Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce

January 1 – New Year’s Day (Chamber Closed) January 2 – Executive Board Meeting January 9 – Member Promotions Committee Meeting January 9 – Transportation Committee January 9 – Board of Directors Meeting January 10 – Business After Hours January 16 – Ambassadors Meeting January 29 – Business Advocacy Committee

Amanda's Closet ~ American Cancer Society/Relay for Life ~ Avanti’s Ristorante ~ Bagley & Miller Attorneys ~ Bard Optical ~ George Beres Brewers Distributing Company ~ Champion Fitness Physical Therapy ~ CJ's Café ~ Coldwell Banker Honig-Bell ~ Dr. Michael Danner D.D.S. ~ Dreamscapes Landscaping ~ Enviro-Dry Clean Carpets ~ Fred Lawrence and Sons Fire Equipment ~ Glesne Family Dentistry ~ Going Green Computers ~ Golf Green Lawn Care ~ Harbor Light Hospice ~ Heartland Chiropractic Center ~ Herget Bank ~ Illinois Collections Unlimited ~ J & J Consulting Firm ~ Jim Maloof Realtor ~ Johnson Mechanical Service Inc. ~ McDaniels Marketing Communications ~ Miller, Hall, & Triggs ~ Moehle, Swearingen & Umholtz, Ltd. ~ Monge, Crouch & Mahoney ~ Neal Chiropractic Clinic ~ Otto Baum Co., Inc. ~ Pekin Animal Hospital ~ Pekin Park District ~ Pekin Riding Club ~ Leslie Pulfer ~ Redbrand Credit Union ~ Glen Rittenhouse ~ Sonic A...

Pekin’s sales tax disbursement received from the state in December was 19.9 % more than December of 2011.  December disbursements typically represent sales taxes collected by merchants in October. Pekin’s sales tax disbursements received from the state for the last 3 months were 10.6% greater than the same three months in 2011. The other three large communities on the east side of the Illinois River showed mixed results in sales tax disbursements received in December, compared to December of 2011:  Morton (+2.8%), East Peoria (-20.5%), and Washington (-0.8%) For the 12-months ending in December, all four communities showed an increase in sales tax receipts from the state, compared to the same 12-months a year ago:  East Peoria (+7.7%), Pekin (+7.3%), Morton (+4.1%), and Washington (+2.5%) The number of residential units sold in the 61554 zip code in the first 11 months of 2012 was 5.0% great than the same period...

The Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter is proud to welcome Joseph Leman, M.S., to the organization. Leman will serve as an education specialist for the Chapter and is based in the Peoria office. Among his job duties are presenting family education programs and assisting callers on the Chapter’s toll-free Helpline. "Connecting knowledge and need has always been fulfilling to me, so I'm excited to bring the best information and support to those touched by this disease,” Leman said. “My hope is that as we deepen our understanding we will be better equipped to meet the challenges of Alzheimer's." Leman, of Eureka, holds a master’s degree in psychology from Villanova University and a master’s degree in biological sciences from Illinois State University. Leman can be reached at jleman@alz.org or by calling the Chapter at 800.272.3900.

Pekin Main Street has taken great interest in is the preservation and restoration of Pekin's West Campus. It has fallen into a deplorable state over the past several years. Pekin Main Street is excited for the new opportunities that exist for new ownership as well as the preservation of this piece of Pekin's pride. Fundraising efforts are now up and running through the “Etched in Stone” brick fundraiser. By purchasing a brick, individuals and businesses can have their own contribution "etched in stone" while helping to raise monies necessary to save the West Campus property. What a great way to have a place to remember loved ones, students, teachers, and supporters of West Campus. The bricks purchased will be used in a walk way or courtyard area on the site in a manner that honors their donation. Bricks start at $100. While it will no longer serve as a school, our goal for this building is that it will once again serve our community for many generations to com...

Pekin Hospital is pleased to offer an adult diabetes education workshop on January 21, 22, and 23. The series of three classes will be held from 2 – 5 p.m. in the 4 South Education Classroom at Pekin Hospital. The classes are designed to provide information on managing adult diabetes and are designed to help diabetics learn and develop the skills of self-management of diabetes therapy. Topics covered in the sessions will include:  the importance of diabetes control and the factors that influence this control   how to plan meals according to food selections and serving size   the possible complications associated with diabetes   why exercise will benefit your health and make you feel good  Workshop speakers will include a Certified Diabetes Educator, Registered Dietitian, Registered Nurse, Registered Pharmacist, and Registered Medical Technician. Class fees are $70 per person (one guest may accompany the registrant at no extra cost). The $...

