NOW Magazine Volume 1

Table of Contents LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.....................................4 OVERVIEW OF SI NOW......................................6 BOARD OF TRUSTEES......................................8 LITTLE EGYPT LAND OF OPPORTUNITY...............................................10 BLACK DIAMOND FAMILY OF BUSINESS....................................................14 SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS REGIONAL AIRPORTS.....................................................18

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Jackson Street Publishing and Arthur Agency assume no responsibility for misinformation.

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS LEGACY BUSINESSES.................................. 24

All editorial content developed by Sarah Gray, Deb Barnett and Nick Holdinghausen

RENDLEMAN ORCHARDS CELEBRATES 150 YEARS........................ 26

Special Thanks to SI Now

A DREAM AND A PICKUP TRUCK.......... 28 COMPANIES THAT CALL SOUTHERN ILLINOIS HOME..................... 30 R4 ADVANTAGE ROADS, RIVERS, RAIL & RUNWAYS............................ 32 POWERING SOUTHERN ILLINOIS........ 40 MAKING SOUTHERN ILLINOIS HOME........ 44 THE SALUKI DRAW........................................... 48 FALL & WINTER EVENTS............................ 52 INVESTORS............................................................ 54 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS............................ 59 PHOTO ALBUM.................................................... 60 #SouthernIllinoisNow................................... 62 SI STATS................................................................... 64

Proud marketing partner of SI Now.

Letter from our Executive Director 2023 – The year that keeps on giving! That is the overall sentiment to describe the growth and momentum happening in Southern Illinois. From north to south, and river to river, the spirit of collaboration and connectivity is evident. At Southern Illinois Now (SI Now), we believe that a win for one is a win for all of southern Illinois – and we have a lot to be proud of!

We often see our region’s points of pride through individual stories that are worthy of celebration in their own right, but together our region’s collective story is POWERFUL, and the time is now to tell that collective story far and wide. NOW! magazine is designed to do just that, and the celebration is clear!

Building on the region’s origins as Little Egypt – the land of opportunity – Southern Illinois is full of abundant opportunities. From its long-standing legacy businesses that have withstood the test of time through multiple generations, to the region’s newest businesses, expansions, and major destination developments, Southern Illinois is on an upward trajectory and we’re just getting started!

Education and workforce training opportunities abound with the region’s four community colleges, numerous trades, and Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale leading the way with its nationally ranked programs and loyal alumni network, more than 250,000 strong! Whether traveling through an airport, conducting business throughout the country, or vacationing around the world, you are sure to hear “Go Dawgs!” when wearing your SIU Saluki maroon. As the saying goes, Once a Saluki… ALWAYS a Saluki.

Southern Illinois has a deep commitment of care led by its outstanding healthcare services rarely found in rural communities. Its 19 hospitals, numerous specialties, comprehensive cancer center, and Level II Trauma Center serve the region’s families in their time of need and provide access to high-quality, compassionate care right here at home.

We are experiencing a unique time in our region’s history as we literally soar to new heights with direct jet service connecting Southern Illinois to the world through Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. Never before has the entire state been so connected and accessible from its most recognizable city of Chicago to the north, to its gateway to the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois.

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Our region is rich with natural resources and recreational opportunities that thousands of visitors travel miles to experience. Our region garnered much attention during the pandemic as people discovered its wide-open spaces to safely explore. As visitors continue to enjoy our scenic landscape, Southern Illinois is also being discovered by businesses that find its central location and transportation assets a competitive post-pandemic advantage as they seek to reshore, centralize operations, and be closer to their customers. In this issue, you will learn how this R4 Advantage has positioned Southern Illinois for continued growth, new jobs, and a new economy now and for generations to come. Companies have location choices and CHOOSING Southern Illinois is becoming a common theme.

With so much to be proud of, SI Now focuses on sharing the good and advancing Southern Illinois as a great place to live, work, and do business. Supported by the region’s business and community leaders, SI Now serves Illinois’ southernmost 17 counties in three priority areas: business growth and development, education and workforce development, and marketing the region to both internal and external audiences.

If you are a Southern Illinois business or resident, we invite you to join us in this work. If you are reading this as a visitor, potential resident, or prospective business, we invite you to see what all the buzz is about and how you can be part of something unique and special.

In this inaugural NOW! edition, we trust that you will be inspired, that you will experience the power of the collective Southern Illinois story, that you will discover or re-discover this land of opportunity, and that you will find your own opportunity within it.

The TIME IS NOW! Come join us!

Dr. Deb Barnett Executive Director, Southern Illinois Now

SI Now

Advancing Our Region as a Great Place to Live, Work, and Do Business Southern Illinois Now (SI Now) is the regional economic development hub promoting the 17 southernmost Illinois counties as a great place to live, work, and do business.

We’re uniquely positioned in Southern Illinois – geographically in the middle of the country with a skilled workforce, low cost of living and high quality of life – the perfect place to relocate or start a business. We connect interested companies and people with opportunities and resources.

A not-for-profit 501(c)(3), SI Now was established with the purpose to create a positive ripple effect for citizens, communities, business owners, and local governments in Southern Illinois by creating jobs and opportunities for upward mobility, improving well-being and quality of life, attracting new businesses and residents, equipping the workforce with specialized skills, and creating opportunities for existing businesses.

History Shortly after assuming the position of Chancellor at Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale in August 2017, Dr. Carlo Montemagno created the Business Leaders Roundtable. Charged with revitalizing the University, he recognized and wanted to strengthen the critical symbiotic relationship between SIU and the region. The Business Leaders Roundtable brought together twenty business owners, economic development professionals, regional elected officials, and SIU leaders to identify both key issues affecting SIU and impediments to regional and individual business growth.

Following Dr. Montemagno’s untimely passing, Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) recognized the importance of building upon the Roundtable’s momentum and brought together these leaders, as well as others from throughout Southern Illinois to the Bridge to the Future initiative. SI Bridge to the Future was created in 2018 to create regional growth and retention strategies through real-world solutions for the southern counties of Illinois. These leaders were successful in creating a platform for regional collaborative economic development and laying out a foundation and vision for the success of our region. That vision is carried out through SI Now.

Through its three priority areas of business growth and development, education and workforce development, and marketing the region, SI Now prioritizes its work to: • Create alignment with a unified message and pooled resources to pursue common goals • Create synergy – and support that a win anywhere in Southern Illinois is a win for all • Eliminate silos as obstacles to regional economic development • Achieve benefits of scale by collaborating with outside stakeholders as a region The Time is Now! Economic Development Event

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SI Now Today At the helm of SI Now is a stellar Board of Trustees driven by regional leaders representing business and industry, education, healthcare, and workforce. In addition, the organization is aligned with a vast network of partners throughout Southern Illinois who work collaboratively to accomplish the region’s goals while not duplicating efforts.

SI Now further unites the region and its collective voice through three task forces designed to support its priority focus areas of business growth and development, education and workforce development, and marketing the region. As a result, the organization benefits from the expertise and diverse perspectives of nearly 100 of the region’s business and economic development leaders.

Business Growth and Development: Identified as a gap area in the region, SI Now serves as a central point of contact and one-stop shop for businesses looking to expand in or relocate to Southern Illinois. Staff prioritizes a hands-on, concierge-type approach to ensure that new and existing companies have the resources, answers, and connections they need, when they need them. SI Now works closely with state and local partners resulting in time-saving coordination at the speed of business.

Education and Workforce Development: A skilled workforce and strong talent pipeline are critical to a thriving economy. Through its Education and Workforce Development Task Force, SI Now engages the region’s four-year university, community college system, workforce development, labor, and high school leaders throughout the 17-county footprint as part of its regional career awareness and exploration framework. As the Illinois Education and Career Success Network’s newest Leadership Community, the Southern Illinois Region’s goal is to expose young people to career and educational opportunities while increasing employer engagement to meet employment needs throughout Southern Illinois.

Marketing the Region: Southern Illinois has a lot to be proud of! Comprised of some of the region’s successful business and marketing experts, SI Now’s Marketing Task Force focuses on strategies to create a “win mentality” by elevating perceptions both within the region and beyond.

Through a multi-layered marketing approach, SI Now serves as a unified voice to showcase the region’s collective assets, successes, and opportunities. As a result, the region’s message is being heard locally, throughout the country, and around the world.

As a region, together we are better and a win for one is a win for all of Southern Illinois!

Business & Industry Leaders

Transportation

Higher Education & K-12

Workforce Development

Government Entities and Officials

Local Development Districts

Southern Illinois Regional Economic Development Hub A Unified Voice for 17 Counties

Multi-and Single-County Economic Development Initiatives

Civic and Community Coalitions

UniversityBased Initiatives

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Board of Trustees KEVIN BECKEMEYER

AUSTIN LANE

WILL STEPHENS

RODNEY CABANESS

LYNN ANDERSEN LINDBERG

WOODY THORNE

President/CEO Legence Bank

Chancellor Southern Illinois University

Co-Owner Black Diamond Harley-Davidson

JOHN DOSIER

President First Southern Bank

STEVE FALAT

General Manager, Market Manager River Radio

DALE FOWLER

State Senator Illinois 59th District

TONY IRITI

Executive Director Jefferson County Development Corporation

Executive Director Southern Illinois University Research Park

KATHY LIVELY

CEO (Retired) Man-Tra-Con Corporation

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Vice President of Community Affairs & Chief Development Officer Southern Illinois Healthcare

MICHAEL TISON Tison Wealth Management

ROBERT J. MAY

TOM WELGE

CARY MINNIS

PATRICK WINDHORST

President/CEO Banterra Bank

Executive Director Greater Egypt Regional Planning & Development Commission

President Gilster-Mary Lee

State Representative Illinois 118th District & Board President of One Shawnee

MIKE MONCHINO

Principal Member Monchino Management

DEBORAH BARNETT, Ph.D. Executive Director

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Mayor City of Murpysboro

NICK HOLDINGHAUSEN Regional Development & Marketing

About SI Now

SI Now serves as a regional economic development hub and unified voice for the 17 southern counties of Illinois to advance our region as a great place to live, work, and do business.

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Confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers

Little Egypt

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

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Background of Southern Illinois As a Southern Illinoisan, fielding the question “where are you from?” often prompts a longer discussion beyond a simple reply.

Although you may hear a “Go Salukis!” in response, many inquirers assume Chicago when they hear Illinois. However, Southern Illinois is a distinct region of the state with a rich history, beautiful natural landscape, and unique culture all its own.

The region’s moniker, “Little Egypt”, was coined by an early settler who compared Southern Illinois’ topography to the fertile lands surrounding the Nile River in Egypt. The Egyptian theme stuck and influenced the names of several local cities (Cairo, Thebes, Carmi, Goshen, Dongola) in addition to the Southern Illinois University mascot, the Saluki – known as a royal dog of Egypt.

Located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers and encompassing the 289,000-acre Shawnee National Forest, its rolling hills, fertile farmland, and unique rock formations make it vastly different from the flat topography of the rest of Illinois. Its central location in the Midwest allows for transportation and logistics advantages with four port districts, three interstate highways (I-57, I-24, and I-64), four railroads (Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Canadian National, and Norfolk Southern), and airports including Southern Illinois Airport in Carbondale/Murphysboro and Veterans Airport in Marion with direct jet service to Chicago.

Southern Illinois is also within a short driving distance of major metropolitan areas, including St. Louis, Nashville, Memphis, Indianapolis, and Chicago. Additionally, 83% of the continental U.S. population is within a 2-day trucking distance.

Historically driven by a coal-mining economy, Southern Illinois is now a designated energy community region prioritized for federal investment to spur economic growth. Other leading industries include healthcare, manufacturing, education and higher learning, tourism and hospitality, and agriculture. Paving the way for future generations, aviation and automotive technology are emerging industries in the region with Southern Illinois University (SIU) and local community colleges contributing to a strong talent pipeline.

The region’s 370,000 residents enjoy a low cost of living at 16% less than the national average and a high quality of life with easy access to hiking, fishing, boating, arts, music, restaurants, and entertainment.

As home to 11 award winning wineries, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a destination for residents and tourists alike. Home of the SIU Salukis, thousands of sports fans enjoy access to Division I athletics as they come out to cheer on their beloved Dawgs!

Student Section at SIUC Basketball Game

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The culture of Southern Illinois is largely influenced by its geography, plentiful outdoor activities, farming, and its role as home to a major research university, SIU, as well as four regional community colleges.

