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Steven Brody Hello,I'm

It is amazing how busy things can get once you turn the page from one month to the next. That is certainly how I felt when we went from February to March, and the beat goes on The plate spinning is in full swing here at the Chamber office.

We had a wonderful Annual Awards event on March 20. The owners and staff at Park Place did a phenomenal job hosting our event. Congratulations to all the unexpected winners who were truly humbled by the recognition. A special shout out to the 15 eateries and drinkeries that donated to the Taste of Macomb giveaway, that allows the lucky winner to visit and enjoy all the great tastes in town!

The Chamber once again served as a community partner for the McDonough County Jobapalooza job fair on March 25. We are thankful to the 37 employers for their participation and for everyone who played a role in the day’s success.

The 2025-26 Community Guide and Business Directory should be delivered to our office this month. We can’t wait to distribute this vital resource throughout the community.

The next Business After Hours will take place on April 16 at Hollister Home Center. It will be held from 4:306pm, and as always, is only open to Chamber members as another benefit of membership. Be sure to stop by as this one is sure to be well attended.

Executive Director

If you missed the informational webinar by Indus Travel on the October Italy trip, it is on our website for viewing. A reminder that this trip is open to the public, not just Chamber members, so please invite your family, friends and colleagues for the trip of a lifetime.

Now is the time to clean your golf clubs and mark your calendar for the Chamber Golf Tournament on Monday June 23 at Harry Mussatto Golf Course. Check the newsletter for sponsorship opportunities, as this promises to be a fun day for all!!!

Don’t forget to keep watching social media to keep current with the ongoing installments of Stops with Steven. Thank you for your participation and partnership with the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce.

Shay Holland Hello,I'm

Welcome to the Macomb Area Business Community!

Welcome to April!

We’re always excited to welcome new businesses to town, and lately, there’s been some amazing energy in our local business scene Whether you’re opening your doors for the first time or you’ve been here for years, we want you to know we see you, we support you, and we’re here to help.

To our newest businesses welcome! Starting something new is exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and a whole lot of hard work. We’re here to make that journey smoother with networking, resources, and connections to help you thrive

To our longtime business community thank you. Your dedication keeps Macomb strong, and we’re honored to support you as you continue to grow. Whether it’s promoting your events, advocating for your needs, or just being a resource when you need a hand, we’ve got your back

Here’s how we can help:

�� Connections that count – Meet fellow business owners at Chamber events like Business After Hours.

�� Getting your name out there – Need help with marketing? We can highlight your business through Chamber promotions.

�� Resources & support – Workshops, legislative updates, and tools to help you navigate challenges and opportunities.

�� Advocacy & representation – We make sure local businesses have a voice where it matters.

Marketing

Director

This region is a great place to do business because of YOU. Let’s keep that momentum going supporting one another, shopping local, and making our community stronger together.

If there’s anything we can do for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. And if you see a new business in town, stop by and say hello. A friendly face makes all the difference!

My contact information is below and I encourage you to reach out; I promise no idea is too small and no question is too weird. That is what I, and the Macomb Area Chamber, are here for; to help you find the resources you need to be your most successful self!

See you around town! Let’s make it a great month!

ANNUAL AWARDS

The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce held their 2024 Annual Awards event on March 20 from 5 to 7 pm at Park Place of Macomb with a crowd of regional business professionals.

The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce took this opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of several members, citizens, and community leaders who played a vital part in the 2024 business community Awards included Macomb Area Ambassador of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, Nonprofit/Social Service Organization of the Year and the Chairman’s Award.

The Chamber recognized Outgoing Board Member, Mike Woodrum (Woodrum Automotive). Awards were presented to 2024 Chamber Ambassador of the Year—Alexa Shaw (McDonough District Hospital) The 2024 Chairman’s Award was given to Eric Blakeley (All Pets Veterinary Clinic, Macomb Dry Cleaners 2.0). The 2024 Nonprofit/Social Service Organization Award went to the Humane Society of McDonough County The 2024 Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Kim Pierce (Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation).The 2024 Business of the Year Award recipient was The Community News Brief & Market.

A special thank you to the Chamber Board of Directors, the Chamber Ambassador Committee, Chamber Staff, Park Place of Macomb, and Engraving by Lin for helping to make for a successful event.

