Following the April showers, tornadoes, thunder, lightning, and hail, it is nice to have sunshine and warm temps to venture out of the office. Taking a stroll around Chandler Park in the afternoon always provides a refreshing pause in the tasks of the day.
I did want to recap the busy month we just completed. Macomb Business Academy is in full gear, and the 18 participants have been learning a lot. Katy Valentin and Juile Anne Pickett have done a wonderful job facilitating the sessions. Graduation will be May 14.
Once again, I had the pleasure of speaking to and meeting with 14 outstanding high school students participating in the Macomb Youth Leadership Organization (MYLO). Over the next few months, I will be working to match these students with area businesses for the purpose of job shadowing. Your assistance and cooperation will be much appreciated.
I traveled to Springfield for Illinois Chamber Day and met with our state representatives to highlight issues of interest and concern. The time spent was much appreciated.
STEVEN BRODY
Executive Director
Finally, approximately 30 members heard from Amy Boston of Threology, as she presented “HR Wake Up Call: What Employers Get Wrong ” It was extremely informative and engaging for those in attendance. We will continue to strive to offer educational workshops to better serve our members.
The next Business After Hours will take place on May 20 at Kunes of Macomb. It will be held from 4:30-6pm, and as always, is only open to Chamber members as another benefit of membership Be sure to stop by as this one is sure to be well attended.
Registration is now open for the Chamber Golf Outing on Monday June 22 at Macomb Country Club. Now is the time to sign up your foursome or be one of our many sponsors Something new and exciting for this year is that we are offering morning and afternoon tee times. Now you can enjoy a round of golf before or after work. We hope this will encourage more participation as well as faster play.
If you haven’t made vacation plans, remember that our trip to Greece is still a viable option for you this Fall Final payments and registration must be received by June 21, and we need a minimum of 15 to embark on this incredible trip.
Don’t forget to keep watching social media to keep current with the ongoing installment of Stops with Steven. I will be out delivering Community Guides and visiting with members who have invited me over.
Thank you for your participation and partnership with the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce.
Steven
Hi Everybody,
Summer is creeping in, which usually means things are supposed to slow down a bit. Lighter schedules, a few out-of-office replies, maybe even a break here and there. That’s not the case at the Chamber.
If you’ve seen our event calendar or looked at your own lately, you know exactly what I’m talking about. What Summer slow down?
If you’ve glanced at our social media, you already know we don’t really do “quiet seasons.” Between networking events, trainings, ribbon cuttings, and everything in between, the pace doesn’t let up just because the weather gets nicer. If anything, summer just gives us better lighting for it (IYKYK)
We also know this time of year comes with its own kind of chaos. Kids are throwing permission slips at you, graduations are happening, vacations and activities are being planned in baseball parking lots, and everyone’s trying to balance work with the idea enjoying an upcoming Midwest summer (even for just a moment).
SHAY HOLLAND
Marketing Director
We get it. Honestly. That’s why there’s no pressure to be everywhere, just an open invitation to stay connected in whatever way makes sense for you.
Whether you pop into an event, host one, sponsor something, or just keep tabs on what’s happening, it all matters.
If you’re a digital scroller; find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tiktok. Also, every newsletter from the past year can be found on our website 24/7 for you.
If you are a get out of the office kind of person, we’d love to see you at Business After Hours, one of our educational workshops, the annual Golf Outing, or let’s do lunch!
If you simply just can’t do another thing, you can always sponsor an event, schedule an email blast, take advantage of our advertising opportunities, and let us do the rest for you.
Wherever you are in your career amd life, we have a spot for you here at the Chamber. You don’t have to be polished and professional and have it all together. Come as you are. If you spill on your shirt and drop things in our lobby, we’ll help you pick them up and carry on. No worries. We’re on your team.
Just show up; however that looks for you. My contact information is below and I encourage you to use it as many times as you need to; I promise no idea is too small or no question is too weird. That's what I, and the Macomb Area Chamber, are here for; to help you find the resources and information you need to be your best business self.
Let’s make it a great month!
Shay
APRIL RENEWALS
Thank you to our members who have continued their annual investment with us as we can continue our partnership for another great year. We appreciate your support of the area business community and wish you much success.
150% CLUB
The 150% Club is a voluntary membership enhancement to provide additional support to the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and it’s mission.
Dr.Matthew McClure
GREG J. BUTLER, CPA
150% CLUB
The 150% Club is a voluntary membership enhancement to provide additional support to the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and it’s mission.
S LE
FinancialAdvisor: SethMinter
KALI FOXALL S
COMMUNITY EVENTS
$40
WELCOME
COMMUNITY NEWS
Macomb Farmers Market ups accessibility
The Macomb Farmers Market will be participating in the Link Match Program, customers who shop with Link funds will receive double the amount in produce
Macomb Farmers Market also has volunteer opportunities available for individuals who may not be able to work, but need the volunteer hours for SNAP.
