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YOUR CALENDAR
Thursday, May 2 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility, 3909 W. Main St. Community Leaders Breakfast, 7 to 9 a.m. Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. Featured speaker is Michael Brandwein. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus Hall, 520 E. North St. 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.
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. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus Hall, 520 E. North St. Decatur Area Women’s Network (DAWN), 5:30 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building.
Friday, May 10 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
Monday, May 13
Friday, May 3
Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.
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.
Tuesday, May 14
Monday, May 6 Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill, 101 S. Main St. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, May 7 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton, 333 W. Marion Ave., Forsyth. BNI First Class Professionals, 7:45 a.m., Crestview Christian Church, 4415 N. Water St. 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. Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Millikin University. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.
Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. BNI First Class Professionals, 7:45 a.m., Crestview Christian Church. 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.
Wednesday, May 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.
Wednesday, May 8
Thursday, May 16
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.
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. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus Hall, 520 E. North St. Decatur AMBUCS, 6 p.m., Decatur Club.
Thursday, May 9
Friday, May 17
Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. GFWC Decatur Woman’s Club, 11:30 a.m.,
Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Women’s Network, 11:45 a.m., Decatur
Club.
Monday, May 20 Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, May 21 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. BNI First Class Professionals, 7:45 a.m., Crestview Christian Church. 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.
Wednesday, May 22 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility. Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner, 5 to 8 p.m., Decatur Conference Center and Hotel.
Thursday, May 23 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus Hall, 520 E. North St. Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Poage Cadillac Buick GMC, 1500 Koester Drive, Forsyth.
Friday, May 24 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Monarch), noon, location varies.
Tuesday, May 28 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. BNI First Class Professionals, 7:45 a.m., Crestview Christian Church. 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.
Thursday, May 30 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus Hall, 520 E. North St.
Friday, May 31 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.
Monday, June 3 Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.
Tuesday, June 4 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. BNI First Class Professionals, 7:45 a.m., Crestview Christian Church. 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, June 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, June 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, Knights of Columbus Hall, 520 E. North St. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building.
Friday, June 7
Wednesday, May 29
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.
Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.
To submit items for Your Calendar, contact Scott Perry at (217) 421-7976, at sperry@herald-review. com, or click the “Submit an Event” link at www. thebusiness-journal.com.
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May 2013
FROM THE EDITOR We received a fax from the state on Earth Day proclaiming April 22 as No Print Day. Raise your hand if you think there’s something strange about that sentence. Time’s up. They sent us a fax. Two sheets of paper used to “draw our attention to the overuse of paper and how to reduce paper consumption.” One of the suggestions the news release gave for reducing paper waste? “Send faxes electronically/email attachments.” Don’t get me wrong. I applaud the thought. Hardly a day goes by that I don’t marvel at how much paper we go through in our office. What amazes me more are the people who feel compelled to print everything and ALWAYS forget to get off their butts and make the short walk over to the printer and pick them up. I’m no stranger to being distracted by shiny objects. Things come up that cause me to forget I pushed print. But that is the exception. Not everything needs to be printed. And if it needs to be printed, it needs to be picked up. It’s that simple. If you need a reminder, print this note and tape it next to your computer.
SURVEY SAYS Saving more for retirement not a top priority
Fred Spannaus . . . . . . 9 Free Time calendar . . 14 Health calendar . . . . . 21
ISSUE 5
601 E. William St. Decatur, IL 62523 217.421.7976 217.421.7965 (fax)
PUBLISHER: Todd Nelson EDITOR: Scott Perry
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 June issue is May 14. Call 217.421.7931 for rate information. The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is printed monthly and is a publication of Lee Enterprises Inc.
Liz Reyer . . . . . . . . . . 17 Office Coach . . . . . . . 18 Professional profile . . 12 SCORE counselor . . . . 8 Wendy Gauntt . . . . . . 15
VOLUME 19
COVER PHOTO: Jean Zerfowski
23
Business Clips . . . . . . . 8
OF MIDCENTRAL ILLINOIS
LAYOUT & DESIGN: Jane Ruppert
May2013Contents Biz Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
BUSINESS JOURNAL
ADVERTISING: Cayla Hittmeier
Scott Perry, editor Business Journal of Midcentral Illinois
Standing Features
BUSINESS JOURNAL
Ready to ride Bike enthusiasts from all backgrounds, and the businesses that cater to them, prepare for perfect motorcycle weather. Page 11
16 STRONG BOND Mr. John’s teaches students to focus on customer service
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 2013 Herald & Review All rights reserved for entire content.
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May 2013
YOUR COMMUNITY
Reverend makes investment in others Bates: ‘God idea’ led to establishment of Small Business Expo By THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — The Rev. Jessie Bates led the Ambassadors for Christ street ministry for so long, it might surprise some people to know he was an entrepreneur before he was a preacher. But it explains why, the minute he satisfied his old business debts six years ago, he and his wife Janice established JRB Enterprises to buy and renovate homes around his church, Abundant Life Christian Center at 1705 N. Maple St., so that “people who wanted to rent from us would have a decent home to live in.” With 21 properties under their belt, the Bateses have been working for the past 15 months to breathe new life into the strip mall formerly anchored by Sattley’s office supplies. The shopping center has a new name, Decatur Plaza, and a new anchor, a Small Business Expo offering new businesses an easier way to get started. Bates said God shared all this with him, starting during the time a special speaker was at Abundant Life Christian Center teaching the congregation about making good investments. “This was a God idea,” Bates said. “We were just in training on the residential property for almost five years before we entered the commercial realm.” Open since June 1, the Small Business Expo is up to six tenants, the newest of which is J-5 Shoes, a unique boutique opened by Edna Thomas earlier this month. Thomas, like the others, appreciates the chance to limit her financial commitment starting out with a four-month lease costing just $75 a week, with all maintenance and utility charges included. LeShawn Young, owner of Shawn’s Electronical Connections, has done so well repairing cellphones, computers and other electronics, he expanded his business to a second kiosk earlier this month. “This location is real awesome because I’m right in the center of town,” Young said. “Eventually, I’m going to have to have somebody else doing the repairs, too, the traffic is so heavy.” Other tenants in the Small Business Expo are Word of Knowledge Bookstore, Reshaping U 4 Life, Lo’Chique Boutique and CA’s Tax Enterprise. Yet even this isn’t the full story on Decatur Plaza because it has also been home since September to Illini Fadez, a barber/beauty shop owned by Audrey Austin and Davida Fanniel of Springfield. Manager Geoffery Turnbo said the
Business Journal photos/Mark Roberts
Jessie Bates, president and CEO of JRB Enterprises, stands outside the Small Business Expo in Decatur.
Geoffery Turnbo cuts Michael Withers’ hair at Illini Fadez. shop started with three barbers and one stylist but now has five barbers and three stylists. “Everybody sees us driving by on Water Street,” he said. Tickets-N-Trips also remains a key destination in the shopping center, and manager Stephanie Ramsey said she
appreciates the changes that have come with the new landlord. “It’s nice having businesses next to us and the place looking busier,” Ramsey said. “(Bates) has really done a good job fixing everything up and keeping the place clean.”
Until graduating from Eisenhower High School in 1973, Jessie Bates said he worked at Red Carpet car wash from the time his family came to Decatur from Brownsville, Tenn. He operated a variety of businesses — including a lawn service, a night club, a clothing and jewelry store and a cell phone and pager business — in Decatur and elsewhere, until he felt the call to ministry, studied at Lincoln Christian College for two years then founded Ambassadors for Christ in Decatur in 1997 and Abundant Life Christian Center in 2002. Two spaces remain in Decatur Plaza, and Bates wants to attract a discount store like Family Dollar or Dollar General, along with a thrift, photography or grocery store. “For the economy, I think it’s going really well,” Bates said. “Our whole intent was to generate and create revenue in the inner city. That’s where our heart is.” He also believes he learned important lessons from past ventures that will help him succeed. “Besides being a God idea, I know it’s important not to try to grow too fast and make sure you are financed,” Bates said. “You must also provide the very best customer service you can because your customers are partners with you.”
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May 2013
BIZ BITES
Now open CherryBerry has opened the newest of its self-serve yogurt bars to enthusiastic response at 130 S. Oakland Ave. in Decatur. CherryBerry offers 12 flavors of frozen yogurt, such as strawberry, watermelon, orange and cherry, and two with no sugar added (Tahitian vanilla and chocolate). The more exotic flavor names include Greek java caramel cup, California tart, caramel pretzel, birthday bash and Cookie Monster. Julie Bartol, director of operations, said she also has two dairy-free sorbets, and topping choices number more than 40. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Call (217) 330-8573. nnn After spending the past five years perfecting his tattooing skills in the Decatur and Springfield area, Jesse Jones felt the time was right to venture out on his own. Jones opened Urban Legendz Tattoo Parlor at 237 S. Jasper St. in Decatur at the end of February. He said his bright, bold and colorful tattoos are what separate him from his competition. He also does custom work. While Jones, 23, expects the business will grow to include other artists, he’s happy being the only artist in the shop as he gets settled in as a business owner. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Call (217) 330-6709.