Virginia Mock, 84, of Macomb has been named the Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter’s new Ambassador for the 18th Congressional District. In this volunteer position, she will act as a constituent leader on Alzheimer’s disease and will cultivate a working relationship with Congressman Aaron Schock. She’ll meet with Schock four times a year and participate in monthly teleconferences with Association staff and fellow ambassadors across the country. “In just the last couple of months, I have found myself again,” Virginia explained as to why she wanted to serve. “I have just come to the conclusion I have to have my own life, some job to do. For me, it’s being part of the outside world. And this is something I care about.” The former teacher is now a full-time caregiver for her husband, Gordon, a retired Western Illinois University math professor. He has had dementia for nearly 20 years, she said. Virginia, a feisty woman who still goes to the Y to work out three times a w...

Goodwill of Central Illinois congratulates Illinois Valley Central High School for winning the 2012 “Recycle Your Style” contest. IVC and its supporters donated more than 5,500 pounds of clothing and took home the top prize of a SMART Board, donated by Bradfield’s Computer Supply. High schools within Goodwill of Central Illinois’ territory were asked to donate clothing so it could be “recycled” and worn by someone else. “This is the fourth year for the contest and the participation is still great” said Bob Parkhurst, Goodwill Vice President. “Community pride plays a part in the contest, but in the end it is Central Illinois’ generosity that really makes this contest successful, plus, having a SMART Board as the first prize provides great incentive for the schools. We are grateful to Bradfield’s Computer Supply for their donation each year.” Peoria Notre Dame came in second place and Stark County High School ranked third in pounds donated. An award ceremony will take place at IVC High S...

The Good Shepherd Lutheran School 7th & 8th Grade Chime Choir entertained over 100 chamber members and guests at the December Puttin' on Pekin breakfast. Mitch O'Shaughnessy from Dreamscapes Landscaping was presented with the Blue Ribbon Award. Jeff Brooks accepted the Sunshine Award on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Pekin and their efforts to clean Parkway Drive. Drs. Timm Schwartz and Cindy Miller accepted the Spotlight on Business Award for Schwartz & Miller Family Dentistry. The December breakfast also features the big year end door prize drawing.

The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and their spouses, along with some past presidents and their spouses, enjoyed a Christmas dinner together. They also donated new stuffed animals that will be given to the Tazewell County Childrens Advocacy Center.

CenturyLink, Inc. recently announced that Ben Teabout has joined the company as the business account manager. Teabout will be responsible for facilitating the sales of CenturyLink business products and services. This will include conducting on-site customer presentations in the Pekin, Galesburg, and Dixon markets. Teabout previously worked at Carolina Telecom where he was responsible for managing the Durham, Wake Forest, and Raleigh territories. Ben has eleven years in the telecommunications industry where he has held a variety of positions including multi-unit management, team development and sales leadership. Teabout has a BA degree in Marketing from The University of Louisiana at Monroe. Teabout will relocate from Durham, NC to the Pekin area. Contact Ben for all your business needs at 309-477-0209. About CenturyLink CenturyLink is the third largest telecommunications company in the United States and is recognized as a leader in the network services market by technology industry ana...

Today's deal for the Peoria Rivermen 12 Days of Christmas is 30% off pro-rated season tickets for the 2012-13 season. Do you have a friend or relative that has a new found interest in Rivermen hockey? Surprise them with the best Christmas present possible: a ticket to every game for the rest of the 2012-13 season to watch the Rivermen make their second half run. This offer is valid throughout the weekend and can be purchased by calling the Rivermen at 309-676-1040.   

 CEFCU’s Board Of Directors is pleased to announce that a record extraordinary dividend of $9 million has been distributed to CEFCU member/owners. This dividend was based on members’ savings and loan activity during the year 2012, with $4.5 million going to borrowers and $4.5 million going to savers. The amount each member received was determined by dividends earned and interest paid during the first 11 months of the year, as of November 30, 2012. On December 11, dividends will be deposited to members’ Savings accounts. Over the last 13 years, CEFCU has returned $63 million in extraordinary dividends to members. CEFCU Board Chairman, Patricia Hampton, stated, “I am so pleased that, because of the loyalty of CEFCU’s members, the Credit Union is once again returning a year-end dividend to members. Due to the Credit Union’s strong financial results, this dividend is the largest ever extended to those who save and borrow with CEFCU. Credit Unions exist for members, no...

