Roger Goodson, senior operations manager for Illinois American Water’s Western Division, will now also provide leadership in the company’s Eastern Division of the state, effective
July 8, 2019. In addition to managing operations in Illinois American Water’s Peoria, Pekin and Lincoln Districts, Goodson’s expanded leadership role will include providing oversight in the Champaign County, Pontiac, Sterling and Streator Districts.
Goodson joined Illinois American Water in 2011 as an operations superintendent in Pekin. In 2012, he was promoted to overseeing both Pekin and Peoria operations, and, in 2015, he became senior manager of the Western Division.
Prior to joining Illinois American Water, Goodson was director of operations for a large site development company and senior project manager for many affordable housing construction projects. He began his career in the water industry in 1992 with the City of Aurora, where he worked for over 14 years.
Mike Smyth, Illinois American Water Vice President of Operations, said, “Roger is a trusted leadership at Illinois American Water. His leadership and expertise in the water industry will serve our customers well in this new, expanded role.”
Goodson has a bachelor’s degree in management and a master’s degree in business administration, both from Aurora University. He also holds a Class A Illinois water operators certificate.
About Illinois American Water - Illinois American Water, a 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 approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville. With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,100 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to more than 14 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
Monday, July 15, 2019
As Temperatures Rise, Illinois American Water Encourages Customers to Use Water Wisely
With temperatures rising across the state, Illinois American Water is reminding customers to use water wisely. “From keeping hydrated to playing in water sprinklers, as well as running air conditioning and watering lawns, water plays an important role in warm-weather fun and responsibilities. We are proud of the service we provide and want to be sure folks are using water wisely,” said Mike Smyth, vice president of operations.
The following tips from Illinois American Water can help consumers use water more efficiently, plus identify and prevent leaks, a significant source of water waste.
Water your lawn only when it needs it. An easy way to tell is to simply walk across the grass. If it springs back you don't need to water, but if you leave footprints, it’s time to water.
Water your lawn only when it needs it. An easy way to tell is to simply walk across the grass. If it springs back you don't need to water, but if you leave footprints, it’s time to water.
Set your lawn mower one notch higher to make your lawn more drought-tolerant.
Consider using drip irrigation or a rain barrel to water your outdoor plants, and water in the early
morning or in the evening. As much as 30% of water can be lost to evaporation by watering midday.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your sidewalk, driveway or patio.
Forego the hose and wash your car with a bucket and sponge instead, which uses only a few gallons to do the job, while a hose left running can waste as much as six gallons per minute.
Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are full and adjust the water level of your washing machine to match the load size. If you have a water-saver cycle, use it. In addition, newer, high-efficiency washing machines use less than 27 gallons of water per load, compared to between 27 and 54 gallons a load with traditional machines.
Consider using drip irrigation or a rain barrel to water your outdoor plants, and water in the early
morning or in the evening. As much as 30% of water can be lost to evaporation by watering midday.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your sidewalk, driveway or patio.
Forego the hose and wash your car with a bucket and sponge instead, which uses only a few gallons to do the job, while a hose left running can waste as much as six gallons per minute.
Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are full and adjust the water level of your washing machine to match the load size. If you have a water-saver cycle, use it. In addition, newer, high-efficiency washing machines use less than 27 gallons of water per load, compared to between 27 and 54 gallons a load with traditional machines.
Keep a pitcher of cold tap water in the refrigerator. You will avoid the cost and environmental impact of bottled water and you will have cold water available for warm days without running the faucet.
A short shower is better than a bath. A full bathtub can require up to 70 gallons of water, while taking a 5- minute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons.
Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save 8 gallons per day.
Regularly check your toilet, faucets and pipes for leaks and have them fixed promptly. An easy test for toilet leaks from EPA WaterSense: Place a drop of food coloring in the tank. If the color tints the water in the bowl without flushing, there is a leak.
More wise water use tips can be found online here - https://tinyurl.com/y9nrz5c5.
About Illinois American Water - Illinois American Water, a 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 approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville. With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,100 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to more than 14 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
A short shower is better than a bath. A full bathtub can require up to 70 gallons of water, while taking a 5- minute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons.
Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save 8 gallons per day.
Regularly check your toilet, faucets and pipes for leaks and have them fixed promptly. An easy test for toilet leaks from EPA WaterSense: Place a drop of food coloring in the tank. If the color tints the water in the bowl without flushing, there is a leak.
More wise water use tips can be found online here - https://tinyurl.com/y9nrz5c5.
About Illinois American Water - Illinois American Water, a 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 approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville. With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,100 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to more than 14 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Friday, July 12, 2019
Unland Hosted July After Hours
Thursday, July 11, 2019
Illinois Central College receives Church Women United – Illinois donation for Dual Degree partnership with Peoria Public Schools
Church Women United – Illinois has announced it will donate
the cost of two-years’ worth of books and supplies to Illinois Central College
in support of students in the D2 Diploma/Degree Program. The new
program, launching this fall, is a partnership between ICC and Peoria Public
Schools and offers qualified high school juniors the opportunity to earn a high
school diploma and an associate in arts degree at the same time.
