December 2023 Newsletter by MacombChamber

DECEMBER

2023

CHAMBER NEWS

A DIGITAL LOOK AT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY MACOMBAREACHAMBER.COM

YOUR CHAMBER

Helping Businesses to Grow Better Together

ABOUT US:

OUR STORY The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a link between member businesses and the community. As a result, our members benefit and thrive because of the strength and stability we provide. Membership includes advertising and networking opportunities, referrals, quality programming, events, and educational advantages.

OUR SERVICES Providing Visibility Networking Opportunities Business Resources Advertising & Marketing Gift Certificate Program Educational Connections macombareachamber.com info@macombareachamber.com

OUR MISSION

OUR VISION To serve as a catalyst for the business, professional, and educational community's collective efforts to enhance the economic climate and quality of life for all.

To promote the growth and development of the Macomb Area.

WHY CHOOSE US?

The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce strives to promote the development and growth of the Macomb area by serving as a resource for visitors and residents, as well as being an active voice for business and commerce. Our strong commitment to our membership and community partnerships keep Macomb and McDonough County and the forefront of business development.

214 North Lafayette Street Macomb, Illinois 61455

LAUREN MERRITT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

309.837.4855 LAUREN@MACOMBAREACHAMBER.COM

SHAY HOLLAND MARKETING DIRECTOR 309.837.4855 SHAY@MACOMBAREACHAMBER.COM

Welcome to December and Happy Holidays! Are you ready for my holiday gift to you? I'm giving you the gift of your time with the shortest marketing director letter yet! All I ask is that you give a little back to your community whenever possible. Simply...

SHOP LOCAL. EAT LOCAL. DRINK LOCAL. THINK LOCAL. CHOOSE LOCAL. SUPPORT LOCAL. LIVE LOCAL. LOVE LOCAL. That's it. That's the letter. Now go create some magical moments out there. My contact information is above and I encourage you to use it as many times as you need to; I promise no idea is too small or no question is too weird. That's what I, and the Macomb Area Chamber, are here for; to help you find the resources and information you need to be your best business self. Let's make it a great month!

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

Western Illinois Natural Medicine

Meredith Garage McDonough County Soil & Water Conservation District

Foundation

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

150% CLUB 1 50 % CL UB

The 150% Club is a voluntary membership enhancement that provides additional support to the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce. Members who opt in will pay 150% of their membership dues and be recognized in our monthly newsletter and at our annual awards, plus additional digital recognition throughout the year. Members are not required to join the 150% Club. If you choose not to opt in, just pay the membership dues amount on your invoice. Either way, we thank you for choosing to be a Chamber member with us!

GENE CURTIS

RICH WESTEN

150% CLUB 150% C LUB

Paula Knight

Financial Advisor: Seth Minter

GREG J. BUTLER, CPA

150% CLUB 150% CLUB

General Dentistry Nicholas D. Doll, D.M.D

Dr. Matthew McClure

150% CLUB 1 50 % CL UB

BUSINESS AFTER/BEFORE HOURS 2023

BUSINESS AFTER/BEFORE HOURS 2024

BUSINESS AFTER/BEFORE HOURS WESLEY VILLAGE - NOVEMBER 15

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Goodwill

The Ambassador Committee of the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on November 2 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois - Macomb location at 1522 E. Carroll Street. The retail store and donation center helps fund community outreach, job preparation, veterans' services, and youth programs in the Macomb Area. For hours and more information, visit goodwillpeo.org.

RIBBON RIBBON CUTTINGS CUTTINGS

The Corner Cottage of Macomb

The Ambassador Committee of the Macomb Area Chamber held a ribbon cutting for The Corner Cottage of Macomb, a local rental property and Chamber member since June 2023. Owner Kayleigh Gray, states "This charming, cozy cottage in the heart of Macomb is perfect for those seeking simpler times. The house is in a peaceful and relaxing neighborhood with beautiful gardens on site. Step back in time with this delightful home, complete with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Experience the tranquility of a bygone era while still having access to all the modern conveniences. Book your stay now and get ready to relax and unwind in this idyllic setting." For booking information, visit www.airbnb.com/h/cornercottageofmacomb.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

How to 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?

LOCAL EVENTS SHARE YOUR EVENTS

Share your Chamber member events via your Chamber Member Information Center account, on our website, or email them to us!

STAY IN THE KNOW

Check your email and follow us on social media for local updates and activities!

macombareachamber.com/events

FIND LOCAL EVENTS

Find a full list of Chamber & Chamber member events under the What's New? tab on our website.

