Community Foundation of Central Illinois Announces over $61,000 in Grant Awards

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has approved the Distribution Committee’s recommendation to fund 27 grant proposals during the Fall 2009 funding cycle, exceeding $61,000.00.

“In an economy where every single charitable dollar counts, we are pleased to provide more than $61,000.00 in funding to 27 worthy organizations in the Central Illinois Area”- Mark Roberts, Community Foundation of Central Illinois, CEO.
The following local non-profit organizations received funding during the September 15, 2009 grant cycle:

Advocates for Access received funding from the Thomas and Ellen Foster Fund for their Minor Home Repair program project.

American Red Cross received funding from the Anonymous Fund for their Disaster Volunteer Training project.

ArtsPartners of Central IL received funding from the Taylor & Corinne French Fund/Fine Arts Education and The Eugene and Harriet Swager Fund for Public Art Fund for their Sculpture Display in Downtown Peoria project.

CASA of Peoria County received funding from the Anonymous Fund for their Sustain new cases of child advocacy for abused and neglected children project.

Catholic Charities - Diocese of Peoria received funding from the Mental Health Remembrance Leadership Fund and The William L and Mary E. Kella Fund for their Senior Support Services Program project.

Cancer Center for Healthy Living received funding from the Thomas and Ellen Foster Fund for their Therapeutic Massage for Cancer Patients project.

Common Place, Inc. received funding from the Literacy Fund and The Yeomans Fund for their Big Road: Peoria Reads Literacy Involvement project.

Community Builders Foundation received funding from the Caterpillar Community Leadership Fund for their Manual High School PBIS Program project.

Counseling & Family Service received funding from the Pete and Mildred Donis Charitable Fund for their After School Field Trips for Low Income Children project.

Citizen Support for America's Millatary received funding from the Yeoman's Fund for their Operation Santa project.

Easter Seals received funding from the Sandra and Richard Ullman Unrestricted Charitable Fund for their Feeding Therapy Training Program #2 project.

Fulton County Health Department received funding from the Yeoman's Fund for their Prostate Assistance Screening Program project.

Girl Scouts of Central Illinois received funding from the Paul Jackson Fund for their Safety First project.

Harrison Grade School received funding from the Paul Jackson Fund for their Heritage Exhibitions "My Past is my Future" project.

Lutheran Social Services of IL received funding from the Louis and Selma Neumiller Fund for their Intouch Homecare for Seniors project.

Northmoor School received funding from the John H. "Ted" and Betty Flora Charitable Fund for their Steps to Respect project.

Peoria Charter School Initiative received funding from the Yeoman's Fund for their Community Outreach & Engagement- MAth, Sciece & Technology Charter School project.

Peoria Park District Foundation received funding from the Louise Flora Howard Memorial Fund and The Heimdal Fund for their CHOICES Youth Outreach School Assembly Series project.

Peoria Public Schools District 150 received funding from the Marion and Warren Bohner Fund for their PACES Abeyance Program project.

Valeska Hinton Early Childhood Ed. received funding from the Mildred L. Arends Musical & Cultural Activities Fund for their Traditional and Cultural Participation in a Local Fine Arts Event project.

Prairie State Legal Services,Inc. received funding from the Caterpillar Community Leadership Fund for their Homelessness Prevention Project project.

SLG Cohen Foundation received funding from the Yeoman's Fund for their Spring Planting project.

South Side Catholic Child Care received funding from the Whitney Grotts Endowment Fund and the Ross E. and Susan M. Canterbury fund for their Empower Children to Deal with Difficult Situations project.

TEEN Challenge received funding from the The Dr. Paul Dirkse Endowment Fund for their Changing our Community One Life at a Time project.

U. of I. Extension Service Peoria County received funding from the Cilcorp Education Fund for their Kids in the Kitchen project.

YWCA of Pekin received funding from the Literacy Fund for their Words from Prison project.

YWCA of Peoria received funding from the Homeless Youth Endowment Fund and the Hotel Pere Marquette Charitable Fund for their Strengthening Families Safety Net project.

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois has served Central Illinois for 21 years. Formed in 1988 as the Peoria Area Community Foundation, it was established by a group of community-minded citizens to meet a wide variety of social, cultural, educational and other charitable needs throughout Central Illinois.CFCI maintains high professional standards in the investment and management of the funds entrusted to the foundation. It also promotes effective and efficient grant making to serve current and future needs in Central Illinois

PEKIN MAIN STREET PRESENTS CHRISTMAS ON COURT

A HOLIDAY BUSINESS OPEN HOUSE AND LUMINARY WALK
Pekin Main Street presents Christmas on Court: a Holiday Business Open House and Luminary Walk on Friday, December 4, 2009, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. in downtown Pekin. Pekin’s downtown will be transformed into a Victorian Christmas, with over 1000 candlelight luminaries lining the streets and Courthouse Square. Visitors can observe the sparkling holiday decorations while riding in a horse-drawn carriage; carriage rides will start at Pekin Community Bank, 601 Court Street ($1.00 per person) and Advanced Medical Transport (AMT), 418 Elizabeth Street. Children are also invited to visit Santa Claus inside Pekin Community Bank. The sounds of the holidays will be in the air with strolling carolers from the community and area schools, delighting visitors with a variety of festive holiday tunes. Visitors can also view the recently hand painted holiday scenes painted by the PCHS art classes on the storefronts of 13 downtown businesses. Businesses will be open for Christmas shopping, dining, sales, and open houses.

Businesses will offer complimentary treats and refreshments, door prizes, entertainment, discounts, and promotions. A list of participating businesses, with their address and giveaways/offerings, will be provided that evening. Special activities this year include: the Pekin Public Library open with holiday stories (reader in costume), kids craft activity, children’s book sale and the YWCA’s Adult Literacy Tree/Wreath auction along with Edison Junior High Choir performance from 6:30 – 7:30pm; Atty. Dale Thomas’s office at 337 Court St., with The
Unique Twist balloons along with a Holiday craft; Tazewell County Courthouse open with Tazewell County Museum classic holiday kids project and museum display along with the Pekin Park District Cheer class to perform at 6:00pm; Amanda’s Closet Consignment Shop at 517 Court St. will be offering snacks, discounts & prizes; Pekin City Hall will be open for tours, treats and special Armed Forces tree display encouraging families to bring in a picture of their Veteran to hang on the tree through the holiday season; the Kountry Nook located at 212 N. Capitol St. serving refreshments and door prizes; free Snowflake to paint at Peek-In Pottery located at 433 Court St.; Salon Renaissance offering complimentary scalp & hand massages, migun massage bed and consultation on styles & color and much more at other downtown businesses. New this year to the Christmas Walk, the candlelight luminaries can be sponsored to honor or in memory of a loved one or as a special thanks to someone and “Let a Life Shine the Night” for a warm festive glow during the Christmas on Court event. The cost to sponsor a luminary is $5.00 and each sponsored luminary will be labeled with the honoree’s name and sponsored name if desired. Luminary sponsor form can be found at http://www.pekinmainstreet.com/, Pekin Chamber office and other downtown businesses. Also new this year, a Holiday Bazaar as we have invited non-profits, independent retailers (Lia Sophia, Tastefully Simple, Usborne Books, Scentsy Candles, etc.) and local area businesses selling handmade/crafted items to set up at various business locations throughout downtown to sell their product. A complete list will be posted on the Pekin Main Street website and available to attendees that evening at each participating location.

Another new activity; canned food drive in efforts to stock the food pantries at the Pekin Union Mission and The Pekin Township. Each participating business will have a holiday wrapped donation box to accept nonperishable items. All items will be distributed to the Union Mission & Pekin Township pantries. The Santa House, an age-old tradition to Pekin will be set up on the Courthouse Lawn to accept letters to Santa. The Santa House will be open December 5 – 20, Saturday’s 10:00am – Noon and Friday, Saturday & Sunday’s from 4:00 – 6:00pm. Kids are invited to come down during these open hours to visit with Santa and welcome to drop off a letter to Santa any time. Santa will send a letter back to any letters with an addressed return envelope so it doesn’t get lost in the mail! This event is presented by Pekin Main Street, an organization established to preserve, restore and revitalize Pekin’s historic downtown area. Major event sponsors include Pekin Community Bank, Pekin Manor, Advanced Medical
Transport, CEFCU and Rotary Club of Pekin along with the downtown participating businesses.

Social Security Announces New Enhancements to Online Retirement Estimator

Social Security’s online Retirement Estimator, available at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator, can now be used to provide immediate and personalized benefit estimates to Medicare only beneficiaries. This means that people who have enrolled in Medicare, but have not yet filed for Social Security benefits, will no longer need to contact their local office to obtain an estimate of their retirement benefits.

In addition, Social Security’s Commissioner, Michael J. Astrue, has announced that next year the online Retirement Estimator will be the first online service in all of government to be made available in Spanish.

Best Western Ashland House

Greetings! Please be our guest... East Peoria Chamber Business After Hours, From 5:00 pm to 7:00pm in the Ballroom at the Ashland House on Thursday, November 19, 2009. * Networking * Meeting Potentional New Customers * Great Food * Great Entertainment * Complimentary Champagne * Prizes, Prizes, Prizes * Cash Bar. Best Western Ashland House, 201 E Ashland , Morton, 263-5116

Bring Culvers Home for the Holidays

Hey, dessert lovers: get your taste buds ready for some festive holiday desserts! Culver's of Pekin has just announced its new offer of holiday-inspired, 4-pack Frozen Custard Pints and Oreo Sandwiches – to go. They are designed to take home or bring to festive gatherings for the holidays.

"Figuring out what dessert to bring to a holiday party can be challenging. We know our guests will find joy in the fact that Culver’s offers options that make life so much easier," said David O'Dell of Culver's of Pekin. "The Frozen Custard Pints and the Oreo Sandwiches are made with Culver’s fresh frozen custard, which we make fresh throughout the day, everyday."

The holiday season comes with crowded stores, gift shopping, and the task of preparing festive dinners for family and friends. According to O'Dell, Culver's of Pekin is helping to soften the blow by offering diners the opportunity to purchase these to-go desserts to take one step out of their already busy schedules. Culver’s frozen custard desserts are irresistibly good and affordable treats to share with friends and family. These to-go offerings are a great value, too – letting you “do it right” for your family, just like Culver’s strives to do it right for its guests.

The 4-pack Frozen Custard Pints and Oreo Sandwiches will be available at the local restaurant. For a limited time only, to-go pints are available in festive flavors, including Egg Nog Brickle, Oreo Peppermint and Andes Mint Avalanche.These new to-go options complement the restaurant's signature dessert choices that include sundaes, shakes, concrete mixers, floats and cakes.

Culver's of Pekin is also known for its signature ButterBurger ® and a series of other lunch and dinner menu offers. Culver's has been doing it right for its guests since 1984. The company's commitment to putting smiles on its guests’ faces has helped it grow to more than 400 restaurants across the country, including the Pekin location.

"This holiday season, we're proud to bring good cheer and value to our guests through our new to-go desserts," O'Dell said. "Step into our restaurant and you'll experience fresh, delicious food served with a great big side of friendly smiles and warm hospitality."

Center for Prevention of Abuse to Offer Parking Lot Security ProgramTo Help Keep Shoppers and Workers Safe

With robberies of women in parking lots reported in the Peoria area, The Center for Prevention of Abuse will offer a free two hour training to maximize safety for individuals as they enter their cars after shopping or work. The program will take place, Tuesday, Dec.1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at The Center for Prevention of Abuse, 720 W. Joan Ct. Nancee Brown, Rape Aggression Defense instructor, will conduct the training and offers the following safety tips for people to follow in parking lots:

* Scan your environment. If you see someone loitering near your car, don't enter alone. Go back to the store or your workplace and ask for someone to go with you.

* Once you load packages in your car, even if they are hidden in the trunk, leave the parking lot. You can be observed and your packages stolen when you re-enter the stores.

* Don't linger in your car after you enter. This is not the time to make cell phone calls or run through lists of errands. A person sitting alone in a parked vehicle is a target for robbers.

