Commerce connection March/April 2016

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Volume 23 | Issue 2

C O M M E R C E

MARCH / APRIL 2016

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A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Our Customers

Say It Best!

“

I appreciate all the work that First Mid and Mike did to help my business get up and running.

They gave me the financial support to make my dream a reality.

”

– Bradley Drew, Owner at Leaf It To Us Total Tree Care Plus, LLC in Villa Grove Pictured with Mike Krueger (left) from First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust.

Champaign County Banking Centers: Champaign • 2229 South Neil • 359-9837 Champaign • 913 West Marketview (inside Rural King) • 378-8023 Urbana • 601 South Vine • 367-8451 Mahomet • 502 East Oak • 318-3750

Banking Solutions at First Mid: ✦ Traditional Banking ✦ Commercial Services - Treasury Management - Commercial & SBA Loans - Accounts Receivable Financing

✦ Trust & Wealth Management ✦ Retirement Planning ✦ Ag Services ✦ Insurance

Banking that puts you First.

For a complete list of First Mid locations, visit us online.

FIRSTMID.COM Member FDIC • Equal Opportunity Lender Insurance services are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not insured by the FDIC or any governmental agency, and are not guaranteed.

2016 ATHENA® Award Luncheon Brought to you by:

Denise Martin (Right), ATHENA Award® Recipient and Cynthia Bruno (Left), ATHENA Young Professional Award® Recipient Denise Martin, partner at Martin, Hood, Friese and Associates, was named the 2016 ATHENA Award® recipient. She was presented the award at a luncheon held at the Champaign Country Club on Thursday, February 18, 2016.

Martin is the 28th local recipient of the award which honors individuals who assist women in reaching their full leadership potential; demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiative in their businesses or professions; and provide valuable service by devoting time and energy to improving the quality of life for others in the community.

Denise has been in public accounting for 30 years providing audit and management consulting services to employee benefit plans, construction and privately held companies throughout her career. Denise oversees MHFA’s Audit Department and supervises many other divisions in the firm. She is the lead of the firm’s state and local tax team.

She applies her significant expertise in accounting turn-around work, designed to establish internal accounting systems that eventually run independent of her controllership guidance.

Denise is known for her ability to make processes more efficient. According to her nominator, she tirelessly works to squeeze every drop of wasted time and energy from these processes. Her approach is regularly implemented at her firm and the results have been invaluable.

Outside of the accounting firm, Denise is also a trailblazer. She is the co-founder of ChampaignUrbana Cradle2Career, an organization designed to ensure all children have a path to success within our community. She spends countless hours pouring her passion into this endeavor.

Recently, Champaign Urbana Cradle2Career’s partnerships helped to bring a pilot program to the community which helps 15 to 24-year olds strengthen their relationship-building skills, receive career preparation, find work over the summer or take classes at Parkland College. This program received a $5 million Federal grant.

303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org

FY16 TOP INVESTORS

CHAMBER STAFF

TOP INVESTORS

Laura Weis President & CEO LauraW@champaigncounty.org

Stephanie McCullough Director of First Impressions StephanieM@champaigncounty.org

GOLD Busey Carle

Karly Combest Director of Operations and Member Relations KarlyC@champaigncounty.org

Lindsay Quick Graphic Design and Marketing Director LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org

SILVER BankChampaign, N.A. First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Garret Hill Public Policy Director GarretH@champaigncounty.org

Ariel Rothrock Events & Programs Manager ArielS@champaigncounty.org

Caryn Isenhower Accounts Receivable & Office Administrator Caryni@champaigncounty.org

Put your name here as our next Membership Sales Director Send resume to Laura Weis

BRONZE A & R Mechanical Contractors Amdocs Christie Clinic Heartland Bank & Trust Kraft Foods, Inc. Midland States Bank Presence Covenant Medical Center RSM US, LLP

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS Jeffrey Baker

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Illini Radio Group - MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, Rewind 92.5, WYXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1, Hits 99.7 Stevie Jay Broadcasting - Q96-96.1FM, US105.9, Sunny 95.3 & ESPN 93.5 WCIA-TV / WCIX-49 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO BUSINESS’S CIRCLE FOX, ABC and CW - TV Crystal Entertainment

150 PERCENT CLUB Awards, Ltd. Carmike 13 Dish Passionate Cuisine Hyatt Place LongHorn Steakhouse Thomas, Mamer & Haughey, LLP TrophyTime W.K. Cooper II Asset Management Corporation

Clifford-Jacobs Forging

Mike DeLorenzo

University of Illinois

Mike Estes

Fisher National Bank

David Farrar

Illinois American Water

Lisa Gengelbach

Wyndham Garden Urbana

Tabatha Helm DSC Logistics

Susan Jepsen

Reynolds Towing Service, Inc.

Kurt Lenschow State Farm

Dr. Jared Rogers

Presence Covenant Medical Center

Dennis Riggs

FIX-IT, Sidney Dairy Barn

Julianna Sellett Carle

Zachary Hillard

Jim Lyons

Chair, Birkey’s Farm Store

Becky Von Holten

First Vice Chair, Midland States Bank

Chuck McReaken

Second Vice Chair, TSM Ventures, Inc.

Beth Auterman

Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen

Rod Roberts

Past Chair, Thunderstruck Design

Laura Weis

Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Busey

FINANCIAL SERVICES Provided by CliftonLarsonAllen

All information contained within this publication is property of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and cannot be reproduced without prior expressed or written consent. This publication contains paid advertising; the opinions expressed in those advertisements do not reflect the views of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information, contact the Chamber at 217.359.1791.

When she was co-chair of the fundraising campaign for United Way of Champaign County, Denise received the Spirit of Caring Award which honors people and organizations who commit fully to making our community a better place.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is yet another nonprofit close to Denise’s heart. This organization ensures that abused and neglected children in the judicial system can receive the care, management and legal representation they deserve.

Denise acted as co-chair of the annual fundraiser and is an active advocate for this cause.

“Denise is a shining example for women in the way that she succeeds in business and gives herself to her community; she truly makes it appear effortless. But there is more than that,” said Bud Windelborn, Martin’s nominator. “She acts as a mentor to women at MHFA. The firm’s culture is designed to be family-friendly and allow as much flexibility for working mothers as possible.”

