On March 9, 2013 at the Chamber’s Annual Community Awards & Dinner Auction, the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce will present awards to members of our community – the Albert Cassens Award for Outstanding Community Achievement, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Tallerico Leadership Award. The Chamber is seeking nominations for these prestigious awards. The Business of the Year Award will also be presented.

Nominations for all three awards will be accepted through February 6, 2013. 
CLICK HERE to download the Cassens nomination form.
CLICK HERE to download the Tallerico nomination form.
CLICK HERE to download the Lifetime Achievement nomination form.

The Albert Cassens Award for Outstanding Community Achievement was established by the Chamber of Commerce in 1993 and is presented to an individual who has given freely of his or her time to the community, made a significant impact on the community during the previous calendar year, and is an active, upstanding citizen. Previous recipients include Mary Kane, Robert Wetzel, Robert Plummer, Robert McClellan, Jamie Henderson, Jeff Lantz, Joe Gugger, Dr. David Werner, Jean Hughes, Don Metzger, Dr. Dale Chapman, Tom Allen, Dennis Terry, Chuck Tosovsky, Mark Shashek, John Motley, Mark Mestemacher, Herman Shaw and 2012 winner SJ Morrison.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was established in 2009 and is be presented to an exceptional individual who has made a significant positive impact on the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon community through his or her past achievements over a long period of time and has enhanced the quality of life for Edwardsville/Glen Carbon residents. Gary Coffey was the 2009 recipient, the late Dr. Robert Koepke received the honor in 2010, in 2011 Edward T. McCarthy was honored, and in 2012 the late Robert Wetzel received the award.

The Tallerico Leadership Award replaced the ATHENA Award in 2010. Rich Tallerico brought the ATHENA International Award to the Edwarsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce in 1986. The purpose of the Tallerico Leadership Award remains the same - to bring into focus the outstanding professional and business women within our community and to encourage the opening of leadership opportunities for women within the community's workplaces. Joan Lebkeucher received the Tallerico Leadership Award in 2010, Dr. Carol Keene in 2011, and in 2012 Teresa Katubig was honored.

Criteria for the Tallerico Leadership Award are as follows: The local award will recognize an individual who mentors others and provides a role model to encourage women to achieve their full leadership potential as well as for the recipient's own business or professional accomplishments and community service. Both men and women who have demonstrated support for the leadership development of professional women are eligible for the Tallerico Leadership Award.

Previous local ATHENA Award recipients include Edna Wolfe, Delores Gooch, Nina Baird, Rosemary Bratten, Evelyn Bowles, Barbara Crowder, Stephanie Robbins, Jill Dufner, Sue Pedersen, Janet Foehrkolb, Evelyn Wiechman, Joan Foster, Meta Minton, Susan Donnelly, Bobby Ragan, Joyce Williams, Dr. Almeda Lahr-Well, Carol Wetzel, Suzanne Dietrich, Kay Werner, Donna Bardon, Barbara Jurgena-Stamer, Elizabeth Levy, Patricia Peverly.

Thank you for your assistance as we strive to honor those who make Edwardsville and Glen Carbon such great communities in which to live and work.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support. For information on Ed/Glen Chamber membership, go to edglenchamber.com or call 618.656.7600.

Applications are now available for 2013 Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce scholarships: two $1,000 scholarships and one $1,500 scholarship are available. CLICK HERE to download the application.
 
The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce will award one $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Edwardsville High School, Metro East Lutheran High School, Lahr-Well Academy, or a home-schooled student living in District 7. One $1,000 scholarship will also be awarded to a student currently attending either Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) or Lewis and Clark Community College. New in 2013 is one $1,500 scholarship awarded to a student entering his or her junior or senior year of study in the SIUE School of Business.
 
Scholarships are made possible through fundraising each August at the SIUE Welcome Back Block Party, where the Ed/Glen Chamber serves as the exclusive beer provider. All proceeds from Block Party beer sales support the Chamber's scholarship fund. In 2012 the Block Party was taken on by the Ed/Glen Chamber’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) as their signature philanthropic effort.
 
“Excellent weather and large crowds the past couple of years led to increased sales. That continued success has allowed us to offer an additional scholarship in the amount of $1,500 to an SIUE School of Business upperclassman,” said Executive Director Desiree Bennyhoff.
 
The application is to be completed by any student wishing to be considered for one of the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce scholarships. The scholarship committee will review all applications and make awards to students whose academic history and activities show the most promise.
 