SIU brings a diverse culture to the region, including a population representative of varying religions, nationalities, and languages, in addition to an intellectual and social vibrancy. The Southern Illinois region also provides excellent healthcare services to its residents with 19 hospitals, including six with advanced services, a regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center, a state-of-the-art cancer center, and Level II Trauma Center.

Little Egypt is a land of opportunity with its fertile land, growing industries, central location, transportation assets, natural resources, and outdoor recreation.

Many are discovering or rediscovering the region to expand or relocate their business, to raise their family, and as a place of refuge from the hustle and bustle.

For Southern Illinoisans, a visitor’s retreat is simply the place that we call home.

With an average commute of just 10 minutes, residents have plenty of time to enjoy all that Southern Illinois has to offer.

Minneapolis

Close to Everything

Milwaukee

Detroit

Pittsburgh

Chicago

Indianapolis Cincinnati Kansas City St. Louis Louisville

Nashville

100 miles

Atlanta

200 miles

Dallas

500 miles

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Our vibrant community is poised to welcome new businesses with a TIF program, an Enterprise Zone, affordable housing, excellent schools, a downtown historic district, and a vibrant public art and music scene.

We’re a haven for small businesses and locally owned restaurants.

We’re even the official Barbecue Capital of Illinois.

Come see what Murphysboro has to offer.

Mayor Will Stephens • 618-684-4961 • murphysboro.com

Photo Credit: The Southern Illinoisan

Black Diamond

FAMILY OF BUSINESSES A Small-Town Success Story Prepares to Ramp Up in a Big Way

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Photo Credit: The Southern Illinoisan

Most residents of Southern Illinois are familiar with the Black Diamond Harley-Davidson story. Life-long buddies Rodney Cabaness and Shad Zimbro have used unconventional marketing methods, and 5-star customer service, to launch one of the most successful Harley-Davidson dealerships on the planet, in a city of less than 17,000 people, while simultaneously setting the bar for superior corporate citizenship. It’s an outstanding small-town story.

Now, 15 years into the partnership, the Black Diamond Family of Businesses have evolved to offer RVs, watercraft, appliances, electronics, flooring, cabinets, manufactured homes, zero-turn mowers, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and more. Services include Kokopelli Golf Course, the Thrillville Thrillbillies baseball team, Mtn Dew Park, Black Diamond Aviation and growing. In the last 18 months, the duo has launched five new businesses under the Oasis Outdoors brand, all in Marion.

I was born and raised in Southern Illinois and am proud to call it home today. Not only is it a great place to live and raise a family, but it has also been an amazing place to operate our businesses. We have had several companies across the country and no other locations have proven to be as rewarding as the ones located right here in Southern Illinois.

Rodney Cabaness Co-Owner, Black Diamond Harley-Davidson Cabaness and Zimbro now plan to leverage the region’s proven track record, and ideal location, to launch several large-scale destination developments designed to attract consumers from outside Southern Illinois. The largest of which is the shovel-ready Oasis Sports Complex.

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OASIS SPORTS COMPLEX: “Sports Tourism is a niche of the tourism industry that uses the hosting of sporting events to attract visitors to communities to drive economic impact,” Cabaness said. “Oasis Sports Complex will attract large scale, multi-sport youth tournaments to Marion. Conservative estimates of the local, annual economic impact predict more than 450,000 non-local visitors, about 63,000 hotel room nights and over $25 million in direct spending in our marketplace.”

“Hundreds of thousands of visitors to Southern Illinois will need something to do during their visit,” Zimbro said. “Black Diamond plans to add three top-flight entertainment and shopping venues to the already wide array of activities our region offers: Oasis Outdoors, Oasis Golf and Pickleball Complex and the Oasis South Shopping Center.”

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OASIS OUTDOORS: In 2020 Black Diamond purchased the former Illinois Star Center Mall, which was shuttered since 2018. Currently, the more than 300,000 square foot complex is being refurbished to be the future home of Oasis Outdoors, an entertainment and shopping hub that will be home to: • RV and motorhomes dealership • Powersports dealership offering ATVs, side-by-sides, motorcycles, golf carts and more • Marine and watercraft dealership • Manufactured homes center • Home, lawn, and garden retailer • Sporting goods supplier • Oasis Family Entertainment Center: offering a virtual reality zone, climbing wall, bowling alley, themed restaurant, laser tag, go karts and a community event space.

OASIS GOLF AND PICKLBALL COMPLEX: Also included in the initial phase of the multi-pronged development will be the Oasis Golf and Pickleball Complex. “Visitors will enjoy a premier, golf-themed entertainment venue with games for all skill levels,” Zimbro said. “There will be a luxury hotel with a full-service bar and restaurant, pickle ball courts, bocce, a state-of-the-art driving range with a pitch-and-putt golf course. Venues like this are usually only found in major markets. But the huge volume of visitors expected with the Oasis Sports Complex make success in a venture like this a reality in Marion.”

OASIS SOUTH SHOPPING CENTER: Cabaness says that the allure of Oasis Sports Complex has also allowed several national franchises, including an Olive Garden restaurant, to commit to the third project: Oasis South Shopping Center. “Normally, a franchise like Olive Garden will only locate in a market with 150,000 residents within a five-mile radius of the proposed location,” Cabaness said. “There are less than 30,000 within five miles of the new, Marion Olive Garden. But executives with the organization are willing to look past that because they believe in our plan, and see a very, very bright future for all Southern Illinois.”

According to Cabaness, about a dozen other national franchises have signaled their intention to locate in the Oasis South Shopping Center, but confidentiality agreements prevent him from sharing more details.

Throughout the planning process, Cabaness has held hundreds of meetings with everyone from government officials to global construction and development experts. He says many are skeptical, at least at first.

For Cabaness and Zimbro, the massive undertaking is a labor of love, and a thank you gift to the underappreciated area they call “home.” It’s an outstanding small-town story in which the best chapters are still being written.

When we share what we have been able to accomplish, and what our plans are, most become believers in the incredible, mostly untapped potential of Southern Illinois.

Rodney Cabaness – Co-Owner, Black Diamond Harley-Davidson

BANK WITH PEOPLE YOU KNOW, WHO KNOW

& LOVE SOUTHERN ILLINOIS. Visit us on our website firstsouthernbank.net or call 618.997.4341

Proud Supporter of Our Local Businesses & Our Community.

SouthernIllinoisNow.org

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Soaring to New Heights Region’s Airports Fuel Economic Growth & Connectivity

What do direct flights to Chicago, nationally recognized education programs, craft beer brewing, and vintage military jet rehabbing have in common? They are all goods or services offered at airports right here in our region.

In Southern Illinois, airports are far more than just transportation hubs – they are catalysts for regional economic development and advancing the region toward increased connectivity, job creation, and business attraction. The southernmost 17 counties of Illinois are home to nine general aviation airports and one commercial service airport. Collectively, these airports have a significant direct and indirect impact on the region’s economy at more than $260 million annually according to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s most recent aviation economic impact analysis. The airports not only create local jobs but also attract businesses to the region and stimulate growth in multiple industry sectors. Additionally, they play a crucial role in linking Southern Illinois to various other cities and regions across the country.

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The Southern Illinois Airport: Imagining Greatness There is nothing quite like the first sip of a crisp, locally brewed craft beer. As the only general aviation airport in the U.S. with an active brewery in its terminal, passengers and patrons alike at Southern Illinois Airport often head straight to St. Nicholas Brewing Company to enjoy a cold beverage with a delicious lunch or dinner. Referred to by locals as St. Nick’s, this local brewery and restaurant is one of many companies choosing to expand to the Southern Illinois Airport (SIA) which houses 20 businesses with over 345 employees on the field and is home to the Southern Illinois University’s Transportation and Education Center with nearly 1,000 aviation and automotive students enrolled. The airport is owned and operated by the Southern Illinois Airport Authority (SIAA); a local governmental entity formed under state law. The airport was established in 1946 as Murdale Airport and reimagined in its current location as Southern Illinois Airport in 1950.

Its growth accelerated when Southern Illinois University opened its nationally recognized aviation and automotive programs on the Southern Illinois Airport campus in 1960.

Our competitors are in the bigger markets, such as Miami, Chicago, and Los Angeles and we can do the same work on the same aircraft in an area that’s 40% cheaper to live.

Wes Perkins, Vice President of Crucial Aviation

“Our airport campus tenant community allows us to showcase a unique blend of aviation and non-aviation services,” said Gary Shafer, SIAA airport manager. “Having SIU graduates with in-demand skills ready to enter the workforce is a boon for everyone at the airport.”

Shafer has served as the SIAA airport manager for more than 45 years, significantly longer than the average tenure of an airport manager. He has overseen the remarkable growth of the airport over the recent decades and is credited with executing the vision for SIA to serve as an economic hub for Southern Illinois.

“The success at the airport has created many positive spin-offs for the City of Murphysboro. The jobs created there have injected new life into our community,” said City of Murphysboro Mayor Will Stephens. “Gary’s calm yet determined commitment to growing the airport gets the credit for the airport’s success and consequently Murphysboro’s success,” he added.

“As a resident of Southern Illinois in my youth and an alumnus of SIU, it was the right choice for me to expand my aviation career and lead a thriving business here at Southern Illinois Airport”, said Brian Profancik, general manager of Code 1 Aviation. “The region has helped us grow with access to skilled talent, accommodating space and supportive leadership dedicated to our own vision.”

Wsley Perkins, Vice President at Crucial MRO, echoes the sentiment that SIA has been a prime location for business growth. “For more than 20 years, Crucial has been a recognized leader within the aviation industry. Now, Crucial MRO is leading the charge in modifications, maintenance, repair and staffing,” Perkins explains. “We strategically selected the Southern Illinois Airport to be the hub of our operations because of the welcome willingness to share our vision for growth and progress,” said Wesley Perkins, vice president at Crucial MRO. “As we rapidly continue to grow, we know this airport will grow with us step by step,” he adds.

Shafer predicts further growth on the horizon for both aviation related companies as well as automotive companies. There are currently shovel-ready development sites at the airport (located within an Enterprise Zone with utilities on-site), including land set aside for an automotive Tech Park. Recruitment is underway for tenants in the aviation or automotive industry that would benefit from the airport’s infrastructure and the qualified workforce on the airport’s campus through the SIU Aviation Management and Automotive Technology programs.

“We use the phrase ‘Imagine Greatness with Us’ out here at the airport,” explained Shafer. “It’s our everyday mission to remove barriers for growth and help the community understand this airport belongs to everyone.”

FACTS & FIGURES

Southern Illinois Airport 3rd Busiest Airport in Illinois behind Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway Airports $25 Million Expansion Recently Completed 265 Acres Available for Development $122.3 Million Total Economic Impact Annually

SIA has experienced tremendous growth in recent years and has a solid vision focused on imagining greatness. The airport is now the third busiest in the state of Illinois. SIA includes three all-weather runways, 28 buildings, and can accommodate a variety of aircraft including the Boeing 757. According to the Illinois Aeronautics Division, SIA’s impact on the local economy is more than $122.3 million annually.

Recently Named General Aviation Airport of the Year in Illinois by the Illinois Department of Transportation

As home to several aviation related companies, including Crucial MRO (commercial maintenance and repair for large regional jets), Enhanced Aero (aircraft maintenance and repair company started by SIU graduates), Code 1 Aviation (vintage military jet rehab, also led by an SIU alumnus), Air Methods (emergency medical transportation), runway THREE-SIX (the fastest growing aviation apparel + gear brand in the world, led by SIU graduates) and Fixed Base Operator Flightline (fuel and ground service), these companies benefit from the strategic location at SIA from both a logistics and talent standpoint.

Crucial MRO (Maintenance & Repair)

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Home to:

Southern Illinois University Flight, Aviation Management, and Automotive Technology Programs

Code 1 Aviation (Vintage Military Jet Rehabber) Air Methods (Trauma Patient Helicopter Transport Company) Enhanced Aero (Aircraft Electronics Company) St. Nicholas Brewing Company runway THREE-SIX (Global Aviation Apparel + Gear Company)

Southern Illinois University’s Poshard Transportation Education Center At the center of SIU’s Aviation Management and Automotive Technology programs is the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center (TEC). Stepping into the pristine facility and seeing the suspended Flying Salukis two-seater aircraft hovering above a vintage car, you instantly feel a buzz of enthusiasm and possibility emanating from the space. Right from the outset, it’s clear that this is not your average lecture hall.

