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Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Scheduled speaker is Larry Klugman of Richland Community College. Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Oct. 2 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club, 158 W. Prairie Ave. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Greater Decatur Y, 220 W. McKinley Ave. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr. American Business Women’s Association (Amacita), 6 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building, 2715 N. 27th St.
Friday, Oct. 3 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce First Friday Luncheon, noon, Main Street Church Tea Room, 2000 N. Main St.
Monday, Oct. 6 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille, 101 S. Main St. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, Oct. 7 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton, 333 W. Marion Ave., Forsyth. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility, 3909 W. Main St. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Wednesday, Oct. 8 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Real Estate Investors Association, 6:30 p.m., Perkins Family Restaurant, 2999 N. Monroe St.
Thursday, Oct. 9 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
GFWC Decatur Woman’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Senior Resources Network (formerly Mature Resources Network), 11:45 a.m., Keystone Gardens, 1455 W. Mound Road. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Area Women’s Network (DAWN), 5:30 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building. Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Environmental Center, 3939 Nearing Lane.
Monday, Oct. 20 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, Oct. 21
Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Monday, Oct. 13
Wednesday, Oct. 22
Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.
Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Tuesday, Oct. 14
Thursday, Oct. 23
Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall, 3390 N. Woodford St. Decatur Area Society for Human Resource Management, 11 a.m., Doherty’s Pub and Pins, 242 E. William St. Central Illinois Ad Club, 11:30 a.m., Decatur Club. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Environmental Center.
Friday, Oct. 10
Wednesday, Oct. 15 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Christian Women’s Network, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Oct. 16 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Christian Women’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur AMBUCS, 6 p.m., Decatur Club.
Friday, Oct. 17 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Women’s Network, 11:45 a.m., Decatur Club.
Friday, Oct. 24 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Monarch), noon, location varies.
Monday, Oct. 27 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Oct. 30 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
October 2014
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YOUR MONEY
YOUR CALENDAR
Wednesday, Oct. 1
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Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club.
Friday, Oct. 31 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
Monday, Nov. 3 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, Nov. 4 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Wednesday, Nov. 5 Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Nov. 6 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Amacita), 11:30 a.m., location varies. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Greater Decatur Y. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building.
Friday, Nov. 7 Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce First Friday Luncheon, noon, Main Street Church Tea Room, 2000 N. Main St.
To submit items for Your Calendar, contact Scott Perry at (217) 421-7976, at sperry@heraldreview.com, or click the “Submit an Event” link at www.thebusiness-journal.com
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 72% read the Business Journal monthly. n 17% are 34 and under.
Consumers padding their checking accounts Savings increased, spending slow By E. SCOTT RECKARD TCA News Service Writer
With wounds from the Great Recession still fresh, chastened Americans are hoarding more cash in their checking accounts than at any time in the past 25 years. The defensive stance, uncharacteristic of previous periods of low inflation and an improving economy, reflects how debt-burdened Americans have striven to clean up their personal finances since the recession ended five years ago. The lack of attractive investment alternatives, with savings accounts paying next to nothing and the stock market already at lofty heights, is another factor, financial analysts said. A report released by bank consulting firm Moebs Services Inc. calculated the average balance for U.S. checking accounts at $4,436 at the end of last year, more than double the average of $2,100 over the 25 years of the annual survey. During good economic times, when unemployment and inflation are low, the average balance in consumer checking accounts is about $1,400, the survey noted. “When times get difficult, the con-
sumer sits things out and checking balances get larger, normally upward to $3,000 or a bit beyond,” the study said. “Generally, there is higher unemployment, lower inflation and falling prices.” By contrast, free-spending Americans had allowed their checking accounts to drop to an average of just $788 in 2007, the last year before the near-meltdown of the nation’s financial system, according to the study. The Moebs report, previously confidential for its clients, is fresh evidence of how the devastating economic downturn worldwide has changed consumer habits, especially on spending and saving. As people have been cleaning up their financial houses, they have only slowly increased spending, and that has helped to slow the recovery because spending typically represents about two-thirds of economic growth. The study was based on Federal Reserve reports and proprietary data from 2,800 banks and credit unions, said economist G. Michael Moebs, who heads the firm. Moebs said he released the findings for the first time because he is confident his numbers could be off by no more than 10 percent. “If it’s off by 10 percent, the amount in the accounts is $4,000 instead of $4,400,” Moebs said. “So what? It’s still twice what we’ve seen in the past.” Moebs said the trend is challenging for financial firms, reducing their
Survey: People spend little time researching 401(k) funds Only one-quarter sought advice By WALTER HAMILTON TCA News Service Writer
Americans know that 401(k) retirement plans are important, but they spend only a moderate time researching investments and are often confused about how to pick the best funds, according to a new survey. Nearly 9 in 10 workers view 401(k) plans as essential employee benefits, far outdistancing disability insurance, extra vacation days and the option to work from home, according to the poll by Charles Schwab Corp. But the typical employee spends only about two hours analyzing 401(k) choices, roughly half the time spent researching car purchases or vacations. Half of poll respondents said their 401(k)s are more confusing than the medical plans. Only about one-quarter of survey par-
ticipants have sought professional advice with their 401(k)s, according to the survey. That’s far less than the 87 percent who pay a professional to change the oil in their car. “With so much at stake, the industry needs to take a more active role in delivering personalized investment advice to help individuals’ 401(k)s work harder for them,” said Steve Anderson, head of Schwab Retirement Plan Services. “One-for-all default investments, such as target date funds or balanced funds, can’t be expected to meet the individual needs of workers,” he said. “The industry can do better.” However, earlier research has shown that employees must be extremely careful about 401(k) advice. A study by the U.S. General Accountability Office in 2011 found that what passed as education offered by firms running 401(k) plans often was little more than a sales pitch designed to push high-cost investments on unsuspecting employees.
income from overdraft fees. He is urging his clients to prepare for a big withdrawal of funds whenever depositors decide the economy is strong enough for them to use the cash to pay down mortgages, take a vacation or buy cars. UCLA economist Lee Ohanian said the study shows that despite a recent burst in jobs there remain “some very troublesome issues in the economy.” Until recently, much of the decline in unemployment was from people dropping out of the job market, he said. “Our employment-to-population ratio is still very low.” Growth in productivity is running at less than half its usual rate, Ohanian said, and the number of long-term unemployed remains high. “That weighs on people’s minds,” he said. “They think, ‘If I lose my job will I be out of work for two years?’ It’s scary.” The result, he said, has been a wave of caution, with Americans paying down old debts, thinking twice about new borrowing and keeping cash on hand as a safeguard. “A lot of people got badly burned picking up too much debt” in the years leading up to the recession, Ohanian said. “Now they are scared about where to put their money, especially after a huge run-up in the stock mar-
ket. Savings accounts don’t pay much, and stocks go up and down. You could lose your nest egg.” Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, agreed that crisisbred caution factored into the trend, but said rising employment is likely to have contributed to the rise in checking balances as well. “There is more income,” he said. “I think it’s going to take time for consumers to catch up — to increase their spending to match the improvement in jobs.” Zandi said he suspected that much of the increase in average checking balances reflects more affluent families allowing cash to pile up for now rather than paying down mortgages carrying rates as low as 3.5 percent or pouring more money into stocks and bonds. “Consumers should be applauded for cleaning up their credit. They’re smarter now, more aware of charges, and the level of overdrafts has dropped dramatically,” said John Cassidy, chief executive at Sierra Central Credit Union. “During the bubble periods,this started in the late ‘80s, really, people didn’t bat an eye at running up hundreds of dollars in overdrafts. They figured, ‘It’s a part of my lifestyle, I’ll just build it into my budget,’ ” he said. “That’s changed.”
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Community health calendar Support groups Growing Through Grief, 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Call Leslie Roberts at (217) 876-6784. TOPS Club IL 49 Decatur, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Main Street Church of God, 2000 N. Main St. (enter from Garfield Street). Support group for Real People seeking Real Results with weight loss. For more information, go to www.topsclub.org or call Chris Granda at (217) 521-2420. Helping Hands Bereavement for Children, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley, Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750. Grief support group, 12:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. For information, call Jamie Smith, (217) 544-6464 ext. 45268. Facing Cancer Together, 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. For cancer patients and their families. Register online or call (217) 876-4750. Pink Link breast cancer support group, 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. To register, call (217) 876-4377. Breastfeeding support group, 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13 and Oct. 27, Baby TALK, 500 E. Lake Shore Dr. To register, call Flo Folami at (217) 464-2334. SHARE support group, 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room G24. Support group for those who have experienced the death of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or early infancy. For more information, call (217) 4642045.
Epilepsy support group, 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, St. Mary's Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For more information, call (217) 853-1655. Diabetes support group, 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, DMH Specific Performance Enhancement Center, 2122 N, 27th St. Call (217) 876-4249. Parkinson’s disease support group, 1:30 Thursday, Oct. 16, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1360 W. Main St. For information, call Kathy Broaddus at (217) 820-3096. Postpartum emotional support group, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, St. Mary's Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For more information, call Flo at (217) 464-2334. Breath of Life support group, noon Tuesday, Oct. 21, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. Speakers available to answer questions from those with breathing problems. For information, call Cheryl Shipley at (217) 464-2603. Cardiopulmonary wellness group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Decatur Memorial Hospital Classroom A. Call (217) 8762429. Widowed support group, 6 p.m. Thursday, 0ct. 23. Monthly dinner gathering. For location or to register, call Sister Chaminade Kelley at (217) 428-7733. Renewal bereavement support group, 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 27, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750. Us TOO prostate cancer support group, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary
Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 8764750.
Classes Breastfeeding Basic, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2 and 23, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Cafe DMH meetings rooms. Register online or call (217) 876-3400. In BeTWEEN for Girls, 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, Decatur Memorial Hospital OB Classroom. For girls ages 9-12. Register online or call (217) 876-3100. Freedom from Smoking. This seven-week course, begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, in St. Mary's Hospital, Room 561. Cost is $25. Call (217) 464-5873. Cardiopulmonary rehab nutrition class, 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, Decatur Memorial Hospital Cafe DMH. DMH dietitian discusses heart healthy eating with emphasis on labels. Decatur Memorial Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation Department. Call (217) 876-2496. Breastfeeding for the Pregnant Couple, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Eat Right to Help the Fight, 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Nutrition class for cancer patients. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.
How to prevent ear infections Steps can lesson pain, discomfort By ALISON JOHNSON TCA News Service
Ear infections may be a common part of childhood, but “there are several strategies that can lessen the chance your child has to experience the pain and discomfort,” said Phillip Snider, a family practice physician and registered dietitian in Norfolk, Va. Some tips: Breastfeed your baby. Nursing for six to 12 months significantly lowers the risk of infection. If you are bottle feeding, hold babies in a more upright position and don’t put them to bed with a bottle.
Avoid cigarette smoke. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are twice as likely to suffer from chronic ear infections. Don’t smoke inside your house or car. Keep up on immunizations. That includes vaccinations against flu and pneumonia, which prevent respiratory illnesses that can lead to ear infections. Guard against illness. Colds cause clogged nasal passages, which can lead to clogged ear tubes. Do your best to avoid people who are sick and teach children the importance of frequent hand washing. Control allergens at home. Dust and vacuum regularly and get an allergy test if your child seems sensitive to certain foods. Eat healthy foods. Fruits and vegetables will boost a child’s immune system to help fight off germs.
Consider your child care setting. Kids in large day care centers generally are more likely to catch illnesses than those in smaller home settings. Consider preventive medicine. If your child is prone to ear infections, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics at the first sign of cold symptoms — or even put a child on a low daily dose of antibiotics throughout the winter. The risk, however, is increased antibiotic resistance. Talk about surgery. Small, temporary ear tubes can help drain fluid that serves as a breeding ground for bacteria.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Printed with environmentally safe water-based ink
FROM THE EDITOR Regular readers of this column know I’m a little slow when it comes to technology trends. My “dumb” phone still has a picture I took while on vacation four years ago as its background. It’s the same picture that continues to identify my very, very, very rarely changed Facebook page. Despite my reluctance to completely step out of the dark ages (stay tuned, drastic changes might be coming), I at least understand people are changing the ways they communicate. Not doing so would be career suicide. Which is why I’m still amazed when business owners, whose livelihoods depend on interacting with potential customers, fail to maintain their websites with timely information. They obviously understand the importance of having a web presence. Is it asking too much for them to update the information they posted years ago? I’m sure something has changed in that time worthy of note. It’s even more frustrating when I go to a site seeking more information about something I know is happening, only to find loads of outdated information. I can get away with that on my personal Facebook account. My failure to do has no impact on my bottom line.
Conference Room. For more information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Happiest Baby on the Block — Magic?, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For more information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Cardiopulmonary risk factors education, 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, Decatur Memorial Hospital Cafe 1 and 2. Call (217) 876-2496. Cardiopulmonary wellness group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Decatur Memorial Hospital Classroom A. Call (217) 8762429.
More Community Health Lecture Series, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Decatur Public Library. The St. Mary’s Hospital community health lecture service provides an informational lecture from a local health care provider. This month will feature senior counselor Steve Rathnow on mental health and you. For more information, call (217) 464-5125.
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BUSINESS JOURNAL OF MIDCENTRAL ILLINOIS
VOLUME 20
ISSUE 10
601 E. William St. Decatur, IL 62523 217.421.7976 217.421.7965 (fax) PUBLISHER: Julie Bechtel GENERAL MANAGER: Gary Sawyer EDITOR: Scott Perry
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Community Education, Diabetes 101: Lunch with a Dietitian, 8 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. To reserve a spot, call (217) 4642046.
Infant CPR Class, 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, Decatur Memorial Hospital OB Classrooms. Register online or call (217) 876-3400. Real Dads Rock!, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi
October 2014
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Standing Features
STOP THE PRESSES
Biz Bites . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Meet newspaper editor Gary Sawyer
Business Clips . . . . . 25 Fred Spannaus . . . . . 25
STORY IDEAS: Email sperry@herald-review.com or call 217.421.7976. SUBSCRIPTIONS: To order additional copies call 217.421.7931 ADVERTISING: The deadline for ad and ad copy for the November issue is Oct. 20. Call 217.421.7953 for rate information.
Free Time calendar . . 10 The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is printed monthly and is a publication of Lee Enterprises Inc.
Health calendar . . . . 29
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WINDOWS SIDING DOORS Seamless Gutters Driveways Bathrooms Kitchens masonry Remodels Restoration Roofing license No. 104.016085 :: 105.005542
141 W. Main Decatur, IL 62523 promaxconstruction.com
Liz Reyer . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Office Coach . . . . . . . . 9 Professional profile . . . 8 SCORE counselor . . 26
THINK PINK
Wendy Gauntt . . . . . . 24
This month we celebrate women who are making a difference in their communities through the businesses they’ve started, the office they lead and the challenges that remain. Special section
The local battle against cancer YOUR HEALTH
Information published is the responsibility of the author and does not reflect the opinions of The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois. To submit articles, mail typewritten and 500 words or less to: The Business Journal, 601 E. William St., Decatur, IL 62523. 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. Copyright 2014 Herald & Review All rights reserved for entire content.
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Walker retires as police chief By HUEY FREEMAN Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — One of the key accomplishments of Todd Walker’s career was directing the move into the police department’s spacious new headquarters. So it was fitting that just months after the move was completed, the first retirement party held in the South Shores building was for the chief. “We would not be here without him,” said Jim Chervinko, who received the chief’s badge from Walker, during a brief ceremony last month. “He pushed and pushed and pushed for this to happen. He was very instrumental in getting the Decatur Police Department relocated to 707 South Side Drive.” There was an upbeat atmosphere in the sunlit room, as hundreds of police officers, retirees, relatives and members of other police agencies expressed their feelings for Walker, the grandson of a Decatur police officer, who served in almost every capacity during his lengthy career. Speaking at the ceremony, Walker said his decision to retire brought him peace that he hadn’t felt for a long time. “I haven’t slept this good in 28½ years,” he said.
Business Journal/Jim Bowling
Todd Walker hands over the chief badge to interim Police Chief Jim Chervinko during Walker’s retirement party. Walker credited the people he worked with for “making him look good.” “I had the best team you could ever think of,” Walker said, adding he will miss his co-workers and his chosen pro-
fession. Walker credited his parents, who were sitting nearby with his wife, Lorri, and brother, police Lt. Jason Walker, for “never talking me out of” becoming a
police officer. He announced that Chervinko, who has been serving as deputy chief of the patrol division, has been appointed by City Manager Ryan McCrady as interim police chief. “It’s Jim’s shot and Jim’s headache,” Walker said. “We are going to miss him around here,” said Chervinko after the ceremony. Chervinko started his career in 1985, one year before Walker, and rose through the ranks alongside him. He will serve as interim chief until McCrady appoints a new chief. McCrady said he will be posting the job this coming week to gauge the interest within the department. He is hoping to find an internal candidate. McCrady said he is confident “we have good people here” to fill the position. Chervinko said he is excited about the opportunity to serve as interim chief and would be glad to serve as the next police chief. He said there is much work that needs to be done, especially to upgrade policies and procedures of dayto-day work at the new police headquarters. “We’re still in a transitional phase here,” he said.
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October 2014
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Millikin conducting cancer research Team collects, analyzes data By EMILY STEELE Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — It’s easy to walk by the lab on the third floor of the LeightyTabor Science Center at Millikin University. But inside, students are doing breast cancer research. The vials of three cancer cell lines are stored at human body temperature and “fed” with a colored media every few days. A laptop is plugged into a machine, pulling in data. There undergraduate students conduct breast cancer research under the direction of Assistant Professor of Physiology Jennifer Schroeder. Since joining the biology department at Millikin, Schroeder has conducted studies on estrogen-responsive genes in breast cancer cells and the effects of pesticides on cancer development. The molecular physiologist became interested in breast cancer cell research as an undergraduate at Eastern Illinois University. “It was through some family medical issues that I started to look into estrogen and what it did to the body,” Schroeder said. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, Schroeder said it’s hard to find or understand relevant cancer research, let alone understand the scientific terms. She’s had students open up about family experiences to try and understand more. “If you just try to Google search that, it’s overwhelming.” And not all research, including Schroeder’s, is aimed at finding a cure. “For people that are in the field, trying to encompass it all as ‘a cure for cancer’ is difficult, because every cancer is different and each patient needs to be looked at as a different case.” She pulled up a microscope to show the three breast cancer cell lines they use. Up close, each is visibly different. One project with Millikin’s chemistry department is focused on finding a more effective way to deliver chemotherapy drugs and reduce side effects. Current chemo drugs target all rapidly dividing cells, which besides cancer includes normal cells such as hair follicles and blood.
Business Journal/Danny Damiani
Olivia Waszczuk, a junior biology major at Millikin University, checks the progress of unhealthy breast cancer cells. Waszczuk, along with other students, is assisting assistant professor Jennifer Schroeder with breast cancer research.
‘Cancer research is ridiculously expensive, what we do is small scale. But it’s really important for students to do this kind of research.’ JENNIFER SCHROEDER “Our goal is to find something that’s really, really toxic and encapsulate it and deliver it right to the tumor,” Schroeder said. Schroeder said one student compared the research to the Trojan horse of Greek mythology. They know the toxin works at killing cancer cells, so it’s the soldiers. They have the horse, or a way to deliver the toxin. “Now, the trick is getting the horse into the cell,” Schroeder said. Undergraduate students can join a research project at anytime. They collect and analyze data to eventually presenting the findings on- and offcampus.
Travis Mansur, a senior biology major, started doing chemistry research as a freshman but wanted something more fulfilling. “I wanted to do something that would be beneficial,” Mansur said. Now he’s working on writing and presenting data from the chemo drug research. One of the biggest things he’s taken away from the process is that it’s full of road blocks. “There’s no manual,” he said. Senior Shelly Mansfield was also drawn to do research working under Schroeder. “As a woman, I want to help people with breast cancer,” Mansfield said.
Rural communities have a higher rate of reproductive cancers than urban areas. This may be linked to exposure to pesticides or lack of access to health care, but no one knows for sure. Mansfield exposed cancer cells to three common herbicides and is analyzing research to present along with Mansur at a conference in October. “Our concern is if it contaminates a water supply, how would it effect cells?” she said. Most of their research is funded through Millikin and the biology department. As a small-scale operation, it is hard to compete with larger universities and research organizations with big research goals. Basic tools such as flasks and food to keep the cancer cells alive can cost hundreds of dollars. Their new PCR machine, which analyzes cancer cell genes exposed to pesticides cost about $20,000. To donate, contact the Alumni and Development Office by calling (217) 424-6383. “Cancer research is ridiculously expensive, what we do here is small scale,” Schroeder said. “But it’s really important for students to do this kind of research.”
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Exercise helps during cancer treatments Movement adds to healing process By DONNETTE BECKETT Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — When Jill Bailey lost her parents at the fairly young ages of 57 and 61, she knew she didn't want to suffer from the same health problems they did. “I've always done something, aerobics, walking, softball and now CrossFit” she said. “Having that foundation, I like to think I'm physically healthy.” But she wasn't. After a friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, Bailey, 46, decided to get the mammogram she had been avoiding for years. In January, the test revealed she had stage 1 breast cancer. She underwent a lumpectomy and six weeks of radiation. But unlike many patients, Bailey felt fine throughout the procedures.
“I had heard from others who went through radiation that it can cause fatigue, some get sick,” she said. “I didn't really have fatigue until the last week of treatment.” Bailey believes her procedures were not as taxing on her as others because of the physical condition she was already in. And studies have shown, she is right. Research has proven that physically active patients are able to tolerant treatments and procedures easier than those who have led a sedentary lifestyle. “The healthier they are going into something like this, the better the outcome will be,” said Decatur Memorial Hospital physical therapist Mary Jesse. During any form of activity, oxygen levels rise, helping to improve circulation. “These are things that are going to help with healing,” Jesse said. But for patients undergoing treatments, exercise is easier said than done. Radiation and chemotherapy can be physically and mentally debilitating. Many patients simply don't feel like getting off the couch, but studies show that may be all they need to do. Experts recommend patients incorporate some form of movement every hour. “Even if that's just standing up and down five times or walking down the
hall,” Jesse said. “What sounds like little things, when you're that fatigued, it's an effort.” According to Dr. Reneta Moore, radiation oncologist for St. Mary's Hospital Cancer Care Specialists of Central Illinois, patients can gain more energy and stamina by incorporating moderate activity. “Anything that increases the heart rate or respiratory rate a little bit, that will help with the tiredness and help with endurance,” she said. “It really does help with the quality of life.” For many, being able to keep a routine is important for mental health as well. Julie Rotz underwent a lumpectomy, radiation and chemotherapy after her 2012 diagnosis. “I would get up and try to do something,” the avid runner said. “I would walk around the block at least.” Because exercise was important to her, Rotz tried to keep the same daily routine she had for years. The dedication paid off. Eleven days after her surgery, she ran a 15K. “I just ran a little slower,” she said. “It's important to maintain your ordinary routine and activities,” Moore said. “But try to incorporate a little bit more activity.” Keeping a daily routine can help reduce the higher stress levels often
associated with the disease. In 2010, Myra “Mimi” Walters was diagnosed a second time in 10 years with breast cancer. But this time she found the diagnosis to be more of a nuisance. “Cancer is not in control. I'm in control,” she said. “It's about attitude.” While undergoing chemotherapy, Walters was able to run a halfmarathon. Moore suggests patients continue to do what makes them happy. “People should look at what they are interested in, dancing and activity DVDs,” she said. Patients will need to have clearance from their physician before starting any exercise routines. And if rest is needed, Moore recommends scheduling a rest time. “Take 30 to 45 minutes for a nap or quiet time,” she said. “That seems to give people a little bit more endurance in the evening.” The ability to carry out daily routines is important not only for cancer patients, but their families as well. Walters used her love of running to show she was going to be fine. “I didn't want my kids coming home and seeing me sitting on the couch and thinking I was feeling bad,” Walters said. “I never laid around.”
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BIZ BITES
Now open Todd Parker found just the location he was looking for to move his Northwestern Mutual office from Champaign to Decatur. The certified financial planner likes being at 106 N. Main St. in downtown Decatur. “It was a home run,” Parker said. “We knew it was going to be home.” The office provides space for its four full-time employees with room to double that number, Parker said. Most meetings can now be held in the office with the ability to use software and other resources at Parker’s fingertips as part of holistic financial planning. The move also gives the ability for Parker to work in and focus on his hometown. “Being from here, I’m in a position to help the community and have an impact in a positive way,” Parker said. Northwestern Mutual office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (217) 423-0400. nnn A new tutoring center in Forsyth is offering one-on-one instruction for students with a variety of needs. South Family Tutoring at 332 W. Marion Ave. Suite S1 offers homework help, subject tutoring, PSAT and ACT exam prep and supplemental enrichment in reading and math. Students range in age from first grade through seniors in high school, owner Christina South said. A new program provides help with the college admissions process, she said. “We felt there was a need in the community,” South said. “Teachers and a lot of students have been asking for another tutoring center.” South is a certified teacher who has been a substitute for the Decatur School District and tutoring since 1996. Other tutors currently include two certified retired teachers, she said. Each student’s program is designed to fit their needs and schedule. Appointments are generally scheduled from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (217) 520-4717. nnn A beauty supply shopper’s paradise has opened inside Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth. The more than 8,000-square foot ULTA Beauty store is located near Bergner’s. It is in a space that was formerly occupied partially by the Adult Training and Education Center, which relocated to the northwest wing of the mall. ULTA offers prestige, mass and salon products in a one-stop shop, General Manager Samantha Lininger said. The store sells 20,000 beauty products, 4,000 testers and more than 1,000 scents. “Anything you can think of for beauty products, ULTA has,” Lininger said. “We have all the brands linked together in a unique store. Usually you’d have to go to different locations to get it all.” In addition to brand name products, ULTA has a line of its own products and offers a rewards program that can be used toward future purchases. The store
invites customers to browse, play, touch, test, learn and explore all that is available. It features a full-service salon, skin care center and make-up consultations, Lininger said. Not of all it is for women, either, Lininger said. A men’s shop in the center of the store provides various fragrances, face wash, shaving, shampoo and conditioner products. Hours are the same as the mall, which currently are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Call (217) 876-8579. nnn The Purple Crayon has opened in the Heroic Age Art Center, 135 S. Henderson St. in Mount Zion. Artist and owner Peggy Larson specializes in pencil portrait illustrations, small sculptures and murals. Other types of her work include paintings, mixed media, wax resist paintings, shadow box art, greeting cards and plaques. “You never know what will show up in the studio,” Larson said. Larson considers the space a working art studio so visitors are welcome to stop by to either purchase items or watch her at work. The studio will be offering drawing and creative project classes starting this month. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Call (217) 329-4836. nnn Those playing mini golf at Nelson Park in Decatur and anyone else interested are now able to grab a frozen yogurt treat from the recently opened CherryBerry restaurant. The self-service frozen yogurt shop at 2509 E. Nelson Park Road is part of the Decatur Park District’s Overlook Adventure Mini Golf facility. Construction continues on neighboring Ted’s Taters, which will serve French fries and other foods for patrons inside the clubhouse. Kendall Peterson owns both restaurant ventures, which will be open yearround. The Nelson Park CherryBerry is the franchise’s second store in Decatur to go along with one that opened last year on Oakland Avenue near Millikin University. The new CherryBerry is open noon to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday. Call (217) 330-7676.