Past ATHENA Award® Recipients with Denise Martin

She actively guides this work-life-balance culture. Raising seven kids with her husband, Kim, and recently sending the youngest two off to college, Denise recognizes the struggles women face in the workplace and is an outspoken force for greater understanding and policies.

Martin joins a distinguished list of past ATHENA® recipients including Amy Randolph (2015); Sandra A. Jones (2014); Bianca Green (2013); Cindy Somers (2012); Lori Gold Patterson (2011); Lynne Barnes (2010); Kathleen Holden (2009); Jane Hays (2008); Donna Greene (2007); Jayne DeLuce (2006); Sue Grey (2005); Beth Katsinas (2004); Diane Friedman (2003); Traci Nally (2002); Lyn Jones (2001); Linda Hamilton (2000); Anita Broeren (1999); Theresa Grentz (1998); Zelema Harris (1997); Shirley Anderson (1996); Mary McGrath (1995); Linda Mills (1994); Jan Kiley (1993); Nanette Fisher (1992); Gloria Dauten (1991); Elizabeth Curzon (1990); and Ruth B. Jones (1989).

The Chamber also recognized the ATHENA Young Professional Award® recipient Cynthia Bruno, Morning Show news anchor for WCIA 3. She is an award winning journalist and her work as both an anchor and a reporter has been recognized by the Illinois Broadcasters Association.

Bruno is heavily involved in the community. She co-founded and continues to serve as president of the non-profit, Girls Go For It, an after school program that Members of Martin, Hood, Friese and helps girls build confidence and develop Associates with Denise Martin leadership skills. It currently serves three schools in the Champaign School District, is partnering with the Champaign Park District to offer a summer camp and is quickly expanding.

Her volunteer work has earned her recognition as a 40 Under 40 recipient, she was named one of Champaign County’s 20 most influential women by the Junior League and chambanamoms.com recently featured her as one of the area’s Moms to Know.

Bruno also serves on the United Way’s Board of Directors, is a C-U One-to-One Mentor and volunteers her time as part of The Junior League of Champaign-Urbana.

Past recipients of this prestigious award include Kathryn (Katie) J. Bermingham (2015), Amy Rademaker (2014), Laura Frerichs (2013), Sarah Zehr (2012) and Rhiannon Clifton (2011).

ATHENA Young Professional Award® winner Cynthia Bruno and husband, Tom Bruno

The ATHENA Award® program is a program of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and is sponsored by Spherion Staffing Services, the corporate underwriter for the ATHENA Award® program. The award recipient’s jeweled lapel pin is provided by Busey Wealth Management. The ATHENA Young Professional Award® is sponsored by past recipients of the ATHENA Award®.

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between January 5, 2016 to March 1, 2016 Advanced Digital Solutions 1512 Broadway Ave. Mattoon, IL 61938 217.235.1616 www.adsxrx.com Printing Equipment

ALSAC – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 4722 N. Sheridan Rd. Peoria, IL 61614 309.679.4680 www.stjude.org Social Service Organizations

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Everything they do is centered on their mission: finding cures, saving children and families never receive a bill from St. Jude. They pay for treatment, travel, housing and food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. By sharing their knowledge freely and exchanging ideas openly, they’re inspiring more collaboration between doctors and researchers worldwide and, as a result, more lifesaving treatments for children everywhere. They have several events locally in Champaign to raise money and awareness and are constantly looking to expand.

Champaign Public Library 200 W. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.403.2050 www.champaign.org Libraries-Public

The Champaign Public Library connects our community with the power of knowledge, the world of culture and ideas and the joy of reading. The library provides educational resources and programs for all ages, access to computers and the Internet and a place for community members to meet.

Cybernautic

804 N. Neil St., Ste. 205 Champaign, IL 61820 217.383.0828 www.cybernautic.net Website Design & Services At Cybernautic, the motto is “The Web Made Easy” and they are here to do just that. They want creating and maintaining your website to be as simple and painless as possible and they exist to help you succeed. Their team spends time with you to discover your needs and goals and partners with you

to determine how they can leverage the web to reach your measure of success in Champaign-Urbana and beyond. This is accomplished through custom website design, easy to use content management solutions and effective search engine marketing.

Edward Jones – Clint Cissell

2506 Galen Dr. Champaign, IL 61821 217.355.1499 www.edwardjones.com/clint-cissell Financial Planning Consultants & Services Edward Jones is a different kind of investment firm. To them, face time and think time make sense. They meet with you to learn your individual needs so they can develop a strategy to help you achieve your long-term financial goals. So, whether you want to plan for retirement, save for college, reduce your tax bills or ensure you have income to cover your expenses, you can expect personalized service and long-term investing strategies instead of the latest investment fads. Join the nearly seven million investors who know.

ERI Engineering & Research International, Inc. 1401 Regency Dr. East Savoy, IL 61874 217.356.6267 www.erikuab.com Engineers-Geotechnical

ERI’s construction inspection services include testing of soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt and steel. Typical duties include review of job plans and specifications, foundation and rebar inspection, the monitoring of earthwork, backfilling and placement of concrete. IDOT/ACI certified personnel are available to meet QC/QA requirements for both pavement and commercial construction.

Guitar Center

712 W. Town Center Blvd.

Champaign, IL 61822 217.378.8780 www.guitarcenter.com Musical Instruments-Dealers

Home Builders Association of East Central Illinois 3354 Big Pine Trail, Ste. A-1 Champaign, IL 61822 217.202.8483 www.hbaeci.com Home Builders

The Homebuilders Association of East Central Illinois (HBAECI) was founded in 1956 to represent builders and associated businesses throughout a seven county region that includes Champaign, Vermilion, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Piatt and Coles counties. As one of the premier HBAs in Illinois, we bring together individuals and businesses that share the common bond of new construction and improving the quality of life in East Central Illinois. Their membership is actively participating in local, state and national housing issues and meet regularly.

Jim’s Place

403 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 217.493.7173 www.jimsplacegaming.com Gaming Café

Peoria Charter celebrated their 75th anniversary on January 27 with a ribbon cutting.

A former restaurant on Champaign’s south side has become one of the community’s latest gaming parlors. The mother-daughter team of Barbara Burch Rogers and Sarah Burch has converted the former Seaboat restaurant into “Jim’s Place”. Daughter Sarah, currently from Memphis and her recently retired mother Barbara, who is a longtime Champaign-Urbana resident, will serve as managers.

