JACKSONVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 155 W. MORTON, JACKSONVILLE, IL 62650 217-245-2174 jacksonvilleareachamber.org

Mission Statement“To improve the business climate, promote economic development, and enhance the quality of life in

the Jacksonville Area.”

Vision Statement“The Jacksonville Area Chamber

of Commerce encourages businesses by building relationships to create a

vibrant tomorrow.”

INDEX150% Club..................................2

Volunteer of the Month...............2

Business of the Quarter...............2

Access for All...............................2

Renewing Chamber Members....2

Educator Appreciation Reception...3

Business After Hours Events......4

Business Education Partnership..5

Chamber Auxiliary......................5

YPN Haunted House Social........5

Business Index............................5

New Chamber Members.............5

Business After Hours Invitation..6

Membership Anniversaries.........6

President’s Report.......................6

LLCC Fall Art Show...................6

New Administrative Assistant....6

Business Briefs...........................6

Ribbon Cuttings..........................7

2015 Business Expo...................7

December 2014

JACKSONVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 155 W. MORTON, JACKSONVILLE, IL 62650 217-245-2174 jacksonvilleareachamber.org

Be sure to register for the Chamber’s Annual Meeting to be held on Jan. 29 at Hamilton’s “110 North East”. The theme is “‘Clue’ In to the Chamber”. Social

hour will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner at 6:45 p.m.

Awards will be presented for Circle of Excellence, Small and Large Businesses of the Year, and Not-for-Profit Business of the Year. The event will also include a wine and beer raffle. Attendees are invited to bring a bottle of wine or “specialty beer” for the raffles.

Be sure to attend this fun-filled evening. Enclosed is an insert with registration information.

Don’t Miss Chamber’s Annual Meeting Jan. 29

On December 4th, the YPN will be ringing bells for the Salvation Army at Midland’s Farm and Home. Bell Ringing Volunteers will work hourly shifts from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The YPN will host The Art Association of

Jacksonville’s December opening on Dec. 6th. The event runs from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and the public is invited to attend.They will be wrapping Christmas gifts for

the residents at Heritage Health Therapy & Senior Care on Dec. 12th starting at 6:00 p.m. To sign up for any of these activities, call

the Chamber at 245-2174.

YPN Activities

Be sure to make your nominations for Business of the Year Awards and Circle of Excellence which will be presented at the Chamber’s annual meeting.

Award categories include: Business of the Year - Under 25 Employees; Business of the Year - 25 or More Employees; and Not-for-Profit Business of the Year.

The Circle of Excellence award is an honor intended to publicly thank those volunteers who are retired from an active business, have served in some form at the Chamber, and have a provable record of contributions to the Chamber; as well as 10 years of service.

See the enclosed nomination forms.

Submit Nominations for Chamber Awards

Drawing at Business After Hours

Prairie Village Healthcare Center Administrator Kelly Rothering is pictured drawing City Clerk Skip Bradshaw as the recipient of the $275 in Chamber Checks. Unfortunately Skip was not in attendance so the amount will increase for the next Business After Hours. Prairie Village also gave away a lovely fall basket and the lucky winner was Diane Hollendonner.

Chamber Checks top $500,000 in salesWe are pleased to

announce the Chamber Check Program has topped $500,000 in sales. There are over 80 Chamber Members redeeming these gift certificates.This $500,000 has to be spent in our community

at one of the participating businesses. Choices for redemption include dining, jewelry, clothing, gas, flowers, spa treatments, and much more. For an entire list of places to use the gift certificate, you can go to the Chamber website at www.jacksonvilleareachamber.org. Chamber Checks is part of the plan of work for

the Business Division. This program started in the fall of 2008, and there is no expiration date on Chamber Checks. If you aren’t currently accepting the checks, contact the Chamber and sign up to be on the Christmas list. Chamber Checks can be purchased at the

Chamber office, 155 West Morton, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information, please contact the Chamber at 245-2174. Please remember Chamber Checks as the

perfect gift during this holiday season.

