Commerce Connection - Oct./Nov. 2011

years

OCT./NOV. 2011

C O M M E R C E

CONNECTION A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JOBS

HOW TO CREATE THEM p. 3 HOW TO GET ONE p. 9 Permit No. 29 Champaign, IL

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Volume 18 | Number 5

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/

VIEWPOINTS Job creation is vital to getting the economy back in order. As of August 2011, the unemployment rate in Champaign County was peaked at nine percent (almost 50 percent higher than it was in 2007). This month, the Chamber surveyed its membership to see what the Champaign County business community thinks needs to be done about creating jobs. (DISCLAIMER: The opinions featured do not represent the position of the Chamber.)

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WHAT ARE YOUR SUGGESTIONS FOR HELPING CREATE NEW JOBS IN CHAMPAIGN COUNTY? “Get the jobs bill passed.”

“Financing must be available and achievable.”

WHAT CHAMPAIGN COUNTY BUSINESSES ARE TALKING ABOUT:

“ Get the state to pay its bills on time.”

Banks Bill Business Champaign County Costs

“Start making the GOVERNMENT operate more like a business-- you have to be profitable or shut down! Raising taxes won’t solve it. Cut government spending and allow businesses and private citizens to spend their income, quit enabling people to sit at home and live off the “system” before the system is so broke NO ONE is working”

Government Health Care Illinois Lending Quality Revenue Sales Taxes Employees Financing

WHAT RESOURCES DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED IN ORDER TO CREATE A NEW POSITION? “More clients” “We need significant economic growth in Champaign in order to start thinking about expansion.”

“Better planning and more sales activity” “The housing and banking industries, as well as small business development, all need to improve.”

“We need more clients! The last two months have been worse than the same two months last year.”

“More sales from other local businesses.”

“We don’t need any resources. We have the right number of employees for the business at its current size now.”

“Money! We are a non-profit and depend on state and federal funding to support our programs.”

HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SPECIFIC REGULATIONS OR LEGISLATION THAT HAVE IMPEDED YOUR ABILITY TO CREATE NEW JOBS? “Banks not lending; appraisers undervaluing homes and restricting new homeowners purchasing power.”

“RRP lead paint from EPA, fall protection changes from OSHA, sub-contractor classification/ scrutiny from the IRS, posting of employee rights from NLRB: we are being OVER regulated and it is shutting commerce DOWN.” “State not paying bills.”

“Our state needs to decide that it wants to have business here. If we do not change that basic desire, we cannot improve our economy, regulations or legislation.”

“Health care costs and tighter lending requirements.”

“The whole business climate in the state is the problem, as evidenced by the fact that the state still owes the U of I $300 million.”

“Continued EPA and other federal regulations make it more difficult for induustry to expand; and the increased user fees and income taxes at both the state and local levels have hurt.

Obamacare is definitely impeding our business’ ability to expand.”

“Healthcare reform and Illinois tax expansion will have a significant impact. We held off hiring, but reached a point where we simply had to regardless of the legislative fallout.”

“The Illinois budget mess: Illinois has higher taxes and cost of Workers’ Compensation than all surrounding states.”

“More wind farms; focus on bringing a major automobile manufacturer to Champaign County.”

“We need to curb the cost of health care... my company’s health care costs have quadrupled in three years, without adding a single person to our plan. “ “If the state paid the University all of what it owes, I expect the ripples would extend to job creation throughout the economy.”

“Eliminate prevailing wage requirements on all public projects. Allow free market to determine wage and lower the cost of construction for the government projects.”

“Lower taxes on small businesses, they are the backbone of the economy.”

“Continue to encourage a vibrant business climate. Also, more marketing encouraging people to “buy local” could be done, as locally owned small business is typically the engine that drives job creation across the country.”

FY12 TOP INVESTORS TOP INVESTORS

SM

303 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 P: 217.359.1791 F: 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org chamber@champaigncounty.org

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

Stephanie Finney Event & Programs Manager StephanieF@champaigncounty.org

Claudette Gonsiorowski Information & Accounts Receivable Manager ClaudetteG@champaigncounty.org

Cynthia Johnson Membership & Advertising Services Manager CynthiaJ@champaigncounty.org

Nikolle Keeney Marketing & Public Relations Manager NikolleK@champaigncounty.org

Michelle Luna Membership & Advertising Services Manager MichelleL@champaigncounty.org

Leslie Lundy Finance Manager LeslieL@champaigncounty.org

Lynette Lykins Director of First Impressions LynetteL@champaigncounty.org

Carole Moore

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS

Gold Busey Carle Provena Covenant Medical Center

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

Silver University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign

NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS & U-Rock 107.9 WUIL

Bronze The Atkins Group BankChampaign, N.A. Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc. Christie Clinic The Hilton Complex First Bank Supervalu Inc. Champaign Distribution Center University of Illinois Employees Credit Union Walmart Supercenters

President’s Circle SJ Broadcasting Business Circle Fox Illinois WCCU TV & CW 23 WAND TV StormCenter 17

150 PERCENT CLUB:

Amber Glen Alzheimer’s Special Care Center; Apex Consulting, LLC; Framer’s Market; Custom Mobile DJ Techniques

BOARD OFFICERS Diane Ruedi

Martin Verdick

Tabatha Helm

Mark Ballard

Chair, F.E. Moran, Inc., Alarm & Monitoring Services First Vice Chair, Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc.

