When was the last time abank gave you something forfree? Midwest Community Bankwill. They’re offering a newservice called Midwest MobileBanking and starting inNovember, Midwest CommunityBank customers will be able touse their cell or smart phones tosecurely check bank balances,view transaction histories,transfer funds, make loanpayments and pay bills with theease and convenience of sendingand receiving simple textmessages; and it’s free.

Put simply, mobile bankingkeeps you connected withanytime, anywhere access toyour financial information.

If your cell handsetexperience is limited, MidwestMobile Banking is ready to servewith Short Message Service(SMS) connections that arereadily available on even thesimplest cell phone and if youdemand the speed andconnectivity of a web-enableddevice, Midwest Mobile Bankingare already there with mobilebrowser services.

Mobile banking is asconvenient and fast as you needit to be and best of all; mobilebanking with MidwestCommunity Bank is free.

Staying at the cutting edge oftechnology is just another way

the people at MidwestCommunity Bank are growing tomeet their customer’s financialneeds.

“Our new mobile bankingservices are all about providing

convenience to our customers,”said Midwest Community BankCo-CEO Mark Wright. “We stillhave many of customers thatuse our branches and we willalways have branch locationsavailable for them, but there area growing number of ourcustomers that just don’t havethe ability to come into one ofour locations during businesshours. They might be at homeat nine at night or five in themorning and want to knowwhat their loan or depositbalances are, need to make aloan payment or a balance

transfer and this is a greatproduct that will enable them todo that no matter what time ofday or night or their physicallocation.”

Midwest Community Bank

has seen significant increase intheir customer base that usestechnology. “Our customer’suse of our online bankingproducts has grown significantlyin the last five years,” Wrightsaid. “Technology is importantto our customers as like manyof us, our customer’s need everyavailable hour in the day forwork or family. They want ourbank to be accessible andMidwest Mobile Banking is onemore way that we save ourcustomers time and make theirbanking experience moreconvenient.”

As technology has advancedMidwest Community Bank hasproactively addressed changeswhich have had a positiveimpact on its customers.Midwest Community Bank hasonline banking, bill pay andcheck imaging services for itsretail customers as well as cashmanagement, remote depositand lockbox services for itscommercial customers.

One thing that will neverchange is Midwest CommunityBank’s devotion to itscustomers. “We will never loosesight of the importance of ourcustomer,” stated Wright. Wenever forget that without ourcustomers we would not be inbusiness.”

“Our people in our banks arereally what make us special,”Wright said. “We are not a bigcorporate bank. We are abouttrying to make thingsconvenient and accessible andour people build those allimportant long-termrelationships by simplyproviding superior service.”Midwest Community Bank hasbeen awarded the FreeportJournal Standard’s Best ofRegion award the last elevenyears.

Midwest Community bankwas started in 1965 by a groupof investors led by the firstgeneration of Wright family

Tony CartonCommunicator Editor

CommunicatorCommunicatorOctober 2011 • Freeport, IL

Midwest Community Bank Brings New Technologies to Freeport

4 8-9 12MEMBER NEWS3 RISE ’N SHINE CHAMBER ANNUALGOLF OUTING RIBBON CUTTINGS

IInnssiiddee......SEE BANK PAGE 4

FREEPORT AREACHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Chamber of Commerce Communicator is published on a monthly basis with the partnership of The Journal-Standard paper. We thank

them for their continual effort to keep this publication in print!

27 W. Stephenson St, Freeport IL 61032www.freeportilchamber.com

Phone: 815.233.1350 Fax: 815.235.4038

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Kim Grimes kim.grimes@freeportilchamber.com

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES COORDINATOR:Tiffany King tiffany.king@freeportilchamber.com

RECEPTIONIST: Julie Huber

COMMUNICATION EDITOR: Tony Carton

ow the weather here inNorthwest Illinois has beenterrific! Hope everyone is

enjoying it. What a great time of year,leaves turning, apple cider tastinggood, Halloween around the cornerand lots and lots of football games towatch. What a great season Le-Win,Stockton, Aquin and Forreston ishaving.

