Focus: Progress and Transportation
February • March 2012
HC’s
Public Transportation System Turns 10 Plus...
Life Without Oil Preventing Employee Theft The Town at the Bottom of Geist Lake
Hamilton County Express driver Troy White
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Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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February/March
’11/’12
Features
12 14 17 20
Hamilton County Express
Entrepreneur
10 Ethics 22 Bookmark
US 31 shifts into second gear
23 Dining Out 24 Management 26 The Pitch-In
2011 Year in Review
28 Chamber Pages
ProfileMoon Talk Design
35 Business Resource Directory
Cover photo by Mark Lee, Great Exposures
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
34 Hamilton County History
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www.hamiltoncountybusiness.com Published six times per year by the Hamilton County Media Group PO Box 502, Noblesville, IN 46061 • 317-774-7747
Editor/Publisher Mike Corbett ~ mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com Creative Director Melanie Malone ~ melzee@indy.rr.com Correspondents Robert Annis ~ noeraser@yahoo.com Deb Buehler ~ deb@thesweetestwords.com Jeff Curts ~ jcurts@att.net Rosalyn Demaree ~ ros_demaree@hotmail.com Shari Held ~ sharih@comcast.net Chris Owens ~ zetus77@gmail.com Contributors Emmett Dulaney DBA ~ eadulaney@anderson.edu Chris Gilmer ~ cgilmer@oedadvisors.com David Heighway ~ heighwayd@earthlink.net Andrew Thompson ~ andrew@businesslawindiana.com Dr. Charles Waldo ~ cnwaldo@comcast.net William J. Wilhelm PhD ~ wwilhelm@indstate.edu
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Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Letter from the Editor/February/March 2012 Our notion of Transportation is changing. I remember attending a public meeting in Noblesville just a few years ago to get an update on transportation plans and the only thing anyone talked about was roads. Of course, we are a suburban county and roads remain our major transportation concern. But we’re talking about many other transportation alternatives in Hamilton County and throughout Central Indiana these days and that’s a good thing.
Mike Corbett Editor and Publisher
Trains, trails, buses, bikes, even golf carts. They all have their place and I’m glad we’re having the public discussion about how to diversify our options. Smart businesses and investors diversify their offerings and holdings in an effort to protect themselves against wide swings in any one sector. Yet, when it comes to transportation, we are dangerously dependent on oil to move ourselves and our goods from place to place. If the price of gasoline isn’t getting your attention, there are plenty of experts who are warning us that we’d better start innovating. Last year the Carmel Chamber invited one of those experts to speak at a luncheon. Steve Hallett is a Purdue professor who wrote a book called Life Without Oil-Why We Must Shift to a New Energy Future. I was fascinated by his presentation and had to read the book. I offer a review in this edition. The book is a call to action that we really shouldn’t ignore. And, while the politicians and public transportation activists lead the discussion over future public transit, we offer a profile this month on Hamilton County’s unique public bus service. Hamilton County Express is ten years old this year and it has grown more than tenfold in that time in terms of rides provided. It’s not a traditional system; there are no bus stops in Hamilton County. But it has fulfilled its mission to its operating non-profit agency and provided the county with a low-cost public alternative. No matter how the alternatives develop, roads will continue to be a major factor in our transportation future. Recognizing that, we also offer an update in this edition on the most high-profile road project ever in Hamilton County, the US31 upgrade. Our latest initiative here at The Hamilton Media Group is the Hamilton County Home Show. Check out the call for exhibitors on page 16 and come join us in May either as an exhibitor or as an attendee. If there’s one thing we have an abundance of here in Hamilton County, its homes. We’re looking forward to a great show and we’d love to have you join us.