“Church Women United – Illinois is proud to support the youth of Peoria with an
innovative initiative that aligns so well with our organization’s own belief
that every child has the right to a quality education,” said Church Women
United National President Patti Polk. “We are confident this gift will help
remove barriers and provide the access to higher education these students need
to be successful and contributing members of our society.”
“We are honored to have Church Women United – Illinois play such an important
role in making a life-changing impact on these students,” said ICC President
Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey. “These women are strong advocates and partners in the
community with a tireless dedication to student success. Their support through
this program offers students not only a financial savings, but also helps build
in them the confidence of being college ready and on an accelerated pathway toward
earning their bachelor’s degree.”
High-performing Peoria Public Schools students were selected to enter the
program this fall. Students will attend classes together at ICC’s Peoria Campus
with full access to the College’s academic support services. Their high school
counselors will continue to support the students, who also will have the option
to participate in their high school extra-curricular activities. Church Women
United – Illinois and other community members also will serve as mentors to
build relationships and provide support and encouragement to the students.
Church Women United – Illinois is the state chapter of the national nonprofit
organization, Church Women United (CWU), originating in 1931. The fundamental
purpose of CWU is to bring Christian women together,
united in their faith, to work towards the betterment of the community and the
development of women’s full potential in society.
On July 17 at 10 am, ICC will make this special announcement at the Peoria
Campus Student Center at 5407 N. University St. ICC President Dr. Sheila
Quirk-Bailey, Peoria Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat,
and Church Women United National President Patti Polk will
attend.
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Illinois Central College Alumnus Receives Presidential Early Career Award as NASA Engineer
ICC alumnus Dr. Jonathan Sauder has been honored on the national
stage as President Trump recently named 18 NASA researchers as recipients of
the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers
(PECASE).
The PECASE Award is the highest honor given by the US government
to scientists and engineers who are beginning their research careers. The
award recognizes recipients' potential to advance the frontiers of scientific
knowledge and their commitment to community service, as demonstrated through
professional leadership, education, or community outreach.
Dr. Sauder, a 2007 ICC graduate, received the award for demonstrating
innovative technologies to enable a new class of space missions.
Specifically for his roles as the lead mechanical engineer on RainCube, the
first radar in a CubeSat, and as a NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts Fellow and
Principle Investigator for a Venus Rover.
Dr. Sauder
credits his ICC experience as laying the foundation for his education.
Dr. Sauder went on to complete his undergraduate degree at Bradley University,
and his graduate and doctoral degrees at the University of Southern California.
“While they say the ‘sky is the limit,’ given the vast expanses of space, there
really are no limits to where an education and determination can take you,”
said Dr. Sauder. “I want local students to know that an ICC education
prepares you for great things and can put you in a place to compete with Ivy
League graduates.”
“These PECASE winners represent some of the brightest early career
researchers that NASA supports,” said James Green, NASA chief scientist.
“They were selected for what they have already accomplished, but more
importantly, we expect they will reach even higher goals in the future.
They are shining stars.”
For
more information, visit nasa.gov. ICC East Peoria Campus Agricultural and Industrial Technologies Building Parking Lot F
Illinois Central College will host a Ready to Work Expo for
potential students to learn about educational opportunities to retool their job
skills to match local careers in demand. The open house style event provides
potential students and their families the opportunity to speak individually
with faculty and staff.
Some of the programs expected to participate include:
·
Welding
·
Machining, Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
·
Electrical
·
Graphic communication
·
Horticulture
·
Agriculture
·
Mechanical Engineering
·
Automotive and GM ASEP
·
Diesel Powered Equipment Technology (DPET)
·
Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship-Ready programs
(solar pipeline training, highway construction careers training, GED Bridge,
truck driving training, industrial maintenance, and secure software)
A full listing of programs is available at icc.edu/work-expo
Labs and classroom spaces in some areas will be open for
tours.
Available for interviews:
·
Dr. Andrew Kerr (pronounced KAYR) - ICC
Associate Vice President of Workforce Development
·
Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey – ICC President
Monday, July 8, 2019
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
ILLINOIS CENTRAL COLLEGE OFFERS INFORMATIONAL AND TESTING SESSIONS FOR THE HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION CAREERS TRAINING PROGRAM
Illinois Central College will hold several
informational sessions for its Highway Construction Careers Training Program,
with program applications and TABE testing available at each session.
Each session will take 2-3 hours and there is no registration or fees
required.
The
Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) at Illinois Central
College is a grant-funded program sponsored by the Illinois Department of
Transportation. The goal of the Highway Construction Careers Training
Program is to increase the number of minorities, women and disadvantaged
individuals working in the construction trades. The program is a 12-week free
training course that focuses on preparing individuals for a successful building
trade application process by increasing math skills, job readiness, and
technical skills. Training also includes OSHA 10-hour certification,
Forklift and Aerial Lift certification, and First Aid/CPR certification.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will have the skills
necessary to seek careers as laborers, cement masons, operating engineers,
electricians, ironworkers, sheet metal workers, carpenters, bricklayers, and
other union construction trades.