On the move When Lori George’s dad bought Decatur’s Golden Glaze Donuts in 1973, his competitors included Mister Donut, Vanzetti’s Bakery and what soon became known as Harold’s House of Donuts. About all she remembers is that her father, Donald Sterling, was good friends with Harold Allison. That and helping the girls at Golden Glaze, then located at 1500 N. Water St., put sprinkles on the
doughnuts at night. “I was 7 and thought I was a big shot,” George said. Fast-forward 40 years, and George and her husband, Dean, have taken the family business across town and set up shop in the former Harold’s, shuttered since 2008, bringing the familiar, large-windowed A-frame back to life with customers, pastry and coffee. Golden Glaze Donuts moved from 3755 E. William Street Road, its home since 1996. “It’s a better opportunity,” George said. “This place is known for doughnuts, and we want to keep that tradition going.” nnn The J&R Barber Shop has cut away to a new Decatur location. It’s now based at 3151 N. Woodford St., Suite A, just one door east of the Secretary of State’s driver’s license facility. The shop, founded more than 50 years ago, used to be at 1904 N. Main St. and had been looking for a more convenient location on one level because customers were complaining about the steps needed to access the old building. “We’ve remodeled everything, and it’s about twice the size of the location we had,” said cosmetologist and barber Lori Carr. “It will be a lot better experience for everybody.” nnn Hendricks & Carr Marketing Solutions has moved closer to its origins in 2008 in downtown Decatur. The new location is at 1075 W. Main St. in the former second-story quarters of Fitzjarrald & Associates. Mike Carr, a partner with Josh Hendricks in the business, said they wanted to be closer to Decatur’s business district than they were on South Taylorville Road. nnn Country Financial representative Andy Stukins has opened an office on the square in Mount Pulaski. Stukins had previously been based out of the Forsyth office. Stukins said much of his time has been spent becoming familiar with the community and meeting as many residents as possible while working out of the
office at 123 S. LaFayette St. nnn Kristen and Bryant Bunch have moved their at-home birthday party business, Bunch of Fun, into the Small Business Expo at Decatur Plaza, 1123 N. Water St., beginning Monday. They have a bounce house to rent out and characters including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Elmo, Hello Kitty, SpiderMan, Dora the Explorer and Sponge Bob. Bunch of Fun also offers candy-filled pinatas, a party game and a gift for the birthday child. Kristen Bunch, who already operates a home day care service, said she and her husband are trying to fill a need they felt time and again raising six sons, who range in age from 2 to 20. “We’ve been throwing birthday parties for years,” she said. “What we have is so limited here.” Like his wife, Bryant Bunch also has another business — B&B Home Remodeling. Bunch of Fun is open by appointment. Call 454-6144.
New name A longtime northside Decatur hardware store is making the transition to a new name that its owner hopes will help it offer a more diverse selection of products. The store at 2809 N. Main St. is now operating as Decatur Ace Hardware. It had been open since 1974 as Daniels True Value, owner Mark Daniels said. “The change will help us service customers in Decatur better,” Daniels said. While the business now has the Ace name, Daniels said each store is independently owned and operated, which provides flexibility in running it. Other than changing the name, Daniels said customers shouldn’t notice much of a difference in personnel as he and other employees remain working there. nnn Homer L. Chastain & Associates has acquired Phillip W. Cochran Consulting Engineer and changed its name to Chastain & Associates. Phillip W. Cochran is now
partner of land development at Chastain & Associates.
New owner A Decatur business is driving forward under new ownership and a slightly modified name. Vanderlaan’s Automotive Repair at 6335 East U.S. 36, Suite C was known for the last three years as Vanderlaan’s Auto Repair after it was founded by former owner Greg Vanderlaan. The new owner is Cody Flanders, 24, and he is working alongside newly hired mechanic Dan Collins to offer a broad range of mechanical repair for all makes and models. Flanders worked alongside Greg Vanderlaan when they were employed at Nick’s Automotive in Decatur, which is owned by Vanderlaan’s father. Vanderlaan’s Automotive Repair is open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and by appointment Saturdays. Call (217) 864-1196.
Closed Visitors to the Oakwood shopping area will notice that Ralph’s West End Market across the street at 135 S. Oakland Ave. has closed in recent days. Owner Nate McKean said he is in the process of selling the store to new owners and hopes it will reopen soon. He declined to name the buyers, nor would he explain why he decided to sell Ralph’s after a little more than two years in business. “It’s complex, and I don’t want to discuss it,” he said. McKean did say that his Oakwood restaurant, Blue Eggs & Ham, continues to operate at 120 S. Oakland. Hours are 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
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@herald-review.com or call them at (217) 421-6979.
April election brings some changes to Decatur Board of Education Business Journal Staff Report
DECATUR — Change is in the cards for the Decatur Board of Education. Unofficial results from last month’s election show Barry A. Buttz, Alida Graham, Fred Spannaus and T.J. Jackson Jr. as new members of the board. All four will be serving on the board for the first time. Daniel Winter, the only incumbent and the current board president, received only 7 percent of the votes cast. “I’m pretty disappointed, but obviously the community wanted a big change in the board of education, and they sure got it,” Winter said. “Decatur is ready for change, and Alida and I, and T.J. and Fred, are ready to step in and do what we can and make
things better for kids and this whole community, and we’re excited,” said Buttz, the top vote-getter with 5,268 votes. Buttz and Graham are retired teachers. Graham additionally served as Decatur Education Association president for eight years, and Buttz has been a principal and central office administrator. Jackson is a former dean at Eisenhower High School. Spannaus has been a community advocate. There also were changes at the township level, with trustee Lisa Stanley defeating incumbent Decatur Township Supervisor Duane Potter. Vicki Sheets, who previously served as supervisor, defeated current Republican trustee Mark Younker and incumbent Assessor
Tom Greanias, who ran as an independent, in the race for township assessor. In the closest race, incumbent Clerk Ada Owens edged out current trustee Michael Sexton. Elected as trustees were Debbie Sheets, Amy Nixon Rueff, Michael Smith and Susan Gant Reynolds. Incumbents fared much better in the other high-profile community races. Chris Riley was won re-election to the Decatur Park District Board of Commissioners. He will be joined on the board by Chris Harrison, who won the seat vacated by Don Luy, who did not seek reelection. Dale Colee won re-election to the Richland Community College Board of Trustees. He will be joined by David Cooprider, who is filling the seat vacated
by Amy Bliefnick, didn’t run for re-election. It was a clean sweep for incumbents for Decatur City Council incumbents Jerry Dawson, Pat McDaniel and Julie Moore-Wolfe. As for the leadership in other Macon County communities, there will be some new faces — some by their choice and others by the choice of voters. The new mayors/village presidents are Cindy Luedke in Argenta, Kenny Ervin in Blue Mound, Marilyn Johnson in Forsyth, Rose Marie Ross in Harristown, Cheryl Smith in Long Creek, Todd Collins in Macon, Ted Agee in Maroa, Robert Embrey in Niantic, Aaron Keathley in Oreana, and Corey Maloney in Warrensburg.
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May 2013
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YOUR BUSINESS
Father finds peace restoring motorcycles Started diving into business to deal with son’s cancer By DONNETTE BECKETT Business Journal Writer
MACON — The White Zombies may have defined it — “400 horsepower of maximum performance piercing the night ... This is black sunshine.” But Brian Elliott brings the ride to life. “My main job is to restore engine cases and frames, so people can restore the bikes themselves or pass on to someone else,” said Elliott, who re-creates 1970s and older Harley-Davidson motorcycle frames as part of his business, Black Sunshine Motors. He also can re-create the entire bike, a task that can take two months to over a year to do. “I don’t like to build bikes, but I do it to fund the other work.” He searches for original parts at swap meets and at other garages and shops. If he can’t find the part, he will manufacture it himself. “When you are restoring a bike, you don’t want something off the shelf, you want an original part.” Motorcycle buffs from all over the world, including Australia, England, France, Italy and Germany, where the older Harley-Davidson culture is very popular, have work done by Black Sunshine Motors. Although motorcycle enthusiasts may dream of spending every day with knucklehead frames and old HarleyDavidson parts, the business started from a nightmare. The love of motorcycles started when Elliott was 18 years old and “tinkering” around. He started restoring a bike, but had to sell it after his first child, daughter Myia, was born in April 1998. “I gave up a little when I had kids,” he said, with no regrets. In January 2002, Elliott’s then 2-yearold son, Brodin, was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a brain tumor at the base of the brain that can affect the spinal cord fluid. “When he was going through all of this, I couldn’t keep my head straight,” Elliott recalls. “If you’re watching TV, you’re still thinking about it. So, I started diving into this.” Elliott’s wife, Mary, left her job at Bachrach’s clothing store to be with their son. “After I left Bachrach, we went from two incomes to one,” she remembers. “His shop helped a little bit financially.” During the next few years, Brodin had two surgeries on his brain. And the follow-up treatments of radiation and chemotherapy took a toll on the little boy’s body. Through it all, Black Sunshine Motors
Business Journal/Mark Roberts
Brian Elliot, center, with his two children, Myia and Brodin, at his bike shop in Macon. BELOW: Elliot shows Brodin how to use one of the machines in his garage.
progressed. The business started slowly out of a shop at his home in Oakley. By 2004, the work began to grow and he moved the business to a shop on Pershing Road in Decatur. But after two years, he found the rent and other expenses of owning a business to be costly. “And it’s hard to run a business with only two people,” he
said. So he moved Black Sunshine back to his home, which is now in Macon. Since then the dream has been looking a bit brighter. Brodin, 12, has been cancer-free for five years and was released from further medical testing last summer. He is a student at Harris School.
Mary made the choice to return to work in special education. “By putting myself in his school setting makes me aware of what Brodin needs,” she said. This has allowed Elliott to slow down. “You know I’ve got a family,” he said. But Brodin’s disease and the treatment have had a lasting effect on the boy’s body. He has scar tissue on his lungs that causes respiratory problems. He has two hearing aids, cataracts in one eye and he doesn’t talk. Because of Brodin’s continued health concerns, his father works full-time for the benefits as a railcar repair shop supervisor. “I work here, and I moonlight there,” Elliott said, standing among half-assembled motorcycles and parts. Several of Elliott’s bikes have been photographed for national magazines such as “Easy Rider,” “Full Throttle” and “The Horse-Backstreet Choppers,” in which he was awarded Chop Off winner. Other awards include Cycle Source’s Builder of the Year and Best in Show. His bikes have been displayed at many motorcycle shows, including at the Broken Spoke Saloon during the Sturgis Rally. His bikes also have been on display during the Easy Rider Tour. “Brian started the business as a reprieve,” Mary said. “But it proved he was a real artist.”
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May 2013
BUSINESS CLIPS
Achievements
Fields
Theresa Rutherford, chief operating officer of St. Mary’s Hospital, is now a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Sheri Spain, membership marketing director and catering manager of the Country Club of Decatur, has achieved the title of certified marketing professional through the Professional Club Marketing Association’s Membership Management Institute.
