Update - December 2020

L E A D | IN F LUENCE | IMPACT Chamber Core Function

UPDATE

BUSINESS RESOURCES & SUPPORT

December 2020 | Volume V | No. 6

IN THIS ISSUE 4A Year Like No Other 4Events Schedule for 2021 42021 Chamber Board of Directors

A New Kind of House Call Your safety is important, but so is taking care of minor illnesses and injuries. Memorial ExpressCare telehealth gives you direct access to an ExpressCare provider from the comfort of home.

Download the Memorial Health System App to your tablet or smartphone, then schedule a telehealth visit today!

On a computer? Try the desktop version at MyMemorialApp.com.

IN THIS ISSUE

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Events Schedule for 2021

8

Your Link To Proven Chamber Brand

11

MIC - Exclusive Member Marketing Tool!

12

Progressive Income Tax Rejected

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Meet The 2021 Chamber Board of Directors

MEMBER RECOGNITION

5

Tiered Investors

10

Welcome to Our New Members

10

Ribbon Cuttings

FEATURES

ON THE COVER

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Message From the CEO

MASK WEARING

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Annual Gala Scheduled for June 11

The Chamber joined a diverse coalition of business groups to encourage the community to follow recommended protocols to protect lives and keep our local businesses open, especially those industries that have suffered the most - our hospitality and retail businesses.

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Chamber and PNC Offer LIVE2LEAD Rebroadcast for Fifth Year

INDUSTRY FOCUS

BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES 12

Category Listings

Chamber Mission Enhance our members’ success and advocate on their behalf Chamber Vision To be the voice of business and catalyst that promotes a vibrant community and economy

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce 501 E. Capitol Ave., Suite A | Springfield, Illinois 62701 217.525.1173 | www.gscc.org UPDATE (USPS 0703 630) is published six times a year by The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, 501 E. Capitol Ave., Suite A, Springfield, IL 62701. Periodical postage paid at Springfield, IL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to UPDATE, 501 E. Capitol Ave., Suite A, Springfield, IL 62701.

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What We Value Accountability Dedication Integrity Leadership Teamwork

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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER

who have lost loved ones to COVID-19. This crisis has cost us both lives and livelihoods.

The emotional and mental toll it is taking on people of all ages is also very real. One thing we can all agree on, the pandemic has hit very close to home for many of us. For me not to acknowledge the complexities and pain of this crisis would be a failure.

Chris Hembrough President and CEO When we turned the calendar forward to 2020, we began the year with great hope and promise, driven by a strong economy and historically low unemployment. We had no idea we would be blindsided by a “storm” the likes of which we have never seen before.

Today, we continue to deal with the greatest public health crisis in our lifetime and the resulting economic fallout.

It would also be a failure if we did not say THANK YOU to our health care community and providers on an ongoing basis. I hope you will join me in thanking those on the front lines. These incredible people wake up every day and give everything they have to make sure those in our community who need it most are cared for, and they are always preparing to care for you and me should we need it. THANK YOU!

Springfield and Sangamon County businesses and organizations have demonstrated amazing creativity and resilience throughout 2020.

Many have exhibited an incredible amount of flexibility and a willingness to change at a moment’s notice, all the while wondering if their business or organization would survive.

The truth is some have not, and others will not.

This year has been a year like no other.

No matter your profession or place in life we have all been forced to respond to the pandemic, learning to live and do things differently, including how we celebrate the holidays. It has been no different for the Chamber. Besides the Annual Gala in early February 2020, we have changed directions and implemented new ways to deliver programming and serve our community.

It is gut wrenching to know some have lost what they have poured their entire life into - their business, their job, or both. It is heartbreaking to know families and friends

It has been our privilege to serve you in 2020. We have engaged with local, state, and federal officials both related to the COVID-19 crisis and other issues important to

the business community. We continue to advocate for additional federal COVID-19 relief legislation and the deductibility of expenses covered by PPP funds. To help local businesses we published a guide to Reopening Your Business and we were pleased to assist over 80 local businesses through the Chamber Business Relief Fund and other financial assistance we were able to provide.

