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PAIDPermit No. 29Champaign, IL
C O M M E R C ECONNECTION
JUNE 2012 Volume 19 | Number 3
A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The world’s most famous, most celebrated,
ALL AMERICAN
GRILL, p13
Access Chamber business anywhere you go, p.21
SCHOOL’S
OUTWhat to do with your kids while you’re at work, p. 16
OF WORKING PARENTS WITH CHILDREN BETWEEN THE AGES OF 5 AND 12, WE ASKED:
During the summer, who attends to your children while you’re at work?
A parent A babysitter, older sibling or
grandparent A day care or summer camp program No one, they are old enough to take
care of themselves Other
In the past few years, have you sent your children to a summer camp or daycare program in Champaign County?83% Yes15% No2% Not applicable
What program did you send your child to? Would you recommend it/ them?
YMCA, Champaign Park District, FCA Camp -- TOTALLY would recommend.
Chesterbrook Summer Camp. Yes (would recommend), because of all the activities and field trips they take the kids on that also allow them to continue to learn.
Champaign Park District Theatre Camp; Sholem Sharks Swim Team; UI Sport
20% 20% 44% 17%7%
VIEWPOINTSCamps (Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball); and yes, I would recommend all of them, especially to offer a variety of experiences.
Champaign Park District day camps are the best. They have one adult for every 8 kids, are safe, convenient and they take amazing field trips and even swim lessons are included!
Parkland’s College for Kids, Savoy Recreation, Champaign County YMCA- I would recommend them all.
Urbana schools has great summer programs - I am sending both of my kids to a new program they started this year. It is only two weeks long, but it looks amazing!
AS A WORKING PARENT, WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES WHEN SCHOOL LETS OUT FOR THE SUMMER?
The cost associated with putting my child in daycare/camps.
Finding a safe, reliable sitter. Identifying fun, challenging camps and programs. Trying to continue learning during the break so there is no “drop” in educational progress.
Summer activities that last all day while I am at work and Monday through Friday.
Transportation - especially for 1/2 day specialty camps.
Providing safe and interesting activities at a reasonable cost.
Most of the classes/lessons/events geared for children take place during the day, which makes it very difficult to get kids involved. For instance, swim lessons are 10 to 11, which no working person would be able to take their children to.
There are a few weeks at the beginning of the summer and at the end where care is difficult to find for private school students.
Not retaining knowledge learned during the school year.
Finding the best day camps that offer affordable programs with before and after care with a variety of activities.
Every two months, the Chamber surveys its membership on a topic ofrelevance. Eager for summer, we wanted to learn how working parents handle their children being out of school and what options they have.
June 2012 / Commerce Connection/ 3
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SUMMER IN CHAMPAIGN COUNTY?
35% Area festivals28% Grilling out24% Hitting the pool21% Visiting local parks & forest preserves6% Other
303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820
P: 217.359.1791 F: 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org
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.
CHAMBER STAFF
Laura WeisPresident & CEO
Stephanie FinneyEvent & Programs Manager
Claudette GonsiorowskiInformation & Accounts Receivable Manager
Nikolle KeeneyMarketing & Public Relations Manager
Michelle LunaMembership & Advertising Services Manager
Leslie LundyFinance Manager
Lynette LykinsDirector of First Impressions
Carole MooreFinance Assistant & Office Manager
Christopher P. SheppardMembership Development Director
Paul OramaPublic Policy Manager
Norma WesleyAdministrative Support & Reservationist
SM
FY12 TOP INVESTORS
BOARD OFFICERSDiane Ruedi
Chair, F.E. Moran, Inc., Alarm & Monitoring Services
Tabatha Helm First Vice Chair, Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc.
Michael Wozniak Second Vice Chair, Livingston, Barger, Brant & Schroeder
Martin VerdickTreasurer, RSM McGladrey / McGladrey & Pullen
Mark BallardPast Chair, BankChampaign, N.A.
Laura WeisSecretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce
Joe Alexander Farnsworth Group, Inc.
Beth Auterman Clifton Gunderson LLP
Oktay BaranBaran Marketing
Cindy Guthrie
Three Degrees of Change
Habeeb HabeebBenefit Planning Consultants, Inc.
Jeff IngrumHealth Alliance Medical Plans, Inc.
Dale MorrisseyDevelopmental Services Center
Victor MullinsUniversity of Illinois College of Business
Ron PuleraWAND TV StormCenter 17
Dennis RiggsFIX-IT
Nick TaylorRE/MAX Realty Associates
Bill WalterA&R Mechanical Contractors
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
TOP INVESTORSGold
BuseyCarleProvena Covenant Medical Center
Silver
University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign
Bronze
The Atkins GroupBankChampaign, N.A.Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc.Christie ClinicThe Hilton ComplexFirst BankSupervalu Inc. Champaign Distribution CenterUniversity of Illinois Employees Credit UnionWalmart Supercenters
IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORSChairman’S CirCle
illini Radio Group - MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, 92.5 The Chief, WIXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1
NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS & U-Rock 107.9 WUIL
PreSident’S CirCle
SJ Broadcasting
BuSineSS CirCle
Fox Illinois WCCU TV & CW 23
WAND TV StormCenter 17
150 PERCENT CLUBCooper Asset Management Corporation
2012 EAST CENTRAL ILLINOIS
BUSINESS EXPO
The 2012 East Central Illinois Business Expo, held Wednesday, March 14 at the University of Illinois Assembly Hall, was a
great success. Over 1,400 people in attendance, more than 70 vendors participated and 12 restaurants helped cater the event.
Stephanie Finney, Events and Programs Manager for the Cham-paign County Chamber of Commerce, said the event “just keeps getting better”.
“There is so much Champaign County has to offer and the Busi-ness Expo highlights a great range of those offerings. Attendees were given access to so many products and services, all in one convenient location,” Finney said.