Rainwater
Rutherford
Spain
Illini Supply’s Joseph Rainwater and Dustin Fields have been certified in the installation of moveable wall systems. The Business Journal took third place in the best business publication (niche product) category in the Local Media Association’s 2012 Editorial Contest.
Announcements John C. Lee, Decatur ophthalmologist, presented a seminar on glaucoma research at the Cogan Ophthalmology Society Meeting in Kansas City. The Decatur Parks Foundation has welcomed three
Lee
Chadwick
Schwarz
Rozelle
new members to its board of directors: Melinda Chadwick, community volunteer; Margo Rozelle, Kroger Company; and Jim Schwarz, Dunn Company.
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.heraldreview.com/app/secure/businessach/
ASK THE SCORE COUNSELOR Q: What are some normal occurrences/benchmarks an entrepreneur might experience as a business owner? A: Once again I’ve turned to The Illinois Small Business Development Center Network’s Weekly Connection publication. Contributor, Barry Moltz, a small business consultant, author and speaker who provides help for small business, has several suggestions. He says most entrepreneurs will one day create their last business card and will stop starting and running companies. Before that day comes, here are things every entrepreneur should experience: START A BUSINESS. Many people think about it, but few actually do it. Quit the day job and jump head first into the deep end. There is nothing in this world that feels better than overcoming the fear of launching a new business venture. When that first customer buys, it makes it all worthwhile. One suggestion I would add, however, is to develop a business plan that will not only help you get started but after routinely reviewing will keep your business on track. SELL A BUSINESS. When someone else pays money for a company that an entrepreneur built, there is a huge sense of pride. Creating something of value for customers is one thing, but when a larger company wants to “buy” what they created, that feeling is in an entirely different league. GO OUT OF BUSINESS. While this is not as enjoyable as No. 1 or No. 2, it is a valuable experience. Experiencing failure will test any entrepreneur’s resiliency. When any small business owner has been beaten down and comes back, that feeling is the sweetest one of all. FIRE AN EMPLOYEE. Most entrepreneurs try to avoid doing this because it makes them feel sick. Unfortunately, getting rid of a person that every other employee knows is not pulling their weight will eventually be a big relief and a major boost for the entire organization. PAY BACK A BANK LOAN. It is easier to borrow money than to pay it back.
GOT A QUESTION? To learn more about being a successful entrepreneur; 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. When any entrepreneur makes that final payment on a loan, they can look the banker in the eye and simply smile. WORK WITH A PARTNER. This has its own set of challenges, but learning to work with a partner that has complementary skills can be very rewarding. If a partnership would work for you, it’s key to find the right partner for your business. GO ON A VACATION (AND STILL MAKE MONEY). This is the test to see if the entrepreneur has built a real business or just created a job. If they can go on vacation and still make money, they have built a company that has real independent value. PAY IT FORWARD. Mentor other entrepreneurs with your time or invest in them with your money so they can be successful. This is as sweet as personal success. — Carol Harding, SCORE counselor
Meet a SCORE counselor Sharon Alpi is the Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Millikin University. In 2004 she was named a Coleman Foundation Professor in Entrepreneurship joining just 11 others throughout the country. Sharon was instrumental in bringing the 12-week First Step FastTrac entrepreneur Alpi course to people in the community wanting to start their own business. She has been a SCORE counselor since 1995.
BUSINESS JOURNAL 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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May 2013
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Co-workers don’t need to be friends “It’s a personality conflict.” Have you ever heard these words? I swore them off decades ago. I no longer believe in personality clashes. But many managers do. These good folks are aware that there is a problem. They know that two (or more) people are not getting along well at work. The bosses have not been able to resolve it. So they make a diagnosis: a personality conflict. Their reactions fall into three categories: 1. Do nothing. Hope that the problem goes away on its own. Human Resources 2. Meet with the parties and ask them to just get along. 3. Separate them. If possible, re-assign one of the parties to a different unit or shift. Seldom do any of these strategies work. That’s because the cause is not a
Fred Spannaus
“personality conflict.” That term is a cover and an alibi. When a mouth produces the sounds “personality conflict,” what I really hear are these statements: “This is really nobody’s fault.” “Just one of those things.” “No need to hold anybody responsible.” “Too bad. Not my problem.” “I can’t do anything about this.” “I don’t need to do anything.” Seem like excuses? Sound like a weak manager? I agree. Here is some guidance to avoid the personality-conflict trap. Let’s start with five basic principles that can form the bedrock of your approach: 1. People do not need to like each other to work together effectively. They do not need to be friends. 2. They need to be co-workers. 3. Co-workers need to communicate with each other to work together effectively. 4. (This one is important) The communication needs to be work-focused, respectful, complete and timely. No games allowed. 5. Very few disputes are equally the fault of two persons. Holding both par-
ties identically responsible is unfair. And it’s ducking your own responsibility. Keep these five principles in mind. And here’s the drill for the situation. Call them in, one at a time. Shut the door. Get right down to business. No small talk. Define the problem in business terms: “It has been reported to me that communications between Carrie and you are so poor that it’s affecting our ability to meet delivery deadlines.” Do NOT define it as a personal issue. For example, do not say “I hear Carrie and you are not getting along.” That is not a work-related problem. Then you state your five principles. Share these tenets without asking for response; you are giving them your position, not asking for feedback about it. Next, ask the person for her or his story. Phrase your questions carefully: “What could Carrie do differently that would help you do the best work you can?” “What could you do differently that would help Carrie do her job better?” I want you to note two factors about the nature of these questions. First, they
The Perfect
focus on work issues, not personalities. Second, they inquire about behavior and actions, not the person. Keep those two factors in mind as you formulate more questions. When you finish your work, I believe you’ll find that the problem is not a personality clash, but the actions and behaviors of at least one of the parties. And you’ll resolve it as a strong leader should.
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 Reader Profile: n 63% have household incomes of $60,000 or greater. 36% have household incomes of $80,000 or greater.
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YOUR FREE TIME
Motorcyclists come from all walks of life Riders say trips connect them to passing landscape By VALERIE WELLS Business Journal Writer
FORSYTH — Jim Peck calls himself a “fair-weather” rider. He likes sunny skies and mild temperatures for riding his 2007 Harley-Davidson Road King, and so does his wife, Lisa. “It has to be over 50 (degrees) for me and over 70 for her,” Jim Peck said with a chuckle. “And we love weekend stuff. Our thing is kind of to stay off the interstate, to stay on the two-lane, back road stuff. We like to go to the Grafton and Alton area a lot. We like the wine trail. We’ve been to Milwaukee (where the Harley factory is).” Those whose only mental picture of a “biker” is the black leather jacket and club patch of a member of Sons of Anarchy, as seen on the TV show of the same name, and the matching bad-boy behavior, might be surprised to learn that most riders are regular folks who just enjoy riding. Jim Peck works in the nuclear medicine department at Decatur Memorial Hospital, after spending many years working at Sims Lumber. His hours start and end early because the medicines must be made right before being delivered to patients but, of course, that leaves much of the afternoon and evening free for other activities. “It’s a whole different field,” he said. “I’m surrounded by very young, very energetic brainiacs.” Lisa Peck is a registered nurse, also at Decatur Memorial. “The kids are all gone and we’re empty nesting,” Jim Peck said. “It’s working out pretty good. It is different at first. I didn’t know what to do.” Riding is something they can do together that they both enjoy, he said. A motorcycle allows a close connection to the passing landscape that a car doesn’t, and a typical ride might end up at a roadside diner in a town they’ve never visited before. “We just kind of piddle,” he said. “When we go, we have an area in mind, but we don’t have a set agenda. We just go.” Reggie Mitchell has been riding for about six years and rides her 2000 Harley-Davidson Sportster in all kinds of weather, unless there’s thunder and lightning. Cold is not a reason to stay home. “(Fiance John Sauter) taught me to be an every day rider,” Mitchell said and indeed, Sauter is known to his friends as “Polar Bear” because of his willingness to ride even with snow on the ground. Mitchell’s daughter Kristina Rosati also rides, borrowing her mom’s bike on those occasions, and both women took the safety course for new motorcycle riders offered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. “It’s not just a hobby,” Mitchell said. “It’s a way of life.” When she signed up for the safety course, there was a waiting list and some people even came to the class who weren’t registered, in the hope that someone who was would fail to show up and make room for them. Now, Mitchell said, the classes aren’t filling up. She can’t imagine why. And she sees very few women riding. Other than her daughter, she only knows one other woman who rides with any regularity. “It’s freedom,” she said. “I just like to be in the wind. I’ll keep doing it as long as I’m physically able.” Karen Harlin began riding because she couldn’t see around her husband when she was on his bike behind him. “It’s like having macular degeneration,” she said. “I couldn’t see anything in the front, only on the sides. Finally a friend of mine who rode — and she was short, like I
Business Journal/Lisa Morrison
Jim and Lisa Peck are Forsyth residents who may not fit the typical biker profile. am — and she said if you get the right bike, you can ride.” Her first motorcycle was a Honda Shadow, and now she rides a Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail. She’s been to Canada and Niagara Falls on it, ridden around Lake Michigan and to the Black Hills Rally in Sturgis, SD and even rode to her radiation treatments when she went through breast cancer a few years ago, to squeeze some fun out of that. Her doctor put a notation on her chart about her good attitude when he heard that.
She didn’t get a motorcycle license until she was 55, and now, at 64, can’t ride as often due to her husband’s illness, but still manages to get out and take rides when she can. She’s a member of the Land of Lincoln Mother-cyclists group for women riders. “I think I like being outside,” she said. “It’s just the freedom of being outside in the wind. I like riding by myself and the escape of it and then I like riding with a small group of people just out for the day.”
