Our Vision: To be the trusted partner for the Pekin business community. Our Mission: To foster and promote a vibrant business environment for the benefit of our members.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
James Field Rededication
Friday, October 30, 2009
Tazewell County Business After Hours

Thursday, October 29, 2009
AAIM Workshops
“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
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
HR Recordkeeping Seminar
“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
Upcoming Activities at Pekin Estates
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
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.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
December Chamber Calendar
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
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

October Membership Renewals
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
November Executive Director's Report
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
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
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
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.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Halloween Parade

AAIM Employers’ Association Announces Winners of 2009 Employer of the Year Awards
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
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 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
Friday, October 23, 2009
Tri-County IAAP Chapter Monthly Meeting
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
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Methodist Physician Executive Awarded Certification
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
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.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Enviro-Dry Ribbon Cutting

HOSPITAL VISITATIONS RESTRICTED IN LIGHT OF H1N1 FLU
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.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Intellihot Joins 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
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
Friday, October 16, 2009
105.7 The X Concert Announcement
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.”
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Liberation Software Offers Chamber Discounts
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
Pekin Hospital 14th Street Entrance to be Closed for Renovations
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.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Methodist Website Wins Award for Outstanding Achievement in Web Development
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
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
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
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.
Friday, October 9, 2009
October Puttin' On Pekin Recap

Thursday, October 8, 2009
Chamber Honors Twenty-Eight


- 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
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
“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.”
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Annual Methodist Service League Gift Show November 7th
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.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Gatehouse Newspapers Announce New Product
First Annual Roctobeerfest
"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
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

LAUNCH Winners Selected

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

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.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical 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.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
KCB Info Services
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
Methodist Nurses Earn Advanced 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
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