Finney added that the event would not have been possible without support from our sponsors. Thank you to Provena Cov-enant Medical Center for sponsoring the 2012 Provena Ultimate Power Lunch and to BankChampaign, N.A. for sponsoring the 2012 BankChampaign Wine Tasting.
Also, a special thank you to all of our media sponsors (WICD, WCIA, FOX 55/27, WDWS/WHMS, the Illini Radio Group, SJ Broad-casting and Adams Outdoor Advertising).
June 2012 / Commerce Connection/ 5
see. shop. sell.
OUR WONDERFUL SPONSORSProvena Covenant Medical CenterBankChampaign, N.A.Adams Outdoor AdvertisingWICD ABC NewsChannel 15Fox Illinois and the Central Illinois CW The Illini Radio Group: MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, 92.5 The Chief, WIXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1NewsTalk 1400 WDWS
Lite Rock 97.5 WHMSU-Rock 107.9 WUILSJ Broadcasting: Connect FM 93.5/95.3, Q96, Classic Rock 105.9 WGKC
OUR TASTY FOOD VENDORSAlexander’s SteakhouseBleu HarvestDish - Passionate CuisineEastland SuitesJ. Gumbo’sJet’s PizzaJimmy John’sLouie’s BBQMarble Slab CreameryMinneci’s RistorantePekara BakeryPiato Cafe
OUR STAND-UP EXHIBITORSCramer Siding & WindowsDNDCABC NewsChannel 15Provena Covenant Medical CenterFOX ILLINOIS WCCU-TV & CW 23American Cancer SocietyParkland CollegeWDWS/WHMSChesser FinancialHall Insurance ServicesChampaign Telephone CompanyCQI Associates LLCKemper CPA Group LLPService Master by DSIMerry Maids
The BIGGEST
to all sponsors, food vendors, exhibitors, volunteers and attendees. ... without you, the expo wouldn’t be possible.
Thank You
N.A.
Personal Attention. Fast Answers.
Main Bank 2101 South Neil • 217.351.2870MarketPlace Facility 5 Convenience Center • 217.351.2876
M2 Facility Downtown 301 North Neil • 217.351.2877www.bankchampaign.com
At BankChampaign, we still believe banking is a people-to-people business. Contact Kay Machula at our downtown
Champaign location to discuss your business banking needs.
Hilton Complex Champaign-UrbanaConveniently located at the corner of Kirby Avenue & Neil Street
Two blocks from the University of Illinois . 18,000 sq. ft. of Banquet & Meeting Space
www.champaignurbana.stayhgi.com217-352-9970
99 Luxurious Guest Rooms
Complimentary Airport Shuttle
www.champaignurbana.homewoodsuites.com
98 Extended Stay Suites
217-352-9960
Salt & Light - donated by Adams Outdoor AdvertisingJudah Christian SchoolA-1 Roof Coatings LLCRogards Office PlusThe Prairie CenterWireless Mike’sWatts Copy SystemsChittick Family Eye CareAT&TRegency PropertiesAAA Chicago Motor ClubCentral Illinois BankHawthorn Suites by WyndhamVerizon WirelessSam’s ClubWells Fargo Advisors, LLCOffice of Equal Opportunity and Access, U of IBundy Business SystemsECI SCOREMaligaya’s StoreComcast Business ClassNoodles & CompanyTerminix Services, Inc.USPSServpro of Champaign/Urbana/ Vermilion CountyGranite TransformationsChampaign County Chamber of Commerce004 Technologies USA, Inc.Bendsen Signs & GraphicsAmeren IllinoisChamber Golf OutingBusiness FurnitureSK Home ImprovementExpress Employment ProfessionalsHealth Alliance Medical PlansEastern Illinois FoodbankSprint Humana MarketpointMartin, Hood, Friese & AssociatesPeoria Charter CoachBJ Grand Salon & SpaBenefit Planning Consultants, Inc.Champaign County RepublicansWagner Machine Co.Coventry Healthcare of IllinoisLRS Web SolutionsGetz Fire EquiptmentWorden MartinBankChampaign, N.A.Flightstar CorporationSJ BroadcastingFighting Illini EnergyThe Hilton ComplexBridle Brook Adult CommunityStory to Tell ProductionsZ WirelessFE Moran Alarm
OUR TRUE BLUE VOLUNTEERSCarol ZuHoneBrad HelmsDaniel WilliamsHeather RoarkJohn OlsonAdam OsterburTonia RibbeThai CastonCathy RectorJean Bruner JachinoRyan FlemingCarol HickeyLisa Keating
A & A Creative Homes, Inc. Aaron Wozenkraft1100C Bloomington Rd.Champaign, IL 61820866.436.5572aaron@aacreativehomes.comwww.aacreativehomes.com
A&A Creative Homes has been a leader in Central Illinois’ construction and restoration industry since 2005. The Champaign-based business offers painting, drywall, siding, window replacement, new decks, custom carpentry, bath and kitchen remodels, hard surface flooring, as well as fire and water repair/ restoration. They have done work on more than 250 homes and businesses in east Central Illinois. A&A Creative Homes, Inc. proves that quality home repairs and restoration projects can be completed on time and on any budget.
A T & T John Quinn1902 N. Prospect Ave. Champaign, IL [email protected]
Acres of Green Lawn Care Mike McLain 533 CR 700 NSadorus, IL 61872217.649.4148acresofgreenlawncare@gmail.comwww.acresofgreenlawncare.com
Acres of Green Lawn Care is a locally owned and family operated business that provides lawn and garden services to clients located in Champaign-Urbana and surrounding areas. The company is owned by husband and wife team, Mike and Nicole McLain. Services provided include mowing and full service lawn care, irrigation installation, spring/fall clean up, mulching, hedge trimming, core aeration, de-thatching, seeding and over seeding, stump removal, tilling, and snow removal. Acres of Green offers free estimates for professional work done with honesty and integrity.
