November Business Journal by Herald & Review

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NOVEMBER 2013

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November 2013

YOUR CALENDAR

Tuesday, Nov. 5 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton, 333 W. Marion Ave., Forsyth. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility, , 3909 W. Main St. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club, 158 W. Prairie Ave. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.

Wednesday, Nov. 6 Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Speaker: Jason Jared, Health Alliance Medical marketing manager. Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility. Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting, 5 p.m., Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. Scheduled speaker is Richard Mark, chairman, president and CEO of Ameren Illinois. Pre-registration required.

Thursday, Nov. 7 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Greater Decatur Y, 220 W. McKinley Ave. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr. American Business Women’s Association (Amacita), 6 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building, 2715 N. 27th St. Decatur Camera Club, 7 p.m., Rock Springs Conservation Area, Nature Center.

Friday, Nov. 8 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility.

Monday, Nov. 11 Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill, 101 S. Main St. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club.

Tuesday, Nov. 12 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall, 3390 N. Woodford St. Decatur Area Society for Human Resource Management, 11 a.m., Doherty’s Pub and Pins, 242 E. William St. Central Illinois Ad Club, 11:30 a.m., Decatur Club. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club.

Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Shop on Main Holiday & Gifts, 303 N. Main St. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.

Wednesday, Nov. 13

Friday, Nov. 22

Wednesday, Dec. 4

Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Monarch), noon, location varies.

Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, 7 a.m., Decatur Club. Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Tuesday, Nov. 26

Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Mount Zion Chamber of Commerce Luncheon, 11:30 a.m., Main Hangar Restaurant. Speakers: retired Col. French L. MacLean and T.G. Bolen. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Real Estate Investors Association, 6:30 p.m., Perkins Family Restaurant, 2999 N. Monroe St.

Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Building Construction Trades Council, 10 a.m., IBEW Local 146 Hall. Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Community Thanksgiving Luncheon, 11:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center.

Thursday, Nov. 14

Monday, Dec. 2

Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. GFWC Decatur Woman’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Senior Resources Network (formerly Mature Resources Network), 11:45 a.m., Keystone Gardens, 1455 W. Mound Road. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce Political Meet and Greet, 5-7 p.m. Decatur Club. Decatur Area Women’s Network (DAWN), 5:30 p.m., location varies. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building.

Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.

Friday, Nov. 15 Decatur Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Women’s Network, 11:45 a.m., Decatur Club.

Monday, Nov. 18 Decatur Noon Lions Club, Main Place Bar & Grill. Decatur Rotary 180, noon, Decatur Club. Women’s Progressive Club, 6 p.m., Greater Northside Baptist Church.

Tuesday, Nov. 19 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.

Wednesday, Nov. 20 Decatur Golden K Kiwanis Club, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Christian Women’s Network, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur Shrine Club, noon, Scovill Banquet Facility.

Thursday, Nov. 21 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Christian Women’s Club, 11:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Decatur AMBUCS, 6 p.m., Decatur Club.

Tuesday, Dec. 3 Forsyth Rotary, 7 a.m., Homewood Suites by Hilton. Kiwanianne Club of Decatur, 9:30 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Prairieland Kiwanis, 9:30 a.m., Decatur Civic Center. Decatur AMBUCS, noon, Decatur Club. Noon Kiwanis Club, Decatur Club. Noon Sertoma, Decatur Club. Blue Mound Rotary, 6:30 p.m., Pleasantview Township shed.

Thursday, Dec. 5 Earlybird Kiwanis, 6:45 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. American Business Women’s Association (Amacita), 11:30 a.m., location varies. Decatur Metropolitan Rotary Club, noon, Decatur Club. Human Service Agency Consortium (HSAC), noon, Central Christian Church, 650 W. William St. Thursday Noon Toastmasters, Greater Decatur Y. Metro Decatur Home Builder’s Association, 6 p.m., Beach House. Lincolnland AMBUCS, 6:30 p.m., Easter Seals’ Building.

Friday, Dec. 6 Breakfast Sertoma, 7 a.m., Scovill Banquet Facility. Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce First Friday Luncheon, noon, Main Street Church Tea Room, 2000 N. Main St.

To submit items for Your Calendar, contact Scott Perry at (217) 421-7976, at sperry@heraldreview.com, or click the “Submit an Event” link at www.thebusiness-journal.com

Justice

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address unmet human needs

EQUALITY

advocating

volunteering

understanding

428-6616 WWW.DOVEINC.ORG

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November 2013

FROM THE EDITOR “Where were you when Kennedy was shot?” With all the projects I had to do in grade school, one would think I would have asked that question of my parents a time or two. But much to my surprise, I don’t remember asking my Dad until much later. Based on the answer he gave me, I’m sure I would have remembered. We were sitting at the bar at the AIW Hall and something about President John F. Kennedy’s assassination flashed across the TV screen. So I asked the question. My Dad told me he was sitting in a tank in Germany waiting to see if some of the neighbors would use Kennedy’s death as an opportunity to catch us off guard. I bring this up not to spark conversation about Kennedy, but to prompt more discussion between generations. Whether it’s sitting in a tank in Germany or making a buck to clean the parking lot at local burger joint and having enough to grab a sandwich, a movie AND a snack, the stories our elders can share are priceless. Take time amid all the hustle and bustle of this holiday season — and beyond — to talk and listen.

BUSINESS JOURNAL

BUSINESS JOURNAL OF MIDCENTRAL ILLINOIS

VOLUME 19

ISSUE 11

601 E. William St. Decatur, IL 62523 217.421.7976 217.421.7965 (fax)

PUBLISHER: Todd Nelson EDITOR: Scott Perry ADVERTISING: AnnaMarie Hanes

Scott Perry, editor Business Journal of Midcentral Illinois

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Ginger Wortman COVER PHOTO: Jim Bowling

November2013Contents 31

Standing Features

READY, SET, SHOP

Biz Bites . . . . . . . . . . 20

Black Friday survival tips

Business Clips . . . . . . 29 Fred Spannaus . . . . . 28 Free Time calendar . . 24

STORY IDEAS: Email sperry@herald-review.com or call 217.421.7976. SUBSCRIPTIONS: To order additional copies call 217.421.7931 ADVERTISING: The deadline for ad and ad copy for the December issue is Nov. 14. Call 217.421.7931 for rate information. The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois is printed monthly and is a publication of Lee Enterprises Inc.

Health calendar . . . . 27 Liz Reyer . . . . . . . . . . 11 Office Coach . . . . . . . 11 Professional profile . . . 7 SCORE counselor . . . 29 Wendy Gauntt . . . . . . 23

Downtown revival Downtown Decatur looks much better, but now comes the hard part — getting people to enjoy all that it has to offer. Find out what is being done to attract people to this historic shopping district. Page 13

7 UNITED FRONT Meet the United Way executive director

Information published is the responsibility of the author and does not reflect the opinions of The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois. To submit articles, mail typewritten and 500 words or less to: The Business Journal, 601 E. William St., Decatur, IL 62523. Articles will not be returned. Any editorial content or advertising published is the property of Lee Enterprises Inc., DBA The Business Journal of MidCentral Illinois. Copyright 2013 Herald & Review All rights reserved for entire content.

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November 2013

Bargains for you, funding for them Thrift stores offer many benefits By THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer

DECATUR — Investing in a newer, larger location for Blessingdales thrift shop reflects a decision to depend more on the business to keep one of Decatur’s oldest homeless ministries going. Ardena Hunter, administrator of God’s Shelter of Love, said donations are down, more people are thrift shopping than ever before, and she’s not getting any younger. “I’ve never drawn a salary, and I’m going to be 82 in December,” Hunter said. “Whoever replaces me is going to have to be paid, and we can’t always depend on people to donate until the economy gets better.” So that’s why the ministry’s board decided to take a bequest and buy the former Rolling Prairie Library System building at 345 W. Eldorado St. for $280,000 rather than continue to lease a two-story house for Blessingdales at Central United Methodist Church. Although the shelter’s obligation on that building was merely to maintain it, it offered just 4,000 square feet to display merchandise and none of the space was handicapped accessible. Blessingdale’s new home has more than double the room, all of it on one level and there is even an elevator to access the second floor, which God’s Shelter of Love hopes to make available at some point to other nonprofits. Hunter said the shelter’s mortgage is lower than the rent would be on a space half the size. Founded in 1991, God’s Shelter of Love provides shelter to 12 to 15 homeless women, children and families, opening Blessingdales in 1998 and moving the shop to West Eldorado Street and Central United Methodist Church in 2004. Other Decatur-area churches that support the ministry include Mount Zion, Antioch, Mound Road, South Shores, Clinton, Heyworth, Moweaqua and Texas Christian churches; Westminster, Lampstand and Mount Zion Presbyterian; Boiling Springs, Mound Road and St. Elmo churches of God; Elwin United Methodist; and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. New Life Pregnancy Center could be the next Christian ministry in Decatur to invest in its thrift store in likewise fashion. Executive Director Penny Weaver said she is actively looking for a larger building for New Life Thrift Shoppe, which has operated out of rented quarters at 1700 E. Pershing Road, Suite A, since November 2011. “It’s just so expensive to lease,” she said. “We will have to have a capital campaign of some sort to buy a building,

Business Journal/Jim Bowling

Sandy Woodrum, left, and her mother, Jean Woodrum, look over an autumn birdhouse during the grand opening of the Blessingdales thrift shop in the business's new location at 345 W. Eldorado St.

‘We’re here to provide the service and nearly all the money we generate goes right back into the resale store.’ ROBIN MURRAY, CATHOLIC CHARITIES COMMUNITY SERVICES SUPERVISOR

but we feel that would be a wiser use of our donations.” Right now the main benefit for the center is the work experience the shop can give the clients it hires. “Changing the lives of pregnant women and young mothers is what makes it all worth it,” Weaver said. John Harper, Illinois executive director for Teen Challenge, expresses similar sentiments about his ministry’s resale shop at 201 W. Eldorado St. “We make enough profit to continue doing what we’re doing until our lease is up in March of 2015,” Harper said. “Until then, our challenge is going to be over-

head costs.” He added that he would like to have a larger building with enough room to sell furniture and appliances. Teen Challenge is a faith-based treatment program that relies on donations to help adults and teenagers overcome drug and alcohol addiction. Decatur Cares Rescue Missions and Catholic Charities, by contrast, will most likely continue their thrift stores as they are. Executive Director Mick McCammack said after nine years in business, Hope’s Attic at 2940 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive provides 35 percent of the funds

needed to run Decatur Cares, which operates Grace House for homeless women and the Water Street Mission for homeless men. Forthcoming plans to consolidate under one roof in the former work release center at 2175 E. Pershing Road will require more money, but McCammack is seeking additional help from businesses, organizations and churches, not the thrift store. “I’m satisfied with it the way it is,” he said. Robin Murray, community services supervisor at Catholic Charities, said her agency rents its building at 247 W. Prairie Ave. from the Springfield Diocese and sees its thrift store as a ministry not a money-maker. “We’re here to provide the service and nearly all the money we generate goes right back into the resale store,” Murray said. “Thrifting is a big thing now with a lot of people.” Nancy McDowell is among them and was one of scores of customers who visited Blessingdales during its grand opening Oct. 8. Using a cane because of back problems, the Decatur woman said she very seldom climbed the stairs to the second floor of the shop’s previous building. “This is beautiful,” McDowell said. “It’s so open and easy to look around.”

www.thebusiness-journal.com The following is a listing of some of the not-for-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, cancer information services, support groups, transportation, advocacy and public policy, community programs and services. Top local executive: Tonda Thompson Address: 4234 N. Knoxville, Suite B, Peoria Phone: (309) 688-3488 Web: www.cancer.org, www.relayforlife. org/maconil Primary events/fundraisers: Relay for Life (July)

AMERICAN RED CROSS MID-ILLINOIS CHAPTER Primary mission: Prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Services offered: Disaster services, emergency services, blood donation, health and safety services and services to armed forces. Top local executive: Carl Baker, executive director Address: 2674 N. Main St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-7758 Web: www.midillinoisredcross.org Primary events/fundraisers: Heartland Heroes (Nov.), blood drives, Diamond Affair (April)

BABY TALK Primary mission: Positively impact child development and nurture healthy parentchild 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: Claudia Quigg Address: 500 E. Lake Shore Drive, Decatur Phone: (217) 475-2234 Web: www.babytalk.org Primary events/fundraisers: Grillin’ in the Garden (June)

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS Primary mission: Providing caring adult mentors to at-risk children in Macon County. Services offered: One to one mentoring. Top local executive: Jeanne Stahlheber Address: 310 W. William St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-4240 Web: www.bbbscil.org Primary events/fundraisers: Bowl for Kids Sake (March), Night in the Islands (Nov.)