Jim’s Place is named after Sarah’s father who passed away in October 2013. Barb and Sarah said it made sense to name this after Sarah’s dad. Her father had a penny collection when Sarah was born and she decided in his memory to do a penny top bar - which is a focal part of the facility. Jim’s Place is open 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m..

One of the items on their menu will be “Jim’s Jamaican Patties” along with a limited menu of bar type food, soft drinks and beer/wine. Jim’s Place is a 21+ establishment with an upscale atmosphere and great employees to serve their customers.

FeetLabs held a ribbon cutting to celebrate their grand opening on January 28.

Konica Minolta

401 SW Water St., Ste. 503 Peoria, IL 61602 309.643.5676 www.kmbs.konicaminolta.us Printing Equipment Konica Minolta is a business technology company providing solutions to simplify workflow. Through their Document workflow and IT analysis, to their Managed Print Fleet Solutions and Productions Print devices, they partner with their clients to find solutions to their technology obstacles. As more and more of your business transitions to an electronic format, let them help you to ensure that the technology you use increases efficiency rather than becoming another obstacle between you and your business.

Latea Bubble Tea Lounge celebrated their grand opening February 1 with a ribbon cutting.

Lacey’s Place

110 E. University Ave. Urbana, IL 61801 217.607.1400 www.illinoisvideoslots.com Gaming Café Lacey’s Place brings a high level of professionalism and integrity with every gaming parlor venue they establish. Each franchise is custom built to suit each particular neighborhood with its own unique image. Through creating distinctive venues, their team has accumulated a degree of professionalism that allows them to provide a superior experience to adults seeking fun and

Villa held a ribbon cutting on February 12 to celebrate their grand opening.

entertainment within their local community. It is their goal to have the most unique gaming parlor concept in the area; they strive to create a place that is full of fun, excitement, and entertainment. Lacey’s is the only gaming parlor with a player rewards program which allows players to accumulate points for redemption on prizes. Lacey’s Place has recently expanded to the Chicagoland area with the first parlor opening in Midlothian.

Lacey’s Place

Lacey’s Place

Lacey’s Place

Lacey’s Place

1710 W. Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61821 217.607.5441 www.illinoisvideoslots.com Gaming Café 1903 N. Neil St., Ste. C Champaign, IL 61820 217.607.0957 www.illinoisvideoslots.com Gaming Café

2508 Village Green Pl. Champaign, IL 61822 217.607.1296 www.illinoisvideoslots.com Gaming Café 1724 W. Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61821 217.693.7193 www.illinoisvideoslots.com Gaming Café

Named one of America’s

Prudential Agricultural Investments 1806 Fox Dr., Ste. D Champaign, IL 61820 217.607.2940 www.prudential.com/agloans Agricultural Consultants

Prudential Agricultural Investments (“PAI”) debt team provides mortgage loans for agricultural property refinancing, development, acquisitions, expansion, and improvement, covering a wide variety of crop types and land uses. Their extensive breadth of products allows them to customize transactions to meet each client’s unique needs and facilitates financing to family farms, agribusiness firms, investors, forest products companies, and timberland owners.

The Reading Group

3011A Village Office Pl. Champaign, IL 61822 217.351.9144 www.readinggroup.org Educational Cooperative Organizations One in ten students has a reading disability. For 43 years, The Reading Group has helped thousands of children and adults in Central Illinois in need of professional reading assessments, reading intervention or enrichment and math tutoring. Our certified teachers provide specialized one-on-one instruction in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, they depend on support from the community to help provide scholarships for students who are at risk of school failure and would otherwise not receive reading services. The Reading Group provides reading services to help children and adults learn to read, so they can read to learn... their future depends on it.

RK Dixon

806 Parkland Ct., Ste. 2 Champaign, IL 61821 217.353.0701 www.rkdixon.com Copy Machines & Supplies-Sales & Service

Talecris Plasma Resources

Best Hospitals in 2016. ™

Carle has been named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals™ by Healthgrades® in 2016, putting us in the top 1% in the nation for clinical excellence. When our drive to stay on the forefront of medical innovation meets our commitment to a patient-focused approach, the results for our patients are truly life changing.

Learn more at carle.org

24 E. Green St., Ste. 16 Champaign, IL 61820 217.355.9703 www.talecrisplasma.com Plasma Donation Centers

Grifols is a leader in plasma collection with a network of over 150 plasma donor centers in the U.S. and a leading producer of plasma-derived biological medicines. You are compensated for your time to donate plasma and you can earn up to $150 your first week. You must be a healthy 18 year old or older and weigh at least 110 pounds. New donors need to provide a valid photo I.D. and Social Security Card.

7

secrets from a

wedding DJ

Conducting business in the wedding industry can be a difficult subject to tackle. Every couple has a unique vision of what they want their wedding ceremony and reception to look like. Anyone who has spent time working with brides and grooms knows that living up to such high expectations can often be a daunting task, but also an incredibly rewarding one.

Ceasar Perez, president of Crystal Entertainment, who has been navigating his way through the wedding industry for over 20 years, shares some of his best advice on how to ensure that a couple’s vision for their wedding becomes a reality.

Ceremonies must have two things: microphones/speakers for guests to hear what is going on and background music.

There is nothing worse than not knowing what’s going on and awkward silence.

The personalities of the couple should shine through at their event. Those interested in working in the wedding industry should be willing to come up with creative ways to make sure couples feel that their wedding is unique and specific to them.

Regardless of the budget for the wedding, everyone wants to celebrate and have a good time with family and friends! The reception tends to be the thing that couples, as well as guests, tend to talk about years after the wedding! That’s why a majority of the budget is focused here and it’s important to make it count!

Not all services are created equal, so make sure you’re comparing the details of each service as well as what you’re getting. The old saying, “You get what you pay for” tends to be true. There’s always someone who’s willing to do it cheaper but that doesn’t always mean better.

Be prepared for clients to ask “Are you able to...”. Couples often have some very specific things that they want. A good vendor is flexible and willing (within reason) to accommodate.

Let the couple decide what things they want or like best. Of course giving advice is helpful, but it is, and will always be, their day.

At the end of the day, people are there to celebrate and share the moment! Keep it simple and don’t over-think things…you’d be surprised at how happy people will be just to be there!

