Business of the Month

Chamber Business of the Month

Please help us welcome Ed Morse Automotive Group as the Red Bud Chamber business of the month! Follow along this month to learn more about our local dealerships, the history of Weir’s and about Ed Morse Automotive Group. What are some of your fondest memories of our local dealership?

The Morse family bought into their first dealership in 1961, Cecil Holland Ford in Miami, which soon became Ed Morse Ford. Over the next 50 years, Ed and his son, Ted, added dozens of additional dealerships and realigned their market areas throughout the state of Florida and now they currently have dealerships in 6 States. This keen business sense cemented the Ed Morse prominence as one of the largest family-owned automotive dealer groups in the country. Since taking over Weir, Ed Morse has continued to be an asset in Red Bud and the surrounding communities. The transition from Weir to Ed Morse went off without a hitch. You still see the same faces and receive the fantastic service you became a custom to over the years. Ed Morse is motivated to keep that same success that Weir had and keep building their brand throughout the country. One of the reasons Weir was an appealing dealer to purchase was because of the success they had all these years. Another appealing asset that Weir had and probably what they were best known for outside of the local community is their parts department.

We sat down with Brad Roy to chat about his history with the company formally known as Weir and now known as Ed Morse Automotive Group. Brad officially became a full time employee in 1998 but had been working there with his dad since he was a young man cleaning cars, cleaning the shop and one of his favorite memories was refilling the soda machine. He would walk over to the former Country Side, buy some soda and wheel it back to the dealership to re-stock the machine. Brad is now the sales manager at the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC store so we asked Brad; what’s the biggest change in the car business over the years? “Internet” The internet has changed the industry in many ways. Customers come in more knowledgeable about the vehicle they want to purchase as they have done research. Customers can get online and find vehicles all over the country and they are willing to travel to get that perfect vehicle. The internet has streamlined the process of selling a vehicle overall. The second thing he mentioned is the technology has changed so much in the vehicles. They come with so many more features including safety and creature comforts.

Since 1975 Norm Roy and the team at Weir were a critical asset to our community. We want to thank Ed Morse Automotive Group for continuing to fill that important roll and for being our chamber business of the month! Check out https://www.edmorse.com to learn more and find great deals on your next vehicle!

Chamber Business of the Month

Kicking our May’s chamber business of the month by introducing everyone to Discovery Youth Center! They opened in 2005 and are still operating under the current ownership. At this time they employ 22 staff members which include teachers and support staff. They currently provide a safe, learning environment for 100 kids with a max capacity of 150. Stayed tuned all month while we learn more about the day care & learning center!

When we spoke with Discovery Youth Center we asked how did Covid affect their business? During Covid times they never laid off any staff! They were able to meet the states requirements and remain open which allowed essential workers to drop off their kids. Grant money and PPE loans helped fill the gaps to keep staff employed. In 2022 they updated the playground using money gained from a back to business state grant. The new playground is more modern and it has improved safety features. Over the years they have received benches donated by Ultra Site.

Chamber Business of the Month

Red Bud Veterinary Service has been selected as the April chamber business of the month. What a perfect time to select them as it’s pet first aid awareness month! In 2019 Dr. Ryan Jacob and Dr. Shannon Melliere purchased the clinic from Dr. Church who was the long time owner of the practice. Dr. Shannon currently operates as a silent partner as she also owns and operates an office in Waterloo. With Dr. Ryan being the main doctor at the practice they recently hired Dr. Fuller to help treat furry patients.

They primarily work with small animals, and occasionally get some exotic animals in the clinic. The clinic does offer “urgent care” situations in the event your animal becomes ill or injured. Otherwise, they mainly operate based on scheduled visits. Their main focus is on regular checkups, preventative care, dermatology and Dr. Ryan specializes in orthopedic services. Their beliefs are to have great communication with their clients, keep them up to date with the condition of their animal, keep the animals comfortable and happy! Here is a recent post they shared on how to help your animals during storms. ⛈ Does your dog have a storm or other noise phobia? We can help with that. If you need something to help your pet get through these stressful situations, give us a call to find out what we can do to help!

