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PAIDPermit No. 29Champaign, IL

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.

ViewpointsJune + July 2011/ Commerce Connection/ 3

What is your current perspective of the national economy?Very Strong 0%Strong 6%Neutral 34%Weak 48%Poor 12%

What is your current perspective of the economy in Champaign County?Very Strong 0%Strong 21%Neutral 52%Weak 24%Poor 3%

As you look out over the next six months, what factor do you think will most impact your business?Energy Prices 53%Health Care Costs 39%Workforce shortage 7%Increase in raw material costs 29%Other 29%Responses included:Interest ratesLocal Business confidenceState budgetElimination of grants/ assistance programsRegulations on financial institu-tionsGovernmental regulation

How do you expect your compa-ny’s sales to change in the next six months?Higher 37%Lower 13%About the same 50%

How do you expect your coma-ny’s capital spending to change in the next six months?Higher 18%Lower 28%About the same 54%

Over the next year, do you antici-pate delaying any capital expen-ditures due to the economy?Yes 44%No 34%Unsure 22%

Do you think the federal stimulus plan has impacted your business?Yes 31%No 60%Unsure 9%

Has your company implemented any new cost saving meansures (budget reductions) in the past three months?Yes 53%No 36%Unsure 11%

If yes, what specific cost saving measures have you implemented?Energy conservationChanging to a “paperless” officeCut suppliesReductions in marketing and adver-tisingLess printingFewer mailings- more emailReduction of labor - hours of opera-tion and materialsCombining jobsCarpoolingConsolidating locationsBundled promotionsMore efficient computer hardwareCut overtime

Are these cost saving measure s a result of decreased revenue or precautionary?Decreased revenue 35%Precautionary 65%

As you look out to the next six months, how confident are you in your company’s ability to grow in Champaign County?Very confident 12%Somewhat confident 29%Confident 23%Neutral 24%Not confident 12%

Every two months the Chamber surveys its membership on a topic of local relevance. as the nation con-tinues to surge out of a three year recession, the Chamber thought it important to tally perceptions of the economy, both local and nation, and the community’s perceived ability to teeter out of hard times. what have businesses done to cut costs during times of sturggle? Do local business owners see growth in the Champaign County economic climate? here’s what members said:

TOP INVESTORS GOld Busey Bank SIlVER Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc. The Carle Foundation Carle Physician Group Provena Covenant Medical Center

BRONzE The Atkins Group BankChampaign, N.A. Christie Clinic Health Alliance Medical Plans, Inc. Supervalu Inc. Champaign Distribution Center University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Illinois Employees Credit Union

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS ChaIRmaN’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 ChamBER CIRClE WCIA 3 & WCFN 49 NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS & U-Rock 107.9 WUIL 150 PERCENT CLUB Amber Glen Alzheimer’s Special Care Center Apex Consulting, LLC Framer’s MarketCustom Mobile DJ Techniques

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 Gonsiorowski

Information & Accounts Receivable Manager [email protected]

Cynthia Johnson

Membership & Advertising Services Manager [email protected]

Nikolle L. Keeney Marketing & Public Relations Manager

[email protected]

Michelle LunaMembership & Advertising Services Manager

[email protected]

Leslie LundyFinance Manager

[email protected]

Lynette LykinsAdministrative Support

[email protected]

Paul OramaPublic Policy Manager

[email protected]

Elaine Self-CalvinFinance Assistant & Office Manager

[email protected]

Norma WesleyAdministrative Assistant & Reservationist

[email protected]

sm

FY11 TOP INVESTORS

BOARD OFFICERS

Mark BallardChair, BankChampaign, N.A.

Diane RuediFirst Vice Chair, F.E. Moran, Inc., Alarm & Monitoring Services

Tabatha Helm Second Vice Chair, Rockwell Automation

Martin VerdickTreasurer, RSM McGladrey / McGladrey & Pullen

Laura WeisSecretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Russ HamiltonPast Chair

Curt AndersonBusey Wealth Management

Oktay BaranBaran Marketing

Jim GossThe Atkins Group

Cindy GuthrieThree Degrees of Change

Habeeb HabeebBenefit Planning Consultants, Inc.

Jeff IngrumHealth Alliance Medical Plans, Inc.

Dale MorrisseyDevelopmental Services Center

Tom RamageParkland College

Dennis RiggsFIX-IT

Renee RomanoUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Nick TaylorRE/MAX Realty Associates

Bill WalterA&R Mechanical Contractors

Michael WozniakLivingston, Barger, Brandt & Schroeder

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MembershipCelebrate

June + July 2011/ Commerce Connection/ 5

Business is good in Champaign County-- and Champaign County Chamber of Commerce members know it. The Chamber currently represents more than 1,200 local businesses; supporting a vast array

of products, services and technologies that make Champaign County a great place to live.

By joining the Chamber, members have tremendous opportunity to net-work with peers and leaders in the Champaign County business com-munity. More than that, by growing the Chamber’s network of members, the association strengthens. The Chamber builds a stronger brand and the association becomes a greater force in the community to establish a better business climate, a better quality of life.

On April 5, 2011, the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce held their first membership drive in over a decade at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cham-paign. More than 70 current Chamber members volunteered their time to share with non-member community businesses the necessity of being involved with a local business organization.

By the end of the day, 32 new members joined and countless leads were made. The Chamber started the event with 1,196 members, the ending total was 1,228. Since the event, membership has continued to expand.