In to the Chamber

You Are Invited to a

Celebration! Join us as we say Thank You and

celebrate the years of service given to the Chamber by

Ginny Fanning at an Open House

Thursday, December 11th 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Hamilton’s Fireside Room 110 North East, Jacksonville

Hosted by Contact Club

2

Volunteer of the MonthVolunteer of the Month for November is Kathy Rider. Kathy is pictured receiving her award from Board Chairman Mark Whalen. Kathy and her husband Jim are Chamber Civic Investors. During the interim when we did not have an Administrative Assistant, Kathy covered the position for us. She was here some lunch hours, but also many full days as well. Kathy has always been a huge supporter of the Chamber. She was the Administrative Assistant for 5 years before retiring in 2012. The Chamber appreciates her willingness to help whenever called upon.

Be A Chamber 150% Club MemberThank you to these members of the 150% Club. The Chamber thanks each business for its great

support of the Chamber and its activities:

A. Gaudio & SonsAffordable ShredAlan Nail SpaAMVETS Post 100Anytime FitnessThe Art Association of JacksonvilleBecker FarmsState’s Attorney Bobby BonjeanBuster SanitationCarpenters Local Union 270City of Jacksonville, City Clerk Skip BradshawCity of Jacksonville, Mayor Andy EzardCommunity Childcare & Service CenterConsolidated Grain & Barge Co.Jimmy DuncanElm City CenterThe Farmers State Bank and Trust CompanyThe First National Bank of WinchesterLarry & Martha FlynnHamilton’s CateringHeritage Health Therapy & Senior CareHome Instead Senior CareILMO ProductsJacksonville Area Landlord AssociationJacksonville Lawn CareJacksonville Regional Economic Development CorporationJacksonville Rotary ClubJIC Professional RoofingL.A. Burton & AssociatesLand of Lincoln GoodwillLape FarmLincoln Land Community College

Little Johnny’sMark Stribling TruckingMassey’sMia Ware FoundationMiddendorf BrothersMidwest Dental, Michael Watkins, DMDI. Newton MitchellMorgan County Abstract CompanyFrancis B. Nelson, Jr.Passavant Area HospitalPrairie Council on AgingPremier BankR.W. Troxell & Co.RicohThe Scoular CompanySelect One Day DentureSeymour Gold & Silver ExchangeThe SourceSport CityTurner Insurance AgencyBrad WareSusan Weller, DMDWilliam Weller, DDSWells CenterWestown Ford LincolnWilliamson Funeral HomeWorrell-Leka Land Services

WELCOME BACKA. Gaudio & Sons

Middendorf Brothers

150% Club members receive special recognition in the Chamber Review, on a plaque in the Chamber office and in the Annual Report.

Communications Company, Inc.TELEPHONE SYSTEMS VOICE MAIL

DATA CABLING VOIPAuthorized Distributors for

NEC SAMSUNG IWATSUServing over 2,300 Customers in Central Illinois

Renewing MeMbeRs

A. Gaudio & Sons*Alan Nail Spa*Becker FarmsBriggs Appraisal AssociatesBuchanan & Cody Funeral HomeBuchheitThe BurgerBoardCanine CampColton, Downey & AssociatesConsolidated Grain & Barge Co.*CurvesEdward Jones, Tony L. MooreFirst National Bank of ArenzvilleFour Rivers Special Education DistrictGirls In White Satin Bridal & Formal WearGoldsborough ElectricHampton InnHometown Phone BookJacksonville Main Street

Ken Bradbury FoundationLucy’s PlaceMid-America AdvertisingMiddendorf Brothers*Nestlé USAThe Nursery SchoolPassavant Industrial RehabilitationPet Supplies PlusPrairie Winds EngravingRid-All Pest ControlJim & Kathy RiderRobert “Chick” Fritz DistributorsThe Source*Springfield Periodontics & ImplantsStar-Lite MotelTom Finch Automotive ServiceTrone Appliance CenterUniQue Personnel

(*150% Club member)

Thank you to members who reinvest in the Chamber, keeping links between businesses and community strong and growing.

Access For Allby Jacksonville Area Center for Independent Living

Winter is approaching! Cold, snow, ice, and slush are unpleasant for all of us, but they are particularly troublesome for someone with mobility disabilities.

A walker, a scooter, a wheelchair, a cane, or an unsteady walk or poor vision can really be impeded by the elements of weather. A curb cut filled with plowed or shoveled snow and ice will keep customers from your business.

Your courtesy in respecting accessible

(“handicapped”) parking spaces, and helping to keep the paths of travel clear - the curb cuts and the sidewalks - will be appreciated. Thanks!

Disability Awareness information can help businesses feel more comfortable in their interactions with people with various disabilities. JACIL can design disability awareness training customized to your setting; give us a call at (217) 245-8371.