2023 Annual Awards

NOMINATIONS With the end of the year fast approaching, we are preparing for our 2023 Annual Awards. Every year, the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce awards a Business of the Year, Service Organization/Non-Profit of the Year, and a Business Leader of the Year. Before the Chamber Board of Directors can vote on the recipients of these distinguished awards, we need nominations. Anyone may provide nominations for these awards. Nomination Deadline: January 12, 2024. All nominee criteria is for contributions to the Macomb area community in 2023 Please fill out the required form to submit your nomination or email them to lauren@macombareachamber.com. You must also write a brief explanation of why you are nominating the business or person. If this is not included, your nomination is not valid and will not be entered. Business of the Year Criteria . Nominee must be an active business with a location in the Macomb Area. Nominee must be a member in good standing with the Chamber of Commerce (see membership directory). Nominee must have demonstrated one or more of the following characteristics: Revenue growth and/or job growth. Innovative products or services. Provides exemplary customer service. Encourages and provides professional development of staff. Volunteers in the Macomb Area community.

This is a new award, so there are no previous winners. However we have moved a previous business of the year recipient here since they received an award in the last three years: 2021 - McDonough County Health Department

Business Leader of the Year Criteria Nominee has demonstrated excellence in their profession. Nominee is an active Chamber member (see membership directory). Nominee has often gone the extra mile to get involved in programs and activities that benefit our community. Nominee displays leadership, initiative, creativity and dedication professionally. Nominee inspires others to get involved or makes a difference in the MACC Previous Winners (ineligible for 3 years): lives of others. 2022 - The Wine Sellers. 2021 - Moved to Service Organization/Non-Profit category below. 2020 - Magnolia's Restaurant & Catering MACC Previous Winners (ineligible for 3 years): 2022 - Johnnie McKee & Brian Kerr. 2021 - Lynne Campbell, Community News Brief. Service Organization/Non-Profit of the Year Criteria Nominee must be an active service organization or non-profit with a 2020 - John "JB" Biernbaum, Western Illinois University location in the Macomb Area. Nominee must be a member in good standing with the Chamber of Commerce (see membership directory). Nominee must have demonstrated one or more of the following characteristics. Makes a meaningful and positive impact in the Macomb Area For more information and to nominate community. visit: bit.ly/maccawards23 Provides innovative and/or exemplary services. Maintains a responsible and rewarding environment for staff and/or volunteers.

New Employee Mandates for 2024

Paid Leave for All Workers Act The Paid Leave for All Workers Act takes effect January 1, 2024

Governor JB Pritzker signed into a new labor law in March 2023, making Illinois the third state in the nation, and the first in the Midwest, to mandate paid time off to be used for any reason. The historic legislation provides employees with up to 40 hours of paid leave during a 12-month period, meaning approximately 1.5 million workers will begin earning paid time off starting in 2024.

Under existing law, workers are not guaranteed pay when taking time off for sick leave, childcare, mental health reasons, medical appointments, vacation, or any other reason. Starting on March 31st, 2024, or 90 days following commencement of employment, workers can begin using their earned time off for any reason without the requirement of providing documentation to their employer under the Paid Leave for Workers Act.

This new law applies to every employee working for an employer in Illinois, including domestic workers, but does exclude independent contractors. The City of Chicago and Cook County have an existing paid sick leave ordinance in place; employees and employers in those two geographic regions will be subject to those ordinances. The law will also exempt employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement in the construction industry and parcel delivery industry. The legislation provides that paid leave shall accrue at the rate of one hour for every 40 hours worked. Employees will be paid their full wage while on leave and tipped workers will be paid the minimum wage in their respective locale. An employer cannot require an employee to find their replacement for the leave. For information, visit labor.illinois.gov/laws-rules/paidleave.

Updated Employee Mandates

Illinois Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program The Illinois Secure Choice Program was created to ensure that more Illinois workers can save for retirement through automatic payroll contributions facilitated from their workplace. State law requires that every employer that had at least five employees in every quarter of the previous year and that has been in business for at least two years must offer their own qualified retirement plan or facilitate Illinois Secure Choice. Employers covered by the state law will be contacted by the program. Covered employers who do not meet their required deadlines may be subject to enforcement, including financial penalties. Illinois Secure Choice is a state-facilitated retirement program that makes it easy to save for retirement. Since it was launched in 2018, the program has brought retirement savings access to workers in every county across Illinois.

