2014 July/August Commerce Connection

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PAIDPermit No. 29Champaign, IL

C O M M E R C ECONNECTION

A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Eat Greedily Local dining options

featured p. 13

Golf Outing & Come Wine With Usevent recap and photos p. 3 and 5

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THANK YOU!

2014 GOLF OUTING | JUNE 5 @ STONE CREEK GOLF CLUBsponsored in part by:

HOLE SPONSORS:Wells Fargo Advisors - Schweighart Financial GroupCandlewood SuitesAT & T (Hole-In-One)Eastland Suites and Conference CenterBirkey’s Farm StoreFirst State BankIllinois American Water

SpherionA & R MechanicalHilton Garden InnHoliday Inn and Conference CenterMidland State BankHyatt PlaceFirst BankDISH Passionate Cuisine

Thank you to Dish Passionate Cuisine for generously donating box lunches and dinner for all the golfers; to Orange & Blue Distributing for donating all the beverages on the course and to Country Financial who was our golf ball sponsor.

RAFFLE DONATIONS:Midland States BankAir Choice OneFirst Bank - SavoyFiremark PaintballMerry MaidsApplebee’sOld Time Meat and DeliBuffalo Wild WingsBJ Grand SalonBWW SavoyStone Creek Golf ClubHoliday InnCentral Illinois ProduceDanville GardensBrookhill Golf CourseCityGirl YogurtBlossom Basket Florist Candlewood SuitesAT&T Country Financial

Hilton Garden InnMonicals PizzaTerminixMassage EnvyWireless Mike’sBiaggi’sEngelbrecht Grills Birkey’s Farm StoreLonghorn SteakhouseCassel Home ComfortModern Nails

GOLFER PACKET DONORS:Prospect BankBaran MarketingCountry FinancialMassage EnvyAll Things Illini

First Place Team: Lindy Edmund, Wade Adams, Kyle Edmund, Kurt Lenschow

TOP INVESTORSBuseyCarleUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Bronze

A & R Mechanical ContractorsAmdocsBankChampaign, N.A.Christie ClinicFirst Mid-Illinois Bank & TrustKraft Foods, Inc.Presence Covenant Medical CenterSupervalu Inc. ChampaignDistribution Center University of Illinois Employees Credit Union

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORSPresident’s CirCle

Illini Radio Group - MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, 92.5 The Chief, WYXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1, Hits 99.7 NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO

Stevie Jay Broadcasting’s - Q96-96.1-FM, US105.9, Sunny 95.3 & ESPN 93.5

WCIA-TV / WCIX 49

Business CirCle

Fox 27 Illinois / WCCU-TVShatterglass StudiosWICD ABC NewsChannel 15

150 PERCENT CLUBCarmike 13W.K. Cooper II Asset Management CorporationHyatt Place

FY14 TOP INVESTORS

303 West Kirby AvenueChampaign, IL 61820

P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809www.champaigncounty.org

FINANCIAL SERVICESProvided by

CliftonLarsonAllen

All information contained within this publication is property of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and

cannot be reproduced without prior expressed or written consent. This publication contains paid advertising;

the opinions expressed in those advertisements do not reflect the views of the Champaign County Chamber

of Commerce. For advertising information, contact the Chamber at 217.359.1791.

Rod RobertsChair, Thunderstruck Design

Jim LyonsFirst Vice Chair, Birkey’s Farm Store

Becky Von HoltenSecond Vice Chair, Midland States Bank

Beth AutermanTreasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen

Michael WozniakPast Chair, Livingston, Barger, Brandt & Schroeder

Laura WeisSecretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

BOARD OFFICERSMike BillimackCarle

Mike DeLorenzoUniversity of Illinois

Stephen FlynnAttie’s Bar & Grill

Alan GleghornChristie Clinic

Perry GreeneStone Creek Golf Club

Cindy GuthrieThree Degrees of Change

Tabatha HelmAdvanced Filtration Systems, Inc.

Susan JepsenReynolds Towing Service, Inc.

Kurt LenschowState Farm

Chuck McReakenTri Star Marketing, Inc.

