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Showing posts from August, 2014

Chamber Connection

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LOCAL HIGH SCHOOLS COMPETE FOR SMART BOARD AND $500

Goodwill of Central Illinois has teamed with WMBD-TV for the Drive to Victory donation campaign. Each week two local high schools will meet on the football field while their schools compete to see who can donate the most to Goodwill. Each week a winner will be named, based on the highest amount of pounds donated. At the end of the drive, the school with the most pounds donated will win a SMART Board from Bradfield’s and $500 from CEFCU. Donations must be made at the school, the week of their match up. A PODS unit will be placed at the school to house the donations. “While clothing is always welcome, we need donations of housewares, kitchen wares and home décor,” said Gretchen Piper, Goodwill’s Director of Communications. “We know that the people of Central Illinois will donate because they care about our community, but having incentives like a SMART Board and $500 is great. We are grateful to Bradfield’s and CEFCU for their generous donations. For a list of the schools competing an

Dad's Dash 5K & Walk

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Beloit College Mindset List - 2018

Each August since 1998, Beloit College in Beloit, Wis., has released the Beloit College Mindset List, providing a look at the cultural touchstones and experiences that have shaped the worldview of students entering colleges and universities in the fall. This is always a fascinating list of interesting facts about today's 18 year olds.  You can find the list at:   http://www.beloit.edu/mindset/2018

Welcome to our Newest Member!

Proven Technology Group 1701 East Empire Street Suite 360-318  Bloomington, IL61704 309-377-5600   Bryan Morris , Co-Owner  Jason Sharpe , Co-Owner www.proventg.com Proven Technology Group specializes in providing managed information technology solutions to small and medium sized businesses across Central Illinois. Our professional scope ranges from architecting, designing, and supporting networks and data cabling solutions, to engineering and implementing telecommunications systems, as well as local and wide area networking solutions. By coordinationg and managing professional technical solutions and vendors, and proactively managing business networks, our clients see the benefits of the ability to completely focus on running their businesses. 

Ivy Club's Cardboard Boat Race

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Illinois American Water Announces Facebook Photo Contest Winners

Local Organizations Receive Donation and Raise Awareness about Value of Water Illinois American Water announced today the winners of the company’s “Value of Water” Facebook photo contest.  Three organizations throughout Illinois American Water’s service areas will share a donation of $1,500. Illinois American Water invited 12 local organizations to submit photos and thoughts to depict what water service means to their organization and community.  The public was invited to vote on the photos which were posted to Illinois American Water’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ilamwater .  Over 8,800 votes were cast during the contest’s duration between July 22, 2014 and August 20, 2014.   “Illinois American Water received so many great entries depicting the value of water service and the response from the public was reflective of their efforts.  These organizations are making a difference in our communities; we are proud to partner with them,” said Karla Olson Teasley, Illinois Amer

Congratulations to the Lucky Duck Winners!!!

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August Biz Barometer

Pekin's sales tax receipts continue to lag behind the rest of the county in August, and the region's employment numbers were down in July.  However real estate sales are generally up over the previous year. L Pekin's August sales tax disbursement from the state was down just 0.7% compared to the same month a year ago.  The 3-month running average was down 5.9% and the 12-month running average was down 10.2% compared to the same periods one year ago. J The remaining three large Tazewell County communities showed growth in their August disbursements from the state, compared to a year ago.  East Peoria was up 22.9%, Morton was up 8.7%, and Washington was up 3.6%.  J July sales tax disbursements for the four large Tazewell County communities as a whole, were up 9.9% compared to August of 2013. That continues a positive trend: the 3 month running average is up 7.9% and the 12-month running average is up 2.6% compared to the same periods one year ago.   L The unempl

Small Business & Entreprenuer Resource Expo

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26th Annual Duck Race

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Women's Marigold Golf Outing Tee Times

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ICPR Family Practice Presents...Jingle the Night Away

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Congratulations to Ace Liquor

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Ace Liquor is under new ownership.  Jason and Michelle Kreiling were joined by family, friends and representatives from the City of Pekin and the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon cutting.  Ace Liquor has two Pekin locations, 1025 Derby Street (347-7825) and 14 N. 5th Street (346-2185).  Ace Liquor offers a wide variety of beers, wines  and spirits, as well as an ever-growing craft beer selection.

