NEXT GENERATION WILL BE GREAT LEADERS MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
even with a cell phone always attached to them.
soar to even greater heights. We need your help now to accomplish this.
Mike Murphy President and CEOI have always heard people talk about their concerns with the younger generation. This was true when I was part of the younger generation, when I was a parent of the younger generation and now that I am a grandparent of the younger generation. I never have had concerns about the failure of our future leaders. I knew when I was part of this concerning generation that we would accomplish many great things, even if we did listen to rock-n-roll. I knew my children’s generation would do the same, even if they did spend time playing video games. I believe my grandchildren’s generation will figure out how to accomplish greatness
Regarding our future business leaders, now in their 20’s and 30’s and some even a little older, they are proving too that they will be great leaders. The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce began the young professional Rise Committee at the beginning of this year. In the first few months of their existence, I am blown away with their commitment, professionalism, and dedication to our community. The first two events were standing room only and the energy and excitement is contagious (see pictures of the inaugural event on page 19).
All of you as current leaders need to help mentor these motivated young team members of yours to help them achieve their fullest potential. To paraphrase a Greek Proverb; “A society grows great when individuals plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.” It is important that we step up with our time, resources, and experience to help them develop. I believe we all want our organization to not only survive once we are no longer leading them, but we want to watch them
Chamber’s Core Functions Advocacy
First, we need you to identify young team members and encourage their participation in upcoming RISE events. You can check out their calendar of events at www.gscc.org/rise.
Secondly, they may be looking for you to share your experience at one of their leadership development events. If so, answer the call and help. They are very fortunate to have Steve Thomas as the speaker for their May 10 Rise & Shine event.
I greatly appreciate all the work that has been done so far by the RISE Committee and all the participants. We must now support them as RISE, and they themselves, grow. I was told several times by different attendees at the initial events, “There is an appetite for a young professionals group”. Let’s make sure that our future leaders are never hungry in their quest for knowledge and guidance.
As a significant voice of business, we support legislative policies and practices conducive for a thriving business community and local economy, and oppose those that are not.
Business Resources & Support
We connect local businesses to resources that address specific needs, protect their businesses, and increase opportunities for growth.
Leadership & Professional Development
We offer opportunities for professional growth and leadership development to members and their employees.
Visibility & Connections That Matter
We provide marketing, programming and relationship-building opportunities to help members make strategic connections.
TIERED INVESTORS
Summit Level
Leadership Level
HSHS Medical Group
Foundation Level
Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc.
Visionary Level
Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc.
Express Employment Professionals
Springfield Clinic
Premier Level
U.S. Bank
Catalyst Level Bank of Springfield
KEB
PNC Bank
Sikich LLP
Executive Level
BUNN
Carrollton Bank
CEFCU
Security Bank, s.b.
Warren-Boynton State Bank
Tiered Investors receive recognition and enhanced services for an additional investment. To learn more, contact Mike Murphy at (217) 525-1173 x205 or mmurphy@gscc.org.
Chamber Mission:
Enhance our members’ success and advocate on their behalf.
2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive Committee Chair
Sharon Riechers .................................................... BUNN
Chair-Elect
Kayla Edwards Express Employment Professionals
1st Vice Chair
Tyler Cormeny O’Shea Builders
Vice Chair
Jennifer Call TROXELL
Vice Chair
Kevin Corbin Edward Jones
Secretary/Treasurer
Josh Shugart ..............................................................KEB
Immediate Past Chair
Mark Donovan INB
At-Large Directors
Kathyy Battee-Freeman University of Illinois Springfield
Jennifer Boyer Springfield Clinic, LLP
Chris Bullock Capitol Radio Group
Mylas Copeland Green Toyota Volkswagen Audi
Jeff Dillman MASCO Packaging & Industrial Supply, Inc.
Michelle Eccles Horace Mann
Anna Evans ......................................... Memorial Health
Josh Flanders Buzz Bomb Brewing Co.
Ronda Folkerts Hanson Professional Services Inc.
Matthew Fry HSHS St. John’s Hospital
Erica Riplinger Brown, Hay & Stephens, LLP
Adam Solomon Solomon Colors, Inc.
John Staff.....................................................Staff Carpet
Appointed Director
Jeff Large Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc.
