SSC ChemDry, an alternative to the current way carpets are cleaned, that promotes a healthy home and office.” He said he wakes up every morning and looks forward to providing a drier, cleaner and healthier environment to his customers. “We look forward to seeing the reviews on our Facebook pages under SSC Chem-Dry and AquaNixx Inc. “As long as there is carpet,
upholstery and rugs, we will continue to strive to provide a healthy cleaning experience to homes and offices in our areas of operation.” Miller is a Mattoon native who served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He is the past president of the Mattoon Lions Club and a member of the Knights of Columbus, chairman in the Mattoon Kiwanis Club and on the board for the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife, Jamie, have a daughter, Hannah, and a son, Tyler. SSC Chem-Dry is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and can be reached at 235-1235.
1001 DeWitt Ave., Mattoon, IL 61938 | 217-235-1235 | www.sscchemdry.com
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Inyart Tire & Auto Center focuses on face-to-face contact, service after sale From the JG-TC CHARLESTON — The staff
members at Inyart Tire & Auto Center are available to sell and install tires, often from their stock on site, and to provide service work for these goods. Center President John Inyart, who has been in the tire and auto business since 1990, said face-toface contact with employees and "service after the sale" are among the benefits of shopping local. Customers can visit the center at locations in Charleston, 515 Lincoln Ave., and Mattoon, 1300 Charleston Ave. "Shopping local is very important, and when it comes to a major purchase like tires it's even more important," Inyart said. He added that these purchases generate revenue for the local economy and local government services. Inyart said purchasing tires online might look like a good deal, but typically ends up costing consumers more money once they pay for shipping and installation. He said his supplier does not charge the center for shipping, so he can pass this savings on to his customers for tire installation. Purchasing tires locally also ensures that there are no middlemen businesses involved if consumers need to bring these items in for service or warranty work, Inyart said. For example, Inyart said his business sells tires and provides alignment services. He noted that some tire dealers do not offer on-site alignment
services. "We remain competitive in our prices and we are there with our service after the sale," Inyart said. Other available tire services include computer spin balancing, flat tire repairs, and tire rotations. Inyart said he keeps approximately 600 tires in stock between his Charleston and Mattoon locations. He said his customers can typically purchase tires from him and have them installed on the same day. Inyart said if he needs to order a tire, he utilizes a warehouse in St. Louis that has more than 120,000 tires available with next weekday delivery. The center carries Bridgestone, Firestone and other tire brands. Inyart said there are opportunities for customers to have a 30-day test drive period and a three-year warranty for their tires. Regarding safety, Inyart said tire pressure monitor systems are often overlooked but they play a critical role in notifying drivers if their tires are under- or over-inflated. He said improper tire pressure impairs the performance and handling of a vehicle, including the fuel consumption. "We have invested a substantial amount of money in the latest equipment to diagnose the system," Inyart said. "It is important that the system be monitored." In addition, Inyart said worn out tires lose the tread that is intended to push water on the roadway
out of the way. He said tires in this condition have trouble staying in contact with the road during wet weather, which can cause the vehicle to hydroplane. "Worn out tires also cause longer stopping distances in an emergency," Inyart said. "It dramatically affects the
traction when you try to stop." Inyart cited a Consumer Reports test that found the stopping distance for a car with worn 2/32-inch treaddepth tires "was nearly double that of the car equipped with new tires" on a flooded test track. The center's auto mechanics can handle a variety of automotive repair services, such as axle and driveshaft repairs, replacement of belts and hoses, brake repairs, lube and oil changes,
steering and suspension system repairs, wheel alignments, battery replacement, charging system repairs, engine repair, air conditioning and computer diagnostics. More information about Inyart Tire & Auto Center is available by visiting http://www.inyart.com/, which offers a Tire Size Finder tool. The center's two locations can be contacted at 217-235-3331 or 217-345-3331.