Amanda Overmyer PhotographyAmanda Overmyer
41 E. University Ave., Ste. 3CChampaign, IL [email protected]
Amanda Overmyer is a professional photographer who provides both studio and on-location portrait sessions. She specializes in photographing newborns, children, families and weddings. With over ten years of education and experience, she is a skillful photographer who relishes in the uniqueness of each portrait session. People are her business; photography is her passion.
American LED Lighting SolutionsRobert Nagle777 Lake Zurich R., Ste. 150Barrington, IL [email protected]
American LED Lighting Solutions provides high efficient LED lighting products and evaluation services to commercial, industrial, hospitality, municipal and residential end users. The business represents numerous LED lighting manufacturers and carry a wide-range of products for virtually every lighting need, be it new construction or a lighting retrofit. As the lighting industry evolves, American LED Lighting Solutions looks forward to serving and benefitting our partners in Champaign County.
Bailey Edward DesignKevin Schnebly1103 S. Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL [email protected]
Established in Chicago as a woman-owned firm in 1991, Bailey Edward is one of the region’s most reputable architectural practices committed to clients that serve, support and protect the public. Founding principal, Ellen Bailey Dickson, AIA, was joined in 1993 by Robin Edward Whitehurst, AIA, deepening the firm’s design and technical skills to serve a growing client base. A Champaign, Illinois firm
was acquired in 2001, accommodating clients to the south and integrating four decades of educational and institutional experience. A Michigan office was established in 2006 and a Wisconsin office in 2008 to better serve clients to the north.
BarnYard Treasures Auction ServicesJim Naylor 200 N. Highway Ave.P.O. Box 193Deland, IL [email protected]
BarnYard Treasures Auction Service specializes in auctions spanning general merchandise, estate, business liquidations, store liquidations, storage units, machinery, antiques, and so forth. Sales are held bi-weekly on Friday evening starting at 5 p.m. Consignments are accepted weekly. BarnYard Treasures’ auction house is a brand new handicap accessible facility with seating and public restrooms. BarnYard Treasures also operates a 3,000 square foot retail store.
Bellas LandscapingJustin Bellas2405 Fox Creek Rd. Bloomington, IL 61705309.827.5263Justin@bellaslandscaping.comwww.bellaslandscaping.com
Bleu Harvest Kari Kramer705 Burkwood Dr. Urbana, IL [email protected]
Bleu Harvest is a personal chef business providing meals based on customized menus for families and individuals, as well as catering for dinners, parties and private cooking classes. Bleu Harvest provides meal plans based on client’s preferences, does the shopping, cooking, meal packaging and labeling, and the clean up! Owner Kari Kramer has experience with special diets, including kosher, gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan. Many clients are
WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER>> members who joined between february and march 2012
busy professionals who simply want weekly meals. Others enjoy cooking, but want a healthy, well prepared meal stashed away for those days of the week they just don’t feel like cooking.
Boneyard Bar & BBQGeorge Dries25 E. Springfield Ave.Champaign, IL [email protected]
Clutch CutsWhitney Fleming202 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL [email protected]
Chambana SalesKent Weeks3310 N. Mattis Ave.Champaign, IL [email protected]
Country® Financial – Todd HoweTodd Howe
801 N. Country Fair Dr., Ste. BChampaign, IL 61821217.352.0012Todd.howe@countryfinancial.comwww.countryfinancial.com/todd.howe
As a Financial Representative with COUNTRY® Financial, Todd Howe is committed to helping clients achieve financial security no matter where they are starting from. Licensed in Illinois to sell Life, Health, Property and Casualty Insurance, including business insurance; COUNTRY®Financial has products to meet your need. For those looking for investment solutions; investment management, retirement, trust and planning services provided by COUNTRY® Trust Bank. Securities offered through COUNTRY® Capital Management Company.
Country Health Care & Rehab Jenifer Clements2304 CR 3000 NGifford, IL 61847217.568.7362jclements@heritageofcare.comwww.countryhealthgifford.org
Country Health Care and Rehab is newly remodeled nursing facility. Accommodating 89 beds, the space features large, open living spaces and common areas for all residents.
Included is a rehab-to-home unit for individuals needing inpatient therapy who could return to the community following their personalized rehabilitation program. Country Health has a restorative nursing program, wound care, and is able to accept IV and feeding tube therapies. Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy is offered seven days a week. They also provide hospice care, respite stays and adult day care.
CU AerospaceDavid Carroll301 N. Neil St., Ste. 400 Champaign, IL [email protected]
CU Aerospace (CUA) is engaged in identifying and developing promising new aerospace technologies with the ultimate goal being commercialization and distribution of those technologies. CUA is involved in six primary aerospace markets including gas phase lasers, space propulsion, space systems software, aircraft safety, aerospace materials, and modeling and simulation software. CUA has designed and built CubeSail, a system of two highly-scalable CubeSat satellites that presently have a NASA launch opportunity scheduled.
Culligan of ChampaignMiles Weinmann101 E. Sangamon St.Mahomet, IL [email protected]
DCC MarketingKatherine Smith225 N. Water St., Ste. 300Decatur, IL [email protected]
Den LiquorNick Patel606 S. Sixth St.Champaign, IL [email protected]
Destinations with DonicaDonica Halcom113 W. Tomaras Ave., Unit CSavoy, IL 61874217.321.1792donicahalcom@ymail.comwww.destinationswithdonica.com
Destinations with Donica offers unique small-group tour experiences with local departures. By blending a combination of “sightseeing” and cultural experience with exceptional value, Destinations with Donica offers terrific travel at great prices. Owner Donica Halcom has planned and escorted groups world-wide for over 20 years.
Head-Quarters Barber ShopJim Lambert909 N. Cunningham Ave.
