May-2011

Galesburg on the Go -May 12

Business RecyclingWorkshop

May 5

Soangetaha CountryClub

WIBA

Do You WooHoo We Hear You America

VOLUME 2011, ISSUE 5 MAY 2011

The mission of theGalesburg Area

Chamber of Commerceis to serve its members

by enhancing the business climate and

promoting and stimulating the orderly

economic growth withinthe Galesburg area.

The

Express

Track

Please call the Chamber office at 343-1194 or send via email to [email protected].

Thursday May 12Thursday May 12

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

REPRESENTATIVE BOBBY SCHILLING, 17TH DISTRICT CONGRESSMAN

at The Best Wat The Best Westernestern260 S. Soanget260 S. Soangetaha Roadaha Road

For reservations, please call the Chamber at 343-1194 or send via email to [email protected] or fax us at 343-1195

Monthly Newsletter of the Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce

Cost with reservation $10.00 without reservation $12.00 Buffet Lines open at 6:45 am

Galesburg On The GoGalesburg On The Go

Legislative LuncheonLegislative Luncheon

THIS MONTH’STHIS MONTH’S

INSERTSINSERTS

Featuring an update on federal legislation, the budget and issues affecting the business community.

Monday May 16Monday May 16111:30 - 1 pm1:30 - 1 pm

at Kensingtonat Kensington31311 E. Simmons S1 E. Simmons Streettreet

LUNCHEON

12 NOON

Cost: $15. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.

RESERVATIONS PLEASE!

Sponsored by:

Business After HoursBusiness After Hours

For reservations, please call the Chamber at 343-1194 or send via email to [email protected] or fax us at 343-1195

Come and enjoy beer, wine and appetizers.Remember your business card for door prizes.

Sponsored by:

Thursday May 26Thursday May 265:30-7 P.M.

SoangetSoangetaha Country Club aha Country Club

Pool Cabana

238 N. Soangetaha Road

2 check out our website

May 7th Mexico Lindo Folkloric DancePerformance, - 3:00 pm Center CourtSandburg Mall Free performance fea-turing original Mexican dance. Formore information 344-1331

May 7th Celebrate Nurses - 1:00 PM7th Annual Nurses WeekConvocation!!! The Galesburg CottageHospital School of Nursing AlumnaeAssociation presents the annual cele-bration to honor nurses. If you are anurse or you want to honor or remem-ber a nurse, join us in celebration aswe gather around the MotherBickerdyke Memorial Statue and cele-brate all nurses past and present.Mother Bickerdyke Memorial Statue,Knox County Court House, 200 S.Cherry Street, Galesburg 309-536-0600

May 7th Lets Get Thrifty On 150 - 9:00am - 5:00 PM Lets Get Thrifty On150, Mile after Mile of Sales & Fun!!!This event is held every year on theSaturday of Mother's Day Weekend,on route 150 from Galesburg toMoline's route 6. Let Mom Chooseher own gift!!! Along the way you willsee, entertainment, flea markets, yardsales, car shows, antiques, art work,food and much more. There will besome thing for everyone. Take thefamily on a cruise!! Follow the signs& balloons!! Vendors are still needed,contact; 309-629-9201 or 309-629-2709 Route 150 from Galesburg toMoline David Geer 309-221-2888

May 7th “Celebrate Mon at the Pops”Concert - 7:30 pm A Mother’s Day tributefeaturing vocalist Margaret Carlson.Memorable melodies from “The Americansongbook” Tickets and further information342-2299

May 8th Mother's Day Buffet - 11:00 am -2:00 PM Huge Easter Buffet!!! Join us forour Holiday Traditions of Ham, Turkey,Roast Beef, BBQ Ribs & Fried Chicken,sides include: Mashed Potatoes & Gravy,Au Gratin Potatoes, Assorted Vegetables,Salads & a great Full Dessert Table. Callfor Reservations Early!!! Best Western -Prairie Inn, 300 S. Soangetaha Road,Galesburg Best Western [email protected]

May 11th Mayday Fairy Tea - 2:00 PM"Mayday Fairy Tea"!!! Come and meetFairy Grandmother Sandra McCone, asshe tells stories about the fairies and themagical tales of the Three Little Lasses.You will receive a copy of her first book,"The Secret in Nana's Garden", & CDsigned by the author, tea, goodies and aMayday basket. So put on your partyclothes, hat and fairy wings if you like andjoin the magic of the Three Little Lasses.Come early to shop the Fairy Market andCaptured Moments Photography will cap-ture your little fairy's magical day for a fairyreasonable price. Limited seating, call for

reservations 309-221-3288 or purchasethem from Inner Wisdom, 31 N. KelloggStreet. Deadline on reservations is Friday,April 29, 2011!!! The Kensington GardenRoom, 311 E. Simmons Street, GalesburgSandra McCone 309-221-3288