Applicants will be assessed according to GPA/SAT/ACT scores or equivalent, activities, awards, community service, and an essay describing their educational plans and career objectives, and why applicants feel they should receive the scholarship.
 
Applications for 2013 Chamber of Commerce Scholarship are available at edglenchamber.com and must be postmarked by April 5, 2013. For more information, contact the Ed/Glen Chamber office at 618.656.7600.
 
The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the businesses that have generously supported the 2012 Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commecrce golf tournament, hosted at Edwardsville's beautiful Sunset Hills Country Club. This annual event is a great opportunity for businesses & organizations to market themselves, treat employees, and host clients.

The tournament includes 18 holes of tournament golf with cart, beverages on the course, and dinner - all to benefit the many community programs and activities supported by the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VICE PRESIDENT'S CIRCLE SPONSOR:
The Edwardsville Intelligencer

EVENT SPONSORS:
Cassens & Sons (hole in one sponsor)
Global Brew Tap House & Lounge (beverage sponsor)
First Clover Leaf Bank (putting green sponsor)
Penn Station (lunch sponsor)
TheBANK of Edwardsville (golf cart sponsor)

EXCLUSIVE HOLE SPONSORS:
Scott Credit Union
Mathis, Marifian & Richter, LTD

TEE SPONSORS:
1st MidAmerica Credit Union
Ameren Illinois
Anderson Hospital
BarberMURPHY Group
Crawford, Murphy & Tilley
Edwardsville Wrestling Club
Extra Help, Inc.
First Christian Church
First Community State Bank
Hortica Insurance & Employee Benefits
Hudson Jewelers
Illinois State Representative Dwight Kay
Kettle River Furniture
Madison Mutual Insurance Company
National Bank
Southern Illinois Underwriters Agency
St. John's Community Care
TheEDGEBANK
Wenzel & Associates Ltd.
West & Company, LLC

DONORS:
American Family Insurance
Bull & Bear Grill & Bar
Chick Fritz Distributing
Collision Plus of Glen Carbon
Denny's
Gateway Grizzlies
Goddard School
Incredible Events by '62 Sports Group
Jacoby Arts Center
LaBest, Inc.
Logo It! @ Langa
Mr. Handyman of Madison County
Olive Oils & More
Peel Wood Fired Pizza
PNC Bank
Regions Bank
Shop 'n Save
Sips n Splatters
USO of Missouri

GOODIE BAG SPONSORS:
Burns & Associates Management, LLC
Chamber Internet Solutions
Express Employment Professionals
Hudson Jewelers
Integrated Medical Group
Mr. Handyman of Madison County
Olive Oils & More
SSM Physical Therapy
The Garden Kingdom
The Tutoring Center

The 2012 Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce golf tournament is Friday, June 22 at Edwardsville's beautiful Sunset Hills Country Club. The tournament is a great opportunity to market your business, treat your employees, and host potential or current clients.

We hope you are able to attend and enjoy the all-inclusive format, including:

• Unlimited use of driving range & putting green
• Contests & prizes
• 18 holes of tournament golf with cart
• Lunch & beverages on the course
• Dinner reception with awards
• Chance to win hole-in-one car

Registration begins at 8am with a shotgun start at 9:30am. Foursomes, twosomes, and individual players are encouraged to register. Deadline for registration is Friday, June 15, and payment must accompany registration. Refunds will not be issued after June 18.

Click here to download the registration form.
Click here to download the sponsorship form.


We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the businesses that have generously supported the 2012 Ed/Glen Chamber golf tournament.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VICE PRESIDENT'S CIRCLE SPONSOR: 
The Edwardsville Intelligencer.

EVENT SPONSORS:

• Cassens & Sons (hole in one sponsor)
• Global Brew Tap House & Lounge (beverage sponsor)
• First Clover Leaf Bank (putting green sponsor)
• Penn Station (lunch sponsor)
• TheBANK of Edwardsville (golf cart sponsor)

EXCLUSIVE HOLE SPONSORS:

• Scott Credit Union
• Mathis, Marifian & Richter, LTD

TEE SPONSORS:

• 1st MidAmerica Credit Union
• Ameren Illinois
• Anderson Hospital
• BarberMURPHY Group
• Crawford, Murphy & Tilley
• Edwardsville Wrestling Club
• Extra Help, Inc.
• First Christian Church
• First Community State Bank
• Hortica Insurance & Employee Benefits
• Hudson Jewelers
• Illinois State Representative Dwight Kay
• Kettle River Furniture
• Madison Mutual Insurance Company
• National Bank
• Southern Illinois Underwriters Agency
• St. John's Community Care
• TheEDGEBANK
• Wenzel & Associates Ltd.
• West & Company, LLC

Ed/Glen Chamber members have the benefit of submitting event information, press releases, and job openings to our website FREE of charge! We encourage you to make the most of this exclusive member benefit. It's a quick and easy way to extend the reach of your message and broaden your business or organization's impact!

