Events Upcoming
New Members
Ambassador of the Quarter Wendell Zulauf, Jr.
Wendell Zulauf, Jr. General Manager Sunbelt Rentals 217-528-1065 pcm389@sunbeltrentals.comIn the first quarter of 2025, Wendell Zulauf, Jr., General Manager, Sunbelt Rentals earned the Ambassador of the Quarter honor. Wendell submitted 15 member leads with one joining The Chamber, made seven member contacts, attended two ribbon cuttings, worked at one Chamber on Tap and one Coffee & Connections event, and attended three Ambassador committee meetings. Wendell will receive a gift certificate to a
NORTH GRAND TO CLOSE FOR WATER MAIN RELOCATION WORK FOR RAILROAD PROJECT
Beginning Monday, May 5th, the CWLP Water Department will begin a project to relocate 2,000 feet of 24-inch water main for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project on North Grand Avenue. The first phase of work requires a street opening and road closure on North Grand Avenue between 7th and 9th Streets and is expected to last 5 weeks. This project represents part of the City of Springfield’s match towards the Springfield Rail Improvements Project, and this phase is the largest piece of the multi-year
ISO’s Music Director Taichi Fukumura Appointed Assistant Conductor of The Cleveland Orchestra
The Illinois Symphony Orchestra (ISO) is thrilled to announce that our innovative Music Director Taichi Fukumura has been selected to assume the position of Assistant Conductor of The Cleveland Orchestra in Fall 2025. This prestigious appointment signals Music Director Taichi Fukumura’s exceptional talent, dedication, and visionary leadership in the world of classical music. Taichi Fukumura will continue to serve as Music Director of the ISO and remains deeply committed to the vision and mission of our
BETTER WITH BUBBLI JOINS FORCES WITH INSPIRA TO CELEBRATE MOMS ON THE GO
On Saturday May 3 , Better With Bubbli Boutique will host an event beginning at 10am to celebrate moms on the go with a new athletic collection launch by Inspira. The two women owned Springfield businesses have joined forces and will be showcasing the latest Inspira arrivals. Inspira was founded by Rachel Rodriguez with the vision of creating high-quality and affordable athleisure wear that celebrates individuality and fuels confidence. The brand also is philanthropic, donating a portion of their proceeds
Mother’s Day Remembrance Tribute May 10th at Roselawn Memorial Park
Mothers, grandmothers, wives, children, or other loved ones have lifted us up and touched our hearts and lives in countless ways. They are why Mother’s Day is such a special time to recognize and honor them. Yet for many of us, loss and grief are strong emotions on Mother’s Day, so the thought of celebrating — or not celebrating — can be daunting. To acknowledge and help reconcile these feelings, the Butler Family of Organizations (Butler Funeral Homes & Cremation Tribute Center,
LLCC Juried Student Art Show winners announced Exhibit open through May 8
SPRINGFIELD — The Lincoln Land Community College 2025 Student Art Show is now on display through May 8, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Trutter Museum/James S. Murray Gallery, located on the upper floor of Menard Hall, Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Road. A record breaking 76 LLCC art and design students submitted a total of 206 entries for consideration, representing both art studio classes and, for the first time, integrated media design classes. Winners of awards were announced at an opening reception
UIS to celebrate commencement during three ceremonies on May 9 and 10
SPRINGFIELD – The University of Illinois Springfield will hold its 54th annual commencement during three ceremonies in the UIS Performing Arts Center’s Sangamon Auditorium on Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10. A total of 1,071 students will participate in the ceremony out of the 1,587 students who are eligible to graduate.The ceremony for graduates in the College of Health, Science and Technology will be held at 7 p.m. on May 9. College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and College of Public Affairs and
Office Furniture Available for Chamber Members
Birth to Five Illinois: Region 51 will be relocating our office in June, and as part of the move, we have three desks in good condition that we would like to offer to any Greater Springfield Chamber member who may be interested.The desks are fully assembled and would need to be picked up between May 19th and May 23rd. For reference, I’ve attached a photo of the desk. Anyone interested can contact Amanda DeFord at adeford@birthtofiveil.com for further details.
