March / April 2022 Commerce Connection

MARCH / APRIL 2022

Volume 30 | Issue 2

years

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A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

INSIDE:

PG. 9 Being the Voice for Business

Permit No. 29 Champaign, IL

PAID

Presorted Standard US Postage

C h a m pa i g n C o u n t y ’ s

t ru s t e d

b u s i n e s s - to - b u s i n e s s

p u b l i c at i o n

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COMMERCE CONNECTION

PG. 13 Shop Champaign County PG. 14 Incumbent Worker Training Program 1

Saving Your Business TIME and MONEY!

WE'LL COME TO YOU!

There when you need us, online or face-to-face.

To get started on your own SBA Loan, contact a local First Mid lender.

Patrick Pfeifer

Commercial Lending 114 W. Church Street Champaign 217-398-0067 ppfeifer@firstmid.com

Scott Grumish

Commercial Lending 114 W. Church Street Champaign 217-403-4435 sgrumish@firstmid.com

First Mid has been recognized by the Illinois SBA seven years in a row for our commitment to small business. * Based on Illinois SBA Lender Performance Reports and the number of closed SBA 7(a) loans.

Look for us in these area communities:

firstmid.com 2

CHAMPAIGN 398-0067 | URBANA 367-8451 SAVOY 351-3526 | MAHOMET 318-3750 RANTOUL 893-8100

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

FY22 TOP INVESTORS TOP INVESTORS SILVER Busey Carle University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign BRONZE A & R Mechanical Contractors BankChampaign, N.A. Christie Clinic First Mid Bank & Trust Fisher National Bank Health Alliance OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical Center Ramshaw Real Estate

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, Christian FM 95.3 & ESPN 93.5 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO

CHAMBER STAFF Laura Weis President & CEO LauraW@champaigncounty.org

Madeline Herrman Public Policy Director MadelineH@champaigncounty.org

Matt Bradley Business Growth & Development Director MattB@champaigncounty.org

Kelsie Woelfle Director of Marketing & Events KelsieW@champaigncounty.org Stephanie Smith-Jeffries Office and Accounting Administrator StephanieS@champaigncounty.org

Mindy Cain Director of Workforce Readiness MindyC@champaigncounty.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS Rachel Coventry

Curtis Orchard, Ltd.

Deb Reardanz Clark-Lindsey Village

Tonya Horn

Nathan Escue

Dr. Jared Rogers

Kyle Emkes

Hamilton Walker’s

Laura Heiser

RE/MAX Realty Associates R.J. Hynds English Brothers Company

Dr. Pamela Lau Parkland College

Janice McAteer Busey

Chuck McReaken TSM Ventures, Inc.

Justin Overstreet Martin Hood LLC

OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical Center

Amie Smith

BankChampaign N.A.

Dr. Dalitso Sulamoyo Champaign County Regional Planning Commission

Bill Walter

Chair, Rogards

First Vice Chair, Maatuka Al-Heeti Emkes LLC

Dan Hurley

Second Vice Chair, FedEx Ground

Dan Kirby

Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen

Laura Weis

Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

A & R Mechanical Contractors

Andrew Weintraub Health Alliance

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 Kelsie Woelfle at KelsieW@champaigncounty.org.

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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between January 1 and February 28, 2022 3XH Energy Solutions & Roofing

773.563.5759 www.facebook.com/3XHenergysolutionsandroofing Energy Management & Conservation Consultants 3XH focuses on home energy independence, energy savings, preparation for our increasingly electrified present and future. Our driving force is educating those interested in home solar, electric vehicle charging stations, backup battery systems and/or generators in the event of a power outage. Exactly how the current state and federal incentives work can be confusing, so we provide simple explanations to help make sense of this time-limited opportunity. Need roof work done and interested in home solar? We can take care of you there too, to make this simple, easy, affordable, and tailored to your needs. 3XH offers free home solar quotes and reviews and roofing, so if that’s a concern for you, we’ve got you covered. Do you own a business and are looking for commercial solar?

We can also take care of those needs and love working with business owners to save money. Excellence is what motivates us, and compassion is what separates us.