Margaret Koch, RN, BS, Achieves Renewal of Certified Diabetes Educator Status

The National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE) recently announced that Margaret Koch, RN, BS, CDE, Diabetes Educator at Pekin Hospital, has renewed the Certified Diabetes Educator® (CDE®) status by successfully completing the continuing education renewal option process. Candidates must meet rigorous eligibility requirements to be eligible for certification.  Achieving the CDE® credential demonstrates to people with diabetes and employers that the health care professional possesses distinct and specialized knowledge, thereby promoting quality of care for people with diabetes. Currently, there are over 17,800 diabetes educators who hold NCBDE certification. In 1993, Koch established the outpatient diabetes program at Pekin Hospital with a multidisciplinary team of professionals.  She has maintained CDE® status since 1995.  Pekin Hospital offers group classes and individual counseling in diabetes self-management and medical nutrition therapy related to diabet

Aventine Celebrates Project Completion

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Aventine Renewable Energy marked the completion of the installation of two new natural gas boilers with a ribbon cutting on August 15.  The boilers are scheduled to come on line in the next week. Aventine invested $13.2 million in the natural gas boiler project over the past year.  The new boilers will reduce the plant emissions and replace 70-year-old coal-fired boilers. The natural gas boilers are part of a $30 million investment in their wet mill.  Aventine CEO Mark Beemer noted this investment will extend the life of the plant for another 20 years. John Valenti, Vice President of Operations at Aventine, noted the project included $1.1 million in local purchases and  the use of over $2 million in local labor. Locally Aventine's employs 205 workes with an annual payroll of over $13.5 million.  Aventine also plans to purchase $250 million of corn this year. You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at:  http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

September Business After Hours

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Check out the Weekly Chamber Connection!

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Center for Prevention of Abuse Business After Hours

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Alzheimer’s Support Group Offered at Pekin Hospital HHC

On August 12, a conveniently located Alzheimer’s Support Group for Tazewell county residents will begin at Pekin Hospital Home Health Care, 2934 Court Street in Pekin. For family members of people living with Alzheimer’s and other brain diseases, the support group meets from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Jeff Leeman Life Coach/Counselor will lead the support group. Jeff is from the Pekin area and has experience impacting lives with real solutions and kindness. There is no cost to attend and no limit to the number of attendees. Please call in advance so plans can be made for the proper number attending. More than 5 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer’s disease and 210,000 of those are right here in Illinois. This support group is for you the caregiver to learn, share and gather strength and hope. The Alzheimer's Association - Central Illinois Chapter offers programs and support services to help improve the quality of life of area residents deali

Come to the River Renewal

Just imagine, the river flowing, a bridge arching,  fresh cut grass, and people of all ages gathering  to seek God’s renewal. You will not want to miss this experience,  so mark your calendars and count down the days  to this time of worship led by praise music each  evening and the “Good News” shared Thursday  and Friday by Matthew Henson, Lead Evangelist  for Living The Adventure Ministries. Bring your lawn chairs or just throw a blanket on the ground. Come, be transformed and renewed by God who is waiting to meet you through Jesus! _________________________________________________________________ EVENT:         “COME TO THE RIVER FOR RENEWAL” WHEN:         Thursday, August 21                      Friday, August 22                      Saturday, August 23 TIME:           6:00 pm to 7:00 pm LOCATION:  Pekin’s Riverfront Park Event Meadow …Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to Me and drink. Whoever believes in Me, as Scr

Illinois American Celebrates New Water Tower

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Representatives from Illinois American Water were joined by representatives of the City of Pekin and the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, as they celebrated the completion of the community’s new 1.25-million-gallon elevated water storage tank located at 1700 Riverway Drive. According to Roger Goodson, operations superintendent for the Pekin District, this investment of over $3 million ensures reliable water service to customers. “The water tower is a critical component of our water infrastructure.  The new tank will help ensure adequate supply for residents, businesses and fire protection,” said Goodson. This investment includes a spheroid tank design that required minimal land use, reducing environmental impact. The new water tower welcomes visitors to the area with the City’s unique marigold logo. You can see more pictures from this event at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Pekin's Having A Party

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World Wide Travel of Pekin to Merge with Suzi Davis Travel

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After forty years in the travel business, Arlene Heine Meyer is going to do more traveling herself. World Wide Travel of Pekin will merge with Suzi Davis Travel, effective August 15, 2014.  Arlene is retiring after four decades of building and serving a loyal clientele. Assistant Manager, Debbie Fandel has been with World Wide for over 35 years and will move to the Suzi Davis office in Morton. Tracy Heine, will continue to serve her clientele as a remote agent for Suzi Davis.  “We welcome the addition of Debbie Fandel to our great team of agents as well as the clients of World Wide Travel, who can expect to receive the same great service,” said Tim Davis, President of Suzi Davis Travel.   Arlene has seen the travel industry evolve from train travel and hand written plane tickets to a fast-paced industry dominated by the internet and mega-travel agencies. Through all of the change, she and her staff have always sought to provide personal attention, outstanding customer service, an