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF DECATUR Primary mission: To enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens Services offered: Programs for character and leadership; education and career; health and life skills; the arts and cul-

November 2013

Not-for-profit agencies help the community

BUSINESS JOURNAL

Sokkia, preschool enrichment and school age programs. Top local executive: Paul Stanzione, executive director Address: 220 W. McKinley Ave., Decatur Phone: (217) 872-9622 Web: www.decaturymca.org Primary events/fundraisers: Women of Excellence (April), Celebrity Waiters Dinner (Oct.), Backpack Attack (Aug.), KidFest (Aug.)

DECATUR-MACON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER ture; sports, fitness and recreation; and specialized initiatives Top local executive: Bruce Jeffery Address: 859 N. Jasper St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-9605 Web: www.bgca.org Primary events/fundraisers: Annual banquet (Nov.), Black History Lock-in (Feb.), National Boys and Girls Club Week (April), Year End Bash (May), Back to School Festival (Sept.), Day for Kids event (Sept.)

CATHOLIC CHARITIES Primary mission: Extend to all the healing and empowering presence of Jesus. Services offered: Professional counseling solutions, student assistance counseling, eldercare options, elderly guardianship services, Faith in Action, food pantries, Meals on Wheels, MedAssist, resale store, Strong for Life, A Matter of Balance. Top local executive: Marie Rademacher Address: 247 W. Prairie Ave., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-3458 Web: www.cc.dio.org/area_offices/ decatur/home.htm Primary events/fundraisers: Spring fundraiser

CENTRAL ILLINOIS CHRISTIANS IN MISSION Primary mission: Provide for the needy as directed by God (Matthew 25:34-40) Services offered: Provide furniture, appliances and beds to low-income and needy families. Top local executive: Mark Dehority Address: 1000 E. Locust St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-4246 Web: www.centralchristians.com Primary events/fundraisers: Golf outing (Sept.)

CENTRAL ILLINOIS FOODBANK Primary mission: To collect donated food and grocery items from growers, manufacturers, processors and wholesalers for distribution to charitable agencies serving people in need. Serve more than 150 agencies in 21 Central Illinois counties. Services offered: Food distribution Top local executive: Pam Molitoris, executive director Address: 1937 E. Cook St., Springfield Phone: (217) 522-4022 Web: www.centralilfoodbank.org Primary events/fundraisers: Community food drive (Oct.), Harvest Ball (Nov.)

CHELP (Community Home Environmental Learning Project) Primary mission: Provides services to seniors and disabled citizens to keep them in their homes and out of nursing homes as long as possible. Services offered: Senior companion, in-

home care, adult protective services, coordinated point of entry, respite care and private care. Top local executive: Diane Drew Address: 1429 N. Jasper St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-9888

COMMUNITY HEALTH IMPROVEMENT CENTER (CHIC) Primary mission: Provide exceptional, compassionate and comprehensive health care to Central Illinois. Services offered: Comprehensive outpatient pediatric and adult medical care and mental health services. Top local executive: Tanya Andricks, chief executive officer Address: 2905 N. Main St., Decatur Phone: (217) 877-9117 Web: www.chic-clinic.org

DECATUR AREA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Primary mission: To build simple, decent and affordable homes for people in need, providing them with a place to live and grow into all that God intended. Top local executive: Jane Miller, office manager Address: 151 N. Main St, Decatur Phone: (217) 425-6446 Primary events/fundraisers: ReStore warehouse

DECATUR DAY CARE CENTER Primary mission: Provide quality childcare for working parents or parents in school Services offered: Child care for 6 weeks to 12 years Top local executive: Janice Baldwin Address: 2075 E. Lake Shore Drive, Suite B, Decatur Phone: (217) 422-2044 Primary events/fundraisers: Piggy bank, pizza sales, food drive, United Way fundraiser

DECATUR FAMILY REFUGE Primary mission: Provide shelter for Decatur-Macon County homeless residents Services offered: Partner with local organizations for medical, financial, education, counseling and courts. Monitor and maintain established families. Top local executive: Kathleen Taylor Address: 539-543 N. Water St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-9903 Web: decaturfamilysanctuary.org Primary events/fundraisers: Bingo

DECATUR FAMILY YMCA Primary mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Services offered: Youth and family programs, sports, health and fitness, Camp

Primary mission: Enhance the quality of life for seniors through friendship, services, programs, activities and advocacy. Services offered: Multi-purpose senior center, flu shots, information and assistance. Top local executive: Leslie Stanberry Address: 1430 N. 22nd St., Decatur Phone: (217) 429-1239 Web: decaturmaconcountysenior center.org Primary events/fundraisers: Longaberger Binga (Oct.)

DOVE INC. Primary mission: Coalition of religious organizations, volunteers and advocates that seek to coordinate efforts to address unmet human needs and social injustices. Services offered: Domestic violence program, BABES, Homeward Bound, MAX and DAX, outreach programs, children’s clothing room, RSVP and community recycling center. Top local executive: Jim Walters Address: 788 E. Clay St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-6616 Web: www.doveinc.org

EASTER SEALS OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS Primary mission: Provide exceptional services to insure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunity to live, learn, work and play in their community Services offered: Speech/language therapy services, recreational programming, adult services, autism services, family support services, childcare, respite care and AgrAbility Unlimited Top local executive: Lori Brown, president Address: 2715 N. 27th St., Decatur Phone: (217) 429-1052 Web: www.ci.easterseals.com Primary events/fundraisers: Bowl-athon (April), celebration day (March), softball tournament (July), Denim Days, Kick’n Asphalt (Oct.)

GIRLS SCOUTS OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS Primary mission: Build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place Services offered: Serving girls ages 5 through 17 through troops, events and outdoor education Top local executive: Pam Kovacevich Address: 110 E. Pershing Road, Decatur Phone: (217) 423-7791 Web: www.girlscouts-gsci.org Primary events/fundraisers: Cookies (Jan.), magazine and candy sales (Oct.), diamonds event (Sept.)

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November 2013

Continued from page 9 GOOD SAMARITAN INN Primary mission: Maintain a community program to serve nutritious meals to the hungry and economically disadvantaged Services offered: Daily lunch program Top local executive: Rev. Stacey Brohard Address: 920 N. Union St., Decatur Phone: (217) 429-1455 Web: www.goodsamaritaninn.org

HERITAGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER Primary mission: Assist people with mental illnesses and substance use disorders to reclaim their lives by providing treatment and supportive services in a community setting Services offered: Mental health and addiction services, crisis intervention, Oasis Day Center Top local executive: Diana Knaebe Address: 151 N. Main St., Decatur Phone: (217) 362-6262 Web: www.heritagenet.org Primary events/fundraisers: Festival of Choirs (Jan.), Band Together for Oasis (Oct.)

HOMEWARD BOUND PET SHELTER Primary mission: Shelter and rehabilitate relinquished cats, kittens, dogs and puppies until they can be permanently adopted into loving homes. Also serves as a job training program for people with disabilities Services offered: Pet Adoptions, grooming, foster care and job training program. Top local executive: Dreux Lewandowski Address: 1720 East Huston Dr., Decatur Phone: (217) 876-1266 Web: www.homewardboundpet shelter.com Primary events/fundraisers: Martinis for Cats (March), Woofstock (June), Dog Days of Summer (Aug.)

LAND OF LINCOLN LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION INC. Primary mission: Pursue civil justice for low-income persons through representation and education Top local executive: Lauren Pashayan Address: 3085 Stevenson Drive, Suite 202, Springfield Phone: 1-800-252-8629 Web: www.lollaf.org

LINCOLN TRAIL COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS Primary mission: Prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law Services offered: Youth development programs that provide character development, citizenship training and personal fitness, leadership and self reliance Top local executive: Chris Long Address: 262 W. Prairie Ave., Decatur Phone: (217) 429-2326 Web: www.lincolntrailscouncil.org Primary events/fundraisers: Popcorn sale (Oct.), Friends of Scouting Campaign (Jan.)

MACON COUNTY CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER Primary mission: Children who have been victims 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: 1990 N. Water St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-6294 Web: www.mccac.org

MACON COUNTY CASA Primary mission: Provide court appointed volunteers to advocate for the abused, neglected and/or dependent children who are involved in the Macon County juvenile court system Services offered: Court appointed special advocates Top local executive: Pam Burkhart, executive director Address: 140 S. Water St., Suite 100, Decatur Phone: (217) 428-8424 Web: www.maconcountycasa.org Primary events/fundraisers: CASA for CASA playhouse raffle (April), CASAtume party (Oct.)

MACON RESOURCES INC. Primary mission: Promote growth, independence and self worth in children and adults with disabilities. Services offered: Bright Start, Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Connection, community employment, community support services, residential services, developmental/vocational training, case management, Blue Tower Training, business services, janitorial and lawn care services for businesses, Homeward Bound Pet Shelter Top local executive: Dreux Lewandowski Address: 2121 Hubbard Ave., Decatur Phone: (217) 875-1910 Web: www.maconresources.org Primary events/fundraisers: Kids Rock (March), golf tournament (June)

NORTHEAST COMMUNITY FUND Primary mission: To assist needy families in our community with the resources available in a caring and Christ-like manner. Services offered: Counseling, emergency food and financial assistance, clothing room, assistance with prescription drugs, baby supplies and other emergency needs. Top local executive: Jerry Pelz Address: 825 N. Water St., Decatur Phone: (217) 429-5846 Web: northeastcommunityfund.org Primary events/fundraisers: Letter Carriers Food Drive (May), Christmas basket distributions (Dec.)

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Primary mission: To facilitate through business and education partnerships, the fostering of programs and alliances which provide experiences that expose diverse students to the world of work.

Services offered: Link school-based and work-based learning programs to improve student success. Top local executive: Renee Stivers Address: 1 College Park, E186, Decatur Phone: (217) 875-7211, ext. 575 Web: pie.richland.edu Primary events/fundraisers: Youth Leadership Institute, Decatur Area College and Career Fair (Oct.), Archer Daniels Midland Chemistry Days (Feb.), 8th Grade Career Fair (Jan.), Partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Salute (March), Careers on Wheels (April), high tech summer camp (June)

SALVATION ARMY Primary mission: To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination. Services offered: Disaster services, emergency assistance, family counseling services, housing/residence services, older adult services, worship center and youth services, shelter services Top local executive: Wesley Dahlberg Address: 229 W. Main St., Decatur Phone: (217) 428-4672 Web: www.usc.salvationarmy.org Primary events/fundraisers: Christmas kettles (Dec.)

SAIL (Soyland Access to Independent Living) Primary mission: Promote independent living for all people with disabilities. Services offered: Community reintegration, money follows the person, deaf services, family advocacy, home services, independent living, visual services, disability awareness Top local executive: Jeri J. Wooters, executive director Address: 2449 Federal Drive, Decatur Phone: (217) 876-8888 or 1-800-358-8080 Web: www.decatursail.com

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY LAND OF LINCOLN Primary mission: To provide innovative strategies to connect people with disabilities to their community. Services offered: Job training, assistive technology, camps, case management, toy lending, advocacy, medical transportation, play group, adult services, respite care and transition program. Top local executive: Jennifer Dawson Address: 432 E. Prairie St., Suite 100, Decatur

Phone: (217) 428-5033 Web: www.ucpll.org Primary events/fundraisers: UCP Miller Lite Barstool Open (Jan.), telethon (Jan.), Life Without Limits (March). UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

EXTENSION MACON COUNTY Primary mission: To enable people to improve their lives and communities through learning partnerships that put knowledge to work. Services offered: Support the 4-H program, the Master Gardening program, the Master Naturalist program, the SNAP-ed Nutrition Education program and provide educational programs and activities related to our mission. Top local executive: Doug Harlan, county director Address: 3351 N. President Howard Brown Blvd., Decatur Phone: (217) 877-6042 Web: web.extension.illinois.edu/dmp

WEBSTER-CANTRELL HALL Primary mission: Serve children, youth and families in troubled circumstances. Services offered: Physical, social, educational and psychological needs through home- and/or community-based programs. Top local executive: Robin Crowe Address: 1942 E. Cantrell St., Decatur Phone: (217) 423-6961 Web: www.webstercantrell.org Primary events/fundraisers: Holiday Table Top (Nov.)

YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM Primary mission: Provide a wide range of rehabilitative services to at-risk children and their families through our family intensive program while striving to maintain the family unit whenever possible. Services offered: Parenting skills, one to one mentoring, supervised visits, youth services referrals, behavior control, homeless youth shelter and mental health counseling. Top local executive: Michael Warner Address: 202 E. Eldorado St., Decatur Phone: (217) 422-7864 Web: www.youthadvocateprogram.org

To have information about your not-for-profit group considered for this list, contact Scott Perry at sperry@herald-review.com.

