March - O`Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce

 March 2016 Salute to Business 40th Annual Awards Luncheon Please join the O’Fallon‐Shiloh Chamber of Please consider sponsoring this event. This Commerce and the O’Fallon Progress on April 14th event usually attracts 200+ attendees: as we celebrate excellence in business! We are happy to recognize the following this year during Event Sponsor — $750 our Salute to Business 40th Annual Awards Table of 8 at luncheon luncheon: Recognition in all pre‐event advertising Economic Impact – Memorial Hospital East Beautification – O’Fallon Public Library Heritage – Tamarack Golf Course Community Service Award – The Spengler Company (sponsored by The Rotary Clubs in O’Fallon) Spirit of the Chamber – Hospice of Southern Illinois Invitations will be sent out soon. Our luncheon will be held at The Regency Conference Center, April 14th, 11:45 a.m. – 1:10 p.m. Cost is $30 (payment in advance is preferred). You can register online at OFallonChamber.com or call us at 632‐3377. Thank you to all who nominated the above businesses and congratulations to those being recognized. Recognition during event Placement on table tent at each table Recognition in program Recognition at luncheon entry/
registration table Table Sponsor — $500 Table of 4 at luncheon Recognition in all pre‐event advertising Recognition during event Placement on table tent at each table Recognition in program Recognition at luncheon entry/
registration table Awards Sponsor — $250 Recognition in all pre‐event advertising Recognition during event Recognition in program March 2016 Page 2 Board of Directors Executive Board Jessica Lotz, President Paul Evans, Vice President Evans Law Firm Ruth Holmes, Treasurer Memorial Hospital Board Members Wayne Barber BARBER Murphy Group, Inc. Susan Beeler HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital John Coers State Farm Claims Manager Dave Hopkins First Bank Sid LeGrand Paula Matthews‐Nixon Ameren Kevin Meder CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP Kim Sabella Wolfersberger Funeral Home Russ Thoman Bank of O’Fallon Greg Yank GY Consulting & Facilitation Services March
Cothrine & Associates
John Cothrine Jr.
#8 Eagle Center, Suite 1
O’Fallon, IL 62269
618-589-3312
[email protected]
www.cothrineassociates.com
(Financial)
Magic Nail & Spa
Quang Le/ (Lee) Le
300 Southview Plaza Ste 1
O’Fallon, IL 62269
618-624-7155
[email protected]
www.magicnailspa.com
(Nail Salon)
Referred by Paula Nixon
BNI
Lisa York
O’Fallon, IL 62269
618-514-2565
[email protected]
www.bnimidamerica.com
(Organization)
Gregory Communications,
Inc.
Janice Gregory
Collinsville, IL 62234
618-593-5146
[email protected]
www.gregorycommunicationsinc.com
Ex‐Officio (Copy Writing Services)
Mayor Gary Graham City of O’Fallon Mayor James A. Vernier, II Village of Shiloh Envisioning Green
Steven Johns
8550 Forest Boulevard
Caseyville, IL 62232
[email protected]
www.envisoninggreen.com
(Lawn & Garden)
Mayoral Representatives Pam Funk City of O’Fallon Brenda Kern Village of Shiloh Midwest Regional Bank
John Vitale
333 Salem Place, Suite 100
Fairview Heights, IL 62208
618-789-5812
[email protected]
www.mwrbank.com
(Financial Institution)
Hubbards Pro Am
Autymn Hubbard
506 W. Highway 50
O’Fallon, IL 62269
618-632-5113
[email protected]
www.hubbardsproam.com
(Gun Training & Range)
Rehabilitation Professionals,
Inc.
Debra Pierce
1034 S. Brentwood Blvd.
Ste 300
St. Louis, MO 63117
618-882-8638
[email protected]
www.physicalrehabstl.com
(Health and Wellness)
Bel-Air Heating & Cooling
Brian Vetter
Belleville, IL 62221
618-277-0582
[email protected]
(Heating, Cooling & Energy
Retailer)
Referred by Melanie Holden
Carda Construction
David Bridges
40 Commerce Lane
Lebanon, IL 62254
618-234-1004
[email protected]
www.cardaconstruction.com
(Construction)
Block Advisors
Uma Cviko
4170 GreenMount Crossing
Shiloh, IL 62269
618-628-8362
[email protected]
(Tax & Accounting Service)
The Refuge Family Grill
Brad Krueger
1015 Belleville St.
Lebanon, IL 62254
618-808-0380
[email protected]
www.therefugefamilygrill.com
(Restaurant)
Floor Coverings
International
Michael A. Kurtz
140 Iowa Avenue
Belleville, IL 62220
618-971-7741
Michael.Kurtz
@floorcoveringsinternational.com
(Flooring)
Referred by Norm Etling
Referred by Chip Soule`
Scenic Route Landscaping
Scott Worley
P.O. Box 382
O’Fallon, IL 62269
618-978-1505
[email protected]
Page 3 March 2016 Chamber
Ambassadors
Don Barkley
American Red Cross
Eileen Blackburn
Premier Designs Jewelry
Anh Le CPA/Liberty Tax Service
Alpine Shop
Ameren
Bella Milano O’Fallon
Bulldog Drilling, Inc.
