Leading the Way by Journal Gazette & Times-Couier

Workforce

Central

Industry

Illinois

Youth

Leading

Way Fall 2013

2 JG-TC - September 2013

Leading the Way

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Leading the Way

JG-TC - September 2013 3

Cover Photos

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

1. Central Illinois People line the Coles County Courthouse Square in

700 Broadway Avenue East, Suite 9A • Mattoon, IL 61938 (217) 235-5656

Charleston, Ill., for the Christmas in the Heart of Charleston parade on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2012. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)2. Work Force GE Communications Specialist Greg Petsche, left, and Justin Butcher, right, shop operations manager, talk with the media at the GE lamp factory in Mattoon, Ill., on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

3. Industry Yellow leaves drape the Coles County Courthouse in Charleston, Ill., on October 12, 2010. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

4. Youth Charleston High School graduate Sasha Edwards catches a lift from a fellow classmate as they enter Lantz Arena Friday night (May 17, 2013) during the CHS commencement ceremony procession at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston. (Photo by Ken Trevarthan/Journal Gazette & Times-Courier).

5. Background Photo Halogen capsules (bulbs) are prepared for the sealing process using heat on the assembly line at the GE lamp factory in Mattoon, Ill., on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

Publisher: Carl Walworth 238-6822 Advertising Director: Tammy Jordan 238-6835

Connie Anderson, Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6828 Karen Collier, Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6827

Shannon Davis, Senior Sales Consultant, Mattoon . .238-6831 Sherri Aldrich, Auto & Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6832 Shellie Jeske Mattoon/Sullivan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6837

Rob Scheffer, Effingham/Charleston . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6838 Alexandra Meyer, Layout Designer/Online . . . . . . . .238-6840

Advertising: To place a display advertisement, call (217) 238-6835 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or email advertising@jg-tc.com

To place classified advertising, call 238-6828 or 238-6821 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.

ABOUT THIS SECTION

This year's Leading The Way section is a mixture of some of the past annual supplements. The section started in 2003 totally devoted to area industry. The focus was on what goes on inside manufacturing facilities, and the wide geographical scope and impact of items produced in East Central Illinois. Over time the section took on more of a community approach, looking at some of the highlights from our region. In recent years, the section's featured "letters home," a collection of letters from individuals who grew up in our area and then moved on to successful careers elsewhere. The letters included highlights of "growing up" years in East Central Illinois, as well as highlighting some of the talents first developed by people who grew up here on the prairie. The 2013 edition of Leading The Way has elements of industry, of community and a couple of new "letters home." One of the letters, from David Watson, stemmed from a letter written last year by one of his classmates at Neoga High School. The other, from Roger Van Dyke, follows up on a letter he wrote last year on the value of mentoring. Van Dyke is formerly of Casey. From a community standpoint, we pulled a recent article veteran reporter Rob Stroud wrote recently about Oakland, featuring among other things the community's Noodle factory. The Oakland piece is one of an occasional series that explores the history of some of our area communities. The first part of this year's section has some industry highlights. The article by Bill Lair on the Choices program describes a collaborative effort between the Coles Together economic development organization, the Mattoon Area Family YMCA and Mattoon schools. The Choices program, presented to the sophomore class at MHS, is designed to help students understand that life choices they

make can and do impact future opportunities, including employment options. The program, which may be expanded to other schools, was offered in part because of feedback from some area employers of shortcomings among prospective employees. Another article highlights some of the good news stories in the past year from firms that are hiring. Some of those firms use programs

like one at Lake Land College to help prepare people for the workplace. The section also has a piece explaining the BESI (Business Ethics and Social Responsibility Awards), which began in our area in 1992. I hope you enjoy all or part of the section.

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HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LEARN IMPACT OF CHOICES By BILL LAIR FOR THE JG-TC

Sophomores at Mattoon High School understand that the decisions they make in the next couple years can affect the remainder of their lives. Through Coles Together, the Mattoon Area Family YMCA and members of the Mattoon business and professional community, sophomores at MHS recently completed the CHOICES Education Program about decisions and their consequences. In two hour-long sessions, students participated in "real-world" exercises AUTHENTIC AMISH

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on self-discipline, time management, goal-setting and about making choices and the consequences of those choices. "The sky's the limit if you can apply yourself," said Brody Miller, one of the sophomore students who completed the CHOICES sessions. "Stay in school so you can be productive in life." "It makes me want to focus on schoolwork and grades that much more," said Gracie Forrest, another sophomore exposed to CHOICES. "My eyes were really opened. There are a variety of things I want, and I want to succeed but (CHOICES) makes me feel how important school is to me for the next 65 years of my life." Angela Griffin, president of the Coles Together economic development organization, said offering CHOICES was designed to begin preparing current high school students who will be entering the workforce in the next two to six years. By offering the program to sophomores, organizers believe this class has the time to develop the

habits that will help them in school and as adults. Some local industry representatives, Griffin said, feel that job applicants lack some basic skills such as being on time, looking presentable for work, appropriate body language and making a commitment to their assigned jobs. CHOICES was started in Seattle in the early 1980s by a Seattle father trying to reach his troubled teenage son. According to the CHOICES website, the program has been used across the country. For example, every public school eighth grade student in the state of Delaware participates in CHOICES. Kyle Gill, city administrator for the City of Mattoon, told the young people

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it is important to acquire skills necessary for the jobs of their adult lives. "You will be running things in a few years," Gill told students. "I want a qualified work force, a good work force, providing services that we are going to need in the future." Presenters compared the skills of job applicants to cell phone features. Some cell phones are for calls and texting. Other phones desired, apparently, by a large number of high school sophomores are "smart phones." A smart phone is for calling and texting, too, but also can take photos and videos, handle e-mail and has Internet capability with several "apps" that provide additional features. "When you apply for a job, it's kind of the same thing as shopping for a cell phone," said Laura Wharton, human resources manager at the R.R. Donnelley plant in Mattoon. "I make choices about people when I hire, just as you make choices when you shop for a cell phone. I could hire an applicant with basic skills or I can hire the applicant with additional features and qualifications." Jenna Bradley, exercise director for the Mattoon Area Family YMCA, put it this way to students: "Like with the smart phone where you will pay more for all the features, employers will pay college graduates more." Presenters pointed out that a high school dropout can expect to earn about $1.14 million over 50 years of employment, or about $23,000 a year. The high school graduate, they said, will earn about a half-million more, $1.64 million, in those same 50 years, which would be about $33,000 a year. A college graduate, however, earns almost double that -$63,000 a year on average or

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almost $3 million - in 50 years. Students were shown that someone making $10 an hour - about $21,000 a year - has little disposable income for fun after paying rent, utilities, state and federal taxes and food. Another surprise for some students was the length of time spent in school compared to a person's lifetime. The CHOICES participants are 15 or 16 years old with two more years of high school and then, perhaps, several years of college ahead for many. But students went through a life timeline that showed their 13 to 17 years of school and then the life expectancy the average American has, which stretched almost 80 years. "It may seem like you are in school forever," Gill said, "but there is a lot of life left." That left an impression on some students. "Seeing how short high school is compared to the rest of your life," Trey Skocy, one of the CHOICES participants said when asked about impressions of the program. "What you do in high school can affect the rest of your life." And that is the message for teens, who may not always be thinking beyond the next football game, free weekend or social activity with friends. While there are factors students cannot control, such as gender, height, race, heredity and city where they live, young people actually can control many aspects of their lives and, thus,