On the move After changing its name to United Equity Credit Union this spring to better reflect its membership of 4,200-plus, the credit union has relocated its home office from North Main Street to a newly constructed building at 1130 E. Pershing Road. “We are excited to have more parking and better egress with our new driveup,” President Kara Johnston said. Founded in 1935 to serve employees of
Illinois Power Co., the credit union today serves several select employee groups and their family members. Its previous building at 2773 N. Main St. is for sale. United Equity opens Monday through Saturday at 8:30 a.m. (drive-up opens at 7:30 a.m.) and closes weekdays at 4:30 p.m. (drive-up at 5:30 p.m.) and Saturdays at noon (drive-up at 12:30 p.m.) For more, visit www.uecu.com or call (217) 875-1845.
Expanded services Jeff Getz didn’t know how hard it was to buy a golf cart in the Decatur area until he tried to find one to use in his rural Macon subdivision. The discovery led him and his wife, Judy, to add custom golf cart sales to their business of six years, Xpress Lube at 3601 East U.S. 36. “We’d been looking for something else to do to utilize our labor,” Getz said. “I haven’t actually gotten one for myself yet; every time I get one fixed up, I wind up selling it.” Xpress Lube generally stocks about a dozen used models for shoppers to peruse, mostly Club Car and EZGo. For more, find the business on Facebook, www.XpressLubeandRepair.com or call (217) 425-1545. nnn IPI Wealth Management has
announced the creation of a Decatur IPI Wealth Management Team to meet the growing needs of its Decatur clients. The team consists of IPI advisers Tomas Ealy of Champaign, John Foley of Savoy, Jeff Secord of Bloomington, Caleb Smoes of Champaign and James Minton of Decatur. “The creation of the Decatur IPI Wealth Management Team is a gamebooster for our city and the surrounding area. By combining the proven strengths of these advisers with the distinctive investment management capabilities of IPI, we are filling a void in the community,” said David P. Koshinski, Investment Planners and IPI Wealth Management’s president and CEO. “Joining forces will allow us to leverage the team’s investment expertise, deliver innovative wealth advisory services, and provide the best of class advising relationship the clients have been missing.” This combined team currently manages approximately $490 million in client assets under management and advisement. The advisers will continue maintaining their current offices, while also spending time in the Decatur office, located at 226 W. Eldorado St.
Biz Bites highlight businesses that are opening, closing, expanding … you get the picture. If you have information for our Biz Bites column, contact Tony Reid at treid@herald-review.com, Chris Lusvardi at clusvardi@herald-review.com, Theresa Churchill at tchurchill@heraldreview.com or call them at (217) 421-6979.
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Union Iron facility to create more jobs By CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — The development of a new $11 million Union Iron manufacturing facility in Decatur is expected to create 25 full-time jobs within two years. The business announced plans last month to enlarge and consolidate its Decatur operations into a 135,000-squarefoot facility being built at 3550 E. Mound Road. It is currently at 601 S. 27th St. Union Iron now employs 115 workers in Decatur, as well as 100 seasonal employees from March through September. It pledged to retain its existing full-time work force as part of an incentive deal with the state. “We are very pleased about the opportunity to have all of the Union Iron operations contained within one facility,” said Gary Anderson, president and CEO of the Canadian-based parent company, Ag Growth International, or AGI, which acquired Union Iron in 2007. “This will enhance the effectiveness and productivity of our operations and improve the service levels we provide to our customers.”
Gov. Pat Quinn’s office said the company chose to reinvest in Decatur after evaluating several locations in the United States and Canada. “Illinois has been home to Union Iron for more than 160 years,” Quinn said. “This expansion will mean even more jobs and economic growth for a company that has evolved with our state’s agricultural and industrial markets. With our highly skilled work force and easy access to the rest of the world, there is no better place for Union Iron to grow and thrive.” Decatur Mayor Mike McElroy sees the development as a significant investment in the city as a longtime employer is retained. The Decatur business was founded in 1852, making it one of the state’s oldest manufacturers. “Their decision enhances Decatur’s prospects for other global manufacturing and logistics projects, helping solidify Decatur and Central Illinois as a location of choice for cost-conscious, forward-thinking companies,” McElroy said. As part of the local effort to support Union Iron in developing the facility, the boundaries of the Decatur Macon
Genotyping center Sears store at mall goes to Fargo set to close DECATUR — The Decatur area can benefit from the work that went into bidding for a National Agricultural Genotyping Center research facility even as Fargo, N.D., was chosen as the site for the project. The National Corn Growers Association Corn Board made the choice after a selection committee visited both finalists. If Decatur’s bid had been successful, the center would have been built at Richland Community College, which is trying to develop an Agribusiness Applied Technology Park in the northwest corner of campus, said Doug Brauer, Richland’s vice president of economic development and innovative solutions. “Decatur can be and is a very attractive location for organizations to come to,” Brauer said. “I have no doubt if it would have come here, it would have been very successful.” Illinois and North Dakota brought enthusiasm for the project, Brauer said. In the end, he said it appeared as though the potential relationship between the Corn Growers and North Dakota State University was among the determining factors. Corn Growers representatives were excited about Fargo and “the commitment from the many forward-thinking people involved in this project,” said Richard Vierling, director of research at NCGA. “This is a first-time-ever, huge step for a farmer-led association that gives growers more influence on research agendas,” Vierling said. “This can help growers increase production and lower costs.”
FORSYTH — A second anchor spot at Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth will soon be left empty as Sears announced plans to close its location there in early December. The Sears store and auto center will remain open for customers until then, spokesman Howard Riefs said. With Sears planning to close, mall owner CBL Properties is looking for a retailer of comparable size to fill the space, said Sean Phillips, CBL’s regional marketing director. Additionally, the J.C. Penney store at the mall in Forsyth was one of 33 locations in that chain which closed earlier this year. “We’re constantly evaluating all our opportunities,” Phillips said. “We have things in the works. This is an opportunity to redevelop the locations.” Phillips said that while it is too early to release plans to replace the Sears space, an agreement is being finalized to fill the former J.C. Penney space. The mall has had some recent success in filling smaller spaces with what Phillips said are considered junior department stores. An ULTA Beauty store opened in September and a Ross Dress for Less is under construction next to it. Phillips said the mall also has recently added new options for family and children’s shopping with Justice and The Children’s Place. “We have a lot of interest in Hickory Point Mall,” Phillips said. “By adding more stores like those, we hope shoppers will visit more often.”
County Enterprise Zone were expanded to include the property where the new facility will be built, said Larry Altenbaumer, Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County interim president. The property is on the northeast side of town near Richland Community College. “This is a very good example of the cooperative efforts on the part of the county and the city in expanding the enterprise zone to support this specific opportunity,” Altenbaumer said. “These local efforts coupled with strong support from the state of Illinois helped provide a package of economic benefits that were an important part of the decision to develop this facility in Decatur.” The effort was further enhanced by the recent decision of the ArgentaOreana School District to participate as a tax-abating district in the enterprise zone, Altenbaumer said. The expansion is being made possible by a state incentive package worth an estimated $1.1 million over 10 years. The incentive is primarily a credit against the company’s state income tax liability
under Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy, or EDGE, program, which is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The deal will require Union Iron to invest at least $10.3 million at its Decatur location over the next 10 years. The package also includes a $41,000 grant for job training. The company appreciates the support from those involved in the economic development efforts, said Mike Brotherton, Union Iron general manager. It said access to the state’s transportation network, highly educated work force, culture of entrepreneurship and competitive cost structure was vital in its decision. “We will realize significant improvements in efficiency and overall operational capacity and thus will be instrumental in satisfying the growing needs of our customers,” Brotherton said. Union Iron began by building steam engines. It has evolved into a maker of conveying equipment and related components for commercial and farm grain handling systems.
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YOUR HEALTH
Patients get breast cancer support Doctors, center provide care, help By EMILY STEELE Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — By the last day of radiation treatment, Robyn Koritz knew the routine. Same as every weekday afternoon for the past seven weeks, she greeted the nurses at the right side desk of the Cancer Care Center on Sept. 10. After walking back through the offices, she changed into two medical gowns — covering front and back. Nurses situated Koritz under the radiation machine to match the green projected lights to the marks on her chest. The machine has to be lined up perfectly not only to target the cancerous area, but also to avoid hitting her heart or lungs. The heavy metal door closed during treatment. A sign on the front reads “Caution. Very high radiation area.” Five minutes later she steps out and hugs both nurses. After almost a year of chemo, a double mastectomy and radiation treatment for breast cancer, Koritz was finally able to ring the handbell letting everyone in range know someone had finished treatment. But the first time Koritz, age 39, stepped through the doors at the Cancer Care Center everything was overwhelming. “When I first started, I didn't know what to expect,” Koritz said. The one relief Koritz came to find is the amount of information and help available. “The biggest thing I can tell everybody there is no question too small to ask your doctor or nurse,” Koritz said. Koritz was one year younger than the recommended age for starting annual mammograms when she felt a lump in her right breast. “I’ve never had a mammogram before, I never thought about it,” Koritz said. Doctors took a sample from the lump with a needle to analyze the tissue. She was suspicious something was wrong before the official results came in, but it didn't dull the diagnosis of cancer. “It was really just a shock,” Koritz said. “You can’t prepare yourself for it, it’s a complete and utter shock.” She met an oncologist at the Cancer Care Center to discuss what kind of cancer it was and how to move forward. Starting out, Koritz knew she didn't
Business Journal/Danny Damiani
Robyn Koritz rings a bell at the Cancer Care Center after receiving her final radiation treatment for breast cancer. want chemo. But the hard data Dr. Dolores Estrada-Garcia gave Koritz about survival odds without the treatment convinced her otherwise. “She walked me through my options with my being stage three and being so young, chemo was the best option for me,” Koritz said. Dr. Sebastien Kairouz is an oncologist with Cancer Care Specialists of Central Illinois. During his first appointment with a newly diagnosed patient, he makes a point to explain every test and every step of the process in detail, from where their cancer is coming from to what the stages of a diagnosis mean. “At the end of the day, if the first encounter with a patient you make it clear to them what’s going on,” Kairouz said. “A lot of that fear is alleviated.” But he wants to spend most of that appointment answering their questions, removing misconceptions and building trust. From there they make a treatment plan. “The big unknown is their first treatment,” Kairouz said. Oftentimes that's chemo, and a nurse practitioner will sit down with a patient before to discuss the process.
‘You are way stronger than you think.’ ROBYN KORITZ
Some patients want to be in control, others want the doctor to take the lead, but Kairouz said women should be upfront and ask their doctor about the nature of their disease. “It’s important to be involved from the beginning,” Kairouz said. “I think it does improve the standard of care.” Reversing her opinion on chemo taught Koritz to trust her medical team that grew to include her primary doctor, oncologist, radiation oncologist and OB/GYN. Nurses navigators from the DMH Women's Health and Breast Center also contacted her directly. There, Breast Center Coordinators Pam McMillen and Heather Ludwig
work to provide material and emotional support to breast cancer patients and survivors. “It goes back to what their needs are,” McMillen said. Sometimes those needs are about nutrition, wigs or prosthetic or financial issues and which doctor or nurse to talk to if there's a problem. The coordinators work to ensure everyone on the medical team is on the same page. Each patient is different. Some seek out support groups, while others need information and facts to help them come to terms with their disease. “It's rewarding to see the strength these women have,” Ludwig said. With radiation completed, Koritz is now waiting to hear the magical phrase “no evidence of disease,” sometime in the next month that will mean she's cancer free. Koritz will continue seeing her oncologist for scans and will take a hormone suppression medication for at least five years. One of the biggest lessons she learned is the power of inner strength. “You are way stronger than you think,” she said. “And don’t ever let it keep you down.”
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ASK THE SCORE COUNSELOR Q: Can you explain what small-business tax credits are? A: The best answer to this question comes from Bonnie Lee, an IRS enrolled agent admitted to practice and representing taxpayers in all 50 states. More of her tax expertise can be found in the Illinois Small Business Development Center’s Weekly Connection publication and the www.foxbusiness.com website. Businesses can enjoy a variety of tax credits. A credit differs from a deduction in that it reduces your tax liability dollar for dollar. For example, if your tax liability totals $10,000, but you are able to take the disabled access credit for $4,000 you would owe only $6,000 in taxes. A deduction merely reduces your taxable income. So let’s say you have a deduction valued at $4,000, and you are in the 25 percent tax bracket, you will save only $1,000 on your income taxes. There are quite a few credits available. Some are obscure applying to only a small percentage of entrepreneurs but there are a few noteworthy exceptions. Congress passed the Family and Business Tax Cut Certainty Act which extended some of the existing tax credits for small businesses. Listed below are some of the oftenoverlooked credits that may come in handy for reducing your tax liability: 1. Credit for retirement plan startup expenses. If you implement a defined benefit plan including a 401(k), SIMPLE or SEP, you may take a credit of up to $500 for startup expenses. Claim your credit on Form 8881. 2. Disabled access credit. If your sales for the prior year were less than $1 million or you had fewer than 30 employees, you may take a tax credit for improvements made to your business property to fulfill the requirements of the Americans for Disability Act. Roughly, you will enjoy a tax credit of 50 percent of your expenditures up to a maximum credit of $5,000. 3. Work opportunity tax credit. This credit was extended another year thanks to the Family and Business Tax Cut Certainty Act. If you hire veterans you may qualify to receive up to $9,600 in the form of a tax credit and up to $6,240 if your organization is a nonprofit agency. The amount you can claim depends upon how much you are paying in wages, how many hours the veteran works for you, and how long the veteran was unemployed prior to
GOT A QUESTION? To learn more about small business tax credits, for one-on-one, face-to-face business counseling, or to submit a question for the “Ask the SCORE Counselor” column, contact SCORE Chapter 296, Millikin University, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, IL 62522 or call (217) 424-6296.
hiring. You must hire the veteran before the end of 2013 in order to take the credit. 4. Fuel and alternative motor vehicle credits. There are a plethora of tax credits for manufacturing of fuels or greening up your business’ transportation expenses: biodiesel, renewable diesel, low sulfur diesel, alcohol and cellulosic bio-fuels, among others. Check with your tax pro to determine if you qualify. 5. Small employer health insurance premiums. If you have fewer than 25 employees, and paid average annual wages of less than $50,000 you may qualify for this credit. The calculations are tricky and fewer business owners qualify than what was originally anticipated. Check with your tax pro to determine if you do or not. 6. Empowerment Zone credit. This one was also extended thanks to the Family and Business Tax Cut Certainty Act. If your business resides in an empowerment zone, you may claim the credit. See IRS Form 8844 to find out if you qualify. 7. Credit for employer Social Security and Medicare taxes. If you own a beverage or food service establishment where tipping is customary, you may receive credit for the amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes you paid on employee tips reported to you. Check out form 8846. — Information provided by SCORE Chapter 296
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Construction, health jobs grow By THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — The last time manufacturing was the No. 1 industry in Macon and DeWitt counties, Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. was about to make the first round of layoffs that would culminate in the Decatur plant’s closure less than 18 months later. That was August 2000. More recently, between July 2013 and July 2014, the manufacturing sector also accounted for the greatest number of jobs lost in the Decatur area, accounting for 2,300 of 4,550 jobs lost since before the Great Recession in 2007-09. These were among the facts Ron Payne, labor market economist for the Illinois Department of Employment Security, brought to the Decatur Jobs Council last month, but the news wasn’t all bad. He said two sectors have actually grown over the past seven years to the tune of 350 jobs in construction and 300 in health services/education. Today he said the top industry in the region is trade, transportation and utilities, accounting for about 12,400 jobs, followed with manufacturing with 10,400, and health services/education with 8,400. Payne said about 93 percent of the jobs in the health services/education
category are in health care. “I think a lot of the transportation jobs we’ve lost are going to start coming back,” he said. “I also think you’re going to see increases in health care and education. I’m not sure anybody knows what the Affordable Health Care Act is going to do, but it’s not going to decrease employment, I’ll tell you that.” In other business, jobs council Chairman Stacey Brohard said an upcoming jobs training collaboration between the Good Samaritan Inn and Decatur Is Growing Gardeners, or DIGG, will incorporate basic literacy and math into Mercy Gardens instead of offering it separately. Debbie Bogle, executive director of the United Way of Decatur and MidIllinois, said the organization continues to refer people in need to agencies that may be able to help them even though it discontinued its First Call for Help service in 2011. In that same vein, the jobs council, a coalition of social service representatives seeking to eliminate barriers to employment for the disadvantaged, has also updated its employment resource guide. Anyone interested in a copy may contact Kimberly Fickes, employment and life skills specialist with Homeward Bound, at kfickes@doveinc.org or (217) 362-7700.
The Business Journal presents...
Dick Overheul retired from Association of General Contractors Group Health Plan, where he worked as marketing director. His counseling specialties are insurance and bonds, employee benOverheul efits and financial services. He has been a SCORE member for five years.
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Reader Profile: n 30% are owner/partner of their business. n 27% have household income of $100,000 to $149,000
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2470 Wakefield (new listing) 6 unit Apt Building in South Shores JUST LISTED! Won’t Last! $379,000
A SALUTE TO
IN DECEMBER’S ISSUE! Family owned businesses are important to the growth of any community. The future of our town is sculpted by the courage and ingenuity of business owners like you. Rarely are you given the chance to tell your story.
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This publication is designed entirely around you and your story. Be a part of this special section for the December issue and receive additional space to tell readers more about your business.
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1201 E. Wood St. 15,000 Square Feet Former Grocery & Liquor Store Lots of Parking. Only $369,000
998 ½ W Harrison Ave FOR LEASE 40 x 60 Office/Shop 12’ Eave Height 12 x 10 O.H.Door
2728 N. Main 4000 Sq. Ft. Space For Lease “Only $1600 mth” Shop & Retail or Office Great visibility- high traffic counts
225 S. Main St. - Suite LL• Decatur, iL 62523
CONGRATS ON YOUR NEW HOME • Westside Church of the Nazarene (E Route 36 & Sunnyside Road)
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YOUR CAREER
YOUR BUSINESS
Meet Gary Sawyer
What’s changed after 5 years of Ledbetter? It was going to usher in the shining new day of justice for all. Or, depending on your point of view, it was going to cause the collapse of American business as we know it. “It” was the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, and it was the first piece of legislation signed into law by President Barack Obama. It was a hotly contentious issue in the presidential campaign of 2008. Women’s groups, and unions fervently supported the bill. They hoped it would reduce the differential between men’s and women’s earnings. Most business Human Resources groups strongly opposed it. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce threatened to punish legislators who voted for it. The Chamber said, “This legislation would dramatically
general manager/editor of the Herald & Review Hometown: I was born in Wichita, Kan. Family: My wife Judy is a guidance counselor at Taylorville High School. Children: Monica is an IRS agent in Des Moines, Iowa; Kyle teaches and coaches at a middle school in Kansas and Jacob is a senior at Iowa State University. We have two grandchildren, Ian, 4 and Ainsley, 2, with another one expected in February. Education: North Scott High School, Eldridge, Iowa; BA and MBA degree from Iowa State University.
Fred Spannaus
My “I’d rather be …” bumper sticker would read: I don’t think this way. I try to enjoy what I’m doing, while I’m doing it. I think you can waste a lot of time and effort wishing you were somewhere else, doing something else. Hobbies/interests: I referee high school basketball and soccer; read, fish, bicycle and I’m a huge St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan. I also enjoy time with the family, especially the grandkids.
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Personal approaches to challenges: I think you approach challenges through people. You have to take the time to understand their motives and desire and then figure out a way to make solving a challenge in their best interest. Be generous with credit – it’s amazing how much we can do when credit is shared. Also, break up big challenges into smaller ones. A professor once told me: “Inch by inch, life’s a cinch. Yard by yard, life is hard.” That’s stuck with me. My approach is to attack a challenge one step at a time, be collaborative and try to bring everyone along as you go. Community involvement: Board president of the United Way of Decatur and MidIllinois. I’m also on the leadership coun-
Jon D. Stewart has been appointed to the First Busey Corporation Board of Directors.
Osborne
Runyon
Lynn Merritt and Donna Munson with Area One Realtors LLC attended the Illinois Association of Realtors Fall Conference and Expo in Chicago.
Baker
Business Journal/Jim Bowling
Achievements
When Gary Sawyer started his journalism career, newspapers were limited to the printed product. As the new general manager/editor of the Herald & Review, he's helping to usher in enhanced online and digital formats for sharing news and advertising.
cil of the Decatur Education Coalition and was recently named as a board member to the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce.
take on that community role. We have a lot of people who play a huge role in the community, so it’s not a one-person job.
What does an editor/general manager do: It’s sort of a hybrid job. The editor portion means that I’m ultimately responsible for all of the information we produce that isn’t advertising. I have a great group of editors and journalists to work with and we produce awardwinning products on a regular basis. The general manager title encompasses my responsibility for production, technology and a role in the community. Julie Bechtel is our regional publisher and she has responsibility for the Herald & Review, The Pantagraph in Bloomington and the Journal GazetteTimes Courier in Mattoon/Charleston. In addition, she has a corporate role for Lee Enterprises and oversees papers in Illinois and Nebraska. There’s no way she can be involved in the community in a meaningful way. So, it’s my job as general manager to
What is the role of the Herald & Review in the community? Our primary role is to be the provider of news and information for the community, both in the form of news coverage and advertising. In addition, we have to be actively involved in the community. Most of the people that work at the Herald & Review are involved in the community in some fashion. There are literally no successful events in this community that we aren’t involved in sponsoring or promotion in one way or the other. What do you tell those who say the end is near for the newspaper industry? The facts are that most newspaper companies make profits and provide solid returns on investment. There is no doubt that competition and changing media habits have encroached on the traditional print side of the business. At the same
time, however, the industry has grown substantially on digital formats. In addition, we have probably the largest readership in our history. The number of adults reading the Herald & Review in some form or another is phenomenal and well beyond the reach of any other media. The industry’s challenge is to remember our chief role is as an information provider, and the delivery method is secondary. I think we are entering an era where consumers will control the method by which they receive the news. How is the Herald & Review adapting to meet the changing demands of its readers? We’ve provided many more ways for readers to access information. With our new subscription model, readers can get upto-minute news and information on several digital platforms in addition to the printed product delivered each morning. This allows readers to read news when they find it convenient and to keep up with the news throughout the day.
Stewart
Merritt
Munson
New staff members Sam Osborne has been named general manager of Residence Inn in Forsyth.
Promotions Craig W. Runyon has been made a partner with the law firm of Samuels, Miller, Schroeder, Jackson & Sly LLP. Vicki Baker has been promoted to vice president of client services and marketing for Foster Financial Services Inc.
Decatur Memorial Hospital Radiation Oncology has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in radiation oncology by the American College of Radiology. Bayard H. “Bud” Walters, founder and president of The Cromwell Group, received the National Radio Award from the Radio Advertising Bureau and National Association of Broadcasters.
Ledbetter. The bill changed the statute of limitations. It allowed an employee to claim that each unfair paycheck was an instance of discrimination, rather than only the first one. The Ledbetter bill passed both houses but was not signed into law until President Obama was inaugurated. Five years have elapsed. Let’s look at the results. What impact has the law made? Employers didn't experience the rush of frivolous actions and lawsuits that was predicted by the Society for Human Resource Management and the U.S. Chamber. There is no evidence whatsoever that Ledbetter led to an onslaught of baseless discrimination claims. The courts have applied Ledbetter to specific cases, allowing employees to pursue discrimination claims, even when the discrimination began years ago. Under the new law, claims can be filed in cases when discrimination is still occurring or when it ended only recently. By 2011, three substantial court cases emerged. Each allowed claims to proceed based on the new definition of the
statute of limitations. One case involved sex discrimination, one concerned race discrimination, and the third was filed by a person with disabilities. On the other hand, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act had no visible effect on overall pay disparity, which remains firmly lodged at 77 cents made by women compared to each dollar earned by men. The Ledbetter Act was a technical fix. It was needed. It solved a problem, and it did so very effectively. It is critically helpful for those victimized by long-term favoritism. Its effect on those individuals has been huge. But its impact has been limited to a fairly small group of companies – those with longstanding records of pay discrimination. In retrospect after five years, it's hard to understand why it faced such fervent opposition.
Fred W. Spannaus, principal of Spannaus Consulting, is a senior professional in human resources. He loves feedback to his columns. Fred can be contacted by email at spannaus@ ameritech.net or by phone at (217) 425-2635.
BUSINESS JOURNAL
BUSINESS CLIPS
My first job: I worked on a garbage truck for the city of Eldridge, Iowa. During the summer, I worked for the city as a general laborer. I also had a part-time job writing high school sports for the North Scott Press. Why I do what I do: Journalism is important to our society. An informed public is essential to the republic and it’s the media’s job to let people know what’s going on in their communities, their state and the nation. Community journalism is important because there are few news outlets paying attention to what’s going on locally. The newspaper, in print and online, is the information vehicle that keeps a community informed, helps community members communicate and helps the community make major decisions.
expand the number of frivolous and otherwise questionable cases that could be brought against employers.” The Society for Human Resource Management, launched a high-profile all-out campaign urging legislators to vote against it. Do you recall the case? Lilly Ledbetter worked for Goodyear for nearly 20 years. During those years, Goodyear paid her about 20 percent less than her male co-workers. For most of that time, Ledbetter had no idea she was getting shorted. When she found out, she filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In response, Goodyear didn't deny that it discriminated. The company argued instead that Ledbetter should have filed the complaint when the discrimination started, rather than waiting until she actually knew about it. The company asserted that the statute of limitations expired less than a year after her first short paycheck. The courts upheld Goodyear’s position. Congress stepped in and drafted the new legislation, naming it after
Walters
Business Clips are abbreviated versions of paid Business Achievements which appear on Mondays in the Herald & Review. For more information about Business Achievements, go to www.herald-review.com/app/secure/businessach/
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 48% share their copy of the Journal with others. n 23% are 35 to 44 years old.
Printed with environmentally safe water-based ink
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October 2014
TECHTALK
Finding the smartphone that’s right for you Most phone contracts last two years, which is a lifetime when it comes to technology. There are more choices than ever, and it’s hard to tell the difference. What’s clever marketing hype, and what’s real value? Here’s the scoop on how to choose the right phone for you.
Operating system Are you a Mac fan? A Droid rebel? A Windows 8 convert? Smartphones come in all three flavors these days. If you already have other devices on any of these platforms, you may want a smartphone to match. The iPhone, which runs iOS from Apple, set the standard for smartphones when it came out in 2007. Each new release Technology still makes big headlines every year. It is well-known for superb design and ease-of-use, and they still have the most apps in their app store. If you have a Mac or iPad, you will probably want an iPhone. Droid phones run the Android operating system. Android was developed by Google to compete with the iPhone and iOS. It is well established and very popular. Power users favor Droid for its flexibility and ability to customize. Amazon.com created a special Droid variation they call the Fire OS. They use it on the Kindle Fire tablet and the newly-introduced Fire phone. It combines the power of the Android OS with the ease of use normally associated with Apple. Microsoft, never one to be left behind for long, has been paying close attention to the phone market. They now offer the Windows Phone, which has the same look and feel as Windows 8. Be warned, their app store is growing, but it lags behind Apple and Droid. If you want the latest apps, this may not be the phone for you. For those Crackberry addicts out there, you still can purchase Blackberry phones from a few carriers, but this is a dying platform. You’ll be better off with a different choice.
Wendy Gauntt
Service provider Your carrier makes a huge difference in your phone experience. Some are more reliable than others, some offer faster data connections, and everyone’s coverage is a little different. There is no one right answer but generally Verizon and AT&T are the highestranked. Others may have a cheaper
price tag, but that is usually an indication of more limited services. Travelers will benefit from the top-tier carriers, since they are more likely to offer coverage nearly anywhere you might go. If that’s not an issue, just make sure you have good coverage at home and the office, and anywhere else you spend a lot of time. Sorting through plans is frustratingly complex. Usually you will pay for talk time, in minutes; texting, in quantity; and data, in gigabytes. Bundled plans are starting to offer unlimited talk and text, so all you have to do is predict how much data you will use. Most people don’t use as much data as they expect, a few gigabytes a month, and you can keep it to a minimum by setting your phone to connect to Wifi whenever you are at home or work. The main thing to watch out when it comes to data usage is music, pictures and video. If you are sending or receiving these over the Internet all the time, you can blow through a small data plan in a few hours.
