Commerce Connection - Oct./Nov. 2011

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PAIDPermit No. 29Champaign, IL

C O M M E R C ECONNECTION

OCT./NOV. 2011

Volume 18 | Number 5

A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JOBS HOW TO CREATE THEM p. 3

HOW TO GET ONE p. 9

VIEWPOINTSOctober + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/ 3

WHAT ARE YOUR SUGGESTIONS FOR HELPING CREATE NEW JOBS IN CHAMPAIGN COUNTY?Job creation is vital to getting the economy back in order. As of August 2011,

the unemployment rate in Champaign County was peaked at nine percent (almost 50 percent higher than it was in 2007). This month, the Chamber surveyed its membership to see what the Champaign County business community thinks needs to be done about creating jobs. (DISCLAIMER: The opinions featured do not represent the position of the Chamber.)

Banks Bill Business Champaign County Costs

Employees Financing Government Health CareIllinois Lending Quality Revenue Sales Taxes

WHAT RESOURCES DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED IN ORDER TO CREATE A NEW POSITION?

“More clients”

“We need significant economic growth in Champaign in order to start thinking about expansion.”

“Better planning and more sales activity”

“The housing and banking industries, as well as small business development, all need to improve.”

“We need more clients! The last two months have been worse than the same two months last year.”

“More sales from other local businesses.”

“We don’t need any resources. We have the right number of employees for the business at its current size now.” “Money! We are a non-profit and depend on state and federal funding to support our programs.”

HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SPECIFIC REGULATIONS OR LEGISLATION THAT HAVE IMPEDED YOUR ABILITY TO CREATE NEW JOBS?

“Banks not lending; appraisers undervaluing homes and restricting new homeowners purchasing power.”

“RRP lead paint from EPA, fall protection changes from OSHA, sub-contractor classification/ scrutiny from the IRS, posting of employee rights from NLRB: we are being OVER regulated and it is shutting commerce DOWN.”

“State not paying bills.”

“Our state needs to decide that it wants to have business here. If we do not change that basic desire, we cannot improve our economy, regulations or legislation.”

“Health care costs and tighter lending requirements.”

“The whole business climate in the state is the problem, as evidenced by the fact that the state still owes the U of I $300 million.”

“Continued EPA and other federal regulations make it more difficult for induustry to expand; and the increased user fees and income taxes at both the state and local levels have hurt. Obamacare is definitely impeding our business’ ability to expand.”

“Healthcare reform and Illinois tax expansion will have a significant impact. We held off hiring, but reached a point where we simply had to regardless of the legislative fallout.”

“The Illinois budget mess: Illinois has higher taxes and cost of Workers’ Compensation than all surrounding states.”

WHAT CHAMPAIGN COUNTY BUSINESSES ARE TALKING ABOUT:

“Get the jobs bill passed.”

“Financing must be available and achievable.”

“ Get the state to pay its bills on time.”

“Start making the GOVERNMENT oper- ate more like a business-- you have to be profitable or shut down! Raising taxes won’t solve it. Cut government spending and allow businesses and privatecitizens to spend their income, quit enabling people to sit at home and live off the “system” before the sys-tem is so broke NO ONE is working”

“More wind farms; focus on bringing a major automobile manufacturer to Champaign County.”

“We need to curb the cost of health care... my company’s health care costs have quadrupled in three years, without adding a single person to our plan. “ “If the state paid the University all of what it owes, I expect the ripples would extend to job creation throughout the economy.”

“Eliminate prevailing wage require-ments on all public projects. Allow free market to determine wage and lower the cost of construction for the government projects.”

“Lower taxes on small businesses, they are the backbone of the economy.”

“Continue to encourage a vibrant business climate. Also, more market-ing encouraging people to “buy lo-cal” could be done, as locally owned small business is typically the engine that drives job creation across the country.”

303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

P: 217.359.1791 F: 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org

[email protected]

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 Cynthia Johnson ([email protected]) or Michelle Luna ([email protected]) at 217.359.1791.

CHAMBER STAFF

Laura WeisPresident & CEO

[email protected]

Stephanie FinneyEvent & Programs Manager

[email protected]

Claudette GonsiorowskiInformation & Accounts Receivable Manager

[email protected]

Cynthia JohnsonMembership & Advertising Services Manager

[email protected]

Nikolle KeeneyMarketing & Public Relations Manager

[email protected]

Michelle LunaMembership & Advertising Services Manager

[email protected]

Leslie LundyFinance Manager

[email protected]

Lynette LykinsDirector of First Impressions

[email protected]

Carole MooreFinance Assistant & Office Manager

[email protected]

Paul OramaPublic Policy Manager

[email protected]

Norma WesleyAdministrative Support & Reservationist

[email protected]

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.

Michael HoganUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

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- Cham-paign

Bronze

The Atkins GroupBankChampaign, N.A.Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc.Christie ClinicThe Hilton ComplexFirst BankSupervalu Inc. Champaign Distribu-tion 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 CLUB:Amber Glen Alzheimer’s Special Care Center; Apex Consulting, LLC; Framer’s Market; Custom Mobile DJ Techniques

A to Z Painting:SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

October + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/ 5

“A to Z Painting is truly the definition of a small business with a small staff and bottom line; they excel at their trade and give back to the area that supports them,” Kevin Yonce, CEO of Twin City Tent and Awning, said upon nominating ZuHone for the award.