We look forward to serving you.

ABC Heating & Air Conditioning 2815 Hundman Dr Champaign, IL 61822 217.352.5400 www.abcheatingandac.com Heating and Air Contractors

We have been proudly serving the Champaign County area for 45+ years. We operated part-time from 1969 to 1973 when our founder Fred F. Reed made ABC a fulltime business. In 2001, his daughter Gina Cribbett and her husband Mike purchased the company from him. Our staff has expanded and currently represents over 150+ years of combined experience in the trade. We hold on to the seemingly outdated value of taking pride in our craft. From the beginning, ABC has been an authorized and exclusive Amana Heating and Cooling Products Dealer. This is due in no small part to our commitment to quality over price. With industry-leading warranties and product quality, ABC has developed a reputation in the area for providing comfort control systems that work. Our company has survived and grown over the years through our satisfied clientele’s repeat business and enthusiastic recommendations.

We believe that it is better to explain a higher investment amount than to be forced to apologize for poor quality.

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We offer systems featuring Amana Distinctions equipment for the cost conscience consumer and contractor. We can provide attractive extended parts, labor standards and extended warranties to create even greater peace of mind for owners or buyers.

Adobe

345 Park Ave. San Jose, CA 95110 502.530.0418 www.adobe.com Graphic Designers Creativity is in our DNA. Our game-changing innovations are redefining the possibilities of digital experiences.

We connect content and data and introduce new technologies that democratize creativity, shape the next generation of storytelling and inspire entirely new business categories. Businesses count on Adobe to help them meet the challenges of digital transformation. With Adobe Experience Cloud, they can harness their data and deliver personalized experiences that drive business growth and customer loyalty.

Advanced Medical Transport - East 408 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.337.2911 www.amteast.org Ambulance Service

In January 2022, Advanced Medical Transport (AMT) launched its ambulance operations in the region, bringing its nationally accredited model of emergency medical services to Champaign and Vermilion counties. Governed by a local board of directors representing the communities we serve, AMT strives to be much more than a pre-hospital health care provider – we aspire to be a community partner, deeply invested in the betterment of the people’s lives.

Atkins Golf Club at the University of Illinois 1560 S. Stone Creek Blvd.

Urbana, IL 61802 217.481.8150 www.atkinsgolfclub.com Golf Courses

Atkins Golf Club at the University of Illinois (formerly Stone Creek Golf Club) is a full-service, championship public golf course. The newly renovated golf course features reconstructed greens and bunkers built to USGA Championship specifications, 2022 E-Z Go golf cars with GPS and USB ports, and five sets of tees make the Home of the Fighting Illini golf teams enjoyable for everyone. The course is available to the public for daily fee play, league play and large and small group events. The golf shop carries golf and resort apparel from top manufacturers like Nike, Peter Millar, Levelwear, Straight Down and others with the Atkins GC or Illinois Golf logo. Our PGA Memberled staff provides golf instruction to players of every skill level, club fitting services and professional event services to make your experience one to remember. The property also includes a farm-to-table restaurant, a private dining space and a large banquet space to accommodate groups of all sizes.

Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. 200 W. Madison St. Ste. 3300 Chicago, IL 60606 313.345.5008 www.greensfelder.com Attorneys

Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. is a Midwest-based law firm addressing the legal needs of business organizations in all sizes and industries across Illinois and beyond. Our attorneys offer a broad base of legal and professional skills to help clients achieve their objectives. Our practice areas include litigation, corporate transactions, employment and labor matters, real estate, franchising, intellectual property, trusts and estates, and numerous other services.

In every endeavor, we are known for our ability to understand, innovate and solve in ways that earn longterm relationships and new opportunities. We welcome the opportunity to explore how we may help your business grow and succeed. Learn more at www.greensfelder.com.