GSCC STAFF
Mike Murphy........................................President & CEO
Lisa Schafer...........................................VP - Operations
David Earhart............................VP - Member Services
Teri Hill..............................Advertising Representative
Melissa Horn Events Manager
Jasmine Dickerson............. Administrative Assistant
STATE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD - MAY 17
MAYOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS & COUNTY BOARD CHAIR OVERVIEW
The Chamber will hold its first State of Greater Springfield Luncheon, formerly known as the State of the City Luncheon, on Wednesday, May 17.
Misty Buscher, newly elected Mayor of Springfield, will review accomplishments and challenges from the past year, an outline of priorities for the upcoming months, and provide the administration’s perspective on the City’s outlook.
New in 2023, attendees will also hear from the Sangamon County Board Chairman, Andy Van Meter, who will provide a brief overview of his respective administration. Following these acknowledgments, they will answer questions posed in advance by attendees.
Presented by the Commercial Real Estate Network of the Capital Area REALTORS, the event will be held at the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield – A DoubleTree by Hilton, beginning promptly at 11:30 a.m.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Tickets purchased on or before Wednesday, April 26 are $45, and after that the fee increases to $55. Table sponsorships are also available for $550 that include 10 seats and your company’s name printed in the luncheon program.
To register for the luncheon or to submit a question, visit www. gscc.org or contact Melissa Horn at 217.525.1173 ext. 216 or mhorn@gscc.org.
May 17, 2023
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
President Abraham Lincoln SpringfieldA DoubleTree by Hilton (701 E. Adams St.)
CONSIDER A TIERED MEMBERSHIP INVESTMENT
RECEIVE ENHANCED VISIBILITY, EXPOSURE & RECOGNITION
Tiered investors are Chamber members who have committed substantial financial resources to strengthen our organization’s mission, vision, and objectives as they relate and connect to the business community.
The important work of The Chamber includes advocating for legislative policies and practices that contribute to a thriving business community and local economy. That representation provides support for the business community today and for the long-term prosperity tomorrow.
Tiered investors, with their high-level of commitment to the Springfield area and its economic well-being, are recognized as champions of The Chamber and the community.
A tiered investment comes with a range of exclusive benefits, including increased recognition, visibility, and enhanced member services as part of the Chamber’s tiered membership levels. Several levels are available.
For additional information, visit our website, www.gscc.org, or contact Mike Murphy at mmurphy@gscc.org or (217) 525-1173, ext. 205.
ANNUAL SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS
HELP US CELEBRATE LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
The Luncheon also provides a great opportunity to network with your clients and friends.
This year will mark the 38th year that the Luncheon has been held. Presented by Hickory Point Bank, The Chamber will recognize area small business owners for their outstanding achievements in four different categories:
• Not-For-Profit Director of the Year
• New & Emerging Business Owner of the Year
The Chamber believes supporting the work of small business owners helps our local economy and community. Over 80% of our Chamber membership consists of small businesses with less than 25 full-time employees.
That’s one of many reasons The Chamber holds its annual Small Business Awards Luncheon. It’s an opportunity to honor the most outstanding entrepreneurs whose ingenuity, hard work and innovation have created and promoted a successful and growing business in the Springfield area.
• Small Business Owner of the Year
• Lifetime Award – Business Owner of the Year
Nearly 350 small business owners have been recognized at this event over the past 37 years.
Nominees will be recognized for their accomplishments and successes and recipients will be announced at the Luncheon on Tuesday, June 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Springfield Convention Center.
The cost to attend is $45 per person through May 23 and increases to $55 after that date. Table sponsorships that include 10 seats and additional visibility are $550. To register go to www.gscc.org or contact Melissa Horn at 217-525-1173 x 216 or by email at mhorn@gscc.org.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
CHAMBER HIRES NEW ADMIN ASSISTANT DICKERSON
STARTED MARCH 1ST
Jasmine Dickerson joined The Chamber team on March 1 as its Administrative Assistant. In her role, Jasmine provides support to the executive staff and Board of Directors, creates the weekly e-newsletter, The Brief, assists with events, and performs a myriad of other duties.
Her professional experience includes serving as Jen Hammer’s personal assistant during the COVID-19 Pandemic lockdown, joining the JWHammer, LLC team afterwards as a client manager.