515 Lincoln Avenue, Charleston, IL 61920 | 217-345-3331 | 1300 Charleston Ave., Mattoon, IL 61938 |217-235-3331
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Dr. Aldo Ruffolo Medical director
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Crystal Buckler Office coordinator
Michelle Mitchell Ultrasonographer
Chauna Gessler Laser technician Surgical technologist
Staff at Renu Cosmetic Laser & Vein Center experienced, helpful From the JG-TC
CHARLESTON — Dr. Aldo Ruffolo and the staff at the ReNu Cosmetic Laser & Vein Center provide a variety of medical spa services. ReNu, located at 100 Deerpath Road in Charleston, offers laser hair removal, tattoo removal, hydrafacial treatments, cosmeceutical grade products, Botox, dermal filler and other services. "These are quick
outpatient procedures with no downtime, said Chauna Gessler, who is a certified laser technician and surgical technologist at the center. Gessler said ReNu offers free vein screenings for those experiencing any of the following symptoms: swelling in the legs and/or ankles, tight feeling calves or itchy, painful legs, pain during walking that stops with rest, brown colored skin, especially near the ankles, varicose veins, and
leg ulcers that are sometimes resistant to treatment. Ruffolo serves as medical director for ReNu Cosmetic Laser & Vein Center in Charleston. Gessler noted that Dr. Ruffolo has more than 15 years of experience in venous and lymphatic medicine and in anti-aging medicine. "Dr. Ruffolo is truly an expert when it comes to treating venous disease. We are fortunate to have such a skilled physician in
our community," Gessler said during a recent interview. ReNu is also staffed by licensed ultrasonographer Michelle Mitchell, medical assistant Jess Edwards, and office coordinator Crystal Buckler. Gessler said that most venous procedures are covered by insurance and that ReNu accepts most forms of insurance coverage. She said the center strives to provide affordable services for
100 Deerpath, Charleston, IL 61920 | 217-345-7333
laser hair removal and its other procedures. Patients who complete a vein procedure at ReNu receive a gift certificate good for a free hydrafacial there, Gessler added. This enables them to have both the procedure and a spa treatment, she said. More information is available by calling ReNu Cosmetic Laser & Vein Center at 217-345-7333.
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Xtreme Armor expands from bed liners to add a variety of accessories for trucks From the JG-TC
MATTOON — Xtreme Armor, once a shop focusing on supplying and installing spray on truck bed liners, is an automotive business that has expanded quickly since its inception to include powder and cerakote finishes and just recently added automotive accessories of all kinds. In the fall last year, Adam Weinstock, a police officer by trade, expanded his business, Xtreme Armor, to include automotive accessories that include WeatherTech floor mats, Tonneau truck bed covers, step rails, spray-on bed liners, powder-coated rims, mud guards, hitches and lighting, all top sellers at his business. He wanted to cater to the off-road and accessory customization enthusiast in the area who did not have a place to go to get such items. “I envision Xtreme Armor being a one-stop truck shop,” he said. Weinstock said when adding automotive accessories, he wanted to make sure he would have something for everyone who came into his shop and that whatever accessory they wanted would be personal to them. He said people often came in asking for these accessories when he was working solely on automotive bedding. “I felt like I was turning away business and turning away opportunity and so I elected to dive into the after-market (automotive) world,” he said. “I truly want this to be a place
where people can get ideas and accessorize.” In Weinstock’s eyes, he said his focus was to make sure customers knew what they wanted and knew every option available to them “It’s all personal preference,” Weinstock said. “It's my goal to satisfy all of those personal preferences. I never want the customer to be limited.” Weinstock started his business in 2012, parttime, supplying bed liners to people locally after he saw a gaping need for a supplier in the area. Interested in getting a bed lining for his own truck, Weinstock had to travel a long way to reach a dealer. Once he got his truck, he was impressed with the work sprayed bedding done on his truck. “I left that professional dealer with one thought, 'Who can I show this to right now?,'” he said on his business website. “I was so impressed with Polyurea (the lining chemical, which sets and dries within seconds). I wanted to offer this quality impressive product closer to home.” Weinstock was baffled that he had to drive far to get the job done. “I asked myself at that time, ‘Why is no one doing spray-on bed liners in this area?’” he said. Weinstock saw this is an opportunity to provide a service unavailable in the local area: a bed lining service provider. A police officer by trade originally working as a
part of the Mattoon Police Department, Weinstock researched and learned what it takes to apply bed liners and what chemical bases are most efficient. Working with local auto dealerships, he said his goal was to install a bed liner on one truck a week. Little did he know, he was given several trucks a week to work on. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to have good relationships with the auto industry in this area,” he said. “It is truly the basis for my success.” Working out of a small garage essentially, his business grew more and
more. The business took more and more time as the demand heightened. With hundreds of truck beds and many different custom applications under his belt, he was proud where the business grew. “We've taken great pride in providing quality spray on bed liners to the Mattoon, Illinois, Charleston, Illinois, and surrounding areas (up to a 75-mile radius),” he said. The business inflated quickly in the following years, bringing Weinstock to a tipping point in his career. He made the decision to go full-time into his business early last year, and also break out of the small garage he used before. The business has a new home at 3304
Marshall Ave. Weinstock said he is very proud of the businesses growth so far and ambitious about its future, hoping to offer the perfect personal truck bedding or accessory options available in the automotive field. “I have been extremely successful in this business, and I attribute that to the support that I have from my family,” he said. Now, he continues to improve the business to the point of enhancing his stock of accessories and maintaining a short turnaround time for his spray-on bedding applications, having vehicles ready within a week. He is also continuing to grow and potentially expand more into larger spaces.