Finding Clarity in an Ever-Changing Industry Nationally, fewer couples are choosing to get married year after year. Since 1970, the marriage rate in the United States has dropped a staggering 50 percent1. In contrast to the generations prior, modern couples have begun to care less about making their relationships official through marriage.

Locally however, area businesses that often deal with weddings continue to find unique ways to thrive in this ever-changing industry. By being flexible and aware of trends, a number of Champaign County businesses have found lucrative markets in engagements, marriages and receptions.

In an industry in which trends, traditions and protocols change regularly, it can be tough for vendors to understand what it is that their clients are really looking for. According to Morgan Stone of Michelle’s Bridal, “Millenials shop very different than couples of the past.”

The generation of young people that are getting married tend to be educated and well-researched shoppers who know exactly what they want before even going out to shop.

“Social media sites, especially Pinterest, continue to change the wedding industry,” Stone added.

In the past, caterers, florists, jewelers, venue managers and DJ’s were the ones coming up with new, creative ideas for weddings. Now, couples are using the Internet to do their research ahead of time making it easier for those helping couples with their engagements and weddings.

“It’s great to be involved in the wedding industry because every couple has an idea of

their perfect day and we get to help make it a reality, “ said Colleen Hatton, owner and event coordinator at Dish Passionate Cuisine.

Jenny Cougill, sales manager and wedding coordinator for Hilton Garden Inn adds that, “the couples that are the easiest to work with are those who have a good idea of what they want but are also open to suggestions.”

Weddings are no longer focused as much on keeping traditions, but rather are designed to “reflect who the bride and groom are as a couple,” adds Hatton.

Traditional rings, dresses, cakes and receptions are now antiquated ideas that brides often choose to ignore. Instead rose gold rings, mimosa bars, and rustic weddings have become the new standard for couples all over the nation.

For business owners this means being able to adapt to the newest trends and being able to help make a couple’s dream a reality are both absolute necessities.

Increasing costs for engagements, weddings and receptions have also caused the industry to undergo numerous changes. In 2015, the average cost of a wedding was $30,0002.

For budget-concious millenials looking to get married as they begin their careers and start families, spending as little as possible on a wedding is a priority. Do-it-yourself projects have become a part of almost every wedding in hopes of cutting some costs.

In the age of personalization, Stone advises couples to analyze the budget and find out

R U O T E E M : S T R E EXP Written by: Lindsay Quick which categories are the most important. If necessary, spend less on items that may not be as important.

“Don’t try to save money on parts of the wedding that last forever,” warns Valerie Swain of Flora Gems. “Of course couples will look at their photos occasionally and some brides even find creative new uses for their dresses but couples will literally be looking at their rings hundreds of times a day for the rest of their lives.”

“At the end of the day however, weddings have and will always be about the hope and joy of a wedding day,” says Hatton. A self-proclaimed hopeless romantic herself, the caterer urges couples to take 5-10 minutes to be alone on their wedding day so that they can appreciate what the day is really about.

Cougill, of Hilton Garden Inn, says that the most rewarding part of her job is helping couples plan and execute the ideas that they have for such a significant day in their lives.

Swain puts things into persepective by stating, “if it rains, the decorations aren’t perfect or the food is a little cold, at the end of the day the couple is married and that is the most important thing.”

In an industry that is in a constant state of flux, remembering the purpose of the day is what grounds couples and businesses alike. While everyone involved with the wedding hopes to ensure that it is the best possible - weddings are never perfect.

As much as business owners attempt to keep up with the latest trends the best way for them to help plan and execute successful engagements, weddings and receptions is to cater specifically to the characteristics that make each couple unique.

1 2

www.stateofourunions.org www.weddingstats.org

Dish - Passionate Cuisine

Colleen Hatton Owner/Event Coordinator 45 E. University Ave., 4th Floor Champaign, IL 61820 www.dishpassionatecuisine.com 217.586.2300

Flora Gems

Valerie Swain

Co-Owner/Gemologist 302 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820

www.floragems.com 217.305.7381

Hilton Garden Inn Jennifer Cougill

Sales Manager/WeddingCoordinator 1501 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 www.champaignurbana.stayhgi.com

217.352.9970

Michelle’s Bridal and Tuxedo Morgan Stone

Bridal Leader 2210 N. Willow Rd. Urbana, IL 61802

www.michellesbridalshoppe.com 217.384.7914

Thank you to all members that participated as experts and for the work you do to better our local workforce and community.

• Play-by-play announcer for Illinois football and basketball for 21 years • Host, ‘Penny for your Thoughts’ • Created ‘Day in the Park’ at Hessel Park • Founded and hosted the WDWS/ WHMS Scholar Athlete banquets for high school scholar athletes • Named to Dick Vitale’s ‘Sweet Sixteen’ all-radio team in 2000

Jim Turpin, 2001 WDWS

• Built a $1.5M Child Development Center to serve students, faculty and community members • Developed key training partnerships with Cisco Systems, Microsoft, Case-IH and 40+ area manufacturing companies • Opened the Tony Noel Agricultural Technology Applications Center to meet the high-tech needs of farmers and agribusinesses

Zelema Harris, 2002 Parkland College

• Put Champaign’s parks and recreation programs on the map locally, regionally, nationally and internationally • Once a member of Illinois Lieutenant Governor’s Committee on open space and environment • Founding member of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration

Robert Toalson, 1999 Champaign Park District

Edwin Sharlau, 1995 Busey Bank

• Early supporter of the county’s Information Superhighway, now called CCNet • Worked with local chamber and leader to secure funding to form the Champaign-Urbana CVB • Hosted multiple Economic Seminars, which serve as source of information and initiate community action for specific causes

• Grew the Urban League’s resources from $37K to over $1M • Helped organize the Frances Nelson Health Center • Desegregation of Unit 4 and Unit 116 school districts • Created job training and employment for senior citizens in League sponsored programs

Vernon Barkstall, 1993 Urban League of Champaign County

• Invested in education, social services, mental health and the arts • President of the League of Women Voters of Illinois, member of the Illinois Board of Higher Education, VP of the Community Foundation of Champaign, President’s Council at the University of Illinois, founding member of the Parkland College Foundation, cited in Who’s Who of American Women