Dennis RiggsFIX-IT, Sidney Dairy Barn

Diane RuediF.E. Moran Security Solutions

Chris ShroyerBusey

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Laura WeisPresident & [email protected]

Karly CombestDirector of Member Relations & [email protected]

Caryn IsenhowerAccounts Receivable & Office [email protected]

Michelle LunaMembership Sales [email protected]

Lynette LykinsDirector of First [email protected]

Samantha MathisMarketing & PR [email protected]

Mary MurphyEvents & Programs [email protected]

Ryan RothPublic Policy [email protected]

CHAMBER STAFF

BOARD OFFICERS

Lynette LykinsDirector of First [email protected]

Samantha MathisMarketing & PR [email protected]

Mary MurphyEvents & Programs [email protected]

Ryan RothPublic Policy [email protected]

Come Wine With UsTHANK YOU!

brought to you by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness

Committee and

BOOTH SPONSORS:BankChampaign, N.A.Parkland CollegeThe Anderson’s Farm Credit ServicesIllini Farm Safety for Just Kids Carle Center for Rural Health & Farm SafetyThe Atkins GroupIllini FSBirkey’s Farm StoreChampaign County Farm BureauFix It Wood ShopWells Fargo AdvisorsCliftonLarsonAllenWIXY ClassicVillas of Holly Brook

FOOD VENDORS:Sidney Dairy BarnGreat Harvest BreadHoliday Inn and Conference CenterAttie’sJT Walker’sHickory River SmokehouseDish Passionate Cuisine

The weather cooperated and it was another successful event. Over 200 people were in attendance for an event that aims to spotlight

the local agribusiness industry. Thank you to our title sponsor BankChampaign, NA; our venue sponsor Birkey’s; all of our exhibitors

-- including Carle and Illini Radio Group (providing extra tents); Orange & Blue for providing the beverages; Sun Singer for hand

selecting and co-sponsoring our wine raffle; all of our food vendors for the fabulous food; the Illini Radio Group for providing equipment and music and all of those that attended. We look forward to seeing you all next year. Congratulations to Sherry of Martin, Hood, Friese &

Associates who was the winner of the 60 bottles of wine raffle.

Willowbrook Memory Care Residences held a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate their plans to build on the corner of Prospect & Curtis in Savoy.

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER>> members who joined between May and June 2014

American Heart Association2524 Farragut Dr. Ste. ASpringfield, IL 62704309.824.9853www.heart.orgSocial Service Organizations

Applebee’s2121 N. Prospect Ave.Champaign, IL 61822217.359.8178www.applebees.comRestaurant

The first Applebee’s opened in November 1980 in Georgia. Featuring a popular adult menu with convenient, quick service in a casual, relaxed atmosphere, they offer customers an alternative to traditional full service restaurants. The concept revolves around the restaurant’s image as a neighborhood-gathering place, catering to the needs of 18 to 56 years old customers who grew up on traditional fast food but seek an adult ambiance and varied menu selection. They take pride in providing a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience.

Avenue Mortgage2913 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61821217.693.4301Mortgages

Avenue Mortgage, a division of CIBM Bank,

specializes in high quality residential loans. Founded 24 years ago, the assets of Avenue Mortgage were acquired by CIBM Bank in the fall of 2013. Avenue Mortgage and CIBM Bank serve communities in Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. CIBM Bank operates under the name “Central Illinois Bank” in its full service banking offices located throughout central Illinois. The 3 P’s of Avenue Mortgage - Price: They are a “best price lender.” They always want to be a price leader with the most competitive rates in our industry to attract the highest quality loans. Professional: They are an extension of those who refer business and strive to provide unmatched service resulting in outstanding customer satisfaction. Personal Service: Customers will find an advocate dedicated to developing an ongoing relationship with you. Their commitment to their clients carries on well past the day their loan closes.

Career Coaching 4 KidzChampaign, IL 61821617.637.3439www.cc4kidz.netCareer & Vocational Counseling

Career Coaching 4 Kidz (CC4Kidz) is a mobile, green, student-career coaching social enterprise that believes every 8th-12th grader deserves to learn the pragmatic skills to be successful at the workplace and in life. They do this by empowering those children in group or one-on-one settings on professional etiquette and career/workforce development through 20 highly interactive and customized 1.5 hour workshops by collaborating

Gander Mountain celebrated the grand opening of their new location in Champaign on May 27, 2014.

with parents, high schools, non-profits that serve this population in any capacity and for-profits that provide paid or unpaid internships and jobs throughout the calendar year.

Carriage Crossing Senior LivingMattis & Curtis Rd at Liberty on the LakeSavoy, IL 61874217.202.2091www.carriagecrossingsl.comAssisted Living Facilities

Cheese & Crackers1715 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61821217.615.8531www.crackerscheese.comDelicatessens

Consolidated Call Center Services3001 Research Rd. Ste. BChampaign, IL 61822888.472.8382www.consolidatedccs.comTelephone Answering Service

Dr. G’s Brainworks: The Brain Fitness Store610 Marketplace Mall2000 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.398.8888www.drgsbrainworks.comEducational-Retail

Elegant Nails Lounge2202 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820217.398.8888Nail Salons

Elegant Nails Lounge is a professional nail salon that offers a wide variety of nail care services ranging from manicures and pedicures to artificial nails and waxing. More importantly, Elegant Nails Lounge is a great place to get your nail care done and be pampered by our highly experienced staff with years of experience. In addition, Elegant Nails Lounge’s friendly staff will accommodate large parties and special events such as weddings and birthday parties. For that reason, rest assure that everyone will be cared for with the highest standard of care and treated as family.