Instead, the TEC serves as a hub for SIU’s nationally recognized aviation and automotive degree programs, serving approximately 1,000 enrolled students. Named after former SIU system president Glenn Poshard for his instrumental role in securing funding for the facility, the TEC is strategically located on university-owned grounds at the Southern Illinois Airport (SIA) and includes key features such as a 30,000 square-foot fleet storage area and a 12,000 square-foot aviation test cell structure. The nearly 200,000-square-foot facility is considered the premier transportation education center in the Midwest and one of the top institutions of its kind nationwide.

Both SIU’s aviation and automotive degree programs attract students from across the nation and equip students with skills that are immediately marketable and in-demand upon graduation. SIU’s TEC and its aviation and automotive programs are assets to the Southern Illinois region as they are producing top quality, talented candidates and workforce pipeline for high-demand industries.

Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center

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SIU School of Aviation What started as basic flight classes offered by the university with just four airplanes and spare parts has transformed into one of the nation’s leading comprehensive aviation programs. SIU’s School of Aviation offers multiple degree programs, a state-of-the-industry facility, and serves more than 600 students. Further, SIU has established partnerships with regional and major airlines, including Delta and United, to provide students with paved pathways to aviation careers. The SIU School of Aviation is also home to the Flying Salukis Flight Team which has finished in the top 5 in the nation for 13 consecutive years at the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Championship.

SIU’s aviation program not only offers exceptional aviation education and opportunities for its students, but also bolsters the growth of the Southern Illinois economy. As aviation companies continue to establish roots at the Southern Illinois Airport, the aviation program provides a built-in talent pipeline for expanding companies, as well as a channel for aviation entrepreneurs.

state-of-the-art technologies like ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system) and long-term, will look to build a mock city for a self-driving car test track.” Croxell further envisions that automotive companies at the Southern Illinois Airport can lease track time or testing time to utilize these technologies, which are often cost prohibitive for smaller enterprises to purchase.

Given the forward-thinking approaches of both entities, there is strong potential for significant collaboration between SIA and SIU’s Automotive Program, as well as continued synergy between SIA and the SIU Aviation program. Through this work, SIU’s TEC is not only shaping the educational trajectories of students, but also propelling economic growth in the Southern Illinois region. Unquestionably, SIU’s TEC is a pivotal catalyst for expanding the region’s horizons.

Sources SIU dedicates Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center Transportation Education Center | Facilities and Energy Management | SIU Program Information | Automotive Technology | SIU Southern Illinois University - Automotive (siu.edu) About Us | School of Aviation | SIU SIU’s Flying Salukis finish in top 5 in nation for 13th year

SIU Automotive Technology Program SIU’s Automotive Technology Program’s remarkable statistics speak volumes: a striking 90% of students secure job offers prior to graduation and nearly 100% find employment in related fields upon graduation.

Established in 1953, SIU has the only automotive technology program in the state of Illinois and one of only a select few in the country.

SIU’s program is a three-time recipient of the Automotive Industry Planning Council’s Award of Excellence, which signifies the top automotive program in the nation, and the only automotive technology program in the U.S. that is part of a major research university.

While most automotive technology programs offer two-year programs, SIU offers a four-year program culminating in a bachelor’s degree in automotive technology, uniquely positioning students to pursue careers in the corporate automotive industry. On an annual basis, more than 40 major companies travel to the TEC to recruit students for employment, including representatives from prominent companies like GM, Ford, Stellantis, and Toyota. The program’s bridge to the industry is strong with SIU alumni hiring fellow Salukis from these top companies. Examples of notable alumni include a Global Vice President at General Motors, Head of Infiniti Global Aftersales, and Vice President and General Manager for North American Parts Operations at Toyota.

For automotive companies eyeing expansion, the Southern Illinois Airport has available sites within its Tech Park, which have the potential for synergy with the SIU Automotive Program’s skilled workforce. SIU Automotive Technology Program Director Drew Croxell extends a warm invitation to automotive companies looking to relocate or expand and envisions a symbiotic relationship in which the program serves as a natural talent pipeline for potential businesses in the region.

“There are a variety of automotive companies that would benefit from locating at the Southern Illinois Airport. It would be an ideal location for an automotive start-up or business expansion with technical interns and full-time hires available next door,” Croxell explains.

Looking forward, Croxell outlines initial plans to incorporate advanced technologies that ensure students have needed skillsets for the future. “We’ve made initial investments in additional

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Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois Connecting Southern Illinois to the World: Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois History was made on August 1, 2023 when passengers boarded the inaugural Contour Airlines flight at Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois and landed just one hour later in the heart of Chicago at O’Hare International Airport. The eagerly anticipated jet service has been praised as a game-changer for the region as it offers a convenient and time efficient link between Southern Illinois and the fourth-busiest airport in the world. This development means that travelers originating from Chicago can now easily access the business, educational, and tourism offerings in Southern Illinois.

Similarly, residents of Southern Illinois now have direct access to the third largest city in the nation and one of the most connected airports on the planet.

Passengers can enjoy the convenience and affordability of flying with 36 inches of legroom, a space typically reserved for first class seats. This offering is one of many developments contributing to the growing momentum in Southern Illinois and paving the way for continued economic growth.

According to Veteran’s Airport Director Doug Kimmel, “We now have an affordable option to connect to one of the country’s largest airports, providing flights to a vast network of domestic and international destinations. Connecting Southern Illinois to this network for visitors and businesses has the potential to generate even more traffic and economic benefit – a true win-win.”

The direct access to O’Hare Airport is also poised to play a pivotal role in Southern Illinois’ efforts to recruit and retain talent. Notably, major employers in the region such as Southern Illinois University and Southern Illinois Healthcare employ numerous professionals who have relocated from international countries and frequently travel abroad to visit their families. The availability of a direct flight to Chicago, with onward connections to nearly 60 international destinations, is a compelling benefit for talent recruitment and retention.

Dr. Javier Muniz, a local physician and Airport Board Chairman, underscores the impact of this flight offering on local employers.

“We’ve recognized a demand for flights to Chicago for some time, but this opportunity truly brought that to light. The area’s largest employers, community and business leaders, and the public have all voiced overwhelming support for Contour Airlines,” Muniz emphasized.

In addition to scheduled commercial airline service, Veteran’s Airport also accommodates significant charter operations throughout the year. This includes charter flights for Southern Illinois University athletic teams and Honor Flights that take veterans to Washington D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated to their service. These larger charters are efficiently managed by the airport’s modern terminal completed in 2016 which accommodates aircrafts such as the B737-800 or A320.

Although less publicized, daily operations involving private and corporate aircrafts are also ongoing at Veterans Airport. These operations range from single-engine flight training to corporate business jets owned by companies conducting business across the region. Midwest Aviation, the airport’s Fixed-Based Operator, manages these operations by providing fueling, line services, pilot waiting and flight planning areas, aircraft maintenance and repair, flight instruction, aircraft rental, and charter flights.

Promoting the historical preservation, history, culture, architecture, and public use of murphysboro's traditional downtown area.

m u rphysboromai n street.com m u rphysboromai n st @ gmail.com

@MUrPhYMAiNSt

These operations have led to plans for the construction of a new $4.6 million general aviation terminal. Kimmel highlighted the significance of the expansion, stating, “Our facility often forms a visitor’s first impression of Southern Illinois. The new General Aviation Terminal will not only offer the necessary facilities and services but will also showcase that Southern Illinois is a region with tremendous resources and potential.”

Currently, Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois contributes a significant economic impact of $85 million to the region annually. However, two key assets have the potential to amplify that figure in the years to come. “Available property and an 8,000-foot primary runway uniquely position us to accommodate exponential growth in air cargo operations,” Kimmel explained.

With its strategic location on Highway 13 and proximity to Interstate 57 – nestled between I-64 and I-24 – as well as adjacent industrial parks and nearby rail connections, you might say that the sky is the limit for Veterans Airport. “We are ready,” affirms Kimmel. “As the region grows, so too will the airport, and our commitment is to provide whatever support is needed to facilitate this growth.”

Sources: About the Airport (veteransairport.com) Contour Aviation to begin its service to Southern Illinois in August (thesouthern.com) Contour Airlines takes first flight from Marion to Chicago (thesouthern.com) http://www.ilaviation.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/MWA.pdf

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The Test of Time Southern Illinois Legacy Businesses

Southern Illinois – it’s where Illinois began when Kaskaskia became the state’s first capital in 1818. Since the time of its earliest settlers, this land nestled between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers has offered assets and resources that have contributed to building our economy for years - the rivers, the region’s centrality, the fertile land, and the welcoming, hard-working resilient people who define us, who celebrate each other’s successes and pull together even stronger in times of need. Resilience is part of who we are and that resilience and resourcefulness dates back for generations.

From Southern Illinois University shaping the region’s economic and social landscape since 1869 to Arnette’s Barber Shop, a neighborhood gathering center not just for haircuts, but for camaraderie, mentorship, and on the job training since 1945 – legacy businesses are tightly woven into the fabric of Southern Illinois and have made significant contributions to the region’s economy and culture.

The successes of these legacy businesses are evidence of a strong, supportive business community and are inspiration for further innovation, expansion, and investment in southern Illinois for the next generation and beyond.

Gilster-Mary Lee and other long-standing businesses like it provide reliable fuel for the economic engine of southern Illinois. These businesses provide jobs and opportunities not only for their employees and their families, but also the many other small businesses that support these organizations and the employees who call southern Illinois home.

Tom Welge President, Gilster-Mary Lee Founded in 1895, Gilster-Mary Lee is headquartered in Chester, Illinois, and is a leading Private Label food manufacturer with 14 different manufacturing facilities across four states.

Milano Metals is a fourth-generation family business. We’ve been in business for over 100 years and in Mt. Vernon for 58 years and we wouldn’t be here without our loyal employees. Southern Illinois is home to an outstanding workforce – people who value hard work, loyalty, and authenticity. The average Milano Metals employee has been working here for 15 years.

Mary Federici Burgan President, Milano Metals & Recycling Milano Metals is a full-service iron & metal recycler, serving industrial, commercial, and retail clients and strategically located with a private railyard at the intersection of three rail lines (NS, UP & EVWR).

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Southern Illinois Legacy Businesses City County

Year Est.

Business Description

Southern Illinois University

Carbondale

Jackson

1869

Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools

Rendleman Orchards

Alto Pass

Union

1873

Wholesaler of Fruits & Vegetables

Flamm Orchards

Cobden

Union

1888

Wholesaler of Fruits & Vegetables

Gilster-Mary Lee

Chester

Randolph

1895

Corporate Headquarters & Leading Private Label Food Manufacturer

Cusumano & Sons, Inc.

Mt. Vernon

Jefferson

1904

Wholesaler of Fruits & Vegetables

Milano Metals

Mt. Vernon

Jefferson

1920

Wholesaler of Scrap Metal & Iron

Odum Concrete Products, Inc.

Marion

Williamson

1921

Corporate Headquarters & Ready-Mixed Concrete

Reaco Battery Service Corp.

Johnston City

Williamson

1923

Industrial Forklift Batteries

Vogler Motor Co., Inc.

Carbondale

Jackson

1923

Warehouse Automotive Parts Distributor

Anna Evergreen

Cobden

Union

1925

Wholesaler of Nursery Plants, Including Trees & Shrubs

Company

Benoist Brothers Supply Co. Mount Vernon Jefferson 1928

Company Headquarters & Wholesaler of Heating, Air Conditioning & Ventilation Equipment

Pepsi MidAmerica Co.

Marion

Williamson

1935

Company Headquarters & Beverage Bottling

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Carbondale

Jackson

1935

Cottage Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion Dip

Taylor Brothers Welding Service, Inc.

Tamaroa

Perry

1936

Machining & Welding Job Shop

Venegoni Distributing, Inc.

Carbondale

Jackson

1936

Beer Distribution

Southern Illinois Healthcare

Carbondale

Jackson

1938

Hospital & Healthcare Services

Les Wilson, Inc.

Carmi

White

1939

Drilling Contractor in Illinois

East Side Lumberyard Supply Co., Inc. Herrin Williamson 1939

Corporate Headquarters & Wholesaler of Building Materials, Including Windows, Doors, Drywall, Fasteners, Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Porch Railings & Composite Deck Boards

Arnette’s Barber Shop

Carbondale

Jackson

1945

Barber Shop

E.T. Simonds Construction Co.

Carbondale

Jackson

1946

Construction

WKI

Harrisburg

Saline

1946

Wooden & plastic laminated casework suppliers SouthernIllinoisNow.org

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Rendleman Orchards Celebrates 150 Years!

