20 PEOPLE UNDER 40 Who make a difference in Central Illinois
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2 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
he Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is proud to present this annual special publication to honor members of our community who make a difference in many ways. We realize it takes a special combination of individuals to make a difference in any community, but we wanted to take this opportunity to honor those under the age of 40 who are making a difference. The process wasn’t easy. We asked for nominations from the community and received an overwhelming response.
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Each nominee was very impressive, and our selection committee had the daunting task of narrowing the field to 20. These selected individuals represent the best our community has to offer. From education, nonprofit, health care and more, our selections are from diverse backgrounds and offer many talents. Each 20 Under 40 has a unique story and offers his or her wisdom and advice on what it takes to be successful. You’ll read about what they do, what they like about the community, what they still hope to accomplish and more.
We hope you enjoy reading about these special individuals. Their profiles also can be found online at our website, www.thebusinessjournal.com. We would like to take this opportunity to thank those community members who were a part of the selection committee. We appreciate your hard work. For those of you who wish to nominate someone next year, look for our call for nominations in March 2012. •
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STAFFLIST PUBLISHER Todd Nelson EDITOR Scott Perry
Kim Amsalem ......................3
Elissa McGlaughlin ............13
Stephanie Ashe Brown ..........4
Gretchen Nollman ..............14
Keith Brown..........................5
Betsy Osman ......................15
Jamie Davis..........................6
Emily Roush ......................16
Chris Funk............................7
Christopher Rooney ............18
Amanda Havener ..................8
Amy Schneider ..................19
Ron Ingram ..........................9
Leann Schuering ................20
Lonni Lay ..........................10
Cheryl Warner ....................21
Dr. Amanda Lewis ..............11
Andrew Weatherford ..........22
Ashley Littrell ....................12
Tasha Ziemer ....................23
ADindex
ADVERTISING Cayla Hittmeier
Kid’s Castle Learning Center ......................................................5
LAYOUT & DESIGN Kim Halusan
Hickory Point Bank & Trust ........................................................7
The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is printed monthly and is a publication of Lee Enterprises, Inc. Information published in the Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is responsibility of the author and does not reflect the opinions of the Business Journal. To submit articles, please mail your information typewritten and 500 words or less to: The Business Journal, 601 E. William St., Decatur, IL 62523. Submitted articles will not be returned. Any editorial content or advertising published is the property of Lee Enterprises, Inc. DBA The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois. ©2008 Herald & Review All rights reserved for entire content.
Decatur Park District ................................................................6 Caterpillar ..................................................................................9 Baby TALK ..............................................................................15 Neuhoff Media..........................................................................16 Economic Development Corp. ..................................................17 Veolia Environmental Services ................................................18 Heartland Technical Academy ..................................................23 St. Mary’s Hospital ..................................................................24
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 3
Kim Amsalem Age: 27 Family: My wonderful husband, Nick; our puppy Maggie, and my Big Brothers Big Sisters “Little Sister” Tashiana Evans.
Current position/responsibilities: I am a partner of Dawson & Wikoff Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home. We are a family-owned and locally operated funeral home with five locations throughout Macon County.
What you like best about what you do: I really enjoy working with our funeral directors to create special and unique life celebrations for the families we serve. We strive to help families cope with what is happening in their lives, work through their grief and remember special happy memories that they can carry with them and share with others. We do not just plan funerals. We take time with each family to learn about their lives, and we create a special life celebration that includes as many individual details as possible. We are always working hard to be the best that we can be for each family, and I am very proud of that.
What you like best about working or living in the community: Nick and I are very blessed to be part of this community. We all pull together to help and support each other, so our entire community feels like one big family. I think it’s wonderful to see local businesses and people referring each other to other businesses and people within the community. It’s about the success of the entire community as a whole, not just our individual businesses. I love shopping downtown and spending time at the restaurants downtown and on the lake. I also enjoy Decatur’s wonderful parks,
whether it is playing Frisbee at Fairview, mountain biking at Garman or road biking at Rock Springs. There is also Millikin’s trendy corner of town which I love, the Decatur Area Arts Council, the live performances and bands throughout town and all of the local events. It’s amazing how easy it is to get involved in our community. From 5Ks such as MUDD to benefit Junior Achievement to Black Ties such as Whiskers and Tails to benefit the Decatur and Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation, there is always something to do in town.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area? I believe we need to continue to support Millikin and Richland. Creating work and volunteer opportunities, as well as internships, for the students will help them feel at home here in Decatur. I know the lakefront development will have an amazing impact on our community. I truly believe it will help us attract and retain young professionals in this community. Nick and I met through the 501 Club, and I’m really happy to see the group
continuing to bridge the gap for newcomers. Most importantly, I think it’s up to each person to reach out to new people. We can all make them feel at home here by introducing them to other people with similar interests.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: That would be my mom. She has been a huge inspiration to me throughout life. I watched in awe as she balanced having a family, being a funeral director, owning a business, being an active member of our church and being a community advocate. She somehow always managed to be there for me. She was a classroom mom and coached my cheerleading squads. In the early years of their marriage, my dad and she had five jobs, two kids and a foster child. After I was born, they went back to school to follow in my grandfather’s footsteps as funeral directors. She gives with her whole heart and with a smile. She is amazing!
“We are always working hard to be the best that we can be for each family, and I am very proud of that.”
Your favorite stress reliever: Running and yoga
Your favorite movie: I have so many favorite movies. My newest favorite is “The Blind Side.”
Your favorite book: “The 5 Love Languages”
What you still hope to accomplish:
Quote to live by:
I am really looking forward to raising a family with my husband and continuing to get more involved in the community.
“Hope is like the sun, which as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us.” Samuel Smiles
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4 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
“I grew up surrounded by family members expecting great things out of me.”
Stephanie Ashe Brown Age: 28 Family: Husband, Adam, and our dog, Peaches.
Current Position / Responsibilities: As the development planner for the city of Decatur, I enjoy working on a wide range of tasks on a daily basis. Historic preservation and citywide redevelopment are two of my passions with this job. The biggest project I have the pleasure of working on is the streetscape improvements to the downtown area. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to assist in making downtown Decatur a destination and point of pride for Decatur residents. As an urban planner, I am passionate about making places better than when I arrived.