Helen Levin, 1992 Ezra Levin Foundation

A LOOK AT THE RECIPIENTS AND WHY THEY WERE HONORED WITH THE AWARD FROM 1992 - 2010

most valuable citizen

• Priorities were always those of his constituents: quality education, agriculture and economic development • Served in Senate leadership positions for 22 years • To name just a few of his honors: Senator of the Year, Outstanding Legislator, Statesman of the Year, Civil Service Merit Board and more

Stanley Weaver, 2003 Former Mayor of Urbana and Illinois State Representative

• Distinguished his term by embracing the community as being integral to the success of the University of Illinois • Increased number of endowed chairs and professors from 32 to 194 • Partnered with leaders in the community to create Campustown 2000

Michael Aiken, 2000 University of Illinois

• George: Campaign chair and board chair of United Way of Champaign County; established the “Pillars” initiative • Marge: University of Illinois Board of Trustee, Champaign Township supervisor, County Board Member, County Republican Party chairwoman

George & Marge Sodemann, 2010 Sodemann & Associates

• Saved the supercomputer center in Champaign-Urbana, as one of only two remaining sites • Served on the Exec. Committee of CCNet • One of the pioneers in creating a national infrastructure to support academic research, governmental functions and industrial competitiveness

Larry Smarr, 1997 National Center for Supercomputing Applications, UIUC

• Stan: Former Regent Professor and President Emeritus at the University of Illinois; Former President of the American Council on Education • Judy: Advocate for the arts, watercolor painter

Stan & Judy Ikenberry, 1994

• Increased annual giving from $60,000 to over $2M • Instrumental in establishing scholarship program with Jerry’s IGA • Developed Parkland 200, a joint venture development with community leaders committed to the development of an educated workforce

• Active role in revitalizing businesses and business activity along Green St. through the Campustown 2000 initiative • Assisted in establishing Project 18 as a means of identifying and addressing issues related to young people • Establishment and funding for a daytime shelter for homeless persons • Returned control/administration of the Head Start program to a Champaign County Agency from Vermilion County

Dannel McCollum, 1998 Mayor of the City of Champaign

• Retired Air Force Major • Key figure in helping Rantoul survive the closing of Chanute Air Base

Frank Elliott, 1996 Village of Rantoul

Not Pictured:

• Raised over $1.35M for the organization • Past president of Junior League of CU, CommunityWorks chair for the Community Foundation of Central Illinois, serves on the Parkland Foundation Board, Krannert Circle advisory committee and the U of I’s College of Education advisory board

Carl Meyer, 2009 Parkland College Foundation

Carol Sharlau, 2008 United Way of Champaign County

Kyle & Phyllis Robeson, 2007 Robeson’s, Inc.

• Honorary chairpersons for the Champaign Public Library’s fundraising campaign, helping raise over $3M • Contributed to Krannert, Chanute Air Force Base, the Center for Women & Transition, the YMCA and more • Kyle has 45 years of perfect attendance at Champaign Rotary Club • Phyllis has logged over 170,000 hours at the Presence Covenant Medical Center gift shop

• Developed the FIRST Interstate Research Park in Champaign • Champaign Park District Board Members

Donald & Newt Dodds, 2006 Community Philanthropists

• Both heavily involved in the community: University’s President’s Council United Way Campaign Chairs, the old Urbana Chamber, Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club, Urbana Rotary, Krannert Center for Performing Arts, Urbana Free Library Building Fund • Linda played a significant role in establishing and assisting the CU Community Schools Foundation

Doug & Linda Mills, 2005 Busey Bank & Busey Travel

• A founder and major contributor of Campustown 2000 -- dedicated to linking the community and University • Held many board positions throughout the community • “George is not elected nor is community service part of his job description. He is an entrepreneur that gives back to the community -- usually in a quiet, behind-the-scenes way,” said nominator James C. Leondard, MD

George Shapland, 2004 Shapland Management Company

“Once again, there is a positive outlook. Our downtown has become lively like it used to always be,” said former board chair Russ Hamilton (2009-2010).

However, issues surrounding the university are not the only things affecting business in Champaign County. Since the aptly named “Great Recession” that began affecting the nation around 2007, local businesses have continued to recover and are now beginning to thrive once again.

“Even our community isn’t bullet-proof, but the continued growth of the U of I always keeps us somewhat insulated,” added former board chair John Rollins (2005-2006).

Doing business in Champaign County means being aware of the University as well as its faculty, staff, and students - whether or not a business chooses to cater directly to them or not, the University itself is innately intertwined within the economy of the surrounding communities.

Bud Leister, former board chair (1995) stated, “During my time as the Board Chair, we were dealing with how to most effectively interact with the U of I and the school boards as well as concerns about general infrastructure of the communities. These are all issues that are still very relevant to the Chamber today.”

While the community and economy are always changing, the challenges that face Champaign County businesses have had a tendency to remain constant throughout the years.

Champaign County is an economy that is constantly changing and evolving - businesses open and close everyday. Just like the rest of the nation, the Champaign County community has endured it’s fair share of economic decline and has rejoiced in it’s equal portion of prosperity. As the years pass, the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce has been honored to engage in the community and help businesses develop by whatever means necessary.

Same issues, different economy

Let Dish be the seasoning to the best experience food has to offer.

217-586-2300

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45 E. University Ave. Champaign, IL 61820

Food is always more than what you simply put in your mouth… it’s an experience.

Although the local economy has a different identity each day, there are a number of issues that continue to carry importance no matter what year it is. In order to effectively serve the business community of Champaign County the Chamber must continue to advocate for the members and help to improve the quality of business in Champaign County.

Hamilton added that his wish is that the Chamber can continue to find ways for local business to thrive in order to strengthen and diversify the economic future in Champaign County.

As Champaign County continues to evolve and grow, the Chamber continues to look for new ways to have a positive impact on business.

Wackerlin added that he hopes the Chamber will continue to provide leadership to the business community, especially during the confusing time with the State of Illinois.

Part of that revitalization also can be credited to “the growth of the healthcare industry, particularly Carle and Christie Clinic,” pointed out Gary Wackerlin, former board chair (2001).

