Southern Illinois’ rich coal mining heritage is evident in its unique landscape. Long, narrow lakes, locally known as “strip cuts,” dot the countryside, serving as reminders of an era when above-ground coal mines were abundant. Following the cessation of mining activities, these deep excavations were naturally filled by runoff and groundwater. Over time, the land surrounding these former mines has undergone extensive remediation and reclamation, transforming potential environmental liabilities into opportunities for redevelopment. While the terrain—steeply sloped, rugged, and rocky—poses challenges for traditional redevelopment, it provides ideal conditions for off-highway vehicles (OHVs) such as ATVs, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes.

A Legacy Reimagined

The Sahara Coal Company, once one of Saline County’s largest coal operators, ran multiple mines in the region for decades. One of its mines, located north of Carrier Mills and five miles west of Harrisburg, ceased operations in 1995. The site was later reclaimed and remediated, creating an ideal opportunity for transformation. Recognizing its potential, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) acquired the land and began developing it into a recreational hub.

Opening with a soft launch in late 2024, Sahara Woods Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park is set to become Illinois’ first state-owned and operated OHV park. The park spans over 1,400 acres and boasts 26.2 miles of two-way trails, a visitors’ center, and plans for a future campground. Its strategic location, combined with its rugged terrain and expansive size, makes it a prime destination for family-friendly trail riding and outdoor recreation.

“We built this place as a park atmosphere,” explained Eric McClusky, Sahara Woods OHV Park site superintendent. “We wanted it to be a family trail-riding experience rather than an ultra-mud fest or a big monster machine type place.”

Driving Economic Impact

The park’s official grand opening for its first full season is scheduled for May 2, 2025. Operating annually from the first full weekend in May through the last full week of January, Sahara Woods OHV Park is anticipated to draw off-road enthusiasts from across the Midwest and Mid-South.

“I really think that this will be one of the most utilized things that we have in this part of the state,” said McClusky. “These facilities are built to bring people in, and they’ll go out and spend their dollars in the community.”

The park is expected to provide a substantial economic boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and retail outlets. Positioned as a premier outdoor recreation destination, Sahara Woods will complement Southern Illinois’ existing attractions, such as hiking, mountain biking, and boating. This strategic diversification fills a niche market, enhancing the region’s appeal to visitors.

Nationally, OHV riding has seen significant growth. A U.S. Forest Service study from 2008 indicated that between 1999 and 2004, approximately 39.7 million Americans aged 16 and older participated in OHV activities. Given the increasing popularity of outdoor recreation, that number has likely risen, underscoring the potential demand for facilities like Sahara Woods.

Enhancing Recreational Opportunities

Sahara Woods OHV Park is a valuable addition to Southern Illinois’ extensive portfolio of outdoor activities. Designed with safety and sustainability in mind, the park offers a controlled environment for OHV enthusiasts, reducing the likelihood of illegal or environmentally harmful riding in undesignated areas. This focus on responsible recreation ensures long-term environmental stewardship.

Part of the broader Sahara Woods State Recreation Area, which spans 4,100 acres, the park also provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and hunting. For McClusky, the site holds personal significance. “I can take you and show you where I was sitting when I was 11 years old and killed my first deer right here on this piece of property,” he shared. “To be involved with this park where my dad raised me and made his living, and to do the same with my daughter, it’s really something for me.”

A Blueprint for Post-Industrial Renewal

Sahara Woods OHV Park exemplifies how post-industrial lands can be repurposed to benefit communities and support economic development. By transforming a former mining site into a recreational destination, the park contributes to Southern Illinois’ growing outdoor economy while preserving its historical legacy.

As the park opens its doors to riders and visitors, it promises to serve as a cornerstone for regional growth. Its innovative approach to land reclamation and recreation sets a benchmark for other communities seeking to revitalize post-industrial landscapes. With its diverse offerings and community-focused mission, Sahara Woods OHV Park is poised to become a true destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a catalyst for Southern Illinois’ continued development.

For more than 40 years, The Medicine Shoppe has been a trusted name in Southern Illinois, providing personalized pharmacy services and expanding to meet the evolving needs of the community. Founded in 1983 by Steve Ledbetter and continued by his son, Brad Ledbetter, this family-owned business has grown from a single pharmacy in Harrisburg to multiple locations across the region, all while maintaining its core commitment to patient care.

