Commerce Connection - Winter 2013

C O M M E R C ECONNECTION

A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WINTER 2013 Volume 20 | Number 1

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Presorted StandardUS Postage

PAIDPermit No. 29Champaign, IL

Spotlight on

SHATTERGLASS STUDIOS,

2012 Small Business of the Year, p.15

Register for the

2013 ATHENALUNCHEON, p. 20

Be an ACE - New Leadership Program, p. 18

Photo Gallery: 2012 Annual Meeting,

p. 5

VIEWPOINTS

For your business, what would you say were your biggest accomplishments in 2012?

“This year we celebrated 35 years in business! We are still going strong despite the economy. Our primary goal is to provide excellent customer service!”- Awards, Ltd.

“In 2012 we got picked up by a radio syndicator. Our entrepreneurial message will be broadcast to listeners nationwide.”- BIGG Success

“Last year we filled our assisted living facility 100 percent and we relaunched our Alzheimer’s community.”-Bridle Brook

“In 2012 we built a grill for President Obama to give to the British Prime Minister. We were also honored by making the official grill Bobby Flay uses on his Food Network show, ‘Bobby Flay’s BBQ Addiction’.”- Engelbrecht Grills

“In 2012 we tripled clients, added group classes, expanded our service area and started networking with vetrinarians.”- Happy Pawz Balancing TTouch

“We opened our business in May 2012 and hope to have much success in Champaign County. “

- LaVida Massage

“In 2012 we broke ground on a new facility to open in March 2013. We were also recognized by Inc. Magazine as the ‘44th fastest growing financial service company’.”- Midland States Bank

“January 2012 marked 30 years providing the Highest Quality Kitchens/Baths/Room Additions/General Residential & Commercial Remodeling to Champaign County. Despite economic hardtimes in our industry, we refuse to cut corners to compete. Instead we will continue to give our clients the highest quality for the best price. Huge thanks to all our clients!”-New Creations Contracting

“Last year we saw a 40 percent increase through the spring and summer. mostly driven by low interest rates and low housing prices.”- Taylor Realty

“In 2012 we processed over 74,000 pounds of grapes, released four new wines, entered the wedding venue business and opened a vacation rental.”- Sleepy Creek Vineyards

What do you wish for your business in the new year?“To be successful; To improve the lives of everyone we work with and for. If we have success, it is thanks to our employees and our customers. Being successful also allows for the ability to give charitably throughout the communities we serve, while being able to keep money that is received locally, spent locally.”- Paul Simpson, branch manager, Terminix

“To grow the business by 20%, add staff and physical space.”- Rod Roberts, president, Rod Roberts Design, Inc.

“1.) No late spring frost and the right amount of rain; 2.) At least two wedding bookings a month for May through September; 3.) A 30 percent increase in vacation rental bookings; 4.) Finding a couple of passionate customer service people with flexible schedules.”- Dawn Taylor, co-owner, Sleepy Creek Vineyards

“Expand seating to accomodate customers unable to smoke elsewhere.”- Pat Callaghan, general manager, Jon’s Pipe Shop

“Reopen Detox Unit and and influx of money.”- Tom DeQuimpal, H.R. Specialist, Prairie Center

champaigncounty.org/ 3

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 STAFFLaura Weis

President & [email protected]

Karly CombestEvent & Programs Manager

[email protected]

Nikolle KeeneyMarketing & PR Manager

[email protected]

Michelle LunaMembership & Advertising Services

[email protected]

Lynette LykinsDirector of First Impressions

[email protected]

Ryan RothPublic Policy Manager

[email protected]

Christopher SheppardMembership Development Director

[email protected]

Norma WesleyAdministrative Support & Reservationist

[email protected]

FINANCIAL SERVICESProvided by CliftonLarsonAllen

303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

www.champaigncounty.org217.359.1791

TOP INVESTORSGold

BuseyCarlePresence Health

Silver

BPC, Inc.University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Bronze

A&R Mechanical ContractorsAmdocsBankChampaign, N.A.Christie ClinicFirst BankFirst Mid-Illinois BankThe Hilton ComplexKraft Foods, Inc.Supervalu 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

SJ Broadcasting

ChamBer CirCle

WICD ABC NewsChannel 15

Fox 27 Illinois/ WCCU TV

BuSineSS CirCle

Adams Outdoor Advertising

150 PERCENT CLUBCooper Asset Management

FY13 TOP INVESTORS

Tabatha HelmChair, Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc.

Michael WozniakFirst Vice Chair, Livingston, Barger, Brant & Schroeder

Bill WalterSecond Vice Chair, A&R Mechanical Contractors

Beth AutermanTreasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen

Diane RuediPast Chair, F.E. Moran Alarm & Monitoring

Laura WeisSecretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Joe Alexander

Mark BallardBankChampaign, N.A.

Mike BillimackCarle

Mike BrownProvena Covenant Medical Center

Mike DeLorenzoUniversity of Illinois

Stephen FlynnCandlewood Suites

Perry GreenStone Creek Golf Club

Cindy GuthrieYG Financial

Kurt LenschowState Farm

Dale MorrisseyDevelopmental Services Center

Dennis RiggsFIX-IT, Sidney Dairy Barn

Rod RobertsRoberts Design Company, Inc.

Chris ShroyerBusey

BOARD OFFICERS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Attending the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce’s 2012 Annual Meeting could be described as stepping into

social media come to life. The meeting’s theme was apparent everywhere from Twitter birds on water glasses to large posters hung around the room broadcasting companies’ “Facebook statuses”. The event, held on October 26 at the Hilton Garden Inn was sponsored by BPC, Inc., Midland States Bank and McGladrey.

