June 2016 Business Journal

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2 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | June 2016

YOU R C A L E N DA R

Wednesday, June 1‌

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Community Prayer Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Conference Center and Hotel, 4191 West U.S. 36. Featured speaker is John Groce, University of Illinois men’s basketaball coach.

Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility, 3909 W. Main St. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Thursday, June 2‌

Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club, 158 W. Prairie Ave. Human Services Agency Consortium, noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St.

Friday, June 3‌

Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Saturday, June 4‌

Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Club.

Monday, June 6‌

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Decatur Christian Women’s Connection, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Ag Cafe, 11:30 a.m., Beach House. Featured speaker is Lee Strom, executive director of FARM Illinois.

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club.

Mount Zion Lions Club, 6:30 p.m., Lions Club Community Center.

Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Environmental Center.

Friday, June 24‌

Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Saturday, June 25‌ Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Club.

Monday, June 27‌

Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Restaurant.

Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Tuesday, June 28‌

Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Restaurant, 2959 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Tuesday, June 7‌

Wednesday, June 29‌

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility Lincolnland Decatur AMBUCS, noon, DecaDecatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, tur Club.

Friday, June 10‌ Decatur Club.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Lincolnland Decatur AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Banquet Facility.

MRI, 2121 Hubbard Ave. Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Simply Sweet Cakery, Saturday, June 11‌ Friday, June 17‌ 1330 N. Illinois 121.

Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Club.

Banquet Facility.

Wednesday, June 8‌ Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Monday, June 13‌ Saturday, June 18‌ Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Lun- Restaurant.

Club. cheon, 11:30 a.m., Fletcher Park. RepresentaDecatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. tives of Aten’s Midwest School of Aiki Jujitsu are Altrusa International of Decatur, 6 p.m., Monday, June 20‌ the scheduled speakers. location varies.

Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Restaurant.

Facility.

Tuesday, June 14‌ Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Decatur Real Estate Investors Association, Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., ScoWomen’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater 6:30 p.m., Perkins Family Restaurant, 2999 N. vill Banquet Facility.

Northside Baptist Church.

Monroe St. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall, 3390 N. Tuesday, June 21‌ Thursday, June 9‌ Woodford St. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., ScoEarly Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill BanDecatur Area Society for Human Resource vill Banquet Facility. quet Facility.

Management, 11 a.m., location varies.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

GFWC Decatur Woman’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Scovill Banquet Facility.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Decatur Landlords Association, 6 p.m., Senior Resources Network, noon, Keystone Decatur Chamber Toastmasters Club, noon, Doherty’s Pub, 242 E. William St. Meadows, 1455 W. Mound Road.

Chamber basement meeting room, 101 S. Main St. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Wednesday, June 22‌ Decatur Club.

Wednesday, June 15‌ Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Soy Capital Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Bank, 455 N. Main St. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Area Women’s Network (DAWN), Facility.

5:30 p.m., Decatur Club.

Thursday, June 23‌ Mount Zion Lions Club, 6:30 p.m., Lions Club Thursday, June 16‌ Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill BanCommunity Center.

Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs quet Facility.

Environmental Center, 3939 Nearing Lane.

Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Thursday, June 30‌

Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club.

Friday, July 1‌

Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Saturday, July 2‌

Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Club.

Tuesday, July 5‌

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Wednesday, July 6‌

Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Thursday, July 7‌

Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club.

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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June 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 3

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FROM THE EDITOR

‌T

o say there is nothing to do in Decatur is like saying there isn’t anyplace to eat. ‌There are plenty of restaurants. It’s just a question of what food you like, what you are willing to try and what sounds good at the time.

The same is true for activities. Free concerts, street parties, community celebrations, the zoo, bike nights, sports to watch or play and a host of major charity events are just of few of the things jockeying for spots on your social calendar.

For me, the arrival of summer — if Mother Nature is willing — means a lot of time spent on or near Lake Decatur.

Say what you want, but I think Lake Decatur is an under-appreciated jewel with a reputation tarnished by many who have never been on it or walked along its shores.

For those of you crinkling your nose and squinting your eyes in disbelief, give it a try. You might be surprised and come away with something else to add to your growing list of things to do this summer in Decatur.

Volume 21

Issue 6

601 E. William St. Decatur, IL 62523 217.421.7976 217.421.7965 (fax) Publisher: Julie Bechtel General Manager: Gary Sawyer Editor: Scott Perry

Scott Perry, editor Business Journal of Midcentral Illinois

Advertising: AnnaMarie Hanes Cover photo: Jim Bowling

June 2016 Contents STANDING FEATURES Biz Bites

5

Biz Clips

9

Fred Spannaus

9

Free Time calendar

15

Health calendar

23

Julie Shields

10

Liz Reyer

18

Office Coach

18

Professional profile Wendy Gauntt

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4 19

17 Revolving door

ADVERTISING: The deadline for ad and ad copy for the July issue is June 15 . Call 217.421.7953 for rate information.

What factors drive job longevity

SUBSCRIPTIONS: To order additional copies, call 217.421.7931

STORY IDEAS: Email sperry@herald-review.com or call 217.421.7976

The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is printed monthly and is a publication of Lee Enterprises, Inc.

‌Whether it’s planting flowers, hosting a bee-utiful business contest or bringing more attention to the need to pick up litter, the Beautify Decatur Coalition’s goal is a simple one. To make Decatur a beautiful place to live, work and visit.

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22 Spreading the word Crashed motorcycle a reminder to share road

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.

Herald & Review All rights reserved for entire content.

YOU R C OM M U N I T Y

4 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | June 2016

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Meet Jill Davis,

co-chair of the Beautify Decatur Coalition ‌ OMETOWN: Decatur H FAMILY: Husband, Dave; two children (Amanda Peters and Luke Davis); four grandchildren (Ava, Vince, Kameron and Lana).

OCCUPATION: Retired elementary teacher of 33 years, mostly in kindergarten.

EDUCATION: MacArthur High School, bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in education from Eastern Illinois University.

MY “I’D RATHER BE …” BUMPER STICKER WOULD READ: “I’d rather be reading … preferably on a beach somewhere!”

I love reading all kinds of books that delve into subjects, cultures and personalities I might not have the opportunity to experience in person.

And discussing them in my book club is so enjoyable. The beach would be the icing on the cake.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Spending time with my grandkids, traveling, reading and promoting my children’s book, “A, B, See The Beatles!”

MY FIRST JOB: My first job ever was detasseling corn. I only lasted about a week at that.

WHY I DO WHAT I DO: I love teaching children. It is who I was for 33 years. Now I have the privilege to fulfill another passion of mine, which is helping to beautify our Decatur community.

PERSONAL APPROACHES TO CHALLENGES: I try to double-down and work to see various alternate approaches that might work.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Cochair Beautify Decatur Coalition, Co-chair Let’s Keep Decatur Bee-utiful Contest, Grow Decatur, Garden Club, PEO, Delta Kappa Gamma Society for Women Educators, Allstates Club and St . John’s Lutheran Church.

WHAT IS THE BEAUTIFY DECATUR COALITION? The Beautify Decatur Coalition is a volunteer group whose mission is to instill a mindset in the residents and businesses of the Decatur community to constantly create and maintain a clean, beautiful public presence.

Its initiatives include establishing No Litter Zones, promoting Adopt-A-Street and Adopt-A-Green Space, organizing regular area clean-ups, planting the 60-plus downtown and Eldorado Street planters, corridor enhancement for our thoroughfares in and out of the city, school beautification and neighborhood beautification activities.

WHY ARE COMMUNITY BEAUTIFICATION EFFORTS SO IMPORTANT? When a neighborhood or a business is clean and attractive, it invites you in.

Businesses attract more customers and

LISA MORRISON, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

After a lengthy teaching career, Jill Davis is helping educate the community about the importance of giving visitors a good first impression as co-chair of the Beautify Decatur Coalition. neighborhoods take pride in their homes.

It becomes a contagious attitude that benefits the entire community.

THE MOST NOTABLE PROJECT UNDERTAKEN BY THE GROUP IS THE LET’S KEEP DECATUR BEE-UTIFUL BUSINESS BEAUTIFICATION CONTEST. HOW DID IT START? HOW HAS IT GROWN? When I retired from teaching, I developed this desire to do something about litter in the community.

I was put in touch with Mark Avery, who shared my passion and wanted to do more in this area as well. Mark wanted to focus on

the business community, so we came up with the idea of a contest to promote and reward businesses who take care of their property and have nice curb appeal. The first year we had 40 businesses register for the contest and had three awards. Now, the contest has grown to the point of needing a committee of myself, Susan Avery and Sue O’Riley.

Last year, 96 businesses registered and we gave 11 awards plus trophies courtesy of Caterpillar. It’s definitely a win/win for the businesses and the community. It is free to register and the businesses get great publicity as well.

We are very thankful to our sponsors who

help make the contest possible. Go to www. beautifuldecaturbusiness.com for more information and to register by June 10.

WHAT CAN A BUSINESS DO TO SUPPORT THESE EFFORTS? Many of our Decatur area businesses are already beautiful.

But we encourage business owners and managers to take a step back and take a fresh look at their property.

Perhaps a good power washing or coat of paint would freshen the exterior, or a regular plan put in place to keep the weeds pulled and the litter picked up.

Making sure the dumpster lid is closed and secure is a good preventative measure to enforce. Trimmed landscaping and a planter of flowers by the door are simple to do and don’t require much time or money to implement.

ENHANCING KEY COMMUNITY CORRIDORS ALSO HAS BEEN DISCUSSED. WHAT AREAS ARE BEING TARGETED, WHY AND WHAT TYPES OF CHANGES ARE BEING PROPOSED? The thoroughfares in and out of the city give our visitors their first impression of Decatur.

We need them to be as clean and attractive as possible.

While we are currently working on making them all No Litter Zones, we are focusing on 22nd Street and Pershing Road with planned litter pick-ups, round table discussion meetings and landscaping design proposals. We are looking for donor sponsors to help make this possible.

On 22nd Street, we would like to install sculptures that highlight and celebrate the industrial heritage and backbone of the Decatur community.

Our first sculpture is slated to be erected in late June by Caterpillar. We are very excited about art on 22nd Street. We are also ready to begin some landscaping on our first median on Pershing Road.

THERE’S BEEN A LOT OF EMPHASIS ON WHAT BUSINESSES CAN/SHOULD BE DOING? WHAT SHOULD RESIDENTS BE DOING TO SUPPORT THE EFFORT? Sue Lawson of the Coalition of Neighborhood Organizations is on the Beautify Decatur Coalition and we are working together on neighborhood clean-ups, incentive events and making the neighborhoods No Litter Zones as well.

The main thing residents can do is to be aware of litter and to pick it up whenever they come across it on their walks, bike rides and other outdoor activities. Of course, keeping our own homes and neighborhoods clean, weed-free and beautiful is our collective responsibility. We must work together to make M Decatur Bee-utiful!

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BI Z BI T E S

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Now open‌

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A new option in pet care and boarding may be called Ruff-Inn-It, but none of its fourlegged guests will be doing any of that.

Ruff-Inn-It Stay & Play, a new 165,000-square-foot facility at 1555 N. Illinois 121 in Mount Zion, promises the best in canine and kitty comfort, including private suites, Kurunda beds, grooming services, play areas and special treats. Owners are Shelley Phillips and Randy Doty.