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Businesses ready to meet needs of bikers Warmer weather brings more to stores, streets By CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer
Rick Cox knows it’s only a matter of time before motorcycle riders will be out in force throughout Central Illinois. Just how soon riders are able to be out with any sort of consistency depends on how often the sun is shining and rain stays away. The seemingly few sunny days have been good for business, too, as customers prepared in March and April for the riding season ahead, said Cox, the World of Powersports general manager in Decatur. “We don’t care if it’s 40 degrees,” Cox said. “If it’s sunny, people ride motorcycles.” Motorcycles account for about 80 percent of the store’s business, which Cox said also offers other products, including ATVs and watercraft. Motorcycles have become increasingly popular in the past five years as it offers good gas mileage, Cox said. “It’s the consumer aspect with more affordable transportation,” Cox said. “It’s also recreation. People are saying we all work really hard, so we value our recreation and leisure time.” Co-owner Debbie Cozhiar is seeing new and different people visit the Cozhiar Harley-Davidson dealership in Forsyth. Customers are tending to be younger along with more women riding than in the past, she said. For the younger riders age 25 and up, Cozhiar said it can be that “their parents rode and it was a good experience.” “We see all ages riding in both genders,” Cozhiar said. “There has been more advertising toward women. It’s much more accepted.” Harley is a popular and widely recognized brand with its wide of selection of clothing and other merchandise. Riding motorcycles can be popular because it often offers riders the opportunity to travel, Cozhiar said. Organized riding events are a way to draw customers in and give back to the community at the same time, Cozhiar said. The dealership attracted over 1,000 people for its annual Blessing of the Bikes in April. “We try to make it a really great experience in every way we can,” Cozhiar said. “It’s a great business.” Among other things, Cox said World of Powersports holds a bike show and open house in May in partnership with the Gold Wing Road Rider’s Association. Barry’s American Cycles in Decatur has seen a steady interest in buying and selling motorcycles, owner Barry Geogehegan said. The appeal can be good gas mileage along with openness of riding. “It’s the freedom of riding,” Geogehegan said. “When you’re in a car, you’re in a box. Riding is a whole different view of the world.” In addition to more recent used bikes, Geogehegan said his business offers a selection of antique motorcycles that are popular with customers. Businesses that work with motorcycles have been busy since the end of winter getting equipment ready with everything from safety inspections to checking oil and brakes. “In March and April, people bring in everything they didn’t take care of properly over the winter,” Cox said. Safety is an important aspect to keep in mind as the weather gets nicer both for riders and nonriders alike, he said. “More motorcycles will come on the road than ever before,” Cox said. “We go all winter with none and then all of a sudden they’re on the road.”
Business Journal/Lisa Morrison
The Cozhiar Harley-Davidson dealership attracted over 1,000 people for its annual Blessing of the Bikes in April.
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Meet Karin D. Betzer business woman, motorcycle rider What is the general reaction of people when they learn you are such an avid biker? Usually shock, some amazement, some disbelief, a few who are envious and always, always people who want to share stories with you. Either stories of their own experiences or that of friends or relatives. People like to talk about riding or how they would like to ride a motorcycle, if only…
Hometown: Decatur Family: Sons, Rick and Randy; daughters, Robin and Renee. Occupation: Account executive, J.L. Hubbard Insurance and Bonds; tour coordinator, Soy Capital Bank and Trust. Education: Decatur public schools, Richland Community College, University of Illinois at Springfield.
I guess it’s safe to assume you’ve done some extensive traveling on your motorcycle. I have had the awesome opportunity to ride my motorcycle through the western states and the Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone National Park, Utah, Montana, New Mexico to the east coast of Maine, through Nova Scotia and up into Canada, from upper Michigan to southern tip of Texas and throughout the southern states. I have ridden more than 200,000 miles since 1989 and am not looking to quit as yet. We have such a great state and country and so much yet to see. I always look forward to riding to the next destination.
My “I’d rather be …” bumper sticker would read: “I’d rather be riding my Harley.” While I sincerely enjoy working in the insurance/banking industries, motorcycling gives me true R&R. No phones, emails, television, radio, just the sound of the engine and the sights and sounds surrounding me. Hobbies/interests: My interests are varied. I love riding my motorcycle, traveling, classical music, history, reading and helping others. I enjoy my children and enjoy attending my six grandchildren’s many activities. I find being involved in my community is an awesome opportunity. Business Journal/Ralf Pansch
My first job: Handing out pecans at the entrance of F.W. Woolworth Dime Store during the holiday season welcoming customers to the store. (I think this was my first volunteered position. My sister was a supervisor of the store and I received no pay.) Why I do what I do: I find satisfaction in working with people. I work at assisting customers with their insurance issues striving to find solutions where they have had problems. Insurance is often foreign to consumers and they need someone to guide them in the right direction. I enjoy the satisfaction of having customers feel good about placing their trust with our company. I also love traveling with the great people who are Soy Bank travel customers. Those who travel with the Bank Club are kind and considerate and looking forward to great times on their trips. Personal approaches to challenges: I say a prayer at the beginning of each day to set me on the right path of attitude and helpfulness. I make a consecrated effort to work through tough situations. Many times working through challenges I find that timing is very important; a phone call, an appointment, a meeting, etc. As my positions often pull me in a number of directions I count heavily on my memory and to-do lists. There is nothing quite so great as being able to mark lines through items completed on a list. I prepare my to-do list at night for
the following day. I also try to work as long as it takes to complete a project — not just 9 to 5. For me, having connections and a network of friends and associates to be able to go to for advice and help is a very important key in a working day. Community involvement: President of Decatur and Macon County Area Crimestoppers Association, past president and current board member of the Illinois State Crimestoppers Association, board member of Macon County Fair Association, member of Decatur Area Women Networking, treasurer of Land of Lincoln Mot-her-cyclists Association, currently working on the Committee for American Diabetes to have Kevin Breheny Kiss A Pig, committee member of the WSOY and Community Food Drive soon to be in its 12th year and a lifetime member of Harley Owners Group. A lot of us have an image in our minds of the traditional bike dude. Do you think people would be surprised to find out just how many “business” people are avid riders and blow this stereotype out of the water? Absolutely, I believe most individuals would be very surprised to know how many business people ride. The stereotype biker dudes still exist but not nearly to the extent many believe. The bikers we see in our community are individuals who work behind desks, drive trucks, build homes and the list goes on.
There’s a rumor going around that women actually ride motorcycles, too. Is this true? Many of those riding are women. In our women’s riding group we have an attorney, several bankers, teachers, nurses, hair stylists, home builders, insurance brokers, to name only a few. There are more and more women riding each year. An important point to remember no matter how much an individual may want to ride, riding is not for everyone. Riding for many is a stress reliever. However, a woman should ride because she wants to, not because someone wants her to ride. This is a hobby/interest which takes skill, practice, concentration and ability and not for everyone. How long have motorcycles been a part of your life? I rode on the back of my brother’s motorcycle at the age of five and love the thrill of the ride. I rode as a passenger for several years before taking the Illinois Motorcycle Safety Class and purchasing my first cycle, which was a 750 Virago, then a Harley Davidson Dyna and currently a Harvey Davidson Fat Boy. I have been avid rider since 1989. What’s the appeal? Riding is my R&R, giving me a sense of accomplishment, a feeling of freedom, knowing there is some risk of danger and needing to be on guard against losing focus. There is an excitement about being in command of a powerful machine. Another great appeal is the camaraderie of those who ride. The nicest people ride motorcycles.
You are a co-organizer of the Land of Lincoln Mot-her-cyclists. Tell us about the group. Land of Lincoln Mot-her-Cyclists Inc. is the name of our women’s riding group in Decatur. The organization was formed in 2003. We are not a dealer sponsored organization therefore all makes and models of motorcycles are welcome in our group. We have members who have been riding 20 years or longer as well as riders just finishing their safety course and getting their license. Our group has taken trips to Colorado and the mountains as well as to Texas, to the Outer Bank and a great many destinations in between. We meet 6 p.m. on the first Monday evening of each month at a designated restaurant. In nice weather we plan a dinner meeting and ride to a city within a 50 mile radius to combine a ride and a meeting. Meetings are used to plan rides throughout the year. We plan one-day rides, weekend rides and try to plan a multi-day ride or two each year. We also plan rides when spouses and significant others are invited to ride with us. Our mission is to encourage and support women who ride, to promote recreation, education, camaraderie and safety for women riders and to foster a positive image of motorcycling and women riders. How do you join? Any woman rider may contact us on the web at www.mother cyclists.com, the only stipulations are that you need to be licensed to ride a cycle (not a passenger) and that the cycle ridden has the legal horsepower to be able to ride highways and interstates. The dues are $12 per year. If you are interested you may call me at (217) 9727113 or visit our website.