To learn more about safe behaviors, plan to attend the session. The program is free, but seating is limited so please call 691-0551 to reserve a place.

Methodist at Pekin Physician wins “Q” Award from Quality Quest for Health

Quality Quest for Health has recognized Christopher Von Hake, DO, of Methodist at Pekin with the inaugural “Q Award.” Dr. Von Hake was recognized as the top performer for generic prescribing in the specialty of Ear, Nose and Throat The award is based on information from the Quality Quest for Health 2nd quarter 2009 Generic Prescribing Report. The report tracks the generic prescribing rate at the clinic level across seven specialties in seven counties in Central Illinois.

Dr. Gail Amundson, President and CEO of Quality Quest for Health, said, “We want to recognize the clinics that are doing the best job of helping patients be able to afford their medicines. Our Q Award winners are also helping get better patient outcomes because patients have a higher adherence rate for taking medications when their prescriptions are cost effective.”

Quality Quest for Health is a health care collaborative. Quality Quest collects data related to specific Quest Projects and reports performance information to the medical community and the public. The information helps providers compare their performance to peers and regional/national benchmarks and to improve patient care.

Limited Time Offer From Ameren's Act On Energy

T12 Lighting Upgrades Eligible for Special 10% Incentive
The federal government has mandated that t12 lamps be phased out of production in 2012, so businesses will eventually have to upgrade all T12 lighting. To help you get a head start, Act On Energy is offering bigger incentives to upgrade to high-efficiency T8 or T5 lamps. For a short time, businesses with qualified lighting projects will receive a special 10% incentive, in addition to the existing incentive. But don't delay - this limited-time offer is only available for applications submitted between November 16, 2009 and January 31, 2010. For more information visit www.ActOnEnergy.com or call 1-866-800-0747

Chamber Challenge Trivia Night

There could be only one winner, but all 14 teams had an evening of fun at the 5th Chamber Challenge Trivia Nite. Congratulations to the Herget Bank In-Quiz-Itors on their 4th straight victory. The event was sponsored by Pekin Insurance and Brown DJ & Sound Service. You can see pictures from this and other chamber events at: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Apply Now For Census Jobs

The U.S. Census Bureau is currently recruiting employees for local work on the 2010 census. Positions include: census takers, crew leaders, crew leaders assistants, recruiting assistants and census clerks. You can read more about these opportunities at: http://www.pekin.net/newsletter/Ads/censusjobs.pdf

Employment testing will be at the Pekin IDES offices, 200 S. 2nd Street, Suite #10. Testing times are 10am and 1pm on November 16, November 20, November 25, November 30, December 2 and December 4. You'll need to bring 2 forms of identification. Call 1-866-861-2010 with questions.

Methodist Named to Best Hospital’s List in Three Categories

U.S. News and World Report has named Methodist Medical Center in Peoria one of America’s Best Hospitals of 2009-2010. Within that elite group, Methodist is also one of the top 10% judged best for nursing care and best for pain control.

In the annual hospital rankings published by U.S. News, Methodist was named one of America’s Hospitals, ranking #43 in the U.S. for Urology Services. Only 174 hospitals nationwide scored high enough to be ranked in even one of 16 specialties analyzed by U.S. News. Of those, Methodist ranks among the Best of the Best in nursing care and pain control.

Patient satisfaction survey results from 2008 put Methodist in the top 10% of U.S. News’ America’s Best Hospitals for nurses who are “always courteous, listened carefully, and gave clear explanations.” Methodist also ranks in the top10% for pain management with the highest percentage of patients who said their pain was “always well controlled.”

Now in its 20th year, the multi-platform 2009-2010 America’s Best Hospital Guide is the most extensive hospital ranking to date. It includes rankings of 174 medical centers nationwide in 16 specialties, with full data available online for another 1500 unranked hospitals.
Methodist President and CEO Michael Bryant said, “We’re delighted that yet another objective study has found Methodist to be outstanding in healthcare. We’re pleased to be among such hospitals as the Mayo Clinic, Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston in providing the very best in healthcare to our patients and their families.”

The Easy Way to Windows 7 (For businesses!)

If you are interested in Windows 7, but are worried about the high cost of upgrading or replacing ALL of your business computers... read this.

By now, everyone has seen commercials and read reviews about Windows 7, and most people probably know at least someone who has switched to it.

The reality is moving every computer at your company on to a new operating system is EXPENSIVE and TIME CONSUMING. Some older computers just don't have the power, and they would need to be replaced or upgraded. Even with your newer computers there is still the cost of buying an operating system upgrade (on average between $120-$220 per computer - JUST for the software!). What most business owners don't yet know is that the new Remote Desktop Hosting service in Windows 2008 R2, the newest operating system for servers from Microsoft features the same easy to use interface as Windows 7. It lets you take advantage of all of the features of Windows 7, without having to buy software or upgrade ANY of your business computer systems to Windows 7!

Think about the cost difference - Instead of upgrading or replacing dozens or hundreds of computers to take advantage of Windows 7, buy a server from Liberation Software and you'll be providing the same exact Windows 7 experience to all of your employees. No mess, no fuss. No wasted time or money trying to get older computers to work with Windows 7, no risk of older computer hardware running slow, and no need to replace older computers with new ones running Windows 7.

As a Microsoft Partner, we have been using the new server operating system for months, and all of my employees now have over 4 solid months of training specifically on Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7. We took the time to learn the ins-and-outs of the newest technology, and are now in the position of being one of the best (if not the best) equipped, experienced, and competent firms in the country who can transition your network to the new Windows 7 experience. We also offer a full range of hosting services on our leased OC48 connection - the equivalent of 1600 T1 lines - for those of you who don't want an on-site server cluttering up your office or don't want to worry about managing the server yourself.

Call us to find out more and see all of the incredible things these servers are capable of, and see what Liberation Software can save you over a much less efficient and costly conventional workstation upgrade approach to Windows 7. I bet you'll be very surprised - especially considering our service starts at under $100 per user, MUCH less than the price of just the Windows 7 operating system!!

Don't wait too long, our installation spots for early 2010 are filling up FAST and we're doing all implementations on a purely first-come, first-served basis.

Contact us at (309) 282-6249 or lance@liberationsoft.com for more info and be sure to ask about the Chamber of Commerce discount!

Doing Business with the Government: Understanding how the Federal Recovery (ARRA) can help

IL PTAC at Illinois Central College invites area small business owners who are interested in doing business with the government and understanding how the ARRA program can help target new markets.

This event will be held Tuesday, November 17, 2:30 p.m. at the Illinois Central College, North Campus, Cedar Hall, Room 60.

Topics to be presented include an overview of business opportunities (bids and solicitations), goods and services purchased by the federal government, as well as how to register as a vendor.

For registration information, please contact Kathy Shelton at ptac@icc.edu or 309-690-6817. The cost for this event is $20 per attendee. Pre-registration is required.

IL PTAC at ICC is a no cost outreach program for small and medium-sized businesses looking for contracting opportunities with government agencies and large companies. Our goal is to help Central Illinois businesses win government contracts and subcontracts related to government projects, and to help strengthen our Illinois economy by creating or retaining jobs, and helping business growth. More information can be found at www.icc.edu/ptac

Methodist Names November Employees of the Month

Methodist Medical Center has announced the November, 2009 Employees of the Month. Their peers in the areas of patient care, nursing, and non-nursing support recognize three separate employees.

The three selected were Jennifer Szidon, RN of Peoria selected for the category of Nursing. She works on 7 Hamilton Oncology unit.

Also selected was Chris Fildes of Tremont for non-nursing support. She is the Practice Lead for Methodist at Pekin.

And for the category of Patient Care, Connie Allsup of Peoria Heights was selected. She works on 7 Crescent Nursing floor.

All three will be honored at a hospital reception on Wednesday, November 18, 2009.

Suzuki Strings Fundraiser Rescheduled

The Pekin District 108, School of Music, Suzuki Strings will have a fundraiser from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 17 at Culver’s restaurant, Pekin. Also available for purchase that evening will be Silpada jewelry.

A portion of the proceeds from both fundraisers will benefit Pekin District 108, School of Music, Suzuki Strings Program. For more information, please contact The Suzuki Strings office at (309) 477-4774.

CEFCU ANNOUNCES NEW MY SAVE CERTIFICATE AND COLLEGE PLANNING TOOL

CEFCU is proud to announce two new ways to help members plan and save for the future. The My Save Certificate and a Web-based College Planning Tool are now available for CEFCU members.

The My Save Certificate is a convenient way to build savings. With only a $5 minimum deposit, members have the ability to open a Certificate and make additional deposits of any amount throughout the year, up to $1,000,and still earn a regular 12-month Certificate rate. At the end of the12-month term if the balance is $1,000 or more, the My Save Certificate will automatically be rolled into a regular Certificate with a 12-month term. If the balance is less than $1,000, the Certificate will renew into another 12-month MySave Certificate.

Pete Jain, CEFCU Vice President said, "This is a great way for parents to build their child's savings with a higher rate than a traditional savings account. The flexibility with deposits makes it easy - members can set up a payroll deduction, electronic transfer, or make a deposit at any Member Center."
A new College Planning Tool, developed by Collegiate Funding Solutions, can help parents save for and reduce college costs. The tool is FREE to CEFCU Members and can be found on CEFCU's Web site, www.cefcu.com. The questionnaire takes less than15 minutes to complete and provides members with a FREE customized report, based on their individual situations.

"With the cost of a college education constantly on the rise, having a strong, well-thought-out savings plan for your child's education is more important than ever. That's where CEFCU's new Web-based College Planning Tool can help. And, CEFCU Representatives are available to help discuss the customized reports and put plans in motion," stated Sue Yoder, CEFCU Vice President.

With assets totaling over $4.1 billion, CEFCU serves 267,000 members through 19 Central Illinois Member Centers; Valley Credit Union, a division of CEFCU; the CEFCU Financial Center; the Money Center 24 ATMNetwork; CEFCU's Web site, www.cefcu.com<http://www.cefcu.com/>; andcefcu.mobi.

Methodist Wins Three National Web Site Awards

Methodist Medical Center is one of 220 healthcare organizations to receive recognition for outstanding Web sites. Methodist received the Silver Award for Best Overall Internet Site for hospitals of similar size. In addition, Methodist received a Gold Award for Best Health/Healthcare Content and a Gold Award for Best Quality and Safety Communication in hospitals of similar size.

The eHealthcare Leadership Awards were presented in Las Vegas November 4th during the 13th Annual Healthcare Internet Conference. Winners of platinum, gold, silver, and distinction awards represented 17 industry classifications from hospitals and health systems to pharmaceutical firms and online health companies.

Rosemary Stuttle, Marketing and Public Relations Director for Methodist, said, “ Katrina Griffin, our website coordinator, has done an outstanding job of making MyMethodist.net the most informative and easy to use healthcare Web site in our area. Whether it’s communicating with your family physician or gaining valuable healthcare information, MyMethodist.net provides our patients and the public with easy access to current information.”

Sites receiving the 2009 eHealthcare Leadership Awards were selected from more than 1,100 entries.

Bradley Senior Consulting Projects Needed

Many of you are aware of the senior consulting project program for Bradley University's Foster College of Business Administration. They have a record number of business students graduating this year and are in need of projects for them to work on.

The Senior Consulting Project (SCP) is the capstone project for all Bradley University business majors. The program is designed to provide business students with an opportunity to apply all of the skills they have developed during their time at Bradley to a real world business situation. The SCP program at Bradley has successfully done this for more than 20 years.

Teams of 5-6 students will act as consultants for you during the entire semester. Each project includes: 1) a survey, where students find out answers to questions you may have about your customers or the community; 2) an in-depth industry analysis; c) either a strategic growth plan or a comprehensive marketing strategy.