Cambridge House of O’Fallon
Carpet Care Plus, LLC
Casa Azteca Mexican Restaurant
Chick-fil-A GreenMount Commons
Community Financial Advisors
Eckert’s Country Store & Farms
Edward Jones – Susan Cantonwine
Financial Advisor
Dale Funk
Faith Family Church
First Baptist Church
First Bank
Stifel
Salvatore Cincotta Photography, Inc.
Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard, PC
The Memorial Network- inclusive of
Memorial Hospital- Belleville
Memorial Hospital- East
Memorial Medical Group
The Regency Conference Center
The Storage Center
US Bank
Webster University
WLS Consulting
YMCA of O’Fallon
Yoga Core & More
Debbie Brauer
Nancy Chase
St. Clair Bowl
Jim Clutter - JIMAR
Lauren Dean
Hilton Garden Inn
Coach Allen Dorsey
Changing Lives
Brett Faulk
Stifel
Matthew Gilreath
Chick-fil-A Green Mount Crossing
Cindy Helmkamp
American Eagle Credit
Union
Fraternal Order of Eagles- Shiloh 545
GCS Credit Union
Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois
Highlands Residential Mortgage
Hilton Garden Inn
Jack Schmitt Cadillac
La Casa Mexicana of O’Fallon
LovesPaws Boarding and Day Care
MCR Federal, LLC
R & W Builder’s Inc.
Reflections LTD
Regions Bank
St. Clair Tennis
Reneé La Bruyere
Quality Testing and
Engineering, Inc.
Sam Loring
Loring Financial
Management of Raymond James
Nathan Parchman
Regions Bank
Christina Sanchez
Wisper ISP
Chamber Tracks is our monthly newsletter and comes out the first week of each month. The deadline for submitting your information for this publication is the 25th of the month preceding publication. We have gone “green” and post the newsletter electronically to the website. An email goes out to all members advising them that the newsletter is available for viewing at ofallonchamber.com/news.html. Print copies are available in the Chamber office upon request. Your Chamber of Commerce Staff
Debbie Arell‐Martinez Executive Director [email protected] Doris Obernuefemann Assistant Director [email protected] Melissa Federhofer Communications Manager [email protected] Johnnie Hodges Membership Coordinator [email protected] (618) 632‐3377 www.OFallonChamber.com
Dr. Shelly Severns, DC
Severns Family Chiropractic
Dave Snyder
Rotary Club of O’Fallon
Lindsay Steely
The Spengler Company
Ed True
Mayor’s Community Liaison
Natascha Weinmann-Smith
Scott Credit Union
Sheri Welch
Sheri Welch Insurance
Page 4 March 2016 A Look Back: Honoring The Chamber’s Past Presidents
Doug Distler
Chamber President 1979-1980
“The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber is not only the voice of business
but it is also the voice of advocacy in the community…”
Biggest Challenge
During my term as President from 1979-80, the Chamber office was located in a small office space located at 121
West State Street. The City’s population was about 13,000 and chamber membership was around 150 members.
Member services were provided by a part-time retired business executive and chamber volunteers. The economy
back then was experiencing an oil shock and high inflation. Gasoline was $3.50/gallon (at today’s price) and inflation was 13%. The consumer price index was over 11%. Businesses were having a difficult time borrowing
money with the prime rate of interest at 20%. Needless to say, it was a very challenging business climate to retain
and grow Chamber membership.
Greatest Accomplishment
Member services were driven by a limited Chamber budget. A newcomer kit was created that included a City map
and an easy-reader booklet that provided information about the City, businesses, churches and schools. Businesses were asked to donate $1.00 per kit to help subsidize the cost of the kit. A senior discount program was
introduced that provided special prices and services for seniors at participating merchants. The Chamber continued to market the sale of its property on East Highway 50 that was acquired earlier for the development of a business park. The proposed development of a business park had to be dropped due to the downturn in the economy
and the lack of political support at that time. The sale of the property helped fund the purchase of $3000 in new
Christmas decorations to replace worn decorations around the City. The Chamber continued to support the dial-aride program and the Salute to Business Awards dinner.
What advice do you offer businesses concerning using the Chamber?
A membership in the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber is a valuable resource for any business. The networking opportunities at the Chamber sponsored business over breakfast, luncheons and business after hours are the most cost
effective way to connect to prospective clients and business professionals. Membership provides business owners
with the opportunity to boost awareness of their business through the new Chamber member profile, ribbon cuttings, on-line business directory and advertising in the monthly newsletter. As the voice of business for 570+
O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber members, member businesses have a stronger voice in governmental and regulatory
affairs impacting their business. At Chamber meetings and events, business owners have the opportunity to network and talk face-to-face with government officials and business community leaders.
