November 2016 Business Journal

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2 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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Tuesday, Nov. 1‌

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility, 3909 W. Main St. Lincolnland Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club, 158 W. Prairie Ave. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Wednesday, Nov. 2‌

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Scheduled speaker is Cris Valdez, president of Richalnd Community College.

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

Decatur Shrine Club, 6 p.m., Pop’s Place.

Thursday, Nov. 3‌

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

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club.

Human Services Agency Consortium, noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Metro Decatur Home Builders Association, 6 p.m., Beach House, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr.

Friday, Nov. 4‌

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Decatur Club.

Lincolnland Decatur AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Banquet Facility.

Independence Pointe Building, 2715 N. 27th St. Decatur Area Women’s Network (DAWN), Saturday, Nov. 5‌ 5:30 p.m., Decatur Club.

Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Mount Zion Lions Club, 6:30 p.m., Four Star Club.

Family Restaurant, 1100 Illinois 121 Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Monday, Nov. 7‌ Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Environmental Center, 3939 Nearing Lane.

Restaurant, 2959 N. Oakland Ave. Friday, Nov. 11‌ Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Banquet Facility.

Northside Baptist Church.

Tuesday, Nov. 8‌

Saturday, Nov. 12‌

Decatur Frontiers Club, 10:30 a.m., Decatur Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., ScoClub. vill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall, 3390 N. Monday, Nov. 14‌ Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Woodford St. Decatur Area Society for Human Resource Restaurant.

Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Management, 11 a.m., location varies.

Altrusa International of Decatur, 6 p.m., Decatur Chamber Toastmasters Club, 11:30 a.m., 101 S. Main St., basement meeting location varies room.

Tuesday, Nov. 15‌ Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., ScoNoon Sertoma, Decatur Club. vill Banquet Facility.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Wednesday, Nov. 9‌ Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Landlords Association, 6 p.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Lun- Doherty’s Pub, 242 E. William St. cheon, 11:30 a.m., Main Hangar. Scheduled speakers are Jennica Grubbs and Jennifer Ober- Wednesday, Nov. 16‌ Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., heim.

Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Real Estate Investors Association, Facility.

Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Busi6:30 p.m., Perkins Family Restaurant, 2999 N. ness After Hours, Country Companies Financial, Monroe St. 1219 Illinois 121.

Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Friday, Nov. 18‌

Wednesday, Nov. 30‌

Tuesday, Nov. 22‌

Friday, Dec. 2‌

Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Banquet Facility.

Scovill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Saturday, Nov. 19‌ Facility.

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

Thursday, Dec. 1‌ Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill BanMonday, Nov. 21‌ quet Facility.

Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Restaurant.

Decatur Club.

Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Human Services Agency Consortium, noon, Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Central Christian Church.

Northside Baptist Church.

Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Sco- Facility. vill Banquet Facility.

Decatur Building Construction Trades Saturday, Dec. 3‌ Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall.

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

11:30 a.m., 101 S. Main St., basement meeting room.

Monday, Dec. 5‌ 64th annual Community Thanksgiving LunDecatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family cheon, 11:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center.

Restaurant.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

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

Wednesday, Nov. 23‌

Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 6‌ Scovill Banquet Facility.

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., ScoDecatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet vill Banquet Facility.

Facility.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Friday, Nov. 25‌ Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Wednesday, Dec. 7‌ Banquet Facility.

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club.

Monday, Nov. 28‌ Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Noon Lions Club, Diamonds Family Scovill Banquet Facility.

Restaurant.

Thursday, Nov. 10‌ Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Early Bird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Ban- Thursday, Nov. 17‌ Facility.

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

To submit items for Your Calendar, contact Tuesday, Nov. 29‌ GFWC Decatur Woman’s Club, 11:30 a.m., quet Facility.

Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Sco- Scott Perry at (217) 421-7976, at sperry@herDecatur Christian Women’s Connection, Scovill Banquet Facility. ald-review.com, or click the “Submit an Event” vill Banquet Facility.

Senior Resources Network, noon, Keystone 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club.

Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, link at www.thebusiness-journal.com Meadows, 1455 W. Mound Road.

November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 3

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FROM THE EDITOR ‌ or this we give thanks.

F Each year, the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce hosts a Thanksgiving luncheon that centers on this theme.

I’m a reporter at heart, which means the availability of really good food, paid for by someone other than me, earns this event a guaranteed spot on my calendar. But the Hallmark Channel lover in me (Christmas shows are almost here) makes me a sucker for the message.

While my profession requires me to take a critical look at all things, I really do try to find the bright side. That’s easier to do when you are surrounded by hundreds of community members, most of whom I know are doing everything they can to keep us moving in the right direction.

Though there are many things taking place in our lives, our communities, our nation and our world that can bring us down, my hope is we can all find something (hopefully more) to be thankful for as we prepare for the holiday season and to close the books on what has been a very strange and stressful 2016, at least for me.

Don’t forget to take a few minutes from your busy schedule to think about the good things in your life and to give thanks.

Clap once if you are up to the challenge.

Volume 21

Issue 11

601 E. William St. Decatur, IL 62523 217.421.7976 217.421.7965 (fax) Publisher: Julie Bechtel General Manager: Joel Fletcher Editor: Scott Perry Advertising: AnnaMarie Hanes

Scott Perry, editor Business Journal of Midcentral Illinois

Cover photo: Jim Bowling

November 2016 Contents STANDING FEATURES Business Clips

13

Fred Spannaus

12

Free Time calendar

17

Health calendar

15

Julie Shields

12

Liz Reyer

19

Office Coach

19

9 Serving those in need‌ Check out our annual listing of not-for-profit agencies.

Major investment‌ After a $200 million remodeling project to upgrade both production lines, Fuyao Glass Illinois is ready to take its place as a leading area employer for many years to come.

4

12 Management by wandering‌ What you do during office encounters matters.

ADVERTISING: The deadline for ad and ad copy for the December issue is Nov. 21. Call 217.421.7953 for rate information.

STORY IDEAS: Email sperry@herald-review.com or call 217.421.7976 SUBSCRIPTIONS: To order additional copies, call 217.421.7931 The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is printed monthly and is a publication of Lee Enterprises, Inc. 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.

4 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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Window of opportunity Fuyao Glass heralded as a shining example of local manufacturing CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer‌

‌DECATUR — Kevin Solofra took a risk by moving his family to the Decatur area in 2008 for a job at the former PPG Industries plant near Mount Zion.

A short time later, the company announced it was idling one of the two glass production lines at the facility. For the next six years, Solofra said the outlook was uncertain until Fuyao Glass Group purchased the plant in 2014 with plans for a $200 million remodeling project to upgrade both production lines for operation.

The completion of the project for the automotive glass maker was celebrated last month during a ceremony with Fuyao Chairman Tak Wong Cho thanking those who contributed to the work. The ceremony featured speakers including Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguinetti, Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe and state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet.

“We didn’t have to look for an opportunity anywhere else,” said Solofra, the Fuyao Glass Illinois hot end manager. “This is exactly what was needed.”

Cho said construction started in early 2015 and took nearly 18 months to complete. Having both lines operational gives Cho reason to push the operations of the China-based company ahead with high expectations.

Glass can be stored in the warehouse portion of the building and be ready to be shipped to customers with up to 60 trucks a day taking it to the Fuyao Glass America facility in Dayton, Ohio.

“We have laid a solid foundation for new production,” Cho said through a translator. “The goal now will be to strive for high efficiency at a low cost. We’re determined to help restore America’s status as No. 1 in manufacturing globally.”

Technology for inside the facility at 2768 E. Elwin Road came from all over the world, including Germany, China and the United States, said Cho, a hands-on leader who is reportedly a billionaire. Support has come from state, county and government officials along with the former PPG management team, he said.

“The former PPG staff and employees have worked hard to make this happen,” Cho said.

The state assisted in retraining 100 former PPG employees to provide the robotics operation and maintenance skills needed with the new technology, said Sean McCarthy, Illinois Department of Commerce director. Fuyao’s investment means the addition of about 300 jobs for

JIM BOWLING PHOTOS,BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

Vice President of Fuyao Group He Shimeng, left, and Chief Legal Officer Athena Hou, right, give Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguinetti a tour of the Fuyao Glass Group plant near Mount Zion after a ceremony commemorating the grand reopening of the plant with two production lines.

Fuyao Glass Group Chairman Tak Wong Cho addresses the grand reopening ceremony. the Decatur area and Illinois, Sanguinetti “That’s how much capacity this site will said. have with all the upgrades,” Sanguinetti The site will produce enough glass for said.

4 million vehicles per year, which SanThe investment provides a needed boost guinetti would cover half the world if the to the local economy, Moore Wolfe said. cars were lined bumper to bumper.

“This is a plant that struggled for years,”

Moore Wolfe said. “Many of us were scared it would one day go away. Instead, we now have a state-of-the-art facility.”

Local officials presented Cho with several keepsakes for the company to mark the occasion, with Moore Wolfe providing him a Stephen Decatur medallion from the city.

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce President Mirinda Rothrock presented a plaque to honor the jobs created and investment that was made with hopes of continuing the partnership with the company that has been established.