You can get more information, including the application, at: www.pekin.net/newsletters/Ads/BradleySCP09.pdf

The professors will be selecting their projects for next semester in mid-December. So, if you would like to apply, please do so by returning the application by December 1. Applications can be emailed to me at kenk@bradley.edu or by mailing to: Bradley SBDC, 1501 W. Bradley Ave., Peoria,IL 61625.

Good Shepherd Spaghetti Dinner

Good Shepherd Lutheran School will hod its annual Spaghetti Dinner on Friday, November 13 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 711 Court Street from 5:00 - 7:00. Delicious spaghetti with or without meatballs, breadsticks, salad, dessert, and drink all for a free will donation at the door. Stay to watch and listen to the talent show that follows at 7:00.

Timbercreek Business After Hours

The November 5th Business After Hours was hosted by Timbercreek Rehab & Health Care. Brent Morgan and his staff put their hospitality on display with great food, drinks and door prizes. You can see pictures from this event at: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Chamber 40 Leaders Under Forty

Congratulations to the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce members who were recognized in the 40 Leaders Under Forty Class of 2009: Pamela Anderson, City of Pekin; Karen Cotton, Illinois American Water; Matthew Coulter, PDC Services; Jamie Durdel, TCRC; Melinda Figge, YWCA of Pekin; Dr. Erika L. Hunter, Pekin Hospital; Nat...e Hurn, Office of Congressman Aaron Schock; R. Brandon Lott, Farnsworth Group; Kevin Nowlan, Center for Prevention of Abuse; Keith Plavec, Maurer-Stutz; Ryan Walsh, Methodist Medical Group; Dr. Roberta Van Zant, Methodist Medical Group; Amy Whiting, SBSi Semonis; and Jonathon Williams, Commerce Bank. The annual recognition program is sponsored by InterBusiness Issues.

Pekin Hospital to Honor Veterans

Pekin Hospital invites the community to a Veteran’s Day celebration ceremony on November 11 at 1 p.m. in Park Court Conference Center at Pekin Hospital to honor all who have served in the armed services. Colonel Paul Sutherland, M.D., will be the guest speaker for the celebration, with accompanying music provided by William Bond, M.D., and Justin Riley. Pekin High School JROTC will be presenting a flag ceremony.
Refreshments will also be served following the ceremony.

Pekin Area Network Meeting

The Pekin Area Network is proud to welcome Pekin Mayor Rusty Dunn as its guest speaker. Mayor Dunn will be discussing current economic conditions in the City of Pekin. The event is sponsored by the Pekin Area Network and its members. Refreshments and pastries will be served. The meeting will be held on Friday, November 13th from 7:30am-8:30am at the Pekin Public Library. Contact Jeff Stevenson with questions or for more info: jeff.stevenson@nationalcity.com

Drs. Hunter & Kahn Ribbon Cutting

Dr. Erika Hunter moved to a newly remodeled office at 3223 Griffin Avenue. She will be joined by Dr. Mo Kahn, a new doctor in Pekin. A grand opening of their new pediatrics office was held on November 3rd. Representatives from Pekin Hospital, the City of Pekin, and the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce joined Dr. Hunter, Dr. Kahn and their staff for the ribbon cutting.

James Field DVD For Sale

The Tazewell County Museum is offering a collectors item DVD of the James Field renovation and rededication. The DVD contains nearly 200 photos and is overlayed with audio from the rededication ceremony at James Field. The photos and DVD are the work of Pekin resident Ed Emmons.

The audio portion of the DVD includes a history of James Field as told by Valerie Umholtz at the rededication ceremony. The audio also includes Jan Donahue thanking the people who worked on the project.

The DVD program is 20 minutes. The museum will be taking orders for the DVD at $20.00 each. The museum's phone number is (309) 347-8375. You can send a check to the Tazewell County Museum at 2950 Court St. Pekin, IL 61554. Please indicate that the check is for the DVD.

Anyone interested in Pekin history will be excited to own this DVD. It will make a great Christmas present this year!

Suzuki Strings Fundraiser Planned

The Pekin District 108, School of Music, Suzuki Strings will have a fundraiser from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 10 at Culver’s restaurant, Pekin.
Proceeds to benefit Pekin District 108, School of Music, Suzuki Strings Program. For more information, please contact The Suzuki Strings office at (309) 477-4774.

Bob Kevoian to Appear at Area Golf Outing

Arrowhead Country Club and 95.5 GLO (WGLO-FM) are hosting a golf outing on September 26th to benefit “The Front Nine Foundation”. This foundation helps children and families during the front nine of their lives so they can enjoy the back nine. This is the third annual charity golf outing raising money for this Children’s Hospital program.

Tee time is at 2pm with a sit down dinner at 6:45pm. Following dinner Bob Kevoian, from the Bob & Tom morning show featured on Peoria radio station 95.5 GLO, will give a short speech and sign autographs. At 8:30pm attendees will enjoy the music of “Pink Sushi”.
Prizes will also be given away throughout the evening.

Individual reservations for this event are $150 for an individual and $600 for a foursome. Additionally, businesses and individuals can contribute to this charitable event by becoming a sponsor. Sponsorships start $100 for a hole sponsor to $3500 for the title sponsorship.

The Children’s Hospital is designated as a Regional Perinatal Center, a Level I Trauma Center, and central Illinois’ only Level III neonatal intensive care unit. Children’s Hospital commits itself to the very best quality healthcare in a family-centered environment. Through a mutually beneficial affiliation with the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Children’s Hospital of Illinois serves as the primary pediatric teaching facility. Approximately 30 residents graduate each year. This relationship provides 24-hour in-house physician coverage, immediate availability to pediatric specialists for consultation and on-going research in both clinical outcomes and quality improvement. With these principles in mind, Children’s Hospital of Illinois is proud to continue to serve children with the very best in pediatric healthcare.

Regent Communications is a radio broadcasting company focused on acquiring, developing and operating radio stations in middle and small-sized markets. Upon the completion of all announced transactions, Regent will own and operate 62 stations located in 13 markets. Regent Communications, Inc. shares are traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol “RGCI.”

James Field Rededication

Check out a few pictures from today's James Field Rededication at the chamber's picture site: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Tazewell County Business After Hours

Members from the Peoria, East Peoria, Morton and Washington chambers of comerce joined together for a countyside business after hours at Five Points Washington. The event was also sponsored by Washington Community Bank. You can see more pictures from this great event at: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

AAIM Workshops

AAIM Employers’ Association Workplace Learning Solutions is pleased to offer the following workshops. Detailed information on these and other workshops is available on the website at www.eaconnect.com. AAIM Employers’ Association is an HRCISM Approved Provider. Register online at www.eaconnect.com or contact us at 800.948.5700.


“Accident Investigations”
Peoria, IL: Friday, November 13, 2009, Peoria NEXT Innovation Center
Presented by: Tom Grey
Time: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Cost: $225 AAIM-EA Member/$255 Non-member

This workshop provides all information necessary to implement an investigation program into your organization, or improve an existing program.


“OSHA 10-Hour Safety Program on General Industry Standards”
Peoria, IL: Wednesday, December 2, 2009 and Thursday, December 3, 2009, Peoria NEXT Innovation Center
Time: 8:00am – 3:00pm (Wednesday) and 8:00am – 12noon (Thursday).
Presenters: Tom Grey

Cost: $245 AAIM-EA Member/$295 Non-member when registration received by November 17
After November 17 — $275 AAIM-EA Member/$325 Non-member

This 1-1/2 day workshop provides participants with an overview and interpretation of OSHA’s General Industry Standards. Attendees will be issued a 10-hour OSHA completion card.

Community Foundation of Central Illinois

Women's Fund November 2009 First Tuesdays To Be Held At Junction Gallery in the Metro Centre PEORIA * October 28, 2009 * The next First Tuesdays will be held on November 3, 2009, from 5 to 7 pm at Junction Gallery (at 4700 N.University St, Peoria). The Women's Fund of the Community Foundation of Central Illinois invites area women to attend First Tuesdays, a monthly networking opportunity. Come to First Tuesdays and meet other dynamic women who share your interest in funding projects that promote leadership and empowerment for women and girls. Become part of a national movement towards Women's Philanthropy. To automatically receive First Tuesdays' invitations, call The Women's Fund at theCommunity Foundation of Central Illinois at 309 674-8730 or email Kristan@communityfoundationci.org and ask to receive the 'E-vite' forFirst Tuesdays. Appetizers and beverages will be served and door prizes awarded. Donations will be accepted to further the work of the Women'sFund.

HR Recordkeeping Seminar

AAIM Employers’ Association Workplace Learning Solutions is pleased to offer the following workshop. Detailed information on this workshop is available on our website at www.eaconnect.com. Employers’ Association is an HRCISM Approved Provider.

“HR Recordkeeping”
East Peoria, IL: Tuesday, November 17, 2009, Par-A-Dice Hotel
Presented by: Davis & Campbell LLC

Rockford, IL: Wednesday, November 18, 2009, NIU—Rockford, 8500 E State Street
Presented by: Hinshaw & Culbertson

Time: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Cost: $130 EA Member/$180 Non-member

Part of the Employment Law Series, this session will discuss laws that affect Recordkeeping, including requirements to create and preserve employment records; paper vs. electronic storages issues; and litigation hold/email communications.

Conflict Resolution Seminar

AAIM Employers’ Association will offer “Mastering Conflict Resolution” training in East Peoria. The program is scheduled for Friday, November 6, 2009, from 9am to 12pm at Par-A-Dice Hotel. The cost is $135 AAIM-EA Members or $180 for non-members. For reservations and info call 800-948-5700.

Upcoming Activities at Pekin Estates

Every Tuesday until November 24th, Pekin Estates will offer free coffee and donuts to seniors. This coffee "break" will take place from 8:30 until 10:30 am on.

Plus, on Friday November13th from 3 until 5 pm Pekin Estates will host a Seniors after Hours. A speaker from CCS Medical will provide information on Diabetes. Beverages and hors d' oeuvers' will also be served.

Please come and join us!
For more information contact Tracy Harper, Pekin Estates 353-1600

NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME BRINGS THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER

Pekin Police Department’s annual Night Out Against Crime on Thursday October 29th from 5:30 to 7:30pm at the Dragon’s Dome. This is a free event to the community with the goal to bring the community together and take a stand against crime.
The event will take place from 5:30 – 7:30pm October 29th at the Dragon’s Dome located at 3401 Griffin Drive in Pekin. Free hot dogs, popcorn and soda will be available along with trick or treating with organizations and businesses sharing their crime prevention role with fun games and activities for the kids. Inflatable slide and obstacle course for kids, watch fire and police demonstrations, attendees can pay $1.00 to take a swing at an old car, DJ music by DJ Brown and a chance to win several bikes, gift certificates and prizes in a raffle. McGruff the Crime Dog will also be attending. Some of the organizations that will be represented include the Pekin Police Department, Pekin Fire Department, Greater Peoria Crime Stoppers, the Tazewell County Children’s Advocacy Center, Tazewell County Juvenile Probation, the American Red Cross, the Tazewell County House of Hope, Pekin Public Library, the Center for Prevention and Abuse, YWCA Coalition for Equality, Advanced Medical Transport, the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department and the Tazewell County State’s Attorney office.