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November 2013

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Meet Debbie Bogle Executive director of the United Way of Decatur & Mid-Illinois Hometown: Decatur Family: Husband, Steve, and daughters, McKenzie and Addison. Education: Runnin Red! Stephen Decatur High School and Richland Community College. My “I’d rather be …” bumper sticker would read: “I’d rather be traveling.” I love to see new places and find quaint and charming towns to go antiquing. I also take an annual trip to Key West with my family. Hobbies/interests: Running, kickboxing, crocheting (I can make a killer scarf), traveling (see above) and spending time with my family. My first job: Western Sizzlin,’ followed by a short stint at Taco Bell. My brother was my manager and it didn’t work out so well. Why I do what I do: One in four people in Macon County use the services of our endorsed agencies. I’ve seen firsthand the impact that giving to United Way makes: whether it be a food pantry feeding a family in need, a homeless person now thriving self-sufficiently, or a child having a safe place to go after school. These things speak for themselves and I’m proud to have a role in what these agencies are able to accomplish. Personal approaches to challenges: Challenges allow us to grow, both personally and professionally. I like to view the “big picture” before I form an opinion as to whether something is a challenge or an opportunity. Perspective makes a huge difference in how I approach a situation. Community involvement: I have served or am currently serving on the following: Grow Decatur, St. Mary’s Hospital Advisory Board, Boys & Girls Club Board of Directors, Symetra Tour, American Heart Association, Decatur Leadership Institute, March of Dimes, Rotary 180, Rodney T. Miller Triathlon and WSOY Community Food Drive. Give us a brief description of the United Way. Our mission statement reflects exactly what we are about, “United Way of Decatur & Mid-Illinois mobilizes resources to positively impact our community.” We are able to do that by campaigning each year in many businesses in our community to raise money for our Community Impact Fund. We make it easy to give back to our community by offering payroll deduction. Not everyone is able to support their com-

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munity by writing a $100 check. By offering payroll deduction, employees can spread out their donation over a year and give an amount each paycheck. If someone is giving $1 per week, it doesn’t sound like a lot, but when you think about what $52 a year can do for an agency, it’s inspiring. Fifty-two dollars can feed a homebound senior six meals, the membership fee at Boys & Girls Club is $1 per member, $20 can purchase two blankets for the Red Cross to help in a disaster situation. Mobilizing resources is not just about fundraising. We foresee our new volunteer portal becoming a game changer for volunteerism in our community. What prompted you to seek the executive director position? I’ve participated in so many aspects of United Way — a donor, employee campaign leader, fund distribution panel chair, campaign cabinet member, resource development director and board member. I believe in our mission and how we serve the community. I’m passionate about United Way and privileged to have the opportunity to do what I love. I don’t just wear the shirt. I LIVE UNITED. (An old campaign slogan but true story) What changes have you made since taking the helm? Why were they made? How are they working out? Over the past several years, our annual campaign has decreased. My goal is to make sure we get back to where the community needs us to be,

where our agencies need us to be. In order to really impact the annual campaign, two resource development director positions were established. This has enabled us to campaign at the level needed to reach our goals and continue to educate the community about Community Impact. The goal of this year’s campaign is $2 million, the first time it’s been increased since 2007. What prompted the increase and how confident are you that it can be reached? The need in the community is rising for assistance through our endorsed agencies. With these circumstances, our campaign cabinet and board of directors were in agreement that it was time to set a new trend for the 2013 Campaign. We have seen re-energized workplace campaigns, new campaigns, more speaking opportunities, and new initiatives over the past few months that have given us opportunities to educate about Community Impact and the outcomes that our agencies are having. It’s all about awareness. United Way traditionally works through employers to reach potential donors. What is being done to reach retirees? Ron James and Dr. Joseph Schrodt are heading up our retiree campaign. We are working to reach retiree’s through presentations at service clubs, and a marketing campaign including radio spots and direct mail. What is being done to get young people more

involved? This year, we have a social media committee. We are reaching out to young professionals through events and social media. Our first event, #myway, was a success and our committee is planning a second event. They are also promoting Dine United through social media. We have a new Student United Way (SUW) at Millikin University, the Decatur School District is in the process of incorporating SUW into its high schools and we will have a few other schools in the county that will kick-off their SUW’s this year. We will be able to efficiently connect students with volunteer opportunities through each school’s SUW and help plan community service days. The United Way, known primarily for its fundraising, is now seeking to establish itself as a community resource for volunteers. Tell us about that effort — how it came about, how it will work? We have partnered with the Education Coalition to bring a new volunteer portal to our community. United Way is about giving, volunteering and advocating and we really wanted to increase our efforts around volunteerism. The portal is for our entire community to use to list volunteer opportunities and in-kind needs. For those looking to volunteer, you can sign-up through the portal and identify specific areas that you are interested in. When those opportunities become available, you will receive an email. The volunteer portal will go live in this month.

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Find right volunteering opportunity Pick a cause you are passionate for Metro Editorial Services

Millions of people volunteer every year. Some parents may volunteer to coach their children’s athletic teams, while other volunteers work with nonprofit organizations in need of assistance to help turn their mission statements into reality. Though many people may spend a lifetime volunteering with the same organization, many others find their initial foray into volunteering does not meet their expectations, and such volunteers might walk away in search of another organization or opportunity. Because the turnover rate of volunteers can be so significant, many charities, in particular those that work with children, ask volunteers to make a minimum commitment before coming on board. But the reason many volunteers walk away from a volunteering opportunity has little to do with time and more to do with finding a volunteering opportunity that’s right for them. The right opportunity differs for everyone, and men and

women who want to give back to their communities can ask themselves a series of questions in an effort to find a volunteering opportunity that best suits them. What causes am I passionate about? A cause you are passionate about is often a great place to start when you search for a volunteering opportunity. For example, people with a love of animals may find that working with a nearby animal shelter, whether it’s working at the shelter or fostering animals in need of temporary homes, is a great way to give back. Sports fans and athletes whose playing days are largely behind them may want to volunteer with their local youth leagues or coach at a nearby school. When you are passionate about a cause, you will likely be passionate about volunteering to advance that cause. What do I want to do? What you want to do while volunteering is another factor to consider. Men and women who work in an office all week may want to get outdoors on the weekends, so volunteering opportunities with the local park system might be an ideal fit. It’s also important to determine what you don’t want to do. Some people are uncomfortable asking others for money, so such men and women should avoid volunteer-

ing positions that focus on fundraising. If a volunteering opportunity involves activities you don’t enjoy, you’re less likely to stick with it. How much time do I have to volunteer? It’s not a crime to have a hectic schedule. Prospective volunteers whose time is already stretched thin may want to avoid ongoing volunteer opportunities that require significant time commitments. Such people might be more suited to one-time projects or those opportunities that allow volunteers to decide at the last minute if they will attend. Honestly assess your schedule to determine how much time you have to devote to volunteering before choosing an activity. Where do I want to volunteer? Cities typically have more volunteering opportunities than the suburbs, so men and women should determine if travel is a deterrent before choosing a volunteering opportunity. A nearby city might have opportunities that are more suitable to your skills, but if you are averse to traveling, then you may not stay committed to such projects. When looking for a volunteering opportunity, determine where you would like to volunteer, and be honest with yourself when assessing if travel is a potential deterrent.

Did you know? Stench warfare Official names of five U.S. military colognes 1. U.S. Army — Patton cologne 2. U.S. Marines — Devil Dog cologne 3. U.S. Coast Guard — Riptide cologne 4. U.S. Navy — Liberty cologne 5. U.S. Air Force — Stealth cologne — Source: World Features Syndicate

Who nose what sells? Eight unusual colognes 1. Dirt cologne 2. Play-Doh cologne 3. Cotton Candy spray cologne 4. Cannabis Flower cologne 5. Junior Mints cologne 6. Whiskey Tobacco cologne 7. Crayon cologne 8. Sawdust cologne Source: www.perpetualkid.com

No. 5 was a “10” Six Chanel perfumes that failed 1. Chanel No. 1 2. Chanel No. 2 3. Chanel No. 3 4. Chanel No. 4 5. Chanel No. 8 6. Chanel No. 9 Source: mental_floss magazine

Join over 300 local businesses & organizations that support United Way. TM

UNITED WAY IS... ...at the crossroads of business and philanthropy. United Way ensures that health and human service needs of the community are identified and addressed in ways that create a better future for the residents of Decatur and Mid-Illinois. When you invest in United Way, your charitable dollars work to strengthen Education, Income and Health,the building blocks to a good life. United Way’s unique approach to identifying community problems and working with our partners to get things done puts us at the crossroads of business and philanthropy; by focusing on changing systems that effect the entire community, we strengthen and grow the workforce, help the elderly and disabled live independently, and build a happier, healthier place to live, work and play. Please join us in creating lasting change with an employee, campaign or corporate donation today! Contact United Way at 422-8537 or www.uwdecatur.org

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November 2013

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Choose an Exciting Career in Health Information Technology HIT PROGRAM CURRICULUM The HIT curriculum covers the most relevant and up-to-date healthcare industry standards including medical coding and electronic health records. In addition, our HIT students participate in professional practicum and use the AHIMA Virtual Lab, which is designed to provide ﬁrst-hand experiences working in real-world scenarios, helping them develop the high level of competency needed to successfully protect patient health information. Training for students includes courses in general education, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, legal aspects of health care, ICD and CPT coding, health information technology, and practical experience in approved health care facilities.

MAKE A CAREER OUT OF IT

“Students are now eligible to sit for their national exam to be Registered Health Information Technician certified. Once students have earned their RHIT certification, they will be eligible to work toward a bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management, for which we are currently working with ISU in Normal.” - Jenna Curry, Richland Health Information Technology Program Coordinator and Instructor With a degree in Health Information Technology, you can look forward to a career where constantly evolving regulations and technologies allows for lifelong learning and continued professional development. With this career you can expect to be in high demand as the health sector continues to expand. There are approximately 12,000 to 50,000 new jobs anticipated by 2017, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites medical records and health information technicians as one of the 20 fastest-growing occupations in the United States. You can begin your career in Health Information Technology at Richland Community College. Our Associate Health Information Technology (HIT) Program has recently received accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation for Health Information and Information Management Education. At Richland, we offer two career and technical educational options for students, including an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology (65 hours) and Coding Specialist Certificate (41 hours).

2014 0

Spring SCHEDULE ED

Industries with an increased demand for health information professionals include academic institutions, consulting agencies, government agencies, and healthcare software companies. As health information technology becomes more prevalent, health information practitioners will continue to be critical components of the electronic health record workforce. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the field will grow to encompass new support positions, including mobile support adoption positions, public health informatics, implementation support specialists, and information management redesign specialists. Health Information Management programs incorporate the disciplines of medicine, management, finance, information technology, and law into one curriculum. Because of this unique mixture, graduates can choose from a variety of work settings across an array of healthcare environments. Students can obtain a coding career, electronic data management, IT management, educator, Health Information Management supervisor or director, consultant, cancer registrar, or become a compliance officer, or HIPAA privacy officer. Other job options for graduates include working at local hospitals or physicians’ offices. They can apply at dental office settings, correctional facilities, pharmaceutical companies, or even at zoos since medical records are kept on animals. The expected salary range for more than half of new health information graduates with bachelor’s degrees is $30,000-$50,000. By five years out, you can earn upwards of $50,000-$75,000 annually. Most new health information graduates with associate’s degrees jump in and earn, on average, $20,000 to $30,000 annually.