Shatterglass Studios, an award-winning new media development and film and video production company, took home the coveted Small Business of the Year Award. In the last three years, owners Luke Boyce and Brett Hays say their business has really taken off, shooting projects for such prestigious clients as Ebertfest, The University of Illinois and TEDx UIUC. In their acceptance speech, the duo gave much credit for their success to their wives.

This year’s meeting also saw the induction of two new awards. Habeeb Habeeb was honored with the first ever Chamber Champion Award for going the extra mile to help the Chamber. Habeeb also nominated Boyce and Hays for the small business award.

Another new award was presented to Kay Machula for her enthusiasm and dedication to Chamber service for over two decades. When presenting the award, she was stated as being “in a league of her own” and as “the obvious candidate” for the award. The new award was even given her namesake and entitled The Kay Machula Chamber Ambassador Award.

The meeting was momentarily given a musical touch when the Chamber presented their 2012 video inspired by several YouTube renditions of the song “Call Me Maybe”. Many area employees were featured in the video, dancing and lip-syncing to the lyrics. See the video on our website, champaigncounty.org.

Meeting attendees were entertained by keynote speaker Rex Havens, a nationally-known comedian who as opened for the likes of Jerry Seinfeld and attended the University of Illinois.

Written by Allison Copenbarger Vance, Editorial Assistant for the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.

2012 Annual Meeting

Thanks to:

1.) Shatterglass Studio founders Luke Boyce and Brett Hays give a speech after receiving the 2012 Small Business of the Year award.2.) Representatives from Midland States Bank were in attendance at the event, Midland was an event sponsor.3.) FY13 Board Chair Tabatha Helm of Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc. presents Habeeb Habeeb of BPC, Inc. with the first ever Chamber Champion Award. BPC, Inc. was the title sponsor of the annual meeting.4.) FY13 Board Chair Tabatha Helm of Advanced Filtration Systems, Inc. poses with Kay Machula just after she was presented with an award honoring her namesake, the Kay Machula Chamber Ambassador Award.5.) FY12 Board Chair Diane Ruedi and Chamber President and CE0 Laura Weis honored Habeeb Habeeb (BPC, Inc.), Nick Taylor (Taylor Realty) and Oktay Baran (Baran Marketing) for their service on the Chamber board. Not pictured: outgoing board members Jeff Ingrum (Health Alliance) and Marty Verdick (McGladrey).6.) Representatives from BankChampaign, N.A. in attendance at the Annual Meeting.

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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER>> members who joined between september and november 2012

6 Dimensions Wellness Coaching & Personal TrainingMelanie Pridemore2512 Covington Dr.Champaign, IL 61822217.607.2425info@6dimensionswellness.comwww.6dimensionswellness.comHealth & Fitness Program Consultants

Created in 2011 by Melanie Pridemore, 6 Dimensions is a professional health and wellness service dedicated to supporting those who wish to engage in health related behavior change. Specializing in weight management, fitness improvement, and lifestyle coaching; 6 Dimensions offers phone based wellness coaching, group and individual personal training, group and individual fitness coaching, and fitness assessment and exercise program design services. Melanie has 12 years of experience in the health, medical, wellness, and fitness industries. She served as a Combat Medical & Healthcare Specialist for the Army National Guard, has experience working as an Emergency Medical Technician, and created various wellness programs during her employment with the University of Illinois. She is currently a Certified Wellness Coach, Certified Fitness Coach, and a Certified Personal Trainer.

Abbott’s Florist, Inc.Lisa Duitsman1119 W. Windsor Rd.Champaign, IL 61821217.352.9616orders@abbotts.comwww.abbotts.comFlorists-Retail

Abbott’s Florist is committed to quality and service. Their 100 percent Satisfaction Guarantee is a personal commitment to creating long term relationships with their customers. The client’s satisfaction is their number one priority, because they care. They use the freshest, highest quality flowers and the shop has a professional and caring staff to serve all floral needs. They promise their gifts will arrive beautifully presented and personalized with a message.

Aflac - Nathan ThompsonNathan Thompson2418 Field South Dr., #207Champaign, IL 61822

[email protected] – SupplementalInsurance Consultants

As an independent agent representing Aflac, American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus, Nathan can offer business owners and individuals numerous solutions and services for their insurance needs. Supplemental solutions offered by AFLAC not only protect families, but can offer numerous tax savings for individuals and businesses. For businesses, not only can Aflac offer employees increased benefits to help attract and retain employees, Aflac can offer employees voluntary insurance options without increasing the cost of benefits.

AZ

Allerton Park & Recreation CenterMatthew Smith515 Old Timber Rd.Monticello, IL 61856-8279217.333.3287

[email protected] www.allerton.illinois.eduConvention Services & Facilities

Named one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois

by the Illinois Bureau of Tourism, Allerton Park and Retreat Center is located 25 minutes outside of Champaign-Urbana. It is the premier destination for special events, conferences and retreats in central Illinois. They offer 39 well-appointed guest rooms as well as gourmet catering options all situated on a 1500 acre estate that includes a century old Georgian Style mansion, extensive formal gardens and 15 miles of hiking trails.

