Update - August 2017

Lead • Influence • Impact

August 2017 Volume II No. 4

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• Small Business Award recipients announced • Chamber assists with expansion efforts • Money saving opportunities

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INSIDE

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CHAMBER COORDINATES FEDERAL ADVOCACY TRIP

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AMAZING CARE FOR YOUR HEART. AND EVERYTHING ELSE. In a world where anything can happen, it’s nice to know that everything is covered. That’s why we combine exceptional heart care with things you won’t find anywhere else in our area. Like Magnet®-level nursing and the region’s only comprehensive stroke center. Because when it comes to amazing care, heart is just the start at Memorial.

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Submitted photo

On the Cover Business and community leaders from Springfield and Sangamon County speak with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin during a recent trip to Washington, D.C. coordinated by The Chamber. Learn more about the trip on page 9.

Our Mission: Enhance our members’ success and advance our economy.

Our Vision: To be a catalyst that helps create a strong, growing economy through talent, leadership and collaboration.

GREATER SPRINGFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee Tom Gihl....................................................................Chair Illinois National Bank

Jim Britton......................................................Chair-Elect

Express Employment Professionals

John McCarthy..........................................1st Vice Chair The Horace Mann Companies

Lori Milosevich.............................Secretary/Treasurer

Estes, Bridgewater & Ogden

Elena Kezelis..............................Immediate Past Chair

Features

The Latest from Q5

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Message from the CEO

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Celebrating small business

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Chamber assists Levi, Ray & Shoup and Solomon Colors with expansion efforts

Memorial Medical Center Foundation

At-Large Directors

Chamber staff member completes economic development institute

Roger Austin.......................Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc.

Career preparation and readiness program comes to Sangamon County

Pamela Frazier.....................................All In One On-Site

Dr. Ruby Davis..............................Ruby Funeral Services

& Chapel, Inc.

Raylene DeWitte Grischow...........................Hinshaw &

Culbertson LLP

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Chamber coordinates federal advocacy trip

News & Events 3

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Commercial energy co-op can save members on utility costs

School District #186

Dr. Charles Lucore..................HSHS St. John’s Hospital

Chamber survey clarifies perceptions of Springfield airport service

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Church redevelopment project progressing

Greg Matthews...........................Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. Mike Murphy......................MPM Restaurant Consultants Dr. Diane Rutledge .........................................Large Unit

District Association

Tim Smith.............Evan Lloyd Associates, Inc. Architects Jim Sullivan.......................................................TROXELL Dr. Charlotte Warren...................................Lincoln Land

Community College

2018 event sponsorship opportunities now available Elected Officials Reception set for September 21

Wash & Detail

Jennifer Gill............................................Springfield Public

Appointed Member

Member Recognition

Sheryl Daugherty..................The Arizona Tile Company

Ex-Officio Directors

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Welcome to our New Members

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Advertiser’s Index

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Ribbon Cuttings

Gina Gemberling.........................Springfield Convention

& Visitors Bureau

Mark Hanna ..........................Springfield Airport Authority Hon. Jim Langfelder ..............Mayor, City of Springfield Commissioner David Mendenhall...............Sangamon

County Board

More than 600 attend ‘Shoes & Brews

Brian Oaks..............................................The BOS Center Tim Rowles......................................The Springfield Black

Chamber of Commerce

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Save money on your payroll taxes

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Lisa Clemmons Stott.............Downtown Springfield, Inc.

GSCC STAFF Bank of Springfield takes 1st place in Corporate Cup Insights to be shared at annual Economic Outlook Breakfast

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce 1011 S. 2nd Street Springfield, Illinois 62704 217.525.1173 | www.gscc.org UPDATE (USPS 0703 630) is published six times a year

by The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, 1011 S. Second Street, Springfield, IL 62704. Periodical postage paid at Springfield, IL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to UPDATE, 1011 S. Second Street, Springfield, IL 62704.

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Chris Hembrough........................President and CEO Lisa Schafer....................Vice President - Operations David Earhart......................Vice President - Member Services Joshua Collins............................Director of Business and Community Development Bri Coons.............................................Events Manager Ashley Earnest...................................Events Manager Sarah Graham..........................Director of Workforce Development Teri Hill.............................Advertising Representative Tom Owen.........Membership Sales Representative Wayne Utterback............Communications Manager Cassie Veach.............................................Receptionist Alexandria Velten........................Executive Assistant

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Message from the CEO

Celebrating Small Business Small businesses, however you define them, play a vital role in our economy.