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IDOT’s campaign aimed at bike safety Reminds riders to wear proper gear, make good choices By VALERIE WELLS Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — Trooper Len Kirkpatrick thinks he has a dream job. He rides a motorcycle up and down the highway on patrol for the Illinois State Police. “If it’s warmer than 25, we’re out there,” he said. The motorcycle offers him greater maneuverability than a car and also has the advantage of being less obvious than a patrol car for catching speeders. Plus, of course, it’s more fun to ride a HarleyDavidson than to sit in a car. Kirkpatrick and Master Sgt. Shad Edwards visited World of Powersports in March, along with ABATE of Illinois’ state coordinator Mike Myers, and the Illinois Department of Transportation’s
Terry Redman and John Webber to give presentation on motorcycle safety. May is Motorcycle Awareness Month, and with warmer weather, more bikers will be on the road. “Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable,” Edwards said, citing the statistic that 16.6 percent of traffic fatalities in Illinois are motorcyclists, though motorcycles are only 3 percent of registered vehicles. In about half of those motorcycle crashes, the bike is the only vehicle. Myers said the top two causes of motorcycle crashes in 2011 were driver impairment — due to alcohol, drugs or both — and a right of way violation, that is, another driver who pulled out in front of or into the motorcycle. A new safety campaign shows a group of riders on the road, all their safety gear on, but the Grim Reaper fills the top half of the picture and the caption is, “Death rides with the impaired rider.” “It’s the choices we make that have the greatest impact,” he said. The Gear Up — Ride Smart campaign aims to remind motorcyclists to wear proper safety gear, including long pants, sturdy boots and gloves, head and eye
protection, as well as check the condition of their bike, before every ride. The “T-Clock” checklist includes tires and wheels, controls, lights, oil, chassis and kickstand checks. Being alert and visible via bright-colored clothing, knowing your motorcycle and having a realistic awareness of your riding skills is also important. Rider safety courses are available through IDOT for beginner, intermediate and experienced riders and Myers urged all riders to take one or more of those courses. No matter how safely the rider is driving, however, he or she still has to be on the alert for those who might not notice a motorcycle. ABATE places signs and banners throughout the state urging, “Watch out for motorcycles,” and sends members to drivers education classes to give presentations to teens in the hopes that they will learn to watch for bikes from their first day behind the wheel, but even then, the words most often heard from the driver of a four-wheeled vehicle after a crash with a bike is, “I didn’t see him!” Donald Koehler knows that well. In 2011, he was riding his motorcycle on
U.S. 51 near his Macon home when a pickup pulled out in front of him. Koehler’s injuries included a collapsed lung, broken rigs, a shattered right arm, crushed left hip, fractured skull and internal injuries. And yes, the other driver said he didn’t see him. “The one thing I tell a lot of people now is don’t assume they see you, because all motorcycle riders have cardinal rule,” he said. “I forgot. I’ve been riding all my life and I assumed, I must have thought the guy seen me, and I took my eyes off him and that’s when I got caught.” It ended Koehler’s motorcycle-riding hobby, but not his determination to try to keep this from happening to someone else. He welded the battered bike to a trailer and pulls it to motorcycle rallies, parades, and anywhere else it might catch the eye of someone who needs to be reminded to watch for bikers. He also wants to remind the bikers themselves. “Somebody who rides a lot gets relaxed and they need to be reminded (too),” Koehler said. “I was always one of those people who thought it wouldn’t happen to me.”
May is designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness month. At Coziahr Harley-Davidson®, it’s our priority all the time! Our protective gear, lights & more are designed for riders BY riders! For information on the MSF courses go to www.msf-usa.org 2013 marks 110 years of Harley-Davidson® & it also marks 10 years for CHD in our current location. Watch for details on both celebrations coming up in August!! Check out our website, coziahrhd.com or friend us on FB for happenings throughout the riding months and beyond!! Safety is a mutual responsibility for motorists and motorcyclists alike. COZIAHR HARLEY-DAVIDSON
150 W MARION AVE.
FORSYTH IL 62535.
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The Arts Anne Lloyd Gallery: Barn Colony Artists Annual Show. Call (217) 423-3189. www.decturarts.org Gallery 510: Artwork by Nicole Christinson. Call (217) 422-1509. Blue Connection: Carriage House Press That’s How We Roll fundraiser. Perkinson Art Gallery, Kirkland Fine Arts Center: Annual Student Exhibition.
Music Juvae Jazz Society Concert, 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 25, Decatur Club. Opus 24 Spring Concert, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, St. Patrick Catholic Church. Cookin’ with the Chorale, 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 1 and 2, Fairview Park Pavilion.
On Stage Kirkland Fine Arts Center: “Broadway Today,” featuring the best of Broadway’s recent seasons, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11. For tickets, call (217) 424-6318. Millikin University Department of Theatre and Dance presents “Equinox: A Concert of
Calendar of events For a complete list of events, go to www.herald-review.com/go/ Dance,” May 4 and 5, at Kirkland Fine Arts Center. For tickets, call (217) 4246318. Decatur Park District dance students present “That’s Entertainment,” Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4, Decatur Civic Center Theater. For tickets, call 422-5911. Little Theatre-On the Square: Fiddler on the Roof, June 5 through 15.For tickets, call (217) 728-7375. www.thelittletheatre.org.
For the kids Scovill Zoo: Zippy Zoo Day with Mom, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 11. Memorial Day Celebration, May 27. Call (217) 4217435. Airport Fun Day and Experimental Aircraft Association pancake breakfast, 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 25, Decatur Airport. The Rock Springs Nature Center hosts a long list of minicamps, family adventures and classes during the month. So many, in fact, that there are too many to list. Go to www.maconcountyconservation.org and click on the Programs
and Activities tab for a complete listing.
Charity events Kiss-A-Pig Gala, to benefit American Diabetes Association, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 3. Call (217) 875-9011. Greater Decatur Duck Derby, noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 4. This annual event benefits the Children’s Museum of Illinois and helps fund free nights and special events. To sponsor a duck or for more information, call (217) 423-5437.
Misc. Stars Over Athens, Thursday, May 9, Greek Orthodox Church, 570 N. Union St. Tickets for the dinner, hosted in two seatings at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., are $25 for adults and $15 for children (carry-outs available). For tickets, call 217-428-9030 or 217-520-6230.
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.
Decatur Celebration headliners announced DECATUR — Headlining acts and attractions for the 28th Decatur Celebration have been announced. Festival headliners include 2000s rock band Vertical Horizon, along with quad-platinum 1990s alternative rock band Blind Melon. Joining them are hip-hop trio Naughty by Nature, 1970s rock band Foghat and 1990s dance club diva Ce Ce Peniston. Arguably the biggest music announcement, however, was the confirmation that previous Celebration headliners Here Come the Mummies will return for a special concert Aug. 1 at the Lincoln Square Theatre. Unlike other Celebration events, the show will be ticketed, with $15 to $40 tickets that will go on sale May 1 from the Lincoln Square Theatre box office. Filling out the rest of the musical announcements were performers Grammy-nominated country singer David Nail, country comedian Kevin Fowler, American Idol finalist Casey Abrams, Christian rockers Building 429, Christian duo for KING & COUNTRY, country singer Tyler Farr, Eagles tribute band Heartache Tonight and zydeco band Lisa Haley & the Zydekats. Decatur Celebration will be Aug. 1 to 4 on the streets of downtown Decatur.
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May 2013
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15
TECHTALK
Twelve tech roles for your company There is a perception that anyone “techie” can do ANYTHING “techie.” But that is far from the case. To fully cover all your technology needs, you will require a dozen different skill sets far too broad for any one person to know. If you are frustrated that your current IT support can’t meet all your needs, this is most likely the issue. You’ll need to build a deeper team of resources to fill in all the gaps. Here’s what you need.
PC technician Nearly everyone has a PC tech available to troubleshoot routine issues, like software error messages, hardware issues, printing problems, malware infections, etc. That person is often doing nothing more than reacting to problems, but a good tech will also do proactive maintenance like patching and security Technology updates.
Wendy Gauntt
Server administrator If you have ten or more staff, you probably have at least one server. That server also requires proactive maintenance to keep it operating efficiently and securely. From time to time, you may have issues that require troubleshooting, or software packages that require updates.
Network engineer Your network is what keeps all your systems connected to your server and the Internet. Networks include wired and wireless, as well as VPN (virtual private network) connections for remote access. Any issues connecting will require the help of a network engineer. In smaller environments this is usually handled by the server administrator.
Telecom engineer Most phone systems are now VoIP (Voice over IP) systems. This means they run on the same network as your computers, which can require some special setup and tuning to ensure good voice quality. A telecom engineer will bridge the data and voice sides of your network to make sure everything is running smoothly.
Business analyst The software you use to run the business — accounting, order processing, customer relationship management, etc. — all require specialized expertise. Not only does someone need to be familiar with the software itself, they also need to under-
stand how the software integrates with the related business processes. A good business analyst will ensure that you make the most of your software by finding opportunities to streamline and automate. They will adjust settings in the software and also communicate changes to the people who use the software every day.
Web developer Your website is written in code, which means someone needs to maintain and update that code. The more interactive your site, the more coding will be needed. Since the web is constantly evolving, your site will require regular updates. This should be done in coordination with your marketing team to ensure the best results. In most small businesses, this is handled by a website development company who has strong knowledge of online marketing and the technology behind it.
Vendor manager No matter how many internal IT staff you have, you will still have a number of vendors to manage. These will likely include a copier/printer company, various software companies, a phone company, an Internet service provider, a cellular provider, and quite possibly more. Someone will need to be in charge of communicating with these vendors and ensuring they provide the contracted services, especially when problems arise.
to review and manage those costs as the year goes by, to adjust as needed.
Chief information officer/planner At least once a year, you should review your technology systems as a whole. Is your technology meeting the needs of the business? Are you protected from risks, such as security breaches, disasters, employee misbehavior, failing equipment, etc.? What systems will help your business grow and become more efficient? Taking a big picture view of your technology will allow you to plan smart investments instead of constantly reacting to problems and issues.
Compliance and security expert Nearly every business these days is subject to some form of regulatory compliance requirements. The most common for small business is PCI Compliance, which impacts everyone who accepts credit cards. Other highly regulated
industries include medical and finance, but compliance requirements are becoming a norm for nearly everyone, and even unregulated businesses will benefit from strong security practices. This is highly specialized expertise, and audits usually require an independent third party so this will be another area to outsource.
Where to find them No wonder one person can’t do it all! A small army of people is required to cover everything listed here. Fortunately, most of these skill sets are only required on occasion, so you can hire the expertise needed, when you need it. Once you’ve assembled your team of experts, there’s one last challenge: ensuring they all work together, since all these areas are tightly interconnected. You’ll need a tech-savvy central point of contact who can keep everyone integrated and on the same page, with plenty of communications year-round to keep everything on track.
Wendy Gauntt is president of CIO Services LLC, a technology consulting company that specializes in small business solutions. Visit her Web site at www.cioservicesllc.com for more information, ideas and free resources.
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Procurement specialist A key part of IT is the equipment. You need someone expert to ensure you purchase the right equipment for the right price. Generally, spending a little more for quality will pay off in reliability over time. It’s the old “you get what you pay for” adage, which definitely holds true when it comes to technology. At the same time, you don’t want to waste money on bells and whistles that you will never need.
Project manager If you are highly dependent on IT, you probably also have a regular slate of projects under way. These could be software upgrades, infrastructure changes, migrations to cloud applications, new equipment rollouts, or any number of other activities. Someone will need to track status and timelines, as well as coordination between any interdependent areas.