Recognized as one of Illinois’ Great Agricultural Achievements

Sesquicentennial – 150 years – five generations. No matter how you slice it, this popular family-owned orchard and thriving business nestled in the hills of Southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest has reached a rare milestone.

It all began when John and Isabelle Rendleman established an 88-acre family farm in 1873 to raise chickens, cows, and corn for livestock. This year, the farm celebrated 150 years of business as a fifth-generation family farm and has grown into a modern-day agricultural enterprise.

Rendleman Orchards now spans 800 acres with fruit orchards, vegetable fields, forestland, and seasonal flower production.

One key to Rendleman Orchards’ longevity has been its owners’ abilities to continually evolve and grow over the years. While their primary business is produce sales, Rendleman’s has further expanded their customer base by enhancing the experience of visiting the farm.

Between their immersive flower fields for Instagram-worthy photo-ops and delicious seasonal treats like peach smoothies and apple cider donuts, they attract thousands of visitors to the farm each year.

Rendleman’s multiplies its effect on the Southern Illinois economy through the tourism it attracts from across the Midwest. They encourage their visitors to visit neighboring businesses, including members of the Shawnee Hills wine trail, and regularly host food trucks from local restaurants on the farm. Rendleman Orchards also gives back to the Southern Illinois community as the inaugural participant in the farm to food bank program in Illinois. During their first year of participation, Rendleman’s donated 500,000 pounds of food to local food banks.

Michelle Sirles, VP/Owner and 5th generation member of the Rendleman family acknowledges the fortitude required to maintain a business for 150 years. “No doubt it has taken grit and determination by the generations before us to carry on our heritage for a century and a half.,” recognizes Sirles. “Rendleman Orchards has also been surrounded by many other inspiring business owners who have encouraged us to look at new directions possible in Southern Illinois. The region has embraced our new offerings and supported our diversification – you can’t ask for more than that,” she adds.

Rendleman Orchards celebrated its 150th anniversary in July with a bell-ringing ceremony signifying their sesquicentennial year of business. Dignitaries from across the state of Illinois attended the event, including Illinois Director of Agriculture Jerry Costello, who noted that of the 70,000 farms in the state of Illinois, only 1.7% have been in operation for 150 years.

Embracing change and adapting to the consumer’s demands will remain at the forefront of Rendleman Orchard’s operation, but one thing that will never change is the satisfaction of a delicious, juicy peach at the end of a hot summer day.

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Southern Illinois has certainly proven to be a smart choice by our ancestors as a place to build a long-lasting business. There are many factors in this region that have contributed to creating a multi-generational operation.

A legacy business like ours has benefitted not only from a four-season climate, but also from such close proximity to several metropolitan cities such as St. Louis, Indianapolis, Louisville, Nashville, and Chicago for our wholesale produce sales.

Southern Illinois University in our backyard, providing agricultural research and high-quality education has also positively impacted our business in numerous ways.

Additionally, it is the people that have chosen to work alongside us on the farm that have sustained our business. Without such a dedicated workforce we would not have made it through all of these years.

Michelle Sirles VP/Owner and 5th Generation Family Member

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A Dream AND A Pickup Truck Legacy businesses can often trace their roots back to humble beginnings, forming partnerships and bonds that last a lifetime.

Starting in 1946 with just a dream, a pickup truck, and a few shovels, E.T. Simonds Construction Company is now a long-time leader in the Southern Illinois construction industry and has built many of the region’s most prominent highways, roads, and bridges.

E.T. Simonds was founded by Eugene T. (Gene) Simonds, a civil engineer, World War II Air Force veteran, and former Illinois Department of Transportation employee, in partnership with his wife, Emma K. (Katy). The two set up shop in their Carbondale, IL home with Gene managing operations and Katy serving as bookkeeper. The pair had the knowledge and drive to start the company but needed a pickup truck to begin operations.

Gene decided to contact a local car dealership owner, Ed Vogler Sr. of Vogler Ford Motor Company, to see if a truck was available.

Ed had operated Vogler Ford since 1923 as a self-made man who left school in the 8th grade to help with family finances. He served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War I, then as a salesperson for a hardware firm in St. Louis before purchasing the Ford Agency in Carbondale. Ed led the company through the hardships of the depression and the expansion thereafter. However, by 1946, American car dealerships were reeling from the “no car, no parts” period of World War II during which the production of cars, commercial trucks, and auto parts were frozen by the government.

Gene and Katy Simonds In addition to the support of fellow local business owners, Southern Illinois offers a personal sense of belonging and strong community member support to its local businesses.

“We believe in treating those we do business with just the way we’d like to be treated. When this comes full circle, it can lead to long lasting relationships like we’ve seen here,” Simonds added.

Driving through Southern Illinois today, you’re likely to pass one of the recognizable E.T. Simonds trucks – green trucks with yellow lettering – many of which have been purchased from Vogler Motor Company. What started as a dream and the need for a pickup truck continues today as an enduring and fruitful collaboration between two successful companies.

Despite these circumstances, Gene shared his business plan with Ed who believed in the vision for E.T. Simonds. Although inventory was low, Ed sold E.T. Simonds Construction Company its first truck on credit.

Today, E.T. Simonds has been in operation for over 75 years and Vogler Ford will celebrate its 100th anniversary this fall. Both companies are legacy businesses in the Southern Illinois region and are important contributors to the region’s economy.

The enduring successes of these businesses is no coincidence. Both companies came from humble beginnings and have consistently delivered high quality results with a focus on honesty, integrity, and hard work.

Some of the early concessions Ed Vogler Sr. and others made to assist my grandparents in starting their company were instrumental in allowing us to grow into the company that exists today. And our relationship still endures with Vogler Ford nearly 80 years later.

Beck Simonds President of E.T. Simonds and grandson of Gene and Katy Simonds

The continued loyalty between E.T. Simonds and Vogler Ford is also a testament to the long-standing business culture in Southern Illinois of mutual and steadfast support among local business owners.

This culture helps businesses to succeed here and is one key differentiator of doing business in Southern Illinois compared to other regions of the country.

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Vogler Ford

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Companies that call Southern Illinois Home By driving job creation, providing livelihoods, and taking active roles in community development and social initiatives, these regional employers have been the economic engines for Southern Illinois.

Beyond direct employment, these employers generate an economic ripple effect between salaries and benefits, goods and services, capital spending, and money spent on local goods by employees. For example, Southern Illinois Healthcare contributes a comprehensive economic impact of $1.9 billion on the Southern Illinois region annually.

To the businesses, large and small, that call Southern Illinois HOME, we say THANK YOU! Some of the businesses that call Southern Illinois home are:

Company

Industry

County

Southern Illinois Healthcare

General Medical & Surgical Hospitals

Jackson

Southern Illinois University

Colleges, Universities & Professional Schools

Jackson

Continental Tire

Radial Passenger & Truck Tires

Jefferson

Walgreens Distribution Center

Regional Distribution

Jefferson

Aisin Manufacturing Illinois

Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing

Williamson

Pepsi Mid-America Co

Soft Drink Manufacturing

Williamson

SSM Health

General Medical & Surgical Hospitals

Jefferson

Gilster-Mary Lee

Food Service Manufacturing

Randolph

Deaconess

General Medical & Surgical Hospitals

Williamson

Crownline Boats

Boat Building

Franklin

Caesars Entertainment Corporation

Casinos

Massac

Spartan Light Metals

Industry Expert on Recyclable, Custom Aluminum & Magnesium Products

Randolph

Neuro Restorative

Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Abuse Centers

Jackson

General Dynamics

Explosives Manufacturing

Williamson

E.T. Simonds Construction Co.

Highway, Street & Bridge Construction

Jackson

Hamilton County Coal

Support Activities for Coal Mining

Hamilton

Roeslein & Assocs., Inc.

Engineering, Procurement, Modular Fabrication & Construction of Canmaking & Industrial Plant Facilities

Randolph

National Railway Equipment Co.

Company headquarters & New & Rebuilt Locomotives & Diesel Engine Parts & Components

Jefferson

Com-Pac International, Inc.

Plastics Bag & Pouch Manufacturing

Jackson

Penn Aluminum

Aluminum Rolling, Drawing & Extruding

Jackson

Peabody Energy Co.

Coal Mining

Randolph

Siemens Energy, Inc.

Turbine & Turbine Generator Set Units Manufacturing

Perry

Knight Hawk Coal, LLC

Support Activities for Coal Mining

Perry

Prysmian Group

Aluminum & Copper High-Voltage Electric Cable

Perry

Red Bud Industries, Inc.

Coil Processing Equipment

Randolph

Readerlink

National Book Distributor

Williamson

Gateway FS, Inc.

Fertilizer Blending

Randolph

Southern FS, Inc

Fertilizer Blending

Southern IL

Rehab & Care Center of Jackson County

Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)

Jackson

Eaton Cooper B-Line Gratings

Metal Gratings, Struts, Fasteners & Wire Management Products

Perry

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Company

Industry

County

Timberline Fisheries Corp.

Distributor of Live Food for Exotic Animals

Williamson

American Commercial Barge Line

Navigational Services to Shipping

Alexander

Factory Connection, LLC

Women’s Clothing Stores

Saline

Bunge

Grain Storage & Shipping

Alexander

Intertape Polymer Group

Adhesive Tapes

Jackson

Flamm Orchards

Wholesaler of Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Union

Rendleman Orchards

Wholesaler of Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Union

Samron Midwest Contracting, Inc.

Poured Concrete Foundation & Structure Contractors

Jackson

Les Wilson, Inc.

Drilling Oil & Gas Wells

White

The Chocolate Factory

Specialty Candy

Pope

Viserion Grain

Grain & Commodities

Gallatin

Dinger Bats

Baseball Bats & Baseball Apparel

Gallatin

LaFarge Holcim

Concrete Manufacturing

Hardin

Martin & Bayley (Hucks)

Convenience Stores

White

Foresight Energy

Coal Mining

Franklin

Sun Transformer

Custom Transformers, Inductors & Coils

Hamilton

Shakespeare Oil

Stone Quarrying

Johnson

Pioneer Hi-Bred International

Agriculture Seed Producer

Hamilton

Black Diamond Harley-Davidson

Motorcycle Sales & Mechanics

Williamson

Cardinal Manufacturing

Portable Sheds & Warehouses

Saline

Cook Portable Warehouses

Portable Sheds & Warehouses

Jackson

Watco

Transportation & Supply Chain Services

Jackson

Dyno Nobel

Commercial Explosives

Union

ADM

Grain Storage & Sales

Pulaski

Consolidated Grain & Barge Co

Grain Storage & Transportation

Pulaski

Honeywell

Uranium Hexafluoride Processing

Massac

WHY ILLINOIS? #1

MIDWEST STATE FOR BUSINESS CREATION

(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

#2

#2

(2022 Site Selection Magazine’s Annual Ranking)

IN THE NATION FOR BOTH INFRASTRUCTURE & EDUCATION

(CNBC’s 2023 Top States for Business)

IN THE NATION FOR CORPORATE EXPANSIONS AND NEW BUSINESS LOCATIONS

5TH 18TH

LARGEST GDP IN THE NATION LARGEST ECONOMY IN THE WORLD

That’s Illinois!

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In the Center of it ALL

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Southern Illinois’ R4 advantage Shortages and delays on products such as computer chips, lumber, furniture, and yes – toilet paper – were all strikingly apparent to consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frustrated consumers watched with exasperation as shipping containers stacked up globally while wondering if their ordered product was stuck aboard one of the jammed containers.

Three years later, businesses have learned important lessons from the experience. Perhaps one of the most important lessons was that long supply chains can be problematic – if there is one shutdown, the entire chain can be broken. While the global supply chain upheavals resulting from the pandemic have largely stabilized, disruptions continue as impacts from climate change wreak havoc on operations.

While the COVID-19 pandemic and associated shutdowns were a relatively temporary problem, flooding, wildfires, and rising sea levels are slow and insidious issues that may eventually require businesses to make fundamental changes to their supply chain strategies. This reality has prompted a shift away from offshoring and toward utilizing regional and local transportation solutions to decrease dependence on any one link of the supply chain. Increasingly, companies are shifting away from coastal locations that are prone to weather-related disruptions and opting for Midwest hubs that can easily link destinations across the country.

Roads, Rivers, Rail & Runways

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of the Midwest, Southern Illinois is a hidden gem for businesses seeking to optimize logistics and distribution operations.

Looking at a map, you can see that Southern Illinois is in the center of the country’s primary roads, rivers, and rail routes. Combined with the area’s access to top-notch airports, Southern Illinois is positioned with an “R4 advantage” through its roads, rivers, rail, and runways.

