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JULY MEMBER OF THE MONTH
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE JULY MEMBER OF THE MONTH, RHODES TO HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTER.
• A family - owned business for 125 years.
• Donates furniture and bedding to organizations and
individuals in need.
• Provides maintenance for the Catholic Charities bus for
Second Hand Rose.
• Member of Sunrise Rotary.
• Formed the Military Family Support Group.
• Participates in Chamber functions such as Employee Fitness
Day, Business After Hours and First Friday Luncheon.
• Chamber Choice Access Level member
CHAMBER GOLF OUTING 2010
The Chamber is hosting the 43rd Annual Golf Outing on Monday, August 23 at the Effingham Country Club. The best ball team scramble will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m. Join us for a fun filled day of golf while networking with other Chamber member businesses and area leaders.
Sponsorship opportunities are going FAST! Presenting sponsors are sold out to Consolidated Communications, Midland States Bank, and Cromwell Radio Group. Effingham Builders Supply is sponsoring the Hole-In-One for $10,000 worth of Marvin Windows & Doors, Bonutti Clinic is sponsoring lunch and beverages, and the Effingham New Car Dealers Association is sponsoring a special event at the 9th hole. Over 140 golfers will see your company’s name and the event guarantees maximum exposure for your company to local businesses.
Be sure to participate in the silent auction, skills contests, and the
50/50 drawing. Donations are being accepted for the silent
auction.
The Outing is limited to 36 foursomes, so sign up early as spaces will fill up fast. See the enclosed flyer for outing and lunch registration. For more information or to become a sponsor, please call the Chamber at 217/342.4147
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YBNEXT SOCIAL EVENT
Get social and network with your favorite young professionals group! Please join YBNext on a bus trip through the beautiful Southern Illinois Vineyards on Saturday, July 31st. The bus will depart from Menards at 10:00 a.m. promptly and return at 8:00
p.m. for the low cost of $25 per person.
Wineries to be visited:
Blue Sky Vineyards - 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Starview Vineyards - 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Rustle Hill Winery - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
See the enclosed flyer for more information and to sign up.
Seating is limited and they are going FAST
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FUNFEST HOUSING PROGRAM
Time is Running Out to sign up for the “Bed & Breakfast” program providing private housing for Corvette Funfest guests in September. Logon to www.funfesthousing.com and register your home or rooms in your home TODAY!
Rental registration runs through July 31. For more information, please contact Tracy at the Chamber office at 217/342.4147.
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FALL SOCIAL
TYou are invited to attend the Chamber’s Annual Fall Social on Friday, September 10 at the Lake Sara Community Building. This fun-filled evening will be packed with great food and exciting prizes for the minimal price of $12 per person.
The “Taste of Effingham” is returning this year highlighting area restaurants and caterers that will provide delightful samples of your favorite foods! Any restaurant/caterer interested in showcasing their specialties, contact Becky at 217/342.4147.
Shaken not stirred, dirty, or on the rocks… No matter how you take your drink, please be kind to your bartenders! The 4th annual CELEBRITY BARTENDER TIPS CHALLENGE will begin at 5:30 p.m. challenging teams of local celebrities to see who gets the most tips for pouring your favorite beverage. All proceeds will go toward the Chamber’s exterior maintenance needs.
SPORTS LOVERS RAFFLE! Raffle tickets will be available for $1 each or 6 for $5. You will be able to designate which raffle items you want to enter to win and you can purchase as many tickets as you wish. Prizes include: tickets to St. Louis Rams, St. Louis Cardinals, University of Illinois basketball and football, gift certificates at local golf courses, and many non-sports related items. (You don't have to be present to win.)
Invitations will be mailed soon for the best tailgate party you’ve ever experienced. Throw on your favorite team apparel and join us for the party you won’t want to miss!
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
AXESS NETWORK COMPANIES
103 S. Fifth Street
Vandalia, IL 62471
618/283.9542
Website
Josh Henry, Managing Partner
(Web Design & Hosting / Computer Consultants)
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MAKING CONNECTIONS IN EFFINGHAM COUNTY
A business card display rack in the Chamber lobby provides a another great way for our members to connect with consumers. The card holder can accommodate 48 cards and slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring in your business cards and promote your business to our many visitors.
CHAMBER CONGRATULATIONS:
*Fire Chief Joe Holomy was designated as a Chief Fire Officer by the Commission on Professional Credentialing. He is one of 600 chiefs worldwide to hold this designation.
*Joyce Flood of The First National Bank of Dieterich received the 2010 Commitment to Excellence Award.
*Daniel Woods, of St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, has been appointed to serve on the Board of Directors of Association Venture Corp.
*Sherri Zerrusen, of St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, received the 2010 Values Award.
*First Mid Illinois Bancshares, Inc. was ranked in the top 200 of the nation’s community banks by U.S. Banker magazine.