The primary contact for every Ed/Glen Chamber membership was emailed a username & password for our new website Thursday, May 24. If you are the primary contact for your business or organization and did not receive that email, you can:

• Go to www.edglenchamber.com
• Click on ‘MEMBER LOGIN’ on the right
• Submit your email address in the ‘Forgot Your Password?’ section
• Your user name & password will be emailed to you

Please call (618) 656-7600 to have a username & password assigned to an additional contact for your business or organization.

Join the Ed/Glen Chamber on a trip to Beijing, China! Take in everything from the thrill of walking on the Great Wall to exploring historic Tiananmen Square by experiencing the heart of Beijing on a tour with Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce and Travel Express. The trip, Beijing City Stay, is scheduled through leading tour operator Collette Vacations.

The Beijing City Stay tour departs April 29, 2013, for nine days. Travelers will enjoy the quiet pleasure of lunch with a local family at their Hutong home, visit the pandas at the Beijing Zoo, and venture to the Valley of the Ming Tombs and the 2008 Olympic Green with its famous Water Cube and Bird's Nest.

Learn about jade carving and design custom-made jade name seal stamp. Savor traditional Chinese food and drink, including dumpling making and tea ceremony. Explore the Summer Palace, ranked among the most noted classical gardens in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be treated to a dinner featuring Peking Duck, followed by a colorful performance of the Peking Opera. And visit the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other rooms and buildings which have been home to 24 Chinese Emperors over 491 years.

Interested travelers can learn more about the tour by attending a free and informational presentation from Lora Carlson of Collette Vacations.

WHEN: 5:30pm July 11, 2012
WHERE: 200 University Park Drive in Edwardsville (Room 1127)

Call (618) 656-7600 to RSVP for the presentation.

Collette Vacations is a family-owned business headquartered in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.  For over 90 years, Collette’s team of travel enthusiasts has fulfilled millions of vacation dreams, offering 150 programs to destinations on all 7 continents. Their diverse travel roster features inclusive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, family vacations and more. With knowledgeable, professional tour managers, an industry-leading cancellation waiver, and complimentary roundtrip home to airport sedan service on all air-inclusive tours, Collette seamlessly takes care of the details, making travel simple while providing outstanding quality and value.

The 2012 Ed/Glen Chamber Golf Challenge is scheduled for June 22 at Sunset Hills Country Club in Edwardsville. The golf outing is a great opportunity to market your business, treat your employees, and host your clients.

We hope you’re able to attend and enjoy lunch on the course, 18 holes of tournament golf with cart, beverages on the course, and dinner – all to benefit the many community programs and activities supported by the chamber.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION: Foursomes registered before June 1 will be entered into a drawing for one foursome to play in the USO's annual tournament. This is a rare opportunity for civilians to golf at Scott Air Force Base on Cardinal Creek Golf Course. The USO is known for a great golf outing. Register early so that you don't miss out on this chance!

Registration begins at 8am with a shotgun start at 9:30am. Our all-inclusive format includes 18 holes of golf with cart, unlimited use of the driving range and putting green, contests and prizes, lunch and beverages on the course, dinner reception with awards ceremony, and the chance to win the Hole in One car, courtesy of Cassens & Sons.

Foursomes, twosomes, and individual players are encouraged to register. Download the registration and sponsorship forms today. Deadline for registration is Friday, June 15, and payment must accompany registration. Refunds will not be issued after June 18.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support. For more information on membership in the Ed/Glen Chamber, call 618.656.7600.

Plan to attend the 2012 professional education HR/Legal Series: Work Smarter, Not Harder!

The first session will be held Tuesday, January 24 from 8:30-11:30am at Glen Carbon Hampton Inn. Representatives from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) will provide guests with valuable information about fighting unemployment claims.