As the Chamber starts to winddown the year we are keeping extrabusy with our Small Business “YOU”Seminars, lots of ribbon cuttings (andas always congratulations to all of thenew businesses that have openedrecently). We have had some real funBusiness after Hours and Rise ‘NShine Breakfasts and thanks toFairway Ford Lincoln and IntegrityInvestments and Rocky Zuberhulerfor hosting this recent events. Wesponsored a recent seminar with“Constant Contact” which was veryhelpful in learning the art of EmailMarketing. Thanks to those whoattended those events! EmailMarketing has become such animportant part of many types ofmarketing your business.

Your Chamber Board and membervolunteers are currently starting a

process ofStrategicPlanning andwe are usingthe feedbackwe receivedfrom ourrecentmembershipsurvey as well asthe two focus groups that several ofyou participated in. We are verythankful to our members whoprovided us with your importantinput. We feel very confident that theend result of our Strategic Plan willprovide us the opportunity to be aneven stronger Chamber of Commercegoing forward into 2012. Yourresponse to our updated website hasbeen very satisfying. We are receivingseveral more “hits” per day than wewere in the past and we will pledge tomake sure we continue to keep itupdated for your benefit. The“Prospering Together” Vision iscontinuing to build strength andmomentum and I ask all of you to dous a favor and get involved. This isyour community and we can onlyimprove it’s quality of life if you getengaged!

Page 2 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

OCTOBER 20Business after Hours

Masonic Temple5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

OCTOBER 25Small Business “You”

“Managing Stress Before it Manages You”Stephenson County Farm Bureau

4:00 p.m.

OCTOBER 27Ambassador Meeting

Stephenson County Farm Bureau7:30 a.m.

NOVEMBER 1Executive Meeting

Chamber Conference Room #17:30 a.m.

NOVEMBER 2Rise ’n Shine Breakfast

Oakley Courts Assisted Living7:30 a.m.

NOVEMBER 10Finance Committee Meeting

Chamber Conference Room #27:30 a.m.

NOVEMBER 15Chamber Board Meeting

Chamber Conference Room #17:30 a.m.

DATES TOREMEMBER...DATES TOREMEMBER...

WKim’s Korner

www.freeportilchamber.com

SMALL BUSINESS”you”SMALL BUSINESS”you”

The Chamber presented the next in the series of SmallBusiness “You”. The class was taught by Michelle Miller andBrian Borger Former Small Business Development CenterCounselors on what you need to plan for when opening yourown business. We had an excellent turn out and look forwardto many more classes to come.

Page 3F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Rise’n’ShineRise’n’Shine

Fairway Ford was the September site of the ChamberRise ‘n Shine Breakfast. Along with an early morningchance to network, our hosts provided a wonderfulbreakfast for the attendees. Thank you Adam Toller andFairway Ford Lincoln for hosting this great breakfast!

ownership. Third generationowners, Mark and Todd Wright,co-manage the bank today, andMidwest Community Bank hasexpanded its branch locations toinclude two banks in Freeport,IL, one bank in Rockford, IL, one bank in Chicago, IL and aloan production office inNaperville, IL.

Midwest Community Bankremains a full service bankserving both individuals andbusinesses with services tailored

to meet the financial needs of itsgrowing customer base.

The staff at MidwestCommunity Bank invite you tostop by one of their convenientlocations and speak with one oftheir loan officers or personalbankers, or meet either Mark orTodd. See what a difference afamily-owned, community-minded bank will make for you.

Freeport, IL full servicebranch banks are located at:

STOUTINSURANCE AGENCY, LLC

Call today for your FREE No ObligationBusiness Insurance QuoteBusiness Insurance Quote

PPrrooffeessssiioonnaall •• PPrrooggrreessssiivvee •• PPeerrssoonnaallServing Freeport & All Surrounding Areas Since 1971

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BUSINESS• HOME • AUTO • LIFE • HEALTH • BONDS

1108 S. West Ave., Freeport, IL815-233-0213

VISIT US ON THE WEB. www.stoutins.com

Jim Stout, CPCU, AAI, AIS

510 Park Crest DrPO Box 689Freeport, IL 61032Phone: 815-235-6137Fax: 815-235-1855

1725 S West AvePO Box 689Freeport, IL 61032Phone: 815-235-6137Fax: 815-235-1822

Monday through ThursdayLobby - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMDrive up - 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Monday through ThursdayLobby - 9:00 AM - 5:30 PMDrive up - 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

FridayLobby - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMDrive up - 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

FridayLobby - 9:00 AM - 5:30 PMDrive up - 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

SaturdayLobby - ClosedDrive up - 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

SaturdayLobby - 8:30 AM - 12:00 PMDrive up - 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

BANK - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Use of Internet banking services continues to show phenomenal growthat Midwest Community Bank.