Over 85 percent of all businesses nationwide have less than 25 employees. Small businesses account for nearly 50 percent of our national GDP. Eighty (80) percent of our local Chamber members have 25 employees or less. Small businesses continue to be incubators for entrepreneurship, innovation, and employment growth. And the majority of new jobs are created by small businesses.

Small businesses are at the heart of our economy, which is why The Chamber hosted the 32 nd Annual Small Business Awards on June 20 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The event, presented by Hickory Point Bank, recognized 44 business owners and not-for-profit directors. Of those, five outstanding community entrepreneurs received the following awards: The 2017 recipients for New & Emerging – Business Owner of the Year, Daren and Lisa Bohannan, Mosquito SQUAD. As a family that spent more time outside than indoors, the struggle to protect their children against severe reactions to mosquito bites became more complicated when there wasn’t a local business that offered the protection they needed. After some research, the Bohannan’s joined forces with a national company that could meet their needs along with the needs of the community and opened The Mosquito SQUAD of Springfield-Decatur.

The 2017 recipients for Small Business – Owner of the Year, Laurie Fitzsimmons, Tracee Kelly, and Rex Curtsinger, Rexx Battery Co. / Battery Contact, Inc. The business was started when the owner discovered the cause of a problem and started a business with the solution. Since then the three-generation family owned business has provided incredible service and product prices to resale businesses and end customers in the electronics, automotive and commercial equipment markets.

Photo by Terry Farmer Photography

The 2017 recipients of the New & Emerging - Business Owner of the Year award were Daren and Lisa Bohannan of Mosquito SQUAD. Presenting the award was 2016 recipient Susan Sullivan Danenberger of Danenberger Family Vineyards.

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Chris Hembrough President and CEO The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce The 2017 recipient for Not-for-Profit – Business Director of the Year, Keith Wetherell, Illinois AMVETS. Keith entered the non-profit world after returning to Springfield from serving in the US Marine Corps. Under his leadership Illinois AMVETS has a core mission of serving veterans and their communities.

AMVETS are veterans serving veterans because they know the pride of serving as well as the sacrifice involved.

The 2017 recipients for Lifetime Award – Business Owner of the Year, Glen and Lola Garrison, Garrison Group, Inc. Their passion for people and community continue to pave the way for this year’s recipient. The Garrisons promote commercial and business growth through the highest level of ethical and moral standards. The Group establishes trust and maintains

Photo by Terry Farmer Photography

The 2017 recipients of the Small Business - Owner of the Year award were Laurie Fitzsimmons, Tracee Kelly and Rex Curtsinger of Rexx Battery Co / Battery Contact, Inc. Presenting the award was 2016 recipient Laura Carmody of Home Instead Senior Care.

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excellent relationships as it develops commercial real estate projects to benefit clients and the community.

The 2017 recipient for Outstanding Civic Involvement – Small Business Owner of the Year, Susan Langheim, Friendly Chevrolet, Inc. Recognized for her involvement in numerous local charities and highlighting community issues and needs through her monthly auto show, Susan is this year’s recipient. In sharing the story of a high school student who overcame homelessness to become valedictorian of her class, Susan decided to begin shining a light on other notable young people in our community, even providing assistance to some, while pointing out their contributions to our community.

The Chamber honors all small businesses who work tirelessly to make Springfield and Sangamon County a better place to live and work. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the heart and soul of our community. They bring character, local flavor, personal service – and they create jobs. Congratulations to this year’s Small Business Awards nominees and recipients!

Photo by Terry Farmer Photography

The 2017 recipients of the Lifetime Award - Business Owner of the Year award were Glen and Lola Garrison of Garrison Group, Inc. Presenting the award was 2016 recipient Stan Travelstead of American Central Insurance Services, Inc.

Photo by Terry Farmer Photography

The 2017 recipient of the Not-for-Profit Business Director of the Year award was Keith Wetherell of Illinois AMVETS. Presenting the award was 2016 recipient Jonna J. Cooley, PhD of The Phoenix Center.