Gary Wackerlin 2001 Christie Clinic Foundation

Lee H. O’Neill 2000

Jeffrey Ingrum 2007-2008 Health Alliance

Gregory B. Lykins 1998 Busey

Jim Lyons 2015-2016 Birkey’s Farm Store

Curt Anderson 2006-2007 Busey

Joe Beard 1997

Rod Roberts 2014-2015 Thunderstruck Design

John Rollins 2005-2006 Central Illinois Produce

Mary Perlstein 1996

Michael Wozniak 2013-2014 Retired

Katherine Wright 2004-2005 Roundtable

V. Bud Leister 1995 Carter’s Furniture

Tabatha Helm 2012-2013 DSC Logistics

Dwight Miller 2003-2004 McDonald’s

Mike Henneman 1994

Diane Ruedi 2011-2012 F. E. Moran Security Solutions

Diane Friedman 2002-2003

Mike Fritz 1993

Mark Ballard 2010-2011 BankChampaign, N.A.

Roger L. Pontifex 2002

Roy Van Buskirk 1992 Bacon & Van Buskirk Glass

Russ Hamilton 2009-2010 Busey Bank

P. David Kuhl 1991 Retired

Gerald O’Neill September 1990

A LOOK AT THOSE WHO SERVED THE CHAMBER AND CHAMPAIGN COUNTY OVER THE PAST 25 YEARS.

Previous Chair persons of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Melissa Thomas 2008-2009 Thomas, Mamer & Haughey, LLP

Bonnie B. Kelley 1999

Take the Local purchasing challenge We challenge you to make one simple decision that will transform our local economy; ultimately improving the bottom lines of our members – all without spending any more money than your company currently spends.

How? Take the Local Purchasing Challenge. It really is simple. Shopping local is not just a consumer activity. By simply reallocating your purchasing dollars for products and services from a non-local vendor to a local one (again, not spending more), your company will be part of creating significant economic impact in Champaign County.

What’s in it for me you ask? The more companies that agree to shift some of their purchasing back to Champaign County means more local companies will see increased sales. As much as you want local companies to buy your goods and services, your fellow Chamber members want you to buy more locally as well. It means better customer service, quicker turnaround and no shipping.

More local purchasing means more money in the local economy. It means more money to keep jobs and create jobs. Your commitment to this grassroots effort, along with other local businesses will make the dollars add up.

Again, without spending more than you have already budgeted. In fact, did you know that according to Civic Economics West Michigan that $140,000,000 of new economic activity means 1,600 newly created jobs and $50,000,000 in new wages? Imagine being part of creating 1,600 new local jobs without spending more than you already spend.

Take the Local Purchasing Challenge. Help make a difference in our community.

The Chamber will track the collective amount pledged and report the numbers back to the membership while keeping your pledge confidential. Are you up for the challenge?

Download the form to start reallocating your money here: champaigncounty.org/economic-development/b2b.aspx

It doesn’t get easier than this: Step 1: Identify the categories/line items in your budget where you spend money outside of Champaign County.

Step 2: Commit to reallocating a small portion of that purchasing back to a business in Champaign County. Use the Chamber as a resource to find a local vendor.

Step 3 : Take the Challenge and return the card you received in the mail to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.

Step 4: Honor the promise.

Step 5: Update the Chamber on your status when asked (quarterly update).

Step 6: Sit back and feel good about your decision to help improve your business and our economy. Watch our local economy and local businesses grow.

The following businesses have accepted the challenge and have already pledged to reallocate $78,500 to vendors inside Champaign County: Rogards Spherion Darrold Kennedy – Edward Jones Central Illinois Produce Elliott Counseling Group Reynold’s Towing Dr. G’s Brainworks Ameriprise Financial - Micah Dixon Graybar Electric Champaign Telephone Co. Martin, Hood, Friese & Associates Ware Group UpClose Marketing and Printing

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE Recently, President and CEO, Laura Weis, was appointed to serve on the Champaign Unit 4 Tier Two Committee for School Facilities. As the president & CEO of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, it is her role and responsibility to represent Chamber membership on this committee. Ultimately, any action the Chamber is asked to take on this committee will be directed by Chamber members via the board of directors.

The goal is to use the newly launched Unit 4 Tier II Facilities Committee Blog as the vehicle to share the committee work. There are also links Chamber members can use to access all the documents made available to the committee. If necessary, Chamber staff will convene small groups of members to help analyze some of the materials and provide expert feedback on specific issues. Please follow the updates on Fridays, and please reach out to Chamber staff directly with feedback, thoughts or concerns. Members are encouraged to leave comments on the blog so we can share your thoughts with the entire membership and with the board of directors. The schools are a community issue. As a business community, we need to be engaged. The blog can be found at unit4schooldistrictcommittee.wordpress.com.

All past updates can be found on the blog, however, the first meeting showed insight on how the future of the committee will go. The charge of the committee was

outlined by the school board president, Chris Kloeppel, and facilitator, Steve Carter. The committee is to identify needs for capacity and programming at the elementary, middle and high school levels. As a committee, we will be asked to review recommendations from the Tier I group (teachers, administrators, parents, building personnel) and provide recommendations to the School Board of Education.

Assumptions have already been made and provided to the committee: • High Schools: two high school model; possible third comprehensive high school in the future when enrollment projections exceed capacity of current high schools; athletic fields to be shared and/or located together but not necessarily on site.

• Middle Schools: Middle school additions/renovations will be needed to address the capacity and programming needs.

• Elementary Schools: Three schools (Dr. Howard, International Prep Academy and South Side) should have been renovated / upgraded to the same standards as the other schools.

The Tier II Committee will meet for the next three months every Thursday are from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the district’s Mellon Building. These meetings are open to the public and are available online.

Annual Economic Impact of Tourism in Champaign County

5.5%

5.1%

1.9%

4.3%

increase

increase

increase

increase

visitors spent

generating

providing

generating

million

million in local tax receipts

323.5

$

5.3

$

2,570 jobs

65.8

$

million in payroll

Tourism creates an environment where business thrives, potential employees desire to live and families want to play.

INVEST IN A VIBRANT COMMUNITY.

Learn more about our Corporate Partnership Program.