To qualify for
the program a candidate must be 18 years old, have a valid Illinois
driver’s license, have a high school diploma or GED, and consent to random drug
screening.
Informational
and testing sessions will be held:
- Monday, July 29, 2019 at
9:00 am
ICC Peoria Campus, Hickory Hall, Room 131
5407 N. University Street, Peoria
- Tuesday, July 30, 2019
at 1:00 pm
Tri-County Peoria Urban League
317 S. MacArthur Highway, Peoria
- Tuesday, July 30, 2019
at 5:30 pm
ICC Peoria Campus, Hickory Hall, Room 101
5407 N. University Street, Peoria
- Wednesday, July 31, 2019
at 9:00 am
Frank Campbell Community Center
312 S. Merriman, Peoria
- Thursday, August 1, 2019
at 9:00 am
ICC Peoria Campus, Hickory Hall,
Room 101
5407 N. University Street, Peoria
5407 N. University Street, Peoria
If selected for the program, students will
begin the class on August 26, 2019 and end on November 15, 2019.
Attendance will be mandatory.
To register and for more information, visit
icc.edu/highwaycareers or call Monica Arbuckle at (309) 690-6912.
Monday, July 1, 2019
Welcome to Our Newest Member
Athletico Physical Therapy
3289 Court St.
Pekin, IL 61554
309-347-0090
Website
Lance Reiman, Facility Manager
Outpatient physical therapy center for everybody. Convenient appointment times quick access to physical therapy when you need it the most.
3289 Court St.
Pekin, IL 61554
309-347-0090
Website
Lance Reiman, Facility Manager
Outpatient physical therapy center for everybody. Convenient appointment times quick access to physical therapy when you need it the most.
Welcome to Our Newest Member
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois
P.O. Box 5354
Peoria, IL 61601
309-401-2525
Website
Brian Replogle
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois provides a supportive place for families to stay while their child is receiving medical care, and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
P.O. Box 5354
Peoria, IL 61601
309-401-2525
Website
Brian Replogle
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois provides a supportive place for families to stay while their child is receiving medical care, and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
Senior Consulting Project applications are being accepted for the Fall 2019 Semester
|
|
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Senior business majors in the Foster College of Business are
required to complete a Capstone Class. This semester-long project (16 weeks),
gives the students a real-world experience by allowing the students to apply
their skills along with providing their client strategic improvements and
enhancing operational effectiveness at no cost. The Fall semester runs August
28 - December 10, 2019.
|
Since 1972, over 11,215 students have provided more than 2,234
companies with custom business solutions through the Foster College of Business
Senior Consulting Projects program.
Projects can include:
· In-depth
industry & environmental analysis
· Long and
short term business plan
· Feasibility
study
· Marketing
plan
You could be next!
Startups and
established for-profit businesses
are eligible
to apply.
For full consideration, apply before
the deadline date of:
Apply Here
The Peoria Innovation Alliance is gathering entrepreneur feedback to better understand unmet needs for business owners and innovators in the Greater Peoria area.
In collaboration with the Greater Peoria Economic Development
Council, Minority Business Development Center, Small Business Development
Center at Bradley University and SCORE Peoria, the Peoria Innovation Alliance
is pleased to announce the release of a comprehensive survey targeted at better
understanding and serving the needs of Greater Peoria’s burgeoning
entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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Pekin Teachers Receive $143 Donation from SONIC Drive-In
This May, SONIC®
Drive-In recognized incredible teachers and the contributions they make to
education as a part of its Limeades
for Learning initiative in partnership with nonprofit partner, DonorChoose.org. With the goal of
helping teachers obtain much-needed classroom supplies and learning resources,
SONIC launched a donation match in honor of Teacher Appreciation Month and gave
one teacher in Pekin, Illinois $143.
In total, SONIC donated $1.2 million matching donations made to SONIC Teacher projects in May. As a result, SONIC rewarded one entrepreneurial teacher lead project at one school in the Pekin community, including:
In total, SONIC donated $1.2 million matching donations made to SONIC Teacher projects in May. As a result, SONIC rewarded one entrepreneurial teacher lead project at one school in the Pekin community, including:
- Joan And Guy Mattson at Wilson Intermediate School for
the project "Flexible
Seating Additions"
"SONIC fans who love teachers responded incredibly during Teacher Appreciation Month and we were delighted to support 3,937 teachers and their students across the country," said Christi Woodworth, vice president of public relations for SONIC. "Each year, teachers spend hundreds of their own dollars to support their students, and with Limeades for Learning, SONIC and our fans made that burden a bit lighter. We celebrate and thank teachers for the incredible work they do to bring learning to life in creative and fun ways for their students."