Photo by Terry Farmer Photography

The 2017 recipient of the Outstanding Civic Involvement - Small Business Owner of the Year was Susan Langheim of Friendly Chevrolet, Inc. Presenting the award was Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder.

2018 event sponsorship opportunities now available The Chamber hosts many events throughout the year, which are enhanced by the participation of member sponsors. Being a sponsor is a great way for businesses to receive publicity while showing support for The Chamber and community. The cost depends on the event and the level of sponsorship. Below is a list of events with sponsorship opportunities available.

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Annual Gala

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Business After Hours

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Business Expo

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Small Business Awards

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Corporate Cup Challenge

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State of the City

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Economic Outlook Breakfast

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Elected Officials Reception

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Good Morning Springfield

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The Greater Springfield Chamber Job Fairs

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Leadership Springfield

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‘Shoes & Brews

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Chamber events provide high-profile exposure to members and the community.

Each event is designed to connect people on either a business or social level, and only members have the opportunity to serve as sponsors. For more information contact Bri Coons, bcoons@gscc.org or Ashley Earnest, aearnest@gscc.org.

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Chamber staff member Elected Officials Reception completes economic set for September 21 development institute Join us on Thursday, September 21, 2017, from 5-7 p.m. at the Illinois Association of REALTORS, for the 2nd Annual Elected Officials Reception, presented by Hanson Professional Services, Inc. Corporate Sponsor for the event is Illinois National Bank.

Josh Collins, Director of Business and Community Development, with the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed 117 credit hours, fulfilling all graduation requirements from The University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.

The Institute provides comprehensive courses that Josh Collins align with International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Director of Business and c o n c e n t r a t i n g i n B u s i n e s s e s Community Development Retention & Expansion, Real The Greater Springfield Estate Development & Reuse, Credit Analysis, Marketing & Chamber of Commerce Attraction, Small Business Development and Strategic Planning.

This informal reception will provide a unique networking opportunity to interact face-to-face with individuals who have been elected to serve our community. The reception offers a valuable chance to meet those people who work on issues that sometimes have a great impact on local businesses. This event is held exclusively for Chamber members and their employees.

Register online on The Chamber’s event calendar at www. gscc.org or contact Ashley Earnest at aearnest@gscc.org or (217) 525-1173 ext. 212. The cost to attend is $10 per person.

Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be available.

Presenting Sponsor:

Completion of the Institute fulfills the education requirements for professionals to test for Certification in Economic Development administered through the International Economic Development Council.

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Chamber assists Levi, Ray & Shoup and Solomon Colors with expansion efforts zone expansion, as well as helped steer them through the approval process. This new development will demolish four buildings while constructing new offices next to their existing facility on Monroe Street. LRS recently received their final approval for an Enterprise Zone Extension that will provide incentives for the project.

The Chamber also worked with another long-time local employer, Solomon Colors, by providing assistance through the process for the recent approval of their Enterprise Zone extension. Solomon Colors, a global leader in decorative concrete products, continues to grow and is adding a new and more efficient process for producing dye.

The Enterprise Zone expansion is expected to assist the company’s competitive advantage in the marketplace creating further growth opportunities.

Provided photo

Levi, Ray & Shoup team members and supporters celebrate a groundbreaking for expansion of its headquarters in Springfield.

As part of its Q5 Business Retention & Expansion Program, The Chamber is available to assist businesses in a variety of ways with their expansion efforts. This could range from making them aware of special programs for financing, navigating governmental agencies for permitting and other paperwork, or any other need that arises.

Long-time local employer Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. (LRS) recently broke ground on the expansion of its headquarters in Springfield.

The Chamber assisted LRS with facilitating communications early on with the City, County and state regarding their need for an enterprise

These are tremendous projects for Springfield and Sangamon County. Businesses like LRS and Solomon Colors are extremely important for our community since they build wealth by bringing dollars into our community, diversity to our economy with high-tech employment and providing well paying jobs while increasing the quality of life in our community.

The Chamber will work with local employers as well as our educational institutions and partners to assist in the development of a qualified workforce to meet the future employment needs of our community’s businesses. It is important for our community to help these and all businesses develop a pipeline of talent so that they can fill new positions in the future.