Urbana, IL 61802(217) 344-1688www.headquarterscu.com
Inman PlaceDenise Fulton17 E. University Ave.Champaign, IL [email protected]
Innovative Staff SolutionsDeb Hendren704 Broadway Ave. Mattoon, IL [email protected]
Innovative Staff Solutions is a family owned and operated business that has served employers for more than 18 years. They have 17 locations throughout Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky. Innovative Staff Solutions’ mission is to build successful and unique partnerships with clients to meet their staffing needs. The agency offers not only general staffing solutions, such as temporary and temp-to-hire staffing, but also offer direct hire, or professional recruiting services for professional and management positions. In addition, Innovative Staff Solutions’ offers on-site solutions service for clients needing help managing a large temporary workforce.
J. Gumbo’s Melody York700 S. Gregory St. Urbana, IL [email protected]
J. Gumbo’s offers authentic Cajun cuisine for
those on a budget or on a lunch hour. Every entrée on the menu is $8 or less, including a drink and garlic bread. Dishes vary from sweet and mild to hot and spicy. They offer samples of anything on the menu, so you can be sure you like your food before you order. J. Gumbo’s menu format easily allows you to eat in 30 minutes or less, which is perfect for a lunch hour. They are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
Kemper Technology Consulting Michael Gibson 1701 Broadmoor Dr., Ste. 120Champaign, IL [email protected]
Kemper Technology Consulting is devoted to providing reliable IT support and managed IT services for businesses desiring improved productivity that results in increased profitability. Their goal is to partner with clients to help manage their IT infrastructures. Kemper Technology Consulting wants clients to think of them as their own technology department, providing the reliability and performance they expect from their IT systems. Kemper’s dedicated team of consultants, technicians, and software specialists will provide clients with unlimited IT support, allowing clients to focus on their business.
Keri Powell TherapyKeri Powell701 Devonshire Dr., Ste. B-1Champaign, IL [email protected]
Keri Powell Therapy is a local group practice dedicated to providing the highest level of outpatient mental health and substance abuse
VINEYARD CHURCH HOPE CENTERC. CTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAUThe Champaign County Convention and Visitors Bureau celebrated
the grand opening of their new location as well as the grand opening of their “Community Welcome Center” on Tuesday, May 8, 2012.
The Vineyard Church celebrated the grand opening of their new “Hope Center”, a community outreach facility that includes a food pan-try and social services. They held a ribbon cutting on March 28, 2012.
treatment in the area. The staff is strongly grounded in using empirically supported approaches to meeting the client’s needs. While the counselors depend on these evidence-based treatment plans, they also stay on top of the latest research and cutting edge techniques. Clinicians have specialized training in some unique techniques such as breathwork, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, theraplay, and guided imagery. The staff is able to provide counseling services to all ages—young children through the elderly. Keri Powell Therapy does individual sessions, family therapy, group therapy, and couples counseling.
LaVida MassageDavid Peters1812 Glenn Park Dr.Champaign, IL 61821217. 363.2811dpeters@lavidamassage.comwww.champaign.il.lavidamassage.com
LaVida Massage opened May 10 in Champaign Village, around the corner from County Market. LaVida’s mission is to provide top quality therapeutic massage at an affordable price. They provide Swedish relaxation and deep tissue massage with added hot stone and aromatherapy services. They offer high end massage services in a caring, comfortable, affordable, gender neutral and professional environment. LaVida’s goal is to ensure client comfort, satisfaction and overall wellness.
Michael P. Graham, LTD., CPAsMike Paul (Red) Graham216 E. Sangamon Ave., Suite BRantoul, IL [email protected]
Mike Graham started his Certified Public
Accounting firm thirty nine years ago in Downtown Rantoul. Mike’s knowledge base includes all aspects of accountancy, the automotive business and political science. Michael P. Graham, LTD., CPAs specializes in the following areas: tax preparation and planning; small business; governmental representation; consulting and mentoring start-up companies; political campaign management; and economic development for private and small government entities.
Piato’s Organic Food NannyKelly Jo Lamb300 S. Broadway Ave., FC-2Lincoln Square Mall Urbana, IL [email protected]/foodnanny
Piato’s has launched a new concept in food service. Piato’s Organic Food Nanny is the only all organic, all locally sourced meal delivery service in Champaign-Urbana. Featuring meat from Triple S Farms and field fresh vegetables from Blue Moon Farms; Piato’s Organic Food Nanny is changing the way people eat dinner in CU. Sign up for one month or one year, with no joining or cancelation fees, it is easy to eat local and organic.
Prairie Fire GlassJim Downey217 W. Washington St.Monticello, IL 61856217.762.3332jim@prairiefireglass.comwww.prairiefireglass.com
Quick Package PickupMatt Bradley 202 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820217.649.4471
Quick Package Pickup solves package receiving problems. No more packages going missing, shipments destroyed by the elements, or you having to trek across town for a package pickup. Say hello safe, simple and convenient package receiving, holding and pickup; say hello to Quick Package Pickup.
Regions Bank Daniel Stites111 S. State St. Champaign, IL [email protected]
Re/MAX - Max MitchellMax Mitchell2009 Fox Dr.Champaign, IL [email protected]
MobileWise MediaJeff Robinson1303 Goldenrod Dr.Mahomet, IL [email protected]
Screen Past,a Division of Berklin Cents, LLCLaKhaun McKinleyP.O. Box 8151Champaign, IL [email protected]
Security Finance #838
AMANDA OVERMYER PHOTOGRAPHY EASTLAND SUITES
Amanda Overymyer Photography celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, April 23, 2012. Amanda
Overmyer specializes in newborn, children and wedding photography.
Eastland Suites Hotel and Conference Center celebrated their recent room remodel with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday,
April 25, 2012.
Jo Sidell823 W. Bloomington Rd. Champaign, IL [email protected]://security-finance.com
Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center Champaign Urbana ChapelDonna Walthall 710 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL [email protected]
Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center is a local, family owned and operated business with six funeral homes, a cemetery and a crematory. Their main focus is to create healing experiences for the community through personalized print materials, a devoted and caring staff, and modern facilities. Services extend well beyond the actual funeral itself. They also provide after care, children’s classes, and are great supporters of their communities through various events. Sunset Funeral Homes prides themselves on their reputation of quality, sincerity and trust.