The Grand Victorian hosted the December Business After Hours on Thursday, December 6th. Chamber members and their guests were treated to a candy buffet, popcorn, and plenty of other food. There were also door prizes, tours, and a chance to meet the new director, Angela Bruder.  You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber  

Got an artificial Christmas tree that you don't know what to do with? Bring it into The HOPE Chest on Derby! For a limited time, The HOPE Chest is offering a $5 gift card when you donate a new or used Christmas tree. The HOPE Chest is a family friendly, not for profit thrift store located at 1106 Derby Street. They are open Monday through Sunday from 9:00 am - 6:00 pm. For more information, call 620-9043

Order a cookie tray for the office, for the mailman or for your own Christmas party during the Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter’s holiday bake sale on Friday, Dec. 14. The bake sale starts at 10 a.m. at the office, 606 W. Glen Ave., and goes until every last pie, cookie, coffee cake, piece of fudge and mint chocolate Oreo ball is gone. (We had you at mint chocolate Oreo ball, didn't we?) Each large cookie tray is just $10. Other items are priced individually. Many of the goodies are made by Chapter staff; the rest of the items are donated by area bakeries and grocery stores. To place an order, call the office at 681.1100 or toll free at 800.272.3900. All proceeds benefit the Chapter’s programs and services for families.

The Gateway Foundation, located at 11 South Capitol in Pekin, celebrated their recent opening and chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on December 5th. Gateway Foundation is the largest provider of drug rehab and alcohol treatment in Illinois. The dedicated staff, led locally clinical supervisor Drey Church, will be with you throughout drug rehab and treatment. You and your family will receive the guidance and support necessary for lasting recovery. More information is available at www.recovergateway.org or (309) 346-7800.

Small businesses across the country got their holiday season off to a strong start as millions of U.S. consumers “shopped small” on Small Business Saturday and made a big impact on local communities. According to the second installment of the Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, released today by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and American Express, consumer awareness of Small Business Saturday jumped to 67 percent from 34 percent just two weeks ago.   Of those aware, nearly half (47%) shopped on Small Business Saturday.  The increased awareness translated into higher spending.    Those U.S. consumers who were aware of Small Business Saturday spent a total of $5.5 billion with independent merchants. Pre-holiday surveys estimated that U.S. consumers would spend $5.3 billion.  Separately, American Express said Cardmember transactions at small business merchants rose approximately 2 1 percent compared to last year’s Sm...

Congresswoman-Elect Cheri Bustos was in the office of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce today. Executive Director Bill Fleming invited her to stop by and get acquainted. Bustos defeated Congressman Bobby Schilling just four weeks earlier and will be sworn in to represent the 17th Illinois Congressional District in four weeks. Chamber President Drew Leman, Rich Kriegsman, Dennis Kief and Carol Shields also attended. The group heard about Bustos' plans and goals and also provided her updates on several local issues and projects, most notably Veterans Drive.

The IRS has issued the 2013 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.  Beginning January 1, 2013, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (including vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be: 56.5 cents per mile for business miles driven 24 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations. The rate for business miles driven during 2013 increases one cent from the 2012 rate. The medical and moving rate is also up one cent per mile from the 2012 rate.   The standard mileage rate for business is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs.   Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage...

Governor Pat Quinn, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Director John Kim, and Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) Executive Director Chris Meister today announced that the first loan of the governor’s Illinois Clean Water Initiative would be awarded to the city of Pekin to improve a wastewater treatment plant. As part of the governor’s $1 billion water infrastructure initiative, the city completed the necessary application and meets the eligibility criteria to qualify for a long-term, low-interest $4.8 million loan, which is being jointly administered by IEPA and the IFA. This project will create or support nearly 400 jobs by improving local water infrastructure.   “Just as Illinois was defined by its waterways, so too was Pekin,” Governor Quinn said. “Built by skilled laborers, this new wastewater treatment facility will protect the health of Pekin’s residents and its waterways. The project is a prime example of how the Illinois Clean Water Initiative is an iinvestm...