Contact Jayne DeLuce at jayned@visitchampaigncounty.org or 217.351.4133.

visitchampaigncounty.org

Chuck Eyman Kirk Harney Jan Miller Dan Marker Steve Tock

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BENEFITS: • Showcase your business at your hole with a display and promotional items giving you direct access to all golfers and other sponsors • Sign with logo at your sponsored hole • Logo on scorecard • Mention in Commerce Connection magazine after event

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 Hole Sponsorship - $300  Contest Sponsor - $375 (Longest Drive, Longest Putt, Closest to the Pin, Closest to the Line) *Hole must be manned at all times

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 Raffle Prize Donation - item $50 or greater in value to be featured in raffle drawn during evening dinner

• Company name listed in brochure  Golfer Bag Donation - small items for each golfer (120 pieces) or prizes valued at $5 each (20 pieces) to be distributed randomly in golfer bags.

•Company name listed in brochure Will drop off: _____ Please pick up: _____ Please return completed forms to: Ariel Rothrock Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign 217.359.1791 ArielS@champaigncounty.org

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MEMBER ACCOLADES & NEWS ROBESON’S, INC. & PRAIRIE LANDS COUNCIL Phyllis and Kyle Robeson have spent their lives making a difference in Champaign County. Through their continued support of the arts, youth organizations, healthcare, parks and recreation and more they have impacted the lives of countless young people. Prairielands Council is proud to honor their contribution to the community with the 2nd Annual Distinguished Citizen Award.

Achievement Award in the Engineering Excellence category for its engineering design on the Mahomet Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion project.

HOMEBUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF EAST CENTRAL ILLINOIS HBAECI welcomes new Executive Director, Renee Pride. Pride’s extensive background in real estate and work as an interim solution to the previous Director, Terry Greene, made her an ideal candidate for this position. She plans to use her marketing background to bring the HBAECI closer to the community and move forward the mission of the Association. Pride also brings a personal connection to this role - she, herself, has been a member of HBAECI for several years and her great-grandfather was a builder in Champagin County. Pride is looking forward to using her skills and background to make an impact with this opportunity.

FARNSWORTH GROUP/VILLAGE OF MAHOMET The Village of Mahomet and Farnsworth Group, a national full-service engineering and architecture firm, were honored at the American Council of Engineering Companies, Illinois Chapter (ACEC-IL) Annual Awards Luncheon. Specifically, the ACEC-IL honored Farnsworth Group with a Special

Due to the Village’s rapid growth over the past decade, the Mahomet Treatment Plant received influent flows in excess of its design capacity. In order to allow for continued population growth, the Village undertook expansion of its treatment plant. The designed solution was the conversion of existing activated sludge tankage to a Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) facility that utilizes Integrated Fixed Film Activated Sludge (IFAS) technology. By utilizing advanced BNR processes coupled with IFAS technology, the plant is able to achieve all treatment goals without the construction of new aeration tanks.

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA MASS TRANSIT DISTRICT (MTD) MTD was recognized with a Silver Bicycle Friendly Business (BFBSM) Award by the League of American Bicyclists, joining more than 1,100 visionary businesses from across the country. With the announcement of 73 new and renewing BFBs today, MTD joins a cutting-edge group of 1,132 local businesses, government agencies and Fortune 500 companies in 49 states and Washington, D.C., that are transforming the American workplace. “The business community’s investment in bicycling is playing a central role in making the country a safer, happier and more sustainable place to live and work,” said Amelia Neptune,

Your community is our community.

Busey promises to partner with you for purpose and progress.

Whether we’re supporting local charitable organizations, providing energetic volunteers for area events or establishing small business startup initiatives, Busey is your source to bridge community needs.

Busey. Your Dream. Our Promise.

busey.com 217.365.4500

Member FDIC

League Bicycle Friendly Business Program Manager. “We applaud this new round of businesses, including MTD, for leading the charge in creating a bicycle-friendly America for everyone.”

MTD’s efforts to create a bicycle friendly community helped secure the $16.7 million dollar TIGER grant for the MCORE project that is rebuilding core transit routes to improve safety for all roadway users, including bicyclists.

ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER AND MISSOURI AMERICAN WATER have been honored as finalists for the St. Louis Regional Chamber’s Ameren Corporate Citizenship Arcus Award for demonstrating exceptional commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the St. Louis region.

Dave Farrar has been named Senior Operations Manager of Field Services and Production for Illinois American Water’s Champaign County District. He will lead and oversee the field operations, production and maintenance in the Champaign County service area ensuring highquality customer service and operational integrity.

MIDLAND STATES BANK AND STERLING NATIONAL BANK announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement for Midland States Bank to acquire approximately $400 million in wealth management assets from Sterling National Bank of Yonkers, NY, with an expected transaction closing date in the second or third quarter of 2016.

The wealth management assets to be acquired were from Hudson Valley Bank, which merged with Sterling National Bank in 2015. The majority of these assets are held within Special Needs and Settlement Trusts. Midland has experience in this specialized field through its 2013 acquisition of a Milwaukee-based settlement trust group.

In connection with the transaction, Midland expects to retain all 10 members of Sterling’s trust department, bringing Midland’s Wealth Management Group to 45 professionals. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions.

Have news to share with the local business community? Tell us about to and get featured in the Chamber’s next Commerce Connection. Email Lindsay Quick with your news, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org, or submit the news via our website: http:// champaigncounty.org/membership/member_accolades.aspx

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HELP US WELCOME Lindsay Quick recently joined the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce as the Graphic Design and Marketing Director.

She recently graduated magna cum laude and with honors from Millikin University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and a minor in marketing. While attending Millikin, she served as the president and marketing chair for the student programming organization University Center Board (UCB).

Lindsay believes that her new role will allow her to utilize her background and skills in order to promote business in Champaign County. She looks forward to working with the Chamber members and being able to grow professionally.

Lindsay may be reached via email at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org.

Ariel Rothrock recently joined the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce as the Events and Programs Manager.

Ariel Rothrock graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations and has a passion for event planning. She enjoys developing useful programs that benefit and will help grow businesses and the community. Ariel is looking forward to meeting Chamber members and working on the Chambers events and programs. She is excited to utilize her background and skills to develop new and innovative events and programs for the members.

Ariel may be reached via email at ArielS@champaigncounty.org.

In Your Business

To learn more about area businesses; how the Chamber can help; and to better promote our members to other members, the Chamber staff and ambassadors have been touring member businesses. For more details and photos from the tour, visit www.champaigncounty.org.