December Chamber Calendar

1st Ambassadors Committee, CJ’s Café, 7:30am /8:00am

2nd Member Promotions Committee, Chamber Office, 7:30am

2nd Executive Committee, Chamber Office, 4:00 pm

3rd Pekin 1st Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 7:30 am

3rd Business AFTER Hours, Pekin Hospital 4:30~6:00 pm Reservations Appreciated

8th Member Services Comm., Chamber Office, 7:30 am

9th Transportation Committee, Pekin City Hall, 8:00 am

11th Puttin on Pekin, Knights of Columbus Hall, 6:45 am Reservations Appreciated

24th Christmas Eve, Chamber Office Closed

25th Christmas Day, Chamber Office Closed

31st New Years Eve, Chamber Office Closed

November Chamber Calendar

3rd Ambassadors Committee, CJ’s Café, 7:30am /8:00am

4th Member Promotions Committee, Chamber Office, 7:30am

4th Executive Committee, Chamber Office, 4:00 pm

5th Pekin 1st Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 7:30 am

5th Business AFTER Hours, Timbercreek Rehab & Health Care 4:30~6:00 pm Reservations Appreciated

10th Member Services Comm., Chamber Office, 7:30 am

11th Veteran’s Day, Chamber Office Closed

11th Board of Directors, Herget Bank, 4:00 pm

18th Marigold Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 6:30 pm

24th Business Advocacy Comm., Chamber Office, 7:00 am

26th Thanksgiving Day, Chamber Office Closed

27th Thanksgiving Holiday, Chamber Office Closed

Biz Barometer & Consumer Price Index

On a seasonally adjusted basis, the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U) rose 0.2 percent in September. The index has decreased 1.3 percent over the last 12 months on a not seasonally adjusted basis. The United States City Average for all consumers—all items—January 2009, 211.1; February, 212.2; March, 212.8; April, 213.2; May, 213.9; June, 215.7; and July, 215.4.

October Membership Renewals

Thank you to the following businesses and organizations that recently renewed their membership with the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce:

Allegiant Air ~ B'Ribboned Etc. ~ Kirk W. Bode, Attorney ~ Baumgarten Distributors ~ Beck's Convenience Store ~ Brown D.J. & Sound Services ~ Clanahan Chiropractic ~ CommunityLink ~ Cordts Heating & Air Conditioning ~ Court Place Apartments ~ Dr. Michael Danner, DDS ~ Deverman Advertising ~ Employers Association of Illinois ~ Heartland Chiropractic Center ~ Henderson Funeral Home ~ Home Health Care Plus, Inc. ~ Hopedale Medical Complex ~ Hoyle Transportation ~ Illinois Collections Unlimited ~ JM Industrial Supply ~ Leman Property Management Company ~ Liberty Village of Pekin/Pekin Estates ~ OmniLEC ~ Pekin Main Street ~ Peoria Black Chamber of Commerce ~ Peoria Chiefs Community Baseball Club ~ Peoria Logo (POGO) ~ Professional Therapy Services ~ ReMax Home Realtors ~ Sunset Lanes ~ Tazewell County Area Education ~ Tazwood Mental Health Center, Inc. ~ Tremont Commerce Association ~ Trouble Free Plumbing ~ UAW Highrise ~ Velde GM SuperCentre ~ Women's Center for Health ~ Zumwalt & Associates, Inc.

November Business After Hours Planned

Don't forget to RSVP for the November Business AFTER Hours. It will be hosted by Timbercreek Rehab & Health Care, 2220 State Street on Thursday, November 5th from 4:30—6:00 pm. Take advantage of this great networking opportunity. You might start a new business relationship or meet your best customer. Enjoy the door prizes, refreshments, and visit with your friends, neighbors, and business associates. Admission is free to Chamber members ($10 for future members). Please RSVP to the Chamber at 346-2106 or e-mail us at chamber@pekin.net.

November Executive Director's Report

Networking Opportunities
Many people join the chamber for only one reason - networking. What is networking? I like to think of it as the time you spend developing and maintaining contacts and personal relationships with people who might be helpful to you and your career.

With our busy lives – both at home and at work – it would be easy to put networking on the back burner. But the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce coordinates a number of networking opportunities that make it easy for busy people to develop and maintain relationships. There are several great networking opportunities right around the corner, and I encourage you to take advantage of them.

First, on another page in this newsletter, you’ll find information on a countywide business after hours at 5-Points in Washington on Thursday, October 29th. Here’s a great chance to get out and expand your circle by building relationships with members of the East Peoria, Morton, Pekin and Washington chambers of commerce.

You’ll also find information on the Chamber Challenge Trivia Nite in this newsletter. The Chamber Ambassadors are hosting this fun, casual evening of networking and socializing on Friday, November 13th.

Our 12th annual R. David Tebben Community Leadership Academy is just around the corner. I was surprised to learn that the #1 reason people enroll in the academy is to develop a network of contacts in the Pekin area. You can also find information on that event elsewhere in this newsletter.

And finally, on the first Thursday of every month we coordinate a Business After Hours at a chamber member’s place of business. You can find the next after hours promoted on the calendar on the last pages of each newsletter. Besides being a great networking opportunity, Business After Hours also present the host with an opportunity to showcase their organization. If you would like to host a Business After Hours in 2010, now is the time to reserve your spot. Several months are already taken, but the first Thursday of January, February, July, August, September October and November are still available. Please call our office for more information.

Business Expo 2010
The Pekin Area Business Expo will be held on January 16, 2010 at the Dragon’s Dome. Mark your calendar and watch for further information in the coming weeks.

Julie McElwee State Farm Agency Joins Chamber

Please welcome a new member to the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce:

Julie McElwee State Farm Agency
1000 Court Street
Pekin, IL 61554
www.juliesf.com

(309) 347-3484
fax 347-6573

Julie McElwee
julie@juliesf.com
Katie Bashary

Open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, offering auto, renters, home and life insurance, plus financial services. Our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams.

Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society

Maryann Russell, who works as a volunteer for the New Salem Historic Site, will be the speaker at the November 10 meeting of the Tazewell County Genealogical Society. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site preserves the hard years of Lincoln's life and those of his fellow pioneers in a "living museum." It represents a special place in the nation's history. People from other nations all over the world visit the site each year, as explained on the Lincoln League website. Maryann will focus on the rebuilding of the village of New Salem by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1940’s, and introduce us to the book the Lincoln League has written about the reconstruction of the village.

The meeting, which is open to the general public, will be held on Tuesday November 10, 2009 at the Society’s Erlicher Library, located at 719 N Eleventh St, Pekin, IL. The program will begin promptly at 7:00 PM, with a business meeting immediately following. The building is handicapped accessible with ample parking available.

Methodist College of Nursing Plans Open House

The Methodist College of Nursing will be hosting an open house on Saturday, October 31, 2009. The 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. open house will allow those interested in nursing and nursing education to meet faculty, staff, and students.

Information will be available about the NEW Second Degree Accelerated BSN and four-year BSN programs. Participants will also be able to get information on the RN-BSN nursing degree, see the state of the art learning resource center, and get details on the College of Nursing admission process and financial aid.

The Methodist College of Nursing is located off I-74 at 415 St. Mark Court in Peoria.
For additional information call 672-5513 or go online to www.mcon.edu.

Leadership Academy Applications

The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce announces the 12th annual R. David Tebben Community Leadership Academy for future leaders in the Pekin Area. The mission of the Academy is "To identify, inform and educate existing and emerging leaders of the local community, and to motivate them toward leadership responsibilities by exposing them to the realities, opportunities and challenges of the local community." Features of this year's Academy include:

• Thought-provoking discussions led by Pekin leaders
• Informative field trip and tours
• Networking opportunities

You can download an application here: 2010 Application

This is what recent graduates said about their experience...

I looked forward to each meeting and field trip because I was going to
learn something new about our community and the people that live and work here. Aindrea Balagna, Class of 2007, Wolf Tesar & Company

The academy provided me with an opportunity to meet many community leaders, obtain a greater understanding of how the public sector operates, gain exposure to some of the non-profit agencies in the area and become more aware of the many resources available to the public.
Yvonne Burnett, Class of 2009, Pekin Hospital

I never imagined how much I could learn about my own hometown!
Renna Hadsall, Class of 2007, Busey Bank

The Leadership Academy provides great networking opportunities, and at the same time a chance to apply what you learn on a daily basis.
Jeff Livengood, Class of 2008, Herget Bank

The academy provides participants with a unique insight into Pekin at many levels - government, private sector business and public service organizations - that you would not get any other way.
Melida Heien, Class of 2009, Pekin Daily Times

Another benefit was the connections that were made with other community leaders. It is nice to attend community functions and recognize other leaders in attendance.
Sharon Adams, Class of 2008, Pekin Hospital

We were exposed to the major businesses and community organizations, as well as the people that lead them.
Greg Nelson, Class of 2009, City of Pekin

Even though I am a life long Pekinite, I learned so much about my hometown.
John Abel, Class of 2008, Preston Hanley Funeral Homes

The classes were always eventful, fun, and educational.
Fred Lawrence, Class of 2009, American Fire Service

Visit www.pekin.net/Leadership.htm for more information or call the call the
Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, 346-2106. Enrollment is limited to 24
participants. Application deadline is December 4th. Academy runs January 7th
to March 18th.

Halloween Parade

Pekin Main Street held their annual Halloween Parade in downtown Pekin on Saturday, October 24th. You can see more pictures at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

AAIM Employers’ Association Announces Winners of 2009 Employer of the Year Awards

AAAIM Employers’ Association announced the winners for its Fourth Annual Employer of the Year Awards which recognize employers for their efforts in being a great workplace. Award winners were announced at the AAIM Employers’ Association Conference and 92nd Annual Meeting.

The Employer of the Year Awards was presented in three categories: fewer than 100 employees; 101 to 250 employees; and over 250 employees. In order to be considered for the award, employers had to demonstrate the following criteria: programs which; foster effective and open communication, recognize the value of employee input, encourage employee development, demonstrate work/life balance and promote a positive culture. In addition, employers had to define a business problem and present the resolution through a specific people practice.

“We established an awards program honoring great employers in Illinois that recognize employees as their greatest asset. There are many employers that work with imagination and conviction to create organizational value and business results through their policies and best practices in human resources management,” said, Mary Pille, CAE, SPHR, AAIM Employers’ Association President and CEO.

Award Winners:

· Iona Group, Morton, IL - Fewer than 100 Employees. Highlights of best practices include; Foster a culture of the importance of family as well as the importance of education, provide activities which reinforce a positive and value-based culture and show appreciation of employee contributions of time and talent by allocating profit in the form of Success Sharing.

Peoria Park District, Peoria, IL - 101-250 Employees. Highlights of best practices include; Recognize the value of employee input by conducting focus groups which generate ideas to assist with strategic planning. Promote work/life balance by allowing professional staff to flex work days when necessary. Developed a creative team-based program which addresses healthy choices in the areas of wellness, home safety and work safety.

· E.D. Etnyre, Oregon, IL - Greater than 250 Employees. Highlights of best practices include; Support work/life balance by helping employees feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Successful wellness programs such as health fairs, on-site blood pressure screenings, and flu vaccinations. Implementation of a New Member Retention Plan that states that employees need: flexibility, to know that their contribution to the Company matters, to understand their role in the overall success of the Company and to contribute immediately.

AAIM Employer's Association is a not-for-profit service organization structured to build a stronger employer community with a strong emphasis on the human resources function. We serve more than 1600 employer members in Illinois and Missouri offering a wide-range of services including training and consulting

Pekin Public Library Hosting Holiday Bazaar

The Pekin Public Library is hosting their second annual Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, November 14 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the library's Community Room. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at this one-stop shopping extravaganza. A variety of vendors will sell items such as jewelry, kitchen ware, home interiors, children's items, and more. There will also be a bake sale, raffles, door prizes and complimentary refreshments. A Children's Corner will offer games and face painting to entertain the kids while the parents are shopping.

Raffle Prizes will be on display in the library lobby from October 30 to November 13, and raffle tickets can be purchased in advance of the bazaar during regular library hours. Raffle and door prize winners will be notified immediately following the bazaar. This event helps raise funds to improve library service to the community. For more information, please call the library at 347-7111.

EDC Survey of Professioanl and Technical Companies

The Economic Development Council for Central Illinois has established a Professional and Technical Strategy Group to help retain and grow the professional and technical industry sector within the Peoria metropolitan statistical area, which consists of Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Marshall, and Stark Counties.