Welcome

MembersNew

Acoustic MedSystems, Inc.Clif Burdette206 N. Randolph St., Ste. 301Champaign, IL 61820www.acousticmed.comResearchReferred by Paul Donohue

Acoustic MedSystems, Inc. is a research driven organization dedicated to developing inter-ventional devices and systems for treatment of localized diseases. AMS specializes in applica-tions of treatment planning and image-guided interventions using ablative therapy technolo-gies and radiation therapy.

Advanced Wayne Cain & SonMichael Cain, President1207 E. University Ave.Urbana, IL [email protected] GeneralReferred by Scott Yeazel

AdvoCare Independent DistributorCarla Guiher, Advisor3106 Meadow Brook Dr.Champaign, IL 61822217.352.1720www.advocare.comHealth and Fitness Program Consultants

Advocare is a premier health and wellness com-pany offering world-class energy, weight-loss, nutrition and sports performance products.

Akitir of CU, Inc.Amit Chupra, President301 N. Neil St., Ste. 400Champaign, IL 61820217.531.2212www.akitir.comRestaurants

Referred by Kay Machula

Akitir of CU, Inc. specializes in owning and operating restaurants and bars. Currently, they are opening two restaurants in the M2 building in Downtown Champaign. The first restaurant, 301 Magnolia, will be a create-your-own Mongo-lian stir-fry establishment. The second, Dublin O’Neil’s, will be an Irish pub.

All Creatures Animal HospitalDr. Mary Welle, VeterinarianDr. Kenneth Welle, Veterinarian2001 N. Linview Ave.Urbana, IL 61801217.328.4143www.allcreaturesah.comVeteranariansReferred by Tabatha Helm & Mike Wozniak

All Creatures Animal Hospital is dedicated to providing progressive medicine in a caring environment for pets of all species. Through preventative medicine, client education, profes-sional development as well as advanced medical and surgical techniques, All Creatures hopes to foster a strong and lasting bond with clients and their pets.

Animal Hospital at the CrossingDr. Kent Davis, Veteraninarian3001 Village Office PlaceChampaign, IL 61822217.356.6387www.animalhospitalatthecrossing.comVeterinariansReferred by Kay Machula

Animal Hospital at the Crossing is a full-service veterinary medical facility with over 30 years’ experience. The professional and courteous staff seek to provide the best possible medical, surgical and dental care for their highly-valued patients.

B Spirits, LLCDharmesh Mirani, Owner306 W. Main St.Urbana, IL [email protected]

Bankier ApartmentsMargie Colter, Property Manger406 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820217.328.3770www.bankierapts.comApartments

Founded in 1962, Bankier Apartments is a family owned company. They specialize in professional property management for residential and commer-cial properties. They serve over 1200 tenants in 22 complexes, most are located on the U of I campus. Bankier Apartments has contributed to the revital-ization of campustown, adding convenient living, shopping and dining choices for university students and staff.

Barham Benefit GroupJames Barham, President919 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61821217.356.1978www.barhambenefit.comInsuranceReferred by Mark Ballard

As a full service brokerage firm established in 1997, Barham Benefit Group has formed relationships with hundreds of insurance and financial companies. The sole purpose of Barham Benefit Group is to find the best coverage for the best price and best service for individual and group insurance needs.

BarnYard TreasuresJim and Brittany Naylor, Owners200 N. Highway Ave.

www.champaigncounty.org

PO Box 193Deland, IL [email protected]

BarnYard Treasures is a unique take on a resale shop that features a large selection of new and used merchandise from retailers across the United States. BarnYard Treasures is open the third Friday and Saturday of every month. Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bender Mattress FactoryRyan Bender, Vice President1206 N. Cunningham Ave.Urbana, IL 61801217.328.1700www.bendermattress.comMattress and BeddingReferred by Ryan Fleming

Bender Mattress Factory has been a family-owned and operated business since the mid-1960s. All mattresses are hand crafted locally in Urbana with a strong commitment to quality and helping people get a great night’s sleep.

Champaign ComputerCarl Long, CEOJR Thomas, Marketing Director1212 Hagan St. Champaign, IL 61820217.356.9770www.c-computer.comComputers; Computer Equiptment; Dealers

Champaign Computer custom configures hardware and management solutions based on individual client needs. They provide complete technology solutions with long term warran-ties.

Coleman Electrical Service, Inc. James “Pat” Coleman, President311 North St. PO Box 179Mansfield, IL [email protected] Contractor

Coleman Electrical Service, a member of IBEW Local #601, has been serving Cham-paign County for almost 40 years. They offer complete commercial and light industrial electric service from parking lot lighting, panel upgrades, repairs/rewiring, generators and new construction.

Confidentially Yours, Inc.Jeane Duden, Owner1808 Round Barn Rd., Ste. BChampaign, IL 61821217.366.0244www.cybras.comMastectomy Forms and ApparelReferred by Lalah Moazemi

Confidentially Yours specializes in the individual needs of clients affected by breast cancer. Helping women feel positive about themselves, Confidentially Yours offers

products and fitting services in a comfortable and tranquil setting.