Michael Wozniak

Second Vice Chair, Livingston, Barger, Brant & Schroeder

Treasurer, RSM McGladrey / McGladrey & Pullen Past Chair, BankChampaign, N.A.

Laura Weis

Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Joe Alexander

Dale Morrissey

Beth Auterman

Victor Mullins

Farnsworth Group, Inc. Clifton Gunderson LLP

Oktay Baran

Baran Marketing

Cindy Guthrie

Three Degrees of Change

Habeeb Habeeb

Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc.

Michael Hogan

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Developmental Services Center University of Illinois College of Business

Ron Pulera

WAND TV StormCenter 17

Dennis Riggs FIX-IT

Nick Taylor

RE/MAX Realty Associates

Bill Walter

A&R Mechanical Contractors

Jeff Ingrum

Health Alliance Medical Plans, Inc.

Finance Assistant & Office Manager CaroleM@champaigncounty.org

Paul Orama Public Policy Manager PaulO@champaigncounty.org

Norma Wesley Administrative Support & Reservationist NormaW@champaigncounty.org

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 Cynthia Johnson (CynthiaJ@ champaigncounty.org) or Michelle Luna (MichelleL@champaigncounty.org) at 217.359.1791.

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/

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Congratulations to Carol ZuHone, owner of A to Z Painting, for winning the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce’s 2011 “Small Business of the Year” award.

Carol ZuHone with Diane Ruedi, Chamber Board Chair.

A to Z Painting: SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR “A to Z Painting is truly the definition of a small business with a small staff and bottom line; they excel at their trade and give back to the area that supports them,” Kevin Yonce, CEO of Twin City Tent and Awning, said upon nominating ZuHone for the award.

In 1994, ZuHone formed the company after owning a Baskin Robbins franchise. She was going back to school and wanted to find a job that would provide flexible hours for her classes and studies. Seventeen years later, the company is still going strong. Carol has used her degree and taught at Parkland College for 19 semesters but has kept A to Z Painting her primary focus. A business formed from necessity has been her career for 17 years.

“As with any small business, its owner and the business itself are hard to distinguish where one stops and the other begins,” Yonce said.

ZuHone’s accomplishments are a reflection on her business as the business is a reflection on her, Yonce continued.

Carol and A to Z Painting have gone out of their way to help various organizations around town and help develop a stronger work force coming out of school.

WELCOME TO THE

CHAMBER

MEMBERS WHO JOINED BETWEEN AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER 2011 Railsplitter Media, Chris and Anne Lukeman

2011 ANNUAL MEETING THANK YOU TO ALL SPONSORS*, VOLUNTEERS AND ATTENDEES FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

* BANKCHAMPAIGN • BUSEY • BLOSSOM BASKET FLORIST • CENTRAL ILLINOIS BANK • CHRISTIE CLINIC • ELITE ENTERTAINMENT • HILTON GARDEN INN • MCGLADREY & PULLEN • RAILSPLITTER MEDIA • RAMSHAW REAL ESTATE • REGENCY APARTMENTS • ROBBIE BERG

88 Broadway

Emily Schweizer, Facility Coordinator 142 Lincoln Sq. Urbana, IL 61801 217.954.1008 info@fluidevents.org www.88broadwayevents.com Banquet Facilities Party Planning Wedding Supplies & Services 88 Broadway (Lincoln Square) is Urbana’s largest special event venue.

Offering uncompromising attention to every detail for all occasions, in a warm, rich, distinctive facility. The venue specializes in weddings, showers, anniversaries, quinceaneras, birthdays, holiday parties, retirements, events, conventions, seminars, conferences, meetings, exhibits, concerts and more.

Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc. Tabatha Helm 3206 Farber Dr. Champaign, IL 61822-1084 217.351.3073 www.afsifilters.com Filters-Liquid-Industrial-Mfrs. & Distrs.

Advanced Filtration, Inc. offers a comprehensive suite of business automation solutions for manufacturers, distributors and brokers within the food and beverage industry. Cutting-edge functionality designed to optimize the order-to-cash flow and improve efficiencies across the entire supply chain are available as stand-alone sales force automation solutions or as a complete suite of software solutions for the foodservice supply chain.

Ashland Farms LLC Chamber Staff

Sean Boyd, Project Manager 2757 J T Coffman Dr. Champaign, IL 61822-4801 217.550.5348 Real Estate

The Villas at Ashland Farm is maintenance-free luxury ranch living at its best. Homes are priced from the mid-$100’s and offer two or three bedrooms, spacious living areas, attached two car garages, an abundance of storage, have the possibility of private patios and four-season verandas.

Residents appreciate the rich “European Country” exteriors and full exterior maintenance services. Homeowners also enjoy the benefit of a private clubhouse with exercise room, outdoor heated swimming pool, and a large community room for entertaining.

Baker’s Bikes

Comedian Buzz Sutherland and new “friend” Joe Alexander of the Farnsworth Group

David Baker, Owner 1001 S. Lynn St. Urbana, IL 61801-5207 217.365.0318 baker@bakersbikes.com www.bakersbikes.com Bicycles-Dealers & Repairers

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/ Baker’s Bikes is a family-owned, home-based business on a mission to provide affordable bicycles to the Champaign-Urbana community. They provide affordable, quality new and refurbished bicycles for all.

Baker’s Bikes appreciates the value of hard-earned money and focuses on finding the right bike for every person - no matter the price. They have great bikes for students, fixed-gear bikes for fun, cruisers to take out on a leisurely weekend ride and more serious bikes for the road or trail.

