years
JUNE 2013
for p u b l i c at i o n b u s i n e s s - to - b u s i n e s s
A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Summer
AT THE
movies
A look at CU’s evolving “movie scene”, p. 15
Increase your bottom linejoin our energy co-op, pg. 15 Ready to hit the green?, pg. 16
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Volume 20 | Number 3
Photo courtesy Benjamin Lapid Photography
MEMBER VIEWPOINTS
Did you know...
that two-thirds of the adult population in the United States is overweight or obese? By 2020, that figure is expected to be 75 percent of the population. What this means for your business is inflated health care costs with more and more of your employees seeking medical attention for weight-related issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems and cancer... to name a few. In a recent survey, the Chamber asked its member businesses what programs or initiatives they currently have in place. Here’s what we found: Does your office have a wellness program in place? Yes, and I participate in it Yes, but I don’t participate in it No, but I wish there was No, and I wouldn’t participate if there was Other/ Not Sure/ No response
22% 0% 29% 0% 48%
What would be your preferred topic for a wellness program?
Stress Management 35.2% Health Screenings 35.2% Exercise/ Fitness Programs 88.2% Health Insurance Education 29.4% Disease Management 29.4% Other 11.7%
How would a wellness program benefit your business? “Less illness, happier staff.” - Rogards Office Plus “Healthier people -> more productive people -> greater output.” - Garton Consulting Services “Long term savings in health costs, increased productivity and fewer absenses.” - Carle “If people are healthy, they are happier and they work more. Health, happy people are a better asset to the team because they are more mentally clear, physically able and drive to create better work.” - Midland States Bank “I have noticed a decrease in illness, sick days, increased productivity and office energy, happier employees, and minimal increases in insurance premiums.” - Matzner Chiropractic “People that are more physically fit are more productive and get sick less-which helps keep insurance cost down.” - The Atkins Group “Staff would have more energy, be able to perform their jobs to their best ability.” - The UPS Store
What has your office done in the past to promote good health? We provide membership to fitness clubs and other employee-chosen fitness activities” - Garco Serv “At the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District, we were awarded Silver Level Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists. Employees who bike to work have access to on-site parking, locker rooms and showers as well as a bicycle repair shed. MTD also has a Fitness Center with a gift card reward program to incentivize regular activity.” - ChampaignUrbana Mass Transit District “We were given pedometers to record our daily steps with incentives to winning teams. We also did a weight loss challenge
with prizes for winners, offered free health screeings and encouraged people to know where they currently stood as far as health goes.” - Midland States Bank “Extended lunch hour for any kind of physical activity.”- Kelly Services “We paid for the Illinois Marathon 5K and half marathon.” - Mid-Illinois Cancrete & Excavation, Inc. “Some of my coworkers organized and participated in a ‘Biggest Loser’ type contest, but this was not sponsored by the company.” - Meyer Capel “Wellness contests and walking challenges.”- Dimond Brothers Insurance
“We take walks at lunch, bring healthy snacks, encourage and applaud great habits.” - United Way of Champaign County “We participated in ‘Bike to Work Day’, weight loss competitions, annual health fair and ergonomic evaluations.” - City of Urbana “We created an in-house walking path; offer a ‘mindful’ menu of healthier choices in the cafeteria; encouraged participation in the Illinois Marathon; raise awareness on a variety of health issues on an ongoing basis; encourage completion on online HRA and complete health screenings.” Presence Covenant Medical Center
FY13 TOP INVESTORS TOP INVESTORS Gold Busey Carle Presence Health Silver BPC, Inc. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
303 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 www.champaigncounty.org 217.359.1791
CHAMBER STAFF Laura Weis President & CEO LauraW@champaigncounty.org Karly Combest Event & Programs Manager KarlyC@champaigncounty.org Caryn Isenhower Accounts Receivable & Office Administrator CarynI@champaigncounty.org Nikolle Keeney Marketing & PR Manager NikolleK@champaigncounty.org Michelle Luna Membership & Advertising Services Manager MichelleL@champaigncounty.org Lynette Lykins Director of First Impressions LynetteL@champaigncounty.org Ryan Roth Public Policy Manager RyanR@champaigncounty.org Christopher Sheppard Membership Development Director ChristopherS@champaigncounty.org
Bronze A&R Mechanical Contractors Amdocs BankChampaign, N.A. Christie Clinic First Bank First Mid-Illinois Bank The Hilton Complex Kraft Foods, Inc. Supervalu Inc. Champaign Distribution Center University of Illinois Employees Credit Union Walmart Supercenters
IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS Chairman’s Circle Illini Radio Group - MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, 92.5 The Chief, WIXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1, HITS 99.7 NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, U-Rock 107.9 SJ Broadcasting - Q 96.1, COUNTRY 105.9, Sunny 95.3, Connect FM 93.5 & 95.3, ESPN Radio 93.5 Chamber Circle WICD ABC NewsChannel 15 Fox 27 Illinois/ WCCU TV Business Circle Adams Outdoor Advertising
150 PERCENT CLUB W.K. Cooper II Asset Management
BOARD OFFICERS Tabatha Helm
Beth Auterman
Chair, Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc.
Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen
Michael Wozniak
Diane Ruedi
First Vice Chair, Livingston, Barger, Brandt & Schroeder
Past Chair, F.E. Moran Security Solutions
Bill Walter
Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce
Second Vice Chair, A&R Mechanical Contractors
Laura Weis
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Joe Alexander Mark Ballard BankChampaign, N.A.