The R4 advantage includes three interstates and miles of state highway that reach over 80% of the U.S. population within a two-day trucking distance. Additionally, four Class I railroads pass through the region along with 80% of all inland barge traffic along the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Southern Illinois is also home to two primary airports offering commercial and cargo services. Companies are using the region’s R4 advantage to help their businesses thrive through easy access to these transportation and distribution modalities – from roads to rivers, rail, and runways.

Downtown Marion, IL

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R1: ROADS Southern Illinois is the location of interstates 57, 24, and 64 which allow for freight and other transportation in all directions. In particular, I-57 serves as a major transportation corridor linking northern cities such as Minneapolis, Des Moines, and St. Louis to southern cities via I-24, including Memphis, Nashville, Atlanta, and farther south to key Gulf of Mexico ports. This connection lends itself for logistics and distribution purposes as evidenced by the stretch of I-57 in Southern Illinois between Mt. Vernon and Marion serving as a route for 15,000 trucks per day and a daily traffic count of 40,000. I-64 also crosses through the Southern Illinois area at Mt. Vernon, providing an east-west route to Louisville or St. Louis, while Illinois Route 13 serves as an east-west route across southernmost Illinois.

The Southern Illinois region’s road system puts it within a 4-hour drive time radius of several major metropolitan areas, including Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Louisville, Nashville, Memphis, and St. Louis as well as within a two-day trucking distance to 80% of the U.S. population.

Prospective businesses are drawn to the transportation network in Southern Illinois and see the benefits of easy access to interstates.

In 2022, FedEx chose Marion, IL as a site for its new 200,000 square foot distribution center. When asked why Southern Illinois was chosen for the site, FedEx Ground spokesman David Westrick indicated, “the site in Marion was chosen because of its ease of access to major highways, proximity to customers’ distribution centers, and a strong local community workforce for recruiting employees.” The FedEx distribution site is adjacent to Interstates 57 and 24, close to Route 13, and has access to nearby rail service via Burlington Northern and Santa Fe. Aisin Manufacturing also selected Marion, IL for multiple businesses, including Aisin Manufacturing Illinois producing vehicle sunroofs and door handles, Aisin Electronics producing components for microcomputer-controlled sunroofs and power sliding door systems, and Aisin Light Metals producing bumper parts. Daily shipments from Aisin Manufacturing Illinois include over 60,000 automotive components, 40,000 sensors, and 25,000 electronic control units to major automotive manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda and GM. Aisin’s three plants in the Williamson County REDCO Industrial Park employ over 2,400 people. On choosing Southern Illinois for business locations, Aisin Senior Vice President of Administration, Bill Cox said, “The people in Southern Illinois are very welcoming, they’re open, and they’re hard workers. The area is just perfect for business due to the location and the infrastructure that’s here.”

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

R2: RIVERS Southern Illinois is uniquely situated at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, making it an ideal hub for transportation of goods through the U.S. waterway system. In fact, 80% of all inland barge traffic in the United States passes through Southern Illinois.

The Mississippi and Ohio River’s interconnected network allows for the transportation of goods to and from many different regions in the U.S. and links to key ports that provide access to international trade routes. There are six port districts in Southern Illinois providing capital infrastructure for their tenants to utilize the rivers for costeffective transportation of bulk goods.

Port districts in Southern Illinois are significant hubs of economic activity in the region and have a collective annual impact of $1.15 billion on the Illinois state gross domestic product.

Kaskaskia Regional Port District, located just south of St. Louis on the Mississippi River, is one example as it is the 12th largest inland port in the U.S. by volume, supports over 7,200 jobs, and contributes an estimated $765 million toward the state’s gross domestic product.

The port district currently ships approximately 1.8 million tons but is projected to reach 3.8 million tons in three years, and 5.8 million in five years. Kaskaskia Regional Port District is attractive to businesses because there is only one lock and dam to navigate through, it is close to industry, and there are five terminals available with four Class I railroad service options. In recent years, $29 million in grants have been utilized to improve safety and upgrade infrastructure to continue increasing tonnage. With these improvements, the port district continues to attract companies, particularly those that transport grain, sand and gravel, and fertilizer.

Ports in Southern Illinois are poised for business expansions as the region has been designated as a priority region for unprecedented investment through the federal Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization.

Because of this designation, ample funds are readily available to support infrastructure for incoming businesses. For example, Shawneetown Regional Port District has plans to build a 20,000-ton fertilizer offloading facility with $11 million in grant funds supplementing private investment. “We believe this public and private partnership project will help the revitalization of the Shawneetown Port,” said Patrick Scates, general manager of Scates Group Intermodal River Terminal, LLC. “This project is the first step to redeveloping this vital deepwater port and turning the most underutilized port on the Ohio River into a new economic engine not only for southeastern Illinois but the entire region.”

Port Districts in the Southern Illinois region have attracted significant state funding as well. The Alexander Cairo Port located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers was designated $40 million by the Illinois legislature toward the planning, design, and construction of a new port terminal. The Alexander Cairo Port District currently encompasses four private terminals, including one operated by Bunge Corp., a soybean processing facility that recently announced a joint venture with Chevron to double the size of its facility.

Between its strategic location at the confluence of two main river routes and the region’s prioritization for state and federal level investments, port districts in Southern Illinois are prime locations for companies that need convenient and cost-effective access to waterway distribution.

“The location of Southern Illinois greatly impacted our decision.

Not only is Mount Vernon at the intersection of two major interstate highways but it also has several major rail line intersections. These facts, coupled with the location relative to current and prospective customers, made it a logical choice for Manner Polymers.”

Not only do railways in Southern Illinois benefit manufacturers in the area that are utilizing rail to transport goods, but Southern Illinois has also served as a logical home for companies focused on the locomotives themselves.

Headquartered in Mt. Vernon, National Railway Equipment is the world’s largest independent supplier of locomotive servicing, new and remanufactured locomotives, locomotive leasing, field services, parts, and salvage operations. The location is key for National Railway Equipment because of its access to Class I railroads BNSF and Canadian National in addition to Evansville Western and Norfolk Southern.

R3: RAIL As home to four Class I railroads including Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF), Canadian National, and Norfolk Southern, Southern Illinois is at the center of the nation’s rail network. These railroads offer efficient freight transportation services, connecting Southern Illinois to major markets and industrial centers across the country.

When Manner Polymers recently announced a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Mt. Vernon, the company was drawn by the state’s central location and access to rail along with its skilled workforce, and commitment to sustainability. Asked why they chose Southern Illinois, Matt Love, Manner Polymers’ Controller, replied,

Also taking advantage of the area’s plethora of rail is Milano Railway Logistics. Also headquartered in Mt. Vernon, Milano operates a transloading business and is located on a private rail yard perfectly situated on the intersection of the Norfolk Southern, Union Pacific, and Evansville Western railroads, with nearby connections to BNSF and CSX. The company also benefits from the nearby intersection of interstates 57 and 64. The railway logistics business was founded in 2012 as a sister company to Milano Metals because of its unique location advantages. The fact that Milano Metals was located on the intersection of two Class I railways on a private rail yard provided a distinct business opportunity to provide transloading services in a uniquely efficient and affordable manner.

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R4: RUNWAYS The two primary airports in the Southern Illinois region – Southern Illinois Airport (SIA) in Carbondale/Murphysboro and Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois in Marion – provide key transportation opportunities for local companies, serving both passenger and general aviation needs.

SIA is a full-service facility with three hard surface runways and an array of aircraft and pilot services. The airport can accommodate a variety of aircraft up to and including the Boeing 757 and consistently ranks as one of the busiest airports in the state.

ReStAuRaNt • EvEnT CeNtEr • FuLl-SeRvIcE CaTeRiNg 17BbQ.CoM 32 NoRtH 17Th StReEt • MuRpHySbOrO, IlLiNoIs 62966 618-684-8902

Veterans Airport is the region’s sole primary commercial service airport providing daily flights to Chicago on Contour Airlines, a key service for leisure and business travel alike. The one-hour direct flight to Chicago allows for easy access to the Chicago market and beyond, as well as for business executives, SIU students, and tourists traveling to and from Southern Illinois.

In addition to SIA and Veterans Airport, Southern Illinois houses eight general aviation airports. In total, the region’s 10 airports generate more than $260 million in total economic impact annually according to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s most recent aviation economic impact analysis. Within an easy drive, major airports Lambert International Airport and MidAmerica St. Louis Airport are within two hours, while Nashville International Airport and Memphis International Airport are within three.

1616 walnut street . murphysboro, illinois

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SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NOW

Using the R4 Advantage Numerous manufacturing and distribution/logistics companies have chosen to locate their operations in Southern Illinois. As climate change-related events such as floods and wildfires continue to disrupt supply chains in coastal areas, the Southern Illinois region is poised to serve as a haven for distribution and logistics and as a prime location for managing those operations. Supporting this migration, the region has been prioritized for unprecedented federal investment to alleviate the impacts of coal mining and power plant closures. These funds are available to support industry development and can readily support companies interested in Southern Illinois. Due to its central location in the Midwest as well as its strong transportation network of roads, rivers, rail, and runways, Southern Illinois will continue to attract and welcome new businesses to the region while sharing the efficiency and cost savings that the R4 advantage brings.

.org SouthernIllinoisNow.org

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Powering Southern Illinois

Despite the challenges of the coal bust, new areas of opportunity are rising in its wake. Promising opportunities that allow the region to diversify industry, capitalize on clean energy alternatives, and utilize its skilled and resilient workforce.

En route to explore the path of the Mississippi River, two 17th century explorers came upon an unexpected discovery, “charbon de terra”, or “coal of the earth”. This instance, in what is now the state of Illinois, marks the first documented discovery of coal in America.

During the Industrial Revolution, the country’s growth dramatically increased demand for coal, and further investigation revealed expansive coal fields across Southern Illinois, now known as the Illinois Basin.

In the wake of the Civil War, the expansion of the railroad facilitated coal transportation from Southern Illinois to large metropolitan areas like St. Louis and Chicago. The region’s population skyrocketed, and the economy flourished. Coal mining played an integral role in shaping the area’s economy as well as its cultural fabric.

At its peak in the 1920s, Illinois mines employed approximately 100,000 workers and produced 100 million tons of coal annually.

One hundred years later, there are just over 5,000 workers working in coal mines in the Illinois Basin. Declining reliance on fossil fuels, coal mining closures, and automation during the 21st century have had a substantial economic impact on the region.

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These opportunities have been recognized at the federal level as the Illinois Basin region has been designated as a priority region for unprecedented investment through the federal Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization. They have also been recognized at the state level as new programs like the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Act in Illinois are bolstering manufacturing in the clean jobs economy.

Prospective businesses focused on clean energy have also recognized the opportunities in Southern Illinois and are choosing the region for expansion or relocation. In the second half of 2023, two companies have already announced new plans in Southern Illinois with more future growth expected.

Perhaps most importantly, the resilient residents, business leaders, and leading institutions of Southern Illinois have recognized, embraced, and prepared for the opportunities coming in the next chapter of the energy industry. Leading regional institutions like Southern Illinois University (SIU) have a long history of prioritizing sustainability and support a wide array of ongoing academic research focused on renewable energy. SIU, along with area community colleges Rend Lake College and John A. Logan College, offer curriculums that prepare students for jobs in electric vehicle and solar energy fields. Additionally, solar power companies are blooming throughout the region, started by local entrepreneurs that recognize the potential in this new chapter of the energy industry.

Unprecedented Investment and Priority During his first week in office, President Joe Biden recognized U.S. coal, oil, natural gas, and power plant workers as he declared, “We’re never going to forget the men and women who dug the coal and built the nation. We’re going to do right by them and make sure they have opportunities to keep building the nation in their own communities and getting paid well for it.”

To honor this commitment, the Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization (Energy Communities IWG) was created to support coal communities in the transition to clean energy. An unprecedented sum of $195 billion has been reserved to catalyze robust economic activity and support workers in America’s energy sector. The Illinois Basin was designated as one of six priority regions for funding opportunities.

Access to this level of federal funding is an unparalleled opportunity for the region. Federal grant funds are available for infrastructure projects, local transportation, resources to deploy low-carbon technologies on power plants and industrial facilities, funding for small businesses, and workforce development and training for new markets and industries.

Not only will this funding support people in Southern Illinois, but it will also support new businesses locating in Illinois. Packages for new or expanding businesses can be developed not only with incentives from local and state jurisdictions, but also with federal funding to support new facilities, training, and infrastructure – lessening or eliminating that financial burden for businesses.