Candide Roasteries

Seth Kelter, Owner 1707 Gentry Square Ln. Champaign, IL 61821 217.721.9718 candide.roasteries@gmail.com www.candidecoffee.com Restaurants – Mobile Having trouble getting by on optimism alone? Give Candide coffees a try. The Candide mobile coffee truck is committed to serving unique new drink combinations while acknowledging the history of the coffee industry. Candide focuses on high quality in everything we do, from the latest in bird friendly coffees to single-origin chocolate syrups. Their goal is not to make a mocha or espresso- their goal is to make a mocha or espresso better than it was before, with strict quality controls and premium ingredients, delivered to you wherever you may be, from their mobile unit. “Hey, your life isn’t perfect. At least your coffee can be. “

Car-X Auto Service Parham Parastaran, Manager 2216 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 217.531.3900

601 E. University Ave. Champaign, IL 61821 217.352.0124 Automobile Repair & Service Car-X Auto Service was founded in 1971 by a group of enterprising and experienced muffler shop owners. During the early years, Car-X was primarily an exhaust specialist. Today, they have adapted to

provide just about any automotive repair one can imagine. Car-X continues to evaluate their position and business and add products and services that are comparable to today’s auto repair climate. Car-X Auto Service was ranked the #1 automotive service franchise by Success Magazine.

Champaign School of Music Holly Kennedy, Owner 1712 S. Duncan Rd. Champaign, IL 61822 217.359.0541 champaignschoolofmusic@gmail.com www.champaignschoolofmusic.org Music Instruction

The Champaign School of Music enriches the lives of students of all ages through personalized instruction from beginner to expert. Performing and motivational opportunities exist for students learning to play almost any instrument: piano to the ukelele! With our recent expansion to the Duncan and Kirby area and our upcoming addition of classes for Newborns - age 3, we are positioned to serve a broader community base. With over twelve professionally trained faculty we are able to schedule multiple families at a time that is convenient for them, Monday-Saturday.

Champaign School of Music has been serving this community for eight years and we look forward to many more.

Checkered Moon

Sharon Crow, Owner 1731 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61821-5500 217.403.0263 Irish860@aol.com www.checkeredmoon.com Furniture Dealers-Retail

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Commuter Advertising is the first transit advertising company to create, manage and sell time and location-based audio sponsorships on trains and buses in partnership with public transit agencies. Commuter Advertising provides advertisers a new media to deliver marketing messages to targeted consumers at relevant locations along transit routes. In return for access to bus and train audio systems, Commuter Advertising shares revenue with transit agencies, with the potential of relieving commuters of possible fare hikes and communities of possible tax increases.

Commuter Advertising is the fastest growing transit advertising company in the Midwest and currently operates in: Champaign and Chicago, IL, Dayton and Toledo, OH, Kansas City, MO, Rockland County, NY and Seattle, WA. The company continues to expand to new transit markets nationwide.

Chris’ Water Gardens Chris Sturdyvin, Owner 2717 County Rd., 1250 N. Homer, IL 61849-9760 217.896.2225 pondsdoneright@yahoo.com www.chriswatergardens.com Water Gardens

“Creating Paradise... One Pond at a Time.” Central Illinois’ first certified aquascape contractor and the only certified rainwater harvesting professional servicing Champaign and Vermilion counties. Professional pond design, installation, and maintenance.

Also leading retailer in the area for Aquascape products, quality Koi fish, and aquatic plants.

Gorski Reifsteck Architects, Inc.

Commuter Advertising

Thomas Rose, Senior Account Director 1922 S. Wabash Ave. Chicago, IL 60616 312.756.7313 trose@commuter-advertising.com www.commuter-advertising.com Advertising – Transit Facilities

Charles Reifsteck, President 909 Arrow Dr. Champaign, IL 61821-5633 217.351.4100 chuckr@gr-arch.com www.gr-arch.com Architects

Gorski Reifsteck is a regional architecture firm based in Champaign, IL offering architecture, construction management and interior design services. Their collaborative, hands-on approach and wide range of services has led to thousands of successful designs

RIBBON CUTTINGS JUST FOR YOU BOUTIQUE

COUNTY MARKET

The American Cancer Society held a grand opening for their “Just for You Boutique” on September 30, 2011.

County Market celebrated the remodel of their 312 W. Kirby location in Champaign on September 8, 2011.

www.champaigncounty.org

ONE WEEK BOUTIQUE

LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE

Held a grand opening for their weekend children’s consignment boutique on September 15, 2011.

Longhorn Steakhouse celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 10, 2011.

URBANA ATHLETIC COMPLEX

OLSEN & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS

The Urbana Athletic Complex celebrated their grand opening on September 9, 2011. for banks, churches, universities, Greek housing, restaurants, and other commercial clients.

The Growth Coach

Neal Clark, Owner/CEO P.O. Box 23 Mansfield, IL 61854 217.489.7025 n.clark@thegrowthcoach.com www.thegrowthcoach.com/nclark Business Consultants Through a proven process; personal care; and a guarantee; The Growth Coach helps owners and managers build better businesses and better personal lives through year-round coaching and accountability. Their local office serves business clients in Champaign, Decatur, Bloomington and surrounding areas. The Growth Coach helps clients achieve greater results in both their business and personal lives. This proven process has helped business owners, executives, managers and professionals for more than a decade.