Mike Billimack Carle
Mike Brown Presence Covenant Medical Center
Mike DeLorenzo University of Illinois
Stephen Flynn Candlewood Suites
Perry Green
Cindy Guthrie YG Financial
Kurt Lenschow State Farm
Dale Morrissey Developmental Services Center
Dennis Riggs FIX-IT, Sidney Dairy Barn
Rod Roberts Roberts Design Company, Inc.
Chris Shroyer Busey
Stone Creek Golf Club
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.
thanks for supporting the
2013
schmooza palooza business expo
“Installers of QualIty”
Exteriors All Your Exterior Needs
1-800-747-3647
T
he 2013 Schmooza Palooza, held Wednesday, April 10 at the University of Illinois Assembly Hall, was a huge success. Around 1,000 people in attendance, more than 60 vendors participated and ten restaurants helped cater the event. Karly Combest, Events and Programs Manager for the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, said the event “was quite a success and created great excitement for both local businesses and the community.”
“Champaign County continues to provide a wide variety of products and services to local consumers and the Schmooza Palooza displayed many of them, all in one convenient location. Attendees were able to see this firsthand as they had the • hampaign •• 217.398.4812 217.398.4812 or or 800.747.3647 800.747.3647 •• Bloomington Bloomington •• 309.527.4812 309.527.4812 hampaign opportunity to network with the vendors,” Combest said. nville • 217.431.1221 • Decatur • 217.428.8044 • Monticello • 217.762.8119 nville • 217.431.1221 • Decatur • 217.428.8044 • Monticello • 217.762.8119 St. Louis, MO • 314.432.7711 St. Louis, MO • 314.432.7711 Combest added that the support from our sponsors was vital to the success of the event. Thank you to SK Exteriors for sponsoring the LISCENSED —BONDED BONDED——INSURED INSURED LICENSED — LISCENSED — BONDED — INSURED 2013 SK Exteriors Ultimate Power Lunch and to BankChampaign, N.A. for sponsoring the BankChampaign Wine Tasting.
“If it’s it’s not not raining, raining, we’re we’re out out installing” installing” “If
Also, a special thank you to all of our media sponsors (Shatterglass Studios, WICD, WCIA, FOX 55/57, WDWS/WHMS, the Illini Radio Group, SJ Broadcasting and Adams Outdoor Advertising). champaigncounty.org/
5
thank you
to all sponsors, food vendors, exhibitors, volunteers and attendees... without you, the expo would not be possible.
OUR WONDERFUL SPONSORS SK Exteriors BankChampaign, N.A. Adams Outdoor Advertising WCIA News Channel 15 Fox Illinois Central Illinois CW NewsTalk 1400 US 105.9 Sunny 95.3 Mix 94.5 WCIX 49 IllinoisHomepage.net Hits 99.7 Extra 92.1 Hot 105.5 Q 96.1 WIXY 100.3 92.5 the Chief WIXY Classic 99.1 True Oldies 97.9 Lite Rock 97.5
ESPN Radio 93.5 Shatterglass Studios OUR TASTY FOOD VENDORS Buffalo Wild Wings Buca di Beppo Dish - Passionate cuisine Flat Top Grill Hickory River Jersey Mike’s L.A. Gourmet Louie’s Dixie Kitchen Noodles and Company Silver Mine Subs OUR STAND-UP EXHIBITORS WCIA 3 NEWS Bundy Business Systems ELITE ENTERTAINMENT SK EXTERIORS WDWS, LITE ROCK 97.5, CLASSIC HITS 107.9 WKIO The Snyder Companies
WICD ABC NewsChannel 15 SJ Broadcasting The Prairie Center Wells Fargo Advisors Fedex Ground And Home Delivery Parkland College Fighting Illini Energy Merry Maids It Works! Illini Supply, Inc. Judah Christian School Central Illinois Bank Holiday Inn And Conference Center Air Choice One Airlines Jones Optical Heartland Health Care Eastern Illinois University Martin, Hood, Friese And Associates Chesser Financial Sunset Funeral Home
Stocks Office Furniture Republic Services One Week Boutique BJ Grand Salon & Spa Barnyard Treasures Pavlov Media Salt & Light MCS Office Technologies Illinois Procurement Technicaal Assistance Terminix Services, Inc. Aflac The Salon House F.E. Moran Security Systems State Farm - Kurt Lenschow AT&T Visit Champaign County LaVida Massage Health Alliance Cramer Siding And Windows Champaign County
Chamber Of Commerce Rogards Hawthorn Suites LRS Web Solutions Picture Perfect Sound Comcast Business Services Express Employment Professionals Midland States Bank The Hilton Complex Servpro of Champaign/ Urbana BankChampaign, N.A. Chris’ Water Gardens Community Shares Of Illinois SHATTERGLASS OUR TRUE BLUE VOLUNTEERS
WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between february and march 2013 Antiques & More at Staley Road
Bentley’s Pub
Antiques & More at Staley Road is the largest antique, primitive, retro and collectible store around the Champaign area and ready to help you find what you’ve been searching for. With over 70 vendors, something is bound to catch your eye. From blue mason jars, vintage chairs and antique toys to antique bed frames, signs and artwork, there is something for everyone. Their store features Bella Ruth Vintro Style Boutique and is equipped with jewelry, clothing and accessories to add a vintage and retro feel to any outfit.