May 14th BAGS Tourney - Noon The YoungProfessionals of Galesburg present aBAGS Tourney!!!! Double elimination withteams of 2. Half of entry fees paid back toteams as cash prizes. Proceeds will bene-fit the YPG Scholarship Fund. Food andbeverages will be sold by Buffalo WildWings. Please mail or drop off team name,members & contact information withenclosed check payable to; YoungProfessionals of Galesburg, 311 E. WaterStreet, Galesburg. Buffalo Wild Wings,2683 N. Seminary Street, Galesburg TrentCox 309-642-7814

May 14th Song Bird Watch - 8:00 - 10:00am Song Bird Watch!! Bring your binocu-lars, wear sturdy shoes, jeans, longsleeves & hat, dress for the weather. Yourhost for this bird watch is Vince Hummel.Pre-register by May 12th, Blackthorn HillNature Preserve, 1590 Angling Road, 2miles Northwest of Hope Cemetary,Highway 4 Opal Murray [email protected] www.black-thornhill.org

May 15th Orpheum Red Carpet Series: MarkTwain on Stage. 2:00 pm John Chappell,Mark Twain impersonator, will present aone-man show. Sponsored by Dave’s AutoBody and a grant from the Illinois ArtsCouncil. Tickets: $15, $20 and #$25. Formore information call 342-2299

May 15th Young Pianists Recital & pmKresge Recital Hall, Knox College. Freeand open to the public. Knox-GalesburgSymphony - 342-2299

May 20th Exhibition - May 20 - June 18 =Tuesday - Friday 10:30 am - 4:30 PM,Saturday 10:30 am - 3:00 PM An exhibi-tion of Digital Photo Constructions by LesBarta of Incline Village, NV and WoodTurnings by Dale Gamling & JakeJackobsen of Hillsdale, IL. Galesburg CivicArt Center, 114 E. Main Street, GalesburgHeather Norman [email protected] www.galesbur-garts.org

May 20th Christian Band Concert Benefit7:30 pm at the Orpheum Theater starringSide Walk Prophets and 1000 Generations.Ticket prices: $15, $20, and $25. For moreinformation call Galesburg Christian School343-8008.

May 26th 13th Annual BBB Torch AwardEvent 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Cocktails5:30 p.m. Dinner 6:00 p.m. at GatewayBuilding, Peoria. Please Join Us InCelebrating Marketplace Ethics & Integrityin Central Illinois "Global Ethics" by ChrisSears of Caterpillar Presentation ofAwards for more information contact Ms.Jessica Tharp, BBB Vice President, RSVP309-670-1182, [email protected]

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BUSINESS LOBBY DAY

On behalf of all Galesburg Chamber

Members, a group of business lead-

ers and elected officials traveled to

Springfield on April 12th to attend the

Illinois State Chamber Business

Lobby Day. The focus of the event

was workers' compensation reform,

a topic of primary interest to our

Members.

Joining over 200 statewide business

leaders, we received presentations

from the Governor, the Senate

President, the Senate Minority

Leader and the House Minority

Leader, among others. As you are

aware, workers' compensation rates

in Illinois far exceed those of sur-

rounding states, adding unnecessary

costs and burdens on business,

reducing our ability to successfully

compete with others. Each speaker

emphasized the importance of work-

ers' compensation reform and

pledged to address changes in the

system during this Legislative

Session.

Following our visit, a competitive

workers' compensation bill was intro-

duced in the State Senate, but fell

short of the votes needed for pas-

sage. It is our understanding that

Senate and House leaders, as well

as the Governor's office, are working

together to craft new language that

will shape a bill that can still be

voted upon during this session.

Worker's compensation reform has

been an issue we have supported

for the past several years. We are

encouraged that a bill addressing

our concerns may be considered

shortly by the General Assembly and

we are working closely with area leg-

islators, Statehouse leaders and

Chambers of Commerce statewide

to help effect necessary changes.

Please join us in this effort by con-

tacting Representative Don Moffitt

and Senator Darin LaHood, and

thank them for their continued sup-

port of this legislation.

BUSINESS RECYCLING WORKSHOPBUSINESS RECYCLING WORKSHOP MAMAYY 5TH5TH

Looking for ways to start, expand or improve your workplacerecycling program?

We invite you to attend our Business Recycling Workshop onThursday, May 5th, from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. The presentationwill be held at the Kensington and will focus on recycling andreducing waste in the workplace. Thanks to our sponsors,Waste Management and Eagle Enterprises Recycling, Inc.,this session is providedat no cost to ourChamber Members.

We will cover a wide vari-ety of topics during theworkshop, including:

� Starting a "GreenTeam"

� Performing a wasteaudit

� What can be recycled

� What happens tocommodities that arerecycled

� Environmental bene-fits

� How to talk with yourwaste hauler

� Green procurement

We encourage you to "go green" and attend this session. Forregistration and additional details, please see the flyer thataccompanies this newsletter.