The way ahead
The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber is a premier business organization as evidenced by the phenomenal growth in
membership over the last several years. The Board of Directors, Staff and member volunteers work every day to
deliver the most cost effective and value added services to help businesses grow and prosper. This chamber is
not only the voice of business, but it is also the voice of advocacy in the community promoting that we all live in
safe neighborhoods, work in rewarding careers at thriving businesses while our children attend great schools and
enjoy time playing in our beautiful parks.
Page 5 March 2016 More About Doug….
Doug was awarded our 2007 Salute to Business Award for
Business. This is what was said about Doug:
There is a maxim in banking that people want to do business with
people they trust and respect. In O’Fallon, Doug Distler is the proof
of the adage.
A life-long resident, Distler, the president of First Bank, has devoted
the past 40 years to meeting the banking needs of area residents.
And, in doing so, he focused his energies on being a good citizen of
the place he calls home.
“I have done a number of jobs in banking and it has all been
involved with what I do in the community,” said Distler in noting he
considers himself to be a community banker.
Defining the term, he explained, “A community bank focuses its
products and services on the needs of the community.” A
community bank also provides leadership for businesses and civic
organizations. And that is an area where Distler has excelled.
Past Presidents Celebrating the 55th Anniversary of the Chamber
of Commerce | September, 2001
Ken Diel, Dorcas Cecil, Jim Wellinghoff, Richard “Corky” Cecil,
Sue Witter, Doug Distler, Ned Drolet and Joe Behnken.
“I have served in many different capacities on many projects over the years,” he said. “I have spent a lot of years with the
Chamber of Commerce. I am a member of the Rotary Club of O’Fallon. I served 10 years on YMCA board of directors. And
I was a charter director of the O’Fallon Township High School endowment.” He also served as treasurer for OTHS’ recent
successful campaign to build of a ninth grade campus. “It is a win for everybody,” said Distler, a graduate of OTHS who
went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in finance at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
Distler began his banking career in Belleville in 1967. He joined the First National Bank of O’Fallon as a vice president in
1974 and became president in 1982. That institution was acquired by First Bank in 1984 and one year later he was named
the company’s regional president for Southern Illinois.
Currently…
Although Doug retired last year, he continues to be an active member of our Chamber. He serves on the Economic
Development Committee and serves as an interviewer for our Business Retention and Enhancement Program. He has and
continues to serve on our Salute to Business Awards and Board of Directors nominating committees. Maybe most
importantly, Doug continues to serve as the Chair of our annual Golf Committee. He has chaired that committee for too
many years to count, but we would not raise the funds we do on our golf tournament (our one and only fundraiser each
year) without the efforts of Doug Distler.
Page 6 March 2016 Shiloh Chiropractic hosted our February Business After Hours and held a ribbon
cutting to show off their new location. Thank you for hosting, and congratulations on
the new office!
Page 7 March 2016 Page 10 March 2016 Mark LaPlantz, Vice President – Loans and Business Development for First
National Bank, is a lifelong resident of Fairview Heights. Mark has 12 years of
experience working for both regional and community banks. He treats every
loan request uniquely and works diligently to find the best option for each
individual customer’s needs. His customer-focused approach is a perfect fit for
FNB and is what defines their institution. Since 1912, First National Bank has
been a lending leader in local communities. Their team of banking experts helps
businesses flourish and residents’ dreams come true through their many lending
solutions. As a community bank, that’s their goal! They are here for YOU!
There are two convenient locations in O’Fallon - located at 104 Regency Park
and inside the Schnucks Seven Hills at 907 E Highway 50. Stop by and see them
anytime, or visit their website at www.fnbwaterloo.com for information about
their products and services.
What is the biggest challenge facing your industry today?
*Increasing amount of bank regulation
*Differentiating community banks from the “Big Banks”
What is something people might not know about you?
Mark is married to Jaime and has 2 young boys, Logan and Maddox.
Page 11 5 Trends Every American Small
Business Owner Needs to Watch in 2016
Heading into an election year means many of the big influences on the US small business market will come from macro‐economic conditions and technological changes being implemented in the sector. Here are a few trends that bear watching over the next 12 months: The on-demand economy is changing our
labor force.