Business of the QuarterBeard Implement was named the Business of the 3rd Quarter. Jeremy Beard attended the Board meeting to accept the award and give a few remarks about the business. Beard Implement has sponsored many Chamber events including the Annual Meeting, Agri-Industry Banquet, and Golf Outings. They have donated items to the Chamber’s Steak Fry Fantasy Auction, Silent Auction, and Educator Appreciation Reception. They provided a tour for the YPN of farm equipment at the Morgan County Fairgrounds. Their associates have been active

Chamber Members. Pictured is Jeremy Beard, Beard Implement Partner, pictured with Board Chairman Mark Whalen .

FOUNDATIONPassavant Area Hospital

Where Your Gift Stays Local, Working Every Day

217.479.5575 foundation@passavanthospital.com

3

2014 Educator Appreciation Reception - Nov. 12th

The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company’s exhibit was manned by Jan Schumm and Kristan Becker Hoffman. FSBTCO is a Business Education Partner with Lincoln School and a major sponsor for this reception.

Staff from North Elementary School, along with Principal Lezlie Fuhr on the far right, is shown enjoying the event.

Passavant Area Hospital was a major sponsor for the event. Pictured is Monica Eoff, Passavant’s Director of Community Relations.

School District #117 had a booth and attendees were greeted from left to right CFO Jamie Hadjan, Board Member Steve Cantrell, Central Office Secretary Debbie McKean, Assistant Superintendent Dana Kinley, School Board Member Cheryl Ballard, Superintendent Steve Ptacek, and School Board Members Noel Beard and Craig Albers. In attendance but not pictured is School Board Member Mike Lonergan.

Eisenhower Elementary School staff along with Principal Gary Barlow is pictured at the event.

Illinois College’s Master of Education program was introduced to educators at the reception. Pictured are Director of Admissions Evan Wilson and Assistant Professor of Education Daniel Meyer. They were a major sponsor for the reception.

Event SponsorsBound to Stay Bound BooksThe Farmers State Bank and Trust CompanyIllinois College Master of Arts in EducationMcDonald’sMediacomPassavant Area Hospital

ExhibitorsAmeren IllinoisThe AtticBob Freesen YMCACurvesThe Farmers State Bank and Trust CompanyIllinois College Masters in EducationImagine FoundationInternational Eyecare CenterJacksonville Journal-Courier NIEJacksonville School District 117Kiwanis ClubLincoln Land Community CollegeMacMurray College

Mary Karsgaard’s Myo-Therapy & Massage ClinciMcDonald’sMediacomMediacom BusinessPapa Murphy’sPassavant Area HospitalPilot ClubRegional Office of Education #46Rotary Club

All Sponsors and Exhibitors donate prizes. In addition, these Chamber Members have also donated prizes:All Occasions Flowers & GiftsApplebee’sAshley’s Petals & AngelsBard OpticalBeard ImplementBurrus Seed Co.Casey’s General Store, E. Morton

County MarketCVS PharmacyMayor Andy EzardFamily GardensFitness WorldFutureGen AllianceGirls in White Satin Bridal & Formal WearGlik’sGreat ClipsHealth Alliance Medical PlansInner HarmonyJacksonville Auto MartJacksonville Public LibraryJones Meat & Locker ServiceVillage President Gordon JumperKhamma GroupLape FarmLinks Golf ShopMauricesMidwest Office SuppliesMurphy USAMuzzarelli Theatrical Deaf Puppets

Nestlé USANorthridge Golf Co.On the Cutting EdgeFred OsburnPassavant Gift ShopPassavant Team RehabThe Peddler’s Antique & Home Décor ShoppesPerma-BoundPet Supplies PlusPrairie Winds EngravingPremier BankR. W. Troxell & Co.SafeCo Donuts & BakeryU.S. BankU.S. Cellular WavelengthsWade & DowlandWarmowski PhotographyWJIL/WJVO

Thank you to our generous Chamber Member Sponsors & Donors

McDonald’s had a booth as a major sponsor and a Business Education Partner with all the schools. Pictured is Owner Revella Kasprzyk, Associates Debbie Beavers and Annette Steinacher, and Owner Joe Kasprzyk.