The investment recognizes the ability of the local workforce, said Ryan McCrady, Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County president.

“The employees take great pride in what they’re doing every single day,” McCrady said.

McCrady presented Cho with an honorary gift from other large businesses in the community, featuring a stainless steel plaque Caterpillar Inc. employees produced.

“This is another example of the great workers we have in our community,” McCrady said.

McCrady said Fuyao used the services of local labor contractors while completing the remodeling project.

November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 5

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THANK YOU FOR

GREAT YEARS! In celebration of our ten-year anniversary, Main Place Properties would like to thank the community for its continued support.

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6 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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Poll: Half of Illinois wants to move out Less than one-third of that group cites taxes DAN PETRELLA Lee News Service Writer‌

‌ PRINGFIELD — A new poll may lend S credence to Gov. Bruce Rauner’s frequent claim that high taxes are driving people out of Illinois.

The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University recently found that 47 percent of registered voters in Illinois say they want to move out of state, with 27 percent of them citing taxes as their top reason. However, just 20 percent say it’s likely they’ll move in the coming year.

David Yepsen, director of the Simon Institute, said this is the first time researchers have asked this set of questions in their surveys.

The available data on migration, which comes from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Internal Revenue Service and surveys conducted by moving companies, among other sources, typically doesn’t explain why people leave, Yepsen said, so the

institute wanted to find out what factors lead people to consider moving.

Given the focus on taxes and the state’s fiscal problems in political debates in Springfield, Yepsen said it didn’t surprise him to see taxes rank high on the list.

“My theory about taxes is people do not mind paying taxes if they feel they’re getting value for them,” he said. “It’s when they don’t feel they’re getting value that they get upset, and here in Illinois, you’ve just had too many examples of corruption, misspending, and people … just are unhappy.”

That’s also reflected by the 84 percent of voters who say the state is headed in the wrong direction, Yepsen added.

Among the other reasons people cite for wanting to leave are weather (16 percent), government (15 percent), and jobs and education (13 percent). The survey of 1,000 registered voters was conducted in late September and early October and has a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points.

While Rauner often says new revenue will need to be part of the solution to his budget standoff with Democrats, the Republican

ON THE WEB Link to KDM Consulting report: www.taxpolicyissues.com/WhoLeavingIllinois. pdf Link to Simon Poll: http://paulsimoninstitute.siu.edu/_common/documents/opinion-polling/simon-institute-poll/2016/oct-10-psppi-simonpoll-illinois-voters-should-i-stay.pdf also frequently cites taxes as one of the reasons people leave the state.

In his February budget address, for example, he said, “The true solution to fixing our budget is to raise revenue by expanding our tax base and growing our economy, not by raising taxes and driving more jobs and families out of our state.”

While it’s clear that people are leaving Illinois – 67,535 more people moved out of the state from 2014 to 2015 than moved in, according to Census Bureau figures – it remains unclear whether taxes are a deciding factor for those who leave.

Tax policy firm KDM Consulting tried to

address that question earlier this year in a report titled “Who Is Leaving Illinois and Why?” As it turns out, the second question can’t be answered easily, particularly when it comes to taxes.

The report notes, “There does not appear to be consensus (in academic research) on whether or not state tax rates or burden are a major … factor in explaining state migration patterns.”

Also, Census Bureau surveys on the reasons people move don’t include taxes as an option.

Steve Brown, a spokesman for Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, said the Simon Institute survey provides worthwhile data but could have included additional questions, such as where those who’d like to leave Illinois intend to go.

“A lot of places you go, you find that the tax rates are higher or more things are taxed,” Brown said.

Illinois’ flat 3.75 percent income tax rate is lower than the rates in many other states, but its local property taxes are among the highest in the nation.

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Funding returns for Nelson Park amphitheater ALLISON PETTY Business Journal Writer‌

‌DECATUR — Concert lovers, get ready: A new venue is coming to town.

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation will cover the $3.9 million cost of a new amphitheater in Nelson Park, officials announced last month.

The project has been on hold for more than a year after a grant fell through that was meant to pay for part of its construction.

The city and Decatur Park District are expected to share the estimated $400,000 of engineering and professional services.

The announcement is a boon for the Lakeshore Landing lakefront development project, of which the amphitheater is a key piece.

“This is going to make Decatur the most dynamic city in Central Illinois and probably beyond,” Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe said at a news conference held at the site of the project.

In addition, Buffett said he would provide $2 million to extend the train at Scovill Zoo to wrap around the Children’s Museum of Illinois.

“We thought it was pretty cool to get this done,” Buffett said. “One thing I’ve learned through this experience, there’s a lot of people in Decatur that really care about the community and that come together when they need to.

“This was really an effort by a number of people to get it done. Hopefully, this will really make a big difference.”

The facility will accommodate about 300 people in fixed seating and another 3,000 on the terraced lawn. It will be south of Pavilion No. 1, with Lake Decatur as a backdrop.

Former Gov. Pat Quinn visited the city in September 2014 to announce that the state would help pay for the project through a $2 million grant from the Department of Commerce

and Economic Opportunity.

The funding was to be matched by $1.5 million from the Buffett Foundation.

But in January 2015, district officials said the paperwork related to the grant didn’t receive necessary approval from Quinn’s office before Gov. Bruce Rauner took office that month.

A few months later, Rauner suspended all state grants for park district projects, which included funding for multiple other amenities in Nelson Park. The district recently received word that those grants have been released, allowing for the construction of a ropes course, batting cages and more.

So what kind of acts could perform at the new venue? Park district leaders are still working that out, but hope the artists they schedule will attract visitors from nearby communities.

“We’ll have the facility, and then it’s a matter of who can we team up with to partner to bring in big-name artists,” Commissioner Chris Riley said.

Board President Bob Brilley II said he would love to see a successful country artist play the amphitheater. He described it as crucial to the overall lakefront development effort.

“It’s big to bring people to Decatur — hotels and motels, gas tax, everything,” he said. “To me, this is one of the biggest projects right now.”

Jerry Johnson, executive director of the Decatur Area Arts Council, said the arts group would provide whatever support it could.

He said the amphitheater would be great for the local arts community because it would be an original venue.

“We have lots of great indoor venues, but a place for people to see a show outside, that’s kind of a unique experience,” he said.

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City Manager Tim Gleason, center, looks on as Howard Buffett unveils plans to construct a large amphitheater in Nelson Park. The project will be funded completely by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, with city and park district expected to split engineering costs. Above right, a rendering provided by the Decatur Park District shows a preliminary design for the new amphitheater to be built in Nelson Park next year.

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8 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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WSOY Community Food drive bags another record THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer‌

‌DECATUR – The WSOY Community Food Drive has set a new record for the amount of food collected each and every year since 2002, when the first one brought in 35,000 pounds.

Last month, the unofficial tally for the 15th annual event was about 1,400,895 pounds/ dollars, up from a 1.27 million total last year.

Yet the community effort continues to surprise almost everyone connected to it, especially those who have never experienced it before.

Even when they’re not fully awake, as may have been the case for first-time volunteer 9-year-old Anna Perry of Decatur, who got out of bed two hours early to accompany her mother to the Airport Plaza Kroger to help out at the start of the daylong food drive at 6 a.m.

“I didn’t know there would be so many boxes to unload,” the fourth-grader admitted. “I’m going to be tired tonight.”

Kayla Walker, 23, a Decatur food pantry recipient and volunteer who arrived later in the morning to be interviewed for the live radio broadcast, saw the arrival of multiple vehicles bringing food and the controlled chaos of volunteers moving it with a different set of eyes.

Neither she nor her husband are working, and they have a 2-year-old son and are expecting a baby girl in December. “It’s amazing and reassuring to see how generous people are,” Walker said.

Even so, co-hosts of the 12-hour broadcast voiced concern about reaching the goal of 1.3 million pounds/dollars right up until the 6 p.m. finish, when Brian Byers, vice president of development for Neuhoff Media, revealed that a large donation made anonymously had put the effort over the top about 30 minutes earlier.

For Byers, who turned 50 on Friday, the happy ending was the best kind of birthday present. “It’s been an incredible week and an incredible day,” he said.

One surprise Friday was how well public schools did in a competition for cash prizes that has historically been dominated by the city’s Catholic schools.

St. Patrick School once again will get $2,500 for winning the school contest, raising a preliminary total of 152,887 pounds/dollars, compared to 187,757 last year.

This is the 11th time St. Patrick has collected first-place prize money, the 10th year it won the school contest all by itself and its fourth consecutive year coming out on top.

“This is always a thrill for us, but it takes many, many people to meet the goal for the whole community,” Principal Jan Sweet said.

“One small can makes make a big difference, because they add up.”

Sweet was referencing the lyrics to a song composed by the school’s music teacher Billie Shay and performed by 52 of her choral students during the food drive.

Fifth-grader Max Schilawski, 11, said he is proud to be a student at St. Patrick and a member of the Decatur community. “It feels pretty good to know we’re caring for people who don’t have a good supply of food,” he said.