The Freeport Area Chamber ofCommerce joins Chick-fil-ALeadercast in announcing the2012 speakers.

• John Maxwell, Leadershipexpert & best-selling author ofThe 21 Irrefutable Laws ofLeadership

• Patrick Lencioni, Best-sellingauthor & president of The TableGroup

• Tim Tebow, NFLquarterback, Heisman Trophywinner & best-selling author

• Urban Meyer, ESPN analyst& former head football coach forthe University of Florida

• Angela Ahrendts, ChiefExecutive Officer, Burberry

• Roland Fryer, Professor ofeconomics at Harvard & CEO ofthe Education InnovationLaboratory

• Sheena Iyengar, Author ofThe Art of Choosing & world-renowned expert on choice

• Andy Stanley, Best-sellingleadership author & communicator

Others to be announced soon.

Highland instructor writesbook on author Don DeLillo

Highland Community CollegeEnglish instructor Dr. PaulGiaimo recently published a newbook, “Appreciating Don DeLillo:The Moral Force of a Writer’swork.” The book, released lastmonth by ABC-CLIO, Ltd., servesas a commentary on the major

novels of awardwinning ItalianAmerican writerDon DeLillo.

According tothe publisher,the book is “aninsightful workproviding state-of-the-artcritical guidanceand informative

commentary on the major novelsof Don DeLillo in terms of howthey respond to current socialand ethical issues.” The 224-page volume examines the majorthemes in DeLillo’s work,outlines Delillo’s treatment ofmoral heroism and villainy, and

evaluates the writer’s place in theframework of American storytelling.

“I wrote the book with a fewpurposes in mind,” said author,Paul Giaimo. “I wanted to createan accessible ‘primer’ to DeLillo’sfictions that readers could pickup and consult to betterunderstand and appreciate thenovels. Furthermore, I alsosought to go more into depth onsome issues to allow those withmore experience of DeLilloand/or American fictions to gaineven more knowledge of thesignificance of his work.”

Giaimo has long been astudent of American Literature,but has more recently taken aspecific interest in ItalianAmerican Literature. “I hadstudied American Literature foralmost 10 years before evendiscovering that people of myethnic background were writingconsciously from the point ofview of being Italian American,”said Giaimo. “I learned theoriginal Italian names of holidaydishes I remember sharing at mygrandmothers’ houses years ago,while at the same time bringingback valuable historicalinformation and a new

awareness of written art to sharewith my students. Studentsresponded well as I became morepersonally invested in thematerial I was and am teaching.”

Dr. Giaimo has been a full-time instructor at Highland for14 years and has taught coursesin English and Philosophy. Whilethis is his first authored text, Dr.Giaimo has been publishedpreviously in Voices In ItalianAmericana, the Journal of theMultiethnic LiteratureAssociation of the United States,and The GreenwoodEncyclopedia of MultiethnicAmerican Literature.

Freeport nonprofitorganizations reap benefits ofWipfli’s Community Day

Firm’s seventh annual“Community Day” on September29 helps 58 organizations Press

Wipfli LLP,a national CPAand consultingfirm with offices in Illinois,Wisconsin, Minnesota, andSpokane, Washington, closed itsdoors for business on September29 so that hundreds ofassociates across the country

Page 4 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Mon. & Tues. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Thurs. & Fri. 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Second Saturday of each month7 a.m. - 11 a.m.

461 E. South Street • Freeport • 815-23BLOOD • www.rrvbc.org

Be someone’s HERO.Donate today.

MEMBERnewsMEMBERnews

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Page 5F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Chapel Hill Memorial GardensJack Myers Consulting

QBE the Americas

Iron-T JunctionBrown’s Shoes

Family Affair Café

LeBaron & Miller InteriorsWinter Construction Inc.

Fruth-Simmer Insurance AgencyFreeport Massage Center

Twice As Nice ConsignmentsFloor Covering Plus

Hulsebus-Gehlsen ChiropracticMaybe You Need Help...