Goodwill of Central Illinois is offering another chance to receive Bergner’s coupons for clothing donations. The coupons will allow a 25% discount on items such as jewelry, fragrances and apparel. A Stuff the Truck event takes place on Thursday, December 6 at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie in Peoria. The donation drive and Bergner’s sale runs December 6 through December 11, 2012. “Our 'Stuff the Truck' event and subsequent Bergner’s sale takes place twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall,” says Bob Parkhurst, Goodwill Vice President. “This year Bergner’s is offering an additional sale, just in time for the holidays. Plus, these coupons offer a 25% discount, as opposed to the usual 20%.” Donors receive one 25% off Bergner’s coupon for every item donated. Coupons are available at any Goodwill store or donation center and at Bergner’s. The sale of donated items fund Goodwill’s free programs and services for the people of Central Illinois. Goodwill of Central Illinois ...

This week Mediabase, the music industry’s primary service that monitors radio station airplay, announced that WWCT will immediately join the panel of stations nationwide that helps create the Adult Album Alternative (AAA) chart they create through their monitoring system. WWCT achieved this recognition due to its leadership role in the AAA format nationally in addition to meeting the requirements of having spent at least one year in the format and maintaining a minimum number of listeners. There are now only 26 stations nationally with this standing. “This new status as a reporter on the AAA panel affords us tremendous opportunities to deliver more local concerts and will allow our listeners even greater access to incredible artists, both around the Midwest and beyond,” explains Operations Manager Scott Hecathorn. “Knowing that our station has an impact on the national charts, bands and record companies are now more anxious than ever to interact with our audience.” Mediabase publishes ...

Local high school students interested in health careers are invited to attend a Healthcare Careers Exploring Open House on December 10 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Pekin Hospital in the Park Court Conference Center. The Open House will introduce students to the Pekin Hospital Exploring Post and what the Explorers Post will offer in the upcoming year. Pizza and light refreshments will be served. Parents are welcome to attend the event as well. Pekin Hospital has again teamed up with the W.D. Boyce Council, Boy Scouts of America to offer a Medical Explorers Post in Tazewell County. The program’s goal is to provide young men and women the opportunity to receive hands-on, work-related experience and to explore health careers they may never have otherwise considered. The program is open to young men and women who are 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) through 20 years old who are interested in learning more about health careers.

Reservations Appreciated 346-2106 or email 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.

Acorn Properties and Investments LLC ~ Allen & Associates ~ Baumgarten Distributors ~ Beck's Convenience Store ~ The Harvest Café ~ Illinois Corn Processing ~ Jake's Place ~ Jost, Becker & Jost ~ KCB Information Services ~ Lewis Industries ~ Lloyd Orrick ~ Pekin Lions Club ~ San Juan Pools & Spas Schwartz Electric Company ~ Security Finance ~ Sun Valley Subdivision ~ The Unique Twist ~ Wal-Mart ~ Whiz Kidz Academy - Childcare & Preschool Center

Pekin’s sales tax disbursement received from the state in November was 15.3% more than November of 2011. Pekin’s sales tax disbursements received from the state for the last 3 months were 5.9% greater than the same three months in 2011. The other three large communities on the east side of the Illinois River showed mixed results in sales tax disbursements received in November, compared to November of 2011: Morton (-7.4%), East Peoria (+1.8%), and Washington (+5.1%) For the 12-months ending in November, all four communities showed an increase in sales tax receipts from the state, compared to the 12-months ending in November of 2011: East Peoria (+13.3%), Pekin (+5.9%), Morton (+4.6%), and Washington (+3.1%) The number of residential units sold in the 61554 zip code in the first 10 months of 2012 was 3.3% great than the same period in 2011. The other large Tazewell County communities are showing large increases in residential unit sales for the first ten months of 2012, c...