Other unofficial totals were 90,620 pounds/ dollars for Mount Zion High School, worth $1,500; 70,316 for Our Lady of Lourdes, for

JIM BOWLING, BUSINESS JOURNAL‌

Mike Stewart and other volunteers place donations into metal bins during the WSOY Community Food Drive at the Airport Plaza Kroger. $1,000; and 45,341 for Warrensburg-Latham School District, for $750. Eisenhower High School claimed the fifth place prize, with 42,835, edging out St. Teresa High School’s 42,735.

Event sponsors providing the prize money include Archer Daniels Midland Co., Dale’s Southlake Pharmacy and Colee’s Corner Drugs, Decatur Back & Neck Center, DynaGraphics/Wood Printing, First Christian Church, Herald & Review, JL Hubbard Insurance and Bonds, Jones & Thomas Inc./JTnet, Skeff Distributing, Soy Capital Bank and Trust, Ticket-N-Trips, United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois and WAND-TV. Large donations from the business community, including $100,000 from ADM and a $100,000 matching grant from the Howard Buffett Foundation, helped drive the total ever upward.

But small and medium donations added up, too.

Millikin University, for example, brought three 15-passenger vans full of 6,816 pounds of food, plus a feeling of accomplishment.

“There was much more student involvement this year, and each one of them better understand the need and Millikin’s role as a good citizen in the community,” President Patrick White said. “It’s one thing to raise cans, it’s another to raise consciousness.”

Angie Bravo, a junior human services major from Tinley Park, said the teaming activity at Kroger inspired her to work even harder on the food drive her senior year. “This is surreal to see so much going on,” she said.

Doris Shookman of Decatur, one of the first drive-up donors, said she stops by with some food every year on her way to work at Akorn Pharmaceuticals. “I just like to give back to the community,” she said.

Robin Murray, community services supervisor at Catholic Charities, said every bit helps, what with her agency’s food pantry helping 1,000 new families in 2015. “The need just continues to grow,” she said.

Stacey Brohard, executive director of the Good Samaritan Inn, added that the food

drive is also a great morale booster for social service providers who sometimes don’t feel like they’re making much headway.

“It lifts you back up again to see people come out and support you like this,” Brohard said.

The WSOY Community Food Drive primarily supports Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army but has also helped the Northeast

Community Fund, Judy Mason Thanksgiving Basket Project, Reasonable Service, God’s Shelter of Love, AMELCA Food Pantry, Interchurch Council of Blue Mound-Boody-Stonington and Mount Zion United Methodist Food Pantry, in addition to the Good Samaritan Inn. Debbie Bogle, executive director of the United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois, said the more than 200 volunteers who turned out to run the annual community food drive Friday was “the most we’ve ever had.”

Among them were 10 members of the Islamic Center of Greater Decatur working alongside a similar number from First Presbyterian Church.

The two congregations also collaborated on a collection to help Syrian refugees this spring.

Cathy Force, First Presbyterian’s lay ministry coordinator, said working together lets people get to know one another better than they would worshiping in one another’s churches.

“We’re looking for opportunities to meet people not necessarily of the same faith or the same opinions,” Force said.

Other first-time volunteers ranged from Izzy Cutler, 12, of Forsyth, who was crowned Miss Illinois Festival Pre-Teen at the Decatur Celebration, and Vince Sims, 56, of Maroa.

“I’ve always wanted to do this, and this year I wasn’t going to let anything stop me,” Sims said. “Now that I see all this food, I can’t believe what the need must be.”

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LOCAL GROUPS, AGENCIES HERE TO HELP ‌The following is a listing of some of the notfor-profit agencies serving Macon County.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY‌ Primary mission: Eliminate cancer as a

major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

Services offered: Research funding, cancer information services, support groups, transportation, advocacy and public policy, community programs and patient services.

Top local executive: Crystal Sewell, Relay of Life Address: 675 E. Linton Ave., Springfield Phone: (217) 523-4503 Web: www.cancer.org, www.relayforlife.org/ maconil Primary events/fundraisers: Relay for Life (July)

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION ‌ Primary mission: Build healthier lives, free

of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Services offered: Research funding, ad-

vocacy, community education and patient care.

Top local executive: Karen Gedrose, corporate events director Address: 2141 W. White Oaks Dr. Suite A, Springfield Phone: (217) 331-6773 Web: www.heart.org Primary events/fundraisers: Heart Walk (Oct.)

AMERICAN RED CROSS‌ Primary mission: Prevent and alleviate hu-

man suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

Services offered: Disaster services, emergency services, international services, blood donation, health and safety services and services to armed forces.

Top local executive: W. Bryan Soady, executive director for South Central Illinois.

Address: 2674 N. Main St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-7758 Web: www.redcross.org/il/decatur Primary events/fundraisers: Blood drives, Heroes of the Heartland (March)

BABY TALK‌ Primary mission: Positively impact child

development and nurture healthy parent-child relationships during the critical early years.

Services offered: Early literacy program, early intervention, family literacy, home visitation, outreach and Early Head Start program.

Top local executive: Shauna Ejeh Address: 500 E. Lake Shore Drive, Decatur Phone: (217) 475-2234 Web: www.babytalk.org Primary events/fundraisers: Lullaby concert (May), Grillin’ in the Garden (June)

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS CHELP (Community Home Environmental Learning Project)‌ OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS ‌

into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Services offered: Youth, adult, senior, and family memberships and programs, sports, Primary mission: Providing children raised Primary mission: Provides services to seaquatics, health and wellness, Camp Sokkia, niors and disabled citizens to keep them in in adversity with strong and enduring propreschool enrichment and school age protheir homes and out of nursing homes as long fessionally supported one-to-one relationgrams. as possible. ships that change their lives for the better Top local executive: Matt Whitehead, execu Services offered: Senior companion, in-home forever. tive director care, adult protective services, coordinated Services offered: One to one mentoring.

Address: 220 W. McKinley Ave., Decatur point of entry, respite care and private care.

Top local executive: Jeanne Stahlheber Phone: (217) 872-9622 Top local executive: Diane Drew Address: 310 W. William St., Decatur Web: www.decaturymca.org Address: 1429 N. Jasper St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-4240 Primary events/fundraisers: Healthy Kids Phone: (217) 422-9888 Web: www.bbbscil.org Day (April), McElroy Memorial Golf Outing Web: www.chelpil.org Primary events/fundraisers: Bowl for (July); Backpack Attack & Kids Fest (July) Kids Sake (March), Golf for Kids Sake (Sept.), Night in the Islands (Nov.) Primary mission: Provide comprehensive health care that is affordable and readily ac Primary mission: Enhance the quality of life cessible for the medically underserved. for seniors through friendship, services, pro Services offered: Comprehensive outpatient Primary mission: To enable all young people grams, activities and advocacy. pediatric and adult medical care, laboratory, to reach their full potential as productive, carsubstance abuse services, nutrition wellness, Services offered: Multi-purpose senior cening, responsible citizens. ter, flu shots, information and assistance. women’s health, mental health services and Services offered: Programs for character Top local executive: Leslie Stanberry prenatal care, pharmacy, X-ray. and leadership; education and career; Address: 1430 N. 22nd St., Decatur Top local executive: Tanya Andricks, chief health and life skills; the arts and culture; Phone: (217) 429-1239 executive officer sports, fitness and recreation; and special- Address: 320 E. Central Ave., Decatur Web: decaturmaconcountyseniorcenter.org ized initiatives.

Primary events/fundraisers: Longaberger Phone: (217) 877-9117 Top local executive: Bruce Jeffery Binga (Oct.), thrift shop Web: www.crossinghealthcare.org Address: 859 N. Jasper St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-9605 Web: www.decaturilbgc.com Primary mission: Coalition of religious orga Primary events/fundraisers: Turkey Give nizations, volunteers and advocates that seek Away, Annual banquet (Nov.), Christmas Primary mission: To build simple, decent and to coordinate efforts to address unmet human Celebration (Dec.), MLK March (Jan.), Black affordable homes for people in need, providneeds and social injustices. Dove works for History Lock-in (Feb.), National Boys and ing them with a place to live and grow into all justice, equality and understanding among all Girls Club Week (March), Year End Bash that God intended. people.

(May), Back to School Festival (Sept.), Day Top local executive: Ed Smith, executive Services offered: Domestic violence profor Kids event (Sept.), Halloween Trunk or director gram, BABES, RSVP, Homeward Bound, MAX Treat (Oct.) Address: 151 N. Main St, Decatur and DAX, outreach programs, children’s cloth Phone: (217) 425-6446 ing room.

Primary events/fundraisers: ReStore Top local executive: Christine Gregory Address: 302 S. Union St., Decatur Primary mission: Extend to all the heal Phone: (217) 428-6616 ing and empowering presence of Jesus.