In 1994, ZuHone formed the company after owning a Baskin Robbins franchise. She was going back to school and wanted to find a job that would provide flexible hours for her classes and studies. Seventeen years later, the company is still going strong. Carol has used her degree and taught at Parkland College for 19 semesters but has kept A to Z Painting her primary focus. A business formed from necessity has been her career for 17 years.

“As with any small business, its owner and the business itself are hard to distinguish where one stops and the other begins,” Yonce said.

ZuHone’s accomplishments are a reflection on her business as the business is a reflection on her, Yonce continued.

Carol and A to Z Painting have gone out of their way to help various organizations around town and help develop a stronger work force coming out of school.

Congratulations to Carol ZuHone, owner of A to Z Painting, for winning the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce’s 2011 “Small Business of the Year” award.

Carol ZuHone with Diane Ruedi, Chamber Board Chair.

88 BroadwayEmily Schweizer, Facility Coordinator142 Lincoln Sq.Urbana, IL 61801217.954.1008info@fluidevents.orgwww.88broadwayevents.comBanquet FacilitiesParty PlanningWedding Supplies & Services

88 Broadway (Lincoln Square) is Urbana’s largest special event venue. Offering uncompromising attention to every detail for all occasions, in a warm, rich, distinctive facility. The venue specializes in weddings, show-ers, anniversaries, quinceaneras, birthdays, holiday parties, retirements, events, conventions, seminars, conferences, meetings, exhibits, concerts and more.

Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc.Tabatha Helm3206 Farber Dr.Champaign, IL 61822-1084217.351.3073www.afsifilters.comFilters-Liquid-Industrial-Mfrs. & Distrs.

Advanced Filtration, Inc. offers a comprehensive suite of business automa-tion solutions for manufacturers, distributors and brokers within the food and beverage industry. Cutting-edge functionality designed to optimize the order-to-cash flow and improve efficiencies across the entire supply chain are available as stand-alone sales force automation solutions or as a complete suite of software solutions for the foodservice supply chain.

Ashland Farms LLCSean Boyd, Project Manager2757 J T Coffman Dr.Champaign, IL 61822-4801217.550.5348Real Estate

The Villas at Ashland Farm is maintenance-free luxury ranch living at its best. Homes are priced from the mid-$100’s and offer two or three bedrooms, spacious living areas, attached two car garages, an abundance of storage, have the possibility of private patios and four-season verandas. Residents appreciate the rich “European Country” exteriors and full exte-rior maintenance services. Homeowners also enjoy the benefit of a private clubhouse with exercise room, outdoor heated swimming pool, and a large community room for entertaining.

Baker’s BikesDavid Baker, Owner1001 S. Lynn St.Urbana, IL 61801-5207217.365.0318baker@bakersbikes.comwww.bakersbikes.comBicycles-Dealers & Repairers

WELCOME TO

THE CHAMBERMEMBERS WHO JOINED BETWEEN AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER 2011

Railsplitter Media, Chris and Anne Lukeman

Chamber Staff

Comedian Buzz Sutherland and new “friend” Joe Alexander of the Farnsworth Group

2011 ANNUAL MEETINGTHANK YOU TO ALL SPONSORS*, VOLUNTEERS AND ATTENDEES FOR YOUR SUPPORT.* BANKCHAMPAIGN • BUSEY • BLOSSOM BASKET FLORIST • CENTRAL ILLINOIS BANK • CHRISTIE CLINIC • ELITE ENTERTAINMENT • HILTON GARDEN INN • MCGLADREY & PULLEN • RAILSPLITTER MEDIA • RAMSHAW REAL ESTATE • REGENCY APARTMENTS • ROBBIE BERG

Baker’s Bikes is a family-owned, home-based busi-ness on a mission to provide affordable bicycles to the Champaign-Urbana community. They provide af-fordable, quality new and refurbished bicycles for all. Baker’s Bikes appreciates the value of hard-earned money and focuses on finding the right bike for every person - no matter the price. They have great bikes for students, fixed-gear bikes for fun, cruisers to take out on a leisurely weekend ride and more serious bikes for the road or trail.

Candide RoasteriesSeth Kelter, Owner1707 Gentry Square Ln.Champaign, IL 61821217.721.9718candide.roasteries@gmail.comwww.candidecoffee.comRestaurants – Mobile

Having trouble getting by on optimism alone? Give Candide coffees a try. The Candide mobile coffee truck is committed to serving unique new drink combinations while acknowledging the history of the coffee industry. Candide focuses on high quality in everything we do, from the latest in bird friendly coffees to single-origin chocolate syrups. Their goal is not to make a mocha or espresso- their goal is to make a mocha or espresso better than it was before, with strict quality controls and premium ingredi-ents, delivered to you wherever you may be, from their mobile unit. “Hey, your life isn’t perfect. At least your coffee can be. “

Car-X Auto ServiceParham Parastaran, Manager2216 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.531.3900

601 E. University Ave.Champaign, IL 61821217.352.0124Automobile Repair & Service

Car-X Auto Service was founded in 1971 by a group of enterprising and experienced muffler shop own-ers. During the early years, Car-X was primarily an exhaust specialist. Today, they have adapted to

provide just about any automotive repair one can imagine. Car-X continues to evaluate their position and business and add products and services that are comparable to today’s auto repair climate. Car-X Auto Service was ranked the #1 automotive service franchise by Success Magazine.