The Medicine Shoppe’s journey began in Harrisburg, but it didn’t take long for the Steve to recognize the need for high-quality pharmacy care in other parts of Southern Illinois. In 1986, a second location opened in Marion, and in 2006, the company expanded further into Gallatin County with the Ridgway pharmacy.

But their vision didn’t stop at prescriptions. Recognizing that many patients needed access to essential medical equipment, The Medicine Shoppe launched Home Health Solutions in 2008, delivering everything from home oxygen and CPAP machines to hospital beds and wheelchairs river to river in Southern Illinois. By 2014, Home Health Solutions had grown enough to become its own standalone location. The company continued its expansion, opening a Shawneetown pharmacy in 2018 and acquiring the Medicap Pharmacy in Eldorado in 2020, ensuring that more communities had access to their personalized approach to healthcare.

While the locations and services have grown, the philosophy has remained the same: treat patients like family, help them navigate their healthcare, and provide the kind of personal service that has become increasingly rare in today’s pharmacy industry.

At The Medicine Shoppe, patient care isn’t just a business—it’s a commitment. In a world where corporate or mail order pharmacies often feel impersonal, the Ledbetter family and their team make it a point to know their patients by name, understand their medical needs, and go the extra mile to provide solutions.

Brad Ledbetter, Vice President, explains, “When you walk into a big-box pharmacy, you might not even get eye contact before someone asks for your date of birth. That’s just not how we do things. We take the time to know our patients and talk to them.” That personal approach extends beyond the pharmacy counter. Additionally, as a locally owned business, The Medicine Shoppe is deeply involved in the communities it serves. From sponsoring local events to supporting small businesses, their presence is about more than just healthcare—it’s about strengthening Southern Illinois as a whole.

The pharmacy industry has changed significantly in recent years, with independent pharmacies facing growing challenges from large Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). These middlemen dictate drug pricing, control reimbursements, and often push patients toward corporate-owned pharmacies, making it harder for local businesses to compete.

Despite these challenges, The Medicine Shoppe remains committed to its mission. “We’re still here, and we’re still fighting for our patients,” says Brad Ledbetter. “We don’t just fill prescriptions—our pharmacists help people manage their health. That’s something chain pharmacies will never do as well as an independent one.”

The Medicine Shoppe continues to expand its specialized services, making healthcare more accessible and convenient. It offers home delivery, medication synchronization immunizations, and durable medical equipment such as CPAP machines, home oxygen, ventilators, and wheelchairs. As highly accessible healthcare professionals, their pharmacists offer expert guidance on medications, side effects, and chronic condition management.

At its core, The Medicine Shoppe is about more than just prescriptions—it’s about people. Whether it’s helping a patient find an affordable alternative to an expensive medication, making sure an elderly resident gets their prescriptions delivered on time, or simply taking a few extra minutes to answer a question, their pharmacists are dedicated to making a difference.

“One of the most overlooked facts about healthcare is that pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals. You don’t need an appointment, you don’t have to sit in a waiting room for hours, and you don’t need insurance approval just to get advice” says Brad Ledbetter. “And that’s what our pharmacists are here for. Whether it’s a quick question, a consultation, or help managing a medication regimen, we take pride in being the healthcare professional people turn to when they need real, practical advice.”

Special Mine Services, Inc. (SMS) was founded in September 1983 with the mission of distributing and repairing electrical cables for the coal mining industry in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Recognizing a need within a few years, the company expanded its operations to manufacture electrical connectors to accompany the cables it sold. This shift marked the beginning of SMS’s transformation. While the company continues to provide cable repair and distribution services within the region, it has become a leading manufacturer of industrial electrical connectors, with a domestic and international footprint that continues to grow across traditional and emerging industries.

SMS produces industrial electrical connectors used in mining, underground construction, portable power, heavy equipment, and entertainment industries. While its products are utilized globally, the company remains deeply rooted in the local community by creating stable employment opportunities and contributing to the regional economy.