What do you like best about working or living in the community:
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why:
I moved to Decatur four years ago for my job. I believe what helped me to make my decision then (outside of the 501 Club and an encouraging co-worker) is what is keeping me here now: community pride and sense of philanthropy. I have never heard of a community that loves its city as much as Decatur. The residents realize their rich heritage and take pride in what our ancestors have built and accomplished. Additionally, I am constantly amazed at the number of fundraisers and opportunities to give back to our community. Every week is filled with events aimed at helping a group, person or cause. It makes me proud to call Decatur my home.
I don’t think any one person has had a profound impact on me. I grew up surrounded by family members expecting great things out of me. I went to two amazing colleges where I was surrounded by bright young people ready to conquer the world. I studied history and learned of influential people while watching TV and seeing modern day heroes and heroines. Even my “Little Sister” with Big Brothers Big Sisters has influenced the way I live my life.
What do you like best about what you do:
What should the community be doing to attract more young professionals to live and work in the Decatur area:
Meeting and working with passionate locals who share a common goal: to make our built environment both beautiful and functional.
I think Decatur is on the right track with all of the downtown events, the proposed lakefront development and the investment in older housing stock.
What you still hope to accomplish: One day I hope to be known for helping a community realize it greatest potential.
Your favorite stress reliever: Working out followed by a glass of wine and a classic movie.
Your favorite movie: Anything with Doris Day or Cary Grant.
Your favorite book: Any suspense or crime novel. I love to try to figure out the ending.
Quote to live by: “Make no little plans. They have no magic to stir men's blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will never die, but long after we are gone will be a living thing, asserting itself with evergrowing insistency. ... Let your watchword be order and your beacon beauty. Think big.” Chicago architect Daniel Burnham.
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 5
“If we can build a community with many options for recreational opportunities, we will attract younger people.”
Keith Brown Age: 36 Family: Wife, Sheri, and kids, Rihana, Cassidy and Trevor.
Current position / responsibilities: Owner of Kid’s Castle Learning Center and The Teachers Lounge. I manage day-to-day operations of both businesses.
What you like best about what you do: Working with a great staff of employees, making a difference in a child’s life and the daily interaction with our day care families.
What you like best about working in the community: The overwhelming response from the Decatur community when someone is in need of help. Things like food drives, Coats for Kids, etc.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the area: Start attracting new business to the area. The new plan for Lake Decatur’s lakefront is a step in the right direction to attract younger people. If we can build a community with many options for recreational opportunities, we will attract younger people.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My wife. She is so loving and caring and has always supported my decisions, no matter how little or big of an impact they have made on her life.
NOW OPEN
What you still hope to accomplish: To be a role model to my kids and grandkids.
Your favorite stress reliever: Remodeling my house, fishing, boating and spending time with my family.
Your favorite movie: “The Replacements” with Keanu Reeves.
Your favorite book: The Bible
Quote to live by: “You have to Pay to Play.” If you want to play hard then you have to work hard. The harder you work, the harder you will be able to play.
We sell a large selection of: • Teaching Books • Learning Games • Toys • Bulletin Board Sets and Decorations • Stamps, Stickers and Art Supplies We sell everything needed to make teaching and learning a fun experience.
Hours: Monday – Friday 10-8, Saturday 10-5, Sunday Noon-5
2828 N. Main St., Decatur 217-791-6273
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6 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
Jamie Davis Age: 33 Family: Husband, James, and dogs, Belle and Herby.
Current position/responsibilities: Recreation supervisor with the Decatur Park District. I currently supervise the Fairview Family Aquatic Center, Paul’s Puttin’ Place and Dunn’s Dugout, day camp, Johns Hill Center, The Special Recreation Association and Special Olympics.
What you like best about what you do: In my position, I enjoy being able to work with people from such a diverse population, including children, adults and children and adults with special needs. I enjoy knowing that when I go to work every day it is never going to be the same, but at the end of the day I know I am making a difference.
What you like best about working or living in the community: Decatur is my hometown. When there is someone/something in need, the community pulls together as one.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: I feel that the community is striving toward a positive move to attract more young people with the lakefront development plans.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: I don’t have one individual who has been the biggest influence on me. I have three — my siblings. Being the youngest of four children, they taught me you always have to speak up and fight for what you believe in and don’t back down. I would not be where I am today without them pushing me.
What you still hope to accomplish: I would like to participate in a triathlon.
Your favorite stress reliever: Working out, walking the dogs, painting.
Your favorite movie: “Uncle Buck”
Your favorite book: “Message in a Bottle”
Quote to live by: “Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” John Wooden
“I enjoy knowing that when I go to work every day it is never going to be the same, but at the end of the day I know I am making a difference.”
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 7
Chris Funk Age: 31 Family: Wife, Sarah; children, Christian (6), Sebastian (5), Benjamin (2) and Emmalyn (3 months) Current position/responsibilities: Senior vice president, commercial banking for Hickory Point Bank & Trust. My responsibilities include managing and developing commercial banking relationships with a wide range of businesses and institutions throughout Central Illinois.
What you like best about what you do: Every day is different, and each customer is unique. I might visit a construction site in the morning and a grain elevator in the afternoon. From family businesses to large nonprofits and everything in between, our clients are as diverse as the communities we serve. Hickory Point Bank has always maintained a long-term approach to banking, which has allowed us to remain a consistent resource for our clients through the recession. By understanding the unique needs of the businesses we serve, we are able to be there for them in good times as well as periods of difficulty.
What you like best about working or living in the community: Decatur is a great place to live and raise a family. The cost of living is very reasonable, and there are so many people here who truly care about the future of our community. I have had the privilege of serving as a director of several nonprofit organizations and have seen firsthand the impact that so many people make in the lives of others every day.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: The community has done a fantastic job of supporting our public and private schools in recent years, and Millikin and Richland are tremendous resources. We should continue to invest in our local
“ Every day is different, and each customer is unique.”
education system to ensure Decatur is generating the highly educated talent pool that today’s employers demand. There is value in reaching out to young people who might relocate to Decatur, but I believe the community benefits most from a strong homegrown work force that allows local employers to be competitive and continue to grow.