Champaign School of MusicHolly Kennedy, Owner1712 S. Duncan Rd.Champaign, IL 61822217.359.0541champaignschoolofmusic@gmail.comwww.champaignschoolofmusic.orgMusic Instruction

The Champaign School of Music enriches the lives of students of all ages through personalized instruction from beginner to expert. Performing and motivation-al opportunities exist for students learning to play almost any instrument: piano to the ukelele! With our recent expansion to the Duncan and Kirby area and our upcoming addition of classes for Newborns - age 3, we are positioned to serve a broader com-munity base. With over twelve professionally trained faculty we are able to schedule multiple families at a time that is convenient for them, Monday-Saturday. Champaign School of Music has been serving this community for eight years and we look forward to many more.

Checkered MoonSharon Crow, Owner1731 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61821-5500217.403.0263Irish860@aol.comwww.checkeredmoon.comFurniture Dealers-Retail

Commuter AdvertisingThomas Rose, Senior Account Director1922 S. Wabash Ave.Chicago, IL 60616312.756.7313trose@commuter-advertising.comwww.commuter-advertising.comAdvertising – Transit Facilities

Commuter Advertising is the first transit advertising company to create, manage and sell time and loca-tion-based audio sponsorships on trains and buses in partnership with public transit agencies. Commuter Advertising provides advertisers a new media to deliver marketing messages to targeted consumers at relevant locations along transit routes. In return for access to bus and train audio systems, Commuter Advertising shares revenue with transit agencies, with the potential of relieving commuters of possible fare hikes and communities of possible tax increases. Commuter Advertising is the fastest growing transit advertising company in the Midwest and currently operates in: Champaign and Chicago, IL, Dayton and Toledo, OH, Kansas City, MO, Rockland County, NY and Seattle, WA. The company continues to expand to new transit markets nationwide.

Chris’ Water GardensChris Sturdyvin, Owner2717 County Rd., 1250 N.Homer, IL 61849-9760217.896.2225pondsdoneright@yahoo.comwww.chriswatergardens.comWater Gardens

“Creating Paradise... One Pond at a Time.” Central Illinois’ first certified aquascape contractor and the only certified rainwater harvesting professional servicing Champaign and Vermilion counties. Pro-fessional pond design, installation, and maintenance. Also leading retailer in the area for Aquascape prod-ucts, quality Koi fish, and aquatic plants.

Gorski Reifsteck Architects, Inc.Charles Reifsteck, President909 Arrow Dr.Champaign, IL 61821-5633217.351.4100chuckr@gr-arch.comwww.gr-arch.comArchitects

Gorski Reifsteck is a regional architecture firm based in Champaign, IL offering architecture, construc-tion management and interior design services. Their collaborative, hands-on approach and wide range of services has led to thousands of successful designs


RIBBON CUTTINGS

JUST FOR YOU BOUTIQUE COUNTY MARKETThe American Cancer Society held a grand opening for their

“Just for You Boutique” on September 30, 2011.County Market celebrated the remodel of their 312 W. Kirby

location in Champaign on September 8, 2011.

for banks, churches, universities, Greek housing, restaurants, and other commercial clients.

The Growth CoachNeal Clark, Owner/CEOP.O. Box 23Mansfield, IL 61854217.489.7025n.clark@thegrowthcoach.comwww.thegrowthcoach.com/nclarkBusiness Consultants

Through a proven process; personal care; and a guarantee; The Growth Coach helps owners and managers build better businesses and better personal lives through year-round coaching and account-ability. Their local office serves business clients in Champaign, Decatur, Bloomington and surround-ing areas. The Growth Coach helps clients achieve greater results in both their business and personal lives. This proven process has helped business own-ers, executives, managers and professionals for more than a decade.

Haynes ConstructionJeff Haynes, Owner

322 S. Rising Rd. Champaign, IL 61822217.607.0700

[email protected]

Haynes Construction is a locally based contracting company serving Champaign/Urbana and surround-ing communities. They do many different types of construction ranging from new home building, re-modeling, roofing, and general construction. Serving C-U needs for the past 20 years.

Illinois Knights Templar HomeKathy Swan450 E. Fulton St.Paxton, IL [email protected] Services

The Illinois Knights Templar Home, in Paxton, Illinois, is the only facility sponsored by the Knights Templar in the United States. Always mindful “to

bind up the wounds of the afflicted,” the Sir Knights provide this home for the care of elderly and conva-lescent members and their families.