Other details Once you’ve sorted through the operating system and the carrier, the rest is a piece of cake. Here are some of the key features to explore: n Battery life: This varies widely. Bigger phones typically have bigger, longer-lasting batteries. n Screen size/phone size: Some people prefer large phones because they can substitute for a tablet, with more room to type. Others prefer smaller phones that fit better in a pocket. This is strictly personal preference. n Durability: Some phones offer more rugged cases, and a few are now water resistant. If your favorite phone doesn’t offer these features, there are cases that can provide the same benefits. n Speed: You’ll see CPU and processor speed on some phone comparison lists, but be careful, as this can be confusing and misleading. Test the phone yourself to see how it performs. n Camera: Pixel counts are so high these days you can take a great picture with any smartphone. Look for software features that allow for editing, focusing, video, etc. Offering front and rear cameras gives you more flexibility.
the Droid platform. Cutting edge features and a large display have set it apart from the crowd and won over loyal fans. Google also offers a Droid phone – no surprise, since they created the operating system. Theirs is the Google Nexus 5. You can buy this directly from retailers, unlocked, to use with the carrier of your choice. (Check with your carrier before purchasing, just to be sure.) Amazon’s new Fire Phone runs their modified version of the Droid platform. It’s currently only available with AT&T service. The Nokia Lumia 635 offers the latest in Windows Phones. The HTC One also is available for Windows or Droid. Both offer Cortana, a voice-operated “personal assistant” designed to compete with Siri from Apple.
Not sure yet? The best way to decide is to visit your local wireless or electronics store. Check out models in real life to see how they look and feel, and ask plenty of questions to make sure you have all the facts. With so many phones on the market, there is no “one” right choice for everyone. Do your homework before buying, but don’t sweat the final decision. In the end it all comes down to what you like best.
Wendy Gauntt is president of CIO Services LLC, a technology consulting company that specializes in small business solutions. Visit her Website at www.cioservicesllc.com for more information, ideas and free resources.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 66% have household income of $80,000 or more. n 32% are age 55 or older.
TUES., OCTOBER 14TH, 2014
5:30 - 7:30 PM SOUTH ENTRANCE
OPEN
All 6th, 7th & 8th grade & transfer students & parents are invited to join us.
HOUSE
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217-875-7950
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Top picks The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are the latest release from Apple. They offer noticeably larger screens to compete with some of the most popular Droid phones. The operating system has been redesigned again, with a slew of new and intuitive features designed to make it even more effortless than ever. The Samsung Galaxy S5 is one of the leading iPhone competitors, and it runs
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Joining corporate ranks takes some adjusting Q: After accepting a position in my company’s corporate office, I have found that I’m not very comfortable here. In engineering, where I previously worked, everyone was much less formal and communication was more direct. But this environment seems to require some special interpersonal skills. I am also interacting with top executives for the first time in my career. Although I have tried hard to make a good first impression, I don’t really seem to fit in. Despite my previous successes, Office Coach this difficult transition is causing me to doubt my abilities. I was initially excited about this opportunity, but now I wonder if it was a mistake. Do you have any advice? A: Moving to the corporate office from the field almost always feels like a trip through the looking glass. People typically dress more formally, hierarchy is more strictly observed, and everything seems slightly removed from the “real world.” So take comfort in the fact that your uneasiness is not uncommon. Since there is no handy guidebook on corporate norms, you need to start looking for role models. Identify well-respected people on your level, then observe how they act and interact. If you have a supportive supervisor or human
Marie McIntyre
resources manager, request a brief orientation session on corporate expectations. To increase your sense of belonging, schedule get-acquainted meetings with your new colleagues. Explain that you wish to learn more about their roles and responsibilities, then come prepared with specific questions. If this is a sociable bunch, consider having these conversations over lunch. As you discovered, corporate life automatically involves contact with executives. Making a positive impression could accelerate your career, but the reverse can also be true. You must therefore learn about their individual hot buttons before you accidentally push one. For example, I knew one CEO who went absolutely ballistic if someone failed to answer the phone on the first three rings. Understanding the corporate perspective will increase your business knowledge and broaden your scope. So even if you eventually conclude that this is not the place for you, the assignment should provide a valuable learning experience. Q: My co-worker’s annoying habits drive me absolutely crazy. She is constantly snapping her fingers, tapping her feet, humming a tune or popping her gum. When I tried to reciprocate by hitting my pen against a glass for several minutes, she didn’t even notice. If this continues, I will eventually blow up and say something I regret. Any suggestions? A: I regularly receive complaints about co-worker noise, so you are certainly not alone. In these situations, peo-
WEEKLY TIPS Can’t get enough advice from the Office Coach. Get weekly column updates at www.thebusiness-journal.com. ple should understand that their colleagues are not being intentionally rude. Some folks simply possess an innate ability to screen out background noise, while others, like yourself, are acutely aware of every sound in the room. When these two types work together, the “sound sensitives” are greatly disturbed by random noises, while the “sound screeners” don’t understand what the problem is. This physiological difference explains not only your frustration, but also your colleague’s indifference to the retaliatory glass-tapping. If your snapping and popping co-worker is a reasonable sort, perhaps she would be willing to help. In that case, you might try making a friendly request. For example: “Mary, I have a favor to ask. Because I have extremely sensitive hearing, I am easily distracted by noises that don’t bother other people. If sounds from your cubicle make it hard for me to concentrate, would it be OK if I ask you to tone them down?” But if you fear the noisemaker will take offense, consider employing selfprotective measures. Listen to soothing music with earbuds, use a white noise machine or see if your boss might agree to move your desk. Q: One of my employees can’t seem to
get along with anyone. “Jenny” does excellent work, but she is extremely critical of her colleagues and constantly makes insulting remarks about them. When people disagree with her, she cuts them off and refuses to listen. On her worst days, Jenny will fly into hysterical tirades and threaten to sue everyone for harassment. So far, Jenny has shown no sign of taking responsibility for these damaged relationships. Her mid-year review is coming up, and I want to make it clear that this disruptive behavior needs to change. However, despite all the drama, I don’t want to lose her. How should I approach this discussion? A: You don’t want to lose her? Really? Based on your description, I would expect you to throw a party if Jenny announced she was leaving. Her longsuffering colleagues would undoubtedly be jubilant. While this woman may excel at certain tasks, she has obviously failed miserably at the basic job requirement of working well with others. To determine whether Jenny is capable of change, you will need to engage in a very firm and direct performance coaching process. This plan must include specific consequences for noncompliance, up to and including termination of employment. If you refuse to consider that option, you will automatically give Jenny the power to ignore your requests.
Marie G. McIntyre is a workplace coach and the author of “Secrets to Winning at Office Politics.” Send in questions and get free coaching tips at www.yourofficecoach.com, or follow her on Twitter @officecoach.
Working with a workaholic Q: I have a co-worker who is a selfdescribed workaholic. He works on weekends and seems to expect me to, as well. I work hard but very much value my work-life balance. How can I manage this situation so that our close working relationship remains positive? A: Be clear and consistent about your boundaries, including when and for what you’ll be flexible.
Liz Reyer
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October 2014
Inner game
There is a lot of pressure in the typical workplace to give more these days ... more time, more energy, more dedication. But as an employee, you do not have an infinite well to tap. Bravo to you for realizing that balance is important. Take a moment to remind yourself of
the reasons that you value work-life balance. Close your eyes, take some deep breaths and experience the positive feeling that you get when you recharge. Now, while those feelings are fresh, make a list of the business reasons that this is valuable. “When I am in balance, I ...” Am more productive? Make smarter decisions? Am I a better team player? If you’re like most people, there is immense value in bringing your most energized self to the workplace. Don’t let this be downplayed. About your boundaries: Are you clear in your own mind about what is OK and what pushes you too far? For example, is there a time of day that you simply must be done working? If it varies, can you articulate that so that your colleague can have a fair chance of knowing when he is overstepping? Or perhaps it isn’t a time of day as much as a process for asking. Whatever your boundaries are, it’s your responsibility to be crystal clear about them to yourself and others. Finally, look at your point of view in light of your overall organizational cul-
WEEKLY TIPS Get weekly career tips from Liz Reyer at www.thebusiness-journal.com. ture, considering whether leadership will have your back on this, or whether there is a 24/7 expectation that the workaholic is embodying.
Outer game Sit down and talk with your colleague. Since you’re in a positive mode with him so far, it should be easy to have a tone that builds on the positives. Consider chatting over coffee or lunch so that it feels more informal. Before you meet, develop a single clear message to share. It may be something like, “I like working with you, and it’ll be even better if we agree that I won’t always be checking email on weekends.” Have examples to share
that were challenging for you. Most people aren’t jerks, so assuming that he’s not, enter into a joint problemsolving mode to develop mutually satisfying solutions. Also make it clear where and how you’ll be flexible so that he doesn’t feel locked in. That would be a recipe for pushing back on his part. Then have regular check-ins with him to make sure that you’re both feeling all right about the level of engagement. If things fall out of balance, get support from your boss. It may also be a sign that your team is not properly resourced. In that case, other steps will be needed.
The last word Advocate for your best interests so that you can thrive at home and at work.
Liz Reyer is a credentialed coach with more than 20 years of business experience. Submit questions or comments about this column at www.deliverchange.com/coachscorner or email her at liz@deliverchange.com.
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BUSINESS JOURNAL
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October 2014
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Anne Lloyd Gallery: Gallery 510 hosts the annual October National, a juried exhibit, with special recognition of art honoring survivors of breast, ovarian and cervical cancer. Opening reception from 57:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3. Call (217) 4233189. www.decturarts.org Decatur Airport: Watercolors by Rae Nell Spencer. Decatur Public Library: Artwork by 4H members. Blue Connection: Chalk art by Eric Weatherford. Meet the artist reception from 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3.
Charity events Walk to End Alzheimer’s, to benefit the Alzheimer's Association on Saturday, Oct. 4, in Forsyth Village Park, Forsyth. Ceremony at 9:30 a.m., walk begins at 9:45 a.m. Call (217) 801-9352. WSOY Community Food Drive, to benefit local food pantries, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, Kroger in Airport Plaza. This years goals is 825,000 pounds of food.
BANQUET
Hilltop Roundup, to benefit the Children's Museum of Illinois, 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Nelson Park Main Pavilion. Enjoy acoustic performance by
Calendar of events For a complete list of events, go to www.herald-review.com/go/
24. Music by Rosetta Stone, costume contest. Cost is $15 in advance. For more information, go to www.mtzion.com or call (217) 864-5424.
Music
Third Shirt, while partaking in the chili bar, BBQ, jalapeno corn bread muffins, seasonal beer and gourmet s'mores. Tickets are $40 each or $75 per couple. Call (217) 423-5437.
Go to www.maconcountyconservation. org and click on the Programs and Activities tab for a complete listing.
Run United, to benefit the United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois, 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. This 5K run starts in Fairview Park and end at Fleet Feet Sports, 1090 W. Wood St., followed by a post-race party. For more information, go to www.uwdecatur.org.
Kirkland Fine Arts Center: Sierra Boggess, Saturday, Oct. 11; Golden Dragon Acrobats, Saturday, Nov. 1. For tickets, call (217) 424-6318.
Brian Shartzer as Garth Brooks, 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. in the Decatur Civic Center Theater. For tickets, go to www.decaturciviccenter.org.
Theatre 7 presents Spamalot, Oct. 17-19 and 24-26 in Shilling Auditorium at Richland Community College. For tickets, call (217) 423-3189. www.theatre7.net.
Misc.
For the kids Children’s Museum of Illinois: Family Science Sunday, Oct. 12; Family Book Bash, 10-11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17; Halloween Hoopla, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Go to www.cmofil.org or call (217) 423-5437. Scovill Zoo: Boo at the Zoo, Oct. 17-19 and 24-31. Call (217) 421-7435. The Rock Springs Nature Center hosts a long list of mini camps, family adventures and classes during the month. So many, in fact, that there are too many to list.
GUIDE
On Stage
Little Theatre-On the Square: Marisha Wallace in Concert, 2 p.m. Oct. 12; Schoolhouse Rock Live!, Oct. 23-28. For tickets, call (217) 728-7375. www.the littletheatre.org. Decatur Underground Theater presents West Side Story, November 7-9 and 14-16 at the Decatur Civic Center. For tickets, call (217) 422-6161. www.decaturunder ground.com Mount Zion Convention Center: The Haunted Halloween Bash, 8 p.m. Oct.
Featured Business:
Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Kirkland Fine Arts Center. Featured performer is pianist Silvan Negruti. For tickets, call (217) 424-6318.
The Scream Haunted Adventure, Oct. 3-4, 1011, 17-18, 24-26, 31 and Nov. 1, 680 W. Eldorado St. Tickets start at $10. www.decaturscream.com Eldorado Cruise Nights, Saturday, Oct. 18. Call (217) 972-9049. Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Community Prayer Breakfast, 7 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, Mount Zion Convention Center.
Got an item you’d like listed in the Your Free Time calendar? Send the information to Scott Perry at sperry@herald-review.com or 601 E. William St., Decatur, IL 62523.
SCOVILL BANQUET FACILITY
3909 W. Main St., Decatur Contact: Kevin Brewer 421-7470
Accommodates: up to 225 people Award-winning cuisine
DECATUR CIVIC CENTER
#1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, Decatur Contact: Shelly Gregg
Accommodates: 2 to 3,000 People Assistance with catering, cash bar, & Dj Service available
DECATUR CLUB
422-7300 158 W. Prairie Ave., Decatur
Accommodates: 300 people
Contact: Jeff Ingle
Banquets & weddings
429-4200
DECATUR CONFERENCE CENTER & HOTEL Accommodates: 2,000 people
4191 U.S. 36 West
55,000 sq. ft. functional space, food service available
DOHERTY’S PUB & PINS Accommodates: up to 80 seating - 150 capacity Full food & beverage service available
HICKORY POINT BANQUET FACILITY
Contact: 420-8711 242 E. William St., Decatur Contact: 428-5612 727 Weaver Rd., Decatur
Contact: Tina McCarnen 421-6657
Accommodates: 225 w/additional seating on veranda Award-winning cuisine
MT. ZION CONVENTION CENTER Accommodates: 1,100 people
MT. ZION LIONS CENTER Accommodates: up to 300 people Choose your own caterer, bring your own food Ask about our “value-added service”
ST. NICHOLAS GRILLE Accommodates: up to 100 people 101 Club, business/social functions Full food & beverage service available
1410 Mt. Zion Pkwy, Mt. Zion Contact: 864-5424 1595 W. Main St., Mt. Zion Contact: Sharon Spinner 864-3100 mtzionlionsclub.com 101 S. Main St., Decatur Contact: Chris Durham 422-4700
BUSINESS JOURNAL
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A look at the November election
YOUR FREE TIME
The arts
October 2014
Election day, Nov. 4, is quickly approaching. The following is a listing of contested races and statewide ballot questions that appear on the Macon County ballot.
Treasurer
U.S. Senate
13th Congressional District
Jim Oberweis, R Dick Durbin, D Sharon Hansen, Lib
Governor/Lt. Governor Bruce Rauner/Evelyn Sanguinetti, R Pat Quinn/Paul Vallas, D Chad Grimm/Alexander Cummings, Lib
Attorney General Paul Schimpf, R Lisa Madigan, D Ben Koyl, Lib
Secretary of State Michael Webster, R Jesse White, D Christopher Michel, Lib
Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka, R Sheila Simon, D Julie Fox, Lib
Tom Cross, R Michael Frerichs, D Matthew Skopek, Lib
Rodney Davis, R Ann Callis, D
48th Senate District Linda Little, R Andy Manar, D
96th Representative District Michael Bell, R Sue Scherer, D
102nd Representative District Adam Brown, R Matt Forcum, D
Macon Co. Treasurer Edward Yoder, R Steve Grimm, D
Macon Co. Board, District 3 Craig Splittstoesser, R Jerry Potts, D
MORE INFO n For information about polling places, absentee ballots and more, go to www.co.macon.il.us/voter-election.php or call (217) 424-1333. n Keep track of what the candidates are doing leading up to the election at www.herald-review.com
Macon Co. Board, District 4 (Vote for two) Gregory Mattingley, R Travis Strobach, R Jay Dunn, D
Macon Co. Board, District 5 Mervil Jacobs, R Marcia Phillips, D
Macon Co. Board, District 7 (Vote for two) Phillip Hogan, R John Jackson, R Robert Brice, D
Constitutional amendment: To Section 8.1 of Article I, to expand certain rights already granted to crime victims in Illinois, and give crime victims the ability to enforce their rights in a court of law? Constitutional amendment: To Section 8 of Article III, prohibiting any law that disproportionately affects the rights of eligible Illinois citizen to register to vote or cast a ballot based on voter's race, color, ethnicity, status as a member of a language minority, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation or income? Advisory question: Shall the minimum wage for adults over the age of 18 be raised to $10 per hour? Advisory question: Shall any health insurance plan in Illinois that provides prescription drug coverage be required to include prescription birth control as part of that coverage? Advisory question: Should the Illinois Constitution be amended to require that each school district receive additional revenue, based on their number of students, from an additional 3 percent tax on income greater than $1 million?
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October 2014
Your breast health begins at DMH October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Decatur Memorial Hospital is committed to the fight against breast cancer, by providing outstanding resources and some of the area’s most advanced technologies devoted to prevention and treatment. DMH Women’s Health & Breast Center is a dedicated center for the awareness, diagnosis, management and support of health conditions that affect women, including breast cancer. Call 217-876-4377 for more information.
Detection D
Prevention P
Mammograms can detect abnormalities or lumps that should be further M analyzed for diagnosis. a
Clinical Trials C The DMH Cancer Care Institute provides cancer patients local access to T sstate-of-the-art prevention and treatment trials. To learn more, call 876-4750.
Mammograms can be scheduled at your convenience at the DMH M Women’s Health & Breast Center located in West Hay Medical Center, South Shores Imaging Center, Forsyth Imaging Center, and Sullivan Medical Center. Call 217-876-1111 to schedule a mammogram. Mobile Mammography is offered at Arthur Medical Center, 650 W Columbia, Arthur and Moweaqua Family Practice, 620 N. Putnam, Moweaqua. The DMH Mammography Initiative offers no-cost screening mammograms to individuals who meet financial guidelines based on family income, live in the Decatur/Macon County area, are at least 35 years old, have had mammograms according to requirements and are not experiencing any breast symptoms. Call 217-876-1111 for more information. Early Detection Is Key According to the American Cancer Society, the causes of breast cancer are not fully known, but researchers have found a number of factors that increase your risk of getting breast cancer. • being a woman • getting older • having an inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation • having a family history of breast cancer • having high breast density • taking (current or recent use) birth control pills • being overweight after menopause or gaining weight as an adult • having more than one drink of alcohol per day • being exposed to large amounts of radiation at a young age • never having children • having your first child after age 30 The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 or older have a mammogram every year.
Special events
Advanced Technology & Treatment DMH Advanced technology boosts chances of spotting breast cancer. Decatur Memorial Hospital combines digital mammography with computer aided detection to detect breast cancer in the earliest stages when there is a better chance for a cure. THE DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY DIFFERENCE: • Improves the contrast of the image over film screen mammography, possibly improving cancer detection • Allows physicians to transmit the images electronically • Allows physicians to manipulate the image in order to better “see” certain breast tumors
Beyond Breast Cancer Every year, many women lose their breasts to cancer. Breast reconstruction can help compensate the loss by creating new breasts. If you are considering having reconstructive surgery, it’s a good idea to talk about it with a plastic surgeon experienced in breast reconstruction before your mastectomy. This lets the surgical teams plan the best treatment for you, even if you want to wait and have reconstructive surgery later. For more information, contact: Jordan Youngerman, MD Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon Physicians Plaza East 1 Memorial Dr., Suite 110 217-424-2442 Stuart Baker, MD Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon Physicians Plaza West 2 Memorial Drive, Suite 310 217-877-9000
Early Detection Connection
DMH Yoga for Life Event
Drive by and receive valuable health information, a free ribbon-shaped bagel, and giveaways while they last.
Learn about the many health benefits of yoga during this event. Instructors will lead a yoga class near Center Stage.
Friday, Oct. 3 • 7-9 a.m. • Express Care North, 3131 N. Water St. • Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. • South Shores Kroger, 255 W. 1st Dr. Call 217-876-4377 (HERS) for information.
D M H
C A R E S
A B O U T
Y O U R
Saturday, Oct. 18 • Hickory Point Mall Registration 8 a.m., Event begins 8:30 a.m. Please bring a yoga mat. Register online at dmhcares.com/yoga. Call 217-876-2850 for information.
H E A L T H
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October 2014
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Business puts spring back in vehicles Angela Harris saw a need CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer
FORSYTH — Angela Harris grew up around trucks, developing an interest that has lasted more than 30 years. As a child, she would ride along with her dad, Howard Caudle, whose job was driving trucks. Soon after graduating from high school, Harris realized something was missing in the Decatur area. So in 1984, she started Decatur Spring Service Co. out of a rented building at 442 South U.S. 51. “The need has always been there,” Harris said. “I grew up helping out, so I did not feel out of place.” The business has remained in the family since it started and they were able to purchase the property a few years after the company was launched. Harris’ husband, Kenny, and 23-year-old son, Kaylem, are mechanics and work for the business. Kenny Harris has been helping out for nearly 20 years. Kaylem Harris grew up around the shop and said his interest continues in automotive work. “We all do our part,” Kaylem Harris said. “From a working standpoint, it’s kind of like home.” Along the way, Harris has had the support of other family members, including her parents, Howard and Donna, along with her sisters, Crystal and Kimberly. Howard Caudle believed in Angela’s ability to start the business and run it successfully. “We knew she could do it,” Caudle said. “She was always motivated.” After retiring, Caudle has used part of the space from the business to sell trucks through Caudle Motors. The main part of the business is servicing vehicles with leaf spring suspension problems. Harris said they will see all types of vehicles come through the doors, including trailers, pickups and semis. They’ll work on garbage trucks and fire engines, too, she said. Harvest season is especially busy, Harris said. During the fall, she said vehicles used in farming operations will need to be fixed quickly so as to not slow field work. “We try to get them in and out the same day as much as possible,” Harris said. “We do that by trying to stock as much as we can.” The business also sells a full line of replacement parts for leaf suspensions and custom-made U-bolts. The amount of business can increase in the winter when roads fill with potholes, Harris said.
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Kristin Newcome, MD
Deborah Born
Family physician
Office manager
Priority Health Family Medicine
Illini Supply
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge was balancing career with family time. As a professional, I didn't want to short my patients on my time or energy, but as a mother, I needed to give my own children the same. I was able to overcome this by forming Priority Health Family Medicine, along with my colleague, Dr. Timothy Miller. This innovative practice style, direct primary care, allows me the flexibility to spend significantly more time with my family, while allowing me to provide higher quality care with better access for my patients. It is truly the best of both worlds.
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: Life is full of challenges. The key to maintaining a good balance in life is not seeing the challenges that we face as an impossible feat, but instead look at them with a positive perspective and find a solution that not only helps you overcome the challenge but also allows you turn it into a learning experience.
Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Success in business starts with a clear vision and determination, as well as perseverance to achieve your dreams. However, you also need the flexibility to redirect your career path when needed. More about me:: I was born and raised in the Decatur area, and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1991. I earned a bachelor of science degree in biology at Illinois Wesleyan University in 1995, and completed my doctorate at
Business Journal photos/Danny Damiani
Kenny Harris and his son, Kaylem, work on leveling a suspension system in a vehicle at Decatur Spring Service Co. Kenny’s wife, Angela Harris, started the business 30 years ago.
IF YOU GO Decatur Spring Service Co. is at 442 South U.S. 51 in Forsyth. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (217) 877-1933.
“It all plays a role, whether it’s a road, going into a field or hitting a curb,” Harris said. Some of the work involves adding strength to vehicles as owners want more carrying capacity or to change what a truck was originally intended to do, Kenny Harris said. That means some vehicles will be relatively new when they come in, he said. “Nowadays people try to get more capacity,” Kenny Harris said. Customers travel from as far away as Carbondale, Petersburg, Champaign and Danville to reach the business. Although located in Forsyth, Harris has kept the name for the business of the larger city so more people from farther away will know where it is located.
Kaylem talks with his mother, Angela, in the shop.
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Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Don’t ever underestimate your capabilities or your ability to continually learn new things. Be open to growth and change in your professional career. Do your best work, stay kind, speak clearly and most importantly, keep a positive attitude. SIU School of Medicine in 1999. I graduated from SIU Decatur Family Practice Residency in 2002, and practiced in Forsyth for more than 10 years. I currently am a family physician/partner with Priority Health Family Medicine, a direct primary care practice in Decatur since October 1, 2013. I was listed in 2014 as a Top Doc in concierge/direct primary care.
What person or event made you what you are today? I’m fortunate to have many strong and career-minded people in my life, most importantly my parents. Their positive outlook on life is only a phone call away when I find myself discouraged. They raised me to believe that not only can I do anything I want to do, but to push myself to do it to the best of my ability. Being a single mother, I work hard to instill these same morals in my children.
Strong women in business seem to be characterized more negatively than strong men in business. Any tips for overcoming this characterization? I’m lucky in the fact that I don’t see this sort of negativity in my surroundings. Illini Supply is a womanowned business and the president, Donna Mauzey, has been a positive role model for me for more than 18 years. Women are equally as capable as men, and as women, we need to continue putting our best foot forward in the work force.
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October 2014
Penny S. Hupp Administrative assistant and commercial lines customer service representative J.L. Hubbard Insurance & Bonds Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge was a personal one … The sudden death of my husband, Tom, in 2003. My world, as I knew it, was shattered. I’m not sure you ever overcome something like that. However, with the help of God, my family, friends and “work family,” I got through it. Actually going back to work helped. It gave me some “normalcy” in my life when nothing seemed normal to me. I realized just how precious life is and that you need to let the ones you love know how much they mean to you. Every day is a gift and shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Gender pay gap varies TCA News Service
Female workers don’t need to be told what numerous studies have concluded: Women, on average, are paid less than men, even when they are doing the same job. But where workers live also makes a difference. On average, women made an average of 80.9 cents for every dollar a male earned in 2012, according to recent statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But from state to state, the numbers vary dramatically. Female workers in Wyoming, for example, earn just 65.5 percent of what men earn, worst of any state. In the nation’s capital, women fared best and are nearly at parity, making 94.8 cents on the male-earned dollar. There is no clear regional or political pattern: Arkansas women experience a narrower gender gap (15.9 cents) than women in New York (17.1 cents), for example. The reason for the differences, experts say, is a complicated and sometimes contradictory set of conditions, ranging from the states’ dominant industries to labor union status and the percentage of workers earning the minimum wage. And they caution that the gender gap number doesn’t tell the whole story. Women might make less than men in Connecticut, for example, but a female worker there earns a median salary of $868 a week compared to a man’s median earnings of $1,127. In areas where financiers and lawyers are prevalent such as Connecticut, salaries between the genders, while higher, are more disparate. In states where there are a lot of minimum-wage jobs, men’s and women’s pay are likely to be closer. An Arizona woman might take solace in the fact that she earns about 87 percent of what men in the state earn, but on average, she’s earning just $670 a week.