Concurrently, the state of Illinois is also prioritizing funding for clean energy businesses. For example, the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Act in Illinois aims to bolster manufacturing in the clean jobs economy and was created to attract companies all along the supply chain in the electric vehicle and renewables sectors. In addition to utilizing Illinois’ skilled workforce, the program supports Illinois’ bold climate change agenda to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050, including putting one million EVs on the road by 2030.

Thanks to a talented local workforce, the coordination of state and local officials creating policies to help grow our economy, and our newly created REV Illinois incentive program, companies like Manner Polymers are making their way to the Land of Lincoln to take part in our growing manufacturing ecosystem and clean energy revolution.

JB Pritzker Governor of Illinois

With competitive incentives through REV Illinois, unmatched infrastructure, and access to markets, as well as an abundant and qualified workforce, Manner Polymers selected Southern Illinois to locate its solar-powered facility after considering locations in Arkansas, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

“Not only will we incorporate the most advanced manufacturing control systems available, but we will also produce substantially all of the electricity that we use,” said CEO of Manner Polymers, Raj Bhargava.

“Our objective is to build the lowest cost, highest quality, most environmentally sustainable flexible PVC compounding plant in the world.”

The company was drawn by the state’s central location and access to rail, its skilled workforce, and commitment to sustainability. “Our advice is to not be afraid to go to your state and local resources with your issues. Illinois differentiated itself with their creativity in solving several issues. Their hard work made Illinois the clear choice for our new manufacturing facility,” said Matt Love, Manner Polymers’ Controller.

REV Illinois offers competitive incentives to expand in, or relocate to, Illinois for companies that manufacture, in whole or in part, electric vehicles and associated battery, charging infrastructure and recycling products, as well as renewables including solar, wind and energy storage.

In addition to supporting companies looking to expand or transition to electrification and other clean energy sectors, Illinois is also implementing a sweeping workforce development initiative through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) to ensure the state’s workforce is prepared for the jobs of the future.

Clean Energy Focused Businesses Choosing Southern Illinois Bolstered by the state’s REV incentive package, Texas-based Manner Polymers recently chose Mt. Vernon, IL for its new state-of-the-art facility to manufacture PVC compounds for electric vehicles (EVs) and components for solar panels. The facility will be powered by a 15-acre solar field located on site. Manner Polymers’ Illinois location represents a major industry landmark for sustainability, serving as a first-of-its-kind solar-powered PVC compounding plant using clean energy generated on-site. Manner Polymers plans to invest $54 million and create more than 60 jobs for the Southern Illinois region.

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Prysmian Group Groundbreaking Another significant clean energy business expansion in Southern Illinois was by Prysmian Group, the largest cable manufacturer in the world. The company recently broke ground on a $64 million expansion project at its Du Quoin, IL plant to increase cable manufacturing for the renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors.

Also supported by the Illinois REV program, the expansion will add 100,000 square feet to the plant and add 80 new jobs to Prysmian’s existing operations in Du Quoin.

“We had alternatives, but the government, the territory helped us … to make the decision to put the money here,” Prysmian CEO Andrea Pirondini said of investing in the Du Quoin plant.

Southern Illinois Region Prioritizing Clean Energy Setting the pace for prioritizing clean energy, the state of Illinois has developed a Climate Action Plan with the goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and 1 million registered electric vehicles in the state by 2030. As such, the state has received national recognition for its climate change efforts, ranking as the number one state in the country for environmentally friendly business development.

The Future is Bright Although the foundation of Southern Illinois’ economy was powered by coal, the future is powered by the region’s resilience, agility, and preparedness to capitalize on opportunities in the transition toward clean energy. Just as 17th century explorers discovered the black rock “charbon de terra” in Illinois, its businesses, governments, and residents are now uncovering and embracing the region’s opportunities in clean energy.

For leading regional institutions like Southern Illinois University (SIU), sustainability is a long-standing priority. Sustainability is one of the five pillars of SIU’s strategic plan for 2030 and SIU joined universities across the nation in committing to climate change through research in action by signing the Second Nature Climate Commitment in February 2020.

Participating institutions commit to developing a campus plan that reduces greenhouse gases, deploys alternative energy sources, creates energy efficiencies, or includes other strategies that reduce their carbon footprints. Additionally, an SIU-led regional partnership was recently selected as one of just 22 groups across the country to receive technical assistance to plan and lead transitions to clean energy at the community level. Nationally, up to $16 million has been allocated for the program.

Between the unprecedented level of state and federal funding available, the prepared workforce trained by SIU and the area’s six community colleges, and the region’s spirit of tenacity, Southern Illinois is a place where clean energy businesses can thrive for generations to come.

Since then, SIU has been recognized as a Sierra Magazine Cool School and included in the Princeton Review’s Guide to Green Colleges. It has also earned designation as a bicycle-friendly campus and recognition from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. In addition, through its student initiated Green Fee, more than $2.4 million has been awarded to about 235 projects to improve sustainability on campus.

Sources A Look Inside the Coal Communities in the Illinois Basin - Pacific Standard (psmag.com) Background - Energy Communities NETL: History of U.S. Coal Use (energybc.ca) where on illinois river was coal first discovered - Search (bing.com) table18.pdf (eia.gov) Manner Polymers to Build New Manufacturing Facility in Southern Illinois – Intersect Illinois Q&A with Manner Polymers on building its future in Illinois – Intersect Illinois Charging Ahead: Three Illinois Projects Powering the Future of EVs – Intersect Illinois 2021 Sustainability Rankings: Keeping It Real | Site Selection Magazine Taking charge: SIU automotive course incorporating electric vehicle advances - This Is SIU SIU Carbondale makes climate commitment In Southern Illinois, there’s growing faith clean energy transition will pick up (thesouthern.com) SIU leads coalition for regional transition to renewable energy Green Roof Team Projects | Green Roof | SIU

SIU and local community colleges in Southern Illinois are also preparing local students for careers in the clean energy economy. SIU’s nationally recognized automotive technology program includes a class on electric vehicle propulsion and has incorporated a focus on hybrid and electric vehicles for many years. Rend Lake College also provides their students with hands-one experience with hybrid and electric vehicles to ensure that they are prepared for the quickly changing automotive industry.

Solar power has also been an area of business growth in Southern Illinois as solar power companies are blooming throughout the region. Federal and Illinois state solar programs providing incentives such as rebates and tax credits for businesses and residents to install solar panels, are spurring an increase in demand for the equipment and services.

Companies like Straight Up Solar have expanded to Southern Illinois, noting that residents can save up to 65% between Illinois solar incentives from tax credits and rebates. Advanced Energy Solutions or AES Solar, based in Carterville, has been thriving in Southern Illinois for 25 years.

Driving through Southern Illinois, it’s easy to see the progress that the region has made in solar power. In Carbondale, solar panels line the roof of SIU’s engineering building as well as city hall civic center. In the middle of town, just adjacent to the police station, is an expansive field of solar panels providing power to the city government. John A. Logan College has installed 5,600 solar panels to power its facilities. Marion is home to 10 community solar installations and ranks 6th out of 670 zip codes in the state in terms of megawatts of solar incentives secured.

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Making Southern Illinois Home Taking Care of Residents Across all stages and facets of life, there is a universal desire to feel safe – including to know that in the event of illness or injury, care is within reach. Whether a retired senior grappling with a daunting diagnosis, an expectant mother planning for childbirth, or a middle-aged professional managing a chronic condition, the assurance of capable healthcare is key. Access to quality healthcare is an important factor for prospective residents and business owners alike and often informs decisions about where to live or expand operations.

Southern Illinois certainly checks the box for access to quality healthcare. With 19 hospitals, nearly 950 staffed beds, and over 40 specialties and sub-specialties offered locally, a comprehensive cancer center, and a Level II Trauma Center, residents can access advanced care without leaving the area. The region has a strong healthcare ecosystem led by Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH), Deaconess Health System, and SSM Health, alongside twelve critical access hospitals and four federally qualified health centers.

SIH is the largest healthcare system in the region and serves the southernmost counties of Illinois with four hospitals, a comprehensive cancer center, Level II Trauma Center and more than 40 outpatient and specialty practices. Based in Carbondale, SIH is the region’s largest private employer with over 4,000 employees and the largest provider of charity care, unreimbursed care, and community benefits.

Recognized for quality outcomes in cardiac, stroke, bariatric and cancer care, SIH provides advanced services to its residents that are comparable with those typically found in larger metropolitan areas. John Antes, SIH President and CEO confirms, “SIH provides a broad and deep range of healthcare services to the Southern Illinois community that you don’t often find in rural areas.”

When it comes to attracting employees, companies and residents to the area, you must have a strong healthcare foundation. We’re fortunate to have that here in Southern Illinois.

John Antes SIH President & CEO

Noteworthy examples include SIH Prairie Heart Institute in Carbondale, nationally recognized for heart attack care for 11 consecutive years by the U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guidebook. Additionally, SIH Cancer Institute is the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award by the Commission on Cancer from the American College of Surgeons and is part of the prestigious Siteman Cancer Network, led by the Siteman Cancer Center at BarnesJewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine.

Access to these advanced treatments provides peace of mind as well as logistical efficiency. Jackie Mueller, a breast cancer survivor from Carterville, speaks to this sentiment while reflecting on her care at the SIH Cancer Institute. “I was able to stay here, and it meant everything,” said Mueller. “I was just so happy to be able to come here because they said, ‘Do you know where that is?’ and I said, ‘Yes. I live five minutes away.’”

The region’s robust healthcare infrastructure, services, and personnel contributes to the health and well-being of the community in addition to making Southern Illinois an attractive place for prospective residents and businesses. Southern Illinois residents may sleep soundly knowing that their healthcare needs can be addressed right here at home.

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People Who Call Southern Illinois Home

Brooke Guthman Brooke serves as the Member Services Manager for Egyptian Electric, leads the Revitalize 62966 movement in revitalizing downtown Murphysboro, IL, and rehabs historical buildings through her business, Walnut Street Properties, LLC. My first exposure to the idea of downtown revitalization was from speakers at a National Rural Electric (NRECA) conference who spoke about how millennial generations in rural America are trending to invest their resources into small downtowns and creating what they want in their community. I was so moved by the presentation, I wanted to do something drastic to help revitalize my hometown, Murphysboro. Within four months, funding had been secured for a consultant to design a revitalization plan which encompassed everything from streetscapes to public art, business incentives and a plan for housing.

William and Keesha Lo William and Keesha wear many hats to support local businesses in Southern Illinois. They are owners of Bake Me Happy, Food Co. dessert shop and founders of the popular Southern Illinois Eats page promoting local restaurants. Additionally, William serves as General Manager of New Kahala restaurant as well as the Executive Director of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce.

We started the Southern Illinois Eats page because we recognized that the restaurant industry can be volatile and that we needed to find a way to preserve and promote new and existing local restaurants.

Newly opened restaurants are the most vulnerable and need help in the first year of business. The page has helped tremendously – restaurant owners have reached out to tell us how much the page has helped. Southern Illinois Eats has leveled the marketing playing field. We’ve made it easier to compete with national chains and their multi-million dollar ad campaigns.

As part of the Revitalize 62966 movement, my husband and I purchased three commercial properties on Walnut Street in Murphysboro and have completely remodeled two of the three buildings – me dreaming and designing and him doing majority of the work and construction. Through rehabbing and rethinking old buildings in downtown Murphysboro, our intention is to support the development of new local businesses and revive their historic attributes, making them and the main street flourish once again.

These buildings are now home to an Airbnb, hair salon Faction 93, and Cold Blooded Coffee & Roastery.

We’ve also helped steer restaurants toward popular trends. Many members will create posts looking for foods that are traditionally found in larger urban areas. Local restaurant owners are able to then use that information when creating or adjusting their menus.

This allows many chefs in the area to really push out of their comfort zones as well. Many restaurants are adding new and creative things, which in turn spurs others to follow suit. This friendly competition really benefits consumers as it drives interest in restaurants and creates an incentive to return and see what’s new.

Aside from family, our favorite part of southern Illinois is having access to the scenic country life and larger neighboring communities, that we find to have all we could ask for. We love hometown sports rivalries under the Friday night lights, campfires by our pond, morning walks around Murphysboro Lake, shopping downtown, beautiful afternoons at the wineries, restaurant dining across Southern Illinois, and our fall festival traditions.