Editor and Publisher
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
The studio Dreamworks SKG was founded by 3 Hollywood bigwigs. Who put the G in SKG? What Indianapolis area gourmet steakhouse's name means "ground fire" in Portugese? Think you know the answers? Look them up and get a head start. These are actual questions from Promising Futures’ third annual
Trivia Night Thursday, February 16, Registration 6:00 - Trivia 6:30-9:30 Noblesville Moose Lodge Corner of 10th Street and Field Drive Teams of four compete for prizes and bragging rights. Enter individually, as a team or anything in between Entry fee: $25/person Food and drink available
To register, sponsor or just get info call 773-6342 or email mwhelchel@promisingfutures.org A fundraiser for
formerly Hamilton Centers Youth Service Bureau
Sponsored by:
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Entrepreneur Who’s Finding the Critical Risks in your Business Plan?
Emmett Dulaney
Maybe you need another opinion In a social setting, there is one form of introduction that annoys me far more than any other. It is not uncommon when a large group of people come together for each person to be asked to say their name, occupation, and one more thing about them. Sometimes that “one more thing” is the name of a pet, your hometown, first car, or almost anything. Every now and then, though, that “one more thing” is “something you haven’t told anyone else.” That’s when my temper flares. Is it really fathomable that I am walking around holding in a dark secret just waiting for that question to be asked in front of a group of strangers? The truth of the
...my proposal is simply that it should not be written by the entrepreneur. matter is that when this inane exercise comes up, I’ll toss out something safe that a fair number of people already know: I lived at Yellowstone for a summer; I once bumped into Rod Stewart and Alana Hamilton, etc. The answer is harmless and prudent, allowing the audience to feel like they’ve learned something new about me without me really telling them much at all. Equally frivolous, in my opinion, is the Critical Risks section of a business plan. This is where the entrepreneur/author is supposed to reveal all the possibilities where the venture could fail. Ninety-nine percent of the plan is spent telling how great the opportunity is and why this is an endeavor worth an investor pursuing, then the other one percent is supposed
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to list contingencies that make the reader stop to think twice about it.
Playing it Safe
What makes the section so inconsequential is that authors usually take the same approach as I take with the social introduction detail. Instead of risking that what they write may be misinterpreted or taken out of context (costing them the investor), they put down items that are both cautious and safe: “we might grow too fast”; “we might not be able to keep up with demand”; “we might buy so much raw material that our supplier becomes dependent on us” and other statements that should make coffee spew from both the mouth and nose of the reader. So I pose three rhetorical questions: In the absence of genuine honesty, isn’t the meaning of the section empty? Wouldn’t the entrepreneur add enough sugar coating for anything that appears here elsewhere in the plan? Is there really a need for this section? I believe that the last question is the most important of the lot. My answer, contrary to what I’ve said thus far, is that the section does fulfill a purpose and there is indeed a need for it. The difference between the standard way of doing it and my proposal, however, is simply that it should not be written by the entrepreneur. To make the section meaningful, a third party should add this section after carefully reviewing the plan and authenticating or disagreeing with its contents.
An Analogy
In the IT world, a lot of training material is created on how to pass certification exams. Becoming certified in niche security or networking topics can make a considerable difference in the billable rate
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
for consultants and advisors. The authors can say that 100% of what you need to know to ace the exam is within the covers of the book, but such pronouncements are worthless since you wouldn’t expect them to say anything different. To counter that, publishers send such books to third party reviewers authorized by Microsoft, Cisco, or other vendors to review the contents and make the declaration. Since a so-called “neutral third-party” is offering the proclamation on the material, such a statement carries much more weight in the marketplace. For another analogy, wouldn’t you feel better having a neutral third-party – or a specialist - look at your x-rays before a doctor began a major operation on you? It may be challenging to find a respected industry representative to pass judgment on the business plan, but it is well worth the effort. Having a critical risk section written by that respected third party can make all the difference between having a plan an investor feels good about and one that causes them to question its contents. It can increase the odds of successfully finding funding and reducing the need for more introductions.
The Kauffman Foundation has created a series of short (about three minutes each) videos on entrepreneurship utilizing a sketchbook format. There are three posted now at http://www.kauffman. org/about-the-foundation/kauffmansketchbook.aspx and they offer an entertaining way of looking at innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Emmett Dulaney teaches entrepreneurship and business at Anderson University.