Buca di BeppoTeresa Brown2000 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.378.8731tbrown@bucainc.comwww.bucadibeppo.comRestaurants – Italian

Buca di Beppo is an authentic Italian restaurant that offers fresh and flavorful dining in an eclectic, vintage setting. Whether celebrating a special occasion, planning a business dinner or having a night out with family and friends, they provide enjoyable Italian traditions of food, friendship and hospitality. In the spirit of Italian culture, Buca’s dishes are served family-style, meant to be shared by everyone at the table. Buca di Beppo gets to the heart of fresh Italian cooking with classics like lasagna, fettuccine alfredo or spaghetti with their famous half-pound meatballs! At Buca, groups of all sizes enjoy a variety of menus that satisfy everyone’s palate and budget.

SMITH DESIGN & CONSIGN

Smith Design & Consign, a boutique furniture consignment store, held their grand opening on November 1.

SUNSET FUNERAL HOME

Family-owned Sunset Funeral Home, located in downtown Champaign, celebrated their grand opening on October 25.

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.

[email protected]

Casey’s General Store - Urbana2108 E. University Ave.Urbana, IL 61802-2810217.328.0505www.caseys.comConvenience Stores

Champaign Urbana Dialysis CenterSuzette Astell1405 W. Park St. #100Urbana, IL [email protected] Services

Chittick Family Eye Care – Villa Grove10 W. Adams Ave.Villa Grove, IL 61956217.832.2111www.chittickeyecare.comOptometrists

With over 100 years of combined optometry experience, the doctors & staff at Chittick Family Eye Care strive to provide patients with excellence in vision and eye health care.They guarantee their constant commitment to the visual wellness of their patients by extending thorough diagnostic and therapeutic eye care, by emphasizing personalized service, and by never compromising materials, value or professionalism.

Climate Guard Construction

Rick Little1424 E. County Rd. 640 N.Tuscola, IL [email protected] – General

Climate Guard Construction is a family-owned business established in 1992. They serve customers in the commercial, industrial, agricultural and residential arenas. Their construction services range from insulation, roofing, siding, windows, kitchen remodels and more. One of their specialties is sprayed polyurethane foam roofing. Foam roof systems are a superior insulator, drastically improving the energy efficiency of a building or home. The foam roof will result in an annual savings of 30 percent or more on energy utilities. In addition, the foam roof system meets strict energy efficiency guidelines as established by the EPA and US Department of Energy.

Cobalt Digital, Inc.Becky Moore2506 Galen Dr., Second FloorChampaign, IL 61821217.344.1243info@cobaltdigital.comwww.cobaltdigital.comElectronics Research & Development

Cobalt Digital is a leading developer of solutions for the television broadcast and IPTV markets. They are a group of engineers that work together closely at all stages of product development. They develop and

manufacture the entire range of broadcast solutions from chassis and power supplies, to custom electronics, to server based software products. Cobalt Digital, Inc. is a privately held company founded in 1997. Cobalt has been a provider to The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, Fox Speed Channel, WLS Chicago, ESPN, The Oprah Winfrey Show, Big Ten Network, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and numerous television productions including the Super Bowl and both summer and winter Olympic games. Their rapidly growing engineering team has a brand new, high-tech office space on Galen Drive in Champaign.

CompuType IT SolutionsTerri Dambacher4401 N. Belt WestBelleville, IL [email protected]

Since 1988, CompuType has been a Metro East leader in providing comprehensive technology solutions from home users to large businesses. No job is too small or too large for CompuType. They have a talented staff with over 300 years of combined technical experience.

Champaign Do It Best HardwareGeorge Edwards107 W. Springfield Ave.Champaign, IL [email protected]

CHITTICK FAMILY EYE CARE - VILLA GROVE

Chittick Family Eye Care celebrated the grand opening of their new location in Villa Grove on November 8.

THE WARRANTY GROUP

The Warranty Group celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on November 14.


Hardware – Retail

Crawford ChiropracticBrian Crawford2101 Windsor Pl.Champaign, IL 61820217.398.2225doccrawford.brian@gmail.comwww.doccrawford.comChiropractic PhysiciansWeight Control Services

CV LloydeStephen Morris102 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL [email protected] Instruments – Dealers

Enterprise Rent-A-CarLindsey Henry1804 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.351.1400lindsey.m.henry@erac.comwww.enterprise.comAutomobile Rental

Farmers Insurance Group – Nate SparrowNate Sparrow2925 S. Meadowbrook Rd., Ste. ESpringfield, IL [email protected]

FlipSwitch Consulting GroupDan Peterson124 W. State St.Paxton, IL 60957217.274.4892danpete@flipswitchconsulting.comwww.flipswitchconsulting.com

FlipSwitch Consulting Group is a “one stop shop” for small business. They work solely with small businesses to help them revolutionize their old forms of marketing and rethink their growth strategy. Their services include custom web design, mobile marketing, social media marketing, sales training, LegalShield products and services and much more. They always provide free consultations first, to allow the business to determine if FlipSwitch is right for them.

Heating and Air Conditioning SpecialistsBrad Houchens202 N. Main St.P. O. Box 530St. Joseph, IL 61873-0530217.469.2900brad@heatacspecialists.comwww.heatacspecialists.comHeating Contractors

Heating and Air Conditioning Specialists’ honest, dependable, and experienced technicians will provide excellent customer service and trustworthy advice. Their office personnel are fully trained in customer service and building trustworthy

relationships. As a family, the Houchens have been in the heating and air conditioning business for over 25 years. Their technicians are NATE-certified, which is the most prestigious technical certification in the industry. They keep their technical skills honed with ongoing training through Trane, and other local and web-based training seminars.