A Taste of Macomb Giveway prize package was done by random drawing and awarded to Lori Bilbrey (Regional Office of Education #26) featuring over $1,000 worth of gift certificates generously donated by McDonalds, Bold Brew House, Chick's on the Square; Dairy Queen, Domino's, The Old Dairy, Sports Corner at 124, Jackson Street Pub, Jimmy John's, Larry A's Pizza, McAlister's Deli, Haymakers, Refreshment Services Pepsi, Gelsosomo's Pizzeria, and The Wine Sellers.

Steven Brody, Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director remarked, “It is always wonderful to recognize Chamber members for their contributions to the community; their humility due to their unexpectedness in winning makes it even more special. I am thankful for everyone who attended and want to especially thank the staff at Park Place for their wonderful venue, excellent staff, and delicious food.”

Outgoing Board Member - Mike Woodrum Ambassador of the Year - Alexa Shaw

Chairman’s Award - Eric Blakeley

Citizen of the Year - Kim Pierce

MARCH RENEWALS

Thank you to our members who have continued their annual investment with us. We appreciate your support of the area business community.

Financial Advisor: Jordan Pounders Foundation

BBlueSkyungalow

150% CLUB

The 150% Club is a voluntary membership enhancement to provide additional support to the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and it’s mission.

McDonough County Board of Directors

RICHWESTEN

Dr.Matthew McClure

NICKCURTIS

GREGJ. BUTLER,CPA

150% CLUB

The 150% Club is a voluntary membership enhancement to provide additional support to the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and it’s mission.

Financial Advisor: Seth

Minter

KALI FOXALL

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER

NOW FILLING UP THREE WEEKS IN ADVANCE - SCHEDULE YOURS!!

CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

FREELEDLIGHTINGUPGRADE FORAMERENCUSTOMERS

In partnership with Ameren, OEO Energy Solutions is providing free LED indoor, warehouse, and outdoor lighting to replace existing fluorescent fixtures If you're an Ameren customer, you qualify there’s no cost, no limit to how many you can upgrade, and the process takes less than a minute Just fill out this form by May 31st: https://oeoezledoeocom/macomb/ Ideal for offices, warehouse, industrial spaces, gymnasiums, parkinglotpolelights,andmore

Lights are provided at no cost through Ameren’s sustainability program. A spec sheet with more details is attached. Get your free LED lights by entering your desired quantity and shipping details here: https://oeoezled.oeo.com/macomb/

COMMUNITYSAFETY &AWARENESSTIPS

LOCALSTATIONHOLDS LISTENINGSURVEY

Spoon River Media, host of Q98.1 Classic Hits and a variety of other stations is seeking participants in a Macomb Area Listening Survey. Your answers to these questions will be used to help improve local radio in the Macomb Area. This survey should take about 3-4 minutes to complete. Spoon River Media is offering the option to be entered to win a $50 VISA Gift Card by supplying your email address. One random winner will be selected on May 15 and contacted via emailtoclaimtheirprize

Totakethesurvey,visitMembershipSurvey Forinformation,visitwww1560wbyscom

STOPS WITH STEVEN

Our Executive Director Steven is on a mission to meet as many members as possible in the places where they pursue their passions. If you would like a Stop with Steven email him at steven@macombareachamber.com!

Jason Wright

Lisa Garner & TOm WhiTe CDS Office Technologies

Wendy Gunn WGEM

CAitlin Foss clean Restoration

COLTOn Mugrage, Jake, Christopher State Farm - Derek ZAhm

Stonebridge Wealth Management (Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network)

Lauren Kane

Abram Olson Country Financial

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

McDonough County Health Department - March 24

Keep it in your community. Easy and Affordable.

What are Chamber Gift Certificates?

The Chamber Gift Certificate Program has been in existence since the mid 1980's. We sell Gift Certificates and they can be redeemed at participating member businesses. We sell nearly $200,000 worth of certificates every year, meaning all of that money stays in our region!

Who accepts Chamber Gift Certificates?

Only Chamber members who opt in to the Chamber Gift Certificate Program can accept certificates. Any Chamber member can opt in at any time. To be added to the list of 140+ area locations, contact our office and we’ll get you on the list.

How can I help promote the Chamber Gift Certificate Program?

We love when our members and the community help keep it local by promoting the Chamber Gift Certificate Program:

Buy them for your employees, family, friends, teachers, etc.: Chamber Gift Certificates are a win-win since Chamber gift certificates never expire, can be purchased in any amount, and you are keeping that money right here in the Macomb area.

Tell people about them. Friends and family are always looking for gift suggestions, so why not chime in with the perfect idea?