Entrepreneur Andrew Thompson
Raising Capital to Grow Your Business Early Stage Financing Options It’s interesting to see what motivates business owners to seek legal assistance for the first time. Often, it’s due to unexpected litigation. If not, it’s likely that most small business owners will seek out legal counsel as they strive to increase their financing options. For many start ups, particularly information technology and health care related companies, there is hope that an equity investment will come from an independent third party, even before a track record of revenue growth and profitability is established. Realistically, businesses at this stage often have a better chance of obtaining a rare equity investment than qualifying for a line of credit or other debt financing. Businesses typically start with an investment from: • The owner’s personal resources, like home equity, a 401(k), or other assets • Investment from a silent partner who is persuaded to make an investment from a few thousand to perhaps $100,000 to help get the business off the ground • “Bootstrapping” the business with a few personal dollars here and there, then earning its way forward by producing increasing amounts of revenue over time. It isn’t long, however, before the appetite for growth exceeds the amount of working capital on hand. As the principals go out and learn that their businesses’ history is too short, their asset base too small, and their profitability too much in doubt for traditional financing, they seek out alternative sources of financing, and try to
structure their business to present itself as more creditworthy. At this point, a conversation with an attorney can become very interesting. The Buy-Sell Agreement recommended by the bank needs to be drafted. You may need an operating agreement, reliable protection for your intellectual property, other boundaries for “hard assets” that may be used for collateral in a financing arrangement. Many other tools might be considered as well. Sometimes, another advisor, perhaps a tax accountant, auditor, business valuation expert, etc., might be able to provide more immediate and relevant information, but you will soon need an attorney to provide the appropriate documentation. But the questions my clients ask typically aren’t about the documents themselves, they are usually questions about where to go and what kinds of financing they should seek. Here are several debt financing options for the early growth stages of business. Traditional, Unsecured Lines of Credit: obtaining a traditional line of credit is highly dependent on past credit, cash flow and bank relationships. It’s often difficult to obtain until other sources have been used successfully. Factoring: most short term assets, receivables, inventory, etc., as well as month over month cash flows, can be factored (sold to a third party at a discount) to obtain short term financing. The cost of factoring can be very expensive compared with traditional
financing, but for many newer businesses, it’s the most efficient way to get to the capital resources needed to grow your business. SBA Lending: loan guaranties are available with appropriate loan covenants and through approved lenders from the US Small Business Administration. Qualifying is marginally easier than it is for traditional financing, but it’s by no means automatic. Micro-enterprise Loan Programs: Here in Hamilton County, thanks to the joint efforts of the Entrepreneurial Advancement Center (“EAC”), and the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the USDA has provided grant support for loans to new businesses in defined rural areas, by making application though the SELF (Small Enterprise Loan Fund) program administered by the EAC. There are many different ways a business can obtain funding to meet its needs. From friends and family options, and independent, private means, to various forms of government backing for lending projects. Considering what’s “best” for your business is an important first step, but you are likely to have to go beyond what’s best to consider what’s actually possible. Early on, if your business is to survive, you have to do what it takes to make it work. The good news is you are surrounded, in this community, by ample resources and professionals, ready to help you and your business take the next step on the road to success. Call on those resources sooner rather than later and give yourself the best chance to succeed. Andrew J. Thompson is a sole practitioner at the Thompson Law Office, LLC in Carmel. Reach him at andrew@businesslawindiana.com
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Ethics Bill Wilhelm
Employee Theft-Larceny From Within Businesses lose billions each year to their own employees How is it that people in societies worldwide - societies that universally believe stealing is unethical – can still rack up an estimated $100 billion of employee theft each year? Employee theft constitutes stealing from one’s employer, not fellow employees, which constitutes “professional thievery.” Is there some quirk in our thinking process that allows us to justify pilfering property from an employer that we would not otherwise do with a colleague, neighbor, friend or family member? Just how pervasive and damaging is employee theft? According to the preliminary findings in the National Retail Security Survey for 2010, the majority of retail shrinkage was due to employee theft, at $16.2 billion, accounting for 43.7% of total
thus reinforcing the social proof heuristic discussed in my Dec/Jan column in the Hamilton County Business Magazine.