Another fantastic service that Red Bud Veterinary provides is outside of Red Bud. They provide clinical services to shelters and animal control departments throughout the metro east. They typically will pickup the animal that needs help, bring them back to the Red Bud clinic and preform the services required. By doing this the animal can then be put up for adoption and essentially given a second life!

Chamber Business of the Month

Our March “Chamber Business of the Month” is Hi-Way Motors!

Hi-Way is a third generation, locally owned, car dealership & service shop. Hi-Way has been in business since 1954! Now owned and operated by Jared Horrell. Jared & his team of 9 are a staple in the community & offer great service to all.

When sitting down with Jared and getting a better understanding of his business, what really jumped off the page to us was the tenured staff. Not only has Jared been with Hi-Way since 2008, but the nucleus of his team has been together for many years. One being his Service Manager Todd & sales manager Dustin, who’s both been with him since 2016. While many businesses are struggling to attract and retain employees, Jared has created an enjoyable culture that exceeds expectations.

We asked Jared many questions, one being “why do people buy from Hi-Way?”. In short, Jared said that people buy from them because they are car dealers, not salesmen. There process is very informal. He & his staff are knowledgeable and try and give his customers enjoyable experiences. One of his favorite things to hear once the purchasing process is done from a customer is “is that it?” He wants the customer experience from start to finish to be painless and enjoyable.

To continue our highlight of Hi Way Motors, we wanted to feature more about what they do & how they do it. They aren’t your typical used car delearship. All throughout the year, they have not only newer vehicles, but also premium versions of those vehicles. You’ll see plenty of Rough Country accessories on their vehicles plus brand new wheels and tires. Regardless of year, make, or model, they all have two things in common: they all go through the mandatory 131 point inspection in shop, and they are all CLEAN! Jared & the team take a lot of pride in both.

When it comes to their mechanic shop, they spend a lot of time tuning up their own vehicles, but they also offer all their services to the community. So when you’re in need of vehicle repairs or maintenance, please keep Hi Way in mind.

Lastly, Jared was happy to explain how business has changed for him over the last few years. Years ago, listings on Craigslist were a huge source of marketing. Craigslist basically got replaced by auto trader. And believe it or not, Facebook marketplace has become a popular spot to drive business!

As we know, Hi-Way is a third generation business that represents Red Bud in all the best ways. They treat every person who walks on the lot as family. They follow through with what they promise. They invest in their staff & business to find ways to keep evolving. They really are the type of business that makes our Town great.

So thank you to Jared, his family, and the Team at Hi-Way for allowing us to peel back the curtain and better understand who you are.

Chamber Business of the Month

Our first Business of the Month is none other than IGA!

First things first- What’s IGA stand for? Independent Grocers Alliance!
The newest ownership has owned the business for 27 years and are happy to serve the community.

One of the first questions we asked Bryon was “what do you love about the community of Red Bud?” In summary, Byron talked about all the families coming in throughout the years & seeing kids grow up and become adults and still shopping at IGA. He and the rest of the seasoned staff have enjoyed watching the community continuously support their business.

In our last post, we asked “what’s the biggest seller” , and Milk was the correct answer!

In our conversation with Byron, we asked about what struggles they are facing with all of the rapid changes, and he said supply chains issues were the biggest problem. Luckily for them, staffing has been great. But the supply issues in regards to inventory is the biggest hiccup. So if you go to IGA and they are missing Brooks Chili Beans, it’s not from a lack of effort from the staff. They just can’t get them! Byron mentioned that product in particular was tough to find. But all in all, it’s hard for them to predict what will be available & what won’t, but he appcreaties the community being so patient with them.