The Professional and Technical Strategy Group works with the goals of:

• Increasing awareness of the professional/technical service capabilities in the region
• Assessing the service needs within area businesses
• Facilitating educational programs on outsourcing
• Facilitating the development and growth of local professional and technical service businesses

For more information on the Economic Development Council for Central Illinois please visit http://www.edc.centralillinois.org/ As a professional and/or technical firm within the MSA, we seek your input on retention and growth issues facing your industry sector in order to begin to address these issues. We have a few questions which will take 5-7 minutes to complete and we ask that you please complete all questions. We have partnered with the Chambers of Commerce from East Peoria, Morton, Pekin, Peoria to ask for your input. All results will be tabulated by EDC for Central IL and only aggregate results will be shared with participants and partners. Participants can receive the results by providing your email address (optional) at the end of the questions.

In addition, we welcome your involvement in the Economic Development Professional Technical Strategy Group and/or a focus group. Please click the link below to begin:
http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=U2DBDDVVWZBY

Tri-County IAAP Chapter Monthly Meeting

WHO: International Association of Administrative Professionals, Tri-County Chapter

WHEN: Tuesday, November 3, 2009 5:15 pm Networking/Dinner / 6:00-6:30 pm Business Meeting / 6:30 pm Speaker

WHERE: Chateau on the Lake, 901 Chateau Drive, Rt 98, Pekin, IL

TOPIC: Social Networking Tools – Facebook, MySpace, MyFamily, Twitter

COST: Free to attend meeting (not necessary to be a member to attend)

MEAL: Dinner cost $15.00RSVP: To Savanna Bohm at 655-2727 by noon 10/30/09

Methodist Physician Executive Awarded Certification

The Certifying Commission in Medical Management (CCMM) has designated Dr. Rick Anderson a Certified Physician Executive. Dr. Anderson is Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs for Methodist Medical Center.

The CPE designation, used in signatory, indicates that Dr. Anderson has achieved superior levels of professional excellence and management education, while also demonstrating effective knowledge and leadership skills.

The Certifying Commission in Medical Management is the national certifying body for physicians specializing in medical management. The Certifying Commission is a not-for-profit corporation chartered by the American College of Physician Executives (ACPE) to establish and maintain the high standards required for physician executive certification.
The ACPE is the nation’s largest organization of physicians in health care leadership. The College is recognized by the American Medical Association as the specialty society representing physicians in management and holds a seat in the AMA House of Delegates.

Methodist Awarded Multiple Joint Commission Certifications

Methodist Medical Center has earned the Gold Seal of Approval for Health Care Quality from the Joint Commission, a national, not-for-profit health accrediting organization. The Joint Commission has awarded Methodist its Disease Specific Care Certifications for Pneumonia, Heart Failure, Acute Myocardial Infarction (heart attack), Sleeping Disorders, Joint Replacement-Knee, Joint Replacement-Hip, and Advanced Primary Stroke Center.

To earn these distinctions, Methodist volunteered to undergo extensive, on-site evaluations. A Joint Commission reviewer judged the Medical Center’s performance in each of these areas according to the Joint Commission’s rigorous quality and safety standards along with the hospital’s ability to continuously evaluate and improve patient care.

Michael Bryant, President and CEO of Methodist, said, “These are important achievements for Methodist. The Joint Commission sets the national benchmark for health care quality and these certifications are additional evidence of our commitment to providing outstanding healthcare. Period.”

Methodist has been Certified by the Joint Commission for Pneumonia, Heart Failure, Joint Replacement-Knee, Joint Replacement-Hip, and Advanced Primary Stroke Center since 2005, including being the first hospital in Illinois to achieve Certification for Pneumonia, Knee and Hip Replacement. Methodist added Joint Commission Certification for Acute Myocardial Infarction and Sleeping Disorders in 2007.

Enviro-Dry Ribbon Cutting

Enviro-Dry owner Beau Austin, his wife Sarah, and their daughter Elizabeth were recently welcomed to the local business community by representatives of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Pekin. Enviro-Dry is a new Pekin business - a carpet, tile and upholstery clearing service featuring Green Seal Certified Products. The cleaning is 97% dry, using only 1 teaspoon of water per square foot, featuring Host - the dry extraction carpet cleaning system. Enviro Dry leaves carpets dry immediately after cleaning. Offering their congratulations at the ribbon cutting ceremony were Steve Brown, Dave Calhoun, Renna Hadsall, Brittany Dorf, Laura Lohnes, Jeff Stevenson, Althea Geiser, Dr. Denise Comerford, Jeff Livengood and Cathy Lusch. You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

HOSPITAL VISITATIONS RESTRICTED IN LIGHT OF H1N1 FLU

In light of the growing numbers of H1N1 influenza cases in central Illinois, Methodist Medical Center, in conjunction with OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Proctor Hospital, and Pekin Hospital, are restricting the age of visitors to their facilities.

Effective immediately, and until further notice, hospital visitors will be limited to those 12 years of age and older. In addition, it is strongly recommended that anyone showing flu-like symptoms please refrain from visiting patients in the hospital.

This request is being made out of respect for our patients, many of whom already have compromised immune systems. Children have been particularly susceptible to the H1N1 virus and may be contagious prior to showing symptoms.

Debbie Simon, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Methodist said, "We are taking this step to help ensure the safety of our patients and visitors. Family and friends can help by keeping children at home, and by staying home themselves if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms."

In addition to the visitor restriction for hospitalized patients, it is also recommended families limit the number of relatives and friends accompanying patients to the Emergency Department, outpatient surgery waiting rooms, procedure areas, and primary care/specialist offices.

This policy will remain in effect for the foreseeable future.

Intellihot Joins Chamber

Please welcome another new member to the chamber:

Intellihot Green Technologies, Inc.
801 W. Main Street
Peoria, IL 61606
(309) 495-7270
fax 296-8984
www.intellihot.com
info@intellihot.com

Sridhar Deivasigamani, President
Sivaprasad Akasm, Vice President

Intellihot Green Technologies, Inc. has reinvented hot water with cutting edge tankless technology that provides instant, endless hot water and utilizes nearly all energy resources resulting in 100% plus efficiency.

PEKIN MAIN STREET’S ANNUAL HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

A Pekin tradition for over 15 years is the Halloween Trick or Treat and Parade that will take place on Saturday October 24th from 3:00 – 6:00pm throughout the downtown district. Pekin Main Street invites families, organizations and businesses to participate in the annual Downtown Halloween Parade on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 4:30 p.m.

The parade will start at James Field, proceed down Broadway to Court Street, and disperse along Capitol Street, next to the Courthouse. Parade staging will take place at James Field at 4:00 p.m. Costume Contest will be immediately following the parade on the Capitol Street next to the Courthouse.

The categories for the costume contests are: Ages Birth-3 years; 4-7 years; 8-11 years; 12-15 years; 16 and over; Family or Group Entry (such as a Boys/Girls Scout Troup); and Pet Entry. There will be top winners in each category, and prizes will be awarded.

There is no registration cost to participate in the parade or the costume contest, contact Pekin Main Street or visit http://www.pekinmainstreet.com/ for a parade entry forms. All costume contest participants are encouraged to walk in the parade.

In addition to the Halloween Parade and costume contest, selected downtown businesses will be open and offering treats for children and sales/specials for parents from 3-6 p.m. Win great prizes on the ghost scavenger hunt at participating businesses. Pick up a punch card at the businesses or the Chamber office and find the hidden ghost in the participating businesses, business owner will punch your card to be turned in at the Pekin Area Chamber office (located at 402 Cout St.) for the prize drawing.

For more information, please contact the Pekin Main Street office at 309-353-3100 or http://www.pekinmainstreet.com/.

Physical Therapy Month

Champion Fitness Physical Therapy joins with the American Physical Therapy Association in celebrating October as National Physical Therapy Month. Physical therapists help to reduce pain and improve motion to achieve long-term quality of life, in many cases without expensive surgery or the side effects of prescription medications. Learn more about Champion Fitness Physical Therapy and what physical therapy can do for you at www.champfit.com.

105.7 The X Concert Announcement

105.7 The X (WIXO) is pleased to announce the 8th Annual Nutcracker X-Mas Concert will take place at Expo Gardens in Peoria on Friday, December 4th. This year’s national headliner is Five Finger Death Punch! Special guests include Chicago’s Janus and 105.7 The X’s house band – Mindset Evolution. Doors open at 5:00pm, showtime is 6:00pm. Tickets are $25. Starting October 17th until October 31st, tickets will be buy one, get one free as a part of the 105.7 The X Rocks Nutcracker Stimulus Plan. Tickets will go on sale at all area Co-op Record locations and Shandi’s on the Square in Canton.

Five Finger Death Punch is a band out of Los Angeles formed in 2005 by guitarist Zoltan Bathory. The band name was created as a tribute to Hong-Kong Kung-fu cinema. Their most recent album was just released in September 2009. Topping online charts and playing sold out shows, Five Finger Death Punch begun its rapid rise with their modern day metal. It wasn't long before one of the most powerful management companies, "The Firm" (Korn, Limp Bizkit, Staind) took notice, and signed 5FDP to their artist friendly label Firm Music. In 2007 their hit single, "The Bleeding," went top ten and ruled the radio waves for an astonishing 8 months. The video was voted MTV2's Headbanger's Ball TOP 5 Metal Videos Of The Year.

“This is the best lineup for Nutcracker maybe ever. We are excited to have Five Finger Death Punch play Peoria for the first time, and other great local bands such as Mindset Evolution and Janus will really make for a phenomenal show this year,” states Matt Bahan, Program Director for 105.7 The X.


Regent - Peoria owns Radio stations WGLO-FM, WFYR-FM, WIXO-FM, WPIA-FM, WVEL-FM and WVEL-AM in Peoria, Illinois.

Regent Communications is a radio broadcasting company focused on acquiring, developing and operating radio stations in middle and small-sized markets. Upon the close of all announced transactions, Regent will own and operate 62 stations located in 13 markets. Regent Communications, Inc. shares are traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol “RGCI.”

Liberation Software Offers Chamber Discounts

Liberation Software is proud to offer Information Technology Security Assessment and Risk Mitigation Analysis for local businesses of any size. This three-step analysis is designed to create a System Development Life Cycle for companies and determine any and all potential threats to Information Technology assets. Many businesses in the area currently have disaster plans for their physical assets and personnel, however very few have any sort of plan in place for their data and technology. This analysis is conducted in three phases consisting of an initial on-site assessment, the development of a detailed plan of action and finally a pro-active follow-up to ensure that the plan is serving the client as effectively as possible.

Liberation Software conducts the analysis on an outsourced basis and provides priority support for all clients from their Pekin offices through both on-site consultation as well as remote consultation using the latest in remote assistance software packages. Analysis sessions typically take a single day and are unobtrusive. Risk Mitigation Reports are provided to the client within 72 hours after the conclusion of the Assessment along with an Executive Summary of all recommended courses of action.

Now, more than ever, is the time for businesses to conduct an in-depth audit of their Information Technology assets and ensure that even in the worst of scenarios their business is protected from risk and able to operate with the strictest of contingencies. Best of all the service if fully tax deductible and offers a significant return on your investment. Whether you have one employee or one million, this analysis is an invaluable asset when planning your business future.

Pekin Chamber of Commerce members are also being offered a 20% discount on the flat-rated cost of the Assessment and Report if their session is scheduled by the end of the year. Flat-rate Assessment pricing is based on the size of the company and is as follows:

1-15 employees $500 $400 for Chamber Members
16-50 employees $1,000 $800 for Chamber Members
51-100 employees $2,500 $2000 for Chamber Members
100-200 employees $5,000 $4000 for Chamber Members
200+ employees CALL FOR A QUOTE

Contact Liberation Software at 1 (877) 266-8917 or sales@liberationsoft.com.

Freedom Fund Banquet

The 48th Annual Peoria Branch Freedom Fund Banquet will be held on Saturday, November 14th at the Par-A-Dice Hotel and Conference Center in East Peoria. The them of the banquet is "Bold Dreams, Big Victories." The social time begins at 6:30pm and dinner is at 7:00pm. On the 100th Anniversary of the NAACP, the speaker will be Bishop Phillip R. Cousin, Senior Bishop, African Methodist Episcopal Church. Senator Everett Dirksen will be honored for his pivotal role in the passage of the civil rights legislation int he 1960s. Memorabilia from the Dirksen Congressional Center will be on display. Sponsorships, program advertising, and dinner tickets are available by contacting Ernestine Jackson, 434-2468 or Jackie Petty, 688-2323.