Jasmine is one of six children born and raised in Springfield, and in her free time enjoys the outdoors, watching soccer, listening to Justin Bieber, spending time with family and her dogs Bella and George, and traveling to new places.
Jasmine Dickerson Administrative AssistantShe attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and while there served 3 years as the manager and videographer for its Men’s Soccer Team. She is currently pursuing her Project Management Professional (PMP) licensing and plans to return to college to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business.
Her personal mantra: “I never shrink myself into one lane…there are endless possibilities and opportunities for every passion I have and each goal I want to accomplish in life.”
LEADERSHIP SPRINGFIELD APPLICATIONS
NOW BEING ACCEPTED
The application for the Leadership Springfield Class of 2023, which begins in September, is available on The Chamber’s website.
Leadership Springfield (LS) is a 14 week series of half day programs in which participants gain leadership skills and indepth exposure to critical issues affecting the Springfield area. Participants interact with community leaders and decision makers who share diverse perspectives on significant accomplishments and opportunities within the Springfield community.
The program aims to develop, strengthen, and equip local professionals to benefit the Springfield area. Interactive professional development is a cornerstone of the program. Curriculum topics for the program typically include Leadership Development, Agriculture, Education, Healthcare, Homeland Security, Local & State Government, Team Building, Technology & Innovation, and Tourism.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
When clicking on the link to the online application, individuals will be prompted to create login credentials. This allows the applicant to access the application, save their progress and log out in order to return to either make edits or complete it.
Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on June 30, 2023. Applications will be reviewed in July and applicants will be notified of their selection status later that month.
For more information about Leadership Springfield, visit www. gscc.org/leadership-springfield or contact David Earhart at (217) 525-1173 ext. 215 or dearhart@gscc.org.
TOP LAWYERS SPRINGFIELD AREA
BASED UPON A SURVEY OF THEIR PEERS
These LEADING LAWYERS have been recommended by their peers to be among the TOP LAWYERS in Illinois.
These EMERGING LAWYERS have been identified by their peers to be among the TOP LAWYERS in Illinois who are age 40 or younger OR who have been admitted to the practice of law for 10 or fewer years.
A lawyer CANNOT buy the distinction of Leading or Emerging Lawyer. The distinction was earned by being among those lawyers most often recommended by their peers. For a full description of our research process, a complete list of all Leading or Emerging Lawyers, and to view profiles of the lawyers listed on this page, go to
www.LeadingLawyers.com
AMBASSADORS COMMITTEE RECOGNIZED AT ANNUAL AWARDS RECEPTION
The Chamber’s Ambassadors Committee held its annual Awards Reception on February 7 at Casa Real Cantina & Grill. Ambassadors were recognized for their accomplishments in 2022.
Awards were presented for attendance at various events, Top Ten in individual points, first place in team points, Spirit of the Ambassador and Ambassador of the Year.
The Ambassadors are The Chamber’s membership committee. Committee members work to increase awareness of Chamber activities and programs to current members. Ambassadors also serve as Chamber representatives at events such as ribbon cuttings, Chamber on Tap, and Coffee & Connections. If interested in learning more about how to become an Ambassador, contact David Earhart at dearhart@gscc.org or (217) 525-1173 ext. 215.
- Spirit of the Ambassador and Ambassador of the Year awards recipient Maggie Gullo.
MEMBERS OF THE 2023 AMBASSADORS COMMITTEE
Brian Anderson, Bank of Springfield
Tiffany Bauman, Hanson Professional Services Inc.
Courtney Bouvet, CEFCU
Kate Dyer, U.S. Bank Wealth Management
Kyle Edmiston, Edward Jones
Sarah Frey, Lincoln Land Community College
Maggie Gullo, LRS Web Solutions
Catherine Henebry, American Heart Association
Derek Hensley, State Farm
Angie Howe, Neuhoff Media Springfield
Adrienne Kipp, Springfield Housing Authority
Sara Linn, AmeriCall Communications, Inc.