Dunkin' Donuts Grand Opening

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Dunkin' Donuts held their grand opening celebration today.  There were giveaways,  a ribbon cutting, and a $1,000 donation to "The Mission Continues."  Owners Ron, Yonas, and Mike were assisted with the ribbon cutting by representatives of the City of Pekin and the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce.   Dunkin' Donuts is located at 2001 Court Street and is open daily from 5:00am to 10:00pm.  You can see more pictures of this event at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

August Puttin On Pekin Recap

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Fifty-six chamber members and guests attended the August 8th Puttin' On Pekin breakfast held at the Knights of Columbus Hall.  Rob Hancock received the early prize, and Dean Cooper received the late prize.  Amber Bernshausen accepted the Spotlight on Business Award on behalf of Dr. Volken Sumer and ICPR Family Practice.  Dean Cooper received a Blue Ribbon Award for his property improvements at his State Farm office on Court Street.  Shannon Sandoval received the Sunshine Award in recogntion of her involvmenet in many community events and organizations.  The program was given by Melinda Figge, executive director of the YWCA of Pekin.  She spoke about Pekin's Women Leadership Network.   You can see more pictures from this and other chamber events at:   http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

August Business After Hours

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The August Business After Hours was co-hosted by Cullinan Properties and Gold's Gym Express.  About 40 chamber members enjoyed delicious refreshments, networked with other business and community leaders, and took tours of the gym.  You can see more pictures from this event at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber  

Illinois American Water to Host Ribbon Cutting for 1.25 Million Gallon Elevated Water Tank

Illinois American Water’s Pekin District and the City of Pekin will celebrate the community’s new 1.25-million-gallon elevated water storage tank located at 1700 Riverway Drive.  A ribbon cutting will be held on Aug. 12, 2014 at 1 PM.   According to Roger Goodson, operations superintendent for the Pekin District, this investment of over $3 million ensures reliable water service to customers. “The water tower is a critical component of our water infrastructure.  The new tank will help ensure adequate supply for residents, businesses and fire protection,” said Goodson. This investment includes a spheroid tank design that required minimal land use, reducing environmental impact. The new water tower welcomes visitors to the area with the City’s unique marigold logo. Pekin Mayor Laurie Barra said, “"The City of Pekin is proud to have our beautiful marigold logo on the water tower.  This investment not only enhances our community visually, but ensures water service for economic de

Kroger Ribbon Cutting

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Congratulations to Kroger who celebrated their recent $4.9 million remodeling investment in their Pekin store.  You can see more pictures from this event at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber

Win a Side of Beef from Alzheimer's Association

Raffle tickets for The Alzheimer’s Association® - Central Illinois Chapter Beef Raffle are on sale now! One lucky area resident’s freezer will be filled when their ticket number is drawn for a side of beef from Pottstown Meat and Deli. Raffle tickets sell for $20 each or 3 for $50. The tickets can be purchased through November at the Chapter office, 606 W. Glen Ave., or from Pottstown Meat and Deli located at the Metro Center, 4700 N. University St. The winner will have the option of the beef or a gift card for the amount of the beef value. The drawing will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Pottstown Meat and Deli. You need not be present to win. Proceeds from the raffle will support programs and services for people living with Alzheimer’s and their families and caregivers.   The Alzheimer's Association – Central Illinois Chapter is a donor-supported, not-for-profit health organization serving 20 counties in Illinois. Please visit alz.org/illinoiscentral or

PEORIA AREA UPCOMING PROGRAM

The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Discover more about symptoms, causes, and risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease & dementia; the benefits of early detection, treatment options; stages of the disease and ways the Association can help; Thursday, August 14, 1:00 – 3:00 PM Graham Hospital 210 W Walnut Canton, IL Funded in part by Central IL Agency on Aging Cost: $5 material charge per person Please reserve a seat by calling the Central Illinois Chapter office at 800.272.3900.

Weekly Chamber Connection

Be sure to view your weekly Chamber Connection to keep up to date with all of the Chamber Events!

Tazewell Teen Initiative Awareness Breakfast

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Illinois American Water Ribbon Cutting

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Pekin Hospital Foundation 1st Annual Clay Shoot

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Pekin Hospital Foundation Shoe Sale

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Robert's Run for Dyslexia

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8th Annual Timbercreek Cruise-In

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The Center for Prevention of Abuse 2nd Annual 5K Duck Dash / 1 Mile Waddle Walk Sponsored by Associated Bank

In celebration of the 26th Anniversary of the Duck Race, Associated Bank is sponsoring the 2nd Annual 5K Duck Dash / 1 Mile Waddle Walk to benefit The Center for Prevention of Abuse. Who: All runners and walkers What: 5K run / 1 mile walk When: Saturday August 9, 2014 6:30 – 7:30am – Late registration & packet pickup 7:30 – 7:45am – Free on-site yoga session warm-up! 8:00am – 5K Dash 8:05am – 1 Mile Waddle Walk After Finish – Refreshments and Awards Where: Peoria Park District Riverfront Trail From Marshal Plaza to Detweiller Marina Why: In celebration of our 26th Annual Duck Race How Much: $35.00 – Children under 5 are free to participate with registered adult. To register and for additional information go to centerforpreventionofabuse.org.