Leading the Way

their future. Those items, CHOICES instructors pointed out, include health, attitude, appearance, friends, reputation, role models, activities and motivation. "There is more about us we can influence and change through our choices," Donnelley's Wharton told students. "The most powerful skill available to you is the power of choice," Gill said to one of his CHOICES sessions. Instructors challenged students to set goals for what they want to be doing at age 25 - 10 years in the future for most of those in these classes. "Decide what you want to do and start tailoring your choices to get there," Wharton said. The 10-year goal - called SMART -

is an acronym for a goal that asks students to set a specific goal, one that is measurable so they can track their progress. The third letter of SMART Goal is to set a goal that is achievable, even if it is a reach for the student. The "R" in SMART stands for relevant, to make a goal that fits a purpose and matches the student's values and personality. Finally, make the goal timely by setting a goal that is doable within the time frame. "Anybody can do anything no matter where they are from," Forrest, one of the sophomores, said of one of CHOICES' messages. "It makes no difference if you are from Mattoon, Illinois, or you're a kid from New York City, the opportunities are the same for all of us," Skocy said. "You get out of it whatever you put in." "It takes hard work and dedication," added Emily Watson, another of the sophomore students. Other instructors for the sessions included Blake Fairchild of the YMCA, Derek Meinhart of Innovative Staff Solutions, Barb Love of Howell Paving Inc., Scott Lensink, recently retired president of Lake Land College as well as Griffin and Anthony Pleasant, both of Coles Together. Officials with CHOICES, based in Seattle, believe the business community has a vested interest in the quality of students graduating from the schools, and a responsibility to share in the effort to prepare those students for the future.

JG-TC - September 2013 5

"The first goal was to present the material in ways the students could relate," Griffin said. "And we wanted people from industry, those who are doing the hiring. We want their input also." Skocy said he was aware that those teaching the classes are people who have achieved some success, with several also being Mattoon High School graduates. "They are leaders in our community," he said of the presenters. "The former president of Lake Land, the chief financial officer of Howell Paving, and people like that. They are dedicating two days of their lives to talk to high school sophomores." Participants signed a certificate that says they plan to graduate high school and received the SMART goal form. They also received a "dog tag" inscribed: "I am who I choose to become," and a key to success, signifying self-discipline and making the right choices for their future.

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Leading the Way

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jg-tc.com MATTOON — Traditional manufacturing continues to be a significant part of the job base in East Central Illinois. From companies with more than 60-year histories operating in the region to startups like American Select Tubing, the area has had some good news in the past year. And, Rural King stores, which are headquartered in Mattoon, continue to open new stores and expand into new areas. The most recent announcement came in late August when GE said it would add 30 jobs at its Mattoon Lamp Plant to staff two new lines producing components of energyefficient soft white light bulbs. Overall, the company plans to invest $30 million in three different plants — the one in Mattoon and two in Ohio, GE spokesman Greg Petsche said. Recruitment for the new positions will begin in April 2014, Petsche said. Locally, three machines will be retooled and two additional machines will be shipped in from Hungary to create two new lines for the energy-efficient bulbs, floor manager Justin Butcher said. The other manufacturing roles in the plant will continue as is. “The footprint of the facility will remain the same; we’re taking existing floor space and existing equipment and retooling it, except for the two brand new pieces that will come in late next year,” Butcher said. Multi-site Plant Manager Joel Fay and Mattoon Plant Manager Joshua Smith said the increase in demand for the energy-efficient soft white bulbs came after government regulation against the traditional incandescent bulb in 2012. “With the regulation that affected our standard household lighting, everyone’s been on the search for the replacement bulb,” Fay said.

MARS EXPANDS Thirty new jobs are expected to come to town with the $50 million expansion of a pet food facility — Mars Petcare U.S. in Mattoon, the company announced in February. The 65,000-square-foot addition is to expand manufacturing for one of the company’s most popular dog treats, Pedigree® Dentastix. Construction recently started and is expected to take a year to complete. “An investment of this size demonstrates Mars Petcare U.S.’ commitment to improving the oral health of pets through our Dentastix® product line,” said Jim Palkovic, manager of the Mattoon plant. “This expansion is a testament to the partnerships we’ve built here in Illinois and our commitment to the Mattoon community.” Mars Petcare U.S. in Mattoon currently employs 140 associates and manufactures food brands such as Pedigree® Food for dogs, Whiskas® Food for cats and Temptations® Treats for cats. The plant has been located in Mattoon since 1979. Headquartered in Franklin, Tenn.,

Mars Petcare U.S. has more than 2,200 associates who make, sell and distribute the pet food from 15 manufacturing facilities located in the U.S., the release said. AMERICAN SELECT TUBING A relatively new player in the local manufacturing scene is American Select Tubing. Mark Maninfior, manager of American Select Tubing plant that recently opened in Mattoon along Illinois Route 121, said the metal handle manufacturer had 23 employees in the early summer but could have as many as 50 by the end of the year. American Select Tubing is a division of AF Holdings in Sullivan and received “overwhelming response from the industry” after an Arcola handle manufacturer closed, Mannifor said. “We do not have the capacity to meet the demand but that doesn’t mean we won’t get there,” Maninfior told the annual meeting of the Coles Together organization.

jg-tc.com He said LED lighting is in its infancy, but the soft white is still the ideal standard. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It works like everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s used to: It turns on like everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s used to, it dims like everyone is used to,â&#x20AC;? Fay said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very natural next step.â&#x20AC;? Butcher said the components produced in Mattoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plant create a bulb that is 28 percent more energy efficient than the standard household bulb used to be. The Mattoon plant, which has been in operation for more than 60 years, has manufactured the capsules which produce the light for the bulb since 2012. The actual capsule design was created by a technology team in Cleveland; however, the manufacturing design to produce it started in Mattoon, Smith said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We make the beginning, the part that lights up when they turn on the lamp,â&#x20AC;? Butcher explained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We marry that with a glass tube which starts the process for the halogen burner.â&#x20AC;? That halogen burner makes the product energy efficient over the incandescent lamp, he explained. With the expansion, the finished tube will be sent to the Ohio plants â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in Bycyrus and Circleville â&#x20AC;&#x201D; where they will be mounted inside a tradition soft white bulb. GEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment coincides with an agreement with Wal-Mart, whose executives two weeks ago announced an initiative to increase its domestic product sales by $50 billion over the next 10 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what piqued our interest, because they are a key customer of ours, and we knew we were going to make this product, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already been taking steps to have this make good business sense to produce in the U.S.,â&#x20AC;? Fay said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;After a lot of down times itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting to get some growth in the U.S.â&#x20AC;? Smith displayed a box of the bulbs,

Leading the Way which currently has a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Made in Mexicoâ&#x20AC;? fine print notation, as Mexico was finishing the bulb â&#x20AC;&#x201D; work that will now be moved to the Ohio plants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That will say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Made in the U.S.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; now,â&#x20AC;? he said. Fay said the expansion is can be credited to the current 205 local GE employees, including Ethan Smith. Ethan Smith, of Windsor, has worked for the Mattoon plant for 1Â˝ years, and he came in as the new line of bulbs was starting in production. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting working with GE and the future of the bulb, and todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s announcement made it really exciting to see that you have major corporations putting a push for domestic products,â&#x20AC;? he said Thursday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Made in the USAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; means more today than it has in the past.â&#x20AC;? Ethan Smith said hints of the expansion were heard around the plant, but no one saw the big picture until Thursday. Butcher added that the employees had a positive reaction to the the news, which was announced over lunchtime. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were excited to see the CEO of our company talk and refer to our facility and bring jobs back to the U.S.,â&#x20AC;? Butcher said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The folks who have been here for quite a while are realizing that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s their hard work and sacrifice that makes this work,â&#x20AC;? Joshua Smith said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They gave up some wage increases a couple years ago, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of sacrifice from the folks on the floor because they believe in what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing here. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a huge testament to this community.â&#x20AC;? An industrial maintenance certificate from Lake Land College is a minimal requirement for the new positions.-

IPS employee Bruce Clarke holds up an insulation core sample while giving a tour of the quality control lab at the new MBCI manufacturing facility Thursday afternoon (June 28, 2012) on Route 316 in Mattoon. (Photo by Ken Trevarthan/Journal Gazette & Times-Courier).