Your favorite book: “The Associates: Four Capitalists Who Created California.” This book provides a great historical narrative on the planning and construction of the intercontinental railroad, as well as insight into the
The people who have had the biggest influence on you and why: My parents. I feel very blessed to have been raised by such dedicated and hardworking people. From a very early age, they instilled in me the values of faith and hard work, and I saw firsthand how they put those traits to work daily. I learned that, no matter where you start or what obstacles you encounter, you truly can accomplish anything if you work hard, trust in God and never give up.
financial and political challenges of such an enormous project.
Quote to live by: “Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, leave the rest to God.” Ronald Reagan
Our people make the difference. Chris Funk Senior Vice President
Hickory Point Bank & Trust is proud to announce that Chris Funk, Senior Vice President, has been recognized as one of Decatur’s 20 Under 40 Outstanding Professionals. Congratulations to Chris and the other young professionals.
What you still hope to accomplish: One of these days, I hope to become a respectable golfer. There’s always retirement, right?
There is a difference.
Your favorite stress reliever: Playing the guitar. It is fun to make music, and sitting down to play requires me to “unplug” from everything else going on in my life for at least a few moments.
Your favorite movie: “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” Remember: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
Member FDIC
225 North Water Street | 217.875.3131 | www.hickorypointbank.com
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8 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
Amanda Havener “How it’s not what life throws your way, but how you handle those situations that’s really important.”
Age: 31 Family: Married five years to Brandon; stepson, Braden
What you like best about working or living in the community: My family is very important to me, and living in the Decatur area makes it possible for us to see each
(10), and identical twin daughters, Alexis and Allison
other often. I also enjoy being a part of the Junior
(3)
Welfare Association, a wonderful group of women of all occupations who serve our community through
how to be a hard worker, a self-starter, a terrific mom and a true friend. How it’s not what life throws your way, but how you handle those situations that’s really important.
What you still hope to accomplish: I want to continue to use my God-given talents to
volunteerism and raise funds just to give back to our
educate and create opportunities that will help
Case coordinator/legal advocate, Macon County
community and help those in need. It is a very
others.
Child Advocacy Center. I am responsible for working
rewarding experience that Decatur has to offer.
Current position/responsibilities:
Your favorite stress reliever: Dark chocolate
with law enforcement, Department of Children and Family Services personnel and the Macon and Piatt county state’s attorney’s offices to provide crisis intervention services, assistance and support in coping with abuse, assistance with obtaining medical and counseling; providing legal advocacy and information about the court process, including help with orders of protection, victim compensation and
and friends.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: The community should continue to create activities for young adults and families with children to participate in the Decatur area.
Helping families during a difficult situation in their life and getting them the resources they need.
Quote to live by: “I can do all things through Christ which
case information as appropriate.
What you like best about what you do:
Your favorite movie: When I have a chance to actually watch one, any comedy or romance will do.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My mom, Martha P. Kendall, is the biggest influence of my life. She has taught me core values,
strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 9
“We should continue to create opportunities career, activity and educational.”
Ron Ingram Age: 38 Family: Wife, Laura, five children, a dog and a rabbit.
Current position/responsibilities: Supply chain manager at Caterpillar, Inc. I’m responsible for inbound logistics for the Decatur plant, manufacturing and supplier schedules, inventory management, internal material distribution and management of third party logistics providers.
achieve a sense of simple elegance when the pieces fall into place and seamlessly work together.
What you like best about what you do: I enjoy the challenge of managing a large supply chain that includes suppliers and customers all around the world. A manufacturing plant as large as the Caterpillar facility in Decatur is very complex, but you
What you like best about working or living in the community: I was born and raised here, and I feel very comfortable with the area. It has turned out to be a great place to raise our family and we are able to find opportunities for every activity we are interested in participating in.
C AT E R P I L L A R D E C AT U R P R O U D LY C O N G R AT U L AT E S
RON INGRAM & ASHLEY LITTRELL FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: We should continue to create opportunities career, activity and educational. Without a variety of employment opportunities, it is difficult to attract dual career families to the area. Young families are also looking for the best schools. Making sure we can offer the best educational experience is important. We also need to encourage, embrace and market the different activities available in the community. For example, I’ve met several Millikin students who have never seen Lake Decatur. We
need to be deliberate in reaching out to young people whether that’s at the university or organizations like the 501 Club.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: It’s hard to pick out just one, but they all shared some common traits: they either demonstrated through actions how to live an exemplar life or they cared enough to intervene when I was off track.
What you still hope to accomplish: I’m on the steering committee for the Millikin– Dennis Laboratory School project and I’d like to see that concept get approved and launched next year. This is an excellent example of taking two strong committed organizations and making something greater than the sum of the parts. Also, through the Education Coalition, I’d like to help facilitate greater community involvement and alignment with our educational system. We are working and achieving that through shared goals and clarity on challenges and successes.
Your favorite stress reliever: I build little gadgets in my spare time. I especially like to make things that light up and blink.
Your favorite movie: “Rushmore” written and directed by Wes Anderson. I secretly judge all my personal projects against the production value of the final play sequence — think big. Your favorite book: “The Crying of Lot 49” by Thomas Pynchon. A short, offbeat conspiracy satire written by a physics geek turned author, who just happened to study under Nabokov. His easiest work to pick up and casually enjoy.
Quote to live by: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Aristotle
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1 0 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
“I have never lived in a city that has had so many organizations, not only through the churches but the communities as well, who work on improving the city.”
Lonni Lay Age: 39 Family: My mother, Dorothy Lane, lives in Heyworth, where I grew up and my sister, Lezli Lane. I am engaged to Jason Fisher, a wonderful man, and soon, I will be the stepmother to two beautiful girls, Cheyenne (16) and Savanna (12). Current position/responsibilities: I am the office manager for Fisher’s Auto Repair and the property manager for Fisher Brothers Partnership. I help facilitate the daily operations of both entities by greeting the customers, taking their calls, ordering parts, creating estimates and invoicing. I also do the bookkeeping for both companies, accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll. Marketing and advertising are my responsibilities as well.
What you like best about what you do: I speak to almost every customer who calls or stops by both companies. Needless to say, my weekdays seem to fly by with the challenges I face each day, and I have met some outstanding people. .