The Fraud Triangle
Employee theft occurs as a result of an interaction of three factors in the workplace, commonly referred to as the fraud triangle. The three factors are pressure, opportunity and rationalization. Perceived pressure is the motivation that causes an employee to steal. It usually involves some pressing financial need in the employee’s personal life such as mounting bills, expensive tastes, addictive behaviors or simply greed. Opportunity is the ability to commit theft and is actually the one factor that businesses have the most control over. Additionally,
...businesses that take preventative steps outlined here can reduce employee theft... losses. While researchers over the last 25 years have reported percentages of employee involvement in theft anywhere from 9% to as high as 75%, it is obvious that a significant portion of the workforce steals from employers. The incidence of employee theft is not limited to just the retail sector, however. It occurs throughout the business world. Several researchers of employee theft report that it appears that many employee work groups have informal norms tolerating theft of company property, and there is evidence that many employees believe that petty theft is not theft at all; that it is socially acceptable within the work groups. Some employee work groups actually condone it,
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employees must believe that the opportunity is not detectable in order for them to commit the act. Weak internal controls and poor oversight by management contribute to a perception of undetectable opportunity by an employee thinking about stealing. Most humans do not want to think of themselves as being thieves or fraudsters. Rationalization is the thought process that allows would-be employee thieves to condone their fraudulent actions as being necessary because of financial or family need; as being temporary as if they were just “borrowing;” or as being justified remuneration because of job dissatisfaction due to their pay, poor work environment, or treatment by managers. Additionally, some
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
employees with sociopathic tendencies may just not care about the consequences of their actions on others or accepted norms of decency, honesty and trust. In a comprehensive study of employee theft that was undertaken in the mid-1980s, Baumer and Rosenbaum (1984) identified five critical influences that contribute to the prevalence of employee theft: 1. Personal characteristics: Employee theft was significantly higher among employees who were young, male, Caucasian, never married, living in higher-income households but contributing less than 20% of the total income, and concerned about their financial, educational, or career situation. 2. Occupational characteristics: Employee theft was significantly higher among employees with lower paying jobs, lower status jobs, jobs providing easiest access to merchandise and money (e.g., sales clerks, cashiers, and managers), and jobs that involved more numerous and frequent social interactions with co-employees. 3. Job satisfaction: Employee theft was significantly higher among employees who were dissatisfied with their immediate supervisors, with the organization for which they worked, with opportunities for promotion, and with the day-today workload. 4. Deterrent effects: Employee theft was significantly higher among employees who believed they would not get caught, assumed their employers were unaware
of employee theft, concluded that employees were infrequently checked for violations of company policies, and thought that no one would care if certain things were stolen and that management and co-workers would not react to theft as a serious problem. 5. Organizational controls: Theft rates were higher in organizations that did not actively promote anti-theft policies and that conducted less careful and less extensive pre-employment screening. Several research studies since then have found that theft was greater (a) among employees with lower moral development than among those with higher moral development, (b) within an organization that had no ethics program as opposed to one that did, and (c) when the company lacked the controls to prevent it from being victimized.
Prevention Strategies
These finding suggest that employers should protect themselves by maintaining
proactive measures to reduce employee theft. First, screen out potential employee thieves by checking references, conducting background investigations, and using integrity tests. Second, create an organizational culture of character by establishing a code of conduct and training employees about its importance and enforced adherence, by establishing and demonstrating personal integrity from the top, and by demanding and showing respect for all employees at all times. Third, remove temptations to steal by employing accounting controls, using appropriate security devices, and consistently auditing operations and procedures. Fourth, punish theft and reward honesty by disciplining or dismissing and prosecuting employees who steal and sharing the rewards of honest work with those that don’t. Several conclusions can be drawn from the years of research that has been conducted about employee theft. While estimates vary, employee theft results in hundreds of billions of lost dollars worldwide every year. Employee theft is a major ethical problem that touches virtually every business sector.