This series of professional education programs will help you run your business more efficiently and positively impact your bottom line. Networking and breakfast begins at 8am. Educational programs are from 8:30-10:30am with Q&A session included.

Cost to attend the series of six sessions is $100 per person ($150 non-members), or $20 per session ($30 non-members).

JANUARY 24
Fighting Unemployment Claims with IDES

MARCH 27
Managing Employee Leave
presented by Thomas E. Berry, Jr.
Balancing an employer’s obligation toward employees with medical restrictions can be daunting and perplexing. This program will explain the overlapping obligations under the laws addressing disability discrimination, medical leave and workers’ compensation, and it will provide practical guidelines and solutions to the most common situations.

MAY 22
Business Succession Planning
presented by Bhavik R. Patel
In this session you will plan an effective succession of management and ownership of your business, determine the right triggering events for a buy-sell agreement, determine the right valuation of your business, and determine the best method for payment of purchase price.

JULY 24
The Employment Relationship in the Age of Social Media
presented by Thomas E. Berry, Jr.
As social media technology continues to expand, the law is slow to catch up. This program will identify not only the legal risks that employers may inadvertently violate, but it will also offer practical solutions for employers to balance their rights and responsibilities with employee
expectations and legal protections.

SEPTEMBER 25
The Do’s & Don’ts of Hiring, Disciplining & Firing Employees:
How to Do It Right & Avoid Lawsuits
presented by Thomas E. Berry, Jr.
Hiring, documenting and firing are three of the greatest challenges that managers face in their careers. Join our speakers who will share their experiences and expertise in hiring ideal candidates and making termination decisions.

NOVEMBER 27
Protecting Your Trade Secrets & Business Name
presented by Philip J. Lading
The tension between protecting business assets with an employee’s right to earn a living and change employers are in tension as employers try to restrict competition or the disclosure of proprietary information and business records. This program will help identity what type of
agreement to utilize and how to enforce these agreements.

This professional education series is proudly brought to you by the attorneys at Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard and the Ed/Glen Chamber's professional education committee.

Thomas E. Berry, Jr. is a shareholder of Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard and serves as Practice Group Leader for Business Litigation and leads the employment law team. Tom is also part of the Business Law Practice Group. He focuses his practice in the areas of labor and employment law with regards to all aspects of employment litigation, employment counseling and immigration. Tom has extensive litigation experience which permits him to effectively counsel and advise clients on a variety of employment related issues in order to insure that effective human
resource practices and procedures are followed in order to minimize any additional exposure.

Philip J. Lading is a shareholder of Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard and primarily practices in the firm’s Business and Business Litigation Practice Groups. Phil has extensive experience in municipal, local and state law, business and commercial litigation, insurance defense litigation, insurance coverage disputes and family law. He also serves as the City Attorney for Staunton,
IL, and the Village Attorney for both New Douglas, IL, and Hamel, IL.

Bhavik R. Patel joined Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard in 2004 and is the Business Law Practice Group Leader. Additionally, he is the Chair of the firm’s Wealth Planning Group and Special Needs Planning Group. Bhavik is also the managing member of the firm’s O’Fallon, IL office. He practices in both the Business and Business Litigation Practice Groups and focuses in
the following areas: wealth/tax planning & administration; business/corporate planning; special needs planning; probate & trust litigation; FINRA litigation; and trademarks.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce is holding its first cash mob event Saturday, March 24 in conjunction with National Cash Mob Day (www.cashmob.com). The cash mob is planned for 1pm Saturday at Olive Oils & More, located at 1063 South IL Route 157, Suite 6, in Edwardsville (behind Bella Milano).

“Last week I read an article about National Cash Mob Day and thought it would be great to bring a cash mob to the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon area. This is such a unique way to garner support for local business, and it’s fun. I hope the community comes out this Saturday in a show of support for Olive Oils & More. It’s an opportunity to make a difference in the success of a local business,” said Cathy Hamilton, who serves on the Ed/Glen Chamber’s board of directors.

This inaugural event invites residents to come out in a show of support for a local business. As the week unfolds, announcements about the cash mob will be posted on the Ed/Glen Chamber’s social media platforms. Participants are encouraged to show up at a specific time and place and be prepared to spend $20 in the designated local retail venue.

“Changes in the economy have hit small businesses hard, making it more important than ever for them to receive support from their communities,” said Executive Director Lisa Smith.