Southern Illinois has provided the ideal foundation for SMS’s success. The region’s reliable workforce has allowed the company to retain talented employees while attracting new ones. Its location near two major interstates, I-57 and I-64, provides logistical advantages for distributing products. Beyond business considerations, Southern Illinois offers a high quality of life. The nearby Shawnee National Forest and local lakes provide recreational opportunities that appeal to both employees and visiting customers.

The company has overcome challenges, including shifting the perception of its identity. Originally a local business, SMS has grown into a global enterprise, requiring both internal and external stakeholders to adapt to its evolving mission. This transition has allowed SMS to seize new opportunities and thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Partnerships have been critical to the company’s growth. SMS has worked with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and the International Trade Center (ITC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. The ITC has provided valuable market research, helped identify international distributors, and connected SMS with entities such as the Illinois Office of Trade and Investment and the U.S. Commercial Service. These collaborations have been vital to SMS’s successful international expansion in recent years.

The company attributes much of its success to the small-town atmosphere of Southern Illinois, which provides a strong sense of community while offering the resources necessary for growth. This balance has made the region an appealing place to operate and expand.

SMS’s ability to adapt to industry trends has been a hallmark of its success. Initially focused on serving the coal mining industry, the company has broadened its reach to support mining and construction operations worldwide. This includes critical minerals mining, which plays a key role in the electrification of industrial equipment and private vehicles. The company has also developed innovative products, such as battery jumper assemblies, which minimize downtime for battery electric mining equipment during battery swaps.

Special Mine Services, Inc. is a shining example of a business that has successfully combined local roots with global ambitions. By leveraging resources, embracing innovation, and staying connected to its community, SMS continues to grow and make an impact far beyond Southern Illinois.

Farmstead Foods, LLC, owned and operated by Michael Gehman, is deeply rooted in Southern Illinois, both geographically and in spirit. Michael grew up in the Benton area, where he was immersed in the intersection of horticulture and agriculture. His mother managed a thriving greenhouse and garden center, while his father operated a hog farm and row crop farming business. This upbringing instilled in him a deep respect for the land and the resilience required to sustain farming. After high school, Michael worked alongside his father while taking on landscaping projects, developing a strong foundation in hard work, creativity, and the importance of cultivating both the land and meaningful relationships.

In 2009, Michael and his wife began farming on a piece of family land, starting small by selling produce at farmers' markets in St. Louis. Their first season was filled with challenges, providing valuable lessons in planning, perseverance, and managing supply and demand. To achieve financial stability during critical growing seasons, they launched a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program called Local Farmer Cropboxes, which ensured sustainability. As their operations expanded into restaurant and retail sales, Michael discovered a passion for the culinary arts and found fulfillment in seeing their produce transformed into exceptional dishes by talented chefs.

In 2013, Michael acquired Double Star Farms from his mentor and friend, Clair Rudolph. This transition enabled him to focus on wholesale operations, building a network of local farms to meet the growing demand for fresh, high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. By 2018, Farmstead Foods was officially established, founded on principles of transparency and a commitment to celebrating the farmers who contribute to its success. Today, the company offers a wide range of locally grown vegetables, fruits, dairy, meats, grains, and more, serving the community with pride and dedication.

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH LOCAL FOOD

Being based in Southern Illinois provides Farmstead Foods with unique advantages. The region’s fertile soil and deep-rooted farming traditions contribute to the production of high-quality crops. Strategically located between major cities, Southern Illinois serves as a vital connection point, linking local farmers with urban markets. Additionally, the prevalence of food deserts in the area presents an opportunity to deliver affordable, fresh food to underserved communities, aligning with the company’s core mission.

Farmstead Foods addresses logistical challenges by collaborating with multiple farms to develop efficient distribution systems, reducing costs while ensuring accessibility for customers. The company is also deeply committed to sustainability, incorporating practices such as recycling packaging, redistributing unsellable produce to food banks, and composting unusable items to minimize environmental impact.

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

The COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of Farmstead Foods. When restaurant sales, the company's primary revenue stream, declined almost overnight, the team quickly pivoted to online home delivery and nationwide shipping. By diversifying its customer base to include schools and markets, Farmstead Foods emerged stronger, more versatile, and even more deeply connected to the communities it serves.

PARTNERSHIPS AND VISION

Farmstead Foods thrives through its collaborative relationships with local farmers and businesses. These partnerships not only ensure a steady supply of high-quality products but also contribute to the growth of the local economy. While grant funding has been elusive, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable growth and continues to advocate for resources that help small farms succeed.