Haynes Construction Jeff Haynes, Owner

Olsen & Associates Architects celebrated the remodel of their 606 E. Stoughton apartment complex on October 11, 2011.

322 S. Rising Rd. Champaign, IL 61822 217.607.0700

bind up the wounds of the afflicted,” the Sir Knights provide this home for the care of elderly and convalescent members and their families.

jr58haynes@comcast.net www.haynesconstructioninc.com

Jones Cleaning Service

Haynes Construction is a locally based contracting company serving Champaign/Urbana and surrounding communities. They do many different types of construction ranging from new home building, remodeling, roofing, and general construction. Serving C-U needs for the past 20 years.

Illinois Knights Templar Home Kathy Swan 450 E. Fulton St. Paxton, IL 60957-1716 217.379.2116 admin@ikth.com www.ikth.com Rehabilitation Services

The Illinois Knights Templar Home, in Paxton, Illinois, is the only facility sponsored by the Knights Templar in the United States. Always mindful “to

LaDonna VonHolten One E. Main St., Ste. 200 Champaign, IL 61821-1311 217.353.6811 jcs@jonescleaning.net www.jonescleaning.net Janitor Service

With over 25 years of experience, Jones Cleaning Service is a quality, one-stop commercial and construction cleaning maintenance contractor serving the Champaign County area. Attracting and keeping clients is the core of your business. Providing a clean and comfortable environment is ours. Jones Cleaning Service works hard to meet and exceed all building service needs and expectations. With their experienced team, one receives guaranteed consistency and high quality work. Bring us all your nagging cleaning concerns and problems for immediate and professional attention. Jones Cleaning Service makes your business shine.

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/

SKINNI GIRL YOGURT

SOCCER PLANET

Skinni Girl Yogurt held a grand opening ceremony on October 10, 2011.

Soccer Planet hosted a grand opening celebration on October 14, 2011.

ANITA’S PLACE HOME CONSIGNMENT

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUE

Anita’s Place Home Consignment celebrated their grand opening on October 4, 2011.

Social Butterfly Boutique celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 4, 2011.

Le Peep

Michael Waller, Owner 2209 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820-2001 217.352.7599 Restaurants Le Peep puts a wholesome, proven perspective on your neighborhood breakfast and lunch. Fresh.

Simple. Elegant. Inviting. A kaleidoscope of cooking creativity. Le Peep puts the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. They focus on enabling staff to provide each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. With a focus on food, they provide a plentiful array that keeps folks coming back.

Leaders for Life Martial Arts Tina Newberry, Owner 410 E. Main St. Mahomet, IL 61853 217.351.8531 newberry.tina@gmail.com www.newberrystkdusa.com Marial Arts Instruction

Leaders for Life Martial Arts is a family owned and operated academy that specializes in giving the whole family a place where they can grow individually, while keeping family bonds strong. Clients cannot help but notice the family atmosphere, while still giving serious martial arts training. Master Instructors Tina and Jeff Newberry have been in business for over 25 years and have over 52 years of combined martial arts experience.

One Week Boutique Children’s Consignment

Littlefield Homes – Keller Williams Realty

One Week Boutique is a bi-annual children’s consignment sales event specializing in the highest quality of gently worn children’s and maternity clothing, shoes, toys, books, games, baby equipment and baby and children’s furniture. This sale was founded to give residents of Central Illinois the opportunity to earn extra money by reselling their best quality outgrown children’s items, while providing a wide array of merchandise at an affordable price. Unsold items are donated to local charities at the end of each sale.

Rhonda Littlefield, Sales Associate 821 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820-5269 P: 217.841.1456 F: 217.356.6116 Real Estate

Littlefield Homes is Champaign-Urbana’s real estate information source. As agents living in Champaign, Rhonda and Steve Littlefield strive to provide the highest quality of service to all clients while making each transaction as profitable, professional and stress-free as possible.

Donna Pepper, Owner 111 W. Whitehall Ct. Urbana, IL 61801-6664 217.344.6631 donnapepper@cox.net www.oneweekboutique.com Consignment Services

Railsplitter Media

Chris and Anne Lukeman, Owners P.O. Box 1071 Champaign, IL 61824-1071

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217.898.7158 railsplittermedia@gmail.com www.railsplittermedia.com Video Production Services Railsplitter Media is a full service video production company in Champaign. Railsplitter firmly believes that thoughtful video can highlight the strengths of a product, tell the story of a brand, and separate a business from the competition. From high concept commercials to simple demonstrations and quirky viral videos, Railsplitter Media strives to make video an easy and affordable option for businesses of every size.

Rainstorm Express Car Wash Dan Dougherty, Owner 1209 N. Prospect Ave. Champaign, IL 61820-2532 217-954-0438 www.rainstormcarwash.com Automobile Detailing

If new to Rainstorm Car Washes, there are a few things one must know: 1.) Rainstorm operates one of the most technologically advanced car washes in both Decatur and Champaign; 2.) they offer FREE VACUUMS; and 3.) they wash cars in a total of 3 minutes (compared to 7 minutes at the average car wash). No other automatic car wash cleans wheels like Rainstorm.

GREAT BUSINESS TIPS ARE JUST A MOUSE CLICK AWAY! As a member of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, your business now has access to an incredible library of business tips and articles organized on one website. Get pertinent business information when you want, where you want it and when you need it.

The Chamber has partnered with BIGG Success, a leader in business education, to optimize your business success with this great resource. The best part is that this service is a complimentary resource provided to you for being a Chamber member.