Now available online only

richland.edu/registration

NOW

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YOUR CAREER

Manufacturing program seeks to fill need Grant helps Richland provide more training By NICOLE HARBOUR Business Journal Writer

DECATUR — Twenty-six-year-old Richard Farrar had dreams of a career in software technology in Chicago, but when he realized how stiff the job competition was going to be, he made a decision that changed his life. “My dad was with an explosives ordnance in the Army, and my grandpa worked at Caterpillar, and they both encouraged me to look into manufacturing,” he explained. “They told me there’d always be jobs in that field, so I decided to do it.” Searching for a school with a strong manufacturing program, Farrar said he was led to Richland Community College. “The manufacturing program here was a lot better than the programs they had in Chicago,” he said. “In fact, a lot of schools are just now starting to offer CNC (computer numeric control) and welding programs and certifications, but Richland has had them for a long time and has industry partnerships, so I knew I’d get a quality education here.” Currently enrolled in his third semester at Richland, Farrar is one of the first students enrolled in the college’s new Illinois Network for Advanced Manufacturing Earn and Learn Manufacturing Program, a federally funded manufacturing training program that will collect data from participating students over the next four years to measure their success and that of the program. He couldn’t be happier with what he’s learning. “I’ve found that I have a knack for CNC machining,” he said. “There are job openings throughout the country and in Illinois, and I know this program will be very helpful. There’s always something new to learn.” With a large manufacturing employer base in the Decatur and Macon County area, Richland already had an extensive manufacturing program in place, with certificates and degrees available in programs such as welding, computer numeric control machining and mechatronics, but last year, the community college learned of a $12.9 million U.S. Department of Labor Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College Career Training grant that could improve its manufacturing curriculum and provide for updated equipment over four years. “In early 2012, I went up to William Harper Community College for two days and met with 20 other community colleges, and we all agreed that we needed one major emphasis in order to be successful across the state,” said Darbe Brinkoetter, dean of continuing and professional education at Richland. “And we all were aware from our community and employer input that manufacturing had huge needs.” With workers transitioning from assembly lines to high-tech jobs and needing more training on welding and CNC machines, Brinkoetter said focusing on manufacturing was an easy choice for the colleges. “We knew we needed to have the right curriculum in place, as well as the right equipment,” she said. “So we decided to gear everything with the grant toward manufacturing and went from there.” With Richland receiving $525,000 of the grant, the college’s administrators, faculty and manufacturing professors quickly set to work to tweak four of its manufacturing courses to help build a Certified Production Technician certificate program, which was developed by the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council and

Business Journal/Jim Bowling

Mike Luster works on a troubleshooting simulation with electrical devices in the Motor Control Systems class at Richland Community College. adopted by all 21 colleges partnering on the grant. Each of the four courses that make up the technicians program — manufacturing processes, occupational safety, maintenance fundamentals and metrology and quality control — has a certification test, and if a student passes all four, they will receive a certificate that is recognized throughout the United States. If a student wishes to continue with his education after receiving a certificate, however, Brinkoetter said the four courses can launch students into more specialized manufacturing areas within the college’s Illinois Network for Advanced Manufacturing program. “The CPT courses are really the core curriculum,” said Brinkoetter. “They provide entry-level skills and can lead into the more specialized areas of precision machining or CNC; metal fabrication, which focuses on welding; mechatronics, which focuses on electrical; and renewable energy.” With various entrance and exit points for the INAM program, Brinkoetter said it accommodates many different kinds of students, including dual-credit students, veterans and unemployed and incumbent workers. “Students can start with any of the CPT courses or even some of the more specialized, advanced courses if they already have some background or experience in manufacturing,” she said. “Some students may stop their education after the core CPT courses, while some may stay in for additional certificates, associate degrees or even bachelors degrees. It is wide open; it just depends on what they want to do based on their interests and abilities and the opportunities they find out there.” With many manufacturing companies unable to offer training programs due to lack of funding, Brinkoetter and Jack Adwell, Richland’s dean of business and tech-

nology, are hopeful the Illinois Network for Advanced Manufacturing program will provide manufacturing employers with the highly skilled employees they need. “One local employer mentioned that the INAM program is exactly the type of structured program that they’ve been looking for to get people ready to come into entry-level positions and take them even further,” said Brinkoetter. The federal TAACT grant doesn’t cover tuition and fees for prospective students, but it will pay for instructors and an updated curriculum and equipment, including additional welding booths and more CNC and precision milling machines, which will be housed in the college’s new Workforce Development Institute that is slated to be completed and ready for classes next fall. “Some of the equipment workers will be using in manufacturing jobs is half a million dollars, and to turn a person loose on that who hasn’t been properly trained is not what the industry wants to happen,” said Adwell. “They’re looking for highly trained, highly skilled employees, and that is what we want this program to provide. We want to teach students on the appropriate, updated equipment that they’re going to see in the industry, and this grant will allow us to do that.” With nearly 50 students already enrolled in the INAM program, Richland is anxious to see what it will do for the community. “We hope that the program is successful and that we achieve our goal of providing more highly trained workers,” Brinkoetter said. “We’re hopeful that students get jobs, that the unemployment rate goes down in this area, that manufacturing picks up because we have a skilled work force and that the number of employers who are looking for trained workers goes down because they find those workers. That’s our whole goal.”

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Distractible boss may not intend to be rude Q: My manager always answers her phone, even when we’re discussing an important issue. This makes me feel as though I’m not as important as the person who is calling. I think she should let these calls go to voice mail and return them later. Should I suggest that? A: Your distractible boss probably doesn’t intend to be rude or insulting. Some people simply have an almost irresistible impulse to respond immediately to any stimulus in their perceptual field. This knee-jerk reaction may be triggered by ringing phones, incoming emails, or someone standOffice Coach ing in the doorway. Unlike some annoying habits, this one can be controlled with a little effort. For example, your manager probably ignores such distractions when talking with her own boss. The question for you, however, is whether critiquing her behavior would be to your benefit. If your boss is receptive to feedback, she may appreciate hearing your point of view. But if she tends to react defensively, raising this issue could be risky. In that case, just keep reminding yourself that these interruptions reflect her lack of self-control, not your lack of significance.

Marie McIntyre

Q: My boss constantly talks about her children, her in-laws, her social life and other personal matters. She will ask if I like what’s she’s wearing, then explain why she purchased it. She also enjoys

gossiping about other managers. All this unnecessary conversation is a big waste of time. As her executive assistant, I have no way to escape these lengthy monologues because I sit outside her office. If I try to change the subject, she gets annoyed with me. I don’t want to quit my job, but I can hardly stand to spend one more day around this woman. Any suggestions? A: Managers and assistants typically have a very close relationship, so you aren’t likely to succeed in this role unless you conquer your resentment. Since your boss’s chatty personality isn’t going to change, you must either become more tolerant or start making plans to leave. One adaptation strategy is to view these gab sessions as just another part of your job. Make an effort to anticipate them and adjust your schedule accordingly. But if you still grind your teeth whenever your manager mentions her motherin-law, then it’s time to move on. Remaining in this job with such a negative attitude wouldn’t be fair to either one of you. Q: I used to be on the fast track for promotion, but now I seem to be going nowhere. About two years ago, our company was purchased by a large corporation, and my manager was replaced. My new boss says I’m a valuable employee, but seems to have no interest in my advancement. Although I’m still on the management team, I am no longer invited to important meetings or informed of new business developments. Other people have been promoted, but I never hear about these opportunities. I have finally concluded that my manager just doesn’t like me. Do you think I have any future here? A: You appear to be suffering from post-acquisition syndrome. Following an

WEEKLY TIPS Can't get enough advice from the Office Coach. Get weekly column updates at www.thebusiness-journal.com. acquisition, the arrival of new management immediately resets everyone’s perceived value to zero, creating opportunities for some and pitfalls for others. For those who are well-established, the need to prove themselves all over again can be quite distressing. Some people respond to this challenge by becoming oppositional or resistant, while others never seem to realize that objectives and priorities have changed. Either way, the result can be career suicide. Wise employees, on the other hand, make a concerted effort to understand management’s goals and show how they can contribute. Given the situation, your manager’s indifference is probably caused not by personal animosity, but by concerns about your effectiveness in the new corporate culture. To learn how she views your strengths and weaknesses, ask for an assessment of your promotional potential. You will then be in a better position to evaluate your future prospects. Q: One of my employees seems to be alienating his co-workers. Several of them have complained that “Ted” gets angry and upset very easily, so they try to avoid working with him. His moody outbursts make people uncomfortable and create tension in the group. Because I have never seen that side of Ted, I’m not sure how to handle this. Although he seems a little high-strung,

Ted does good work and always behaves appropriately around me. If I bring up these concerns, he’ll want to know who complained, which will only cause additional friction. What should I do? A: Despite lacking firsthand knowledge, you can probably assume that these complaints are valid. One unhappy colleague might signify a personality conflict, but widespread concern almost certainly indicates trouble with Ted. Unfortunately, difficult employees often fail to realize that satisfactory job performance involves more than producing results. Success also means working well with your boss and getting along with co-workers. Ted apparently meets two of these criteria, but is failing miserably at the third. As the person responsible for this group, you need to have a firm and direct coaching conversation with Ted. When he demands to know who complained, remind him that he has no right to that information, then quickly return to the topic at hand. For example: “Ted, I understand your wanting to find out who spoke with me, because that’s just human nature. But my conversations with other employees are confidential, just as my conversations with you are confidential. We need to discuss your disruptive behavior, not the people who mentioned it.” Ted must clearly comprehend that if his fits of temper continue, serious consequences will follow. Office tantrums are completely unacceptable and should never be tolerated.

Marie G. McIntyre is a workplace coach and the author of “Secrets to Winning at Office Politics.” Send in questions and get free coaching tips at www.yourofficecoach.com, or follow her on Twitter @officecoach.

Don’t let perceived barriers hold you back Q: I’ve been in my profession for a long time, and am now thinking about applying for my organization’s management training program. But I think that they may want younger, more energetic, more tech-savvy people in management. Is this worth pursuing? A: If you’re feeling called to do something new, don’t let perceived barriers get in your way. Trying to make a decision like this can put you on an emotional seesaw. If this is happening, let go, take some deep breaths, and find a deeper inner focus. Pursuing this opportunity is neither right nor wrong; it’s just a matter of which direction will best serve you. Give yourself the gift of time to reflect on your

Liz Reyer

options. Listen first for the reasons that you’re interested in a management role. People have varied reasons for making the move, perhaps a new challenge, a raise, or the opportunity to lead and mentor. Ask yourself why, and then why again until you get to the core of your professional desire. For example, you might say that it’s mainly because of the higher salary. Is that because of a desire to spend more now, or because you have anxiety about retirement? The same external motivation can have very different underlying drivers. Next, check in with the inner voice that is holding you back. Do you have factual support for your concerns, or are they just speculation? And, even if those are the type of folks who have been promoted recently, so what? It’s bound to happen if people like you stay out of the running. Finally, think about the characteristics that make an effective manager and leader. You need to understand the work

WEEKLY TIPS Get weekly career tips from Liz Reyer at www.thebusiness-journal.com. itself, be able to help prioritize, make decisions and motivate a team. The ability to do many of these things can be greatly enhanced by the wisdom that comes from experience. There are some concrete steps you can take to determine whether you want to move forward. First of all, map out your background vs. the job requirements. Acknowledge yourself for those you meet, and then look at areas where you feel less prepared. You mentioned tech-savvy; many job descriptions do call for some level of computer skills. However, reasonably speaking, any issues would be addressed to your IT group. If your skills hold you back now or you wouldn’t be able to

train a new team member, you may want to learn more so that it doesn’t hold you back. Talk to people such as your boss, the leader of the training program, and other potential hiring managers to find out what they are looking for in a manager. People are generally happy to be asked, and it’ll give you the opportunity to get acquainted, or present yourself in a new light. If you decide not to pursue a management role, address the needs that caused you to consider it, for example, greater challenge, by taking other steps either at work or in your personal life. Set aside preconceptions so that you make a decision that is based on inner knowledge, rather than fear.

Liz Reyer is a credentialed coach with more than 20 years of business experience. Her company, Reyer Coaching & Consulting, offers services for organizations of all sizes. Submit questions or comments about this column at www.deliverchange.com/coachscorner or email her at liz@deliverchange.com.

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November 2013

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YOUR COMMUNITY

Business Journal/Jim Bowling

Macon County Courthouse employees Terri Tate, left, and Christine Price have lunch in the newly renovated Central Park.

Downtown atmosphere changing Businesses look to capitalize on new streetscape By ALLISON PETTY Business Journal Writer

DECATUR — As downtown businesses settle into their new sidewalks and pavements, the atmosphere seems to be changing. Several businesses have moved to downtown or relocated within it since the

streetscape project began in 2011. With only the final phase, a renovation of the Franklin Street corridor, left to go, several business owners say the inconveniences were worth the new appearance. “I think it’s hard to compete with this downtown that we have right now,” said Kemper Willcut II, owner of Del’s Popcorn Shop. “All the little shops, the streetscapes are beautiful, and I think it’s just a pretty fun atmosphere down here right now.” A handful of merchants have started a new group called the dTown CoOp, which aims to promote coordination on events and marketing efforts. It would be the first organization solely for downtown

businesses since the City Centre Decatur group folded into the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce in 2009. “Some people are just starting to get wind of it. Eventually, we hope to get everyone with one message for all of downtown,” Willcut said. “We want to pull Champaign traffic, we want to pull Bloomington traffic, we want to pull Springfield traffic over here.” Sue Miller, manager of Haines and Essick, said the improved look of downtown attracts compliments daily. Out-oftowners, she said, express surprise about how nice everything is. “They didn’t know it looked like this,” she said. “I don’t know if they just

bypassed it before or now it looks more inviting and they want to stop, or someone said, ‘Hey, you should go check it out,’ and they come and spend the day. There’s probably a little bit of word on the street that it’s something worth seeing.” Miller said the dTown CoOp group could synchronize branding and advertising for downtown, as well as help with the organization of events that could bring more foot traffic. Sheryol Threewit, owner of All Things Beautiful Collectibles and Gifts, is one of several downtown merchants who

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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November 2013

Business Journal photos/Jim Bowling

Molly Heffernan weighs candy for a customer at Del's Popcorn Shop on Merchant Street.

Jean Hinton and her husband Leon Hinton share a lunch break at the outside dining area of Robbie's Bar and Grill on Merchant Street.