Bobcat of Champaign
Lisa McElwain 606 S. Staley Rd., Ste. A Champaign, IL 61822 217.351.3488 lisamcelwain5189@gmail.com Antiques-Dealers
Aroma Cafe
Alexandria Harney 118 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.356.3200 aharney715@gmail.com Coffee Shops & Houses Downtown Champaign has plenty of cozy cafes. Aroma sets itself apart by using a blend of organic shade-grown coffee beans from Latin America. The blend features rich and dark sweet tones that finish with a lingering, smooth taste. Aroma offers a variety of organic lemonades, protein smoothies, and seasonal beverages for all to enjoy. Aroma Cafe was re-opened by new ownership in March of 2012. Under the new ownership Aroma expanded, remodeled and has brought great new items to the menu. They also support local artists with art that is hung on the walls. Guests can relax on a comfy leather couch that sits in front of a fireplace, in a nook nestled in the corner, or enjoy various games provided by the cafe.
Eric Meyer 419 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.359.7977 kamseric@aol.com Bars & Taverns Kyle Fenski 31 E. Kenyon Rd. Champaign, IL 61820 217.607.1454 kfenski@bobcatofchampaign.com Contractors’ Equip. & Supplies-Renting & Leasing
Cafe Zojo
Teresa Baldwin 2740 S. Philo Rd., Ste. D Urbana, IL 61802 217.328.9656 teresa@cafezojo.com Coffee Shops & Houses Cafe Zojo is a locally owned specialty coffee shop located at The Pines in southeast Urbana. Their trained baristas passionately brew Intelligentsia Coffee as well as other
featured guest roasters including Counter Culture and Passion House. Cafe Zojo specializes in accurately pulled espresso shots, drinks made with fresh local milk, perfectly steeped Tiesta Teas, and the area’s first pour-over coffee experience. With plenty of house-made sweets and soups, locally sourced sandwiches, cakes, hot breakfast items, and free Wi-Fi, Cafe Zojo is the place for great coffee and a meal on the go or a relaxing time with family and friends.
Catedral Consulting Carl Catedral 511 W. Church St., #2 Champaign, IL 61820 602.614.9708 carl.catedral@gmail.com Marketing Consultants
Catedral Consulting is a social media and creative marketing firm that works with organizations and causes to implement social media strategies for each brand’s unique needs. Services vary from initial social media set up and strategy on Facebook and Twitter to advanced campaigns for non-profit fundraising or small business content marketing. Catedral Consulting
Bobcat of Champaign held a ribbon cutting on Thursday, March 7 to celebrate their grand opening. recognizes that social media provides a way to connect and engage in community and relationships. Their aim is to serve the Champaign County community by helping organizations and small businesses use social media to share their unique story and highlight what makes each brand remarkable.
Center for Women in Transition Nancy Hiatt 508 E. Church St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.352.7151 nhiatt@cwt-cu.org Social Service Organizations
Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon Jan Seeley P. O. Box 262 Champaign, IL 61824 217.714.6711 director@illinoismarathon.com Athletic Organizations
Clearpath
Kay Greene 1717 W. Kirby Ave., Ste. 337 Champaign, IL 61820 217.402.9118 kay@getaclearpath.com Fund Raising Consultants & Organizations Clearpath, LLC is a multi-dimensional consulting group located in Champaign that provides comprehensive services including organizational assessment, strategic planning, board development, annual fund and capital campaigns, branding, marketing, media relations, and business management. Their team approach provides clients with access to decades of combined expertise and hands-
CompleteCare Pharmacy held a ribbon cutting Thursday, March 21 to celebrate their grand opening.
on, start-to-finish project management. With their knowledge, skills, resources, and commitment, Clearpath provides uniquely tailored services for non-profits and small businesses. They don’t just tell their clients how to do it, they help them do it.
Dunkin’ Donuts
Sunil Modi 404 W. University Ave. Urbana, IL 61801 217.359.7005 cuddbr@gmail.com Restaurants 1302 N. Prospect Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 217.328.3513 607 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.359.2786 515 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.384.3375 With over 3,100 stores in 32 countries outside of the U.S., Dunkin’ Donuts has been serving loyal customers internationally for over 40 years. From Asia to Latin America and everywhere in between, you can count on Dunkin’ Donuts for delicious coffee and espresso, cool Coolatta®, frozen beverages, delectable donuts, sandwiches and more.
Fehr Graham
Steven Sodemann 340 N. Neil St. P.O. Box 557 Champaign, IL 61824 217.352.7688
steve@sodemann.com Engineers-Professional
Fun DJ
David Youhas P.O. Box 1793 Danville, IL 61834 217.497.2262 davidyouhas@gmail.com Disc Jockeys Beyond dependable audio, Fun DJ delivers fun to you! Fun DJ provides more than just an iPod. They offer fabulously tailored music and brilliant lights for the party. They have over 26 years of DJ experience in Illinois and Indiana and weddings are their specialty. With Fun DJ, wedding reception planning, details, and timing are all handled. They provide ceremonial music, sound reinforcement and microphones. FunDJ...they keep their clients dancing all night long!