SONIC provides essential funds needed for learning materials and innovative techniques for teachers to inspire creativity and learning through Limeades for Learning, the brand's national award-winning cause marketing campaign. Since 2009, SONIC has donated $13.1 million, supported 33,177 classrooms, and provided necessary learning materials and teaching resources requested by teachers to impact 995,310 students in partnership with DonorChoose.org.
While Teacher Appreciation Month is celebrated in May, SONIC supports teachers year-round. Visit LimeadesforLearning.com for updates on contributions, future donation matches, how to get involve and explore public school teacher projects in the Pekin community in need of support. Teachers can become SONIC Teachers and submit projects through nonprofit partner DonorsChoose.org for a chance to receive funding.
About Sonic
Sonic, founded in 1953, is the largest drive-in restaurant brand in the United States with more than 3,600 restaurants. Sonic is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants. For more information, visit SonicDriveIn.com and InspireBrands.com
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Rocket Axe Ribbon Cutting
Illinois American Water Diversity Lead Rhonda Carter Adams Recognized for Diversity and Inclusion Efforts
Rhonda Carter Adams, Illinois American Water’s Diversity Lead, was recognized
by Who’s Who Diversity in Color (WWDIC) in the Most Intriguing People category. WWDIC is an annual publication that documents and celebrates the achievements of all people of color in the St. Louis Metropolitan area.
Along with recognition at an awards ceremony in St. Louis, Mo., on June 13, an article about Adams is featured in the 2019 WWDIC magazine, alongside other nominees, detailing the path that led her to a career in supplier diversity. Prior to joining Illinois American Water in 2018, Adams was a supplier diversity manager at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and executive director for the Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council. Her career in supplier diversity began at Caterpillar, Inc., where she started as a computer programmer and systems analyst. Networking and a cross-training program opened up the opportunity for her to have a role in their supplier diversity program.
Adams said, “I just knew, that’s what I am here for; that’s the direction I would like to go because naturally I had the passion for developing my own community.”
Adams’ enthusiasm for inclusion and diversity is further nurtured in her role at American Water. “Without inclusion, we cannot have innovation, a culture of acceptance or be able to truly obtain a diverse body of talent that will carry the organization forward,” she said. “Seeing diverse board members at American Water, who have a key influence and stake in the direction of the company, actively engaging in relationships with labor unions, community organizations and legislators is admirable to me. It speaks to our customer-obsessed culture.”
Adams serves on the board of the Tennessee Williams Festival, the Center of Creative Arts, Ignite Theater Company and the Illinois Division of United Way.
About Illinois American Water - Illinois American Water, a 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 approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville. With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,100 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to more than 14 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives
flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
by Who’s Who Diversity in Color (WWDIC) in the Most Intriguing People category. WWDIC is an annual publication that documents and celebrates the achievements of all people of color in the St. Louis Metropolitan area.
Along with recognition at an awards ceremony in St. Louis, Mo., on June 13, an article about Adams is featured in the 2019 WWDIC magazine, alongside other nominees, detailing the path that led her to a career in supplier diversity. Prior to joining Illinois American Water in 2018, Adams was a supplier diversity manager at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and executive director for the Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council. Her career in supplier diversity began at Caterpillar, Inc., where she started as a computer programmer and systems analyst. Networking and a cross-training program opened up the opportunity for her to have a role in their supplier diversity program.
Adams said, “I just knew, that’s what I am here for; that’s the direction I would like to go because naturally I had the passion for developing my own community.”
Adams’ enthusiasm for inclusion and diversity is further nurtured in her role at American Water. “Without inclusion, we cannot have innovation, a culture of acceptance or be able to truly obtain a diverse body of talent that will carry the organization forward,” she said. “Seeing diverse board members at American Water, who have a key influence and stake in the direction of the company, actively engaging in relationships with labor unions, community organizations and legislators is admirable to me. It speaks to our customer-obsessed culture.”
Adams serves on the board of the Tennessee Williams Festival, the Center of Creative Arts, Ignite Theater Company and the Illinois Division of United Way.
About Illinois American Water - Illinois American Water, a 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 approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville. With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,100 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to more than 14 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives
flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
Illinois Central College Names Rocco Cappello as New Vice President of Student Success
Illinois Central College has named Rocco Cappello, of Albany, Ga., as the new
vice president of student success. Cappello began his new position at the
College on June 19. The ICC Board of Trustees approved his appointment at
their June meeting.
Cappello will oversee the student services, student development, student
success, enrollment services, and athletics.
Cappello joins ICC after serving as Assistant Vice President of Students,
Interim Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at
Darton State College in Albany, Ga. He’s also served in the roles of Dean
of Students and Title IX Coordinator at Jefferson Community College in
Watertown, N.Y., and Residence Hall Director at Binghamton University in
Vestal, N.Y.