Continued from page 13 recently moved a few blocks over. With its greater visibility and larger capacity for items, the new location at 219 N. Main St. has been excellent for business, she said. Visitors to her store have also praised the streetscape improvements. “People are finally saying positive things about Decatur,” she said. Threewit said she does wish there were more retail businesses, such as another women’s clothing store, to attract the 21-to30 crowd. “It would be nice to be able to draw our younger generation down here,” she said. “All of it takes time, I know. That’s what we need. And we’re poised for it, but it’s just letting them know we’re down here.” Mowry Baking Co. co-owner Holly Mowry said she and her daughters had always intended to locate their business downtown if it ever outgrew their home, which it recently did. They moved in September into the former Coney’s Cookies at 231 N. Main St., and business has been good.

Downtown Café co-owner Barbara Ninnemann trims mums in front of her business on North Main Street. AT RIGHT: Pedestrians cross Merchant Street at the Prairie Street intersection during early afternoon.

The key for downtown, Mowry said, is to keep selling what people can’t get anywhere else. “I think it’s great. I’m glad there’s traffic. I’m glad there’s no parking places,” she said. “It means things are busy.” City Manager Ryan McCrady said he was proud of residents who were patient during the downtown construction, as well as business owners who tried to explain the changes to their customers. McCrady said he believed people have a different feeling about downtown as a result of the changes. Traffic is slower and quieter, now that semitrucks have been rerouted out of the area. Free parking is available. “We don’t have a mall in Decatur, so we have to offer something different. That’s what downtown is,” he said. “You can live here, shop here, eat here, work here, all those types of things, and never have to start your car and move it. “You come downtown, you can go eat, go see a movie, go out for a drink and never have to move your car. That’s a good thing, at $3 or $4 a gallon.”

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November 2013

www.thebusin

With all the attention placed on the lower streetscape, some forget to take in the magnificent architecture and design that can be seen a few stories above. Can you identify the businesses that call these buildings home?

217.422.2200

217.422.2200 www.decaturchamber.com

www decaturchamber com

Shop Local and Buy Metro M The Chamber makes it e

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6 10

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Answers in the December issue of the Business Journal or go online now at www.herald-review.com

Money! easy!

n Metro money is easy to purchase, easy to spend, and directly supports the Decatur area n $5 and $20 increments available The Chamber n Never expires and spends like cash encourages you to make the choice to spend n Can be redeemed at participating local businesses, your dollars locally some of which are in Downtown Decatur

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Downtown building undergoes facelift Owners hoping for new tenants By CHRIS LUSVARDI Business Journal Writer

DECATUR — Jeff Sams is hoping renovations in downtown Decatur bring more workers, visitors and shoppers to the area. As he watches out his office window at the corner of North Main Street and West Prairie Avenue and the work the city of Decatur is doing on the streets below, Sams is excited about the transformation taking place. “Downtown is as good as it ever has been,” said Sams, co-owner of Sams/Hockaday & Associates Inc. and New Horizons Insurance Marketing at 122 W. Prairie Ave., Suite 200. “That’s what helped us stay.” Tired of dealing with such annoyances as parking meters, Sams said the search was on to move elsewhere. The changes spurred by the city’s $14 million streetscape project have given Sams and business partner John Hockaday the confidence to make its own investment in and commitment to downtown. The more than 100-year-old Sams/Hockaday building is being remodeled with renovations to the second floor complete while the search for occupants below continues. They decided not to listen to those who told them to tear down the building, which was built in 1912, Sams said. “We’re not the only ones who have reinvested in downtown,” Sams said. “The more that do it, the better the city is for it. Making it a parking lot we didn’t think was the answer.” Sams said there has been some interest in the lower level space, but nothing has been finalized. Trying to work on a real estate deal has been a change of pace for a company used to selling insurance and connecting insurance companies with agents. The office for Sams/Hockaday, which used to be on the first floor of the building, now occupies part of the second floor. Its office then flows into the New Horizons portion. Sams/Hockaday was started in 1981 and sells insurance products directly to consumers, primarily seniors. New Horizons is the less-widely known addition to the business that was developed in 1992 and serves about 10,000 agents across the country, Sams said. Despite needed changes to the 7,500square-foot first floor and mezzanine level of the building, some features are being kept as Sams hopes whoever occupies it in the future will incorporate some of the unique design aspects. A grand staircase became a popular place for bridal pictures when the Van Law Department store was located in the building at 201 N. Main St. during the 1960s and 1970s. Earthen Pottery and

Business Journal/Jim Bowling

The Sams/Hockaday building recently underwent extensive renovations.

Building co-owner Jeff Sams points out different features in the first floor of the Sams/Hockaday building at the corner of North Main Street and Prairie Avenue. He and building co-owner John Hockaday are seeking a tenant for the open space. Shop 201 had tried to incorporate the staircase into its layout before the businesses separated and moved elsewhere last year. While the building has housed a car showroom, arcade, art gallery and retail stores, Sams envisions a restaurant that

can take advantage of the windows and use the staircase to lead to possible dining areas upstairs. They’re willing to wait for the right fit and the space can be divided to fit various needs, he said. “We are in no hurry to just put some-

one in there,” Sams said. “We want somebody in there long term.” Throughout the renovation process, Sams said they have discovered things about the building they never knew. A blue star, like the business has been using in its marketing, was found in the cement that been covered up on the floor near the building’s front door. “We couldn’t believe it,” Sams said. “It had never been uncovered. We had no idea it was there. It could have been there since 1912.” Every brick was torn off the exterior and replaced. All new windows were installed and a new heating and cooling system was added. One boiler heated the whole building before, Sams said. “We knew we had a rock solid building,” Sams said. “It was in our best interest to tear off the bricks and get all new on.” Part of the mezzanine around the inner front of the building has been torn down, which Sams said enables them to fully utilize the windows which had been blocked on that level. By the time the lower level space is occupied, Sams hopes the transformation has made the downtown area the vibrant place it has the potential to be, while benefiting from the slowed vehicle traffic that could lead more pedestrians to walk around.

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November 2013

BIZ BITES

Now open The Blue Spoon is now serving up breakfast in the former Blue Eggs & Ham at 120 S. Oakland Ave. Owner Donovan Marschner said the name was inspired by a rendition of “Blue Moon” by his 3½-year-old daughter and is also intended as a nod to Millikin University, as in “Go Big Blue.” Specialties include “spuds” — cubed potatoes baked and finished on the griddle — house-blended spices for the sausage and house-blended granola. Hours are 6 to 11 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant is closed Wednesdays. Call (217) 422-1111. nnn Two businesses have opened in the Small Business Expo at Decatur Plaza Mid-Town, 1123 N. Water St. The first is Uniquely Made, now selling spa and personal care products and accessories, with plans to soon begin carrying apparel for men, women and children. The owners are sisters Jennifer Stanley of Decatur and Aquisha Robinson of Rantoul. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Call (217) 791-6963. The second business is Popp-a-licious Gourmet Popcorn, opened by Russell and Denise Myers of Gifford. The shop carries a variety of old-fashioned candies in addition to cheese and caramel popcorn. Winter hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Call (217) 791-6406.

New owner Two retail agronomy locations near Decatur have a new owner. Hardy Fertilizer in Mount Auburn and Niantic Crop Service in Niantic have become part of the Springfield-based Brandt organization. The combined company has 24 retail locations throughout Central Illinois, serving nearly 1 million acres of production farmland. “We will truly be a stronger company with our combined resources,” said Rick Brandt, CEO and president of Brandt. The company offers a range of products and services, including plant nutrients, crop protection products, precision ag and custom application. Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President Tim McArdle will oversee Brandt’s retail agronomy division, which will include Hardy and Niantic. Gene Hardy, founder of Hardy Fertilizer and Niantic Crop Service, will remain in an operations management and account leadership role with Brandt. “The marketplace is changing,” Hardy said. “And for us to take our customer services to the next level, we needed to align ourselves with a company that has the resources, shares simi-

lar values and has a high level of customer commitment.” For more information on the company, go to www.brandt.co.

New management It turns out reports of Café Brio’s possible closure were greatly exaggerated. The Mediterranean/Southwestern eatery remains open under new management — former bar manager Andrew Apel said he is leasing the building and business from Mark Meng and is in the process of forming a corporation with Stacey Zak to buy Café Brio. Apel has already expanded the hours to 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily and is including a drink (soft drink, beer or wine) and dessert in the cost of every menu item priced at $12.99 or more. “We plan to make some additions to the menu and eventually bring all the prices down,” he said, adding that providing good customer service is his top priority. Café Brio, 2880 N. Oakland Ave., continues to offer karaoke starting at 9 p.m., Apel said.

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.

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Patrick White new Millikin president Academic affairs vice president search top priority By THERESA CHURCHILL Business Journal Writer

DECATUR — Illinois native Patrick White accepted a college presidency at age 57, about the same time one of his best friends, a career chemist, was retiring. Taking on a bit of a Chicago accent, White quoted the man as saying, “Gee, Pat, I can’t decide which one of us is crazy.” Fast-forward seven years, to the office of the president at Decatur’s Millikin University on his second full day in the job, and he clearly suspects it’s him. “Here I am, doing it again,” said White, 64, managing a chuckle despite a head cold. “Being a university president is an amazing, interesting, hard, delightful, frustrating job, but what I like about it is you’re in the game, in the arena where enormously important things can happen. “That’s a thrill.” White, president of Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Ind., through June, was named Millikin’s 15th president last month in an unexpected turn of events. Interim president since July 1, he was hired with the understanding he would not be a candidate in the upcoming presidential search. Van Dukeman, chairman of the university’s board of trustees, said in April he hoped to hire a representative of AGB Search in Washington, D.C., to assist the search committee and have that committee in place as early as May. Dukeman confirmed, however, the search process had not yet begun when the trustees elected White during a special meeting. “We were so impressed with his leadership during his first 90 days, and we also received unsolicited positive comments from various constituencies,” he said. Dukeman declined to be more specific, but during that period White assigned himself the role of acting vice president for academic affairs — a position vacated by Barry Pearson in May so he could return to the faculty — and immediately involved the four deans previously under Pearson in Cabinet meetings with vice presidents of university development (Dave Brandon), enrollment (Sarah Shupenus, interim) and finance and business affairs (Ruby Brase, interim). “It helps the VPs understand the academic side of the house as we deal with concerns that are university-wide,” White said. “It’s very important to me that anyone in a leadership position at Millikin sees their responsibility as leading the university, not just (his or her area).” Millikin’s new president believes finding the right vice president for academic

‘Being a university president is an amazing, interesting, hard, delightful, frustrating job ...’ PATRICK WHITE

affairs is a top priority and hopes to help the university get its “chutzpah” back after two years of “administrative leadership turmoil” that saw all four vice presidents resign before former president Harold Jeffcoat retired in January after 21 months in office. White also made the decision during his first month as interim president to stand by James St. James, an awardwinning associate professor of psychology, after the news broke that he had shot his parents and sister to death at age 15 and was found not guilty by reason of insanity. “There was a lot of passion coming from different sides, but I just kept asking, ‘What kind of institution do we imagine ourselves to be?’ ” White said. He added that such “flashpoints of focus” are not nearly as important as the steady work of attracting and graduating

students and maintaining a solid financial footing. White said a tuition increase for the 2014-15 academic year is likely after a two-year freeze and that he plans to engage members of the campus community who may not have been asked before to identify ways of reducing costs. “We are not going to cut enough expenses nor raise enough money to address our challenges,” he said. “It’s going to be a little bit of both.” He said there is little question now that pledges have reached $70 million about whether Millikin’s “Transform MU” capital campaign will reach its $85 million goal by Dec. 31, 2015 — the question is how far ahead of time the goal will be achieved. White said he feels equally confident Decatur will achieve a renaissance, as has such larger cities as Pittsburgh, Bal-

timore and Chicago, with the help of “one great university.” “I’m really excited about Decatur and being here,” he said. Before his presidency at Wabash College, White spent 18 years at Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Ind., as a professor of English, associate dean of faculty and most recently vice president and dean of faculty. Earlier, he chaired the Department of Language and Literature at Pfieffer College in Misenheimer, N.C., and taught at Westmar College in Le Mars, Iowa. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Chicago and graduate degrees, including a doctorate in English and American literature, from the University of Iowa. White grew up in Dixon, graduating from high school there in 1967. He and his wife, Chris, have three grown children — son Paddy of Indianapolis and twin daughters Molly White, also of Indianapolis, and Katie White of San Francisco — and two grandchildren. “It’s good to be back in Illinois, but it’s also interesting to be in Central Illinois,” White said. “The area has all kinds of associations and relationships and bonds that tie people together that are different than what I knew in Northern Illinois. “I’m also a landscape guy, and I’ve always loved the prairie.”

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WHY THE CHANGES IN YOUR HEALTH CARE

BENEFITS OF CORPORATE IMAGE Q A

Q Many employers are switching their company health plans to self-insured or self-funding plans. Why?

A self-insured plan provides cash flow stability through predictable monthly payments and offers employers more control over plan design. With stop loss to cover the employer’s liability for higher than expected claims, additional protection is created for the group. Self-funded health plan arrangements are not new. In 2012, 60% of private sector employees were covered by self-funded plans, an increase of 20% in the last decade. And today, self-funding continues to be attractive to employers.