Visit chamber.biggsuccess.com/chamberpro-register to register.

Once there, enter chamber code: champaign2720 to receive free registration.

Skinni Girl Yogurt

Amanda Yates, Owner 202 E. University Ave., Ste. E Urbana, IL 61801 217.607.1345 info@skinnigirlyogurt.com www.skinnigirlyogurt.com Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts – Retail Skinni Girl Yogurt is a self service frozen yogurt shop with over 12 flavors and 30 toppings. All natural pro-biotic yogurt that is as good for your taste buds as it is for your digestive track. Pick up a cup, fill it up, weigh it, pay it and enjoy!

Soccer Planet Sports Center Kip McDaniel, Director of Operations 2310 N. Willow Rd. Urbana, IL 61802 217.367.9999 info@soccerplanetcu.com www.soccerplanet.com Recreation Centers

Soccer Planet’s mission is to provide an environment that offers participants of any age, or any skill level, the opportunity to further develop their interests in recreational activities, while placing a high value on sportsmanship, teamwork, and fun. From the friendliness of their staff and instructors to the cleanliness of their facilities, Soccer Planet pledges to provide the best possible athletic experience. Whether a competitive youth soccer player or an adult recreational participant, this fully climate controlled facility will add more fun to anyone’s game.

Taylor’d Restorations Inc Steve Taylor, President 3307 Valerie Dr. Champaign, IL 61822 217.372.6482 steve@taylordrestorations.com www.taylordrestorations.com

Fire & Water Restoration Remodeling Services Taylor’d Restorations Inc. is a remodeling company that does all forms of interior and exterior , residential and commercial remodeling. They also specialize in fire and water restoration. Steve Taylor founded the company in April 2011 and is working up a storm.

His unique experience along with the experience and quality of his staff have set the bar of new quality standards that focus on customer satisfaction, cleanliness, customer communication and understanding.

If one needs to remodel their home or business or is in need of restoration because of fire, water, or wind damage, call on Steve and his staff, they will be glad to help.

These Four Walls

Amy Leinhart, Owner & Designer 101 S. State St. Monticello, IL 61856-1968 217.762.3500 amy@these4walls.net www.these4walls.net Interior Designers Furniture Dealers-Retail Draperies & Curtains-Retail & Custom Made Blinds-Venetian, Vertical, etc.-Dealers These Four Walls is a full-service interior design firm and furniture store serving East Central Illinois. They are your complete resource for all things home. These Four Walls hosts a spectacular showroom located on the historic square in downtown Monticello. There, customers can find beautiful upholstery, quality case goods, unique accessories, designer fabrics, rugs and much more. Besides offering a huge array of merchandise in store, they provide a wide variety of other services such as custom decorating, design assistance with new construction and remodeling, floor plan design and arrangement, custom window

treatments, blinds and shades.

The UP Center of Champaign County Kevin Bowersox-Johnson, President 202 S. Broadway Ave., Ste. 102 Urbana, IL 61801 217.550.4248 info@unitingpride.org www.unitingpride.org Social Service Organization

The UP (Uniting Pride) Center of Champaign County is a multi-service agency, for youth and adults, to support and promote human care, education, and community-building activities directed at furthering the well-being and development of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and ally community of Champaign County. The UP Center also hosts a very informative website, www.unitingpride. org, which offers local businesses the opportunity to sponsor programs and events, support their cause, and become eligible to join “Pink Pages”- a service that informs Champaign County residents of local LGBT-friendly businesses.

Wireless Express

Eric Miller 2000 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820-7808 217.355.9150 www.sprint.com Cellular telephone Equipment & Supplies Wireless Express is a preferred Sprint retailer, founded in 2005 and owns and operates over 50 retail locations throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States. They are one of the largest preferred retail partners of Sprint and are one of the fastest growing retailers in the U.S.

August + September 2011/ Commerce Connection/

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PREPARING FOR THE

CLIMB

TIPS FOR JOB SEEKING IN A DISTRESSED ECONOMY

Written by Nikolle Keeney, Marketing & Publications Manager, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

W

hether interviewing for a higher-up position at your company or starting a new career altogether, it is important to understand the ins and outs of the job hunt. The unemployment rate currently at ten percent in Champaign County (5.6 percent higher than it was in 2007), jobs are harder than ever to come by.

“Jobs are harder to find when unemployment is high; hiring managers have more to choose from” Cindy Guthrie, human resources consultant with Three Degrees of Change, said.

“Job hunting is not a science; it is an art,” she continued.

Human resources experts across Champaign County agree. There is a fine-toothed strategy to the modern job hunt. Understanding the unspoken demands of the application process can greatly increase one’s chances of landing a position. (continued)

STRATEGIZE YOUR HUNT

filled first internally,” Ruedi said.

Research indicates that only 10 percent of jobs are filled from internet searches, 90 percent are filled elsewhere.

She continued, “If you have an opportunity to interview for a position, always take advantage of that opportunity, even if it’s not your “ideal” job- you never know where the interview may lead.”

“Be sure to check out non-traditional avenues,” Diane Ruedi, vice president of human resources and strategic planning at F.E. Moran Alarm & Monitoring Services, Inc., said.

“Such avenues include asking friends, family, neighbors and church acquaintances if they know of job openings. Alumni associations, professional organizations, social network boards or even inquiring at companies where you are interested in becoming an employee. Many times, jobs do not make it to the newspaper or professional journals due to the fact that promotional opportunities are

LOOK GOOD ON PAPER On average, a recruiter looks at a resume for 11 seconds.