At a time when the level of self employment is rising, small businesses in America are contributing less to the nation’s GDP. Between 2002 and 2012, small businesses’ contribution to GDP fell from 48.3 percent to 44.6 percent. At the same time, the number of self‐employed contractors grew to more than 14 percent of the labor market. March 2016 with tax reform or ObamaCare, for example, isn’t likely to change in the near term as election years tend to be dead policy years. Everyone will be trying to steady the ship so their candidate is elected. The Inauguration is Jan. 20, 2017, which is when you’ll see policy changes, if a Republican comes into office. The elections are up in the air right now. It’s way too early to predict what is going to happen. It’s fascinating to watch. Funds are tightening. There arenʹt a lot of major moves made in US financial markets during presidential election years. Access to capital doesn’t look like it’s going to get easier for small businesses, while the high cost of healthcare and employee wages will continue to weigh on the sector. The big question is will the Fed raise rates more? If they do, access to capital will tighten, borrowing will become more expensive and the economy will probably soften. Driving this dynamic is the rise of the freelancing workforce fueled by a plethora of platforms connecting If interest rates go up, there are going to be other people with work, be it having someone design a logo investments which will be more attractive than the stock for you, deliver ice cream, drive you down the street or market. That’s important for business owners, as many clean your house. The on‐demand economy is thriving. have savings invested in the stock market. It also means The labor force has significantly changed. As an example, three years ago independent contracting site Upwork had 1.5 million freelancers registered, now they’re upwards of 10 million. With those demographic changes, there is now more competition for employees and it’s driving a conversation around minimum wages, paid time off and overtime rules which will all be key election issues. We’re going to hear a lot of discussion around these topics. Over the next 12 months we’ll see technology help to streamline the freelancing marketplace, which should help boost productivity in this sector. now is a good time to borrow, while interest rates are low. With no significant legislation expected to come out of Washington this year, there’s an expectation that the economy will continue to grow at a moderate pace in 2016 of between 2 percent to 3 percent. The biggest issue out of Washington is the government’s ability to repay its debt which has now been kicked back to March 2017. This lack of movement locally drives home the idea that macro‐economic forces will have a bigger impact on the US economy this year. Not a lot is going to happen policy-wise.
The falling cost of technology is making life
easier.
Entering an election year means whatever fear you have about what policies may change in the government can likely be set aside. That means anything that’s going on Previously, businesses had to pay a lot of money for data and analytics. Automation platforms were tools only big Article continued on next page Page 12 March 2016 enterprise could afford. However, as the cost of tech falls small businesses have gained access to data, analytics and automation platforms once only affordable for big business. Today, a small business can tell where their interest is coming from and answer queries which could only be exe‐
cuted using millions of dollars worth of infrastructure. Cures for Workplace Stress
Feeling stressed at work now seems to be the norm. Just think about how other people respond when you ask how The power of the cloud is finally being work is going. Consider what you say when you’re asked the same question. How often is the answer “Great! It’s realized.
always so relaxed and stress‐free?” Technology is getting stronger, faster and cheaper each year. In the US, we’ve talked about cloud for a long time Last year, Forbes reported on a survey of employees that but 2016 will be the final realization of cloud technology. showed 35 percent had contemplated leaving a job because We’ll be heavier into the main adoption curve, which of workplace stress, while another 42 percent had actually means more companies will be able to take advantage of left a job because of the stress. Work‐life balance, and the the agility the technology provides. impact of how to manage the two areas of life, is obviously a major struggle for many in the workforce today. But what As new generations come up through the ranks, more can employers do to help their employees be successful in companies are moving to cloud technologies. We’ll also handling the demands of each world? see more integrations between software players. Many applications which are currently separate, for example A Balanced Approach collaboration tools or accounting platforms, will start to No one could logically dismiss the negative effects that stress build deeper links. Slowly but surely the march to cloud is in the workplace has on businesses and employees every inevitable. It’s a big country and a big market but what’s day. But, it’s also not an easy problem to solve. Workplace going to drive this trend is the younger generation and stress researchers, and university professors, Joel Goh, their push for innovation. Jeffrey Pfeffer and Stefano A. Zenios, are fully aware of this The opportunities for small business and the convergence and discussed it in their recent paper on this same subject. of technology makes it easier to open and run a business. “We do not claim that an ideal stress‐free workplace is The cloud, mobile and ubiquitous internet blurs national realistically or economically achievable.” and state barriers, opening up global opportunities never However, each business leader can make progress by finding before available to small businesses. the stress triggers within their own companies and It’s estimated that about 70 percent of the 28 million US determining ways to alleviate as much of the problem as possible. The three authors’ research confirms that, while small businesses that could be using an accounting platform, don’t. But this is starting to change, especially as “these stressors cannot be completely eradicated in practice,” we see more millennials enter the workforce. The more the simple act of identifying and addressing stress points “could potentially go a long way.” That’s a very modest cure small businesses use technology to streamline their opera‐
for such a widespread affliction. tions, the more productive they become. www.entrepreneur.com/article/254370
Express Employment Professionals
Russ Fujioka and Gene Marks 20 Junction Drive West, Glen Carbon, IL 62034
Phone 618-288-8011
Fax 618-288-8071
www.expresspros.com
[email protected]
Page 13 March 2016 Send your news to [email protected] ASSOCIATED BANK MARKS guests to hail the completion of GRAND REOPENING OF this project,” Hickman said. “Our MISSOURI AVE. BRANCH refurbished branch will serve to Jackie Joyner‐ Kersee is special guest improve the banking experience Services department. Lora graduated from McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, with a Bachelors Degree in Ac‐
counting and a minor in Finance. for our customers and at the She is currently working toward s a m e t i m e e n h a n c e o u r continuing role as a lender in her CPA certification. supporting future East St. Louis development.” Her responsibilities will include financial statement preparation, The renovation included new bank reconciliations and assisting flooring and lighting, modern Diel & Forguson’s tax preparers teller lines, accessible offices for with tax return preparation. A special consumer and commercial native of Millstadt, Illinois, Lora Photo caption: Pictured from left to right banking activities, WIFI allowing currently resides in Belleville, – Municipal Solutions, Consulting and Illinois. staff to help customers become Contracting CEO Robert Betts, familiar with digital banking President of the St. Clair County Since 1979, Diel & Forguson, LLC channels and numerous other NAACP Stanley Franklin, Judge and its group of affiliated upgrades. Milton Worton, Associated East St. companies have provided a wide Louis Bank Manager Loretta Holmes, Jackie Joyner‐Kersee, Associated The refurbished branch includes range of services not typically Southern Illinois Community Market a new Community Room which found in other accounting firms. President Phillip Hickman, and City can be reserved by local In addition to traditional Manager of East St. Louis Alvin Parks not‐for‐profit organizations for accounting and tax services, they their meetings. Read Full Release provide innovative consulting East St. Louis, IL. – February 19, Here. and management advisory 2015 – Associated Bank today services that are tailored to fit celebrated its continuing each client’s unique business or commitment to the East St. Louis p e r s o n a l n e e d s .