Wisdom & Wilderness

1210 E. Main St. Urbana, IL 61802 217.991.0208 www.wisdomandwilderness.net Holistic Practitioners

In our individual and sacred selves, each of us is gifted with wisdom. Wisdom to learn from, live with and wisdom as a source of leadership. Through spiritual direction (companionship) and forest therapy, I work with individuals and groups to practice the arts of listening and partnering that take us beyond conversation and observation and into the heart and soul of being part of the planet at this particular time. I meet with clients in my office, residential care facilities, places of business and wilderness preserves, including guided silent retreats and corporate/team experiences.

Electric Power Engineers 1904 S. First St. Champaign, IL 61820 512.382.6700 www.epeconsulting.com Engineers-Professional

Electric Power Engineers, LLC (EPE) partners with power and energy clients across the globe to address complex engineering and grid modeling challenges, bridge gaps, and design and develop the grid of the future. Our clientcentric consultants offer comprehensive services and proprietary solutions to deliver unmatched expertise and results by treating each project as if it were their own.

EPE has a global engineering team with office locations in Texas and Illinois in the United States and Panama and Lebanon. Learn more about EPE’s services at epeconsulting.com

U.S. Army Recruiting 1807 W. Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61821 217.356.2169 www.goarmy.com Government Offices

The Champaign Recruiting Station consists of highly trained soldiers and supporting family members who provide superior support in recruiting for today’s Army.

We assist in career and life-making decisions through individuals’ passion and goals to support quality of life. We recruit highly qualified young men and women with pride and integrity to be soldiers in today’s Army. We train them to be Army Strong.

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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between January 1 and February 28, 2022 Follow us for exclusive content and updates:

V.I.D.A Bottega LLC 1912 Moreland Blvd.

Champaign, IL 61822 217.239.9999 www.vidabottega.com Automobile Detailing

V.I.D.A Bottega LLC (VIDA), is a Hispanic/Veteran owned3M Authorized dealer located in Champaign, IL. A one-stop-shop for automotive protection, enhancement, longevity and customization. VIDA specializes in vehicle/ commercial fleet wraps (full/partial vinyl color changes), paint correction, a paint protection film (PPF), ceramic coating, window tints/films and detailing. First-rate service is the company’s focus and a cornerstone of the brand’s success. We strive to make sure all our clients receive conscientious, one-on-one, timely service in all capacities, be they transactions, conflicts or complaints.

@ccountychamber

@ccounty_chamber

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

@ccountychamber

VIDA Bottega’s mission is to use the company’s efforts and energies to bettering the Champaign-Urbana/Central Illinois community by providing state of the art and novel graphics/vinyl, detailing and armour products and technologies while facilitating the proper working environment and tools to permit the staff to achieve satisfying and stimulating professional careers.

RibbonCuttings Cuttings Ribbon

>> held between February 15 and March 31, 2021 Interested in hosting a ribbon cutting of groundbreaking?

Congratulations to the Regency Multifamily who celebrated the groundbreaking of their new apartment complex on February 22.

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Chamber members have the opportunity to sign up for ribbon cuttings to celebrate a grand opening or groundbreaking. Along with your team, a Chamber representative will be present and we invite ambassadors to attend to help you celebrate. Thousands will see photographs of your event through this publication as well as the Chamber’s social media pages. If your business is interested in hosting a ribbon cutting, contact Mindy Cain at MindyC@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791.

Grow Your Workforce The Champaign County Chamber and the Champaign Community Unit 4 School District know it’s hard to find employees right now. Employers are asking for a qualified workforce, and we will help you build it. The Chamber continues to support our area high schools by assisting their career programs to help prepare students to become future employees.

What Employers Need to Know about Saying YES (Youth Employment Services): • Unit 4’s YES program connects employers with students for summer employment and offers direct-hire, year-round employment opportunities for employers.

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Employers can get extra meaningful help while providing students with a significant learning experience.

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The Champaign County Regional Planning Commission is the employer of record for summer employment, so employers do not have to add the student to their payroll. Could that be any easier?

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Companies will benefit from the extra help in the workplace, help shape students’ work skills and possibly get one of those projects done that never seems to get done.

•

Employers get full support from the YES program staff to help manage the student.

The YES Program has new options for both students and employers: New program options mean that the YES staff will look for more employer partners for this summer. Employers seeking to hire high school students throughout the school year are needed in addition to summer employers.