Employees will be auto-enrolled after 30 days if they do not opt out and will begin saving through payroll contributions facilitated by you as their employer. Employees can opt out and back in at any time The saver will have a Roth IRA (after-tax contributions) set up in their name. (Savers can recharacterize to a Traditional IRA.) The default savings rate is 5% of gross pay. Savers can change their rate at any time. Their account is portable. It stays with them even if they leave your workplace. Employers are not responsible for answering questions about the program, managing investment options, processing distributions, or giving investment/tax advice. Your employees will maintain their account directly through the Illinois Secure Choice program.. For information, visit employer.ilsecurechoice.com

New Business Grant Program

Illinois Back to Business New Business Grant Program (B2B NewBiz) Apply for a grant of up to 30,000! Illinois B2B NewBiz will provide financial relief to businesses that started during the pandemic in the industries most impacted by the pandemic. Businesses that started during the pandemic have not been eligible for state grants and most federal emergency support provided for emergency relief to small businesses thus far. Applications will be accepted from now until Jan. 11, 2024. To be eligible for a grant award under Illinois B2B NewBiz, for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations must meet all the criteria listed below: Started operations between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021. Had gross receipts of at least $25,000 and up to $20,000,000 in 2021 (annualized if started during 2021). Currently active operations in Illinois. Have not received a Back to Business (B2B) grant prior to 2023. Business Interruption Grant (BIG), Back to Business (B2B) Grant issued prior to 2023, Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG), or Restaurant Revitalization Fund Grant (RRF). Must meet one of the following two criteria: The business or nonprofit is in a priority industry as defined for the previous Back to Business program A list of priority industries and their definitions can be found here. The business is majority owned by an individual or individuals that became eligible for and received unemployment insurance benefits – including from Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) – between March 13, 2020, and the date the business began operations. For information and to apply, visit www.b2bnewbiz.com

INDUSTRY UPDATE

LOU SANDOVAL NAMED PRESIDENT AND CEO OF ILLINOIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Sandoval takes over as Chief Executive Officer of the State’s Leading Business Advocacy Group The Board of Directors of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce has named Lou

Sandoval is a graduate of DePaul University and is an adjunct faculty

Sandoval as its next Chief Executive Officer and President.Sandoval’s

member for Hispanic & Latino Executive Leadership in McKinsey &

appointment as CEO follows a national search led by Koya Partners, the

Company’s Connect Leaders Program.

executive recruiting firm focused on mission-driven leadership. As CEO, Sandoval will lead the Chamber in representing the business community to

A proud Eagle Scout, he has received numerous honors and

champion policies that support growth across Illinois’ dynamic and diverse

recognitions including the NESA-Outstanding Eagle Scout Award,

economy.

Latino Leader Magazine’s MAESTRO Award, Negocios Now Magazine’s

Sandoval comes to the role after a successful career as a business owner and consultant across a variety of industries in Illinois. As President and Managing Partner of the Halo Advisory Group, Sandoval has advised both early-stage, growth companies and Fortune 500 clients on go-to-market strategies, scalability, change management, and mergers and acquisitions. Previously he held executive leadership roles for NAUTIC-ON, a Brunswick Corporation brand focused on providing technology and business solutions to the recreational boating industry. For nearly 20 years, Sandoval founded and led a marine dealership, which served customers throughout the Western Great Lakes Region. “I have dedicated my entire career to building resilient businesses and transforming complex ones to prepare them for future challenges,” said Lou Sandoval, incoming CEO and President of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. “I have also been a vocal advocate for issues that have hindered their growth and expansion, and I feel honored to be able to apply these experiences as the next leader of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, representing the voice of all businesses in Illinois, and paving the way for a new era of progress and

Who’s Who in Chicago Hispanic Business Power, Crain’s Notable GenX Leaders in Sports, Chicago United’s Business Leaders of Color Honoree, and the Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award. Founded in 1919, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is an independent membership organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant and prosperous future for Illinois businesses. The Chamber is supported by contributions from a diverse group of businesses from across the state. Its membership reflects all components of Illinois’ economy, including manufacturing, financial services, transportation, technology,

agriculture,

mining,

construction,

utilities,

and

professional services, as well as other local chambers of commerce, trade groups, and membership organizations. The Chamber works closely with its members to support their success and the growth of the Illinois economy through programming and advocacy that promotes and protects the business climate in Illinois and expands economic opportunities for all.

innovation. As a seasoned business executive, Sandoval has driven top-line revenue growth and transformation initiatives for companies of all sizes. Throughout his career, he has successfully built and led high-performing teams and spearheaded innovative product development for both startups and established corporations alike. With a track record of scaling businesses up to $35M and managing organizations of up to $500M, he is also skilled at leading fundraising efforts, having raised over $80M in venture capital and private equity.”