State Senator Mike Frerichs, 52nd DistrictMike Frerichs45 E. University Ave., Ste. 206Champaign, IL [email protected]
The Ribeye RestaurantBuck Plummer1701 S. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820217.351.9115buckplummer@gmail.comwww.theribeyerestaurant.org
Thomas & Ellars InsuranceDavid EllarsJustin Thomas401 Devonshire Dr.Champaign, IL [email protected]@thomas-ellars.comwww.thomas-ellars.com
Trigard Plaques & SignsDonna Walthall
3901 N. Vermillion St. Danville, IL [email protected]
Established in the 1960s, Trigard is a family owned and operated business based in Danville. Trigard has created plaques and signs for the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Walt Disney World, the Ronald Reagan Ranch, the University of Alabama and numerous state and local businesses. Trigard Plaques and Signs evolved out of the company’s bronze memorial division, which was established in 2003. The company has developed innovative new techniques for shaping, coloring and finishing pure bronze and other materials to produce unique, lasting tributes.
VooDoo RhinoRobert Brend1907 Nancy Ct., Apt. 1Champaign, IL [email protected]
WalgreensJohn Frankenbach
J. Gumbo’s Cajun & Creole Cooking Co. celebrated their grand open-ing with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, March 7. J. Gumbo’s special-
izes in fast, affordable Cajun food.
Jet’s Pizza celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Monday, March 12. A growing franchise, Jet’s is known for their signa-
ture square, deep-dish pizza and “flavorized” crusts.
Quick Package Pickup celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Monday, April 30. Located on campus, Quick Package Pickup
is a new business that allows students to have packages sent to Quick Package Pickup’s address instead of their own, preventing theft and
lost packages.
VINEYARD CHURCH HOPE CENTERJ. GUMBO’S JET’S PIZZA
QUICK PACKAGE PICKUP
Continued on page 22...
June 2012 / Commerce Connection/ 13
DIPLOMACY & BARBEQUE
Paxton-based grill maker Chris Engelbrecht never imagined he would dine with an astronaut.
To add to the list, Engelbrecht never imagined he would have a conversation with four-star secretary general Colin Powell; that Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Hilary Rodham Clinton would praise his work; or that he himself would build a grill for President and Mrs. Obama to present as a gift to David Cameron, prime minister of the United Kingdom.
What Engelbrecht never imagined has since become a mat-ter of great national and international news.
Engelbrecht’s one-of-a-kind wood and charcoal burning Braten 1000 Series Grill was presented to Mr. and Mrs. Cameron as a gift of personal friendship from the Obamas in March. The gift commemorates their May 2011 visit to 10 Downing Street where the Camerons and Obamas grilled
and served food to American and British Armed Service Members.
The grill itself is customized with American and British friendship flags, engraved into the utility shelf, and a per-sonalized plaque, featuring the presidential seal, mounted on the exterior lid.
During a lunch for Cameron at the State Department, Sec-retary of State Clinton described the grill as “a real, down-home American barbeque with a smoking compartment and everything else.”
Engelbrecht, in attendance at the luncheon, noted that speaker after speaker made reference to the grill.
“I was sitting at a table with Piers Sellers, an astronaut for NASA, and one of the prime minister’s personal secretaries. It was confusing that people kept coming over to our table, excited to see me,” Engelbrecht said, laughing.
The journey to Washington began with what Engelbrecht first assumed was a prank phone call.
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Someone from the protocol office of the State Department asked if he would be interested in building a cus-tom grill as a gift from one diplomat to another.
“I thought, there’s no way this could be real,” Engelbrecht said.
But, as communications continued, the request became inarguably legiti-mate.
Though the State Department would not initially disclose who the grill was for, they requested the project kept a secret and that the grill be 100 percent American made.
“Our grills are normally around 95 percent American made to begin with,” Engelbrecht said. “That’s some-thing we have always taken pride in.
He continued “The parts that we do have to outsource—nuts and bolts and smaller details, we do because they are almost impossible to find in the states... creating something entirely ‘all American’ was definitely a challenge.”
To ensure the grill was 100 percent “Made in America”, Engelbrecht had to phone all of his vendors and inquire about the exact origin of all the struc-ture’s bits and pieces. The parts that couldn’t be purchased from American suppliers, he had custom-made.
“I was raising a lot more questions than I was answering,” Engelbrecht said. “A lot of vendors thought I was giving them the cold shoulder, fielding their questions. Now that the news is out, hopefully they’ve forgiven me.”
A month after he started work on the project, Engelbrecht found out who the grill was actually for.
“It definitely added more pressure, you know, making a grill for two of the most important people in the world,” Engelbrecht said, laughing.
Kyle Bloomstrand, Vice President of Engelbrecht Grills and Cookers and the other half of Engelbrecht’s two-man shop, was one of the select few who knew about the project during the two and a half months Engelbre-cht was required to keep it a secret.
“We built the grill just like any of our other Braten grills, the base was exactly the same. We had to start hid-ing the project once we started adding embellishments,” Bloomstrand said.
Bloomstrand said that during the final weeks of the project, only Engelbre-cht and himself were allowed in the shop. The embellished pieces—a brass utility tray with British and American friendship flags and a presidential plaque mounted onto the exterior lid—were added last minute, with help from a Ohio metal company.
When Engelbrecht received a call from NBC’s Rock Center with Brian Williams asking if they could come to Paxton to do a news segment, Engel-brecht said “sure” but told them they would still be working.
“I don’t know how we got it done in time,” Engelbrecht said. “The last moments of work on the grill, right before it was due to be shipped, were literally filmed on NBC. It was abso-lutely wild.”
Engelbrecht followed his grill to DC in mid March and was invited to attend a welcoming ceremony for the prime minister as well as a state luncheon.
The highlight of the trip, according to Engelbrecht, was getting to speak with Colin Powell.