YES Offers Two Levels of Support • Classic. This is the YES program that employers already know and like. This program wraps fully around the students including curriculum sessions, our annual One Big Career Fair access and a hand-picked summer job placement that comes with added support from a Worksite Coordinator.

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Select. This is YES’ new level of support aimed to reach students who are ready to find work on their own at any point during the year but may need some guidance along the way. The YES program will assist with resume editing, interview preparation, navigating online job applications and preparing students to advocate for themselves in the workplace. Select support students will also have access to the curriculum and One Big Career Fair, but these components will not be required the way they are for Classic support students.

OPEN ELIGIBILITY • YES aims to have specialized outreach efforts to those students who are traditionally underserved or at a systemic disadvantage. The major shift is that YES will no longer turn away students who were previously not eligible in the past. Any student who wants assistance with career exploration and job skill development will be served in the YES program.

We know that COVID-19 has impacted local businesses in various ways, making it difficult for employers to commit to employing a YES student. A request for information does not lock companies in as a participating employer. The YES staff are creative problem solvers and are happy to work with companies to find possible ways to create employer partnerships in this critical program for student career development.

If you are interested in getting involved or learning more about the 2022 YES Program, please reach out to Mindy Smith at smithmi@u4sd.org or call 217.531.6857.

YES also can be found online on Instagram (@yes.Champaign) and Facebook (@YESchampaign) or by visiting www.champaignschools.org/yes.

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Get on the green & get seen THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022 Lincolnshire fields country club Shotgun start at 12:00 p.m.

Register now The traditional golf outing will begin with a shot-gun start and will follow the basic scramble format. The team with the lowest gross score will be named the winner. Participants may sign up as an individual or as a team. The event is limited to the first 128 golfers who register.

Presented By:

The cost is $154 per golfer or $616 for a foursome of golfers. This event is for members only unless accompanied by a member.

Register now at: www.champaigncounty.org/events/calendar/

Interested in sponsoring?

RAFFLE PRIZE SPONSOR

with support from:

$750 - only one available

• One entry into the Outing • Logo on signage at check-in at the outing • Logo on scorecard • Listed on event poster • Mention in the Commerce Connection • e-Connection Banners – 1 weeks worth • Logo in the Commerce Connection magazine after the event • Business card size ad in the Commerce Connection magazine

DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR

$500 - only one of available

• Signage with logo posted near driving range • Logo on scorecard • Listed on event poster • Mention in the Commerce Connection magazine • E Connection Banners – 1 week worth • Business card size ad in the Commerce Connection magazine

HOLE AND CONTEST SPONSORS Hole Sponsorship $400 Contest Sponsorship $500 • Showcase your business at your hole with a display and promotional items

• Mention in Commerce Connection after event

• Sign with logo at your sponsored hole

*Holes must be staffed at all times

• Logo on scorecard

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• Complete list of participants and their workplace

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE:

BEING THE VOICE FOR BUSINESS

The word ‘advocacy’ can get a bad rap, and some may associate it exclusively with controversy and hyper-partisan politics. While the art of advocacy is nuanced, its essence is the act of supporting or working for a cause, and it goes beyond politics.

The chamber’s mission is to facilitate business growth and improve the quality of life. We exist to help the business community, and we are the voice for business and advocates for the business community.

As advocates, we work across the local, state and federal governments to help build a business-friendly environment that supports the business ecosystem. We create this environment collaboratively with you, and we do it in a couple of ways.

Being an advocate also means the chamber can guide you to resources and help you navigate challenges. We have access to subject matter experts, elected officials and networks.

We can connect you to funding opportunities and help you navigate the legislative process related to those funding opportunities.

As your advocate, our work empowers you and your business to make informed decisions, provide access to critical information and lay a foundation for continued success.

We encourage you to join our advocacy efforts. To learn more on how you can be involved, email Madeline Herrman, director of public policy, at madelineh@champaigncounty.org or go to champaigncounty.org/ advocacy.