Country Financial, Champaign AgencyVann Parkin, Agency Manager801 N. Country Fair Dr., Ste. BChampaign, IL 61821217.352.0012vann.parkin@countryfinancial.comwww.countryfinancial.comInsuranceReferred by Rod Schweighart

Jessie DeHann, Financial Representative1200 W. Bloomington Rd.Champaign, IL 61821217.352.3466www.countryfinancial.com/jessie.dehaanInsuranceReferred by Rod Schweighart

Scott Jackson, Agent3123 Village Office PlaceChampaign, IL 61822217.359.9335

[email protected] by Rod Schweighart

Thomas Lessaris, Financial Representative608 N. Cunningham Ave.Urbana, IL 61802217.363.4425www.countryfinancial.com/thomas.lessarisInsuranceReferred by Rod Schweighart

Country Financial serves Champaign County with 19 financial representatives. They offer auto, home, farm, commercial, life, disability, long term care, annuities, mutual funds, retirement planning services and education funding. They are proud to be a member of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.

Crisis NurseryStephanie Record1309 W. Hill St. Urbana, IL 61801217.337.2731crisisnursery.netSocial Service Organizations


the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce agribusiness Committee invites you to the 2011 Come Wine With Us event. this special business after hours is designed to promote our

rich agricultural industry in a social setting. activities include wine tasting, food from a variety of local vendors, live entertainment and the opportunity to link Champaign County farms and businesses with the food and products we use everyday.

the event is to take placethursday, June 16from 5 - 7 p.m.at Farm Credit services of Illinois,1100 south Farm Credit DriveMahomet, Il 61853

Referred by Dale Morrissey

Crisis Nursery is the only emergency-based child care facility in Champaign County. They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for the entire com-munity to access with no fees, income eligibility or wailing list. Besides being a safe shelter for children, they also provide family support and parenting education.

DANSR, Inc.Jim Butler, Controller4110 Fieldstone Rd.Champaign, IL 61822217.531.0620www.dansr.comMusical Instruments- DistributorsReferred by Mark Ballard

DANSR is the sole importer of Vandoren clarinet and saxophone reeds and mouthpieces for the United States, Dennis Wick brass mutes and mouth-pieces for North America and the master distributor for Hamilton Music and instrument stands.

DESTHIL Restaurant & Brew WorksBrian Durkin, General Manager301 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.356.0301www.desthil.comRestaurantsReferred by Kay Machula

Drummond Carpet and Upholstery CareChris Drummond, Owner1013 Moultrie Ave.Mattoon, IL 61938www.drummondcarpetcare.comCarpet & Rug Cleaners

Drummond Carpet and Upholstery Care provides customers expert carpet and upholstery cleaning services. They strive to give clients the highest qual-ity service for the best price.

ERA Renaissance RealtyDavid HardenCindy McGuffee917 N. Walnut St., Ste. 101Danville, IL 61832www.eradanville.comReal Estate Agents; Brokers; Independent Contrac-torsReferred by Tonia Ribbe

ERA Renaissance Realty is located in Danville and serves all of East Central Illinois and West Central Indiana.

East Central Illinois SCORESue Falendar, Chapter Chair303 W. Kirby Ave. Champaign, IL 61820217.359.1791www.eciscore.orgBusiness Consultants; Economic Development Orga-nizations; Small Business Assistance

SCORE, America’s premier source of free and confidential small business advice for entrepreneurs and existing small businesses, is a nonprofit association dedicated to entrepre-neur education and the formation, growth and success of small businesses nation wide.

Edison Solutions, LLCEric Duchinsky, Business Development Profes-sional4109 Amherst Dr.Champaign, IL 61822217.718.9118www.edisonsolutionsllc.comNon-Profit Consultants

Edison Solutions specializes in “jump starting” organizations and “sparking” extra organiza-tional momentum. Edison Solutions works with companies to help assess customer needs and build mission-driven solutions.

Elite EntertainmentRyan Mennenga, President3803 W. Springfield Ave., Ste. DChampaign, IL 61822217.363.3200www.elitemobiledj.comDisc Jockeys; Wedding Supplies and ServicesReferred by Thai Caston

Elite Entertainment is a professional DJ and lighting company that specializes in wedding receptions. They cater services toward modern brides who seek elegant and memorable wed-ding receptions.

Extraordinary FundraisersDoug Starks, Owner3114 Old Warson Rd.Champaign, IL [email protected] Raising Counselors and Organizations

Feutz ContractorsSteve Blair, Chairman & CEO4101 Kearns Dr.Champaign, IL 61820feutzcontractors.comContractors- GeneralReferred by Joel Barickman

Fuetz Contractors, Inc. is a heavy/ highway construction company based in Paris, Ill. They perform work in both Central Illinois and Central Indiana.

Firemark PaintballDaniel Williams2453 County Rd. 61840Dewey, IL 61840217.643.2620www.firemarkpaintball.comPaintball

Established in 2002, Firemark Paintball is an outdoor, Christian paintball facility in Dewey, Ill., about 15 minutes outside of Champaign. Firemark paintball offers six courses for play-ers to choose from with multiple game choices; players can rent equipment or bring their own.

MEMbErshIpE V E n t20

11

the BLUE TEAM, led by Mark ballard, won the event with 14.5 new members.

the RED TEAM, led by Kay Ma-chula, came in second place with 12.5 new members.

the GREEN TEAM, led by Dale Morrissey, came in third place with 5 new members.

Kay Machula and tonia ribbe tied for the individual with the most new members. they each gained three.

the total count for the day was 32 new members.

thank you to all of the team leaders, team captains and every-one who participated! a spe-cial thanks to Eric robeson for emceeing the event and James oglesby of Custom Mobile DJ techniques for DJ-ing.