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BUSINESS JOURNAL
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May 2013
YOUR CAREER
Students find strong bond at Mr. John’s School focuses on customer service, support for others By RYAN VOYLES Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — After her house burned down in January, Jennifer Kreher wanted to go to a place where she could feel comfortable and take in everything that had happened to her. Her first thought was school. Kreher, 37, is one of 60 students enrolled at Mr. John’s School of Cosmetology, based in Decatur, which focuses on cosmetology, esthetics, or skin care, and nails. But for students like Kreher and others, Mr. John’s is more than just a school: It’s a family. “They offered me a place to live, and they’re paying for utilities. ... I eat, breathe and live Mr. John’s,” Kreher said. It’s part of the culture of the school, which is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year. John Stubblefield, CEO and namesake of the school, said while there is a focus on the art of hair and other aesthetics, there is a large focus on teaching students how to develop relationships with customers. “If they don’t love you, they’ll find someone else,” Stubblefield said. “To be successful in our business, 20 percent of it is artistic ability and 80 percent is customer service.” In addition to the students at its Decatur school, there are 25 students at its Jacksonville location. Mr. John’s goes by a clock-hour schedule where students have to complete a certain numbers of hours before they can be licensed. As the economy continues its struggle, Stubblefield said the school and the industry are able to do well as people are drawn to the idea of getting an education and hands-on experience. “People see they can get an education in a year or so and have a base of clients to succeed in the business when they leave,” Stubblefield said. Part of the appeal of Mr. John’s for students has been the ability to adjust to the changes in the industry. It was the first licensed school in the state to teach esthetics and computers. “We want the instructors to be on the cutting edge, and to get the students on top of what’s going on and what the trends are going to be,” said Nancy Cordray, the school’s director of education. While many students who graduate leave with knowledge of artistic and business skills, as well as a clientele, Stubblefield hopes all of them also leave with a sense of confidence. “Our business is like weight loss; we sell a dream,” he said. “We want to teach
Business Journal photos/Jim Bowling
From left, Amanda Davis practices on a mannequin as student Beth Wiggins, reflected in mirror, preps her work station and student Share Hammer works with customer Brandi Renfro at Mr. John’s School of Cosmetology Esthetics and Nails.
TOP: Student Lisa Dennis, facing, is given guidance by cosmetologist Tish Morrison while practicing layerings. BOTTOM: Student Alex Glover works on a flat iron curl set.
Students Elizabeth Zienkosky, left, and Lamisha Benton perform perms on mannequin heads.
our students how to sell that dream and reinforce it.” The pitch to be friendly and compassionate goes toward more than just the
clients. Kreher said the bond between staff and students reflects a passion to help and support one another. “After my fire, I was very confused
and I was in shock, but I came there first because there’s such a feeling of family,” she said. “They enjoy, they love, they care for everybody.”
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May 2013
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17
Values will guide you back into job market Q: I’ve spent the past few years working in jobs outside my field because of the recession. Now that the job market is picking up, I’m trying to find the right way to explain the retail, volunteer work, etc., that I’ve done to send a good message. What do you suggest? A: Identify the themes that run through your career — including recent years — so that you can tell a compelling story. Sit down, close your eyes, and reflect on your career path so far. If you’re feeling regret or anxiety, set those feelings aside and focus on accepting the path you’ve been on. Go easy on yourself, recognizing that you’ve done what you needed to in order to get by in circumstances that you didn’t create. Now think deeply about your values as a person and a professional. Regardless of whether you’ve been working in
Liz Reyer
your field or in other roles, these will carry through. For example, if one of your values relates to understanding your customer’s needs, identify ways in which this has shown up across your career. Similarly, think about your areas of skills and expertise. Some may be more technical, and it may be more difficult to find a connection. Others may focus more on intangibles such as communication skills, which will lend themselves more easily to inclusion in your resumÊ and interview story. Developing an effective resumÊ that highlights your strengths will be key. Review different options to find an approach that works for you. Explore nonchronological formats that will deemphasize gaps in your professional path. In terms of content, craft some highimpact statements about what you would bring to a new position. These can be used at the top of your resumÊ or in a cover letter to spark an employer’s interest. Anticipate interview questions that explore your job history, and outline your responses. For example, to a general question about your work history,
WEEKLY TIPS Get weekly career tips from Liz Reyer at www.thebusiness-journal.com. emphasize your most recent professional role, comment on the lack of jobs in the industry, and note your diligence in finding other work and your initiative in volunteering. End with your readiness to move back into the profession, and mention steps you’ve taken to remain current, such as reading industry literature, attending meetings or taking classes. Prepare for questions that may be more pointed, so you aren’t on the defensive. Rehearse your responses somewhat
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so that you’re not stumbling for words, but not so much that it sounds canned. Remember that this will not be a new story to employers — many people are in a similar situation, and there will not be a stigma with it as long as you own your story with assurance. If you find yourself feeling insecure, take some deep breaths and reground yourself in your skills and capabilities. Take advantage of new opportunities, and use your track record in hard times as a demonstration of your ability to succeed.
Liz Reyer is a credentialed coach with more than 20 years of business experience. Her company, Reyer Coaching & Consulting, offers services for organizations of all sizes. Submit questions or comments about this column at www.deliver change.com/coachscorner or email her at liz@ deliverchange.com.
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 89% are college educated. n 28% are ages 45 to 54.
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BUSINESS JOURNAL
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May 2013
Cubicles will help distracted employees focus Q: Our department’s physical layout has created a lot of problems. My employees work in a completely open area without cubicles or dividers. There are no enclosed spaces where we can talk privately about confidential matters, such as personal problems or performance issues. The staff frequently complains that it’s difficult to concentrate with so many people around. I have suggested wearing headphones, but no one seems to like that idea. Instead, I get a lot of requests to work from home, which creates its own set of probOffice Coach lems. We’re about to move to a new building, which gives me an opportunity to reconfigure our space. What would you suggest? A: Fortunately, the completely open work environment was a fad that now seems to be dying. A little privacy should improve productivity and morale, so install cubicles or dividers to reduce noise and other distractions. Although some people can focus in a hurricane, most employees find that constant movement and conversation make it difficult to concentrate. Do not assume, however, that a revised floor plan will automatically eliminate those work-at-home requests. Apart from escaping office chaos, people may also enjoy working in their pajamas and avoiding traffic snarls. So unless you plan to eliminate this privilege altogether, you need to develop a clear telecommuting policy. To encourage collaboration, the new layout should include a small conference room or meeting area where colleagues can gather to discuss plans and projects. And since every manager must be able to have private conversations, be sure to give yourself an office with a door.
Marie McIntyre
Q: What can I do about a co-worker who has decided he doesn’t like me? For the last two years, “Matt” has been disdainful and dismissive whenever I try to talk to him. Recently, after I attempted to start a conversation, he loudly said, “This girl keeps trying to get me to talk to her. I wish she would just leave me alone!” Since we don’t have to work together, I took the hint and stopped speaking to him. However, I would still like to clear the air. I wish I could just let this go, but it would be nice to be able to say “good morning” without worrying about Matt’s bad attitude. How should I approach him? A: Given that you have no work-related reason for communicating with Matt, I think it’s time you got the message. After two years of rebuffing your attempts at friendly conversation, he has now explicitly told you to leave him alone. So please just do as he asks. Since you seem to be an outgoing, sociable person, Matt’s indifference
undoubtedly hurts your feelings. However, you must try to understand that some people simply have no desire to engage in social chit-chat at work. The more you try to be chummy, the more Matt will push you away. If the two of you worked on the same team or collaborated on projects, that would be quite different. Under those circumstances, learning to adapt to each other’s work styles would be extremely important. But since you and this guy have no occupational connection, you might as well treat him as he wishes to be treated. Q: For 18 years, I stayed at home to care for a child with special needs. My son now has an independent living arrangement, so I am in the process of looking for work. Before he was born, I held several retail and clerical jobs, but after being unemployed for so long, I have no idea what to put on my resumé. How can I encourage someone to hire me? A: Now that you’ve decided to return to work, a self-study program can help you learn about the five basic steps in a job search. These include setting realistic goals, creating effective “sales tools” (including a resumé), networking, interviewing and making a wise job choice. Many books and online resources can provide guidance in these areas. With an 18-year employment gap, you should give special attention to networking. Blindly sending out resumés is a waste of time, since competing with other applicants will be difficult. You need the added boost that comes from a making positive personal impression or being recommended by a strong connection. To strengthen your resumé, include any volunteer work you may have done for charitable or civic organizations. You might also consider increasing those activities, since volunteering can provide recent experience and references. Work is still work, even if you’re not receiving a paycheck. Finally, congratulations to you for devoting so much time to your son. Your dedication has undoubtedly made a tremendous difference in his life. Q: My husband and I own a business that has seen some difficult economic times. For the past two years, we have had to reduce staff and cut salaries just to stay afloat. Now that our children are older, we have decided that I should start working in the office, especially since I have previous administrative experience. Unfortunately, the secretary who has been with us for twelve years apparently resents my presence. “Ellen” treats me disrespectfully and seems reluctant to show me the ropes, despite the fact that I am an owner. How should I handle this? A: Tough times tend to focus people on self-preservation. Although Ellen may be a bit out of line, her unwelcoming attitude probably reflects a concern that your arrival may signal her impending departure. After two years of layoffs, she undoubtedly fears she might be next,
WEEKLY TIPS Can't get enough advice from the Office Coach. Get weekly column updates at www.thebusiness-journal.com. especially if you have assumed some of her duties. The way you were introduced into the office might also be a factor. Bringing the boss’s wife on board is not a minor event, even when she’s an owner. If you just showed up one day and began doing stuff, that would be a surefire recipe for confusion and conflict. Before you began work, your husband should have explained your new role to everyone, then met individually with those who would be directly affected. If he failed to take these steps earlier, he needs to do so now. With Ellen, he should honestly address any concerns about job security and establish clear expectations for her relationship with you. As you continue to increase your active participation in the business, remember that you are going through a learning curve. Although you have been an owner for many years, you are now becoming more involved in manage-
ment, and that requires an entirely different set of skills. Q: In our department, there are two people who disagree about everything. Their constant arguing makes the rest of us uncomfortable. Our manager is a very nice person, but he avoids dealing with conflict. How can we stop these ongoing fights? A: Since your wimpy boss isn’t doing his job, the rest of you should meet as a group with your quarreling colleagues and explain the problems they are causing. For example: “Although you may not realize it, the two of you make life extremely unpleasant for everyone else. Your arguments are distracting and create tension in the office. We don’t care whether you like each other, but we do need for you to figure out how to work together.” If this intervention leads to a productive discussion, perhaps the problem will be solved. But if not, then ask your boss to intercede. Maybe a direct request from his staff will motivate him to start acting like a manager.