We held several events in new ways. Our Corporate Cup Challenge golf outing took place over two days so we could spread out and keep our distance. The availability of technology allowed us to hold the State of the City, Small Business Awards, and our Economic Outlook event with a few people in the room and hundreds attending virtually. Last, we completed another successful Leadership Springfield program, utilizing a combination of in person and virtual learning.

This year has been like no other in my lifetime. Yet, I look forward to 2021 with a renewed hope that the year in front of us will be brighter than the year behind us.

As always, we are grateful for our partnership and the privilege to serve you. Thank you for your investment in membership, the work of The Chamber, and the community at-large, especially in these challenging times.

Chamber’s Core Functions Advocacy

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 reduce barriers to growth and expansion.

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.

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gscc.org

TIERED INVESTORS Summit Level

2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee Roger Austin........................................... Chair Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. Brady Smith....................................Chair-Elect Zara’s Collision Center Mark Donovan.............................1st Vice Chair INB Lori Milosevich.................Secretary/Treasurer Estes, Bridgewater & Ogden

Leadership Level

HSHS Medical Group

Jennifer Gill....................Immediate Past Chair Springfield Public School District 186

At-Large Directors

Foundation Level

Katherine Battee-Freeman...University of Illinois Springfield

Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc.

Jennifer Boyer........................Springfield Clinic, LLP

Visionary Level

Mylas Copeland...................................... Green Toyota Volkswagen Audi

Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. Express Employment Professionals Springfield Clinic

Tyler Cormeny................................... O’Shea Builders

Premier Level

Anna Evans.........................Memorial Health System

U.S. Bank Catalyst Level

Bank of Springfield PNC Bank Executive Level

BUNN Carrollton Bank CEFCU Security Bank, s.b.

Warren-Boynton State Bank Tiered Investors receive recognition and enhanced benefits for an additional investment. To learn more, contact Chris Hembrough at (217) 525-1173 x205 or chembrough@gscc.org.

Dr. Ruby Davis.......................Ruby Funeral Services & Chapel, Inc. Michelle Eccles........ The Horace Mann Companies

Mike Murphy ............... Illinois State Representative 99th District Sharon Riechers..................................................BUNN Adam Solomon.........................Solomon Colors, Inc. John Staff...................................................Staff Carpet Sara Wojcicki Jimenez ........ HSHS Illinois Division

Appointed Members Jennifer Call....................................................TROXELL Kayla Edwards ........................Express Employment Professionals Josh Flanders........Buzz Bomb Brewing Company

GSCC STAFF Chris Hembrough.......................President and CEO Lisa Schafer....................................VP - Operations

Chamber Mission: Enhance our members’ success and advocate on their behalf.

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David Earhart......................VP - Member Services Joshua Adams...........Membership Representative Teri Hill........................Advertising Representative Heather Woomer..........................Events Assistant

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ANNUAL GALA

SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 11 Due to the current pandemic, The Chamber has scheduled its 152nd Annual Gala for June 11, 2021.

CEFCU® Business Loans At CEFCU, we’re committed to Central Illinois businesses and the strong values that have made us who we are. That’s why we’re proud to offer Business Loans with:

Business and community leaders attend this prestigious dinner and networking reception to celebrate Chamber accomplishments from the previous year, review priorities for the current year and recognize exceptional volunteer leaders.

The Leadership Springfield graduates will also be recognized.

At this writing, the event is planned as an in-person event but the date and format are subject to change should COVID-19 safety continue to be a concern closer to the event.

Local Decisions • Local Ownership • Local Service Call 217.546.2010 or visit cefcu.com/owner today.

Federally Insured

by NCUA

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Please save the date on your calendars, and watch for more information in our communications, including The Brief and the Update magazine.

Visit www.gscc.org.

cefcu.com

TheCHAMBERUPDATE |

gscc.org

EVENTS SCHEDULE FOR 2021

The Chamber has tentatively scheduled events for 2021 with the assumption that an effective vaccine will allow for our larger events to be carried out in person sometime next year.

Events will be held virtually, in-person, or a hybrid format.

