From the Desk of the Executive Director

 It’s hard to believe we are at the end of another Chamber year. 2011 has been another year we will all surely remember—from the farming community to every aspect of business, with many issues and matters of concern.

     Our Chamber has worked hard in assisting to improve the business climate on behalf of our members and for the economic stability and growth of the Mattoon area. Although we cannot claim full credit, we lent a helping hand to improve our community. This is a perfect time to reflect on what accomplishments and strides Mattoon has shown. I am amazed at the progress as it is exciting to see these positive additions to the community, from major renovations, business moves, to new business.

     2011 has once again seen the fruits of their efforts to projects that do not materialize overnight- but worth waiting for.   We have watched projects that will bring more jobs to the community while keeping jobs as the projects are in progress.  These major milestones have only enhanced the setting of this community.  It has brought a sense of pride into these areas and we are fortunate to have those involved invest in this community. 

New Businesses
Auto Body Shop on Lake Land Blvd
Auto Detailing Shop on Commercial Ave.
Auto Detailing Shop on Marshall Ave.
Barber shop on 9th Street
Cityscapes Restaurant on Broadway East
Dent & Bent Grocery Store on S Rt. 45
Dog Grooming Facility on Marshall Ave.
Nail Shoppe on Western Ave.
Nail Shoppe on Charleston Ave.
PetSmart on Dettro Drive
Winery on Broadway Avenue 

Projects In The Mill
Downtown Diner
Sarah Bush Lincoln Master Facility Plan
(includes expansion of the ER, and new surgical waiting rooms)

 Business Moves
Journal Gazette to the Cross County Mall

Expansions
Sarah Bush Lincoln—Prairie Pavilion II
St. John’s School on Broadway Avenue
United Graphics on Marshall Avenue

 Projects Completed From Last Year
AT&T Services on Thompson Drive
CCI Concrete Facility North of Mattoon
Mattoon Area Family YMCA
Morgan Phipps Bridge 

Projects of the City of Mattoon
2nd Mural on Western Avenue
6 new homes built in the city limits since May
15 building demolitions over the past year and a half with 3 more ready to start
31^st street upgrade
Downtown Progress Square parking Lot
Mattoon Municipal Parking Lot (South of YMCA)
New alley south of the Municipal Parking Lot
New alley next to Progress Square

         All of this and more within the past year- this speaks volumes! We should be thankful for all of those involved who have believed and invested in our community of Mattoon. It is a tremendous feeling to drive though the city and see this positive side of advancement. 

     In closing, I would like to thank the Board of Directors for their support. It has been a great sense of pride to be involved with the caliber of strong business professionals and community leaders who take our community to heart and have its best interest in mind.   And to the Chamber Staff, and Chamber Ambassadors—thank you for all your work and support of your Mattoon Chamber of Commerce.  Have a very Merry Christmas.  We look forward to next year!