“He came up to me and started asking all sorts of questions ‘What do you farm?’ ‘How many acres?’; and I’m asking, ‘How’s retired life?’. We ended up having a very normal, very easy conversation about how he’s happy to spend more time with his grandkids.”
Engelbrecht continued, “The whole time this was happening, I’m thinking,
‘This is unreal, I’m talking to Colin Powell’.”While in DC, Engelbrecht also had the opportunity to briefly speak with Vice President Biden and Secretary of State Clinton. He did not get to meet Obama (though he stood 10 feet away from him), as Obama’s schedule was very busy.
Other highlights of the trip included standing on the South Lawn (a place forbidden to White House tourists); an unguided tour of the White House; and a luncheon on the top floor of the State Department building.
“I have always been very interested in history—It was amazing to see some of the artifacts that hang out there [in the State Department]; not behind glass displays, just out in the open, for anyone to view and even use,” Engel-brecht said.
Such artifacts included a desk Thomas Jefferson used to draft the Declara-tion of Independence and silverware handmade by Paul Revere.
Now that Engelbrecht has returned home and has had time to reflect on the enormity of his completed project, he says he can still “hardly believe it.”
When asked what he was most proud of, “Serving my country by making a quality all American product.”
“We all know fifty years ago we Americans used to build quality prod-ucts. Since that time, the manufactur-ing of products has moved overseas and the overall quality of our goods has declined,” Engelbrecht said. “Our involvement in this project dem-onstrates that the knowledge, skill and determination to build a quality American made product that will last decades still exists and excels right here at home, even in small companies like ours.”
For more information on Engelbrecht Grills and Cookers, visit their website, www.grillsandcookers.com.
The summer sun almost upon us, working parents need not sweat this school-free season. From
swimming camps to horseback riding to photography classes to astronomy lessons, Champaign County pro-vides a great number of camps and programs children can attend while parents work.
Here’s the SHORT list:
College for KidsParkland College, Champaign
College for Kids summer programming provides the opportunity for students who are entering grades three through seven to explore areas of study and in-terest in a non-graded, fun-filled environment through quality, hands-on experience.
Ages: Entering grades three through seven
Dates and Times: Session one runs from June 20 to June 30; Session 2 runs from July 11 to 21. Classes begin at
12:15 and end at 4:30 p.m
Classes include: Claymation; Create Your Own Comics; Sculptural Fashion; Japanese Language; Crime Scene Investigation; Kids in the Kitchen; Astronomy; Lego Engineering; Radio Broadcasting and many more.
For more information: Visit parkland.edu/communi-tyedu
YMCAStephen’s Family YMCA, Champaign
Summer fun is better than ever at Stephen’s Famiy YMCA. The facility offers over 55 camps that appeal to children of every age and interest. Traditional Y Camp, speciality camps and half-day camps add variety and help children stretch their imaginations, gain self confi-dence and learn new skills.
Dates and Times: Morning, afternoon and all-day pro-grams run throughout the summer, Monday through
SCHOOL’S OUTfor the summer
Friday
Ages: Preschool through entering eighth grade
Camps include: Swim, Basketball, Paintball, Horseback, Gladiator, Dr. Dolittle, Extreme Sports, Junior Scientists, Gymnastics, Wearable Art, Shutterbug, Slumber Party, Dance, Cheer and many more.
For more information: Visit ccymca.net and download registration forms
Champaign Park DistrictThe Champaign Park District provides a variety of all-day summer programs for children between the ages of 6 and 11. Programs center around a variety of weekly themes and also include traditional day camp activities such as pool time and outdoor recreation.
Dates and times: One week sessions span from June 4 to August 10, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Camps Include:Creative Kids Day CampSpringer Cultural Center, Champaign
Along with traditional day camp activities, Creative Kids Day Camp offer children an introduction to the arts with workshops in visual arts, crafts, dance, and performing arts by specialized instructors.
Leonhard Recreation Center Day CampLeonhard Recreation Center, Champaign
Leonhard Recreation Center Day Camp is a traditional camp that keeps children physically and mentally ac-tive by focusing on week-long themes ranging from the arts to athletics, astronomy to discoveries.
Douglass Day CampDouglass Community Center, Champaign
Douglass Summer Day Camp focuses on three key elements: education, sports and fun. Each week, daily activities are led with a theme.
For more information: Visit champaignparkdistrict.com
Savoy Recreation CenterThe Savoy Recreation Center offers week-long morn-ing, afternoon and all-day camps that span from tradi-tional summer camps to special interest camps.
Ages: 3 to 12
Dates and times: One week sessions are offered from June 4 to August 24; morning, afternoon and all-day time slots available.
Camps include: All Star Sports, Photography, Art, British Soccer, Baskeball, Baseball, Softball, Gymnastics, Lego
Almost all area day camps take field trips in and around Champaign County. A popular spot is Prairie Farms, a petting zoo run by the Champaign Park District.
Other fun field trips include:Anita Purves Nature CenterCurtis OrchardHomer LakeMuseum of the Grand PrairieSholem Aquatic CenterSpurloch MuseumStaerkel Planetarium
Photo courtesy Benjamin Lapid Photography
June 2012 / Commerce Connection/ 17
Challenge, Jr. Engineers, Camp Hollywood and many more.
Camp ZoneChesterbrook Academy, Champaign
Camp Zone allows campers to jump into action, par-ticipating in sports programs, exploring nature, becom-ing involved in performing and creative arts, playing a part in group activities and attending special events. Camp Zone offers a range of outdoor activities, indoor activities and field trips.
