Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets Welcomed to Chamber

Nick Fleming, owner of Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets, accepts his chamber membership plaque from Renna Hadsall, events manager for the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce. One of the newest chamber members, Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets is a dry extraction carpet cleaning system that leaves carpets clean, dry and ready for immediate use. It lifts and revives matted carpet pile, cleans and improves the look of high traffic areas, leaves a fresh clean scent, and deep cleans to remove spots and spills. The system reduces dust mites, allergens and mold spores, with Green-Sealed certified products that are safe for the whole family. Enviro-Dry also cleans upholstery and tile and can be reached at (309) 267-6253 or www.envirodryllc.com or EnviroDryCleanCarpets@gmail.com

Central Illinois Idol

Membership Renewals

Advance Medical Transport ~ American Milling Company ~ Atlas Supply Company

Bill Neff Video Productions ~ Bremer Jewelry ~ CDS Office Technologies

Farnsworth Group ~ Fort Toyota ~ Lynn Glover ~ Godfathers Pizza

Good Shepherd Lutheran School ~ Hamm's Furniture Inc.

Kroger Limited Partnership, LLC ~ NTS Telephone Company

P & W Builders ~ Pekin First Church of the Nazarene ~ Pekin Pride Soccer Club

Phillips Tax Service ~ Savant Capital Management ~ Seico Security Systems

Townsquare Media ~ Velde Ford Sales ~ WMBD TV / WYZZ TV

Business After Hours



July 12
Timbercreek Rehab and Health Care
2220 State Street
Pekin, IL

Reservations appreciated
346-2106 or e-mail us at info@pekinchamber.com

Don't miss this opportunity to network with fellow chamber members and community leaders. You'll also enjoy refreshments, door prizes and tours or information from our hosts.

Calendar of Events

July 4 – Honor America Fireworks             

July 11 – Member Promotions Comm.

July 11 – Executive Board

July 11 – Board of Directors

July 11 – Marigold Festival Committee

July 12 – Business After Hours

July 18 – Ambassadors Meeting

July 31 – Business Advocacy Committee

Biz Barometer

Local Economy Continues to Gain Momentum

Pekin’s unemployment rate fell from 8.0% in April of 2012 to 7.7% in May of 2012.  That’s the fourth straight month of decline, and the lowest unemployment rate in Pekin in 40 months (December of 2008)

The number of people employed in Pekin (16,289) in May of 2012 was 60 more than April of 2012 and the fourth consecutive month of job growth.

The number of people employed in the Peoria region (188,362) in May of 2012 was 6,015 more than January of 2012 and also marks the fourth straight month of job growth.

Nationally, the nonfarm payroll employment changed little in May (+69,000), and the U.S. unemployment rate was essentially unchanged at 8.2 percent.  Employment increased in health care, transportation and warehousing, and wholesale trade but declined in construction.

Pekin’s sales tax disbursement received from the state in June was 5.8% greater than June of 2011.

Pekin’s sales tax disbursements received from the state for the last 3 months were 6.5% greater than the same three months in 2011.

East Peoria continues to lead the communities on the East side of the Illinois River, with a 13.1% increase in sales tax disbursements received from the State in June, compared to the June of 2011.  Morton (5.3%) and Washington (5.5%) also saw healthy gains for the same comparison period.

The number of residential units sold in the 61554 zip code for the first 5 months of 2012 is 6.1% greater than the first 5 months of 2011.

The average sales price of residential units in the 61554 zip code for the first 5 months of 2012 is $108,040.  That is 4.7% greater than the average sales price for the first five months of 2011.

Sources:  Illinois Department of Employment Security; Illinois Department of Revenue; Peoria Area Association of Realtors; Bureau of Labor Statistics

PNC Announces New Branch Manager

PNC Bank is proud to announce Phillip Gelato as the new Branch Manager of your local PNC Pekin location! With Phil's history in customer service and strong drive to be a valuable member of your community, we are excited to see what he will accomplish. We invite you to stop by the location during normal business hours to meet Phil in person.

Mashie's Deck Party

The Tazewell County Jaycees Happy Hour Trivia Night

The Tazewell County Jaycees Happy Hour Trivia Night on Thursday, July 12 will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, Central Illinois Chapter.

Trivia Night will be held at EP’s Timeout, 1101 E. Washington St., East Peoria. Registration begins at 6 p.m., and the game starts at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per person. 