Pekin Hospital 14th Street Entrance to be Closed for Renovations

Pekin Hospital’s parking lot located outside the Women’s Diagnostic Center entrance on 14th Street will be closed to all vehicle traffic for renovations beginning on October 21. The lot will open the following day, October 22.

Patients and visitors are being asked to use either the Main Lobby entrance to the hospital or the Park Avenue entrance.
If you have any questions or concerns about these plans, please call (309) 353-0465.

Methodist Website Wins Award for Outstanding Achievement in Web Development

For the second year in a row, the Methodist Medical Center website, MyMethodist.net, has won the Web Marketing Associations WebAward for Outstanding Achievement in Website Development of a Health Care Website.

More than 2,000 sites from 47 countries were judged in 96 industry categories during the competition. Entries were judged on design, copy writing, innovation, content, interactivity, navigation, and use of technology.

The 2009 WebAwards was judged by a team of independent Internet professionals representing a variety of relevant disciplines of web site development. Judges included members of the media, advertising executives, site designers, creative directors, corporate marketing executive, content providers and webmasters.
Since 1997, the Web Marketing Association’s annual WedAward Competition has been setting the standard of excellence for website development.

Jaycees Hosting Trivia Night

The Tazewell County Jaycees will host its first monthly Trivia Night on Thursday, October 15 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Gracie’s Sports Grille and Pizza, 1021 N. Cummings Lane, Washington. Participants are needed to form teams for the competition. Cost is $10 per person, and teams may have between two-ten people. The winning team will receive a trophy and a free table for the November trivia night.

Numerous prizes will be awarded throughout the evening, and a 50/50 drawing will also be held. In addition, Gracie’s will offer drink specials to all participants, and any participant who joins the Tazewell County Jaycees that night will receive a free entry to the November trivia night.
The monthly trivia nights, to be held on the third Thursday of each month, will generate funds to be used for charitable community projects in 2010.

To reserve your table, or for more information, please contact Michelle Riggio, President, Tazewell County Jaycees, at 309-712-1185, or mlriggio@yahoo.com.

The Tazewell County Jaycees, which became an official chapter in June 2009, provides individuals between the ages of 18 – 40 the opportunity to develop personal and leadership skills while serving their community.

James Field Rededication

You're Invited!

Saturday, October 31, 2009 at 10:00 AM

Please join us as we celebrate the completion of the community's revitalization of James Field.

We will attempt to set the United States record for the most people simultaneously blowing soap bubbles! Bubbles Provided or Bring Your Own. A large scale photo will be taken to commemorate the day.

Parking is available in the City of Pekin public lots, as well as at Schnuck's, Steger's, St. John's Lutheran Church, and St. Paul's United Church of Christ.

Pekin Hospital to Offer Diabetes Education Classes

Pekin Hospital is pleased to offer an adult diabetes education workshop on November 9, 10, and 11. The series of three classes will be held from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. in the 4 South Education Classroom at Pekin Hospital.

The classes are designed to provide information on managing adult diabetes and are designed to help diabetics learn and develop the skills of self-management of diabetes therapy. Topics covered in the sessions will include:

* the importance of diabetes control and the factors that influence this control
* how to plan meals according to food selections and serving size
* the possible complications associated with diabetes
* why exercise will benefit your health and make you feel good

Workshop speakers will include a Certified Diabetes Educator, Registered Dietitian, Registered Nurse, Registered Pharmacist, Exercise Specialist, and Registered Medical Technician.

Class fees are $60 per person (one guest may accompany the registrant at no extra cost). The $60 includes all three classes. Class size is limited. Registration deadline is November 2. To register, please call (309) 353-0719.

CEFCU ANNOUNCES MANAGEMENT MOVES

CEFCU is pleased to announce that Mary Conrady, Keith Reynolds, Giann Walker, Rick Bentley, Doug Swan, Shannon Taylor and Staci Wall assume new management positions.

Conrady will assume the position of Vice President of Consumer Lending. Her job responsibilities include directing, coordinating, and administering operations of the Consumer Lending area.

Reynolds has been promoted to Community President of Valley Credit Union, a division of CEFCU, located in San Jose, California. His job responsibilities include managing and directing operations of the credit union which serves Santa Clara, Alameda, and Contra Costa Counties.

Walker was promoted to the position of Vice President of Market Development. Her responsibilities include identifying and developing business opportunities in Sangamon, Macon, and McLean Counties.

Bentley has been promoted to Branch Manager of the Traders Circle Member Center. His job responsibilities include overseeing office operations.

Swan will assume the position of Branch Manager of the Northpoint Member Center. His job responsibilities include overseeing office operations.

Taylor will assume the position of Sales Operations Manager of the Morton Member Center. Her job responsibilities include overseeing frontline operations and efficiency.

Wall will assume the position of Sales Operations Manager of the Chillicothe Member Center. Her job responsibilities include overseeing frontline operations and efficiency.

With assets totaling over $4.1 billion, CEFCU serves 267,000 members through 19 Central Illinois Member Centers; Valley Credit Union, a division of CEFCU, an Illinois Chartered Credit Union; the CEFCU Financial Center; the Money Center 24 ATM Network; CEFCU's Web site.

October Puttin' On Pekin Recap

Seventy-seven chamber members and guests enjoyed the October 9th Puttin' On Pekin breakfast. Dave Osborn from Trouble Free Plumbing won the early prize, while Bruce Hoerr from Winpak won the late prize. The Spotlight on Business was presented to Arlene Heine-Meyer from World Wide Travel. The Blue Ribbon Award was presented to Jackie Hammond who owns the apartments on the corner of 5th and Broadway. Jim McConoughey, CEO of the Heartland Partnership, presented a regional economic update. To see more pictures from this and other chamber events visit: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Chamber Honors Twenty-Eight

The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce hosted their 12th annual Business and Community Recognition Luncheon on Thursday, October 8th at the Pekin Country Club. The Chamber’s Member Services Committee coordinated the luncheon, which was sponsored by CenturyTel, Pekin Trophy House & Engraved Gifts, The Greenhouse Flower Shoppe, Paradise Donuts, and The Ashland House.

Recognition was given to twenty-eight area businesses and organizations in the following categories: remodeling or expansion; new ownership or management; new business or building; additional employees; major training effort; new technology; major equipment investment; other improvements; and, community involvement.

Before presenting the awards, Chamber executive director Bill Fleming told the audience of 155 people representing forty-six local organizations that not all of the current economic news is negative.

“These twenty-eight businesses and organizations have demonstrated by their continued investment that they did not participate in an economic downturn,” said Fleming.

The featured speaker at the luncheon was Joanne K. Glasser, President of Bradley University. She spoke of the systemic change that can happen with the leadership and efforts of just one individual. As examples of this, she spoke about Lydia Moss Bradley, Betty Friedan, and Nancy Goodman Brinker.

The twenty-eight businesses and organizations recognized were:

• Adams Outdoor Advertising (expansion, new management, major equipment investment)
• Amanda’s Closet (new business, expansion, additional employees, community involvement)
• Busey Bank (community involvement)
• Chateau on the Lake (new ownership)
• Covenant Heating & Air (additional employees, other improvements)
• Dirksen Congressional Center (expansion, other improvements)
• Edward Jones (new management)
• Herget Bank (new technology investment, major retraining effort)
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites (remodeling, new ownership and management, major retraining effort, new technology, equipment investment, community involvement)
• Home Health Plus Services Motors (remodeling, expansion)
• Illinois Centers for Pain & Rehab (remodeling, additional employees, major retraining effort)
• Leman Property Management (remodeling)
• Liberty Village / Pekin Manor (expansion, community involvement)
• Jim Maloof Realtors (community involvement)
• Pekin Hospital (remodeling, additional employees, new technology investment, major equipment investment, other improvements, community involvement)
• Pekin Insurance (expansion, additional employees, other improvements)
• Pekin Main Street (community involvement)
• Pekin Public Schools District 108 (remodeling)
• Peston-Hanley Funeral Homes (additional employee, new technology, community involvement)
• Rick Tyler Agency – American Family Insurance (additional employees, community involvement)
• SBSi Semonis (new ownership, new building)
• Sound Choice Hearing Clinic (new building, additional employees, major equipment investment)
• Tazewell County House of Hope (community involvement)
• Tazwood Mental Health Center (expansion)
• Timbercreek Rehab & Health Care (community involvement)
• Total Dental Care (remodeling, additional employee)
• University of Illinois – Tazewell County Extension (remodeling, expansion)
• Boys Scouts of America (100-year organization)

To see more pictures from this event, visit the chamber's photo site at: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Pekin Hospital Invites Women to Attend Spirit Girls’ Night Out

Pekin Hospital is hosting an entertaining and informational Spirit Girls’ Night Out (SM) in partnership with Reader’s Digest to help women find their “Best Health Now” on Thursday, October 29 from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Pekin Moose Lodge. The event is specifically designed to offer women valuable information about breast health, flu prevention, and other leading women’s health issues, while enjoying health screenings, giveaways, pampering, and lots of other fun activities.

Health education and fun activities will be woven throughout the three-hour evening to emphasize the importance of awareness of common health issues affecting women today. Besides important educational segments, the night will also include food, health and beauty tips, fitness options, and more. The event is free to attend. Please call (309) 353-0662 to register.

“As women, we are always looking for the latest health information to ensure our family’s health and wellness is intact, but we often end up neglecting our own health,” said Tanya Abreu, President and National Program Coordinator, Spirit of Women Hospital Network, national Spirit Girls’ Night Out organizer. “Spirit Girls’ Night Out allows women to get an understanding of the latest breaking news in women’s health while pampering themselves and celebrating their commitment to feeling their best. Women get the chance to get away from their everyday worries, all while obtaining health information that could profoundly impact their overall health and the health of their family members.”

Statistics show that breast and cervical cancer are two of the leading malignancies that occur in women -- together affecting more than 220,000 Americans in 2007 (American Cancer Society). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza is ranked seven on the list of leading causes of death in US. These topics and more are discussed at Spirit Girls’ Night Out.

Spirit Girls’ Night Out is organized and hosted by Pekin Hospital, a member of the Spirit of Women Hospital Network, with support provided by Reader’s Digest, the Be Well. Pass it On. campaign and CSL Biotherapies. More than 60 other members of the Spirit of Women Hospital Network will also host Spirit Girls’ Night Out events in October and November.

Regent Employees of the Month

J.R. Greeley, Market Manager and Bob Swinehart, Director of Sales for REegent Broadcasting of Peoria, are proud to announce that September's Employee of the Month is Evan Ford and Sales Representative of the Month is Lindsay Slater.

“Lindsay is one of those sales executives that you can always rely on to get the job done and everything she does is done with a smile. She’s a tremendous asset to the Regent team,” stated Bob.

Ms. Slater has been working in the radio industry for over eight years and is a native of the Peoria area. Lindsay has been a Senior Account Manager with Regent Broadcasting – Peoria since 2003.

“Evan is a very dedicated radio professional with great attention to detail and promotions. Evan does all the little things that make this radio world work, his work ethic is amazing, we’re lucky to have him on this staff,” stated Matt Bahan, Operations Manager.

Ford, of Tonica, graduated from Western Illinois University in 2005. Upon graduation, his passion for radio brought him to Regent Broadcasting where he started out as a promotions intern. He is currently the Station Board Operator at Regent and continues to be heavily involved in the promotions department.

Regent - Peoria owns Radio stations WGLO-FM, WFYR-FM, WIXO-FM, WZPW-FM, and WVEL-AM in Peoria, Illinois.

Regent Communications is a radio broadcasting company focused on acquiring, developing and operating radio stations in middle and small-sized markets. Upon the completion of all announced transactions, Regent will own and operate 64 stations located in 13 markets. Regent Communications, Inc. shares are traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol “RGCI.”