3304 Marshall Ave., Mattoon, IL 61931 | 217-254-3871 | www.xtreme-armor.com
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Fyzical therapy and balance center staff aims to relieve patients’ pain From the JG-TC
MATTOON — Among the many machines and medical tools collected at Fyzical Physical Therapy and Balance Center, formerly known as the Central Illinois Physical Therapy Center, a newer tool made to assist in fall prevention and balance was installed late last year. With a combination of therapy strategies and tools, Richard Kruckeberg, practice founder, now can assist in creating better balance within the patients who participate in the therapy. With the addition of a rail and harness system, those in the balance program who are experiencing balance and walking issues can be harnessed and hooked to a solo rail and can walk along a railed system without risk of falling. “They can do different things safely,” Kruckeberg said. “We can do different things with that to not only rehabilitate their muscle structures, but some of their vestibular issues they may have.” Along with the rail, the center also guides patients through other exercises and techniques to improve balance and walking. According to the center’s website, www.centralillinoispt.com, physical therapy is an effective way to deal with the balance and walking issues that stem from orthopedic conditions, injuries and neurological disorders. Kruckeberg said balance and walking patterns are something not often thought about, but are important to a person's
physical health. Issues with either can lead to pain and falling accidents, which are especially dangerous at older ages. Falling can be major health risks for those who are older. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways. “We are conscious that falls are the leading cause of death due to injury among our older population and of the importance of using the latest science and technology to treat balance issues,” according to the center’s website. Even among younger individuals balance is important because pain problems can arise from balance and walking, and can also develop into more serious conditions, some of which are untreatable. “Some people have chronic problems like pain and back problems of any sort and some of it’s related to balance because they are unstable in their balance, which throws their back off, which in turn causes back pains,” Kruckeberg said. Sometimes within a few sessions, some issues can be alleviated almost completely. The fall prevention program begins with a full assessment and evaluation followed by a combination of gait training and balance programs that include balance retraining and fall prevention, according to the website.
Aside from the addition of their new program, the center has also been using two programs unique in the field: Asytm treatments and ATM2 treatments. The center staff is certified and trained for Astym treatments, a new therapy that directly targets and resolves tendon pain and other soft tissue problems. The treatment restores soft tissue at a cellular level. More information on the treatment option can be found at www.astym.com. The ATM2 treatment focuses on alleviating back pain and with a notable reduction in the issue after one treatment. Using a machine to stabilize and keep the back from moving too much, the person participating in the therapy can train their back neurologically and reduce pain. Kruckeberg said relieving people of the pain they often have dealt with for long time periods is certainly a rewarding experience for him, which has solidified his love for physical therapy. “I wouldn't be doing this business if it wasn't rewarding to help these people,” he said. “It is an interesting phenomenon: When we see people come into the door they can come across as sour, and within two to three visits when their pain goes away, they're real personality starts to show up. Pain
takes so much of that, your focus of living away.” Kruckeberg along with others in the medical community are pushing toward alternative treatments like physical therapy instead of traditional medicine to relieve pain. He said there has been a strong movement from the CDC to push away from prescription drugs to “solve” the problems. “Not all medicine comes in a bottle,” he said. “You can take pain medication for an immediate problem, but it is not going to get rid of the problem. It will only get rid of the pain.” As well as the treatments
mentioned, the center handles back and neck pain, several muscle and bone-related injuries as well as rehabilitation after surgeries through many different forms of therapy. The two local Fyzical clinics are located in Mattoon at 100 Professional Plaza, next to Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center, and in Sullivan at 18 W Harrison St. The center is holding an open house April 14 from 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. There will be prizes and giveaways for those present. More information on the center can be found at www.centralillinoispt .com
100 Professional Plaza, Mattoon, IL 61931 | 217-235-1245 | www.centralillinoispt.com
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