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Career preparation and readiness program comes to Sangamon County Convincing young professionals to stay in and/or relocate to the Springfield and Sangamon County area is an ongoing challenge. Our community is not alone – many of our peers seek to recruit and retain young talent because it’s important to an economy’s growth and vitality.

The Chamber’s Q5 program devotes significant staff and financial resources to workforce development because it is one of the most important aspects to business retention, expansion and attraction.

As a way to retain the young talent who already live here, i.e. high school students, The Chamber has invested in a webbased, career preparation and readiness

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platform that links area high school students to local employers, providing them with real workplace experiences.

This online tool is called Connect, and integrates career development tools, social media elements and workforce data into one seamless system to help companies, students, educators and parents connect efficiently and effectively.

Here’s how it works: High school students complete a career assessment, which aligns them with a number of careers based on their interests and strengths. Students can then connect their career interests with local companies and their employees who have registered with Connect to offer work-based learning, such as job-shadowing, internships, company tours and summer employment.

The program provides a customized information sharing and resource gathering environment where students may:

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Learn about Sangamon County companies that offer jobs and careers in their areas of interest.

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Participate in career discussions with an online mentor/career coach from that company.

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Further interact with that company by participating in other workbased activities.

Connect breaks down common employment barriers, enabling employers and students to interact through a variety of activities. The overall goal of this new endeavor is to enrich the local workforce by engaging students and companies early in a student’s career exploration process and create a talent pipeline for employers, ultimately stimulating community growth. If your company is interested in participating in Connect, please contact Sarah Graham at (217) 525-1173 ext. 221 or sgraham@ gscc.org.

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Commercial energy co-op can save members on utility costs their July electrical bill and/or their February natural gas bill.

The Chamber is offering a new benefit to its members that could potentially save them hundreds or thousands of dollars in annual utility costs through a commercial energy cooperative (coop) managed by CQI Associates. CQI is a reputable company that has been helping businesses save on their utility rates for over 10 years in the Decatur area.

The benefit is only available to Chamber members who receive their electric and/or natural gas services through Ameren. The co-op leverages the power of a large group to negotiate a lower commercial electric and/or gas rate that a single business could not secure on its own. CQI Associates aggregates the kilowatt-hour (kWh) load of the commercial accounts, which reduces the overall cost.

The benefits your business or organization receives when you join the commercial energy co-op include: •

Co-op members can expect to save about the equivalent of

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Members receive a fixed rate on electric and natural gas bills — guaranteed not to change during your contract term.

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Deregulation has sparked healthy competition. As the energy market changes in the future, the Co-op will negotiate on the members’ behalf.

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The Co-op offers options to obtain up to 100 percent clean, renewable, wind-powered electricity.

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Signing up for the service is easy and free to members.

The Chamber’s mission to enhance our members’ success and advance our economy is met through programs like this that help businesses reduce their overhead and allocate those dollars to other needs or their bottom line. For more information, or if you would like an estimate on what your company’s savings will be, contact David Earhart at (217) 525-1173 ext. 215 or dearhart@ gscc.org.

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Chamber survey clarifies perceptions of Springfield airport service

Recommends using True Cost Calculator before booking travel In November 2016, The Chamber conducted an online survey to identify existing business ridership practices and perceptions regarding air service to and from Springfield’s Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport. The electronic survey, focused on business travel, was completed by 251 respondents. As you’ll see in the sidebar, the perceptions did not match the realities.

Given the growth and performance of Springfield air service, including the decline in late and cancelled flights, The Chamber is asking all businesses and organizations to consider making a commitment to use the Springfield airport for all business travel when economically feasible. How do you know if flying from

Springfield is really the most economical choice?

When you consider several factors, including the cost of flights, parking, mileage to other airports, and the value of your time, it is almost always the most economical choice. The airport website, flyspi.com, provides a tool called “The True Cost Calculator” to assist you regarding the true cost of business (and personal) travel as you consider the real cost of your travel.

The economic impact of the Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport continues to grow.

Your commitment to use our local airport for business travel will not only ensure the

continued growth of the airport’s economic impact in our community, it will solidify current flight schedules and increase our chances of additional flights.