Cappello will complete his doctoral degree in organizational leadership later this summer. He also holds a master’s degree in educational studies from Manhattanville College and a bachelor’s degree in music from C.W. Post, Long Island University in Brookville, N.Y. His notable achievements include an enhanced student achievement program, which increased the retention rate of at-risk students from 26% to 57% over one year. He has also restructured the student conduct policies and procedures for all 23 city University of New York higher education institutions. Cappello also is experienced in enrollment management reorganization, as he has restructured the student recruitment and enrollment process.
Cappello will complete his doctoral degree in organizational leadership later this summer. He also holds a master’s degree in educational studies from Manhattanville College and a bachelor’s degree in music from C.W. Post, Long Island University in Brookville, N.Y. His notable achievements include an enhanced student achievement program, which increased the retention rate of at-risk students from 26% to 57% over one year. He has also restructured the student conduct policies and procedures for all 23 city University of New York higher education institutions. Cappello also is experienced in enrollment management reorganization, as he has restructured the student recruitment and enrollment process.
“We are so pleased to have Mr. Cappello join ICC in this role,” ICC President
Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey said. “He brings an impressive range of
experience and a lifelong dedication to student success.”
“I
am honored and excited to be the new vice president of student success at
Illinois Central College. The team at ICC is known for their drive and
ambition when assisting students, and I am grateful to be part of an amazing
group of dedicated professionals,” said Cappello. “With the support of
ICC’s passionate faculty, staff and students, I know we will continue to change
the world.”
For more information, visit icc.edu.
YOUTH MENTORING PROGRAM RECEIVES GRANT FROM AMEREN
Goodwill of Central Illinois has received a $2,000 grant from Ameren for GoodGuides, Goodwill’s youth mentoring program.
GoodGuides is the only nationally accredited mentoring program in Central Illinois for youth ages 12-17. The goal of the program is to pair youth with a positive role model who can provide support and guidance, while also being someone who they can just talk to.
The grant money is earmarked for multiple field trips and activities throughout the year. They include medical career exploration, a STEM technology day, a cooking class and a positive image fashion show.
“Grants like this augment the revenue generated by the sale of donated goods,” said Don Johnson, Goodwill’s president and CEO. “It allows us to expand our free services and provide even more to our community. The support of organizations, like Ameren, is greatly appreciated.”
Goodwill’s free programs are possible through the sale of your donated items. Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois serves 21 counties within Central Illinois. Goodwill offers employment services, veterans’ support services, operates a veterans’ home and employs more than 300 people. For more information visit Goodwill’s website at www.goodwillpeo.org.
GoodGuides is the only nationally accredited mentoring program in Central Illinois for youth ages 12-17. The goal of the program is to pair youth with a positive role model who can provide support and guidance, while also being someone who they can just talk to.
The grant money is earmarked for multiple field trips and activities throughout the year. They include medical career exploration, a STEM technology day, a cooking class and a positive image fashion show.
“Grants like this augment the revenue generated by the sale of donated goods,” said Don Johnson, Goodwill’s president and CEO. “It allows us to expand our free services and provide even more to our community. The support of organizations, like Ameren, is greatly appreciated.”
Goodwill’s free programs are possible through the sale of your donated items. Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois serves 21 counties within Central Illinois. Goodwill offers employment services, veterans’ support services, operates a veterans’ home and employs more than 300 people. For more information visit Goodwill’s website at www.goodwillpeo.org.
Monday, June 24, 2019
Illinois Central College Athletics Names New Head Volleyball Coach
Illinois Central College Athletics has named Tracy Heffren, of Eureka, Ill., as
the new head volleyball coach. Heffren begins her new position at the
College on July 1.
Heffren
comes to ICC from Eureka High School where she was the head volleyball coach
since 2004. During her time leading the Hornets, she achieved a varsity
overall record of 217-120 and was named the 2016 Tri-County Sports Female Coach
of the Year. In Class 2A, she accumulated a state championship, two Elite
Eight appearances, three consecutive Heart of Illinois regular season
undefeated champion titles, and a Heart of Illinois tournament
championship.
Heffren
began her coaching career as ICC’s assistant coach for retiring Athletics
Director and long-time Head Volleyball Coach Sue Sinclair. “Her roots run
really deep here at Illinois Central College Athletics,” said Sinclair.
“Not only is she a former ICC athlete and coach, her other family members have
played here. She played with her sister in volleyball, while her other
sister played basketball at ICC. Two of her nieces played volleyball for
me, and next year’s team will include her daughter and niece. It’s a
family affair.”
Heffren
has a decorated career as an athlete. As a former ICC Cougar, she earned
First Team NJCAA All-American. At Illinois State University, she received
second team all-conference nods and earned spots on all-tournament teams.
Heffren went on to play USA Volleyball and was named an All-American at a
national tournament. “I am very excited to get back to ICC after
being a former player and coach,” said Heffren. “I’m excited to continue
on with the outstanding tradition Sue has already started here.”