At the heart of Farmstead Foods’ mission is a deep appreciation for the Southern Illinois community. The region’s people embody values of hard work, authenticity, and a shared agricultural heritage that defines the area. Farmstead Foods is dedicated to honoring these values by building a sustainable network that benefits farmers, consumers, and the land. The company’s goal is straightforward: to make locally grown, high-quality food accessible to everyone, fostering a healthier, more connected community for future generations.

Elastec, based in Carmi, Illinois, is a manufacturer of innovative environmental products such as oil skimmers, workboats, and industrial vacuum systems. Their products and solutions are distributed to 155 countries worldwide. Elastec’s mission is to develop solutions that clean up surface water pollution and ensure waterways remain clean. Cheyenne Mann, Creative Services Manager at Elastec, shared insights about the company and and their growth.

Elastec was founded in 1990 in Crossville, Illinois, and later moved its headquarters to Carmi. The company’s origin story began with founders Donnie Wilson and Jeff Cantrell, who were working on cleaning an oil pit in the Illinois Basin. Frustrated by the inefficiency of existing oil skimmers, one of them humorously suggested that a five-gallon bucket could perform better. They threw a bucket into the pit, spinning it on its side like a drum, which effectively collected oil on its surface. This discovery led Wilson and Cantrell to invent the first efficient drum oil skimmer, marking the beginning of Elastec's journey.

Elastec is committed to developing high-quality equipment that supports its mission of maintaining clean waterways. The company’s range of products includes oil skimmers, workboats, containment booms, turbidity curtains, portable incinerators, and industrial vacuum systems. Recently, Elastec’s Board of Directors and Shareholders announced that the company is now 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), a step that ensures continued growth, flexibility, and sustainability while bolstering the local economy.

Over the past 33 years, Elastec has evolved into the largest manufacturer of oil spill equipment in North America, with products distributed to over 155 countries. The company has been recognized for its commitment to high-quality, durable equipment, earning accolades such as the Wendy Schmidt Oil Cleanup X CHALLENGE from the X PRIZE Foundation for efficient oil recovery from ocean water, the 2012 “Popular Mechanics” Breakthrough Award, and an entry in the “Guinness Book of World Records.”

Elastec’s core mission is encapsulated in its tagline: “Keeping Our World Clean.” This guiding principle drives the company's dedication to innovation and product quality.

Banterra Bank, one of the nation’s largest community banks and proudly based in Southern Illinois, has played an integral role in Elastec’s success by understanding its goals and fostering a strong, supportive relationship. Elastec values Banterra's commitment to the community and appreciates the bank’s exceptional services that have contributed to the company’s growth and continued achievements.

The story of Cusumano & Sons began at the turn of the 20th century, when Joe Cusumano, a young Sicilian immigrant, arrived at Ellis Island seeking the American Dream. At just eight years old and unable to speak English, Joe started his journey by selling overripe bananas in New York’s wholesale produce district. Through determination and resourcefulness, he went from selling bananas door-to-door to owning a pushcart, and eventually a horse-drawn wagon.

Joe’s entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to the Midwest, where he established the Joe Cusumano Fruit Company in St. Louis, Missouri, focusing on wholesale produce. He noticed a significant opportunity to distribute fresh fruits and vegetables to rural areas that lacked transportation and refrigeration. In the late 1920s, Joe expanded his business by launching Mt. Vernon Distributing Co. in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. To support the growing operation, a new warehouse with rail access was built in 1944 at 10th and Casey.

The family business continued to thrive, eventually becoming one of Southern Illinois' largest wholesale produce distributors. Joe’s sons—Vito, Sam, and Vince—joined the business, and Vince became the sole owner in the early 1960s. Vince and his wife, Shirley, ran the company until his health declined, passing the reins to their eldest son, Rex, in 1979. To honor the company’s legacy, Rex renamed it Cusumano & Sons, steering it toward further growth.

Tragedy struck in 1998 when multiple fires destroyed the warehouses at 10th and Casey. In response, Rex quickly acquired and renovated a warehouse at 826 Harrison Street in Mt. Vernon, which remains the company's base today. Undeterred by the setback, Rex ensured the business never missed a day of service.