For years, the chamber has used a series of board-approved guiding statements which outline key priorities for the chamber. Each potential position discussed by the board of directors is assessed against the statements. It ensures consistency in our positions and that the position is more significant than the people; they are positions of the institution. The chamber board seeks input from the membership and staff through the committee process, anecdotes and surveys before issuing a position and approving an action plan to support it, as the board recognizes that they represent the membership.

Chamber advocacy extends beyond taking positions. The chamber is a source of information. Rather than your staff needing to sift through different sources and stories to find your need-to-knows, we provide that information to you through various means, including our previous COVID-19 Updates, Special Alerts, the Commerce Connection and weekly Public Policy Connection newsletter. Members benefit from access to reliable, trustworthy information weekly in easily digestible headlines with links to more information.

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Business | Wealth Management | Personal

Building Business.

Growing Wealth.

Since 1868.

New to entrepreneurship?

The Chamber Has Your BACK. Starting a business can be intimidating, but you’re not in it alone. With free counseling services available and regular educational events, the Chamber has your back.

We are here to help you get your business where you want it to be. www.champaigncounty.org/business-advisors-council 10

NEW BUSINESS

CONNECTIONS

JOIN OR RENEW TODAY. CHAMPAIGNCOUNTY.ORG • 217.359.1791

LOCAL EXPERIENCE YOU LIVE HERE. WE LEND HERE. Investing in the Champaign area one home at a time.

HICKORYPOINTBANK.COM

202 WEST PARK AVENUE, CHAMPAIGN

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Help Us Welcome Kelsie Woelfle

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS

In March 2022, Kelsie joined the Champaign County Chamber team as the director of marketing and events. Kelsie is in charge of creating all marketing materials for the Chamber (printed, digital, website, social media, emails, etc.) and planning most of the events throughout the year.

Kelsie graduated from Southern Illinois Carbondale with a degree in Marketing. She has worked in marketing through college helping with digital media for the local PBS station and other campus groups. She then moved to the Champaign County and worked for the IHotel doing a little bit of everything including to social media, customer service, and event planning.

Kelsie is excited to learn more about this amazing community and helping business grow.

She is looking forward to making connections and using her creative skills for events and marketing for the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.

Have any questions about advertising, sponsorship or events?

Kelsie can be reached at KelsieW@champaigncounty.org or by calling 217.359.1791

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DO YOU

LOCAL?

Shop Champaign County Gift Card Program PRESENTED BY:

The Chamber is making it easier than ever for you to shop local with the launch of our new Shop Champaign County gift card program. The new Shop Champaign County gift card can be used at any local business that accepts Mastercard. There are no hoops for businesses or the card owner to jump through to keep the money local.

If your company supports local spending and wants to promote this important message year-round, then there is a sponsorship opportunity available to demonstrate you are a community champion for keeping our dollars local. You sponsor, we promote you and money stays local.

Featured Business - $115 for six months or $200 for 12 months Logo listed on shop local card order page as a featured business Chamber will promote card and feature sponsoring businesses through emails, website, social media posts, Commerce Connection magazine, mailers, and more Chamber will provide featured businesses with a marketing toolkit to help promote the program, including a door decal letting people know to use their Shop Champaign County card in your location.

Shop Local Champion Sponsors:

Learn more at https://www.champaigncounty.org/news/ 13

Grant Dollars Are Available to Train Your Current Employees We know area employers are having a challenging time finding and retaining employees. And, we understand that to internally fill your company’s open positions, many of your existing employees may need extra training to advance to those openings.

We have a solution.

The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission (RPC) to identify employer eligibility for the RPC’s Incumbent Worker Training Grant program.

Companies awarded the grant dollars will be able to offset training to increase productivity, avert potential lay-offs, improve retention of valued employees and boost business competitiveness.

Program Details: Approved Industries for Grant Funding: • • • • • •

Healthcare Manufacturing Information Technology Green Transportation Distribution and Logistics Green Training (Allowable Across All Industries)

Requirements for Employees Receiving the Training Qualifications: • • •

What the Training Grant Provides: • • • •

Training to upskill existing workers to meet your business needs Easy Apllication Process Locally Approved Grant funding to Offset Training Costs Chamber Assistance to Help with Application

A wide range of training topics and delivery arrangements may be proposed. Training that is closely linked to specific jobs, as well as job advancement, is encouraged.