Mashie's Pub Hosts Ladies Night Out School Supply Drive

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Upcoming August Events at the Speakeasy Art Center

The Speakeasy Art Center is packed with events in the month of August. View their full calendar here .  AUG 05           Childrens Drawing Class with Amy Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois 2:30pm          Teens/Adult Drawing Class with Amy Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois 6:30pm AUG 06           Paper Jewelry Workshop Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois 5:00pm         Open Mic Night Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois    7:00pm AUG 07           Canvas & Cocktails with Terri Gambetti Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois 6:30pm AUG 08           Young Artist Reception Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois 5:00pm          Salsa Lessons & Open Dance Speakeasy Art Center in Pekin, Illinois 8:00pm

The Center for Prevention of Abuse Hosts World’s Largest Duck at the 26th Annual Duck Race

 Martha Herm, Executive Director for The Center for Prevention of Abuse would like to invite you to the Duck Race Kick Off Press Conference. The Press Conference will be held, Wednesday, August 6, 2014 10:00 am at the Riverfront Park (behind Walmart) East Peoria, IL 61611 They will announce the 26th Annual Duck Race and Giant Quacky, the World’s Largest Duck who will be nesting at Riverfront Park in East Peoria.

Central Illinois Chapter Garage Sale Benefits Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer's Association – Central Illinois Chapter will hold its annual Garage Sale Saturday, August 9, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Chapter office, 606 W. Glen Ave., Peoria. A vast assortment of items will be available, including furniture, framed art, kitchenware, clothing, collectibles, toys, books and pet supplies. Proceeds will fund the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the signature disease awareness and fundraising event for the Alzheimer's Association’s. The Tazewell County Walk to End Alzheimer's is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 6 p.m. at Mineral Springs Lagoon in Pekin. The Peoria Walk to End Alzheimer's takes place on Sunday, October 5, at 2 p.m. at Liberty Park in Peoria.  The Alzheimer's Association – Central Illinois Chapter is a donor-supported, not-for-profit health organization serving 20 counties in Illinois. For additional information or for help, please visit the website at www.alz.org/illinoiscentral or call 800.272.3900.

Pekin Hospital Opens Pain Management Center

Pekin Hospital is pleased to announce the opening of the Pekin Pain Management Center, a balanced pain management center, on the hospital campus at 600 S. 13th Street, Suite K.  The clinic will be staffed by Arek Grochowski, M.D., a fellowship trained pain management specialist.  To make an appointment with Dr. Grochowski, please call (309) 353-0721. The pain center will diagnose and create individualized treatment plans for patients based on a number of considerations, including the cause and level of pain. Acute and chronic pain conditions treated at Pekin Pain Management Center include neck and back pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic pain, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), nerve damage, as well as pain associated with arthritis, muscle spasms and shingles.   Dr. Grochowski is fellowship trained in pain medicine at Christ Hospital & University of Cincinnati and is a graduate of Medical Academy of Gdansk in Gdansk, Poland. He completed his residency at Chr

Upcoming SCORE Workshops

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SCORE Peoria To register for these upcoming events go to  http://scorepeoria.org/    Web Tech: Email Marketing with Constant Contact (Hands-on) (free) August 12 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am Web Tech Services, 619 Taylor St. East Peoria, IL. 61611       Web Tech: Social Media 101 (free) August 19 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am Web Tech Services, 619 Taylor St. East Peoria, IL. 61611       Web Tech: Email Marketing for Success (free) August 21 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am Web Tech Services, 619 Taylor St. East Peoria, IL. 61611       East Peoria: Using Your Personal Facebook Account Like a Pro (free) August 21 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Fondulac Library, 140 E Washington St , East Peoria , IL 61611 United States Call the library to register 309-699-3917  

Chamber's Mobile Website

Have you seen the chamber's mobile-friendly website? It includes easy access to the membership directory, calendar of events, Marigold Festival and more. Bookmark it in your phone! www.pekinchamber.com/mobile

Muse Salon Grand Opening

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Muse Salon, 429 Court Street, held their grand opening on July 31.  Representatives from the Pekin Area  Chamber of Commerce and the City of Pekin were there to wish owner Karen Walker the best of luck.  Muse Salon is an upscale salon offering the best in hair and nails care.  The stylists and nail techs offer all of the newest trends.  Muse Salon can be reached at 642-9275.  You can see more pictures at http://picasaweb.google.com/PekinChamber