Get a team together and come out for the fun! 
The Alzheimer's Association – Central Illinois Chapter is a donor-supported, not-for-profit health organization serving 20 counties in Illinois. For additional information or for help, please visit the website at www.alz.org/illinoiscentral or call 800.272.3900.

Goodwill Receives Grant to Support Homeless Veterans

Goodwill of Central Illinois has been awarded a grant for $200,000 from the Department of Labor. The money will be used to assist homeless veterans with job training and job placement. The grant was awarded under the DOL’s Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP). Goodwill of Central Illinois is the only grant holder for this program in Illinois, south of Cook County.

Any homeless veteran with a discharge, other than dishonorable, is eligible for the program. Goodwill staff will assist the participants with computer training, job readiness training and job placement. Each veteran receives one-on-one instruction on Microsoft Office computer programs, resume writing, interviewing skills and job search methods. A Goodwill job placement specialist works with local business to find employment that fits each veteran’s skill set.

In 2011, under a previous HVRP grant, Goodwill placed 52 homeless veterans into jobs. “We are grateful and excited to be able to continue this program,” said Patty Fuchs, President and CEO of Goodwill of Central Illinois. “We have been serving local veterans for three years under this grant and we look forward to continuing this important work. These men and women deserve all of the resources we can provide.”

Goodwill of Central Illinois is a non-profit organization that provides job training, career and vocational services to veterans, individuals and families who are working to better their lives. Revenues from the sale of donated or recycled items support the Vocational Services programs of Goodwill.  For more information visit www.goodwillpeo.org or call the Administrative Offices at (309) 682-1113.

4th of July Honor America Celebration

The Center of Prevention of Abuse's "The Duck Race" Fundraiser

The Duck Race is The Center for Prevention of Abuse’s largest fundraiser. This year will be the 24th Annual Duck Race! On August 26, 2012 approximately 20,000 little yellow rubber ducks will be dropped into the Illinois River, all “racing” to the finish line to win SpecQuackular Prizes! Grand prize is $5000 sponsored by South Side Bank!

There are two easy ways to enter the Duck Race. One, you can stop by the designated location in Pekin on Saturday Aug 18^th at Associated Bank from 9am until 1pm and purchase your duck then. Two, you can enter the race online at www.duckrace.com/peoria. When you buy a duck, we enter your name into our Duck Race system and a number will be assigned to each of your ducks in the race. Each duck will have a lucky number attached to the bottom of it!

McDaniels Marketing Launches PowerInternal To Help Organizations Achieve Service Excellence

McDaniels Marketing recently launched its newest service: PowerInternal – a collaborative program offering specialized organizational development consulting. Created to redirect the organization to a service-centered culture, PowerInternal empowers the workforce to achieve excellence by creating a more positive, efficient, harmonious and productive work environment. PowerInternal is the company’s solution to a more effective internal marketing program by engaging targeted human resource strategy.

“Research shows that recruiting and retaining the best possible team and maintaining a satisfied, engaged, aligned workforce will correlate with organizational success and customer satisfaction,” Randall McDaniels, president of the full-service marketing communications agency, stated. “However, many organizations do not have the resources, time or expertise to focus on achieving workforce excellence. That’s why we launched PowerInternal.” He added that the program is collaborative because “our experts, both human resource professionals and internal marketing consultants, work closely with an organization’s leadership team and frontline staff throughout the entire process.”

To accomplish client goals, PowerInternal employs a six-step process (1) gathering/analyzing relevant data, (2) identifying key priorities and developing metrics, (3) leveraging organizational strengths in practice and people, (4) analyzing the performance management system, (5) launching an internal marketing campaign and (6) marketing the employment brand. Collaborative strategic involvement with an organization’s leadership and focusing on human potential, PowerInternal aids in the development of effective solutions and forward-thinking strategy. The team of experts at McDaniels Marketing provides a variety of talent, tools and resources flexible to an organization’s unique set of challenges.

“Organizations should view PowerInternal as a sound investment in their overall successes,” McDaniels said. “It empowers people to achieve excellence by creating more positive, efficient, harmonious and productive work environments. And that, in turn, will positively impact organization’s bottom line.”

For more information, visit powerinternal.com or call Melanie Long, Organizational Development Consultant, at (309) 346-1919.