Jeremy Logue, Security Bank
Todd Lucas, Warren-Boynton State Bank
Andy Lunt, MASCO Packaging & Industrial Supply
Shawn Miller, Miller Mid-America Insurance
Diana Nielsen, INB
Lisa Peterson, Springfield-Sangamon County Regional Planning Commission
Michelle Pulce-Flynn, Lincoln Land Community College
Zach Reed, First Bankers Trust Company
Kristen Spilman, Nothing Bundt Cakes
Brandy Stabler, Compass for Kids
Taylor Stevens, SYNERGY HomeCare
EXPAND YOUR WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA REACH
SUBMIT JOB OPENINGS AND NEWS RELEASES THROUGH THE MIC
Chamber members have the opportunity to submit News Releases and Job Openings through the Member Information Center (MIC) accessible from The Chamber’s website (www.gscc.org). Once submitted and approved, those items are available for viewing on our website and are also posted on The Chamber’s Facebook page increasing the number of people that see the posting.
JOB POSTINGS
Recruiting qualified candidates is always a challenge for employers and human resource professionals, and web and print fees for employment advertising can be costly. The Chamber Job Board is exclusive to members and it’s included in the membership investment you’ve already made.
The Job Board is easy to manage. Just log into The Chamber’s Member Information Center (MIC) and fill out the online form to submit your open position(s). Add this to your list of resources for the next time you’re seeking a new hire.
NEWS RELEASES
Members can share news of offering a new product or service, holding an event, announcing a new hire, or other information about their business. Similar to the job posting, members fill out an online form in the MIC. A business logo can also be added for greater branding and visibility.
A Member Login link can be found on The Chamber’s home page at www.gscc.org. A username and password are needed to access the MIC. Members can easily obtain login credentials by using the link on the login page or by contacting The Chamber at (217) 525-1173.
INTERIOR DESIGN AND FURNISHINGS FOR COMMERCIAL SPACES
CORPORATE HEALTHCARE HOSPITALITY RETAIL EDUCATION
IMPROVING LIVES BY DESIGN
RESOURCEONEOFFICE.COM | SPRINGFIELD, IL
Member Information Center (MIC)
Exclusive online marketing tool
Members have their own web page on the Chamber’s website where they can:
• Submit News Releases, Events, Job Openings and Hot Deals
• Add links to member social media
• Include business description, website & map link
• Update member profile and representative info
• Access business resources
Experts believe a unique advantage of being a member is how your listing on The Chamber’s website positively impacts your Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
Login at www.gscc.org. To obtain login credentials, click the link on the login page or call The Chamber at (217) 525-1173.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM 212 N. Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 558-8844
ILLINOIS EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION 3101 Montvale Dr., Springfield, IL 62704 (217) 528-2642
M NAIL STUDIO 1405 Stevenson Dr., Suite 8, Springfield, IL 62703 (217) 836-9636
MEDICS FIRST 200 North Grand Ave. W, Springfield, IL 62702 (217) 535-0100
RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS
3100 W. White Oaks Dr., Springfield, IL 62704 (217) 361-0988
SHIELDS ACCOUNTING SERVICES 1999 Wabash Ave., Suite 213, Springfield, IL 62704 (309) 648-8177
TECHGUARD SECURITY 1722 Corporate Xing Suite 1, O’Fallon, IL 62269 (636) 489-2230
YMCA OF SPRINGFIELD 601 N. Fourth St., Springfield, IL 62702 (217) 544-9846
For more information on the businesses that held a ribbon cutting or groundbreaking, please visit our Business Directory at www.gscc.org
SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH OF RISE SPRINGFIELD
IMPRESSIVE TURNOUT FOR INAUGURAL EVENT
RISE Springfield, the Chamber’s new young professionals group, was formed with the idea of using real interactions among young professionals to support educational opportunities in leadership, professional development, community involvement and social events. The kickoff event, held at Home Plate Bar & Grill, had a great turnout and the RISE leadership had the opportunity to share their initial goals for the RISE Springfield program.
For more information on RISE Springfield, please visit www.gscc.org/rise. If you are a young professional and want to receive RISE communications, email your name and contact information to rise@gscc.org.
PHOTOS FROM RISE KICK-OFF
In a medical emergency, you want a rapid response from expertly trained professionals. In a non-emergency situation, you want prompt, reliable, and courteous service.
Proving a bad day golfing can still be a good day at the office.
28th Annual Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce
WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS
JANUARY & FEBRUARY
For more information on our new members, please visit our Business Directory at www.gscc.org
BikeTek, Inc.