LLCC offering discounted Essential Workplace Skills training through 2025
SPRINGFIELD — Lincoln Land Community College is offering its Essential Workplace Skills (EWS) training series to individuals and organizations at a discounted rate through December 2025, or while funding remains. The training series is designed to meet the most pressing soft skills needs of today’s workforce and is being supported by a Noncredit Strategies at Work Grant through the Illinois Community College Board. The EWS series is offered in two formats to meet regional workforce needs: customized
UIS to celebrate National Astronomy Day and host accessible stargazing event May 3-4
SPRINGFIELD – The University of Illinois Springfield Astronomy-Physics Program will host two astronomy events the weekend of May 3-4, offering the public an opportunity to explore the night sky. The first event will be held in celebration of National Astronomy Day. The second is an accessible star party designed for individuals with limited mobility.Star Party celebrating Astronomy Day – May 3UIS, in partnership with Lincoln Memorial Garden and the Sangamon Astronomical Society, will co-host a
UIS student delegation wins top honor at 2025 Model United Nations Conference
SPRINGFIELD – The University of Illinois Springfield delegation earned the prestigious Outstanding Delegation award—the highest honor presented—at the 2025 National Model United Nations (NMUN) Conference held April 13-17 in New York City.The conference, which brings together college students from around the world to simulate the work of the United Nations, recognizes only the top 20 percent of participating delegations with the Outstanding Delegation designation. Delegates are evaluated on active
Ambassador Committee Member Spotlight - Michelle Pulce-Flynn
Michelle Pulce-FlynnDirector, Grant Development and AdministrationLincoln Land Community College (217) 786-2446michelle.pulce-flynn@llcc.eduWhat products and services do your business offer? LLCC offers affordable education whether earning a two-year associate degree and transferring to a four-year institution or completing a program that allows students to enter directly into the workforce. LLCC also offers multiple certificate programs that in most cases are stackable, which means a person can earn
Chantome celebrates 25 years with Hanson
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Robert Chantome, P.E., S.E., senior geotechnical engineer, recently celebrated 25 years of service with Hanson Professional Services Inc. Chantome, who joined the company in 2000, works at the firm’s Springfield headquarters. He conducts soil investigations, performs the geotechnical design of slopes and foundations and the structural design of retaining walls and prepares plans and specifications. He has provided services for projects including underpasses for the Springfield Rail
Memorial Health Hospitals to Host Flag-Raising Ceremony in Honor of Organ, Tissue Donors
All five Memorial Health hospitals will host flag-raising ceremonies in conjunction with National Donate Life Month. Hospital officials and representatives from Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network, as well as Saving Sight or Eversight will speak. Media and the public are invited to attend. Decatur Memorial Hospital: 1 p.m., April 22Jacksonville Memorial Hospital: 2 p.m., April 21Lincoln Memorial Hospital: 2 p.m., April 24Springfield Memorial Hospital: noon, April 23Taylorville Memorial Hospital:
400 Block of East Adams Street Reopens to Vehicular Traffic
Springfield, IL—The City of Springfield is pleased to announce that as of Tuesday, April 22, the 400 block of East Adams Street has officially reopened to vehicular traffic. This long-awaited development marks a significant step forward for both downtown residents and local businesses who have eagerly anticipated the return of regular traffic flow. The reopening also paves the way for the Old Capitol Farmers Market to return to its original location.The street closure was originally implemented following a
Correction: Dates for City Department Open Houses
Correction: Dates for City Department Open HousesSave the Dates: Upcoming Department Open Houses• Saturday, May 3 | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Springfield Fire Department Open HouseStation One – 825 E. Capitol Ave. • Thursday, May 22 | 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.Public Works Open House222 N. 17th St. • Wednesday, June 18 | 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Springfield Police Department (SPD) Open House3501 Color Plant Rd. • Wednesday, July 16 | 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.City Water, Light & Power (CWLP) Open House1600 Groth St.