That said, it is important a resume make a good and lasting impression. Employers rank candidates largely based on the paperwork that is submitted. They interview candidates that stand out.

“Job seekers should be sure to read the job description or posting closely to ensure they meet the qualifications for the position,” Tammy Hoggatt, human resources manager for the Champaign Park District, said.

An applicant’s resume should reflect how their skills and strengths match the company’s needs.

“If you don’t get an interview, then it is because you didn’t do a good job of showing how you meet the company’s needs,” Joe Streit, program manager at Parkland College Business Training, said.

Streit also stressed that “spell check is not enough”.

“Too many people rely on spell check and don’t actually go back and read their resume and cover letter for comprehension and meaning,” he said. “Have a trusted friend look over your work; then, have someone else look it over. I guarantee you will receive sug-

gestions on how to improve your presentation. There’s no excuse for having errors on something that you had time to prepare beforehand, employers will hold it against you.”

GOOGLE YOURSELF According to the Society for Human Resource Management research, 56 percent of employers surveyed currently use social media for candidate sourcing. This number is expected to increase.

Of those using social media, 95 percent utilized LinkedIn, followed by Facebook at 58 percent and Twitter at 42 percent.

“Today, social media is a game changer in the recruiting industry as well as for the job hunter,” Amy Dillman, president-elect of the Central Illinois Human Resources Group, said.

“If you’re in the job market, polish your resume but don’t overlook your social media presence. Clean up your Facebook, complete your LinkedIn profile and contribute to some LinkedIn groups, start tweeting relevant and thoughtful prose (in 160 characters or less),” Dillman continued.

ROCK THE INTERVIEW “Research the company, interviewer and position as much as possible,” Lorianne Bauer, branch manager of Paramount Staffing, said.

“Google, Facebook and Linked In are great resources if you don’t have any business or personal contacts,” she continued.

When preparing for the interview, wear appropriate clothing for the type of position and company you are interviewing for.

“No wrinkles, shoes shined or in great shape, no loud patterns, no distracting or excessive jewelry or heavy make up.

Do not wear clothes that are too tight, short or revealing; no hats; hair should be well groomed,” Bauer said.

She also marked, “Arrive early (plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early in case of traffic issue but don’t go in until five to 10 minutes before the interview) and be courteous to everyone from the guard to the receptionist to the interviewer-- assume they will report anything less than courteous to the hiring manager.”

Before the interview, a candidate should ask themselves the question, “Why would I hire me?” and have the answer their potential employer would want to hear.

Guthrie agreed.

“Looking for a job is an investment in you; the employer is making a decision and so are you as the job seeker,” she said.

During the interview, be prepared to take notes and ask questions related to how you will fit in to the company’s culture.

“Demonstrate confidence and look the interviewer in the eye,” Kevin Quinlan, human resources manager at Advanced Filtration Systems Inc., said.

CREATING A RESUME Advice from Cindy Guthrie, human resources consultant with Three Degrees of Change.

CONTENT Should include: • Name, address, telephone, email • Career summary • Professional experience • Full-time, part-time and summer jobs; internships; volunteer work; student teaching, practicum, field work experience; study and work abroad • Skills: computer, foreign language, technical or laboratory • Education • Professional memberships, community organizations and civic activies • References FORMAT One to two pages (curriculum vitae will be many more) Free of typographical errors Attractive, easy to read Readable font, same font throughout 1” to 1.25” margins Accurate, truthful and without “fluff” Should include employer, location, position and dates of employment

“Pause before answering a question if you need the time to collect your thoughts,” he said. “Answer interview questions as clearly and concisely as possible and don’t tap dance around the central focus of the question.”

Quinlan also advised that if you are currently employed, be ready to present several credible reasons that explain why you want to leave your current position.

“Show the employer that you will make a difference if offered the position,” he said.

After the interview, send a thank you letter as soon as possible. (continued. on pg. 15)

H I R E D!

business

SUCCESS

seminars

Business Success Seminars are designed specifically for Chamber members who are seeking quality, practical and affordable education on how to manage and grow their companies. Mark the sessions you wish to attend and return your completed registration form today.

The November 2011 series will focus on:

DISASTER

CRISIS

PLANNING When disaster strikes-- will your business be ready? In the Chamber’s Disaster Planning Series, learn how to successfully bounce back from a disaster. Planning ahead can save your business time, money and lives.

Don’t let disaster happen to your business!

Putting a “Disaster Plan” together - presented by the Urbana Fire Department - Tuesday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m.

Weather Emergencies, Hazardous Spills and Counterterrorism - presented by the Champaign County Emergency Management Agency- Tuesday, November 8, 8:30 a.m.

Data Protection and Recovery - presented by Simplified Computers - Tuesday, Nov. 15, 8:30 a.m.

Violence in the Workplace - presented by the Urbana Police Department - Tuesday, Nov. 29, 8:30 a.m.

Chamber member rate: $32 per session/ $109 for the series Non-member rate: $45 per session All sessions will be held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign.