Decisions regarding format will be made closer to the date of each event, based on the status of COVID-19 and the availability of a vaccine. Below is our schedule of events for 2021:

• • • • • • • • •

February 23, John Maxwell Live2Lead Rebroadcast May 12, State of the City Luncheon June 11, Annual Gala July 22 & 23, Corporate Cup Challenge Golf Outing August 25, Small Business Awards September 23, ‘Shoes & Brews October 5, Greater Springfield Chamber Job Fair October 14, Elected Officials Reception November, Economic Outlook Breakfast

Please save these dates on your calendars, and watch for more information in our communications, including The Brief and the Update magazine.

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YOUR LINK TO PROVEN CHAMBER BRAND When you’re targeting the Sangamon County business market, The Chamber can play an important role in your marketing plan.

Chamber membership creates a strategic partnership that links your business with the proven chamber of commerce brand and that affiliation enhances your business credibility. Our exclusive marketing opportunities include:

UPDATE MAGAZINE The Update serves as a communication and information source to keep members current with our advocacy efforts, business issues as well as Chamber events and activities. Over 2,000 full color copies are distributed to Chamber members, business and community leaders.

WEBSITE The Chamber’s website is a trusted source of business information and individuals visiting our site are looking for reputable businesses in the area. GSCC.org is a powerful advertising tool. An Enhanced Listing can help you stand out from your competition! Receive priority placement, add your logo, business description and more!

THE BRIEF E-NEWSLETTER Each week, The Brief can include your marketing message in a banner ad. Sent to over 3,500 people, our e-newsletter contains information about issues that can impact the business climate, updates on Chamber events and activities, business tips, and member news.

Stay close to home, while still moving forward.

DIRECT MAILING The Chamber organizes a monthly mailing containing promotional flyers from member businesses and for upcoming Chamber events.

It’s a cost-effective way to advertise everything from a grand opening to the launch of a new product or service.

Take the next step in who you were meant to be.

MAKER

DRIVER

LIFESAVER

PROBLEM SOLVER

For more information about any of these opportunities, contact Teri Hill at (217) 525-1173 ext. 208 or thill@gscc.org.

Earn the first two years of your bachelor’s degree, or job-ready skills

… for a lot less money.vv

Register now for spring. www.llcc.edu/forward

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TheCHAMBERUPDATE |

gscc.org

LIVE2LEAD REBROADCAST OFFERED FOR FIFTH YEAR

The Chamber, in partnership with Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank, is once again hosting The John Maxwell Company Live2Lead rebroadcast on Tuesday, February 23 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon. This event will be held virtually. Registration is now open at www.gscc.org/events. Member cost is $49 if registered by January 29.

Featured speakers include John C. Maxwell, #1 New York Times best-selling author, coach and speaker; Steve Harvey, known as the busiest man in Hollywood; Alan Mullaly, former President and CEO of The Ford Motor Company; Kat Cole, COO of FOCUS Brands North American; and Craig Groeschel, named a top 10 CEO by Glassdoor.

John Maxwell’s books and events are among the best of the best. He is challenging, encouraging, and motivating, while at the same time providing a wealth of real-life insights for those who desire leadership success at the highest level. We encourage members to join us for this half-day leadership development experience that offers practical tools and takeaways from worldclass leadership experts.

Presenting Sponsor

Partner Sponsor

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23

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Welcome To Our New Members

RIBBON CUTTINGS

September & October Broadway Graham Wealth Partners

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Car Wash City Gracie Tierney Photography Harvest Market John Geyston’s Martial Arts Academy and Springfield’s Best After School and Summer Camp

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES 2476 Wabash Ave. Springfield, IL 62704 (217) 210-7450

Macy’s Midwest Mission Distribution Center Mortimer CPA LTD Northside Coin Laundry Schultz Collision Center Sensible Innovations Springfield Monument Sylvan Learning Springfield Steve Thomas Underfoot Concrete Solutions

Lead • Influence • Impact

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CEFCU®@ Work Enjoy additional benefits at no cost to you or your employees: • Low-cost financial products and services

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Contact Business Services today at 309.633.7065 to learn more, or visit cefcu.com/partner.

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by NCUA

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TheCHAMBERUPDATE |

gscc.org

MIC - EXCLUSIVE MEMBER MARKETING TOOL! Members of The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce have access to an exclusive online marketing tool called the Member Information Center (MIC). The MIC is the members’ only section of the Chamber’s website and it gives members greater control over their business and brand name.