UIS Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon launches Artist in Residence program
LEWISTOWN, Ill. – The University of Illinois Springfield’s Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon (TFSE) is launching a new Artist in Residence (AIR) program this summer to connect the science of floodplain restoration with artistic expression.The program invites artists to engage with the unique landscape and ecological work at the Emiquon Preserve—one of the Midwest’s largest floodplain restoration projects and a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Selected artists will have access to
Willis joins Hanson’s headquarters as geospatial project manager
Austin Willis, GISP, geospatial project manager, recently joined Hanson Professional Services Inc. Working from the St. Louis area, he will manage and support geospatial projects, integrating geospatial solutions that enhance efficiency, foster innovation and strategically posture Hanson’s clients for success. Willis previously was chief of the Alton Field Division in Alton, Illinois, for the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. He also served in the
MAYOR MISTY BUSCHER LAUNCHES CITY-WIDE OPEN HOUSE SERIES TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS AND COMMUNICATION
Springfield, IL—In an ongoing effort to ensure the voices of Springfield residents are heard and valued, Mayor Misty Buscher is launching a new initiative focused on building stronger connections between the community and City government.Beginning this spring, Mayor Buscher and her administration will host a series of departmental open houses throughout the city, giving residents the chance to meet City staff, get firsthand knowledge of city operations, ask questions, and share their thoughts in a welcoming
Central IL Tech Partners Identifies Top 10 Consulting Industry Trends to Watch in 2025
The consulting industry is rapidly evolving, making it essential for professionals and organizations to stay current with the latest trends. Whether you’re a consultant aiming to grow your business or a company building a high-performance team, understanding these ten consulting trends for 2025 will be crucial for success. From emerging technologies that transform customer engagement to innovative strategies that sharpen competitive edges, staying informed is key to making smart decisions that support
MEMORIAL HEALTH CHAMPIONSHIP CELEBRATES 10 YEARS VISIT SPRINGFIELD TO SPONSOR FREE ADMISSION
Springfield, IL — The Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS is celebrating its 10th anniversary in a big way by announcing the continuation of its partnership with Visit Springfield to provide free access to all four rounds of this year’s Korn Ferry Tour competition. The tournament will take place June 26 – June 29 at Panther Creek Country Club.“As we mark our 10th year, we are excited to welcome fans back for another incredible week of golf,” said Kate Peters, Executive Director. “This milestone
RMLS Alliance and MRED Partner in MLS Data Share bringing together coverage in Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Indiana, benefiting nearly 50,000 agents and brokers.
SPRINGFIELD, IL – April 11, 2025 - RMLS Alliance and MRED (Midwest Real Estate Data) have entered into a data sharing agreement. This partnership enables RMLS Alliance and MRED to better serve subscribers by providing them with access to a broader range of listings across a larger geographic area within their respective MLS systems. RMLS Chair, Robin Simpson shared, "We are thrilled to announce this data share agreement between RMLS Alliance and MRED. The core mission of MLS is to empower licensed
LLCC to offer free health care class
SPRINGFIELD — Lincoln Land Community College is offering Introduction to Health Care Professions (HLT 110) free this summer and fall as part of the Connect 2 Health Care (C2HC) program for those 18-24 years old. The class offers students the opportunity to learn from classroom, lab and job shadowing opportunities in various health care fields such as nursing, surgical technology, sonography, radiography, respiratory care, neurodiagnostic technology, occupational therapy assistant and emergency medical
Illinois Symphony Orchestra’s 32nd Season Closes with Passion & Pulse!