FREE WEBINAR FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS

galesburg.org visitgalesburg.com greda.org 3

2 3 4 5Business RecyclingWorkshop 3-5 pm

6

9 10Ambassador Corps -7:30 am

11Education Task Force -12 noon

12

GOTG - 12 noon13

16Chamber BoardMeeting 10:00 amLegislative Luncheon11:30 - 1 pm

17 18 19 20EHousingTask Force -12 noon

23 24Environmental TaskForce - 12 noon

25Government RelationsTask Force-7:00 am

26

BAH 5:30 - 7p.m.27

30“Closed”Memorial

Day

31 1 2 3

Chamber EvChamber Events:ents:

MaMayyMonday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

ISSUANCE OF FORM 1099 ISSUANCE OF FORM 1099

REPEALED BYREPEALED BY CONGRESSCONGRESS

On April 14th, President Obama signed legislation repealing the

Form 1099 filing requirements that were imposed under the

Small Business Jobs Act and the Pension Protection and

Affordable Care Act.

The rules would have required businesses to report any pur-

chase of goods or services of more than $600 per year from

another vendor to the IRS on a Form 1099-MISC, beginning in

2012. Owners of rental property would have been required to

report payments of $600 or more to providers of services begin-

ning in 2011.

These filings would have added significant costs to businesses,

already burdened by excessive regulations and reporting require-

ments. We are pleased to report that the Galesburg Chamber

took an active role in seeking the repeal of the 1099 filings and

thank our Members for their assistance in this endeavor.

FUTURE CHAMBER ACTIVITIES AND SPONSORS

2011 Galesburg on the Go

MONTH/DATE BUSINESS

June 15 Seminary Estates

July 20 available

August 17 available

September 21 available

2011 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

MONTH/DATE BUSINESS

June 21 Tompkins State Bank

July 14 Miller Dredge

July 28 IH Mississippi Valley CU

August 30 Trillium Dell Timberworks

September 27 Knox College

In a continuing series of drug-free workplace seminars, the IllinoisState Chamber is offering a FREE Webinar on Thursday, June2nd, from 10:30 A.M. to 12:00 Noon. Entitled "Prescription DrugIssues and the Workplace," the webinar will address the followingtopics:

� The nature of prescription drugs in the workplace � Dealing with employees that you know or suspect are on

pain maintenance programs

� Looking for unacceptable behaviors � Proper documentation

The instructor for this workshop will be Dave Chambers,President, Prairie Management Institute, Inc.

Please call our office for online registration information.

For-Profit Businesses - Finding a Grant

As a business owner, you may be won-dering if there are any grants availablewhich could benefit a for-profit business.The answer is yes; there are grants avail-able, but you have to know where to lookand what strategies to use when apply-ing. There are several databases which candirect businesses to available fundingopportunities. Some of these sitescharge for at least part of their services,but others are free. Many of the sites areset up like search engines. A user canenter relevant search terms in order tofind available grants. Before using thesedatabases, it will be helpful to determinewhat key words or phrases might bemost relevant to your business. Forexample, if you run a landscaping busi-ness, relevant search terms mightinclude “landscaping, beautification,plants, arbor, trees, forest, renewal,parks, and wildflowers.” Free Management Library - overview ofnonprofit fundraising sources andapproachesFoundation Center - online directoryNOZA - the world’s largest database ofcharitable donationsFoundationSearch America - a source offunding information for nonprofitsGrantStation - an online community fornonprofits and funding informationGrants.gov - a database of FederalgrantsGuideStar - with information for nonprof-its, collaborating businesses and donorsThe Grantmanship Center - seeks toassist nonprofits in securing fundingBIG Online America - offers grant devel-opment services and other support

Finding Funding May RequireCollaborative Effort

One important (and sometimes over-looked) strategy for acquiring funding isto organize a collaboration with a non-

profit group. Very often, when for-profit businesses and nonprofitgroups work together, they will findthat there are more grant opportuni-ties available to both groups. One exciting example of successfulIllinois collaboration between businessesand nonprofits is a coalition called theIllinois Smart Grid Regional InnovationCenter. The ISG-RIC is the result of aprogram by the U.S. Small BusinessAdministration. This initiative, called“Innovative Economies,” aims to supportsmall businesses by encouraging collab-oration with the public sector, economicdevelopment, and other organizations.According to Business Wire the ISG-RICis “more than 100 entities (including 70businesses) in the Chicago region,focused on the acceleration of SmartGrid [technologies]...a convergence oftechnological and investment interestsacross multiple sectors, focused on usingadvanced technology to improve ineffi-cient and outdated electric transmissioninfrastructure.” In other words, the ISG-RIC initiative will help develop greentechnology within Illinois, and will createimportant connections among large andsmall regional businesses, and nonprofitinstitutions.There are 100 entities currently involved,but the opportunities surrounding theISG-RIC program are still growing.According to New Equity Daily, the IllinoisInstitute of Technology is a major partici-pant in the ISG-RIC. David Baker, VicePresident of External Affairs for IIT,stresses that a key component of thisprogram is to tie smaller companies tolarger ones, and that there are stillopportunities for involvement. Bakerstates, “Our real focus is on helpingthese startups. We're interested in han-dling companies at any stage, from ideaon.” Baker further explains that in addi-tion to forming new partnerships withexisting businesses, the project alsoplans to help start at least two new busi-