First Advisors Financial Group1251 Woodfield Dr.PO Box 702Savoy, IL [email protected] by Bruce Hatfield

First Advisors Financial Group is an indepen-dent wealth management firm specializing in distribution planning for IRA’s and other retirement assets. They are an Illinois Regis-tered Investment Advisor Firm and an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Go Getters Inc.Troy Ronk, Vice President701 E. Front St.Villa Grove, IL 61956217.552.0508www.gogettersinc.netRestaurants- Delivery Service

Go Getters provides dining solutions to con-sumers throughout Central Illinois. They offer affordable and convenient delivery service from favorite area restaurants. They have a variety of restaurant menus to choose from, ranging from Italian to barbecue. They are available breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Great ImpastaHarold Allston, Owner156 Lincoln Square, Ste. CUrbana, IL 61801217.359.7377www.greatimpastarestaurant.com Since 1983, the Great Impasta has crafted pastas, sauces and soups from scratch. They emphasize fresh ingredients, quality products and local ingredients. The Great Impasta’s Italian hospitality welcomes Central Illinois guests to a calm and restful environment where nothing is more important that good food and great service.

Harmony ComputerDavid Wickboldt, Owner410 N. State St.Bellflower, IL 61724309.722.6102www.chicomputer.comComputers- Service and Repair

Harmony Computer provides technology services and maintenance for small businesses and individuals. They provide quality on site service, new equipment, consulting, web host-ing, online back-up and data security solutions.

Holiday Inn Express, LeRoyCraig Chattmon, General Manager705 S. Persimmons Ct.LeRoy, IL 61752309.962.4439www.hiexpress.comHotels

Midway between Bloomington and Cham-paign, the Holiday Inn Express in LeRoy

is only fifteen minutes away from the Central Illinois Regional Airport and close to many busi-nesses and attractions.

Illini Contractor Supply, Inc.Dave York706 W. Bradley Ave.Champaign, IL 61820217.355.0303www.illinicontractorsupply.comContractors’ Equipment and SuppliesReferred by Dawn Bagby

For over 21 years, Illini Contractor Supply has continued to be the leading contractor supply distributor in Central Illinois. Their dedication to furnishing quality products, knowledgeable staff and excellent customer service are what sets them apart. They repair most major brands of portable electric, gas and air tools.

IlliniCoupon.com, LLCIndia Boodram123 E. 18th St.Chicago, IL 60616217.841.4488www.illinicoupon.com

Big time tradition. Big time savings.

The Institute for Leadership in MedicineDr. Virginia Richardson, President1800 S. Oak St., Ste. 104Champaign, IL 61820www.theilm.orgLeadership Development; Management Consul-tants; Business Consultants

The Institute for Leadership in Medicine is an emerging global provider of executive education that accelerates strategic leadership and foresight for business results by cultivating the leadership potential of individuals and organizations. They serve a wide variety of businesses, medical educa-tion programs and health care organizations with a comprehensive array of leadership training, solutions and coaching services.

Legacy Investment ServicesSteve and Mark Tucker, Owners919 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL [email protected] PlannersReferred by Tabatha Helm

Legacy Investment Services is a comprehensive financial services firm committed to helping clients improve long term financial success. Their customized programs are designed to grow and conserve wealth by delivering an unprecedented level of personalized service.

Ms. Linda Crowley3328 W. William St.Champaign, IL [email protected] MemberReferred by Carol Zuhone

Linda Crowley is a 2009 retiree of Parkland Col-lege where she worked for almost 33 years in the Computer Science and Information Technology Department as a department secretary.

Lindsey Hans Family DentistryDr. Lindsey Hans, Dentist303 Burwash Ave.Savoy, IL 61874217.356.9855www.smileforus.comDentist

The dental practice of Dr. Lindsey Hans specializes in providing comfortable, honest and quality dental care in a warm and lighthearted environment where families are always welcome.

Maligaya’s Store, Inc.Arturo Maligaya, President2410 W. Springfield Ave.Champaign, IL 61821217.352.2606maligayastore@sbcglobalnetOriental Goods- Retail

Maligaya’s Store is a grocery store selling primarily Philippine and other Asian food products.

Mary Ann Royse Law OfficesMary Ann Royse301 N. Neil St., Ste. 400Champaign, IL 61820217.531.1120


[email protected] by Mark Ballard and Cindy Somers

Mary Ann Royse is a solo lawyer whose practice emphasis includes commercial and residential real estate transactions and development, wills and trusts, estate and guardianship administra-tion and general business matters. She is licensed in Illinois (1995) and Florida (1998).

Midwest Engineering & TestingDaniel Tappendorf501 Mercury Dr.Champaign, IL 61822217.359.2128www.metgeotech.comEngineers- GeotechnicalReferred by Joel Barickman

Midwest Engineering and Testing, Inc. is an engineering firm located in Champaign, Ill. that performs geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing and environmental engineering services primarily in Central Illinois.

Mitchem DentalDr. Curtis Mitchem, Dentist1701 S. Prospect Ave.Champaign, IL 61820217.352.4100www.mitchemdental.comDentistReferred by Pat Januszki

Mitchem Dental, a premier dental practice serv-ing families of East Central Illinois. Their highly trained doctors, Dr. Mitchem and Dr. Rffatto, are committed to providing the highest standard of dental care possible in a compassionate, comfort-able and professional atmosphere.

Next Generation SchoolBarbara Sullivan, Owner2521 Galen Dr. Champaign, IL 61821217.356.6995www.nextgenerationschool.comSchools- Pre-School and Kindergarten

Referred by Christie Martin

Pekara Bakery & BistroRuzica Cuk, OwnerVicki Jones, Manager116 N. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820217.359.4500www.pekara-bakery.comBakers- Retail

Pekara Bakery & Bistro is a traditional European bakery, featuring made-from-scratch breads with no preservatives or artificial flavorings. From savory sandwiches, crepes and soups, to pastries, pies and cookies; Pekara has something for everyone.