Annual Methodist Service League Gift Show November 7th

The Methodist Medical Center Service League members will hold their 59th annual Gift Show Saturday, November 7, 2009 in the lobby of the Methodist Atrium, 900 Main Street, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There is no charge for parking or admission.

The Service League Gift Show is known for its high quality handmade items at reasonable prices. A wide variety of clothing for infants and children, a newly expanded toy selection, handmade doll clothes, fashionable jewelry, holiday decorations and party items, gift-wrap and stationery, and everlasting silk floral arrangements make it easy to complete holiday shopping in one stop. A special Uniques and Antiques department offers once-treasured items and collectibles at very reasonable prices.

Raffle tickets are available for sale both before and during the show. The winners will be drawn the afternoon of November 7. Prizes include $500 in cash, Red Carpet Car Washes, Jones Brothers Jewelers $500 gift card, golf and brunch at Weaver Ridge, symphony tickets and dinner for two at Bistro Two25.

On the lower level shoppers will find a coffee shop with home baked pastries and a Gourmet Food department.

All proceeds from the Gift Show support patient care services at Methodist Medical Center.

Since 1952, the Service League of Methodist Medical Center has raised and contributed over $5 million to enhance programs and patient services at Methodist. In addition to the annual gift show, the Methodist Service League operates the hospital’s gift and flower shop for the convenience of patients, visitors, and employees. Workshop volunteers also sew turbans and headscarves used by cancer patients and special “heart” pillows given to patients who have undergone heart surgery at Methodist.

Gatehouse Newspapers Announce New Product

Gatehouse Media, the parent company of the Pekin Daily Times and The Peoria Journal Star, partnered with 100 newspaper groups and over 1,000 newspapers across the country to start a site for consumers that prefer the internet for looking at circulars, sales, travel specials, deals, and coupons. Zip2Save.com is a national site, searchable by town and zip code that combines electronic advertising circulars, deals, coupons & travel specials. Just type in your city or zip code and find local deals in your area. No registration or email needed! It is an affordable way for businesses to offer deals and coupons that is backed by several newspapers in the area and 1000’s of newspapers across the country. Contact your ad sales rep for more information.

First Annual Roctobeerfest

105.7 the X (WIXO-FM) and 95.5 GLO (WGLO-FM) are hosting the first annual “Roctobeerfest”. On Saturday October 10th join 105.7 the X and 95.5 GLO for the first ever “Roctobeerfest” Beer festival! Come experience the flavors of award-winning breweries from around the world including local specialties too!

"Roctobeerfest" debuts on the Peoria Riverfront "Riverfront Village" deck next to Old Chicago and Joe's Crab Shack on Saturday October 10th, 2:00pm-8:00pm! Enjoy and sample over 150 Beers from around the world, including Halloween and October ales! Enjoy live music from 95.5 GLO's house band "Sextion-8", and entertainment from 95-5, WGLO, 97.3 River Country, 105-7-The--X-Rocks, and POWER 92-3! If you love beer, and Beer festivals, you will love "Roctobeerfest!"

Not only does “Roctobeerfest” offer the finest in beer from around the world, but the first 500 people to arrive to the event will get a free official beer sampling glass! “Roctobeerfest” tickets are on sale now for $6 at Friar Tuck, Super Liquor, or the Riverfront Visitors Center, or you can purchase them when you come. Beer sampling tickets will be sold for 75 cents, and each ticket will be good for one 4 ounce sampling of most of our beers. You can also enjoy food from Joe’s Crab Shack and Old Chicago! Be sure not to miss the FIRST EVER “Roctobeerfest” at the Peoria Riverfront on Saturday October 10th from 2:00pm-8:00pm!

REGENT - Peoria owns Radio stations WGLO-FM, WFYR-FM, WIXO-FM, WZPW-FM and WVEL-AM in Peoria, Illinois. Regent Communications is a radio broadcasting company focused on acquiring, developing and operating radio stations in middle and small-sized markets. Upon the completion of all announced transactions, Regent will own and operate 62 stations located in 13 markets. Regent Communications, Inc. shares are traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol “RGCI.”

Enviro-Dry Joins Chamber

Please welcome the newest member to the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce:

Enviro-Dry
(309) 267-6253
fax 642-6352
envirodry@mail.com

Beau Austin, Owner

Enviro-Dray is a carpet, tile and upholstery clearing service featuring Green Seal Certified Products. The cleaning is 97% dry, using only 1 teaspoon of water per square foot, featuring Host - the dry extraction carpet cleaning system. Enviro Dry leaves your carpets dry immediately after cleaning.

American Fire Hosted Business After Hours

The October 1st Business After Hours was hosted by American Fire Services. Thanks to Kevin, Fred, Keri, Neila and all of the staff for their hospitality. Chamber members enjoyed great food, tours, door prizes, and some even got to put out a fire. You can see more pictures from this event at: http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

LAUNCH Winners Selected

The LAUNCH finals were held on September 30th at the Peoria NEXT Innovation Center. The business plan competition was coordinated by the chambers of commerce in Pekin, Peoria, East Peoria and Morton, plus SCORE Bradley University's Turner Center for Entrepreneurship and Peoria NEXT Innovation Center.
Sivaprasad Akasam and Sridhar Deivasigamani won the competition with their their Intellihot water heater concept. They received several prizes, including membership in the area chambers and a grant of $3,000 to help start the business. Their business, Intellihot Green Technologies, hopes to produce and sell a tankless compact water heater. The pair of entrepreneurs previously worked as engineers at Caterpillar.

The other finalists at the LAUNCH competition were:

• Medicine Management System, which hopes to sell software that will make tracking and use of prescriptions and medications easier;


• Drake Bed and Breakfast, which will be located in downtown Morton and also feature a bistro;


• U-Exchange, which is an internet based website that hopes to match up buyers and sellers of college furniture, equipment, supplies, etc.;


• Tranquilitea, located in Peoria Heights, will be a specialty tea lounge serving teas and specialty drinks;


• Fashion Highway, a business looking to help fashion students promote their designs.

Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society

The October 13, 2009 general meeting of the Tazewell County Genealogical andHistorical Society will have John Hallwas as its guest speaker; John participates with the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau. Dr Hallwas was originally scheduled to speak in May of this year, but he received word that he was being honored for his book and that award was to be given the week of our meeting and he was forced to cancel. We are excited that we were able to reschedule his appearance at our society.
Join Dr. John Hallwas for an exciting lecture and slide presentation entitled Desperadoes: Notorious Lawbreakers of Early Illinois that delves into the dark side of Illinois history, from the frontier killers at Cave-in-Rock to later horse thieves, bandits, and murderers. Groups such as the Brown Gang, the Johnson Gang, and Tazewell County's own Berry Gang - and outlaws like Joe Brice, Ed Maxwell, and Frank Rande - will be discussed, and then slides, based on lithographs and historic photographs, will depict some of the outlaws and the locations associated with their nefarious activities. The lecture will also include comments on the early lawmen and vigilantes who tracked down the desperadoes.
John Hallwas holds a PhD from the University of Florida and retired in 2004 from Western Illinois University. He has received a number of teaching and service awards and has written more than a dozen books and scores of articles on Illinois history and literature, including the recently published Dime Novel Desperadoes.
This Program is made possible in part by an award from the Illinois Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Illinois GeneralAssembly. The meeting, which is open to the general public, will be held on Tuesday October13, 2009 at the Society's Erlicher Library, located at 719 N Eleventh St, Pekin, IL. The program will begin promptly at 7:00 PM, with a business meeting immediately following. The building is handicapped accessible with ample parking available.

KCB Info Services

November marks another milestone. On Nov. 1, 1989 Larry Nelson bought the Kewanee Credit Bureau. Last year the credit bureau celebrated 80 years of providing credit reports to businesses in Central Illinois.
Twenty years ago the credit bureau covered, Henry, Stark, Bureau and part of Knox counties.
Today they have members from Madison, WI to the Quad Cities to Quincy, south to Herrin, and east to Bloomington/Normal, Ottawa and Sheridan. In 2004 the credit bureau moved from Kewanee to Pekin.
They are the only independent, full service credit bureau in Illinois. KCB Info Services offers a complete line of products and services for financial institutions, landlords, municipalities and employers.

To celebrate the last 20 years they will have an open house Monday November 2nd, from Noon until 6:30pm.
Please stop by their office at 11 N.6th Street in Pekin.

Community Foundation of Central Illinois Announces Art FundingOpportunity for Peoria and Tazewell Counties

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois (CFCI) is pleased to announce it was awarded a $5,500 grant from the Illinois Arts Council (IAC), a state agency for the Community Arts Access RegrantingProgram. The IAC grant will enable CFCI to provide funding for various art programs in Peoria and Tazewell counties. The IAC, in collaboration with CFCI, seek grant proposals from not-for-profit programs providing for the needs of underserved populations: children, older adults, minorities, handicapped, disabled, and rural citizens. The IAC and CFCI recognize and support not-for-profit organizations of all sizes and at varying stages ofdevelopment. Applications for new and innovative programming for the arts are encouraged. Individual artists working in conjunction with a501(c) (3) organization may apply for funding. Grant guidelines and application can be downloaded at the CommunityFoundation of Central Illinois website: www.communityfoundationci.org<http://www.communityfoundationci.org/> . The application deadline is November 30 at 4:30 PM. For information on upcoming Community Arts Access Grant workshops please contact theCommunity Foundation of Central Illinois office at (309) 674-8730.

Methodist Nurses Earn Advanced Nursing Credentials

Nurses at Methodist Medical Center have completed advanced training and educational requirements to earn specialized nursing credentials.

Those nurses include Brad Robinson, RN of Morton who completed his Critical Care Nursing certification provided through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.

Amy Smith, RN of Morton, Deb Dellinger, RN of Peoria and Shawna McCord, RN of Morton received their Oncology Nursing Certification provided through the Oncology Nurses Certification Board.

Cindy Hale, RN and Director of Quality and Safety for Methodist received her Healthcare Quality certification through the Healthcare Quality Board.

Monica Scheuer, RN of Peoria received her Bariatric Nursing Certification provided through the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Jeremy Winget, Nurse Practitioner with the Intensivist Team, received his Adult Nurse Practitioner Certification provided through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Certification is an expert credential reserved for those who meet rigorous practice, continuing education and testing requirements in their specialty. Certification has been linked to fewer medical errors and increased job satisfaction and confidence.

Methodist Medical Center

The following is the schedule for the Methodist Medical Center Mobile Mammography Van for the month of October 2009. Unless otherwise listed, the van will be in these locations from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Methodist now features all digital mammography equipment providing improved, faster and more comfortable exams.

October 5-Methodist Medical Group at Chillicothe-525 Sweetbriar, Chillicothe
October 7-Curves for Women-920 W. Mt. Vernon Street, Metamora
October 10-Methodist at Morton-1909 Morton, Morton
October 12-Methodist Medical Group at Princeville-223 E. Main, Princeville
October 13-Weal-Mart-2071 N. Main, Canton
October 15-Metro Centre-4620 N. University. Peoria
October 16-Curves for Women-501 Walnut, Washington
October 20-Methodist at Morton-1909 Morton Ave., Morton
October 21-Methodist MedPointe at Peoria-8914 N. Knoxville, Peoria
October 26-Methodist at Lacon-1112 E. Fifth, Lacon
October 27-Methodist at Pekin-1800 Broadway, Pekin

There is no need for a doctor’s order for a screening mammogram if you’re 40 or over. If you are uninsured or under-insured, tell us when you call for an appointment. You may qualify for a free mammogram.

Call for an appointment at 671-8282

Pekin Riding Club Ribbon Cutting

Members of the Pekin Riding Club held a ribbon cutting at their facility on Route 29, as part of their year-end awards banquet and fun-fun show. The purpose of the Pekin Riding Club is to promote interest in, enjoyment of, and further the education/knowledge of good horsemanship to the mutual advantage of its membership. PRC is a non-profit organization run by volunteers and elected board members.