“Our guests will be spoiled here,” Phillips said. “Whether you want to leave them for a couple hours or a couple weeks, you don’t have to feel guilty.”

Dog obedience training will also be offered, as will an assortment of pet accessories for purchase, including goodies from Millie & Bo’s Dog Barkery.

Ruff-Inn-It has 15 luxury suites, 100 regular suites and a cat room large enough to accommodate 10 felines. “Day camp” hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

For more, go to Ruff-Inn-It.com or call (217) 864-3644. *** Fido might not want to come back from Off the Leash Doggie Daycare, a new Decatur business that looks after your dog while you’re at work.

Pets in their care get exercise, play time and lots of attention. The facility also can work on problem areas so your dog comes home better behaved than when it left. Issues addressed range from excessive barking, jumping up on people and “counter surfing,” where your dog leaps up to eat your lunch.

The business is located at 1725 S. Fairview Ave. in a former vet clinic and owner Kara Lynn said there is plenty room, indoors and out. “I have a huge outdoor area for the dogs, too, which is pretty exciting for me,” Lynn said.

A former personal trainer (for people) who has shown dogs for 33 years, Lynn saw the need for doggie daycare after having to leave her own dogs alone all day and experiencing the negative effects it had on their behavior. Leaving a dog with her costs $25 a day and that covers any work needed on behavioral issues. She has a staff of three and posts pictures on Facebook during the day so owners can see how their four-legged loved ones are doing.

For more information, call (217) 520-8785 or go to www.offtheleashdoggiedaycare.com. *** The Perfect Pair Antiques and Salon in Warrensburg has just picked up a new partner to provide customers with some creature comforts.

Daily Brew coffee shop has opened on the south end of the store at 266 N. Illinois 121 and will have a drive-up window.

Indoor seating for up to nine people is another option, as is browsing The Perfect Pair’s furniture, gifts and re-purposed items or stepping into the salon for a new ‘do when those businesses are open.

Owned by Chad and Tami Yeakley of Decatur, whose children attend Warrensburg-Latham schools, Daily Brew serves muffins and coffee cake in the morning and cookies in the afternoon to go with a full menu of coffee drinks, including cold-brewed

frappes and lattes. Hot chocolate and teas are also available.

Tami Yeakley said her sister-in-law, Jody Bobbitt, cuts hair in the salon and suggested they consider selling refreshments there, owner Wanda Timmons proposed a coffee bar, and the rest is history.

“We hope students will stop by on their way to and from school,” she said.

Yeakley said regular hours will be 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

For more, find Daily Brew on Facebook or call (217) 972- 9061. *** Anyone looking for help in hosting a party or family gathering can find what they need by going to All About Family Entertainment.

The new business at 985 W. Pershing Road Suite H-4 is located in the back of the French Quarter West shopping center. It is a combination entertainment and party facility with room rentals available, owner Tonya Harding said.

Party packages are available with a particular focus on providing space for families with children 12 and under, said Harding, who has been informally helping to organize parties as a hobby before turning it into a business opportunity.

“I saw it as something that needs to be done,” she said. “I thought we can create something here. I want something family and kids can enjoy.”

The facility has space inside and outside to fit various needs, said Harding, who runs the business with her daughter, Breanna Mitchell.

Its supplies such as for face painting, art and balloons can be brought offsite for entertainment in other settings, Harding said.

Weekly events with various themes are held at the business from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Saturday. More information can be found on its Facebook page or by calling Harding at (217) 413-8497 or Mitchell at (217) 848-3270.

June 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 5

Reservations are accepted, but walk-ins are welcome. Lunch is served 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Monday through Friday, and dinner is 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For more, visit www.bizoudecatur.com or call (217) 422-7000.

Closing soon‌ The end of the run is coming for the Kmart store in Decatur as plans were released last month for its closure.

The retailer at 1155 E. Pershing Road is scheduled to close in early August, said Howard Riefs, a spokesman for Sears Holdings.

The departure of Kmart will leave Decatur without a Sears company presence after its once wider footprint. Decatur previously had two Kmart stores but the one on Mount Zion Road closed in 2002. The Sears at Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth closed in 2014. *** Aeropostale announced plans to close its stores in Forsyth, Tuscola and Springfield as part of its Chapter 11 restructuring plan.

They were among 113 of the New York’ company’s 739 U.S. stores and all 41 locations in Canada slated to close.

Making improvements‌ A retailer on Decatur’s south side is cleaning off construction dust as it marks the completion of renovations throughout the store.

An interior and exterior remodel of Blain’s Farm and Fleet at 1191 W. South Side Drive has been completed, said Mike Froseth, con-

Over 45% O ff

New feature‌ You’re driving down the road and see dirt being moved or a building under construction. The first question that goes through your mind is, “What’s that?” Wonder no more.

“What’s that?” is a new online feature that highlights new construction, remodeling and recently opened businesses in and around Macon County.

Check it out at herald-review.com/business/ 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.

Executive High Back Chair

Black Easy-Care SofThread Leather Adjustable Seat Height Five Year Limited Warranty

Regular Price $236

New owner‌ People are beginning to notice that something’s different about Bizou.

The most obvious change is the multicolored vertical sign facing North Main Street traffic, but the look inside also has grown more relaxed, with warmer window treatments, black table linens and the soups of the day written on the wall in chalk.

“You can keep serving wonderful food, but you have to make people feel comfortable enough to walk in the door,” Karen Hawkins said.

A former owner of Robbies Grille and Bizou’s bar manager for the past 4½ years, Hawkins is Bizou’s new owner and the first to see the 15½-year-old downtown establishment at 259 N. Main St. as a place for casual fine dining.

Chef Dave Martin continues to prepare the pork chops, seafood and steaks the restaurant is known for, but Hawkins is creating a growing number of the desserts herself, including a carrot cake from her mother’s recipe.

Her daughter, Brynn Hansen, is the manager and handles the catering side of the business and booking the two private dining spaces Bizou has to offer.

struction project manager. Interior changes include upgraded restrooms and a new service center waiting area, Froseth said. Other changes include an expanded and redesigned auto service center, tools, large animal feeds, bird and pet care, grills, agriculture and candy areas.

The entire store layout was changed in an effort to create a comfortable flow as customers walk throughout the store. It is part of the company’s commitment to reinvesting in current stores as well as opening new locations. *** Maurices has moved back into its freshly remodeled space in the Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth.

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(217) 877-6551 • www.illinisupply.com A Certified Female Business Enterprise

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111 Illini Drive, Forsyth, IL 62535 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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JIM BOWLING, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

Gov. Bruce Rauner, left, chats with John Renner, middle, and Ryan Bragg, right, of Illini Supply Inc. at their exhibit table while walking with Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe during the Chamber Business Expo in the Decatur Civic Center. The day began with Moore Wolfe giving her first State of the City address.

‘Stronger today than ever’ Mayor: City diligently confronts challenges, building foundation ALLISON PETTY Business Journal Writer‌

‌DECATUR – In her first State of the City address, Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe declared that Decatur is “stronger today than ever.”

But the mayor also said her glasses were not so rose-colored as to ignore its challenges.

Speaking at the breakfast that traditionally opens the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Business Expo, Moore Wolfe said recent announcements, though painful, should not overshadow Decatur’s strong recovery and recent period of growth.

Her remarks came two days after the news that Kmart will close its Decatur location, and Caterpillar Inc.’s plans to consolidate its mining and technology division in Arizona will result in the loss of jobs in Decatur.

“I believe in Decatur,” she said. “I believe in the business community. I believe in the workers. I believe in you, the people of this com-

munity. I believe – I know Decatur is great, and we are only going to get greater together.”

Moore Wolfe highlighted investments in the community over the past 15 months, from Millikin University’s $27 million University Commons project to several restaurants that will open this summer, including Sonic.

City and Macon County leaders pledged earlier this year to work together on lobbying for two large transportation-related projects: an overpass at Brush College Road and the Macon County beltway.

Moore Wolfe said cooperation between the city, county, the Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County and the Chamber to identify and advocate for the same projects is crucial.

“We’re not asking for a handout. We’re not asking for a bailout. We are asking for the tools to be an economic success,” she said.

City Manager Tim Gleason reiterated the importance of bolstering the city’s aging infrastructure. The Decatur City Council approved a local motor fuel tax earlier this year, and in prior years has supported measures to pay for sewer and storm water improvements,

as well as the $91 million Lake Decatur dredging project.

“One of the biggest complaints we hear is about the condition of our streets, that we haven’t been able to fund any real street repair work in years because of finances. … You’re going to start to see real results soon,” Gleason said.

In a panel discussion led by radio personality Brian Byers, community leaders emphasized their optimism about the city’s direction and steps already taken toward future success.

Ryan McCrady, president of the EDC, compared the city’s progress over several years to building a house, something he used to do with his father.

They’d work all day on the foundation, but the progress was not always visible. His mother would show up with dinner and ask what they had been doing.

The “foundation” in this case is infrastructure. Sewer and road projects may not be glamorous or exciting, but they are necessary to attract new businesses and promote growth for those that are here, he said.

“These are the foundation builders, and they need your encouragement,” McCrady said of the city leaders.

The breakfast also marked the launch of a new group for young professionals that will operate through the Chamber.

Paula Heinkel, community relations coordinator for Ameren Illinois, announced that Decatur Emerging Leaders would seek to provide social networking, professional development and community service opportunities.

Heinkel was part of a group through the Decatur Leadership Institute that worked on developing the concept last year.

“The whole idea is to give somebody a well-rounded view of Decatur and a wellrounded offering of activities,” she said.

The target age range is 20 to 40, but there is no age cutoff, Heinkel said, nor any requirements about what type of job makes someone a “professional.”

Those who are interested can visit the Chamber’s website, www.decaturchamber. com, or contact decaturemergingleaders@ M gmail.com.

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June 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 7

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Neighborhood sprouting

Crossing Healthcare Gardens newest step in developing service corridor

THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer‌

‌DECATUR – The spring’s wet weather has made getting plants in the ground slow going.

For the kickoff of Crossing Healthcare Gardens, work halted just short of planting and for more reasons than the cool mist in the air.

Organizers were also reluctant to lay out a banquet for the groundhogs.

“They are thick around here,” said Cindy Jackson, manager of the Mercy Gardens/ DIGG horticultural job training program. She pointed at numerous flags scattered over the empty lot, marking entrances to their burrows.

So once the crew of volunteers and staff filled the 27 raised garden beds with black dirt, they packed up their tomato, pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber and zucchini plants and left, with plans to return another day with wire barriers for the beds and possibly after an attempt to relocate the groundhogs.

But not before a kickoff ceremony with City Manager Tim Gleason praising Crossing Healthcare and Mercy Gardens for their collaborative efforts.

“You have chosen to invest in an area that for years has struggled to grow because you understand the importance of being close to the residents who need your services most,” he said. “A project like this is a commitment to not only treat illness but also help people create healthier lives.”

Gleason also said he is excited about the step the kickoff represents in development of the area bounded by Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Wabash Avenue and Water and King streets as a social services campus.

He said later that groundbreaking for a new headquarters for the Northeast Community Fund is next and there is “more to come after that.”

CEO Tanya Andricks of Crossing Healthcare credited dietitians Allison Raiha and Elizabeth Shuff for coming up with a concept to help overcome barriers they faced counseling diabetic patients about improving their diets.