One of the things we love most about Southern Illinois is the willingness to support local from every aspect. You see residents supporting local businesses, businesses supporting one another, and our farmers and businesses working together to supply and use our local ingredients like peaches, berries, mushrooms, microgreens, pork, etc. And it creates a culture of support that keeps our small businesses alive, especially during hard times like the pandemic.

We have found true joy from being actively engaged in the revitalization of our small town. If others would actively engage with their passion(s) and ask themselves “how can I use my talents, gifts, or resources to benefit my community and those that live here,” I can only imagine how much better all our communities could be! Our main goals are to encourage others to take ownership and pride in their community and to choose to love where they live – wherever that should be in Southern Illinois.

Southern Illinois is beautiful, quiet, and has so much to offer. You can travel through the region trying new-to-you restaurants and it will take you ages to work through the list. We love the community, that people are willing to just jump in if someone needs help, and that you can never meet a stranger here.

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Padra and Anthony Franks Anthony and Padra Franks are the owners of Yellow Door Inc., a construction company focused on creating exciting, unique, and fun spaces in Southern Illinois. The Franks’ passion for the Southern Illinois community has helped fuel Yellow Door Inc.’s success.

From music to haircuts to drawing to building, no matter the outlet, I have always enjoyed creating. When we moved back to Southern Illinois in 2016, we opened a barbershop and then renovated our first house. Through our experience, we realized how quickly upgrading one home on the block impacted the entire neighborhood.

Yellow Door Inc is inspired by a drive to offer our community opportunities to embrace uniqueness and character. Southern Illinois is home to us. I have been across the world and visited most of the U.S. and this will always be our home. Every street, local fair, and building holds a piece of nostalgia. We are on the cusp of a very exciting time in Southern Illinois. Government leaders, business owners, and citizens across generations are seeking to understand and collaborate rather than compete. We are sharing resources, such as knowledge and ideas, instead of hoarding them for self-promotion.

Individually we are small towns trying to survive, but collectively Southern Illinois is home to more people than some major metropolitan areas. Without collaboration, none of us will see success.

You will never find another place in the world like Southern Illinois. While we are extremely laid-back, we also have some of the most creative and talented people. Our food is amazing, our artists are unique, our barbers are top notch, and our sense of community is unmatched. This energy is emphasized in our businesses, making it one of the best communities to open a small business across the country

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The Saluki Draw

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Nestled within the heart of Little Egypt, Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale serves as the region’s pillar of education, cultural heritage, and communal spirit. Aptly named, the SIU Salukis, the Saluki mascot is not only a symbol of the region’s nickname, but also of endurance, loyalty, and a deep-rooted connection to the region it calls home.

SIU Carbondale is a comprehensive doctoral research university, with both a law school, medical school, and seven colleges recently reorganized to align with the needs of today’s students and employers.

Offering 200+ majors, minors, and specializations, including aviation, automotive technology, communications, business, engineering, public policy, mortuary science, and more, SIU offers degrees for a diverse range of educational pathways. SIU’s continued influence is far-reaching as its Alumni Association serves more than 250,000 alumni in every state of the U.S. and in over 100 countries.

Classified as a Carnegie Doctoral University and ranked among the top 4 percent of all U.S. higher education institutions for research, SIU students are making an impact in Southern Illinois and around the globe. A hallmark of an SIU Carbondale education, students can participate in research as early as their freshman year. The REACH (Research-Enriched Academic Challenge) awards exemplify this commitment by granting undergraduates up to $2,000 to collaborate with faculty members on independent research or creative projects.

Furthermore, the university secured over $69 million in external grants to support research and service initiatives in the past year alone.

Like its fans, SIU’s outstanding facilities amplify the spirit of Saluki athletics. Banterra Center, home of SIU men’s and women’s basketball, stands as one of the best arenas in college basketball. Originally constructed from 1962-64 and later rebranded as Banterra Center through a partnership with Banterra Bank in 2019, the arena boasts a capacity of over 8,000 and is adorned with images of legendary Salukis who have graced its courts. Banterra Center is home to a rich history of SIU basketball which includes appearances in the NCAA tournament national championship, Final Four, Elite Eight, and Sweet Sixteen, in addition to alumni such as Walt Frazier, Joe Meriweather, and Troy Hudson.

Opened in 2010, Saluki Stadium serves as a state-of-the-art facility for the SIU football team. Saluki football fans enjoy a first-class experience at the stadium with its capacity of 15,000, twelve club level suites, a VIP Club Room, as well as a Daktronics video board. Set among the changing leaves in Southern Illinois, cheering on the SIU football team is an especially enjoyable fall season activity for residents.

Saluki Stadium’s significance transcends sports, as it was also the site for a total solar eclipse viewing in April 2017, when Southern Illinois experienced the longest period of totality in the world. This event connected the facility to the community in a unique way and drew national visitors, including NASA, to view the event together in a truly exceptional manner. Saluki Stadium will host viewers again for the next total solar eclipse in April 2024.

Beyond lecture halls and research laboratories, the influence of Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale ripples through the Southern Illinois region in significant ways. The countless opportunities offered through SIU are extended to the community – from music festivals, to rock climbing excursions, to small business support, and everything in between. The university encourages residents to take advantage of these opportunities to further strengthen the symbiotic relationship between the university and the Southern Illinois community as well as enhance the quality of life of the region’s residents.

Saluki Athletics For many Southern Illinois residents, cheering on the Salukis is not a pastime, but rather, a way of life. From football tailgates outside of Saluki Stadium in the crisp fall weather amid the changing autumn leaves, to clapping along to the Salukis Fight song during a basketball game at a packed Banterra Center – community members revel in the traditions, comradery, and fun of cheering on the Salukis.

With SIU men’s teams in football, basketball, baseball, cross country, golf, swimming and diving, and track and field, in addition to women’s teams in basketball, softball, soccer, cross country, swimming and diving, track and field, and volleyball, there are ample opportunities for students to earn scholarships and for everyone to enjoy cheering on the Salukis.

The Saluki athletic brand is often recognized for its teams’ outstanding performances at the national level as well as the distinctive charm of the Saluki mascot – an early Egyptian dog known for its speed, grace, and endurance – a perfect representation for the region known as “Little Egypt”.

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Outdoor Recreation Brian Croft, Director of Touch of Nature (TON) Outdoor Education Center perfectly frames the outdoor opportunities offered by SIU with the question, “Where else can you go fishing, hunting, rock climbing, mountain biking, and paddling, all within 45 minutes?”

With the Shawnee National Forest as its backyard, SIU offers plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities across Southern Illinois. The university’s TON Outdoor Education Center, a 3,400-acre wooded retreat area, provides outdoor programming for all ages. From educational adventure camps for kids featuring kayaking and zip lining to training such as the Wilderness First Responder certification, there is something for everyone. TON also hosts fun events throughout the year like a 5K run, an acoustic Americana music festival called the “Little Grassy Get Down”, and a maple syrup festival complete with lumberjack demonstrations and a pancake breakfast.

Sunset Concert Series

Touch of Nature is also home to the TON Multiuse Trail System, one of the Midwest’s premier mountain biking parks, currently featuring 12 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. When completed, it will encompass about 30 miles of stacked loop trails, adult and children’s terrain parks, and an event center space. Additionally, kayak rentals and a beautiful walking/running path are located at Campus Lake in the heart of the SIU campus.

Culture & Entertainment SIU offers ample cultural opportunities in the region from international celebrations, to concerts, to the arts. As SIU enrolls students from all 50 states and approximately 100 countries, diversity, inclusiveness, and cultures are integral to the campus and to the Southern Illinois region. One way that SIU invites the community to celebrate its multicultural students and residents is through the International Festival which includes a parade of flags and a food festival, as well as cultural shows. SIU also houses the Student Multicultural Resource Center which promotes an environment of collaboration to educate, affirm, and advocate for excellence and inclusion.

SIU is also home to several performing arts venues providing live entertainment for students and community members alike. The SIU Arena, now known as Banterra Center, historically served as a magnet for top acts including Elvis, Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, Chicago, Aerosmith, Garth Brooks and more. After a several year hiatus, Banterra Center has resumed hosting concerts with a performance by Grammy-nominated country artist Sam Hunt in August 2023.

Music, plays, and other events can be enjoyed at the historic Shryock auditorium, capacity 1,200, as well as at McLeod Theater which hosts an annual professional summer theater series. Nationally recognized, the Southern Illinois Music Festival is led by the SIU School of Music Professor, Edward Benyas. The festival includes professional singers and instrumentalists from across the United States and Europe performing orchestral and chamber music, opera, jazz and educational programs. Symphony magazine hails the event as the only professional music festival in Illinois south of I-80, while AAA magazine described it as a Midwest Travel Treasure.

Additionally, the Sunset Concert Series is a Southern Illinois tradition regularly attended by thousands of community members and is held on the lawn in front of Shryock twice per summer as part of a venue rotation. The concerts feature a diverse group of bands and provide family-friendly entertainment for community members.

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Touch of Nature Bike Trails Imagine the Possibilities SIU is a dynamic educational institution with a wide range of academic offerings, an unwavering dedication to research, and a commitment to fostering community engagement and growth. Furthermore, SIU continues to shine as a beacon of knowledge, growth, and service to the community, embodying the spirit of the Little Egypt region. Set within SIU Carbondale’s beautiful campus, encompassing 3,400 acres of forest and wooded trails, a scenic 40-acre lake, and an expansive 2,000-acre farm system, the university’s vast offerings are available for students, employees, and the community at large to enjoy.

INNOVATION &

Small Business Development The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SIU provides no-cost, confidential, one-on-one business advising services, training opportunities, and business resources for small businesses in Southern Illinois. Funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and Southern Illinois University, services are available not only for SIU students and staff, but for anyone starting, running, or moving a business to southern Illinois.

Companies large and small access the SBDC’s no-cost services.

Whether they are looking to develop or update a business plan, are seeking assistance with financial projections, or want to increase their customer reach through an effective marketing plan, business advisors competently and confidentially support the area’s small business owners and managers to strengthen the Southern Illinois business community.

Similarly, the SBDC in collaboration with SIU’s business incubator served as a launchpad for 40 Below Joe, a company founded by notable SIU alumnus Curt Jones. A Southern Illinois native, many recognize Jones as the creator of Dippin’ Dots, a frozen ice cream product Curt invented in the late 80s that became a worldwide brand. In recent years when Curt and his daughter Tracey set out to create 40 Below Joe, a new frozen beaded coffee product using cryogenic freezing technology, they chose Southern Illinois.

When award-winning 17th Street Barbecue’s owner Amy Mills had a vision to expand operations to include a bottling facility for the company’s line of barbecue sauces, this accomplished business owner reached out to the SBDC for assistance with financial projections to ensure business viability. Today, in addition to 17th Street’s nationally and internationally recognized Southern Illinois barbecue locations, The Factory at 17th Street bottles and ships the company’s sauces directly from its Murphsyboro, IL location and serves as a co-packing facility for other brands.

Housed in the SIU Research Park’s 55,000 square foot business incubator, 40 Below Joe products are manufactured on site then shipped throughout the U.S. and internationally. In addition to production, the company’s Southern Illinois operations include research and development facilities used to test new products. From its initial beaded coffee and creamer product, Beaded Distribution LLC’s product portfolio has grown to include The Fruity Whey, a protein-rich product using locally grown fruit and repurposed whey protein, and its popular Island Rox cocktail mixers.

Fall & Winter Happenings OCT 6–8

OCT 7

Touch of Nature A family-friendly music festival featuring mostly original acoustic Americana music from across the Midwest. The event is a fundraiser for Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, which provides outdoor education and recreation opportunities to people of all abilities. Lodging is available on the grounds, including two lodges, cabins, and camping options.

Riverside Park, Murphysboro The Big Muddy Monster, a Bigfoot type creature, is believed to have been spotted in 1973 near Murphysboro and the Big Muddy River. Now, 50 years later, the town has embraced its mysterious identity and even has a festival named for it. Come celebrate the Big Muddy Monster and local craft beer while supporting a good cause.

Home to numerous breweries, this festival gives you a chance to try Southern Illinois beer, along with a few others from across the Midwest. The proceeds go to Revitalize 62966, an organization that works to improve Downtown Murphysboro.

Little Grassy Get Down

OCT 7–8

Fluorspar Days Rosiclare City Park Hardin County Fluorspar Festival celebrates the influences brought to the area by Fluorspar mining. Located on the banks of the Ohio River, Rosiclare (once known as the “Fluorspar Capital”), has a colorful history that revolved around this mineral. The festival features everything from hickory-smoked barbeque and rodeo to kid’s games and a carnival. Music is played by local artists at Rosiclare City Park on the Ohio River on Saturday evening.