M. Josephine’s Interior ConsultingMary Josephine Murphy925 S. WashingtonTuscola, IL [email protected] Consultants

Owner Mary Murphy has been helping people have fun with decorating for over 15 years. Her lively, direct (yet tactful) approach gets people to open up and get to the bottom of their design dilemmas. M. Josephine’s provide numerous services to homeowners or businesses with paint color selecting, space planning, furniture arranging, and personal shopping for anything “home”.

Movement Arts of Champaign/UrbanaAbigail Chen306 N. James St.Champaign, IL 61821217.274.8382abigail@kidsmovementarts.comwww.kidsmovementarts.comMartial Arts Instruction

SHEAR IMPRESSIONS

Shear Impressions, located in Urbana, celebrated their grand opening on November 2.

PIZZA HUT - SAVOY

Pizza Hut held a grand opening ceremony on November 15 to celebrate their new Savoy location.

Movement Arts of Champaign/Urbana is a unique in-school arts program that offers quality training, a convenient setting and a fun, positive atmosphere. Their concept and curricula were developed to provide families with a convenient, affordable way for their children to enjoy and study various movement arts in a positive, fun atmosphere that cultivates respect, discipline, and self-esteem. Offering dance and martial arts classes in after-school programs (or even during regular school hours) allows students to participate in these activities while their parents are working, rather than adding one more thing to their families’ overly full evenings. Movement Arts holds classes at the McKinley Fitness Center as well as multiple schools and facilities in the local area.

Pizza Hut Bradley Patton1317 Savoy PlazaSavoy, IL 61874217.352.2587www.pizzahut.com

Pizza Hut, America’s Favorite Pizza, delivers more pizza, pasta and wings than any other restaurant. The only pizza company to be named a top ten franchise in 2012 by Entrepreneur Magazine, Pizza Hut began 50 years ago in Wichita, Kansas, and today operates nearly 10,000 restaurants in more than 90 countries. Pizza Hut, Inc. is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. To check out what’s new at Pizza Hut visit PizzaHut.com or join five million other fans who have liked

Pizza Hut on Facebook. Practical Technology ServicesBrad Ashmore1717 W. Kirby Ave., #376Champaign, IL 61821888.624.8857info@practicaltechnologyservices.comwww.practicaltechnologyservices.comComputers – Software & Services

Practical Technology Services, LLC provides comprehensive technology solutions to small business clients. They pride themselves on their business-oriented approach and proficiency in today’s leading technology demands. Their engineers are highly skilled in areas of troubleshooting and problem

solving, system backup and recovery, email spam filtering, antivirus/spyware removal, cloud computing and system virtualization to name a few.

Shear ImpressionsLeslie MyersJennifer Davis1604 N. Cunningham Ave.217.344.6263 [email protected] Salons

Sheryl Summers - Mary Kay Independent Beauty ConsultantSheryl SummersP.O. Box 35Pesotum, IL 61863

ACCURATY SOLUTIONS

Website design company Accuraty Solutions celebrated their grand opening on November 15.

SHATTERGLASS STUDIOS

Small Business of the Year winner Shatterglass Studios cel-ebrated the grand opening of their new building on Nov. 15.

SP

2707

4217-352-9970www.champaignurbana.stayhgi.com

Schedule your NextMeetiNg or eveNt at the

• Flexible meeting space

• Endless Menu Choices

• Dependable Audio Visual

• Outstanding Staff and Service

• Meetings up to 900

[email protected]://marykay.com/sherylsummersSkin Care

Sheryl Summers offers personalized services that fit. Just tell her if you’d like a one-on-one consultation, a party with friends, a virtual party, makeup tips, skin care advice or free samples. She allows clients to try before they buy. Clients can shop online or order by e-mail or phone as well.

Slot & Wing HobbiesCole Thompson1040 W. Bloomington Rd., Ste. BChampaign, IL [email protected] & Model Construction Supplies – Retail

Stuart J. Swalls – McClure Financial GroupStuart J. Swalls1807 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL [email protected]/mcclurefinancialInsurance

University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics1700 S. Fourth St.Champaign, IL 61821-1722217.333.3630www.fightingillini.comAthletic Organizations

The mission of the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics is to provide a superior experience for all of our student-athletes and create the highest quality athletic program that will support and enhance their ability to compete for championships in the Big Ten Conference and the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

University ChiropracticDr. Kenneth Nieman206 N. Randolph St., Ste. 422Champaign, IL [email protected] Physicians

Dr. Nieman has 33 years of clinical experience, offering traditional chiropractic, physical therapy and massage, and on-site x-ray. He has significant experience in personal injury and work related injuries. University Chiropractic offers 10 percent off for U of I students and faculty with ID (excluding litigated matters).

The Warranty GroupElizabeth Flores

(from top to bottom)Buca de Beppo celebrated the grand opening of their new Champaign location, set within Marketplace Mall, on November 26.

University Chiropractic, located within the old Robeson’s building in downtown Champaign, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 22.

The Vineyard Church held a grand opening for “Kingdom Kids”, their new children’s wing, on October 23.

2302 Fox Dr.Champaign, IL 61820312.429.0860elizabeth.flores@thewarrantygroup.comwww.thewarrantygroup.comWarranty Programs – Extended & Supplemental

The Warranty Group is a premier provider of service contracts and related benefits, with operations in 33 countries with 1800 employees. With underwriting, claims administration, compliance and marketing expertise, The Warranty Group is a global single-source solution for manufacturers, distributors and retailers of consumer goods including autos, homes, consumer electronics, furniture and appliances, as well as financial institutions.