DIEL & FORGUSON WELCOMES community with an event NEW STAFF MEMBER marking the completion of a For additional information, major remodeling of its 326 please call 618‐632‐7574 or 314‐
Missouri Ave. branch. Invest‐
4 5 4 ‐ 0 4 3 8 , o r v i s i t ment in the branch is estimated at www.dielforguson.com. $750,000. Phil Hickman, president of Associated Bank’s Southern Illinois Community Market, hosted the event. “We were delighted to have been joined by Diel & Forguson, LLC is pleased Jackie Joyner‐Kersee, several to announce that Lora M. Kern important local officials and other has joined its Accounting March 2016 Page 14 Send your news to [email protected] company’s newest division in Professional and IT Staffing. Bauer will report to Teresa Katubig, president and HBA Awards Padgett Building & chief executive officer. Remodeling The 2015 Remodeler Of Bauer brings a wealth of experience in Distinction Award! professional staffing and workforce MARYVILLE, IL (February 04, 2016) – management from a nearly 20‐year Home Builders Association of Greater career in the professional staffing Southwest Illinois Remodelers Council industry. Most recently, Bauer served as recently named Padgett Building & managing director of Client Services at Remodeling a 2015 Remodeler of Kelly Mitchell Group, Inc. where she Distinction in the Outdoor Enjoyment worked since 2001. Bauer also held Category, in recognition of their positions there as a recruiter, account S C O T T C R E D I T U N I O N professional remodeling expertise. The and branch manager and director of award was given at the Home Builders Client Services. Bauer also worked as a CONTINUES SPONSORSHIP OF personnel manager for Snelling AREA AMERICAN CANCER Association Installation Banquet held recently in Fairview Heights, IL. Personnel prior to joining Kelly Mitchell SOCIETY EVENTS Group, Inc. Read More... “Padgett Building & Remodeling is one Scott Credit Union has continued its of our areas outstanding leaders in the partnership with the American remodeling industry,” said HBA Cancer Society, presenting the President, Jeff Schmidt, with RLP organization with $20,000 to sponsor Development “I’m honored to the first‐ever ACS Farm to Table acknowledge this award for an industry leader who has shown such dedication to fundraiser, 12 Relay for Life events promoting consumer awareness, and the Making Strides Against professionalism and community Breast Cancer walk this year. service.” Read More... The Farm to Table event, which will INTERESTED IN HAVING 75+ be held this summer, will feature one
EXTRA HELP, INC. HIRES RACHELLE ‐of‐a‐kind offerings from local BAUER AS CHIEF OPERATING CHAMBER MEMBERS COME INTO restaurants and breweries. The event OFFICER AS COMPANY CONTINUES YOUR BUSINESS? will be held in place of the annual R E G I O N A L G R O W T H A N D It’s time again to draw for our EXPANSION Mardi Gras Ball fundraiser that ACS Business After Hours dates for has hosted in past years. Details for ST. LOUIS (Feb. 01, July – November 2016. Please let the event are still being finalized. 2016) – Extra Help, Debbie know if you’re interested in “We are extremely proud to again be Inc., one of the hosting a BAH in the second half partnering with the American r e g i o n ’ s 2016. Debbie will send you our BAH Cancer Society,” Hess said. “ACS largest Women guidelines so you know what to does great work in the effort to save Owned Business expect. We’ll then put your name in lives against this disease that has Enterprise (WBE) a bowl and in late March/early April, already taken so many. Read more... Suppliers in the St. Louis region, we will draw for July – November has appointed BAH dates. We need to know by Rachelle Bauer to March 30th if you’re interested in its leadership team as Chief Operating hosting. Consider co‐hosting with Officer. In her new role, Bauer will be another business. We really responsible for overseeing, developing appreciate all your interest in our and setting the strategic direction for the Business After Hours! March 2016 Page 15 Healthcare& wellness
ADDRESSING THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITY AND
PLANTING THE SEEDS FOR A HEALTHY FUTURE.