Harvest Moon Drive-In
Ben Harroun Route 47 South Gibson City, IL 60936 217.784.8770 info@harvestmoondrivein.com Theatres-Movie The Harvest Moon Drive-In is a family operated outdoor theatre located in Central Illinois, 30 miles from Champaign. The theatre operates seasonally April through September playing a wide variety of new movies. From the summer blockbusters, to special occasion parties, the drive in offers a unique destination for summer movie viewing. Ticket prices are $7 for adult, $6 for children, and kids under 4 are admitted free. The drive-in has the widest variety of
Illinois and Indiana families prepare for long term care. With nearly twenty years of experience and a solid service team behind him, Matthew is excited to be a new member of the Champaign County Chamber.
Illini Supply, Inc.
004 Technologies held a ribbon cutting to celebrate their new space on Thursday, May 9, 2013. theatre food in Central Illinois and attracts over 40,000 people to the area in its 6 month season.
Illiana Insurance Agency - Matthew Barnes, Sr. Matthew Barnes Sr. 113 W. Washington P. O. Box 409 Philo, IL 61864 217.684.2277 vision190@comcast.net Insurance
Matthew Barnes is an independent insurance agent specializing in the education of those new to Medicare. He provides for various insurance needs whether that be a Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Matthew has also earned the designation of Long-Term Care Professional (LTCP) and is proud to have helped many
deal directly with manufacturers, Illini supply is able to offer their clients the highest quality wood, laminate and metal furnishings at the most competitive prices. They work with each customer’s budget to provide interior furnishings your way.
Donna Mauzey 111 Illini Dr. Forsyth, IL 62535 217.877.6551 donna.mauzey@illinisupply.com Office Furniture & EquipmentDealers
JBS Tech Solutions
For over 60 years, Illini Supply, a Certified Female Business located in Forsyth, IL has proudly provided interior furniture solutions for educational institutions, commercial businesses, places of worship and healthcare customers throughout the state. They have a team concept and partner with clients to ensure complete customer satisfaction from the initial design to the installed project. Because they
JBS Tech Solutions delivers high quality computer service and education that is certified by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. The computer service and education varies from one-on-one private lessons and tailored problem solving, to free seminars for businesses and groups of 10 or more individuals. John Scott is the owner and principal service provider for JBS Tech Solutions. John is an I/T Manager at a Fortune 500 company.
John Scott 3304 Roxford Champaign, IL 61822 217.722.2209 JBSTechSolutions@outlook.com Computers-Training
Financing small businesses for over 145 years. We’ll help navigate your unique financial journey. Busey understands that small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy. For over 145 years, we’ve remained a dedicated partner to those businesses and entrepreneurs who bring vibrancy to the local economy. With Busey, you’ll gain a partner that is as dedicated to your business and your community as you are.
Busey. Your Dream. Our Promise.
busey.com 217.365.4500
Member FDIC
He supports 400+ users by day, and is a computer solutions provider to community members by nights and on weekends.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
Ryne Simeone 505 E. Green St., Ste. 3 Champaign, IL 61820 217.954.1170 ryne.j.simeone@gmail.com Restaurants Their concept is simple. Jersey Mike’s Subs provide their customers with the freshest, highest quality sub sandwiches available, made to order and served with energy and enthusiasm. The authentic sub sandwich, served Mike’s Way with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, olive oil blend, red wine vinegar and spices, is what differentiates Jersey Mike’s from the others. Jersey Mike’s commitment to quality, freshness and authenticity has helped them win Best Sub and Best Sandwich Awards in virtually every market they serve.
Kinex Fitness Studios Matthew Placek 2740 S. Philo Rd., Ste. F Urbana, IL 61802 217.344.6600 matt@cafezojo.com Health Clubs
At Kinex you will never encounter the distractions found in a traditional gym. Kinex’s four-quadrant design ensures each client will have their own space and equipment during every training session. The fully digital facility also allows Kinex trainers to track each client’s progress, plan personalized workouts and display the information during each session. We give Kinex clients the maximum value for their personal training investment.
Mid-Illinois Concrete & Excavation, Inc. Todd Modglin 1802 N. Cunningham Ave. Urbana, IL 61802 217.366.3444 todd@midilconcrete.com Concrete Contractors
From residential to commercial and large to small, Mid-Illinois Concrete & Excavation is the right team to get your concrete fabrication project done quickly and on budget. They have the knowledge and experience to provide clients with quality products and service. Mid-Illinois Concrete & Excavation are proudly a union concrete
contractor covering Central Illinois and always available to bid any size job covering the Champaign, Urbana, Danville, Decatur and Mattoon area.
Monster Cards
Tony Schaefer P. O. Box 8067 Champaign, IL 61826 217.637.2541 monstermancards@yahoo.com Collectibles
Positively Changed
Stephan Seyfert 1207 Muirfield Pt. Champaign, IL 61822 217.721.1220 changeagent@positivelychanged.com Business Consultants Positively Changed’s mission is to help people and organizations who want to make a positive change in the world become the best leaders they can and inspire others to join them as they live their cause. Everyone has a part to play in their own success. Positively Changed’s part is to help you connect with your purpose and transform into the leader you want to become. To achieve this, they provide powerful opportunities for growth, including: event hosting, keynote speaking, workshops, mastermind groups, empowerment mentoring, and professional coaching for groups or individuals.