Wireless Revolution – SprintMatt Walker1702 S. Philo Rd.Urbana, IL [email protected]

2706 N. Prospect Ave.Champaign, IL 61822217.607.1363

[email protected] Communications Products & Services

Wireless Stores, Inc.Troy Smith7 Convenience Center Dr., Ste. BChampaign, IL 61820-2755217.352.9650www.wireless-stores.comWireless Communications Products & Services

Wireless Stores, Inc.Troy SmithMarket Place Mall2000 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.355.5835www.wireless-stores.comWireless Communications Products & Services

Wireless Stores, Inc.Troy SmithInside Meijer2500 S. Philo Rd.Urbana, IL 61802(217) 365-5210

www.wireless-stores.comWireless Communications Products & Services

Yellowbox Studios Ltd.Nate Hartmann1005 S. Lincoln Ave.Urbana, IL 61801312.208.8840info@yellowboxadvertising.comwww.yellowboxadvertising.comAdvertising – Online Services

Yellow Box Studios, Ltd. works with small businesses to develop effective digital advertising campaigns that bring Madison Avenue results to Main Street budgets. Founded in 2010 by Creative Director and CEO Nate Hartmann, Yellow Box has been working with a wide range of small and local businesses for almost three years. Yellow Box specializes in social media marketing, video production, web design, email marketing, mobile app development, search engine optimization, and pay-per-click campaigns.

We live where we loan.

At Busey, we live where we loan because we want you to love where you live. Busey promises to reinvest in our communities with financial guidance, committed volunteers and energetic leadership. All with a smile, a handshake and a helping hand.

Busey. Your Dream. Our Promise.

Love where you live.

busey.com 217.365.4500 Member FDIC

POWER YOUR BUSINESS

Fighting Illini Energy is the official electricity partner of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and the only electricity partner of Illinois Athletics.

SPECIAL CHAMBER PRICINGFixed contract rate protects you from market volatility and ensures budget stability.

ExCLuSIvE Co-MARkEtING oPPoRtuNItIESPlus tons of new ways to reach potential customers and show your Fighting Illini pride with unique branding materials and outreach.

www.FightingIlliniEnergy.com

ALL-GREEN ENERGy oPtIoNSIf you choose one of Fighting Illini Energy’s green plans, you will directly fund the creation of renewable wind power in Illinois.

SAvE MoNEy AND SuPPoRt tHE ILLINIBy virtue of being a Fighting Illini Energy customer, your account will generate an on-going donation to the University of Illinois athletic programs. You help to keep your money local and still benefit from having the most competitive electricity rate and term available.

POWER YOUR BUSINESS

Fighting Illini Energy is the official electricity partner of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and the only electricity partner of Illinois Athletics.

SPECIAL CHAMBER PRICINGFixed contract rate protects you from market volatility and ensures budget stability.

ExCLuSIvE Co-MARkEtING oPPoRtuNItIESPlus tons of new ways to reach potential customers and show your Fighting Illini pride with unique branding materials and outreach.

www.FightingIlliniEnergy.com

ALL-GREEN ENERGy oPtIoNSIf you choose one of Fighting Illini Energy’s green plans, you will directly fund the creation of renewable wind power in Illinois.

SAvE MoNEy AND SuPPoRt tHE ILLINIBy virtue of being a Fighting Illini Energy customer, your account will generate an on-going donation to the University of Illinois athletic programs. You help to keep your money local and still benefit from having the most competitive electricity rate and term available.

Shatterglass Studios has arrived. The new media development, film and video production company has made quite a name for

themselves in Champaign County

Shatterglass has worked on a number of projects in the community with such prestigious clients as Ebertfest, The Illinois Connection, Carle, Gillette and more. The company has been featured in numerous film festivals, including the Sonoma International Film Festival and screened at the Cannes Independent Film Festival, winning several awards and accolades along the way.

While Brett Hays and Luke Boyce are happy to share the secret to their success, it is a trait uniquely theirs – their partnership.

Boyce said he knew he wanted to do something artistic since he was a young boy. He was involved with his first

Shatterglass production coordinator Myles Beeson alongside owners Luke Boyce and Brett Hays at the 2012 Chamber Annual Meeting. The production company was named 2012 Small Business of the Year by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.

Hollywood made local

By Allison Copenbarger Vance


film when he was only 14 years old. But when he graduated from high school it seemed music was his calling. He was the co-founder and lead singer of a pop-rock band for six years, but eventually decided to follow his first dream – film making.

Boyce knew he wouldn’t be able to run a creative company on his own. He had watched his father, an artist, struggle with all that comes along with running a business – scheduling, paperwork and networking. So when Boyce was connected with Hays, it was dream realized for both.

The pair set out at the end of 2005 to create a different kind of film production company. Their vision was to create commercial videos with a narrative storytelling theme that imitates a documentary – something they now call “docu-narrative.” Their company was originally based out of Springfield, but the duo saw so much promise in the Champaign-Urbana area they made the decision to relocate.

“Every community has a business sector,” Boyce said. “But in other places there are no relationships. It’s completely different here. There’s a cultural aspect and we’ve built friendships.”

Boyce is the creative director for the company and leads the vision for the style of film Shatterglass produces. Hays networks with companies, reaches out to new clients and maintains good relationships. Hays, a graphic designer, appreciates Boyce’s creative angle, but lets him lead. Throughout the years, that mutual respect has created a deep, trusting friendship. They say that is the real

secret to their success.