She also thanked a list of people and organizations that helped make Crossing Healthcare Gardens, located south of the clinic’s main entrance on the other side of Central Avenue, a reality.

This included financial support from the United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois and the Illinois Native Plant Society and logistical help from Roger Chaney of Custom Services Inc., Kevin McSherry of From the Ground Up, David Tyrolt of Dunn Co. and Tony Romano and Romano Co. The Rev. Stacey Brohard, executive director of the Good Samaritan Inn where Mercy Gardens is based, said the project with Crossing Healthcare will mean eight new jobs.

He hopes to give two of those positions to two recent graduates of Mercy Gardens/ DIGG, the job training program that resulted from a merger last year with the former Decatur Is Growing Gardeners, by making them M 1 paid apprentices.

PHOTOS BY JIM BOWLING, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

Mercy Gardens staff member Patrick Slater transports compost during the Crossing Healthcare Gardens kickoff. the west will include picnic tables, a pavilion and trees.

A drawing of the plans distributed at the ceremony also indicates a possible third phase to the east, southeast of Crossing Healthcare and south of where the Northeast Community Fund plans to build.

Plans this year, however, are to enroll 100 patients in a prescription program that will include access to free produce, recipes and cooking classes, and the task at hand during the ceremony was to fill raised beds made of galvanized steel.

Pitching in on that were two recent Mercy Gardens graduates, 56-year-old Bertha Nance, a recent transplant from Milwaukee; and 38-year-old Andrew Leinard, a Decatur native.

Leinard said he would eventually like to work in a greenhouse, while Nance said her dream is to own one.

Crossing Healthcare client Angel Larson, left, and Mercy Gardens staff member Bertha Nance “Mercy Gardens taught me how to grow spread compost in a raised bed. vegetables clean,” she said. “I even have my Mercy Gardens now has five paid appren- intermodal container along Central Avenue own garden out back of my house. I have lettices, he said. as a centerpiece and future home of the proj- tuce, kale, swiss chard, actually more than I Brohard said the current phase features an ect’s farmers market while the next phase to can use, so I’ll be sharing that, too.”

8 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | June 2016

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Overtime eligibility expanding CHRIS LUSVARDI AND ALLISON PETTY Buziness Journal Writers‌

‌DECATUR — A new rule issued last month by the Obama administration could have a far-reaching impact for businesses and governments in Decatur and elsewhere in the country.

The rule is expected to open the possibility of increased pay for more than 4 million eligible U.S. workers who work long hours without being paid overtime. It seeks to bolster overtime protections that have been eroded in recent decades by inflation.

A diminishing proportion of workers have benefited from overtime regulations, which date to the 1930s and require employers to pay 1½ times a worker’s wage for work that exceeds 40 hours a week.

In the fast food and retail industries in particular, many employees are deemed mangers, work long hours but are paid a flat salary that barely exceeds the income of the hourly workers they supervise who receive overtime pay.

Under the new rules, released in draft form last summer, the annual salary threshold at which companies can deny overtime pay will be doubled from $23,600 to nearly $47,500. That would make 4.2 million salary workers eligible for overtime pay. Hourly workers would continue to be mostly guaranteed overtime.

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce President Mirinda Rothrock said more economic analysis could have been beneficial before the rule was put into effect.

“Many places don’t always have employees who fall under a typical eight hours a day or 40 hours a week,” Rothrock said. “Businesses will need to determine the impact and make adjustments as needed.”

The White House, however, estimates that the rule change will benefit workers and raise pay by $1.2 billion a year over the next decade. Some employers, though, might choose to reduce their employees’ hours to avoid paying overtime, thereby making the workers’ schedules more consistent.

“Either way, the worker wins,” Vice President Joe Biden said Tuesday during a conference call with reporters.

Decatur Park District leaders worried that the changes could lead to the loss of some services or programs.

“In theory, it sounds great,” Commissioner Chris Riley said during

the park board’s regular meeting. “Everyone makes more money, but financially it’s not feasible.”

Some times of the year are much busier for park district employees than others. Going forward, Riley said he was concerned that the district would not be able to do as much if it meant that employees worked more than 40 hours in a week.

Executive Director Bill Clevenger said park district staff are still analyzing the rules, but he said it would affect every division of the park district.

“It’s going to impact the community; there’s just no question about it,” Clevenger said. “You just don’t implement these kinds of rules with no impact.”

Business groups argue that the changes will increase paperwork and scheduling burdens for small companies and force many businesses to convert salaried workers to hourly ones to more closely track working time. Many employees will see that as a step down, according to the groups.

“The changes to overtime are another regulatory burden on businesses,” said Todd Maisch, Illinois Chamber president and CEO. “While the threshold is lower than originally proposed, it is still high enough to impact many employees, resulting in more hourly employees and fewer salaried positions.”

The overtime threshold was last updated in 2004 and now covers just 7 percent of full-time salaried workers, down from 62 percent in 1975, administration officials said.

The higher threshold, to take effect Dec. 1, will lift that ratio back to 35 percent, Labor Secretary Tom Perez said. Perez has spearheaded the administration’s effort and has worked on formulating the rule for the past two years.

The new rule is intended to boost earnings for middle and lower income workers, Perez said, which have been stagnant since the late 1990s.

Maisch said the regulation is misguided, and the state Chamber will work with others across the country in an attempt to correct it.

“At the end of the day, with a deadline of Dec. 1, 2016, to comply, what the Department of Labor is really giving employees for the holidays is an uncertain future,” Maisch said.

Another concern Park District officials raised was if state lawmakers move forward with a minimum wage increase, the effect on the cash-strapped park district would be even more significant.

Overtime pay hasn’t received as much attention as nationwide efforts to increase the minimum wage, but it could have a broad impact.

“This, in essence, is a minimum wage increase for the middle class,” said Judy Conti, federal advocacy coordinator for the National Employment Law Project.

Workers making more than $47,500 may still be eligible for overtime pay, unless they perform management, supervisory or profes-

New federal rule adds costs, opponents say sional functions — the so-called “white collar” duties test.

The liberal Economic Policy Institute estimates that 4.9 million people will become newly eligible for overtime, slightly more than the government’s figure, and that an additional 7.6 million will benefit because they have previously been denied overtime pay as white collar workers. Yet with salaries below the new threshold, they will now have a stronger claim to overtime pay.

Overtime has become a sore point for many managers, assistant managers, and management trainees in the fast food and retail industries.

Despite their titles, they have complained in lawsuits against such chains as Chipotle and Dollar General that they spend most of 50- or 60-hour workweeks staffing cash registers, mopping floors or performing other tasks typical of regular employees. Yet they don’t get paid time and a half when they work more than 40 hours in a week.

The retail federation warns that many of the affected workers will have their hours reduced to below 40 hours a week. Others might receive overtime pay but would have their base wages reduced so their overall income would remain the same.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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JUNE 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL |

HUMAN RESOURCES

BIZ CLIPS

Chandler

Cook

Roach

Certifications are at the heart of HR groups debate

T Roberts

Heffernan

New staff ATI Fleet Services of Illinois welcomes technicians Brian Wakeland and John Charlton to its staff.

Najiba Benabess, director of the School of Business and Management within the College of Professional Schools at Norwich University in Northfield, Vt., has been named dean of Millikin University’s Tabor School of Business, effective July 1.

Curtis Cook has joined Chastain & Associates a principal and manager of its Rockford office location.

Nate Chandler has joined BARBECK Communications as senior account manager.

Molly Heffernan has been named the director of sales at the Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Promotions The Boys and Girls Club of Decatur Inc. has announced the promotion of Brandon Miller to program director and Shamika Bond to education coordinator for the organization.

Achievements Travis Roach of the financial services firm Edward Jones in Mount Zion has been authorized by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards to use the certification mark CFP. Linda Roberts of Best Trips Ever has been recognized as a top travel agent, as well as top agency for groups, by worldwide tour operator Collette.

Decatur Park District is a finalist for the 2016 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.

Baby TALK Early Head Start has received the Gold Circle of Quality designation from ExeleRate Illinois, the state’s quality recognition and improvement system for early learning and development providers.

Milestones M 1

9

Eichenauer Services Inc. is celebrating 70 years in business.

Northgate Barber Shop is celebrating 45 years in business.

his month we continue our spring break from equal employment enforcement to examine another issue.

Imagine you’re in the checkout line at the grocery store. In the next lane, two customers argue loudly over who got there first. Interesting, but of no great concern to you. You are a spectator, not a participant. Doesn’t matter to you who wins; you just wish they’d stop fussing at each other.

That’s exactly the way most people feel about the war that is raging between FRED SPANNAUS two venerable human resource associations. In one corner stands SHRM, the Society of Human Resource Management. SHRM is a broad-based member association made up of HR professionals.

In the other corner is HRCI, the Human Resource Certification Institute.

This battle has absolutely no impact on how you do your day-to-day business.

But it might be important to know just a bit about it the next time you fill an HR position. And as the certification chair for the Decatur area SHRM Chapter, I’ve had a ringside seat.

Everything was fine until the summer of 2014. SHRM and HRCI had distinct roles, and each organization stayed in its lane.

SHRM played the role of professional association, providing technical assistance and knowledge, spawning a vast network of local chapters, hosting conferences and providing study guides for those studying for certification.

HRCI limited its role to professional certification — administering tests, overseeing renewals and maintaining a handsoff attitude. It offered the two bestknown certifications: PHR (professional in human resources) and SPHR (senior professional in human resources), plus specialized credentials for international and California-based practitioners.

All was well. The two groups shared similar logo designs and were headquartered in the same offices in Alexandria, Va. Then things abruptly changed. Two years ago SHRM announced that it would henceforth offer its own certification system, with two new designations: SHRM-CP (the CP is for certified professional) and SHRM-SCP (the S is for senior). In doing so, it went into direct competition with its former partner, HRCI. As in many divorces, one partner prettified itself in a hurry. SHRM added three attractive incentives. First, it made it very easy for holders of HRCI credentials to

acquire SHRM certifications – it is free and requires no test. Second, SHRM’s basic exam is easier, with a pass rate of 69percent contrasted to HRCI at 57 percent. Finally, SHRM made its recertification process much easier than HRCI’s, with less stringent pre-approval processes, no added requirements for senior-level credentials and smaller fees.

This action started a bitter battle that still rages. SHRM promptly withdrew its study materials for the HRCI exams, and HRCI fired back with several new levels of certification.

SHRM claimed that its certifications were based on real-life competencies, not rote knowledge and memorization of facts. Its exams offer more scenarios. HRCI countered that its exams do contain complex scenarios and test for the same skills, only more rigorously than SHRM. Critics of SHRM say that it is motivated by the chance to collect recertification fees, which are $100 for SHRM and $150 for HRCI. With up to 50,000 persons eligible for recertification each year, this is a $5 million-plus market.

So far, HRCI is holding its own, with 145,000 persons holding HRCI certifications.

At last count, SHRM had about 45,000, mostly of them HRCI holders taking advantage of adding a SHRM credential for free.

Most HR practitioners still value the better-known PHR and SPHR designations.

What does this mean for employers? Some companies are taking sides, requiring that their HR staffers hold credentials from one contestant or the other. I recommend that employers accept either certification.

The two organizations have bitterly parted ways. HRCI has a new logo and new administrative offices. SHRM and HRCI will likely be fighting for a long time, over in the next check-out lane. I say, let them fuss and stay the heck out of it.