How Does a Business Qualify?

To be eligible for an IWT grant, the business must show that jobs may be retained if current workers obtain in-demand skills.

Key indicators include: • • • •

Declining Sales Supply Chain Issues Adverse Industry/Market Trends Changes in Management Philosophy or Ownership

Employed at the Company Meet the Fair Labor Standards Act Requirements for an Employer-Employee Relationship Have an Established Employment with the Company of 6 Months or More • However, if the IWT is Being Provided to a Cohort of Employees, Not Every Employee Must be with the Company for 6 Months or More

Employer Matching Requirement: This grant does require that employers match training funds* based on size of the company: • • •

10% of the Cost for 1-50 Employees 25% of the Cost for 51-100 Employees 50% of the Cost for 101 or More Employees

*Training funds do not necessarily need to be a cash match. Employer match can be recognized in wages and other forms of investment.

Submitting the IWT Proposal/Finalizing the Project

Employers will need to complete a proposal outlining their plans for employee training. The Chamber and the RPC staff are available to assist businesses with completing proposals. Once eligibility has been determined, the RPC Business Service Team will work with the business to outline the training program and assist with identifying and securing a trainer, if needed.

Have questions? Please contact Mindy Cain at MindyC@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791 14

Spring Seminar Series Records, Snapchat, Google and Sales.

What do these four things have in common? They are the topics of our Spring Seminar Series.

Mastering these skills will help you take your business to the next level and reach your goals.

April 19: Get your Local Business on Google Search and Maps May 17: Sales isn’t a Dirty Word Anymore Register now or learn more at: www.champaigncounty.org/ events/calendar/

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MEMBER ACCOLADES & NEWS CLARKLINDSEY ClarkLindsey is proud to announce the addition of Kenneth Ivory, CDM, CFPP, CFBE, FIH, FMP, MBA to the Executive Council Team as vice president of community life & COO. Kenneth Ivory is transformational hospitality thought leader, inspirational coach, community advocate, enthusiastic trainer, contributing author and international speaker. His professional career spans over thirty-five years in the hospitality, academic, and non-profit industries. He has served in various executive roles of national corporations.

In his current role at ClarkLindsey, Ivory is responsible for overseeing operations of Independent Living and Assisted Living of ClarkLindsey in addition to Administrative Services, Resident Engagement, Dining Services, and Environmental Services for the entire campus. He will be a catalyst for creating an environment of excellent hospitality and customer service, working closely with the Executive Council team to fulfill ClarkLindsey’s mission to engage the mind, spirit, and body in wellness and community so that older adults can live their best lives.

“I am excited to be here to build rapport with phenomenal staff. Together, we will drive hospitality excellence for our residents throughout our community,” says Ivory.

As a community advocate, he has served on numerous boards. He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Studies and Master of Business Administration in Hospitality from Oxford Brookes University in Oxford, England.

FEHR GRAHAM AND ASSOCIATES, LLC Fehr Graham is pleased to announce the promotion of Andrew Kieser to senior project manager.

Kieser, who joined the firm in 1992, manages and designs water and wastewater treatment engineering projects and helps clients manage grants and loans. Kieser is also prequalified with the Illinois Department of Public Health as an Illinois Swimming Facility Professional 16

Engineer. He has experience with a pool design, filter pumps, main drain replacement, chemical controller replacement, and chemical feed systems.

Kieser holds certifications from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Environmental Protection Agency. He is a licensed Class A Drinking Water Operator.

He is a member of the American Water Works Association and the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers.

CLARK DIETZ Clark Dietz has re-elected Charles Craddock, PE, FACEC, as Chairman, President and CEO. Jerry Payonk, PE and Wesley Christmas, PE were re-elected executive vice president.

Mustafa Emir, PE, PhD was elected to the executive committee as executive vice president, and re-elected secretary, and Sean Widener, PE was re-elected treasurer. A new addition to the board includes Seth Swartz, CPA, Chief Financial Officer.