What you like best about working or living in the community: I have never lived in a city that has had so many organizations, not only through the churches but the communities as well, who work on improving the city.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: The younger generation is wired a bit differently than our generation. Where are they the most comfortable? On the Internet! Encourage businesses who are hiring to put the applications online, in addition to traditional methods. This goes with advertising and marketing as well.
What you still hope to accomplish: I would like to start my own company.
Your favorite stress reliever: I enjoy reading and gardening when I need to clear my mind.
Your favorite movie:“The Outsiders” is one of my all-time favorites.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: Along with my parents, my Grandmother Lane had a huge influence on my life. She taught me to stand up straight, look people in the eye when speaking to them, always do your best and to never settle for less. She taught me to be a lady, but balance that with being a strong, independent woman.
Your favorite book: “Flowers in the Attic” by V.C. Andrews
Quote to live by: “Knowledge is power.”
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 1 1
“I like the size of the Decatur area. There is a sense of community, unlike in a big city where you are just one in a crowd.”
Dr. Amanda Lewis Age: 32 Family: Greg Haarman, my husband; Walter and Jack (corgi mixes) and Gordon (cat), our four-legged children.
Current position/responsibilities: Owner of Amanda Lewis, DMD, Ltd. and dentist.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: Decatur needs to lose the stigma of “nothing to do here.” There are plenty of things to do if you look for them. I think organizations like the 501 Club and some of the fabulous nonprofit boards provide opportunities to get involved and give back.
Your favorite stress reliever: Sometimes, running is a great stress reliever. Other times, sitting on the couch with my pets and a good magazine.
Your favorite movie: “Goonies”… childish, I know, but my sister and I have always loved it.
What you like best about what you do: I work with the best team. These ladies make it fun to come to work every day. I also love the ever-changing world of modern dentistry; it keeps me on my toes. I am blessed to have a great group of patients that make me strive to do my best on a daily basis.
What you like best about working or living in the community: I like the size of the Decatur area. It is easy to meet people and see them regularly when going out. There is a sense of community, unlike in a big city where you are just one in a crowd.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My parents have had a huge influence on my life. They have always worked hard and have taught my sister and me to do the same. My husband is a great influence, too. He is very even-keeled, good under pressure. I continue to learn from him.
What you still hope to accomplish: Wow, I have many things I hope to accomplish. Hopefully, things I haven’t even dreamed of yet!
Your favorite book: I read a lot of dental literature, which can be quite dry, so as far as books go, I like fastpaced fiction reads, like “Angels & Demons” by Dan Brown, and “Juliet” by Ann Fortier. Quote to live by: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than one’s fear. The timid presume it is lack of fear that allows the brave to act when the timid do not. But to take action when one is not afraid is easy. To refrain when afraid is also easy. To take action regardless of fear is brave.” Ambrose Hollingsworth Redmood
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1 2 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
Ashley Littrell “During my time with CASA, I have been amazed by the generosity of this community during our fundraisers and the volunteers that spend countless hours helping children in need.”
Age: 26
are involved in the Macon County juvenile court system.
Family: I am blessed with amazing parents, Tim and Jenny, and a great younger brother, Wesley.
Current position/responsibilities: After graduating from Illinois College in 2007, I have been employed at Caterpillar as a cost accountant, and currently a manufacturing accountant. In my free time, I am the vice-president of the board of directors for Macon County Court Appointed Special Advocates, CASA.
What you like best about what you do: I take pride in working at Caterpillar because of Caterpillars’ involvement in the community. Caterpillar supports many non-profit organizations in Macon County such as the United Way, CASA, Junior Achievement, and many more. Our accounting group just spent an afternoon painting hallways at WebsterCantrell. With my accounting job, I enjoy finding specific ways that can save Caterpillar money and improve efficiency. CASA has always provided volunteers that advocate for the abused, neglected and/or dependent children who
What you like best about working or living in the community: Many people in this community are so willing to donate time and effort to help those less fortunate. During my time with CASA, I have been amazed by the generosity of this community during our fundraisers and the volunteers that spend countless hours helping children in need.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: In the past couple years, the Decatur community has made huge strides to attract young professionals. I thoroughly enjoy the many events downtown, such as Blues in Central Park, the Merchant Street block parties, and the Decatur Celebration. The future lakefront project will be a huge benefit to Decatur and surrounding communities.
influence on me. They have showed me how to love unconditionally, treat all with dignity and respect, and how to be a great Christian role model.
What you still hope to accomplish: In the near future, I plan on going on a mission trip to help those in need. In the next decade, I hope to adopt a child, and open my home up to children in the foster care system.
Your favorite stress reliever: The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My parents have had the biggest
Garage sales, shopping, and relaxing in the pool. And I can’t forget, rocking out to WBGL!
Your favorite movie: “Bring it on” and “Step Up.” I always wanted to be able to dance, and love the love story in “Step Up!” Your favorite book: The Bible. The greatest book ever written.
Quote to live by: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 1 3
“Each individual is inspirational in their own unique way, teaching me various life lessons and usually helping me learn something about myself along the way.”
Elissa McGlaughlin Age: 39 Family: Husband, Mitch, and son, Maxwell..
Current position/responsibilities: I’m actually between positions right now, doing a lot of volunteer work and looking for a new opportunity. What I fill my days with includes being the president and co-captain of the Soy City Rollers, the first roller derby league in Macon County. I am also volunteering with Junior Achievement helping to develop marketing tools and grow the identity and awareness of the organization. And in my free time I run a small photo studio, Elissa Mac Photography, out of my home, focusing primarily on wedding photography, new born portraiture and children and family portraits this summer.
What you like best about what you do: People! I’ve worked in marketing and community relations for 15 years because I love working with a variety of people, learning their stories and helping to share them in a way that develops relationships with others in our community. I’ve been active in our community as a volunteer for a variety of organizations from Junior Welfare, Johns Hill Magnet School, the Decatur Area Arts Council, Project Success, Shoreline Classic, Lakeside Triathlon and most recently with the Soy City Rollers and Junior Achievement. I love becoming more engaged in our community through service.