The first cash mob was organized in August, 2011. A cash mob is similar to a flash mob, but instead of showing up at a location to sing or dance, a cash mob gathers at a local retail establishment to spend money. Both types of groups usually communicate upcoming events through social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter. The goal of a cash mob is to promote spending at independent, locally owned businesses, to infuse the local economy and maintain its strength.

There is more to a cash mob than just spending money. It is about helping a local business in need that has given time and resources to improve the community. The cash mob provides the business media coverage, which encourages more consumers to shop at the location. The ultimate goal is to transform cash mob participants into regular customers.

Smith said that if this event is successful, the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce may hold more cash mob events in the future.

The Ed/Glen Chamber invites you to get more information by going to its Facebook page and ‘liking’ the organization. Twitter and email notifications will also include up-to-date cash mob information. To ‘like’ the Ed/Glen Chamber on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/EdGlenCOC. Follow their Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/EdGlenChamber. Please plan to attend the first official cash mob in the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon area this Saturday, March 24. To learn more about cash mobs, go to www.cashmob.com.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support. For information on Ed/Glen Chamber membership, go to www.edglenchamber.com or call 618.656.7600.

Location & Time Will Be Announced Wednesday, March 21

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce is holding its first cash mob event Saturday, March 24 in conjunction with National Cash Mob Day (www.cashmob.com). The plan is to surprise a local business owner by having the cash mob appear ready to spend money this Saturday.

This inaugural event invites residents to come out in a show of support for a local business. As the week unfolds, announcements about the cash mob will be posted on the Ed/Glen Chamber’s social media platforms. Participants are encouraged to show up at a specific time and place and be prepared to spend $20 in the designated local retail venue.

“Changes in the economy have hit small businesses hard, making it more important than ever for them to receive support from their communities,” said Executive Director Lisa Smith.

The first cash mob was organized in August, 2011. A cash mob is similar to a flash mob, but instead of showing up at a location to sing or dance, a cash mob gathers at a local retail establishment to spend money. Both types of groups usually communicate upcoming events through social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter. The goal of a cash mob is to promote spending at independent, locally owned businesses, to infuse the local economy and maintain its strength.

There is more to a cash mob than just spending money. It is about helping a local business in need that has given time and resources to improve the community. The cash mob provides the business media coverage, which encourages more consumers to shop at the location. The ultimate goal is to transform cash mob participants into regular customers.

Smith said that if this event is successful, the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce may hold more cash mob events in the future.

The Ed/Glen Chamber invites you to get more information by going to its Facebook page and ‘liking’ the organization. Twitter and email notifications will also include up-to-date cash mob information. To ‘like’ the Ed/Glen Chamber on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/EdGlenCOC. Follow their Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/EdGlenChamber. Please plan to attend the first official cash mob in the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon area this Saturday, March 24. To learn more about cash mobs, go to www.cashmob.com.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support. For information on Ed/Glen Chamber membership, go to www.edglenchamber.com or call 618.656.7600.

The following article was written by St. Louis Regional Chamber & Growth Association (RCGA) President & CEO Richard C.D. Fleming. The RCGA is the chamber of commerce & economic development organization for the bi-state region.

On January 13, 2011, the Illinois General Assembly passed and the Governor signed into law Act 96-1496 which is intended to address the State’s ongoing deficits by generating $7 billion in additional revenue. Since then, much has been in the national news as Illinois and virtually every other state works to manage budget shortfalls that have resulted from the brutal recession and the expiration of federal stimulus dollars.

Several governors, several of whom have greater political aspirations, have been filling the air waves with memorable sound bites that take shots at Illinois. Appealing to their own home state voters, they have bragged of snagging jobs for their state via sales trips to the Land of Lincoln.   What is the truth of the matter, and should Illinois be concerned that it may now be unable to compete for the jobs of the future?

It’s important to remember that the tax increases are temporary responses to what will hopefully be a temporary problem. These increases are set to begin rolling back in 4 years, and completely expire in 2025. We need to be confident that as our nation fully recovers from the recession, as it always has for over 200 years, businesses will invest in the future, unemployment will drop, payrolls will expand, and state revenues will increase — making such higher rates of taxation unnecessary for the long term.

Illinois is certainly not alone in dealing with difficult budget issues since the worldwide recession has created havoc for entire nations around the globe and our own federal budget. Since 2009, some 34 states have raised taxes (or “fees” — which is more acceptable sounding) to help close budget shortfalls.