JG-TC - September 2013 7

Finished samples of insulated metal panel on display during the open house at the new MBCI manufacturing facility Thursday afternoon (June 28, 2012) on Route 316 in Mattoon. (Photo by Ken Trevarthan/Journal Gazette & Times-Courier).

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BESI AWARDS

HAVE LONG HISTORY

The Lumpkin College of Business at Eastern Illinois University honored several business firms and individuals in 1992 who over recent years had made very significant and distinctive contributions to the more pressing social needs facing our state, region or local area. The Business Ethics and Social Involvement (BESI) Awards recognized business firms and managers who pioneered enlightened business practices and displayed moral courageand principled leadership in the face of challenges. Our intent was to publicize creative, long term oriented, and morally-thoughtful efforts by business managers/owners that might serve as models or examples for our business students and for others in business practice. The Business Ethics and Social Involvement (BESI) awards were also created to locate possibly strong candidates for a well-publicized national competition known as the Business Enterprise Trust Awards. A screening committee of area civic and business leaders reviewed nominations and selected the 1992

BESI award recipients. These BESI awards were presented at a banquet at Eastern Illinois University on Feb. 19, 1992 at the conclusion of a business ethics conference. The four individuals or firms selected for the 1992 awards were William Hopper from Taylorville, Roger Roberson from Farmer City, Karl Koerner from Effingham and the Victor Division of the Dana Corp. in Robinson. Award criteria and eligibility: The criteria for the selection of firms and individuals to receive the BESI awards in 1992 were similar criteria as used in the nationwide Business Enterprise Trust Awards: • “Courage in upholding important business principles and serving the common good, particularly in the face of adversity or risk. • Vision in forging new, more enlightened standards of business behavior. • Substantial, enduring commitment to solving difficult problems, particularly when the effort may be unpopular or may

EDITOR’S NOTE he following is a history of the beginning of the Business Ethics and Social Involvement Awards, first granted in our area in 1992. Please check out the list of recipients over many years which recognize some of the high achievers in East Central Illinois. CARL WALTORTH, editor cwalworth@jg-tc.com

receive little public attention. • Innovation in addressing important business and social issues, particularly in ways that exhibit exceptional creativity, defy the conventional wisdom or exceed the requirements of the law. • Effectiveness over time in translating a business innovation or social vision into reality. Individuals as well as companies were considered. An individual or organization nominated had to be engaged in for-profit business activity. The Future of the BESI awards: Dean Ivarie and faculty members of the Ethics and Social Responsibility Committee in the EIU Lumpkin College of Business would like to continue recognizing exemplary business leaders and firms in the East Central Illinois region through these BESI awards. However, we would like to explore broader sponsorship and participation in this award nomination/selection process

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as well as promote greater publicity or publica awareness of deserving award recipients. For these reasons, we are requesting that both the East Central Illinois Development Corp. and Lake Land College join us as cosponsors in the nomination and selection process for the 1993 BESI awards. The inspiration of the BESI awards was the creation of the Business Enterprise Trust during the 1980s and the presentation by the trust of national awards to recognize and publicize outstanding ethical conduct and social involvement by business. Dr. Ted Ivarie, former dean of the Lumpkin College of Business & Applied Sciences at Eastern Illinois University, recognized that the concept of these national awards was applicable to the local East Central Illinois area. With the permission of the Business Enterprise Trust, the college initiated the Business Ethics and Social Involvement, or BESI, awards. and they were first presented in 1991. Funding in support of these awards comes from the Bertrand P. Holley Distinguished Professorship and Business Ethics and Social Responsibility Fund. Bert Holley was a professor of Business for over 40 years at Eastern (1946-1987) , and in his teaching he espoused the ethical conduct of business and commitment to community service that the BESI award celebrates. In 1993, Lake Land College and ECIDC joined EIU in what has been a great partnership to jointly sponsor these BESI awards to area individuals and businesses.

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Past BESI Award Winners • A.F. Holding Co. • N.W. (Bud) Althoff • E.C. Bauer • James and Robert Bitzer • Mark Bolander • Bolin Enterprises • Ruben Boyajian, M.D. • CHI Overhead Doors • Citizens National Bank of Paris • Noreen Connolly, OCE Imaging Supply • Consolidated Communications • Max Cougill • Doehring Winders & Co. LLP • First Mid Illinois Bank and Trust • The First National Bank in Toledo • The First National Bank of Pana • Gerald Forsythe • Don Hackerson • Sara Holmes • William Hopper, First Trust Bank • Imperial Bondware • John Inyart • Edward H. “Ned” Jenison • Frank Kabbes • Scott Kabbes • Kingery Printing Company • Kitchen Seed Company • Carl Koerner, Koerner

Leading the Way

Distributors, Inc. (Carl Koerner is deceased) • Leach-Wilson ChevroletBuick • Lenders Bagels and Employees • Mike Lindenmeyer • Melvin C. Lockard • Joyce A. Madigan • Marathon Pipe Line Company • Newlin Martin, Martin’s IGA • Jim McDaniel, Effingham Truck Sales • Dr. George Mitchell • The Monahan Family, The Monahan Company/First National Bank in Arcola • Jerry Moon • Mooney Motors, Inc • Delbert D. Mundt • Old School Esshaus • Petro/Iron Skillet Restaurant • Don Portugal, S & K • Jerry J. Ray, Schrock Cabinet Co. • R.R. Donnelley and Sons • Roger Roberson, Roberson Corporation • Rowe Foundry and Machine Co. and Employees • Ryan, Bennett, and Radloff • Jim Ryan • John M. (Jack) Schultz • Jim Short • Siemer Milling Company

JG-TC - September 2013 9

• Simonton Windows • State Bank of Arthur • U.S. Soy • Times Courier-Journal Gazette • Victor Products (Dana Corporation) • Ken Vogt • Dr. Robert D. Webb • Bob Willenborg • Dr. Rick Workman • Wright’s Furniture • James “Jim” Yoder • Don Yost

Past Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients • Robert M. Berty • Pat Ehrhart • Dale Fitzpatrick • Louis V. Henchen • Gary Kuhns • Robert K. Luther • Thomas Niebrugge • Henry “Hank” Stephens • Pam Crisman

Past Outstanding Leader in Community & Economic Development Award • Ken Larimore • Paris Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO) • Tom Wright • Dieterich Community Development Corp. (DCDC)

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ClassE MAKES ITS MARK East Central Illinois has become a pioneer in developing and implementing entrepreneurship education for young adults. In Coles County, 2013-14 is the second year for a high school curriculum called ClassE. The dual credit class patterned after a highly-successful program in Effingham County includes all three of the high schools in the county -Mattoon, Charleston and Oakland. The curriculum features entrepreneurial development that educates juniors and seniors on the opportunities and challenges on starting and running new business ventures. Students are selected through an application process. The experiential learning includes touring and interacting

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The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home is open to both members and non-members and is certified to accept Medicare, Medicaid and private insurances. In addition to offering rooms for residents who need long-term placement, we also offer fully furnished private rooms for patients who need physical, occupational or speech therapy for a short-termstay. These private Rehab To Home rooms have private washrooms, electric beds, and private dining available. Our Rehab To Home unit has a large therapy room and separate room for patients to work on their activities of daily living. The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home also offers outpatient therapy for patients who are returning back home, or for individuals already living in the community. Like our inpatient therapy, our outpatient therapy can provide physical, occupational or speech therapy.