What you like best about working or living in the community: I’m a transplant from the North West Suburbs of Chicago and have experienced the extreme anonymity
of living in a large suburb. Decatur offers an opportunity for you to be as anonymous or as involved as you prefer. For the first several years in Decatur I didn’t really become engaged in our community, but Decatur didn’t become “home” until I decided to allow it into my life. Once I plugged in and became engaged my life changed and I fell in love with Decatur. I have built a community of people around me made up of individuals who have a similar relationship with our community and I can’t think of anywhere else I would call my home.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: I don’t believe there is one easy answer to this question; it’s certainly multi-faceted at a minimum. As a parent of a young child I think one of the biggest opportunities for our community is investing in our public education system. It’s a complicated issue but offering a state of the art education would increase our property value and, in turn, attract new businesses and young families to our community.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: I don’t think I have one specific hero. I have been influenced by, and taken lessons from, a fantastic group of mentors, friends and family throughout the years. These influences have led me to establish my personal set of ideals and goals. Each individual is inspirational in their own unique way, teaching me various life lessons and usually helping me learn something about myself along the way.
What you still hope to accomplish: There are so many goals I have for myself but the one I am always most focused on is raising a child who evolves into a strong, independent, self-sufficient and proud adult.
Your favorite stress reliever: My top two stress relievers are playing with my son and playing roller derby. Max is so wonderful for me, reminding me to approach things with the wonder of a child. Roller derby challenges me and exhausts me like no other workout I’ve ever participated in.
Your favorite movie: Just one favorite movie … geesh. I enjoy a wide range of movies and am going through a documentary phase right now. But if I had to pick just one favorite it would probably be “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” for its overt optimism and the battle of good and evil with good winning in the exhausting end.
Your favorite book: I’m a pretty regular reader of all types of books, but was never really a fantasy or sci-fi reader until I met my husband. He introduced me to J.R.R. Tolkien and the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, and a fun series of books by Jasper Fforde, “The Thursday Next” series with my favorite being “An Eyre Affair.” Quote to live by: “Whether you think you can, or whether you think you can’t, you’re right.” Henry Ford
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1 4 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
“...she has taught me so many life lessons that have helped me be a role model to kids, lead me in the right direction to find something that I enjoy doing for a living, as well as making sure to live life to its fullest.”
Gretchen Nollman Age: 28 Family: Husband, Brian; and daughter, Anna.
Current position/responsibilities: Merchandiser AP/AR coordinator with Trans Coastal Supply. Some of the many things I am responsible for are writing contracts to customers, approval of payments from customers, invoicing AP/AR and futures trading.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: The person that has had the biggest influence on me is my oldest and dearest girlfriend, Ali, who I have known for 10 years. Through all the moving from place to place her and I have done through the years, we have still stayed in touch via phone, text, email, old fashion hand-writing of letters. We have always been there for each other through thick and thin, and we can count on each other for advice when life gets hard and we need a shoulder to lean on. She is eight years older than me, but I am thankful everyday that she is a part of my life and I am a part of hers as she has taught me so many life lessons that have helped me be a role model to kids, lead me in the right direction to find something that I enjoy doing for a living, as well as making sure to live life to its fullest.
What you like best about what you do: I can’t say that there is one thing that I like over the other in what I do. There is always something new and exciting happening between trading, contracts, new customers, etc., that I deal with on a daily basis.
What you still hope to accomplish: I have been to Europe, South America, Central America for work, but I would love to be able to go back and take my husband and show him all the history and architecture I’ve gotten to see.
What you like best about working or living in the community: What I like about working and living in Central Illinois area is that you are not far from the big cities such as Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis, but also the fact that Central Illinois offers so much history, art and outdoor activities for children and families.
Your favorite stress reliever: Running and photography/scrapbooking
Your favorite movie: “Simply Irresistible” What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: I think that the city of Decatur has done a wonderful job in coming up with the go green recycling program, as I have noticed that the community is more involved in the program of recycling than before. I think that the availability of jobs is promoted well, but what needs to be promoted more is that Decatur is supported by the city council in cleaning up the town to make it more enticing for young people to live and work in it.
Your favorite book: “The Last Juror” by John Grisham Quote to live by: “There are some things that can’t be changed and there are some situations where an apology won’t be able to change a thing. The twist of fate can bring people together and ‘everything happens for a reason’ can tear them apart.”
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 1 5
“It’s a blessing to be surrounded by people who are witnesses to my life. ”
Betsy Osman Age: 32 Family: Husband, Aaron; and daughter, Jane.
Current position/responsibilities: Director of development, Baby TALK
What you like best about what you do: Building on people’s highest natures, enjoying the magnanimity of donors, learning from the professionalism of my colleagues, marveling at the sacrificial love of parents and celebrating the beauty of childhood.
What you like best about working or living in the community: I love having a history with the people and places in Decatur. I love driving down Merchant Street and remembering my first apartment, I love seeing friends that I went to Millkin with and attending the church I grew up in. It’s a blessing to be surrounded by people who are witnesses to my life.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: Young families in our community enjoy so many different opportunities: Baby TALK programs, the Children’s Museum, Scovill Zoo, Decatur Public Library, and lovely parks. Decatur is a great place to raise children. We should be doing more to promote it.
What you still hope to accomplish: My number one goal as Baby TALK’s director of development is to establish fiscal self-reliance.
Your favorite stress reliever: Snuggling with my daughter, reading books with my daughter, dancing with my daughter, laughing with my daughter, going for walks with my daughter…
Your favorite movie: The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My mother. She was creating Baby TALK when my brother, sister and I were very young, but she always let us know that we were Priority One. She is the kindest, wisest, hardest working woman I know. She inspires passion in others, and lives to serve her family and her father. She is an eternal optimist who believes in the good in people.
“Dear Frankie”
Your favorite book: “Pride & Prejudice” or anything by Jane Austen.
Quote to live by: “Do unto others as you would have others do unto others.” Dr. Jeree Pawl
Congratulations
Betsy Osman on being
recognized in
“20 under 40”
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1 6 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
Emily Roush Age: 25 Family: Brother, Ethan; parents, P.J and Brad; and my beautiful 2-year-old son/dog, Booker. Current position/ responsibilities: I am a senior account executive with Neuhoff Media Decatur, and one of those lucky people who loves
coming to work every day. OK, maybe not every day, but most days. I get the pleasure of working with some amazing business owners in Decatur and the surrounding area. We work together to create ad campaigns to brand and grow their business.