“I’m extremely excited to see Tracy get a chance to
continue the tradition here at ICC,” said Sinclair. “She obviously did a
great job at Eureka High School, and I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes
here at her alma mater.”
For more information, visit
icc.edu.
Voices of Recovery
If you missed last night's
episode of Extension 720 with Justin Kaufmann, you can listen to the
episode here. Our
alumni shared their inspirational recovery stories while our experts discussed
the new trends they are noticing in the field of addiction
treatment.
About Gateway Foundation
Since 1968 our goal has been straightforward: to help clients get their life back on track and achieve a life of sobriety, free from drug use and symptoms of mental illness, that is productive, socially responsible and healthy. Gateway Foundation is the largest nonprofit treatment provider in the country that specializes in the treatment of substance use disorders, providing treatment for men, women, adolescents and clients diagnosed with co-occurring mental health disorders.
Gateway's professional clinicians help thousands of individuals successfully complete treatment by developing a personalized plan that treats the underlying causes of substance abuse—not just addiction to drugs or alcohol.
About Gateway Foundation
Since 1968 our goal has been straightforward: to help clients get their life back on track and achieve a life of sobriety, free from drug use and symptoms of mental illness, that is productive, socially responsible and healthy. Gateway Foundation is the largest nonprofit treatment provider in the country that specializes in the treatment of substance use disorders, providing treatment for men, women, adolescents and clients diagnosed with co-occurring mental health disorders.
Gateway's professional clinicians help thousands of individuals successfully complete treatment by developing a personalized plan that treats the underlying causes of substance abuse—not just addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Illinois Central College Hosts Wetland Construction Open House and Field Day July 23-26
Illinois
Central College will host a week of events aimed at showcasing the installation
of a constructed wetland on the College’s Demonstration Farm, located on its
East Peoria Campus. Admission to the events is free and open to the public. Farmers,
land owners, agribusiness professionals and students, conservationists, and the
public are encouraged to attend.
A
Wetland Construction Open House will run Tuesday, July 23 through Friday, July
26 from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. each day on the ICC East Peoria Campus. The
public is invited to visit the construction site to see first-hand the
different components of a constructed wetland as it is being built and to ask
questions of the staff.
A Nutrient
Loss Reduction Field Day event also is scheduled for Thursday, July 25 from 9
a.m. to noon on the ICC East Peoria Campus. Participants can attend a guided
tour on the construction site, with interactive stations along the way. Experts
also will be available to discuss agriculture, conservation, and pollinator
initiatives. Lunch will be provided free of charge during this event.
The ICC
Demonstration Farm has expanded to include hands-on demonstration of a range of
sustainable agriculture practices. The
constructed wetland will capture the drainage coming off the farm’s fields and
naturally remove excess nutrients. ICC and the Illinois Corn Growers
Association will be monitoring the practices’ effectiveness.
“We have the great ability with the Demonstration Farm to
expose students to hands-on research on how these different practices tie to
the environment, as well as how they affect agriculture,” said Pete Fandel, ICC
Professor of Agriculture and Demonstration Farm project leader. “Everyone benefits from a project like this
in my mind—students, farmers, and the community at large.”
The open house is sponsored by ICC, the
Wetlands Initiative, the Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association, and
the Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership, in collaboration with other partners.
Registration for Field Day is
available at isap-nutrient-loss-reduction.eventbrite.com. For more information regarding this event or
the wetland construction, visit smartwetlands.farm/icc2019.
Friday, June 21, 2019
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
Illinois Central College Hosts Ready to Work Expo July 11 and 12
Illinois Central College will host a Ready to Work Expo for potential students
to learn about educational opportunities to retool their job skills to match
local careers in demand. The open house style event provides potential students
and their families the opportunity to speak individually with faculty and staff
from a wide range of career and technically based programs. The event will take
place on Thursday, July 11 from 5-7 p.m. and Friday, July 12 from 10 a.m. to
noon on the ICC East Peoria Campus. It is free and open to the public.
“There is an increasing need for individuals with the right skills to fill jobs
right here in the Peoria area,” said ICC Associate Vice President of Workforce
Development Dr. Andrew Kerr. “We encourage recent high school grads, the
unemployed, and anyone wanting to improve their job skills to attend the event
to find out more. It’s the first step they can take toward earning a credential
leading to a living wage and changing their future for the better.”
Programs expected to participate include welding, machining, Computer Numerical
Control (CNC), electrical, graphic communication, agriculture, horticulture,
automotive and GM ASEP, and Diesel Powered Equipment Technology (DPET),
mechanical engineering technology, to name a few. Labs and classroom spaces in
some areas will be open for tours.
Information regarding ICC Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship-Ready programs,
which include solar pipeline training, highway construction careers training,
GED Bridge, truck driving training, industrial maintenance, and secure
software, will be available. For a full listing of programs, visit icc.edu/work-expo.
Enrollment Services, Admissions Office, and Advising staff also will be on hand
to answer questions regarding applying to the College and specific program
admittance requirements, as well as testing information and financial aid
options.