4

Steve Hardin, Rep. Davidsmeyer’s office; Carol Carl, The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company; Phyllis and Keith Lape, Lape Farm; Rick Kluge, Rotary Club of Jacksonville; and Lisa Kluge, Heritage Health Therapy & Senior Care

Prairie Village Business After Hours - Nov. 13th, 2014

Prairie Village Owner Sherwin Rey; Brittany Henry, Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau; Maryjane Million, Lincoln Land Community College; and Prairie Village Marketing Specialist Jake Maskich

Seated: Bruce Surratt, City of Jacksonville; Keith Bradbury, Franklin Bank; and Bobby Sims, Grojean Real Estate & Insurance. Standing: Mark Whalen, WLDS/WEAI; and Tom Luber, Jacksonville Savings Bank

Mary Hankins, WLDS/WEAI; Prairie Village Marketing Director Trish Bedwell; Alban Haxhinasto, The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company; Diane Hollendonner, Jacksonville Public Library; and Joey Henry, The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company

Seated: City Alderman Bruce McDaniel; standing: John Nelson and Patty Osborne, Imagine Foundation

Nicole Pleiman, Diversified Services; Prairie Village Activity Director Meaka Knight; Angelica Garcia and Heather Wardlow, Higher Plain Staffing & Executive Placement; and Justin Pettit, Benton & Associates

Paul White, Premier Bank; Betty Kuvinka, Routt Catholic High Schoo; and Mike Kuvinka

Submitted by Rachel Rohn The Fitness World Grand Re-Opening went

better than expected! John and Rachel wanted to have this Business After Hours event to invite the community in to show their renewed commitment to the health and wellness of the Jacksonville area. They were humbled by

the turnout and positive feedback that was received about the updates and additions to the club. Fitness World wants to bring the best to the Jacksonville community and hopes that it shows through their amazing staff and members. On top of adding 25+ new members that night, invaluable insight was gained on

what current members and the community want to see for their Health and Fitness future. It does not stop here. More to come in 2015! Everyone at Fitness World will continue to strive to help any individual that walks in the doors to achieve whatever goals they want to obtain. Your journey to fitness begins here!

Fitness World Health Club Business After Hours Event - Oct. 14, 2014

Submitted by Kay Davidsmeyer MacMurray College is proud of their

beautiful Applebee Gallery in the Putnam Center at the corner of State Street and Clay. The Committee On the MacMurray Art Collection hosts an annual exhibit every October, often featuring alumni and friends of the college. The other months offer shows of visiting artists and students arranged by the art department.

MacMurray was pleased to have Sally Wiesenburg share her paintings and musical talents at our Business After Hours. Sally is from Schuyler County and her musical talents can be heard the first Sunday of the month at the Ridge View Winery near Mount Sterling.Having been founded in 1846 by a Methodist

minister and community leaders, MacMurray continues to build a strong relationship with the Methodist Church and the City of

Jacksonville.The College prides itself on providing

an accessible and affordable education to students of all ages, offering online and blended courses, undergraduate as well as adult learner courses, and offering financial aid in the form of grants and scholarships. For further information about MacMurray,

please contact the Office of the President at 479-7025.

MacMurray College Business After Hours Event - Oct. 3, 2014

Advertise your business or event in the

Chamber Review!Reach over 1,000 readers every month.

Call 245-2174 for details!

Prairie Village Healthcare Center welcomed Chamber Members and the community to a Business After Hours and Open House to showcase recent renovations. The new addition has a large

community room that is open to Seniors in the Jacksonville Area every Monday from 11 a.m.-3:00 p.m. to play cards and games. The second Monday of every month, starting at 12:00 p.m., they host a

free pizza party followed by Bingo. The new addition also has a large Rehabilitation Center, Family Meeting Room, Barber/Beauty Shop, and an Ice Cream Parlor for residents and visitors to enjoy.

5

Business IndexCity of Jacksonville

Total Building Permits Issued 10/1 - 10/312013 2014

55 60Total October 2013

Reported Construction -$3,189,469.04

Total October 2014 Reported Construction -

$1,041,837.00*Source: Dept. of Zoning,

Inspec. & Code Enf.