McDaniels Marketing draws on nearly 45 years of experience to help strategically plan and execute marketing tactics for clients throughout the Midwest and serves a variety of industries including agricultural, financial, governmental and industrial/B2B companies. The agency also has client service offices in Rockford, Ill. and the Quad Cities. McDaniels Interactive specializes in developing websites, animation, videos, e-surveys, kiosks, ecommerce, content management systems, search engine marketing, optimization and social media to fit a variety of budgets. McDaniels Healthcare was established in 1989 and has provided award-winning services to hospitals, physician practices and medical organizations throughout Illinois. McDaniels Promotional Products was established in 2010 and provides a gamut of products from t-shirts and tradeshow giveaways to high-end promotional packages that help clients achieve good lasting impressions.

Welcome New Member: Patrick Oberle

Law Office of Patrick E. Oberle, PC, 2807 Broadway, Suite B, Pekin, IL 61554; (309) 3475984; fax 347-5988

Allentown Road Closed for Repairs

Beginning Tuesday, June 26th, Allentown Road, South of Morton, between Baer Road and 4th Avenue, will be closed for bridge repairs.  Motorists are advised to seek alternate routs.  The closure will last approximately 2 to 3 weeks, weather permitting.  This repair is a result of damage to the bridge from a recent accident.

Pekin Hospital's New Pediatrics Opens

A ribbon cutting celebrated Pekin Hospital's new 10-bed pediatric unit on 4 North. Pediatrics had been located on 5 South. The relocation and remodeling was a two-year project at a total cost of $1.5 million.  You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Pekin Main Street to Host July Jubilee Carnival

Pekin Main Street will be hosting a carnival as part of the first ever July Jubilee, July 4th-July 7th in downtown Pekin. This family friendly event will feature rides, games and food by Miller Spectacular Shows.

The carnival will be on the empty lot formerly home to Vogel’s Grocery store on 2nd Street and Sabella Streets in downtown Pekin. Visitors are encouraged to park in the vacant lot closes to the T-Shirt House and in the lot at Riverfront Park. Hours for the Carnival are: July 4th – 4:00pm-11:00pm, July 5th – 4pm-10pm, July 6th – 3:00pm-11pm and July 7th – 1pm-10pm.

A portion of the proceeds from the carnival will be donated back to Pekin Main Street, a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization with a mission to preserve, restore and revitalize downtown Pekin. 

 For more information, contact the Pekin Main Street office at (309) 353-3100 or visit www.pekinmainstreet.com.

CEFCU Announces Retirements and Management Moves

CEFCU announces the retirements of Melody Dickerson, Pete Jain, Linda Keyser, and Marianne Moll. Tim Dunton has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer; Denise Ghere, Joe Varda and Dave Zimmerman have been promoted to Vice President; and Todd Haller becomes Vice President of Auditing & Risk Management.   

Dickerson has been an employee of CEFCU for 38 years, serving as the Chief Technology Officer since 2007. Her retirement will be effective on July 1, 2012.

Jain has been an employee of CEFCU for 32 years, serving as Vice President of Cash Management since 1996. Jain’s retirement will be effective on July 1, 2012.

Keyser has been an employee of CEFCU for 34 years, serving as Internet Information Security Manager since 2001. Her retirement is effective July 1, 2012.

Moll has been an employee of CEFCU for 33 years, serving as Vice President of Auditing & Risk Management since 2003. Moll’s retirement is effective July, 1, 2012.
Dunton was promoted to Chief Technology Officer. His job responsibilities include overseeing technological resources for the Credit Union as well as directing the future development and acquisition of new technology for the Credit Union.

Ghere was promoted to Vice President of Electronic Funds Transfer. Her job responsibilities include research and development of new products and services and enhancement of existing products, services, and delivery channels.

Haller will assume the position of Vice President of Auditing and Risk Management. His job responsibilities include development and implementation of a robust risk infrastructure and internal controls framework. In addition, he will lead efforts to interpret and apply new audit and regulatory concepts efficiently and effectively.                                                 

Varda has been promoted to Vice President of Cash Management. His job responsibilities include managing CEFCU's Investment Portfolio, providing liquidity, and facilitating the cash management process.

Zimmerman has been promoted to Vice President of Information Services. His job responsibilities include overseeing CEFCU’s Information Services’ Programming, Operations, Network Communications, Internet Services, and Information Security areas.