Web: www.doveinc.org Services offered: Professional coun Primary events/fundraisers: Point in Time seling solutions, student assistance Primary mission: Mission outreach providing (Jan.), mystery night (Feb.), community breakcounseling, eldercare options, elderly love of Christ through shelter and transition fast (March), coat drive (Oct.) guardianship services, legal services, opportunities: Water Street Mission service Faith in Action, Strong for Life, A Matter and supper for the inner-city, and Hope’s Attic of Balance, food pantries including a Thrift Store II as source of income. mobile food pantry, Meals on Wheels, Top local executive: Larry Duncan MedAssist/SHIP, resale store and dental Primary mission: Build girls of courage, con Address: 2175 E. Pershing Road, Decatur voucher program. fidence and character, who make the world a Top local executive: Marie Rademacher Phone: (217) 424-2381 better place.

Primary events/fundraisers: Hope’s Attic Address: 247 W. Prairie Ave., Decatur

Services offered: Serving girls ages 5 Thrift Store II Phone: (217) 428-3458 through 17 through troops, events and out Web: www.cc.dio.org/area_offices/decadoor education. tur/home.htm Top local executive: Pam Kovacevich Address: 1100 E. Pershing Road, Decatur Primary mission: Provide quality childcare Phone: (217) 423-7791 Web: www.getyourgirlpower.org for working parents or parents in school.

Primary events/fundraisers: Cookies (Jan.), Services offered: Child care for 6 weeks to Primary mission: Provide for the needy as magazine and candy sales (Oct.), Diamonds 12 years. directed by God (Matthew 25:34-40). and Desserts (Oct.) Top local executive: Janice Baldwin Services offered: Provide furniture, kitchen items, appliances and beds to low-income and Address: 2075 E. Lake Shore Drive, Suite B, Decatur needy families.

Phone: (217) 422-2044 Primary mission: Show God’s love for all Top local executive: Bob Thompson Primary events/fundraisers: Piggy bank, mankind, minister to the needs of the home Address: 1000 E. Locust St., Decatur calendar sales less and tell of the hope we have in Jesus Phone: (217) 422-4246 Christ.

Web: www.centralchristians.com Primary events/fundraisers: Golf outing Please see Groups, Page A10 Primary mission: To put Christian principles (Sept.)

CROSSING HEALTHCARE ‌

DECATUR-MACON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER‌

DECATUR AREA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ‌

DOVE INC.‌

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF DECATUR‌

CATHOLIC CHARITIES‌

DECATUR CARES RESCUE MISSIONS ‌

GIRL SCOUTS OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS ‌

CENTRAL ILLINOIS CHRISTIANS IN MISSION ‌

DECATUR DAY CARE CENTER‌

GOD’S SHELTER OF LOVE‌

DECATUR FAMILY YMCA ‌

10 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

Groups From A9

Services offered: Housing, clothing and

meals for women, married women with or without children.

Top local executive: Ed Vacon Address: 929 N. Union St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-2790 Web: www.godsshelteroflove.org Primary events/fundraisers: Blessingdale’s Thrift Shop, annual banquet (Sept.)

www.thebusiness-journal.com

MACON COUNTY CHILD FIRST CENTER ‌

Primary mission: Children who have been vic-

tims of abuse need people who care for them as people, not as case files. Children and their families are treated with care and concern.

Services offered: Assistance and support in coping with abuse, crisis intervention services, assistance with obtaining medical care, social services and counseling; legal advocacy and information about the court process including help with orders of protection, victim compensation and case information as appropriate.

Top local executive: Jean Moore, executive director Address: 800 E. Clay St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-6294 Web: www.child1stcenter.org and Facebook Primary events/fundraisers: Silent auction and 176 Keys Dueling Pianos (Nov.)

tions (Dec.), Capital project fundraising

OLD KING’S ORCHARD COMMUNITY CENTER‌ Primary mission: Provide a safe, healthy en-

vironment that offers opportunities for families to improve their quality of life.

Services offered: Youth after school and summer programs for K-12, Sunday evening open gym for ages 13 and up.

Top local executive: Alida Graham, president Address: 815 N. Church St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-2782 Web: www.okocommunitycenter.org

Address: 1950 N. Water St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-9255 Web: www.soill.org/area10/ Primary events/fundraisers: Polar Plunge

(March), spaghetti dinner (Nov.), Downtown Mardi-Gras (Feb.)

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY LAND OF LINCOLN ‌ Primary mission: To provide innovative strat-

egies to connect people with disabilities to their community.

Services offered: Employment services, after school program, adult day group, camps, case management, toy lending, medical transport Primary mission: Create opportunities and advocacy, play group, adult services, rewith the support of our community toward

Primary mission: To facilitate, through busispite care and transition program. improving the lives of our economically ness and education partnerships, the foster- Top local executive: Jennifer Dawson disadvantaged neighbors through daily ing of programs and alliances which provide Address: 602 E. William St., Decatur nourishment, life skills education and job experiences that expose diverse students to Phone: (217) 428-5033 training programs. the world of work.

Web: www.ucpll.org Services offered: Daily lunch program, Services offered: Link school-based and Primary events/fundraisers: UCP Miller Lite partner with local organizations for job work-based learning programs to improve Barstool Open (Jan.), telethon (Jan.), Puttin’ skills training (Mercy Kitchens and Mercy Primary mission: Provide court appointed volstudent success.

For Kids (Sept.).

Gardens). unteers to advocate for the abused, neglected Top local executive: Rev. Stacey Brohard and/or dependent children who are involved in Top local executive: Doug Brauer Address: 920 N. Union St., Decatur the Macon County juvenile court system and to Address: 1 College Park, SC05, Decatur Phone: (217) 875-7211, ext. 6745 Phone: (217) 429-1455 educate the public about juvenile advocacy.

Web: pie.richland.edu Web: www.goodsamaritaninn.org Services offered: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) to insure the best interests Primary events/fundraisers: Youth Leadership Institute, Decatur Area College and of the child are being served.

Primary mission: To enable people to improve Career Fair (Oct.), Archer Daniels Midland Top local executive: Steve Miller, executive their lives and communities through learning Chemistry Days (Feb.), 8th Grade Career Fair director partnerships that put knowledge to work.

(Jan.), Partners’ Salute (March) Primary mission: Improve the mental and Address: 132 S. Water St., Suite 250, Decatur

Services offered: Support the 4-H program, physical wellbeing of those we serve and to Phone: (217) 428-8424 the Master Gardening program, the Master advance behavioral health in our commu Web: www.maconcountycasa.org Naturalist program, the SNAP-ed Nutrition nity.

Primary events/fundraisers: CASAs for Education program and provide educational Services offered: Mental health and addicCASA playhouse raffle (April), Tommy Morprograms and activities related to our mis

Primary mission: Promote independent livtion services, crisis intervention, Oasis Day rissey Memorial Poker Run (July) sion, education programs related to local ing for all people with disabilities.

Center. foods and small farms, nutrition and well Services offered: Community reintegration, Top local executive: Candace Clevenger ness programs and horticulture. money follows the person, deaf services, Address: 151 N. Main St., Decatur Primary mission: Promote growth, indepenfamily advocacy, home services, independent Top local executive: Doug Harlan, county Phone: (217) 362-6262 dence and self-worth in children and adults director living, visual services, disability awareness.

Web: www.heritagenet.org with disabilities.

Top local executive: Jeri J. Wooters, executive Address: 3351 N. President Howard Brown Services offered: Bright Start, Kid’s ConnecBlvd., Decatur director tion, community employment, community Address: 2449 Federal Drive, Decatur Phone: (217) 877-6042 support services, residential services, autism Phone: (217) 876-8888 or 1-800-358-8080 Web: web.extension.illinois.edu/dmp services, speech/language therapy, devel Web: www.decatursail.com opmental/vocational training, case manage Primary mission: Pursue civil justice for ment, business services, janitorial and lawn Primary mission: Serve children, youth and low-income persons through representation care services for businesses, AgrAbility Unlim Primary mission: To preach the gospel of families in challenging circumstances. and education. ited, Independence Pointe.

Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his

Services offered: Physical, social, educa Top local executive: Lauren Pashayan Top local executive: Dreux Lewandowski name without discrimination. tional and psychological needs through home Address: 3085 Stevenson Drive, Suite 202, Address: 2121 Hubbard Ave., Decatur Services offered: Disaster services, emergency and/or community-based programs.

Springfield Phone: (217) 875-1910 assistance, family counseling services, housing/ Top local executive: Martin Harris Phone: 1-800-252-8629 Web: www.maconresources.org residence services, older adult services, worship Address: 1942 E. Cantrell St., Decatur Web: www.lollaf.org Primary events/fundraisers: Bowl-a-thon center and youth services, shelter services.