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 e-mail at spannaus@ameritech.net or by phone at (217) 425-2635.

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| BUSINESS JOURNAL | JUNE 2016

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP

SCORE changing, expanding its outreach efforts

A

lot has changed with SCORE over the past year. Just as good professionals do, they are responding to the changing market.

Grant Bullock, co-chair of the Decatur SCORE Chapter, launched a free book club that meets on the last Thursday of the month at the Decatur Public Library.

So far the club has been met with growing interest as community members lead discussion about a business or entrepreneurial JULIE book. Participants don’t SHIELDS necessarily need to read the entire book first, although it is helpful to have some background. Still, if you are the type who wants to know what is in a book before investing your time to read it, SCORE totally understands. Go to www.decaturlibrary.org/book-clubs/ to see the latest book. The library staff is working on getting the books for their collection, too.

The How To Start A Business class was also modified based on the changing market. The class used to be 12 weeks long, but this year SCORE worked to intentionally make it a bit shorter.

The class was 10 weeks long this year and had 18 people sign up. Bob Luther and his team of mentors developed a strong relationship with this session’s graduating class.

SCORE also has been working with groups on some possibly game-changing endeavors.

The Macon Makers – a group working to start a non-profit makerspace for the community – has a devoted SCORE mentor in Roger Dotson. Alston Pike with Macon Makers recently spoke at a SCORE breakfast and acknowledged that their SCORE mentor has been keeping their engineering minds focused on the business side of starting the makerspace.

And, with the Food Innovation Challenge kicking off in June at National Foodworks Services, SCORE saw increased activity as at least one local startup threw its hat in the ring. And food businesses will be increasingly leveraging SCORE services as they look to use National Foodworks Services to break into the food industry.

ENTREPRENEURS AMONG US Nikki Garry is the founder of Your Money Matters, LLC, which equips individuals, families, and businesses for financial wellness by providing a range of budgeting and accounting services.

Go to www.YourMoneyMatters2. com for more information.

It’s not just the food industry, though.

Myung Kim and Steve Miller participated in the Startup Weekend activities as mentors who worked with seven groups as they riffed on their startup ideas. And Patrick Hoban, another SCORE mentor, helped the organizing committee.

While SCORE used to stand for Service Corp of Retired Executives, it has become an inclusive and engaging group with which to serve.

There are fresh, new activities and perspectives in Decatur as the entrepreneurial ecosystem has been getting a boost.

Mentors and counselors don’t need to be retired, nor does the service need to be one-on-one consultation.

SCORE mentors can help with group classes, speak at other service club meetings, work with Millikin University classes, or help community organizations think about new ways to test the market.

Perhaps you or someone you know could be a great mentor. You don’t need to be all things to every client. There is an executive committee that helps match the right mentor to the right client situation.

If you are interested in learning how to get involved with SCORE, contact Bethany Wetherholt at (217) 424-6297 or go to decatur.score.org/volunteer.

DIGITAL ADVERTISING REPORTING Q A

Cayla Hittmeier Digital Specialist Herald & Review

601 E. WILLIAM ST. DECATUR, IL 62523 217.421.6994

I know I need to invest in a digital advertising campaign, but it makes me nervous because I’ve never done it before. How will I know if it is working?

This is the million dollar question for all advertising. The good news is, with digital advertising, you’ll get a far better answer than you will using ANY other medium.

Why?...because everything you do digitally is track-able.

Before you start digital advertising, you should set up Google Analytics for your current website. Your website provider can do this or you can set it up yourself if you’re managing your own site. It is free and easy to do and will help you to better track how your advertising is performing. Most digital advertising vendors can provide a campaign report that gives you total number of impressions served (# of times your ad was seen), total number of clicks (number of users who clicked on the ad) and click-thru rate or CTR (percentage of impressions resulting in a click). But, this report only pertains to that specific ad campaign.

Google Analytics will help you dissect further to see how long the user stayed on your site and if they converted (i.e. - engaged in an activity such as signing up for an e-newsletter or making a purchase).

When looking at your report, a good CTR is not the only goal. Also look at the Bounce Rate and the Conversion Rate. If you have a high Bounce Rate, this means visitors only stayed for a single-page visit. This can be caused by a number of things, such as not being able to find the information they are seeking. You want to make sure your “landing page” appropriately matches the message of your original ad. For example, you don’t want an ad that says, “Click for more information about our upcoming Health Fair” and when they click, it leads to an unrelated page. Conversely, a high Bounce Rate could be the result of a person finding EXACTLY what they need on the first page. In this case, the Bounce Rate is not as important and Conversion Rate might be more appropriate to evaluate.

Conversion rate is the number of times people engaged in a specific activity on your site, such as signing up for emails, completing a purchase or submitting an application. If a high conversion rate is your goal, the message is vital and should entice them to click and the landing page should link directly to the activity.

The moral of the story is that if you are running digital advertising and not receiving any type of reporting from your representative, ask for it. It will paint an ROI picture for you.

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Business owners want specifics on taxes, economy JOYCE M. ROSENBERG AP Business Writer‌

‌NEW YORK — Small business owners say it’s time the presidential candidates provide concrete details on how they’ll tackle key issues including taxes, health care costs and government regulations.

“They haven’t been getting to the meat of issues about how they’re going to help small businesses and entrepreneurs in America,” says Craig Bloem, owner of FreeLogoServices.com, a website based in Boston that lets companies design advertising logos.

In a Wells Fargo survey of 600 business owners released this month, about three-quarters of the respondents echoed Bloem’s sentiments.

Most said they planned to vote in November, and that taxes and the economy topped their list of concerns.

Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have talked about cutting taxes, including the personal rates that sole proprietors and members of a partnership pay. On his campaign website, Trump promises to cut the tax rate for companies big and small to 15 percent. Clinton vows to provide “targeted tax relief “ to small business, and make it easier to start and grow a business.

Bernie Sanders’ proposals are aimed at raising taxes on wealthier people; those with income of $250,000 would see their tax rates rise. He also wants to raise taxes on large corporations.

The candidates have also made general promises on other issues that affect small

businesses. Trump, for example, says he’d ask Congress to immediately repeal the health care law that requires companies with at least 50 workers to offer them health insurance.

He says he’d ask Congress to consider reforms to replace the law. Clinton says she’d build Trump on the law to slow health care costs. Sanders wants to see Medicare expanded to cover all people and free employers of responsibility for providing health insurance.

When asked for more specifics about how he’d help small businesses, Trump’s campaign issued a general statement and referred a reporter to the candidate’s website. The Clinton and Sanders campaigns did not respond to repeated emails seeking comment.

But the candidates will have to start talking in details to win the support of owners.

“They love being able to say that they’re for the small business owner, or at least they pretend to,” says Ernesto Miranda, co-owner of Walker-Miranda, an architectural design based firm in Dallas. “A lot of things that I see are a little bit more lip service. I would like to see more concrete plans.”

Miranda wants to hear whether candidates are willing to give small businesses the kind of subsidies and tax breaks large corporations can get for job creation.

Bloem, the FreeLogoServices.com owner,

hopes to learn candidates’ proposals for reducing taxes on the sale of a company, and their plans to encourage small business innovation through more government contracts.

Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, a chain of Clinton 14 restaurants in the Dallas area, is interested in how the candidates would ease the burden of government regulations, including health care. He has 225 employees, and under the health care law is required to offer them health insurance.

“There’s been some talk of advocating for the small business owner,” Randle says. “At this point, it seems more hyperbole than anything.”

Small business was a big issue in the 2012 campaign, but not until the summer, when Republican Mitt Romney accused President Barack Obama of being anti-business. In 2016, small business concerns are likely to get more attention when it’s certain who the Democratic nominee is, says Marc Meredith, a professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania.

But Meredith notes that small business is not necessarily a solid voting bloc — although business people are usually associated with Republicans, many owners are Democrats. And according to a survey by Bank of America, relatively few owners vote solely on the basis of small business issues. Fifteen percent of the

survey’s participants said they vote from the perspective of a business owner, 34 percent vote from a personal perspective, and 51 percent said both business and personal perspectives determine their vote.

And what constitutes a small business varies widely. Small businesses include companies that have anywhere from zero to several hundred employees, and businesses as varied as dry cleaners, tech startups, doctor’s offices and franchise restaurants. The issues that concern owners can vary according to their industry and state and city or town where they’re located.

Take the minimum wage, for example, a prominent issue for the Democrats. Clinton wants to raise the minimum to $12 on the federal level and $15 on the state and local level. While many restaurant owners and retailers want to slow the pace at which minimum wages are rising in their cities and states, others say putting more money in workers’ paychecks will give them more spending money, something that’s good for businesses in general.

Still, talking about small business problems can be a good campaign strategy. There are more than 28 million small businesses in the U.S., and more than 56 million people, about half the nation’s workforce, work at a small business.

“They symbolize so much of what many people believe is right and wrong with the economy,” says David Primo, a professor of political science and business at the University of Rochester.

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LISA MORRISON, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

Steven Bruss continues fishing while Bowe Carter tends to a fish he caught during a tournament in Clinton Lake.

Angling for a title CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer‌

‌CLINTON — Hank Weldon has heard about the reputation of Clinton Lake as a top place for bass fishing.

He’s eager to see if that expectation for the lake holds true when a series of tournaments are held there early next month. The Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Midwestern Regional is slated for June 2-4 with portions of it being recorded to be televised at a later date on ESPNU, Weldon said.

In addition, the Costa Bassmaster High School Midwestern Open will provide an opportunity Sunday, June 5 for younger fishing teams to compete.

“We were in Springfield last year and kept hearing about Clinton Lake,” said Weldon, the tournament manager. “We’re excited to combine two events into one. Clinton is one of the most sought after lakes around.”

It won’t be the first time lakes in the Decatur area have been used for a Bassmaster tournament. The Bassmaster Elite Series championship was held on Lake Decatur and Lake Shelbyville in 2012.

“We had great crowds,” Weldon said. “The local community was fantastic.”

Some of those who regularly fish at Clinton Lake can see why event organizers would be interested in holding an event there.

“It’s a great lake to fish at,” said Daniel Weikle of Maroa, who helps to organize smaller scale fishing competitions held at Clinton Lake. “It’s the best lake in Illinois in terms of the quality of fish. You can’t find it anywhere else.”

Weikle said having a chance to earn some money while doing an activity participants enjoy can make a difference as interest in the tournaments has increased.

The Bassmaster tournament will start with over 100 two-person boats from dozens of colleges and be narrowed to the top 20 with 15 on Saturday punching their ticket to compete for the national championship, Weldon said.

The Midwestern Regional is the one of five regionals held across the country, he said.

The Bassmaster tournament is a large enough undertaking its reach won’t be limited to Clinton. The village of Forsyth is helping to host the event, with its hotels and restaurants able to accommodate more people, village trustee Dave

Fishing tournaments put Clinton Lake in the spotlight

Wendt said.

“We’re branching out to all of Central Illinois,” Wendt said. “It’s good for all of us.”

As a main sponsor, Forsyth is putting up $10,000 from hotel/motel funds to support the event, Wendt said.

Weigh-ins for the college tournament will be held June 2 and 3 at Clinton Lake Marina, but Wendt said the final weigh-in on Saturday, June 4 is slated to be at Forsyth Park. He said the fish can be hauled off site, giving more of those interested a chance to see what is happening.