With assets totaling over $4.8 billion, CEFCU serves over 288,000 members through 
20 central Illinois Member Centers and 3 Member Centers in Santa Clara County, California; the CEFCU Financial Center; the Money Center 24 ATM Network; CEFCU’s website, cefcu.com; cefcu.mobi; the surcharge-free CO-OP ATM Network; and the CU Service Center Shared Branch Network.

Blood Drive In Memory of Jordan Bastean & Dean Shaffer

Welcome New Member: Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets

Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets, 466 Wildwood Drive, Groveland, IL 61535; phone: (309) 267-6253; email: EnviroDryCleanCarpets@gmail.com; website: www.envirodryllc.com; Nick Fleming, Owner. Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets is a dry extraction carpet cleaning system that leaves carpets clean and dry for immediate use. It lifts and revives matted carpet pile, cleans and improves the look of high traffic areas, leaves a fresh clean scent, and deep cleans to remove spots and spills. The system reduces dust mites, allergens and mold spores, with Green-Sealed certified products that are safe for the whole family.

Fleming Completes First Year at Institute for Organzation Management; Receives Sam's Club Scholarship

Washington D.C.—Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that William T. Fleming, Executive Director of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce recently completed his first year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. 

Fleming was also the recipient of a Sam’s Club scholarship.  Awarded to 20 first-year attendees from across the U.S., the Sam’s Club scholarships recognize individuals that exhibit excellent nonprofit management practices in several areas, including involvement in professional industry organizations, community involvement and demonstrated leadership. 

“The U.S. Chamber is proud to partner with Sam’s Club to provide dedicated professionals like Bill Fleming the opportunity to attend Institute and educate them on how to better represent their members and expand their organizations’ influence,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, vice president of Institute for Organization Management at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.  “We are pleased to help these talented individuals advance their careers and organizations, and we appreciate the commitment from Sam’s Club to the business community.”

“Institute participants are recognized across the country as leaders in their communities,” said. Towle. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.” 

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has educated tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates.  Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions offered at five different university locations throughout the country.  Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively. 

Graduates of Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can earn credit hours toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

Institute is a 501(c) (3) affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is the premier nonprofit professional development program for nonprofit professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. 

Gregg Ratliff Joins Herget's Trust and Investment Management Group

Gregg Ratliff has joined Herget Bank’s Trust and Investment Management Group as a Trust Administrator where he will be responsible for account management and business development in the Department. Gregg graduated from Illinois College in Jacksonville were he received his Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.

Ratliff comes to Herget after being publisher of The Pekin Daily Times newspaper, serving in that capacity for 7 years.

Active in community affairs, Ratliff serves on the City of Pekin EDAC and Human Rights Committees, is the Treasurer of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and is an elder at Pekin First Church of God.

Gregg and his wife Debbie reside in Pekin. They have one son Todd and three grandsons.

Welcome New Member: First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 1201 Chestnut Street, Pekin, IL 61554; phone: (309) 347-5519; fax: (309) 347-8839; email: fccpekin@grics.net; website: www.firstchristianpekin.org; Michael Roberts, Pastor. Business hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 3:30pm.  

Goodwill Opens New Store

Goodwill of Central Illinois will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for its newest store on Friday, June 15 at 9:00 a.m. The store is located at 3905 N. University in Peoria.

A grand opening celebration will be held on Friday, June 15 and Saturday, June 16. Anyone who spends more than $25 on either day can enter into a drawing for a 50” LG Plasma TV. The first 10 shoppers who find a “mystery item” will win $25 in Goodwill gift certificates. Complimentary hamburgers and hotdogs will be served on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The store is equipped to accept donations with a convenient drive up donation drop off. The new store on University will replace the Goodwill store on War Memorial, which has been closed. “This store would not be possible without donations from the people of central Illinois,” said Patty Fuchs, Goodwill’s President & CEO. “We want to make sure that our donors know that they fill our stores and make what we do possible.”

Goodwill of Central Illinois is a non-profit organization that provides job training, career and vocational services to veterans, individuals and families who are working to better their lives. Goodwill also operates a youth mentoring program for at-risk youth ages 12 to 17. Revenues from the sale of donated or recycled items support the Vocational Services programs of Goodwill.  For more information on retail stores, donation centers and vocational services, visit the website at www.goodwillpeo.org or call the Administrative Offices at (309) 682-1113.