Phone: (217) 423-6961 (Feb.), MRI Celebration day (April), golf tourna Top local executive: Wesley Dahlberg Web: www.webstercantrell.org ment (June), Decatur Craft Beer Festival (Oct.) Address: 229 W. Main St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-4672 Web: www.sadecatur.org Primary mission: Prepare young people to Primary events/fundraisers: Christmas make ethical and moral choices over their kettles (Dec.) Primary mission: Provide a wide range of lifetimes by instilling in them the values of Primary mission: To assist needy families in rehabilitative services to at-risk children and the Scout Oath and Law. our community with the resources available in their families through our family intensive Services offered: Youth development proa caring and Christ-like manner. program while striving to maintain the family grams that provide character development, Services offered: Counseling, emergency food Primary mission: Provide year-round sports unit whenever possible. training and athletic competition in a variety citizenship training and personal fitness, and limited financial assistance, free clothing of Olympic-type sports for children and adults Services offered: Parenting skills, one to one leadership and self-reliance. room, assistance with prescription drugs, baby mentoring, supervised visits, youth services with intellectual disabilities, giving them Top local executive: Chris Long supplies and other emergency needs. referrals, behavior control, homeless youth continuing opportunities to develop physical Address: 262 W. Prairie Ave., Decatur Top local executive: Jerry Pelz shelter and mental health counseling. fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy Phone: (217) 429-2326 Address: 825 N. Water St., Decatur and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and Top local executive: Michael Warner Web: www.lincolntrailscouncil.org Phone: (217) 429-5846 Address: 202 E. Eldorado St., Decatur friendship with their families, other Special Primary events/fundraisers: Friends of Web: northeastcommunityfund.org Phone: (217) 422-7864 Olympics athletes and the community.

Scouting Campaign (Jan.), popcorn sale Primary events/fundraisers: Letter Carriers (Oct.) Top local executive: Joanie Keyes Web: www.youthadvocateprogram.org Food Drive (May), Christmas basket distribu-

GOOD SAMARITAN INN ‌

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION ‌

MACON COUNTY CASA ‌

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION MACON COUNTY ‌

HERITAGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER ‌

SAIL (Soyland Access to Independent Living)‌

MRI‌

LAND OF LINCOLN LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION INC.‌

LINCOLN TRAIL COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS‌

SALVATION ARMY ‌

WEBSTER-CANTRELL HALL ‌

YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM ‌

NORTHEAST COMMUNITY FUND‌

SPECIAL OLYMPICS ILLINOIS‌

November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 11

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12 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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Walkabout sets course for management style C

ongrats to you, my imaginary reader.

You have just been promoted. You are now a supervisor. Where to start? ‌My advice? Start by wandering around the place. Not enough bosses do that.

Years ago there was this whole big craze called MBWA – Management by Wandering Around.

But it somehow was lost in the conveyor-belt procession of short-lived business fads. Too bad.

Do it. Do it ofHuman Resources ten. While you’re wandering, you can decide what kind of boss you will become.

Now let me tell you one true thing I’ve figured out in my 50-plus years in the work world. You can approach this job in one of two ways, pal.

You can look for the bad in people, or you can look for the good.

Fred Spannaus

You can make it your mission to catch people doing things wrong, or you can make it your mission to catch them doing things right.

Two doors.

Door No. 1: You can look for opportunities to help. You can correct them, show them how to do things better, critique their work and improve their performance.

As you walk around the workplace, you can keep your eyes peeled for mistakes that you can fix, for suggestions you can offer.

You can demonstrate your expertise. You can show them exactly why you earned your promotion.

Door No. 2: You can look for opportunities to learn. You can notice what each person does really well. You can ask how they do it and why it works for them. You can look for chances to use that particular set of talents.

As you walk around, you can be on the alert for actions you can praise, for meaningful compliments you can disperse. You can demonstrate your listening skills. You can show them exactly how you will earn their respect and their trust.

Which door is for you? To be sure, every boss needs to do some of each. Somedays

you need to prod, to correct, to discipline.

And sometimes you need to encourage, to recognize and reward achievements.

But listen to this. You need to decide, right now, which one of these two choices is going to be your primary operating style.

It’s the key to what kind of boss you will become. You can become a Bobby Knight, or you can become a Joe Maddon. Both guys have won a lot of games.

Both doors work. This is not about succeeding. It’s about what kind of boss, and what kind of person, you want to become.

It’s truly about your core values.

I went for Door No. 2 and I am glad for that choice. Here’s one story.

Long before I became a consultant, I spent several decades in the nonprofit world, winding up as executive director of Dove, at the time it was a mid-size charitable organization.

Then, as now, Dove published a monthly newsletter that was sent to thousands of friends, volunteers and donors. I included a column of my personal reflections with each issue.

One morning, totally out of ideas for my monthly essay, I spent one hour walking around the offices to clear my mind and see

if anything popped into it. As I walked, I realized that the next column was unfolding before my eyes.

As the hour came to its end, I sat down and wrote a column about what I had just seen. I wrote about what I had observed in that measly 60 minutes — the kindness, the laughter, the humane responses to tough situations. I wrote about the people who worked for me.

I titled that column “My Heroes.” It remains, to this day, one of the finest pieces of writing this poor brain has produced.

Beyond being fine writing, however, it was incredibly effective as a management tool (though it surely wasn’t intended as that). The response from the organization’s underpaid and underappreciated staff was immediate in their expressions of thanks for the column, and in the quality of work that they aspired to produce.

Door No. 2 worked for me. Which one will work for you?

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.

Visiting professor to bring world of experience to Millikin

M

illikin is fortunate to have a visiting professor of entrepreneurship this year. ‌Omaima Hatem comes to us via the University of Edinborough, where she received her PhD in entrepreneurship and strategy. Hatem is not, however, a career academic, though her resume includes many great institutions including the American University in Cairo, MIT, Entrepreneurship Harvard and the aforementioned University of Edinborough. She has spent most of her life as an entrepreneur.

Hatem received her bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in management. She started an engineering consulting company in Egypt with a family loan of $5,000, and within 6 months she had an engineering consultation contract for $250,000.

The nature of her engineering work was quality testing on building materials and sites prior to construction – something that was not being done in Egypt and emerging markets back then. She has also had a number of other businesses in

Julie Shields

manufacturing, consulting and international trade.

With 25 years of experience owning multi-national businesses, you can be sure she has some interesting stories.

One of my favorites Hatem is when she had an impromptu dinner with a certain New York real estate mogul. He sat down with her as she was enjoying a restful week at a spa in Florida. He had bought the property that day – literally that day — and was thinking of canceling the spa’s lease. As a client of this spa, which had many regular A-List clients (of which, Omaima does not consider herself one), she convinced him that strategically it would be better to let them stay since many potential wealthy New York clients frequented the resort and would not look favorably on a hasty decision on his part. The spa is still there, and now he is running for president.

Hatem’s professional body of work is much more impressive than her brush with greatness in Florida. She has worked on projects in 28 countries on major endeavors such as the Library of Alexandria in Egypt, Doha Airport in Qatar, Oslo Opera House in Norway, and the Ground Zero Museum in New York.

She has also published three books on entrepreneurship and strategy in emerging markets.

Her willingness now to give back to the new generation of entrepreneurs is inspirational.

Hatem’s recent efforts have been in helping 14 scalable student businesses launch in Scotland. She wants to help students do the same thing here, promote alternate financing models for startups, and engage a broad community in corporate entrepreneurship education.

When a team of Millikin students, which submitted a proposal to the Lemelson-MIT competition last month, received an email challenging their innovation as not “new and unique,” Hatem quickly helped them craft a reply to highlight that the “recombination of existing resources in a new way” is a specific hallmarks of innovation. They made it

past that hurdle and moved on to the next round of qualifications.

She does not give up, and demonstrates “grit” to students every day. She helps show students how to persist and contend in a competitive environment.

Hatem will be co-teaching the food innovation and entrepreneurship class, which will be available for Millikin students and community members to take next semester at National Foodworks Services on Thursday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. starting Jan. 24. Anyone interested in the course can contact the Center for Entrepreneurship at e-center@millikin.edu or (217) 424-6296.

Julie Shields is the director of Millikin University’s Center for Entrepreneurship.

BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile: n 72% read The Business Journal monthly. n 17% are 34 and under.

November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 13

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Small businesses seek share of holiday sales CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer‌

‌A marketing campaign will getting under way this month aimed at increasing support for retailers in the Decatur area, particularly during the upcoming holiday shopping season.

The Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce is coordinating efforts to promote Small Business Saturday, which is scheduled for Nov. 26.

As part of a Decatur Leadership Institute project, it is looking for businesses to partner in the promotion throughout November, said Jarrod Cox, the Chamber’s events and sponsorship coordinator.

“The buy local campaign is starting to become more of a mindset,” Cox said. “It’s starting to grow. Brick and mortar stores are the backbone of any community.”

For more information about how to get involved, Cox said to go to www.decaturchamber. com or call (217) 422-2200. He said some of the marketing materials will be provided as part of the national American Express promotion of small businesses.

Much of the marketing locally will be done through social media, Cox said.

Social media can benefit businesses throughout the year, as participants last month in a Retail Roundtable held at the Decatur Area Arts Council discussed.

The Secret Garden, located at 664 W. Eldorado St., uses its Facebook page to list different first names who qualify for daily specials when

visiting the store, co-owner Lori Barrett said.

The promotion has helped to boost its Facebook following to nearly 10,000 users, Barrett said.

“It has really helped,” Barrett said. “It’s a good way to get them in the door.”