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with more than 50 Coles County business owners during the year. The class completes a group business project. ClassE students plan and start their own businesses. Students also develop leadership and professional

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skills that are important for success in any field. The program is designed to create intergenerational business success networking that encourages students to remember their roots, resulting in potential job creation.

LAKE LAND HAS HISTORY IN TRAINING With the growing manufacturing industry throughout central Illinois, it’s a perfect time to earn an industrial maintenance certificate from Lake Land College. The industrial maintenance certificate is a year-long program that introduces students to a variety of topics such as machining procedures, industrial safety, motors and generators, troubleshooting and much more. According to Tim VanDyke, technology division chair, this program prepares students to either continue with their education or enter the workforce directly. “We’ve been working with area industry leaders and they continue to tell us that the skills we teach through the Industrial Maintenance Program are ideal for the positions they have open within their facilities,” said VanDyke. Lake Land has also partnered with industry leaders like General Electric in Mattoon to offer this training certificate to its current employees. “We’ve worked with GE to tailor the program to fit the needs of their current employee pool,” said VanDyke. “The GE students come to campus twice a week for class and maintain full-time employment at the lamp plant.” To learn more about the Industrial Maintenance Program at Lake Land College, contact VanDyke at (217) 234-5313 or tvandyke@lakeland.cc.il.us.

ClassE participants Michael Strader, Colton Anderson and Jacob Wagner talk with Becky Hartney of Charleston about their business, Right Path Landscaping and Lawn Care, Tuesday evening (May 7, 2013) during the ClassE expo at the LifeSpan Center in Loxa. (Photo by Ken Trevarthan/Journal Gazette & Times-Courier).

The ClassE program is a public-private partnership that is financially supported by many area businesses. To learn more about the application process, students should see their high school counselor. Summer entrepreneur camps and entrepreneur clubs are among the other

activities designed to promote business develop sense in young people. And some school utilize the highlysuccessfuly Junior Achievement program. Through these efforts, dozens of young adults are exposed to ways that encourage future business development.

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Sav-Mor Pharmacy 104 E Southline Rd. Unit-A, Route 36, Tuscola, IL 217-253-2309 savmortuscola@gmail.com

Sav-Mor Pharmacy 596 S Oak St Neoga, IL 217-895-2238 savmorneoga@gmail.com

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JG-TC - September 2013 13

COLES TOGETHER FOCUSES ON INDUSTRIAL HEALTH Coles Together is the economic development organization for Coles County, serving to meet the site location needs of new industry and to promote the continued expansion, growth and health of existing industrial facilities and the community at large. A private, not-for-profit corporation, Coles Together was founded in 1988 between the public and private sectors to provide full-time economic development support in site selection, business relocation, business retention, development of industrial sites, and expansions of local industrial businesses. The Coles Together team assists industrial clients with marketing, financing, project packaging and technical assistance. Since the organization was formed in partnership with county and local governments, staff is able to provide excellent coordination with local communities and agencies across Coles County. The Coles Together board is comprised of business leaders, local elected officials, economic developers, and educators to ensure the work and policies of the organization meet the needs of the entire local economy.

Shop operations manager Justin Butcher shows the tubulation and mount structure for a halogen capsule (bulb) at the GE lamp factory in Mattoon, Ill., on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013. (Journal Gazette/ TimesCourier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

Coles County Local Industry / Major Employers (colestogether.com) Employer R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co. General Electric Pinnacle Foods Justrite Manufacturing Co., Inc. Vesuvius U.S.A. Mars Pet Care Mattoon Precision Mfg Co., Inc. Blue Cross/Blue Shield Anamet, Inc. United Graphics, Inc. Walker Construction Ameren Services J.J. Collins Sons, Inc. Hi-Cone Division, Illinois Tool Works Electric Labratories & Sales Lester Building Systems, LLC Lee Enterprises Newspapers Publishing Safety Storage, Inc.

Location Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Charleston Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Mattoon Charleston Charleston Mattoon Charleston Mattoon/Charleston Charleston

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Americans are living in uncertain times. Global economic instability, increasing commodity prices and steadily rising gas prices have all taken their toll on the American public, yet The Salvation Army has risen to the occasion. Since 1895 The Salvation Army Mattoon Corps has been meeting the needs of families in Coles and Cumberland Counties. In the last year 4,662 persons were served through our social services program in Coles and Cumberland Counties. Individuals and families are coming to us in record numbers. We have filled 2,175 grocery orders to provide over 24,000 meals; served 441 families with housing, utility, and lodging assistance; and 743 people have received vouchers for clothing and furniture and medications. On top of that our “Food On The Move Program” Served 6,480 meals to children in their local neighborhoods over the summer, and 160 kids were given the supplies they needed to be successful at school this year. . We are grateful to everyone in the community who helps support The Salvation Army, and invite you to join our faithful volunteers and supporters as we strive to make our community a better place! For more info call 234-3915, visit www.tsamattoon.org or log onto www.ringbells.org for opportunities to get involved!2009 Okaw Valley Orchard,

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14 JG-TC - September 2013

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CENTRAL ILLINOIS CALENDAR OF EVENTS NOVEMBER 2013

People line the street to watch the Greenup Fall Festival parade in Greenup, Ill., on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

OCTOBER 2013 Sept 15 - Oct 31 | The Great American Pumpkin Patch, 9 am -- 6 pm, Arthur 3 | Mattoon Chamber Expo, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 5 | Dalton City Fall Festival 5 | Gettin’ Out the Door, 5k Run/Walk, 9 am - 12 pm, Effingham Medical Center, 900 West Temple Ave, Effingham 5 | Scarecrow Daze, Forest Park, Shelbyville. 5 | Greenup Fall Festival Car Show, Greenup 11-12 | EIU Homecoming Weekend, Charleston 11-12 | Chocolate Fall Fantasy, Pontiac; Join the downtown merchants as they celebrate all things chocolate! Great sales, great sweets and great fun! 11-14 | Columbus Day Weekend Sidewalk Sale, 7:30 pm, Tuscola 12 | Douglas Hart Nature Center Fall Festival. Charleston 12| Harvest Festival, Rockome Gardens, Arcola 12| Fall Frolic, Tuscan Hills Winery, Effingham 13| Bluegrass in the Gardens, Rockome Gardens, Arcola 13| 5 Mile House Fall Festival, 1 - 4 pm, South Rt 130, Charleston 12-14 | Touchstone Energy Balloon Fest, Columbus Day Weekend, Lake Shelbyville 12-14 | Scarecrow Daze Festival, Columbus Day Weekend, Forest Park & Downtown 18-27 | Nunsense, Little Theatre, Sullivan 25-27 | Fall Flea Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 25 | Haunted Hike Douglas-Hart Nature Center, Charleston 26 | Tuscola Fall Flea Market, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm, Tuscola Community Building, Free Admission, Lunch will be served 26| Halloween Party, Legacy Harley Davidson, Effingham 27| Halloween Parade, 2 pm, Effingham 30| Yuletide Tunes & Treats, 5 - 8 pm, Charleston 31 | Trick or Treat 6 – 8 pm, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 31 | Trick or Treat at Tanger Outlet Center, 5 - 7 pm Tim Lewis, left, sings during Christmas in the Heart of Charleston on the Coles County Courthouse Square in Charleston, Ill., on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2012. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