Jones Cleaning ServiceLaDonna VonHoltenOne E. Main St., Ste. 200Champaign, IL 61821-1311217.353.6811jcs@jonescleaning.netwww.jonescleaning.netJanitor Service

With over 25 years of experience, Jones Cleaning Service is a quality, one-stop commercial and con-struction cleaning maintenance contractor serving the Champaign County area. Attracting and keeping clients is the core of your business. Providing a clean and comfortable environment is ours. Jones Cleaning Service works hard to meet and exceed all building service needs and expectations. With their experienced team, one receives guaranteed consis-tency and high quality work. Bring us all your nag-ging cleaning concerns and problems for immediate and professional attention. Jones Cleaning Service makes your business shine.

www.champaigncounty.org

ONE WEEK BOUTIQUE LONGHORN STEAKHOUSEHeld a grand opening for their weekend children’s

consignment boutique on September 15, 2011.Longhorn Steakhouse celebrated their grand opening with a

ribbon cutting ceremony on October 10, 2011.

URBANA ATHLETIC COMPLEX OLSEN & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTSThe Urbana Athletic Complex celebrated their grand open-

ing on September 9, 2011.Olsen & Associates Architects celebrated the remodel of their

606 E. Stoughton apartment complex on October 11, 2011.

SKINNI GIRL YOGURT SOCCER PLANETSkinni Girl Yogurt held a grand opening ceremony on

October 10, 2011.Soccer Planet hosted a grand opening celebration on

October 14, 2011.

ANITA’S PLACE HOME CONSIGNMENT SOCIAL BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUEAnita’s Place Home Consignment celebrated their grand

opening on October 4, 2011.Social Butterfly Boutique celebrated their grand opening

with a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 4, 2011.

Le PeepMichael Waller, Owner2209 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820-2001217.352.7599Restaurants

Le Peep puts a wholesome, proven perspective on your neighborhood breakfast and lunch. Fresh. Simple. Elegant. Inviting. A kaleidoscope of cooking creativity. Le Peep puts the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. They focus on enabling staff to provide each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. With a focus on food, they provide a plentiful array that keeps folks coming back.

Leaders for Life Martial ArtsTina Newberry, Owner410 E. Main St.Mahomet, IL 61853217.351.8531newberry.tina@gmail.comwww.newberrystkdusa.comMarial Arts Instruction

Leaders for Life Martial Arts is a family owned and operated academy that specializes in giving the whole family a place where they can grow individu-ally, while keeping family bonds strong. Clients cannot help but notice the family atmosphere, while still giving serious martial arts training. Master Instructors Tina and Jeff Newberry have been in business for over 25 years and have over 52 years of combined martial arts experience.

Littlefield Homes – Keller Williams RealtyRhonda Littlefield, Sales Associate821 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820-5269P: 217.841.1456F: 217.356.6116Real Estate

Littlefield Homes is Champaign-Urbana’s real estate information source. As agents living in Champaign, Rhonda and Steve Littlefield strive to provide the highest quality of service to all clients while making each transaction as profitable, professional and stress-free as possible.

One Week Boutique Children’s Consignment Donna Pepper, Owner111 W. Whitehall Ct.Urbana, IL 61801-6664217.344.6631donnapepper@cox.netwww.oneweekboutique.comConsignment Services

One Week Boutique is a bi-annual children’s con-signment sales event specializing in the highest qual-ity of gently worn children’s and maternity clothing, shoes, toys, books, games, baby equipment and baby and children’s furniture. This sale was founded to give residents of Central Illinois the opportunity to earn extra money by reselling their best quality out-grown children’s items, while providing a wide array of merchandise at an affordable price. Unsold items are donated to local charities at the end of each sale.

Railsplitter MediaChris and Anne Lukeman, OwnersP.O. Box 1071Champaign, IL 61824-1071


217.898.7158railsplittermedia@gmail.comwww.railsplittermedia.comVideo Production Services

Railsplitter Media is a full service video production company in Champaign. Railsplitter firmly believes that thoughtful video can highlight the strengths of a product, tell the story of a brand, and separate a business from the competition. From high concept commercials to simple demonstrations and quirky viral videos, Railsplitter Media strives to make video an easy and affordable option for businesses of every size.

Rainstorm Express Car WashDan Dougherty, Owner1209 N. Prospect Ave.Champaign, IL 61820-2532217-954-0438www.rainstormcarwash.comAutomobile Detailing

If new to Rainstorm Car Washes, there are a few things one must know: 1.) Rainstorm operates one of the most technologically advanced car washes in both Decatur and Champaign; 2.) they offer FREE VACUUMS; and 3.) they wash cars in a total of 3 minutes (compared to 7 minutes at the average car wash). No other automatic car wash cleans wheels like Rainstorm.

Skinni Girl YogurtAmanda Yates, Owner202 E. University Ave., Ste. EUrbana, IL 61801217.607.1345info@skinnigirlyogurt.comwww.skinnigirlyogurt.comIce Cream & Frozen Desserts – Retail

Skinni Girl Yogurt is a self service frozen yogurt shop with over 12 flavors and 30 toppings. All natural pro-biotic yogurt that is as good for your taste buds as it is for your digestive track. Pick up a cup, fill it up, weigh it, pay it and enjoy!

Soccer Planet Sports CenterKip McDaniel, Director of Operations2310 N. Willow Rd.Urbana, IL 61802217.367.9999info@soccerplanetcu.comwww.soccerplanet.comRecreation Centers

Soccer Planet’s mission is to provide an environment that offers participants of any age, or any skill level, the opportunity to further develop their interests in recreational activities, while placing a high value on sportsmanship, teamwork, and fun. From the friend-liness of their staff and instructors to the cleanliness of their facilities, Soccer Planet pledges to provide the best possible athletic experience. Whether a competitive youth soccer player or an adult rec-reational participant, this fully climate controlled facility will add more fun to anyone’s game.