Illinois American Water Awards Approximately $70,200 through 2012 Firefighter Grant Program

Approximately $70,200 will be awarded to 65 fire departments across the state through Illinois American Water’s 2012 Firefighter Grant Program.  The program was created in 2010 to provide financial assistance to fire and emergency organizations serving customers in Illinois American Water’s service area.  Since creation, the program has resulted in 148 grants totaling approximately $173,000 awarded across the state.

“We are committed to supporting our local fire departments,” said Karla Olson Teasley, president of Illinois American Water.  “This program enables us to further support fire protection in the communities we serve and partner with our local fire fighters.”

Illinois American Water’s Firefighter Grant Program awards grants up to $1,500 to provide personal protective gear, communications equipment, firefighting tools, water handling
equipment, training materials and classroom programs.  The grants presented by Illinois American Water were presented to the following Illinois fire departments:

Northern Illinois
Des Plaines Fire Department      
Elgin Fire Department
City of Elmhurst Fire Department
Homer Township Fire Protection District      
Lemont Fire Protection District
Morris Fire Protection District
Mount Prospect Fire Department
Northwest Homer Fire Protection District
Orland Fire Protection District      
Oswego Fire Protection District
Plainfield Fire Protection District
Prospect Heights Fire Protection District        
South Beloit Fire and Rescue
Sterling Fire Department
Streator Fire Department
Dana Fire Protection District
Grand Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Inc.        
Long Point Community Volunteer Fire Protection District
Reading Volunteer Fire Department

Central Illinois
Edge-Scott Fire Protection District
St. Joseph – Stanton Fire Protection District
Tolono Fire Protection District
Urbana Fire Rescue Services
Tuscola Fire Department
Lincoln Fire Department
Lincoln Rural Fire Protection District
Cincinnati Fire Protection District
Pekin Fire Department
Dunlap Fire Protection District
Limestone Township Fire Protection
Logan-Trivoli Fire Protection District
Tuscarora Fire Department
City of Peoria Fire Department
West Peoria Fire Protection District
Pontiac Fire & Rescue
Saunemin Fire Protection District

Southern Illinois
Alton Fire Department
Godfrey Fire Protection District      
QEM Fire Protection District
Holiday Shores Fire Department
City of Cairo Fire Department
Cairo Auxiliary Fire Department
Belleville Fire Department      
Columbia Fire Protection District
Church Road Fire Protection District      
East St. Louis Fire Department      
East Side Fire Protection District
Fairmont City Fire Department
Fairview Caseyville Township FP District
French Village Fire Department
Granite City Fire Department
Hamel Community Volunteer Fire Protection District
Long Lake Volunteer Fire Department
Madison Fire Department
Mascoutah Fire Department
Millstadt Union FD/Millstadt FPD
Mitchell Fire Department      
Northwest St Clair County Fire Protection District
O'Fallon Fire Department
Sauget Fire Department      
Signal Hill Fire Department      
St. Louis Downtown Airport Fire Department
Swansea Fire Department
Villa Hills Volunteer Fire Department
Waterloo Fire Department        

About Illinois American Water
Illinois American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality
and reliable water and/or wastewater services to more than 1.2 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and
research laboratory in Belleville.  Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company.  With headquarters in
Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately
15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

Pekin Main Street Farmer’s Market kicks off June 21st

Pekin Main Street’s annual Downtown Outdoor Market begins on Thursday June 21st, in historic downtown Pekin next to the Tazewell County Courthouse on Capitol Street. 
This weekly open-air market will be held on Thursday evenings, June 21-September 20, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. with a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, plants, fresh cut flowers, herbs, bakery items, canned items, crafts and more. Free entertainment will be held on selected weeks on the Courthouse lawn. 

The Pekin Main Street Farmer’s market was a recipient of a LINK UP Illinois Grant. LINK Up Illinois is a program of Experimental Station in partnership with Wholesome Wave and the Illinois Farmers Market Association.. This grant will allow those that use their LINK cards at the Pekin Main Street farmer’s market to receive a dollar to dollar match for their purchase amount up to $10.00 (per cardholder per market day). This is a win-win situation for vendors and community members alike – vendors will have access to new customers

For more information or to become a vendor, please call the Pekin Main Street office at (309) 353-3100 or visit www.pekinmainstreet.com.