Property Management People, Inc. Eric Bussell 2404 Windsor Pl. P.O. Box 200 Savoy, IL 61874 217.355.6000 info@champaign4rent.com Real Estate Management
Standard Electric Supply
Tim York 1904 W. Springer Dr. Champaign, IL 61821 217.239.0800 tyork@standardelectricsupply.com Electric Companies Standard Electric Supply Co., serving customers since 1919, is committed to offering their customers, the quality services and products they require to successfully run their business. Standard Electric Supply Co.’s goal, as an electrical and automation distributor, is not only to provide the OEM and Industrial markets with quality products on time, but to also assist you in reducing
your overall operating costs and increasing productivity. By providing engineering support, safety solutions, online ordering support, enclosure modification services, inventory management services and more, they are able to save customers tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Wilke Telesolutions Teri Wilke 2131 Harbortown Cir. Champaign, IL 61821 217.402.8188 teriwilke@hotmail.com Telemarketing
Wingstop
Sunil Modi 512 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.690.9464 cuddbr@gmail.com Restaurants Wingstop has taken chicken wings to a whole new level by saucing and tossing them in a choice of 10 flavors. Wingstop is not fast food; their wings are made with care and served up piping hot. Every order is made fresh when ordered; nothing sits under a heat lamp. In addition to hot fresh wings, their sides are homemade. Fresh Cut Seasoned Fries are cut daily in every restaurant from Idaho Potatoes.
Women’s Business Council Kristie Hayes P.O. Box 3089 Champaign, IL 61826 217.377.3089 klhayes@psbank.net Human Services Organizations
Since 1985 Women’s Business Council has provided a forum to foster leadership skills, create networks of support, and promote growth opportunities for women. WBC hosts monthly luncheons with a program of professional or personal development on the fourth Thursday. WBC partners with Habitat for Humanity, the Center for Women in Transition, and other local non-profits to promote philanthropy and volunteerism. They offer several options for promoting your business including newsletter advertising, sponsoring a luncheon meeting, as well as website and social media linkage. Women’s Business Council is committed to providing you every opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Lights,
Camera,
RENOVATION: How local theaters are working to enhance your movie going experience Wr i tten by S am ant ha M at his for the Ch a mpa i gn Count y C hamb er of Commerce
T
he wow-factor is coming to different areas around Champaign County. Four local movie theaters are undergoing drastic renovations to their facilities not only to stay competitive in the film industry, but to also better serve you. With many movie-viewing alternatives – rental stores, Redbox kiosks, online viewing, and film festivals – local theater owners are continually looking to provide services that their customers cannot easily get while at home. This means bringing 50-foot screens, surround sound, and 3D viewing to their facilities. Local theater representatives also believed parts of their facilities were getting old and needed facelifts. These renovations allow for more options, higher quality movie-going experiences, and differentiation amongst competitors. So what is there to be excited about?
THE DRIVE-IN: Harvest Moon Drive-In, located in Gibson City, Illinois is constantly working to exceed their customers’ expectations. Ben Harroun, owner of the drive-in, heard news of other theaters upgrading their facilities and knew they needed to “offer more” to customers. Updates have been ongoing for nearly a decade, but the more recent ones began back in 2008 when a wind turbine was installed to help reduce electric costs and ultimately made them the “world’s first wind-powered movie theater.” Since 2008, Harvest Moon has also upgraded FM transmitters for clearer radio sound and added Red Reader digital sound cards to enhance the quality of the sound. Their largest and most expensive improvements began last
year and will continue throughout 2013. Installation of the Barco 4k Digital Projectors was finished in March, which are the same projectors used by IMAX. In addition to these high-quality projectors, they are upgrading their Marquee and repairing the “original neon [sign] to keep history alive.” Furthermore, Harvest Moon is adding Solar Power array, which will make the theater the “first movie theater in the state, and the second drive-in in the nation to be solar powered.” There will also be renovations to the snack bar. These changes make for quite an expensive undertaking for this family run business; totaling around $260,000.