nesses as the result of this program. Thefeature in New Equity Daily contains a listof types of groups with whom IIT andISG-RIC would like to collaborate.As you can see, many unique opportuni-ties can come from partnerships betweenbusinesses and nonprofits. Here are afew examples of new Federal grantopportunities which require collaborativeefforts: 2011 National Urban and CommunityForestry Challenge Cost Share GrantProgramThe information provided in the grantdescription states that “PotentialInnovation grantees are encouraged towork collaboratively with other organiza-tions and entities, particularly those nottraditionally involved in urban and com-munity forestry.”Department of Defense: RoboticsCollaborative Technology Alliance (CTA)This grant description states that “theArmy envisions the Alliance will bringtogether government, industrial, and aca-demic institutions to address researchand development required to enable thedeployment of future military unmannedground vehicle systems ranging in sizefrom man-portables to ground combatvehicles.”National Institutes of HealthProgram for Extramural/IntramuralAlcohol Research Collaborations (U01).This grant description states that theobjective is “to bring together theresearch expertise that, as a functioningcollaborative unit, will address key alco-hol-based research questions that wouldnot otherwise be possible by the sameindividuals working towards similar goalsin isolation.”Additionally, the EPA provides collabora-tive partnership programs.


Beginning in June, we will select the Business of

the Month during the second week of each month.

The winner will be contacted for their business

information, logo and any pictures that they would

like to provide. Their story will then be highlighted

in our newsletter the following month.

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LuncheonLuncheonLuncheon 12 noon12 noon12 noon

• Mail to: Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 749 Galesburg, IL 61402-0749

• Call: 309-343-1194

• E-Mail: [email protected]

• FAX: 309-343-1195

Name of business: ______________________________________________________________________

Names of those attending:_________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

I want to make an announcement. Name: ___________________________________________________

I want to donate a door prize (please list below):

Door Prize: ___________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE NOTE: Reservations are required and must be received by the Chamber office no later than Noon, Wednesday May 11 the same as the cancellation deadline.

If a cancellation is not received, you will be held financially responsible for the $10 fee.

Held at Best Western Prairie Inn

260 S. Soangetaha Road

Thursday May 12, 2011 Time: 12:00 noon (Buffet Line opens at 11:45 a.m.) Cost: $10.00 ($12.00 without a reservation)

Sponsored by

Presentation by Candy Webb

185 S. Kellogg Street P.O. Box 749 Galesburg, IL 61401

Phone: 309-343-1194

Fax: 309-343-1195

Email: [email protected]

Company: Persons Attending:

Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce

BUSINESS RECYCLING WORKSHOP RECYCLING WORKS: REDUCING WASTE IN THE WORKPLACE

During this two hour presentation, we will cover the following topics:

• Starting a “Green Team” • Performing a waste audit • What can be recycled • What happens to commodities that are recycled • Environmental benefits • How to talk with your waste hauler • Green procurement

Thanks to the sponsorship of Waste Management and Eagle Enterprises Recycling, there is no charge to attend this session.

However, seating is limited and reservations are required.

Call Mary Plue at the Chamber, 343-1194, or fax this registration form to 343-1195.

You may also email your attendance request to [email protected].

A “Toolkit” presentation for starting, improving or expanding your recycling program.

Sponsored by

Waste Management, Eagle Enterprises Recycling Inc.,

Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce

The Kensington 311 E. Simmons St. Galesburg, Illinois

Date:

Thursday,

May 5, 2011

Time:

3:00 - 5:00 P.M.

Soangetaha Country Club

Membership Specials

Soangetaha Country Club is now offering outstanding membership specials. The club has a wide variety of different membership

categories to fit everyone’s needs.

“DUES REDUCTION” - If you join this year you will receive a dues reduction for the first year.

We have also added new membership categories:

Corporate Membership Pool Only Membership

Tennis Only Membership Pool and Tennis Only Membership Pool and Fishing Only Membership

Soangetaha Country Club is the home away from home. Not only is Soangetaha Country Club the premier country club in the area - it is much more. Just a few things Soangetaha Country Club has to offer:

Championship 18 Holes Golf Course

Casual and Fine Dining Outstanding Meeting Rooms and Banquet Facility

Olympic Size Pool with Diving Area and Slide Outside Cabana

Three Lighted Tennis Courts Wonderful views of Lake Rice

If you have any questions please contact Richard J. Dewling or

Dorene Murfin at (309) 342-6104

Acri Company

Associated Bank

Aultman Siding & Windows

Azer Clinic

Bi-County Title Co.

Bill Johnson Builder

Birkey’s Farm Store

Blaze Restoration, Inc.

Blue Jay Barns

Breslin’s Inc.