El Toro Bravo Mexican Restaurant2561 W. Springfield Ave.Champaign, IL 61821217.351.7024www.eltororestaurante.comRestaurants-Mexican

El Toro Mexican Restaurant II723 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.378.7807www.eltororestaurante.comRestaurants-Mexican

El Toro Restaurant703 Eastwood Dr.Mahomet, IL 61853217.590.0501www.eltororestaurante.comRestaurants-Mexican

El Toro Mexican Restaurant1668 E. Grove Ave.Rantoul, IL 61866

Carriage Crossing held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction of their new assisted living and memory care community, which will be located at 1619 Congressional Way

in Champaign on May 29, 2014.

Iroquois Federal celebrated the grand opening of their new location in Savoy on June 2, 2014 with a

ribbon cutting.

8 \champaigncounty.org

217.893.0100www.eltororestaurante.comRestaurants-Mexican

Friends Fore LifeP.O. Box 12St. Joseph, IL 61873661.645.5161www.friendsforelife.comYouth Organizations & Centers

Friends Fore Life is a not-for-profit charitable organization developed to raise awareness and funds in the support of children and their families residing in the Central Illinois area who are fighting life threatening illnesses. They are a group of fathers who have been blessed with very healthy children and a deep awareness of those who are less fortunate. Friends Fore Life will be conducting a series of annual fundraisers along with the support of donors through social media sites. All donations will be strictly managed and quickly distributed in the form of a monetary love offering (check) to families of children who are hospitalized due to illness. Monthly board meetings provide leads of needy children in the area and the board will make nominations and unanimously approve all recipients.

Helia Healthcare Center of Champaign1915 S. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821217.352.0516www.heliahealthcare.comNursing Homes

Home Care Construction2401 Carrisbrooke Dr. Apt. 8Champaign, IL 61820217.751.2330Home Improvements

People, Product, Service. Where people come first, Product is always best, Service is complete. 43 years of construction John Kramer is the owner of Home Care Construction. Jobs range from windows to additions, tile to painting.

Illinois Small Business Development Center1817 S. Neil St. Ste. 100Champaign, IL 61820217.378.8535www.champaigncountyedc.orgBusiness Consultants

Kone Elevators & Escalators704 W. Killarney St.Urbana, IL 61801217.384.3070www.kone.usElevators-Sale & Service

LeadWise Solutions3711 Blairwood Dr. High Point, NC. 27265888.959.2480www.mobilewisemedia.comMarketing Programs & Services

Martin One Source808 N. Country Fair Dr. Champaign, IL 61821217.398.5000www.martinonesource.comPrinters

In recognition of the additional product lines that their company is now able to provide to their clients, Champaign based Martin Graphics and Printing, is pleased to announce the name transformation to Martin One Source. While continuing to provide

CV Lloyde held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, June 4, 2014 to celebrate their recent move to a

new location in Urbana.

On June 10, 2014, High Caliber Training Center & Indoor Range held a ribbon cutting to celebrate

the opening of their location in Urbana.

their clients with the quality printing they have come to expect, Martin One Source shares a renewed commitment to office products & furnishings, janitorial & breakroom supplies and distribution/fulfillment services as a result of the acquisition of Bloomington, IL based WM Putnam Company. Dave Moravec has been named the new President and brings over 30 years of printing, distribution and managerial experience. Chuck Martin will continue his involvement in the business on a daily basis and serve as CEO. His leadership, local relationships and sales abilities will be invaluable as we continue to emerge as the One Source leader in Central Illinois.

Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt512 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820309.531.5237www.orangeleafyogurt.comIce Cream & Frozen Desserts-Retail

Orange Leaf is the fastest growing frozen yogurt chain in the USA and has a track record of opening very successful stores. With exceptional interior designing and highest product quality as factors that attract customers of all ages, the franchise’s business will expand rapidly in this downturn economy. Orange Leaf is opening an average of five franchises every month across the US, and has many more under construction, such as the one planned for Champaign.Orange Leaf is one of the most demanded brands in the frozen yogurt industry because of the superior taste and texture of the product and the family-oriented, visually uplifting environment. These characteristics combined create a fun and enriching destination for friends and family.