“Having Brett to take the business load off my shoulders is so key,” he explains. “I just couldn’t do it myself.”

Shatterglass reached a major milestone when they moved into their new location this year at 309 S. Neil Street. The space is decked out in modern furniture, primary colors and vintage movie items. It is a creative paradise. As their company has grown and expanded, they needed the physical space to branch out. They are currently adding a complete sound stage, rivaling major production companies.

This branching out and creating a more-equipped building is all in hopes of bringing films to Champaign-Urbana. Though they say they will always have a commercial side, the next goal

is to majorly expand their film side to become a reputable film production studio.

“The benefits to having a visible building with a sound stage will be huge,” Boyce said. “If a film was to come here, now we can have production offices, a sound stage, we can build sets. We can also coordinate with the community. Having this will give legitimacy.”

Hays is also quick to point out that films bring business to communities. A moderately-sized film will bring new crew members into the community. There could also be employment opportunities. “People don’t realize what an economic boom film making can be,” he said.

He also explains that producing movies in smaller markets is currently trending. Many are moving away from Hollywood.

Shatterglass owners Luke Boyce and Brett Hayes work with actors on the set of “The Drunk”, a political comedy and fictional account of the hard drinking grandson of legendary labor leader, Eugene V. Debs, who gets arrested for drunk driving one night. When he discovers that the corrupt prosecutor, played by Tom Sizemore, is trying to put him in jail for political reasons, he decides to run against him for governor of Indiana. The movie was shot over a four-week period in Terre Haute, Indiana.

PALOOZA

Boyce and Hays not only want to bring success to the community, but they want to engage the community with filmmaking. That’s a major reason they started the Champaign-Urbana Film Society – to educate and inspire community members.

“We want to inspire people, especially young people, that film is

a viable job and art form,” he said. The Champaign-Urbana Film Society plans to host a workshop for high school students in February or March. Shatterglass is going to bring in reputable professionals in the industry and give kids a hands-on approach to both the equipment and experience. “Filmmaking is so good for

communities,” Boyce said. “Even in a down economy people go to the movies. In 10 years, we want major films to be made here.”

Shatterglass Studios is located at 309 S. Neil St. in Champaign. They can be found online at www.shatterglassstudios.com.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10 • 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ASSEMBLY HALL

Interested in showcasing your business at the expo?Registration materials will be available on the Chamber’s website (champaigncounty.org) in February. Questions? Contact Karly Combest at [email protected] or call 217.359.1791.

SAVE the DATE!

04.10.13

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

business expo

schmooza


LEADERSHIPPROGRAM

OUR MISSION: Attract and identify the next generation of community leaders.

Connect young professionals with the surrounding community through unique opportunities in the areas of service, leadership and advocacy.

Engage young professionals in local corporate, community and cultural settings.

INTERESTED?Contact Karly Combest at [email protected] or call 217.359.1791.

PROGRAM FEES:$329 - Early Registration (Jan. 2 - 18)$379 - Regular Registration (Jan. 21 - 31)$499 - Non Chamber Members

ACEBECOME AN

TENTATIVE PROGRAM SCHEDULE:OPENING RECEPTION - Thursday, Jan. 31, 5 to 7 p.m., Boltini Lounge

MEYER-BRIGGS TYPE INDICATOR TEST, PART I - Thursday, Feb. 7, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., to be held at the Chamber office (Breakfast included)Led by Cindy Guthrie, Director of Human Resource Services at YG Financial Group, PC

MEYER-BRIGGS TYPE INDICATOR TEST, PART II - Thursday, Feb. 14, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., to be held at the Chamber office (Breakfast included)Led by Cindy Guthrie, Director of Human Resource Services at YG Financial Group, PC

IMPACT OF YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN GOVERNMENT - Thursday, Feb. 21, 8 to 10 a.m., to be held at the Chamber office (Breakfast included)Led by Former Senator Rick Winkel, Director of the Institute of Government and Public Affairs’ Office of Public Leadership

LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT SKILLS - Thursday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., to be held at the Chamber office (Lunch included)Led by Mark Kesler, Parkland College

SOCIAL MEDIA IN THE WORKPLACE - Wednesday, Mar. 6, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., to be held at the Chamber office (Lunch included)Led by Mary-Lynn and George Kruger of BIGG Success

WHAT YOUR BODY LANGUAGE SAYS ABOUT YOU/ IMAGE AND BRANDING - Thursday, Mar. 14, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., to be held at the Chamber office (Lunch included)Led by Shirley Stelbrink, Learning Alliances Company

ALLERTON CHALLENGE COURSE - Thursday, Mar. 21, 1 to 5 p.m.Allerton Park, Monticello

ETIQUETTE LUNCHEON AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAM GRADUATION - Wednesday, Mar. 27, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Lunch included), to be held at Lincolnshire Fields Country ClubLed by Beth Reuter, University of Illinois Hospitality Management Program

In addition to the listed events, ACE participants will receive complimentary admission to CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS and FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE events for the duration of the program to help develop their networking skills.

The Champaign County Leadership Program (ACE) aims to mold young professionals into strong local leaders. Participants will gain confidence, knowledge, professionalism and strong leadership skills they can bring back to their place of employment. The program is a great way to connect young professionals with their peers and build strong business relationships.