The Bressmer
Built Interior Construction
Calhoun’s
Evergreen Coaching & Counseling
Firehouse Subs
Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C.
Illinois Fuel & Retail Association
Illinois Railroad Association
Iris Consulting Solutions, LLC
Thursday, July 20 & Friday, July 21, 2023
Piper Glen Golf Club
Four
Visit
Malibu Jack’s
Midwest Specialty Printing
Prairie Dental Group
Prairie State Gaming
Prairie Telecom
Questfire LLC
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
Riteway Automotive
Route 66 Solar
Sangamon County Auditor
Scooter’s Coffee
City of Springfield, City Treasurer
TechGuard Security
The Wardrobe
White Oaks Mall
ASSOCIATION HEALTH PLAN AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS
The Chamber’s Association Health Plan (AHP) is a direct benefit smallto-mid-sized Chamber members can utilize to save on benefit costs and gain the buying power of a larger employer when it comes to their healthcare options, including exposure to benefit plan choices currently unavailable to traditional small group employers.
Claims administration, medical management, provider network access and pharmacy benefits for the association are all coordinated by Health Alliance, well known throughout the state for high-quality care and excellent service.
Contact Lisa Schafer (217) 525-1173 x-203 or David Earhart (217) 525-1173 x-215 at The Chamber to get a list of local Chamber member insurance agencies that can provide your business with a quote. More information is also available at www.gscc.org/ association-health-plan.
INDUSTRY FOCUS
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Category Listings
Make sure your business is listed in the categories that fit your products and services. Two categories are included with membership. To locate a member in any of these categories, please visit our Business Directory at www.gscc.org
Accountants - C.P.A.
Accounting, Bookkeeping or Income Tax Services
Agribusiness Accounting Services
Architects Attorneys
Auctioneer Services
Audio-Visual - Sales, Service or Rental
Awards, Plaques & Trophies
Background Screenings
Building & Grounds Cleaning & Maintenance
Business Consulting
Business Services
Carpet & Rug Cleaners
Cleaning Services - Commercial
Consultants - Economic Development
Consultants - Social Media
Credit Card Services
Disaster Restoration Services - Biohazard,
Fire, Mold, or Water
Drug-Free Workplace - Policies & Procedures
Dry Cleaning - ??????
Electronics Recycling Engineers - Civil
Engineers - Civil & Structural
Engineers - Consulting
Event Planning
Event Venues & Meeting Rooms
Fire & Safety Equipment - Sales & Services
Funeral Homes & Directors
Garbage Removal & Recycling -
Residential & Commercial
Interior Designers
Landscape Architects / Land Planning
Legal Marketing and Referral
Locksmiths
Mailing Services
Management Consulting
Marketing
Merchant Processing
Mold Inspection & Remediation
Motivational Services
Office Equipment
Office Furniture
Office Supplies
Payroll Services
Printer Toner and Cartridges
Printers - Sales or Service
Printing & Mailing - Commercial
Printing Services
Product Design Firms
Promotional Product Distributor
Public Relations
Records Management & Storage
Safes - Commercial & Gun
Security Equipment
Security Guard & Patrol Service
Security Systems & Monitoring
Shredding - Paper / Products
Small Business Assistance, Information & Advocacy
Storage - Household & Commercial Surveyors
Tax Accounting
Title & Escrow Companies
Training - Leadership, Professional, or Workforce Development
Uniforms
Universal Waste Recycling
Video Production Services
Video Surveillance
Water Filtration & Purification Equipment
Waterproofing & Foundation Repair
DIVERSE PEOPLE. DIVERSE PROJECTS.
To build something extraordinary, you need many hands and a variety of viewpoints. Hanson’s core values reflect the importance of diversity in the communities we live and work in, and we are changing our industry through student programs. We are proud to promote diversity in our community and connect youth with STEAM through the Grow Our Own Minority Participation Program. Our annual Shadow Hanson event is designed to inspire high school students with an interest in STEAM careers. In 2020, we launched STL Next Gen to encourage St. Louis-area minority students to pursue careers in engineering and science. Our internship program focuses on recruiting minority and female students each year, giving them opportunities to launch careers with us. These promising young minds will help shape our future. With diversity, we can build extraordinary things.