Russell Cellular (Premium Verizon Retailer)1300 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.369.5870www.russellcellular.comCellular Telephone Service

Sensibly Clean Services130 N. Poplar St.Ludlow, IL 60949217.841.1097www.sensiblyclean.netCarpet & Rug Cleaners

SJB Promotions, Inc.308 N. Broadway St.Fisher, IL 61843217.897.1055www.sjbpromotions.comPromotional Products & Screen Printing

Their mission at SJB Promotions, Inc. is to help businesses, organizations, clubs, etc. create long-lasting relationships with clients, supporters, fans, etc. through the power of promotional products. Promotional products is a 17 Billion dollar industry

Flooring Surfaces Factory Outlet celebrated the grand opening of their new location in Savoy with

a ribbon cutting on June 19, 2014.

Hans Family Dental held a ribbon cutting June 25, 2014 to celebrate their new location! They are

located 2918 Crossing Ct. Suite A Champaign.

Animal Hospital at the Crossing held a ribbon cutting on June 26, 2014 to celebrate their new location for

grooming, which is next door to their current location.

The Elliott Counseling Group held a ribbon cutting on June 27, 2014 to celebrate their new location.

To celebrate their recent opening, The Pop Stop, Inc. held a ribbon cutting on June 26.

and they have over 3,000 suppliers available to them with unlimited options tailored to your needs to offer you! Promotional products provide a better cost per impression for advertisers than almost every major marketing effort like television, magazines, or the internet.

The Pop Stop803 S. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821217.714.0587www.thepopstopinc.comFood Truck-Dessert

UScore Financial Services, Inc.P.O. Box 3834Champaign, IL 61826217.355.7886www.uscoremore.comCredit Repair Service

UScore Financial Service, Inc. provides credit related service to individuals and small businesses. They have coaches who help business owners access the

cash and credit they need to grow their businesses. These advisors commonly have two decades or more experience in helping business owners obtain capital and build credit. UScore has recently released a first of its find cash and credit access system which provides business owners easy access to financing options of all kinds.

Wedge Tequila Bar and Grill415 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.398.2869www.wedgebar.comRestaurants-Mexican

From commercial properties to residentialprojects, F.E. Moran, Inc. Fire Protection

has the experience and expertise toperform on time and under budget.

3001 Research Road Suite A • Champaign, IL 61822Phone (217) 356-0700 • Fax (217) 356-0777

www.femoranfp.com

24-Hour Emergency ServiceInstallation, Inspection and Repair

Offices in Champaign, Carterville and Griffith, IN also DBA Prevention Fire Protection in Morton, IL

champaigncounty.org/11

12 \champaigncounty.org

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

In late June, several court cases that affected Chamber initiatives and business owners occured. On June 27, Judge Mary Mikva ruled the redistricting amendment proposed by the YES! for Independent Maps Campaign was unconstitutional. Judge Mikva stated that a redistricting amendment was indeed eligible to be added to the Illinois Constitution, but as drafted, this amendment was not. The major sticking point appeared to be the prohibition of commission members from running for office for 10 years.

Earlier the Illinois State Board of Elections, based on a sample of signatures, found that the amendment did not have enough valid signatures to appear on the ballot in November. The YES! Campaign then sought to rehabilitate those signatures. Following the ruling, YES! announced they would not appeal the ruling and would suspend operations ending the campaign. Organizers noted that a similar effort in California took three attempts before it was successfully implemented. We would like to thank all of the businesses and volunteers who assisted in this effort.

The U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS), in a 5-4 ruling, sided with Hobby Lobby saying that closely held corporations do not have to provide contraception coverage to employees if it violates their religious beliefs. This ruling applies only to corporations that are owned by a small number of individuals and where there is no discernable difference between the company and the owners. Reports differ on how many businesses will be affected by this ruling. Before making any decisions based on this ruling, consult your legal professional.

Eat GrEEdily. Enjoy the large local, diverse restaurant scene.

Whether you are looking to support the local economy or start your day off with a warm, fluffy omelet made

with local ingredients from a neighborhood bakery or relax at a downtown bar/restaurant, the local dining scene is sure to serve something up for everyone. The restaurant industry makes up six percent of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce membership base. With the majority of the University of Illinois students gone for the summer and residents and visitors wanting to be out and about, it is the perfect opportunity to spotlight the diversified collection of restaurants in the area. The local dining experience is enhanced by the many friendly food service workers as well as the atmospheres of the restaurants exclusive to Champaign County.

According to data pulled from the 2010 Census, Champaign County has more than 53.2 restaurants per 10,000 households. This figure is higher than cities such as San Francisco, California and Farifield County, Connecticut with 39.2 and 27.6 restaurants per 10,000 households, respectively. With numbers like that, the local cuisine will satisfy nearly any craving. Keep things interesting and take the time to experience the wide array of bars and restaurants that are right here in your own town; variety is the spice of life. The following pages highlight many of the area’s unique dining options and snack spots you must check out for yourself.