In straight salary comparisons, women fared best in the District of Columbia, where the median weekly salary in 2012 was $1,072, 94.8 percent of men’s $1,131. At the bottom by salary: Montana, where women earned $566 a week, 77.2 percent of men’s $733. The national median weekly wage for men was $854 in 2012 compared to $691 for women. Why such disparity between states? “It depends on the job structure and the industry” in each state, said Claudia Williams, a research analyst at the Institute for Women’s Policy Research in Washington, D.C. Wyoming, for example, has a lot of mining and cattle industry jobs dominated by men, Williams said, noting that some are family businesses in which some of the women are unpaid or paid low salaries. The same holds true for West Virginia, where mining is a dominant industry, said Anne York, a business professor and gender equity specialist at Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. “Anytime you have a (predominance) of something like heavy industry, you’re going to see men congregated in goodpaying jobs. And if a state or locality has an abundance of those types of jobs, you’re going to see a greater pay disparity,” she said. Women earn 72.6 percent of what men do in West Virginia. In Arizona, meanwhile, women make 86.8 percent of what men earn. The state has large numbers of populationgrowth driven jobs such as construction or maintenance that are male-dominated but not well paid, said Dennis Hoffman, professor at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. “Women dominate financial services, education, medical services, etc., which likely are jobs that pay a bit more. So it is likely industrial mix coupled with occupational choice,” Hoffman said.
Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: I have been in the insurance industry for 42 years, the last 22 years with J. L. Hubbard. First and foremost, I believe you have to be yourself and believe in yourself. Start each
day with a positive attitude. Go into work determined to do your job as efficiently as you can. Treat others, both co-workers and customers/clients, as you would like to be treated. Set goals for yourself and follow through with them. Be a good listener. Be open to new ideas. Never compromise your integrity for anyone. Each new day presents us with opportunities and challenges. It is what we do with them that can make us or break us. What person or event made you what you are today? I would have to say my dad made me what I am today. He was an honest, loving person who never knew a stranger. He treated everyone with the utmost respect. He taught me to always be kind to people, be honest and never give up on myself. Strong women in business seem to be characterized more negatively than strong men in business. Any tips for overcoming this characterization? Here again, I would say it is important to be yourself and always be honest in your approach to your job and dealing with associates and customers/ clients. Treat people with compassion.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 89% are college educated. n 28% are ages 45 to 54.
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Women owners struggle to get loans Banks see females riskier than males By JOYCE M. ROSENBERG AP Business Writer
NEW YORK — Women are a growing force in the business world, but if they own a company, they may still struggle to get a loan from a bank. Carrie Charlick and Marcia Cubitt have $4 million in sales but have been rejected for $500,000 credit lines since 2012. Their 11-year-old company, Essential Body Wear, sells women’s underwear at parties at customers’ homes. That’s a problem for bankers, Charlick said. Because the business, based in the Detroit suburb of Commerce Township, doesn’t have a traditional structure and sells directly to the public rather than retailers, banks keep saying no. “We don’t have receivables and we don’t own a building,” she said. “We don’t have collateral.” Male loan officers have also made inappropriate comments about the fact the company sells lingerie. Charlick is convinced that they have a problem with women-owned businesses. Women owners have long been at a disadvantage getting loans. Some states required husbands or other male relatives to co-sign business loans until the practice was outlawed by the Women’s Business Ownership Act of 1988. But women’s business loan approval rates are between 15 percent and 20 percent below men’s, according to the online lending marketplace Biz2Credit.com. Several factors contribute to the problem. Banks historically have been gun-shy about small businesses, and that caution increased due to stricter government regulations after the 2008 credit crisis. Often, women-owned businesses are young, making them look risky to lenders. They don’t look as creditworthy as men. Their credit scores in 2013 were on average 20 points below men’s, an improvement from 40 points in 2012, but still a significant difference, according to Biz2Credit. But women owners may also hurt their chances for approval. “Women don’t ask, ‘what do I need to do to get ready to borrow?’ “ said Maria Coyne, head of small-business banking at KeyBank. Many women-owned businesses don’t have enough revenue and cash flow to convince bankers they have the ability to handle their debts, said Lisa Stevens, head of small-business banking at Wells Fargo & Co. More than two-thirds of women-owned businesses have less than $25,000 in revenue, Stevens said. The problems may come from a lack
of confidence that would allow them to be aggressive about their companies, including getting a loan, said Barbara Kasoff, president of Women Impacting Public Policy, an advocacy group. They shy away from approaching a loan like any other business deal. “You need to let the bank know you’re a good bet and they can invest in you and they can get their money back,” she said. Regulations the government imposed on banks after the 2008 financial crisis have forced them to be wary, KeyBank’s Coyne said. Federal regulators examine banks’ credit policies and whether they’ve deviated from them, then makes a judgment about whether they’re being prudent lenders, Coyne said. Members of the Senate Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee introduced legislation in July that would make more Small Business Administration loans of up to $200,000 available to women owners. The bill would also allow lenders to give women owners more flexible loan terms. Stringent terms demanded by one lender forced Alicia Hill to look elsewhere. She needed money for a second Workout Anytime fitness club in suburban Atlanta. Hill applied to her current bank three months ago, expecting her three years of successfully running a club to make approval easy. Instead, the bank emailed her two months later saying she needed to use her savings as collateral. “It didn’t make sense to me. We needed that cash in case we needed to fund the business,” she said. Hill got a loan within weeks from a financing company. She had been wary of financing companies, believing they would charge a higher interest rate. But the rate she got turned out to be only slightly higher than a bank loan. And the company had a more realistic view of her ability to repay the loan than the big bank she had a 15-year relationship with, Hill said. Individual banks may be resistant to lending to women owners if they don’t understand the business, said Rocco Fiorentino, CEO of Benetrends, a North Wales, Pa.-based company that helps businesses get loans. For example, he said, companies that provide massages and other spa treatments. “If the bank didn’t like that category, she might get turned down,” Fiorentino said. Owners should find out before they apply what kinds of companies a bank is likely to lend to, he said. Women should also get mentoring and advice from accountants, attorneys and other experts before applying, to help make an approval more likely, said Lori Meeder, a loan officer with Northern Initiatives, a Marquette, Mich., business lender.
Ligeia “Geia” Taylor
Linda Roberts
Owner/groomer
Owner
Bones -n- Combs Dog Grooming
Best Trips Ever
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: The biggest challenges I had to overcome were the fear of failing and not being successful, and not believing in what others had to say. In the end, by believing in myself, I overcame the challenges. Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Do what you love. Never give up on your dreams, goals and aspirations. Always remember to pay it forward.
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: Getting the best price ever. I do that by going the extra mile. Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Always go the extra mile with your clients. They are your friends first and clients second. A master in the art of living draws no sharp distinction between work and play. I always seem to be doing both.
Best Trips Ever 2015: 2012: APRIL 20 -- Canadian Rockies byCruise Train JAN 12 Hawaii 4-Island JULY VistasColorado - Northern and JAN11 13- -Italian Ski Train Southern Italy FEB 8 - Australia & New Zealand SEPTEMBER 20 - Summer in Reykjavik, Iceland JUNE19, 212016 - England, Scotland & Wales APRIL - Australia & New Zealand JULY 27 - NCL-Alaska OptionalCruise Fiji Extension
NOV 1 - Spain/Portugal River Cruise 2015 / 2016… 27, 2013 Allure Caribbean Cruise AllJAN trips include bus from- Decatur
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October 2014
It’s game on for these women
October 2014
Branch manager/loan officer Land of Lincoln Credit Union Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge when I started working as a manager was overcoming the perception that I was young and therefore didn’t know what I was doing. It took time, but I proved to my doubters that I had what it took to do the job well by taking care of customers or members problems quickly, following up with them, and providing excellent customer service. When customers/members would ask for me specifically I knew I had overcome any doubts they may have concerning my age.
By RICHARD BURNETT TCA News Service Writer
Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: If I had to sum it up in one word I would say integrity. If you serve your customers, members and employees with integrity and take care of them, you will be successful. I’ve always found that being dependable, consistent and honest with people also will help you to gain their trust and loyalty. As a branch manager, I consider success to be when my branch and my employees are successful. I can’t be a success without them.
TCA News Service
Alice Hayden plays video games with her children, 11-year-old Benjamin Hayden and 9-year-old Madeline Hayden, in their Orlando, Fla., home. Experts say that, although more women have cracked video gaming’s predominantly male work force, the business still has a gender gap. NFL” and “Tiger Woods PGA Golf” games. Sports-game development remains heavily male, industry officials said. Andrew Tosh, president of GameSim Technologies Inc. in Orlando and a former engineer for EA Sports, said he “would like to think the gender gap is narrowing. But it is still difficult to find women to fill our engineering jobs. The resumés are almost always predominantly male.” Only 8.5 percent of University of Central Florida’s computer-science and engineering graduates were women in 2013, down from 35 percent in 1992. Nationally, 18 percent of computer-science graduates were female in 2010, compared with 30 percent about 20 years ago, according to a recent National Science Foundation study. Meanwhile, according to the university, women have gravitated to science degrees in programs such as psychology (82 percent female), biology (62 percent) and microbiology (55 percent). Still, in university’s relatively new digital-media program, which targets the video-game-industry work force, women accounted for 30 percent of the 2013 graduates. Much of the curriculum
focuses on the artistic side of videogame development, though it also involves software skills. Full Sail University, which also offers degrees in digital media and game design, said female enrollment has doubled to more than 20 percent during the past decade. Since 1994, it has sent more than 1,400 female graduates into the work force. Many have landed jobs with EA and other gaming companies, the university said. Many of the recent gains women have made in the industry appear to have come in artistic work such as character rendering, scene creation and story development, company officials said. “Certainly we’re more evenly distributed genderwise on the art side of the house,” said Tosh, the founder of GameSim. “We do have a number of female engineers on staff, and they are high performers for us. We’d love to have a more diverse work environment on that side, but in terms of recruitment, it can be very difficult.” The gap has led to a troubling disparity in earnings potential, critics say. Game engineers may earn as much as $70,000 a year fresh out of college, while game artists, the profession that attracts more women, may earn $15,000 to $20,000
less, according to the Center for Women and Information Technology. Advocates for women say the disparity has its roots in attitudes and stereotypes long embedded in society and education. “In many cases, we have not encouraged our girls to study math and science or pursue the technical areas, because for some reason we think they can’t do it,” said Pamela McCauley Bush, a national speaker on women’s issues and professor of industrial engineering at University of Central Florida. “And nothing could be further from the truth.” The industry’s biggest player, Electronic Arts Inc., said it has worked hard to hire more women and improve diversity. In California, for example, EA now has many female developers who work on “The Sims,” the top-selling PC video game in history. It would not give specific figures, citing competitive concerns. EA has seen “positive traction and growth” of women in the work force, the company’s top diversity executive, Andre Chambers, wrote in an email. “But we want to continue to accelerate our efforts because there is more that can be done.”
What person or event made you what you are today? This may sound cliche, but definitely my parents. My dad taught me good work ethic and was a great example of hard work and dedication. He continues to guide me today and help me realize that life is about serving others and putting others first. He taught me that integrity is important and that
Earnings cause of smaller nest egg TCA News Service
being a Christian should also influence how I treat others and how I serve my employer. Strong women in business seem to be characterized more negatively than strong men in business. Any tips for overcoming this characterization? That’s a hard one! I think as women we can be strong and successful without being mean and pushy. It is hard to balance sometimes when you have goals in mind and you are driven to meet those goals. However, in the end I just try to remember that leadership isn’t about bossing others around, it’s about serving and motivating others around you. I want to be known as strong and successful, but I also want to be known as kind and compassionate.
Women’s employment resilient during recessions By RICARDO LOPEZ TCA News Service Writer
Women’s employment during economic recessions is more resilient than men’s, even expanding during previous recessions, according to a new analysis by a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics economist. The share of women’s employment during the most recent recession, economist Catherine A. Wood wrote, reached 50 percent of nonfarm employment for the first time since the federal agency began keeping track in 1964. Back then, women only held 31.7 percent of total nonfarm employment. In the decades that followed, women’s employment rose steadily but began leveling off in the early 1990s. Wood’s analysis found that job losses during recessions are typically lopsided, with more men losing their jobs than women. The reason, she explained, is that more men work in goods-producing industries. “Because the nature of
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Study: Women behind in retirement prep
Mindy Mosley
Gender gap in video-game jobs With computer clicks and keystrokes, Carmela DeNero can put the spiral into a Peyton Manning pass and the roar into a stadium crowd. An associate producer with EA Sports’ Orlando-area studio, she is working on the mobile version of the popular “Madden NFL” video game. She’s one of just a few women in game development at the operation, a role she said she has navigated carefully but successfully. “There are definitely a lot more men here, but that never feels odd or intimidating,” DeNero said. “There are some tremendously talented women here, scattered about the studio. It’s easy to get to know all of them because it’s a pretty small club.” DeNero, 26, is part of a growing minority of women in the video-game industry: tech professionals who have turned their love of gaming into a career. They grew up on lighthearted games such as “Super Mario Bros.” and role-playing games such as “The Sims.” They were unfazed by the “boys’ world” dominated by so-called shooter games, which have been criticized for portraying violence against women. But although more women have cracked video gaming’s predominantly male work force, the business still has a gender gap, particularly with higherpaying engineering jobs, experts say. Women make up the fastest-growing consumer segment of the $15 billion-ayear business and the fastest-growing niche in its work force, doubling during the past five years, according to industry estimates. But women still hold only 22 percent of the jobs, the International Game Developers Association reported. To keep the momentum going, game developers say, they have to recruit more women who can bring a female viewpoint to games and ensure that games showcase, not exploit, female characters. It would help, for example, to have more characters such as Lara Croft, the adventurer in the popular “Tomb Raider” game, said Alice Hayden, a lifelong gamer and small-business defense contractor who uses gaming technology in her firm. “You see Lara Croft as strong, agile, confident, fearlessly overcoming physical threats,” said Hayden, 38, president of H2 IT Solutions Inc. in Orlando. “Playing it, you feel empowered, not oppressed. And that’s the idea. It encourages women rather than discouraging them.” Central Florida has one of the country’s largest clusters of gaming companies, large and small, including industry giant EA Sports, maker of the “Madden
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employment in the goods-producing industries is more cyclical, these industries have seen periods of job expansion and contraction,” she wrote. Women, meanwhile, outnumber men in the service-producing industries. “Historically, the goods-producing industries, manufacturing, construction and mining and logging, have accounted for the overwhelming majority of job losses,” she wrote. These industries have seen a longterm decline, dropping from 32 percent of total nonfarm employment in 1969 to only 14 percent in 2013. “By contrast, the service-providing industries ... have historically accounted for a much smaller percentage of recessionary job losses and, in some cases, contributed to net job gains during recessions,” Wood said. During the same time period, the service-providing sector’s share of nonfarm employment has grown, jumping from 68 percent in 1969 to about 85 percent in 2013.
More women than men save for retirement, and women save a larger share of their earnings, but they will still likely be worse off when they retire because they earn less and spend more time out of the work force, a new study said. The study of the savings rates of about 9 million U.S. employees found that about 60 percent of the workers saved at a rate of about 7 percent of their earnings, according to the study released by ADP Research Institute. Most women — 74 percent — saved at an average rate of 7 percent, while most men — 66 percent — saved at an average rate of 6.4 percent, the study found. “Across most wage categories, women saved at a higher rate than men, and workers save more as they approach retirement, said the report by the institute, which is part of
Automatic Data Processing Inc. Women, however, are at a greater risk of having an insufficiently large nest egg when they get to retirement, the report concluded. One reason is that they earn less, so although the proportion of their earnings is larger than men’s, the dollar value is less, the report said. “Factors such as lower incomes and time spent out of the work force still put women at greater risk of not achieving a secure retirement,” said Ahu Yildirmaz, vice president and head of the ADP Research Institute. “But efforts by financial advisers and agencies to raise awareness among women of the importance of saving for retirement appear to have made an impact.” The study also found that employees of larger companies tended to save at lower rates than those of small businesses and that the rate of savings across the board went up as retirement approached. For example, fewer than half the employees in the 20-29 age group saved, compared with 65 percent in the 50- to 60-year-old group, the report said. “This data reinforces a lifetime savings pattern: As retirement nears, more employees attempt to ‘catch up’ on their savings,” the report said.
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October 2014
Employment Services What type of company would most benefit from using Express?
Q
A
Successful companies that are lean – focusing time, talent and treasure on their core business. Staffing is primary to us. All our resources are concentrated on effective recruiting and skillful screening to find qualified workers. That’s our business. It’s disruptive to yours.
A
We spend time interviewing our applicants to discover what they have done, what they are doing, and what they would like to do. We also take time to uncover their personal interests. By taking time to connect with our clients, we build relationships. Beyond the skills needed in a specific job, we seek to understand the culture of your organization.
Account Representative
The right candidate is one with the competency and character you desire. Statistically, the more applicants interviewed, the more likely that person can be found. The Decatur Express office has the largest team of staffing professionals serving the broadest base of client companies in this area. Our range of job opportunities attracts an array of candidates. We have the capacity and experience to deliver the best possible associates from the applicant pool. Our selection process will reflect knowledge relevant to your business and care for the reputation of ours.
655 W Pershing Rd Decatur, IL 62526 (217) 872-7400 decaturil.expresspros.com
Owners Lee Best Brian Lockwood
Carolyn Ridenour President & Marketing Director
132 S Water St. Ste. 418 Decatur, Illinois 62523
217-428-9950
Why Hire An Advertising Agency? As a small business owner, there may be times when you wonder if handling the advertising and marketing yourself is really good enough. Here are a few reasons that might help you decide. Are you noticing that sales are not growing and the business appears to be stuck? An independent view from the outside can give you a better picture and help build communication between product and your customers. Fresh ideas can be very helpful for increasing sales. It is difficult to see things differently. An agency starts work by avoiding the common points that your competitors are using. An agency tries to find a new way to place your product or service in the mind of your customer. In-house design will change from mediocre to a message that is targeted by a team of professionals. The agency you would hire includes a team, who know advertising techniques and tools very well. Advertising and marketing is also a business just like plumbers, electricians or insurance. Each is trained in their profession just as those in the advertising fields. An ad agency can protect you and your business from making costly mistakes. If you would like to learn how a marketing company can help your business, please call me for an appointment.
www.cmsdecatur.com
Q
Can a business exist on the web today using just a social media presence and no actual business website?
A Yes, but it’s a major mistake. While social media is a
powerful tool for marketing and building online reach for a business, it does not fill the shoes of a business website.
Cayla Hittmeier Advertising Manager Herald & Review
601 E. WILLIAM ST. DECATUR, IL 62523 217.421.6994
Local business owners should be using social media primarily to help drive business to a website. So, in our eyes, the two definitely work hand in hand, not independent of one another. If you are currently only using social media and do not have a business website, let us show you the reasons to make a change. To find out more about our entry-level social and website packages, or information about any of our other digital or web services, please call us at (217) 421-6994. *source: Omniture
EXPERT FIELD?
ARE YOU AN IN YOUR HAVE QUESTIONS THEN WE FOR YOU! Call 217-421-7953
for more information on becoming one of our professionals.
BUSINESS JOURNAL
15
Her best advice for others: “Join or start a networking group. It will provide you with new friendships, a large network of relationships and a wonderful support system.”
Execs re-enter work force after motherhood
Alison Cormack
By LISEN STROMBERG TCA News Service Writer
A woman spends years building her career. Then family becomes her new priority, so she steps out of her highpowered job to raise children. What happens when she wants to get back in the game? Since Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg launched the “Lean In” movement in 2013, much attention has been paid to figuring out how to keep mothers in the work force, but many have already left and are trying to get back in. There’s not one route for all. As these three Bay Area executive women demonstrate, you can reignite your professional life, and even take it in a wildly different, equally or more successful direction, even after taking years off from work. Here they share their stories and their advice.
Mary Page Platerink
Social Media + Website
October 2014
Back on the fast track
Advertising Agencies Bring Fresh Ideas
Q
Heather Sawyer
www.thebusiness-journal.com
Previous job: Coca-Cola, director, global strategic planning Time at home: 12 months the first time, 18 months the second time Current job: Founder-CEO of First Aid Shot Therapy How she got there: Staying in touch with previous mentors and contacts provided much-needed financial support and credibility. Mary Page Platerink’s LinkedIn profile says her specialties are “getting things done and never giving up,” important characteristics for the founder and CEO of a hot Silicon Valley startup. But her most valuable skill might be her willingness to take risks coupled with the confidence that everything will work out. “I took several leaps on and off track,” she said, “and it was those very leaps that have helped make me a better leader and manager.” Platerink’s first leap came when her husband wanted to move to the United States. They’d met while getting their MBAs at the University of Cambridge in England. After the birth of their second child, Platerink quit her job to help her family settle into its new life. “It was the right thing to do. I didn’t worry about whether I would have a problem going back,” she said. It wasn’t as easy as Platerink imagined. She eventually took a job in marketing at Coca-Cola. It was a step back, in terms of pay and responsibility, but not for long. After Platerink gave birth to the couple’s third child, she worked her way into a coveted role in strategic planning. Then, she leapt again.
TCA News Service
Kriste Michelini gave up a lucrative career in tech sales to raise her children and now has re-invented herself to pursue her passion of interior design. “I had a dream job at Coca-Cola,” said Platerink, “but we wanted to move to California, so I quit.” For over a year, Platerink focused on being a full-time mother while she pondered her next career move. She met the head of gastroenterology at Stanford University’s medical school, who had an idea for a stomachache solution, and so began her latest leap of faith. Platerink was confident she could apply her expertise and experience in soft-drink marketing to the fast-growing medicinal beverage industry. To launch the company, she reached out to her previous mentors for support. They provided guidance, advice and much-needed seed funding. The result was First Aid Shot Therapy, a startup that specializes in fast-acting liquid medicines for pain and upset stomach symptoms. “My career wasn’t calculated,” Platerink said. “It was an organic reflection of my commitment to my family and my professional ambitions. Her best advice for others: “Stay connected to your past employers and mentors. They can offer you strong references, which you will need as you reenter.”
Kriste Michelini Previous job: Intuit, sales and business development Time at home: 5 years Current job: Owns Kriste Michelini Interiors How she got there: Listening to the advice of friends and following her creative passions and interests In 1988, when she graduated with a degree in political science from the
University of California, Los Angeles, Kriste Michelini thought she would become a lawyer. What she didn’t expect was that she would eventually become a nationally recognized interior designer. It took staying home with her children to make that happen. After college, Michelini took a job in commercial sales so she could earn money for law school. She was a natural at sales and soon moved into the more lucrative high-technology sector, working in software sales for Intuit. Law school, Michelini decided, would have to wait. She worked full-time through the birth of her daughter and would have happily continued if life hadn’t gotten in the way. “I went through a painful divorce and then met the man of my dreams,” Michelini said. When she became pregnant with their first son, Michelini quit her job and, with her new blended family, moved. “I wanted to be fully hands-on as a mother the second time around,” Michelini said. It didn’t take long to decide that stayat-home mothering wasn’t her calling. Michelini asked friends for advice, and they all agreed she had a talent for interior design. One friend agreed to hire her for a home redesign. Word got out and soon Michelini had a handful of clients. Five years after she quit her fast-track sales job, Michelini officially launched her own company. “I never regretted leaving my job in sales, but there were days I had doubts about staying home with my children. Today, there is no doubt my experience both in sales and as a mother has made me a better entrepreneur,” Michelini said.
Previous job: Hewlett-Packard, planning and operations manager Time at home: 10 years Current job: Google’s SMB Group, operations manager-chief of staff How she got there: Taking leadership roles as a volunteer led to valuable new contacts, opened new doors. The tipping point for Alison Cormack was the birth of her second child. Before that, she never really imagined she’d become a full-time stay-at-home mother, but like many women trying to juggle a family with two careers and two kids, she came to the point where it made more sense to stay home. After securing her MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, she took a job in finance at Hewlett-Packard. She held a variety positions there, including sales representative, and became a member of the HP Achievers Club, a select group of highperforming sales professionals. When her first child was born, she enjoyed six months at home with her baby and then returned to work on a reduced schedule, taking on a new role for one of HP’s worldwide vice presidents of sales. But then her second child came along and, well, her priorities changed. “I tried the part-time thing,” Cormack said, “but my heart wasn’t in it. It just felt right for me to be with my children.” She spent the next five years at home, committing to her role as mommy. Then a friend suggested she join the board of the Palo Alto Library Foundation and everything changed. When no one volunteered to lead the $76 million bond campaign to support the refurbishment of the town’s libraries, Cormack stepped up. “I leaned in to leadership,” she said, “and ended up having the best job I could ever imagine. Sure it wasn’t paid, but it helped me get where I am today.” When she decided to return to the work force, a Google employee whom she had met through that bond effort helped her tweak her resumé and flagged it for the HR department. She landed a job in communications at Google and since has been promoted to chief of staff for two of Google’s senior executives. She has no regrets about her time at home, but she knows giving up a hardearned career can be hard; so can finding one’s way back into the paid work force. Her best advice for others: “Don’t read your alumni magazine. Do read Fortune and other business magazines to stay relevant.”
16
BUSINESS JOURNAL
www.thebusiness-journal.com
October 2014
www.thebusiness-journal.com
October 2014
Co-owner Robin Tolly sets up a floral arrangement in front of her business Feathered Nest.
Business Journal photos/Jim Bowling
Owner Shawn Conlin, left, and Margie Nicholson carry consignment items to be sold in Conlin’s business, Perfectly Picked, on North Main Street in Moweaqua.
Team effort Moweaqua ladies rely on each other to grow downtown businesses By DONNETTE BECKETT Business Journal Writer
Chansamone Haksasila prepares crab rangoon at her Mama Chan’s Restaurant on North Main Street in Moweaqua.
MOWEAQUA — In downtown Moweaqua, businessmen are hard to find. Business women, on the other hand, are plentiful and flourishing. Putting aside concerns about what a change in traffic flow from a rerouted U.S. 51 could do to the businesses in the traditional heart of the community, some women are taking steps to give motorists a reason to stop. Among the first was Timi Kaufman, who created Timi’s Tours during one of her many travels around the country.
Seeing a need, she decided to take a chance. “I sold my first trip out in five days,” she said. “We went to see ‘Menapause the Musical’.” That was in 2006. Since then, other women have seen the opportunities and followed. Beauty salons and restaurants have had a continuous flow of customers throughout the years. But with the introduction of several unique shops, the downtown area has begun to blossom. One of the keys to the success of these women business owners has been the
relationships they have built with one another. Shawn Conlin opened her shop, Perfectly Picked, after the encouragement she received from other women in town. The Meridian Middle School history teacher had a passion for hunting through consignment shops and thrift stores. With her own collection growing, she opened her store in 2012 knowing she would have to invite others to share the space. “Another reason why I started this business was to give a place to show local artists,” she said. The shop has grown, in part, due to the addition of other products, such as jewelry, paintings and photos. Business owners have learned that in order to keep growing they need to rely on each other. “We have to make a living,” said Chansamone Haksasila, owner of Mama Chan’s restaurant. “We want downtown to take off.” And the area has grown since the addition of the unique storefronts. Haksasila had already gained a reputation for creating Thai food from her home. But opening a restaurant in the small town was a risk. “We knew it would be a lot of work,” said her daughter, Viengsavanh Hite. “But they were ordering food out of her home anyway.” The restaurant began serving customers a year ago. The most recent draw to Main Street has been the Feathers Nest, a flower and gift shop. Shop owner Robin Tolly moved back to her home town from Missouri to be closer to family. “And I just wanted to do something fun,” Tolly said. “I saw a need, so I just did it.” Her timing couldn’t have been better. Opening Feb. 2, the shop found instant popularity with a winter storm on Valentines Day. With her business partner, Pam Ludlum, Tolly quickly gained a reputation of producing beautiful products in a timely manner.