Taylor’d Restorations IncSteve Taylor, President3307 Valerie Dr.Champaign, IL 61822217.372.6482steve@taylordrestorations.comwww.taylordrestorations.com

Fire & Water RestorationRemodeling Services

Taylor’d Restorations Inc. is a remodeling company that does all forms of interior and exterior , residen-tial and commercial remodeling. They also specialize in fire and water restoration. Steve Taylor founded the company in April 2011 and is working up a storm. His unique experience along with the experience and quality of his staff have set the bar of new quality standards that focus on customer satisfaction, clean-liness, customer communication and understanding. If one needs to remodel their home or business or is in need of restoration because of fire, water, or wind damage, call on Steve and his staff, they will be glad to help.

These Four WallsAmy Leinhart, Owner & Designer101 S. State St.Monticello, IL [email protected] www.these4walls.netInterior DesignersFurniture Dealers-RetailDraperies & Curtains-Retail & Custom MadeBlinds-Venetian, Vertical, etc.-Dealers

These Four Walls is a full-service interior design firm and furniture store serving East Central Illinois. They are your complete resource for all things home. These Four Walls hosts a spectacular showroom located on the historic square in downtown Monticello. There, customers can find beautiful upholstery, quality case goods, unique accessories, designer fabrics, rugs and much more. Besides offering a huge array of merchandise in store, they provide a wide variety of other services such as custom decorating, design assistance with new construction and remodeling, floor plan design and arrangement, custom window

treatments, blinds and shades.

The UP Center of Champaign CountyKevin Bowersox-Johnson, President202 S. Broadway Ave., Ste. 102Urbana, IL [email protected] Service Organization

The UP (Uniting Pride) Center of Champaign Coun-ty is a multi-service agency, for youth and adults, to support and promote human care, education, and community-building activities directed at furthering the well-being and development of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and ally com-munity of Champaign County. The UP Center also hosts a very informative website, www.unitingpride.org, which offers local businesses the opportunity to sponsor programs and events, support their cause, and become eligible to join “Pink Pages”- a service that informs Champaign County residents of local LGBT-friendly businesses.

Wireless ExpressEric Miller2000 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820-7808217.355.9150www.sprint.comCellular telephone Equipment & Supplies

Wireless Express is a preferred Sprint retailer, founded in 2005 and owns and operates over 50 retail locations throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States. They are one of the largest preferred retail partners of Sprint and are one of the fastest growing retailers in the U.S.

GREAT BUSINESS TIPS ARE JUST A MOUSE CLICK AWAY! As a member of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, your business now has access to an incredible library of business tips and articles organized on one website. Get pertinent business informa-tion when you want, where you want it and when you need it. The Chamber has partnered with BIGG Success, a leader in business education, to optimize your business success with this great re-source. The best part is that this service is a complimentary resource provided to you for being a Chamber member. Visit chamber.biggsuccess.com/chamberpro-register to register. Once there, enter chamber code: champaign2720 to receive free registration.

Whether interviewing for a higher-up position at your com-pany or starting a new career altogether, it is important to

understand the ins and outs of the job hunt. The unemployment rate currently at ten percent in Champaign County (5.6 percent higher than it was in 2007), jobs are harder than ever to come by.

“Jobs are harder to find when unemployment is high; hiring man-agers have more to choose from” Cindy Guthrie, human resources consultant with Three Degrees of Change, said.

“Job hunting is not a science; it is an art,” she continued.

Human resources experts across Champaign County agree. There is a fine-toothed strategy to the modern job hunt. Understand-ing the unspoken demands of the application process can greatly increase one’s chances of landing a position.

(continued)

August + September 2011/ Commerce Connection/ 15

PREPARING FOR THE

CLIMBTIPS FOR JOB SEEKING IN A DISTRESSED ECONOMY

Written by Nikolle Keeney, Marketing & Publications Manager, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

STRATEGIZE YOUR HUNT

Research indicates that only 10 percent of jobs are filled from inter-net searches, 90 percent are filled elsewhere.

“Be sure to check out non-tradi-tional avenues,” Diane Ruedi, vice president of human resources and strategic planning at F.E. Moran Alarm & Monitoring Services, Inc., said.

“Such avenues include asking friends, family, neighbors and church acquaintances if they know of job openings. Alumni associa-tions, professional organizations, social network boards or even inquiring at companies where you are interested in becoming an employee. Many times, jobs do not make it to the newspaper or pro-fessional journals due to the fact that promotional opportunities are

filled first internally,” Ruedi said.

She continued, “If you have an op-portunity to interview for a posi-tion, always take advantage of that opportunity, even if it’s not your “ideal” job- you never know where the interview may lead.”

LOOK GOOD ON PAPER

On average, a recruiter looks at a resume for 11 seconds.

That said, it is important a resume make a good and lasting impres-sion. Employers rank candidates largely based on the paperwork that is submitted. They interview candidates that stand out.