Mexican - 100+ Tequilas, hand-made corn tortillas, a variety of tasty tacos and salsas; enjoy a

sophisticated vibe. (Champaign)

culturalIndian - offer regional specialties some hot & spicy, some mild and some with curried sauce; buffet available. (Champaign)Ambar India

Italian - extensive selection of house-made and imported pastas, soups,

salads and more. (Champaign)

Traditional tasting Mexican cuisine brought directly from La Piedad, Michoacan, Mexico. (Multiple locations)

Italian cuisine - best known for breadsticks and salads, they also serve

pastas and steak. (Champaign)

Located in the heart of campustown, Sitara’s will provide its diners with authentic Indian food and flavors at affordable prices. (Urbana)

Source: National Restaurant Association

$22.4 B in salesIllinois’s restaurants are

projected to register in 2014

515,600 Illinoisans are employed by a restaurant (9

percent of employment in the state). By 2024, Illinois restaurants

are projected to employ

549,200

One dollar spent in Illinois restaurants generates an

additional

$1.23 in sales for the state economy

champaigncounty.org/13

Enjoy specials like Steak for Two on Sunday and Monday nights. They’re also know for their large salad bar. (Champaign)

OUTDOOR SEATING

STEAKHOUSES

DELI’S

RESTAURANTSIN HOTELS

PIZZA

ICE CREAM

Cheese & Crackers

Buy the finest meats, cheeses and chocolates from local artisan producers, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, England and elsewhere. (Champaign)

Famous for their twiced baked potaotes; they also offer steaks, turkeys (around Thanksgiving) and cold cuts. (Champaign)

The Great American

Grill - a quaint, intimate setting great for business meetings and meals with friends and family. (Champaign)

Serving both breakfast and dinner; enjoy made-to-order omlets or their signature French toast. Limited hours. (Urbana)

Houlihan’s - They offer a variety of lunch, dinner and drink options and specials; including organic and gluten free meals. (Champaign)

Famous for their signature deep-dish square pizza - more corner pieces. (Champaign)

Select your own steak from the locker, cook it your own special way over a live charcoal grill or have it cooked for you. (Champaign)

Australian-themed steakhouse. All meats are heavily seasoned; there is a 17 spice blend for the steaks themselves. (Champaign)

Owned and operated by Darden Restaurants, Inc.; best known

for steaks and their Texas Tonion. (Champaign)

$5 HOT-N-Ready Classic pizza every day; pizza, crazy bread, wings and more. (Champaign & Urbana)

Known for its thin crust piz-za, which many dip into the famous Monical’s Sweet and Tart French dressing. (Multiple locations)

Specializes in Chicago-style thin crust & double-dough crust; also offers other Italian dishes. (Urbana)

Famous for their original sweet sauce on their thin & crispy, hand-tossed or deep dish crusts. (Champaign)

Chicago style deep dish pizza known for the sauce on the top. Customers can also order & ship pizza elsewhere. (Champaign)

Enjoy their bar area & a robust menu of American pub-style food highlight-ing local ingredients,

including fruit and vegetables from local farms; experience their fantastic views. (Urbana)

A local favorite spot to stop by before/after Illini games. Burgers, salads, surf and turf all in one place at the Crossing.

Enjoy the 22 TVs or the night time air on the outdoor patio. (Champaign)

Try their specialty

tacos, dips and quesadillas while enjoying live music with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating Thursday - Saturday; other activities Sunday - Wednesday. (Champaign)

Variety of food choices from

traditional bar food to specialty entrées. Enjoy their specialty, craft beer--serving more than 100 varieties. (Mahomet)

Combined retail, wine bar cafe and gourmet deli, they offer 30+ wines from around the world along with a full

service bar with an array of liquors, import and craft beers. (Champaign)

Seven Saints - enjoy sliders including their freshly seasoned and hand-pattied beef; they also have one of the

broadest on-premise selections of spirits in the area. (Champaign)

Guido’s - Locally owned bar and grill centered around sports; the only one in downtown Champaign. They offer

a wide variety of menu choices and plenty of space indoor and out.

Microbrewery known for award winning gastrobrewpubs and their fusion of craft beer and artisan foods; Full-flavored

dishes from America’s melting pot using local ingredients. (Champaign)

BAR/TAVERNSBentley’s is a traditional Irish pub located downtown with daily drink specials and live entertainment. (Champaign)

Since 1975, great food and over fifty beers and ales. Try their famous

homemade pineapple tequila. (Champaign)

Located on the UIUC campus with a well known reputation.