The women of the Feathers Nest were joining a group of ladies who learned that in order to have their business grow outside of Moweaqua, they would need to rely on each other. Products from the other stores are often used or even sold at the neighboring shops. “Shawn comes down here and buys flowers; I go down there and buy furni-
BUSINESS JOURNAL
17
Kathryn Ross, left, chats with a co-owner Viengsavanh Hite while preparing for dinner customers at Mama Chan’s. ture,” Tolly said. “It just works.” “Robin has the classic look, where mine is all over the place,” Conlin said. “I think we compliment each other. Instead of a competition, it’s more of a draw.” The ladies are happy with the attraction they are creating and are willing to pass it on. “If I don’t have what you need, and I
know somebody who does,” Ludlum said. “I encourage them to come back when the other shops are open and wander around Moweaqua.” “There’s nothing better than hearing, ‘I love how in the evening the downtown area is filled with cars now’,” Hite said. “There are people shopping and eating. It’s not dead anymore.”
Business Journal photos/Jim Bowling
Julie Curry and her son, Kendyn, 3, browse inside Feathered Nest Floral and Gifts on North Main Street in Moweaqua.
16
BUSINESS JOURNAL
www.thebusiness-journal.com
October 2014
www.thebusiness-journal.com
October 2014
Co-owner Robin Tolly sets up a floral arrangement in front of her business Feathered Nest.
Business Journal photos/Jim Bowling
Owner Shawn Conlin, left, and Margie Nicholson carry consignment items to be sold in Conlin’s business, Perfectly Picked, on North Main Street in Moweaqua.
Team effort Moweaqua ladies rely on each other to grow downtown businesses By DONNETTE BECKETT Business Journal Writer
Chansamone Haksasila prepares crab rangoon at her Mama Chan’s Restaurant on North Main Street in Moweaqua.
MOWEAQUA — In downtown Moweaqua, businessmen are hard to find. Business women, on the other hand, are plentiful and flourishing. Putting aside concerns about what a change in traffic flow from a rerouted U.S. 51 could do to the businesses in the traditional heart of the community, some women are taking steps to give motorists a reason to stop. Among the first was Timi Kaufman, who created Timi’s Tours during one of her many travels around the country.
Seeing a need, she decided to take a chance. “I sold my first trip out in five days,” she said. “We went to see ‘Menapause the Musical’.” That was in 2006. Since then, other women have seen the opportunities and followed. Beauty salons and restaurants have had a continuous flow of customers throughout the years. But with the introduction of several unique shops, the downtown area has begun to blossom. One of the keys to the success of these women business owners has been the
relationships they have built with one another. Shawn Conlin opened her shop, Perfectly Picked, after the encouragement she received from other women in town. The Meridian Middle School history teacher had a passion for hunting through consignment shops and thrift stores. With her own collection growing, she opened her store in 2012 knowing she would have to invite others to share the space. “Another reason why I started this business was to give a place to show local artists,” she said. The shop has grown, in part, due to the addition of other products, such as jewelry, paintings and photos. Business owners have learned that in order to keep growing they need to rely on each other. “We have to make a living,” said Chansamone Haksasila, owner of Mama Chan’s restaurant. “We want downtown to take off.” And the area has grown since the addition of the unique storefronts. Haksasila had already gained a reputation for creating Thai food from her home. But opening a restaurant in the small town was a risk. “We knew it would be a lot of work,” said her daughter, Viengsavanh Hite. “But they were ordering food out of her home anyway.” The restaurant began serving customers a year ago. The most recent draw to Main Street has been the Feathers Nest, a flower and gift shop. Shop owner Robin Tolly moved back to her home town from Missouri to be closer to family. “And I just wanted to do something fun,” Tolly said. “I saw a need, so I just did it.” Her timing couldn’t have been better. Opening Feb. 2, the shop found instant popularity with a winter storm on Valentines Day. With her business partner, Pam Ludlum, Tolly quickly gained a reputation of producing beautiful products in a timely manner.
The women of the Feathers Nest were joining a group of ladies who learned that in order to have their business grow outside of Moweaqua, they would need to rely on each other. Products from the other stores are often used or even sold at the neighboring shops. “Shawn comes down here and buys flowers; I go down there and buy furni-
BUSINESS JOURNAL
17
Kathryn Ross, left, chats with a co-owner Viengsavanh Hite while preparing for dinner customers at Mama Chan’s. ture,” Tolly said. “It just works.” “Robin has the classic look, where mine is all over the place,” Conlin said. “I think we compliment each other. Instead of a competition, it’s more of a draw.” The ladies are happy with the attraction they are creating and are willing to pass it on. “If I don’t have what you need, and I
know somebody who does,” Ludlum said. “I encourage them to come back when the other shops are open and wander around Moweaqua.” “There’s nothing better than hearing, ‘I love how in the evening the downtown area is filled with cars now’,” Hite said. “There are people shopping and eating. It’s not dead anymore.”
Business Journal photos/Jim Bowling
Julie Curry and her son, Kendyn, 3, browse inside Feathered Nest Floral and Gifts on North Main Street in Moweaqua.
18
BUSINESS JOURNAL
www.thebusiness-journal.com
October 2014
Employment Services What type of company would most benefit from using Express?
Q
A
Successful companies that are lean – focusing time, talent and treasure on their core business. Staffing is primary to us. All our resources are concentrated on effective recruiting and skillful screening to find qualified workers. That’s our business. It’s disruptive to yours.
A
We spend time interviewing our applicants to discover what they have done, what they are doing, and what they would like to do. We also take time to uncover their personal interests. By taking time to connect with our clients, we build relationships. Beyond the skills needed in a specific job, we seek to understand the culture of your organization.
Account Representative
The right candidate is one with the competency and character you desire. Statistically, the more applicants interviewed, the more likely that person can be found. The Decatur Express office has the largest team of staffing professionals serving the broadest base of client companies in this area. Our range of job opportunities attracts an array of candidates. We have the capacity and experience to deliver the best possible associates from the applicant pool. Our selection process will reflect knowledge relevant to your business and care for the reputation of ours.
655 W Pershing Rd Decatur, IL 62526 (217) 872-7400 decaturil.expresspros.com
Owners Lee Best Brian Lockwood
Carolyn Ridenour President & Marketing Director
132 S Water St. Ste. 418 Decatur, Illinois 62523
217-428-9950
Why Hire An Advertising Agency? As a small business owner, there may be times when you wonder if handling the advertising and marketing yourself is really good enough. Here are a few reasons that might help you decide. Are you noticing that sales are not growing and the business appears to be stuck? An independent view from the outside can give you a better picture and help build communication between product and your customers. Fresh ideas can be very helpful for increasing sales. It is difficult to see things differently. An agency starts work by avoiding the common points that your competitors are using. An agency tries to find a new way to place your product or service in the mind of your customer. In-house design will change from mediocre to a message that is targeted by a team of professionals. The agency you would hire includes a team, who know advertising techniques and tools very well. Advertising and marketing is also a business just like plumbers, electricians or insurance. Each is trained in their profession just as those in the advertising fields. An ad agency can protect you and your business from making costly mistakes. If you would like to learn how a marketing company can help your business, please call me for an appointment.
www.cmsdecatur.com
Q
Can a business exist on the web today using just a social media presence and no actual business website?
A Yes, but it’s a major mistake. While social media is a
powerful tool for marketing and building online reach for a business, it does not fill the shoes of a business website.
Cayla Hittmeier Advertising Manager Herald & Review
601 E. WILLIAM ST. DECATUR, IL 62523 217.421.6994
Local business owners should be using social media primarily to help drive business to a website. So, in our eyes, the two definitely work hand in hand, not independent of one another. If you are currently only using social media and do not have a business website, let us show you the reasons to make a change. To find out more about our entry-level social and website packages, or information about any of our other digital or web services, please call us at (217) 421-6994. *source: Omniture
EXPERT FIELD?
ARE YOU AN IN YOUR HAVE QUESTIONS THEN WE FOR YOU! Call 217-421-7953
for more information on becoming one of our professionals.
BUSINESS JOURNAL
15
Her best advice for others: “Join or start a networking group. It will provide you with new friendships, a large network of relationships and a wonderful support system.”
Execs re-enter work force after motherhood
Alison Cormack
By LISEN STROMBERG TCA News Service Writer
A woman spends years building her career. Then family becomes her new priority, so she steps out of her highpowered job to raise children. What happens when she wants to get back in the game? Since Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg launched the “Lean In” movement in 2013, much attention has been paid to figuring out how to keep mothers in the work force, but many have already left and are trying to get back in. There’s not one route for all. As these three Bay Area executive women demonstrate, you can reignite your professional life, and even take it in a wildly different, equally or more successful direction, even after taking years off from work. Here they share their stories and their advice.
Mary Page Platerink
Social Media + Website
October 2014
Back on the fast track
Advertising Agencies Bring Fresh Ideas
Q
Heather Sawyer
www.thebusiness-journal.com
Previous job: Coca-Cola, director, global strategic planning Time at home: 12 months the first time, 18 months the second time Current job: Founder-CEO of First Aid Shot Therapy How she got there: Staying in touch with previous mentors and contacts provided much-needed financial support and credibility. Mary Page Platerink’s LinkedIn profile says her specialties are “getting things done and never giving up,” important characteristics for the founder and CEO of a hot Silicon Valley startup. But her most valuable skill might be her willingness to take risks coupled with the confidence that everything will work out. “I took several leaps on and off track,” she said, “and it was those very leaps that have helped make me a better leader and manager.” Platerink’s first leap came when her husband wanted to move to the United States. They’d met while getting their MBAs at the University of Cambridge in England. After the birth of their second child, Platerink quit her job to help her family settle into its new life. “It was the right thing to do. I didn’t worry about whether I would have a problem going back,” she said. It wasn’t as easy as Platerink imagined. She eventually took a job in marketing at Coca-Cola. It was a step back, in terms of pay and responsibility, but not for long. After Platerink gave birth to the couple’s third child, she worked her way into a coveted role in strategic planning. Then, she leapt again.
TCA News Service
Kriste Michelini gave up a lucrative career in tech sales to raise her children and now has re-invented herself to pursue her passion of interior design. “I had a dream job at Coca-Cola,” said Platerink, “but we wanted to move to California, so I quit.” For over a year, Platerink focused on being a full-time mother while she pondered her next career move. She met the head of gastroenterology at Stanford University’s medical school, who had an idea for a stomachache solution, and so began her latest leap of faith. Platerink was confident she could apply her expertise and experience in soft-drink marketing to the fast-growing medicinal beverage industry. To launch the company, she reached out to her previous mentors for support. They provided guidance, advice and much-needed seed funding. The result was First Aid Shot Therapy, a startup that specializes in fast-acting liquid medicines for pain and upset stomach symptoms. “My career wasn’t calculated,” Platerink said. “It was an organic reflection of my commitment to my family and my professional ambitions. Her best advice for others: “Stay connected to your past employers and mentors. They can offer you strong references, which you will need as you reenter.”
Kriste Michelini Previous job: Intuit, sales and business development Time at home: 5 years Current job: Owns Kriste Michelini Interiors How she got there: Listening to the advice of friends and following her creative passions and interests In 1988, when she graduated with a degree in political science from the
University of California, Los Angeles, Kriste Michelini thought she would become a lawyer. What she didn’t expect was that she would eventually become a nationally recognized interior designer. It took staying home with her children to make that happen. After college, Michelini took a job in commercial sales so she could earn money for law school. She was a natural at sales and soon moved into the more lucrative high-technology sector, working in software sales for Intuit. Law school, Michelini decided, would have to wait. She worked full-time through the birth of her daughter and would have happily continued if life hadn’t gotten in the way. “I went through a painful divorce and then met the man of my dreams,” Michelini said. When she became pregnant with their first son, Michelini quit her job and, with her new blended family, moved. “I wanted to be fully hands-on as a mother the second time around,” Michelini said. It didn’t take long to decide that stayat-home mothering wasn’t her calling. Michelini asked friends for advice, and they all agreed she had a talent for interior design. One friend agreed to hire her for a home redesign. Word got out and soon Michelini had a handful of clients. Five years after she quit her fast-track sales job, Michelini officially launched her own company. “I never regretted leaving my job in sales, but there were days I had doubts about staying home with my children. Today, there is no doubt my experience both in sales and as a mother has made me a better entrepreneur,” Michelini said.
Previous job: Hewlett-Packard, planning and operations manager Time at home: 10 years Current job: Google’s SMB Group, operations manager-chief of staff How she got there: Taking leadership roles as a volunteer led to valuable new contacts, opened new doors. The tipping point for Alison Cormack was the birth of her second child. Before that, she never really imagined she’d become a full-time stay-at-home mother, but like many women trying to juggle a family with two careers and two kids, she came to the point where it made more sense to stay home. After securing her MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, she took a job in finance at Hewlett-Packard. She held a variety positions there, including sales representative, and became a member of the HP Achievers Club, a select group of highperforming sales professionals. When her first child was born, she enjoyed six months at home with her baby and then returned to work on a reduced schedule, taking on a new role for one of HP’s worldwide vice presidents of sales. But then her second child came along and, well, her priorities changed. “I tried the part-time thing,” Cormack said, “but my heart wasn’t in it. It just felt right for me to be with my children.” She spent the next five years at home, committing to her role as mommy. Then a friend suggested she join the board of the Palo Alto Library Foundation and everything changed. When no one volunteered to lead the $76 million bond campaign to support the refurbishment of the town’s libraries, Cormack stepped up. “I leaned in to leadership,” she said, “and ended up having the best job I could ever imagine. Sure it wasn’t paid, but it helped me get where I am today.” When she decided to return to the work force, a Google employee whom she had met through that bond effort helped her tweak her resumé and flagged it for the HR department. She landed a job in communications at Google and since has been promoted to chief of staff for two of Google’s senior executives. She has no regrets about her time at home, but she knows giving up a hardearned career can be hard; so can finding one’s way back into the paid work force. Her best advice for others: “Don’t read your alumni magazine. Do read Fortune and other business magazines to stay relevant.”
14
BUSINESS JOURNAL
www.thebusiness-journal.com
October 2014
It’s game on for these women
October 2014
Branch manager/loan officer Land of Lincoln Credit Union Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge when I started working as a manager was overcoming the perception that I was young and therefore didn’t know what I was doing. It took time, but I proved to my doubters that I had what it took to do the job well by taking care of customers or members problems quickly, following up with them, and providing excellent customer service. When customers/members would ask for me specifically I knew I had overcome any doubts they may have concerning my age.
By RICHARD BURNETT TCA News Service Writer
Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: If I had to sum it up in one word I would say integrity. If you serve your customers, members and employees with integrity and take care of them, you will be successful. I’ve always found that being dependable, consistent and honest with people also will help you to gain their trust and loyalty. As a branch manager, I consider success to be when my branch and my employees are successful. I can’t be a success without them.
TCA News Service
Alice Hayden plays video games with her children, 11-year-old Benjamin Hayden and 9-year-old Madeline Hayden, in their Orlando, Fla., home. Experts say that, although more women have cracked video gaming’s predominantly male work force, the business still has a gender gap. NFL” and “Tiger Woods PGA Golf” games. Sports-game development remains heavily male, industry officials said. Andrew Tosh, president of GameSim Technologies Inc. in Orlando and a former engineer for EA Sports, said he “would like to think the gender gap is narrowing. But it is still difficult to find women to fill our engineering jobs. The resumés are almost always predominantly male.” Only 8.5 percent of University of Central Florida’s computer-science and engineering graduates were women in 2013, down from 35 percent in 1992. Nationally, 18 percent of computer-science graduates were female in 2010, compared with 30 percent about 20 years ago, according to a recent National Science Foundation study. Meanwhile, according to the university, women have gravitated to science degrees in programs such as psychology (82 percent female), biology (62 percent) and microbiology (55 percent). Still, in university’s relatively new digital-media program, which targets the video-game-industry work force, women accounted for 30 percent of the 2013 graduates. Much of the curriculum
focuses on the artistic side of videogame development, though it also involves software skills. Full Sail University, which also offers degrees in digital media and game design, said female enrollment has doubled to more than 20 percent during the past decade. Since 1994, it has sent more than 1,400 female graduates into the work force. Many have landed jobs with EA and other gaming companies, the university said. Many of the recent gains women have made in the industry appear to have come in artistic work such as character rendering, scene creation and story development, company officials said. “Certainly we’re more evenly distributed genderwise on the art side of the house,” said Tosh, the founder of GameSim. “We do have a number of female engineers on staff, and they are high performers for us. We’d love to have a more diverse work environment on that side, but in terms of recruitment, it can be very difficult.” The gap has led to a troubling disparity in earnings potential, critics say. Game engineers may earn as much as $70,000 a year fresh out of college, while game artists, the profession that attracts more women, may earn $15,000 to $20,000
less, according to the Center for Women and Information Technology. Advocates for women say the disparity has its roots in attitudes and stereotypes long embedded in society and education. “In many cases, we have not encouraged our girls to study math and science or pursue the technical areas, because for some reason we think they can’t do it,” said Pamela McCauley Bush, a national speaker on women’s issues and professor of industrial engineering at University of Central Florida. “And nothing could be further from the truth.” The industry’s biggest player, Electronic Arts Inc., said it has worked hard to hire more women and improve diversity. In California, for example, EA now has many female developers who work on “The Sims,” the top-selling PC video game in history. It would not give specific figures, citing competitive concerns. EA has seen “positive traction and growth” of women in the work force, the company’s top diversity executive, Andre Chambers, wrote in an email. “But we want to continue to accelerate our efforts because there is more that can be done.”
What person or event made you what you are today? This may sound cliche, but definitely my parents. My dad taught me good work ethic and was a great example of hard work and dedication. He continues to guide me today and help me realize that life is about serving others and putting others first. He taught me that integrity is important and that
Earnings cause of smaller nest egg TCA News Service
being a Christian should also influence how I treat others and how I serve my employer. Strong women in business seem to be characterized more negatively than strong men in business. Any tips for overcoming this characterization? That’s a hard one! I think as women we can be strong and successful without being mean and pushy. It is hard to balance sometimes when you have goals in mind and you are driven to meet those goals. However, in the end I just try to remember that leadership isn’t about bossing others around, it’s about serving and motivating others around you. I want to be known as strong and successful, but I also want to be known as kind and compassionate.
Women’s employment resilient during recessions By RICARDO LOPEZ TCA News Service Writer
Women’s employment during economic recessions is more resilient than men’s, even expanding during previous recessions, according to a new analysis by a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics economist. The share of women’s employment during the most recent recession, economist Catherine A. Wood wrote, reached 50 percent of nonfarm employment for the first time since the federal agency began keeping track in 1964. Back then, women only held 31.7 percent of total nonfarm employment. In the decades that followed, women’s employment rose steadily but began leveling off in the early 1990s. Wood’s analysis found that job losses during recessions are typically lopsided, with more men losing their jobs than women. The reason, she explained, is that more men work in goods-producing industries. “Because the nature of
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Study: Women behind in retirement prep
Mindy Mosley
Gender gap in video-game jobs With computer clicks and keystrokes, Carmela DeNero can put the spiral into a Peyton Manning pass and the roar into a stadium crowd. An associate producer with EA Sports’ Orlando-area studio, she is working on the mobile version of the popular “Madden NFL” video game. She’s one of just a few women in game development at the operation, a role she said she has navigated carefully but successfully. “There are definitely a lot more men here, but that never feels odd or intimidating,” DeNero said. “There are some tremendously talented women here, scattered about the studio. It’s easy to get to know all of them because it’s a pretty small club.” DeNero, 26, is part of a growing minority of women in the video-game industry: tech professionals who have turned their love of gaming into a career. They grew up on lighthearted games such as “Super Mario Bros.” and role-playing games such as “The Sims.” They were unfazed by the “boys’ world” dominated by so-called shooter games, which have been criticized for portraying violence against women. But although more women have cracked video gaming’s predominantly male work force, the business still has a gender gap, particularly with higherpaying engineering jobs, experts say. Women make up the fastest-growing consumer segment of the $15 billion-ayear business and the fastest-growing niche in its work force, doubling during the past five years, according to industry estimates. But women still hold only 22 percent of the jobs, the International Game Developers Association reported. To keep the momentum going, game developers say, they have to recruit more women who can bring a female viewpoint to games and ensure that games showcase, not exploit, female characters. It would help, for example, to have more characters such as Lara Croft, the adventurer in the popular “Tomb Raider” game, said Alice Hayden, a lifelong gamer and small-business defense contractor who uses gaming technology in her firm. “You see Lara Croft as strong, agile, confident, fearlessly overcoming physical threats,” said Hayden, 38, president of H2 IT Solutions Inc. in Orlando. “Playing it, you feel empowered, not oppressed. And that’s the idea. It encourages women rather than discouraging them.” Central Florida has one of the country’s largest clusters of gaming companies, large and small, including industry giant EA Sports, maker of the “Madden
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employment in the goods-producing industries is more cyclical, these industries have seen periods of job expansion and contraction,” she wrote. Women, meanwhile, outnumber men in the service-producing industries. “Historically, the goods-producing industries, manufacturing, construction and mining and logging, have accounted for the overwhelming majority of job losses,” she wrote. These industries have seen a longterm decline, dropping from 32 percent of total nonfarm employment in 1969 to only 14 percent in 2013. “By contrast, the service-providing industries ... have historically accounted for a much smaller percentage of recessionary job losses and, in some cases, contributed to net job gains during recessions,” Wood said. During the same time period, the service-providing sector’s share of nonfarm employment has grown, jumping from 68 percent in 1969 to about 85 percent in 2013.
More women than men save for retirement, and women save a larger share of their earnings, but they will still likely be worse off when they retire because they earn less and spend more time out of the work force, a new study said. The study of the savings rates of about 9 million U.S. employees found that about 60 percent of the workers saved at a rate of about 7 percent of their earnings, according to the study released by ADP Research Institute. Most women — 74 percent — saved at an average rate of 7 percent, while most men — 66 percent — saved at an average rate of 6.4 percent, the study found. “Across most wage categories, women saved at a higher rate than men, and workers save more as they approach retirement, said the report by the institute, which is part of
Automatic Data Processing Inc. Women, however, are at a greater risk of having an insufficiently large nest egg when they get to retirement, the report concluded. One reason is that they earn less, so although the proportion of their earnings is larger than men’s, the dollar value is less, the report said. “Factors such as lower incomes and time spent out of the work force still put women at greater risk of not achieving a secure retirement,” said Ahu Yildirmaz, vice president and head of the ADP Research Institute. “But efforts by financial advisers and agencies to raise awareness among women of the importance of saving for retirement appear to have made an impact.” The study also found that employees of larger companies tended to save at lower rates than those of small businesses and that the rate of savings across the board went up as retirement approached. For example, fewer than half the employees in the 20-29 age group saved, compared with 65 percent in the 50- to 60-year-old group, the report said. “This data reinforces a lifetime savings pattern: As retirement nears, more employees attempt to ‘catch up’ on their savings,” the report said.
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Penny S. Hupp Administrative assistant and commercial lines customer service representative J.L. Hubbard Insurance & Bonds Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge was a personal one … The sudden death of my husband, Tom, in 2003. My world, as I knew it, was shattered. I’m not sure you ever overcome something like that. However, with the help of God, my family, friends and “work family,” I got through it. Actually going back to work helped. It gave me some “normalcy” in my life when nothing seemed normal to me. I realized just how precious life is and that you need to let the ones you love know how much they mean to you. Every day is a gift and shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Gender pay gap varies TCA News Service
Female workers don’t need to be told what numerous studies have concluded: Women, on average, are paid less than men, even when they are doing the same job. But where workers live also makes a difference. On average, women made an average of 80.9 cents for every dollar a male earned in 2012, according to recent statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But from state to state, the numbers vary dramatically. Female workers in Wyoming, for example, earn just 65.5 percent of what men earn, worst of any state. In the nation’s capital, women fared best and are nearly at parity, making 94.8 cents on the male-earned dollar. There is no clear regional or political pattern: Arkansas women experience a narrower gender gap (15.9 cents) than women in New York (17.1 cents), for example. The reason for the differences, experts say, is a complicated and sometimes contradictory set of conditions, ranging from the states’ dominant industries to labor union status and the percentage of workers earning the minimum wage. And they caution that the gender gap number doesn’t tell the whole story. Women might make less than men in Connecticut, for example, but a female worker there earns a median salary of $868 a week compared to a man’s median earnings of $1,127. In areas where financiers and lawyers are prevalent such as Connecticut, salaries between the genders, while higher, are more disparate. In states where there are a lot of minimum-wage jobs, men’s and women’s pay are likely to be closer. An Arizona woman might take solace in the fact that she earns about 87 percent of what men in the state earn, but on average, she’s earning just $670 a week.
In straight salary comparisons, women fared best in the District of Columbia, where the median weekly salary in 2012 was $1,072, 94.8 percent of men’s $1,131. At the bottom by salary: Montana, where women earned $566 a week, 77.2 percent of men’s $733. The national median weekly wage for men was $854 in 2012 compared to $691 for women. Why such disparity between states? “It depends on the job structure and the industry” in each state, said Claudia Williams, a research analyst at the Institute for Women’s Policy Research in Washington, D.C. Wyoming, for example, has a lot of mining and cattle industry jobs dominated by men, Williams said, noting that some are family businesses in which some of the women are unpaid or paid low salaries. The same holds true for West Virginia, where mining is a dominant industry, said Anne York, a business professor and gender equity specialist at Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. “Anytime you have a (predominance) of something like heavy industry, you’re going to see men congregated in goodpaying jobs. And if a state or locality has an abundance of those types of jobs, you’re going to see a greater pay disparity,” she said. Women earn 72.6 percent of what men do in West Virginia. In Arizona, meanwhile, women make 86.8 percent of what men earn. The state has large numbers of populationgrowth driven jobs such as construction or maintenance that are male-dominated but not well paid, said Dennis Hoffman, professor at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. “Women dominate financial services, education, medical services, etc., which likely are jobs that pay a bit more. So it is likely industrial mix coupled with occupational choice,” Hoffman said.
Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: I have been in the insurance industry for 42 years, the last 22 years with J. L. Hubbard. First and foremost, I believe you have to be yourself and believe in yourself. Start each
day with a positive attitude. Go into work determined to do your job as efficiently as you can. Treat others, both co-workers and customers/clients, as you would like to be treated. Set goals for yourself and follow through with them. Be a good listener. Be open to new ideas. Never compromise your integrity for anyone. Each new day presents us with opportunities and challenges. It is what we do with them that can make us or break us. What person or event made you what you are today? I would have to say my dad made me what I am today. He was an honest, loving person who never knew a stranger. He treated everyone with the utmost respect. He taught me to always be kind to people, be honest and never give up on myself. Strong women in business seem to be characterized more negatively than strong men in business. Any tips for overcoming this characterization? Here again, I would say it is important to be yourself and always be honest in your approach to your job and dealing with associates and customers/ clients. Treat people with compassion.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 89% are college educated. n 28% are ages 45 to 54.
