b'MEMBER SPOTLIGHTProviding Natural Gas to Communities Across IllinoisTELL US A BIT ABOUTable and affordable natural gas to its YOUR HISTORY. customers, supporting both warmth Nicor Gas has a rich history, datingand economic growth. With over back to the days when gas light illu- 70% of Illinois households relying on minated the historic Lincoln-Doug- natural gas for heating*, Nicor Gas las debates in 1858. Since then, it hasemphasizes affordability, often offer-been at the forefront of providinging energy at half the cost of electric-natural gas to communities acrossity.** Additionally, the company plays Illinois. Over time, it has grown froma vital role in local economies by humble beginnings to become oneemploying more than 2,200 people, of the largest natural gas distribu- supporting workforce development tion companies in the United States,and economic development.Meena Byers serving 2.3 million customers in 650 Vice President of Business &communities. ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL Community Development PROJECTS NICOR GAS IS Nicor Gas HOW IS BUSINESS? CURRENTLY WORKING ON?Despite facing challenges in the pastThe promise of Pembroke year due to global economic uncer- Four years ago, a coalition comprised tainty, Nicor Gas has successfullyof officials from various levels of adapted and thrived. The companygovernment, local businesses, mem-remains dedicated to delivering reli- bers of Rev. Jesse Jacksons Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Nicor Gas convened in the community room of a church in Hopkins Park to explore the possibility of offering natural gas as an energy option to the residents of Hopkins Park and Pembroke Township. In January 2023, Nicor Gas leaders, along with residents of Pembroke and the same community leaders, gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony in celebration of that goal becoming a reality. The introduction of natural gas as an energy alternative marked a significant milestone for the commu-nity. Prior to this option, residents were limited to using propane, wood Promises made, promises kept. Wendell Dallas, fourth from left, joins community leaders at theburning and other potentially haz-Promise of Pembroke ribbon cutting ceremony. ardous and costly heating methods, posing health and fire risks. Through 6ILLINOIS BUSINESS LEADER'