The Importance of a Healthy Pregnancy Kick off those heels! As the pregnancy progresses, the Did you know that in the state of Illinois, almost 50% of natural weight gain may throw off your center of gravity, pregnancies are unintended? This often leads to delayed onset of prenatal care (or none at all), which increases the putting additional pressure on your feet. This might cause risk for poor maternal/fetal outcomes. overpronation, which can be painful. Additionally, pregnancy may cause you to retain fluids, resulting in “Itʹs important for pregnant women to receive adequate swollen feet or ankles. Give your tootsies a rest, and invest prenatal care to ensure a healthy pregnancy and infant in comfortable shoes. outcome,” states Dr. Donna Meyers, who serves on the Fontebella Maternity Home provides a safe environment Board of Directors for Fontebella Maternity Home. “Mothers who attend early and regular prenatal visits for women over the age of 18 facing an unplanned decrease their risk for an adverse pregnancy outcome such pregnancy with nowhere else to go. Staff and volunteers as: prematurity, LBW (low birth weight) and maternal ensure that the moms who stay there receive early and complications.” regular prenatal care. The moms stay at Fontebella for up to three months after the child is born while learning Outside of regular doctor visits, there are some healthy important life skills and how to care for themselves and habits that all women should integrate into their lifestyle their newborn. In 2015, nine healthy babies were born to moms living at Fontebella, with an average birth weight of while pregnant. 7lbs 4oz. Women should visit their primary medical provider to be Individuals, community groups, health care professionals checked for illnesses and diseases that may affect the pregnancy. Hypertension, diabetes and mental health and educators continue to make it possible for the moms at Fontebella to learn healthy lifestyles, by volunteering to issues are just a few examples of things that need to be under control before the pregnancy progresses. come in and teach healthy cooking, CPR, parenting, relaxation, and fitness classes, among others. Prenatal vitamins provide the essential nutrients your body needs to help the baby’s brain and spinal cord Shannon Durio recently transitioned from develop (which occurs during the first month of the Development Director role at pregnancy!) Calcium and iron are important, and recent Fontebella, to serving on the Board of research shows that folic acid intake should be a priority. It Directors. With over 10 years of helps not only the neural tube, but is also critical for marketing and development experience in the nonprofit industry, she is passionate about connecting creating new red blood cells. Stock up on folate‐rich foods like oranges, asparagus, wheat germ, and fortified cereals! members of the community to Fontebella. Although pregnancy may cause some exhaustion, exercise Dr. Donna Meyers, RN, BSN, MSN, BC, DNP, has worked in is key to helping moms‐to‐be improve circulation, get more Women’s Reproductive Health for over 30 years. She received her sleep, and manage weight gain. Approximately 20 to 30 Masters Degree in Maternal/Child Nursing from the University of South Alabama, and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from minutes each day of light to moderate activity, such as walking, swimming or yoga, is encouraged. (Women Loyola University at New Orleans. Dr. Meyers has spoken on should always check with a doctor before beginning any both the local and national level, and has served as a consultant type of new exercise regimen.) for several Women’s Health organizations. She has been a Board member for Fontebella Maternity Home since 2010. March 2016 Page 16 Sustainable Living Container Gardening There are many good reasons to do container gardening. If you have a small garden, want to liven up your deck or front entrance with flowers, or want to grow a tropical tree that spends the winter indoors, then container gardening is for you. The first step is to select a container. There are many options: planter boxes, wooden barrels, clay pots, ceramic pots, concrete pots, and virtually anything that will hold potting soil. All have advantages and disadvantages. Cheap plastic pots may deteriorate in UV sunlight, but are light and easy to move, and clay pots dry out rapidly, but age well. Glazed ceramic pots are a good choice, but require several drainage holes. Wooden containers are susceptible to rot, but redwood and cedar are rot resistant and can be used without staining or painting. Avoid containers with narrow openings and ensure adequate drainage. The minimum size drainage hole is ½ inch in di‐
ameter for small or medium size pots. For large size con‐
tainers, look for at least an inch in diameter. A technique to improve drainage is to put supports under the pot to give the drainage holes clearance. I personally prefer large clay or concrete pots because they age well and retain a natural appearance. Unless clay and concrete pots are freeze resistant (check the label), they need to be emptied in the winter and stored in a shed or garage. Once you have chosen your containers, the next step is to select a planting medium. The goal is to select a medium that holds water well so you don’t have to water often, but also drains well so your plants don’t drown from their roots not getting enough oxygen. Potting mixes usually contain the following in varying proportions: compost or leaf mold, peat moss, sand, commercial potting soil, perlite, vermiculite, sulfur or limestone. Most container gardeners have found that a soilless potting mix is the most convenient and works best. It drains quickly, is lightweight and is free from soil‐based diseases. Garden centers have numerous varieties of potting soil. For my containers, I purchase a soilless potting soil that contains fertilizer and material that retains moisture and promotes drainage. Read the label on the product. When you add the planting medium to your container, leave a 2 inch space between the top of the soil and the lip of the container. That will leave you room to add ½ inch of mulch. Before we get to the fun part of container gardening – selecting and planting your plants, we need to consider your fertilization options. I mix in a slow release fertilizer with my potting mix. If you purchased a potting mix with fertilizer, this won’t be required. Watering washes fertilizer through the drains so you will need to fertilize with a liquid fertilizer every week or two to give your plants the nutrients they need. If you are an organic gardener, you can use a fish emulsion, seaweed blend. The vast majority of plants will require fertilizer to thrive. (Continued on page 18)
March 2016 Page 17 Bee There!