On another note- we asked Byron “what changes in the industry over the years were most surprising?”. He answered with- The amount of Products we get over the years have been crazy. Before they had the regular groceries, and over the years they have expanded the line of products. One thing in particular that was surprising to Byron was bottled water. He remember when it first hit the shelves and he thought to himself, no way people will buy this stuff. As we all know, it’s now become a household fixture.

Spotlight on a Business

Farm Credit Illinois is the business featured this month in the Spotlight on Business, sponsored by the Red Bud Chamber of Commerce.

For 100 years, they have supported rural communities, farm families and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services. Farm Credit was established when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Federal Farm Loan Act on July 17, 1916. Since then, the national network of Farm Credit cooperatives has provided American farm families with the financing they need to start, sustain and grow their agribusinesses. Today, Farm Credit’s system has 74 farmer owned association cooperatives which provide $235 billion in loans, leases and related services. This is more than one-third of the credit needed by U.S. agriculture.

Farm Credit Illinois is a farmer owned and directed agricultural lending cooperative serving 8,500 farm families, agribusinesses and rural landowners in the southern 60 counties of Illinois with competitive and flexible financing and risk management expertise. The association manages a $4 billion loan portfolio, sells 1.4 million acres of crop insurance coverage and employes 210 staff based in the Mahomet central office and 14 regional office locations.

Farm Credit’s unwavering commitment to Illinois agriculture and rural communities extends beyond providing financial services. From encouraging the next generation of farmers to helping educate consumers about the importance of agriculture, Farm Credit helps maintain healthy rural communities, a vibrant agriculture industry and sustainable family farm businesses which pass from generation to generation.

Farm Credit Illinois strives to return a portion of its net earnings to the rural marketplace its team members serve. These gifts are invested in youth development, ag-vocacy, community charities and outreach programs. In 2004, Farm Credit began offering agriculture scholarships to high school seniors pursing an agricultural career. Nearly $300,000 has been awarded to 275 students throughout southern and central Illinois since the program’s start. Farm Credit also provides community improvement grants to 4-H clubs and FFA chapters implementing projects that provide visible and tangible value in their communities, making them better places to live. Since 2008, more than $60,000 of grant funding has been awarded.

Team members at Farm Credit are committed to the communities in which they live, work and serve and have a goal of contributing 20,000 cumulative volunteer service hours by 2025. Service hours include hours delivered towards youth and young farmer development, ag-vocacy and community service. These volunteer efforts contribute to a vibrant agriculture industry and healthy rural communities.

Each year during harvest time and in conjunction with National Farm Safety and Health Week, Farm Credit also provides meals in the field to local farm families as a way of promoting safety.
The Red Bud Farm Credit branch is located at 111 Kennedy Drive and has seven employees. They are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Their phone number is 618-282-6673. For more information about Farm Credit Illinois, visit their website at www.farmcreditIL.com.

Spotlight on a Business

Mohr Plumbing and Heating is featured as this month’s Spotlight on a Business sponsored by the Red Bud Chamber of Commerce. The business is most likely one of the oldest in Red Bud as it celebrates 75 years this month.

Leonard Mohr established Mohr Plumbing and Heating in 1941. Using a wheelbarrow for hauling the basic hand tools needed to apply his trade, he would hustle off to the various plumbing tasks throughout the small town of Red Bud. In order to keep up with his growing business, he soon purchased a 1929 Chevy Coupe which he converted into a truck.

In 1946, Leonard’s son, Vic, returned from the Navy and brought his acquired knowledge to the business. Leonard retired in 1972 and he and his wife Dora turned the business over to their son and daughter-in-law, Vic and Trudie Mohr. Mohr Plumbing and Heating was changed to Red Bud Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electrical Contractors, Inc. (Red Bud P.H.C. & E., Inc.) Vic’s son Vic Jr. started with the business in 1973. He attended MacMurray College and has BA degrees in Biology and Chemistry. He has attended school for refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning and belongs to the American Chemical Society, and is a licensed plumber in the state of Illinois.