*Eric Chojnicki, of Midland States Bank, has been named President of Midland Financial Strategies.
*Midland States Bank was ranked #2 by the Independent Community Bankers Association’s 400 Towers of Strength.
*Ann Deters, CEO of Vantage Outsourcing, was named one of the top “222 People To Know in the ASC Industry” by ASC (Ambulatory Surgery Center) Communications.
MEMBER WELCOME:
*Thomas Williams joined Bonutti Clinic as an Orthopedic Physician Assistant and Health Fitness Specialist.
*Ray Martin joined Hodgson Mill, Inc. as Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
*Effingham Realty, Inc. welcomes Henry Hoene as a Realtor Associate.
*Pete Beem joins Firefly Grill as Service Manager.
*Marilyn Shimboff is the new General Manager at Ruby Tuesday.
MEMBER MILESTONES:
*The First National Bank of Dieterich - celebrates 100 years in business.
MEMBER CHANGES AND NOTES:
*Washington Savings Bank has completed the purchase of the Centrue Bank branch in Effingham to give them a second bank location.
*Ryan Fearday was named Assistant Vice-President and Branch Manager for the new Washington Savings Bank branch on Keller Drive.
*HR Research has a new phone number, 217/706.7766
*Effingham Realty Inc. moved to 1003 Northwood Drive in Effingham.
*Crossroads Workforce Center is now called Illinois workNet Center.
*Bonutti Clinic has hosted the Effingham Art Guild displays of member artwork for 10 years. The art display is open to the public for viewing during business hours.
(If your company has received an industry award, is celebrating a milestone anniversary, adding new staff members, expanding its facilities or opening a new division, please forward your news to email Tracy at the Chamber. Please include a contact name and phone number.)
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FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
Do you want to make a positive impact on your community…..help improve the quality of life…..develop a quality workforce….influence legislation and public policy?
The Chamber is looking for members who have the interest and desire to make a difference in the community by serving on the Chamber Board of Directors. We are currently seeking candidates to fill five seats on the board for three-year terms.
The Board of Directors is the policy making body of the Chamber. Board members set the annual and strategic goals for the Chamber and work to see that those goals are met. The board also oversees the annual budget and fiscal matters and ensures the Chamber office is adequately maintained and staffed.
A board member is expected to attend monthly board meetings, serve on one of the five divisional committees, attend Chamber functions and be actively involved in at least one project each year.
I encourage you to consider becoming a candidate or nominate a member who would make a good board member. A slate of candidates will be presented to the Board of Directors in November and elected by the general membership in December.
Your input will insure that the Chamber will have the best board members possible for 2011 and beyond. For more information, please email me at or call me at the Chamber office at 217/342.4147.
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EFFINGHAM DAY AT BUSCH STADIUM
Make plans today to see the Cardinals take on the Cubs at Busch Stadium on Friday, August 13th. Tickets are NOW on sale to the general public!
Single tickets can be purchased for $34 each. The Home Run package, which includes the game ticket, transportation by chartered bus, a meal and beverages are available for $60 each.
Each ticket holder will be entered into a drawing and 4 lucky fans will win a pre-game field visit on August 13.
Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber office at 903 N. Keller Drive or at Washington Savings Bank at 200 S. Banker in Effingham. Stop in and select your seats immediately as they won’t last long!
“…For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out, at the old ball game.”
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CHAMBER MEMBERS HAVE BETTER CREDIT SCORES
A new study released by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives measured the relationship between chamber membership and business credit
ratings and found that Chamber members consistently pay their bills in a more timely manner, resulting in better credit scores (629 vs. 557) than U.S. businesses as a whole.
Commercial credit scores are calculated in a manner similar to consumer credit scores. A score of 600 or greater is considered favorable with payment behavior as a key factor. Payment behavior is measured in average days beyond term (DBT) or how many days past due is an invoice.
On average, sampled chamber members scored 13% higher and paid their bills five to ten days faster than the U.S. average. Credit ratings of the Chamber members studied ranged from 616 to 642.
The study sampled approximately 10,000 companies throughout 2010 COMPENSATION AND BENEFIT SURVEY Don’t pass up this opportunity to participate in the most comprehensive source of local compensation and benefit data collection for Effingham County.
Registration forms are due in the Chamber office by July 24, 2010. For more information, please call the Chamber at 217/342.4147.
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“COME GROW WITH US & REAP THE REWARDS”
The Chamber’s new member referral program is off to a fantastic start! For the month of June, the following members referred businesses to become Chamber members:
Effingham Community Unit #40 - Dan Clasby (1 referral)
Global Technical Systems - Mike Schabbing (1 referral)
Mary Kay Cosmetics - Kathy Schroeder (4 referrals)
Prairie National Bank - Perrie Richards (1 referral)
St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital - Kelly Sager (4 referrals)
Thank you for kicking off this program and leading the way for others businesses to participate in this great opportunity. Learn more about how you can refer a business by clicking on the link from the Chamber’s home page.