1-3 | Sport Card Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 1-10 | Historic Arcola’s Downtown Holiday Open House 7-12 | Jolly Trolley Open Houses, Pontiac; An annual event highlighted by fantastic deals offered by downtown merchants. A great way to start the holiday season. The Pontiac Jolly Trolley gives free tours of historic Pontiac. 7 | Gateway Annual Wine Tasting Event, Gateway Liquors, Charleston 8 | Country Spirit Antique Show & Sale, Arcola Community Center, 5 - 8 pm 8-9 | Country Spirit Antique & Primitive Show, Arcola Center, Arcola 8-9 | Rural Life Antique Show and Sale at the Douglas County Museum and the Tuscola Community Building, Tuscola 8-10 | Christmas Craft Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 9 | Charleston Challenge 40 Mile Relay, Charleston Parks and Recreation, Charleston 11 | Veterans Days Parade, Charleston 19 | Fall Harvest Festival, Rock Springs Conversation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane. Children are invited to celebrate the season with a custome contest, trick-ortreating and a scavenger hunt. (217)423-7708. 21 | Festival of Trees; Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation, Charleston 21- Dec 25| Wonderland in Lights, Effingham 22-23 | Festival of Trees, Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System Health Education Center, Coles County, Christmas trees, wreaths and centerpieces decorate the Lumpkin Family Center of Health Education. Call (217) 238-4765 or www.sarahbush.org. 23| Junie B in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells, EPC, First set: 11 am until Noon, Second set: 2:30 - 3:30 pm, Effingham 22-24 | Deer Widows Weekend, Tanger Outlet Center, Tuscola 22-24 | You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, Little Theatre, Sullivan 23| Thanksgiving at the Lincoln Farm, Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, Charleston 28-Dec 1 | Moonlight Madness, Tanger Outlet Center, Tuscola

DECEMBER 2013 1-31 | Festival of Lights, Shelbyville Forest Park 1| Coles County Barbershop Chrous Christmas Benefit Concert, First Presbyterian Church, Mattoon, 7 pm 6-7 | Christmastown, Downtown Tuscola 7| Christmas in the Heart of Charleston, Courthouse Square, 5 - 7 pm 7 | Christmas in the Heart of Charleston, Courthouse Square. Hours: 5 to 7 pm Holiday parade, carriage rides, refreshments, window displays and entertainment are planned. (217) 348-0430. 7 | Big Brothers/Big Sisters Auction, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 7| An 1860s Christmas on the Prairie, Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, 217-345-1845, Charleston 14 | Farm Collectables, Advertising & Memorabilia Auction, 650 E County Road 200 N, Arcola 14 | Mid-IL Big Brothers Big Sisters Holiday Auction, Charleston

JAN – FEB 2014 Jan 31-Feb 2 | Central Illinois Jazz Festival, Decatur Conference Center and Hotel, U.S. Highway 36 West. 454-2709 or www.juvaejazz.com

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TIF Area Districts Coles County District

TIF Incremental EAV

Total TIF Extensions

Charleston 1

1.826 million

$167,243

Mattoon 1 (2003)

3.220 millinion

$283,425

Mattoon 2 (2006)

655,200

$58,336

Mattoon 3 (Rt. 45)

627,521

$55,937

Mattoon 4 (Bway East)

368,700

$32,779

20,789

$15,440

Arcola 1

12.3 million

$1,129,401

Arcola 2

6,847

$632

Arcola 3

34,045

$3,143

Arcola 4

1.7 million

$164,249

Arcola 6

1.7 million

$163,723

Tuscola 1

16.67 million

$1,290,035

Tuscola 2

1.122 million

$86,836

Sullivan 1

13.8 million

$1,245,200

Sullivan 2

2.43 million

$219,325

Sullivan 3

59,306

$53,186

236,066

$16,646

Cumberland County Neoga 1 Douglas County

Moultrie

Shelby County Strasburg

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LOCAL PUMPKIN PATCHES scratch breads, cakes, BUXTON GARDEN FARM cookies, pumpkin cinnamon Located 3 miles west of rolls, jams, jellies and more. Sullivan or 3½ miles east of Indian corn, corn stalks and Bethany on Illinois Route straw bales for fall 121. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. decorating are available. Monday through Saturday Now in its 23rd year, owned and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. by Bruce and Mary Beth Roadside market spring, Condill, the patch is open summer and fall with seeds, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven plants, flowers and days a week through Oct. 31. vegetables, along with fresh Call 543-2394 or visit the produce. Corn mazes and Web site at hayrides on weekends. 200 www.the200acres.com for varieties from 80 acres information. pumpkins — some may weigh 150 pounds and colors include Pumpkin Works, Paris, IL all shades of orange, yellow, red, white and blue, with shapes from flat to round and big to small. Also available: squash, gourds, Indian corn, apples, cider, 125 varieties of mums and variety of fall items. Nighttime corn maze offered from 6-11 p.m. all Fridays and GRISSOM LOST CREEK Saturdays during October; ORCHARD $8 adults/$6 children/free for Located 18 miles south of those 5 and under; bring a Charleston on Illinois Route flashlight. 10-acre daytime 130. More than 100 varieties maze open Fri., Sat. and of apples on 70 acres. Open Sun. beginning Sept. 24. Call Monday through Saturday 9 728-7993 or visit the Web a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 site at a.m. to 6 p.m. from July 1 to www.buxtonsgardenfarm.co Jan. 1. Gala, golden delicious, m for information. Jonathan apples, among others. Fuji available later. They also have pumpkins; GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH squash; honey; plums; Located 2 miles south, onevarious types of butters; half mile west of Arthur, off fresh cider; fall decorative the Cadwell Road; 400 items, such as bales of straw; varieties of pumpkins, petting zoo; hiking trails; winter squash and gourds. Among the featured sights to wagon rides on the weekends; and two mazes. see are Noah’s Ark, League Call 923-3736 for of Concurbits Nations, Wall information. O’ Squash, A-Z of Squash, Old MacDonald’s barnyard, South Crib, mazes, one-room MORAN ORCHARD school house, barnyard of Located 10½ miles south of farm animals, you-pick Mattoon on Illinois Route patches, rack wagon rides 121; hours 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and “Exploring the Patch” Monday through Saturday, museum exhibit. Available 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 22 are 5,000 garden varieties of apples in season, chrysanthemums, asters, also jams, butters, cider, flowering kale, other fall honey, sorghum, pumpkins, plants. Bridle Gift Shop has fall decorations. Call 895gift items. 2-Mile Sweet Shop 3408. offers pumpkin ice cream and more. Homestead Bakery has made-from-