“Job seekers should be sure to read the job description or post-ing closely to ensure they meet the qualifications for the position,” Tammy Hoggatt, human resources manager for the Champaign Park District, said.

An applicant’s resume should re-flect how their skills and strengths match the company’s needs.

“If you don’t get an interview, then it is because you didn’t do a good job of showing how you meet the company’s needs,” Joe Streit, pro-gram manager at Parkland College Business Training, said.

Streit also stressed that “spell check is not enough”.

“Too many people rely on spell check and don’t actually go back and read their resume and cover letter for comprehension and meaning,” he said. “Have a trusted friend look over your work; then, have someone else look it over. I guarantee you will receive sug-

gestions on how to improve your presentation. There’s no excuse for having errors on something that you had time to prepare beforehand, employers will hold it against you.”

GOOGLE YOURSELF

According to the Society for Hu-man Resource Management re-search, 56 percent of employers surveyed currently use social media for candidate sourcing. This num-ber is expected to increase.

Of those using social media, 95 per-cent utilized LinkedIn, followed by Facebook at 58 percent and Twit-ter at 42 percent.

“Today, social media is a game changer in the recruiting industry as well as for the job hunter,” Amy Dillman, president-elect of the Central Illinois Human Resources Group, said.

“If you’re in the job market, polish your resume but don’t overlook your social media presence. Clean up your Facebook, complete your LinkedIn profile and contribute to some LinkedIn groups, start tweet-ing relevant and thoughtful prose (in 160 characters or less),” Dillman continued.

ROCK THE INTERVIEW

“Research the company, inter-viewer and position as much as possible,” Lorianne Bauer, branch manager of Paramount Staffing, said.

“Google, Facebook and Linked In are great resources if you don’t have any business or personal con-tacts,” she continued.

CREATING A RESUME

Advice from Cindy Guthrie, human resources consultant with Three Degrees of Change.

CONTENTShould include:• Name, address, telephone, email • Career summary• Professional experience• Full-time, part-time and summer jobs; internships; volunteer work; student teaching, practicum, field work experience; study and work abroad• Skills: computer, foreign language, technical or laboratory• Education• Professional memberships, community organizations and civic activies• References

FORMATOne to two pages (curriculum vitae will be many more)Free of typographical errorsAttractive, easy to readReadable font, same font throughout1” to 1.25” marginsAccurate, truthful and without “fluff”Should include employer, location, position and dates of employment

When preparing for the interview, wear appropriate cloth-ing for the type of position and company you are inter-viewing for.

“No wrinkles, shoes shined or in great shape, no loud pat-terns, no distracting or excessive jewelry or heavy make up. Do not wear clothes that are too tight, short or revealing; no hats; hair should be well groomed,” Bauer said.

She also marked, “Arrive early (plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early in case of traffic issue but don’t go in until five to 10 minutes before the interview) and be courteous to everyone from the guard to the receptionist to the inter-viewer-- assume they will report anything less than courte-ous to the hiring manager.”

Before the interview, a candidate should ask themselves the question, “Why would I hire me?” and have the answer their potential employer would want to hear.

Guthrie agreed.

“Looking for a job is an investment in you; the employer is making a decision and so are you as the job seeker,” she said.

During the interview, be prepared to take notes and ask questions related to how you will fit in to the company’s culture.

“Demonstrate confidence and look the interviewer in the eye,” Kevin Quinlan, human resources manager at Ad-vanced Filtration Systems Inc., said.

“Pause before answering a question if you need the time to collect your thoughts,” he said. “Answer interview ques-tions as clearly and concisely as possible and don’t tap dance around the central focus of the question.”

Quinlan also advised that if you are currently employed, be ready to present several credible reasons that explain why you want to leave your current position.

“Show the employer that you will make a difference if of-fered the position,” he said.

After the interview, send a thank you letter as soon as pos-sible.

(continued. on pg. 15)

HIRED!

business

SUCCESSseminars

Business Success Seminars are designed specifically for Chamber members who are seeking quality, practical and affordable education on how to manage and grow their companies. Mark the sessions you wish to attend and return your completed registration form today.

DISASTER CRISISP L A N N I N G

Name(s) ___________________________________________________________________________

Business __________________________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________

City ___________________________________________________Zip ________________________

Phone _____________________________________ Fax ___________________________________

Signature __________________________________________________________________________

Check Enclosed Bill Me American Express MasterCard Visa Acct. ______________________ Exp. Date __________________ 3-digit security code __________

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Return to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave. • Champaign, IL 61820 • P 217.531.4669 • F 217.531.4679

Putting a “Disaster Plan” together - presented by the Urbana Fire Department - Tuesday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m.

Weather Emergencies, Hazardous Spills and Counterterrorism - presented by the Champaign County Emergency Management Agency- Tuesday, November 8, 8:30 a.m.

Data Protection and Recovery - presented by Simplified Computers - Tuesday, Nov. 15, 8:30 a.m.

Violence in the Workplace - presented by the Urbana Police Department - Tuesday, Nov. 29, 8:30 a.m.

Chamber member rate: $32 per session/ $109 for the series

Non-member rate: $45 per session

All sessions will be held at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign. Refunds will not be given for cancellations, although substitutions of individuals can be made.