Piato CafeKelly J. Lamb, President & OwnerLincoln Square Village300 S. Broadway, Ste. FC2Urbana, IL 61801217.344.9015www.piatocafe.comRestaurants Piato Cafe is located in Lincoln Square Village in Urbana. Their impressive menu features a variety of homemade soups, sandwiches and salads. They also cater events from boxed lunches to formal dinners.

Premier CooperativeRoger Miller2104 W. Park Ct.Champaign, IL 61821217.355.1983www.premiercooperative.netGrain ElevatorsReferred by Jim Goss

Premier Cooperative Inc. is a farmer owned com-pany with 22 grain elevators in Champaign, Ford, Piatt and Vermillion counties. They also operate a petroleum business in Elliot, Ill. and own major-ity interest in United Prairie LLC, an agronomy business with locations in Champaign, Piatt and Vermillion counties.

Property Management Hardware

Mark Villaloboz, Store Manager406 Kenwood Rd.Champaign, IL 61821217.328.4628www.thepmh.comHardware-Retail

Radio MariaDavid Spears, Owner119 N. Walnut St.Champaign, IL 61820217.398.7729www.radiomariarestaurant.com

Radio Maria in downtown Champaign features dinner, tapas and weekend brunch with inter-nationally influenced menus. The restaurant is the creation of David Spears and Sharon Ow-ens, alumni of the University of Illinois’ Fine Arts Department. Their creative background resulted in the restaurant’s design as well as the diverse menu offerings. The restaurant recently celebrated its 15th anniversary.

RE/MAX, Eddie MullinsEddie Mullins2009 Fox Dr.Champaign, IL [email protected] EstateReferred by Joyse Remesch

Eddie Mullins is a Champaign-Urbana native that strives for excellence and the joy of help-ing others. A notable real estate agent, Mullins believes in hard work, outstanding customer service and putting the customer’s best inter-est above all.

Riley Homes, Inc.Nancy Heselmann, Co-owner2704 N. Cunningham Ave.Urbana, IL 61802217.328.1541www.rileyhomes.comHome BuildersReferred by Paul Donohue

Dr. lInDsEY hans FaMIlY DEntIstrYY CoCIna rEal MEXICan rEstaurant

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONIES


Riley Homes, Inc. is Illinois’ largest, most expe-rienced and capable general contractor utilizing modular construction. Based in Central Illinois, they provide a full range of construction services tailored to meet the requirements necessary to build clients’ dream homes.

Ruedi Holder & AssociatesDan Holder, President2004 Fox Dr., Ste. GChampaign, IL 61820217.356.1400www.reudiholder.comInvestment Advisory ServicesReferred by Kristie Hayes

Ruedi Holder and Associates is a leading Registered Investment Advisory firm. They are dedicated to providing clients with an innovative financial planning process that is not only more reliable, but is focused on stress testing and moni-toring each client’s plan so that market changes are not as likely to effect the financial plan. For clients, this creates greater confidence, comfort and peach of mind that their goals will be realized.

Sherwin Williams/ MAB PaintsChris Ramsey, Manager106 S. County Fair Dr.Champaign, IL 61821217.352.3535www.sherwin.comPaint-Retail

Sherwin-Williams has been in business since 1866. The company’s core is the manufacture, dis-tribution, and sale of coating and related products. Sherwin-Williams provides innovative solutions that ensure success.

Sleepy Creek Vineyards8254 E. 1425 North Rd.Fairmount, IL 61841217.733.0330www.sleepycreekvineyards.comWine- Retail

Sleepy Creek Vineyards is a great place to taste lo-cally crafted wine from locally grown grapes, walk

among the vines and enjoy a picnic overlooking a pond. They offer unique wines and art and also host a variety of live music shows and events.

Smoothie KingJosh Cook, Owner1912 Round Barn Rd., Ste. AChampaign, IL 61821217.351.0800510 N. Cunningham Ave., Ste. 14Urbana, IL 61802217.337.5555www.smoothieking.comRestaurants

The Social Butterfly BoutiqueJan Johnson, Owner4606 Westborough Dr.Champaign, IL 61822217.649.3414www.thesocialbutterflyboutique.comJewelers- Retail

The Social Butterfly Boutique allows fashion-forward women the ability to capture their personality and individual style with current trends and one-of-a-kind items. Social Butter-fly Boutique items can be found at Rod Sickler Salon & Spa, Bella Capelli Hair Salon and the Excel Hair Salon. Social Butterfly is also avail-able for private parties and fundraising events.

Spectrum Design Group/ Tile SpecialistsBryan Snyder, CEO3104 Farber Dr. Champaign, IL 61822217.359.1771www.spectrumdg.comCarpet and Rug Dealers; Floors- Materials and Laying; Interior Designers; Tile- Ceramic- Con-tractors

Spectrum Design Group is a full service interior design firm based in Champaign. Through a collaborative environment, the Spectrum team creates space that is highly functional, unique and enduring. They understand the need to

balance clients’ dreams with desired budgets.