What you like best about what you do: My job allows me to meet some
amazing people in the community. And most days it’s just fun. The people I work with at the station are fantastic. I have the opportunity to experience all kinds of different concerts, sporting events, fundraisers, contests, and all together exciting activities in the area. If I have to work evenings or weekends, it’s to help out with a concert, karaoke contest, walk in a parade or something equally as fun.
What you like best about working or living in the community:
“I also hope to use my energy and ideas to serve our community and help others who are willing to help themselves.”
People who say there is nothing to do in Decatur are delusional! I have so many different activities to do on a daily basis it’s not even funny. There are a million different opportunities to get involved in Decatur. Being part of Junior Welfare means I have my hands in a variety of volunteer and charity work. I also joined the Soy City Rollers in January, and that keeps me very
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busy. Not to mention all the fun activities around town that my work keeps me involved with — parades, contests, cookoffs, Street Party Saturdays, Chocolate Affair, Long Creek Vineyards, Decatur Celebration, the list goes on and on. Did I mention the sand volleyball league I’m in? I love the quote from Betty Draper on Mad Men. “Only boring people are bored.” Decatur has so many different ways to get involved and events to check out. Now if I could only do something about the bitter cold winters.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: Let’s just say I’m ready for the lakefront development project to be completed. I had the opportunity to live in Myrtle Beach, S.C., and live 10 minutes from the beach and enjoy all the outdoor fun that comes with a tourist town. I believe that the ideas discussed in the various lakefront meetings were exactly what Decatur needs: beautification and activities.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My mom. I always said she was the model elementary school teacher — patient, kind, enthusiastic and always friendly. I find myself being more and more like her everyday, and I’m so proud of that fact. I used to be embarrassed by her talking to everyone we saw, stranger or not, and now I do the same thing. She always encouraged me to get involved and get out and do things and to finish what I started.
What you still hope to accomplish: Isn’t that a loaded question? Honestly, I would love to travel all over and make a difference in the world. It’s easy to sit by and complain about why things are the way they are, but if we just spent that energy trying to fix the problem the world would be a better place.
Your favorite stress reliever: Well a good glass of wine with friends is always relaxing, but roller derby also releases a lot of tension. I go to practice thinking about all the worries of the day and leave in a completely different mood. That being said, I’m not recommending you hip check someone to release stress — unless you have the proper pads on.
Your favorite movie: That changes all the time. Depending on my mood, it could be anything from
t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 1 7
“Forrest Gump” to “The Departed” to almost anything with Will Ferrell. And you got to love romantic-girly movies every now and then.
Your favorite book: That changes often as well, but anything suspenseful or with a great story line. I love all the Dan Brown books, but I’m also a sucker for Harry Potter and the Twilight series, too.
Quote to live by: “I get up every morning determined to both change the world and have one hell of a good time. Sometimes this makes planning my day difficult.” E.B. White
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1 8 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
Christopher Rooney Age: 33 Family: Fiancé, Amanda; parents, Jan and Jay; sisters, Kelly, Anne and Lizzy; brother, Steve; sister-inlaw, Heather; and nieces Emma, Lilly and Norah. Current position/responsibilities: I am the area manager for Veolia Environmental Services. I have responsibility for safety, environmental and regulatory compliance, customer service, maintenance, operations, as well as financial responsibilities for our Charleston hauling and transfer station operations and our Decatur hauling operation as well as Valley View Landfill.
What you like best about what you do: I love working with a team of people that is always up for a challenge.
“It is wonderful to see the outpouring from the community when someone is in need.”
What you like best about working or living in the community: There is a great community here in the Decatur area. There is always someone working to better the community, and everyone rallies in support. It is wonderful to see the outpouring from the community when someone is in need.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: We need to support the businesses we
have by patronizing them. We also need to attract new businesses to the area to create more opportunities for young people. We need to market the affordability and geographic advantages of our area to attract new employers who offer opportunities for young people to work their way up through their organizations. We need to support development projects like the lakefront, as well as continue to develop the downtown and Oakland Avenue areas. We have great opportunities that need our support to make them work.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: It’s not just one person. It’s my family. Together we have been through many things over the years. There has never been a time when I have not been able to count on them.
What you still hope to accomplish: I wouldn’t know where to start. I hope I have a lot of years of accomplishments left. Your favorite stress reliever: There is nothing like a good laugh at the dinner table with the whole family.
Your favorite movie: “Ferris Buehler’s Day Off” Your favorite book: ““Lord of the Flies”
Congratulations
CHRISTOPHER ROONEY
SOLID WASTE • Reliable and timely service • Cost containment • Service guarantee • One call, one person • You choose “local” when you choose Veolia
www.VeoliaES.com
1363 Bear Road, Decatur, IL 62522
217.429.0020
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 1 9
Amy Schneider “My son’s strength through this ordeal taught me to live for today and to have inner strength and faith. He is my hero.”
Age: 39 Family: Husband, Thomas; son, Alexander; and Simon, our 11-year-old English Mastiff.
Current position/responsibilities: I am a social worker with Illinois Department Of Corrections/UCAN Life Skills Center program. My responsibilities are to assist the offenders upon release from prison, into transitional services in their community. The services include, but are not limited to medical, identification, education, employment, shelter, transportation and counseling assistance. The services vary throughout the counties I serve. Some services are provided directly and others are referred to the professional social service agencies that are available in the community.
What you like best about what you do: I have been a social worker for 17 years, and I get great satisfaction in helping others. In my current position, I work with a target population that is disadvantaged due to their prior negative interactions in society. My goal is working with each client to make them a productive member of our community. When I am able to assist individuals in making better life choices, then that transcends into a reduced
recidivism rate, which benefits public safety. What I like best about what I do is having a part in assisting someone who needs the support and guidance.
What you like best about working or living in the community: In our community it doesn’t matter what socioeconomic class you come from. Our community comes together with a collaborative effort in the time of need. A great example of this is the community food drives that help feed those less fortunate.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: I feel our community needs to continue supporting local businesses and social service groups to foster a stronger relationship that is attractive to our young professionals. I feel the Chamber of Commerce has done a good job of addressing this issue.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My 18-year-old son has had the biggest influence on me. At age 15, Alex had a concussion during a football game, which in turn ended up saving his
life. During his emergency room visit, a large arterial venus malformation (AVM) was discovered in his brain. His sports career and carefree lifestyle ended, as he began his treatment for his life threatening brain surgeries. For one year, I watched my son struggle with not knowing if he would survive all of the surgeries associated with his treatment. It ended with a successful 10-hour, openbrain surgery. My son’s strength through this ordeal taught me to live for today and to have inner strength and faith. He is my hero.
working with the elderly and would like to help those that are in a hospice setting.