Feel the rhythmic heartbeat of Brian Nabors' Pulse and the playful energy of Ravel's Piano Concerto in G featuring 2022 Van Cliburn Medal Winner Anna Geniushene. Dmitri Shostakovich's passionate Fifth Symphony closes our season with dramatic flair! Anna Geniushene’s fresh and powerful interpretations defined her participation in the 2022 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition—where she won the silver medal and the adoration of fans around the globe. And the critics couldn’t get enough: “powerhouse
Illinois Presbyterian Home Communities Celebrates 70 Years of Faith & Community with “Back in the Day Brunch”
Springfield, IL — Illinois Presbyterian Home Communities (IPHC) is proud to announce the celebration of its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of compassionate care and service to older adults in the Springfield area. Established in 1954, IPHC has remained a trusted name in senior living, rooted in Presbyterian values and a mission “founded in faith and focused on community.” To honor this milestone, IPHC will host a special anniversary event — the “Back in the Day Brunch” — on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at
SMH Flag-Raising Ceremony Highlights Importance of Organ Donation
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Memorial Hospital will host a flag-raising ceremony on Wednesday, April 23, to call attention to the importance of organ and tissue donation. The event will be held at noon at the flagpole located near the hospital’s main entrance. According to Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network, which serves Illinois and northwest Indiana, nearly 5,000 Illinoisans are currently waiting for an organ transplant. “April is National Donate Life Month,” said Angela Hermes, nurse manager of
SPRINGFIELD FIRE CHIEF EDWARD CANNY AND MAYOR MISTY BUSCHER ANNOUNCE CHIEF CANNY'S UPCOMING RETIREMENT
Springfield, IL—Fire Chief Edward Canny and Mayor Misty Buscher are announcing today that Chief Canny will retire on May 16, 2025, marking the conclusion of his career in public service. Chief Canny stated, "My time with the department is something I will always treasure. Being able to serve the citizens of Springfield has always been my passion. I am stepping away now to focus more on my family. There are some private family health matters that need more of my attention at this point in my life. I am
DOWNTOWN SPRINGFIELD TO UNDERGO AERIAL AND UNDERGROUND DATA COLLECTION FOR SMART CITY INITIATIVE
Springfield, IL—As part of the Springfield Smart City and Asset Management Project, the City of Springfield is notifying residents and businesses of upcoming aerial and underground data collection activities in the downtown area. Weather permitting, from April 18 through April 21, residents may observe a low-flying helicopter performing a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) flyover. The aircraft will be operated by NV5, the City's project partner, and will make several passes north to south and east to
Muller Named March Colleague of the Month for System Resources at Memorial Health
SPRINGFIELD – Melinda Muller, an insurance pre-authorization specialist, is the Memorial Health System Resources Colleague of the Month for March. Muller is well regarded by colleagues for her exceptional skills, follow-through and enthusiasm for training and mentoring others. She is detail oriented, ensures best practices are followed and provides accurate and timely information. “Whether handling complex challenges or providing guidance to colleagues, Melinda’s insight and problem-solving abilities are
Ambassador Committee Member Spotlight Wendell Zulauf, Jr.