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 http://www.yourofficecoach.com, or follow her on Twitter @officecoach.
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Common Problems After a Stroke Smart Tax Refund Strategy
Creating A Balanced Budget
Q
My husband just had a stroke…..other than physical changes, what are some of the common problems that could last for a while or longer?
QI know I need a written budget, but where do
A
Often we hear of the warning signs of stroke, but what can you expect in the weeks and months after a stroke? Depending on where the stroke occurred, and the severity of the stroke, you might see a combination of emotional, social, and cognitive changes.
A
Persons with LEFT-sided strokes show weakness on the right side of the body. Damage to the left side of the brain usually results in trouble expressing one’s thoughts, or trouble understanding and comprehending what other people are saying.
Dr. Karen Lee Neuropsychologist
With RIGHT-sided strokes, weakness is seen on the left side of the body. Damage to the right side of the brain may result in personality and emotional changes, denial of symptoms, and difficulty with visual and perceptual functioning.
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With most strokes there is trouble with reduced attention span, short-term memory loss, reduced problem solving skills, and occasional anger outbursts. Life after a stroke can be very frustrating! Imagining yourself in the same situation helps you to cope.
I begin?
Nancy Shields Courtesy Pay Specialist 3130 East Mound Road Decatur, IL 62526 Ph: 875-3823 nshields@llcu.org
Create an allocated spending plan using online budgeting tools, a spreadsheet or a notebook and pencil. If you want to achieve a credible, workable and sustainable household budget, be prepared to take full control of your spending habits. For more information visit www.llcu.org. Chris Phillips, VP of Marketing Land of Lincoln Credit Union 3130 East Mound Road, Decatur, IL 62526
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Q
How do I Properly maintain my fire sprinkler system?
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An automatic fire sprinkler system is the best way to defend life and property against fire. The National Fire Protection Association indicates, “that sprinklers perform exceptionally well. However, when systems do fail, 65 percent of those failures can be directly attributed to lack of proper maintenance.” To ensure that a fire sprinkler system is working properly, routine maintenance and inspections must be performed. Inspection, testing, and maintenance items must be performed by a contractor licensed in Illinois. The contractor must have a National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level ll in inspection & testing or have completed a five year apprenticeship. An annual inspection is the minimum frequency required by law to ensure proper functionality. Insurance companies will deny a fire claim if the building is not upto-date on inspections. In 2011, the NFPA reported $6.9 billion in direct damage by fire. If you have not had an inspection, you may have to pay these damages out of pocket. Let us take care of your systems inspection, testing and maintenance! Please call Prairie Fire Sprinkler at (217) 877-3333.
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Organizing your household budget and sticking to it requires a great deal of commitment and dedication. Most people may not realize it, but serious and prolonged debt problems are not always a result of a lack of money. The real root cause of escalating debt problems is the personal cash flow management. To succeed, your written budget should contain the following characteristics: • Helps you work toward written goals • Has been measured against actual spending activities • Is realistic for your situation • Allows for savings, especially for emergencies • Has “rewards” built into so that you aren’t depriving yourself • Lets you adjust on-the-fly if circumstances change or initial projections aren’t accurate • Doesn’t include overtime or bonuses as guaranteed income • Reflects empowering choices • Has input from everyone whose life will be impacted by the budget • Is as thorough as possible
In time, people who have experienced a light to moderate stroke regain some or most of their previous skills. Family should try to be as patient and understanding as possible and find creative ways to help the patient who is trying so hard to regain lost skills. If you find that being a caretaker is too difficult, and you begin feeling stressed yourself, ask a professional for help.
Amanda Nicholls Sales Manager
BUSINESS JOURNAL
(217) 875-3823 cphillips@llcu.org
Runner’s Health Q
I’d like to start running. What are some ways for me to stay healthy and injury-free?
A
Whether you just started running, or you are a seasoned athlete, it is important to eat healthy and to train properly to prevent injuries. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and injury-free:
Dr. Scott Bilyeu Sports Medicine Physician HSHS Medical Group – Family & Sports Medicine
• Do not expect to run a marathon overnight. Pace yourself and follow a training program that fits your needs. • Perform a “warm-up” and “cool-down” of lighter jogging or walking, and stretch after each of these activities. • Learn the proper technique by joining a running club, training group or speaking with certified athletic trainer. • Get footwear that fits properly and is appropriate for the activity you are engaging in. • Choose clothing that is appropriate for the season. Newer fabrics that allow sweat to evaporate off of your body will keep you cooler throughout the summer months. • Train no more than five days per week. Rest days are just as important as training days. • Cross train by doing other aerobic activities such as biking or swimming. • Drink plenty of water. • Eat nutritious, heart-healthy food such as whole grains, fish, lean meats, vegetables and fruits. To learn more about runner’s health, speak with a certified athletic trainer or sports medicine physician. Please speak with your primary care provider before starting any exercise program.
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May 2013
YOUR HEALTH
How to eat Defend against shingles with vaccine more ‘active’ CDC: 1 out of 3 will develop virus calories By JAMIE LOBER
McClatchy-Tribune News Service
Business Journal Writer
All calories are not created equal. Some require more energy to digest, giving you “a bigger bang for your buck,” says Leslie Bonci, registered dietitian, director of sports medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and an author of “The Active Calorie Diet.” Some tips: EAT PLENTY OF LOW-FAT PROTEIN. Digesting these foods requires the most calorie burn. Just keep choices healthy: lean meats, eggs and lowfat dairy products, for example, not fatty cheeseburgers. FOCUS ON FIBER. Fiber-rich foods place second on the active calorie scale. Load up fresh vegetables and fruits — with the skin on — beans, bran cereals and whole-wheat products, including breads. GO FOR CHEWY. Your mouth, the first stop in the digestive process, will have to work harder. Choose whole fruit versus fruit juice and toss extra beans or broccoli into soups and stir-fries. ADD SPICE. Including items such as crushed peppers, wasabi and hot sauce at most meals likely will burn 10 to 20 extra calories a day thanks to a compound called capsaicin — not a lot, but it adds up over time. If you can’t tolerate spice, try cinnamon, garlic, ginger or cloves and use vinegar as a marinade. DRINK GREEN TEA. Brew it yourself, hot or cold, to take advantage of a metabolism-revving substance in tea leaves (just don’t ruin it with lots of sugar). As for coffee: caffeine, a central nervous stimulant, also can help torch a few calories. COOK MORE. Opening a package burns almost zero calories — much less than preparing meals from scratch. BEWARE NONACTIVE CALORIES. Cookies and pastries, chips, sodas and highly processed meats such as hot dogs and chicken nuggets are easily digested and most likely to be stored as fat.
DECATUR — Shingles is one of the latest public health threats. “Most of the patients (who) have shingles have no history of chronic medical illness,” said Dr. Jignesh Modi, infectious disease specialist at St. Mary’s Hospital. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly 1 out of every 3 people in the United States will develop shingles. The symptoms of shingles are hard to ignore. “There will be a bandlike area on your abdomen or starting from the back that has vesicles or a skinlike rash,” said Modi. However, the rash can be absent. “Sometimes, some patients say they just have an abnormal sensation or hypersensitive area which goes on like a band on their back and comes around towards their
BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 63% have household incomes of $60,000 or greater. 36% have household incomes of $80,000 or greater.
abdomen.” The Illinois Department of Health says that fluid-containing lesions normally appear along nerve pathways and will become crusted. Until all shingles lesions have been crusted, they can be transmitted to others. The fluid contains virus and can be spread through direct contact or by contact with articles freshly soiled with fluid from the shingles lesions. “Shingles is one of the most painful illnesses,” Modi said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say wet compresses, calamine lotion and colloidal oatmeal baths can also help relieve some of the itching. “In a patient who does not have immunosuppression and does not take steroids, they can be treated, but we have to be careful,” Modi said. The standard treatment is Acyclovir, and only in rare cases when someone does not respond are intravenous antibiotics indicated. “Because it can have side effects on the kidneys, you should be hydrated well, and we have to watch the kidney function,” Modi said. The best defense against shingles is
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the vaccine. “There are two shots in the pediatric age group, one during 1 to 2 years old and the second around 5 to 6 years old, and then one for adults age 60,” Modi said. Talk to your doctor and find out if it is right for you. “We have to make sure the patient does not have a history of immunosuppression or autoimmune disease, since it is a live vaccine and can turn into a disease,” said Modi. The bottom line is that shingles is a disease that should be taken seriously. “Once a patient has shingles it stays in the spinal cord for the rest of their life and also the virus for someone who has herpes simplex or cold sores,” Modi said. The take-home message should be to talk to your doctor about your risk for shingles, particularly if you are pregnant or immunocompromised. Primary care physicians are well aware of the issue. “I think the solution is hygienic measures like handwashing and calling your doctor right away if you have shingles,” said Modi. The good news is once you have shingles, you usually cannot get it a second time.