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY

2013 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

Cost of Doing Business (Combined taxes, fees, and state and local budgets)• Advocate for true Workers Compensation reform• Advocate for further reform of the State’s Unemployment Insurance System• Advocate for the payment of backlogged bills• Advocate for fiscal responsibility and the containment of local budgets to address recently implemented fees and tax increases

Transportation• Secure equitable IDOT funding for Region 5 and stop diversions from the state’s road fund• Advocate for increased passenger service of Amtrak(Both goals in partnership with Champaign County FIRST)

Education• Advocate for a quality education system that prepares students for both community workforce needs and advanced studies• Advocate for sound, sustainable fiscal policies that lead to quality education while balancing state and local funding sources

Healthcare• Provide reliable information on the Affordable Health Care Act to our membership

A more comprehensive, action-oriented, version of the 2013 Legislative Agenda can be found on the Chamber’s website, champaigncounty.org.

For more information on Chamber Public Policy, contact Ryan Roth at [email protected] or call 217.359.1791.

Every year, the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce releases a new legislative agenda

complimentary to the Chamber’s advocacy efforts. It helps the Chamber better define issues and challenges and identify possible solutions to fulfill our vision of driving economic growth in the region and enabling our businesses to compete in the global economy.

The Chamber’s Public Policy Committee, guided by feedback and suggestions from our membership, identified the following areas of focus for 2013:

WELCOMEThe Champaign County Chamber of Commerce introduces Ryan Roth as our new Public Policy Manager. Roth grew up on a farm in rural Carrollton, Il., has a Bachelor of

Arts and a Master of Arts Degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois Springfield. While a student at UIS, Roth was active in a number of political clubs and organizations, worked as a Committee Clerk for the Illinois House of Representatives, and interned at the contract-lobbying firm of Cook-Witter Incorporated. Prior to his employment with the Chamber, Roth worked for a super-PAC coordinating a phone banking campaign and a door to door campaign in the Chicago suburbs. In his spare time, Roth enjoys playing his guitar, reading and collecting WWII and political memorabilia.

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY


2013 ATHENAAward

Luncheon

Thursday, February 21noon to 2 p.m.

Champaign Country Club

Join Champaign County Chamber of Commerce members and representatives from local businesses as we honor the 2013 ATHENA Award

recipient and the 2013 ATHENA Young Professional Award recipient.

The recipient of the ATHENA Award demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in his or her business or profession; provides valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community and assists women in reaching their full leadership potential.

This year’s luncheon will also present the ATHENA Young Professional Award, given to an emerging leader who strives toward the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishment and serves as a role model for young women. This award is sponsored by past recipients of the ATHENA Award.

The 2013 ATHENA Award luncheon is sponsored by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and Spherion Staffing Services. The recipient’s lapel pin is provided by Busey Wealth Management.

Cindy Somers, 2012 ATHENA Award Recipient, and Sarah Zehr, 2012 ATHENA Young Professional Award

Recipient

Sponsored by:

To attend: Go to champaigncounty.org and download the registration form. Cost is $33 for Chamber members. Questions? Contact Karly Combest at [email protected].

A

A

You are cordially invited to attend the

MEMBERSHIP NEWSAT&T recently announced that they will significantly expand their broadband networks - both nationwide wireless and wireline in 22 states, including Illinois, with an investment of $14 billion over the next three years. The investment plan, Project Velocity IP, is a step to bring consumers and businesses even more state-of-the art communications technology. Under this announcement, AT&T is expected to expand super high speed wireless broadband service (4G LTE) to cover 300 million people by year-end 2014. This will also expand their wired broadband network to 75 percent of customer locations in the company’s 22-state wireline service area by year-end 2015.

Athletico was recently named the 2012 Practice of the Year by Advance Rehab Magazine. Headquartered in Chicago, Athletico’s Champaign location is one of 69 locations across the Midwest. The company offers more than 40 specialty rehabilitation, outreach, and fitness services. Their team of specialists includes physical and occupational therapists, certified athletic trainers, personal trainers, strength and conditioning specialists, and massage therapists. Athletico has staff with expertise in treating the worker’s compensation population with such services as work conditioning and functional capacity evaluations. In addition, Athletico provides athletic training, physical and occupational therapy, and fitness services to over 150 affiliations including high schools, colleges, and many of Chicago’s professional sports teams.

John Bambenek of Bambenek Consulting was recently featured in a story on WAND-TV where he helped track fugitive suspect John McAfee to a remote location in Guatemala using digital fingerprints left in an image file he posted online. This ultimately led to his arrest a few days later and pending extradition back to Belize to face questioning regarding a homicide.

Six Champaign Unit #4 School District educators have been recognized by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards as National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) for the 2012-2013 school year. Collectively, 48 teachers and school psychologists within the District have earned this honor, which is achieved upon successful completion of a voluntary and rigorous assessment program designed to recognize effective and accomplished teachers who meet high standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do. Certification is valid for

10 years, and teachers are encouraged to reassess during their 8th or 9th year to maintain their certification. Congratulations to the following teachers: Newly certified: Tina Cowsert (Carrie Busey), Renee Hunt (Centennial), Dana Lamkin (Deaf/Hard of Hearing Itinerant Teacher), and Lindsay Polarek (Central); Re-certified: Mary Malloy (Centennial) and Cynthia Helms (Centennial).