Wendell Zulauf, Jr.Manager Sunbelt Rentals 217-528-1065pcm389@sunbeltrentals.comWhat products and services does your business offer? Whether you need earthmoving equipment for your job site or a small tool rental for DIY projects, we have thousands of general tools and equipment types to meet any job need. From skid steers to generators, scissor lifts and more, all equipment and power tool rentals are backed by 24/7 customer support including delivery and pickup. With our nationwide network of 2,000
Ryan Caldwell Joins Springfield Clinic as New Chief Financial Officer
After conducting a nationwide search in 2024, Springfield native Ryan Caldwell joined Springfield Clinic as Chief Financial Officer in March. Ryan brings nearly two decades of public accounting experience to Springfield Clinic and has spent most of his career working in the health care industry. Prior to joining Springfield Clinic, he served as an audit partner at RSM US LLP and oversaw RSM’s Central Illinois health care practice. “We are excited to welcome Ryan to our administrative team,” says
Solid Rock Youth Transitional Services Hosts Bright Futures Brunch to Support Local Youth in Foster Care
Solid Rock Youth Transitional Services, Inc., a Springfield-based nonprofit committed to ending homelessness for youth in and aging out of the foster care system, is proud to present the Bright Futures Brunch—a vibrant, community-focused fundraising event. The brunch will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the UIS Student Union Ballroom, located at 2251 Richard Wright Dr., Springfield, IL 62703. The Bright Futures Brunch is an afternoon of purpose, connection, and
Bibb Named March Memorial Health Ambulatory Colleague of the Month
SPRINGFIELD – Kellie Bibb, an urgent care advanced care provider with Memorial Care on Koke Mill in Springfield, is the Memorial Health Ambulatory Group Colleague of the Month for March. A grateful parent nominated Bibb for Colleague of the Month for the care given their child who was suffering from a prolonged high fever. “The entire staff was kind and professional, but Kellie stood out,” the nominator wrote. “She immediately stepped in and came up with a plan of care. She took the time to educate us,
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LLCU ANNOUNCES BLAKE REYNOLDS APPOINTED NEW SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Decatur, Illinois, April 9th, 2025 – LLCU announced the appointment of Blake Reynolds as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of LLCU, effective Tues., April 8th, 2025. Reynolds has 27 years of experience in the banking and financial services industries. Reynolds will oversee LLCU’s financial strategy, regulatory reporting, and accounting operations. Before joining LLCU, Reynolds served as Vice President of Colchester State Bank in Colchester, IL for 25 years until CSB was acquired by LLCU in July
Tyler Named March Colleague of the Month for Springfield Memorial Hospital
SPRINGFIELD – Jasmine Tyler, a patient care technician at Springfield Memorial Hospital, is the nonprofit hospital’s Colleague of the Month for March. Tyler has made a positive impression on her team, always willing to help others and make patients feel comfortable. She checks with the nurses about any patient questions and alerts nurses if she feels something isn’t right. “Jasmine is a great asset to the 2C team,” wrote her nominator. “Not only is she a great patient care technician, but she is also good
UIS exhibit “Room 9” to feature work by graduating visual arts students
SPRINGFIELD – The University of Illinois Springfield Visual Arts Program is proud to present “Room 9,” an exhibition featuring artworks by senior visual arts majors at UIS. The exhibit will open on April 21 and run through May 8. A reception will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on April 24. All gallery events are free and open to the public.“Room 9” will be located in two locations on campus: the UIS Visual Arts Gallery, located in the Health & Sciences Building, Room 201, and the Access Gallery, located in the
UIS awards Schewe Professorship to Yanhui Guo for AI research in education
SPRINGFIELD – The University of Illinois Springfield has named Yanhui Guo, associate professor of computer science, as the recipient of the Louise Hartman Schewe and Karl Schewe Professorship in the College of Health, Science and Technology (CHST). The professorship will support Guo’s efforts to apply artificial intelligence to improve education through research, innovation and community collaboration.Guo’s work focuses on developing AI-powered solutions to enhance teaching methods, student learning and
Woodward Communications, Inc. Expands Springfield StatFootprint with Acquisition of Four More Radio Stations
Springfield, IL, April 1, 2025 - Woodward Communications, Inc. (WCI) is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of four radio stations (WNNS-FM, WQLZ-FM, WMAY-FM, and WMAY-AM) from Mid-West Family, serving the Springfield, IL marketplace. This acquisition follows WCI's recent purchase of four Springfield, IL radio stations (WXAJ-FM, WFMB-FM, WCVS-FM, and WFMB-AM) from Neuhoff Media completed in October of last year. By merging these operations, WCI’s leadership team believes this will enhance
Mandy C. Eaton, PhD, joins Memorial Health as President and CEO