Your favorite stress reliever: I enjoy spending time with my family, my Mastiff and taking long walks/running in a local tree park.
Your favorite movie: “The Green Mile”
Your favorite book: “Talking with Serial Killers” by Christopher BerryDee
What you still hope to accomplish:
Quote to live by:
I will continue to work in the social work field, with a goal of completing my master’s degree. I’ve always enjoyed
“Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.” Elizabeth Bibesco
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2 0 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
Leann Schuering Age: 29 Family: Husband, Andrew; and daughter, Tedlin. Current position/responsibilities: As an adjunct faculty member of the School of Music at Millikin University, I teach private voice, opera workshop, and this past year, I developed a seminar for upperclassmen titled “Russian for Singers.” As a freelance vocalist, I perform and compete all over the country as a classical singer.
What you like best about what you do: Simply put, I love teaching. I get to work with material that I adore, share it with others and exchange artistic ideas. Every day is exciting in a way. In the three years that I have been teaching at Millikin, there has not been a single day when I did not want to go to work.
What you like best about working or living in the community: I am a Decatur native who went away for college and graduate school and thought I would never come back. Life led me back here, though, and I have discovered so much to love about living in Decatur as an adult. Life is very easy and relaxed here. Whether you are going to work or going out for entertainment, you don’t have to go very far. For a smaller community, there are great live music offerings that I have taken advantage of as both the entertainer (The Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, the Decatur Municipal Band), and the entertained (Millikin Vespers, Blues in the Central Park, live jazz at LSB, live bands at Donnie’s Homespun). I especially love the local entrepreneurs. Places like the Avon, Tournesol, Wildflour, The Fox’s Den, The Decanter really bring a smile to my face.
“As long as I am learning and evolving as an artist and a teacher, I continue to be satisfied.” What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: Continue to support the local businesses! I think we all want to live in a place that feels somehow unique and special, that has its own local flavor. It is easier to feel connected to your community when there are distinct (and good) places to eat, shop and be entertained.
What you still hope to accomplish: Where to begin?! I always tell people I want to pursue this field as far as it will take me. More teaching, more performing, more competing, bring it on! As long as I am learning and evolving as an artist and a teacher, I continue to be satisfied.
Your favorite stress reliever: Cooking, baking, grilling. Anything involving food!
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: I call Andy, my husband, “my most trusted advisor.” As an artist, I approach my career and my personal life in a side-by-side manner, and when there are decisions to be made, or when I need a hand or a motivational boost, he is the first person to whom I turn. He keeps me grounded, and by doing so he has helped me shape my life and my career in a way that feels very satisfying. Being the spouse or partner of someone who works in the arts, especially in a competitive nature, is not easy. He is a saint!
Your favorite movie: “The Cutting Edge”
Your favorite book: “The Time Traveler’s Wife,” by Audrey Niffenegger
Quote to live by: “We should all do what, in the long run, gives us joy, even if it is only picking grapes or sorting the laundry.” E.B. White
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t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l 20 Under 40 • 2011 2 1
“I know that I live and work in a community that I want my daughters to grow up in.”
Cheryl Warner Age: 38 Family: Husband, Michael; and daughters Ariel (13)and Bethany Warner (7).
Current position/responsibilities: Principal of McGaughey Elementary School in Mount Zion and pre-kindergarten director.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area:
curriculum and instruction. Run a half-marathon and then on to a marathon.
Continue further development of Fletcher Park and other outdoor areas, lakefront opportunities and entertainment opportunities. Continue to make advancements in the areas of technology, gifted education, fine arts, foreign language and athletics in the area schools.
Your favorite stress reliever: Running Your favorite movie: “Freedom Writers” (drama) and “50 First Dates” (comedy)
What you like best about what you do: I have the privilege of working collaboratively with a phenomenal group of teachers and support staff that provide Mount Zion students with an excellent foundation to academic and social emotional growth as they begin their educational career at McGaughey. My students benefit from active family and parent participation and support from the Mount Zion community. McGaughey students and I are blessed with this “extended family.”
What you like best about working or living in the community: It has been touching to witness how the Mount Zion School District and community gather together and support those in need. I know that I live and work in a community that I want my daughters to grow up in.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My kindergarten teacher is over 95 years old and is still teaching. Olivia Neubauer was my very first teacher at Ashburn Lutheran School in Chicago’s southwest side. She has been teaching for over 60 years. She was interviewed by CBS and ABC Chicago and stated that she does not want to retire because she does not view teaching as a job. “I just enjoy being with the kids and teaching them.” She is someone to be admired!
What you still hope to accomplish: Raise my daughters to be confident, truthful, caring young women. Finish my doctoral degree in
Your favorite book: “Nineteen Minutes” by Jodi Picoult
Quote to live by: “A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove … but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.”
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2 2 2011 • 20 Under 40 t h e b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l
“We must focus on making these young people understand that Decatur is a fantastic place and they should settle here.”
Andrew Weatherford Age: 29 Family: I am engaged to be married to Josie Luedke, a wonderful person and a teacher at Maroa-Forsyth High School. I am fortunate to have my parents, Danny and Lura Weatherford, grandmother, Catherine Weatherford, and grandfather Earl Gisinger reside in the area as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. I also have a brother, Evan. Current position/responsibilities: Attorney, Johnson & Chiligiris. I am a general practice attorney, which means I focus mostly on litigation of personal injury, workers compensation, family law, bankruptcy, and criminal defense. However, I also practice some transactional law including, but not limited to real estate and estate planning/administration.
What you like best about what you do: I help people solve their problems or achieve their goals. I help people resolve problems, obtain the American dream through home ownership, and obtain compensation for injuries that they received through no fault of their own. This variety of services that I provide allows me to assist people in dealing with their problems and accomplishing their goals, while giving me a sense of purpose, as well as joy, in knowing I have helped one accomplish his or her goal.