Meetings are held at 6:00 p.m.
FIRST TUESDAY of the month
Rock Springs Park Cabin
1428 E 3rd Street, O’Fallon, IL
You can dig deeper at www.ofallongardenclub.com or on
Facebook at O’Fallon IL Garden Club
April 5
May 3
Basic Landscape and Garden Design Concepts
by Sarah Lambaria
Plants That Have Changed the World by Leo Welch
Learn which plants play important roles in our food & medical production
Special Events
Spring Cleanup, Community Garden
March 12, 2016 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Work Days
Starting March 14, 2016
Mon and Thurs, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Corner of State and Smiley Streets
Membership is $20 Annually
$30 for a family
June 7
Eulogize Roses! What’s New for 2016
by Diane Brueckman of Rosey Acres
July 5
Intro to Fermentation of Vegetables by Speaker TBA
August 2
Wildflowers; A season of Bloom by Larry Morrison
Sept 6
Parks and Rec by Mary Jeanne Hutchinson
Partners in Conservation: The future of O’Fallon’s landscapes and
naturescapes and how you can help
Oct 4
MoBot by Joyce Hillebrand
A beautiful visual presentation of the Missouri Botanical Garden
Nov 1
Bonsai by Alex Livingston of Effingers
Dec 6
Annual Wreath Making
(Container Gardening | Continued from page 17)
Now for the fun part. The goal of plant selection is to choose plants that make the results striking. There is only one rule to follow. Choose plants that like the same growing conditions. For example, don’t mix shade‐loving and sun‐loving plants in the same container. There are some basic design principles. Use cascading plants or vines to drape over the edges of the container. Examples are black‐eyed susan vines, periwinkle, dichondra, and wave petunias. Place a tall, upright plant in the center or off‐center to give the arrangement height. Examples are canna lily, spider flower, and purple fountain grass. For filler use several billowy, fine‐textured plants. Examples are begonias, dusty‐miller and geraniums. Create a color scheme as you would in a flower garden – use two or three colors. Combine and contrast fine and bold‐textured foliage. Contrast plants with silver or bronze leaves with green‐leaved plans for effect. These are the basic principles, but the bottom line is use plants and arrangements you like. You could do containers of all impatiens, geraniums, or pansies and they would look great grouped together on your front porch. Instead of a single container in a location, try groupings of three or more containers to give added interest. Once you have your containers completed, place them in a location, which matches the sunlight requirements for the plants. The plant labels that were placed on the plants at the nursery will give you the requirements. Most sun‐loving plants require 5 to 6 hours of sunlight. Other plants like hostas and impatiens do better in part shade. Last recommendation for container plants is WATER, WATER, WATER. The rule of thumb is to water when a finger stuck in the soil finds it dry. A ½ inch of mulch on the soil surface will help conserve water. Other techniques are using self‐watering pots or a drip watering system. Plants in containers require frequent watering. In hot and windy weather, they may need a drink twice a day. Last thought: Exercise your imagination in choosing your plants and arranging your containers. Happy gardening. Author: Sterling Garnto, Master Gardener Make sure to “LIKE” the City of O’Fallon’s
Facebook Page
The City Corner
An Update from O’Fallon City Hall
Important Dates:
Municipal Budget Season:
It is budget season again for the City of O’Fallon.
The municipal fiscal year begins on May 1st
and the City is required by law to operate
under a balanced budget. While the economy
has shown signs of life, next year’s operating
budget is no-frills and status quo. The schedule
for the budget approval process is as follows:
03/07
City Council Meeting at City
Hall
03/15
General Primary Election in
Illinois
03/21
City Council Meeting at City
Hall
04/01
Only Fools Run at Night
April Fools 5k Run
04/04
City Council Meeting at City
Hall
04/18
City Council Meeting at City
Hall
•January - February: O’Fallon City Staff drafts a proposed budget.
•February - March: Proposed budget is reviewed by all City Committees
•April 4: The proposed budget goes for first reading at the City Council Meeting
•April 18: City Council formally approves the budget at a second reading.
•May 1: City begins operating under the newly approved budget.
As always, there are numerous projects planned and budgeted for in the next fiscal
year. Next month, after the City Council reviews the budget, more specifics will be
provided.
Property Tax Levy:
Click on the image above to view
the “Inside O’Fallon” Newsletter.
Property taxes are one of the primary ways for municipalities to raise revenue
for community services. Towns and cities use the proceeds from levying property
taxes to fund law enforcement and emergency
service personnel wages, to install and maintain
roadways and traffic equipment (such as
streetlights and road signs), and to pay for other
services that benefit the community.