The real reason some governors from smaller states are targeting Illinois is due to the enormous economic engine and source of jobs that Illinois represents. Illinois, with its diverse metropolitan areas, global corporate headquarters, critical military installations, fertile farm grounds, rivers, highways, rail, and one of the world’s busiest airports — ranks 5th nationally with a Gross State Product of $633 billion. Illinois is the 27th largest economy in the world — greater than Sweden, Egypt, Belgium , Saudi Arabia, Columbia, Greece, Ireland and Portugal, to name a few.

Everyone would like lower taxes, whether they are corporate taxes, individual taxes, sales taxes, or property taxes. Tax rates are an important consideration for a company that is considering expanding in or relocating to Illinois. But are tax rates the main consideration for businesses and individuals? The truth is that businesses consider a wide range of factors when considering where to locate, and taxes are not at the top of the list.

Area Development Magazine is the national publication that covers the site and facility planning industry. Its readers are among the nation’s corporate real estate executives and management consultants that advise companies where they should locate or expand their next plant, distribution facility, or company location. Area Development has conducted an annual survey for the past 25 years to determine what is important to site selectors and what factors drive their decisions.

Their survey among corporations consistently finds that corporate tax levels are #6 on the list, following other  concerns such as highway and transportation accessibility, labor costs, tax exemptions, construction costs, and the recently-emerging issue of state and local incentives that are routinely offered. A parallel survey among site selection consultants who make these recommendations reveals that corporate taxes fall even further to 9th place, trailing operational concerns such energy costs, proximity to major markets, and availability of skilled labor. So taxes are important, but they are not paramount in the site selection process.

One last point to note is that even with the recent increases, Illinois’ tax rates are not substantially different than many of its adjoining states. The non-partisan Tax Foundation finds that Illinois’ overall tax rank will still be less than neighboring Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.    And Illinois’ individual income tax rate will still be the 14th lowest in the nation — lower than Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. And many Illinois businesses are “S-corps” which means they will see no increases at all since they elect to pass income and deductions through to
their shareholders for federal tax purposes.

Given that these tax increases are now a fact of life, let’s urge our elected officials to make the difficult decisions, such as cutting unnecessary spending and reforming ineffective, harmful regulations that hamper business. If this is done, the Illinois economy can once again grow and produce jobs. This may well be the best course of action to ensure that the recent tax increases are, in fact, temporary.

The Annual Community Awards & Dinner Auction was a success with more than 325 community professionals in attendance this past Saturday evening. Our fundraising goals were met with the assistance of many volunteers, sponsors and donors; without your support each year we would not be able to provide many of our services. Your contributions truly do make a difference.

Dr. Vaughn Vandegrift, retiring SIUE chancellor, was honored with the Synergy Award for his significant contributions toward creating a climate of collaboration throughout our region.

SJ Morrison, 2012 Albert Cassens Award for Outstanding Community Achievement honoree, was presented the award by 2009 Cassens Award winner John Motley. SJ works for Madison County Transit and was recognized for his impact on the Ed/Glen community, including his efforts in the hugely successful annual Edwardsville Rotary Criterium event.

Teresa Katubig was presented the 2012 Tallerico Leadership Award by Dr. Carol Keene, who received the Tallerico recognition in 2011. Teresa, president & CEO of Extra Help, Inc., was honored for her exceptional business acumen, community service, and encouraging women to achieve their full leadership potential.

Robert Wetzel, retired from TheBANK of Edwardsville, was presented the Lifetiem Achievement Award by his children, Andrea Wetzel-Darbon & Scott Wetzel, for his lifetime of leadership, civic contributions and dedication to our community.

In the early hours of February 29, Harrisburg, IL was hit with an EF4 tornado. Recent reports state that more than 100 people were injured, 6 pronounced dead, 300 homes and 35 businesses were damaged. Two Ed/Glen Chamber members are orchestrating a supply drive this week and we invite you to help if you're able. Please drop off items at The Goddard School (801 South Arbor Vitae in Edwardsville) before this Saturday, as the items will be delivered to Harrisburg Saturday morning. Please direct questions to The Goddard School at 618.692.9464.

Recommended donation items include: adult clothing, children's clothing, adult and children's socks and underwear, canned goods and non-perishable items, paper products, baby items, hygiene products, cleaning supplies & plastic storage totes.

Many families throughout our region have been affected by severe weather. It is our hope that we will be able to make a small difference for other Illinois families in their time of need.