In 1975, Helen, Vic Jr’s wife, joined the business and assumed bookkeeping responsibilities. Red Bud P.H.C. & E. Contractors, Inc, became the local dealer for Kinetico Water Conditioning in 1986. After attending Kinetico’s Sales and Service Schools, Helen is now in charge of Kinetico sales and service. In 1987 the company added the assumed name of Mohr Softwater for the water conditioning portion of the business.

In 1993, Vic Jr. and Helen purchased the business from Vic Sr. and continue to service and sell quality plumbing, heating, air conditioning and water treatment equipment. Some of the lines of products that are sold are recognized brand names like Carrier heating and cooling equipment, American Standard fixtures, Delta Faucets, Kinetico Water softeners, treatment equipment and reverse osmosis drinking systems.

Due to a fire in 2005 the business moved to its current location at 110 Kennedy Drive.

Contact Mohr Plumbing at 282-2108 or visit the website at mohrplumbingandheating.com. Business hours are Monday through Friday, 8-4:30 and by appointment evenings and Saturdays.

Vic and Helen appreciate all of the customers for their support over the past several years.

Spotlight on a Business

This month’s Spotlight on a Business sponsored by the Red Bud Chamber of Commerce features Second Chance Consignment & Boutique located at 114 W. Market Street.

Gina (Reinhold) Montroy, owner and operator, was born and raised in Prairie du Rocher. She opened the shop on Aug. 22, 2014. Gina purchased, renamed, relocated and took over the previous consignment shop in Red Bud, Twice Upon a Time which was located at 204 S. Main and owned by Cari Lucht.

“I have always wanted to have my own upscale consignment shop and boutique. It has been a long time dream of mine for many years. Two years ago it became a reality and now is my career and my passion,” said Gina. Gina’s mother, Patricia Reinhold also puts in many hours organizing and working to help keep the business running smoothly. Second Chance Consignment & Boutique is an upscale consignment shop. Gina only accepts items that are new, like new or gently used. All items must be in season, in style and no older than five years old. She accepts items by appointment only and no more than 60 items at a time, neatly folded in boxes, totes or laundry baskets.

The items will be consigned for 90 days and you get 50 percent of the selling price. Your account can be cashed out at the end of the 90 days, or you can choose to leave the money in your account to use as store credit. When you use store credit, you get 10 percent off your purchases. Gina also sells on eBay. If your item is sold on eBay you will get 40 percent of the selling price. Popular brands in the clean, organized and inviting 1100 square foot store include Under Armour, North Face, American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, The Buckle, Miss Me, Silver, Ann Taylor, Coldwater Creek, CJ Banks, Maurices, Chico’s, Carter’s, Osh Kosh, Justice, Crazy 8, Gymboree, Children’s Place, Sperry, Converse, Nike, Motherhood, Coach, Dooney & Bourke, Miche, Vera Bradley and many more.

“Our prices are a fraction of what you pay in department stores, but right here in Red Bud,” Gina said. There are over 500 consignors from all over including Collinsville, New Athens, Smithton, Freeburg, Belleville, Chester, Marissa, Waterloo, Columbia and more. Hundreds of new items are added to the floor weekly so she encourages shoppers to stop by often. The shop includes apparel and shoes for the entire family from infant through teen, ladies’ petite through plus sizes and mens small through 3XL. There is a large selection of purses, wallets, backpacks and diaper bags along with jewelry, hair accessories and sunglasses. Also mens dress clothes, suits and ties, mother of the bride dresses, nursing scrubs, maternity clothes, many of your favorite major league and NCAA sports team apparel, Harley Davidson apparel, sports equipment and apparel, baby equipment, toys, video games and stuffed animals. There is also a large selection of home decor, collectibles, glassware, pictures and kitchen items along with window treatments, shower curtains, comforter and bedding sets.