Ray Fields, co-owner of several area Papa Murphy’s locations, created the Central Illinois Pizza Man page to promote the business. Fields said posting videos can be eye-catching and he is able to track how engaged customers are with what’s being promoted.

Maintaining an active online presence can help with the goal of leading more footsteps into businesses, said Mark Sturgell, the Chamber’s program director.

“It increases the likelihood a shopper will come visit you,” Sturgell said. “They now know the store. That’s the first step to get them to the store.”

Developing customer loyalty is a key component of business marketing plans, Sturgell said.

“The goal is to keep being top of mind,” Sturgell said. “Developing loyal customers can mean more revenue.”

The owners of the Brass Horn men’s clothing store in downtown Decatur have tried to create an inviting environment with the way they treat and care for customers.

“It’s like inviting somebody into your home,” George Streckfuss said. “We’re doing something right that we have loyal customers who keep coming back.”

ADVERTISING WITHOUT ANNOYING Q How do I advertise digitally without annoying people?

This is a great question! Especially in light of the fact that a recent A

survey done by ADWEEK of 3,200 internet users revealed that 62% said they are annoyed by banner ads and are considering using an Ad Blocker. (A service a user can purchase that blocks banner ads from being served during an internet session). At the same time, digital ads serve a tremendous amount of traffic to your website and help you to build brand awareness. So what to do, what to do? EASY…find innovative, yet subtle ways to get your message to the online user. Here are some suggestions:

Cayla Hittmeier Digital Advertising Manager Herald & Review

• MOBILE VIDEO ADS – Internet users are less annoyed when served mobile video ads that are relevant to what they’re viewing. For example, if a user is on YouTube viewing a do-it-yourself video about replacing a toilet, it is prime opportunity for a plumber to run a video ad enticing them to just call them and let the plumber do the dirty work. In this scenario, relevance is obvious and the user is not likely to click “SKIP AD”.

• NATIVE ADVERTISING – This is a subtle way to get your message to customers without looking like the obvious banner ad that pops up and annoys. With native advertising, your “ad” looks like content or an article and appears where the user is already searching the topic. It positions you as the expert and doesn’t present as bothersome. It’s a WIN-WIN. Many websites and apps provide native advertising opportunities. We offer a great native advertising position on herald-review.com that positions your “ad” with our top trending news stories.

601 E. WILLIAM ST. DECATUR, IL 62523 217.421.6994

• BEHAVIORAL TARGETING – Finally, the best way to not annoy an online user is to serve ads when it actually matches their interests. Digitally, we can track how people are behaving online in such a way that we can serve ads specifically to someone who has shown interest in a subject related to your offering. For example, a foot & ankle specialist can target ads to someone specifically searching the keywords “foot pain”. When search results direct them to an article on WebMD, they’ll be served your ad showing that you provide services that can lead them to relief. How could anyone be annoyed by that? Again, a WIN-WIN. If I’ve piqued your interest…call me. There’s so much more we can do and I can promise you that no one will be annoyed with you when we put the ball in motion.

We’re not JUST a newspaper.

BIZ CLIPS

We are Multi-Media Consultants.

New staff members‌ Michael Morthland has joined the law firm of Featherstun, Gaumer, Postlewait, Stocks, Flynn & Hubbard.

Promotions‌ Allison Petty has been promoted to digital/ Morthland special projects editor for the Herald & Review.

Shawna Lawrence has been promoted to advertising manager for the Herald & Review.

Cayla Hittmeier has been promoted to digital advertising sales manager for the Herald & Review.

Achievements‌ Birgitta Bloomer with Lyle Campbell & Son Realtors has earned the Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation from the Seniors Real Estate Specialist Council of the National Association of Realtors.

Dr. Dana Ray, medical director at Crossing Healthcare, is the recipient of the National Association of Community Health Centers’ Innovative Research in Primary Care award.

Ryan Meyer, a former of Decatur who is currently vice president of Non-Profit and Governmental Lending for SunTrust Bank in Florida, is the recipient of the Illinois State University College of Business Early Career

Hittmeier

Petty

Lawrence

Online Contesting

Bloomer

National Website

Website Design

YouTube Advertising

Search Engine

Ray

Achievement Award for 2016.

Busey has been recognized as a 2016 Social Media Leader by Independent Banker magazine.

Business Clips are abbreviated versions of paid Business Achievements which appear Meyer on Mondays in the Herald & Review. For more information about Business Achievements, go to www. thebusiness-journal.com and click on the Submit a Business Achievement link.

Social Media

Targeted Email

Pinterest

Pandora Marketing

14 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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More employers offering telemedicine LISA SCHENCKER Tribune News Service Writer‌

CHICAGO — Precious Witherspoon’s ‌ throat felt increasingly raw and her head began to hurt as the workday wore on.

But Witherspoon, an executive assistant at Chicago-based PowerReviews, didn’t want to call in sick the next day and haul herself to a doctor’s office to hear what she already suspected — that she had strep throat.

Instead, she dialed First Stop Health on her drive home from work and described her symptoms to a doctor who sent a prescription to her pharmacy. She paid nothing for the consultation.

“It saved me a lot of extra time and energy,” Witherspoon said. She estimates she’s used First Stop Health — offered as a benefit by her employer — at least half a dozen times over the last year.

Employees wish more of their workers would do the same. This fall, employees across the country might notice their employers touting so-called telemedicine — in which health care is delivered remotely via phone, video or other technologies — as they gear up for insurance open enrollment.

Telemedicine often is offered in addition to or as part of traditional insurance benefits, and some telemedicine companies bypass employers entirely, offering it directly to consumers.

So far, employees haven’t warmed to the idea, either because they don’t understand it, don’t know it’s available or because they’re skeptical of getting a doctor’s opinion via telephone. Telemedicine accounted for only about 1 million of 1.2 billion outpatient medical visits last year, according to brokerage and consultancy Willis Towers Watson.

About 70 percent of large employers offered telemedicine as a benefit this year, but only 3 percent of employees at those companies used the services in the year’s first half, according to a survey of 133 companies, each with at least 5,000 employees, released by the National Business Group on Health.

But companies looking to lower their health care costs and boost worker productivity increasingly are adding it as a benefit.

If it catches on broadly with consumers, telemedicine could change the face of health care, altering the relationship between doctors and patients seeking relief from common maladies.

Here’s how telemedicine works: A patient requests a consultation either by phone or online. Some companies have agents who take patients’ medical histories over the phone before they speak to a doctor, and other companies have patients submit their medical histories online. Patients then wait at least a few minutes for a doctor to contact them. The doctor listens to the patient describe symptoms and asks questions. At that point, the doctor can decide whether to offer a prescription or tell the patient to visit a doctor in person.

The service was just what Tracy Bollinger needed last summer, when one of her daughters became sick while working at an

Emery in Chicago who advises providers and technology companies on telehealth services.

“They need to be educated on its existence.”

A lack of awareness, though, may not be the only obstacle for companies to overcome.

Employees may wonder whether a doctor can accurately diagnose them without seeing them in person.

According to a study published in peer-reviewed journal JAMA Dermatology this year, researchers examining 16 teledermatology services found major diagnoses repeatedly were missed and prescribed treatments were sometimes at odds with existing guidelines.

Dr. Jack Resneck, the study’s lead author, said he’s enthusiastic about the possibilities of telehealth but interested in making sure that as it expands, it does so in a high-quality way.

He’s concerned that telemedicine services offered to employees and other consumers don’t always allow patients to choose their doctors. Also, the telemedicine doctors often don’t have access to patients’ full medical records and aren’t in communication with their TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE‌ regular physicians.

Precious Witherspoon poses for a portrait at the PowerReviews office in Chicago. Witherspoon is “I think we’ve got lots of examples out an employee who uses her company’s telemedicine benefit. there of seeing it done very well and other examples where there’s room for improveout-of-state camp, Bollinger had her call “I think the first challenge is employees ment,” said Resneck, a professor and vice Chicago-based First Stop, the telemedicine often don’t know about it,” said Lisa Ma- chair of dermatology at the University of provider offered by her husband’s employer. zur, a partner at law firm McDermott Will & California at San Francisco.

The doctor diagnosed a sinus infection, prescribed an antibiotic and her daughter felt better within a day or two, Bollinger said.

“She didn’t have a doctor out there,” Bollinger said. “It would have been an emergency room visit for a sinus infection. It’s kind of silly to do that.”

Many say telemedicine is a win for companies and employees alike. If a worker gets sick with a minor illness when the doctor’s office is closed, or if the employee doesn’t have a primary care doctor, telemedicine is an alternative to an urgent care facility or emergency room. That can mean less time away from work, and can sometimes save workers, insurers and their employers, cash.

The typical telemedicine visit costs consumers about $40 to $49, a fee that is sometimes covered by employers, said Dr. Allan Khoury, a senior health management consultant for Willis Towers Watson. In contrast, before insurance, a primary care doctor visit for something that could be addressed by telemedicine can cost about $110, an urgent care visit about $150, and an emergency room visit $865, Khoury said.

Insurers might pay for most of those in-person costs, leaving employees with just a copay. Or employees might be stuck with a big chunk, especially if they’re on high-deductible plans, which have become increasingly common.