In 2007, Tony and Lance Cusumano, Rex’s sons, Tony and Lance Cusumano, Southern Illinois University Carbondale graduates, took over daily operations, continuing the family tradition. Today, Cusumano & Sons distributes fresh produce sourced globally, along with pre-cut fruits and vegetables, which help customers manage labor shortages and deliver fresh products efficiently. A notable feature of the company is its split-case service, allowing smaller businesses to buy exactly what they need without the burden of excess inventory.

In 2012, Cusumano & Sons invested in advanced industry software, enhancing food safety traceability, electronic data exchange, and inventory management. The company is currently preparing to launch an online ordering platform and mobile app, expanding customer convenience. New product lines, including proteins like beef, seafood, pork, and chicken, will soon complement the company's produce offerings, further increasing their appeal to a wider range of clients.

Additionally, the company has acquired refrigerated vans to complement its fleet of trucks, increasing fuel efficiency for local deliveries. Future plans include expanding the delivery area and offering retail sales directly to customers, allowing for local product pickup.

Cusumano & Sons is committed to supporting the Southern Illinois community. Its fundraising program, revamped in 2020, enables non-profits such as schools, churches, and sports teams to sell boxes of fresh produce for profit. The program, which has facilitated over 400 fundraisers in Southern Illinois and Indiana since 2020, is a valuable resource for local organizations seeking healthy and profitable fundraising options.

In response to COVID-19 in 2020, the company quickly adapted, pivoting to sell produce boxes directly to the public when grocery store shelves were bare. The overwhelming demand led Cusumano & Sons to bring their discounted produce bundles to communities throughout Southern Illinois, setting the foundation for their ongoing fundraising program. The company also partnered with regional distributors and government agencies to provide truckloads of free food boxes to local food pantries, churches, and communities, ensuring Southern Illinois did not go overlooked during the pandemic.

The company’s annual participation in Mount Vernon’s Market Days demonstrates its commitment to easing food costs for the local community. In addition, surplus produce is regularly donated to food banks and non-profit organizations, ensuring no food goes to waste. Cusumano & Sons proudly sponsors numerous local schools, sports teams, and clubs, reinforcing its dedication to Southern Illinois.

Cusumano & Sons has faced significant challenges over the past decades, including the 1998 warehouse fire and the COVID-19 pandemic. The fire at 10th and Casey initially destroyed one building, only for a second fire weeks later to consume the remaining structures. Despite the devastation, Rex and his team continued operations without interruption by relocating to a recently acquired warehouse.

Navigating the uncharted waters of the COVID-19 pandemic presented another major challenge. As an essential business, Cusumano & Sons had to adapt quickly, ensuring the safety of employees while addressing product shortages and changes in customer needs. The company’s long-standing relationships with suppliers enabled it to secure products when many other wholesalers faced shortages.

An example of the company’s agility came in early 2022, when a trusted vendor faced a major issue and needed help moving fresh inventory. Although it meant taking on extra stock, Cusumano & Sons saw an opportunity to support the vendor while passing savings on to customers. Over three days, the company successfully distributed multiple semi loads of produce, exemplifying the company's commitment to collaboration and customer service.

The company remains focused on growth and innovation. The upcoming launch of the online ordering platform and the expansion into retail sales mark a new chapter in its evolution. By increasing delivery frequency and reaching new areas, Cusumano & Sons aims to meet the needs of a diverse customer base while staying true to its roots as a family-owned business.

Cusumano & Sons’ journey from an eight-year-old immigrant selling bananas in New York to a prominent Southern Illinois produce distributor exemplifies resilience, community spirit, and entrepreneurial success. Today, the company continues to honor its heritage while embracing change and innovation, positioning itself as a vital player in Southern Illinois' economy.

Flex-Line Automation: A Legacy of Innovation, Community, and Growth

From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, Flex-Line Automation’s products are quietly at work helping manufacturers, shaping the world around us in ways that often go unnoticed. Whether it’s the cereal in your breakfast bowl or the bearings in your car, manufacturers across industries work with Flex-Line Automation, Inc. to move their products throughout production and end of line processes. Flex-Line has perfected the art of connecting the dots in daily life. While the material handling solutions may remain unseen, they play a crucial role in ensuring that the products we rely on—from personal care products to machined parts and everything in between—are available when we want them. This article explores how Flex-Line’s often underappreciated innovations in material handling seamlessly fit into our everyday routines, enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability in the processes we often take for granted.