The weigh-ins for the high school portion of the event are expected to take place at Clinton Lake Marina.

Wendt is also hoping visitors will use Hickory Point Mall as a place to receive updates about the tournament with video displays provided.

Experience hosting other sports competitions such as the Decatur Forsyth Classic professional women’s golf tournament helps Wendt have an idea of what to expect and what is needed to hold an event in the area successfully.

“We’ll certainly take what we’ve learned from the golf tournament,” Wendt said. “We want to

have a local connection to what’s happening.”

The golf tournament, which has usually been held in June, is returning to the area later than usual and is scheduled for Aug. 8-14.

It’s one of the increasing number of sporting events that will be held in Decatur this summer, said Katy Mize, director of sales and sports for the Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Each provides a boost to the local economy, Mize said.

“Visitors for those events are not just sitting in their hotel,” Mize said. “They’re out getting all the stuff they need while in town.”

The list of sporting events include amateur softball tournaments in July and August, including the first men’s wooden bat invitational held in the Decatur area in nearly four decades, she said.

The Rodney T. Miller Triathlon July 9-10 is another event that typically draws a high amount of participation, Mize said.

Interest in disc golf is increasing, with Forsyth hosting its first tournament Saturday on a newly created course in Forsyth Park, Mize said. She said a disc golf course in Nelson Park M can also be utilized.

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Calendar of events

For a complete list of events, go to www.herald-review.com/go/

Main attractions‌

July 11-21 The annual Decatur Games put a variety of skills to the test for a shot at community glory. Call Rachel at (217) 429-3472.

July 16 and 17 Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament at the SkyWalker International Sports Complex, Decatur. For more information or to register, go to www. macker.com. Pre-registration is required

by June 24 (mail) and June 27 (online).

Aug. 1-7 USTA/Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic, Fairview Park Tennis Classic.

Players from around the world converge on Decatur to compete. www.ursulabecktennis.com Aug. 12-14 Decatur-Forsyth Classic, Hickory Point Golf Course. The dates for this major tournament for the Symetra Tour, the developmental tour of the LPGA, have changed from its usual start-of-summer spot. This 54-hole event attracts top female golfers from around the world. www.symetratour.com Macon Speedway. Dirt track racing at its very best every Saturday night. Gates open at 5 p.m. Racing begins at 7 p.m. www.maconracing.com

June 7-12 Macon County Fair, Macon County Fairground. In addition to the traditional events that celebrate our agriculture roots, Grandstand entertainment includes queen pageant, Eric Burgett concert, professional wrestling, truck/tractor pulls and demolition derby. www.maconcountyfair.com Aug. 5-7 Decatur Celebration, downtown Decatur. Headliners include 38 Special, Morris Day and The Time, Thompson Square and Colton Dixon. Returning events include the Macon Country queen pageant, an adorable baby contest, the fifth Heinkel’s hot dog eating contest and the Land of Lincoln Credit Union 21 Film Project. www.decaturcelebration.com

The Arts‌ Anne Lloyd Gallery June/July: International arts experience featuring works from Cuba. Opening ceremony from 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, June 3, that will include hands-on crafts, regional cuisine and Cuban dance performances and lessons.

August: “Reflections,” by Bert Hoddinott.

Opening reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12.

Call (217) 423-3189. www.decaturarts.org Gallery 510 June: Watercolor and acrylic painting by Sharon Zimmerman. Opening reception from 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, June 3.

July: Photographs by Doug Bergeronl. Opening reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 8.

August: Paintings by Sue Goodpaster. Opening reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12.

Call (217) 422-1509.

Decatur Airport June: Works by Jessica Disbrow.

July: Works by Jim Clark.

August: Works by Sharon Zimmerman.

Decatur Public Library June: Works by Judy Kimmons.

July: Works by Sharon Zimmerman.

August: Works by Jim Hill.

Blue Connection Emma Morrison, a junior studio art major from Forsyth, is the first Robert Harrison Crowder Artist-in-Residence. Her artwork will be showcased through July 1. Get more information on Facebook or call (217) 428-0112.

Music‌ Decatur Municipal Band: Weekly concerts from June to August featuring contemporary and traditional music Sundays from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Fairview Park Large Pavilion and Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. in Central Park.

Greater Decatur Youth Band performs July 6 at the Millikin University Quad, July 20 at the Kiwanis park Ice Cream Social, July 27 at Cresthaven Park and Aug. 3 at Dreamland Lake in Fairview Park.

Chill on the Hill in Fletcher Park, Mount Zion: Friday, June 3, Feudin’ Hillbillys (free); June 9, Imagine That Band; June 16, MissConduct; June 23, Mary Jo Curry and Tombstone Bullet; June 30, ByGones; July 7, The Hitmen; July 14, Kilborn Alley Blues Band; July 21, Hurricane Ruth; and July 28, Backroad Anthem. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Band plays from 7 to 10 p.m. For more information, go to www.mtzconventioncenter.com or call (217) 864-5424.

Shake the Lake Concert Series in Nelson Park, June 10 and 24 and July 4 and 22. Concerts begin at 6 p.m. Go to www.decatur-parks.org for band list and details.

Lincoln Square Theatre: Elvin Bishop, 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 28. For tickets and more information, go to www. lincolnsquaretheatre.com

Watch or play‌

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July 10 Rodney T. Miller Lakeside Triathlon, Nelson Park. Athletes gather to swim, bike, run and remember Rodney T. Miller, a state police officer killed in the line of duty. New this year is the addition of a duathlon adult race. The kids race will be held July 9. www.decaturtriathlon.com PHOTOS BY LISA MORRISON, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

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On Stage‌

off at 7 a.m. in Nelson Park. For more information, go to www.decatur-parks.org.

Aug. 27 Zoo-rific Evening in Key West to benefit upcoming renovations at Scovill Zoo. Enjoy animal encounters, specialty drinks and hors d’oeuvres, an auction and music. Begins at 5 p.m. Cost is $75 per person. Call (217) 422-5911.

Gilbert Gottfried Live, 7 p.m. Sunday, June 5, Decatur Civic Center. For tickets, go to www. mainhangarrestaurant.net.

Best of Summer Stock: Musical theater performance by area students at the Decatur Civic Center. B.O.S.S. Jr. participants (grades 1-4) will present “Annie KIDS” at 7 p.m. Friday, July 15, and 2 p.m. Saturday, July 16. B.O.S.S. Sr. participants (grades 5-9) will perform “Xanadu” at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 16, and 2 p.m. Sunday, July 17. Free preview performance at 5 p.m. Monday, July 4, in Nelson Park.

Little Theatre-On the Square: ”Shrek-The Musical,” June 1-12; “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” June 15-26; “Chicago-The Musical,” June 29 to July 10; “All Shook Up-The Music of Elvis Presley,” July 13-24; Sister Act,” July 27 to Aug. 7; and “Shear Madness,” Aug. 10 to 28. This summer’s youth attractions are “The Legend of Robyn Hood,” June 3, 4, 7 and 9 to 11; “How I Became Pirate,” July 1,2, 5 and 7 to 9; and “James and the Giant Peach Jr., July 29 and 30 and Aug. 2 and 4 to 6. For tickets, call (217) 728-7375. www.thelittletheatre.org.

Misc.‌ The Rock Springs Nature Center hosts a long list of mini camps, family adventures and classes. 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.

Blue Ribbon Days, 6 p.m. Sunday, July 3, Fletcher Park, Mount Zion. Celebrate the holiday with free music and fireworks at dusk.

Spend the Fourth of July in Nelson Park.

The day begins with the Staley Firecracker Road Run/Walk at 8 a.m. The day ends with a B.O.S.S. “Annie Kids” and “Xanadu” preview at 5 p.m., a concert at 6 p.m. and fireworks at dusk. www. decatur-parks.org T-Rex Planet, Aug. 12-14, at the Decatur Civic Center. Live dinosaur and fossil exhibits and learning interesting facts about each one.

Features a massive Mamenchisaurus and two Tyrannosaurus rexes. www.decaturciviccenter. org or call (217) 422-7300.

Pony Express Days, Aug. 18-21, Pony Express Grounds, Mount Zion. Carnival, live music, mud volleyball and more. www.mtzionlionsclub.com Labor Day Parade, 10 a.m. Monday, Sept.

5, downtown Decatur.

Charity events‌ June 4 French Fried 5k, to benefit Decatur Celebration, 10 a.m. in downtown Decatur. An interesting mix of exercise and fried foods in a way that appeals to both runners and “just for funners”!

The route features tasty treats like cold beer, donuts and corn dogs, plus unique entertainment like musical performers, jugglers, costume characters, and dancers. Taste of Decatur-style street party from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more, go to frenchfried5kfestival.com.

June 5 Ride United, to benefit United Way of Decatur & Mid-Illinois, 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fairview Park, Pavilion 1. Course ranges from 10, 20, 40 and 60 miles. Call (217) 422-8537 or go to www.uwdecatur.org.

June 11 The Adam Carter Memorial 5K Fun Walk/Run, 8 a.m. at Fairview Park. Adam was a student at Holy Family School who died of cancer at age 12 in 2010. Proceeds will benefit Adam’s favorite charities. www.adamcartermemorial.com June 17 The National Freedom Day Banquet fundraiser for the African-American Cultural & Genealogical Society museum will be at 6:30 p.m. in the Heartland Church Grand Palace, 3253 N. Brush College Road. Guest speaker will be Appellate Court Judge Lisa Holder White.

Tickets are $50 for adults, $25 for students. Go to www.african-americancultural.org or call (217) 429-7458.

June 25 Come Together, Let’s Walk in Fairview Park. An event to fight ovarian, breast and cervical cancers. Kicks off at 8:15 a.m. Includes a competitive 5k run and a 1-mile and 5k walk. For more go to www.cometogetherletswalk.com or call (217) 433-5434.

July 15 Summer Splash to benefit Gallery 510, 6 p.m. at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. This year’s event is extra special since in marks the 25th anniversary of the group. The event includes music by The Boat Drunks, hors

For the kids‌

d’oeuvres and silent auction. Cost is $40. Call (217) 422-1509.

July 15 Relay for Life Macon County, Richland Community College. An overnight event to celebrate cancer survivors and to raise money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society. Www.relay.acsevents.org/ July 23 The Big Obstacle 3k, to benefit Decatur Park District youth sports and the United Way

of Decatur and Mid-Illinois. Fairview Park will be transformed into a 1.8 mile maze of climbing walls, tube tunnels, strength/endurance challenges and inflatable obstacles.

Go to www.decatur-parks.org or call (217) 422-8537.

July 30 Tour De Paws, to benefit the Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation and Scovill Zoo, features 25-, 43- and 61-mile bike rides and a Family Fun ride. The event kicks

Children’s Museum of Illinois is host to a variety of activities throughout the summer.

For information, go to www.cmofil.com or call (217) 423-5437.

Scovill Zoo: Dad’s Day Dollar Deals, Sunday, June 19; Family Camp Outs, 6 to 9 a.m. Friday, June 17 and Sept. 23. Bring your tent and sleeping bag and enjoy supper, a night tour and animal presentations. Cost is $25; Ice Cream Safari, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 17. Find all the ice cream stations hidden around the zoo. www.scovillzoo. com. Call 421-7435.