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Several factors make self-funding an attractive alternative including: • Reduced costs

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• Added flexibility in plan design from state mandate exemptions • Lower premium taxes • Increased control by owning all claims data and reporting

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www.cmsdecatur.com

Q What are the latest trends in advertising? A The way that people consume news each day is evolving. In most communities, you still have a core group of the population that prefers the “real feel” of the newspaper each and every day. However, the population of people consuming news on the Internet has grown leaps and bounds and continues to grow each day. Even the “tried & true” print believers are still consuming news online, even unknowingly through Facebook and Twitter feeds.

in 2020 has a 50% chance that their medical expenses will exceed $260,000 for premiums, deductibles, copayments and prescription drugs – even with Medicare. Medical expenses are a crucial element of planning for the future and you have to be sure you can cover the cost.

Melissa Hesse

A strong corporate image can extend product lives and they can also buoy a firm through the inevitable sales valleys. According to A. C. Nielson, 30 brands will lose their positions as leaders in their respective categories, within the next two years. It has been proven that people will do business with a given firm or buy its products for more than the quality of the goods or services. Corporate image is defined as the sum of the organization, its objectives and plans. 1. Provides a complete awareness among managers of the firm’s long-range goals. 2. It helps to clearly define the company’s objectives and the direction the company wants to go in. 3. It must provide insights into the competitive positions and market conditions. 4. It must have an increase in internal and external communications. 5. A positive accounting to customers of the firm’s position in the industry and the marketplace. 6. Improved understanding of the organization within the financial community. 7. A better understanding of the company, its objectives and its direction by employees, suppliers, directors, and the media. Building a positive corporate image requires long-term planning. There must be plans to ensure a positive image that creates an impression that lasts for years. To learn more about corporate image and the branding process, please call for an appointment.

DIGITAL ADVERTISING

Q I’m planning for the future, how can I cover the cost of medical expenses? A According to a health care study by Fidelity Investments, a couple retiring

If you have a high-deductible health plan, you can contribute to a health savings account (HSA) starting now. HSAs allow you to save and even invest money to use to pay for current and future medical expenses tax-free. Any balance remaining at the end of the year is carried over the next year, so you never have to worry about losing money at the end of the year. Plus, you own the account, so you can take it with you even if you change employers. Currently you can contribute up to $3,250 for an individual or $6,450 for a family.

What Are The Benefits of a Strong Corporate Image?

Cayla Hittmeier Advertising Sales Manager

What does this change in consumption habits mean for businesses making advertising decisions? It means you have to think outside of the box. Most print publications that carry their product online as well, have incredibly affordable bundled packages that include the core product, as well as digital ads. One of the fastest growing ways that consumers receive advertising messages is through videos online. These are easy to do and often can be adapted from television commercials, even from other print pieces that you’ve already had created. YouTube videos and pre-roll videos are becoming quite popular and they are a great way to be seen while consumers peruse their favorite sites. All of these are items that we can offer our customers from our suite of products. Call one of our Media Specialists today. Let us help you dive into digital!

601 E WILLIAM ST. DECATUR, IL 62523

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YOUR FREE TIME

The Arts Anne Lloyd Gallery: “Ceramics: Beyond Functionality” features the works of five Central Illinois artists, including Annette Russo of Decatur. Call (217) 423-3189. www.decturarts.org Gallery 510: “People & Places,” oil paintings by Barbara Dove. Call (217) 422-1509. Decatur Airport: “Boys of Summer,” colored pencil drawings by Dan Modselewski. Decatur Public Library: Mixed media paintings by Leta Burch. Blue Connection: Pit-fired ceramics by professor Jim Schietinger and his students.

Music Lincoln Square Theatre: “Walkin’ With Cash,” 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16. Cost is $10 at the door. Rock n’ Roll Christmas Show by Scott Wattles & the Blue Suede Crew, 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. Cost is $12 at the door. For tickets or more information, visit www.lincolnsquare theatre.com or call (217) 972-8606. “A Christmas to Remember” acoustic show with Christian artist Mark Schultz, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, Mount Zion Convention Center. Cost is $20 in advance, $25 at the door. For more information, go to

Calendar of events www.mtzion.com or call (217) 864-5424.

On Stage Little Theatre-On the Square: “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,” Nov. 22-24. For tickets, call (217) 728-7375. www.thelittletheatre.org. Decatur Underground Theater in Concert 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Decatur Club. For tickets, call (217) 791-1966 or go to www.decaturunderground. com. Mount Zion Convention Center: Village Idiot Comedy Club presents Bob Zany, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7. For more information, go to www.mtzion.com or call (217) 864-5424.

Charity events Heartland Heroes, to benefit the Mid-Illinois Chapter of the American Red Cross, 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. Tickets for the event are $50 and can be ordered by calling (217) 428-7758. A Night in the Islands to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Macon County, 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, at the Decatur Club. The event, which is free to attend,

includes an evening of music, drinks made by celebrity bartenders and a silent auction. In addition, those who purchase a boarding pass for $100 put themselves in the running for a host of vacation getaway packages. Call (217) 428-4240. Gallery 510 Artists Guild will be hosting its ARTini fundraising event from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at Paco’s Sol Bistro. Every ticket holder receives a one-of-akind, hand-painted martini glass; one complimentary martini (or beverage of choice); and an open potato and pasta bar. Tickets are $35 each. Advance tickets may be purchased at Gallery 510, 160 E. Main St.; Paco’s Sol Bistro; or by calling 422-1509.

For the kids

Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. www.decaturciviccenter.net Christmas in the Village at the Mount Zion Convention Center: Holiday Craft Show, 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9; Breakfast with Santa, 9-noon, Saturday, Nov. 16. Cost is $14 in advance. For more information, go to www.mtzion.com or call (217) 864-5424. Veterans Day observation, 7 p.m. Nov. 11, Lincoln Square Theatre. Turkey Trot, 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, in Fairview Park Pavilion 1. Includes a 5K or 10K run or the 5K recreational walk. Call (217) 429-7750. The Decatur Jaycees Christmas Parade at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, will highlight a day of fun during the Downtown Christmas Kickoff. Free family fun events from 2-4 p.m. Santa arrives at his house at 6:30 p.m.

Children’s Museum of Illinois: Family Science Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10; and Family Book Bash, 9 and 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13. Call (217) 423-5437.

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

Scovill Zoo: Pajama Party with Santa, 13 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Cost is $15.Call (217) 421-7435.

Mount Zion Christmas Parade, 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.

Misc.

Got an item you’d like listed in the Your Free Time calendar? Send the information to Scott Perry at sperry@herald-review.com or 601 E. William St., Decatur, IL 62523.

Decatur Civic Center: Ice skating on

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

YOUR HEALTH

The facts What about my doctor? n Whether you keep your doctor or hospital depends on which insurance plan you choose. Most insurance plans, whether through the Health Insurance Marketplace or through an employer, offer a network of doctors, hospitals and pharmacists. n When comparing insurance plans, if keeping your doctor or hospital is important to you, check whether they are a part of the plans you are considering. n Under the Affordable Care Act, beginning in 2014, health insurance plans can’t refuse to cover you or charge you more because you have a pre-existing health condition and dependents are covered on their parents’ policy to age 26. Business Journal/Jim Bowling

Don Whitacre, owner of Whitacre-McNamara Insurance Co., shares some of the details and uncertainties of the Affordable Care Act.

Study, understand health care act Information key to getting best plan By CHRIS LUSVARDI and PAUL SWIECH Business Journal Writers

DECATUR — Determining the effect of the Affordable Care Act has been hard to come by, even for those whose job it is to understand the insurance system. Don Whitacre of Whitacre-McNamara Insurance Co. in Decatur has been working to help businesses and individuals understand the impact new regulations will have on them. He expects it will take a few years of fine-tuning and cleaning up before all the unintended consequences of the changes can be determined. “The old way didn’t work,” Whitacre said. “It was a mess. For people who needed insurance, something needed to be done. I’m not sure this is going to fix it.” Changes are mostly going to affect those who buy their own insurance rather than through employer-based group plans, Whitacre said. His recommendation is to take the time to study and understand the new policy options. Taking the time to work with an insurance agent can prove to be helpful, Whitacre said. Once a plan is selected, it cannot be changed, Whitacre said. So he said con-

sumers need to be aware of all the choices, what exactly is covered and how their plan fits into insurance networks. Mistakes could be made that would make it difficult to seek needed services, Whitacre said. It’s not like buying a pair of socks on the Internet,” Whitacre said. It’s immensely complicated to ask the average American to understand.” The minimum penalty for not buying health insurance will be $95, Whitacre said. The penalty is 1 percent of family income, meaning a family with a household income of $50,000 a year would pay a $500 fine on their tax return, he said. The change is also giving business owners a few things to think about as the date of change arrives. Kurt’s Autobody Repair Shop in Bloomington has fewer than 50 full-time employees so is exempt from the Affordable Care Act requirement to provide affordable coverage for full-time employees. But owner Kurt Zimmer plans to comply anyway. We’re trying to conform,” said Zimmer, who opened the business in 1971. “We’re trying to be fair to our employees.” Zimmer’s perspective is not unusual for most small-business owners. Employers are going to do what’s best for their business,” said Brian Thede, business and relationship manager with the McLean County Chamber of Com-

merce’s Employers’ Coalition for Healthcare Inc. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. People don’t start a business to become experts in health insurance but most businesses that have insurance through the coalition are small businesses, Thede said. “For them, it was good business to provide health insurance for their employees — even when they didn’t have to — and that isn’t going to change,” Thede said. “For most small businesses, keeping their health insurance plan for as long as possible will provide security against the unknown,” Thede said. Kurt’s Autobody has 21 employees and 20 are full-time. The business offers a Health Alliance health plan through the coalition in an effort to keep good employees. We have skilled technicians,” Zimmer explained. Over the years, we changed coverage and deductibles to maintain affordability,” Zimmer said. “It’s not a Rolls Royce but it’s a complete plan.” “The insurance we have now is considered adequate and affordable for our employees,” Zimmer said. “I don’t see anything really changing.” Zimmer expects his employees to remain with their job-based insurance. But he wonders what will be the fallout of the act in 2015 and beyond. “I would hope things wouldn’t change much for us but I don’t know,” he said.

SOURCES: www.healthcare.gov, Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation

Business impact n Employers with 50 or more full-time employees are required to provide affordable coverage for full-time employees (who work an average of 30 hours a week or more) and dependents, but are not subject to penalties until 2015. n Employers with fewer than 50 full-time employees are exempt from employer-coverage responsibilities and penalties, but are eligible to purchase coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace beginning in 2014. n Full-time employees’ share of premiums can’t exceed 9.5 percent of their wages and employer-sponsored coverage must cover at least 60 percent of a plan’s cost. Most plans already do that. n Employers with fewer than 25 full-time employees with average annual wages of less than $50,000 and who cover at least 50 percent of premiums may be eligible for a tax credit. SOURCES: Laura Minzer, Illinois Chamber of Commerce; Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace

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November 2013

Autoimmune diseases can be complicated Antibodies can attack organs By JAMIE LOBER Business Journal Writer

While some people are under the impression that their autoimmune disease flares up in winter, others wonder what an autoimmune disease is. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The basic problem with autoimmune disease is that the human bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s normal immune response goes a bit haywire and starts producing antibodies that attack specific parts or organs of the human body,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. David Baumberger, internist and medical director for the ambulatory care group for Decatur Memorial Hospital. With a normal immune system, if you come in contact with something foreign, it produces antibodies that attack the substance and gets rid of it. Each autoimmune disease is unique. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In lupus, the antibodies affect multiple organs like the brain, eyes, lungs, heart, joints, skin and kidneys,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. There are some autoimmune thyroid disorders that only target thyroid glands.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rheumatoid arthritis primarily just affects joints, although it can sometimes involve lungs,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. It can be complicated because you never know what to expect. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are a fairly mysterious group of diseases because often times we do not know what the trigger is that caused the immune system to go haywire and start producing antibodies that are basically fighting our own cells,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. There is nothing people can do in terms of prevention. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a lifelong problem, though some have minor manifestations and others have advanced disease,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. With rheumatoid arthritis, some people have a fairly mild arthritic response with joint aches and swelling and can lead a normal, healthy life with medications, while others have severe joint destruction and can be on complete disability. Symptoms depend on the disease but they can be managed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the past, the most classic medication used was cortisone or prednisone, but in the last couple of decades, we have developed more specific medications that are biological and there are more antibodies that are given to the

patients to help them fight off their autoimmune disease,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. If you suspect you have an autoimmune issue, see your doctor but understand that it can take time to receive a diagnosis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Generally speaking, most will be diagnosed by what the patient tells us historically. So at the visit, we take the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history, description of symptoms, what we see on the examination and a laboratory analysis,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. Some autoimmune diseases do not have specific blood tests. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In many patients that have autoimmune disease, the traditional blood tests that are drawn may find the abnormality in less than 50 percent of people,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. Remember that it is possible to do well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most patients nowadays take medications that help them live long, productive lives and they can continue working and being gainful members of society,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. Advanced cases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, are managed by internal medicine physicians that specialize in autoimmune disease called rheumatologists. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most become good friends with you

because you see them in the office a lot over the years. It is usually not something you can treat like an infection or fractured bone,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. Common concerns among patients are why it happened to them, what triggered it and sometimes how to manage depression related to loss of functioning or pain. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Learning to cope is a big part of the treatment,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. As for giving your immune system a boost, there are no real secrets. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Get a reasonable amount of sleep, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. It may or may not be obvious if you have autoimmune disease. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You could have a skin rash, swollen, tender, red joints or something nonspecific like mild malaise, fatigue or tiredness,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said. There is reason to have hope with the advancement of pharmacologic therapy and use of biological medicines that have a direct effect on helping the immune system regulate and suppress itself in a way that people are able to battle their illness earlier. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These medicines are expensive but highly effective and have made a world of difference for patients,â&#x20AC;? Baumberger said.