Culligan Water ConditioningUnion Savings Bank

Bill George Plumbing & HeatingAquaLand

Baymont Inn and SuitesDental ConnectionsFamily Health QuestNewby Design WorksCitizens State Bank

Farmers Insurance Group-Lynn KempelMidtown Center

Schofield PlumbingState Farm Insurance – Jon Spachman

C. J. Vitner Co., Inc.Saxer Accounting Services, LLC

Tender Loving CareState Farm Insurance – Steve Johnson

Skate StationSanitary Cleaners

GOLD MEMBERS

SILVER MEMBERS

Law Offices of Ralph E. ElliottRock River Valley Blood Center

Berner Food & BeverageJohn H. Vogt

Fehr-Graham & AssociatesCountry Insurance & Financial

Services - Rick WilsonSpherion Staffing Group

Freeport Insurance CenterAlwayz Cookies

Rite-Way Furniture & Appliance

Reid EnterprisesFishburn, Whiton, Thruman, LTDFreeport Community Foundation

Bomar Heating & CoolingStout Insurance Agency

Freidag Associates CPAsAltman Automotive Inc.Integrity Investments

Swift Hospitality Group, Inc.Behr Freeport

Cathy’s Custom Cakery

Columbia CollegeWinter & Associates

Ultrasonic Power Corp.Freeport Park District

Eagles ClubPinewood Buffet & Grill

Monroe ClinicDowning Remodeling

General Contractors, IncFlachtemeier Monuments

BRONZE MEMBERS

2011 PREFERRED MEMBERSWe would like to give special recognitionto the following businesses that provide extra support to the Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce.

2011 PREFERRED MEMBERSWe would like to give special recognitionto the following businesses that provide extra support to the Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce.

Page 6 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

could spend the day giving backto the communities that havefueled the firm’s growth. In justthis one day, associatesdedicated over 4100 work hoursto make a difference in theircommunities.

In Freeport, 21 Wipfliassociates dedicated the firm’sCommunity Day to working withAssault and Abuse Services ofStephenson County, interventionand counseling services, and theCity of Freeport. The Wipflivolunteers for Assault and AbuseServices of Stephenson Countyhandled maintenance, helpedmitigate flood damage, andcleaned the shelter. Those whovolunteered for the City ofFreeport pruned trees, removedvegetation and did clean-upalong the Galena Avenuecorridor.

According to Mayor GeorgeGaulrapp of the City of Freeport,Wipfli’s associates wereorganized and helped to improvethe corridor. Frances Anthon,Executive Director of Assault andAbuse Services of StephensonCounty also felt Wipfli’sassociates made a valuable

contribution on Community Day.“This day came at a perfect

time for us, “Anthon said. “Weare very pleased to have Wipfli’shelp.”

INSIDE Public Accountingnames Wipfli LLP one of theTop Five Fastest-GrowingFirms in the nation

INSIDE Public Accounting(IPA) recently named Wipfli LLPone of the Top Five Fastest-Growing Firms in the nation, aswell as an All-Star Firm, basedon performance in areas ofmanagement and growth.

“We are honored and thrilledto be named to both lists,”Wipfli’s Managing Partner Rick

Dreher said. “Therecognition as one ofthe top five fastest-growing firms in the

nation demonstrates thestrength and dedication of theprofessionals working for Wipfliwho are helping the firm to grow.It also demonstrates the firm’sleadership in the industry andour commitment to providingexceptional client service to ourclients, since client satisfactionand retention are essential togrowth.”

INSIDE Public Accounting(IPA) presents the annualrecognition of the IPA All-Starfirms in the October issue of IPA.The All-Star firms, selected solelyon their performance in specific

areas of managementand growth, arecompared with the morethan 400 firms that

participated in the 2011 annualIPA Survey and Analysis ofFirms.

NIHP Promotes Smith toAccount Executive;Gilbert to Claims Supervisor

Two Northern Illinois HealthPlan (NIHP) staffers have beenpromoted to new positions withinthe company effective May 31,2011.

Karen Smith is the newAccount Executive for NIHP. Shehas been with NIHP since 2000,first as a Claims Analyst beforebeing promoted to the position ofClaims Supervisor, in 2001. Hernew responsibilities includeworking to develop new andmaintain current businessrelationships; ensuring clientsatisfaction; and developingrelationships with area brokersand employers.

Karen has an associate’sdegree from HighlandCommunity College inFreeportand is a Certified ProfessionalCoder (CDC) by the AmericanAcademy of Professional Coders.She holds an Illinois InsuranceProviders License (Life/Health).She lives in Warren with herhusband.