Parks and Playgrounds: Yellow Hat park leaders will be in the 12 neighborhood parks during the lunch hour on weekdays providing food and games from June 6 through Aug. 3. The summer ends with the annual Lantern Parade and Summer Bash at Dreamland Lake beginning at 5 p.m.

Movies in the Park: Watch movies on a huge inflatable screen on June 8 (“Inside Out”) in Nelson Park by Overlook Adventure Mini Golf; July 20 (“Star Wars: The Force Awakens”) in Fariview Park, south of Pavilion 1; and Aug. 10 (“Zootopia”) by Overlook Adventure Mini Golf.

All shows begin at dusk.

Grease Fest 2016, 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at Fletcher Park in Mount Zion. A back to school bash featuring a the showing of “Grease” at dusk.

Got an item you’d like considered for publication 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.

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YOU R C A R E E R

June 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 17

Poll: Age, income, loyalty influence job longevity ‌CHICAGO (AP) — A new poll says more than 40 percent of America’s baby boomers stayed with their employer for more than 20 years. But it’s unlikely that their children or grandchildren will experience the same job tenure.

The survey of more than 1,000 Americans 50 and older by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that 41 percent of those employed workers have spent two decades with the same company, including 18 percent who’ve stayed at least 30 years.

But it’s a trend more common among the older baby boomers than younger ones, and traditional pensions appear to be one of the driving factors.

Among those who have had at least 20 years with a single employer, the survey found that about half are excited about retirement, but a third are anxious about their post-work lives.

David McQuinn, 61, retired last month after 30 years with MiTek, a construction and engineering firm in suburban St. Louis. He says there were times he thought about leaving but he liked his co-workers and his senior position and also owned stock in the company.

“I started working young and I’ve been a man in a hurry my whole life,” he says, “and now I’m in a hurry to not be in a hurry.”

His experience exemplifies a trait among boomers: more attachment to the company than the younger generations. But even among older Americans there’s a gap in employment tenure: Half of those aged 65 and up but only a third of those age 50 to 64 have stayed with the same employer for at least two decades.

The shift may be less about differences in attitude than changes in jobs — and benefits.

About two-thirds of those who stayed with one employer for 20 or more years had a pension, according to the survey, compared with only a third of those who had never stayed that long with one employer.

Those defined benefit pension plans are slowly disappearing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that only 18 percent of private workers were covered by these plans in 2011, down from 35 percent in the early 1990s. More common now are plans like 401(k)s, which are more portable from one employer to another.

The agency has reported that a larger proportion of older workers than younger workers had more tenure on the job. For example it said, in January 2014, the average tenure with the current employer was 7.9 years for people 45 to 54, compared to 10.4 years for those 55 to 64.

“Think of all the choices people have today.

I mean, who ever heard of a social-media analyst five years ago?” says Joe Coughlin, the director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s AgeLab. Coughlin says higher churn in the labor market also means companies will have to work harder to hire and retain the workers they need, and this creates leverage.

“Millennials think this way instinctively,” he said. “They’ve seen their parents laid off by these large corporations, so there is less trust.”

M Christina Guerrero worked in the mid1

ASSOCIATED PRESS‌

David McQuinn poses for a photo in his office at MiTek, a construction and engineering firm, in Chesterfield, Mo. McQuinn, 61, retired after 30 years with the suburban St. Louis company, a length of time with one employer that is unlikely to be achieved by many younger workers.

1980s as a housekeeper at Austin’s Brackenridge Hospital before applying for and getting a job as a clinical assistant.

She kept that job for 17 years, before moving to a neighboring children’s hospital. Lifting children into hospital beds, she recalls, was easier on her back then moving adults.

“I thought about looking for other jobs, but almost any hospital these days would require me to go back to school to finish my GED, so that was a big reason for staying put,” says Guerrero, now 61.

According to the AP-NORC survey, younger baby boomers were much more likely to have gone back to school in the past five years: 30 percent of those age 50-64, compared to 19 percent of those 65 and older.

Most went for additional training because their employer required it or they wanted to learn something new or fun. Only 17 percent said they received training to start a new career.

Joe Abraham, 65, says he’s sure he “dodged a few bullets along the way” during his 36-year career as an attorney at Ford Motor Co. Now retired, he says the raises and benefits he got from Ford were not worth giving up for something else. Plus, he just liked his colleagues.

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OFFICE COACH

Colleagues must learn to get along MARIE G. MCINTYRE Tribune News Service Writer

Q

: Two of my employees simply don’t like each other. Neither one can give me a specific reason, so I assume it must be a personality difference. Unfortunately, their jobs require them to work together on a regular basis.

“Sara” has made an effort to remain professional and communicate in a businesslike manner. However, “Kristen” can’t seem to put her negative feelings aside.

Her obvious irritability creMarie MARIE ates tension in the office and MCINTYRE makes everyone uncomfortable. What should I do about this?

A: These touchy employees need to learn that their personal reactions are completely irrelevant. At work, people must get along whether they like each other or not. So your first step is to meet with them together, explain this reality and establish expectations.

After delivering the collective warning, meet with Sara and Kristen separately to discuss their individual situations. With Sara, you can express appreciation for her professional attitude and let her know she’s on the right track. But with Kristen, you must firmly set the stage for change.

Start by describing her troublesome behavior and indicate that this must stop immediately. Explain the consequences which will follow if it continues, which could include anything from moving her desk to formal disciplinary action. Finally, schedule regular feedback sessions to review her progress and provide ongoing coaching.

If Kristen shapes up, thank her for making the effort to improve. But if she’s unable or unwilling to do so, it might just be time to say goodbye. *** Q: I recently left a company where the environment was extremely toxic. Management had a group of favorites, and anyone outside the inner circle could quickly become a target. There was absolutely no trust among the staff. Because our behavior was constantly scrutinized, I never dared to voice an opinion about anything.

Fortunately, my new company has a totally different culture, with managers who are encouraging and helpful. However, I can’t seem to get over my previous experience. I frequently feel paranoid and find it difficult to trust anyone. How can I forget the past and become a normal employee?

A: The aftermath of working in a toxic organization can be similar to post-traumatic stress. Many people carry the emotional baggage to their next workplace, where fear-based reactions can easily damage new relationships and create a self-fulfilling prophecy. So you need to fix this problem as quickly as possible.

Fortunately, you have already taken the first step towards recovery by recognizing that your self-protective impulses are no longer rational or necessary. Next, you can begin to modify your behavior by identifying the specific situations which trigger your anxiety. This will allow you to decide in advance on a healthier response.

If you have helpful and trustworthy colleagues, you might even consider requesting some feedback, without elaborating on your earlier troubles.

For example: “One thing I really love

WEEKLY TIPS Get weekly tips from the Office Coach and Liz Reyer at www.thebusiness-journal.com.

Correctly or not, this manager apparently felt that contacting your boss was preferable to approaching you directly.

Mentally tagging him as “hostile” or “out to get you” will only lead to future problems. So instead of overreacting, put aside your resentment and just regard this incident as a valuable lesson learned. *** Q: During a recent staff meeting, my co-worker’s condescending attitude made me so angry that I completely lost my temper. I flew into a blind rage and got right up in his face and screamed at him. His arrogance has driven me crazy for the past three years.

Although I know this was inappropriate, I don’t feel as sorry as people seem to think I should. I also have no desire to apologize for my outburst. Some colleagues have advised me to seek counseling, but I don’t know if that’s really necessary.

A: When a hostile reaction is completely out of proportion to the immediate cause, it usually means that long-simmering anger has finally reached a boiling point.

If this unexpected rage was a one-time occurrence, perhaps a concerned mentor or friend can help determine why this guy triggers such strong emotions and how you can avoid future outbursts.

But if you are generally prone to explosions of temper, then professional anger management counseling is strongly recommended. Otherwise, your unfortunate tendency to attack may eventually wreak havoc on both your career and your personal life.

about this company is the emphasis on teamwork. In my last job, collaboration was actually discouraged, and everyone operated independently. Now I’m learning to be a team player, so if I can improve, please let me know.”

Altering established patterns can be tough. But if you become more open and trusting, your colleagues are likely to respond in kind, thereby reinforcing your new behaviors. Before long, you should begin to feel more comfortable in this warm and supportive environment. *** Q: I recently got in trouble for playing a game on my cellphone. In the business club where I work, maintaining a professional image is extremely important. While working the registration table at a club event, I began playing the game during a slow period. One of our managers saw me and immediately emailed my boss.

Although I know my behavior was unprofessional, I believe this manager was out to get me. If he was so concerned about the club’s image, he could have spoken to me personally and told me to put away the phone. Should I talk to my boss about the manager’s hostile attitude?

A: The only thing you should tell your boss is that the game-playing was inappropriate and will never happen again. Criticizing the guy who reported you would just Marie G. McIntyre is a workplace coach and author. make a bad situation worse.

Set realistic expectations for career satisfaction Q

: I have a successful career but it falls short of the expectations I set for myself years ago. I can’t help but feel disappointed and embarrassed by that, even though I like what I’m doing. What should I do?

A: The root of your problem lies in bonding so firmly to an unknowable future that you can’t accept the present.

This is a bit of a confusing situation emotionally. You consider yourself successful, yet in your disappointment LIZ feel that you’re not successREYER ful. And liking what you do doesn’t fully give you a feeling of success. Let’s untangle this.

Make a list of all of the ways you can think of that success can be measured in the world. Here are some starters: money,

power, fame, making a difference in the environment, helping others, making your family proud … it can go on and on. Be as extensive as you can even if you find them unappealing.

Using the list, note the success measures that reflect your beliefs. Then consider the fit of your current position against those measures. Challenge yourself to notice if some aspects of your current role resonate more with success measures that you may not be as comfortable with.

Now, recalling your point of view in your earlier years, think about what may have changed. For example, maybe social responsibility was a driving force and your current role has drifted from that. Or it may be the opposite — you’d envisioned a high-flying career and now you are in a lower key role.

Finally, take stock of all this. To what extent are your old preconceptions limiting you? You might not even have been aware that your old beliefs are affecting your attitude about your current situation.

Think about this as well: Do you feel that you deserve to be happy? If you have an underlying sense that what you’ve accomplished is never enough and that you always need to be striving for something else, satisfaction will remain elusive.

Also consider whether your definition of success in life is balanced. We aren’t just our jobs, important though that aspect can be. Even if you determine that you’ve “settled” in terms of your work, what will it take to accept that — at least for now — and move forward? Consider whether the rest of your life brings you satisfaction and if some of the trade-offs have been worth it.

Try focusing more on others to take the pressure off yourself. What are ways you can give back, professionally or personally?

Mentor others in the workplace, and if you’ve made mistakes, help others learn so they can avoid them.

If you still need some self-forgiveness, think forward 20 years. Can you imagine that you really know now what your 64-year-old self will value and need? Recognizing this, give your 24-year-old self a pass on not having a crystal ball. Take where you are now, treat it as a gift, benefit from the positives, and let go of the mighthave-beens. This will help you grow and flourish as you continue through your career and the other aspects of your life.

Liz Reyer is a credentialed coach with more than 20 years of business experience.

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TECHNOLOGY

Getting acquainted with Internet of Things O

running on systems that have the latest security patches, so that hackers can’t use loopholes to get in.

ne of the latest acronyms floating around the tech world is “IoT,” which is short for “Internet of Things.”