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Community health calendar Screenings Kidney disease screening, Nov. 4-8, all DMH Express Care locations. Cost is $25. For more information, call (217) 876-5320. Bone density screening, 9-11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, Women’s Health and Breast Center, 302 W. Hay St., Suite 117A. Screening to check your risk for osteoporosis. Register online or call (217) 876-4377.

Support groups TOPS Club IL 49 Decatur, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Main Street Church of God, 2000 N. Main St. (enter from Garfield Street). Support group for Real People seeking Real Results with weight loss. For more information, go to www.topsclub.org or call Chris Granda at (217) 521-2420.

How to avoid impulse grocery buys McClatchy-Tribune News Service

We’ve all grabbed a candy bar or an extra box of something-or-other that we don’t need at the supermarket. Here are some strategies for restraint from Brian Wansink, PhD, director of Cornell University’s Food and Brand Lab and author of the book “Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think”: n Don’t shop when you’re hungry. Not only will you likely buy more, you’ll be attracted to heavily processed foods. n Start in the healthiest aisles. If you fill your cart with fruit, vegetables and other nutritious foods, you’ll have less room for junk and your brain will understand that you’re not going to starve. An empty cart in the chip or cookie aisle, on the other hand, is dangerous. n Beware of numerical “deals.” Offers such as “buy two, get one free” or “limit 12 per person” can make people buy 30 percent to 100 percent more than they otherwise would, much of which they don’t need. n Put numbers in your grocery list. Don’t just write that you need soup, for example, write how many cans you need. n Use baskets when possible. If you have a short list of items, avoid shopping carts so you have to carry everything you’re going to buy. n Try a mind game at the checkout. If you always seem to pick up a last-minute candy bar, set a rule that to buy any food item you also have to buy a nonfood item such as a magazine. Suddenly you’re spending $7 on a chocolate bar, which just might interrupt a mindless grab — and get you thinking about what you really need.

Cardiopulmonary rehab wellness group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Classroom A. Register online or call (217) 876-2496. Diabetes support group, 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, Nov. 21, DMH Wellness Center, 2122 N, 27th St. Call (217) 876-4249. Parkinson’s disease support group, 1:30-3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1360 W. Main St. For information, call Kathy Broaddus at (217) 820-3096. A New Season young widowed group, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21. For information, call Dawn Followell at (217) 864-2799. Widowed support group, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21. Monthly dinner gathering. For location or to register, call (217) 428-7733.

Helping Hands Bereavement for Children, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.

Renewal bereavement support group, 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.

Growing Through Grief, 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. To register, call (217) 8764735.

Us TOO prostate cancer support group, 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.

Grief to Hope: Grief Education Group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room G24. For information, call Chaplain Marla at (217) 544-6464, ext. 41850.

Classes

Breastfeeding support group, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11 and 25, Baby TALK, 500 E. Lake Shore Dr. To register, call Flo Folami at (217) 464-2334. SHARE support group, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room G24. Support group for those who have experienced the death of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or early infancy. For more information, call (217) 464-2045. Epilepsy support group, 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12. For more information, call (217) 8531655. Facing Cancer Together, 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, Cancer Care Center of Decatur Complementary Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.

Art therapy for cancer patients and families, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, Complementary Medicine Art Room 409, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Clay, paint watercolor, acrylic draw, print make, collage, weave and more. For information, call (217) 876-4700. New Brother/Sister Day Camp, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, DMH OB Classroom. Children ages 3 to 10 learn what to expect with the arrival of a new baby brother or sister. Cost is $15. To register, call (217) 8763400. Real Dads Rock, 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, Decatur Memorial Hospital, Cafe classrooms 1 and 2 — Ground Level. Program teaches new fathers how to handle, feed, burp, change, clean and respond to their baby’s needs. Register online or call (217) 422-6294.

Pink Link breast cancer support group, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14. To register, call (217) 876-4377.

Childbirth prep classes, 7-9 p.m. Thursdays beginning Nov. 7, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Room. For more information or to register, call (217) 464-2334.

Essential Tremor Support Group, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Room. For more information, call Don Klinker at (217) 423-9667.

Cardiopulmonary education session, 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, and 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15, DMH Cardiac Rehabilitation Department. Register online or call (217) 876-2496.

Breath of Life support group, noon Tuesday, Nov. 19, St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 561. Speakers available to answer questions from those with breathing problems. For information, call (217) 464-2603.

Eat Right to Help the Fight, 1-2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Education Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. Nutrition class for cancer patients. Register online or call (217) 876-4750.

Sibling class, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, St. Mary’s Hospital, 3rd Floor OB Classroom. Children 3-12 learn about being a big brother or sister. For more information or to register, call (217) 464-2334. Look Good, Feel Better, 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, Cancer Care Center of Decatur, Cancer Care Specialists of Decatur Classrooms, 210 W. McKinley Ave. A program that teaches beauty techniques to female cancer patients in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. To register call, (217) 876-6600. Infant CPR Class, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, DMH OB Classrooms, Third Floor. Register online or call (217) 876-3400.

More Women’s Night Out, 4:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, DMH Physicians Plaza East Suites 100 and 300, and Physicians Plaza West Suite 305. Join Vita Center for Women and Dr. Jordan Youngerman to learn how you can look and feel your very best. Wine, hors d’oeuvres and drawings for door prizes. To RSVP, call (217) 424-2442. DMH Battle of the Barbell powerlifting meet, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, DMH Wellness Center, 2122 N, 27th St. Categories will be awarded for teams, highest lifting total, and strongest pound for pound lifter. For more information, call (217) 8765261. Breast cancer survivors’ event, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, Richland Community College. Attend this free community event with a special appearance by Diane Shankwitz, a local breast cancer survivor and certified Christian Image Consultant. Survivors will learn tips on how to select clothing styles, fabrics and colors to enhance their post-treatment figure. Free manicures, massages, giveaways and refreshments and more. For more information, call (217) 464-2510. Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, St. Mary’s Hospital, Assisi Room. Language of Lungs, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20, Decatur Public Library. Are you at risk for lung disease? Attend this free community fair to learn more. Free health screenings, lectures, refreshments and door prizes. Presented by the Decatur Health Coalition. For more information, call (217) 464-5125.

BUSINESS JOURNAL Reader Profile:

n 72% read The Business Journal monthly. n 17% are 34 and under.

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YOUR BUSINESS

Motivation part of successful jobs program Maybe you still think about Buster from time to time. I know I do. We met Buster, and gave him his name, in June 2012. We first noticed this guy at a busy intersection when we waited for a stoplight. He was scruffy with an unkempt ponytail. We observed as he ambled down the line of cars. In his left hand was a small American flag. In his right was a hand-lettered sign. “Homeless Vet. Please Help. God Bless.” As the light turned green, motorist Human Resources another leaned out his window and sped past the panhandler. He shouted, “Get a job, Buster!” Although he was rude, that driver expressed a thought common to many of us: Why won’t that irritating beggar go away and get himself a job? It’s a question I’ve been working on for the past 15 months. What does it take to move people like Buster from

Fred Spannaus

homelessness to employment? I’ve done this work as the lead consultant for a project called Connect to Work, sponsored by the Supportive Housing Providers Association of Illinois with help from the Butler Family Fund. I visited or interviewed programs around Illinois and in several other states. I listened to the experts. More importantly, I saw people working. People who were once homeless. These folks who put down their cardboard signs and picked up a lunch bucket. Now, maybe as a business leader you don’t really care about how to get Buster a job. Perhaps you don’t hire people like Buster; you can take your pick from a barrel of better qualified candidates. All that may be true. But I’ll bet you care about the Decatur community, and I’ll wager you care a lot about the image our town conveys to your applicants. And I’m sure you worry about how to train and onboard new employees. So stay with me here. There might be something you can use. You see, in the course of this project, we discovered how to do things right. By studying the programs that are effective, we isolated six common ele-

ments that are shared by the best programs in the country. Space doesn’t permit us to cover all six in this column, so we’ll start with two and hold the other four until December. The first common element is that the successful programs are right-sized. They begin quite modestly. On the final day of a visit to a great program in Salt Lake City, I asked the director, “What advice could you give to someone who is just starting a project like yours?” “Start very small,” she replied. “Be honest with yourself. Scale it to fit what you really can do, not all that you want to do.” Too many organizations lust after the big numbers, so they work with dozens of people, she added. In their enthusiasm, they overestimate how much time, money and energy they can devote to the project. The inevitable result is that they fall on their faces. Instead, she advised me, they need to enroll a mere handful of people and make sure that they succeed with the small numbers. The second common element should be obvious, but it’s not always so evident. Successful programs find and

make use of motivation. They identify people who want to work. People who want to work, work out better. The director of the Los Angeles work force center told me what happens in his agency. When a client expresses a desire to work, the conversation shifts immediately. His staff immediately explore how to channel the person toward employment, education, training or volunteer work. Programs that force people into participation do not get good results. They have ugly outcomes — poor placement rates and poor retention rates. A number of proven methods can find and use internal motivation. One of these methods, called motivational interviewing, is a specific evidence-based approach that helps people move forward and take responsibility for their future. Several great programs use it, and it can be applied in a variety of work and nonwork situations. Google it and see. Stay tuned. More next time.

Fred W. Spannaus, principal of Spannaus Consulting, is a senior professional in human resources. He loves feedback to his columns. Fred can be contacted by email at spannaus@ ameritech.net or by phone at (217) 425-2635.

The Business Journal presents...

A SALUTE TO

IN DECEMBER’S ISSUE! Family owned businesses are important to the growth of any community. The future of our town is sculpted by the courage and ingenuity of business owners like you. Rarely are you given the chance to tell your story. This publication is designed entirely around you and your story. Be a part of this special section for the December issue and receive additional space to tell readers more about your business.

Call today to reserve your space at 421-7953

Advertising/Questionnaire deadline November 14, 2013

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November 2013

BUSINESS JOURNAL

ASK THE SCORE COUNSELOR Q: Can you give me some tips for buying a franchise? A: Nellie Akalp, a passionate entrepreneur, small-business advocate, and CEO of CorpNet, a legal document filing service gave the SBA’s Weekly Connection readers these tips. For those entrepreneurs itching to start their own business, purchasing a franchise can be a good alternative. Franchising can be less risky than starting a business from scratch. The franchisor has done a lot of the work for you. The business plan is ready-made; there’s already strong brand name recognition, and the franchisor is often responsible for the marketing and advertising. However, any new business is risky, even a franchise. You may get an established name and business plan, but your success is ultimately up to you. Here are a few tips to help you find that success: Do your research: Whether you identify a potential franchise opportunity from a franchise broker or franchise exposition, you alone are solely responsible for the due diligence before you invest. Start by reading the Franchise Disclosure Document to find out important details about the franchise company, litigation and

bankruptcy history, as well as your initial fees, investment and obligations. Find out exactly what your role will be as the owner. Ask existing franchisees what their day is like, what their responsibilities are. Was their investment in line with what was stated in the disclosure document? How did they go about getting a loan for the franchise? Ask every franchisee this question: “Would they do it again?” Think about your location: Successful restaurant and store owners will tell you it all comes down to location, location, location. One of the toughest, and most important, decisions a franchisee will make is choosing a location for their new business. Many franchisors will work closely with you to pick the perfect site, sharing insights about what particular site characteristics lead to success with their organization. However, at the end of the day, the decision is ultimately yours. You’ll need to understand your target demographic and what will drive them to this particular franchise. Evaluate each location accordingly. Consider details such as traffic patterns, parking, nearby stores and check with the franchisor if you’ll be guaranteed protected territory (i.e.