Celeste Gilbert is the newClaims Supervisor for NIHP. Shehas been a Claims Analyst forNIHP since joining them in 2002.Her new responsibilities includeworking with clients, planbuilding and an increasedresponsibility for the technical

functions of NIHP’s systems.Celeste has an associate’s

degree from Rock Valley Collegein Rockford. She lives inRockford with her husband.

For more information aboutNorthern Illinois Health Plan,visit www.nihp.com.

RAMP to receive AT&TInvesting in Illinois Grantat RAMP’s Luncheon onOctober 6th

State Representatives DaveWinters, Joe Sosnowski, and BobPritchard along with StateSenators Christine Johnson andDave Syverson nominated RAMPto receive an AT&T Investing inIllinois Grant in support ofindependent living for peoplewith disabilities. The AT&TInvesting in Illinois Award isgiven toIllinois non-profit groupsand programs that are investingin their communities and

striving to make a real difference.“The AT&T Illinois InvestmentAwards provide resources andrecognition to organizations andprograms that are improvinglives in their communities andthe state by advancingeducation, economic growth, newtechnologies and other essentialcommunity services. It isimportant work like the servicesand programs that RAMPprovides which strengthen thefabric of our state,” said DavidStrahl, Director of ExternalAffairs for AT&T Illinois.

The grant will be used tocontinue to provide IndependentLiving services for people withdisabilities in Winnebago, Boone,DeKalb and Stephenson

18 W. Stephenson Street • F.A. Read Center,Freeport, IL 61032 • 815.233.2600

Serving Ogle, Stephenson, Carroll & JoDavies Counties

When a cure is no longer an option,

Hospice can help.To learn more about

the hospice medicare benefit, call 815.233.2600.

www.hospicecareofamerica.com

Compassionate care when you need it most.

continued from page 4

2011

STAINLESSSTEEL

4 APPLIANCESfor just $179900

FFBD2409LS DishwasherStainless Steel

FFHT1826LS 18 cu. ft. Refrigerator

FFMV162LSOver-the-Range

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20 E. Stephenson St. • Historic Downtown Freeport Northern Illinois’ Largest Furniture & Appliance Dealer

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-6; Sat. 9-4 • 815-235-4911 • www.rite-way.info

-

BoltNet.net to the rescueBoltNet.net is the online

venture of: CedarCliffComponents, LLC

In 2007, CedarCliff purchasedan independent industrialdistributor known as NationalFast-Cut Industrial Supply. Thecompany has been located inFreeport, Illinois for more than25 years.

Today, BoltNet.net suppliestens of thousands of productsnationwide in hundreds ofcategories. BoltNet.net stockscustomer bins and operatevendor-managed inventoryprograms. BoltNet.net provideswhatever level of service theircustomers need.

Boltnet owner/operator BretRogers said Boltnet.net is hiscompany’s new web storefeaturing exceptional prices onnuts, bolts, screws and more.

“Basically, we are trying tobrand BolNet.net differently thanthe other online fastener supplycompanies,” said Rogers. “We areworking to make our company

stand out and be different.”The fastener and industrial

supply industry is veryfragmented, with literallythousands of suppliers to choosefrom, but BoltNet.net hascombined high quality products,top-level service and exceptionalprices into the BoltNet.net

brand. Their mission is to meetor exceed their customers’expectations and have some fundoing it.

He said they’ve upgraded theircolor scheme, their logo, andadded a cute super charactercalled Boltgirl that travels thecountry in her flaming pink JeepWrangler rescuing theircustomers from high prices andmediocre service.

“She is actually an employeeof the company and we’ve

dressed up a hot pink wranglerfor her to use to rescue BoltNetcustomers,” Rogers said.“BoltNet is trying to be a low costfun provider in what istraditionally boring business.”

He explained that with therecent recession his companyhad to find ways to drawattention to itself.

“You know, when you competeand struggle through a recessionyou start to get really creative inlooking at ways to grow yoursales and stand above thecrowd,” Rogers said. “If you goonline for nuts and bolts you willjust pop up an endless stream ofpotential suppliers and they allhave one thing in common, theyare all boring. Our goal is tomake BoltNet.net memorable bymaking it different.”

He said that a visit to the site(www.BoltNet.net) will provide anoverview of the company, anever-growing list of theirproducts, some hot pink pix ofBoltgirl and her jeep with a listof the places she is visiting torescue their customers.