Springleaf Financial, Inc.Lisa Goudie, Branch Manager510 N. Cunningham Ave., Ste 2Urbana, IL 61802217.337.0712www.springleaffinancial.comLoans

Springleaf Financial is a leading provider of con-sumer credit based in Evansville, Indiana. Springleaf finances mortgages, secured and unsecured personal loans, and secured retail sales finance products. In addition to lending activities, Springleaf offers credit and no-credit insurance through several subsidiary insurance companies.

State Farm InsuranceJohn Caywood, Agent2606 Clayton Blvd. Champaign, IL [email protected]

Sysco Central IllinoisFrank Stulcok, Business Development Manager1 Sysco Dr. PO Box 260Lincoln, IL 62656217.735.6100www.syscoci.comFood Products; Produce- Wholesale; Restaurant Equiptment and Supplies

From the farm to the fork, Sysco can provide every-thing to prepare meals away from home. Supported by approximately 51,000 employees across North America, Sysco helps customers create healthy, appetite-pleasing menus that keep their dining patrons returning again and again.

TLC Pest Control, Inc.Terry Cook, Owner4101 Colleen Dr. PO Box 6406Champaign, IL 61826217.352.7672


barnYarD trEasurEs sMoothIE KIng at FIVE-poInts

www.tlcpestcontrol.comPest Control ServicesReferred by Pat Januszki

TLC Pest Control offers pest control services for both residential and commercial properties. They provide service on a monthly, quarterly, or single visit basis- based on the control requirements. They can completely eliminate pest problems will little inconvenience to a home or business at a surprisingly low cost.

Tatman’s TowingJim Hampton, Owner810 E. Perkin’s Rd.Urbana, IL 61802217.328.2424www.tatmanstowing.comTowing- AutomotiveReferred by Kay Machula

Tatman’s Towing is Central Illinois’ light and me-dium duty towing and recovery specialist. They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Truly FitJermmie Smith1305 E. Colorado Ave.Urbana, IL 61801217.344.3476www.trulyfiturbana.comHealth ClubsReferred by Gary Jacobson

Truly Fit is Urbana’s premier fitness, per-formance and weight loss facili8ty. The club provides a personal feel that alleviates the intimidation and confusion of a typical gym setting. Certified trainers and instructors specialize in weight loss, sport specific training for youths, post rehab therapy, flexibility and conditioning.

Walmart- RantoulJustin Walker, Store Manager845 Broadmeadow Rd.Rantoul, IL 61866217.892.9151www.walmart.comDepartment Stores

West Main DentalDr. Michael Cusack125 W. Main St.Urbana, IL 61801217.607.1292www.westmaindental.comDentistsReferred by Steve Miller

West Main Dental is a modern dental office offering preventative, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Their top priority is to provide qual-ity care while offering a relaxing atmosphere. Some of the conveniences they offer are overhead TVs to watch during procedures, free spa facials with in-office teeth whitening and flexible scheduling.

World Painting CompanyRob Leceoni410 E. Green St.Champaign, IL 61820309.275.9640www.worldpaintingcompany.comPainting ContractorsReferred by Tonia Ribbe

Since 2003, commercial, residential and industrial developers, homeowners, remodelers and business professionals alike have relied on World Painting Company to create and maintain a wide range of painting services. World Painting Company guaran-tees satisfaction and prompt reliability.

Wyldewood Cellars WineryTracie Trotter, General Manager218 E. Lincoln St.PO Box 606St. Joseph, IL 61873217.469.9463www.wyldewoodcellars.comWine- Retail

Wyldewood Cellars Winery is a family owned and operated business since 1995. They are known for Elderberry and specialize in fruit wines. Custom-ers can sample wines during business hours. The shop also sells a variety of wine accessories, gifts, gourmet jellies and fudge.

NEW HOME FOR BUSINESS

(From left to right):

wAL-MART sUpERcENTER, URBANA

EL ToRo ii

MsA pRofEssioNAL sERvicEs


Three years ago, the Chamber board of directors underwent a long-range strategic

planning process. One of the items that came out of that process was a goal to enhance the Chamber’s presence in the community. We knew that in order to achieve this goal, we needed to be more visible – that included our location. A Chamber of Commerce is usually the first impression that people will have of a local business community. We felt it was important to upgrade the image of the Chamber to match the stellar Champaign County business community. Our new space is in a very visible location and the facility offers us the opportunity to better serve the membership in all that we do.”

“

-Laura Weis, President & CEOChampaign County Chamber of Commerce

NEW HOME FOR BUSINESSthe Chamber’s new office is located at 303 w. Kirby ave. (at the corner of Kirby and state) in Champaign.


You’re InvitedCHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

G R A N D O P E N I N GC E L E B R A T I O N

to attend the

Tuesday, July 128 a.m. open house

8:30 a.m. ribbon Cutting

Coffee and a continental breakfast will be provided. all members are welcome.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 w. Kirby ave.Champaign, Il 61720217.359.1791


CENTRAL ILLINOIS

WINECOUNTRY

“A lot of people don’t realize the effect the prohibition had on the grape industry in the Midwest,” Ryan Dubnicek, assistant manager and event planner of Alto Vineyards in

Champaign, said.

When new laws went into place banning production of alcohol, there was scarce demand for grape crops. “It was devastating for the grape-growing industry,” Dubnicek continued.

Prior to the prohibition, Illinois was the country’s fourth largest producer of grapes and wine. The state’s first settlers in the Peoria area were French colonists who brought their love of wine and grapes with them.

When the production of wine became illegal in 1920, most grape farmers turned to corn and soybeans; row crops were largely more profitable.

After the prohibition ended, most farmers were not willing to go through the effort of replanting their vines. Starting new vines meant three years before production of marketable fruit and even longer before a full crop could be achieved.