There is support for the belief that as many as one third to one half of all employees steals from their employers at least once and the magnitude of the thievery varies widely. There is clear evidence that businesses that take preventative steps outlined above that can reduce employee theft appreciably. Using company developed or commercially available integrity tests in pre-employment screening can reduce employee theft and other counter-productive behavior. Management’s fairness and respect towards employees appear to deter employee theft, as do specifically articulated codes of ethical conduct and reinforced group norms of honesty and integrity. Experts seem to agree that while employee theft is a major problem caused by motive, opportunity and rationalization, it can be significantly reduced by employing effective controls and available deterrents Dr. William J. Wilhelm teaches business ethics and social responsibility management courses at the Scott College of Business at Indiana State University, Reach him at wwilhelm@indstate.edu.
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Focus: Transportation
Hamilton County
Express A Unique Approach to Public Transportation
By Shari Held ~ Photos by Mark Lee
W
hile the debate continues over a regional public transportation system for Central Indiana, the Hamilton County Express quietly keeps rolling on, providing a quality experience for Hamilton County residents. It began back in 2002 as a public transit service for Noblesville residents. “It was so successful, they decided to expand it to all Hamilton County residents,” says Connie Sanders, president and CEO of Noblesville-based Janus Developmental Services, which operates the bus service for the county. That was in 2007.
Hamilton County Express is an unusual model in several ways. For one thing, it’s operated by a non-profit organization whose main focus is assisting people with disabilities. Although the service is utilized by that segment of the population, it is, and always has been, a public transportation system. It’s used by seniors, students, moms and workers. In fact, Sanders says 41% of all riders use it to go to-and-from work. “We estimate, based on that number, that we help to generate over $26 million in tax revenue,” she says.
Creating a unique riding experience
Jerry Leonard helps Ann Bill board
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Bill Mason boards
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
Another unusual aspect of Hamilton County Express is that it has no routine routes. This on-demand, point-to-point service accommodates riders’ schedules. With a 24 hour notice, it picks them up at their home and takes them to their destination within Hamilton County or to 5 IndyGo
connections in Marion County. It operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. The fare is reasonable—$4 one-way ($2 for students)—and regular riders can purchase a month’s worth of unlimited rides for $50 ($40 for students). Cheryl Hobson, who works in the Recorder’s Office at the Hamilton County Courthouse, has been a regular customer for nearly 10 years. When she first started riding the bus, she didn’t have a car, and
Ridership has increased tenfold in ten years… she used the bus for all her transportation needs. She’s had a car for the last seven years, but she still rides the bus to-andfrom work during the workweek, citing the high cost of gasoline, lack of downtown parking and environmental concerns. “It’s such a wonderful service,” Hobson says. “They pick me up at my front door and take me right to the door of the courthouse. The management team works with you if you have a concern or something special you need done. The best thing is, it’s
Workers at Janus Developmental Services use Hamilton County Express to get to and from work
tracking system, a high-tech computerized system for scheduling and tracking buses. Sanders, who has 22 years of non-profit leadership experience, jokes that when she arrived in 2007 they were still using a clipboard and pencil! With Breadcrumbs, they can click on a bus and tell where it’s been, how fast it’s going, how long it waited for the passenger to board the bus and other information. They also put cameras on the buses. “We’ve gone from what I call horse and buggy days to the space age,” Sanders says.
Nancy Catton uses the wheelchair lift
only $50 a month. That’s such a bargain.” Sanders considers the fact that Hamilton County Express goes above and beyond to provide excellent customer service its biggest success, and notes that they really get to know their customers.