ilchamber.org

THE BRIX CHALLENGE 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Great Results for the Humane Society of McDonough County For ten years Chris Brix has challenged others to join him in raising funds for the annual operational costs of the HSMC during the month of October. Each challenge has been met with enormous support and this year’s Brix Challenge was another. huge success. That means great things for many animals in need in McDonough County. Thanks to fantastic support this year’s Brix Challenge raised an amazing $21,000.00 for the HSMC’s annual operating costs. That is so exciting. All of the funds raised will be used directly to help the animals we all care so much about. The success of this year’s challenge will allow the HSMC to continue many ongoing services and programs to animals and pet owners and to continue providing direct support to the county-run McDonough County Animal Shelter, as well. Regional media venues helped us reach a large number of people again this year. With their support, that of members and friends, local businesses, mailings, social media and word of mouth The Brix Challenge 2023 gained early momentum that never slowed down. We are extremely grateful to everyone who participated in any way. It’s difficult to express how much that kindness is appreciated or to explain the positive effect it will directly have on the animals whose lives it will touch. To everyone who became a part of this challenge, our most sincere thanks. The ongoing work of providing for animals in need requires significant funds and energy, and costs increase significantly each year. The Brix Challenge is the only major fundraiser that designates funds specifically for the HSMC’s extensive yearly operational expenses. The HSMC is also committed to raise the substantial sum needed for a new McDonough County Animal Shelter to replace the current facility, which was built in the 1980’s and is in need of being replaced. The new building is estimated to cost over $1,000,000.00. The “Shelter Campaign” fundraising endeavors are separate from the annual operating budget, which is crucial to maintain the HSMC’s ongoing programs and initiatives. The generosity of Chris Brix and those who participated in this year’s Brix Challenge will make the world a better place for many animals in McDonough County. The Humane Society of McDonough County members and supporters work tirelessly on a daily basis to fulfill their commitment to provide humane care and treatment for all cats and dogs in our county through many ongoing initiatives. HSMC assistance to animals at the McDonough County Animal Shelter includes promoting adoptions, providing sponsorships, a rescue/foster/adoption program, providing emergency medical assistance, assisting with care and socialization of animals while they are at the shelter and more. Other ongoing HSMC initiatives helping animals in need and struggling pet owners include spay/neuter transports and programs, the discretionary use of “Angel” emergency medical funds, a pet food pantry and much more. The Humane Society of McDonough County is an all-volunteer organization, 100% dependent on donations and gifts. Our vision is to provide humane care and treatment for animals in McDonough County. While much of our work supports the McDonough County Animal Shelter and the animals there, we function as a separate entity from the county-administered shelter. All contributions to the HSMC go entirely toward improving the lives of animals in our community and those at the county animal shelter.

We sincerely thank everyone who supported The Brix Challenge this year and for the confidence shown for the hard work of the HSMC. Its success reminds us, once again, that one person’s great idea, shared with others, can create a reality of positive difference. - Patti Nemec

SAVE THE DATE FIND AND PROMOTE QUALTY JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN OUR REGION Find a new and exciting career at the McDonough County

Individuals who need assistance with building or rebuilding

Jobapalooza! Dozens of employers from throughout the county

their resume will have the opportunity to participate in two

will be available to answer your questions, accept applications

workshops prior to the March 27 event. In addition, there

and resumes, and some will even be able to interview and hire

will be support stations; the day of the event to help job-

on the spot! It's never been easier to find employment!

seekers with various tasks, such as printing their resumes on quality paper. Check back with us for updated

The job fair, which is open to part-time, full-time and seasonal

information.

job seekers, ages 16+, will be held from 1-4 p.m., and will feature prospective employers from McDonough County retailers, nonprofits, government and educational organizers and industries. The event is sponsored by the McDonough County Quality of Life Committee, Community News Brief, Lisa Ward (formerly of Magnolias), Macomb Area Chamber of

March 27, 2024 1- 4 pm Spoon River College Outreach Center

Commerce, Macomb Area Economic Development Corp.,

2500 E. Jackson St., Macomb

Macomb Park District, Spoon River College, Western Illinois

Information: bit.ly/jobapalooza24

Regional Council, Western Illinois University and Workforce Development.

AMBASSADORS

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STAY CONNECTED

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

LAUREN MERRITT

SHAY HOLLAND

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

MARKETING DIRECTOR