Illinois American Water Accepts National Communication Achievement Award

Illinois American Water was selected by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) to receive the 2011 Communications Achievement Award in recognition of the company’s outreach regarding proper pharmaceutical disposal. The award recognizes AWWA member organizations for fostering and supporting the development of public outreach programs and integrating public affairs as a core element of utility planning and management. Past recipients include San Francisco (Calif.) Public Utility Commission Water Quality Div., Metro Vancouver (B.C.), City of San Diego (Calif.) Public Utilities Department and Denver (Colo.) Water.

Illinois American Water President Karla Olson Teasley and External Affairs Manager Karen Cotton  accepted the award during AWWA’s national conference on Monday, June 11, 2012 in Dallas, TX. Working in collaboration with Prescription Pill and Drug Disposal Program (P2D2) and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Illinois American Water launched a public awareness campaign to educate the public about proper pharmaceutical disposal.

Goals of the program include increasing awareness and reducing pharmaceuticals in water through the creation of community pharmaceutical disposal programs. Through these community programs supported by Illinois American Water, residents are encouraged to drop off their unwanted medications so they can be incinerated, which is the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommended approach for pharmaceutical disposal. Flushing medications down the toilet or the drain as well as throwing them in the trash are discouraged.

According to Deirdre Mueller, Public Affairs Manager for AWWA, “Many accomplished individuals and organizations were considered and the selection process was rigorous. AWWA’s Public Affairs Council selection committee was very impressed by the work Illinois American Water completed in 2011.”

Through partnership with local pharmacies, police departments and government officials, Illinois American Water has implemented and supported 28 pharmaceutical disposal programs across the state including sites in Alton, Bartonville, Belleville, Caseyville, Champaign, Chicago (two sites), Chillicothe, Collinsville, Columbia, Dixon, Fairmont, Maryville, Morrison, Mt. Vernon, O’Fallon, Orland Hills, Pekin, Peoria (three sites), Peoria Heights, Pontiac, South Beloit, Sterling, Streator, Urbana and Waterloo.

The pharmaceutical disposal programs are created through the model program P2D2 which was developed by Pontiac Township High School students and their teacher Paul Ritter. P2D2, is recognized by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, the Illinois EPA and the Department of Natural Resources as a model for all pharmaceutical disposal programs. Through Illinois American Water’s and P2D2’s efforts, thousands of pounds of unwanted medications have been properly disposed. More information and disposal locations can be found at http://www.epa.state.il.us/medication-disposal/locations/

About AWWA

Founded in 1881, AWWA is an international nonprofit educational association dedicated to safe water and the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy for improving the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond.

About Illinois American Water

Illinois American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to more than 1.2 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com .

Goodwill Youth Mentoring

The June Puttin' On Pekin breakfast featured short presentations by Pekin service clubs.  Leigh Ann Matthews (Kiwanis), Len Easley (Rotary), Greg Neavil (Ambucs) and Terry Knollenberg (Lions) told the audience about their organization, who they serve, and how they raise and distribute their funds.  Other facets of the breakfast included the Early Prize presented to Joy Knollenberg and the Late Prize to Chris Roecker.  Associated Bank was featured as in the Spotlight on Business and the Roy L. King Post 1232 VFW was recognized with the Sunshine Award.  You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Todd Thompson and 353 Court LLC hosted the June 7th business after hours in 200 block of Court Street. Guests were able to tour a couple of buildings that have seen extensive stabilization efforts and are now ready for the next phase of redevelopment.  A large group of chamber members and others enjoyed the hospitality and tours during a beautiful summer evening.  You can see more pictures from this event at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Pekin Hospital Awarded an "A" for Patient Safety

Pekin Hospital was honored with an “A” Hospital Safety Score^SM by The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit run by employers and other large purchasers of health benefits. The Hospital Safety Score^SM was calculated under the guidance of The Leapfrog Group’s Blue Ribbon Expert Panel using publicly available data on patient injuries, medical and medication errors, and infections. U.S. hospitals were assigned an A, B, C, D, or F for their safety.

“We understand what matters most to patients at Pekin Hospital – safe, effective care.  That’s why we have made a commitment to positive patient outcomes through evidence-based care processes.  It’s gratifying to see that our efforts have resulted in us earning an ‘A’ for patient safety,” said Kevin Andrews, Pekin Hospital CEO.