Over $150,000 in scholarships will be awarded by the University YMCA’s Fred S. Baily Scholarship to University of Illinois students working to improve their communities. University students who have made an impact through commitment to service,

community involvement, leadership and action are eligible to apply. The University YMCA will also give out four $5,000 awards to upcoming seniors who have made an exceptional impact in one or more of the following areas: Social Justice, Environment, Faith in Action and International Issues. Applications are available online now through February 7. Informational sessions about the scholarships will be held throughout the application period. For more information, visit universityymca.org/bailey

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

Meyer Capel recently announced that Brook Didier, Randall Green and Rebecca Wade have been named shareholders. Didier and Wade are part of Meyer Capel’s Estate Planning practice group and they regularly counsel clients in matters involving estate planning, tax planning, estate administration, probate, wills, trusts and trust administration. Green is part of Meyer Capel’s Business Planning and Transactions and Real Estate practice groups. He regularly cousels individual and institutional clients in a wide range of business and real estate transactions.

RANDALL GREENBROOKE DIDIER REBECCA WADE

Mailing LabelsAn exclusive benefit of Chamber membership, we sell mailing labels containing the names and addresses of Chamber member business-es for the purpose of member-to-member communication. Two lists are available for purchase:Long list (approx. 2,500 names and businesses).................................. $175Short list (approx. 1,080 names and businesses)..................................$125

Contact Norma Wesley to place your order, [email protected] or 217.531.4669.

E-ConnectionRecently redesigned, Our electronic newsletter gets sent out to more than 4,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County each week. Sponsor an e-Connection and get your business seen by THOUSANDS.Header sponsorship (one week)............................................................$100Header sponsorship (four consecutive weeks).................................$360

Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, [email protected] or 217.359.1791.

Email footer sponsorshipFor only $75, your business can place a banner on every email that gets sent out of the Chamber office.That’s an average of over 12,000 emails per week. You can’t get better (or cheaper) exposure!Email footer (one week).................................................................................$75Add email footer to the Chamber’s e-Connection..........Additional $50

Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information, [email protected] or 217.359.1791.

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

Contact Nikolle Keeney for more information - [email protected] or 217.359.1791.

Website SponsorshipThe Chamber is planning a massive redesign of our website within the next year. There will be numerous opportunities for businesses to sponsor pages, host banners and showcase themselves on the Chamber site. More information will be available in the coming months. If you would like to express early interest, contact Nikolle Keeney at [email protected].

Online Business Directory EnhancementsEnhance your listing on the Chamber’s online business directory. The directory gets hundreds of THOUSANDS of hits each day-- turn your standard (free) listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized advertisement.Basic upgrade....................................................................................................$40Value upgrade...................................................................................................$60Deluxe upgrade................................................................................................$90

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

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

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

Breakfast Series sponsorship (includes table of 8)........$1000

2013 East Central Illinois Business Expo : Title sponsorship, power lunch sponsorship, wine tasting sponsorship (prices available upon request)

Additional sponsorship information for events such as the Annual Meeting, Golf Outing and Come Wine With Us is available upon request. Contact Karly at [email protected] or 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.

Some things you get free:

INFO- - A N D - -

ASSISTANCE

LCD PROJECTOR

RENTAL

LAPTOPCOMPUTER

R E N TA L

CONFERENCE

ROOMRENTAL

CERTIFICATE OF

ORIGIN &

NOTARY S E R V I C E

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

Chamber Store

Business After HoursThursday, January 17, 5 to 7 p.m.Hosted by Parkland College- Applied Technology Center2400 W. Bradley Avenue, Champaign

Writing a Business PlanAn event hosted by ECI SCOREThursday, January 24, 3 to 5:30 p.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Financing a Small BusinessAn event hosted by ECI SCORESaturday, January 26, 9 to 11:30 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

ACE - Leadership Development Program KickoffThursday, January 31, 5 to 7 p.m.To be held at Boltini Lounge211 N. Neil St., Champaign

First Friday CoffeeFriday, February 1, 7:30 to 9 a.m.Hosted by Hawthorn Suites Ltd.101 Trade Center Dr., Champaign

ATHENA LuncheonThursday, February 21, noon to 2 p.m.Held at the Champaign Country Club1211 S. Prospect Ave., ChampaignMore details on page 20

Business After HoursThursday, February 21, 5 to 7 p.m.Hosted by Dean’s Graphics3103 Research Road, Champaign

Writing a Business PlanAn event hosted by ECI SCORESaturday, February 23, 9 to 11:30 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

First Friday CoffeeFriday, March 1, 7:30 to 9 a.m.Hosted by Attorneys’ Title Guarantee Fund2102 Windsor Pl., Champaign

Starting a Small BusinessAn event hosted by ECI SCOREThursday, March 14, 3 to 5:30 p.m. Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign

Business After HoursThursday, March 21Hosted by the Hilton Garden Inn1501 S. Neil St., Champaign

SAVE THE DATE: 2013 SchmoozaPalooza Business ExpoWednesday, April 10, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.at the University of Illinois Assembly Hall1800 S. First St., Champaign

calendar of events

Fast Facts

7.2%Champaign County Unemployment Rate in November 2012

22business licenses applied for in Champaign County during December 2012

104.6December 2012 Flash Economic Index for Champaign County in December 2012

1,107,810rides were taken on CUMTD in November 2012 (CUMTD experienced their highest ever passenger rate in October 2012 with 1,391,576 passengers)

9,466 visits to the Chamber’s homepage, champaigncounty.org, in December 2012

53,733average amount of referals PER DAY the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory recieved via search engines and online sources in December 2012

IT’S TOUGH TO STAY FOCUSED...

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Commerce Connection - Winter 2013

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Transcript of Commerce Connection - Winter 2013