Founded in late 1984, Flex-Line Automation, Inc. has transformed from a modest beginning into a thriving, third-generation family business based in Chester, Illinois. The company’s origins trace back to Orville Rinne, who saw an opportunity to introduce SKF Sweden’s new modular tabletop conveyor, FlexLink, to the U.S. market. With the backing of his wife Dorothy, son Rhett, and daughter-in-law Cathy, Flex-Line was born. Today, the company remains a family affair, with Cathy Rinne serving as president since 1999, and their daughter Lauren, along with her husband Eric Van De Mark, now actively involved in driving the business forward. Together, they continue to uphold the company’s core values of rural ingenuity and hard work.

Flex-Line’s success story is deeply rooted in humble beginnings. The company started in a farm shop, applying a strong rural work ethic and problem-solving mentality to the material handling industry. Even as Flex-Line expanded to three locations in the Chester area and gained customers across North America—and as far away as Israel—it has remained true to its origins. “We’ve kept that drive and dedication to service,” Cathy emphasizes, attributing the company’s success to these values. Customers appreciate the personalized service Flex-Line provides, which sets it apart from larger competitors.

The company culture at Flex-Line is as eclectic and laid-back as they come, with a healthy dose of farm life thrown into the mix. "We were doing flextime before it even had a name," Cathy quips. It’s not uncommon to find a dog or two wandering the office—or even a chicken. The atmosphere is family-friendly and full of surprises. “We’re not your traditional business model,” Cathy laughs. “We don’t have as many layers. Think less fancy wedding cake, more sheet cake baked by mom—it is the same no matter what part you eat. We all try to cross train to help out, and you don’t have to go through the bureaucracy.”

Flex-Line has never been content to rest on its laurels. Over the years, the company has expanded its product offerings beyond conveyors to include a diverse range of equipment. As the demand for automation and collaborative robots has surged, Flex-Line swiftly adapted, integrating robotic solutions into machine tending, case packing, and palletizing operations. Today, robotics accounts for a significant portion of the company’s business, highlighting Flex-Line's ability to evolve in the ever-changing automation industry.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of Flex-Line is its unwavering commitment to the local community. The company actively supports regional schools, businesses, and organizations, understanding the importance of giving back. Earlier this year, Flex-Line hosted an Automation Fair to showcase the latest products and innovations to local manufacturers. The company is also working with schools to establish robotics and programming clubs, aiming to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers. “We want to help keep our greatest resource—our kids—working here locally,” Cathy explains.

Operating in a rural area hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Flex-Line. In its early days, the company faced skepticism from larger vendors and customers due to its location. “We were in a pole shed in the middle of a cornfield,” Cathy recalls. However, over time, Flex-Line has proven its worth, overcoming biases against rural companies and earning respect within the industry. Ironically, the rural roots that once sparked skepticism have become a selling point. “Being country is now cool,” Cathy notes, proudly embracing the authenticity that comes with Flex-Line’s rural heritage.

At the forefront of industry trends, particularly concerning artificial intelligence, Flex-Line sees AI as a game-changer for small and mid-sized manufacturers, making automation more accessible than ever. “AI is going to revolutionize manufacturing by simplifying deployment,” Cathy states. Flex-Line is dedicated to exploring these emerging technologies to benefit its customers, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.

One of the company’s recent innovations is a patent-pending box erecting platform that works seamlessly with six-axis robots. This product has been well-received by facilities aiming to redeploy employees away from monotonous tasks while optimizing available space. For Flex-Line, solving customers’ problems with the right solutions is always the top priority.

Sustainability is another vital focus for Flex-Line, stemming from the Rinne family’s farming background. The company is committed to reusing materials whenever possible and minimizing waste. “We were farmers before we became business owners,” Cathy states. “Being good stewards of the land and conserving our natural resources has always been essential to us.” This commitment to sustainability is evident in practices such as repurposing inbound shipping materials and using pallet lumber for office renovations.