“It’s The Leapfrog Group’s goal to give patients the information they need and deserve before even entering a hospital,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We congratulate the hospitals that earned an ‘A’ and we look forward to the day when all hospitals in the U.S. will earn the highest scores for putting patient safety first.”

To see Pekin Hospital’s scores as they compare nationally and locally, visit www.hospitalsafetyscore.org, the Hospital Safety Score^SM website,which also provides information on how the public can protect themselves and loved ones during a hospital stay. 

Calculated under the guidance of The Leapfrog Group’s nine-member Blue Ribbon Expert Panel, the Hospital Safety Score uses 26 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to produce a single score representing a hospital’s overall capacity to keep patients safe from infections, injuries, and medical and medication errors. The panel includes: John Birkmeyer (University of Michigan), AshishJha (Harvard University), Lucian Leape (Harvard University), Arnold Millstein (Stanford University), Peter Pronovost (Johns Hopkins University), Patrick Romano (University of California, Davis), Sara Singer (Harvard University), Tim Vogus (Vanderbilt University), and Robert Wachter (University of California, San Francisco). 

The Leapfrog Group (www.leapfroggroup.org) is a national organization using the collective leverage of large purchasers of health care to initiate breakthrough improvements in the safety, quality, and affordability of health care for Americans. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey allows purchasers to structure their contracts and purchasing to reward the highest performing hospitals. The Leapfrog Group was founded in November 2000 with support from the Business Roundtable and national funders, and is now independently operated with support from its purchaser and other members.

Bard Optical Celebrates 26 Years in Business

Bard Optical Pekin office will celebrate 26 years in business in July. Opened by Dr. A. Arthur Bard in 1941 in downtown Peoria, Diana Hall purchased the practice in 1981 and has grown Bard Optical to 19 locations in Central and Southern Illinois. Please join us in celebrating the Anniversary of Bard’s Pekin office by stopping in and congratulating Dr. Shelley, Alicia, Office Manager and the Pekin staff.

Pekin Hospital Selects CEO

Pekin Hospital Board Chairman, A. Richard Kriegsman, is pleased to announce the selection of Gary L. Jepson, as the new Chief Executive Officer of Pekin Hospital.  Jepson will assume his duties on Monday, June 25.

“We are pleased that Gary and his family will be moving to Pekin and joining a strong Senior Management Team and Medical Staff to provide excellent leadership at Pekin Hospital.  He brings CEO healthcare experience and is excited to build on the strengths of our organization.  We have received nothing but positive feedback about his performance.  He has high expectations and requires accountability by working in collaboration with people to achieve objectives.  He and his wife are excited about becoming members of the Pekin community,” said Kriegsman.

“Quorum Health Resources (QHR) wants to thank Rich Kriegsman and Pekin Hospital’s Board of Trustees for their leadership in this time consuming selection process.  Pekin Hospital has ended up with a very qualified and deserving candidate who will continue to lead and build on the sound base that Kevin Andrews has established,” added Gerald Parton, QHR Regional Vice President.

Jepson most recently served for nine years as President/Chief Executive Officer of Central Texas Medical Center in San Marcos.  Prior to that, he served as Chief Executive Officer at Tahlequah City Hospital in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.  He has more than 25 years of healthcare experience, which includes serving in CEO, COO, and CFO positions in for-profit, public, not-for-profit, and faith-based organizations.  His professional experience has provided him with significant opportunities as a leader to successfully address the issues that make organizations thrive including performance in financial, clinical, operational, and strategic areas. 

Jepson received a Bachelor of Science, Business Administration degree from Walla Walla College in College Place, Washington and a Master’s Degree in Health Administration from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas.  He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

According to Jepson, “I have been impressed with the medical staff and leadership at Pekin Hospital and the collegial relationships that exist.  It is refreshing to see the board, medical staff and leadership team working so well together.  Equally impressive are Pekin Hospital’s stellar quality, patient satisfaction and physician satisfaction scores.  It’s the combination of these positive indicators that reinforce my confidence in Pekin Hospital’s future.  I look forward to continuing to build upon all of the successes Pekin Hospital has achieved.”

Jepson and his wife Deidre are the parents of two adult children.  They currently reside in San Marcos, Texas.  In his spare time, Jepson enjoys running, domestic travel, investing in waterfront real estate, and NFL football.  