Thirty-two (32) local businesses/ organization have made a commitment to use our local airport. We hope you will consider doing the same by completing a commitment form and submitting it to the Chamber office. The full survey results, as well as the commitment form, are available at www.gscc.org/spisurvey.For additional information, contact Chris Hembrough at chembrough@gscc.org or Josh Collins at jcollins@gscc.org.

On-time and Cancelled Flights

Perception

Reality

Respondents thought 74% of flights from Springfield to Chicago arrived on-time

Actual on-time rate Springfield to/from Chicago in 2015 was 79%, (Jan-May, 2016 was 84%)

Respondents thought 81% of flights from Springfield to Dallas arrived on-time

Actual on time rate Springfield to/from Dallas in 2015 was 84%, (Jan-May, 2016 was 84%)

Respondents thought 17% of flights from Springfield to/from Chicago were cancelled

Actual percentage of cancelled flights Springfield to/from Chicago in 2015 was 6.8%, (Jan-May, 2016 was 2.9%)

Respondents thought 13% of flights from Springfield to/from Dallas were cancelled

Actual percentage of cancelled flights Springfield to/from Dallas in 2015 was 3.6%, (Jan-May, 2016 was 1.2%)

Of the 251 survey respondents:

Top three reasons respondents fly from other airports

57.5% used the Springfield Airport in 2016 47.5% use the Springfield Airport for business travel 37.6% use the St. Louis Airport for business travel 76.9% rated their overall satisfaction with flying out of Springfield as “good” or “excellent” 44.3% rated their satisfaction with flying United from Springfield as “good” or “excellent” 55.3% rated their satisfaction with flying American from Springfield as “good” or “excellent”

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(could choose more than one):

63.0% said lower fares 59.6% said non-stop destinations 57.4% said more frequent flights

Other critical data: >> Springfield air traffic is up 46% over the last five years >> Bloomington air traffic is down 22% over the last five years >> Peoria air traffic is up 7% over the last five years >> Champaign air traffic is up 1% over the last five years

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Chamber coordinates federal advocacy trip A June 14 – 16 trip to Washington D.C. of leaders from Springfield and Sangamon County was organized by The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce to advocate for priorities that need the attention of our federal legislators.

Community leaders from The Chamber, the City of Springfield, Sangamon County, and the education and labor industries met with our congressional delegation and federal agencies, advocating with a unified message on the following priorities: •

The Springfield Rail Improvements Project

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Future Missions for the 183rd Wing

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Springfield & Sangamon County Infrastructure Projects, including a multi-modal center, MacArthur Boulevard Extension, Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport improvements, and others

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District 186 Springfield Public Schools

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Hunter Lake

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CWLP Water Protection

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Other Community Needs

One of the major achievements from this

Photo courtesy of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth Leaders from Springfield and Sangamon County meet with U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth during a trip to Washington, D.C. to advocate for important community priorities. year’s trip was getting time commitments for project approvals from the Federal Railroad Administration which will keep the rail project moving forward. The Chamber will continue to engage our legislators and advocate on behalf of its members and the community on these priorities.

Large and complex projects require long-term commitment and focused advocacy. Since 2009, The Chamber has coordinated this trip among our community leaders as an ongoing effort to improve our area’s economic base and quality of life.

PRINTing WITH A PURPOSE! Frye-Williamson Press is proud to be a part of the Greater Springfield Chamber community.

We believe in supporting our local economy.

We hope that you will give us an opportunity to help you plan your next print project.

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More than 600 attend ‘Shoes & Brews The Chamber’s 1st Annual ‘Shoes & Brews event was a major success, drawing more than 600 guests to try some of our area’s best horseshoes from local restaurants and drinks from local breweries and wineries.

A special thanks to our sponsors: Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc., Bank & Trust Company, Springfield Park District and Modern Mailing & Printing, LLC. The Chamber would also like to thank our food vendors including Bella Milano, Fields of Sweets, Fox Run Restaurant & Lounge, La Fiesta Grande, Qdoba Mexican Eats, Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center, Cooper’s Alley Side and Secret Recipes Catering, and local breweries and wineries including Buzz Bomb Brewing Co., Hand of Fate Brewing Co., Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery and Eatery, PRP Wine International, Inc., and West of Wise Winery.