“BoltNet.net has a FaceBookpage and Boltgirl has her own

Counties. “We are grateful toAT&T, and our local legislators,for helping support RAMP’smission,” said RAMP’sDevelopment Director, AmyMorris. “The “Investing inIllinois” Award for RAMP is trulyan investment in people withdisabilities and our serviceswhich will have long-termreturns for the communitiesRAMP serves,” she added.

Dave Strahl, AT&T’s Directorof External Affairs will join thenominating legislators to presentthe check to RAMP followingtheir Annual Luncheon onOctober 6, 2011 at Cliffbreakers.The presentation will take placeat approximately 2:00 p.m.

RAMP is a passionate partnerfor people with disabilitiesdesiring to live a useful andrewarding life. RAMP advocatesthe implementation of currentlaws, promotion of neededlegislation and improvement ofexisting systems for personswith disabilities while working todiminish negative attitudes thatthreaten to impede equal access.For more information aboutRAMP, visit our websitewww.rampcil.org.

Page 7F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

MEMBERspotlightsMEMBERspotlights

CO

MP

RE

HE

NS

IVE

CA

RE

YOU ARE HERE!

What if you were the center of the universe?At FHN Women’s Diagnostic Center–you are!Universal testing, diagnosis and care shouldn’t require lengthy expeditions to multiple offices. At FHN, comprehensive women’s care revolves around you. We offer:

A convenient, private, all-in-one diagnostic center including an onsite radiologist and immediate access to ultrasound.A Nurse Navigator available to personally coordinate additional tests and treatment.All-digital diagnostic technology: full-field digital mammography, digital bone densitometry, ultrasound scans, stereotactic and ultrasound-guided Mammotome biopsies.

FHN is a member of the National Consortium of Breast Centers and is accredited by the American College of Radiology.

Discover for yourself how FHN Women’s Diagnostic Center puts you in the center of state-of-the-art women’s healthcare. For more information, call 1-877-6000-FHN (1-877-600-0346) ext. 903 or visit www.fhn.org. Services are located at FHN Women’s Diagnostic Center in FHN Memorial Hospital, 1045 West Stephenson Street, Freeport, IL.

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Page 8 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E Page 9

Annual Chamber GOLF OUTINGAnnual Chamber GOLF OUTING

FaceBook page,” Rogers said.“We are always looking for waysto personalize the business.”

He said BoltNet.net isprobably the only fastenersupply house in the US usinghot pink and black as theirsignature company colors andthe jeep with its customaryoccupant has garnered a lot ofattention for the company.

“Everywhere we go folks aretaking pictures, so we’re havinga lot of fun with it,” Rogerssaid.”We are just trying to extendthe BoltNet.net brand and givepeople something they willremember.”

He added that in spite of allthe gimmickry, low prices are thekey to success in the highlycompetitive fastener business.

“The bottom line is that whenfolks shop online for fastenersthey are still looking for the bestprice,” Rogers said. “You can becool and fun and hip orwhatever, but with the economythe way it is if your prices are apenny more people will turntheir backs and shop elsewhereso we give exceptional serviceand keep our prices low.”

Need your parts bins stocked?BoltNet.net does that. Want tosave on fasteners? Shop theBoltNet.net online PartsWarehouse. Need a partBoltNet.net doesn’t yet havelisted for sale online? ContactBoltNet.net and let them know.

For more information contactBoltNet.net on line at BoltNet.netor on FaceBook or call815.232.6370 or stop in at thewarehouse located at 3310 ILRoute 26 S Freeport, IL.

You can follow Boltgirl’sadventures and locales listed onBoltNet.net or friend her onFaceBook atwww.facebook.com/BoltGirl orget up close and personal on herLive Chat location by visiting theBoltNet.net site and clicking onthe Boltgirl Live Chat box.21st Century Lighting

Commercial use of energyefficient lighting is evolving toachieve a balance of form andfunction that will meet even themost discriminating needs. Huesand glow are created tocompliment need as well asdécor and when it comes tocombining function and cost,21st Century Lighting is ready tohelp.

“We go into manufacturingoperations, warehouses, schools,churches and office buildings toupgrade the lighting systemswith energy efficient lighting,”said 21st Century Lightingmarketing representative DaveValkema.