The idea is that the internet can be used to connect all kinds of “things” together, not just computers. For example, Fitbits can track health stats and workout activity; smart TVs can stream videos and games on demand; thermostats can be monitored and adjusted remotely; cars can email you WENDY maintenance reminders and GAUNTT problem reports. These IoT examples are quickly becoming part of our daily lives.

Ready, set, go Want to get started? An easy first step is to check out a mainstream IoT application that’s already well tested and ready for use, like a programmable thermostat or security system.

Feeling more ambitious? Spend time with key staff to brainstorm what kind of data – measurements, reports and alerts – would make your business run more efficiently or provide more responsive service.

If you can imagine it, you can probably build it. This is brand new territory, and a smart, well-executed IoT application could completely transform your entire business.

Business IoT

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IoT has many useful business applications. Access control is a big one.

Alarm systems, door locks and security cameras all can be part of an IoT system to manage and control office security. Alarms send notifications to your email or phone when an intruder is detected; door locks can be opened or closed remotely; cameras show you live feeds of what’s happening onsite. Combination door locks eliminate the need for keys, and you can reprogram the combinations all at once, even remotely, if you need to lock someone out.

Smart receptionist systems include a doorbell or intercom to alert you when someone arrives, a camera to let you see who it is, and a door lock that can be remotely opened to let that person in without having to get up from your desk.

If you manage people who are constantly on the go, like service technicians or delivery people, then GPS can provide real-time information on where they are and whether they are on schedule. This can be a standalone IoT system, or you may be able to integrate this information into your scheduling system.

Would you like to invest in employee wellness? Consider wearable devices like FitBits. Many companies sponsor programs to encourage their staff to exercise, and FitBits can be used for fitness competitions.

Install a temperature monitor close to sensitive electronics like servers and network equipment. These can email alerts if the temperature gets too high, allowing you to adjust temperatures and prolong the life of your equipment.

If your office is in a location prone to flooding, there are similar devices designed to send alerts when water is detected. You also can get programmable thermostats for your entire office. More sophisticated systems monitor and adjust temperatures by zone, saving money on heating and cooling bills.

If you have mobile equipment that could be lost or stolen, invest in smart trackers.

These tiny devices send GPS signals so that you can always find whatever is attached to them.

There are a myriad of IoT applications in manufacturing. Determine what measurements will improve operational efficiency; odds are there is a device or sensor that can measure it. It can be challenging to integrate these devices with manufacturing equipment, and to manage the information you receive, but once you do, it can provide a huge competitive advantage.

Game-changers Can IoT transform your business? Many companies are decimating their competition through innovative new IoT applications.

Restauranteurs can now buy rodent control as a service. For a small monthly fee, a vendor installs IoT-enabled mousetraps that alert them when they catch a mouse.

The vendor empties the traps as they fill, leaving the restaurant confident they are rodent-free.

Cities are installing trashcans that notify the sanitation department when they need to be emptied. Solar power eliminates the need for power, so they can be installed anywhere they are needed.

Smart agriculture systems interact with weather reports water sensors, and irrigation systems to provide the exact amount of water needed by the crops they manage, saving water and increasing yields.

Even bathrooms are getting smart.

IoT-enabled soap dispensers send alerts when they are nearly empty so that the janitorial service can automatically replenish

supplies before they run out.

That’s not all. IoT is even saving lives.

Hospitals are sending patients home with heart monitors that alert medical staff and appropriate authorities if the patient has an arrhythmia or heart attack.

What would be a game-changer for your company? What alerts would allow you to provide better, more responsive service? What measurements would provide valuable insight into your processes and procedures? There are sensors to measure nearly anything you can imagine, and alerts can be set up based on the results of those measurements. You can also leverage these measurements using data analytics, to report and manage trends that give you greater insight into business operations.

Key concerns There are two major concerns when you dive into IoT: security and privacy. If devices are connected to the internet, they can be seen by hackers. If your systems are not secure, hackers could get in and cause mischief or access confidential data.

When you invest in an IoT system, consider the worst case consequences of unauthorized access. With a security system, hackers could gain entry into your facility.

If they sneak into a manufacturing system, they might gain competitive information or change settings on your equipment to ruin a production run. Talk to your vendor about their security processes and procedures.

In some cases you may be able to restrict access to your internal network instead of opening it up to the entire internet; you’ll always want to make sure access credentials (user IDs and passwords) are as secure as possible; and make sure equipment is

Wendy Gauntt is president of CIO Services LLC, a technology consulting company that specializes in small business solutions. Go to www. cioservicesllc.com for more information, ideas and free resources.

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Don’t blow your money on baby gear; focus on college BRETT GRAFF Tribune News Service Writer‌

BANQUET

‌Spending money to keep up with our friends is so pre-recession.

Everyone knows emergency funds are the new extravagance. But when it comes to raising kids, we’re still overspending big time, hemorrhaging money by mistaking luxuries for necessities and doling out more dollars than we save. And why? Because we’re afraid that cheaping out means our kids will fall behind in school, sports or social activities. And in a high-pressure parenting climate, there is no room for error; academic admissions are competitive and — down the road — jobs are scarce. We’re terrified our kids won’t get into college and will even later wind up homeless. Or worse, wind up living in our homes.

Case in point: The editors of a popular baby website have compiled for their large community of moms-to-be a list of the best strollers around. One such model reminded the editorial panel of a transformer, and the group collectively gushed about how you can even charge your cell phone with this bad boy. This stroller, like nearly all the editors’ picks — including one you can carry on your back (which makes one wonder why you wouldn’t just carry your baby) — costs more than $800.

All together, in the United States we bought about $5.8 billion worth of baby stuff online in 2013 and about $11.9 bil-

lion in stores that same year, according to research from IBISWorld. We can in some cases do a better job of parenting if we calm down long enough to stop adding things to our carts. Yes, we’ll need to buy for our babies but while considering our choices, we have to remember that the most expensive versions with the fanciest features are not — under any circumstances — safer. They’re not more educational. They won’t make our infants happier. There is, however, one critical place to put your money right now: college savings. Consider this.

When buying a crib, the one and only feature your infant crib must have is a manufacture date of June 28, 2011, or later, as current safety standards apply only to cribs made after that date. The $895 Vanessa sold by baby-store-to-the-stars, Bellini, and the $159 Graco sold by website-to-the-unshowered, Amazon.com, have been subject to the same inspection process.

There is only one purchase you can make that’s proven to drastically improve your child’s life: a college education. People with college degrees have higher incomes and less joblessness, according to the College Board. They’re more likely to have health insurance and are less likely to be obese.

People with college diplomas more often volunteer in community organizations and less frequently smoke than those with only high school degrees. College graduates are more likely to vote.

What does this have to do with a crib?

GUIDE

You’ll want to buy the cheaper one and invest the cash. Because raising a nonsmoker who works and votes is very, very expensive.

By the fall of 2033, one year at a public, instate university — tuition, fees, room, and board — could cost $47,867, while one year at a public out-of-state school could cost $69,023, according to estimates calculated

by Kalman A. Chany, author of “Paying for College Without Going Broke” and president of Campus Consultants Inc. Private schools could cost $107,189 a year and an average Ivy League could cost $149,327. Putting aside $1,000 today would — if invested earning 7 percent interest — be worth $3,379 by in 18 years.

So you see, a super-expensive nursery could pull our kids back from more quickly achieving world domination. Instead, we should each decide how much money to set aside each month using an online college savings calculator (there’s one at ChooseToSave.org). And then direct those dollars into one of the following accounts: SECTION 529 SAVINGS PLANS: Don’t let the name bore you. Congress must have figured, “Why come up with pleasing names when you can just call things by their tax code?” because these funds can have some exciting benefits. Putting your money into one of these plans is the same as buying a mutual fund that invests in stocks, bonds, or a combination. But if there are profits, you won’t have to give the government its share of the taxes.

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529 TUITION PLANS: These plans let you lock in college for tomorrow (18 years’ worth of tomorrows) at today’s rates. You buy units or credits or years of college today (read: today’s prices) at in-state schools.

And you can cash these in when your kid enrolls. It’s a pretty good deal considering college tuition and fees are projected to rise by between 5 percent and 7 percent, according to the estimates from Campus Consultants.

UGMA (UNIFORM GIFT TO MINORS ACCOUNTS): These are accounts we can open in our kids’ names. The child won’t pay taxes because it’s considered a gift, but if you give more than $14,000, you’ll have to start writing that down because you’re allowed to give only $5.34 million without paying taxes throughout your lifetime. So clearly, you’ll want to be careful with that. Because UGMA accounts are in the kid’s name, one of three potential panic-inducing problems could occur. First, because the kid is the account holder, this money will count against anyone applying for financial aid. Second, when this child turns eighteen years old, he or she can use it to buy motorcycles or whatever seems like a good idea to an eighteen-yearold. The benefit is flexibility; you’re not tied to a particular account and you don’t have to use the money for school.

TAXABLE ACCOUNTS: Hey, if you’re an investment wiz, then to hell with all those special accounts and their fancy tax benefits. You can put aside as much money as you like, invest it, and use it to pay for college.

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Are you financially smarter than a sixth-grader?

GAIL MARKSJARVIS Tribune News Service Writer‌

‌Remember the hit book, “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten”?

Well, I met the sixth-graders who could write “All I Really Need to Know About Money I Learned in Sixth Grade.”

These children have mastered the money lessons that — if adopted widely by adults — would put families on solid footing and keep millions from digging themselves into a dark hole of debt.

The students from Chicago public and parochial schools recently competed in something like a science fair, only with projects on money rather than science.

The final competition was at the Chicago Federal Reserve, where I was among judges for Talk With Our Kids About Money, a money fair designed by the Canadian Foundation for Economic Education.

The children were asked to do something most aren’t asked to do: to think thoroughly about money, do research, and present findings to judges — just like you may recall from science fairs during your school days.

As I understand it, many teachers were skeptical.

But they saw what regular students were

able to do and became believers.

The students applied concepts that would make financial planners proud. Here are some samples: If you want to eventually go to a prom, it’s going to cost $455 on the cheap or $2,707 without skimping, so start saving far in advance, said Carina Lozano and Alejandra Perez of Lee Elementary School. Don’t simply decide you want to go to the prom and spend money you don’t have. Instead, add up what prom will cost: dress, shoes, tux, corsage, food, makeup, hair, car. Then, calculate what you will need to save, how long it will take to save that amount, where the savings will come from, and — if you can’t save enough — change expectations instead of using credit cards or borrowing money.

For example, instead of buying the dream dress, you could rent a dress, noted Nyla Newbern and Makeya Bradley, of Hefferan Elementary School.

You might love dogs, but you don’t simply buy one and figure out how to take care of it later, Kaylee Pezan and Melanie Rivas of St. Bartholomew School, said. Dogs aren’t free, so before buying or adopting, add up the cost of the license, neutering, deworming, shots, food, collar, leash, and treats, and make sure you or your parents

can handle it. Their calculation: $2,903 the first year and $1,375 after that.

The students aren’t guessing whether they or their families can afford a purchase. Before even reaching junior high, they have mastered a key money concept: Wishful thinking, rather than thinking through how to pay for a spending goal, can dig people into a hole that will leave them without the money essential for other desires and needs. They have learned to add up and analyze every cost associated with a decision, and think of it as a money choice even though at first it seems as simple as: “I love dogs, so I think I’ll get one.”