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Women owners struggle to get loans Banks see females riskier than males By JOYCE M. ROSENBERG AP Business Writer
NEW YORK — Women are a growing force in the business world, but if they own a company, they may still struggle to get a loan from a bank. Carrie Charlick and Marcia Cubitt have $4 million in sales but have been rejected for $500,000 credit lines since 2012. Their 11-year-old company, Essential Body Wear, sells women’s underwear at parties at customers’ homes. That’s a problem for bankers, Charlick said. Because the business, based in the Detroit suburb of Commerce Township, doesn’t have a traditional structure and sells directly to the public rather than retailers, banks keep saying no. “We don’t have receivables and we don’t own a building,” she said. “We don’t have collateral.” Male loan officers have also made inappropriate comments about the fact the company sells lingerie. Charlick is convinced that they have a problem with women-owned businesses. Women owners have long been at a disadvantage getting loans. Some states required husbands or other male relatives to co-sign business loans until the practice was outlawed by the Women’s Business Ownership Act of 1988. But women’s business loan approval rates are between 15 percent and 20 percent below men’s, according to the online lending marketplace Biz2Credit.com. Several factors contribute to the problem. Banks historically have been gun-shy about small businesses, and that caution increased due to stricter government regulations after the 2008 credit crisis. Often, women-owned businesses are young, making them look risky to lenders. They don’t look as creditworthy as men. Their credit scores in 2013 were on average 20 points below men’s, an improvement from 40 points in 2012, but still a significant difference, according to Biz2Credit. But women owners may also hurt their chances for approval. “Women don’t ask, ‘what do I need to do to get ready to borrow?’ “ said Maria Coyne, head of small-business banking at KeyBank. Many women-owned businesses don’t have enough revenue and cash flow to convince bankers they have the ability to handle their debts, said Lisa Stevens, head of small-business banking at Wells Fargo & Co. More than two-thirds of women-owned businesses have less than $25,000 in revenue, Stevens said. The problems may come from a lack
of confidence that would allow them to be aggressive about their companies, including getting a loan, said Barbara Kasoff, president of Women Impacting Public Policy, an advocacy group. They shy away from approaching a loan like any other business deal. “You need to let the bank know you’re a good bet and they can invest in you and they can get their money back,” she said. Regulations the government imposed on banks after the 2008 financial crisis have forced them to be wary, KeyBank’s Coyne said. Federal regulators examine banks’ credit policies and whether they’ve deviated from them, then makes a judgment about whether they’re being prudent lenders, Coyne said. Members of the Senate Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee introduced legislation in July that would make more Small Business Administration loans of up to $200,000 available to women owners. The bill would also allow lenders to give women owners more flexible loan terms. Stringent terms demanded by one lender forced Alicia Hill to look elsewhere. She needed money for a second Workout Anytime fitness club in suburban Atlanta. Hill applied to her current bank three months ago, expecting her three years of successfully running a club to make approval easy. Instead, the bank emailed her two months later saying she needed to use her savings as collateral. “It didn’t make sense to me. We needed that cash in case we needed to fund the business,” she said. Hill got a loan within weeks from a financing company. She had been wary of financing companies, believing they would charge a higher interest rate. But the rate she got turned out to be only slightly higher than a bank loan. And the company had a more realistic view of her ability to repay the loan than the big bank she had a 15-year relationship with, Hill said. Individual banks may be resistant to lending to women owners if they don’t understand the business, said Rocco Fiorentino, CEO of Benetrends, a North Wales, Pa.-based company that helps businesses get loans. For example, he said, companies that provide massages and other spa treatments. “If the bank didn’t like that category, she might get turned down,” Fiorentino said. Owners should find out before they apply what kinds of companies a bank is likely to lend to, he said. Women should also get mentoring and advice from accountants, attorneys and other experts before applying, to help make an approval more likely, said Lori Meeder, a loan officer with Northern Initiatives, a Marquette, Mich., business lender.
Ligeia “Geia” Taylor
Linda Roberts
Owner/groomer
Owner
Bones -n- Combs Dog Grooming
Best Trips Ever
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: The biggest challenges I had to overcome were the fear of failing and not being successful, and not believing in what others had to say. In the end, by believing in myself, I overcame the challenges. Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Do what you love. Never give up on your dreams, goals and aspirations. Always remember to pay it forward.
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: Getting the best price ever. I do that by going the extra mile. Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Always go the extra mile with your clients. They are your friends first and clients second. A master in the art of living draws no sharp distinction between work and play. I always seem to be doing both.
Best Trips Ever 2015: 2012: APRIL 20 -- Canadian Rockies byCruise Train JAN 12 Hawaii 4-Island JULY VistasColorado - Northern and JAN11 13- -Italian Ski Train Southern Italy FEB 8 - Australia & New Zealand SEPTEMBER 20 - Summer in Reykjavik, Iceland JUNE19, 212016 - England, Scotland & Wales APRIL - Australia & New Zealand JULY 27 - NCL-Alaska OptionalCruise Fiji Extension
NOV 1 - Spain/Portugal River Cruise 2015 / 2016… 27, 2013 Allure Caribbean Cruise AllJAN trips include bus from- Decatur
Call for your travel specials
Linda Roberts Celebrating 128 years as owner and 32 28 years as a travel agent!
864-4666 or 855-1877
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October 2014
Business puts spring back in vehicles Angela Harris saw a need CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer
FORSYTH — Angela Harris grew up around trucks, developing an interest that has lasted more than 30 years. As a child, she would ride along with her dad, Howard Caudle, whose job was driving trucks. Soon after graduating from high school, Harris realized something was missing in the Decatur area. So in 1984, she started Decatur Spring Service Co. out of a rented building at 442 South U.S. 51. “The need has always been there,” Harris said. “I grew up helping out, so I did not feel out of place.” The business has remained in the family since it started and they were able to purchase the property a few years after the company was launched. Harris’ husband, Kenny, and 23-year-old son, Kaylem, are mechanics and work for the business. Kenny Harris has been helping out for nearly 20 years. Kaylem Harris grew up around the shop and said his interest continues in automotive work. “We all do our part,” Kaylem Harris said. “From a working standpoint, it’s kind of like home.” Along the way, Harris has had the support of other family members, including her parents, Howard and Donna, along with her sisters, Crystal and Kimberly. Howard Caudle believed in Angela’s ability to start the business and run it successfully. “We knew she could do it,” Caudle said. “She was always motivated.” After retiring, Caudle has used part of the space from the business to sell trucks through Caudle Motors. The main part of the business is servicing vehicles with leaf spring suspension problems. Harris said they will see all types of vehicles come through the doors, including trailers, pickups and semis. They’ll work on garbage trucks and fire engines, too, she said. Harvest season is especially busy, Harris said. During the fall, she said vehicles used in farming operations will need to be fixed quickly so as to not slow field work. “We try to get them in and out the same day as much as possible,” Harris said. “We do that by trying to stock as much as we can.” The business also sells a full line of replacement parts for leaf suspensions and custom-made U-bolts. The amount of business can increase in the winter when roads fill with potholes, Harris said.
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Kristin Newcome, MD
Deborah Born
Family physician
Office manager
Priority Health Family Medicine
Illini Supply
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: My biggest challenge was balancing career with family time. As a professional, I didn't want to short my patients on my time or energy, but as a mother, I needed to give my own children the same. I was able to overcome this by forming Priority Health Family Medicine, along with my colleague, Dr. Timothy Miller. This innovative practice style, direct primary care, allows me the flexibility to spend significantly more time with my family, while allowing me to provide higher quality care with better access for my patients. It is truly the best of both worlds.
Your biggest challenge and how you overcame it: Life is full of challenges. The key to maintaining a good balance in life is not seeing the challenges that we face as an impossible feat, but instead look at them with a positive perspective and find a solution that not only helps you overcome the challenge but also allows you turn it into a learning experience.
Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Success in business starts with a clear vision and determination, as well as perseverance to achieve your dreams. However, you also need the flexibility to redirect your career path when needed. More about me:: I was born and raised in the Decatur area, and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1991. I earned a bachelor of science degree in biology at Illinois Wesleyan University in 1995, and completed my doctorate at
Business Journal photos/Danny Damiani
Kenny Harris and his son, Kaylem, work on leveling a suspension system in a vehicle at Decatur Spring Service Co. Kenny’s wife, Angela Harris, started the business 30 years ago.
IF YOU GO Decatur Spring Service Co. is at 442 South U.S. 51 in Forsyth. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (217) 877-1933.
“It all plays a role, whether it’s a road, going into a field or hitting a curb,” Harris said. Some of the work involves adding strength to vehicles as owners want more carrying capacity or to change what a truck was originally intended to do, Kenny Harris said. That means some vehicles will be relatively new when they come in, he said. “Nowadays people try to get more capacity,” Kenny Harris said. Customers travel from as far away as Carbondale, Petersburg, Champaign and Danville to reach the business. Although located in Forsyth, Harris has kept the name for the business of the larger city so more people from farther away will know where it is located.
Kaylem talks with his mother, Angela, in the shop.
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Advice to other career women on what it takes to be successful: Don’t ever underestimate your capabilities or your ability to continually learn new things. Be open to growth and change in your professional career. Do your best work, stay kind, speak clearly and most importantly, keep a positive attitude. SIU School of Medicine in 1999. I graduated from SIU Decatur Family Practice Residency in 2002, and practiced in Forsyth for more than 10 years. I currently am a family physician/partner with Priority Health Family Medicine, a direct primary care practice in Decatur since October 1, 2013. I was listed in 2014 as a Top Doc in concierge/direct primary care.
What person or event made you what you are today? I’m fortunate to have many strong and career-minded people in my life, most importantly my parents. Their positive outlook on life is only a phone call away when I find myself discouraged. They raised me to believe that not only can I do anything I want to do, but to push myself to do it to the best of my ability. Being a single mother, I work hard to instill these same morals in my children.
Strong women in business seem to be characterized more negatively than strong men in business. Any tips for overcoming this characterization? I’m lucky in the fact that I don’t see this sort of negativity in my surroundings. Illini Supply is a womanowned business and the president, Donna Mauzey, has been a positive role model for me for more than 18 years. Women are equally as capable as men, and as women, we need to continue putting our best foot forward in the work force.
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October 2014
Your breast health begins at DMH October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Decatur Memorial Hospital is committed to the fight against breast cancer, by providing outstanding resources and some of the area’s most advanced technologies devoted to prevention and treatment. DMH Women’s Health & Breast Center is a dedicated center for the awareness, diagnosis, management and support of health conditions that affect women, including breast cancer. Call 217-876-4377 for more information.
Detection D
Prevention P
Mammograms can detect abnormalities or lumps that should be further M analyzed for diagnosis. a
Clinical Trials C The DMH Cancer Care Institute provides cancer patients local access to T sstate-of-the-art prevention and treatment trials. To learn more, call 876-4750.
Mammograms can be scheduled at your convenience at the DMH M Women’s Health & Breast Center located in West Hay Medical Center, South Shores Imaging Center, Forsyth Imaging Center, and Sullivan Medical Center. Call 217-876-1111 to schedule a mammogram. Mobile Mammography is offered at Arthur Medical Center, 650 W Columbia, Arthur and Moweaqua Family Practice, 620 N. Putnam, Moweaqua. The DMH Mammography Initiative offers no-cost screening mammograms to individuals who meet financial guidelines based on family income, live in the Decatur/Macon County area, are at least 35 years old, have had mammograms according to requirements and are not experiencing any breast symptoms. Call 217-876-1111 for more information. Early Detection Is Key According to the American Cancer Society, the causes of breast cancer are not fully known, but researchers have found a number of factors that increase your risk of getting breast cancer. • being a woman • getting older • having an inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation • having a family history of breast cancer • having high breast density • taking (current or recent use) birth control pills • being overweight after menopause or gaining weight as an adult • having more than one drink of alcohol per day • being exposed to large amounts of radiation at a young age • never having children • having your first child after age 30 The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 or older have a mammogram every year.
Special events
Advanced Technology & Treatment DMH Advanced technology boosts chances of spotting breast cancer. Decatur Memorial Hospital combines digital mammography with computer aided detection to detect breast cancer in the earliest stages when there is a better chance for a cure. THE DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY DIFFERENCE: • Improves the contrast of the image over film screen mammography, possibly improving cancer detection • Allows physicians to transmit the images electronically • Allows physicians to manipulate the image in order to better “see” certain breast tumors
Beyond Breast Cancer Every year, many women lose their breasts to cancer. Breast reconstruction can help compensate the loss by creating new breasts. If you are considering having reconstructive surgery, it’s a good idea to talk about it with a plastic surgeon experienced in breast reconstruction before your mastectomy. This lets the surgical teams plan the best treatment for you, even if you want to wait and have reconstructive surgery later. For more information, contact: Jordan Youngerman, MD Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon Physicians Plaza East 1 Memorial Dr., Suite 110 217-424-2442 Stuart Baker, MD Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon Physicians Plaza West 2 Memorial Drive, Suite 310 217-877-9000
Early Detection Connection
DMH Yoga for Life Event
Drive by and receive valuable health information, a free ribbon-shaped bagel, and giveaways while they last.
Learn about the many health benefits of yoga during this event. Instructors will lead a yoga class near Center Stage.
Friday, Oct. 3 • 7-9 a.m. • Express Care North, 3131 N. Water St. • Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. • South Shores Kroger, 255 W. 1st Dr. Call 217-876-4377 (HERS) for information.
D M H
C A R E S
A B O U T
Y O U R
Saturday, Oct. 18 • Hickory Point Mall Registration 8 a.m., Event begins 8:30 a.m. Please bring a yoga mat. Register online at dmhcares.com/yoga. Call 217-876-2850 for information.
H E A L T H
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Anne Lloyd Gallery: Gallery 510 hosts the annual October National, a juried exhibit, with special recognition of art honoring survivors of breast, ovarian and cervical cancer. Opening reception from 57:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3. Call (217) 4233189. www.decturarts.org Decatur Airport: Watercolors by Rae Nell Spencer. Decatur Public Library: Artwork by 4H members. Blue Connection: Chalk art by Eric Weatherford. Meet the artist reception from 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3.
Charity events Walk to End Alzheimer’s, to benefit the Alzheimer's Association on Saturday, Oct. 4, in Forsyth Village Park, Forsyth. Ceremony at 9:30 a.m., walk begins at 9:45 a.m. Call (217) 801-9352. WSOY Community Food Drive, to benefit local food pantries, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, Kroger in Airport Plaza. This years goals is 825,000 pounds of food.
BANQUET
Hilltop Roundup, to benefit the Children's Museum of Illinois, 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Nelson Park Main Pavilion. Enjoy acoustic performance by
Calendar of events For a complete list of events, go to www.herald-review.com/go/
24. Music by Rosetta Stone, costume contest. Cost is $15 in advance. For more information, go to www.mtzion.com or call (217) 864-5424.
Music
Third Shirt, while partaking in the chili bar, BBQ, jalapeno corn bread muffins, seasonal beer and gourmet s'mores. Tickets are $40 each or $75 per couple. Call (217) 423-5437.
Go to www.maconcountyconservation. org and click on the Programs and Activities tab for a complete listing.
Run United, to benefit the United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois, 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. This 5K run starts in Fairview Park and end at Fleet Feet Sports, 1090 W. Wood St., followed by a post-race party. For more information, go to www.uwdecatur.org.
Kirkland Fine Arts Center: Sierra Boggess, Saturday, Oct. 11; Golden Dragon Acrobats, Saturday, Nov. 1. For tickets, call (217) 424-6318.
Brian Shartzer as Garth Brooks, 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. in the Decatur Civic Center Theater. For tickets, go to www.decaturciviccenter.org.
Theatre 7 presents Spamalot, Oct. 17-19 and 24-26 in Shilling Auditorium at Richland Community College. For tickets, call (217) 423-3189. www.theatre7.net.
Misc.
For the kids Children’s Museum of Illinois: Family Science Sunday, Oct. 12; Family Book Bash, 10-11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17; Halloween Hoopla, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Go to www.cmofil.org or call (217) 423-5437. Scovill Zoo: Boo at the Zoo, Oct. 17-19 and 24-31. Call (217) 421-7435. The Rock Springs Nature Center hosts a long list of mini camps, family adventures and classes during the month. So many, in fact, that there are too many to list.
GUIDE
On Stage
Little Theatre-On the Square: Marisha Wallace in Concert, 2 p.m. Oct. 12; Schoolhouse Rock Live!, Oct. 23-28. For tickets, call (217) 728-7375. www.the littletheatre.org. Decatur Underground Theater presents West Side Story, November 7-9 and 14-16 at the Decatur Civic Center. For tickets, call (217) 422-6161. www.decaturunder ground.com Mount Zion Convention Center: The Haunted Halloween Bash, 8 p.m. Oct.
Featured Business:
Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Kirkland Fine Arts Center. Featured performer is pianist Silvan Negruti. For tickets, call (217) 424-6318.
The Scream Haunted Adventure, Oct. 3-4, 1011, 17-18, 24-26, 31 and Nov. 1, 680 W. Eldorado St. Tickets start at $10. www.decaturscream.com Eldorado Cruise Nights, Saturday, Oct. 18. Call (217) 972-9049. Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Community Prayer Breakfast, 7 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, Mount Zion Convention Center.
Got an item you’d like listed in the Your Free Time calendar? Send the information to Scott Perry at sperry@herald-review.com or 601 E. William St., Decatur, IL 62523.
SCOVILL BANQUET FACILITY
3909 W. Main St., Decatur Contact: Kevin Brewer 421-7470
Accommodates: up to 225 people Award-winning cuisine
DECATUR CIVIC CENTER
#1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, Decatur Contact: Shelly Gregg
Accommodates: 2 to 3,000 People Assistance with catering, cash bar, & Dj Service available
DECATUR CLUB
422-7300 158 W. Prairie Ave., Decatur
Accommodates: 300 people
Contact: Jeff Ingle
Banquets & weddings
429-4200
DECATUR CONFERENCE CENTER & HOTEL Accommodates: 2,000 people
4191 U.S. 36 West
55,000 sq. ft. functional space, food service available
DOHERTY’S PUB & PINS Accommodates: up to 80 seating - 150 capacity Full food & beverage service available
HICKORY POINT BANQUET FACILITY
Contact: 420-8711 242 E. William St., Decatur Contact: 428-5612 727 Weaver Rd., Decatur
Contact: Tina McCarnen 421-6657
Accommodates: 225 w/additional seating on veranda Award-winning cuisine
MT. ZION CONVENTION CENTER Accommodates: 1,100 people
MT. ZION LIONS CENTER Accommodates: up to 300 people Choose your own caterer, bring your own food Ask about our “value-added service”
ST. NICHOLAS GRILLE Accommodates: up to 100 people 101 Club, business/social functions Full food & beverage service available
1410 Mt. Zion Pkwy, Mt. Zion Contact: 864-5424 1595 W. Main St., Mt. Zion Contact: Sharon Spinner 864-3100 mtzionlionsclub.com 101 S. Main St., Decatur Contact: Chris Durham 422-4700
BUSINESS JOURNAL
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A look at the November election
YOUR FREE TIME
The arts
October 2014
Election day, Nov. 4, is quickly approaching. The following is a listing of contested races and statewide ballot questions that appear on the Macon County ballot.
Treasurer
U.S. Senate
13th Congressional District
Jim Oberweis, R Dick Durbin, D Sharon Hansen, Lib
Governor/Lt. Governor Bruce Rauner/Evelyn Sanguinetti, R Pat Quinn/Paul Vallas, D Chad Grimm/Alexander Cummings, Lib
Attorney General Paul Schimpf, R Lisa Madigan, D Ben Koyl, Lib
Secretary of State Michael Webster, R Jesse White, D Christopher Michel, Lib
Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka, R Sheila Simon, D Julie Fox, Lib
Tom Cross, R Michael Frerichs, D Matthew Skopek, Lib
Rodney Davis, R Ann Callis, D
48th Senate District Linda Little, R Andy Manar, D
96th Representative District Michael Bell, R Sue Scherer, D
102nd Representative District Adam Brown, R Matt Forcum, D
Macon Co. Treasurer Edward Yoder, R Steve Grimm, D
Macon Co. Board, District 3 Craig Splittstoesser, R Jerry Potts, D
MORE INFO n For information about polling places, absentee ballots and more, go to www.co.macon.il.us/voter-election.php or call (217) 424-1333. n Keep track of what the candidates are doing leading up to the election at www.herald-review.com
Macon Co. Board, District 4 (Vote for two) Gregory Mattingley, R Travis Strobach, R Jay Dunn, D
Macon Co. Board, District 5 Mervil Jacobs, R Marcia Phillips, D
Macon Co. Board, District 7 (Vote for two) Phillip Hogan, R John Jackson, R Robert Brice, D
Constitutional amendment: To Section 8.1 of Article I, to expand certain rights already granted to crime victims in Illinois, and give crime victims the ability to enforce their rights in a court of law? Constitutional amendment: To Section 8 of Article III, prohibiting any law that disproportionately affects the rights of eligible Illinois citizen to register to vote or cast a ballot based on voter's race, color, ethnicity, status as a member of a language minority, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation or income? Advisory question: Shall the minimum wage for adults over the age of 18 be raised to $10 per hour? Advisory question: Shall any health insurance plan in Illinois that provides prescription drug coverage be required to include prescription birth control as part of that coverage? Advisory question: Should the Illinois Constitution be amended to require that each school district receive additional revenue, based on their number of students, from an additional 3 percent tax on income greater than $1 million?
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October 2014
TECHTALK
Finding the smartphone that’s right for you Most phone contracts last two years, which is a lifetime when it comes to technology. There are more choices than ever, and it’s hard to tell the difference. What’s clever marketing hype, and what’s real value? Here’s the scoop on how to choose the right phone for you.
Operating system Are you a Mac fan? A Droid rebel? A Windows 8 convert? Smartphones come in all three flavors these days. If you already have other devices on any of these platforms, you may want a smartphone to match. The iPhone, which runs iOS from Apple, set the standard for smartphones when it came out in 2007. Each new release Technology still makes big headlines every year. It is well-known for superb design and ease-of-use, and they still have the most apps in their app store. If you have a Mac or iPad, you will probably want an iPhone. Droid phones run the Android operating system. Android was developed by Google to compete with the iPhone and iOS. It is well established and very popular. Power users favor Droid for its flexibility and ability to customize. Amazon.com created a special Droid variation they call the Fire OS. They use it on the Kindle Fire tablet and the newly-introduced Fire phone. It combines the power of the Android OS with the ease of use normally associated with Apple. Microsoft, never one to be left behind for long, has been paying close attention to the phone market. They now offer the Windows Phone, which has the same look and feel as Windows 8. Be warned, their app store is growing, but it lags behind Apple and Droid. If you want the latest apps, this may not be the phone for you. For those Crackberry addicts out there, you still can purchase Blackberry phones from a few carriers, but this is a dying platform. You’ll be better off with a different choice.
Wendy Gauntt
Service provider Your carrier makes a huge difference in your phone experience. Some are more reliable than others, some offer faster data connections, and everyone’s coverage is a little different. There is no one right answer but generally Verizon and AT&T are the highestranked. Others may have a cheaper
price tag, but that is usually an indication of more limited services. Travelers will benefit from the top-tier carriers, since they are more likely to offer coverage nearly anywhere you might go. If that’s not an issue, just make sure you have good coverage at home and the office, and anywhere else you spend a lot of time. Sorting through plans is frustratingly complex. Usually you will pay for talk time, in minutes; texting, in quantity; and data, in gigabytes. Bundled plans are starting to offer unlimited talk and text, so all you have to do is predict how much data you will use. Most people don’t use as much data as they expect, a few gigabytes a month, and you can keep it to a minimum by setting your phone to connect to Wifi whenever you are at home or work. The main thing to watch out when it comes to data usage is music, pictures and video. If you are sending or receiving these over the Internet all the time, you can blow through a small data plan in a few hours.
Other details Once you’ve sorted through the operating system and the carrier, the rest is a piece of cake. Here are some of the key features to explore: n Battery life: This varies widely. Bigger phones typically have bigger, longer-lasting batteries. n Screen size/phone size: Some people prefer large phones because they can substitute for a tablet, with more room to type. Others prefer smaller phones that fit better in a pocket. This is strictly personal preference. n Durability: Some phones offer more rugged cases, and a few are now water resistant. If your favorite phone doesn’t offer these features, there are cases that can provide the same benefits. n Speed: You’ll see CPU and processor speed on some phone comparison lists, but be careful, as this can be confusing and misleading. Test the phone yourself to see how it performs. n Camera: Pixel counts are so high these days you can take a great picture with any smartphone. Look for software features that allow for editing, focusing, video, etc. Offering front and rear cameras gives you more flexibility.
the Droid platform. Cutting edge features and a large display have set it apart from the crowd and won over loyal fans. Google also offers a Droid phone – no surprise, since they created the operating system. Theirs is the Google Nexus 5. You can buy this directly from retailers, unlocked, to use with the carrier of your choice. (Check with your carrier before purchasing, just to be sure.) Amazon’s new Fire Phone runs their modified version of the Droid platform. It’s currently only available with AT&T service. The Nokia Lumia 635 offers the latest in Windows Phones. The HTC One also is available for Windows or Droid. Both offer Cortana, a voice-operated “personal assistant” designed to compete with Siri from Apple.
Not sure yet? The best way to decide is to visit your local wireless or electronics store. Check out models in real life to see how they look and feel, and ask plenty of questions to make sure you have all the facts. With so many phones on the market, there is no “one” right choice for everyone. Do your homework before buying, but don’t sweat the final decision. In the end it all comes down to what you like best.
Wendy Gauntt is president of CIO Services LLC, a technology consulting company that specializes in small business solutions. Visit her Website at www.cioservicesllc.com for more information, ideas and free resources.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 66% have household income of $80,000 or more. n 32% are age 55 or older.
TUES., OCTOBER 14TH, 2014
5:30 - 7:30 PM SOUTH ENTRANCE
OPEN
All 6th, 7th & 8th grade & transfer students & parents are invited to join us.
HOUSE
Please RSVP to:
217-875-7950
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Top picks The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are the latest release from Apple. They offer noticeably larger screens to compete with some of the most popular Droid phones. The operating system has been redesigned again, with a slew of new and intuitive features designed to make it even more effortless than ever. The Samsung Galaxy S5 is one of the leading iPhone competitors, and it runs
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Joining corporate ranks takes some adjusting Q: After accepting a position in my company’s corporate office, I have found that I’m not very comfortable here. In engineering, where I previously worked, everyone was much less formal and communication was more direct. But this environment seems to require some special interpersonal skills. I am also interacting with top executives for the first time in my career. Although I have tried hard to make a good first impression, I don’t really seem to fit in. Despite my previous successes, Office Coach this difficult transition is causing me to doubt my abilities. I was initially excited about this opportunity, but now I wonder if it was a mistake. Do you have any advice? A: Moving to the corporate office from the field almost always feels like a trip through the looking glass. People typically dress more formally, hierarchy is more strictly observed, and everything seems slightly removed from the “real world.” So take comfort in the fact that your uneasiness is not uncommon. Since there is no handy guidebook on corporate norms, you need to start looking for role models. Identify well-respected people on your level, then observe how they act and interact. If you have a supportive supervisor or human
Marie McIntyre
resources manager, request a brief orientation session on corporate expectations. To increase your sense of belonging, schedule get-acquainted meetings with your new colleagues. Explain that you wish to learn more about their roles and responsibilities, then come prepared with specific questions. If this is a sociable bunch, consider having these conversations over lunch. As you discovered, corporate life automatically involves contact with executives. Making a positive impression could accelerate your career, but the reverse can also be true. You must therefore learn about their individual hot buttons before you accidentally push one. For example, I knew one CEO who went absolutely ballistic if someone failed to answer the phone on the first three rings. Understanding the corporate perspective will increase your business knowledge and broaden your scope. So even if you eventually conclude that this is not the place for you, the assignment should provide a valuable learning experience. Q: My co-worker’s annoying habits drive me absolutely crazy. She is constantly snapping her fingers, tapping her feet, humming a tune or popping her gum. When I tried to reciprocate by hitting my pen against a glass for several minutes, she didn’t even notice. If this continues, I will eventually blow up and say something I regret. Any suggestions? A: I regularly receive complaints about co-worker noise, so you are certainly not alone. In these situations, peo-
WEEKLY TIPS Can’t get enough advice from the Office Coach. Get weekly column updates at www.thebusiness-journal.com. ple should understand that their colleagues are not being intentionally rude. Some folks simply possess an innate ability to screen out background noise, while others, like yourself, are acutely aware of every sound in the room. When these two types work together, the “sound sensitives” are greatly disturbed by random noises, while the “sound screeners” don’t understand what the problem is. This physiological difference explains not only your frustration, but also your colleague’s indifference to the retaliatory glass-tapping. If your snapping and popping co-worker is a reasonable sort, perhaps she would be willing to help. In that case, you might try making a friendly request. For example: “Mary, I have a favor to ask. Because I have extremely sensitive hearing, I am easily distracted by noises that don’t bother other people. If sounds from your cubicle make it hard for me to concentrate, would it be OK if I ask you to tone them down?” But if you fear the noisemaker will take offense, consider employing selfprotective measures. Listen to soothing music with earbuds, use a white noise machine or see if your boss might agree to move your desk. Q: One of my employees can’t seem to
get along with anyone. “Jenny” does excellent work, but she is extremely critical of her colleagues and constantly makes insulting remarks about them. When people disagree with her, she cuts them off and refuses to listen. On her worst days, Jenny will fly into hysterical tirades and threaten to sue everyone for harassment. So far, Jenny has shown no sign of taking responsibility for these damaged relationships. Her mid-year review is coming up, and I want to make it clear that this disruptive behavior needs to change. However, despite all the drama, I don’t want to lose her. How should I approach this discussion? A: You don’t want to lose her? Really? Based on your description, I would expect you to throw a party if Jenny announced she was leaving. Her longsuffering colleagues would undoubtedly be jubilant. While this woman may excel at certain tasks, she has obviously failed miserably at the basic job requirement of working well with others. To determine whether Jenny is capable of change, you will need to engage in a very firm and direct performance coaching process. This plan must include specific consequences for noncompliance, up to and including termination of employment. If you refuse to consider that option, you will automatically give Jenny the power to ignore your requests.