OCT 6–7

Johnson County Fall Festival Vienna City Park Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, this event sits right along the popular Tunnel Hill Trail. Featuring more than two dozen craft vendors, a jack-o-lantern contest, parade, and plenty of live music, there’s something for the entire family.

OCT 7

Shawnee Sasquatch Festival Harrisburg One of the newer festivals in Southern Illinois and located in Harrisburg, known as the “Gateway to the Shawnee National Forest”.

Enjoy a 5K, vendors, live music, food trucks and free carnival rides for the kids. Maybe, you’ll ever catch a glimpse of Sasquatch himself.

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Big Muddy Monster Brew Fest

OCT 7

Anna Colorfest Anna Each October, the City of Anna hosts a celebration of the beautiful fall colors in Southern Illinois. Known as “Colorfest”, the event offers plenty of kid’s events, live music, local wine tasting, and dozens of craft vendors.

OCT 14

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles Car Show Mt. Vernon Geared to include something for all ages, this is not your typical car show. Located at the Mt. Vernon/Outland Airport, there will be dozens of cars and motorcycles on display, but there will also be planes and helicopters, and kids can get free airplane and train rides.

OCT 12–14

Corn Day

Carmi Illinois is the #2 corn producing state in the U.S., accounting for 13% of the country’s supply, so celebrating the region’s agricultural roots is a big deal in Carmi. The Kiwanis Club puts on this annual festival every year complete with a corn dog pageant, corn tasting, and corn king and queen coronation.

Providing fiber internet and VoIP telephone solutions in Southern Illinois.

Residential & Business

American Thresherman Fall Festival

OCT 21–22

Vulture Fest Makanda Each fall, vultures soar and glide over the bluffs and surrounding hills around Makanda, signaling the beginning of fall. Local artists will have their works on display, and live music will feature local artists playing jazz, blues, bluegrass, and other genres in this small eclectic Southern Illinois town.

OCT 21–22

Fall Colors at the Cross OCT 20–22

American Thresherman Association Fall Festival Pinckneyville Have you ever wondered how farming was conducted before today’s modern machinery? Then be sure to check out this festival. There will be horse drawn plows hard at work in the demonstration fields, antique steam engines, corn shelling, and blacksmithing. This is truly a one-of-a-kind event for anyone interested in engines, tractors, or agriculture.

Alto Pass Late October is one of the best times to catch the fall colors on full display in the Shawnee National Forest. At Bald Knob Cross of Peace, a 111-foot tall cross, take in a view that allows you to see parts of three states on clear days. Soak up all that fall has to offer with carriage rides, craft vendors, food trucks, and live music.

OCT 26–28

Willow Springs Fall Up Fest Tamms Three full days of music at this one-of-a-kind festival at the Willow Springs Campground. The event promises to be filled with love, joy, laughter, healing, and memories that will last a lifetime. 2023 features 22 musical acts, along with art and craft vendors, workshops, fire performances, and campfire jams.

OCT 28

Mardi Gras Fort Massac Encampment

OCT 20–22

Fort Massac Encampment Metropolis Take a step back in time to the late 1700s and witness history come to life right before your eyes at this reenactment at historic Fort Massac overlooking the Ohio River. An estimated 200,000 visitors attend the encampment to see the mock battles, handcrafted items, and daily life as it was at the fort.

Pinckneyville Now in its 101st year, Pinckneyville Mardi Gras is one of the oldest continuously operating festivals in Southern Illinois. Close to Halloween, this event includes costume contests, pumpkin carving contests, and a large parade. Family-friendly, Mardi Gras in a homecoming of sorts in Pinckneyville.

Photo Credit: fortdechartres.us

NOV 4–5

Fort De Chartres Winter Rendezvous Prairie du Rocher Venture to the rebuilt French fort along the banks of the Mississippi River and experience life like it was in the 18th and early 19th centuries.

You’ll even see soldiers, trappers, traders, and Native Americans participating in trade and shooting contests in this unique event that showcases the French influence on the region.

OCT 20–22

Fat Tire Fest Ozark Located at beautiful Camp Ondessonk, this festival is one of the best mountain bike events in the Midwest. With miles and miles of great mountain biking riding for all levels of rider, both professionally guided and self-led adventures, it’s a fun-filled weekend for everyone.

When you get tired of biking during the day, kick back and relax in on-site treehouses, available to stay in overnight.

NOV 16–19 OCT 20–22

Pope County Deer Festival

Chester Hosted in the “Home of Popeye the Sailor Man”, Chester is most known for being the birthplace of Elzie Crisler Segar, the cartoonist who created Popeye. Take in the fall colors overlooking the Mississippi River or enter the carved pumpkin contest during the town’s annual fall festival.

Golconda When your county is the ‘Deer Capitol of Illinois’ and the bucks are what legendary trophies are made from, you must celebrate the opening day of deer season with a holiday. Pope County’s Deer Festival is cause for school to let out and tree stands to fill as the quest for prize-winning bucks begin on the opening day of deer season. It’s much more than just celebrating the hunt, there’s a parade, barbecue, and activities for kids.

Popeye’s Fall Festival

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Christmas Activities The Lights at Cedarhurst

Mt. Vernon

NOV 18–DEC 31 Du Quoin Annual Holiday Lights Fair

Du Quoin

NOV 24–JAN 1 Hometown Christmas

Johnston City NOV 25

Very Merry Holiday Parade

Marion

NOV 26 Lights Fantastic Parade

Carbondale DEC 2

McLeansboro Christmas Parade

McLeansboro DEC 2

Christmas on the River

Chester

DEC 1–3 Christmas in Carterville

Carterville DEC 16

Candy Cane Lane

West Frankfort DEC 4–29

FEB 2–4

Southern Illinois Boat & Fishing Show Marion Gear up for the upcoming lake and camping season with this show packed with boats, trailers, campers, fishing tackle, educational sessions, live entertainment and more. Thousands of people attend each year, proving that outdoor recreation is a way of life and a sure sign that spring is returning to Southern Illinois.

MAR 23–24

Maple Syrup Festival Makanda Who doesn’t love sweet maple syrup over hot pancakes? Learn how to tap a tree and make your own maple syrup, and then eat home-made pancakes with it. Enjoy the artisans, vendors, and interactive demonstrations, or take a nature hike to hear the first birds of spring.

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APR 8

Total Solar Eclipse Southern Illinois Come to the “Eclipse Crossroads of America” for a truly breathtaking experience. In 2017, the total solar eclipse reached its point of greatest duration in Southern Illinois. Now, in 2024, Southern Illinois is once again in the path of totality with an estimated 4 minutes and 9 seconds of darkness. Researchers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale will equip, coordinate and train teams of student eclipse observers across North America, playing a vital role in NASA’s plans to study the rare celestial event.

APR 27

Oak Street Art Fair Murphsyboro More than two dozen artists will be on-hand showcasing their living and working masterpieces. Joined by local musicians, there will be stained glass, metal, jewelry, printmaking, leather, painting, crochet, photography, illustration, blown glass, textile, ceramic, stamps, woodworking and more.

APR 27

Southern Illinois Irish Festival Carbondale This family friendly event offers live music, food, contests, and more in celebration of Irish heritage.

investors

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Index of Advertisers ADVERTISER

PAGE #

17th Street Barbecue...................................................................19 Bank of Herrin..............................................................................22 Banterra Bank..............................................................................23 Black Diamond Harley-Davidson...............................................24 Champion Community Investments..........................................25 City of Carbondale.......................................................................26 City of Marion...............................................................................27 City of Murphysboro....................................................................28 Egyptian Board of Realtors..........................................................9 Egyptian Electric Coop...............................................................30 First Bank & Trust Company of Murphysboro.........................31 First Southern Bank....................................................................32 Futiva.............................................................................................33 Hire Level......................................................................................34 IBEW Local 702............................................................................35 Illinois SBDC International Trade Center..................................36 Jackson Growth Alliance............................................................37 Jefferson County Development Corporation...........................38 Legence Bank..............................................................................39 LiUNA! Local 773.........................................................................40 Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitor’s Bureau..............................41 Murphysboro Main Street...........................................................42 Pepsi MidAmerica........................................................................43 Rendleman Orchards..................................................................44 Revitalize 62966...........................................................................45 Saline County Industrial Development Co...............................46 Samron..........................................................................................47 Southern Illinois Airport.............................................................48 SI Vacation Rentals.....................................................................49 SIU Credit Union..........................................................................50 Southern Illinois University........................................................51 Southern Illinois Healthcare.......................................................52 Southern Illinois Tourism...........................................................53 Southern Illinois Tourism...........................................................53 Southernmost Illinois Tourism...................................................54 visitSI.............................................................................................55 Vogler Motor Company...............................................................56 Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort.....................................................57 SouthernIllinoisNow.org

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What are SI Leaders saying about Southern Illinois?

Live

When I came back home from deployment, my husband and I wanted to step away from where we grew up and when we moved down here, we fell in love even more. We absolutely love it. There’s no better place to be.

Allison Hasler, Owner of Southern Illinois Vacation Rentals

On a daily basis, you meet different people. You meet people from different countries, different cultures, different everything. You name it, and we have it here in Carbondale and in Southern Illinois.

Carolin Harvey, Mayor of Carbondale

What a beautiful place to live. You come from up north, and you come down here and you are not expecting this. But when people come here, they want to stay.

Steve Falet, General Manager of River Radio

Work

There are a lot of resources for businesses like ours in this area. One of the benefits of being located in Southern Illinois is our workforce. They’re very motivated, hardworking, honest.

Gregory Sprehe, Founder/President/Owner of Com-Pac International Inc.

There’s a lot of opportunities here, there’s a great labor market and there’s a lot of good opportunities from a housing perspective to live in a very nice home in an inexpensive way that you could not do in the city.

Jeff May, President & CEO of Banterra Bank

We have many families that have worked for us for three, four, and even five generations along with the five generations of our family. I just don’t think you find that in many other places like you do here in Southern Illinois.

Michelle Sirles, Co-Owner of Rendleman Orchards

Do Business

Southern Illinois is a great place to live. It’s where I chose to start a business, raise my family, and I think that anybody that’s interested in starting a business in Southern Illinois would be surprised at how much community support they’d get.

Kyle Drone, Partner of Dinger Bats

The region, the area itself and where it’s located on the map, just puts it in a good place for distribution and movement of materials in and out of manufacturing.

Aaron Christ, Director of Operations at Intertape Polymer Group

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PHOTO ALBUM

Garden of the Gods

SIUC Graduation

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SIUC Campus

Jared Gravatt, Crown Brew Coffee Co.

Whitetail Archery Season

Centralia Balloonfest

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Metropolis, IL

Bald Knob Cross

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Hickory RIdge Golf Course

Cache River Basin

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Corn Harvest

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#SouthernIllinoisNow

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SIStats 110

$900m

100

$775m $500m

U.S.

ILLINOIS

88.7

0

107.1

80

100

90

The cost of living is 11.1% lower in SI Now than the U.S. average.

Median Home Sale Price

$225m 0

$856 million

Visitor Spending

$762 million

Cost of Living Index

2021

2022

PERCENTAGE DIFFERENCE

+12%

Southern Illinois’ tourism industry experienced double-digit growth in 2022.

The latest numbers from Tourism Economics (released in early September 2023) showed visitors spent a whopping $856 million in 2022 in the SI Now 17 county area. That’s an increase of $94 million, or 12%, compared to 2021.

The tourism industry employs more than 5000 people in Southern Illinois and contributed $35.1 million in direct local taxes in 2022.

$500k

GDP Growth

$125k 0

$106,074

$250k

$416,100

$375k PERCENTAGE DIFFERENCE

74%

U.S. Through June, the median home sale price in Southern Illinois was only 26% of the national average according to the Illinois Realtors

Labor Force

159,845 (Population 16 years and over)

4+ Million People within a 100 mile radius

Average Annual Wages

per worker increased to $47,000, up nearly 7% over the last 12 months

7297 Businesses in Southern Illinois with at least one employee (Q4 2022)

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15%

• Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has experienced double digit growth for two consecutive years

10%

• Total GDP in 2022 for SI Now was $14,099,932,000

5% 0% -5% 2020 2021 2022

2023 Top Project Investments • Oasis Outdoors $300+ million • Walker’s Bluff Casino & Resort $147 million • Saline River Farms $80 million • Prysmian Group $64 million • Manner Polymers $54 million • AISIN Expansion $37 million • Kaskaskia Regional Port District $8 million