They also announced the election of eight new shareholders: Maria Behrens, PE, Mitchell Daharsh, Al Lapinskas, PE, Chai Mamidala, PE, Nicholas Rademacher, Keary Roberts, PE, Sam Robertson, PE, CRM, and George Sundy, PE. These additions reflect the firm’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of staff who demonstrate a strong work ethic, a commitment to clients, and a dedication to the betterment of the firm.

REGENCY MULTIFAMILY Regency Multifamily recently broke ground on a new development in Southwest Champaign, The Landing at Legends. The Landing at Legends will be the first luxury 55 & Better apartment community in the area, available to qualifying individuals aged 55 and older who want a living experience designed to meet their preferences. 55 & Better apartments offer fully independent living with no assisted living options.

CHAMPAIGN JEWELERS Five retail members have been appointed to the board of directors of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) for a three-year term beginning January 1, according to an announcement by IJO President and CEO Jeff Roberts. The board is composed of ten retail and three vendor members. Newly selected retailers are Barbara Binkley of Cooper & Binkley Jewelers in Brighton, MI, Kari Johnson Smith of Champaign Jewelers in Champaign, IL, Janelle Mead of John Thomas Jewelers in Albuquerque, NM, Nathan Regan of Burnell’s Fine Jewelry & Design in Wichita, KS and Daniel Widmar of Rasmussen Jewelers in Racine, WI. The board position is to act as a liaison between the membership and IJO management, and to help form ideas for the betterment of the overall operation of IJO. Leaving the board after three years of dedicated service are Linda Horrell, Mar Bill Diamonds & Jewelry, Belle Vernon, PA, Steve Rumanoff, Rumanoff Fine Jewelry & Design, Hamden, CT, Seth Shipley, Shipley’s Fine Jewelry, Hampstead, MD, Billy Smith, Smith Jewelers, Franklin, VA and Jim Steen, Morris Jewelry, Bowling Green, KY. “These outgoing board members have provided outstanding service to the IJO family,” continues Roberts.

“Their expertise, innovative ideas and incomparable communication skills have been a great asset to all in the organization, and I’m deeply grateful for their support.”

ADVANCED MEDICAL TRANSPORT Advanced Medical Transport was selected

by How2Media to be featured on “World’s Greatest!...”, a 30 minute show dedicated to highlighting the world’s greatest companies, products, places and people. Each show is a fast-paced tour around the world featuring behind the scenes footage, informative interviews and exciting visuals.

DO YOU HAVE UNSKI LLED WORKERS?

WE PAY FOR ONBOARDING!

*

HIRE, TRAIN, AND RETAIN Build a strong workforce with help from East Central Illinois workNet. Find out more at

www.eciwork.net/employers 217-531-8282 | 1307 N. Mattis Avenue, Champaign Additional offices located in Douglas, Ford, Iroquois, and Piatt Counties.

*“Pay” means eligible employers can apply for funding from the WIOA On-theJob Training program, which includes partial reimbursement of wages for up to six months and the provision of support services such as coaching, transportation vouchers, and uniforms. Federally funded, locally driven, we are East Central Illinois’ workforce development agency operating under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

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Tell your customers where to find you.

Customers and Sales Made Possible with Affordable, Effective Marketing Opportunities This opportunity is exclusive to chamber members.

Are you taking advantage of it?

Website Banner Ads

A banner ad on our website means that your company name, logo, product or service is seen by 150K unique visitors annually. With pricing starting at just $300, where else can you find this affordable and effective exposure for your business?

Email Blasts

Is there a new product, service or information about your business that you would like the entire Chamber membership to learn about or utilize? Through our email blast program, we’ll send an email on your behalf to our 4,000 email contacts for just $500. We’ll even throw it on our Facebook page at no additional cost. *Only ONE email blast will be sold per month on a first contact, first sold basis.

e-Connection Banner Ads

Every Monday, without fail, over 4,000 decision-makers receive our e-newsletter. People want to know what’s going on, we are a trusted source of information, so they open our e-Newsletter. That is what you want as an advertiser. Purchasing a banner ad to be placed at the top of the e-Connection gets you exposure to thousands for just $100 per week.