City of Jacksonville TaxesSales Tax - October2013 2014

$308,332.53 $321,899.84Motor Fuel Tax - October

2013 2014$33,068.95 $39,170.21Hotel/Motel Tax - October

2013 2014$11,174.54 $14,072.07

Real Estate*Number of Units Closed

October 2013 October 201422 38

Village of South Jacksonville

Total Building Permits Issued 10/1-10/31

2013 201410 8

Total October 2013 Reported Construction -

$26,210.00Total October 2014 Reported

Construction -$24,532.00

Village of South Jacksonville Taxes

Sales Tax - October2013 2014

$14,922.20 $16,928.03Motor Fuel Tax - October

2013 2014$5,664.54 $6,709.66

Hotel/Motel Tax - October2013 2014

$13,269.91 $6,122.25

*Source: Jacksonville Area Association of Realtors

MORE THAN JUST TECHNOLOGYproviding innovative solutions, services and support for over 40 years…

Contact Angela Kirby for Sales at (217) 899-7717 or email akirby@cdsot.com. Visit us online at www.cdsot.com

Pictured above: North Jacksonville Elementary School Principal Lezlie Fuhr and Kiwanian Bob Large.

Business Education PartnershipNorth Jacksonville Elementary School & Kiwanis Club

Lezlie Fuhr, Principal at North Jacksonville Elementary School and the Kiwanis Club of Jacksonville, received the 2014 Reaching Out and Building Bridges Award from the Illinois Principals Association, sponsored by Horace Mann Companies. Both partners received a plaque and $750 honorarium at an awards ceremony at the Illinois Principals Association Fall Professional Conference in Peoria on October 20th.

The Reaching Out and Building Bridges

Award was created to recognize an IPA principal or assistant principal in addition to an agency, association, or community member displaying an outstanding effort in creating partnerships between school, principals, associations, and organizations for the betterment of all.

As principal of North Jacksonville Elementary, Lezlie Fuhr has partnered her school with the Kiwanis Club to impact the lives of her students on a daily basis.

Kiwanians are a familiar sight in hallways each and every day, sometimes several times a day to tutor students who are struggling academically, to mentor students who struggle emotionally, and to read to students who struggle to find good role models beyond school doors.

In the last year alone, 40 Kiwanians have logged over 600 hours at North School, helping as few as 50 and up to as many as 275 children on any given week.

The Kiwanis Club of Jacksonville has also gifted students with books, dictionaries, iPads, gym equipment, classroom snacks, transportation, eye glasses, student of the month lunches, BUG (Bring Up Grades Awards), and clothing.

“They make a huge difference in the lives of children every day at North School and we couldn’t do all that we do without all of their generous support,” said Fuhr.

New Chamber members

Celtic Healthcare Amy Devening

1901 Frank Scott Parkway, Suite 2Shiloh, IL 62269

618-830-9571Sponsor: Staff

Home Health, Palliative Care, Hospice Care

Jacksonville ChiropracticEdwin Doyle

900-B South Main StreetJacksonville, IL 62650

217-243-2225Sponsor: Mark Whalen

Jacksonville Chiropractic specializes in chronic headache, neck and back pain relief using hands on adjusting

techniques.Lonzerotti’s Italian Restaurant

Larry Meyers 610 E. State Street

Jacksonville, IL 62650 217-243-7151

Sponsor: Jon Cody

Rate Pilot, Inc.David Hughes

2812 Pat Tillman DriveSpringfield, IL 62711

217-416-5059Sponsor: Jodee Nell

We provide services to the private busi-ness owners and the lending industry. We find capital for any business owner that

needs it or that needs to find a new bank.

Frank Whitney 1535 Mound Ave.

Jacksonville, IL 62650217-243-5326

Sponsor: Tom GrojeanCivic Investor

Newton Mitchell and Janet Hamm, Chamber Auxiliary Members, helped register the workers for the Town Brook Clean Up held on Oct. 25th.

Chamber Auxiliary Help with Registration

The YPN traveled to Roodhouse to enjoy their Haunted House. Pictured is YPN Membership Chairman Thomas Reynolds, Chapin Farmers Elevator, presenting the $25 Chamber Check prize to Jennifer Banks, Lincoln Land Animal Clinic.

YPN Haunted House Social

6

The Business educaTion Partnership of Lincoln Elementary School and The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company is asking for donations of boys and girls winter coats in larger sizes, 6-12. Please take donations to the school or call Principal Paul Monrad for more information, 245-8720.

MidwesT YouTh services is hosting Stems & Steins, a wine and beer tasting fundraiser, on Thursday, December 4th from 5-8 p.m. at On The Rox. The first 100 guests will receive a complimentary wine glass or beer stein. Tickets are $20 and include 5 free tasting tickets, entry into door prizes, and appetizers. Midwest Youth Services is

a non-profit organization serving at-risk runaway and homeless youth in Morgan, Cass, Schuyler, Brown, Scott, and Pike Counties. For more information, call 245-6000.