December 5 – Pekin 1st Committee December 5 – Executive Board Meeting December 6 – Business After Hours December 12 – Member Promotion Committee December 12 –Transportation Committee December 13 – Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Past Presidents Christmas Party December 14 – Puttin’ on Pekin December 19 – Ambassador’s Meeting December 24 – Christmas Eve (Chamber Closed) December 25 – Christmas Day (Chamber Closed) December 26,27,28 – Limited Chamber Office Hours December 31 – New Year’s Eve (Chamber Closed) January 1 – New Year’s Day (Chamber Closed)

Tickets are now available for Pekin Main Street and Artistic Community Theater of Pekin's encore presentation of Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol" on Sunday, December 2 at The Knights of Columbus Hall, 715 N. 11th Street in Pekin. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the show starts at 6:00 pm, with a light snack being served. Tickets are $10/person or $80 for a table of 8. Tickets are available at Pekin Main Street offices, located at 111 S. Capitol Street, in Pekin City Hall, by calling 353-3100 or by emailing mainstreet@grics.net . All proceeds from the show will benefit Pekin Main Street and Artistic Community Theater. The show will be directed by Dennis Peacock.

Coffee Beans & Cuisine, 540 S. Parkway, held their grand opening on November 26th and the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce was there to help owner Debra Isabell start the celebration with a ribbon cutting.  Coffee Beans & Cuisine is located in the "coffee hut" in the Food Depot parking lot, close to the intersection of Court & Parkway.  They offer coffees, espresso drinks, smoothies, and frappes, plus breakfast items, paninis, soups, salads, and delicious deli sandwiches. They are a small drive-through that offers a large menu, with outdoor seating offered when the weather is nice.  Download their menu here!   Open Monday through Friday, 6:30am to 4:30pm, and Saturday from 7:00am to 4:00pm.  You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

On Tuesday, November 27, Sumer Wellness will host its Holiday Open House, “Get Your Glow On,” from 4-7 p.m. The event will feature the opportunity for men and women to learn more about products that can help improve the skin and treat conditions caused by acne and other factors. Located inside Illinois Centers for Pain and Rehab (ICPR) at 1491 Valle Vista in Pekin, the Sumer Wellness Holiday Open House will offer visitors the chance to take advantage of sale prices on many skincare products. Gift cards will also be available. “Sumer Wellness is Pekin’s only medically based cosmetic wellness center that focuses on complete skin health,” Merry Sumer, PA-C , said. “We bridge the gap between beauty and medicine with safe, effective products. You’ll find everything from cleansers and moisturizers to exfoliants that help shed hyperpigmented skin cells and thin the outer layer, making it more translucent.” Sumer Wellness carries a variety of products and services , including chemical ...

Mackinaw Valley Vineyard will be open Tuesday and Wednesday this week to help with your Thanksgiving dinner shopping. They are offering a 5% discount on six to 11 wines purchased and 10% for a case or more of our wines. You can mix and match a case to get some fun wines for gift giving too. Hours Noon to 5pm. Hurry to make it a special and truly happy Thanksgiving!

Caregivers and their loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease can receive education and emotional support by attending a new Early Stage Alzheimer’s Disease Support Group eight-week session to begin in early December. The goal is to provide education to both the person with dementia and their loved one, and to help establish a support network for them. The group will meet from 2:30-4 p.m. on Tuesdays from Dec. 4 – Feb. 12 at the Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter office, 606 W. Glen Ave., Peoria. Individuals with the disease will meet in one group, while their caregivers will meet in another group at the same time. Participants will learn how to better cope with the disease and will receive emotional support and social interaction in a safe and supportive environment. Weekly topics include health and wellness information, research and medications, tools for maintaining independence, and changing roles and relationships. Attendees also are given ample opportunity to ask questio...

Washington, DC – Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL) spear-headed a bipartisan letter , co-signed by over sixty of his House colleagues, to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeking a resolution over growing concerns about impaired barge traffic down the Mississippi River. Barge traffic could be severely disrupted or altogether grind to a halt along the middle of the Mississippi River between St. Louis, Missouri and Cairo, Illinois because of the Army Corps of Engineers’ annual plan to reduce and eventually shut off water flows during this time of the year. “The Mississippi River is a major artery of commerce for Illinois manufacturers and the agriculture community. As a vital gateway for American products to be shipped to markets throughout the U.S. and to ports around the globe, our economy can’t afford any interruptions to this steady flow of commerce,” said Congressman Aaron Schock. “This is ultimately about saving businesses both large and small, and protecting American jobs. I’m cal...