Marie G. McIntyre is a workplace coach and the author of “Secrets to Winning at Office Politics.” Send in questions and get free coaching tips at www.yourofficecoach.com, or follow her on Twitter @officecoach.
Working with a workaholic Q: I have a co-worker who is a selfdescribed workaholic. He works on weekends and seems to expect me to, as well. I work hard but very much value my work-life balance. How can I manage this situation so that our close working relationship remains positive? A: Be clear and consistent about your boundaries, including when and for what you’ll be flexible.
Liz Reyer
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October 2014
Inner game
There is a lot of pressure in the typical workplace to give more these days ... more time, more energy, more dedication. But as an employee, you do not have an infinite well to tap. Bravo to you for realizing that balance is important. Take a moment to remind yourself of
the reasons that you value work-life balance. Close your eyes, take some deep breaths and experience the positive feeling that you get when you recharge. Now, while those feelings are fresh, make a list of the business reasons that this is valuable. “When I am in balance, I ...” Am more productive? Make smarter decisions? Am I a better team player? If you’re like most people, there is immense value in bringing your most energized self to the workplace. Don’t let this be downplayed. About your boundaries: Are you clear in your own mind about what is OK and what pushes you too far? For example, is there a time of day that you simply must be done working? If it varies, can you articulate that so that your colleague can have a fair chance of knowing when he is overstepping? Or perhaps it isn’t a time of day as much as a process for asking. Whatever your boundaries are, it’s your responsibility to be crystal clear about them to yourself and others. Finally, look at your point of view in light of your overall organizational cul-
WEEKLY TIPS Get weekly career tips from Liz Reyer at www.thebusiness-journal.com. ture, considering whether leadership will have your back on this, or whether there is a 24/7 expectation that the workaholic is embodying.
Outer game Sit down and talk with your colleague. Since you’re in a positive mode with him so far, it should be easy to have a tone that builds on the positives. Consider chatting over coffee or lunch so that it feels more informal. Before you meet, develop a single clear message to share. It may be something like, “I like working with you, and it’ll be even better if we agree that I won’t always be checking email on weekends.” Have examples to share
that were challenging for you. Most people aren’t jerks, so assuming that he’s not, enter into a joint problemsolving mode to develop mutually satisfying solutions. Also make it clear where and how you’ll be flexible so that he doesn’t feel locked in. That would be a recipe for pushing back on his part. Then have regular check-ins with him to make sure that you’re both feeling all right about the level of engagement. If things fall out of balance, get support from your boss. It may also be a sign that your team is not properly resourced. In that case, other steps will be needed.
The last word Advocate for your best interests so that you can thrive at home and at work.
Liz Reyer is a credentialed coach with more than 20 years of business experience. Submit questions or comments about this column at www.deliverchange.com/coachscorner or email her at liz@deliverchange.com.
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October 2014
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October 2014
BUSINESS JOURNAL
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YOUR CAREER
YOUR BUSINESS
Meet Gary Sawyer
What’s changed after 5 years of Ledbetter? It was going to usher in the shining new day of justice for all. Or, depending on your point of view, it was going to cause the collapse of American business as we know it. “It” was the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, and it was the first piece of legislation signed into law by President Barack Obama. It was a hotly contentious issue in the presidential campaign of 2008. Women’s groups, and unions fervently supported the bill. They hoped it would reduce the differential between men’s and women’s earnings. Most business Human Resources groups strongly opposed it. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce threatened to punish legislators who voted for it. The Chamber said, “This legislation would dramatically
general manager/editor of the Herald & Review Hometown: I was born in Wichita, Kan. Family: My wife Judy is a guidance counselor at Taylorville High School. Children: Monica is an IRS agent in Des Moines, Iowa; Kyle teaches and coaches at a middle school in Kansas and Jacob is a senior at Iowa State University. We have two grandchildren, Ian, 4 and Ainsley, 2, with another one expected in February. Education: North Scott High School, Eldridge, Iowa; BA and MBA degree from Iowa State University.
Fred Spannaus
My “I’d rather be …” bumper sticker would read: I don’t think this way. I try to enjoy what I’m doing, while I’m doing it. I think you can waste a lot of time and effort wishing you were somewhere else, doing something else. Hobbies/interests: I referee high school basketball and soccer; read, fish, bicycle and I’m a huge St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan. I also enjoy time with the family, especially the grandkids.
Announcements
Personal approaches to challenges: I think you approach challenges through people. You have to take the time to understand their motives and desire and then figure out a way to make solving a challenge in their best interest. Be generous with credit – it’s amazing how much we can do when credit is shared. Also, break up big challenges into smaller ones. A professor once told me: “Inch by inch, life’s a cinch. Yard by yard, life is hard.” That’s stuck with me. My approach is to attack a challenge one step at a time, be collaborative and try to bring everyone along as you go. Community involvement: Board president of the United Way of Decatur and MidIllinois. I’m also on the leadership coun-
Jon D. Stewart has been appointed to the First Busey Corporation Board of Directors.
Osborne
Runyon
Lynn Merritt and Donna Munson with Area One Realtors LLC attended the Illinois Association of Realtors Fall Conference and Expo in Chicago.
Baker
Business Journal/Jim Bowling
Achievements
When Gary Sawyer started his journalism career, newspapers were limited to the printed product. As the new general manager/editor of the Herald & Review, he's helping to usher in enhanced online and digital formats for sharing news and advertising.
cil of the Decatur Education Coalition and was recently named as a board member to the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce.
take on that community role. We have a lot of people who play a huge role in the community, so it’s not a one-person job.
What does an editor/general manager do: It’s sort of a hybrid job. The editor portion means that I’m ultimately responsible for all of the information we produce that isn’t advertising. I have a great group of editors and journalists to work with and we produce awardwinning products on a regular basis. The general manager title encompasses my responsibility for production, technology and a role in the community. Julie Bechtel is our regional publisher and she has responsibility for the Herald & Review, The Pantagraph in Bloomington and the Journal GazetteTimes Courier in Mattoon/Charleston. In addition, she has a corporate role for Lee Enterprises and oversees papers in Illinois and Nebraska. There’s no way she can be involved in the community in a meaningful way. So, it’s my job as general manager to
What is the role of the Herald & Review in the community? Our primary role is to be the provider of news and information for the community, both in the form of news coverage and advertising. In addition, we have to be actively involved in the community. Most of the people that work at the Herald & Review are involved in the community in some fashion. There are literally no successful events in this community that we aren’t involved in sponsoring or promotion in one way or the other. What do you tell those who say the end is near for the newspaper industry? The facts are that most newspaper companies make profits and provide solid returns on investment. There is no doubt that competition and changing media habits have encroached on the traditional print side of the business. At the same
time, however, the industry has grown substantially on digital formats. In addition, we have probably the largest readership in our history. The number of adults reading the Herald & Review in some form or another is phenomenal and well beyond the reach of any other media. The industry’s challenge is to remember our chief role is as an information provider, and the delivery method is secondary. I think we are entering an era where consumers will control the method by which they receive the news. How is the Herald & Review adapting to meet the changing demands of its readers? We’ve provided many more ways for readers to access information. With our new subscription model, readers can get upto-minute news and information on several digital platforms in addition to the printed product delivered each morning. This allows readers to read news when they find it convenient and to keep up with the news throughout the day.
Stewart
Merritt
Munson
New staff members Sam Osborne has been named general manager of Residence Inn in Forsyth.
Promotions Craig W. Runyon has been made a partner with the law firm of Samuels, Miller, Schroeder, Jackson & Sly LLP. Vicki Baker has been promoted to vice president of client services and marketing for Foster Financial Services Inc.
Decatur Memorial Hospital Radiation Oncology has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in radiation oncology by the American College of Radiology. Bayard H. “Bud” Walters, founder and president of The Cromwell Group, received the National Radio Award from the Radio Advertising Bureau and National Association of Broadcasters.
Ledbetter. The bill changed the statute of limitations. It allowed an employee to claim that each unfair paycheck was an instance of discrimination, rather than only the first one. The Ledbetter bill passed both houses but was not signed into law until President Obama was inaugurated. Five years have elapsed. Let’s look at the results. What impact has the law made? Employers didn't experience the rush of frivolous actions and lawsuits that was predicted by the Society for Human Resource Management and the U.S. Chamber. There is no evidence whatsoever that Ledbetter led to an onslaught of baseless discrimination claims. The courts have applied Ledbetter to specific cases, allowing employees to pursue discrimination claims, even when the discrimination began years ago. Under the new law, claims can be filed in cases when discrimination is still occurring or when it ended only recently. By 2011, three substantial court cases emerged. Each allowed claims to proceed based on the new definition of the
statute of limitations. One case involved sex discrimination, one concerned race discrimination, and the third was filed by a person with disabilities. On the other hand, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act had no visible effect on overall pay disparity, which remains firmly lodged at 77 cents made by women compared to each dollar earned by men. The Ledbetter Act was a technical fix. It was needed. It solved a problem, and it did so very effectively. It is critically helpful for those victimized by long-term favoritism. Its effect on those individuals has been huge. But its impact has been limited to a fairly small group of companies – those with longstanding records of pay discrimination. In retrospect after five years, it's hard to understand why it faced such fervent opposition.
Fred W. Spannaus, principal of Spannaus Consulting, is a senior professional in human resources. He loves feedback to his columns. Fred can be contacted by email at spannaus@ ameritech.net or by phone at (217) 425-2635.
BUSINESS JOURNAL
BUSINESS CLIPS
My first job: I worked on a garbage truck for the city of Eldridge, Iowa. During the summer, I worked for the city as a general laborer. I also had a part-time job writing high school sports for the North Scott Press. Why I do what I do: Journalism is important to our society. An informed public is essential to the republic and it’s the media’s job to let people know what’s going on in their communities, their state and the nation. Community journalism is important because there are few news outlets paying attention to what’s going on locally. The newspaper, in print and online, is the information vehicle that keeps a community informed, helps community members communicate and helps the community make major decisions.
expand the number of frivolous and otherwise questionable cases that could be brought against employers.” The Society for Human Resource Management, launched a high-profile all-out campaign urging legislators to vote against it. Do you recall the case? Lilly Ledbetter worked for Goodyear for nearly 20 years. During those years, Goodyear paid her about 20 percent less than her male co-workers. For most of that time, Ledbetter had no idea she was getting shorted. When she found out, she filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In response, Goodyear didn't deny that it discriminated. The company argued instead that Ledbetter should have filed the complaint when the discrimination started, rather than waiting until she actually knew about it. The company asserted that the statute of limitations expired less than a year after her first short paycheck. The courts upheld Goodyear’s position. Congress stepped in and drafted the new legislation, naming it after
Walters
Business Clips are abbreviated versions of paid Business Achievements which appear on Mondays in the Herald & Review. For more information about Business Achievements, go to www.herald-review.com/app/secure/businessach/
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 48% share their copy of the Journal with others. n 23% are 35 to 44 years old.
Printed with environmentally safe water-based ink
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October 2014
ASK THE SCORE COUNSELOR Q: Can you explain what small-business tax credits are? A: The best answer to this question comes from Bonnie Lee, an IRS enrolled agent admitted to practice and representing taxpayers in all 50 states. More of her tax expertise can be found in the Illinois Small Business Development Center’s Weekly Connection publication and the www.foxbusiness.com website. Businesses can enjoy a variety of tax credits. A credit differs from a deduction in that it reduces your tax liability dollar for dollar. For example, if your tax liability totals $10,000, but you are able to take the disabled access credit for $4,000 you would owe only $6,000 in taxes. A deduction merely reduces your taxable income. So let’s say you have a deduction valued at $4,000, and you are in the 25 percent tax bracket, you will save only $1,000 on your income taxes. There are quite a few credits available. Some are obscure applying to only a small percentage of entrepreneurs but there are a few noteworthy exceptions. Congress passed the Family and Business Tax Cut Certainty Act which extended some of the existing tax credits for small businesses. Listed below are some of the oftenoverlooked credits that may come in handy for reducing your tax liability: 1. Credit for retirement plan startup expenses. If you implement a defined benefit plan including a 401(k), SIMPLE or SEP, you may take a credit of up to $500 for startup expenses. Claim your credit on Form 8881. 2. Disabled access credit. If your sales for the prior year were less than $1 million or you had fewer than 30 employees, you may take a tax credit for improvements made to your business property to fulfill the requirements of the Americans for Disability Act. Roughly, you will enjoy a tax credit of 50 percent of your expenditures up to a maximum credit of $5,000. 3. Work opportunity tax credit. This credit was extended another year thanks to the Family and Business Tax Cut Certainty Act. If you hire veterans you may qualify to receive up to $9,600 in the form of a tax credit and up to $6,240 if your organization is a nonprofit agency. The amount you can claim depends upon how much you are paying in wages, how many hours the veteran works for you, and how long the veteran was unemployed prior to
GOT A QUESTION? To learn more about small business tax credits, for one-on-one, face-to-face business counseling, or to submit a question for the “Ask the SCORE Counselor” column, contact SCORE Chapter 296, Millikin University, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, IL 62522 or call (217) 424-6296.
hiring. You must hire the veteran before the end of 2013 in order to take the credit. 4. Fuel and alternative motor vehicle credits. There are a plethora of tax credits for manufacturing of fuels or greening up your business’ transportation expenses: biodiesel, renewable diesel, low sulfur diesel, alcohol and cellulosic bio-fuels, among others. Check with your tax pro to determine if you qualify. 5. Small employer health insurance premiums. If you have fewer than 25 employees, and paid average annual wages of less than $50,000 you may qualify for this credit. The calculations are tricky and fewer business owners qualify than what was originally anticipated. Check with your tax pro to determine if you do or not. 6. Empowerment Zone credit. This one was also extended thanks to the Family and Business Tax Cut Certainty Act. If your business resides in an empowerment zone, you may claim the credit. See IRS Form 8844 to find out if you qualify. 7. Credit for employer Social Security and Medicare taxes. If you own a beverage or food service establishment where tipping is customary, you may receive credit for the amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes you paid on employee tips reported to you. Check out form 8846. — Information provided by SCORE Chapter 296
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Construction, health jobs grow By THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — The last time manufacturing was the No. 1 industry in Macon and DeWitt counties, Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. was about to make the first round of layoffs that would culminate in the Decatur plant’s closure less than 18 months later. That was August 2000. More recently, between July 2013 and July 2014, the manufacturing sector also accounted for the greatest number of jobs lost in the Decatur area, accounting for 2,300 of 4,550 jobs lost since before the Great Recession in 2007-09. These were among the facts Ron Payne, labor market economist for the Illinois Department of Employment Security, brought to the Decatur Jobs Council last month, but the news wasn’t all bad. He said two sectors have actually grown over the past seven years to the tune of 350 jobs in construction and 300 in health services/education. Today he said the top industry in the region is trade, transportation and utilities, accounting for about 12,400 jobs, followed with manufacturing with 10,400, and health services/education with 8,400. Payne said about 93 percent of the jobs in the health services/education
category are in health care. “I think a lot of the transportation jobs we’ve lost are going to start coming back,” he said. “I also think you’re going to see increases in health care and education. I’m not sure anybody knows what the Affordable Health Care Act is going to do, but it’s not going to decrease employment, I’ll tell you that.” In other business, jobs council Chairman Stacey Brohard said an upcoming jobs training collaboration between the Good Samaritan Inn and Decatur Is Growing Gardeners, or DIGG, will incorporate basic literacy and math into Mercy Gardens instead of offering it separately. Debbie Bogle, executive director of the United Way of Decatur and MidIllinois, said the organization continues to refer people in need to agencies that may be able to help them even though it discontinued its First Call for Help service in 2011. In that same vein, the jobs council, a coalition of social service representatives seeking to eliminate barriers to employment for the disadvantaged, has also updated its employment resource guide. Anyone interested in a copy may contact Kimberly Fickes, employment and life skills specialist with Homeward Bound, at kfickes@doveinc.org or (217) 362-7700.
The Business Journal presents...
Dick Overheul retired from Association of General Contractors Group Health Plan, where he worked as marketing director. His counseling specialties are insurance and bonds, employee benOverheul efits and financial services. He has been a SCORE member for five years.
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October 2014
Union Iron facility to create more jobs By CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — The development of a new $11 million Union Iron manufacturing facility in Decatur is expected to create 25 full-time jobs within two years. The business announced plans last month to enlarge and consolidate its Decatur operations into a 135,000-squarefoot facility being built at 3550 E. Mound Road. It is currently at 601 S. 27th St. Union Iron now employs 115 workers in Decatur, as well as 100 seasonal employees from March through September. It pledged to retain its existing full-time work force as part of an incentive deal with the state. “We are very pleased about the opportunity to have all of the Union Iron operations contained within one facility,” said Gary Anderson, president and CEO of the Canadian-based parent company, Ag Growth International, or AGI, which acquired Union Iron in 2007. “This will enhance the effectiveness and productivity of our operations and improve the service levels we provide to our customers.”
Gov. Pat Quinn’s office said the company chose to reinvest in Decatur after evaluating several locations in the United States and Canada. “Illinois has been home to Union Iron for more than 160 years,” Quinn said. “This expansion will mean even more jobs and economic growth for a company that has evolved with our state’s agricultural and industrial markets. With our highly skilled work force and easy access to the rest of the world, there is no better place for Union Iron to grow and thrive.” Decatur Mayor Mike McElroy sees the development as a significant investment in the city as a longtime employer is retained. The Decatur business was founded in 1852, making it one of the state’s oldest manufacturers. “Their decision enhances Decatur’s prospects for other global manufacturing and logistics projects, helping solidify Decatur and Central Illinois as a location of choice for cost-conscious, forward-thinking companies,” McElroy said. As part of the local effort to support Union Iron in developing the facility, the boundaries of the Decatur Macon
Genotyping center Sears store at mall goes to Fargo set to close DECATUR — The Decatur area can benefit from the work that went into bidding for a National Agricultural Genotyping Center research facility even as Fargo, N.D., was chosen as the site for the project. The National Corn Growers Association Corn Board made the choice after a selection committee visited both finalists. If Decatur’s bid had been successful, the center would have been built at Richland Community College, which is trying to develop an Agribusiness Applied Technology Park in the northwest corner of campus, said Doug Brauer, Richland’s vice president of economic development and innovative solutions. “Decatur can be and is a very attractive location for organizations to come to,” Brauer said. “I have no doubt if it would have come here, it would have been very successful.” Illinois and North Dakota brought enthusiasm for the project, Brauer said. In the end, he said it appeared as though the potential relationship between the Corn Growers and North Dakota State University was among the determining factors. Corn Growers representatives were excited about Fargo and “the commitment from the many forward-thinking people involved in this project,” said Richard Vierling, director of research at NCGA. “This is a first-time-ever, huge step for a farmer-led association that gives growers more influence on research agendas,” Vierling said. “This can help growers increase production and lower costs.”
FORSYTH — A second anchor spot at Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth will soon be left empty as Sears announced plans to close its location there in early December. The Sears store and auto center will remain open for customers until then, spokesman Howard Riefs said. With Sears planning to close, mall owner CBL Properties is looking for a retailer of comparable size to fill the space, said Sean Phillips, CBL’s regional marketing director. Additionally, the J.C. Penney store at the mall in Forsyth was one of 33 locations in that chain which closed earlier this year. “We’re constantly evaluating all our opportunities,” Phillips said. “We have things in the works. This is an opportunity to redevelop the locations.” Phillips said that while it is too early to release plans to replace the Sears space, an agreement is being finalized to fill the former J.C. Penney space. The mall has had some recent success in filling smaller spaces with what Phillips said are considered junior department stores. An ULTA Beauty store opened in September and a Ross Dress for Less is under construction next to it. Phillips said the mall also has recently added new options for family and children’s shopping with Justice and The Children’s Place. “We have a lot of interest in Hickory Point Mall,” Phillips said. “By adding more stores like those, we hope shoppers will visit more often.”
County Enterprise Zone were expanded to include the property where the new facility will be built, said Larry Altenbaumer, Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County interim president. The property is on the northeast side of town near Richland Community College. “This is a very good example of the cooperative efforts on the part of the county and the city in expanding the enterprise zone to support this specific opportunity,” Altenbaumer said. “These local efforts coupled with strong support from the state of Illinois helped provide a package of economic benefits that were an important part of the decision to develop this facility in Decatur.” The effort was further enhanced by the recent decision of the ArgentaOreana School District to participate as a tax-abating district in the enterprise zone, Altenbaumer said. The expansion is being made possible by a state incentive package worth an estimated $1.1 million over 10 years. The incentive is primarily a credit against the company’s state income tax liability
under Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy, or EDGE, program, which is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The deal will require Union Iron to invest at least $10.3 million at its Decatur location over the next 10 years. The package also includes a $41,000 grant for job training. The company appreciates the support from those involved in the economic development efforts, said Mike Brotherton, Union Iron general manager. It said access to the state’s transportation network, highly educated work force, culture of entrepreneurship and competitive cost structure was vital in its decision. “We will realize significant improvements in efficiency and overall operational capacity and thus will be instrumental in satisfying the growing needs of our customers,” Brotherton said. Union Iron began by building steam engines. It has evolved into a maker of conveying equipment and related components for commercial and farm grain handling systems.
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YOUR HEALTH
Patients get breast cancer support Doctors, center provide care, help By EMILY STEELE Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — By the last day of radiation treatment, Robyn Koritz knew the routine. Same as every weekday afternoon for the past seven weeks, she greeted the nurses at the right side desk of the Cancer Care Center on Sept. 10. After walking back through the offices, she changed into two medical gowns — covering front and back. Nurses situated Koritz under the radiation machine to match the green projected lights to the marks on her chest. The machine has to be lined up perfectly not only to target the cancerous area, but also to avoid hitting her heart or lungs. The heavy metal door closed during treatment. A sign on the front reads “Caution. Very high radiation area.” Five minutes later she steps out and hugs both nurses. After almost a year of chemo, a double mastectomy and radiation treatment for breast cancer, Koritz was finally able to ring the handbell letting everyone in range know someone had finished treatment. But the first time Koritz, age 39, stepped through the doors at the Cancer Care Center everything was overwhelming. “When I first started, I didn't know what to expect,” Koritz said. The one relief Koritz came to find is the amount of information and help available. “The biggest thing I can tell everybody there is no question too small to ask your doctor or nurse,” Koritz said. Koritz was one year younger than the recommended age for starting annual mammograms when she felt a lump in her right breast. “I’ve never had a mammogram before, I never thought about it,” Koritz said. Doctors took a sample from the lump with a needle to analyze the tissue. She was suspicious something was wrong before the official results came in, but it didn't dull the diagnosis of cancer. “It was really just a shock,” Koritz said. “You can’t prepare yourself for it, it’s a complete and utter shock.” She met an oncologist at the Cancer Care Center to discuss what kind of cancer it was and how to move forward. Starting out, Koritz knew she didn't
Business Journal/Danny Damiani
Robyn Koritz rings a bell at the Cancer Care Center after receiving her final radiation treatment for breast cancer. want chemo. But the hard data Dr. Dolores Estrada-Garcia gave Koritz about survival odds without the treatment convinced her otherwise. “She walked me through my options with my being stage three and being so young, chemo was the best option for me,” Koritz said. Dr. Sebastien Kairouz is an oncologist with Cancer Care Specialists of Central Illinois. During his first appointment with a newly diagnosed patient, he makes a point to explain every test and every step of the process in detail, from where their cancer is coming from to what the stages of a diagnosis mean. “At the end of the day, if the first encounter with a patient you make it clear to them what’s going on,” Kairouz said. “A lot of that fear is alleviated.” But he wants to spend most of that appointment answering their questions, removing misconceptions and building trust. From there they make a treatment plan. “The big unknown is their first treatment,” Kairouz said. Oftentimes that's chemo, and a nurse practitioner will sit down with a patient before to discuss the process.
‘You are way stronger than you think.’ ROBYN KORITZ
Some patients want to be in control, others want the doctor to take the lead, but Kairouz said women should be upfront and ask their doctor about the nature of their disease. “It’s important to be involved from the beginning,” Kairouz said. “I think it does improve the standard of care.” Reversing her opinion on chemo taught Koritz to trust her medical team that grew to include her primary doctor, oncologist, radiation oncologist and OB/GYN. Nurses navigators from the DMH Women's Health and Breast Center also contacted her directly. There, Breast Center Coordinators Pam McMillen and Heather Ludwig
work to provide material and emotional support to breast cancer patients and survivors. “It goes back to what their needs are,” McMillen said. Sometimes those needs are about nutrition, wigs or prosthetic or financial issues and which doctor or nurse to talk to if there's a problem. The coordinators work to ensure everyone on the medical team is on the same page. Each patient is different. Some seek out support groups, while others need information and facts to help them come to terms with their disease. “It's rewarding to see the strength these women have,” Ludwig said. With radiation completed, Koritz is now waiting to hear the magical phrase “no evidence of disease,” sometime in the next month that will mean she's cancer free. Koritz will continue seeing her oncologist for scans and will take a hormone suppression medication for at least five years. One of the biggest lessons she learned is the power of inner strength. “You are way stronger than you think,” she said. “And don’t ever let it keep you down.”
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October 2014
Exercise helps during cancer treatments Movement adds to healing process By DONNETTE BECKETT Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — When Jill Bailey lost her parents at the fairly young ages of 57 and 61, she knew she didn't want to suffer from the same health problems they did. “I've always done something, aerobics, walking, softball and now CrossFit” she said. “Having that foundation, I like to think I'm physically healthy.” But she wasn't. After a friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, Bailey, 46, decided to get the mammogram she had been avoiding for years. In January, the test revealed she had stage 1 breast cancer. She underwent a lumpectomy and six weeks of radiation. But unlike many patients, Bailey felt fine throughout the procedures.