GOT A QUESTION? For more information on buying a franchise; for one-on-one, face-to-face business counseling; or to submit a question for the “Ask the SCORE Counselor” column, contact SCORE Chapter 296, Millikin University, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, IL 62522 or call (217) 424-6296.

no other franchise can open within a certain radius). Focus on service: Buying a franchise gives you a proven model and a clear-cut marketing plan to bring in new customers. However, it’s up to you to define the customer experience. Employee-customer interactions can make or break any business. Hire customer-centric staff that will go the extra mile to leave an extraordinary impression on your customers. In addition, you need to be realistic about your management experience. If you have never managed a team before, you’ll need training on how to do so effectively. Consult a specialist: The tax rules and contracts surrounding franchises can get quite complex. You should consult an attorney, preferably one who specializes in franchise law, to review your fran-

chise agreement documents and identify any potential red flags. In addition, an accountant can help you understand the full costs of purchasing and operating the business, as well as evaluate tax considerations. Given the size of the investment you’ll be making, it’s prudent to pay a little upfront for a professional consult. Don’t forget about a formal business structure: For franchisees, a formal business structure (such as a corporation or LLC) is critical to separate your personal assets from the business. While the business structure you choose will ultimately depend on the specifics of your situation, many franchisees choose to become an LLC or S Corporation for more favorable tax treatment. — Carol Harding, SCORE counselor

Meet a SCORE counselor

Cooprider

Dave Cooprider retired in March 1999 as superintendent of the Regional Office of Education. His counseling specialty is with nonprofit organizations. He has been a SCORE member for 14 years.

BUSINESS CLIPS

New staff members

Brodnicki

Burch

Wade

Chris Brodnicki is the new general manager for the Decatur Civic Center. He replaces Bud Wilcox, who retired.

Don Stolz, director of operations for the Decatur Family YMCA, was named Outstanding Facilities Manager of the Year at the Staff Rally of Illinois YMCAs. Team Soy was named Best Friend of Illinois Parks–Mid-Sized Business and Herald & Review staff writer Allison Petty received the Top Journalist Award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts.

Promotions

Timothy Burch has joined Chastain & Associates as manager of the Land Surveying Department. Dr. Amy Wade has joined the Northgate Pet Clinic staff.

Beals

Riney

Buening

Jennifer Beals and Crystal Riney have been promoted to the position of senior manager at BKD, LLP.

Achievements

Jeremy Buening has been named an associate at Chastain & Associates.

Announcements Mack

Stolz

Petty

Richland Community College’s Associate Health Information Technology program has been awarded accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation for Health Information and Information Management Education. Dr. Jessica Mack of Psychology Specialists has completed her residency in neuropsychology.

John Stubblefield, CEO of Mr. John’s School of Cosmetology, attended the owner’s preview of the Nuts and Bolts Business Training 2014 curriculum at the Sassoon Academy in Santa Monica, Calif.

Stubblefield

Business Clips are abbreviated versions of paid Business Achievements which appear on Mondays in the Herald & Review. For more information about Business Achievements, go to www.heraldreview.com/app/secure/businessach/

Why it may cost more to hire McClatchy-Tribune News Service

As employers prepare for new employee coverage requirements in 2014, they’re already dealing with higher costs of subsidizing employee health insurance. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics said the average per-employee cost for private-sector employers that provided health benefits, currently a discretionary employee benefit, was $2.26 an hour in March. That compares to an average of $1.92 in mid 2008. At the end of the first quarter this year, the average total cost of employee compensation for employers was $31.09 per employee hour worked. That compares to $28.46 five years ago. In March, the average cost to employ-

ers for wages and salaries was $21.50 an hour, while the average cost of employee benefits was $9.59 an hour. Benefits costs accounted for 30.9 percent of total compensation costs, a percentage that has stayed fairly constant in recent years. The overall average is skewed higher because of higher public-sector pay and benefits. Total costs for private-sector workers averaged $29.13 an hour, while state and local government employers paid an average of $42.12 per employee hour worked. In the private sector, legally required benefits, such as Social Security, Medicare, unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, accounted for 8.2 percent of compensation costs for employers.

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November 2013

YOUR MONEY

Holiday spending by the numbers Metro Editorial Services

The holiday season is significant for a variety of reasons. In addition to its religious significance, the holiday season is when many retailers enjoy their greatest successes. To understand just how much business Christmas and Hanukkah can bring in, consider the following figures. 20: The percentage of annual sales jewelry stores indicate are made during the month of December. 150,205: The number of clothing and accessories stores open in the United States as of 2009. 27.2: The amount, in billions of dollars, spent during the December 2010 holiday retail season. 983: The amount, in millions, of Christmas tree ornaments imported from China between January and September 2011.

Dos, don’ts of holiday shopping Set a budget, don’t impulse buy Metro Editorial Services

Thanks to sales featuring heavily discounted items, millions of people wait to start their holiday shopping until the season hits full swing. But in spite of such bargains, overextending budgets during the holiday season is too tempting for many shoppers to resist. However, shoppers need not risk financial peril if they shop smartly and heed some dos and don’ts of holiday shopping. n Do set a budget. Establish what you can afford to spend on gifts and other seasonal trimmings early on. The National Retail Federation estimates that the average consumer will spend about $700 come the holiday season. But not every person needs to be a big spender. The “buy now, pay later” mentality that credit cards offer lands many shoppers in trouble, a sticky situation many only notice once the first bill comes due. If you cannot afford to pay your entire credit card balance off once the bill arrives, you face steep interest charges that can quickly add up. Instead, pick a set spending limit and keep to it no matter how tempting it may seem to overspend with a credit card.

n Don’t be fooled by false sales. Retailers understand that a good advertised deal lures shoppers into their stores. As a result, some retailers mark up the cost of certain items in order to slash the prices for holiday sales. Even if you are saving the assumed 50 percent to 60 percent, the final cost of the item still may be higher than normal. Comparison shop and do your research so you don’t fall victim to clever pricing. n Do schedule time for shopping. Hectic schedules sometimes result in lastminute shopping that leads to impulse purchases. Schedule some distraction-free time for your holiday shopping so you’re less likely to rush into purchases before thinking them through. n Don’t double buy. Some shoppers use the holidays as an excuse to buy more for themselves than the people on their lists. While it’s tempting to treat yourself come the holiday season, this is a great and quick way to deplete your budget. If you plan on using holiday deals to supplement your own wardrobe or household needs, reduce your spending the rest of the year and save money for year-end purchases. n Do collect coupons and look for purchasing incentives. Comparison shopping not only

helps you get the best price, but also it can shed light on coupons, shipping discounts and other incentives that lower the overall cost of products. Search online for websites that publish coupons and codes for online discounts, including free shipping. Join a store’s marketing list and receive emails with deals sent directly to your inbox. n Don’t be afraid to delay some purchases if need be. If hosting a post-holiday gathering where gifts will be exchanged, it’s perfectly acceptable to delay buying those gifts until after Christmas or Hanukkah, when many items can be found at even lower prices. Many stores reduce prices on merchandise come Dec. 26, so you can wait until after the holidays to shop for items that will be exchanged with distant friends and relatives. This enables you to save more money and use any received gift cards toward shopping. n Do keep a level head. Some people forget the true meaning of the season is spending time with loved ones. Getting swept away by shopping and worrying about deadlines can make the season less enjoyable. Don’t allow the stress of holiday shopping to compromise an otherwise joyous time of year.

34.87: The average cost of real Christmas trees as of 2011. Artificial trees sell for an average of $70.55. 4.0: The percentage the National Retail Federation expects retail sales to increase this year. 2012: The year when holiday retail sales were the weakest since 2008. According to MasterCard Advisors SpendingPulse, sales in the last two months of 2012 increased by just 0.7 percent from the previous year. Some financial analysts blamed Hurricane Sandy, an epic storm that caused billions of dollars in damage along the eastern coast of the United States, for the small increase in consumer spending. 24: The percentage of U.S. retail sales made by only the Northeast and midAtlantic states. 8.4: The percentage growth of online sales from 2011 to 2012. Online sales generally make up about 10 percent of total holiday business. 70: The number, in millions, of poinsettia plants sold in the United States each year. 107,000: The projected cost, adjusted for inflation, of all of the gifts in “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” 74: The percentage of adults who say the female head of the household is most likely to wrap all of the family’s gifts. 3: The number of years a store-bought Christmas fruit cake can be kept fresh if it is refrigerated.

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Make the most of Black Friday shopping Know prices, scout out stores Metro Editorial Services

Black Friday is one the biggest shopping days of the year, and is often the perfect time to begin holiday shopping and save money on incredible deals. Thousands of eager shoppers will leave their homes in the early morning hours and wait in lines at stores in order to grab the best prices of the season, while retailers will be gearing up to lure the greatest number of shoppers. Surviving the day unscathed and arriving home with discounts galore involves having a game plan for success. n Know the prices of the items you want to buy. Scour advertisements in advance of Black Friday to gauge the regular retail prices for common items, including electronics. Comparison shop for the best prices and make notes to help you when Black Friday arrives. n Understand the fine print of “door busters.” Door buster sales are meant to get shoppers into stores, where retailers hope shoppers will make additional purchases while taking advantage of advertised deals. If door buster items are all you’re

looking for, read the advertisements carefully, noting the start and end time of the discounts and if there will be limited quantities. In addition, determine if there is a special return policy for sale items purchased on Black Friday. n Dress for comfort. Wear sensible, comfortable shoes and clothing when shopping. Leave a large purse at home and opt for something compact that can be draped securely over your shoulder and body to navigate the crowds. Keep your coat in the car or make use of a coat check service if available. Dress in layers if you will be waiting outside for stores to open. This way you can shed clothing as the mercury rises or when you get inside. n Arrive together but shop separately. The “divide and conquer” method of shopping allows everyone in your shopping party to score good deals. Split up shopping tasks and then head to different areas of the store. Share and collect your purchases when you meet up after the rush. n Make a list and stick to it. Buyers’ remorse come Saturday morning is common for those who have overextended their budgets and purchased items they did not need. Know ahead of time what you plan to purchase and do not veer off course.

Poll: Most consumers face fraud attempts Elderly people are falling prey By WALTER HAMILTON McClatchy-Tribune News Service Writer

Financial fraud is widespread in America, a new poll says, with more than 4 of 5 respondents saying they’ve been targeted by scammers in one form or another. Though most people don’t respond to bogus investment pitches, 11 percent have lost “significant” amounts of money in scams, according to the survey by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, a Wall Street industry watchdog. The poll also indicates that many Americans are gullible. More than 2 of 5 people surveyed had trouble deciphering classic warning signs of financial fraud, such as promises of unrealistically large investment returns. Elderly people are particularly vulnerable, FINRA said, both to being targeted and to falling prey and losing money. “When it comes to financial fraud,

America is a nation at risk,” said Gerri Walsh, president of FINRA’s investor education foundation. “Fraudsters are very effective at reaching and enticing vulnerable populations into turning over their money, and far too few Americans are able to detect likely fraudulent sales pitches.” The poll of 2,364 Americans age 40 and older suggests that millions of Americans have been solicited as potential victims, often through emails offering prodigious but unrealistic riches. The survey found that 64 percent of people had been invited to an “educational” investment seminar that probably was a sales pitch. And 67 percent reported receiving an email from another country offering a large amount of money in exchange for an initial deposit or fee. In other words, the Nigerian prince offering a small fortune for shepherding his money to the U.S. is probably a scam. In a sign of Americans’ vulnerability, 4 in 10 people said they’d be attracted to an investment promising to more than double their money in a year. And 43 percent said they would be drawn to “fully guaranteed” investments when, of course, that’s a contradiction in terms.

get just as crowded as the stores themselves. Save yourself time and the stress of finding a spot by parking near the store but away from the crowd. n Clean out your car prior to shopping. Make room in the trunk or cargo area for all of your purchases. For those who will be buying large, heavy items, find out if the store will ship the merchandise or will hold it aside until you can take it home. Understand that some stores will not hold items and enlist a friend or spouse to help you pack purchases into the car. n Promptly store receipts. Designate a folder or envelope for all of your receipts to keep them organized and handy. n Pack a small snack and drink. It’s easy to become dehydrated and hungry waiting in long lines, which can compromise your decision-making abilities. Bring a snack so that you can recharge your body and continue shopping. n Leave the kids at home. Black Friday shopping can be stressful, and children can easily get lost or bumped around in the fray. It is safer to leave them home so you can focus your full attention on shopping. n Know when to call it quits. Establish a firm cut-off time for ending your shopping excursion. This way you can head home, rest and sort through your purchases.

‘Know ahead of time what you plan to purchase and do not veer off course.’ n Scout the stores ahead of time. Visit the stores where you plan to shop a few days before Black Friday. Learn the layout of the store and where everything is located. Try on certain clothes or read over the labels of big-ticket items you plan to buy. Knowing where items are located and having all of your information in advance will cut down on the time it takes to find items on Black Friday. n Don’t overlook nontraditional stores. Many other stores, from pharmacies to supermarkets, stock items apart from food and toiletries. Consider taking advantage of their sales for some Black Friday deals. n Park off campus. Mall parking lots can

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