The November 2011 series will focus on:

When disaster strikes-- will your business be ready? In the Chamber’s Disaster Planning

Series, learn how to successfully bounce back from a disaster. Planning ahead can save your

business time, money and lives.

Don’t let disaster happen to your business!

(...contiued from page 13)

STAY TRUE

Most importantly, stay true to who you are throughout the process, Dillman said.

“Be authentic. We’ll all take any job in certain situ-ations and in rough financial times, but not much is as professionally debilitating than a job where you just don’t fit.”

“Take stock in yourself and your goals,” Dillman said.

Make sure the job you are applying for is a match to:1.) The kind of job you want;2.) The kind of work you want to do;3.) The culture you want to work in; and 4.) The salary you require.

Dillman recommends writing down the answers to these questions before even beginning the job process. The answers can be used as a blueprint for writing your resume and a great source for inter-viewing.


Illinois contractors, developers, and public bodies can expect new changes to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act (IPWA) beginning January 1, 2012.

HB3237, signed into law as Public Act 097-0571, makes specific changes to its record keeping requirements. Sec-tion 5 of the IPWA will require employers to file its certi-fied transcript of payroll no later than the tenth day of each calendar month for the work performed on the pre-vailing wage project in the immediate preceding month. Such certification must come from an officer, employee or agent of the employer who must state under penalty of perjury that he or she has examined the certified payroll records. Any misstatement made will now be classified as a Class A criminal misdemeanor. Additionally, willfully fail-ing to file certified payroll or filing a false report as to any material fact, is in violation of the Act and guilty of a Class A criminal misdemeanor.

The changes also require records be made available for inspection and copying by the public body in charge of the project, the Illinois Department of Labor, and any local, state or federal enforcement agencies and prosecu-

tors upon seven (7) business days notice. Section 6 of the act now states that any employer, officer, employee, or agent whose duty is to create any record but willfully fails to create such information is guilty of a Class A criminal misdemeanor.

Finally, under Section 11a of the Act, any employer, and agent thereof, who is convicted or found guilty under Section 5 or 6 of the law, is subject to automatic debar-ment and prohibited from public works projects for four years with no right to any administrative or legal hearing.

The changes to the IPWA have further regulated an in-dustry already burdened with heavy regulation. Employ-ers managing prevailing wage compliance must be very familiar with record keeping requirements to avoid these new high stake penalties.

If questions or concerns about local public policy, contact Paul Orama, Public Policy Manager for the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, [email protected].

PUBLIC POLICY NEWS

PREVAILING WAGE ACT

UPCOMING:

NOVEMBER 17 ~ FLIGHTSTAR

DECEMBER 15 ~ REFINERY

JANUARY 17 ~ CHITTICK FAMILY EYE CARE

STAY CURRENT. WWW.CHAMPAIGNCOUNTY.ORG

firstfridaycoffee

Nov. 4 - CU Regional Rehab Center

Dec. 2 - FREESTAR Bank (S. Prospect location) & the

Champaign Park District

A Champaign County Chamber of Commerce networking event.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF AMERICA will be celebrating 12 years of mentoring in Champaign County. Join them for a “Chocolate Extravaganza” on Friday, Nov. 4 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. A variety of area restaurants will provide chocolate, hors d’oeuvres and entree samples. Cocktails, jazz music and a silent auc-tion will also be part of the event. For more information, visit bbbscil.org.

JOHN BAMBENEK OF BAMBENEK CONSULTING was selected by the Illinois Bar Association to present on digital forensics, electronic crime and international orga-nized crime on Nov 18.

BPC, INC won “Employer of the Year” from the Employer’s Association of Illinois. In addition, 23 employees passed industry certifications in 2011.

CLARK-LINDSEY VILLAGE underwent a large remodel and introduced their “Renewal Therapy Center” which offers private rooms for patients recovering from planned surgery or unplanned illness. The new center offers a new physical therapy gym, an occupational therapy suite and new speech therapy expertise. Over the summer, Clark-Lindsey developed a “Therapy Nature Walk” that allows therapists to work with patients in a natural setting, re-gaining gardening skills, walking on uneven surfaces and other therapy techniques.

CLIFFORD-JACOBS FORGING COMPANY added a second shift of production. Experiencing growth, they have not needed a second shift for 30 years.

DICK VAN DYKE APPLIANCE WORLD was ranked as one of the Top 100 Appliance Dealers in the US, based on a survey conducted by The Stevenson Company for TWICE (This Week in Consumer Electronics) Magazine. The survey further showed that Appliance World was the fastest growing appliance dealer in the US from 2009 to 2010 and had the largest growth (33.3 percent) compared to other appliance stores.

THE ILLINOIS GREEN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION became an ENERGY STAR Program Partner and is starting a faucet aerator program for hotels in Central Illinois to conserve water. LINCOLN’S CHALLENGE ACADEMY recently received 38.1 million for a new facility in Rantoul. In the last 12

months, 632 cadets graduated from the academy, 441 earned their GED. Cadets performed 38,410 hours of community service throughout the state and Champaign County.

MEYER CAPEL law firm recently added James Noonan as an associate attorney in their litigation practice. With the addition of Mr. Noonan, Meyer Capel has 30 attorneys practicing in most major areas of law.