Refunds will not be given for cancellations, although substitutions of individuals can be made.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION Name(s)____________________________________________________________________________  Check Enclosed  Bill Me Business___________________________________________________________________________  American Express Address____________________________________________________________________________  MasterCard  Visa City____________________________________________________Zip_________________________ Acct._______________________ Phone______________________________________ Fax____________________________________ Exp. Date___________________ Signature___________________________________________________________________________ 3-digit security code ___________

Return to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave. • Champaign, IL 61820 • P 217.531.4669 • F 217.531.4679

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/

15

(...contiued from page 13) STAY TRUE Most importantly, stay true to who you are throughout the process, Dillman said.

“Be authentic. We’ll all take any job in certain situations and in rough financial times, but not much is as professionally debilitating than a job where you just don’t fit.”

“Take stock in yourself and your goals,” Dillman said.

Make sure the job you are applying for is a match to: 1.) The kind of job you want; 2.) The kind of work you want to do; 3.) The culture you want to work in; and 4.) The salary you require.

Dillman recommends writing down the answers to these questions before even beginning the job process. The answers can be used as a blueprint for writing your resume and a great source for interviewing.

PUBLIC POLICY NEWS

PREVAILING WAGE ACT Illinois contractors, developers, and public bodies can expect new changes to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act (IPWA) beginning January 1, 2012.

HB3237, signed into law as Public Act 097-0571, makes specific changes to its record keeping requirements. Section 5 of the IPWA will require employers to file its certified transcript of payroll no later than the tenth day of each calendar month for the work performed on the prevailing wage project in the immediate preceding month.

Such certification must come from an officer, employee or agent of the employer who must state under penalty of perjury that he or she has examined the certified payroll records. Any misstatement made will now be classified as a Class A criminal misdemeanor. Additionally, willfully failing to file certified payroll or filing a false report as to any material fact, is in violation of the Act and guilty of a Class A criminal misdemeanor.

The changes also require records be made available for inspection and copying by the public body in charge of the project, the Illinois Department of Labor, and any local, state or federal enforcement agencies and prosecu-

UPCOMING: NOVEMBER 17 ~ FLIGHTSTAR DECEMBER 15 ~ REFINERY JANUARY 17 ~ CHITTICK FAMILY EYE CARE

STAY CURRENT.

WWW.CHAMPAIGNCOUNTY.ORG

tors upon seven (7) business days notice.

Section 6 of the act now states that any employer, officer, employee, or agent whose duty is to create any record but willfully fails to create such information is guilty of a Class A criminal misdemeanor.

Finally, under Section 11a of the Act, any employer, and agent thereof, who is convicted or found guilty under Section 5 or 6 of the law, is subject to automatic debarment and prohibited from public works projects for four years with no right to any administrative or legal hearing.

The changes to the IPWA have further regulated an industry already burdened with heavy regulation. Employers managing prevailing wage compliance must be very familiar with record keeping requirements to avoid these new high stake penalties.

If questions or concerns about local public policy, contact Paul Orama, Public Policy Manager for the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, PaulO@champaigncounty. org.

first friday coffee Nov. 4 - CU Regional Rehab Center Dec. 2 - FREESTAR Bank (S. Prospect location) & the Champaign Park District A Champaign County Chamber of Commerce networking event.

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/

17

MEMBERSHIP NEWS BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF AMERICA will be

celebrating 12 years of mentoring in Champaign County.

Join them for a “Chocolate Extravaganza” on Friday, Nov. 4 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. A variety of area restaurants will provide chocolate, hors d’oeuvres and entree samples. Cocktails, jazz music and a silent auction will also be part of the event. For more information, visit bbbscil.org.

months, 632 cadets graduated from the academy, 441 earned their GED. Cadets performed 38,410 hours of community service throughout the state and Champaign County.

JOHN BAMBENEK OF BAMBENEK CONSULTING

was selected by the Illinois Bar Association to present on digital forensics, electronic crime and international organized crime on Nov 18.

BPC, INC won “Employer of the Year” from the Employer’s Association of Illinois. In addition, 23 employees passed industry certifications in 2011.

CLARK-LINDSEY VILLAGE underwent a large remodel and introduced their “Renewal Therapy Center” which offers private rooms for patients recovering from planned surgery or unplanned illness. The new center offers a new physical therapy gym, an occupational therapy suite and new speech therapy expertise. Over the summer, ClarkLindsey developed a “Therapy Nature Walk” that allows therapists to work with patients in a natural setting, regaining gardening skills, walking on uneven surfaces and other therapy techniques.

CLIFFORD-JACOBS FORGING COMPANY added a second shift of production. Experiencing growth, they have not needed a second shift for 30 years.

DICK VAN DYKE APPLIANCE WORLD was ranked as one of the Top 100 Appliance Dealers in the US, based on a survey conducted by The Stevenson Company for TWICE (This Week in Consumer Electronics) Magazine.

The survey further showed that Appliance World was the fastest growing appliance dealer in the US from 2009 to 2010 and had the largest growth (33.3 percent) compared to other appliance stores.

THE ILLINOIS GREEN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

became an ENERGY STAR Program Partner and is starting a faucet aerator program for hotels in Central Illinois to conserve water.

LINCOLN’S CHALLENGE ACADEMY recently received 38.1 million for a new facility in Rantoul. In the last 12

Congratulations TO ANNE JOHNSTON OF CAMPUS FLORIST

Johnston celebrated 70 years of business at Campus Florist in September. Johnston, who opened the shop in 1941 (at age 13), still puts in seven hours a day.

MEYER CAPEL law firm recently added James Noonan as an associate attorney in their litigation practice. With the addition of Mr. Noonan, Meyer Capel has 30 attorneys practicing in most major areas of law.