Wayne Utterback/The Chamber Erin’s Pavilion was filled with guests looking to try horseshoes from various restaurants.

Wayne Utterback/The Chamber Guests gathered both inside and outside to visit food and drink sponsors.

Wayne Utterback/The Chamber Fox Run Restaurant & Lounge was one of the food sponsors providing food for the event.

Simple ways to recycle bulbs, batteries, ballasts, and other mercury-containing devices.

Republic Services offers environmentally sound solutions to help keep your business compliant and our planet protected.

Please contact our local team for more information (217) 391-2991

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Save money on your Reduce Your Business Energy Cost! payroll taxes -Free to Enroll-

As a benefit of membership, Chamber members have access to special pricing on Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). BPC, a full-service, Illinois-based, nationally certified TPA, is offering a significant member discount that applies to the administration fees of a FSA, including a first-year 25 percent discount and a second-year guarantee rate lock at regular first year price.

A Flexible Spending Account could save your business over $350 per employee per year in payroll taxes while creating a more comprehensive benefits package for your workers. Employees can pay for medical, dental and childcare expenses using pretax dollars.

Other services offered by BPC where discounts may also apply include Health Reimbursement Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, ERISA Wrap Plans, COBRA Administration, Documents & SPD’s and Form 5500.

To find out more, contact BPC directly at (800) 355-2300 or benefitsales@bpcinc.com and mention you are a Chamber member.

Join the Commercial Energy Co-op & Save Money The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce members can now join the Commercial Energy Purchasing Cooperative brought to you by CQI Associates. They have negotiated prices with licensed electricity and natural gas suppliers to get the lowest rates to you. All you have to do is JOIN! Call CQI Associates at 217-855-8417 for further information.

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Bank of Springfield takes 1st Insights to be shared at annual Economic place in Corporate Cup THE THEBOULEVARD BOULEVARDTOWNHOMES TOWNHOMES The Chamber’s Corporate Cup Challenge golf outing was held on July 13 at Piper Glen Golf Club with 44 teams participating in the outing. The team that earned first place in the Championship Flight, and the Corporate Cup traveling trophy, was Bank of Springfield. Earning 1st place in the second flight was Residence Inn and 3rd flight was Kuhn & Trello Consulting Engineers.

Outlook Breakfast

The Chamber2715 wouldSOUTH like to thank all MACARTHUR BLVD;#175 #175| |SPRINGFIELD, SPRINGFIELD,ILIL62704 62704 2715 SOUTH MACARTHUR BLVD; of the businesses that participated either The 2017 Economic Outlook Breakfast will by entering a team, sponsoring a hole or be held Tuesday, Nov. 14 at the University of donating a prize. We would especially Illinois Springfield in the Public Affairs Center like to recognize our corporate sponsors from 7:30-9:00 year, business LI IVVEach which included HealthLink (Presenting), GGRR EEAATT La.m.

I INNGG leaders in Sangamon County gather at The CEFCU (Tee Gifts), Hy-Vee (Luncheon), AATT TTHHEconomic EE Chamber’s Outlook Breakfast to Memorial Health System (Awards learn about the condition B O U L E V A R B O U L E V A R DD!of! our economy.

Reception), Health Alliance (Golf Carts), A nationally recognized economist will and IGT (Putting Green). present an overview of our national economy and how it will impact our local community.

Global issues that drive U.S. economics and an outlook for investment markets will also be reviewed.

Wayne Utterback/The Chamber

Bank of Springfield golfers winning the Corporate Cup trophy were, left to right, Scott Belcher, Murph Mathiot, Jake Erickson, and Brian Anderson.

Additionally, results from the Fall 2017 Sangamon County Business Economic Outlook Survey, which is conducted by the UIS Survey Research Office on behalf of The Chamber, will be announced.

For more information, or if you have any questions, contact Bri Coons at (217) 5251173 ext. 216 or bcoons@gscc.org.

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Church redevelopment project progressing Well over a year ago, The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, The Springfield Project, and Economic Growth Corporation began the journey of redeveloping the former First United Methodist Church at the corner of Fifth and Capitol in downtown Springfield. The mixed use redevelopment project which will include both commercial and residential space (25

Hillier Moving Ad 1-2 H (Fall 2012).pdf

residential units) is moving forward.