Enjoy drink specials and the friendly locals. (Champaign)

Choose from a wide array of specialty pizzas or create your own. The menu includes more than just pizza and also many drink options. (Champaign)

Murphy’s Pub has been serving the UIUC Campus since 1969. They have daily drink specials and food special of a burger/sandwich and fries. (Champaign)

A local sports bar that offers tasty sports bar specialties, including

their famous “Slugger” burger and never-ending nachos. (Champaign)

PIA’S

QUICK CASUALBREAKFAST & BAKERIES

ICE CREAM & DESSERTS

Variety of frozen treats, such as soft serve ice cream, drinks and foods off the Orange

Julius menu, ice cream cakes and of course DQ blizzards! (Urbana and St. Joseph)

Self-serve soft-serve frozen yogurt shop offering over 12 flavors and over 40 toppings every day! (Urbana)

Self-serve,

choose-your-own toppings frozen treats; unique flavor recipes are prepared daily with fat free milk and mixed up in proprietary serving machines that make for a richer, creamier treat. (Champaign)

Opened in 1983 with their private recipe. A full service soda fountain, desserts only destination; sundaes, snowstorms, shakes, malts, ice cream pies and more! (Champaign)

Home of the “World’s Best Ice Cream” and the Moo Mobile. Whether at the Farmer’s Market or

their location in Sidney, enjoy some homemade sweet treats (Sidney).

A premium ice cream shop that uses a frozen slab for blending gourmet ingredients into ice cream. Each batch of ice

cream is homemade using the finest ingredients in the world! (Savoy)

(The Country’s Best Yogurt) Soft and self-serve

frozen yogurt; choose from a variety of yogurt flavors, add your own mix of fruit or candy toppings and pay by the ounce. (Champaign)

Smoothie food retailer that caters blended fruit-based drinks; formulated the world’s first nutritional

smoothie in his kitchen, to serve as a healthier, dairy-free alternative to popular ice cream-based drinks. (Champaign)

A mobile food vendor that boasts specialty popsicles,

Hawaiian ice-sicles, Chicago style pop corn and soda. The trailer unit can be found on the U of I campus or at the Urbana Farmers Market.

Mainstream American dishes such as salads, shrimp, chicken, pasta,

and “riblets” (their signature dish). (Champaign)

Casual dining restaurant and sports bar franchise that is known for their buffalo wings. (Multiple locations)

Offers a variety of coffee and specialty drinks. Features a variety of items and has seasonal features. (Champaign)

Tasty, fresh-baked bagels and breads, then stuffed, wrapped, topped and shmeared in ways never-before imagined. (Urbana & Champaign)

Fresh artisan whole grain breads; Breads, muffins, scones, cinnamon rolls, cookies, sandwiches, coffee and amazing gift ideas. (Champaign)

Bakery-café fast casual restau-rant with an array of pastries, hot breakfast sandwiches & artisan breads. (Champaign)

Classic American food; breakfast served anytime, including fresh baked cinnamon rolls, muffins, and cookies. Daily lunch/dinner specials. (Champaign)

Traditional European bakery, featuring artisan, made-from-scratch breads, pastries, cakes, coffees, and more. (Champaign)

Their signature items include the Apple Pancake, Dutch Baby, unique omelets, gourmet crepes and coffee. (Champaign)

Known for their signature ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard. (Champaign)

Dedicated to the art and craft of Texas BBQ cooking; served-up with their special-recipe sauce and famous sides. (Urbana)

Famous for their freaky fast delivery and bread, baked in-house every-day and served fresh. Meat and veggies are sliced fresh in-house everyday. (Multiple locations)

They offer international and American noodle dishes, as well as soups, salads, pasta and sandwiches. (Champaign)

Known for their classic Italian food – fresh, fast, fun. They also feature a wide selection of specialty coffee and teas.

(Champaign)

Menu includes hamburgers, sandwiches, steaks, seafood entrées and the restaurant’s specialty, chicken wings. (Champaign)

Specializes in most seafood, including lobster, shrimp, fish and squid; also known

for their Cheddar bay biscuits. (Champaign)

Large menu with an emphasis on alcoholic beverages. Part of the menu is dedicated to the “Jack

Daniel’s Grill”, a selection of items with a special Jack Daniel’s-branded sauce. (Champaign)

Smoked meats and BBQ, tasty sides, excellent craft beers and much more. (Urbana - second location opening in Champaign)