Going high-tech and growing by leaps and bounds
“Elaine used to tell me all she wanted to do was emulate Johnson County. Now Johnson County and other counties are following us.” The Breadcrumbs system was purchased with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act dollars or stimulus dollars. Sanders and others worked ‘round the clock for four days to meet the tight deadline and qualify. Their work was rewarded, and Hamilton County Express received $322,000 for capital purchases.
Hamilton County Express has gone through a lot of changes in its short lifespan. Initially the program began with three buses; now there are 18. “That’s not even enough,” Sanders says. “We continue to have what’s called a ‘denial list’ where an individual calls for a ride and we simply can’t accommodate their request.” According to Transportation Manager Elaine McGuire, at the end of the 2002, the first year the service was offered, Hamilton County Express provided 4,170 rides. In the last fiscal year (2010-2011), it provided 45,329 rides and logged 464,422 miles. “We are pretty proud of our system,” she says. “It works!” One thing that didn’t work: a fixed route Hamilton County Express piloted about six years ago. “It wasn’t at all successful,” Sanders says. “Individuals want you to come to their homes. They’re not willing to stand at a bus stop.” In 2008, the service implemented the Breadcrumbs fleet management and GPS
Lisa Butler checks Janus’ Breadcrumbs tracking system, which uses satellite technology to track bus locations and progress
In July 2010 the County Commissioners and County Council granted Hamilton County Express permission to expand into Marion County, connecting with five IndyGo bus routes along 86th Street.
Sanders calls the half-mile foray south a “huge leap.” “We’ve had enormous demand for that service every day since we launched it,” she says.
Figuring out financing
Despite the demand for the service and the value-added it provides the county, its future is on the line every single year. While funds are generated from bus fares and advertising revenue—a recent initiative—government funds are needed to subsidize the balance. Hamilton County Express receives funding at the local, state and federal level at approximately 40%, 10% and 50% respectively. Some years it has been a close call. Meredith L. Carter, Ed.D, who has served on the County Council for 29 years, has long been a proponent of Hamilton County Express, saying it’s one of the things that sets Hamilton County apart from surrounding counties as far as quality of life and quality of services are concerned. “If we didn’t have it, people would be disappointed,” he says. He notes that allocating funds is a difficult process since some valuable programs such as Hamilton County Express are not legislatively defined as a core mission. “All the counties are struggling with tight budgets now, and non-profits are an easy hit for some council members,” he adds. It costs about $40,000 per year to put a bus on the road, and last year Janus had to park one bus, despite the fact there’s enough demand to keep 25 buses busy. A budget increase of approximately 17% is on Sander’s wish list even though Hamilton County Express hasn’t received an increase in recent years. Sanders says Janus recognizes that times are tough and is grateful for the county’s support. “I think they support us at the highest level they can,” she says. “I expect we’ll have another tough year, but hopefully starting in 2013 we’ll start to see the light at the end of the tunnel.” v
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Focus: Transportation/Progress
US
Upgrade: Steady Progress with a Few Headaches
By Jeff Curts
T
he $600 million Major Moves project designed to turn US 31 through Hamilton County into an interstate-quality, limited access highway, continues to make gradual progress as 2012 unfolds. “The overall pace of construction has been good”, says Harry Maginity, Communications Coordinator for the Indiana Department of Transportation. “It’s an ongoing, multi-faceted process, but things are moving along well.”
The upgrade is intended to reduce congestion, improve safety and move traffic faster through our portion of a US highway that stretches from Michigan to Alabama. When completed in 2017, the improvements are expected to cut a half hour off travel time between Indianapolis and South Bend. Locally, the project will upgrade US 31 from I-465 to SR 38. Once complete, there will be new interchanges from 96th St. at the Marion-Hamilton county line to 216th St.
Rendering of future US 31 interchanges at 146th St. and 151st St.