The resurgence of Illinois wine came in the early eighties when retired Southern Illinois University at Carbondale professor Guy Renzaglia opened Alto Vineyards in Alto Pass, Ill.

5 /June + July 2011/ Commerce Connection

Dubnicek, grandson of Renza-glia, is a third generation em-ployee.

“My grandfather was not the retiring kind,” Dubnicek said. “From Italy, he had this great be-lief that an old Italian should not be sitting around, doing nothing. An old Italian should be outside, growing grapes.”

At the time Renzaglia started, there were only 38 acres of com-mercial grapes being grown in Illinois.

“No one believed it was possible. But, my grandfather did,” Dubnicek said. “Out of his stubbornness, he singlehandedly paved the way for wine growers in Illinois by growing grapes that weren’t supposed to grow.”

In 1988, Alto Vineyards re-leased their first 1,500 gallons of Illinois wine and sold out in three days. Since then, over 90 wineries have opened through-out the state—bringing Illinois close to where it was before the prohibition.

ALTO VINEYARDS, CHAMPAIGN

Alto Vineyards opened a second location in Champaign in 2001. Owned by Renzaglia’s

daughter, Adelle, and her husband, Jim, the retail shop and tasting room offers a premier vineyard experience just minutes outside Champaign. “There are a lot of places to go out in Champaign and get a nice glass of wine. But, it’s not from here. It’s not local,” Dubnicek said. “We are here and only ten min-utes away. We’re removed, we’re outside; it doesn’t feel like we’re in the city.”

Located at 4210 N. Duncan Rd. in Champaign, Alto Vineyards is open Tuesday through Sunday, hours vary. The facility offers free wine tastings and a large selection of gift items, gourmet foods and locally made products. Alto gener-ally keeps 21 to 22 wines on stock; all imported from their Alto Pass location.

“In the twenty years Alto has been open, we’ve one over 700 awards and been named ‘Wine-maker of Illinois’ twice. We are the only winery in the nation to win two Jefferson Cups,” Dubnicek said.

Establishing itself as a destina-tion music venue, Alto hosts regu-lar concert events most summer weekends. The location’s “Music Among the Vines” series brings in a variety of local performers.

Guests are invited to enjoy the outdoors, experience the music and indulge in a glass of Illinois wine. More information can be found on their website, altovine-yards.net.

SLEEPY CREEk VINEYARDS,FAIRMOuNT

“There is such a romance to wine,” Joe Taylor, owner of Sleepy Creek Vineyard in Fair-mount, said.

“It is really the ultimate tourist thing to do. Traveling to vineyards and wineries, even local ones, is such an escape,” he continued.

Taylor and his wife, Dawn, decided to open a vineyard after learning about the expanding grape industry in Illinois.

“We always had a great inter-est in wine and wine making. When we decided to open a winery, we knew we wanted to be very involved throughout the whole winemaking process,” Dawn said.

“It was important that we do the whole ‘vine to bottle’ process from the get-go,” she continued.

Still working other jobs, the Taylors planted their first crop in

2002. On weekends they would come out and tend to the vines. Three years later, they yielded their first fruit. With that, wine.

“You always here the phrases ‘shop local’ and ‘eat local’. We encourage people to ‘drink local’ too,” Dawn said. “We’re making wine from grapes grown right here in Central Illinois. How cool is that?”

Sleepy Creek makes between 7 to 10 varieties of wine per year; using their own home-grown grapes as well as a selection of other US-grown grapes. In addition to their bottled wines, they also make a secret-recipe house sangria and two wine slushies. Com-plimentary wine tastings are offered to all guests.

Sleepy Creek hosts regular events at the vineyard including a campfire series, “Wieners and Wine”, on Fri-day evenings and a concert series, “Sundays at Sleepy Creek”, on Sunday afternoons. The venue also hosts a variety of theatrical performances and art exhibits.

Located at 8254 E. 1424 North Road in Fairmount, Sleepy Creek is a 30 minute drive from Champaign-Ur-bana.

WYLDEWOOD CELLARS WINERY, ST. JOSEPH

Wyldewood Cellars Winery opened in downtown St. Joseph last year. A branch off the larger Wyldewood loca-tion in Kansas, the shop sells specialty wines, jellies, fudge and a variety of gift items.

Originally from Kansas, shop owner Tracie Trotter is the daughter of Wyl-dewood Cellar’s founder. She decided to open the shop after moving to St. Joseph with her husband.

“I grew up in this business,” Trot-ter said. “It’s something that I love and something that I want my kids to grow up knowing. It is entirely a fam-ily business.”

Wyldewood produces a wide range

all images on this spread are photos taken at sleepy Creek Vineyards in Fairmount.


of wines—from dry reserves to fruity sweets. All wine is pro-duced by Trotter’s father at the Wyldewood vineyard in Kansas. “We make wines that taste good,” Trotter said. “All wine is made with fresh fruit in a “fruit-forward” style of wine making.”

Wyldewood’s specialty is elderberry wine.

“My grandmother and grand-father always used to make this wonderful elderberry wine. When they weren’t around anymore, everyone kept trying to recreate it and bring it back because it was so good,” Trotter said.

After experimenting with elderberry, Trotter said the benefits of the fruit proved over-whelming.

“Elderberry is a natural anti-viral. It helps prevent colds, flus and anything viral,” she said. “It also helps with allergies, arthri-

tis, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and diabetes. It’s good because it helps build up the im-mune system and the respiratory system.” Trotter continued, “Elderberry has been around since the time of Hypocrites in every school of medicine. It’s a great natural supplement.”