Each time you refer a business that becomes a member, you will be entered into a drawing for $500 Community Cash Gift Checks. The more you refer, the more chances you have of winning the prize.
It’s that easy! Submit your referrals TODAY! For more information, contact Becky Brown, Membership Coordinator, at 217/342.4147.
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CHAMBER AMBASSADORS - FAREWELL, HELLO
TThe Chamber extends a big Thank You to Dave Gill (4 years), Paula Jones (10 years) and Greg Perry (5 years) for their service as Chamber Ambassadors. They have all volunteered their time over the years and have been fantastic members of the Ambassador Club.
We also want to extend a warm Welcome to Jeff Mihlbachler (Mihlbachler Insurance), Greg Schumacher (Ameren), and Tonya Siner (Job Match / Premier Broadcasting). These three outstanding individuals have graciously stepped up to fill the Ambassador vacancy’s.
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FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON - FEATURED BUSINESS SPONSOR
Don’t forget… Take advantage of this great promotional opportunity for the low price of $75. Your business will receive 2 free lunches, a 2 minute presentation from the podium to talk about your business, a table top display to showcase your business, present the gift for the featured speaker, and promotion in the Take 5 Newsletter and email blasts.
HURRY! Only a couple of spots left. Contact Becky at the Chamber office at 217/342.4147.
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SCHEDULE YOUR BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Hosting a Business After Hours is one of many promotional benefits available to our members. It offers a unique opportunity for your business to gain added exposure and provides a way for members to learn about your business and services.
HURRY! November is the only month left this year to schedule a Business After Hours.
If your company is celebrating an anniversary or special occasion, new product or service, expansion or would just like to have Chamber members visit your business, call Tracy at 217/342.4147 to schedule your event NOW!
Taking reservations for 2011
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Ever wonder what was being said about your company?
It’s easier than ever to access this information and it’s FREE!
NutshellMail, from Constant Contact, compiles all of the latest updates in your social networking accounts and places them in a snapshot email and sends the information to your email address on a time schedule of your choice. This is an easy way to communicate and access all of your messaging accounts.
NutshellMail supports Facebook, LinkedIn, Myspace, and Twitter. For more information or to sign up, login.
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SAVE THE DATE FOR COMMUNITY BREAKFAST
Mark your calendar for the upcoming Community Celebration of Excellence Breakfast on Thursday, September 9. The program and breakfast will be held from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. in the Altamont Grade School gymnasium.
The Community Celebration of Excellence Breakfasts are a product of Effingham County Vision 2020. The Vision 2020 initiative provides an opportunity for everyone to be involved in creating a better and more positive future for Effingham County.
Watch your mail for more details and registration information for the September 9th Community Celebration of Excellence Breakfast.
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Effingham, Illinois -
COMMUNITY ECONOMIC INDICATORS
MARCH |
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2010
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2009
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CITY BUILDING PERMITS:
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Month, Commercial
Month, Residential
Year To Date, Total
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9/$ 5,573,840
7/$ 350,020
44/$ 2,056,019
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4/$ 65,625
8/$ 720,232
35/$ 5,031,346
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LABOR MARKET - COUNTY:
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Total Labor Force
Employed
Unemployed
Eff. Co. Unemploy. Rate
IL Unemployment Rate
US Unemployment Rate
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18,041
16,480
1,561
8.6%
10.8%
9.5%
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17,880
16,419
1,461
7.0%
9.4%
8.6%
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ANNUAL AVERAGE:
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2009
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2008
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Total Labor Force
Employed
Unemployed
Eff. Co. Unemploy. Rate
Illinois Unemployment Rate
US Unemployment Rate
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18,183
16,736
1,447
8.0%
10.1%
9.3%
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18,580
17,505
1,075
5.8%
6.4%
5.8%
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CITY FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS:
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Total Assets - 1ST Qtr.
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$851,390,481
(Total 10 Banks Reporting)
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$799,902,061
(Total 10 Banks Reporting)
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RETAIL SALES:
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City - (1st Qtr. 10)
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$137,505,463
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$128,485,403
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County - (1st Qtr. 10)
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$153,272,665
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$144,471,074
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Total Sales-City (CY 09/08)
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$579,144,437
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$634,077,560
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Total Sales-Cou.(CY 09/08)
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$651,341,734
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$709,070,900
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Total Sales-City (FY 09/08)
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$593,138,675
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$641,242,712
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Total Sales-Cou. (FY 09/08)
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$666,607,206
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$742,839,163
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SOURCE: Illinois Department of Revenue: www.revenue.state.il.
NOTE: We are able to obtain more up-to-date retail sales data than in the past. If you wish to obtain historical data that has not been published, call Tracy at 217/342-4147.
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