PowerReviews’ 140 employees and their family members used the telemedicine benefit 51 times in the first half of this year, saving nearly $6,000 in overall health care costs, said Kira Meinzer, PowerReviews’ vice president of human resources.

So given the cost and time savings, why aren’t more employees dialing in?

November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 15

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Steep hikes in store for health insurance ‌WASHINGTON (AP) — Premiums will go up sharply next year under President Barack Obama’s health care law, and many consumers will be down to just one insurer, the administration confirmed last month.

Before taxpayer-provided subsidies, premiums for a midlevel benchmark plan will increase an average of 25 percent across the 39 states served by the federally run online market, according to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services. Some states will see much bigger jumps, others less.

Moreover, about 1 in 5 consumers will only have plans from a single insurer to pick from, after major national carriers such as UnitedHealth Group, Humana and Aetna scaled back their roles.

“Consumers will be faced this year with

not only big premium increases but also with a declining number of insurers participating, and that will lead to a tumultuous open enrollment period,” said Larry Levitt, who tracks the health care law for the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation.

Republicans pounced on the www.healthcare.gov numbers as a warning that insurance markets created by the 2010 health overhaul are teetering toward a “death spiral.”

Sign-up season started Nov. 1, about a week before national elections in which the GOP remained committed to a full repeal.

The new numbers aren’t too surprising, said Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, who chairs a com-

Online

mittee that oversees the law. It “does little to dispel the notion we are seeing the law implode at the expense of middle-class families.”

HHS essentially confirmed state-by-state reports that have been coming in for months.

Window shopping for plans and premiums is already available through HealthCare.gov.

Administration officials are stressing that subsidies provided under the law, which are designed to rise alongside premiums, will insulate most customers from sticker shock. They add that consumers who are willing to switch to cheaper plans will still be able to find bargains.

“Headline rates are generally rising faster than in previous years,” acknowledged HHS spokesman Kevin Griffis. But he added that for most consumers, “headline rates are not what they pay.”

The vast majority of the more than 10 million customers who purchase through HealthCare.gov and its state-run counterparts do receive generous financial assistance. “Enrollment is concentrated among very low-income individuals who receive significant government subsidies to reduce premiums and cost-sharing,” said Caroline Pearson of the consulting firm Avalere Health But an estimated 5 million to 7 million people are either not eligible for the income-based assistance, or they buy individual policies outside of the health law’s markets, where the subsidies are not available. The administration is urging the latter group to check out HealthCare.gov.

The spike in premiums generally does not affect the employer-provided plans that cover most workers and their families.

Breath of Life, noon Tuesday, Nov. 15, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. Speakers available to answer questions from those with breathing problems. Call (217) 464-2603.

Parkinson’s disease support group, 1 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 17, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1360 W. Main St. Call John Kileen at (217) 620-8702 Widowed support group, 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 24. Monthly lunch gathering. For loca-

tion or to register, call (217) 428-7733.

COMMUNITY HEALTH CALENDAR

Support groups‌

Grief support group, 12:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Conference Room 561. Call (217) 464-1074.

Breastfeeding support group, 10:30 a.m.

Monday, Nov. 14, and Nov. 28, Baby TALK, 500 E. Lake Shore Dr. Call (217) 464-2334.

SHARE support group, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, 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, Nov. 8, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. Call (217) 853-1655.

Postpartum emotional support group, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. Call (217) 464-2334.

Our family is coming together to care for yours.

At HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, it’s our mission to provide outstanding care to Decatur families. That’s why we bring together exceptional physicians, including the HSHS Medical Group, our nationally recognized partners at the Prairie Heart Institute, emergency pediatric care, and a collaborative approach that’s centered on what matters most — you.

Together, we’re bringing even better health care, closer to home.

stmarysdecatur.com

Classes‌

Sibling class, 5:15 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room.

Children 3-12 learn about being a big brother or sister. To register, call (217) 464-2334.

Breastfeeding class, 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Conference Room. To register, call (217) 464-2334.

16 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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A chance to tell your story

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November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 17

YOUR FREE TIME CALENDAR

The Arts‌

at www.decaturciviccenter.org Mid Summer Moon Productions presents “A Christmas Carol,” Dec. 9-11, in the Decatur Civic Center Theater. Tickets at www.decaturciviccenter.org Millikin University Department of Theatre and Dance presents “Nice Work if You Can Get It,” Nov. 11-13 at Kirkland Fine Arts Center.

Anne Lloyd Gallery: Lucien Kapp Retrospective. Opening reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4. Call (217) 423-3189. www.decaturarts.org Gallery 510: Jewelry by Tina Sekimi. Opening reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4. Call (217) 422-1509.

Decatur Airport: Mixed media works by Rae Charity events‌ Nell Spencer.

Kitchen Warriors, to benefit the Culinary Decatur Public Library: Paintings by Sue Arts Institute at Richland Community College, Goodpaster. is at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, in the Schilling Community Education Center. Local chefs battle Music‌ Millikin University Wind Ensemble presents for culinary supremacy and you are the judge. For a Salute to Veterans concert at 7:30 p.m. Thurs- tickets, call (217) 875-7211 ext. 537.

A Night in the Islands, to benefit Big Brothers day, Nov. 17, at Kirkland Fine Arts Center.

Vespers, Dec. 3 and 4, Kirkland Fine Arts Cen- Big Sisters of Macon County, will be from 7 to ter. For tickets, go to www.kirklandfinearts.com 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, at the Decatur Club. The event, which is free to attend, includes an evening or call (217) 424-6318. of music, drinks made by celebrity bartenders and a silent auction. In addition, those who buy On Stage‌ “The Baby Boomer Comedy Show,” 7:30 p.m. a boarding pass put themselves in the running for Saturday, Nov. 5, Decatur Civic Center. Tickets at a host of vacation get-away packages. Call (217) 428-4240. www.decaturciviccenter.org Helping Hands at Home, a free piano concern Decatur Underground Theatre presents featuring Julie McClarey and friends to support “Jekyll & Hyde The Musical,” Nov. 11-13 and 18the Salvation Army, at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 at 20, in the Decatur Civic Center Theater. Tickets Tabernacle Baptist Church. Free will offering will

be taken.

Symphony Holiday Gala, to support music programs funded by the Symphony Guild of Decatur, 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at the Decatur Club. Event includes a buffet dinner, music by Michael Scherer, Zach Garrett and Kristin Moore, and a live and silent auction. For tickets, call (217) 423-3189.

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.

Ice Skating at the Decatur Civic Center. Go to www.decaturciviccenter.org or call (217) 4227300.

For the kids‌

Children’s Museum of Illinois is host to a variety of activities, including Cocoa and Cookies with Santa at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2. For information, go to www.childrensmuseumofil.com or call (217) 423-5437.

Scovill Zoo: Free showing of “Ice Age: Collision Course,” at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9. Donations

and snack proceeds will benefit conservation efforts. Pajama party with Santa, 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. Call (217) 421-7435 for more information.

Santa Shuffle, a non-competitive fun run with Santa, 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, at the Decatur Indoor Sports Complex. For more information, call (217) 429-3472.

Misc.‌

Veterans Day ceremony, hosted by the Veteran’s Assistance Commission of Macon County, 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, Masonic Temple. Featured speaker is Dan McQuality Jr., chaplain of American Legion Post 72.

Holiday Craft Show, Friday and Saturday, Nov. 11 and 12, Mount Zion Convention Center. For information, go to www.mtzconventioncenter.com.

Turkey Trot, 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, in Fairview Park Pavilion 1. Includes a 5K or 10K run or the 5K recreational walk. Call (217) 429-7750.

Decatur Christmas Parade, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, downtown Decatur.

Downtown Decatur Christmas Walk, 4:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7. Visit downtown merchants for an evening of shopping and other festive activities.

Mount Zion Christmas Parade, 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, downtown Mount Zion.

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Excuses for avoiding philanthropy BRUCE DEBOSKEY Tribune News Service Writer‌

‌Millions of generous Americans regularly donate to charities as individuals or as part of a family or business. At the same time, many other people buy into myths about giving – myths that undermine their willingness to give (or give more) to worthy causes.

Some of the common excuses I’ve encountered over the years include: The problems are too big. Although one person or business cannot end poverty, eliminate injustice or eradicate hunger, even small acts of charity given to effective nonprofits can indeed change the world. For example, the coins collected by Trick or Treat for UNICEF have raised more than $175 million to help the world’s children — and helped save countless lives.

Nonprofits spend too much on overhead.

The “overhead myth” has been widely challenged in recent years. Effective nonprofits addressing complex social or environmental problems need experienced, well-compensated professionals and the necessary tools to advance their missions. This issue is thoroughly addressed in “The way we think about charity is dead wrong,” a TED talk by AIDS Ride founder and professional fundraiser Dan Pallotta (viewed almost 4 million times), and “The overhead myth,” a letter signed by the CEOs of three leading nonprofit organizations.

Nonprofits waste or steal too much money.