Heartland Bank Adds Justin Nelson as Pekin Branch Supervisor

Heartland Bank and Trust Company proudly announces the hiring of Justin Nelson as Branch Supervisor for the branches located at 3400 Court St. and 2807 Broadway Rd. in Pekin. Nelson is responsible for overseeing daily sales and customer care activities at the branches.

Nelson brings seven years of banking and financial experience to Heartland Bank, acquiring skills as a Teller, Personal Banker, Investment Banker and, most recently, a Branch Supervisor. He graduated with a B.S. degree from Western Illinois University. 

 Nelson is active in the local area in a variety of ways including: Canton Kiwanis Club—Vice President, Fulton County Pink, Inc.—Treasurer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fulton County—Board member, and City of Canton—Alderman. A Canton native, he now makes his home there with his wife, Alicia, and their son, Lucas.

Heartland Bank and Trust Company is an independently owned community bank with assets of $1.9 billion. Headquartered in Bloomington, IL, the bank has offices in 30 communities throughout Illinois and Northeast Missouri. The bank offers a complete line of financial services to commercial and retail customers. More information is available on the bank’s website at www.hbtbank.com.

12th Annual United Way Golf Classic

You are invited to join United Way for their 12th Annual Golf Classic to benefit the United Way of Pekin. This event will be held at the Sunset Hills Golf Course on July 18th. Lunch will begin at 11am with shot gun starting at 12pm. Dinner will follow at approximately 5:30pm at the Sunset Hills Golf Club. Your donation of $90 per player or $360 for a team of four will help provide vital services and programs in the Pekin community supported by the United Way. You can also show your support by becoming a sponsor for this great event! July 6 is the registration deadline. To register, call Jay Fitzanko (309) 346-2433

Welcome New Member: CrossFit Trilogy LLC

CrossFit Trilogy LLC, 905 Derby Street, Pekin, IL 61554; phone: (309) 222-5765; email: info@crossfit-trilogy.com; website: www.crossfittrilogy.com; Jacob Condis, Co-Owner; Kelly Madden, Co-Owner; Gavin Vansaghi, Co-Owner. CrossFit uses the power of a dedicated community to change people's lives through fitness training and nutritional counseling. They focus on functional movements in three areas: olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, and metabolic conditioning. They also offer MMA and self-defense classes for those interested in martial arts.

Welcome New Member: Sam's Club

Sam's Club, 4100 W Willow Knolls Drive, Peoria, IL 61615; phone: (309) 691-4545; fax: (309) 691-4757; email: mjenkin.s08128.us@samsclub.com; website: www.samsclub.com; Mike Jenkins, Manager. Business hours: Monday - Saturday 10am - 8:30pm, Sunday 10am - 6pm.
Quality, name-brand merchandise at exceptional prices: It sounds simple enough, but at Sam’s Club, it’s a concept they take to a higher level. Their nearly 600 locations are not only terrific places to save money, but also destinations for solutions that can help ease a busy schedule. Whether stocking a pantry or a business, selecting new electronics or getting ready for a party, our Members count on Sam’s Club as their source for the products and services they need to keep things running smoothly.

Next Tazewell Walk to End Alzheimer’s Committee Meeting June 20

The next meeting of the Tazewell County Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee will be at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 20 at the Miller Senior Center, 551 S. 14^th St.

The 9^th annual Tazewell County Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held Sept. 22 at Mineral Springs Lagoon in Pekin.

Walk To End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Walks will be held at eight locations across the Alzheimer’s Association – Central Illinois Chapter region as well as nationwide.

For questions or more information, e-mail Walk Chairwoman Teresa Tucker at teresattucker@aol.com or Walk Director Breeana Hill at breeana.hill@alz.org, or call 309.681.1100.

Learn all about the walk and donate to a participant or a team at http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk/IL-CentralIllinois?pg=entry&fr_id=1332.

The Alzheimer's Association – Central Illinois Chapter is a donor-supported, not-for-profit health organization serving 20 counties in Illinois. The Association serves the needs of those affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias, advocates for policy change and research funding, and works in conjunction with the National office to advance research toward prevention, treatment, and a cure.

For additional Alzheimer's Association information or for help, please visit the website at www.alz.org/illinoiscentral or call 800.272.3900.

Pekin Hospital Hosts Open House