The arT associaTion of Jacksonville’s opening reception for Dianne Martia is on Dec. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the David Strawn Art Gallery. The show will feature Collage Paintings and is open to the public. The gallery is also open 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Jacksonville sYMphonY Orchestra and Chorale presents Christmas in the Air on Dec. 13 at 3:00 p.m. at Rammelkamp Chapel

on the Illinois College campus. The joyous sounds of the Christmas season are in the air at this concert featuring the symphony and chorale plus the Jacksonville High School Concert Choir. This is an afternoon performance and is sponsored by Passavant Area Hospital and The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company.

The illinois college Fine Arts Series presents Christmas on the Hilltop. The Illinois College concert choir, chamber singers, and band will be performing a variety of music. This is at Illinois College Rammelkamp Chapel on Dec. 6 at 7:30 pm. Contact Bryan Leonard, 217-245-3460 for more information.

saM’s cluB has a special offer for Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce Members. Go to the Chamber web site and click on Member to Member benefits under the Members Area category. There is attached a Jacksonville Area Chamber Certificate to Sam’s Club. Chamber Members will receive a $25 Sam’s Club gift card with the purchase or renewal of a Sam’s PLUS Membership for $100 or a $10 Sam’s Club gift card with the purchase or renewal of a Sam’s Savings or Sam’s Business Membership for $45. Offer is good thru December 31, 2014. (P.S. Chamber Members must bring a copy of certificate and proof of Chamber membership to qualify for the Sam’s Club gift card promotion.)

Business Briefs

Chamber membership anniversaries OCtOber

25+ Years A. Gaudio & Sons, Inc. 1977Middendorf Brothers 1977Nestlé USA 1977O.C. Zink, MD 1977Rid-All Pest Control 1977Colton Downey Insurance Agency 1982Bob Freesen YMCA 1985Massey’s, Inc. 1985Hole in the Wall Screen Arts, Inc. 1989

20 Years Four Rivers Special Education District

15 YearsFirst National Bank of Arenzville

5 YearsTom Finch Automotive Service

The following businesses are celebrating milestone anniversaries with the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce this month. It is their support and that of our

570+ businesses that enable us to provide services to all our Chamber members

Advertise your business or event in the

Chamber Review!

Reach over 1,000 readers every month.

Call 245-2174 for details!

The Chamber’s Education Division awarded prizes for the ROE #46 Fall Art Show held at Lincoln Land Community College in Jacksonville. Pictured is Erika Haley, Routt Catholic High School Junior, receiving her award for the 9th-12th grades from the Chamber’s Education Division Vice-President Susie Drake. The 3rd to 6th grade prize went to Devon Jones, a 5th grader at Triopia Elementary School. Each student was given a certificate and a $25 Chamber Check.

LLCC Fall Art Show

Kate Hammock is the new Administrative Assistant at the Chamber office. She began on Nov. 3. You should already be receiving email correspondence from her. We welcome Kate to the Chamber!

New Administrative Assistant at Chamber

This is it. After writing over 150 monthly notes, I am penning my last remarks. The President’s Report has covered many topics, promoted hundreds of Chamber events and programs, and hopefully been interesting. I should go back and count the number of photos of myself – and the changes encountered there. I still remember someone I hadn’t met before not recognizing me since I didn’t look like my picture running in the Chamber Review. I tried to hang on to those younger photos as long as I could!

Serving as Chamber President has been an amazing experience. You have allowed me the opportunity to work closely with the Jacksonville Area business community and the greatest volunteers any organization has ever had. The friendships formed will last a lifetime. The conferences attended and boards I have served on have helped me grow professionally.

One special perk has been the great view of the world from my corner office in Community Park. The changing of the seasons is best witnessed from my desk especially when the ground is covered in snow. Watching the cross country kids or the children on the big toy as well as the traffic on South Main has helped to keep my perspective clear and fresh. I couldn’t have had a better “second home”.

Our Chamber has seen changes over the past 13 years, and I trust we are in a strong position to achieve even greater things. New ideas and programs have been introduced and with the Board’s encouragement, have achieved great success. Every year each Division has had a terrific plan of work and 2015 will be no exception.