Each member has their own web page on The Chamber’s website with the following items available:

• • • Your listing on our website enhances your overall Search Engine • Optimization (SEO). The reason is Google loves chamber • websites. It knows they consist of credible business information • and aren’t trying to cheat their system. Larger Chamber sites • are often very powerful and robust, so a direct link back to the • member’s website is an authoritative and trusted reference • point for search engine relevancy. It tells Google your site is also important by association. In fact, search engine optimization experts believe a unique advantage of being a chamber member is how it positively impacts your SEO.

Business contact and representative information Website link Links to social media Business description Hours of operation Map link and driving directions Online bill pay center and event registration Access to additional chamber resources Marketing of Hot Deals, job postings, events and member news on Chamber website and Facebook page

If you don’t already have your username and password to access the MIC, either use the link on the Member Login page or contact the Chamber at (217) 525-1173.

Members can take full advantage of this linkage to their chamber by optimizing their online listing.

LEADERSHIP We stand out.

With hundreds of years of combined experience from local owners, it’s hard not to.

HICKORYPOINTBANK.COM

3131 WEST WABASH AVE, SPRINGFIELD

MEMBER FDIC

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INDUSTRY FOCUS

CATEGORY LISTINGS PROGRESSIVE INCOME BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES Make sure your business is listed in the categories that fit your products and services. To locate a member in any of these categories, please visit our Business Directory at www.gscc.org.

Agricultural Lending Banks Banks - Business Development Banks - Commercial Lending Credit Unions Employee Benefits Finance Companies Financial Planning - Insurance Financial Services Insurance Insurance - Bonding

TAX REJECTED

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, along with a broad coalition of business organizations, encouraged members and Illinoisans alike to know the facts and better understand the long-term implications of approving the constitutional amendment allowing for a progressive tax, and to vote “no” on the proposal.

Voters across our region and the State spoke loud and clear, overwhelmingly rejecting Governor Pritzker’s proposal to allow for a progressive income tax to be implemented in the State of Illinois.

As we stated in our Know Before You Go campaign prior to the November 3 election, this was ultimately about the issue of trust.

Illinois voters made it abundantly clear they do not trust Illinois politicians to do the right thing with their hard-earned dollars.

Voters sent a clear message; the time has come to abandon the decades long tax and spend practices that have led to Illinois’ financial problems, and to make the necessary structural reforms to finally put the state on solid financial ground. Thank you for your vote.

Insurance - Financial Services Insurance - Health, Dental, Life or Disability Insurance - Long Term Care, Senior Health & Life Insurance - Property & Casualty Investment Services Investments - Precious Metals Loans Mortgages Retirement Planning Wealth Management

Together, we are a

STRONG UNITED COMMUNITY

UCBbank.com 12

TheCHAMBERUPDATE |

gscc.org

MEET THE 2021 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021 CHAMBER BOARD Executive Committee: Chair - Brady Smith, Zara’s Collision Center, Inc.; Chair-Elect - Mark Donovan, INB; 1st Vice Chair - Sharon Riechers, BUNN; Secretary/Treasurer - Lori Milosevich, Estes, Bridgewater & Ogden; Immediate Past Chair - Roger Austin, Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. At-Large Directors: Jennifer Boyer, Springfield Clinic, LLP; Chris Bullock, Brady Smith Capitol Radio Group; Jennifer Call, 2021 Board Chair TROXELL; Mylas Copeland, Green Zara Collision Center Toyota Volkswagen Audi; Tyler Cormeny, O’Shea Builders; Dr. Ruby Davis, Ruby Funeral Services & Chapel, Inc.; Michelle Eccles, The Horace Mann Companies; Kayla Edwards, Express Employment Professionals; Anna Evans, Memorial Health System; Josh Flanders, Buzz Bomb Brewing Company; Josh Shugart, KEB; Adam Solomon, Solomon Colors, Inc.; John Staff, Staff Carpet; and Sara Wojcicki Jimenez, HSHS Illinois Division.

Appointed Directors: Kathyy Battee-Freeman, University of Illinois Springfield and Jennifer Gill, Springfield Public School District 186.

Pictured above, The Chamber’s final board meeting of 2020 and the re-organizational meeting for 2021 were held via Zoom.

$335.00/month

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