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
in Westfield. Upgrading the 13 miles of highway to federal interstate standards will be, in terms of dollars, the largest and most aggressive road project ever in Hamilton County. The latest milestone was reached in December when construction crews finished work that reopened all lanes at SR 38. Midway through a two-year phase that will make that area a limited-access interchange, plans call for US 31 to pass over SR 38, with the
two roadways connected via ramps. The northbound bridge was built last year; the southbound bridge is slated for construction this year. While most agree that the upgrades are needed, more than a handful of businesses appear to be impacted.
regarding its affect on us. I assume we will be impacted, but its status quo here until we’re notified.” Bob Taylor, General Manager and partner at Charleston’s Restaurant, located at 14636 U.S. 31 in Carmel, reserved comment but added “we’re going to need some luck” when asked about his business’s prospects. The restaurant
the formation of a Community Action Committee that has met on a regular basis. In addition to holding public meetings and issuing e-newsletters, the project team has met with more than 220 business owners, neighborhood associations, and property owners. Packets have been mailed to all businesses that may be affected by the construction. The project team has been in regular
This project has been discussed for 10 years, but as a businessman, I have no idea regarding its affect on us… -Jim Godby, Godby Home Furnishings Jim Godby, owner of Godby Home Furnishings in Westfield, understands the reality of the project, but wishes the communication process would have been better. “We haven’t heard a thing from the state,” lamented Godby. “This project has been discussed for 10 years, but as a businessman, I have no idea
appears to be in the crosshairs of scheduled road improvements. Maginity points out that the state contracted with Indianapolis-based public relations firm Borshoff to communicate with various stakeholders, including businesses, through
contact with Barbara Schick, General Manager of Clay Terrace, as work has continued on the 146th St. bridge. Several other businesses may need to make contingency plans as construction intensifies over the coming months. “In Hamilton
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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The northbound bridge at SR38 is complete
SR38 bridge under construction
County, the construction is more difficult because of the road capacity and because we’re rebuilding existing roads. We’re building as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible with as minimal disruption,” explained Maginity. “There are bound to be some inconveniences, and while it’s true that some businesses may feel the effects from both a bottom line and decrease in foot traffic, there are guidelines INDOT has put in place to…compensate businesses and homeowners under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970.”
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Here’s what motorists can expect once the weather warms up in the spring: Work continues on the S.R. 38 interchange north of Westfield. U.S. 31 will again be restricted to one lane in each direction as the southbound lanes, ramps and bridges are completed. Keystone Parkway will be closed where it meets U.S. 31 for 90 days southbound and 80 days northbound to shift traffic and rebuild the interchange. As part of this contract, new
February 2012/Hamilton Business Magazine June • July• March 2011/Hamilton CountyCounty Business Magazine
ramps will also be built connecting U.S. 31 with 146th Street. The Range Line Road intersection will be replaced with a bridge that carries U.S. 31 over local traffic. For further information, visit http://us31hamiltoncounty. in.gov/128.html The next construction contract, scheduled for bid in summer of 2012, will reconfigure U.S. 31 access at 151st Street, Union Street and Greyhound Pass. v
Focus: Progress
2011in Review By Robert Annis
A
lthough Hamilton County has not escaped unscathed from the current recession, its cities and towns seemingly have weathered it better than most of its municipal peers. While good economic news was often hard to find in 2011, several fiscally ambitious projects appeared last year.
Westfield Spokeswoman Carrie Cason said some playing fields will be open this year and reach full capacity by 2013. The Indiana Soccer Association will likely bring events featuring their 80,000 members to Grand Park, and will manage and operate all nonbaseball sports at the facility.
Westfield breaks ground on Grand Park
Although the first game has yet to be played, the development has already attracted some investment. Mainstreet Property Group LLC will begin construction of a $13.3 million, 65,000 square-foot senior health care center near Grand Park. The facility will employ 150 people when it opens in 2012.
Observers could be excused for thinking Westfield might balk at moving forward with its $45-million youth sports complex in the current economy. But state and local officials broke ground in November, and interesting developments have followed.
Grand Park ribbon cutting, Westfield
The 350-acre development on 191st Street one-half mile west of U.S. 31 will feature 26 baseball and softball diamonds and 32 football, soccer and field hockey fields when construction is completed next year. Officials believe the project will spur development of the surrounding 1,400 acres of farm fields and have an estimated economic impact of more than $18 million.