MEMBERSHIP NEWSFirst Mid-Illinois Bank and Trust recently announced the promotion of Elisha Walters to Regional Deposit Manager for the Decatur region. Elisha will be responsible for overseeing deposit services for all First Mid locations in Decatur, Champaign, Urbana, Mahomet and Bloomington. “We’re excited to have Elisha step up as the Decatur Regional Deposit Manager,” stated Clay Dean, Senior Vice President and Chief Deposit Services Officer. “With 14 years of experience and a versatile background in both deposits and loans, Elisha brings a great deal of banking knowledge to the position.” Elisha began her career with First Mid in 2000 initially employed as Teller Supervisor and Customer Service Representative. In 2008, she transitioned to the role of Retail Lending Officer. Elisha serves on the board of the Mahomet Area Chamber of Commerce and mentors in the Mahomet-Seymour School District.

Spherion Staffing Services, a local recruiting, staffing and workforce solutions provider backed by the resources of a $2 billion global workforce leader, announced recently that Cindy Somers, franchise owner of the Champaign and Decatur offices, is the recipient of the 2014 President’s Award. The President’s Award is given to six owners and franchisees that have created consistent revenue and gross profit growth over the past three years. The award was based on the following categories: hours, bill rate, gross profit dollars and sales and revenue. “Cindy is a great example of the success that results from partnering with our clients, knowing our local communities and providing excellent customer service. She personifies the discipline and drive for consistent and profitable growth in today’s marketplace and is actively involved in every phase of her business operations,” said Sandy Mazur, division president of Spherion. “Cindy is a leader who continues to take the right steps to build a successful operation that is focused on providing top-notch service to its clients.”

Danielle Niebrugge recently joined First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust (First Mid) as Senior Vice President, Director of Human Resources. Danielle brings 18 years of experience in Human Resources to the First Mid organization. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville with an emphasis in Employee Relations and minor in business. She became certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) in January 2011. Niebrugge will be responsible for managing all aspects of Human Resources including: salary, wage, and benefit administration; state and federal reporting; and the hiring and recruiting process. In addition, she will play a key role in the company’s overall employee strategy relating to ongoing training, development and overall employee engagement initiatives. Joe Dively, Chairman and CEO stated, “Danielle will make a great addition to First Mid and we are pleased to have her join our team of professionals. With her experience, she will play a critical role in the ongoing emphasis we place on employee engagement and development.”

Green Purpose is on a mission to be the world’s greenest eco-minded enterprise that provides businesses and individuals with cutting edge solutions for eliminating society’s growing waste problem. They have been growing rapidly since our inception and could not have done this without the support of the community. As a byproduct of their consistent growth, we have outgrown our current facility and will be moving into a new 15,000 square foot facility during the next few months. They would like to offer businesses and members of the community an opportunity to be a part of their exciting initiative to keep waste out of landfills. To show appreciation towards the efforts of participating companies, they will promote each company’s green purpose through a variety of outlets. For information about various items and supplies they are interested in utilizing to furnish their new facility, contact them at [email protected] or call 217.954.1450.

iHotel and Conference Center was recently ranked seventh out of more than 290,000 hotels around the world by Expedia.com. Judging was based on guest reviews and in-house experts.

Have news to share with the local business community? Tell us about it and get featured in the Chamber’s next Commerce Connection. Send an email with your news to Samantha Mathis, [email protected].

In Your BusinessMcCABE BROTHERS, INC.:McCabe Brothers, Inc. has been supporting the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce since 1964 and has been open for business since 1963. Sandra McCabe and her mother Betty McCabe currently run the family business. They have been locally owned and operated since the beginning and serve a variety of people. Their customer base is mainly residential/individuals doing handywork themselves, but Sandra says some of their business comes from commercial and industrial contractors. They rent a variety of tools including heavy equipment such as backhoes, forklifts, skid steers and mini excavators. Power, lawn and garden tools, as well as carpet cleaners and chain saws can also be rented from McCabe Brothers. They also offer delivery and pick up. Hourly, daily and weekly rental increments are available, starting from as little as $40 and up to $250. With their diverse selection and affordable rates, you’re sure to find the right tool rental for your construction project. Contact them at www.mccequiprental.com or call 217.352.5620.

To learn more about area businesses; how the Chamber can help; and to better promote our

members to other members, the Chamber staff and ambassadors have been touring member businesses. For more details and photos from

the tour, visit www.champaigncounty.org.

Mailing LabelsAn exclusive benefit of Chamber membership, we sell mailing labels con-taining the names and addresses of Chamber member businesses for the purpose of member-to-member communication. Two lists are available for purchase:

Long list (approx. 2,500 names and businesses).................................. $175Short list (approx. 1,000 names and businesses)..................................$125

Contact Caryn Isenhower to place your order, [email protected] or 217.359.1791.