As Flex-Line looks toward the future, the company is poised for continued growth. Lauren (Rinne) Van De Mark has taken on a more prominent role in management, and with her leadership, Flex-Line recently earned their SBA certification as a Woman-Owned Small Business, opening new opportunities to support companies with diversity requirements. Additionally, the company plans to build a larger facility to consolidate its locations, enabling them to better serve their expanding customer base.

Flex-Line is determined to shape the future of Southern Illinois by reaching out to young people and encouraging them to pursue careers in automation and manufacturing. “There are lots of opportunities for high-tech, exciting, and good-paying jobs right here,” Cathy emphasizes, highlighting the potential for young people to thrive in their local communities without the need to migrate to urban areas.

Ultimately, Flex-Line’s vision extends beyond mere business success; it’s about creating a lasting impact in Southern Illinois. The company’s dedication to community engagement, sustainability, and innovation ensures it will remain a regional leader for years to come. “We want to be role models,” Cathy asserts, “for other ladies interested in our industry or in entrepreneurship, and by empowering our youth, we can help make Southern Illinois a better place for all of us.”

A Bright Future with D&D Electric

Imagine if the sun sent you a monthly bill for all the sunlight you use. Thankfully, it does not, and that’s where solar energy comes in! Harnessing the power of the sun is like having an endless supply of free pizza delivered to your door – minus the calories and with a LOT more environmental benefits.  

Thomas Edison once said “We are like tenant farmers chopping down the fence around our house for fuel when we should be using nature’s inexhaustible sources of energy – sun, wind, and tide…. I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”  

Solar energy is rapidly gaining traction in Illinois, thanks to the state's commitment to renewable energy and the numerous incentives available for homeowners and businesses.  

D&D Electric, one of the companies at the forefront of this solar revolution in Southern Illinois is headquartered in Harrisburg. They are family-owned and employ professionals with decades of hands-on experience in many services and specialties.  

We sat down with Dave and Darla Martin, founders of D&D Electric, to hear their impactful story. The history of D&D Electric, formerly known as Dave Martin Electric, “started with three employees in a little hallway” Darla shares and now has nearly fifty employees today. Dave Martin’s career path has been diverse – coal mines, farming, and power plants. He dabbled in entrepreneurship but often returned to familiar territory. In 2012, Dave embarked on the solar energy path when he had the opportunity to install solar panels on a 10-acre farm.  

Dave’s passion for solar energy led him to undertake an ambitious project in 2016: a 120-acre solar installation at Fort Hood, Texas. This massive system boasted twenty-seven megawatts of capacity and an impressive 168,000 solar panels. The project provided power to critical infrastructure, including an airport and hospital.  

As D&D Electric expanded, they faced bureaucratic hurdles, financial setbacks, and longer processes. Along with the complexity of big systems came the challenge of loan approvals, pre-grant applications, and other time-consuming and meticulous steps. This process was cumbersome, but Dave tells that “Persistence and invaluable relationships paid off.” Over time, Dave became a valuable resource for others to rely on in achieving progress.  

Dave and Darla’s journey, from bureaucratic battles to faith-driven triumphs, underscores how “unselfishness and faith have shaped their path.” While some may consider the events at D&D Electric to be mere fortunate coincidences, Dave consistently observed that outcomes tended to unfold favorably, and he acknowledged God’s hand in these blessings. Appropriate phone calls and connections, as well as perseverance through financial hardship, all signified their steadfast faith in God. Their commitment to renewable energy and their adeptness at overcoming obstacles define a legacy that extends to others who have joined the company, making their story truly inspiring.  

As Illinois continues to invest in solar energy, companies like D&D Electric and others throughout Southern Illinois play a crucial role in driving this transformation. Their dedication to sustainable energy solutions helps reduce carbon footprints and promotes a cleaner, greener future for all.  

One of Southern Illinois Now’s (SI Now) top priorities is to attract new businesses, retain and help existing businesses expand, and encourage entrepreneurship in the southern 17 counties in the Land of Lincoln. Business attraction and retention is not limited to the United States – stretching beyond the country’s borders, it’s essential to encourage foreign direct investment (FDI) to Southern Illinois. 