Information: Facebook - @macombfarmersmarket.
Illinois awards funds to local, public art projects
The Illinois Arts Council (IAC), in partnership with the Office of the Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois Humanities, awarded more than $325,000 to 22 public art projects throughout Illinois to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence These grants are part of a broader statewide effort led by the Illinois America 250 Commission to celebrate the nation's historic anniversary.
The City of Macomb was awarded $12,130.
The awarded projects, selected in collaboration with local municipalities and nonprofit organizations, will serve as a public testament to Illinois’ creativity and values, celebrating the state's role in the nation's ongoing story.
Information: arts.illinnois.gov
Comcast launches simplified plans for small businesses
Comcast Business has launched Total Solutions Advantage, a new suite of simplified, all-in-one technology plans that combine high-speed connectivity and built-in cybersecurity into a predictable monthly price starting at $60/month. Designed for small and growing businesses, the new plans reduce complexity, improve protection, and help owners stay focused on running their business.
Small business owers can explore Total Solutions Advantage and check local availability at comcastbusiness.com/small-business.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Local journalist takes home top honors
Champaign, IL – The Illinois News Broadcasters Association (INBA) Best of Broadcast Awards (were held April 18. Tri States Public Radio’s Rich Egger won the organizations most distinguished award for more than 40 years of commitment to the INBA and dedication to its mission of supporting journalists statewide
For more information, visit tspr.org
Macomb Area Chamber receives Better Business Bureau award
Peoria, IL – The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce has been awarded the 2025 Complaint Free Award from the Better Business Bureau of Central Illinois (BBB) for maintaining a spotless record for the past 12 months.
This reflect the Chamber’s commitment to integrity, customer care, and the high standards that define BBB Accredited Businesses.
BBB Accrediation is a promise that the Chamber will opearate with transparency, responsivenessm, and trust.
For information: visit bbb.com MDH welcomes orthopedic surgeon
Carthage, IL – Memorial Hospital is proud to announce an orthopedics partnership with McDonough District Hospital (MDH) and together they welcome Corey Welchlin, DO, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 35 years of experience to serve patients in Carthage and Macomb
Dr. Welchlin will see patients at Memorial Medical Clinic Carthage located at 1450 N. Co. Rd. 2050, Carthage IL. He will also see patients at MDH located at 525 East Grant Street, Macomb IL. Additionally, Dr. Welchlin will be performing orthopedic surgeries at both Memorial Hospital and MDH.
To schedule an appointment at either location, patients may call 309-836-1999.
RIBBON CUTTING
The Ambassador Committee of the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on April 13 to celebrate the relocation of Midwest Integrative Health, LLC to 217 N. Randolph Street in Macomb.
Midwest Integrative Health (MIH) is built on the foundation that modern medicine still needs a whole body approach to the care and overall wellness of each individual person. MIH is dedicated to delivering personalized care to all ages of life and promoting health and wellness from the inside out. Patient services include direct primary care, sick visits, telehealth, lab draws, total wellness including men and women’s health, hormone therapy, medical weight management, infusion therapy, and medical grade skincare including Dysport & filler injections, hydrafacial, microneedling and chemical peels.
The Ambassador Committee of the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on April 22 for BALANCE Education & Wellness Services operated within Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center at 118 N. Lafayette Street in Macomb, IL.
BALANCE brings together two complementary branches focused on whole-child and whole-community wellness. Breathe Into Balance Yoga supports children and families through mindful practices that build self-awareness, emotional steadiness, and confidence. Water & Stone partners with schools to strengthen social-emotional learning systems, and support the wellbeing of the educators who care for students.
Noelle Flynn, a 200-hour certified yoga instructor, has a background as a fulltime sixth grade teacher and brings a unique blend of educational experience and holistic wellness to her yoga practice.
RIBBON CUTTING
The Ambassador Committee of the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on April 29 as Chick's on the Square celebrated its 20th anniversary in Macomb at 103 S. Side Square. Affectionately known simply as "Chicks," the restaurant opened it's doors on February 1, 2006 and has remained a local favorite, earning top rankings and reviews on Google, Yelp, Trip Advisor, and more.
The menu is built around their signature “chicken lips” (hand-battered chicken) with a variety of sauces, plus pub-style favorites like burgers, wraps, pizza, and loaded fries. Featuring fun, casual comfort food with bold flavors and lots of options, from appetizers and sandwiches to desserts and drinks; Chicks prides itself on customer service matched with quality food.
Open daily for dine in and carry out. Hours are Sunday: 11 am-8 pm, MondaySaturday 11 am-9 pm. Online ordering available at chicksonthesquare.com. Information: (309) 837-5477. Find them on Facebook/Instagram.