KECdesign:

Established in 2000, KECdesign was founded by Dan Proctor in the dark basement of his Villa Park home with nothing more than a vision, two business partners with an established distribution center and a survival instinct gleaned from his family’s restaurant equipment dealership on University Avenue in Champaign. Proctor had been working for a national food distribution company as a contract & design specialist when he had a disagreement with a superior about a little sandwich chain with a big idea - Jimmy Johns. To keep pace, Proctor needed a team - and his boss wouldn’t budge. So Proctor left the organization and KECdesign was formed with a better model to serve franchise accounts. In 2006, the company was reinvented again to serve its growing customer base and Proctor bought his partners out.

Headquartered in Champaign, KECdesign operates three divisions, and works on a local, regional and national scale with customers who share their excitement for the foodservice industry. Since its creation, KECdesign has been focused solely on pleasing the customer by staying ahead of trends and developing creative solutions to problems. Their passion for information, speed, ingenuity, solid design, creative equipment applications and staying informed on current and new technology has driven KECdesign from the beginning. This culture continues to move KECdesign forward today and has been a key factor in their stability and growth.

They currently have 34 employees and are hoping to add to their team this year.

Their company culture is fast-paced, direct and youthful. The 40,000 square foot KECdesign facility even features a “mojo” room equipped with a ping pong table for staff to enjoy. Although they have fun and enjoy themselves, the team at KECdesign are detail-oriented and pride themselves on their ability to execute.

They typically ship between 100-150 packages per day via FedEx - 90 percent of which leave the facility on the same day that they were ordered.

Cham ber Sto re Mailing Labels

An exclusive benefit of Chamber membership, we sell mailing labels containing the names and addresses of Chamber member businesses for the purpose of member-to-member communication. Target the local business community. Two lists are available for purchase:

e-Connection

Long list (approx. 2,400 names and businesses): $175 Short list (approx. 1,000 names and businesses): $125

Recently redesigned, our electronic newsletter is sent to nearly 2,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County each week.

Sponsor an e-Connection and get your business seen by thousands.

Contact Caryn Isenhower to order, Caryni@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Header sponsorship (one wk.): $100

Email Blast Advertisement Do you have a new product, service or information you would like to share with our entire Chamber membership list? Take advantage of this exclusive offer to send broadcast emails to our entire nearly 2,000 email list.

Email Blast Advertisement: $500 Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Commerce Connection

This is a bi-monthly publication that is distributed to over 2,400 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County. Content varies, but is always relevant to local business. There are a variety of ad sizes available.

Ads start at only $90. Ask about the exclusive cover package that allows your business to gain exposure before the reader even opens the publication. Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Email Footer Sponsorship

For a great price, place an ad in every email that is sent out of the Chamber office. That’s an average of over 12,000 emails per week. The best part? Link the footer wherever you would like.

Footer (one wk.): $75 (Add footer to the e-Connection for an additional $50.)

Contact Lindsay for details at, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

EXCLUSIVE

AFFORDABLE

Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Website Marketing With over 7,000 visits/month to the Chamber website, this is where you want to be. Market your business to locals and those looking to move and/or visit here. Want more information?

Contact Lindsay Quick at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org.

Event Sponsorship

From monthly First Friday Coffee and Business After Hours to our annual Golf Outing, the Chamber hosts a number of events each month. By sponsoring a Chamber event, your business obtains great exposure not only at the event itself, but also within all promotional materials (emails, mailings, e-newsletters, Commerce Connection, website, etc.). We have numerous opportunities throughout the year, here’s what’s coming up: Chamber Golf Outing brought to you by GFI Digital Holes - $300, Contest Holes - $375 and more available Additional info for events such as Business Success and Solutions Seminars is available upon request. Contact ArielS@champaign county.org or call 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.

Online Business Directory Enhancements Enhance your listing on the Chamber’s online business directory. The directory gets hundreds of thousands of views each day--turn your standard (complimentary) listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized advertisement.

Basic upgrade: included w/membership

Value upgrade: $20/year

Deluxe upgrade: $50/year

Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

Complimentary services: rental of laptop computer, conference space and LCD projector; Certificate of Origin; Notary service; information, assistance and resources.

REACH THOUSANDS ON A SMALL BUDGET.

calendar of events Ribbon Cutting

Business Success Seminar

Wednesday, April 6 4:30 to 5:00 p.m.

2013 S. Neil St., Champaign

(Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate)

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Ribbon Cutting Jim’s Place

Thursday, April 7 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.

403 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Ribbon Cutting

A.L.I.C.E. Training,

presented by Lt. Tod Myers, Champaign Police Department Tuesday, May 3 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Ribbon Cutting

Engineering Resource Associates, Inc. Menold Construction & Restoration Thursday, May 5

Fast Facts

6.7% Champaign County Unemployment Rate in January 2016

25 business licenses applied for in Champaign County in Fenruary 2016

105.6

February 2016 U of I Flash Index for Illinois

1,537,540 rides were taken on CUMTD in

Thursday, April 14 4:30 to 5:00 p.m.

807 Pioneer St., Champaign

3:00 to 3:30 p.m.

2416 Galen Dr., Champaign

Ribbon Cutting

Friday, May 6 7:30 to 9:00 a.m.

Merrill Lynch 1823 S. Neil St., Suite 101, Champaign

6,184 visits to the Chamber’s page,

Business Success Seminar

7,492 average amount of referrals PER DAY the

C-U at Home

Tuesday, April 19 4:30 to 5:00 p.m.

34 E. Green Street, Champaign

Business After Hours

Thursday, April 21 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Hosted by Comcast Business at Urbana Country Club 100 E. Country Club Rd., Urbana

Connect@Lunch

Monday, April 18 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 2235 S. Neil St., Champaign

Business Success Seminar

Succession Planning, presented by Marty Verdick, RSM US, LLP Thursday, April 28 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

First Friday Coffee

Search Engine Optimization (SEO), presented by Jason Rietman, Thunderstruck Design Tuesday, May 10 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Shred Day

in partnership with Confidential On-Site Paper Shredding (C.O.P.S.)

February 2016

champaigncounty.org in December 2015

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory received via search engines and online sources in February 2016

2014 The year that the Champaign County

Chamber of Commerce was named the Illinois Outstanding Chamber of the Year

Friday, May 13 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Business After Hours

Thursday, May 19 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Hosted by First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust at Home2 Suites by Hilton 2013 S. Neil St., Champaign

303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org

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