OKAW VALLEY ORCHARD From Sullivan go north on Illinois Route 32, 3½ miles, watch for sign, then go left two miles. 15 apple varieties available at different times throughout season, pasteurized apple cider and cider slush, apple butter, applesauce, jellies and jams, caramel apples, fresh apple doughnuts, frozen apple dumplings, fresh fruit pies available. Large playground and picnic area. Applefest on Oct. 8 with music by Battle Creek Band. Jim and Linda Bailey, owners, 728-8269. PUMPKIN WORKS Located on lower Terre Haute Road, 11 miles southeast of Paris. Hours: Monday through Thursday in September: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; in October: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Weekend hours through Oct. 31: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. Free admission. 12 mazes, three unique hay rides, hiking trail, private weiner roast fires, pumpkin sling shot, lots of free activities for young children. Old Farmhouse Shop has unique, one-of-a-kind items. Saturdays and Sundays: horse and buggy rides, and Pete’s Cafe open with grilled porkburgers, hamburgers, hot dogs. Fall strawberries and raspberries; also pumpkins, squash and gourds, you pick or we pick; Indian corn; straw. No pets please. 19th year. Visit www.pumpkinworks.com of check it out on Facebook for information, or call Paul and Sherry Staley at 275-3327. SHADY CREST ORCHARD An Amish-owned orchard one-half mile south of Arthur. New enclosed store building with deli with quality meat and cheese at competitive prices, hand-dipped ice cream cones. Horsedrawn wagon rides on the farm by appointment only. Lots of home-grown

JG-TC - September 2013 15

Submitted Photo Great American Pumpkin Patch, 2012, Arthur

vegetables and squash also are available. Golden and red delicious, Jonathan apples and other varieties available. Also, apple butter, jams and jellies, honey, sorghum, maple syrup, popcorn, cider, gourmet barbecue sauce, hardy mums in bloom, and other fall ornamentals and pumpkins, fruit salsa, plus more new products added continuously. Open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. Take Vine Street south on the county line road to the orchard sign. Call 543-3099 for information.

SUN ELITE PUMPKIN PATCH Call Carol Lawson at Charleston High School Sun Elite Pumpkin Patch Located in the Northwest Business Park, West State Street in Charleston. Open from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday from Oct. 4-31. Items for sale include pumpkins, gourds, mums, hair feathers, snacks and drinks; straw maze; Family Fun Day on Oct. 15, pony rides from noon to 3 p.m., kiddie tractor pull at 1 p.m. for kids less than 100 pounds; all proceeds from patch support Sun Elite Tumbling/Gymnastics/Cheer Booster Club. Buxton’s Farm, 2011

16 JG-TC - September 2013

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Oakland Noodle Co. employee Kim Ethington slides a tray of cut noodles onto a drying cart Tuesday (August 27, 2013) at the business on the square in Oakland. (Photo by Ken Trevarthan/Journal Gazette & Times-Courier).

NOODLE CO. HELPS PUT OAKLAND ON THE MAP By Rob Stroud JG-TC Staff Writer

OAKLAND — The northeastern Coles County community of Oakland is known for its ties to Abraham Lincoln’s legal career and its location near Walnut Point State Park. However, entrepreneur Clarence “Happy” Ethington has noted while traveling that when he tells folks he is from Oakland, they often respond, “Oh, that is where they make noodles.” Those are gratifying words to hear for Ethington, whose family founded, owns and operates the Oakland Noodle Co. Happy Ethington said they produced 95 tons of noodles last year in their facility at 10 W. Main St., on the south side of the town square. He said these noodles are shipped throughout Illinois and to other states in the region by six wholesale distributors, including Rural King.

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He added that the company also directly delivers noodles to approximately 90 stores and restaurants in a 120-mile radius, and sends noodles via UPS. “We have shipped noodles to all 50 states at one point or another,” said his son, Todd Ethington, who heads delivery and production. The beginnings of the Oakland Noodle Co. can be traced back to Happy Ethington working for 25 years at Vanzetti’s Bakery in Decatur. Happy said he got to know the Oakland Bakery at 10 W. Main through his work at Vanzetti’s and decided to purchase this Oakland business in fall 1979. Happy said he ordered 450 pounds of noodles that fall for his customers, but only received a 100-pound shipment that arrived two days before Thanksgiving. The entrepreneur subsequently decided to start making his own noodles in 1980. He closed the bakery and switched to just producing noodles in 1994. After a 1997 fire at the Main Street facility, he rebuilt this space specifically for noodle production. Powdered milk, eggs, salt and baking powder are key ingredients in the noodles, which are sold in 7-ounce and 2pound bags and in bulk boxes. “I wanted something with a little bit of a body to it, so I added baking powder to the recipe and that took care of it,” Happy said. BOB & JEFF OETTING The entrepreneur said these ingrediBob Oetting & Associates ents are blended for 10 minutes in an Insurance & Investment Services electric mixer and then the resulting 905 West Lincoln Ave. Charleston dough is run through an electric roller four Tel: (217) 345-7063 • Fax: (217) 348-5241 times, until it becomes almost paper thin. www.boboettingandassociates.com Happy said the shaping and cutting of E-Mail: roetting@fscadvisor.com Securities offered through FSC Securities Corporation the dough is all done by hand to ensure

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that the noodles have their distinctive homemade texture and taste and are not uniform in appearance. Todd Ethington and his wife, Kim, were hard at work on a recent Tuesday alongside co-workers Melvin and Stephanie Norris as they made batches of noodles and set them on wire carts to dry overnight. Todd Ethington said the busiest time of year for the Noodle Co. is October through December, when their customers start cooking more indoors and prepare for the holidays. He said they typically work seven days a week then. “Come Oct. 1, don’t look for a day off,” Todd Ethington said, noting that he has bagged noodles on many a Thanksgiving Day. Happy said they were glad to increase their workload a few years ago after his wife, Mary, answered the phone and ended up speaking to a Rural King representative about getting the noodles in their stores. He said Rural King now picks up 150 to 200 cases of noodles at a time for delivery to more than 50 stores in Illinois and neighboring states. Father and son also take their noodles on the road each

Leading the Way

JG-TC - September 2013 17

year to the Illinois Products on many occasion to find end up seeing our noodles Contact Stroud at Expo events in March at the where the distributors have there,” Todd said. rstroud@jg-tc.com or 217-238Illinois State Fair and late taken their handiwork. More information is avail6861. summer at the Du Quoin State “We will stop in somewhere, able online at www.oaklandFair. There, they serve sama grocery store, and we will noodle.com. ples of hot chicken and noodles, made with a soup base from Spice of Life of Decatur, to the general public and potential commercial buyers. Happy said those who sample the noodles often remark, “they taste just like grandma’s noodles.” He said this inspired the Noodle Co. to add a “Just Like Grandma’s” logo to its clear bags, which showcase the homemade look of the noodles. The two men said taking part in the Illinois Products Expo has helped the Noodle Co. and its wholesale distributors build their customer base. While traveling, Todd and Kim Ethington have been Country Crossroads (soon to be the Oakland Independent) owner Janice Hunt prepares the latest issue for mailing Wednesday (Aupleasantly surprised gust 28, 2013) at the paper's office on the square in Oakland. (Photo by Ken Trevarthan/Journal Gazette & Times-Courier).

Expires: 8/31/2014

18 JG-TC - September 2013

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A LONG WAY FROM NEOGA

By David A. Watson, Ph.D.