For questions, visit icc.edu/work-expo
or call ICC Workforce Development at (309) 690-6863.
ICC’S COLLEGE FOR KIDS COMBINES SUMMER LEARNING WITH FUN
Registration opens March 11 for the summer 2019 sessions of
Illinois Central College’s popular College for Kids program. The summer program
features fun and educational classes for students entering fourth through
twelfth grades. Session 1 runs Monday –Thursday, June 10-21, and Session 2 runs
Monday ─ Thursday, July 8-19.
Kids
are sure to find topics to fit their interests, with classes available in
leadership skills, French, chess, cooking, dance, science, art, Harry Potter,
balloon artistry, computer design and coding, and much more. Several new
classes are being offered this year. Some of these include: “The Price is
Right!,” which teaches kids to earn, save and spend in a fun way; “Disney 101,”
in which students will learn all things Disney-related; and “Python Programmers,”
which explores coding with Python to create engaging apps and games.
Kids can extend their fun by
participating in additional off-site Friday Fun Trips offered from 8:30 am to
2:30 pm on each Friday of College for Kids. Cost for these Friday fun sessions ranges
from $75 to $95.
Two additional class options extend
the day and accommodate working parents -- Early Bird Club, available Monday
through Thursday from 7:15 to 8:15 am, and Club CFK, available from 3:15 to 5
pm. Both Early Bird Club and Club CFK feature games and computers. Cost for
Early Bird Club is an additional $45, and Club CFK costs an additional $75.
Tuition per class varies for each
class, based on instructional materials needed. Space is limited. Registration
is available March 11 by phone at (309) 690-6900, or online at www.icc.edu/cfk. A complete listing of
classes, descriptions and registration materials also will be available online.
For questions, contact ICC Youth
Programs Coordinator Steffi Xu at (309) 690-6916 or email steffi.xu@icc.edu
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
I-74 Lane Reductions Begin June 24
Bridges at I-474 interchange to be painted
The Illinois Department of Transportation announces that eastbound Interstate 74 at the I-474 interchange in East Peoria will be reduced to one lane beginning Monday, June 24.
The lane reductions are necessary so that crews can paint the overpasses and are expected to last until late July.
Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.
For IDOT District 4 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict4 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.
Morton, Pekin and Peoria Chambers at Institute for Organization Management
A Leadership Training
Program Produced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce dedicated to strengthening America’s long-term competitiveness. We educate the public on theconditions necessary for business and communities to thrive, how business positively impacts communities, and emerging issues and creative solutions that will shape the future.
Institute for Organization Management, the
professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is
pleased to announce that Morton Chamber of Commerce, Leigh Ann Brown – Executive
Director & CEO and Courtney Eeten – Program Director, Pekin Area Chamber of
Commerce, Bill Fleming – Executive Director and Manda Brown – Member Services Specialist,
Peoria Area Chamber, Jeff Griffin – President & CEO and Audrey Kamm – CEO Council,
Program Director recently attended Institute for Organization Management, a
four-year nonprofit leadership training program at Midwest Institute in Madison.
Bill Fleming, IOM ACE and Jeff Griffin,
IOM are Institute graduates and serve as US Chamber Regents building the
positive impact of Institute for Organization Management to grow our Industry, Organizations
and Communities.
“Institute graduates are recognized across the
country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle,
IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s vice president of Institute for
Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the
dynamic association and chamber industries.”
Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute
program has been educating 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 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.
Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce dedicated to strengthening America’s long-term competitiveness. We educate the public on theconditions necessary for business and communities to thrive, how business positively impacts communities, and emerging issues and creative solutions that will shape the future.
Pekin Insurance® Named as One of Best Places to Work in Illinois
Pekin Insurance was recently named as one of the 2019 Best Places to Work in Illinois in the large company category.
The Best Places to Work in Illinois awards program began in 2006 and is promoted by The Daily Herald Business Ledger in partnership with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, MRA-The Management Association, the Small Business Advocacy Council, and Best Companies Group.
This statewide survey and awards program was designed to identify, recognize, and honor the best places of employment in Illinois, benefiting the state's economy, workforce, and businesses.
Companies from across the state entered the two-part process to determine the Best Places to Work in Illinois. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices, and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process in Illinois and analyzed the
data to determine the final rankings.
Pekin Insurance has been in business since 1921 and is one of the leading insurers in the State of Illinois, providing multiple lines of insurance. Pekin Insurance offers insurance coverage in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin through its growing agency force which now totals nearly 1,800 independent agencies and over 8,000 insurance producers in the six-state area for property and casualty insurance. The company’s Life, Medicare Supplement, and Pre-Need
insurance is available in 21 states. The company is headquartered in Pekin, Illinois, with service offices at Phoenix, Arizona; O’Fallon, Rockford, and Warrenville, Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; Des Moines, Iowa; Columbus, Ohio; and Appleton, Wisconsin.