It has been brought to our attention that Governor Quinn has proposed in his budget plan to move the Illinois State Police Dispatch Center from the State Police Headquarters in Collinsville to Springfield. Under his proposal the dispatch center in Springfield would dispatch State Police units in 39 counties. For citizens in the in the Metro East region, including the Troy area, this means that if you call the state police with an emergency the telephone will be answered in Springfield by people who are not familiar with our geographic area and specific needs.

When you need emergency services, the people answering the telephone should be professionals who are familiar with the area and the resources available immediately, and not have to look them up from an office in Springfield.

This is a public safety issue for all of us. You are urged to call or e-mail our state legislators and let them know that this is not acceptable, that our safety should be a priority, and those services should not be diminished - they should be kept in Collinsville.

Governor Quinn states that this move is going to save the state money, but he is not planning on closing any buildings. The only thing that this relocation would accomplish is diminishing services and creating hardships on the employees and their families.

Please pass this information on and encourage everyone to call or e-mail to voice their opinion.

Below is a list of area legislators:

Rep. Daniel V. Beiser
terridan@charter.net
(618) 465-5900

Rep. Dwight Kay
dwightkay112@gmail.com
(618) 307-9200

Rep. Jerry F. Costello II
staterepcostello@gmail.com
(618) 443-5757

Rep. Eddie Jackson Jr.
bbsty2010@gmail.com
(618) 875-9950

Rep. Jim Watson
jimwatson@localnetco.com
(217) 243-6221

Rep. John Cavaletto
john@johncavaletto.com
(618) 548-9080

Rep. Paul Evans
staterepevans@gmail.com
(618) 651-0405

Rep. Scott Penny
scottp@ilga.gov
(618) 394-2211

Sen. David Luechtefeld
sendavel@midwest.net
(618) 243-9014

Sen. Kyle McCarter
senatormccarter51@att.net
(618) 654-4068

Sen. William Claybourne
jclayborne@senatedem.ilga.gov
(618) 875-1212

Sen. William Haine
whaine@senatedem.ilga.gov
(618) 465-4764

Sen. Wm. Sam McCann
SenatorSam@frontier.com
(217) 854-4441

The Ed/Glen Chamber’s new map project kicks off this month! The Ed/Glen Street Map & Resource Guide is one of the most effective marketing tools we offer our members. It is the only map endorsed & distributed by the Ed/Glen Chamber.

The map is a vital tool for marketing our area to visitors, new residents and new or relocating businesses. Thousands of copies of this map will be distributed over the next few years. The map will also feature an online component. By advertising on the printed version, users will be able to view your ad online.

Since 2002, we have partnered with CommunityLink, the industry leader in Chamber publishing. CommunityLink has a dedicated team of professionals working to provide us with a map that proudly represents our area.

Our project consultant, Eddie Hebron, will be visiting members in March to share the opportunities for marketing your business in this publication. Ads are available in a variety of sizes and prices, so if the map is a good fit for your marketing strategy, we can find a fit for your budget as well.

We encourage you to participate in this publication to give your business exposure to Chamber members, newcomers and new businesses. Limited spaces are available! For more information, please contact Eddie today at 1.800.455.5600 Ext. 2029 or Eddie.Hebron@CommunityLink.com.

The Ed/Glen Chamber's annual Breakfast with the Mayors is scheduled for Thursday, April 19 in the Leclaire Room at Lewis and Clark Community College. Join the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce for breakfast as they host Mayor Gary Niebur of the City of Edwardsville and Mayor Robert Jackstadt of the Village of Glen Carbon.

A full breakfast buffet begins at 7:30am, and introductions, welcome and program will begin at 8am. The fee to attend is $20 per person. Deadline for registration is Friday, April 13. Call 618.656.7600 to RSVP and learn about Mayors' Breakfast sponsorship opportunities.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support. For more information on membership in the Ed/Glen Chamber, call 618.656.7600.

Applications are now available for the 2012 Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce Scholarship.

The application is to be completed by all students who wish to be considered for the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce Scholarship. The scholarship committee will review all applications and make awards to students whose academic history and activities show the most promise.

The Chamber of Commerce will award one $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Edwardsville High School, Metro East Lutheran High School, Lahr-Well Academy, or a home-schooled student living in District 7. The Chamber will also award one $1,000 scholarship to a student currently attending either Southern Illinois University Edwardsville or Lewis and Clark Community College.