Bullis & Sundberg Insurance

C N Home Improvement, Inc

Cabinetworks Kitchens

Carpetland USA

Century 21/Tucker Swanson

Cherrytree Kitchens, Inc.

Chezum Seamless Gutters

Chimney Savers

Chuck Hay Insurance

Coach House Garages

Cooley ii

Copeland Custom Homes

Courson & Associates

Courtright Construction Inc.

Energy Doctor of Northern

Illinois

Farmers & Mechanics Bank

Connor Company

Holt Supply Company

Home Comfort Insulation

Howe Overhead Doors, Inc.

IH Mississippi Valley Credit

Union

J B & D Siding & Windows

Johnson Painting

Kleine Equipment

First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust

First Midwest Bank

Fox Portable Restrooms

Granite Transformations

H & R Block

Hansen Lumber Company

Knox Glass

Landscaping Solutions

Liston Heating & Cooling

Lufkin-Schwieter Ready Mix

Mangieri Electric

Materials Direct

Mel Foster Co.

Menard’s

MidAmerica Basement Systems

Midwest Bank of Western IL

Midwest Flag

Munson Pool & Spa

Neil Thomas Plumbing & Heating

New Age Siding & Windows

O’Charlie’s Repair

Office Specialist, Inc.

Olson’s Paint Spot

Pat Kennedy Builder

People’s Do-It Center

Register Mail/Knox Co. Neighbors

ReMax Preferred Properties,

Chris Pepmeyer

ReMax Preferred Properties,

Tom Knapp

Rheinschmidt’s Carpet &

Furniture Gallery

Riverland F.S. Inc.

S & H Electric

Shea’s Home Improvements

Sherwin-Williams

Sullivan Door Co.

Superior Asphalt

Superior Walls by PCS

Tompkins State Bank

Trillium Dell Timberworks

Tri-States Water

Unique Landscaping

Voorhees Siding & Windows

Webber Rental & Supply

Western Illinois Title Co.

Window World

For more information, visit us

online at www.wibaweb.org

Western Illinois Builders Association

2163 E. Main St., P.O. Box 565

Galesburg, IL 61402-0565

309-343-2116

E-mail: [email protected]

It’s Home Improvement Season -

Support our local members for all

your Home Improvement Needs!

Congratulations to the

Knox County Humane Society The Knox County Humane Society was

recently presented a check for $11,868 at

the Western Illinois Builders Association’s

Home Show at the Sandburg Mall. The

Humane Society was the recipient of the

2010-11 playhouse furnished by the West-

ern Illinois Builders Association and built

by Shawn Shea of Shea’s Home Improve-

ments. As an extra incentive, the Builders

Association offered a $1,000 bonus for

breaking the all-time playhouse ticket sales

record of $10,078 set by the Galesburg

Community Veteran’s Memorial in

2007. The Humane Society raised $10,868

in ticket sales bringing the grand total to

$11,868. The winner of the playhouse was

Joan Schreckengost of Galesburg who gra-

ciously donated the playhouse back to the

Knox County Humane Society where it has

been placed in the public dog park behind

the Shelter for everyone to enjoy.

Pictured from back left are Paul Hensen, WIBA President; Erin Buckmaster,

Knox County Humane Society; Terry Hartley, Steve Hawkinson, Bud Lewis,

and Scott Howe, WIBA Board Members. Front: 2011 Little Mr. Home-

builder, Aidan Laird and 2011 Little Miss Homebuilder, Haley Marshall.

Little Miss/Mr. Homebuilder Contest is open

to any child, age 5-9, in our community.

Haley Marshall, 8, is the daughter of Dave

& Kerri Marshall of North Henderson and the

granddaughter of David Marshall of Hansen Lum-

ber Company. Aidan Laird, 5, is the son of Scott

& Kelly Laird from New Age Siding & Windows

Inc. in Galesburg. Both children received a $100

Savings Bond, a junior tool belt, and a McDon-

ald’s gift card. They will ride in the Memorial

Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, and Christmas

Parades in Galesburg.

A big “Thank You” to all of the children

that entered: Kyleigh Hartley, Delaney Clark,

Lillian Clark, Arianne Collins, Alexa Tuthill,

Lillyan Shepherd, and Liam Collins. Each child

received a participation prize. All of the children

will be age-eligible to enter again next year. The

and to the 2011 Little Miss Homebuilder, Haley

Marshall, and Little Mr. Homebuilder, Aidan Laird!

The “We Hear You America” contest will award a $40,000 grand prize to the overall winner and smaller prizes to each category winner as well as articles about the winning town in 3 of their publications.

Here’s how it works, visit the website... www.wehearyouamerica.readersdigest.com

Once you’ve reached the website, register your e-mail address, then you choose Galesburg 61401 as the town to “cheer” for.

Once you are at the Galesburg page, click the blue “cheer” button on the left side of the page. The first time you cheer a second page will open up giving you a chance to comment about the town. You may close this and continue to cheer to a total of 10 votes . The “cheer” button will disappear when you have reached your total cheers allowed for that day.