Focus Forward CI is a top-down/ bottom-up asset-based economic development strategy designed to engage all populations in a regional effort to transform mindset, economic performance, environment and leadership in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford and Mason Counties. You can learn more about this process by visiting: http://www.focusforwardci.com/ There you can learn about upcoming meetings and events, all of which are open to the public. Please provide your e-mail address and sign up for the monthly e-newsletter to stay informed. This economic strategy relies on central Illinois residents working together, inclusive of everyone and in a transparent manner to build trust. The strategy deploys a plan to retain and attract new business and grow an educated and trained workforce based on the region’s unique assets with measurements for success. Leaders in this effort already identified Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Based goals (S.M.A.R.T.) for creating the new ...

An Invite to All Chamber Members! John Evans Supportive Living is celebrating 5 years of serving the area Seniors and making a difference in the lives of over 525 Seniors! Please join us for door prizes & hot Hors D’oeurves, cocktails, and flaming Banana Foster! We look forward to sharing in our celebration with you!

McDaniels Healthcare Marketing , a communications firm headquartered in Pekin, Ill., recently received nine Pinnacle Awards in a ceremony sponsored by its peers. The ceremony was recently held in Chicago as part of the semi-annual conference for the Illinois Society for Healthcare Marketing and Public Relations (ISHMPR) . Each year, the Pinnacle Awards are presented for excellence in healthcare marketing and public relations. McDaniels Healthcare Marketing was recognized with the following honors: Award of Excellence Illinois Valley Community Hospital (IVCH) – Patient Literature – IVCH OB Unit Brochure  Award of Merit  IVCH – Direct Mail – OB Open House Mailer   IVCH – Website Design/Development – The All New IVCH Website   Jersey Community Hospital (JCH) – Fund Raising – ER+ Capital Campaign   JCH – E-Marketing & Social Networking – CEO Blog   Pekin Hospital – Special Event – Garden Gala   Pekin Hospital – Integrat...

In honor of American Diabetes Month, Pekin Hospital will offer a Diabetes Screening on Tuesday, November 27 from 8 – 10 a.m. inside the Hospital Lobby. Fasting is not required to participate in the screening and reservations are not needed to participate. Did you know that preventing diabetes is easier than you think? Being proactive about your health can lead to a healthier and longer life for yourself and your family. As a famous English author once stated, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of a cure.” According to the American Diabetes Association, each year 1.6 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed in people aged 20 years and older. Don’t allow yourself to join in this growing statistic. By making subtle changes to your lifestyle, you can be proactive in preventing diabetes. This screening event is being held this November in support of American Diabetes Month and to educate Pekin and surrounding communities about the simple steps that can help prevent diabetes. Ta...

Infinite Success recently joined the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce and celebrated with a ribbon cutting. Pictured (L to R) are Brian Wonders, Sharon Law, Pekin Chapter President Melanie Long, Debbie Simmons, and Daryl Dagit. Infinite Success was born out of a call for something more than the normal networking group that provides an opportunity to deliver business cards and elevator speeches. IS goes beyond offering personal growth and development, which in turn brings professional and individual success. At IS, they expand relationships, explore professions, and express possibilities.

McDaniels Marketing is proud to announce that Joey Vining has returned to its staff as creative director. Vining previously worked at the agency as an art director before moving to Colorado. “Too many people try to put creativity and technique in a box,” Vining says. “I approach our client’s challenges and take ownership. Likewise, I believe in stressing less about what others think about how we get to the desired outcome… to literally think outside the box. At McDaniels, we’re always thinking… and I want to ensure that our creative product is extraordinary.” A graduate of Illinois State University, Vining holds an associate’s degree in arts and sciences as well as a bachelor’s in graphic design. Prior to rejoining the team, she worked as art director and graphic designer for Group Publishing in Loveland, Colo., a company responsible for producing a variety of resources for churches and ministries. “We are so jazzed about having Joey back as a new leader for our firm. She brings...

On Weds., Nov. 14, 2012, ICPR Family Practice will hold a FREE Diabetic Education Class at the Pekin Public Library (301 S. 4th St.) at 3:30 p.m. Dr. Volkan Sumer and his staff will offer tips to help diabetics manage blood sugar levels. Attendees can register online or call 347-4277 to reserve a spot.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announces that motorists will encounter intermittent lane closures on the McClugage Bridge Wednesday, November 14th. The lane closures are necessary for crews to repair lights on the bridge. Please slow down and use extreme caution while driving through all work zones. For updated traffic information and views from dozens of traffic cameras in the Peoria area, click here: http://www.gettingaroundpeoria.com/ For a look at other IDOT District 4 projects, click here: http://www.dot.il.gov/districtreleases.htm#District_4