The vast majority of nonprofits are well-run and effective. Organizations like Guidestar, Give Well, Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance and others provide public research on a wide range of nonprofits. Plus, an annual IRS Form 990 with highly detailed financial, governance and program information is available online or upon request for every U.S. 501©(3).

Never donate to door-knockers or phone solicitors, even if you think you recognize the nonprofit’s name. Far too often, the majority of the money raised goes to the solicitor, not the intended charity.

During my life, I need to preserve money for my own needs. After my death, I’ll use my will to donate what’s left. Of course, our first obligation is to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. Nonetheless, many people die having accumulated far more resources than were needed to accomplish these goals. A financial adviser can help calculate how much you reasonably need during a lifetime. Armed with this information, you can give more boldly — while you can enjoy it. I’m quite sure that donating during one’s lifetime is far more satisfying and rewarding than donating from the grave. Plus, despite their best intentions, unfortunately, most Americans fail to provide for charity in their estate plans.

The purpose of my business is to make money, not give it away. Businesses are indeed built to be profitable. However, a strong body of

STEVE SMEDLEY, LEE NEWS SERVICE‌

evidence demonstrates that strategic community investment by companies of all sizes increases profits by improving employee recruitment, retention and engagement; enhancing customer loyalty; and creating more favorable evaluation by regulators and investors.

I don’t have the time to get involved with strategic giving. Someone else can solve the problems. Doing philanthropy well and engaging the rising generations in your family or your business’s employees does take time. When you leave the charitable giving to others, however, you diminish your own voice. You cannot be sure that challenges are being addressed, opportunities preserved and lives improved in a way that matters to you. The time you spend on strategic giving is well-spent. Plus, there are experts out there who can help make the job easier and more successful.

I don’t have enough money to be a real philanthropist. The way you approach your giving is far more important than the amount you are able to give. Consider these questions to help establish your effectiveness as a donor regardless of your level of contributions: Why am I giving in the first place?

Who else in my family or business do I want to engage in philanthropy?

What outcomes do I want to achieve for myself, my family or my business?

What outcomes do I want to achieve on a particular cause or for my community?

Which are the best nonprofits for achieving those outcomes?

How can I evaluate the effectiveness of my social investments?

Can I make a difference by volunteering my time and talent, or by making it easier for my employees to do so?

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November 2016 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | 19

Get to root of noncompliance

‌Q

: I work in a medical practice in which the staff regularly fails to follow established protocols. Although I know there should be consequences for ignoring the rules, we haven’t been able to make that work with our employees.

Writing people up seems to have no effect, probably because they know they won’t be fired.

We’ve considered deducting money from their bonus pay, but we’re afraid that might hurt morale. What other consequences can be used with professional adults?

A: When employees appear to Office Coach be willfully noncompliant, managers tend to view punishment as the logical solution. In reality, however, imposing negative consequences should be the last step, not the first. So let’s start by considering whether your focus on penalties might be premature.

People disregard rules for many reasons.

Unless managers explain the purpose of a policy, employees may have no idea why it matters. Also, some procedures may not be as clearly defined as management thinks.

With complex processes, people can have trouble remembering all the steps. And sometimes they find an easier way to accomplish the same result.

Marie McIntyre

To assess this particular situation, ask yourself a few relevant questions. Have these protocols been specifically defined and communicated in writing? Are visual reminders provided at appropriate points?

Has management thoroughly explained why the procedures are important? Are employees frequently reminded of those reasons?

If you haven’t already done so, try asking the staff why they aren’t following the desired steps. Unless they’re being deliberately stubborn, which seems unlikely in a medical practice, they may be able to point out flaws and suggest improvements. When an entire group fails to comply, the problem often lies with the policy, not the people.

Finally, remember that consequences can also be positive. Instead of issuing warnings or withholding money, you might publicly praise those who do well or give them an extra bonus. But if, after all your efforts, some obstinate employees still ignore proper procedures, then its time to replace those meaningless write-ups with pre-termination notices. nnn Q: I recently sent several emails in which I referred to my managers as idiots. Unfortunately, they saw these messages and were not pleased. When they called me in for a discussion, I admitted that my language was inappropriate and that I deserved a reprimand.

Even though I apologized profusely, I’m afraid my bosses may still be upset with me.

Should I send them an apologetic email or just leave it alone and hope they forget?

A: In terms of immediate response, you have probably done enough. After an ad-

mission of guilt and a fervent apology, additional groveling might seem like overkill.

And if the meeting with your bosses ended on a positive note, you certainly don’t want to remind them of the problem.

To completely undo the damage, however, you will have to demonstrate that this was a temporary expression of frustration, not a reflection of your true feelings. Therefore, you must be sure that any future interactions with management are friendly, polite and respectful. While a single misstep might eventually be forgotten, a repeat performance could kill your career. nnn Q: The co-worker who sits next to me makes huffing noises and says, “Oh crap,” all day long. This drives me absolutely crazy.

Yesterday morning, she actually huffed 35 times in three hours. When I ask if she’s having a bad day, she always replies “No, I’m fine.” Should I tell her how much this bugs me or just let it go?

A: I assume that “huffing” means an exasperated sigh, sort of like a nonverbal “oh crap.” If so, this is probably just her automatic response to frustration. And I expect you already know that complaining about it will not be helpful. After all, if saying “your noises drive me crazy” was a comfortable thing to do, you would have already done it.

You may not realize, however, that you are actually exacerbating your own problem. Counting and commenting will only increase your awareness of these sounds, which is the exact opposite of what you want. So instead of resentfully awaiting the next huff, practice shifting your attention.

Focus on your work, soft music, white noise

or anything that helps. And if moving your desk ever becomes an option, go for it. nnn Q: I manage a small community bank which has very conservative customers.

To avoid offending them and present the proper image, we ask employees to abide by a specific dress code. New hires are sent these guidelines before they report to work.

Our latest employee often wears skirts which are inappropriately short. I need to discuss this with her, but I’m not sure how to approach the subject. Any suggestions?

A: Instead of criticizing your new arrival for her fashion choices, take this opportunity to explain both the rules and the reason for them.

For example: “In case you didn’t have a chance to read our dress code, I wanted to review those guidelines with you. We require conservative attire here because many of our customers are very conventional, and we don’t want to offend them.

For that reason, your skirts will need to be slightly longer than you may be accustomed to.”

You should then provide a specific definition of acceptable skirt length and thank her for making the change. To prevent similar problems in the future, include a detailed dress code discussion in your employee orientation sessions. Unfortunately, providing advance reading material does not guarantee that it will actually be read.

Marie G. McIntyre is a workplace coach and author. Send in questions and get free coaching tips at www.yourofficecoach.com.

How to move past a business mistake

‌Q

: I made a mistake at work that cost my company some money and embarrassed some executives. Yet everyone seems to be moving on but me; I can’t seem to let go and no longer trust my own judgment. What can I do to move past this?

A: Forgive yourself. A simple answer, and as you have seen, not easy to do.

Start by thinking deeply about the reactions of people around you. It sounds like they still trust you and have not lost confidence in your ability and judgment.

Liz Reyer

WEEKLY TIPS Get weekly tips form Liz Reyer and the Office Coach at www.thebusiness-journal.com Looking at yourself from the outside, what do you see? If you catch yourself becoming harsh, step back to that thirdparty perspective. Some emotional distance might help you get a more positive take.

Also take a more dispassionate look at the actual incident. Clearly it did not rise to the level of “fire-able offense.” Teach yourself to view it in a less-intense way by describing it as someone else might. To you, it was a disaster; to someone else, it may have been a blip.

Now start to convert it to a useful source of learning and development for you. While you may not be in exactly the same situa-

tion again, there are likely insights that you can distill. For example, perhaps you want to be more thorough in reviewing your project assumptions. Maybe you need to do more in-depth risk assessments. Or your communication may have been too little too late. Whatever the factor, consider ways that you can become better at your job as a result of this experience.

But what if you are just stuck? If you are continuing to ruminate on the incident, it’s time to break that pattern. One of the tricks that works for me is similar to a strategy that is effective with the average toddler: distraction. Find something to be busy with, and when you find your mind slipping back into the rut, consciously choose a different topic to think about.

You may also be caught in the shame trap. This can be deadly to your confidence, as you are seeing. Bring the light of day to the incident. If you find that you are too ashamed to talk about it, or if you are feel-

ing humiliated about it, find a safe audience and talk about it. Most find that each airing of the incident relieves some of the angst, and eventually the sting will fade.

Time will be your best friend, if you let it. Humans are wired to have the intensity of memories fade with time. In this case it’s an asset, but that requires patience.

And if it is too much to deal with on your own, by all means reach out for help. Especially if you have issues with stress, anxiety, or depression, this could be a major trigger and there is no shame in getting whatever support you need.

In the end, we all have to live through difficult situations, sometime brought on ourselves and sometimes through no action of our own. When you can face it head on and grow from it you have the opportunity to gain insight, wisdom and compassion.

Liz Reyer is a credentialed coach. Submit questions to www.deliverchange.com/coachscorner.

20 | BUSINESS JOURNAL | November 2016

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