MICHELLE’S BRIDAL is in the process of adding on a 5000 square foot addition to their existing store. They will be expanding their prom/special occasion store, tuxedo department as well as opening a mother of the bride/ groom boutique. In phase four of the expansion they will add two additional bridal rooms.

THE NEWS-GAZETTE celebrated their 160th year this year. In competition with the largest publications in the state and nation, their magazines and newspapers were

awarded dozens of awards for both news and sports coverage, plus the Arbitron ratings once again showed that the NewsTalk 1400 Morning Show is the most listened to in the area. The News Gazette also launched a new community newspaper, the LeRoy Farmer City Press and put a new station on air, U-ROCK 107.9 FM.

NO TEACHER LEFT BEHIND, a

for Heroes” program at their facility in Urbana.

TERMINIX SERVICES, INC. (CHAMPAIGN BRANCH)

increased it’s workforce by 20 percent by adding an office manager, an additional technician, and a bedbug detection dog: Bruno. Bruno underwent hundreds of hours of training to reach a 98 percent bedbug detection accuracy rate and has been certified by the Falco K-9 Academy.

Terminix has also enhanced the construction side of its

Visit champaigncounty.org to receive your copy of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce’s FY2011 Annual Report.

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.

Disclaimer: The Chamber reserves the right to reject any editorial item(s) deemed “advertising” by the editorial staff.

GET SAVINGS.

GET SEEN.

years

Volume 18 | Number 3

20

GET SALES.

JUNE / JULY 2011

than

STANTON STABLES is forming a new business centered around therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs. Co-owner Matt Stanton recently completed his training and is now a registered instructor with PATH International (Professional Assocation of Therapeutic Horsemen). Much of his training was with Veterans from five VA facilities; Stanton Stables plans to offer a “Horses

Are you renovating your space or revamping your services? Have you won any recent awards? Do you have news to share with the Champaign County business community?

more

named one of the top 100 Women Owned Businesses in Illinois. In addition, they saw a 10 percent growth in business this year.

for

SPHERION held their 30th anniversary in July and was

p u b l i c at i o n

Award for excellence in logo design.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN YOUR BUSINESS?

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

ROBERTS DESIGN COMPANY won a gold Davey

WILLIS COMPUTING SPECIALISTS, INC. celebrated 15 years of service this year. They recently hired two new employees: James N. Reiter, IT Specialist, and Debora J. Newsome, Marketing Manager.

t ru s t e d

THE PILATES CENTER LLC will be changing their name to the Dulak Pilates Center this fall after they complete their massive remodel. The new space will include a new ADA restroom, new men and women’s changing rooms as well as a kitchen. They will hold a grand re-opening celebration in October.

business this year, focusing on crawlspace encapsulation and basement de-watering.

C h a m pa i g n C o u n t y ’ s

locally owned business formed last year, doubled their sales in 2011.

C O M M E R C E

CONNECTION

A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

+ SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP

I S S U E + EAST CENTRAL ILLINOIS

Wine-cations + The Chamber’s

NEW DIGS Photo taken at Alto Vineyards in Champaign, Ill.

Advertise in the Chamber’s Commerce Connection and get your name out to more than 1,200 local businesses in Champaign County!

Call 217.359.1791 for more details.

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/

calendar

98.8

of events

September 2011 Flash Economic Index for Champaign County

20

BUSINESS SUCCESS SEMINAR SERIES: DISASTER AND CRISIS PLANNING

SESSION 1: PUTTING A DISASTER PLAN TOGETHER Tuesday, November 1, 8:30 a.m.

SESSION 2: WEATHER EMERGENCIES Tuesday, November 8, 8:30 a.m.

SESSION 3: DATA PROTECTION AND RECOVERY Tuesday, November 15, 8:30 a.m.

SESSION 4: VIOLENCE IN THE WORK PLACE Tuesday, November 29, 8:30 a.m.

All sessions will take place at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 (See pg. 14 for more details and RSVP information)

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE

Hosted by the Champaign Urbana Regional Rehab Center Friday, November 4, 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Champaign Urbana Regional Rehab Center 302 Burwash Ave. Savoy, IL 61874

EXCHANGE AND REFERRAL NETWORK (EaRN) A speed networking program. Registration opens Wednesday, November 16, 7:30 a.m.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Hosted by the Flightstar Corporation Thursday, November 17, 5 to 7 p.m.

Flightstar Corporation 7 Airport Rd. Savoy, IL 61874

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE

Hosted by FREESTAR Bank (S. Prospect location) and the Champaign Park District Friday, December 2, 7:30 to 9 a.m.

FREESTAR Bank 1611 S. Prospect Ave. Champaign, IL 61820

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Hosted by the Refinery Thursday, December 15, 5 to 7 p.m.

Refinery 2302 W. John St. Champaign, IL 61821

See a full list of events at champaigncounty.org.

19

Champaign County business licenses applied for in September 2011

Unemployment rate for Champaign County in October 2011

$

10%

59% Percentage of Community Welcome Service Boxes sent last month to residents earning more than $60,000

7,170 Individuals departing from Willard Airport in September 2011

Individuals flying into Willard Airport in September 2011

7 5,642

6,550

Number of visitors to www.champaigncounty.org in August 2011

IT’S TOUGH TO STAY FOCUSED...

WHEN YOUR CONFERENCE ROOM FEELS LIKE THE FROZEN TUNDRA.