Midland Davis Corporation, 14379 Illinois Rt. 29 South, Pekin, IL, 61554; (309) 353-3333; www.midlanddavis.com ;  Rikki Wallace , office manager; Business hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm, Saturday 7:30am - 12:00pm; Midland Davis Corporation is a recycling center that meets a variety of needs for businesses and the community. They offer buyback services, confidential shredding, resale, and curbside recycling. Also, for local businesses, Midland offers a one time, on going, or on call business recycling and office "de-clutter" services. Midland is currently processing the City of Pekin Curbside Recycling Program. This and many other recycling services are offered at Midland Davis Corporation.

Gateway Foundation , 11 South Capitol, Pekin, IL, 61554; (309) 346-7800; www.recovergateway.org ;  Drey Church , clinical supervisor; Business hours: Monday,Tuesday 8:30am - 9:00pm, Wednesday 9:00am - 5:00pm, Thursday,Friday 8:30am - 7:00pm, closed on weekends; Gateway Foundation is the largest provider of drug rehab and alcohol treatment in Illinois. The dedicated staff will be with you throughout drug rehab and treatment. You and your family will receive the guidance and support necessary for lasting recovery.

Herget Bank was the host of the November Business After Hours. A huge crowd of chamber members and their guests showed up at their downtown Pekin office to enjoy their hospitality.  You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at:  http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

We are gearing up to welcome Christmas into downtown Pekin with our annual Christmas on Court event on November 30, 2012. We will have an inaugural lighting ceremony that evening for our new Community Christmas Tree. The tree will be located in the Five Points Median (right near St. Joseph's Church, Pekin Community Bank and First Pekin Savings Bank). Christmas on Court will still feature business open houses, luminaries, horse drawn carriage rides and music by various community groups. Don't forget about Santa Claus! He will be at Pekin Community Bank that evening to visit with local children and pose for pictures. Also, PCHS art students will be carrying on the tradition of painting windows of downtown businesses. This year's theme is "Christmas Carols". We are excited about this year's events. If you have any questions, please call Pekin Main Street 309.353.3100 or email at mheien@ci.pekin.il.us . You can also call the Pekin Chamber 309.346.2106

The Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter will hold its annual Candlelight Service at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15 at the Chapter office, 606 W. Glen Ave., Peoria. A night of fellowship and remembrance, the event is free and open to the public. The community is invited to bring candles to light in honor or in memory of loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. The hour long service will feature music, a speaker and recitation of the names of local residents who have lost their battle with Alzheimer’s in the last year. Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the program. The Candlelight Service is an event of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Caregivers Month. For more information, call the Chapter toll free at 800.272.3900 or email infocentralil@alz.org . 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 vis...

Shades of royal purple and lavender set with dashes of aqua, green and gold – the 2012 Alzheimer’s Association ornament is a sight to behold. The Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter is proud to announce that its 2012 Chapter Ornament is now available. These limited edited, blown glass ornaments are handcrafted by Peoria artist Hiram Toraason. This is the sixth in an annual series of 5-inch ornaments featuring the Association’s signature color, purple. Each costs $30; shipping and handling is an additional $8. Funds raised by the sales help support the chapter’s educational programs and services. A perfect holiday, wedding, birthday or “just because” gift, they are available at the Alzheimer’s Association Office, 606 W. Glen Ave., Peoria, online at alz.org/illinoiscentral , or at the following Peoria retailers: Belle Mie Bremer Jewerly Bronze Frog Broms Enchanted Florist & Boutique Pink Sugar Harp & Thistle Impor...

Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday sits Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting small businesses and their communities.   The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to support Small Business Saturday and encourage everyone to shop at their favorite small businesses on Saturday, November 24th. Together, we can make this the biggest day of the year for small business. To learn more visit ShopSmall.com or search Small Business Saturday Central Illinois on Facebook. Visit ShopSmall.com to take advantage of the 2012 Small Business Saturday Toolkit. You will find templates for email and newsletter messages, examples of Facebook posts and tweets, official and personalized logos and banners... all of it designed to help spread the word and drive consumers out to shop at your business! To download the complete toolkit CLICK HERE . This November 24th, support small businesses in our community by supporting Small Business Saturday 2012!