I extend my sincere appreciation for the support you have shown the Chamber and to me over the years. I will continue to work hard for the betterment of the Jacksonville Area and will see you at Chamber events. I just won’t be the one taking your photo!

president’s reportJacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce

Ginny Fanning

7

Fitness World offers the most comprehensive fitness experience in town. They have a wide selection of weight training and cardio equipment as well as more than 40 group fitness classes. Complete with use of the heated indoor pool, racquet ball courts, and saunas for a complete fitness experience for mind, body and soul. Pictured are left to right: Mayor Andy Ezard, Jim Kimble, Chamber President Ginny Fanning, Cheryl Galligos, Stacy Beeley, Shelly Harmeyer, Samantha Merritt, Owners Rachel and John Rohn, Tasha Meyer, Laura Schild, Jacey Pate, Debbie Smith, Jessica Rosengren, Natalie Wilson-Williams, and City Alderman Bill Scott.

Ribbon Cuttings

Fitness World Health Club1521 W. Walnut, Jacksonville

Prairie Village Health Care1024 W. Walnut, Jacksonville

Prairie Village Health Care has a new addition with a large community room that is open to Seniors in the Jacksonville area, their residents and families. Join them the second Monday of each month for free pizza (12 noon) and bingo from 1-3 p.m. The new addition also has a large rehabilitation center, family meeting room, barber/beauty shop and ice cream parlor. Pictured are left to right: Chamber Board Chairman Mark Whalen, Marketing Director Trish Bedwell, Administrator Kelly Rothering, Chamber President Ginny Fanning and Mayor Andy Ezard.

Anytime Fitness1241 W. Morton, Jacksonville

Antytime Fitness unveiled its upgraded look at its new location. With 24/7 access, Anytime Fitness offers state of the art strength training and cardiovascular equipment. Pictured are (front row left to right) Associate James Slocum, Zumba Instructor Breanna Flynn, Personal Trainer Nikki Rumple, Personal Trainer Jamie Dorsey, Personal Trainer Kristie Maro, Member Rick Lyons, Co-Owner Michelle Lynn, Co-Owners Molly and Bryan Turner with children Maddox and Isaac, Member Melanie Workman, Member Trina Clair, Group Fitness Instructor Wendy Smith, Chamber Board Chairman Mark Whalen, and Chamber President Ginny Fanning. Second row: Associate Drew Bland and Mayor Andy Ezard. Not pictured is Co-Owner Jeff Lynn.

Dr. Edwin Doyle has moved back to his hometown to open Jacksonville Chiropractic. He will concentrate his practice on the treatments of headache, neck and back pain relief. He has experience in the treatment of auto and work related injuries. He is now accepting new patients and is a preferred provided for most insurance. Pictured are left to right: Chamber Board Chairman Mark Whalen, Chamber President Ginny Fanning, Dr. Doyle’s mother Ruth Doyle, Dr. Edwin Doyle, Chiropractic Assistant Janet Webb, State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer, Mayor Andy Ezard and Massage Therapist Robin Fromme.

Jacksonville Chiropractic900 S. Main, Jacksonville

Season’s GreetingsSending you and yours a flurry of well

wishes at the holidays and all year long. Thank you for your support.

It’s time again to start thinking about the annual Business Expo which will be held Feb. 26. Businesses are invited to display their newest products and services at the Expo which will run from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Hamilton’s “110 North East.” The event is open to the public and provides businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services. Booths are being reserved early and you’re encouraged to book yours

today.The event includes free admission, hourly

door prizes, drawings, and the announcement of the Boss of the Year Award. Encourage your employees to attend. It’s fun as well as informative.

See the enclosed insert for registration information and the exhibit room layout to select your spot. Call the Chamber for more information.

2015

Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce155 W. MortonJacksonville, IL 62650

PRESORTEDSTANDARD

U.S. POSTAGE PAIDJACKSONVILLE, IL

PERMIT 142

Chamber Review monthly deadline: Information to be included in the newsletter must be given to the Chamber by the 15th of the month prior to publication. (Next deadline: No later than Dec. 15.)