All applications must be postmarked by April 6, 2012. For more information, contact the Chamber office at 618.656.7600.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce government affairs committee and The Goddard School invite you to attend the 1st Annual Legislative Summit: A Valentine Date with the State. This is an opportunity to interact with your State of Illinois legislators in a panel discussion format, complete with Q&A session.

The Legislative Summit will take place Tuesday, February 14 from 7:30-9am in the Leclaire Room at Lewis and Clark Community College's N.O. Nelson campus. Cost is $20 per person and includes a buffet breakfast. Deadline to RSVP is Monday, February 6.

Call 618.656.7600 to inquire about sponsorships.

Our second annual trivia night is scheduled for Friday, January 13. Brought to you by the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by St. Mary's Catholic Church, the event will begin at 7pm in the St. Mary's Church gym. Round up your team of geniuses and join us for FRIGHTFULLY FUN TRIVIA if you dare, and a great comany team building opportunity!

- Full table of 8 for $100; Individual seat is $15 per person
- Bring your own food & beverages
- Registration deadline is Thursday, January 12

Sponsor one round of trivia at $100 (10 rounds available), or donate an attendance prize! Sponsors & donors will be recognized at the event and in Ed/Glen Chamber communications.

NOMINATION DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 7, 2012.

On March 3, 2012 at the Chamber’s Annual Community Awards Dinner Auction, the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce will present awards to members of our community – the Albert Cassens Award for Outstanding Community Achievement, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Tallerico Leadership Award. The chamber is seeking nominations for these prestigious awards which will be presented at the annual dinner in SIUE's Morris University Center Meridian Ballroom.

The Albert Cassens Award for Outstanding Community Achievement was established by the Chamber of Commerce in 1993 and is presented to an individual who has given freely of his or her time to the community, made a significant impact on the community during the 2010 calendar year, and is an active, upstanding citizen. Previous recipients include Mary Kane, Robert Wetzel, Robert Plummer, Robert McClellan, Jamie Henderson, Jeff Lantz, Joe Gugger, Dr. David Werner, Jean Hughes, Don Metzger, Dr. Dale Chapman, Tom Allen, Chuck Tosovsky, Mark Shashek, John Motley, Mark Mestemacher, and the 2011 winner – Herman Shaw.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was established in 2009 and is be presented to an exceptional individual who has made a significant positive impact on the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon community through his or her past achievements over a long period of time and has enhanced the quality of life for Edwardsville/Glen Carbon residents. Gary Coffey was the 2009 recipient, the late Dr. Robert Koepke received the honor in 2010, and in 2011 Edward T. McCarthy was honored.

The Tallerico Leadership Award replaced the ATHENA Award in 2010. Rich Tallerico brought the ATHENA International Award to the Edwarsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce in 1986. The purpose of the Tallerico Leadership Award remains the same - to bring into focus the outstanding professional and business women within our community and to encourage the opening of leadership opportunities for women within the community's workplaces. Joan Lebkeucher received the Tallerico Leadership Award in 2010, and in 2011 Dr. Carol Keene was honored.

Criteria for the Tallerico Leadership Award are as follows: The local award will recognize an individual who mentors others and provides a role model to encourage women to achieve their full leadership potential as well as for the recipient's own business or professional accomplishments and community service. Both men and women who have demonstrated support for the leadership development of professional women are eligible for the Tallerico Leadership Award.

Previous local ATHENA Award recipients include Edna Wolfe, Delores Gooch, Nina Baird, Rosemary Bratten, Evelyn Bowles, Barbara Crowder, Stephanie Robbins, Jill Dufner, Sue Pedersen, Janet Foehrkolb, Evelyn Wiechman, Joan Foster, Meta Minton, Susan Donnelly, Bobby Ragan, Joyce Williams, Dr. Almeda Lahr-Well, Carol Wetzel, Suzanne Dietrich, Kay Werner, Donna Bardon, Barbara Jurgena-Stamer, Elizabeth Levy, Patricia Peverly.

Nominations for all three awards will be accepted through February 7, 2012.

Thank you for your assistance as we strive to honor those who make Edwardsville and Glen Carbon such great communities in which to live and work.

The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the benefit of the business community by promoting economic opportunities, advocating the interests of business, providing members with education and resources, and encouraging mutual support. For more information on membership in the Ed/Glen Chamber, call 618.656.7600.