Economic Growth Corporation recently closed on and took possession of the property.

While The Chamber and The Springfield Project will not have an ownership stake, they will continue to work in close partnership with Economic Growth Corporation on the project. A unique project like this requires a variety of complex financing mechanisms like

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New Markets Tax Credits and Historic Tax Credits, and Economic Growth Corporation’s significant experience with these paved the way for the purchase of the property. The Chamber intends to occupy the majority of the commercial space through a long-term lease. Stay tuned for continuing updates in the weeks and months ahead.

2:41 PM

Provided photo The sanctuary of the former First United Methodist Church will be redeveloped as office space and house The Chamber and The Springfield Project.

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1-800-500-6683

2728 S. 11th, Springfield, IL 62708 Thomas R. Swift, President

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Welcome to our New Members May and June 2017

Blue Margaritas Mexican Bar & Grill

Healthy Cells Magazine

Oceans Apparel

Buzz Bomb Brewing Company

Illinois Brick Company

Prairie Power Inc.

CarMax

Kwik-Wall Movable Wall Systems, LLC Mike Hoyle 1010 E. Edwards St. Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 522-5553 http://www.kwik-wall.com Manufacturing - Movable Partitions & Accordions

Premiere Audio Visual Inc.

Ashley Klockenga 319 E. Madison St. Suite 2D Springfield, IL 62704 T: (217) 546-0750 http://www.centrumcardiology.com Cardiac Care

La Fiesta Grande

Omar Lopez 2830 Stevenson Drive Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 670-1042 http://www.lafiestagrande.us/ Restaurants - Mexican-American

Nikki Stampehl 1323 Bond Street Suite 179A Naperville, IL 60563 T: (217) 720-6186 http://www.prpwine.com Sales - In Home

Cooper’s Alley Side

David A. Leinberger

Rodan + Fields Dermatologists

Esteban Pascual 3151 Horizon Drive Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 670-1394 http://www.bluemargaritas.com Restaurants

Josh Flanders 406 E. Adams St. Springfield, IL 62701 T: (503) 975-3804 https://buzzbombbrewingco.com/ Microbreweries & Wineries Gabriel Kohn 2531 Chuckwagon Drive Springfield, IL 62711 T: (217) 546-0503 http://www.carmax.com Automobile Dealers

Centrum Cardiology

Kendra Cooper 3115 E. Sangamon Ave. Springfield, IL 62702 T:(217) 836-2657 Restaurants

CQI Associates, LLC

Brian McLemore 55 Barnes Drive Decatur, IL 62526 T: (217) 855-8417 http://www.cqiassociates.com Energy Conservation

Decatur Countertop Brian McLemore 2729 N. 22nd St. Decatur, IL 62526 T: (217) 429-2729 Counter Tops

EFS Energy

Jamie Burris 920 S. Spring St., Suite 2600 Springfield, IL 62704 T: (217) 993-9801 http://www.efsenergy.com Solar Design and Installation

Electric Ave. Clothier

Chris Rowden 3351 S. Sixth St. Frontage Road East Suite 4 Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 679-7088 Clothing

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David Molleck 1327 E. Kelly Ave. Peoria Heights, IL 61616 T: (309) 681-4418 http://www.healthycellsmagazine.com Publications Robert Nelch 800 S. Ninth St. Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 788-0300 http://www.illinoisbrick.com Masonry & Landscaping Building Materials

Springfield, IL T: (217) 370-9201 Individuals

Marjorie Communications Rebecca Gordon 312 S. Fourth St. Ste. 200 Springfield, IL 62701 T: (217) 494-4724 Business Consulting Services

Microtel Inn & Suites

Jay Patel 2636 Sunrise Drive Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 753-2636 http://www.microtelinn.com Hotels and Motels

Midwest UAS Technologies Jackie Reiser 8295 Bomke Road Pleasant Plains, IL 62677 T: (217) 899-7382 http://www.measure.aero Drone Services

MPM Restaurant Consultants Mike Murphy Springfield, IL T: (217) 414-8626 Business Consulting & Training

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Tony Eytchison 2975 Stanton Ave. Springfield, IL 62703 T: (877) 753-7920 http://www.oceansapparel.net Clothing Eric Hobbie 3130 Pleasant Run Springfield, IL 62711 T: (217) 245-6161 http://www.ppi.coop Utilities

Bob Rutter 700 E. Adams St. Springfield, IL 62701 T: (217) 527-3911 http://www.premiereav.net Audio-Visual - Sales, Service or Rental

PRP Wine International, Inc.