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May 2013
YOUR COMMUNITY
Reverend makes investment in others Bates: ‘God idea’ led to establishment of Small Business Expo By THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer
DECATUR — The Rev. Jessie Bates led the Ambassadors for Christ street ministry for so long, it might surprise some people to know he was an entrepreneur before he was a preacher. But it explains why, the minute he satisfied his old business debts six years ago, he and his wife Janice established JRB Enterprises to buy and renovate homes around his church, Abundant Life Christian Center at 1705 N. Maple St., so that “people who wanted to rent from us would have a decent home to live in.” With 21 properties under their belt, the Bateses have been working for the past 15 months to breathe new life into the strip mall formerly anchored by Sattley’s office supplies. The shopping center has a new name, Decatur Plaza, and a new anchor, a Small Business Expo offering new businesses an easier way to get started. Bates said God shared all this with him, starting during the time a special speaker was at Abundant Life Christian Center teaching the congregation about making good investments. “This was a God idea,” Bates said. “We were just in training on the residential property for almost five years before we entered the commercial realm.” Open since June 1, the Small Business Expo is up to six tenants, the newest of which is J-5 Shoes, a unique boutique opened by Edna Thomas earlier this month. Thomas, like the others, appreciates the chance to limit her financial commitment starting out with a four-month lease costing just $75 a week, with all maintenance and utility charges included. LeShawn Young, owner of Shawn’s Electronical Connections, has done so well repairing cellphones, computers and other electronics, he expanded his business to a second kiosk earlier this month. “This location is real awesome because I’m right in the center of town,” Young said. “Eventually, I’m going to have to have somebody else doing the repairs, too, the traffic is so heavy.” Other tenants in the Small Business Expo are Word of Knowledge Bookstore, Reshaping U 4 Life, Lo’Chique Boutique and CA’s Tax Enterprise. Yet even this isn’t the full story on Decatur Plaza because it has also been home since September to Illini Fadez, a barber/beauty shop owned by Audrey Austin and Davida Fanniel of Springfield. Manager Geoffery Turnbo said the
Business Journal photos/Mark Roberts
Jessie Bates, president and CEO of JRB Enterprises, stands outside the Small Business Expo in Decatur.
Geoffery Turnbo cuts Michael Withers’ hair at Illini Fadez. shop started with three barbers and one stylist but now has five barbers and three stylists. “Everybody sees us driving by on Water Street,” he said. Tickets-N-Trips also remains a key destination in the shopping center, and manager Stephanie Ramsey said she
appreciates the changes that have come with the new landlord. “It’s nice having businesses next to us and the place looking busier,” Ramsey said. “(Bates) has really done a good job fixing everything up and keeping the place clean.”
Until graduating from Eisenhower High School in 1973, Jessie Bates said he worked at Red Carpet car wash from the time his family came to Decatur from Brownsville, Tenn. He operated a variety of businesses — including a lawn service, a night club, a clothing and jewelry store and a cell phone and pager business — in Decatur and elsewhere, until he felt the call to ministry, studied at Lincoln Christian College for two years then founded Ambassadors for Christ in Decatur in 1997 and Abundant Life Christian Center in 2002. Two spaces remain in Decatur Plaza, and Bates wants to attract a discount store like Family Dollar or Dollar General, along with a thrift, photography or grocery store. “For the economy, I think it’s going really well,” Bates said. “Our whole intent was to generate and create revenue in the inner city. That’s where our heart is.” He also believes he learned important lessons from past ventures that will help him succeed. “Besides being a God idea, I know it’s important not to try to grow too fast and make sure you are financed,” Bates said. “You must also provide the very best customer service you can because your customers are partners with you.”
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May 2013
Runner’s Health Q I’d like to start running. What are some ways for me to stay healthy and injury-free?
A
Dr. Scott Bilyeu Sports Medicine Physician HSHS Medical Group – Family & Sports Medicine
217.464.1030
Whether you just started running, or you are a seasoned athlete, it is important to eat healthy and to train properly to prevent injuries. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and injury-free: • Do not expect to run a marathon overnight. Pace yourself and follow a training program that fits your needs. • Perform a “warm-up” and “cool-down” of lighter jogging or walking, and stretch after each of these activities. • Learn the proper technique by joining a running club, training group or speaking with certified athletic trainer. • Get footwear that fits properly and is appropriate for the activity you are engaging in. • Choose clothing that is appropriate for the season. Newer fabrics that allow sweat to evaporate off of your body will keep you cooler throughout the summer months. • Train no more than five days per week. Rest days are just as important as training days. • Cross train by doing other aerobic activities such as biking or swimming. • Drink plenty of water. • Eat nutritious, heart-healthy food such as whole grains, fish, lean meats, vegetables and fruits. To learn more about runner’s health, speak with a certified athletic trainer or sports medicine physician. Please speak with your primary care provider before starting any exercise program.
AthletiCare at St. Mary’s Hospital 1900 E. Lake Shore Drive Decatur, Illinois 62521 217.464.5970
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YOUR MONEY
Survey finds saving more not a top priority By BECKY YERAK McClatchy-Tribune News Service Writer
Melody Sucharda, a certified public accountant with a master’s degree in taxation, always makes the maximum contribution to her 401(k) plan. Married with no children, the corporate tax manager also has some savings set aside for emergencies. Still, the Wauconda, Ill., resident, 42, sees room for improvement in her finances. “I would like to put a little more into savings this year,” said Sucharda, noting that much of the couple’s short-term cushion was wiped out in recent years after a failed business investment. When it comes to striving to save, Sucharda is in the minority, a recent survey shows. Only 46 percent of respondents in a PNC Financial Services Group Inc. survey said they planned to increase their savings and investing this year. What’s more, these are savvier consumers. The survey consisted of 1,020 U.S. adults ages 35 to 70, with more than $100,000 in investable assets. A quarter of the sample had more than $1 million in investable assets. “People are finding it easier to develop habits devoted to physical fitness than
financial fitness,” Stephen Pappaterra, PNC’s head of wealth planning, said. Of respondents to the survey, 19 percent believe they are doing better than expected on saving for retirement; 47 percent believe they’re where they need to be. Worker savings remain modest, and many retirees — and people approaching retirement — haven’t socked away enough to provide themselves a comfortable standard of living after they quit working, PNC and others have found. Fewer than half of Americans have tried to calculate how much money they’ll need for retirement, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, a nonprofit focused on economic security issues. Sucharda has contributed to a 401(k) at every job since college. She said, however, that she can do a better job of living within her means. “We have a bad habit of buying things we may not need because they’re a good deal,” she said. The mortgage from the home they bought in 2006 is also hindering them from putting more into savings. “We can’t refinance since the market value has declined,” Sucharda said.
Don’t let money myths affect your financial goals By NEDRA RHONE McClatchy-Tribune News Service Writer
From retirement to saving to paying off debt, our modern-day money worries are many. But some of that concern is fueled more by rumor than reality. Mechel Glass, vice president of community outreach for financial counseling service CredAbility, shared the top five money myths she has encountered while working with a range of clients on financial education. MYTH 1: Most financial goals are unattainable. “People may sit down and set their goals, but they don’t track their progress,” Glass said. “They will say, ‘I’m getting out of debt this year,’ but they don’t look at where they are each month. They don’t put themselves on a plan.” In order to successfully reach your goals, you need a plan to get there and a method for tracking your progress. MYTH 2: It is impossible to have enough money for retirement. “It is possible, if we start when we are in our 20s and 30s and just start saving a little bit,” she said. If someone tells you when you are younger to put just a little bit of money aside, the task isn’t so overwhelming. “When you are in your 60s, it does seem unattainable because you’ve waited so long,” Glass said. Myth 3: Children don’t need to learn
about money until they reach high school or college. “You don’t want (children) to get their opinions about how to handle money from other people,” Glass said. “My daughter is 9 years old, and we started talking about money when she was 3 years old. People want to wait until their kids are in college, and by then, they are too late.” MYTH 4: Living on a budget means not having fun. “Fun is allowed,” Glass said. You just have to plan for it. Glass set the personal goal of getting out of debt this year, including her mortgage, but was still able to negotiate an affordable rate on tae kwan do classes to take with her daughter. “It is something we planned for and researched, and it fit into our budget,” Glass said. Other people may want to go shopping, and they still can, she said, as long as they set aside money for each purchase. “You can’t take your whole paycheck and go blow it,” Glass said. MYTH 5: Marriage will end your money woes. “People get married and assume they are going to get a house, a car and go on vacations,” Glass said. “Sometimes when you get married, your partner may have a lot of debt.” Loved ones will often share their dreams and aspirations, but not their financial plans, and sometimes they may even hide their financial past, she said.
In the PNC survey, 43 percent said their best financial moves include putting as much as they could into retirement plans, as Sucharda has, while 15 percent say living within their means is their best plan of action. Chris Hartrich and his wife both grew up in the Chicago area but moved to Neenah, Wis., about three years ago for his insurance job. They have four children, with two in college and one a senior in high school. Partly through budgeting and limiting discretionary spending, they consider their financial condition “healthy,” having been able to finance their kids’ college educations and still save for retirement. Hartrich said he worked with a financial adviser last summer and said he’ll probably continue to do so every other year to get feedback on the family’s financial planning. In the PNC survey, 43 percent of respondents said they planned to meet with a financial planner in 2013. “As a CPA with some good experience in investing, I thought I would not need a financial planner,” he said. “But an objective look at what we were doing was a valuable exercise.” While only 46 percent of PNC survey
respondents said they planned to boost their saving and investing, 70 percent said they planned to exercise more. Hartrich’s wife, a nurse, says increasing his exercise “would be more valuable than increasing our savings” partly because “the biggest unknown as I approach my 60th birthday is health care costs in retirement.” Getting in better physical shape now might mitigate future medical costs, he said. But the couple has also stepped up their contributions to their 401(k) plans in the past year. Hartrich said he also had the good fortune earlier in his career to work for companies that offered pension plans. “So at age 65, I expect to receive pensions from three different organizations,” he said. The couple is unsure when they’ll retire but have begun shifting assets from stock funds into more conservative fixed-income funds. They’re trying to pay off their mortgage as fast as they can, and the move to Wisconsin might hasten that goal. “When we moved up here we were able to purchase a much less expensive home so that freed up some assets for college costs,” he said.
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