E-ConnectionRecently redesigned, our electronic newsletter gets sent out to more than 4,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County each week. Sponsor an e-Connection and get your business seen by THOUSANDS.

Header sponsorship (one week)............................................................$100

Contact Samantha Mathis for more information, [email protected] or 217.359.1791.

Email footer sponsorshipFor only $75, your business can place a banner on every email that gets sent out of the Chamber office. That’s an average of over 12,000 emails per week. You can’t get better (or cheaper) exposure!

Email footer (one week).................................................................................$75Add email footer to the Chamber’s e-Connection..........Additional $50


Email Blast AdvertisementDo you have a new product, service or information you would like to share with our entire Chamber membership list? We are now offering an exclusive offer to send broadcast emails to our entire 4,100+ email list.

Email Blast Advertisement .....................................................................$500

Contact Samantha Mathis for more information, [email protected].

Commerce Connection AdvertisementThe Commerce Connection is a bi-monthly publication that gets sent out to more than 3,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County. Content always relevant to local business, the publication is full-color, full-gloss and all around awesome. Ads start at only $90. Contact Samantha Mathis for more information, [email protected] or 217.359.1791.

Website SponsorshipThe Chamber redesign of our website is complete. There are multiple opportunities for businesses to sponsor pages, host banners and showcase themselves on the Chamber site. If you would like more information, please contact Samantha Mathis at [email protected].

Online Business Directory EnhancementsEnhance your listing on the Chamber’s online business directory. The directory gets hundreds of THOUSANDS of hits each day--turn your standard (free) listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized advertisement.

Basic upgrade...................................................................................................$40Value upgrade..................................................................................................$60Deluxe upgrade...............................................................................................$90


Event SponsorshipFrom First Friday Coffee to our annual Golf Outing, the Chamber hosts a number of events each month! By sponsoring a Chamber event, your business gets great exposure not only at the event itself but also within all our promotional materials (emails, mailings, e-newsletters, Commerce Connection, website, etc...).

We have numerous opportunities throughout the year, here’s what’s coming up:

Breakfast Series sponsorship (includes table of 8)........$1000Annual Meeting sponsorship...............................................$400 - 2750

Additional sponsorship information for events such as the Annual Meeting, Business Success Seminars and the ATHENA Award® Ceremony is available upon request. Contact Karly Combest at [email protected] or 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.

Some things you get complimentary:

INFO- - A N D - -

ASSISTANCE

LCD PROJECTOR

RENTAL

LAPTOPCOMPUTER

R E N T A L

CONFERENCE

ROOMRENTAL

CERTIFICATE OF

ORIGIN &

NOTARY S E R V I C E

For more information on any of these services, contact the Chamber at 217.359.1791. Services are available free to all Chamber members.

Chamber Store

First Friday CoffeeFriday, August 1 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.Champaign County Economic Development Corporation1817 S. Neil St. Ste. 100, Champaign

Ribbon Cutting - Champaign Urbana Nursing & RehabWenesday, August 6 1:00 p.m.302 Burwash Ave. Savoy

Business Success & Solutions Seminar - Telephone & Email Etiquette presented by Express EmploymentThursday, August 7 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Financing a Small Businessan event hosted by ECI SCOREThursday, August 7 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Ribbon Cutting - Express Employment ProfessionalsThursday, August 14 3:00 p.m.2117 W. Park Ct., Champaign

Non-Profit Organization Workshop an event hosted by ECI SCOREThursday, August 14 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Starting a Small Businessan event hosted by ECI SCORESaturday, August 16 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Connect @ LunchMonday, August 18 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.Location TBD

Writing a Business Planan event hosted by ECI SCOREThursday, August 21, 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Business After Hours - Farnsworth GroupThursday, August 21 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Location TBD

Business Success & Solutions Seminar - Productive Communication presented by Envision InnovationThursday, August 28 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

ACE Leadership ProgramKick Off EventThursday, August 28 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Location TBD

Fast Facts

6.3%Champaign County Unemployment Rate in May 2014

24business licenses applied for in Champaign County in June 2014

106.2May 2014 U of I Flash Index for Champaign County

1,487,050rides were taken on CUMTD in April 2014

7,153visits to the Chamber’s page, champaigncounty.org in June 2014

11,727average amount of referrals PER DAY the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory received via search engines and online sourcesin June 2014.

303 West Kirby AvenueChampaign, IL 61820

P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809www.champaigncounty.org

calendar of events

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let A&r hAndle the heAt.

mAximize their performAnce.

www.ar-mech.com217-819-5188

• plumbing

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• 24-hour emergency service

Documents

2014 July/August Commerce Connection