Chamber Calendar - DeCember2 Business Division, noon2 Young Professionals Network Division (YPN), 5:15 p.m.3 YPN Bell Ringing at Midland, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.3 Health & Community Agencies, noon3 Education Division, 4 p.m.6 YPN Hosting at Strawn Art Gallery Opening9 Membership Services Division, noon10 Executive Board, 4 p.m.10 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS at Buchheit, 4:30-6:30 p.m.11 Open House for Ginny Fanning, 5-7 p.m. at Hamilton’s Fireside Room11 YPN Gift Wrapping at Heritage Health Therapy & Senior Care, 6 p.m.12 Chamber Auxiliary Reception, 9:30-10:30 a.m.16 Board of Directors, noon18 Contact Club Christmas Party22 “Starting Your Business in Illinois,” 9-11 a.m. Workshop held in the Chamber meeting room. Reservations required. Individual appointments following the workshop may be made in advance. Presented by Illinois Small Business Development, Lincoln Land Community College.24 OfficeOpen8a.m.to12noon25 OfficeClosed29 IT Roundtable, noon31 OfficeOpen8a.m.to12noonJan1,2015OfficeClosed

Chamber Community Calendar - DeCember**See details in Business Briefs, page 62 Governor Duncan Christmas Gala at Hamilton’s. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. Gala features silent and live auctions. Entertainment will be provided by Sherri Mitchell, vocalist, accompanying herself at the piano, a holiday sing-along and a special appearance by Dr. E.C. Bone. For tickets call 243-5678.2 & 9 Blood Drive at Passavant Area Hospital, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you have any questions about donating blood, please call 217-753-1530 or toll-free at 866-GIVE-BLD for more information. 3-4 Holiday Cookie & Candy Walk from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Community Park Building, 1309 S. Main. Shop for homemade goodies from the most experienced cooks in town! Hosted by the Jacksonville Area Senior Center.4 ** Midwest Youth Services is hosting Stems & Steins, a wine and beer tasting fundraiser, from5-8p.m.atOnTheRox.Thefirst100guestswillreceiveacomplimentarywineglass or beer stein. For more information, call Midwest Youth Services, 245-6000.5 Downtown Gallery Hop sponsored by Imagine Foundation, starting at 5 p.m. at various downtown businesses. For more information, visit www.imaginearts.org.5 Ladies Night Out at Arends-Awe, 1285 Old Route 36 (Riggston) from 5-7 p.m. Shopping, prizes and refreshments. For more information, call 217-742-3138.5-7 & 12-14 A Christmas Chaos directed by Barb Gatlin at the Jacksonville Theatre Guild, 210 W. College. Play times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. For more information go to http://jaxtg.weebly.com or call 245-1402.6-23 ** Oil & Wax, Acrylic & Collage Paintings with Dianne Martia at the David Strawn Art Gallery. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, December 6th from 6-8 p.m. with “Gallery Talk” at 6: 30 p.m. Gallery Hours are Tue-Sat from 4-6 p.m. and Sunday 1-3 p.m. For more information, call Kelly at 243-9390.6 Santa Arrives at Arends-Awe in Riggston and Perry at 10:00 a.m. Live reindeer in Riggston provided by Nolan’s Petting Zoo from 8:00 a.m. to noon. For more information call 217-742-3138.6 ** Christmas on the Hilltop performed by the Illinois College concert choir, chamber singers, and band. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in Rammelkamp Chapel. Contact Bryan Leonard for more information, 245-3460.6 -7 31st Annual Holiday Home Walk & Tea. Visit beautifully decorated homes, sponsored by the International Pilot Club of Jacksonville. Times are Saturday night from 6-9 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at County Market, Chamber of Commerce, WJIL/WJVO or any Pilot Club Member.13 10th Annual SJFD Auxiliary Christmas Cookie Walk from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at South Jacksonville Fire Department, 1810 Sequoia Drive. Shop a huge variety of homemade goodies(evendogtreats)andsignupforprizes.AllproceedsbenefittheSouthJacksonville Fire & Rescue Department.13 ** Jacksonville Symphony Society presents Christmas is in the Air, a holiday concert featuring the Jacksonville Symphony and Chorale. The concert begins 3:00 p.m. at Rammelkamp Chapel at Illinois College. For more information, call 245-1181 or visit www.jaxsym.com.

8

Owner/Agronomist

WE ARE FAMILYSERVING FAMILIESwww.covenantcare.com

Jacksonville Skilled Nursingand Rehabilitation Center

Jen Hubbert, executive Director

32 N Central Park Plaza, Jacksonville 217-243-6699

Seethefuture

Chamber ad-Jville-bw_Layout 1 9/12/14 12:45 PM Page 1