SPRINGFIELD - Mandy C. Eaton, PhD, has joined Memorial Health as the organization’s president and CEO. She succeeds Ed Curtis, who retired on March 31 after a 50-year career with Memorial. “It was evident to me that Memorial Health is here to serve its community, and the mission of this health system aligns so well with my top priorities. Those priorities include ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care, a passion for advancing health equity and driving innovation to improve both the patient and
HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month with speakers, pinwheel planting
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Blue pinwheels fluttered on the lawn of HSHS St. John’s Pavilion in Springfield on Tuesday, as Hospital Sisters Health System leaders, advocates, and state and city officials gathered for a press conference kicking off National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Chad Markham, HSHS Chief Operating Officer and Interim President and CEO of the Central Illinois Market, noted the dedication of HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital staff in offering holistic care to the youngest of patients. “Our
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS REMINDS RESIDENTS OF APRIL 2025 BRANCH PICKUP SCHEDULE
Springfield, IL—The City of Springfield’s Department of Public Works reminds residents that the next round of branch pickup for 2025 will start next week. This program, conducted in quadrants, provides residents with a scheduled week for collection. Residents must have their branches curbside by 7:00 am on their designated pickup week.2025 April Branch Pickup Schedule by Quadrant:April 7- Northwest Quadrant (North of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road, and West of Walnut Street/J David Jones
Innovate Springfield to host startup pitch competition at UIS on April 25
WHAT: Innovate Springfield, the University of Illinois Springfield’s business incubator, will host the New Venture Challenge, a startup pitch competition that will bring together students, entrepreneurs and community members to showcase innovative business ideas, compete for prizes and connect with potential investors. The event is free and open to the public. WHEN: Thursday, April 25 - The business expo will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The main event, including pitch presentations and a
OSI to Host Community Conversation Series on Downtown Springfield
Shaping Downtown Springfield will host four community conversations to discuss the marketing and community materials of downtownSpringfield, Illinois - Downtown Springfield Inc. (DSI) will host a new series of community conversations starting April 4. The initiative, titled Shaping Downtown Springfield, focuses on how DSI promotes and markets the individual neighborhoods within downtown.As community materials like signage and maps need to be replaced and updated, DSI is looking to better utilize these
The Damon Priddy State Farm Team is Growing!
Springfield Illinois - March 2025 - Damon Priddy Insurance & Financial Services - a State Farm Agency is proud to announce the addition of three talented professionals - Chadd Pfeiffer, Marc Reeves and Heath Bilyeu - to it's growing team. As the agency continues to expand its footprint in the Springfield community, these new team members bring a wealth of knowledge, industry experience and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients. "This growth reflects our dedication to helping more
Damon Priddy State Farm recognized as both Best Agency & Best Agent in Springfield!
SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS - November 2024 The Damon Priddy State Farm Team, a leader in providing quality insurance & financial service solutions, is proud to announce it's recent awards for Best Insurance Agency and Best Insurance Agent in Springfield by the Community Choice Awards. These prestigious honors reflect the agency's dedication to clients, community engagement and exceptional service. This is the third consecutive year that the agency has taken home both awards! The awards were presented at the
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Damon Priddy State Farm Team Rebrands ''What is Service''
This week the agency has taken part in multiple events and recognized their service team for National Customer Service Week! Nearly four years into the launch of the Damon Priddy State Farm Agency, our team is "rebranding" the customer service team and the way we "do service". "I came from a background in hospitality, managing multiple hotels and major brands along the way. Taking care of people is engrained in who I am. That hospitality training and care for detail doesn't go away. Launching the agency in
Orion Marty with Damon Priddy State Farm recognized with Wow Award!
Join us in celebrating the latest Central Illinois Customer Service Association “WOW” Award Winner, Orion Marty, Senior Account Manager with Damon Priddy State Farm!The “WOW” Award, sponsored by 92.7 WMAY, is an opportunity to recognize those unsung heroes that lift our spirits and inspire us through their simple or extraordinary acts of kindness or superior customer service.?By recognizing those who make a difference in our lives, we are challenged to think about how we can do the same for others. It’s