The Best Places to Work in Illinois awards program began in 2006 and is promoted by The Daily Herald Business Ledger in partnership with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, MRA-The Management Association, the Small Business Advocacy Council, and Best Companies Group.
This statewide survey and awards program was designed to identify, recognize, and honor the best places of employment in Illinois, benefiting the state's economy, workforce, and businesses.
Companies from across the state entered the two-part process to determine the Best Places to Work in Illinois. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices, and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process in Illinois and analyzed the
data to determine the final rankings.
Pekin Insurance has been in business since 1921 and is one of the leading insurers in the State of Illinois, providing multiple lines of insurance. Pekin Insurance offers insurance coverage in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin through its growing agency force which now totals nearly 1,800 independent agencies and over 8,000 insurance producers in the six-state area for property and casualty insurance. The company’s Life, Medicare Supplement, and Pre-Need
insurance is available in 21 states. The company is headquartered in Pekin, Illinois, with service offices at Phoenix, Arizona; O’Fallon, Rockford, and Warrenville, Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; Des Moines, Iowa; Columbus, Ohio; and Appleton, Wisconsin.
The Center for Prevention of Abuse Welcomes Kevin Nowlan as New Chief Operating Officer
– The
Center for Prevention of Abuse (CFPA) is pleased to welcome Kevin Nowlan to
the position of Chief Operating Officer.
Nowlan previously worked at CFPA in a variety of capacities
over a 15-year period, most recently serving as Associate Executive Director.
He returns as Chief Operating Officer (COO).
“We are very excited to welcome Kevin Nowlan back at the
Center for Prevention of Abuse,” said Carol Merna, Chief Executive Officer at
CFPA. “It’s always bittersweet when staff make the decision to retire and our agency
is saddened to see Joyce DeRenzy step back from the position of Chief Operating
Officer after more than 20 years of service. However, Kevin’s return is
serendipitous, as he was previously in this role and is familiar with our
mission, our vision, and our philosophy. It is a natural fit and we know he
will be incredibly successful in position as he helps to lead our agency.”
Nowlan joined CFPA in 2002 where he served as a Prevention
Educator and then was promoted to Prevention Education Coordinator. He was
promoted again to Next Step Transitional Housing Supervisor, Residential
Services Supervisor, Director of Residential Services, and finally, to
Associate Executive Director. He then accepted a position as Continuum of Care
Director at the Heart of Illinois United Way in 2016.
“I am thrilled to return to the Center for Prevention of
Abuse,” said Kevin Nowlan, Chief Operating Officer at CFPA. “I look forward to
familiarizing myself with all the changes the Center for Prevention of Abuse
has gone through since I left in 2016 and once again, being part of the
impactful mission of helping all people live free from violence and abuse. The
future of the agency is bright and I am eager to see all we will accomplish
together.”
For more information about the Center
for Prevention of Abuse, call 309-691-0551 or visit www.centerforpreventionofabuse.org.
The crisis hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-559-SAFE (7233).
Pekin Insurance® Earns Superior Rating for Claims Service
Ward Group, an Aon Hewitt company, has awarded Pekin Insurance with a Superior Rating for Personal Lines Claims Customer Experience. Ward’s Claims Customer Experience Superior Rating™ is based on achieving a minimum Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 50 across all personal auto and property claims settled and measured during 2018. The NPS is determined through a customer survey process, and it measures how likely customers are to recommend a company's products or services.
During this time period, Pekin Insurance achieved an NPS of 51.
For the past 29 years, Ward Group has analyzed key financial and customer experience aspects of the property-casualty insurance companies, identifying the top performers.
Pekin Insurance has been in business since 1921 and is one of the leading insurers in the State of Illinois, providing multiple lines of insurance. Pekin Insurance offers insurance coverage in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin through its growing agency force which now totals nearly 1,800 independent agencies and over 8,000 insurance producers in the six-state area for property and casualty insurance. The company’s Life, Medicare Supplement, and Pre-Need
insurance is available in 21 states. The company is headquartered in Pekin, Illinois, with service offices at Phoenix, Arizona; O’Fallon, Rockford, and Warrenville, Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; Des Moines, Iowa; Columbus, Ohio; and Appleton, Wisconsin.
During this time period, Pekin Insurance achieved an NPS of 51.
For the past 29 years, Ward Group has analyzed key financial and customer experience aspects of the property-casualty insurance companies, identifying the top performers.
Pekin Insurance has been in business since 1921 and is one of the leading insurers in the State of Illinois, providing multiple lines of insurance. Pekin Insurance offers insurance coverage in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin through its growing agency force which now totals nearly 1,800 independent agencies and over 8,000 insurance producers in the six-state area for property and casualty insurance. The company’s Life, Medicare Supplement, and Pre-Need
insurance is available in 21 states. The company is headquartered in Pekin, Illinois, with service offices at Phoenix, Arizona; O’Fallon, Rockford, and Warrenville, Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; Des Moines, Iowa; Columbus, Ohio; and Appleton, Wisconsin.
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