Midwestech Ribbon Cutting

Midwestech recently joined the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce and celebrated with a ribbon cutting. Owner Bob Johns was assisted in the ribbon cutting by his family. Pictured (l - r) Molly, Ann, Bob Johns, Kyel, Bethany, Peyton and Veronica. Midwestech is a new Information Technology (IT) company located in Pekin and has been providing technology services to customers in the Pekin, Peoria and surrounding areas for over eight years. The owner of Midwestech has served as an Operation's Department Head, Director of Information Technology and as a Senior Windows Network Administrator in several reputable IT companies in Pekin and Peoria. Midwestech has the invaluable skills necessary to serve your company as Support Technicians when you need them. Midwestech is also an authorized Dell retailer and has a broad range of services for both the home user and small business.

5 - Star Car Wash Joins Chamber

Please welcome another new chamber member:

5-Star Car Wash
1401 N. 8th
Pekin, IL 61554
Brad Harn, Owner

Re-opening soon, after the fire damage is repaired and new equipment is installed, 5-Star Car Wash will be open 24 hours with 3 self-serve bays and 1 touchless automatic bay. Watch for the grand re-opening soon!

MIDWESTECH Joins Chamber

Please welcome a new member to the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce

MIDWESTECH
Pekin, Illinois
309-981-1069
Bob Johns, Owner
www.midwestech.net

MIDWESTECH is a new Information Technology (IT) company located in Pekin, Illinois and has been providing technology services to customers in the Pekin, Peoria and surrounding areas for over eight years. The owner of MIDWESTECH has served as an Operation’s Department Head, Director of Information Technology and as a Senior Windows Network Administrator in several reputable IT companies in Pekin and Peoria.

MIDWESTECH has the invaluable skills necessary to serve your company as Support Technicians when you need them. This is an optimal solution for your company if you cannot afford to staff full time IT professionals in house. MIDWESTECH is also an authorized Dell retailer and in most cases, can pass their savings on to you when ordering new systems through them. MIDWESTECH has a broad range of services for both the home user and small business.

Methodist ChildCare Observes 20th Anniversary

The Methodist Family ChildCare Center will be celebrating its 20th anniversary Thursday October 1, 2009. The free Family Night celebration will begin at 3:30 with an open house and tours of the Child Care Center and a Family Night Celebration from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The 5:30 program will feature a dance party, red carpet photo opportunity, games, food and reunion with friends, faculty and volunteers. Six current instructors have been with the center since its start.

An estimate 300 people including past and present teachers, volunteers students, and faculty are expected to participate in the anniversary celebration.

For additional information contact the Methodist ChildCare Center at (309) 671-5163.

Mark Your Calendars

2010 R. David Tebben Community Leadership Academy starts in early January
Applications will be available soon.

Business Expo for 2010 will be held January 16, 2010 at the Dragon’s Dome. Watch for further information in the coming weeks. Reserve your booth space early.

October Calendar of Events

1st Pekin 1st Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 7:30 am

1st Business AFTER Hours, American Fire Service, 4:30~6:00 pm Reservations Appreciated

6th Ambassadors Committee, CJ’s Café, 7:30am /8:00am

7th Member Promotions Comm, Chamber Office, 7:30am

7th Executive Committee, Chamber Office, 4:00 pm

8th Business & Community Recognition Luncheon, Pekin Country Club, 11:30 am~1:00 pm RSVP Required

9th Puttin On Pekin, Knights of Columbus Hall, 6:45 am Reservations Required

12th Columbus Day Holiday ~ Chamber Office Closed

13th Member Services Comm., Chamber Office, 7:30 am

14th Transportation Committee, Pekin City Hall, 8:00 am

14th Board of Directors, Herget Bank, 4:00 pm

15th Marketing Committee, Dist. 108 Board Room, 7:30am

21st Marigold Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 6:30 pm

27th Business Advocacy Comm., Chamber Office, 7:00 am

29th Tazewell County Chambers Business After Hours, Five Points, Washington, 5-8 pm

November Calendar of Events

3rd Ambassadors Committee, CJ’s Café, 7:30am /8:00am

4th Member Promotions Committee, Chamber Office, 7:30am

4th Executive Committee, Chamber Office, 4:00 pm

5th Pekin 1st Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 7:30 am

5th Business AFTER Hours, Timbercreek Rehab & Health
Care 4:30~6:00 pm Reservations Appreciated

10th Member Services Comm., Chamber Office, 7:30 am

11th Veteran’s Day, Chamber Office Closed

11th Transportation Committee, Pekin City Hall, 8:00 am

11th Board of Directors, Herget Bank, 4:00 pm

18th Marigold Committee, Holiday Inn Express, 6:30 pm

24th Business Advocacy Comm., Chamber Office, 7:00 am

26th Thanksgiving Day, Chamber Office Closed

27th Thanksgiving Holiday, Chamber Office Closed

Business & Community Recognition Luncheon

Thursday, October 8th, 11:30am – 1:00pm
Pekin Country Club
Speaker: Bradley University President Joanne K. Glasser
Chamber businesses and organizations with significant achievements in the past year will be recognized at the luncheon. CenturyTel will sponsor the lunch and Pekin Trophy House and Engraved Gifts will sponsor the awards. Tickets are just $20 each and tables of 8 can be reserved. Call the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce at 346-2106 to make your reservations.

Puttin' on Pekin Breakfast

Knights of Columbus Hall, 715 N. 11th Street
Friday, October 9th at 6:45 am
Speaker: Heartland Partnership CEO Jim McConoughey
“Economic Climate Update”

The every-other-month breakfasts provide an opportunity for business people to network while learning about positive events in the Pekin area. Other features of the breakfast include a 50/25/25 drawing, the Spotlight on Business presentation, door prize drawings with prizes provided by local businesses, one-minute reminders, and “Meet the New Chamber Member.” The cost of the breakfast is $10.00 per person for reservations made before 4:30 pm on October 7th. After that, the cost is $15.00 per person. Payment can be made at the door. Make checks payable in the exact amount to the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce. Reservations are required and can be made by email at chamber@pekin.net, or by calling the Chamber at 346-2106.

Business AFTER Hours

American Fire Service
504 N. Main Street, North Pekin
Thursday, October 1st, 2009 4:30—6:00 pm

Take advantage of this great networking opportunity. You might start a new business relationship or meet your best customer. Enjoy the door prizes, refreshments, and visit with your friends, neighbors, and business associates. Admission is free to Chamber members ($10 for future members). Please RSVP to the Chamber at 346-2106 or e-mail us at chamber@pekin.net.

Executive Director's Report

Marigold Festival A Success
The weather was perfect, which always helps, but there were many other reasons why the 2009 Pekin Marigold Festival was a success. First to be recognized are the sponsors: NTS Telephone Company, Ameren Illinois Utilities, Pepsi, CenturyTel, Pekin Insurance, Jimmy John’s and CEFCU. In these challenging economic times, we are fortunate to have loyal and generous sponsors who continue to support our community festival.

Another reason for the success of the Pekin Marigold Festival is the volunteers. From the clubs and organizations selling food, to the parade marshals, nearly everywhere you turned you saw a volunteer who was giving up part of their weekend to make the festival a success.
The help provided by the City of Pekin and the Pekin Park District is another reason the Pekin Marigold Festival always has a chance to be successful. We could not hold a festival of this size without the assistance provided by the employees at the City of Pekin and the Pekin Park District.

And finally, the hard work and planning of our Marigold Festival Committee paid off. Led this year by Camille McCarty, and assisted by the chamber staff, this dedicated group of volunteers works year round on all of the details of the festival. In addition to all of their planning, they are at the festival the entire weekend. Some of them even take time off from their jobs the week of the festival to get everything ready. If you see any of these people, thank them and congratulate them: Jan Becker, Todd Campbell, Tom Elliott, Karen Fort, Rich Gafford, Althea Geiser, Gary Gillis, Doug Godke, Rose Marie Hasler, Greg Henderson, Camille McCarty, Barry Neal, Julie Nelson, Greg Ranney, Shannon Sandoval, Doug Snell, Val Springborn, Mike Vonderheide, Eric White and Amy Whiting.

What’s Next?
Now that the Marigold Festival is completed and most everything is put away, many people assume things slow down at the chamber office. Nothing could be further from the truth. The day after the festival, the chamber staff turned their attention to the details of the Business and Community Recognition Luncheon, scheduled for October 8th. We also started planning our Chamber Challenge Trivia Nite, the 2010 Business Expo, and the 2010 R. David Tebben Community Leadership Academy. It never slows down at the chamber, and that’s a good thing.

Don’t miss the next Tazewell County Business After Hours on October 29th. It’s put on by all four of the county chambers of commerce. It was a huge event in January, so you’ll want to be there for this one. See the ad elsewhere in the FOCUS.

Spruce Up Pekin Semi Annual Clean up

This is your chance to get a head start on fall cleaning. Spruce Up Pekin is the first Saturday in October from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Locations are:
Mineral Springs Park -- Parking lot east of the lagoon--antifreeze, oil & electronics will be accepted at this location only.
City Services Center, 1130 Koch St-- Tires only (disposal fee)
Southside Park--Knapp & Sapp St.
Northside Fire Station, 1000 N.14th St. Street Department, 1208 Koch St.

Biz Barometer & Consumer Price Index

On a seasonally adjusted basis, the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U) rose 0.4 percent in August. The index has decreased 1.5 percent over the last 12 months on a not seasonally adjusted basis.

The United States City Average for all consumers—all items—January 2009, 211.1; February, 212.2; March, 212.8; April, 213.2; May, 213.9; June, 215.7; and July, 215.4.

IAAP-Tri County Chapter Meeting

WHO: International Association of Administrative Professionals, Tri-County Chapter

WHAT: Tri-County Chapter Monthly Meeting

WHEN: Tuesday, October 6, 2009 5:15 pm Networking/Dinner /
6:00-6:30 pm Business Meeting / 6:30 pm Speaker

WHERE: HeartCare Midwest, 5405 N. Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, IL, 4th Floor Conference Room

TOPIC: MS Access, Database Tool Every Administrative Assistant Can Use for Fast Easy Information, Speaker: Charbel Mansour, Instructor, Mid-State College

COST: Free to attend meeting (not necessary to be a member to attend)

MEAL: Dinner cost $15.00

RSVP: To Savanna Bohm at 655-2727 by noon 10/1/09

Jaycees Join Chamber

Please welcome another new member of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce -

Tazewell County Jaycees
Michelle Riggio, Chapter President
www.tazcojaycees.org

The Tazewell County's chapter of the Jaycees provides leadership opportunities to empower young adults to achieve more.

Women's Fund

The next First Tuesdays will be held on October 6, 2009, from 5 to 7 pm at A Perfect Pear Boutique (at 4445 N.Prospect Road in Peoria). The Women's Fund of the Community Foundation of Central Illinois invites area women to attend First Tuesdays, a monthly networking opportunity. Come to First Tuesdays and meet other dynamic women who share your interest in funding projects that promote leadership and empowerment for women and girls. Become part of a national movement towards Women's Philanthropy. To automatically receive First Tuesdays' invitations, call The Women's Fund at the Community Foundation of Central Illinois at 309 674-8730 or and ask to receive the 'E-vite' forFirst Tuesdays. Appetizers and beverages will be served and door prizes awarded. Donations will be taken to defray the cost of First Tuesdays and further the work of the Women's Fund.

Trueblood Retirement Reception

A reception was recently held for longtime chamber employee Terri Trueblood. Her retirement came after nearly 10 years of service. Over the years she has been a major reason for the success of many of our chamber events and programs, including the R. David Tebben Community Leadership Academy, the monthly FOCUS newsletter, and several Marigold Festival events. We're very grateful for all her contributions over these past 10 years, and know she'll enjoy spending more time with her family. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to wish her well. You can see pictures from this event at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

National Rental of Pekin, Inc.

Nationa Rental Company of Pekin now fills propane tanks and can fill recreational vehicles (R.V.'s) They are located at 706 S. 2nd Street.