Website Directory Enhancements

Our website directory gets hundreds of views each day. We are like the modern-day version of 411 for people trying to find a business, resource or service. An enhanced listing makes you stand out against your competitors. Turn your standard listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized marketing tool for just $79 annually.

Commerce Connection Ads

Do you know what happens when you add magazine print to your marketing strategy? According to Magazine Networks, you get the multiplier effect.

They say, “people are 3.2 times more likely to identify the brand as one they wanted to find out more about and a 43 percent increase in their likelihood to purchase.” Our bi-monthly publication, Commerce Connection, gets mailed to all chamber members (and then some). Those chamber members employ an estimated 59,000 people.

Imagine 59,000 people looking at an ad for your competitor? The Commerce Connection is not only your B2B best bet; it is also a strong force for B2C marketing.

Do you really want to be seen? There are a variety of ad sizes available starting at just $100. Member businesses can also purchase the magazine’s cover.

You get exposure before readers even open the publication.

Mailing Labels

Sometimes, when you are trying to break through the internet noise, it pays to go ‘old-school’ with good old snail mail. We have names, and we will sell them. An exclusive benefit of Chamber membership allows you to purchase mailing lists containing names and physical addresses of Chamber member businesses to enhance your B2B marketing. Two lists are available for purchase: Long list (approx. 2,000 contacts): $195 Short list (approx. 900 contacts): $125

We can help you maximize your businessto-business marketing strategies. We can put your company in front of consumers.

Most importantly, we can do it in the most affordable way to meet your budget.

Let’s do this. Contact Kelsie Woelfle at KelsieW@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.

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calendar of events Business Success Seminar: Get Your Local Business on Google Search and Maps Tuesday, April 19 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Free Webinar to Chamber Members Ribbon Cutting: Stanfield Chiropractic Wednesday, April 20 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.

507 W. Town Center Blvd, Champaign, IL Business Success Seminar: Sales isn’t a Dirty Word Anymore Tuesday, May 17 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign First Friday Coffee Friday, May 6 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Hosted by COSTCO COSTCO Wholesale 2002 Neil St., Champaign

Featured: 2022 Golf Outing Presented by: Barcom Security

Registration Deadline Friday, May 27

The Chamber’s 2022 Golf Outing will be held Thursday, June 2 at Lincolnshire Fields Country Club in Champaign. Those interested in golfing may sign up as a foursome or as an individual.

Linconshire Fields Country Club 2000 Byrnebruk Dr.Champaign

For more information or to register for an event, go to www.champaigncounty.org/ events/calendar/

Booking Day 2022 Monday, May 2 at 9:00 a.m.

Interested in hosting a First Friday Coffee or Business After Hours?

Reservations will be taken on a first call, first-serve basis via phone call ONLY. To book your First Friday Coffee or Business After Hours for 2023

Call Kelsie at 217.531.4239

Fast Facts

4.4% Champaign County Unemployment Rate in January 2022

11 business licenses applied for in Champaign County in March 2022

105.9

January 2022 U of I Flash Index for Illinois

506,560

rides were taken on CUMTD in January 2022

5,905 visits to the Chamber’s website, champaigncounty.org in February 2022

2,928 number of unique searches on the

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory in February 2022

2014 and 2021 The years that the Champaign County

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

LIMITED LABOR POSTERS AVAILABLE Posters are $30 each and will be sold on a first-come, first serve basis. Posters can be purchased at the Chamber office.

The Chamber office is open Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m..

PLEASE NOTE: The Chamber complies with the state mandate and asks that members follow the CDC guidelines and/or state mandate at Chamber functions. While masking is now optional, please remember that people will have different comfort levels as we return to in-person events. Handshaking and standing close may still make people uneasy. So, we ask that all participants be respectful of this. Bring your best fist bump, reconnect and enjoy.

303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org 19

SPRING INTO ACTION PREPARE YOUR HVAC WITH OUR SPRING MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

217-367-4227

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