Ages: 4 to 14
Dates and Times: June 6 through August 12, M-F, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information: Visit champaign.chesterbrookacademy.com
Also check out:Boy Scouts of America Champaign County Forest Preserve District - Garden Adventures, Golf Camps and Eco-Adventure camps throughout the summer; ages 3 through fifth gradeGirl Scouts of America
La Petite Academy - Runs all summer long; Monday through Friday, all-day; ages 5 to 12Leaders for Life Martial Arts - Offers Karate Kid Camp, Star Wars Camp and Rank Camp; ages 4 and upSoccer Planet - Full-day and half-day soccer camps; ages 6 to 14University of Illinois Sports Fitness Program - Half day and full day enrollment in two-, four- and eight- week sessions; ages 7 to 12University of Illinois Summer Sports Camps- Led by U of I coaches and players across a spectrum of sports; ages 6 through high schoolUniversity of Illinois Young Writers Summer CampsUrbana Park District- Camps focused on nature, sports, aquatics, visual and performing arts Urbana School District (STEM Enrichment Camp)- Ex-ploration in science, math, engineering and technol-ogy; June 4 - 14; ages 6 through eighth grade
An even more comprehensive list can be found on chambanamoms.com.
Please note:Listed in this section are camps and programs that were recommended in our “Viewpoints” survey, sent out in April. By no means is this an exclusive list. There are TONS of other day camps and programs in Cham-paign County.
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Recently, the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce joined 17 other regional chambers as part of CIRCLE (Central Illinois Regional Chambers Legislative Effort), on a trip to the State’s Capitol to discuss various issues important to Cham-paign County. Nearly 90 people met with legislators and key committee staff members on issues includ-ing: public pension reform; workers compensation reform; extension of the enterprise zones; unemployment insurance reform; extension of the research and development tax credit; and Medicaid cost reductions.
Champaign County Chamber mem-
bers who took part in the effort advocated for change in all areas, but especially stressed the need for unemployment insurance reform. Members expressed to legislators that significant reform is needed in the arbitration process to help pro-tect employers from being unfairly harmed by layoffs or termination due to the employee’s actions.
One Champaign County Chamber member spoke to legislators about the burden that is placed on an employer to prove that termination of an employee is due to that indi-viduals “willful and deliberate” action. An employer may have documented
instances of an employee’s pattern of misbehavior, yet this information is discounted if the employee’s specific action the day of termination cannot be proven “willful and deliberate.”
Champaign County Chamber mem-bers made a difference in Springfield. A regional unified effort to stress the need for change in these key areas lets our elected officials know that the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, our members, and CIRCLE are and will continue to advocate for a better business climate in Cham-paign County.
If you have any questions regarding any of these issues, please contact the Chamber’s Public Policy Manager, Paul Orama at [email protected]
PUBLIC POLICY UPDATEJune 2012 / Commerce Connection/ 19
CENTRAL ILLINOIS CHAMBERS STAND TOGETHER ON ADVOCACY
SANDRA JONES OF BRING IT HOME PRODUCTS HAS CHANGED THE NAME OF HER BUSINESS TO ALL THINGS ILLINI. More information can be found at www.allthingsillini.com.
CARLE congratulates John A. Aucar, MD, MSHI, FACS, on achieving the status of Certified Physician Executive by the Certifying Commission in Medical Management. This honor demonstrates Dr. Aucar’s high level of professional excellence, his educational achievements and leader-ship skills. Dr. Aucar earned a medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kan. He completed his residency in surgery at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Mich. Dr. Aucar is a member of the American College of Surgeons and is certified by the American Board of Surgery.
The Chicago Advertising Federation recently awarded the Bronze ADDY Award to CARLE’S BARIATRIC SURGERY PRINT CAMPAIGN. The campaign titled, “Break the Cycle,” was developed in conjunction with Marc USA advertising agency and encourages the public to attend free weight loss seminars offered by Carle to learn about different surgical options. Carle’s campaign competed against national and international brand campaigns with only eight silver and bronze awards given for the “Newspaper” advertising category.
The Board of Education for CHAMPAIGN UNIT 4 SCHOOLS has confirmed the permanent appointment of Dr. Judy Wiegand as Superintendent of Champaign Unit 4 Schools. At the March 12 meeting, Board members unani-mously approved her contract.
COMMERCE BANCSHARES, INC. is one of 17 new mem-bers included on the 2011 KBW Bank Honor Roll of bank-ing institutions that achieved positive earnings per share growth over the last decade, regardless of the economic environment. (Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, March 20, 2012) This is a significant honor that has already been picked up by the Forbes and other business publications.
THE KRAFT FOODS FOUNDATION IS AWARDING $15,000 TO THE EASTERN ILLINOIS FOODBANK to help fight hunger in 14 eastern Illinois counties. The grant will provide 7 Foodmobile, or mobile food pantry, distributions in underserved communities. Many of these communities are very rural and lack adequate access to grocery stores, food pantries and soup kitchens. Each distribution will provide groceries to an estimated 100-150 families.
LINCOLN’S CHALLENGE ACADEMY is proud to an-nounce that the Illinois Adjutant General, Major General William Enyart, received the Challenge Champions award for his commitment to combating the dropout crisis in the state of Illinois. He was recognized at the Seventh An-nual Gala Event in Washington with FOX News’ Jon Scott serving as the emcee.
MCGLADREY & PULLEN, LLP ANNOUNCED THE CHANGE OF THE FIRM’S NAME TO MCGLADREY LLP. This change follows the acquisition of RSM McGladrey by McGladrey & Pullen last November and further aligns the firm’s name with its brand, which was launched in June 2010.
SARA ORTIZ OF ACADEMY FOR SELF EDUCATION HAS CHANGED HER BUSINESS TO ORTIZ DESIGN STUDIO. More information can be found at www.ortizdesignstu-dio.com.
PRAIRIE VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY is ex-panding their services again by creating “Katy’s Cottage” memory care supportive living of Rantoul. The building is undergoing a remodeling as it did thirteen years ago when the Assisted living and Independent living commu-nity was made.
The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the URBANA PARK DIS-TRICT by the Governmental Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its comprehensive annual financial report. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of govern-mental accounting and financial reporting, and its at-tainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.
The URBANA WALMART donated $140k to the Eastern Illinois Foodbank to purchase a refrigerated truck which enables the foodbank to move more food and in particu-lar fresh produce to area food pantries.