Residents of O’Fallon pay personal property
taxes each year with the City receiving
approximately 10.4% of the total property tax
bill (see pie chart to the left).
In budget year 2016-2017, the City has
requested a total of $5,569,429 in Property
Tax levy revenue. The pie chart to the
right shows how the City’s 10.4% portion
of these taxes is allocated within the City’s
budget. Less than 5% goes into the General
Fund which provides for police protection
and street maintenance along with general
administrative services. The Library has its
own tax levy of $1,006,601.
The City of O’Fallon’s Economic
Development Profile, which includes
local demographics, economic incentive policies and districts, traffic
counts, and more can be accessed
by clicking on the image above.
Page 19 We Salute Our St
Call us 618‐632‐3377 to find out the advantages of being star investor and how to become one! r Investors!
Country Estate Kennel Coyote Consulting LLC Denny’s O’Fallon Diel & Forguson Discount Storage Drury Inn & Suites FCB O’Fallon Bank First Bank First Clover Leaf Bank Fulford Homes Fulford Home Remodeling Gander Mountain GCS Credit Union Hancock Irrigation Services, Inc. Susan Cantonwine, Financial Advisor Hilton Garden Inn Natalie Cortese, Financial Advisor Holland Construction Services Joe Delsignore, Financial Advisor Illinois American Water Mark Hansen, Financial Advisor Jack Schmitt Cadillac of Dave Kelahan, Financial Advisor Michael J. Oestereich, Financial Advisor O’Fallon Jason Stone, Financial Advisor Jack Schmitt Chevrolet of Todd Stonewater, Financial Advisor O’Fallon Korte & Luitjohan One‐Star Investors Contractors, Inc. 1st Source Contractors La Casa Mexicana of O’Fallon 1st National Bank of Waterloo Lashley Animal Hospital Associated Bank Lucky Dog Barks & Recreation Bank of Belleville Maxim Healthcare Services Bank of O’Fallon McKendree University Belleville News Democrat Midwest Regional Bank BOS Metro East Banking Center Navy Federal Credit Union C&C Sports O’Fallon Progress/ Cambridge Capital Command Post Management, LLC Padgett Building & Remodeling Catholic Community Credit Co., Inc. Union Photographique LLC/ Central Bank of St. Louis Studio 50 Photo Centrue Bank PNC Bank Clete’s, Inc. Providence Bank Commerce Bank Regions Bank CarMax Reliance Bank Four‐Star Investors City of O’Fallon Memorial Hospital ‐ Belleville Memorial Hospital ‐ East Memorial Medical Group Village of Shiloh Two‐Star Investors American Eagle Credit Union Cothrine & Associates Veteran Corps of America Edward Jones Investments Lisa Anglin, Financial Advisor R & W Builders, Inc. Scott Credit Union ServiceMaster Restoration by ATK Sigman Heating & Air Conditioning Spectra Graphics SSM Health Medical Group St. Elizabeth’s Hospital ‐ HSHS TechKnow Solutions, Inc. TheBANK of Edwardsville The Egg and I The Hills Golf Club at McKendree University The Regency Conference Center US Bank Veterans United Home Loans Walmart O’Fallon Page 20
March 2016 P.O. Box 371 116 East First Street O’Fallon, IL 62269‐2126 www.OFallonChamber.com Services: Maps: First One is Free, Each Additional is $1 Getting Your Name Out: Newsletter Sponsor: $100, Featured Business Article: $75 Full Page Ad: $50, 1/2 Page Ad: $35, 1/4 Page Ad: $25 Click on flier for more detailed information. Download our
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This Month’s front page Newsletter Sponsor: The O’Fallon Progress | Command Post 3/8 8:30 a.m. Education Committee Meeting | O’Fallon District 90 Offices | 118 E. Washington 3/9 11:45 a.m. Member Luncheon | O’Fallon Columbus Club | 402 E. Hwy 50 ‐ RSVP 3/10 3:30 p.m. Military Affair Committee meeting | Chamber Depot 3/15 5:00 p.m. Business After Hours | Memorial Hospital East | 1404 Cross Street,Shiloh ‐ RSVP 3/16 9:00 a.m. Ribbon Cutting | CarMax | 1254 Central Park Drive, O’Fallon 3/17 7:30 a.m. Economic Development Committee Meeting | SPvG ‐ 475 Regency Park, Ste. 175 3/18 7:30 a.m. Business Over Breakfast |Public Safety Building ‐ RSVP 3/21 7:30 a.m. Executive Board Meeting | Chamber Depot 3/21 12:00 p.m. Member Benefits Orientation | Chamber Depot 3/22 11:30 a.m. Ribbon Cutting | Wit Café | 747 Seibert Road (just outside Shiloh Gate) 3/23 8:00 a.m. Board of Directors Meeting | Chamber Depot 3/31 5:00 p.m. Ribbon Cutting | Apex Network Physical Therapy | 210 Hartman Lane, Ste. 500