“We always have 50 percent off racks of clothing plus every Tuesday is 10 percent off storewide and every Thursday you get to draw for 10, 15 or 20 percent off your purchase,” she said.

Gina is also an Independent Beauty Consultant for Lemongras Spa and has the full line at Second Chance. The products are 97-100 percent natural and organic with over 400 products to choose from, once again, you will find something for the entire family. All of the products are gluten-free, with no harmful chemicals, preservatives, synthetic fragrances or additives, affordably priced and made in the United States. Stop by to grab a last minute gift for birthday, anniversary, baby shower, bridal shower, get well or just because. Learn more about Lemongrass Spa, see the entire line or shop the products at www.ourlemongrassspa.com/7219. You can contact Gina for more information on how you can earn free product or purchase products at 25% off.

To check out the shop and spa go to www.consignmentredbudil.com or www.ourlemongrassspa.com/7219. Email [email protected] or call 618-282-7355. Find us, follow us and Like us on Facebook to keep up with our changing inventory.

Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday. Will stay later by appointment only.

Gina stated “We are here to help you save gas, time and money while looking your best and shopping local!”

Spotlight on a Business

North County Savings Bank is the December Spotlight on a Business sponsored by the Red Bud Chamber of Commerce. North County Savings Bank was first chartered in 1887 as Evansville Building & Loan Association. The Building & Loan was located in the former Pautler Hotel in Evansville.

In 1973 the savings institution was approved for a location in Red Bud and it became the home office with a branch in Evansville. The Red Bud office was located at 101 Main Street, the Ziebold Building, which is presently owned by TMW. At the same time the savings institution changed its name to North County Savings Association. Assets for North County Savings was at five million dollars in 1973. The Savings Association primarily serviced savings accounts, CD’s and home loans.

In 1986 the bank built a new facility in Red Bud and re-located to 100 Park Plaza where Twyla’s is now located. In 1991 the name changed to North County Savings Bank and in 2000 the bank opened its third location in Ruma. A new bank building was built in 2010 and is at the present address of 411 West Market Street.

Today the bank offers products for all your banking needs such as checking accounts, reward checking accounts, free senior and student checking accounts, savings accounts, CD’s, home loans, car loans, personal loans, home equity loans, on-line banking and many other services. Assets as of Nov. 30, 2015 was at $47,700,000.

The bank strives and prides itself in customer service. “We are mutually and locally owned. We have no plans for any mergers or changes. We would just like to continue to be your hometown bank and provide excellent service to our valued customers,” said CEO Steve Kueker.

North County Savings Bank is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Call 282-3939 or visit www.ncsbank.com.

Spotlight on a Business

This month’s Spotlight on a Business is MarketOnMain located at 204 S. Main Street.

Upon retiring from Red Bud High School, Joyce Carnahan started her business in 2012. In conjunction with MarketOnMain, Carnahan also established a Farmer’s Market selling baked goods, specializing in cinnamon rolls. The public is invited to the Farmer’s Market every Thursday through August from 3-6 p.m.

After opening the business, the Carnahans also began renovation of the 1890’s Kaffenberger building in which they are located. One year later they started hosting events, parties and classes as well as the summer market.

In addition to hosting events, classes and parties for all ages, Carnahan also sells baked items such as cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, cookies and more on Thursday afternoons throughout the summer.

“We typically participate in Chamber-sponsored events throughout the year, providing unique products and experiences to add to the charm of our small town,” she stated.

Carnahan featured a Kiddie Bar at Moonlight Madness. She offered a hot chocolate and dessert bar during the Friday night Santa visits and was a Holiday Happenings and Garden Tour stop recently.

MarketOnMain is open on Thursdays from 3-7 p.m. in the summer and during events. Carnahan also offers her unique building for small showers, parties and gatherings. Follow MarketOnMain on facebook or call 282-4258 or 618-559-9560.