WHAT’S GOING ON IN YOUR BUSINESS? Are you renovating your space or revamping your ser-vices? Have you won any recent awards or made any ad-ditions to your staff? Do you have news to share with the Champaign County business community? Tell us about it and get featured in the Chamber’s next Commerce Con-nection! Send an email with your news to Nikolle Keeney, [email protected].
MEMBERSHIP NEWS
CHAMBER NEWS
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2012 @ STONE CREEK GOLF CLUB IN URBANA
2012 chamber
golf outingGo to champaigncounty.org to register or call 217.359.1791.
We’ve got an app for that...The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of our new mobile website.
From restaurants to banks to auto repair shops, it has never been easier to search Champaign County businesses. Upon accessing the Chamber’s website from a mobile brower, users are directed to a easy-to-use mobile site that provides a convenient directory of all Chamber member businesses, a calendar of events and coupons from Chamber members.
To access the mobile site, simply log on to champaigncouty.org via your mobile browser. For convenient use, users can add the link to their home screens.
Tools for Business SuccessThe Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce a great new resource on our website, Tools For Business Success.
Businesses of all types and sizes can access this tool for up-to-date, reliable business advice and information. Tools for Business Success has local, state, federal and best-of-the web resources to help start, grow and maintain your business.
Log on to champaigncounty.org to access this new feature.
June 2012 / Commerce Connection/ 21
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C O M M E R C ECONNECTION
JUNE / JULY 2011
Volume 18 | Number 3
A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
+ EAST CENTRAL ILLINOIS
Wine-cations
+ The Chamber’s NEW DIGS
+ SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP I S S U E
Photo taken at Alto Vineyards in Champaign, Ill.
GET SALES.GET SAVINGS.GET SEEN.Advertise in the Chamber’s Commerce Connection and get your name out to more than 1,200 local businesses in Champaign County!
Call 217.359.1791 for more details.
104 N. Lombard St. Mahomet, IL [email protected]
WalgreensPhyllis Berry1757 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL [email protected]
WalgreensErin Sharp602 W. University Ave. Urbana, IL [email protected]
WalgreensJodi Butler1001 Heather Dr. Mahomet, IL [email protected]
Walgreens
Kelly Clark 1701 W. Curtis Rd., Ste. 1024Champaign, IL [email protected]
WalgreensTamika Thomas220 S. Century Blvd. Rantoul, IL [email protected]
Wines at the Pines Dan Horlander2860 S. Philo Rd., Ste. LUrbana, IL 61802217.607.0048Jessica@winesatthepines.comwww.winesatthepines.com
Wines at the Pines believes that wine, coffee, and tea all share a bond of incredible taste thanks to the farmers who first give them respect. Their wines, offered by the glass, provide an extensive range of styles and taste profiles, with a focus on natural wines. They focus on small production wines that represent a range of varietals from around the world.
Wilbur’s TaxiWilbur & Sheila KeeseyP. O. Box 612Champaign, IL [email protected]
W.K. Cooper II Asset Management CorporationWilliam CooperVillage at the Crossing3011 Village Office Place, Suite BChampaign, IL 61822217.356.2575wkcooper@sbcglobal.netwww.cooperassetmanagement.com
Cooper Asset Management provides professional money management and investment advisory services to individual and institutional investors. The mission of Cooper Asset Management is to provide the highest standard of personal service in the development of wealth creation and management. Cooper Asset management is located at Village at the Crossing in Champaign, and is locally owned and operated.
Continued from page 12...
calendar of events
FIRST FRIDAY COFFEEFriday, June 1, 7:30 to 9 a.m.Hosted by the Champaign Urbana Mass Transit DistrictAt CityView Banquet and Meeting Center, inside the Illinois Terminal45 E. University Ave., Champaign
FINANCING A SMALL BUSINESS - ECI SCORE WORKSHOPCost is $25 per workshop; Call 217.359.1791 to registerSaturday, June 2, 9 to 11 a.m.Held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
GOLF OUTINGThursday, June 7Held at Stone Creek Golf Club2600 S. Stone Creek Blvd., Urbana
STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS - ECI SCORE WORKSHOPCost is $25 per workshop; Call 217.359.1791 to registerThursday, June 14, 3 to 5 p.m.Held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
WRITING A BUSINESS PLAN - ECI SCORE WORKSHOPCost is $25 per workshop; Call 217.359.1791 to registerThursday, June 21, 3 to 5 p.m.Held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
COME WINE WITH USSponsored by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness CommitteeThursday, June 21, 5 to 7 p.m.Held at Farm Credit Services of Illinois1100 Farm Credit Dr., Mahomet
NO FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE IN JULYDue to the Fourth of July Holiday
EARN: EXCHANGE AND REFERRAL NETWORKThursday, July 12, starting at 7:30 a.m. (Registration opens Thursday, July 5 at 3 p.m.)At the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS - ECI SCORE WORKSHOPCost is $25 per workshop; Call 217.359.1791 to registerThursday, July 12, 3 to 5 p.m.Held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
WRITING A BUSINESS PLAN - ECI SCORE WORKSHOPCost is $25 per workshop; Call 217.359.1791 to registerThursday, July 19, 3 to 5 p.m.Held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
BUSINESS AFTER HOURSThursday, July 19, 5 to 7 p.m.Hosted by Provena Covenant Medical Center1400 W. Park St., Urbana
See a full list of events at champaigncounty.org.
April 2012 Flash Economic Index for the State of Illinois
101.9
$ Percentage of new residents to Champaign County with a household income of over $60,000.
59%
Individuals departing from Willard Airport in February 2012
13,662
Individuals flying into Willard Airport in February 2012
7Number of visitors to www.champaigncoun-ty.org in April 2012
8,287
47Champaign County business licenses ap-plied for in April 2012
Unemployment rate for Champaign County in March 2012
20,265
7.6%
Rides were taken on CUMTD during March 2012
1,070,000
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