He said 21st Century Lightingis usually able to retrofit theirenergy efficient products intoexisting fixtures so as to be morecost effective.

“There are occasions where weare not able to fit existing

fixtureswithefficientproducts,but for themost part,

we are able to save almost everyclient a considerable amount ofmoney both on the long termwith their lighting bill and on theshort term with retrofitting,”Valkema said.

He said there is increasinginterest in commercialapplications for green or energyefficient lighting.

“We are seeing all kinds ofefficient lighting improvements,”Valkema said. “They range fromthe CFLs or fluorescent lightbulbs that you can install inyour home to LED lights andmore.”

He said they go on-site, do ano obligation audit and helpcommercial operators save 40 or50 percent on lighting.

“We provide a detailedestimate of what the costs ofupgrading are so they can see forthemselves what the savings canbe,” Valkema said.

He added that some utilitycompanies in the area areoffering rebates or assistance tothose small business ownersthat are working to be moreenergy efficient.

Sometimes those companieswill pay up to half of theseretrofits because they are a verycost efficient thing for a businessto do,” he explained.

He said 21st Century Lightinghas been up and running forabout a year and the future islooking bright.

“Once we get a chance toshow a business owner what wecan do to save them money theyquickly realize they are getting agreat value in terms of moneyinvested and returns on thatinvestment,” Valkema said. “Notonly are there incentivesavailable from utility companies,but the return on theirinvestment starts with their firstmonth’s lighting bill.”

“Energy efficient lighting is thebest investment that you canmake for your business and thatis why we developed thisbusiness,” Valkema said. “Thetechnology at our disposal allowsus to meet and exceed yourneeds while maximizing theenergy efficiency of your lightingsystem. We don’t know of abetter channel to invest for theshort or long term.”

The 21st Century Lightingteam simply desires to help yourbusiness save those hard earneddollars that are needlessly paidto your electrical utility each andevery month.

Learn more about the servicesavailable through 21st CenturyLighting. Not only will you realizesignificant financial returns, butyour facility will become morecomfortable and productive withnew lighting. Contact DaveValkema at 815.291.5464 orSteve Schoenberger at608.577.9114.Famous Fossil Vineyard &Winery

Wine enthusiasts gatheredOctober 8 at Famous Fossil

Page 10 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

109 South Galena Ave.Freeport, IL 61032

815-232-7100

We’ll ... MMaakkee iitt HHaammppttoonn!!

continued from page 7

Vineyard & Winery to celebratethe third anniversary of theopening of Stephenson County’sonly winery. People enjoyedwine & local cheeses inside thetasting room and on the deckoverlooking the vineyard.Visitors could also viewwinemaking activities from awindow in the tasting room. Theday was highlighted by the

release ofTraminette, asemi-drywhite winemade at theWinery. The

celebration closed with drawingsfor wine baskets. Famous FossilVineyard & Winery makes 13different wines including red,white and fruit wines.

Saturday also marked the endof the fourth harvest at FamousFossil Vineyard. The vineyard,established in 2004, includes 12different varieties of white andred wine grapes. Famous Fossilalso buys grapes for its winesfrom vineyards in Cedarville,Durand, Pearl City, and GermanValley.

Famous Fossil Vineyard &Winery employs three full timepersons and has five employees

working part time. Several parttime employees are hired duringharvest which runs from lateAugust to October.

Famous Fossil Vineyard &Winery is open year round. Formore information, call 815-563-4665 or visitwww.famousfossilwinery.comCathy’s Custom Cakery

Unique art for all occasionscreated with cake

Cathy’s Custom Cakeryspecializes in making yourspecial custom cake a reality. Ifyou’ve been dreaming of aspecial cake, Cathy’s CustomCakery can probably ensurethat your dream will become themost beautiful, memorable andmost delicious edible art you’veever experienced.

“Folks come tell me abouttheir special upcoming occasionor what a person might like andI just create a cake,” said Cathy’sCustom Cakery owner/operatorCathy Koester.

She said no cake is too big orsmall and no occasion is beyondher imagination when it comesto decorating that special cake.

“Right now I’m working on a“turkey cake” for the holidaysand a series of “scary” cakes for

Halloween,” Koester said. “I justlove Halloween and putting gorydecorations on a cake really getsme going.”

Photos of some of hercreations are on her constantlyupdated web site at:www.cathyscustomcakery.com.Be sure to visit the 3D cake pagefor some of her most imaginativecreations.