Construction on the Carmike Cinemas, N. Prospect, as of April 2013
Harroun said they wanted to “avoid any additional stress on the families that attend regularly” so minor changes were made to the ticket structure. Adult tickets (12 and up) are $7 a person, children 4-11 remain $6, and children under 4 will remain free as always. They also now offer outside food permits, which are $5 per vehicle per visit, but come with a coupon for either a large popcorn or 2 small soft drinks. Spring is in full swing—as the sun sets to the west, projectors start churning out the latest films, and the Harvest Moon family is ready to welcome any and all to be a part of one of the most unique movie-going experiences in the area. IMAX: Savoy 16 is now offering a movie-going experience that audiences will not find anywhere else in Champaign County. They have brought the most “powerful and immersive way” to view movies to the Savoy 16 theaters: IMAX technologies. The theater has been around for “20-plus years” and the company decided it was time to upgrade. So what makes this IMAX auditorium so special? It will “deliver crystal-clear images” in an environment that has been customized geometrically to make you feel as though you are in the movie. The IMAX auditorium will “seat 500 people in front of a giant 80 foot wide and almost 50 foot tall screen.” The high-quality visuals are not all these renovations are bringing; audiences will also physically feel the movie. This is possible because the auditorium will feature D-BOX motion effects seats “that move side to side, forwards and backwards and up and down.” Savoy 16 IMAX manager, Melissa Garske, explains the technology as “little robots under your seat” saying it “is smooth and blends perfectly with the sound and image to make your cinematic experience complete.” The closest IMAX facilities are located in Peoria, Edwardsville, and the Chicago and Indianapolis areas. “Customers are very excited” about this technology coming to Savoy; they “love the idea of not having to travel two hours to have the IMAX experience,” Garske added. The building renovations also include “new and expanded box-offices with new self-serve box-offices.” With all these changes, the theater will continue to house
16 auditoriums, and is costing over six million dollars. These improvements to the Savoy 16 theater complex began back in August of last year and the project was completed for the opening of Iron Man 3 on May 3; IMAX ticket prices range from $8 to $16 and can typically be purchased starting no later than the Tuesday before opening. Savoy 16 has been in this community since 1993 and the organization is excited to be bringing these renovations and technological advancements to local movie-goers. THE “BIG D” AUDITORIUM: Carmike Cinemas is also preparing to offer a new kind of movie viewing experience for members of Champaign County. The Beverly, which has called Champaign home since 1995, will no longer be the same. With renovations that began last year, it is in the process of becoming the new and improved: Carmike 13. The auditorium being added will feature a three story tall screen and is called the “Big D.” It will hold 600 people and provides comfortable viewing in leather seats with high-backs. The remaining12 screens in the complex will have stadium-style seating. The addition of the “Big D” is the highlight of the theater complex and will also include SurroundSound and an “ultra-bright screen.” The theater complex will have a “one-stop ticketing and concessions station,” which will make the movie-going experience at Carmike 13 more customer friendly; no more waiting in different lines for tickets and concessions. There will be various “concession islands” in the lobby of the theater. These changes also bring about a small increase in prices, which is to be expected. The difference is “typically in the $2 price range.” Carmike Cinemas is building similar “Big D” auditoriums across the county, but this will be their first in Illinois. They have experienced success in other markets and hope the same occurs in Champaign. Carmike recognizes the excitement that surrounds the digital movie experience, and is working hard to update their theaters to provide these opportunities for more of their customers. The expansion and technology added is expected to accommodate 2,800 movie-goers. There is no open date scheduled, but the Carmike 13 is planned to open this summer. THE “OLD” NEW THEATRE EXPERIENCE: The Virginia Theatre has come a long way since December 28, 1921 when it first opened as a vaudeville theatre. “The theatre truly was the ‘gem’ of the city,” said Bobbie Herakovich, Executive Director of the Champaign Park District. “Now, 90 years later, we are proud to be restoring the theatre to all its former glory.”
After 80 years and three owners, the Virginia Theatre fell into a state of disrepair and faced imminent closure. In 2000, the Champaign Park District stepped up with intention to renovate the theatre. Renovations have been ongoing for the past few years. Most noticeably, the theatre marquee was replaced to resemble its original fixture. Other notable projects include new seating; restoration of the theatre’s Wurlitzer organ; a renovated lobby and foyer as well as a new stage, bathrooms and dressing rooms. “The Virginia Theatre is in integral part of the Champaign County community,” Herakovich said. “It is our [the park district’s] intention to make the facility open and accessible to all.” In addition to the theater hosting community theatre, dance and performing arts shows, movies will also continue to be shown at the theatre, as part of both the News-Gazette and the Champaign Park District film series’. The Champaign Park District film series is called “Reels Deals.” This program puts newer releases are on the big screen at Virginia Theatre. Last year, “Reels Deals” showed movies like Happy Feet 2 and Rango. Screenings are on Tuesdays and Thursdays on an irregular schedule and admission is $3. This years’ schedule is still to be determined. The News-Gazette Film Series is “an annual program of classic and award-winning films shown monthly at the Virginia Theatre.” Last summer, due to the renovations, screenings of the films – An American in Paris, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and The Third Man – moved outdoors and were shown at four different Champaign Parks. In the past films were shown twice, at 1 and 7 p.m. and cost $5. This years’ schedule has not been released yet, but it is sure to provide yet another year of summer nights filled with fun and freshly popped popcorn for those passionate movie-goers in Champaign County.
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YO U R B U S I N E S S S AV E
MONEY
+ INCREASE YOUR BOTTOM LINE Did you miss out on one of the Chamber’s previous opportunities to save money by joining our electricity co-op? No worries-- we have a new co-op round starting in May! Deadlines/ Timeline:
May 17: Copies of your bills must be at the Chamber office by 5 p.m. May 29: Contract with pricing will be emailed to all participants
(IMPORTANT: You are not contractually obligated to anything until you have seen the contract and price and have SIGNED the contract. If it doesn’t work for you- you are under no obligation to sign with the Chamber program)
May 31: Deadline to return executed contract July 1: New contracts will start with Fighting Illini Energy (unless you have a future start date due to your existing contract). All contracts will be valid until December 2015.
This program is exclusive to Chamber members in good standing who are not currently in the program and are with Ameren (or a different third party provider) with a contract expiration date before December 2013. Over the last two years we have helped Chamber members save over $1 million in their electricity bills. We can help your company too. Call 217.359.1791 for more information.
PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE Members of Champaign County First (CC1) recently returned from the annual Washington D.C. Fly-In that took place on May 5 through 8. Participants met with Representatives Shimkus, Schock, and Davis and Senators Durbin and Kirk along with Federal Railroad Administrator Joe Szabo and individuals at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, Amtrak, and others to take CC1’s message to Washington D.C. This year’s focus for CC1 was to advocate for additional and improved passenger rail for Champaign County; funds for the Lincoln Extension; and communicating the importance of Willard Airport for our community. Champaign County First is a united countywide effort to identify projects and/or initiatives that when successfully completed will greatly benefit the citizens of Champaign County, spur economic development, and improve the quality of life in Champaign County. Champaign County First partners are committed to advocating on behalf of the identified projects at the local, state and/or federal level with one voice in order to transform Champaign County. If you are interested in becoming a member of Champaign County First, please contact Ryan Roth at RyanR@champaigncounty.org. Meetings are the last Wednesday of the month and the location varies between the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation and the Champaign County Cham-
2013 CHAMBER
GOLF OUTING
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE ROOFING DOG
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2013 @ STONE CREEK GOLF CLUB IN URBANA The traditional golf outing will begin with a shotgun start and will follow the “Florida 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. Registration fee includes: Lunch Greens fees Golf Cart Unlimited use of driving range Course refreshments One ticket per golfer to dinner For Chamber members, the cost to participate is $145 per golfer. The non-member rate is $185. To register, contact Caryn at CarynI@ champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791.
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SCHEDULE: 11 A.M. - 12:45 P.M.: CHECK-IN; LUNCH; DRIVING RANGE OPEN 1 P.M.: SHOTGUN START FOR THE GOLF SCRAMBLE 5:30 - 7:00 P.M.: DINNER
We’ve got an app for that... CHECK OUT CHAMPAIGNCOUNTY.ORG ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE FOR A PORTABLE BUSINESS DIRECTORY, UP-TO-DATE EVENTS, COUPONS + MORE!
MEMBERSHIP NEWS - Black Dog Smoke & Ale House was ranked as second-best barbeque spot in the nation by Fox News and Maxim Magazine.
Organization to be adapted as movie posters and concept sketches.
- BPC (Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc.) has been added to the list of the Best Places to Work in Illinois 2013. Best Places to Work is a statewide survey and awards program designed to identify, recognize and honor the best places of employment in Illinois, benefiting the state’s economy, workforce and businesses.
The awards, final produced films and design art will be presented at a free screening gala open to the community on Wednesday, May 29 at the Art Theater.
“Being named to the list of Best Places to Work in Illinois is a great honor for BPC because it recognizes the dedication and strong relationships of our professional staff, partners and clients. BPC is intentional about cultivating a corporate culture that focuses on lifting up people and providing service excellence to our coworkers and our clients”, said BPC CEO, Habeeb Habeeb. “At BPC, the administration of employee benefits is simply the service we provide. But we attribute our success and our rapid growth to the passion we have and the high value we place on our relationship with our clients and partners. Our niche is to place the client and the client’s employees first and to look at things from their point of view. BPC is small enough to care, and large enough to do the job, serving 1800 clients ranging from two to 20,000 employees.” - Cory Hatfield of the Champaign County Convention and Visitors Bureau was listed among the 40 under 40 list in Connect Magazine. - Champaign Unit #4 School District has been awarded a two-year $320,000 grant from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) that will fund topnotch professional development opportunities for its 6-12 grade science teachers. The grant will support the Partnership for Implementing the Framework for K-12 Science Education (PIFSE) program which is collaboration among Champaign Community Unit School District #4, the University of Illinois Office of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (MSTE), and the US Army Corps of Engineers Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL). Together, these partners will provide high-quality, research-based professional development training activities and resources that strategically align with the new national framework and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for teaching and learning science. - In late January, the Champaign-Urbana Film Society launched the “Pens to Lens” Screenwriting Competition with the goal of creating an opportunity for K-12 students to participate in the local filmmaking community by writing original screenplays for short films. Over 120 screenplay submissions were received from students age 5 to 18, several screenplays have been chosen to be produced by local filmmakers. Many other submissions have been chose by members of the Champaign-Urbana Design
- Cathy Rector of Coldwell Banker Commercial Devonshire Realty was named District 6490 Rotarian of the Year. There are 55 clubs in the District and 2,300 members. Cathy was bestowed this honor due to her work with New Generations, the Interact Club at St. Thomas More and her work with the Rotary Leadership Institute. Champaign West also won the New Generations Award as well as the Interact Club of the Year Award due to Cathy’s leadership. Rotarians at the District level are dedicated to not only service in our local community, but throughout the world. Last year Cathy won Rotarian of the Year for her Club, but this is the highest achievement awarded to a member at the District Level. - The Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon had another successful year with over 21,000 runners and 3,500 volunteers. Next year’s dates will be April 24-26. - Local mental health practice, Kevin Elliott Counseling, Inc., is launching “Bridging the Gap” to reach area residents who have no insurance coverage for mental health but are above the financial line that would entitle them to Medicaid. The private counseling firm in downtown Champaign will be offering four options with a sliding price schedule, based on family income. Group therapy will start as low as $5 and individual therapy at $12. - Wells Fargo Senior Sales Executive Clark Breeze, has completed the curriculum, practical experience, and exams necessary to earn the Chartered Healthcare Consultant (ChHC) designation. This certification is awarded by The American College, Bryn Mawr, PA and is considered the most comprehensive credential available for benefits specialists and healthcare consultants. The curriculum provides professionals with an in-depth understanding of the latest reforms in healthcare mandated by recent legislation. Breeze is a Senior Sales Executive with the Benefits Division of Wells Fargo Insurance Services. USA, Inc., Champaign and has 37 years of experience. Do you have news to share with the Champaign County business community? Tell us about it and get featured in the Chamber’s next Commerce Connection. Send an email with your news to Nikolle Keeney, NikolleK@champaigncounty.org.