In effect, they have learned to budget and save to meet a goal. It’s a matter of simple math, disciplined thinking rather than emotion, and adjusting expectations to fit their ability to pay. In other words, if you can’t afford a dog, don’t get one.

Will these students be able to apply this thinking to other purchases later in life? I think so.

And this thinking would have served people well prior to the Great Recession.

Back then, too many people forgot to figure out how their paychecks would cover escalating mortgage payments. Some have told me that when a lender agreed to give them

a mortgage, that was proof they’d be able to pay off a loan.

A recent survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling shows one in three U.S. households fail to pay off credit cards each month, and 23 percent of people polled said they need an expert to get them out of their money problems.

The sixth-graders from the money fair would have been able to tell these adults how to avoid money problems in the first place.

Since the recession, there’s been much debate about whether students can be taught what’s called “financial literacy.”

University of Chicago economist and “Nudge” co-author Richard Thaler contends research shows students forget their money lessons.

But many of the studies focus on traditional memorization and test-taking.

When a sixth-grader explains passionately how to go to the prom without spending $1,000 like her cousin, it sounds like the money lesson will stick.

Gail MarksJarvis is a personal finance columnist for the Chicago Tribune and author of “Saving for Retirement Without Living Like a Pauper or Winning the Lottery.”

Poll: Majority unprepared for $1,000 crisis

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‌NEW YORK (AP) — Two-thirds of Americans would have difficulty coming up with the money to cover a $1,000 emergency, according to an exclusive poll released last month, a signal that despite years after the Great Recession, Americans’ finances remain precarious as ever.

These difficulties span all incomes, according to the poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Three-quarters of people in households making less than $50,000 a year and two-thirds of those making between $50,000 and $100,000 would have difficulty coming up with $1,000 to cover an unexpected bill.

Even for the country’s wealthiest 20 percent — households making more than $100,000 a year — 38 percent say they would have at least some difficulty coming up with $1,000.

“The more we learn about the balance sheets of Americans, it becomes quite alarming,” said Caroline Ratcliffe, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute focusing on poverty and emergency savings issues.

Having a modest, immediately available emergency fund is recognized as critical to financial health. Families that have even a small amount of non-retirement savings, between $250 and $749, are less likely to be evicted from their homes and less likely to need public benefits, an Urban Institute

study found.

“People are extremely vulnerable if they don’t have savings,” Ratcliffe said. “And it’s a cost to taxpayers as well. Lack of savings can lead to homelessness, or other problems.”

Despite an absence of savings, two-thirds of Americans said they feel positive about their finances, a sign that they’re managing day-to-day expenses fine. The challenge for many often comes from economic forces beyond their control such as a dip in the stock market that threatens their job or an unexpected medical bill.

When faced with an unexpected $1,000 bill, a majority of Americans said they wouldn’t be especially likely to pay with money on hand, the AP-NORC survey found.

A third said they would have to borrow from a bank or from friends and family, or put the bill on a credit card. Thirteen percent would skip paying other bills, and 11 percent said they would likely not pay the bill at all.

Those numbers suggest most American families do not have at least $1,000 stashed away in a savings account, much less under their mattresses, to cover an emergency.

The reasons why Americans don’t save are complex. One economist says it’s a holdover from the ‘70s and ‘80s, when high inflation ate into the value of money stashed in a savings account. Others say U.S. tax policy rewards saving money for retirement or taking out a mortgage over short-term emergencies.

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Motorcycle is a safety beacon Victim of horrific accident hopes motorists find that seeing is believing

Don Koehler wants to alert drivers to look twice and maybe save a life after he almost died in an accident on his HarleyDavidson. He has mounted the damaged bike on a 7-foot pole near his home to help spread the message to those driving on U.S. 51.

TONY REID Business Journal Writer‌

‌WALKER – Don Koehler is taking the “Start Seeing Motorcycles” safety campaign to new heights.

About 7 feet, to be exact.

Drivers zipping up and down U.S. 51 past Koehler’s home in the minuscule burg of Walker, south of Macon and north of Moweaqua, can’t help but notice his wrecked Harley-Davidson motorcycle lofted betwixt heaven and earth.

It’s mounted on top of a 7-foot-tall pole above a 30-foot-long, 2½-foot-tall banner proclaiming the “Start Seeing Motorcycles” message. That admonition is a safety drive supported by the Illinois Department of Transportation and motorcycle groups such as ABATE. The curious who pull off the highway to peer closer at the airborne “Road King” hog will also see a smaller message, propped on the bike itself, that says “Let’s work together and teach people to stop and look twice to prevent this.”

If the truck driver who pulled out in front of Koehler in 2011 had looked twice and started seeing his motorcycle, the 56-yearold man from Walker would be riding his machine instead of spotlighting it on top of a pole.

The resulting collision left him close to death with a fractured skull, collapsed lung, multiple broken ribs, a shattered right arm and a crushed left hip, among sundry other life-altering maladies.

Doctors dropped Koehler into a medically induced coma for 20 days while his internal workings were put back together. When he resurfaced, he found he had a steel rod reuniting his right leg and a new “fake left hip” to replace an original, mangled beyond salvage.

Koehler, however, was just happy to emerge walking upright and drawing breath.

And he considered it part of his renewed lease on life to promote motorcycle safety.

“God knew my job wasn’t done down here yet,” he says.

So he spent years hauling his wrecked bike to schools and events to tout the safety message as well as showing off the chewed-up machine in parades.

Then, earlier this month, which is Motorcycle Awareness Month, he came up with the bright idea of the elevated Harley. And he plans to leave it in place for several more months to accelerate home the idea of safety awareness.

“I mean, what better visual could you have to start seeing motorcycles?” he asks.

Koehler’s friend, Jim Heatherton, hopes motorcyclists as well as car drivers take no-

LISA MORRISON, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

tice. Heatherton is president of the Decatur Chapter of Freedom by Choice ABATE of Illinois and is worried by a rise in motorcycle fatalities. In 2015, 146 riders died statewide, a jump of 28 over the previous year.

Another worrying trend in accidents is the influence of alcohol and drugs, and it’s not just the drivers colliding with motorcyclists who are tipsy. Heatherton says the numbers reveal a disturbing trend of impaired riders and passengers showing up as a factor in fatal crashes.

“We want to tell people ‘Hey, you guys are killing yourselves,’ ” he adds, saying the rule for all road users is simple if you want to go home again: “Don’t drive or ride intoxicated.”

And, assuming they are suitably sober, Heatherton says drivers and riders must pay attention and learn to look out for each other.

“The biggest killer for getting hit on a bike is some driver making a left-hand turn,” he explains. “Make sure you look left and right and left one more time and take that extra second to be sure it’s clear. And don’t tailgate someone on a bike; give them the respect and distance you would want someone to give you.”

Asked if a Harley on a stick will drive any of this safety stuff home, Heatherton said it certainly can’t hurt. He believes no one preaches safety more effectively than those who’ve ridden right up to the edge of dying, and managed to come back.

“I can’t even say just how lucky Don is to be alive,” he says. “Now, he just wants to get his point across.”

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COMMUNITY HEALTH CALENDAR

Support groups‌

Growing Through Grief, 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. To register, call 876-4735.

TOPS Club IL 49 Decatur, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Main Street Church of God, 2000 N. Main St. (enter from Garfield Street). Weight loss support. Go to www.topsclub.org or call Chris Granda at (217) 521-2420.

Grief support group, 12:30 p.m. Friday, June 3, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Conference Room 561. Call Anita Ricker at (217) 464-2074.

Bariatric support group, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 7, DMH Specific Performance Enhancement Center, 2122 N. 27th St. Call (217) 876-4249.

Facing Cancer Together, 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 8, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. For cancer patients and their families. Register online or call (217) 876-4735.

Breastfeeding support group, 10:30 a.m.

Monday, June 13, and June 27, Baby TALK, 500 E. Lake Shore Dr. To register, call (217) 4642334.

SHARE support group, 7 p.m. Monday, June 13, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Room G18.

Support group for those who have experienced the death of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or early infancy. Call (217) 464-2045.

Epilepsy support group, 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. Call (217) 853-1655.

Cardiopulmonary rehab wellness group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Classroom A. Call (217) 876-2496.

Diabetes support group, 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 15, DMH Specific Performance Enhancement Center, 2122 N. 27th St. Call (217) 876-2699.

Parkinson’s disease support group, 1 p.m. Thursday, June 16, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1360 W. Main St. Call John Kileen at (217) 620-8702.

Brain tumor support group, 10 a.m. Saturday, June 18, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4735.

Postpartum emotional support group, 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 20, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. Call (217) 464-2334.

Breath of Life support group, noon Tuesday, June 21, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. Speakers available to answer questions from those with breathing problems. Call (217) 464-2603.

Widowed support group, 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 23. Monthly lunch gathering. For location or to register, call (217) 428-7733.

Lyme-MTHFR support study group, 6 p.m.

Thursday, June 23, Mari-Mann Herb Co., 1405 Mari Mann Lane. Call (217) 429-1555.

Renewal bereavement support group, 6 p.m. Monday, June 27, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4735.

Us TOO prostate cancer support group, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 28, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) M 1 876-4735.

Classes‌

Come Together, Let’s Walk in Fairview at 8:15 a.m. Includes a competitive 5k run and Park on Saturday, June 25. An event to fight a 1-mile and 5k walk. For more go to www.comCardiopulmonary rehab nutrition, 10:45 a.m. Thursday, June 9, Decatur Memorial ovarian, breast and cervical cancers. Kicks off etogetherletswalk.com or call (217) 433-5434.

Hospital Classroom B. Heart-healthy eating with an emphasis on reading labels. Call (217) 8762496.

Real Dads Rock!, a class for new dads, 7 p.m.

Thursday, June 9, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. To register, call (217) 464-2334.

Happiest Baby on the Block-Magic?, a class for new moms, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 9, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. To register, call (217) 464-2334.

Infant CPR class, 7 p.m. Monday, June 13, Decatur Memorial Hospital, OB Classrooms. Register online or call (217) 876-3100.

Newborn Care and Breastfeeding Basics, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, Decatur Memorial Hospital, OB Classroom. Registration required online or call (217) 876-3400.

Cardiopulmonary risk factor education, 11 a.m. Friday, June 17, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Classroom B. Call (217) 876-2496.

We didn’t say hoopty, but if the jumper cables fit...

More‌

Food, Fun and Fitness for your Family, sponsored by the Obesity Prevention Coalition of Macon County, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 4, County Market, 1175 W. Grand Ave. Come Together Let’s Walk training sessions, 5 p.m. Monday, June 6 and June 13, Fairview Park Large Pavilion. Call (217) 464-2046.

Cancer Survivors Day, 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 7, Decatur Conference Center and Hotel.

Community Education: Alzheimer’s Series-Healthy Habits for a Healthier You, 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 8, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room.

DMH Health and Wellness 5k and 1-mile fun run, Saturday, June 11, at the Forsyth Professional Center. Race kicks off at 9 a.m. To register, call (217) 876-4249.

If Ol’ Reliable isn’t what she used to be, trade her in for a car you can count on this vacation season.

24 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | June 2016

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Visit them online: www.huffhomespecialties.com Pictured with Andrew Young (left) and Hans Henseler (middle left) from First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust.

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