Koester said she wentcommercial in June, 2011 andcouldn’t think of a better place toopen a business than Freeport.

“I know there are a coupleplaces that docakes in town,but I’ve alwaysloved bakingand I’ve doneartwork usingdifferent stylesfor years, so I

decided to go ahead and seewhat happens,” she said.

Koester added that she isslowly finding a niche with her“Melt in your mouth flavor”cookies.

“I like to bake things for folksthat I would like to receive,” shesaid. “If that means extraingredients or time spent makinga special decoration, I like that. I

just want folks to really enjoywhat I do.”

She said a store front is in thefuture.

“I would love a shop, but thatis really a long term plan,”Koester said. “It just depends onhow things go. I’m keeping apositive attitude.”

She said she is working tokeep her prices reasonable sothat folks will get moreenjoyment from her goods.

“I just get a kick out of seeingthe expression on their faceswhen they see their cake orcookies,” Koester said.

She said she is a perfectionistwhen it comes to her art.

“I really want to produce thebest looking and best tastingproduct around,” She said. “Iwant it to taste as good as itlooks and that takes the extratime and care that I’m willing toput in just to have my cakes andcookies be the best.”

Let Cathy’s Custom Cakerycreate your perfect cake - it willtaste and look extraordinary.Check out the cakes and cookiesat www.cathyscustomcakery orcontact Cathy Koester at815.235.4457 or 815.821.4844for more information.

Page 11F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

featuring... OWNERCAREOur exclusive owner benefit package

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Page 12 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Thank you to everyone to attend the Dave RamseyEntreLeadership Simulcast at Crossroads CommunityChurch! We had an excellent turn out for this event andwe appreciate all the support!

Congratulations to This Is It Eatery 16 N.

Chicago Avenue downtown Freeport on your

Ribbon Cutting! It was our honor to be there

to help you celebrate this imporant day.

Welcome to Freeport This Is It Eatery! Stop

by and check them out for yourself!

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The Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Curves located at 2026W. Galena Avenue in Freeport. If you are looking for agreat place to work out stop by Curves!

Think IP Phone SystemsAren’t For Your Business?

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Page 14 F R E E P O R T A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

MEMBERSNEW:

• Knowlton Motors/Mark V Rentals • Cathy's Custom Cakery • 21st Century Lighting • Curve's• Seaga • RBG Supply • Randall J. Manus Attorney at Law

• Premier Home Mortgage • M&S Trucking • Boltnet.net• B & T Automotive • Best Auto Service

RENEWED:• Deer Ridge Retreat • University of Illinois Extension

• Stephenson County Farm Bureau• Loescher Heating & Air Conditioning • Midtown Center

• Freeport Rehabilitation & Health Care• Roto Rooter Sewer & Drain • Hartog & Reedy Dentistry

• Housing Authority of Freeport • Hughes Resources• The Cheese Market • Tim Bivins - State Senator

• Lamar Outdoor Advertising• Integra Business Systems, Inc. • Slumberland Furniture

• International Payment Solutions• Willowglen Academy of IL • Super 8

• Highlandview Dental Excellence • Freeport Country Club• Frerport Catholic Schools • Tri-Star Metals, LLC

• Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois • Kentucky Fried Chicken• R Squared Construction • Anytime Fitness of Freeport

• Pretzel Fan's Club • Northwestern Service Co.• Allen's Menswear • Stephenson Service Co. • FS Farmtown

• Freeport Fast Stop Express • Willowglen Academy of IL• New Horizons Counseling Center • Imperial Palace

• Willett, Hofmann & Associates • Freeport Massage Center• Provena St. Joseph Campus • Stephenson County Board

• Culver's • Sauer-Danfoss• Aaron's Sales & Lease Ownership • Behr Iron & Metal

• Eagles Club • Family Health Quest• Lincoln Douglas Society • Spherion Staffing Group

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The HR Luncheon featured the Value of the WorkforceInvestment Board/Act and the Necessity of Reauthorizationwith Guest Speakers Brenda Helms Employment Coordinator,Partner for Employment and Janet Vrtol WIB Manager forNorthwest IL Workforce Investment Board. We would like tothank both Brenda and Janet for doing such an excellent job!We hope everyone enjoyed the luncheon and we look forwardto the next HR Luncheon in November.

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