You may also post pictures and make positive comments about the area by clicking on the “Make It Happen” button just above the comment section in the middle of the page.

You may vote EACH AND EVERY DAY!! That is our competitive advantage. The more you vote, the better our area does!

Consider asking your friends to help out Galesburg as well. You DO NOT have to live in Galesburg. You just have to want to make a difference for it.

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Vote EVERYDAY for GALESBURG, IL

Something New Cooking at the Sustainable Business Center

ANNUAL GOLF OUTING PLANNED FOR JUNE 6TH


Please plan to join us for our 18th AnnualGolf Outing, which will be held onMonday, June 6th, at Lake BrackenCountry Club. In addition to a great dayof fellowship, we will feature a $10,000Grand Prize for a hole-in-one, sponsoredby F & M Bank.

Our event is co-sponsored by GalesburgBroadcasting Company, who will alsoemcee our dinner . The event beginswith a shotgun start at 1:00 P.M., followedby a buffet dinner with special awardsand prizes for individual, team and coursewinners. The golf format will be 4-personSuperball.

Teams of 4 may register for $300 per

team, which includes greens fees, cart

and dinner. Dinner only is $20 per per-

son.

We hope you will also help sponsor this

event through HOLE SPONSORSHIP,

which is offered for $100. Your business

sign will be placed at one of the 18 holes,

recognizing you as a sponsor.

You can also promote your business or

organization by providing a door prize for

our dinner drawing. Each golfer will

receive a ticket for the door prize drawing,

which will be held during our Awards

Presentation.

May we request thatyou register yourteam by May 20th?Please call our officeat 343-1194 or usethe TeamRegistrationForm found inthis newslet-ter.

We look for-ward to seeingyou attheGolfOuting!

The Sustainable Business Center has anexciting opportunity for culinary enthusi-asts and entrepreneurs. En Season, theSBC’s commercial kitchen and café iscurrently in construction and will be opento the public this summer.

En Season is an apropos name for acafé that is dedicated to the creation offresh, local and organic cuisine usingproduce that is currently ‘in season.’ EnSeason’s commercial kitchen is a shareduse kitchen and business incubatoravailable to anyone wishing to produceand/or market a local food product. Thekitchen is certified and commerciallyequipped for food preparation, cookingdemonstrations, educational classes andtraining.

The state of Illinois currently requiresfoods such as jellies, sauces, andbreads sold at farmers’ markets to beproduced in a certified kitchen. EnSeason kitchen enables food producersfrom the Galesburg area to pursue their

food business goals without the heavystart-up cost of building and maintaininga certified kitchen. There is also on-siteretail space for immediate sales opportu-nities for foods produced within EnSeason.

The Sustainable Business Center is inthe process of planting a variety ofchemical-free fruits and vegetablesincluding raspberries, radishes, summersquash, tomatoes and herbs. This pro-duce will be served in the café and uti-lized in kitchen demonstrations. Thefocus of the kitchen demonstrations is toshare knowledge about cooking fresh,local and organic produce with theGalesburg community.

In addition to a garden, the SustainableBusiness Center is planting a prairieplot. Full of grasses and other plantsnative to Illinois, the prairie plot will cre-ate a local ecosystem of plants, insects,and animals.

Through En Seasonkitchen and café andour efforts to combinebusiness acumenwith social and envi-ronmental aware-ness, the SustainableBusiness Center canhelp you “Leave your imprint on theworld… Without leaving a carbon foot-print on the earth.”

For more information about theSustainable Business Center, pleasevisit us at www.sustainablebusinesscen-ter.com or call us at (309) 343-1191.

For more information regarding EnSeason Kitchen and Café, please con-tact Peggy Wilke at [email protected].

For more information regarding localfood and agriculture, contact LoreleiUllrich at [email protected].

IRS OFFERS FREE SMALL BUSINESS WEBINAR

The Internal Revenue Service will offer a

free small business webinar on

Wednesday, May 18th, beginning at 1:00

P.M. Entitled "Small Business Advantage:

Put Our Knowledge to Work for You," the

session will cover the following topics:

� The new IRS brand for small busi-

ness resources

� Multiple resources to help small

businesses thrive

� Benefits of using Small Business

Advantage

� Opportunities available now for

small businesses

The seminar is specifically designed for

small business owners, self-employed

individuals, independent contractors and

tax practitioners.

For additional information and to register

for this session, go to www.irs.gov and

search Webinars. Or, call our office and

we will assist you in registration


This past Friday, my husband and I left ourmany friends and colleagues in Galesburgto head to our new home in Huntsville, ALwhere I will be working as a marketing con-sultant and writer. We have truly enjoyedliving in this community that offers arts, the-ater, education, culture, recreation, dining,shopping and a strong sense of communi-ty. We are excited about our upcomingmove, but sad to leave this town we havebeen proud to call our home for ten years.