I recently received in the mail a nice surprise when my mother sent an envelope which contained the special feature for the Journal Gazette “Letters Home.” I was further thrilled to see that was written by my childhood friend Scott Swengel, a fine Ornithologist and good friend for these many years. My mother and Scott's mom (Sandy Swengel) suggest I write a letter too. I also had a successful career as scientist (as Chief Scientist with National Space Biomedical Research Institute for NASA and a Professor at Medical Schools), although not related to birds (germs; i.e. Microbiology); Scott and I attended Neoga Schools for grades K-12. Now I find that had a bit of time (more about this a moment). I think agree with Scott our success it had to do with how we were raised. I will elaborate. First let me say this about Scott’s mom; she knows the value a "pull-out" program for Gift and Talent students some 30 years before anyone ever heard of it. I remember fondly reading Chaucer "Canterbury Tales" thanks to Sandy; she opened my eyes to a world of literature; I was truly lucky to have her in my schools. Ironically, when Scott talks about

getting experts to take him and his wife Ann serious for the research whit no academic address. I chose to go the other way, I got a Ph.D., that is went through the training to become a scientist; I don't why Scott didn't do it this way, he's inscrutable but absolute brilliant (Note: Scott has a way of doing calculation in his head, like a savant; I only wish he would write down to explain for benefit of society) We graduated, Scott and I, together the Neoga High School class of 1978 (Scott, John, Wes, Larry, Bob, Tom, Mary, Andrea, Ginger, Betty, all our friends-74 in total in our class). We took many (small) science and math classes together. I know I speak for my classmates; I was truly inspired by my teachers; Ms. Virginia Parrett ( 8th grade Science) and Mr. Howard Louthan (Chemistry), Phil Zimmer (advanced math). I took Biology classes at Lake Land College from Mr. Dennis Gathman (simultaneous with High School classes, also before its time, thanks to Lake Land College). I remember all those teachers names, not because they great instructors (they were!) but they invested their valuable time to encourage me, they convinced me that I really could be a scientist or a doctor. Me-a farm kid

from Neoga I'm not proud of the fact that I was barely in the top quarter of my High School class; hence I don't think anybody would have predicted that I would go on to do what I did. So my friends went on our separate ways and I after High School. I chose a college at a excellent Institution (Millikin University in Decatur., IL). I was determined to be a

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medical doctor, Dr. Bob (Swengel). He was big in my imaginations (indeed, he was big physically and he was big in our community as well) I wanted be a physician (like him), and I want to be President of the School Board-well; I didn't become a doctor, but I did become a Professor (an a research doctor), and President a School Board (like Dr. Bob--and I did at Pearland, Texas but I afraid that another story; alas politics!). All went well until the winter quarter of 1978-79 (sort of "gap-term") when I experience an Internship (really a "shadowing") of Dr. Beck a warm gentle Family Practice physician from Greenup. That winter was so cold and snowy; we visited very sick individuals, patients with pneumonia and cancer, and honestly, (I admit) depressing. I could see that there was very little I could do for folks for any of them. I did discover that I was kind of fond hanging out in the lab, so I went back and changed my major to Biology and decide to focus going to graduate school. I wanted to do scientific research and decide to go someplace that was warm; I finally settled on sunny island (beautiful Galveston) and I chose to study Marine Biology but I studied plankton. So I moved to Houston, with my folks (another story!). I earned a Master's degree in Marine Biology identifying biochemical systematics of phytoplankton. Alas, there were no jobs for Marine Biochemist who studied tiny algae; oh, I had big dreams about we going to extract hydrocarbon fuel from planktonic algae (and indeed, we are, as seen by recent research).

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So I found a position in a research lab at the Houston Veterans Hospital. There I met a brilliant physician and medical scientist, Dr. Daniel Musher. He was interested in the human bacterial pathogen Streptococuccus pneumonia the most important cause microbial causing pneumonia in the elderly and ear infections in small children. Thus the subject very much attracted me! The field of Molecular Biology was up and coming so naturally I was itching to work on it. Dr. Musher invited to attack measurement of human immune system to the covering of the bacterium (the capsule), a problem for many years. Together we solved this conundrum by geneticengineering mutant strains that didn't produce the capsule; this mutant allows us to pull antibodies out of human serum measured, but which would not protect humans from disease (a real problem in the development of vaccine against this germ). Hence, it was now possible to evaluate "pneumovax" for mass vaccination programs. Since then a "4th generation-conugate" vaccine has been developed for children. Thanks to the Bill & Melida Gates Foundation millions of children have been protected in SubSaharan Africa. It very gratifying to know my research helpd accomplish this!! For this Dr. Musher; was award the very prestigious Michael DeBakey Research Award from Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Musher was kind enough to share this honor with me; we were very honored and humbled. Later on, I was lucky enough to secure a research grant from NASA to send these mutants up onboard the Space Shuttle (STS-118 and STS-123) with my partner Dr. David Niesel of University Medical Branch-Galveston where I was (and am) a Professor of Microbiology &Immunology teaching Medical and Graduate Students. I worked on my Ph.D. in joint a program called the Institute for Molecular Biology joint held by University of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine; and Rice University. When completed my degree; I was fortunate to obtain a grant for postdoctoral training from the Dutch government to visiting faculty at Utrecht University for 1 year. So we put belongings in storage, the university

Leading the Way

JG-TC - September 2013 19

found us a house (a charming farm house complete with thatch roof). We enrolled our daughter Emily in grade 2 (in Dutch scheme: amazing how quickly a child of 5 can learn language when it's necessary to play with friends!) When I look back on my career and ask myself what accounts for my successes, it's clear that is it necessary to have teacher take an interest in you; at every step I was fortunate enough to have this. Also, parents and other adults leaders (scout; 4-H) that are willing to trust kids to explore what interests them. I was lucky I had such adults come into my life. Also, as kids you need adults who will role model; demonstrating curiosity; a desire for learning (like my grandfather reading the newspaper with fine-tooth comb; like my uncle, who uneducated, reading a Botany book for information on grafting fruit trees). That is why Sandy Swengel was so important for me; she passed on her love of reading to me, and I never lost it. My parents allowed me and my friend Scott also trusted us to pursue our curiosity; e. g. dig for rocks, hunting for fossils, hunting for arrowheads. One word comes to mind "freedom"-I know it as

important to love of learning for our kids. Note: I promised I would tell why I have time to write this now. A year and half ago I had a stroke (due to unfortunate medication error). Indeed another story you can read it here: http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/bay_area/news/gu est-columnist-what-is-a-stroke/article_bdc8019d8b1a-58a4-9f8a-4410295391fa.html Alas I have retired from my career.

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20 JG-TC - September 2013

Leading the Way

Roger Van Dyke

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Editor's Note: The following was submitted by Roger Van Dyke as a follow up to his letter last year on mentoring.

East Central Illinois Junior (1954) FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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Don Fairfield followed success as a junior golfer, served our country in the Air Force all prior to taking the head golf professional position at Casey Country Club in 1954. Don earned more than $150,000 playing full time on the PGA tour from 1955 to 1964 and served on the PGA Tour policy board. Don won three tour events; the first was the 1956 Pensacola Open where he collected $1,800 for first place. “Guys get that much now just for picking up their shoes,” Fairfield mused about today’s golfers. “Back then, they only paid (prize money) for the first 20 or 25 spots. The last spot paid about $100, but I have a lot of good memories over the years.” The golf memories remain sharp for Faifield, who lives in Indiana Wells, Calif., with his wife, Iris, formerly of Casey. He served over 30 years (19641997) as the head golf professional at Eldorado Country Club before retiring. For many years, Eldorado Country Club was one of the golf courses hosting the Bob Hope Desert Classic. Don is a member of the PGA of America, PGA Tour and PGA Champions Tour.