Wyldewood sells both el-derberry wine and elderberry concentrate.

Wyldewood’s wines have been renowned world-wide. In 2002, their spiced wine (sweet elder-berry wine mixed with cinna-mon and cloves; served warm in the winter, iced in the summer) was served at the winter Olym-pics.

Wyldewood is located at 218 E. Lincoln St. in downtown St. Joseph.


SCORECounselors to America’s Small Business

®

www.eciscore.org

Online Counseling

Person-to-Person CounselingWorkshops

The Champaign County Chamber of Com-merce 2011 Shoppers Expo was a tremendous

sucess. Held on Tuesday, May 10, over 2,000 people were in attendance, more than 60 exhibi-tors participated and 13 restaurants helped cater the event.

In years past, the event was dubbed a “business expo”. This year, the “shopper” focus of the event encouraged vendors to bring products and ser-vices to sell.

Stephanie Finney, Event and Programs Manager for the Chamber, said the event was “a great suc-cess.”

“There is so much Champaign County has to offer and the Shoppers Expo really highlighted those resources. The public was given access to so many products and services, all under one roof,” Finney said.

“You could buy a pair of shoes, have lunch, set up appointments for home improvement proj-ects and shop for jewelry all in one location,” she continued.

Finney added that the event would not have been possible without support from our sponsors. A special thank you to Provena Covenant Medi-cal Center for hosting the 2011 Provena Ultimate Power Lunch and to BankChampaign for hosting the 2011 BankChampaign Wine Tasting.

Also a HUGE thank you to all of our media sponsors (WICD, WCIA, FOX 55/27, WDWS/WHMS, the Illini Radio Group, SJ Broadcasting and Adams Outdoor Advertising) for the great promotion.

Most importantly, thank you to all of our ven-dors, volunteers and everyone who came out. The event would not have been possible without your support.

Stephanie Finney joined the Cham-paign County Chamber of Commerce in April as Event & Programs Manager. Stephanie has a Bachelor’s in Communi-cation & Media Studies and a Master’s in Communication & Public Relations from Eastern Illinois University. She has experience in the Chamber world

coming from the Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development. Stephanie is looking forward to settling in Champaign County with her husband, Shawn, and two sons, Jack and Jude.

wElCoMEshoppersEXpoRecap


2011 golf outingthe Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 2011 golf

outing, was held thursday, June 2 at the stone Creek golf Club in urbana.

stephanie Finney, planner of the event, said she was happy with the turnout.

“It was great to see our chamber members taking time to relax away from the office and get some essential networking com-pleted at the same time,” she said.

Congratulations to sherri stewart, Chris Corum, navid sadiq and Jim Cross for winning the Chamber’s 2011 golf outing. Their final score was 59. In second place was a.J. thoma, Jay sikorski, Matt wavering and Zach wetherell with a score of 62. third place was Jim rayburn, Cindy somers and penn nelson with a score of 63. Michael Murphy won the prize for the longest drive and Jim rayburn won a prize for hitting closest to the pin. Brian Egeberg and Steve Little were the big raffle prize winners, each winning a three day, two night trip to las Vegas (donated by James oglesby of Custom Mobile DJ techniques).

log on to our facebook page to view photos of the event.

UPCOMING:JUNE 16 ~ COME WINE WITH US AT FARM

CREDIT SERVICES

JULY 21 ~ FARNSWORTH GROUP

AUGUST 18 ~ HILTON GARDEN INN

SEPTEMBER 15 ~ MIDLAND STATES BANK

OCTOBER 20 ~ CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME

NOVEMBER 17 ~ PROVENA COVENANT MEDICAL CENTER

DECEMBER 15 ~ REFINERY

STAY CURRENT. WWW.CHAMPAIGNCOUNTY.ORG


calendar of events

COME WINE WITH uSA Chamber Business After Hours EventThursday, June 16, 5:30 - 7 p.m.Farm Credit Services of Illinois1100 S. Farm Credit Dr.Mahomet, IL 61853Cost: $5 donation for members; $8 for non-members

CHAMBER OPEN HOuSEOpen house and ribbon cutting to celebrate the Chamber’s new buildingTuesday, July 12, 8 - 9:30 a.m.The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

EXCHANGE AND REFERRAL NETWORkA speed networking program to expand business contactsTuesday, July 12, 3 p.m.The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

AGRIBuSINESS COuNCILA forum for members with an interest in local agricultureThursday, July 21 7:30 - 9 a.m.Champaign County Chamber of Commerce303 W. Kirby Ave.Champaign, IL 61820

BuSINESS AFTER HOuRSHosted by The Farnsworth GroupThursday, July 21, 5 - 7 p.m.The Farnsworth Group1819 S. Neil St.Champaign, IL 61820

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEEHosted by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Agri-business CommitteeFriday, August 5, 7:30 - 9 a.m.Location TBA

February 2011 Flash Economic Index for Champaign County

96.1

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

72%

Individuals departing from Willard Airport during May 2011

7,098

Individuals flying into Willard Airport during May 2011 7,739

7Number of visitors to www.champaign-county.org in May 2011

4,212

Number of phone calls to the Chamber office in the combined months of April and May 2011

2,357(

107Champaign County business licenses applied for in April and May 2011

Unemployment rate for Champaign County in May 2011 8.7%

champaigncounty.org


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practice 2

Documents

Transcript of practice 2