Chamber Store 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. Two lists are available for purchase: Long list (approx. 2,500 names and businesses).................................. $175 Short list (approx. 1,080 names and businesses)..................................$125 Contact Caryn Isenhower to place your order, CarynI@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
E-Connection
Recently redesigned, Our electronic newsletter gets sent out to more than 4,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County each week. Sponsor an e-Connection and get your business seen by THOUSANDS. Header sponsorship (one week)............................................................$100 Header sponsorship (four consecutive weeks).................................$360 Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, NikolleK@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Email footer sponsorship
For only $75, your business can place a banner on every email that gets sent out of the Chamber office. That’s an average of over 12,000 emails per week. You can’t get better (or cheaper) exposure! Email footer (one week).................................................................................$75 Add email footer to the Chamber’s e-Connection..........Additional $50 Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, NikolleK@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
New! Email Blast Advertisement
Do you have a new product, service or information you would like to share with our entire Chamber membership list? We are now offering an exclusive offer to send broadcast emails to our entire 4,200+ email list. Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, NikolleK@champaigncounty.org. Email Blast Advertisement .....................................................................$500
Commerce Connection Advertisement
The Commerce Connection is a bi-monthly publication that gets
sent out to more than 3,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County. Content always relevant to local business, the publication is full-color, full-gloss and all around awesome. Ads start at only $90. Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, NikolleK@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Website Sponsorship
The Chamber is planning a massive redesign of our website within the next year. There will be numerous opportunities for businesses to sponsor pages, host banners and showcase themselves on the Chamber site. More information will be available in the coming months. If you would like to express early interest, contact Nikolle Keeney at NikolleK@champaigncounty.org.
Online Business Directory Enhancements
Enhance your listing on the Chamber’s online business directory. The directory gets hundreds of THOUSANDS of hits each day-- turn your standard (free) listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized advertisement. Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, NikolleK@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791. Basic upgrade...................................................................................................$40 Value upgrade..................................................................................................$60 Deluxe upgrade...............................................................................................$90
Event Sponsorship
From First Friday Coffee to our annual Golf Outing, the Chamber hosts a number of events each month! By sponsoring a Chamber event-- your business gets great exposure not only at the event itself but also within all our promotional materials (emails, mailings, e-newsletters, Commerce Connection, website, etc...). We have numerous opportunities throughout the year, here’s what’s coming up: Breakfast Series sponsorship (includes table of 8)........$1000 Golf Outing : Hole sponsor, raffle prize sponsor, title sponsor, golf ball sponsor Come Wine With Us: Booth sponsor, food sponsor Additional sponsorship information for events such as the Annual Meeting, Business Success Seminars and the ATHENA Award Ceremony is available upon request. Contact Karly at KarlyC@champaigncounty. org or 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.
Some things you get free:
LAPTOP COMPUTER
R E N TA L
LCD ROOM
CONFERENCE
PROJECTOR
RENTAL
RENTAL
CERTIFICATE OF
ORIGIN &
NOTARY S E R V I C E
INFO - - A N D - -
ASSISTANCE
For more information on any of these services, contact the Chamber at 217.359.1791. Services are available free to all Chamber members.
calendar of events COME WINE WITH US A Chamber Agribusiness Committee Event Thursday, June 20; 5 to 7 p.m. Farm Credit Services of Illinois, 1100 Farm Credit Dr., Mahomet
Writing a Business Plan
An event hosted by ECI SCORE
Saturday, May 18, 9 to 11:30 a.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Avenue, Champaign
Financing a Small Business An event hosted by ECI SCORE
Saturday, June 1, 9 to 11:30 a.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Chamber Golf Outing
Thursday, June 6, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Held at Stone Creek Golf Club 2600 S. Stone Creek Blvd., Urbana
First Friday Coffee
Fast Facts
7.3% Champaign County Unemployment Rate in December 2012
25 business licenses applied for in
Friday, June 7, 7:30 to 9 a.m.
Champaign County in April 2013
Starting a Small Business
105.8 April 2013 Flash Economic Index for
Hosted by Clark-Lindsey Village 101 W. Windsor Road, Urbana
An event hosted by ECI SCORE
Thursday, June 13, 3 to 5:30 p.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Come Wine With Us
Hosted by the Chamber Agribusiness Committee Thursday, June 20, 5 to 7 p.m. at Farm Credit Services of Illinois 1100 Farm Credit Dr., Mahomet
Champaign County
1,389,658
rides were taken on CUMTD in April 2013 (the second highest ridership month EVER in the history of MTD)
14,892 visits to the Chamber’s homepage,
Writing a Business Plan
champaigncounty.org, in February 2013
Thursday, June 20, 3 to 5:30 p.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
59,317 average amount of referrals PER DAY
An event hosted by ECI SCORE
EaRN: Speed Networking
Thursday, July 11, 7:30 a.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Business After Hours
Thursday, July 18, 5 to 7 p.m. Hosted by Presence Covenant Medical Center 102 E. Main St., Urbana
2013 CHAMBER
GOLF OUTING
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE ROOFING DOG
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2013 @ STONE CREEK GOLF CLUB; SEE PG. 16 FOR DETAILS
the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory received via search engines and online sources in April 2013.
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