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It all started 70 years ago, long before Faifield turned pro, when as a fill-in for another golfer who didn’t show up, the kid from Jacksonville played in the Illinois State Journal’s Central Illinois Junior Golf Tournament for the first time. The event is now known as the Bob Drysdale Junior Golf Tournament at Bunn Park Golf Course in Springfield. Of the 59 boys who have won the tournament, Don was one of only three to win the event three consecutive times. Don was instrumental in the early success of the Casey Open golf tournament held annually at the Casey Country Club the last weekend in July. Still today, many players in Central Illinois and Indiana look forward to the annual tournament. Roger VanDyke started the game at age 13 thanks to his good friend Phil Partlow. Both were influenced by their mentor and friend Don Fairfield offering guidance along the way, including introducing them to the same junior tournament in Springfield he played in 10 years earlier. Roger played in other junior golf tournaments throughout central Illinois and Indiana, played on the Casey High School and Eastern Illinois University golf teams. With the continued influence of Don Fairfield, Roger turned professional in 1962 with a career including Flint Golf Club, Flint, Mich., the Landings Club, Savannah, Ga., and Hawk’s Nest Golf Club, Vero Beach, Fla., where he and

Leading the Way

his unofficial caddie. Don is current owner of Palm Springs Putting Greens with son Jeff. Junior golf throughout America is greatly influenced by the many stories of mentors and their influence in young impressionable lives. The dedication of those working with junior golfers is of great value to any community. Don and Roger are happy the community of Casey and Casey Country Club continues to support these ideals.

Roger Van Dyke and Don Fairfield at Sam Snead Clambake Meadowood Country Club, 2000, Fort Pierce, FL.

his wife Linda (formerly of Casey) reside since his retirement in 2007. During his professional career, Roger played several Michigan section PGA tournaments, National Club Professional championships and 8 Buick Open golf tournaments, winning a new Buick for his hole-in-one in 1968. Roger served as president of the Michigan Section PGA, national recipient of the Bill Stausbaugh Award for contributions in employment and club relations and served as a director on the PGA board of directors. Roger is currently a PGA Life Master professional. In 2008, Roger founded the Indian River Golf Foundation, Vero Beach, Fla., with the purpose of bringing new

players to the game, encouraging high levels of player development, honoring the traditions of the game while teaching life skills and good citizenship. As a result, he is recipient of the PGA President’s Plaque Award and Junior Golfer Promoter of the Year award for the South Florida PGA. “I have the unique opportunity to be a positive influence to junior golfers as Don Fairfield was for me when I got started,” Van Dyke said. Don Fairfield and Roger Van Dyke made the best of an opportunity to match up once again at the Sam Snead Clambake (Super Senior PGA champions tour) in 2000 with Don as a participant by invitation and Roger as

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Leading the Way

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Leading the Way

JG-TC - September 2013 23

Manufacturing Works Technology -many factory floors and machines are managed using today’s latest devices including iPads and other mobile devices.

Trend -the shortage of employees to fill positions in manufacturing will rise as baby boomers continue to leave the workplace.

Benefits

Thanks to our Coles County manufacturers, industrial employers, and industrial partners. • ADAMS MEMORIALS

• J.J. COLLINS

• ADVANCED DISPOSAL SERVICES

• JUSTRITE MANUFACTURING

• AGRACEL, INC

• LAKE LAND CENTER FOR BUSINESS

-most manufacturing positions provide competitive benefits raising the overall compensation package beyond $77,060.*

• A.J. WALKER CONSTRUCTION • AKRA BUILDERS

• LANMAN OIL COMPANY

Openings

• ALTON TRUCKING

• LESTER BUILDING SYSTEMS

-opportunities are abundant as employers report openings at all skill levels are going unfilled due to critical shortages of qualified workers.

• AMEREN ILLINOIS

• LORENZ SUPPLY

AND INDUSTRY

• AMERICAN SELECT TUBING

• MACHINERY MANAGEMENT SERVICE

College

• ANAMET ELECTRICAL

• MARS PET CARE US

-manufacturers lead other industries in paying their employees to complete Associate and Bachelor degrees.

• ANDERSON ELECTRIC

• MATTOON AREA FAMILY YMCA

• ARENDS BROTHERS

• MATTOON PRECISION

• BIRKEY’S

• MC READY MIX

• CCAR INDUSTRIES

• MID-ILLINOIS CONCRETE

• CLARKSON GRAIN

• MORTON BUILDINGS

• COCA COLA

• MT MACHINING

• COLES-MOULTRIE ELECTRIC COOP

• NE-CO ASPHALT

• COMMERCIAL ELECTRIC

• OX PAPERBOARD

• COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION

• PINNACLE FOODS

• CONTRACTORS CONCRETE

• PRECISION PAPER

• COUNTY MATERIALS

• QUALITY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

• CROP MAX

• R.R. DONNELLEY

• CURRY CONSTRUCTION, INC.

• RED ROCK TILE

• EIU BUSINESS SOLUTIONS CENTER

• REX DON

• ELECTRIC LABORATORIES & SALES

• RONCHETTI DISTRIBUTING

• FARM PRIDE

• RURAL KING SUPPLY

• FRED BIGGS ELECTIC SUPPLY

• S & K / AIR POWER

• FURRY AND SONS

• SAFETY STORAGE

• GENERAL ELECTRIC

• SCHILLING BROTHERS

• HD SUPPLY

• SCHOLES TRUCKING

• HELENA

• SPENCE MONUMENT COMPANY

• HOME CONSTRUCTION

• SPRINGFIELD ELECTRIC

• HOWELL ASPHALT & PAVING

• SOUTH CENTRAL FS

• HUTCHINSON MAYRATH

• STURDI BUILT

• INDUSTRIAL SERVICES OF ILLINOIS

• UNITED GRAPHICS

• INSULATED PANEL SYSTEMS

• UPS

• INTERSTATE COMMODITIES

• VESUVIUS USA

• ITW HI-CONE

• WAVE GRAPHICS

$77,060 -average U.S. manufacturing worker’s earnings in 2011.*

78% -of manufacturing workers receive retirement contributions from employers.

90% -of manufacturing workers have medical benefits. * Bureau of Economic Analysis (2011)

SKILLED WORKERS NEEDED! A 2011 SKILLS GAP REPORT FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MANUFACTURERS SHOWS...

67% 56%

REPORTED A MODERATE TO SEVERE SHORTAGE OF AVAILABLE, QUALIFIED WORKERS ANTICIPATE THE SHORTAGE TO GROW WORSE IN THE NEXT THREE TO FIVE YEARS

Manufacturers hire individuals with high school diplomas, one-year certificates, two-year degrees, four-year degrees, and advanced degrees. Those individuals end up making 25% more money than their peers do in other jobs. Lake Land College is partnering with area manufacturers to provide customized workforce training. These partnerships allow national companies such as General Electric and North American Lighting, Inc. to expand their facilities and positively influence the local economy. “We look forward to working with Coles Together and area businesses to identify solutions to their workforce training needs. Lake Land College can be a key partner in local expansion efforts,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said. “We are ready to develop customized, flexible course work that provides relevant, outcomes-based training programs for current or future employees.”

• WILLAREDT STORAGE

COLES TOGETHER Contact: Angela Griffin 400 Airport Road Mattoon, IL 61938 • 217-258-5627 • angela@colestogether.com