MICHELLE’S BRIDAL is in the process of adding on a 5000 square foot addition to their existing store. They will be expanding their prom/special occasion store, tuxedo department as well as opening a mother of the bride/groom boutique. In phase four of the expansion they will add two additional bridal rooms.

THE NEWS-GAZETTE celebrated their 160th year this year. In competition with the largest publications in the state and nation, their magazines and newspapers were

MEMBERSHIP NEWSOctober + November 2011/ Commerce Connection/ 17

Congratulations TO ANNE JOHNSTON OF

CAMPUS FLORISTJohnston celebrated 70 years of business

at Campus Florist in September. Johnston, who opened the shop in 1941 (at age 13),

still puts in seven hours a day.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN YOUR BUSINESS? Are you renovating your space or revamping your services? Have you won any recent awards? 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 Connection! Send an email with your news to Nikolle Keeney, [email protected].

Disclaimer: The Chamber reserves the right to reject any editorial item(s) deemed “advertising” by the editorial staff.

awarded dozens of awards for both news and sports cov-erage, plus the Arbitron ratings once again showed that the NewsTalk 1400 Morning Show is the most listened to in the area. The News Gazette also launched a new com-munity newspaper, the LeRoy Farmer City Press and put a new station on air, U-ROCK 107.9 FM.

NO TEACHER LEFT BEHIND, a

locally owned business formed last year, doubled their sales in 2011.

THE PILATES CENTER LLC will be changing their name to the Dulak Pilates Center this fall after they complete their massive remodel. The new space will include a new ADA restroom, new men and women’s changing rooms as well as a kitchen. They will hold a grand re-opening celebration in October.

ROBERTS DESIGN COMPANY won a gold Davey Award for excellence in logo design.

SPHERION held their 30th anniversary in July and was named one of the top 100 Women Owned Businesses in Illinois. In addition, they saw a 10 percent growth in busi-ness this year.

STANTON STABLES is forming a new business centered around therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs. Co-owner Matt Stanton recently completed his training and is now a registered instructor with PATH International (Professional Assocation of Therapeutic Horsemen). Much of his training was with Veterans from five VA facilities; Stanton Stables plans to offer a “Horses

for Heroes” program at their facility in Urbana.TERMINIX SERVICES, INC. (CHAMPAIGN BRANCH) increased it’s workforce by 20 percent by adding an office manager, an additional technician, and a bedbug detec-tion dog: Bruno. Bruno underwent hundreds of hours of training to reach a 98 percent bedbug detection accuracy rate and has been certified by the Falco K-9 Academy. Terminix has also enhanced the construction side of its

business this year, focusing on crawlspace encapsulation and basement de-watering.

WILLIS COMPUTING SPECIALISTS, INC. celebrated 15 years of service this year. They recently hired two new employees: James N. Reiter, IT Specialist, and Debora J. Newsome, Marketing Manager.

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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.

Visit champaigncounty.org to receive your copy of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce’s FY2011 Annual Report.

calendar of events

BUSINESS SUCCESS SEMINAR SERIES: DISASTER AND CRISIS PLANNINGSESSION 1: PUTTING A DISASTER PLAN TOGETHERTuesday, November 1, 8:30 a.m.SESSION 2: WEATHER EMERGENCIESTuesday, November 8, 8:30 a.m.SESSION 3: DATA PROTECTION AND RECOVERYTuesday, November 15, 8:30 a.m.SESSION 4: VIOLENCE IN THE WORK PLACETuesday, November 29, 8:30 a.m.All sessions will take place at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820(See pg. 14 for more details and RSVP information)

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEEHosted by the Champaign Urbana Regional Rehab CenterFriday, November 4, 7:30 to 9 a.m.Champaign Urbana Regional Rehab Center302 Burwash Ave.Savoy, IL 61874

EXCHANGE AND REFERRAL NETWORK (EaRN)A speed networking program. Registration opens Wednesday, November 16, 7:30 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

BUSINESS AFTER HOURSHosted by the Flightstar CorporationThursday, November 17, 5 to 7 p.m.Flightstar Corporation7 Airport Rd. Savoy, IL 61874

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEEHosted by FREESTAR Bank (S. Prospect location) and the Champaign Park DistrictFriday, December 2, 7:30 to 9 a.m.FREESTAR Bank1611 S. Prospect Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

BUSINESS AFTER HOURSHosted by the RefineryThursday, December 15, 5 to 7 p.m.Refinery2302 W. John St. Champaign, IL 61821

See a full list of events at champaigncounty.org.

September 2011 Flash Economic Index for Champaign County

98.8

$ Percentage of Community Welcome Service Boxes sent last month to residents earning more than $60,000

59%

Individuals departing from Willard Airport in September 2011

7,170

Individuals flying into Willard Airport in September 2011

7Number of visitors to www.champaigncoun-ty.org in August 2011

5,642

20Champaign County business licenses ap-plied for in September 2011

Unemployment rate for Champaign County in October 2011

6,550

10%


IT’S TOUGH TO STAY FOCUSED...

WHEN YOUR CONFERENCE ROOM FEELS LIKE THE FROZEN TUNDRA.

Commerce Connection - Oct./Nov. 2011

Documents

Transcript of Commerce Connection - Oct./Nov. 2011