From a professional perspective, I amgoing to miss my fellow associates at theGalesburg Regional EconomicDevelopment Association (GREDA). I feelhonored to have worked among suchknowledgeable and experienced individualswho are qualified, passionate and dedicat-ed to their work in economic development.Thank you Tom Schmidt for your leader-ship and sense of strategic visioning – weare fortunate to have you! Oliver Fergusonhas been a joy to work with as well. I amconfident that good things will result withOliver leading GREDA’s business develop-ment program. Greg Mangieri’s knowledgeregarding transportation and logistics isincomparable and GREDA and the City ofGalesburg can truly benefit from his knowl-edge in this arena. Our 100 plus investors,board of directors and executive committeemembers have donated and volunteeredendless hours of their valuable time to ourorganization and community and investedthousands of dollars to support economicdevelopment.

In the past nine years alone, our privateinvestors have provided 6,922 jobs and$172,197,200 in private salary/wages. Totalprivate investments in economic develop-ment totaled $1,308,739 with the averageannual investment totaling $131,000.These same investors’ cumulative privateinvestor tax base (EAV) is $65,062,287 peryear. GREDA is a private public partnershipthat provides leadership for economicgrowth and prosperity. It is a network ofbusiness leaders, local officials, and inter-ested citizens working together to incorpo-rate a collaborative approach to developinga strong local economy and expandingemployment opportunities for our area’sworkforce.

This past January, GREDA announced its2011 Program of Work, based on the City

of Galesburg’s 2009 Visioning Sessionsresulting in “The Galesburg Advantage.”This vision for the community has beenadapted by GREDA and serves as thebackdrop of their Program of Work, provid-ing an outline for GREDA’s major goalsand initiatives over the next year.

The economic downturn Galesburg hasexperienced over the past ten years is notunique to that of other communities acrossour nation and it is certainly not the onlytown in our state suffering from the illeffects of a recession. Our entire countryhas suffered the same. Calendar year 2011started with the US federal governmentfacing an unprecedented $14 billion dollardeficit and our state facing an estimated$15 billion dollar deficit. Illinois currentlyranks 48th in the nation for job creation.Statewide, unemployment figures currentlytotal 8.8 percent, Knox County: 9.1 percentand Galesburg: 9 percent.

In spite of the recession and down turnedeconomy, GREDA has worked diligentlyand responsibly to create a culture of eco-nomic growth, supporting existing businessand maintaining its annual BusinessRetention and Expansion (BR&E) pro-gram. Since the BR&E’s inception in 1990,more than 2,000 Galesburg area business-es have been included in the program withover 420 community volunteers assistingwith on-site visits, interviews, surveys, andassessments. The initiative also prepares acomprehensive report from the visits toassist the businesses, county and cityleaders in providing valuable assistance toour local business owners.

In addition, GREDA aggressively works toattract and recruit new businesses andrespond to requests for proposals in aquick and timely manner. Bear in mind thatthese efforts are made on a daily basis, inspite of the high Illinois taxes and lack ofstate incentives to potential businesses.While Illinois makes it difficult to run a busi-ness – our neighboring states offer lowerinterest rates, lower taxes, and huge incen-tive packages. No wonder our state (andGalesburg) has problems attracting busi-ness!

I have also appreciated the opportunity towork with the fine staff of the GalesburgChamber of Commerce. I have come torely on Bob Maus’ positive “Can-Do” atti-tude and found him to be someone I couldtrust and depend on when needed.Administrative Assistant Mary Plue andAccountant Patsy Gray taught me themeaning of professionalism. Both Mary andPatsy always wear a smile on their faceand handle any crisis with dignity andgrace.

Although I am leaving Galesburg to live in

Huntsville, Al, I will continue to keep the

city of Galesburg in my thoughts and

prayers. There seems to be a positive air in

Galesburg these days. It has been exciting

to see our community come together to

cheer and support our town in Reader’s

Digest’s “We Hear You America” contest.

As I stood among the large crowd gathered

in front of the steps of the Knox County

Court House several weeks ago at the “We

Hear You” Rally, I was inspired by the

enthusiasm and pride of those in atten-

dance toward this fine community. It is my

hope that this positive spirit will continue to

grow and permeate this entire region and

that our City will reach out to the other key

leaders and organizations in our town and

agree to work with them to help bring

about community-based economic devel-

opment.

I would like to close with the top five things

we will miss most about Galesburg:

1. The people – There are so many car-

ing and loving people in this commu-

nity who are passionate about their

community and proud of their town!

They are Galesburg’s biggest asset!

2. The architecture – Galesburg is home

to some of the most beautiful, historic

buildings around. We will always miss

the beauty of First Congregational

Church with its gorgeous stained

glass windows, First Presbyterian

Church with its castle like appear-

ance, and the beautiful Orpheum

Theater.

3. Customer Service – From the excel-

lent customer service at The

Landmark and InnKeepers Coffee to

Chris Hawkins of McDonald’s with his

great smile and “Have a McWonderful

Day!” We believe that Galesburg

knows how to treat their customers!