What you like best about working or living in the community: First, Decatur and Macon County are my home. I grew up here. This allows me to be close to all my friends and family. Second, the Decatur community provides so many opportunities for people to get involved. For example, I’m actively involved with Club 501 and sit on the membership committee. I also have been fortunate enough to run for the Decatur City Council. I’ve also recently been involved with the United Way campaign and the Boy Scout Merit Badge Fair.
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: The Decatur community must make this a priority. Decatur must deliberately focus on attracting the 18-40
demographic. This should begin with an analysis/survey of what this younger demographic already present in Decatur think should be improved. This should be followed up with a broader national research as to what factors this younger demographic consider when making their choice as to where to settle and raise a family. We must focus on making these young people understand that Decatur is a fantastic place and they should settle here. This 18-40 demographic will be the leaders of tomorrow. They will determine whether or not businesses stay, leave, or relocate here. While the survey is being researched, the Decatur community should be consciously making improvements to our community. Improvements should be made in the community’s infrastructure, education and business climate. These improvements need to happen at the government level; however the desire for improvement must be on a broader scale throughout the community. Community apathy will prevent us from attracting this younger demographic.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: My parents, my fiancée, and my boss have had the greatest influence on me. They were wonderful parents, when I was growing up and wonderful friends as I’ve reached maturity. In addition, my parents have been nice enough to provide for my education, both at Millikin University and Indiana University at Indianapolis Law School. My fiancée has
been a fantastic source of love and support in both my personal and professional life. My boss has a huge influence on me because he is a phenomenal mentor, willing to give of his time to help me grow and develop as a young attorney.
What you still hope to accomplish: First, I want to own my own firm. Second, I want to assist Decatur and Macon County in becoming a more attractive place to young people through public service and volunteering in the community. Third, I want to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and tour Alcatraz prison.
Your favorite stress reliever: Playing sports. However, this past autumn I sustained a skull fracture playing indoor soccer. I may need to re-evaluate my stress relieving activity and find something a little less dangerous.
Your favorite movie: “Shawshank Redemption” Your favorite book: I’m currently reading “Adams: An American Dynasty.” This book is a quick biography of John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and their lineage. It is weak on citations; however it is an interesting book. Quote to live by: “Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.” Albert Einstein
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“Hands down I like working with
Tasha Ziemer
the students directly.” Your favorite stress reliever: I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and doing activities with my son. I also like to go down to St. Louis and take in a game or hit Six Flags with the kids for the day.
Age: 38 Family: Isaac Ziemer (son), Jim Moore (fiancé), Taelor Moore (step-daughter), Al Cohen (father), Nancy Myles (mother), Tricia and Mason Armour (sister, brother-inlaw), Josh and Heather Cohen (brother, sister-in-law) Current position/responsibilities: I am in charge of marketing, recruitment, and student services at the Decatur Area Technical Academy (recently renamed the Heartland Technical Academy). I begin the school year by visiting area schools to present to sophomore students in our community about what they want out of life and career training classes at the Tech Academy. I also coordinate field trips to the Tech Academy, help with career fairs, and give presentations to students about goal setting. The second half of the school year I shift focus to the students who already attend the Tech Academy. As “student services,” I teach senior students work skills and how to successfully communicate their skills to employers. The work skills lessons culminate in mock interviews with real area businesses. I also coordinate workshops, activities, and even work one on one with the students to help them prepare to go on to college, work, or both. What you like best about what you do: Hands down I like working with the students directly. Which is ironic because eight years ago, when I took the job, that’s what I was the most nervous about. I had previously spent five years teaching adults at Carle Hospital. And it’s true, that high school students don’t hold back, they really tell you how it is. But it’s so great to see their eyes open to the world around them as they realize they can develop the skills they need and that they can be successful.
What you like best about working or living in the community: The people. While I haven’t spent my entire life in Decatur, I have spent the majority of my life here. I grew up working in the family business and love running into old friends. We “Decaturites” are a hardy bunch. We work hard, we love our kids, sports, and we are not afraid to have fun.
Your favorite movie: There are too
What should the community be doing to attract more young people to live and work in the Decatur area: I think that Decatur needs to continue to look for funding to develop the lakefront so that families and young adults alike have a chance to enjoy one of our best assets as a community. I also think that maintaining support of events like Blues in the Central Park, the Macon County Fair and Decatur Celebration is very important to the mood of our town. We do know how to have fun and we have done a good job of attracting people from surrounding communities to come join us. Of course, I also think as a community we need to continue to support all efforts to make sure we have a skilled workforce to meet the employment needs of our local industries. They are so very important to our future and will in turn open opportunities for new people to join our community.
The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why: This question is easy for me. Two people truly impacted the direction of my life and they were both teachers. My fourthgrade teacher, Mrs. Simpson, taught me how to believe in myself, and my sophomore year speech teacher, Mr. Yanchus, who inspired me to take some chances in life. When I think of them, I always smile and I wonder who I would have been without them.
What you still hope to accomplish: I hope to raise my son to be a good man and I want to make a positive impact on the world around me. As his role model, I know I can accomplish both by following my heart and doing my best to reach other people with the same messages that have made a difference in my own life. I know the struggle many young people may be facing just to survive: let alone better their situation for themselves and their family. Understanding this
has really made a difference with how I relate with students. I always try to let them know that I’m not an outsider. I grew up in Decatur and I think I have an idea of some of the challenges they are facing. I also try to convey to them that life is not easy; you’re going to have to work hard and be driven to get somewhere. I try to appeal to their sense of empowerment. Many young students have no idea how much potential they have. That’s why I love my job at the Tech Academy and for me, it’s the perfect fit. In many ways, the students’ achievements are my accomplishments.
many to list. But I’m a child of the 80s and 90s, so of course the “Breakfast Club,” “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “Sixteen Candles” and “Dead Zone.” I’m a sucker for romance and love history, so movies like “Cold Mountain” and “Glory” are among my favorites, but one of my all time favorites is “The Color Purple.”
Your favorite book: I like historical fiction and I actually have to favorites; “Ride the Wind” by Lucia St. Clair Robson and “Aztec” by Gary Jennings.
Quote to live by: I love quotes so it’s hard to pin down just one, but one of my very favorites is “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” by Eleanor Roosevelt.