SI Now will be taking part in the SelectUSA Investment Summit held June 23-26 in Washington D.C., which is focused on FDI. As part of Team Illinois, SI Now will be promoting Southern Illinois as the best choice for international companies to invest and do business. 

There are 1,538 international companies in Illinois, employing 376,700 workers; approximately 135,900 of those jobs are in the manufacturing sector. From 2016 to 2021, Illinois’ FDI employment increased by 8.1%. 

As businesses seek to be closer to their customers to minimize shipping costs and supply chain disruptions, Southern Illinois is garnering a lot of attention. Long considered a “hidden gem,” companies are taking notice of the region’s centralized location, robust transportation offerings, and diverse site selection inventory. The region has become a hub for automotive parts manufacturers, food and beverage manufacturing, agribusiness, and even aviation. 

Southern Illinois has seen significant investment from global companies expanding their footprint in recent years. German-based Continental Tire operates the company’s largest plant in North America in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, employing more than 3,500 people with plans to continue expanding. Japanese car part manufacturer Aisin employs over 1,800 people at three plants in Marion, Illinois, and just completed a 463,000-square-foot logistics center earlier this year. Italian cable manufacturer Prysmian Group is expanding its Du Quoin, Illinois, plant to double its production of medium voltage transmission cable and add 80 new jobs. Agrochemical manufacturer AECI Schirm, with headquarters in Germany and South Africa, recently completed two new herbicide facilities in Benton, Illinois, adding another 30 new jobs. In total, more than 5,500 people are employed by international companies in Southern Illinois. 

Ahead of the pack, Illinois is one of the top states for business creation and workforce, ranking #2 in the United States for business expansions and relocations and #2 for infrastructure and education. 

SI Now is looking forward to more successes in attracting foreign direct investment in Southern Illinois. SI Now is pleased to be joined at SelectUSA by Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation along with Intersect Illinois, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, Champaign County Economic Development Corporation, Choose DuPage, Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County, Greater St. Louis, Grundy Economic Development Council, Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Hub, Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, Will County Center for Economic Development, and World Business Chicago. 

Connect with Southern Illinois and Team Illinois at Booth 323 at the 2024 SelectUSA Summit! 

When you think of Southern Illinois industries, nuclear power generation might not be the first thing that comes to mind simply because the region does not have any nuclear power plants. However, a company in Mt. Vernon, Nutherm International, and its team of mad scientist engineers have been providing some of the nuclear power industry’s highest quality safety-related systems, known as Class 1E components, for 45 years.

“We build systems that protect reactors,” explained Wade Bowlin, Nutherm International owner and vice president. “When you think of backup power, back up cooling, it’s those systems that keep the reactor in control if something goes wrong. Such as fire, flood, equipment failure, or anything like that. That’s really our core business.”

Nutherm’s systems are completely customized, requiring their engineering team to come up with creative solutions that are put under rigorous tests to ensure the equipment continues to function in harsh conditions. Mt. Vernon offers the perfect location for acquiring these specialized engineers, with some of the top engineering universities in the nation, like Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Illinois, less than two hours away.

“A lot of the testing we have to do is pretty unique,” said Bowlin. “We’re testing things for electromagnetic interference/radio-frequency interference. We test equipment that has to work in an environment that could have really high pressure or high temperature steam. Your electrical components still have to work in that environment. It could be a release of radiation and you may have equipment that needs to work in radiation, or maybe an earthquake, which is why we have a seismic testing table.”

Nutherm has worked directly with the U.S. Department of Energy at many of their 17 National Laboratories around the United States. The company has designed, fabricated, and installed equipment around the world such as China, Taiwan, and Slovenia.

Most recently, Nutherm was awarded a HUBZone Certification, a federal program that fuels small business growth in historically underutilized business zones by awarding at least 3% of federal contract dollars to HUBZone-certified companies. This means that companies like Nutherm will be given preferential consideration for certain government contracts. HUBZone-certified businesses also get a 10% price evaluation preference in full and open contract competitions.

As coal power plants are taken offline, there is a renewed interest in nuclear energy, especially in newer technologies like small modular and molten-salt reactors. In addition to newer technologies, older nuclear power plants which originally had a lifespan of 40 years continue to get updates, expanding their lifespan by decades. The future is bright for Nutherm International in Southern Illinois.