4. The members of Full Gospel Church

and First Christian Church – We (Bill

and I) felt such love and support from

the members of these two very spe-

cial churches.

5. Lake Storey and Galesburg’s other

parks and recreation venues – We

spent many hours at Lake Storey and

Lincoln Park enjoying Fourth of July

Fireworks, picnicking, or watching the

Mallard ducks with their baby duck-

lings.

Thank you for everything Galesburg – We

will miss you!

MarketingMarketingMattersMatters

ByMichelle SmithGREDA Marketing &

CommunicationsCoordinator


AMBASSADOR CORPS

Lance Aten..........................................Tompkins State Bank

Amye Bean.....................Retired Senior Volunteer Program

Carrie Bernett......................................American Red Cross

Nancy Dahlberg......................Century 21/Tucker Swanson

Jim Dieterich.....................Midwest Bank of Western Illinois

Doug Gibb...........................................Hospice Compassus

Mary Ann Hale..................Knox-Warren Special Education

Bob Juraco..............................................Wells Fargo Bank

Theresa Mangieri................................First Mid-Illinois Bank

Doris Medhurst..........................Orange Julius/KarmelKorn

Carl Nixon....................................Accounting Systems, Inc.

Annette Pickrel.................................................F & M Bank

Lori Putnam.....................................................F & M Bank

Chris Ryner...................IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union

Angie Randolph.................................First Mid-Illinois Bank

Larry Shaw...................................................Mel Foster Co.

Jackie Turner................................................Mel Foster Co.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

CHAIRMAN

Geoff Hurd..................Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes

VICE-CHAIRMAN

Steve McKelvie.......................Johnson Building System

TREASURER

Dave McDonald.............................McDonald & Conolly

DIRECTORS

Alderman Wayne Allen........................City of Galesburg

Kelli Bennewitz................................................City Clerk

Josh Gibb.................Galesburg Community Foundation

Mike Holloway..............................................F & M Bank

Julie Lambasio.........................................Lambasio, Inc.

Tammy Lufkin........................................Hansen Lumber

Dave Rasmussen.............................Hy-Vee Food Store

Jerry Reynolds...............................Knox County Landfill

Pearl Strickland...................Knox-Galesburg Symphony

Pam Van Kirk...........................Galesburg Public Library

CHAMBER PRESIDENT

Robert C Maus

Galesburg Business Index

February 11 January 11 February 10

Real Estate Activity (MLS) (Board of Realtors)

Number of listings Sold 56 57 62

Dollar Volume Sold $4,692,700 $5,038,180 $3,908,500

Average Selling Price $83,798 $88,389 $62,040

Knox County Labor Force (IDES)

Civilian Labor Force 25,586 26,054 25,908

Number Employed 23,242 23,715 22,703

Unemployment Rate 9.2% 9.0% 12.4%

State Sales & Use (City of Galesburg Financial Department)

Taxes Collected $446,248 $424,887 $414,297

Visitors to Galesburg

Antique Gass & Brass Cruise

May 4 – 8

Limited Rods Cruise

May 5

Lets Get Thrifty On 150

May 8

Bright Sparks

May 13

Friends of Chicago Alton Depot

May 18

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Bill Butts Law OfficeMr. Bill Butts

119 S. Cherry St., Galesburg343-9107

Merlin Company (computer consultant)Mr. Michael Lampson

714 N. West St., Galesburg309-368-1773

Monthly Newsletter of the Galesburg AreaChamber of Commerce

185 S. Kellogg StreetP.O. Box 749Galesburg, Illinois 61402-0749

Phone: 309-343-1194Fax: 309-343-1195Email: [email protected]

PRESORT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 60GALESBURG, IL

STAFF

PRESIDENTRobert C. Maus

VICE PRESIDENT, MEMBERRELATIONSA.C. (Dick) Dickson

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTMary Plue

BOOKKEEPERPatsy Gray

TOURISM EXECUTIVE DIRECTORJudy Guenseth

TOURISM SALES ASSOCIATEJudy Moorehead

TOURISM ASSOCIATEJerry Wood

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY

At a special luncheon held on April 27th at the Best Western Prairie Inn, AdministrativeProfessionals were recognized for their important roles in our area businesses and organi-zations. Sponsored by Office Specialists, the luncheon featured Keynote Speaker TerryCavanaugh who presented a light hearted history of important events that would not have

occurred without the organiza-tional skills and support ofadministrative staff.

Office Specialists provided bagsof office supplies to eachattendee and also held a draw-ing for the event Grand Prize - anew HON office chair. Winnerof the drawing was DebraKrueger of the Knox CountyHousing Authority.

Our thanks to Office Specialistsand Terry Cavanaugh for helpingus to honor all of ourAdministrative Professionals andrecognize that their work is criti-cal to the success of our areaemployers.

Pictured above: Grand Prize winner Debra Krueger ofKCHA, Terry Cavanaugh of WGIL and Suzy Klinck ofOffice Specialists

May-2011

Documents

Transcript of May-2011