Dawn LaFountain Springfield, IL 62711 T: (217) 652-1180 http://dlafountain.myrandf.biz Cosmetics / Skin Care

Rosati’s Pizza of Springfield

Bobbi Weakley 2938 S. Sixth St. Springfield, IL 62703 T: (217) 679-4778 http://www.MyRosatis.com/Springfield Restaurants - Pizza

The Rug Rack

Matt Wacaser 2501 Wabash Springfield, IL 62704 T: (217) 726-6222 http://www.rugrackstore.com Rugs - Area / Oriental

Springfield Emojis

Timothy Wallin Springfield, IL T: (217) 494-7724 http://www.springfieldilemojis.com Mobile Apps

Transworld Business Advisors of Central Illinois Scott Wilson 2141 W. White Oaks Drive Suite B Springfield, IL 62704 T: (217) 814-0078 http://www.tworld.com/centralillinois Business Brokerage CHAMBERUPDATE |

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Traveling Vineyards Fallon Achas Sherman, IL 62684 T: (217) 899-4514 http://www.myttv.com/fallon Wine Tastings and Personalized Gifts West of Wise Winery

Tina Simmermaker 14096 State Highway 97 Petersburg, IL 62675 T: (217) 632-6003 http://www.westofwise.com/ Microbreweries & Wineries

Roundtable meeting held

Wayne Utterback/The Chamber The Chamber recently hosted U.S. Representative Rodney Davis and local business leaders to discuss tax reform and regulatory relief.

Upcoming events August 30

Greater Springfield Chamber Job Fair 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Crowne Plaza Hotel

ADVERTISERS INDEX The Boulevard Townhomes.................................................12 CEFCU.....................................................................................4 CQI........................................................................................11 Frye-Williamson Press, Inc......................................................9 Hanson Professional Services, Inc.............Inside Back Cover

September 21

Elected Officials Reception 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Illinois Association of Realtors

Hickory Point Bank..............................................................11 Hillier Records Management Company................................5 Hillier Storage & Moving Company....................................13 HSHS Medical Group.............................................................4 Hy-Vee, Inc.............................................................Back Cover

November 14

Economic Outlook Breakfast 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.

UIS Public Affairs Center

Lincoln Land Community College......................................15 Memorial Health System.......................... Inside Front Cover Myers Commercial Real Estate...............................................7 Republic Services..................................................................10 University of Illinois Springfield............................................6 CHAMBERUPDATE |

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December 12

Chamber Annual Meeting 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.

Lincoln Land Community College

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Ribbon Cuttings

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The Boulevard Townhomes 2715 S. MacArthur Boulevard (217) 670-2677

Buffalo Wild Wings 2808 N. Dirksen Pkwy.

(217) 670-0048

Compass for Kids 501 S. Fourth St. (217) 691-8103

Fehr Graham 2060 W. Iles Ave. (217) 544-8477

Fields of Sweets Rochester, IL (217) 441-4639

Haxel Law 310 E. Adams St. (217) 544-6275

Memorial Hospice at Heritage 900 N. Rutledge (217) 789-0930

Hope Inclusion Cafe & Play 3252 Ginger Creek Dr. (217) 585-5437

Illinois Brick Company 800 S. Ninth St. (217) 788-0300

The Lincoln Academy of Illinois 1 Old State Capitol Plaza (217) 785-5030

Lincoln Land Charity Championship 2966 Baker Dr. (217) 670-2910

Optimal Chiropractic 3315 Robbins Rd. (217) 698-1111

Panther Creek Country Club 3001 Panther Creek Dr. (217) 546-4431

Springfield Emojis (217) 494-7724

Tail Command 3120 Stanton St. (217) 529-8245

Villas at Vinegar Hill 401 W. Allen (217) 753-5757

Walmart (Freedom Dr.) 3401 Freedom Dr. (217) 793-3310

Walmart (N. Dirksen) 2760 N. Dirksen Pkwy (217) 522-3090

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