“I had heard from others who went through radiation that it can cause fatigue, some get sick,” she said. “I didn't really have fatigue until the last week of treatment.” Bailey believes her procedures were not as taxing on her as others because of the physical condition she was already in. And studies have shown, she is right. Research has proven that physically active patients are able to tolerant treatments and procedures easier than those who have led a sedentary lifestyle. “The healthier they are going into something like this, the better the outcome will be,” said Decatur Memorial Hospital physical therapist Mary Jesse. During any form of activity, oxygen levels rise, helping to improve circulation. “These are things that are going to help with healing,” Jesse said. But for patients undergoing treatments, exercise is easier said than done. Radiation and chemotherapy can be physically and mentally debilitating. Many patients simply don't feel like getting off the couch, but studies show that may be all they need to do. Experts recommend patients incorporate some form of movement every hour. “Even if that's just standing up and down five times or walking down the
hall,” Jesse said. “What sounds like little things, when you're that fatigued, it's an effort.” According to Dr. Reneta Moore, radiation oncologist for St. Mary's Hospital Cancer Care Specialists of Central Illinois, patients can gain more energy and stamina by incorporating moderate activity. “Anything that increases the heart rate or respiratory rate a little bit, that will help with the tiredness and help with endurance,” she said. “It really does help with the quality of life.” For many, being able to keep a routine is important for mental health as well. Julie Rotz underwent a lumpectomy, radiation and chemotherapy after her 2012 diagnosis. “I would get up and try to do something,” the avid runner said. “I would walk around the block at least.” Because exercise was important to her, Rotz tried to keep the same daily routine she had for years. The dedication paid off. Eleven days after her surgery, she ran a 15K. “I just ran a little slower,” she said. “It's important to maintain your ordinary routine and activities,” Moore said. “But try to incorporate a little bit more activity.” Keeping a daily routine can help reduce the higher stress levels often
associated with the disease. In 2010, Myra “Mimi” Walters was diagnosed a second time in 10 years with breast cancer. But this time she found the diagnosis to be more of a nuisance. “Cancer is not in control. I'm in control,” she said. “It's about attitude.” While undergoing chemotherapy, Walters was able to run a halfmarathon. Moore suggests patients continue to do what makes them happy. “People should look at what they are interested in, dancing and activity DVDs,” she said. Patients will need to have clearance from their physician before starting any exercise routines. And if rest is needed, Moore recommends scheduling a rest time. “Take 30 to 45 minutes for a nap or quiet time,” she said. “That seems to give people a little bit more endurance in the evening.” The ability to carry out daily routines is important not only for cancer patients, but their families as well. Walters used her love of running to show she was going to be fine. “I didn't want my kids coming home and seeing me sitting on the couch and thinking I was feeling bad,” Walters said. “I never laid around.”
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October 2014
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5
BIZ BITES
Now open Todd Parker found just the location he was looking for to move his Northwestern Mutual office from Champaign to Decatur. The certified financial planner likes being at 106 N. Main St. in downtown Decatur. “It was a home run,” Parker said. “We knew it was going to be home.” The office provides space for its four full-time employees with room to double that number, Parker said. Most meetings can now be held in the office with the ability to use software and other resources at Parker’s fingertips as part of holistic financial planning. The move also gives the ability for Parker to work in and focus on his hometown. “Being from here, I’m in a position to help the community and have an impact in a positive way,” Parker said. Northwestern Mutual office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (217) 423-0400. nnn A new tutoring center in Forsyth is offering one-on-one instruction for students with a variety of needs. South Family Tutoring at 332 W. Marion Ave. Suite S1 offers homework help, subject tutoring, PSAT and ACT exam prep and supplemental enrichment in reading and math. Students range in age from first grade through seniors in high school, owner Christina South said. A new program provides help with the college admissions process, she said. “We felt there was a need in the community,” South said. “Teachers and a lot of students have been asking for another tutoring center.” South is a certified teacher who has been a substitute for the Decatur School District and tutoring since 1996. Other tutors currently include two certified retired teachers, she said. Each student’s program is designed to fit their needs and schedule. Appointments are generally scheduled from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (217) 520-4717. nnn A beauty supply shopper’s paradise has opened inside Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth. The more than 8,000-square foot ULTA Beauty store is located near Bergner’s. It is in a space that was formerly occupied partially by the Adult Training and Education Center, which relocated to the northwest wing of the mall. ULTA offers prestige, mass and salon products in a one-stop shop, General Manager Samantha Lininger said. The store sells 20,000 beauty products, 4,000 testers and more than 1,000 scents. “Anything you can think of for beauty products, ULTA has,” Lininger said. “We have all the brands linked together in a unique store. Usually you’d have to go to different locations to get it all.” In addition to brand name products, ULTA has a line of its own products and offers a rewards program that can be used toward future purchases. The store
invites customers to browse, play, touch, test, learn and explore all that is available. It features a full-service salon, skin care center and make-up consultations, Lininger said. Not of all it is for women, either, Lininger said. A men’s shop in the center of the store provides various fragrances, face wash, shaving, shampoo and conditioner products. Hours are the same as the mall, which currently are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Call (217) 876-8579. nnn The Purple Crayon has opened in the Heroic Age Art Center, 135 S. Henderson St. in Mount Zion. Artist and owner Peggy Larson specializes in pencil portrait illustrations, small sculptures and murals. Other types of her work include paintings, mixed media, wax resist paintings, shadow box art, greeting cards and plaques. “You never know what will show up in the studio,” Larson said. Larson considers the space a working art studio so visitors are welcome to stop by to either purchase items or watch her at work. The studio will be offering drawing and creative project classes starting this month. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Call (217) 329-4836. nnn Those playing mini golf at Nelson Park in Decatur and anyone else interested are now able to grab a frozen yogurt treat from the recently opened CherryBerry restaurant. The self-service frozen yogurt shop at 2509 E. Nelson Park Road is part of the Decatur Park District’s Overlook Adventure Mini Golf facility. Construction continues on neighboring Ted’s Taters, which will serve French fries and other foods for patrons inside the clubhouse. Kendall Peterson owns both restaurant ventures, which will be open yearround. The Nelson Park CherryBerry is the franchise’s second store in Decatur to go along with one that opened last year on Oakland Avenue near Millikin University. The new CherryBerry is open noon to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday. Call (217) 330-7676.
On the move After changing its name to United Equity Credit Union this spring to better reflect its membership of 4,200-plus, the credit union has relocated its home office from North Main Street to a newly constructed building at 1130 E. Pershing Road. “We are excited to have more parking and better egress with our new driveup,” President Kara Johnston said. Founded in 1935 to serve employees of
Illinois Power Co., the credit union today serves several select employee groups and their family members. Its previous building at 2773 N. Main St. is for sale. United Equity opens Monday through Saturday at 8:30 a.m. (drive-up opens at 7:30 a.m.) and closes weekdays at 4:30 p.m. (drive-up at 5:30 p.m.) and Saturdays at noon (drive-up at 12:30 p.m.) For more, visit www.uecu.com or call (217) 875-1845.
Expanded services Jeff Getz didn’t know how hard it was to buy a golf cart in the Decatur area until he tried to find one to use in his rural Macon subdivision. The discovery led him and his wife, Judy, to add custom golf cart sales to their business of six years, Xpress Lube at 3601 East U.S. 36. “We’d been looking for something else to do to utilize our labor,” Getz said. “I haven’t actually gotten one for myself yet; every time I get one fixed up, I wind up selling it.” Xpress Lube generally stocks about a dozen used models for shoppers to peruse, mostly Club Car and EZGo. For more, find the business on Facebook, www.XpressLubeandRepair.com or call (217) 425-1545. nnn IPI Wealth Management has
announced the creation of a Decatur IPI Wealth Management Team to meet the growing needs of its Decatur clients. The team consists of IPI advisers Tomas Ealy of Champaign, John Foley of Savoy, Jeff Secord of Bloomington, Caleb Smoes of Champaign and James Minton of Decatur. “The creation of the Decatur IPI Wealth Management Team is a gamebooster for our city and the surrounding area. By combining the proven strengths of these advisers with the distinctive investment management capabilities of IPI, we are filling a void in the community,” said David P. Koshinski, Investment Planners and IPI Wealth Management’s president and CEO. “Joining forces will allow us to leverage the team’s investment expertise, deliver innovative wealth advisory services, and provide the best of class advising relationship the clients have been missing.” This combined team currently manages approximately $490 million in client assets under management and advisement. The advisers will continue maintaining their current offices, while also spending time in the Decatur office, located at 226 W. Eldorado St.
Biz Bites highlight businesses that are opening, closing, expanding … you get the picture. If you have information for our Biz Bites column, contact Tony Reid at treid@herald-review.com, Chris Lusvardi at clusvardi@herald-review.com, Theresa Churchill at tchurchill@heraldreview.com or call them at (217) 421-6979.
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October 2014
YOUR COMMUNITY
Walker retires as police chief By HUEY FREEMAN Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — One of the key accomplishments of Todd Walker’s career was directing the move into the police department’s spacious new headquarters. So it was fitting that just months after the move was completed, the first retirement party held in the South Shores building was for the chief. “We would not be here without him,” said Jim Chervinko, who received the chief’s badge from Walker, during a brief ceremony last month. “He pushed and pushed and pushed for this to happen. He was very instrumental in getting the Decatur Police Department relocated to 707 South Side Drive.” There was an upbeat atmosphere in the sunlit room, as hundreds of police officers, retirees, relatives and members of other police agencies expressed their feelings for Walker, the grandson of a Decatur police officer, who served in almost every capacity during his lengthy career. Speaking at the ceremony, Walker said his decision to retire brought him peace that he hadn’t felt for a long time. “I haven’t slept this good in 28½ years,” he said.
Business Journal/Jim Bowling
Todd Walker hands over the chief badge to interim Police Chief Jim Chervinko during Walker’s retirement party. Walker credited the people he worked with for “making him look good.” “I had the best team you could ever think of,” Walker said, adding he will miss his co-workers and his chosen pro-
fession. Walker credited his parents, who were sitting nearby with his wife, Lorri, and brother, police Lt. Jason Walker, for “never talking me out of” becoming a
police officer. He announced that Chervinko, who has been serving as deputy chief of the patrol division, has been appointed by City Manager Ryan McCrady as interim police chief. “It’s Jim’s shot and Jim’s headache,” Walker said. “We are going to miss him around here,” said Chervinko after the ceremony. Chervinko started his career in 1985, one year before Walker, and rose through the ranks alongside him. He will serve as interim chief until McCrady appoints a new chief. McCrady said he will be posting the job this coming week to gauge the interest within the department. He is hoping to find an internal candidate. McCrady said he is confident “we have good people here” to fill the position. Chervinko said he is excited about the opportunity to serve as interim chief and would be glad to serve as the next police chief. He said there is much work that needs to be done, especially to upgrade policies and procedures of dayto-day work at the new police headquarters. “We’re still in a transitional phase here,” he said.
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Millikin conducting cancer research Team collects, analyzes data By EMILY STEELE Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — It’s easy to walk by the lab on the third floor of the LeightyTabor Science Center at Millikin University. But inside, students are doing breast cancer research. The vials of three cancer cell lines are stored at human body temperature and “fed” with a colored media every few days. A laptop is plugged into a machine, pulling in data. There undergraduate students conduct breast cancer research under the direction of Assistant Professor of Physiology Jennifer Schroeder. Since joining the biology department at Millikin, Schroeder has conducted studies on estrogen-responsive genes in breast cancer cells and the effects of pesticides on cancer development. The molecular physiologist became interested in breast cancer cell research as an undergraduate at Eastern Illinois University. “It was through some family medical issues that I started to look into estrogen and what it did to the body,” Schroeder said. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, Schroeder said it’s hard to find or understand relevant cancer research, let alone understand the scientific terms. She’s had students open up about family experiences to try and understand more. “If you just try to Google search that, it’s overwhelming.” And not all research, including Schroeder’s, is aimed at finding a cure. “For people that are in the field, trying to encompass it all as ‘a cure for cancer’ is difficult, because every cancer is different and each patient needs to be looked at as a different case.” She pulled up a microscope to show the three breast cancer cell lines they use. Up close, each is visibly different. One project with Millikin’s chemistry department is focused on finding a more effective way to deliver chemotherapy drugs and reduce side effects. Current chemo drugs target all rapidly dividing cells, which besides cancer includes normal cells such as hair follicles and blood.
Business Journal/Danny Damiani
Olivia Waszczuk, a junior biology major at Millikin University, checks the progress of unhealthy breast cancer cells. Waszczuk, along with other students, is assisting assistant professor Jennifer Schroeder with breast cancer research.
‘Cancer research is ridiculously expensive, what we do is small scale. But it’s really important for students to do this kind of research.’ JENNIFER SCHROEDER “Our goal is to find something that’s really, really toxic and encapsulate it and deliver it right to the tumor,” Schroeder said. Schroeder said one student compared the research to the Trojan horse of Greek mythology. They know the toxin works at killing cancer cells, so it’s the soldiers. They have the horse, or a way to deliver the toxin. “Now, the trick is getting the horse into the cell,” Schroeder said. Undergraduate students can join a research project at anytime. They collect and analyze data to eventually presenting the findings on- and offcampus.
Travis Mansur, a senior biology major, started doing chemistry research as a freshman but wanted something more fulfilling. “I wanted to do something that would be beneficial,” Mansur said. Now he’s working on writing and presenting data from the chemo drug research. One of the biggest things he’s taken away from the process is that it’s full of road blocks. “There’s no manual,” he said. Senior Shelly Mansfield was also drawn to do research working under Schroeder. “As a woman, I want to help people with breast cancer,” Mansfield said.
Rural communities have a higher rate of reproductive cancers than urban areas. This may be linked to exposure to pesticides or lack of access to health care, but no one knows for sure. Mansfield exposed cancer cells to three common herbicides and is analyzing research to present along with Mansur at a conference in October. “Our concern is if it contaminates a water supply, how would it effect cells?” she said. Most of their research is funded through Millikin and the biology department. As a small-scale operation, it is hard to compete with larger universities and research organizations with big research goals. Basic tools such as flasks and food to keep the cancer cells alive can cost hundreds of dollars. Their new PCR machine, which analyzes cancer cell genes exposed to pesticides cost about $20,000. To donate, contact the Alumni and Development Office by calling (217) 424-6383. “Cancer research is ridiculously expensive, what we do here is small scale,” Schroeder said. “But it’s really important for students to do this kind of research.”
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Community health calendar Support groups Growing Through Grief, 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Call Leslie Roberts at (217) 876-6784. TOPS Club IL 49 Decatur, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Main Street Church of God, 2000 N. Main St. (enter from Garfield Street). Support group for Real People seeking Real Results with weight loss. For more information, go to www.topsclub.org or call Chris Granda at (217) 521-2420. Helping Hands Bereavement for Children, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley, Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750. Grief support group, 12:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. For information, call Jamie Smith, (217) 544-6464 ext. 45268. Facing Cancer Together, 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. For cancer patients and their families. Register online or call (217) 876-4750. Pink Link breast cancer support group, 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. To register, call (217) 876-4377. Breastfeeding support group, 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13 and Oct. 27, Baby TALK, 500 E. Lake Shore Dr. To register, call Flo Folami at (217) 464-2334. SHARE support group, 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room G24. Support group for those who have experienced the death of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or early infancy. For more information, call (217) 4642045.
Epilepsy support group, 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, St. Mary's Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For more information, call (217) 853-1655. Diabetes support group, 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, DMH Specific Performance Enhancement Center, 2122 N, 27th St. Call (217) 876-4249. Parkinson’s disease support group, 1:30 Thursday, Oct. 16, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1360 W. Main St. For information, call Kathy Broaddus at (217) 820-3096. Postpartum emotional support group, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, St. Mary's Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For more information, call Flo at (217) 464-2334. Breath of Life support group, noon Tuesday, Oct. 21, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. Speakers available to answer questions from those with breathing problems. For information, call Cheryl Shipley at (217) 464-2603. Cardiopulmonary wellness group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Decatur Memorial Hospital Classroom A. Call (217) 8762429. Widowed support group, 6 p.m. Thursday, 0ct. 23. Monthly dinner gathering. For location or to register, call Sister Chaminade Kelley at (217) 428-7733. Renewal bereavement support group, 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 27, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750. Us TOO prostate cancer support group, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary
Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 8764750.
Classes Breastfeeding Basic, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2 and 23, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Cafe DMH meetings rooms. Register online or call (217) 876-3400. In BeTWEEN for Girls, 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, Decatur Memorial Hospital OB Classroom. For girls ages 9-12. Register online or call (217) 876-3100. Freedom from Smoking. This seven-week course, begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, in St. Mary's Hospital, Room 561. Cost is $25. Call (217) 464-5873. Cardiopulmonary rehab nutrition class, 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, Decatur Memorial Hospital Cafe DMH. DMH dietitian discusses heart healthy eating with emphasis on labels. Decatur Memorial Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation Department. Call (217) 876-2496. Breastfeeding for the Pregnant Couple, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Eat Right to Help the Fight, 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Nutrition class for cancer patients. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.
How to prevent ear infections Steps can lesson pain, discomfort By ALISON JOHNSON TCA News Service
Ear infections may be a common part of childhood, but “there are several strategies that can lessen the chance your child has to experience the pain and discomfort,” said Phillip Snider, a family practice physician and registered dietitian in Norfolk, Va. Some tips: Breastfeed your baby. Nursing for six to 12 months significantly lowers the risk of infection. If you are bottle feeding, hold babies in a more upright position and don’t put them to bed with a bottle.
Avoid cigarette smoke. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are twice as likely to suffer from chronic ear infections. Don’t smoke inside your house or car. Keep up on immunizations. That includes vaccinations against flu and pneumonia, which prevent respiratory illnesses that can lead to ear infections. Guard against illness. Colds cause clogged nasal passages, which can lead to clogged ear tubes. Do your best to avoid people who are sick and teach children the importance of frequent hand washing. Control allergens at home. Dust and vacuum regularly and get an allergy test if your child seems sensitive to certain foods. Eat healthy foods. Fruits and vegetables will boost a child’s immune system to help fight off germs.
Consider your child care setting. Kids in large day care centers generally are more likely to catch illnesses than those in smaller home settings. Consider preventive medicine. If your child is prone to ear infections, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics at the first sign of cold symptoms — or even put a child on a low daily dose of antibiotics throughout the winter. The risk, however, is increased antibiotic resistance. Talk about surgery. Small, temporary ear tubes can help drain fluid that serves as a breeding ground for bacteria.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Printed with environmentally safe water-based ink
FROM THE EDITOR Regular readers of this column know I’m a little slow when it comes to technology trends. My “dumb” phone still has a picture I took while on vacation four years ago as its background. It’s the same picture that continues to identify my very, very, very rarely changed Facebook page. Despite my reluctance to completely step out of the dark ages (stay tuned, drastic changes might be coming), I at least understand people are changing the ways they communicate. Not doing so would be career suicide. Which is why I’m still amazed when business owners, whose livelihoods depend on interacting with potential customers, fail to maintain their websites with timely information. They obviously understand the importance of having a web presence. Is it asking too much for them to update the information they posted years ago? I’m sure something has changed in that time worthy of note. It’s even more frustrating when I go to a site seeking more information about something I know is happening, only to find loads of outdated information. I can get away with that on my personal Facebook account. My failure to do has no impact on my bottom line.
Conference Room. For more information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Happiest Baby on the Block — Magic?, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. For more information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Cardiopulmonary risk factors education, 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, Decatur Memorial Hospital Cafe 1 and 2. Call (217) 876-2496. Cardiopulmonary wellness group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Decatur Memorial Hospital Classroom A. Call (217) 8762429.
More Community Health Lecture Series, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Decatur Public Library. The St. Mary’s Hospital community health lecture service provides an informational lecture from a local health care provider. This month will feature senior counselor Steve Rathnow on mental health and you. For more information, call (217) 464-5125.
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Community Education, Diabetes 101: Lunch with a Dietitian, 8 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. To reserve a spot, call (217) 4642046.
Infant CPR Class, 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, Decatur Memorial Hospital OB Classrooms. Register online or call (217) 876-3400. Real Dads Rock!, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi
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Biz Bites . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Meet newspaper editor Gary Sawyer
Business Clips . . . . . 25 Fred Spannaus . . . . . 25
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This month we celebrate women who are making a difference in their communities through the businesses they’ve started, the office they lead and the challenges that remain. Special section
The local battle against cancer YOUR HEALTH
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Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Scheduled speaker is Larry Klugman of Richland Community College. Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Oct. 2 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club, 158 W. Prairie Ave. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Greater Decatur Y, 220 W. McKinley Ave. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr. American Business Women’s Association (Amacita), 6 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building, 2715 N. 27th St.
Friday, Oct. 3 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce First Friday Luncheon, noon, Main Street Church Tea Room, 2000 N. Main St.
Monday, Oct. 6 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille, 101 S. Main St. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, Oct. 7 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton, 333 W. Marion Ave., Forsyth. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility, 3909 W. Main St. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Wednesday, Oct. 8 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Real Estate Investors Association, 6:30 p.m., Perkins Family Restaurant, 2999 N. Monroe St.
Thursday, Oct. 9 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
GFWC Decatur Woman’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Senior Resources Network (formerly Mature Resources Network), 11:45 a.m., Keystone Gardens, 1455 W. Mound Road. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Area Women’s Network (DAWN), 5:30 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building. Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Environmental Center, 3939 Nearing Lane.
Monday, Oct. 20 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, Oct. 21
Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Monday, Oct. 13
Wednesday, Oct. 22
Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.
Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Tuesday, Oct. 14
Thursday, Oct. 23
Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall, 3390 N. Woodford St. Decatur Area Society for Human Resource Management, 11 a.m., Doherty’s Pub and Pins, 242 E. William St. Central Illinois Ad Club, 11:30 a.m., Decatur Club. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Environmental Center.
Friday, Oct. 10
Wednesday, Oct. 15 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Christian Women’s Network, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Oct. 16 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Christian Women’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur AMBUCS, 6 p.m., Decatur Club.
Friday, Oct. 17 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Women’s Network, 11:45 a.m., Decatur Club.
Friday, Oct. 24 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Monarch), noon, location varies.
Monday, Oct. 27 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Oct. 30 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
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YOUR MONEY
YOUR CALENDAR
Wednesday, Oct. 1
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Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club.
Friday, Oct. 31 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
Monday, Nov. 3 Decatur Noon Lions Club, St. Nicholas Grille. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, Nov. 4 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Wednesday, Nov. 5 Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
Thursday, Nov. 6 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Amacita), 11:30 a.m., location varies. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Greater Decatur Y. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building.
Friday, Nov. 7 Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce First Friday Luncheon, noon, Main Street Church Tea Room, 2000 N. Main St.
To submit items for Your Calendar, contact Scott Perry at (217) 421-7976, at sperry@heraldreview.com, or click the “Submit an Event” link at www.thebusiness-journal.com
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 72% read the Business Journal monthly. n 17% are 34 and under.
Consumers padding their checking accounts Savings increased, spending slow By E. SCOTT RECKARD TCA News Service Writer
With wounds from the Great Recession still fresh, chastened Americans are hoarding more cash in their checking accounts than at any time in the past 25 years. The defensive stance, uncharacteristic of previous periods of low inflation and an improving economy, reflects how debt-burdened Americans have striven to clean up their personal finances since the recession ended five years ago. The lack of attractive investment alternatives, with savings accounts paying next to nothing and the stock market already at lofty heights, is another factor, financial analysts said. A report released by bank consulting firm Moebs Services Inc. calculated the average balance for U.S. checking accounts at $4,436 at the end of last year, more than double the average of $2,100 over the 25 years of the annual survey. During good economic times, when unemployment and inflation are low, the average balance in consumer checking accounts is about $1,400, the survey noted. “When times get difficult, the con-
sumer sits things out and checking balances get larger, normally upward to $3,000 or a bit beyond,” the study said. “Generally, there is higher unemployment, lower inflation and falling prices.” By contrast, free-spending Americans had allowed their checking accounts to drop to an average of just $788 in 2007, the last year before the near-meltdown of the nation’s financial system, according to the study. The Moebs report, previously confidential for its clients, is fresh evidence of how the devastating economic downturn worldwide has changed consumer habits, especially on spending and saving. As people have been cleaning up their financial houses, they have only slowly increased spending, and that has helped to slow the recovery because spending typically represents about two-thirds of economic growth. The study was based on Federal Reserve reports and proprietary data from 2,800 banks and credit unions, said economist G. Michael Moebs, who heads the firm. Moebs said he released the findings for the first time because he is confident his numbers could be off by no more than 10 percent. “If it’s off by 10 percent, the amount in the accounts is $4,000 instead of $4,400,” Moebs said. “So what? It’s still twice what we’ve seen in the past.” Moebs said the trend is challenging for financial firms, reducing their
Survey: People spend little time researching 401(k) funds Only one-quarter sought advice By WALTER HAMILTON TCA News Service Writer
Americans know that 401(k) retirement plans are important, but they spend only a moderate time researching investments and are often confused about how to pick the best funds, according to a new survey. Nearly 9 in 10 workers view 401(k) plans as essential employee benefits, far outdistancing disability insurance, extra vacation days and the option to work from home, according to the poll by Charles Schwab Corp. But the typical employee spends only about two hours analyzing 401(k) choices, roughly half the time spent researching car purchases or vacations. Half of poll respondents said their 401(k)s are more confusing than the medical plans. Only about one-quarter of survey par-
ticipants have sought professional advice with their 401(k)s, according to the survey. That’s far less than the 87 percent who pay a professional to change the oil in their car. “With so much at stake, the industry needs to take a more active role in delivering personalized investment advice to help individuals’ 401(k)s work harder for them,” said Steve Anderson, head of Schwab Retirement Plan Services. “One-for-all default investments, such as target date funds or balanced funds, can’t be expected to meet the individual needs of workers,” he said. “The industry can do better.” However, earlier research has shown that employees must be extremely careful about 401(k) advice. A study by the U.S. General Accountability Office in 2011 found that what passed as education offered by firms running 401(k) plans often was little more than a sales pitch designed to push high-cost investments on unsuspecting employees.
income from overdraft fees. He is urging his clients to prepare for a big withdrawal of funds whenever depositors decide the economy is strong enough for them to use the cash to pay down mortgages, take a vacation or buy cars. UCLA economist Lee Ohanian said the study shows that despite a recent burst in jobs there remain “some very troublesome issues in the economy.” Until recently, much of the decline in unemployment was from people dropping out of the job market, he said. “Our employment-to-population ratio is still very low.” Growth in productivity is running at less than half its usual rate, Ohanian said, and the number of long-term unemployed remains high. “That weighs on people’s minds,” he said. “They think, ‘If I lose my job will I be out of work for two years?’ It’s scary.” The result, he said, has been a wave of caution, with Americans paying down old debts, thinking twice about new borrowing and keeping cash on hand as a safeguard. “A lot of people got badly burned picking up too much debt” in the years leading up to the recession, Ohanian said. “Now they are scared about where to put their money, especially after a huge run-up in the stock mar-
ket. Savings accounts don’t pay much, and stocks go up and down. You could lose your nest egg.” Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, agreed that crisisbred caution factored into the trend, but said rising employment is likely to have contributed to the rise in checking balances as well. “There is more income,” he said. “I think it’s going to take time for consumers to catch up — to increase their spending to match the improvement in jobs.” Zandi said he suspected that much of the increase in average checking balances reflects more affluent families allowing cash to pile up for now rather than paying down mortgages carrying rates as low as 3.5 percent or pouring more money into stocks and bonds. “Consumers should be applauded for cleaning up their credit. They’re smarter now, more aware of charges, and the level of overdrafts has dropped dramatically,” said John Cassidy, chief executive at Sierra Central Credit Union. “During the bubble periods,this started in the late ‘80s, really, people didn’t bat an eye at running up hundreds of dollars in overdrafts. They figured, ‘It’s a part of my lifestyle, I’ll just build it into my budget,’ ” he said. “That’s changed.”
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