Cason didn’t say when officials expect ]the surrounding area to achieve build ]out, only that the speed of development should increase as the park begins to take shape. The size of the investment has some residents worried. A potential hiccup occurred days after the groundbreaking, when Ripken Baseball – a sort of high-end Babe Ruth league fronted by Hall-of-Famer Cal Ripken, Jr. -- disclosed they were considering expanding to Indianapolis and seeking partners to build an envisioned $20 million, 60-acre facility. Both Ripken Baseball and Westfield officials downplayed any rivalry between the two projects, but it remains to be seen if there will be any conflict. “Their facility would just be baseball, and we see it more as a complement to what will be offered at Grand Park,” Cason said. “It could actually become a true asset for us, helping us turn the entire area into a sports destination.”
Governor Mitch Daniels at Grand Park ribbon cutting
Brainard’s grand vision sees light in Carmel
Since his first election in 1996, Carmel Mayor James Brainard has promised a grand downtown for his constituents. In 2006, ground was broken and in 2011, he finally delivered as the $400 million Carmel City Center was officially unveiled.
Carmel City Center
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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The product of a public-private partnership with Pedcor, Carmel City Center is “different from your traditional office setting,” said Marketing Director Michelle Krcmery. “It’s a live, work, play environment that businesses want to offer their employees. They have direct access to the Monon (Greenway), lots of entertainment and dining options nearby … It’s a place people want to work.” Krcmery said the office section of City Center is fully booked with the addition of law firm Drewry Simmons Vornehm and Software Engineering Professionals and their combined 114 employees, while the retail space is more than 60 percent full. It’s not believed any of the businesses received any major economic concessions from Carmel to move into the facility. Nearby apartments, opened in 2010, are more than 85 percent occupied. But, despite Brainard’s best efforts, controversy remained around the project’s centerpiece, the $175-million Center for the Performing Arts. Former CEO Steven Libman asked for double the expected subsidy from the city -- $4 million – before resigning in disgrace after he was allegedly bankrolling an affair with a subordinate with taxpayer dollars. New CEO Frank Basile has been promising to release an internal audit of the Performing Arts Center since September, but as of mid-January, hadn’t complied.
In the budding months of 2011, the Noblesville City Council moved forward with a plan to start a loan guarantee program that would aid small business owners’ attempts to secure financing. Say a business owner needed $100,000 to get a project off the ground, but qualified only for $85,000 from a bank. The city could guarantee payment of the remaining amount , assuming he or she is accepted into the program, goes through business counseling and pays a $200 fee. For every $25,000 the city guarantees, the business must add at least one job. The guarantee can’t exceed 20 percent of the total loan amount, and the business owner must have at least 5 percent cash equity invested in the business. “The bank is still taking about 80 percent of the risk,” city attorney Mike Howard said at the time. “It’s not like anyone walking off the street will be eligible.” City Spokeswoman Cara Culp said no businesses have applied for the program yet, but anticipated the floodgates could open in 2012. “Six different Indiana communities who already have existing programs and they all cautioned that getting the first application off the ground is difficult but that after that, applications will start coming in due to good press and word of mouth,” Culp said. “Economic Development will be reaching out to loan officers and underwriters in Noblesville in addition to following up and talking again with Noblesville bank branch managers as a way to spread awareness about the program.”
Industrial Dielectrics, Noblesville
company promised to spend $4.2 million to build a new headquarters and add 33 jobs. RMI, formerly Rochester Medical Implants, moved its 28 employees into a new facility on the Corporate Campus, while SMC Corporation received more than $5.5 million of personal property tax abatements that will help bring in 28 new jobs with an average wage of $48,256. Last summer, Noblesville offered $6.7 million in tax incentives to nuclear medicine company Positron, who announced plans to build a $55 million facility on the Corporate Campus. The plant would bring 80 to 85 jobs with average annual salaries exceeding $80,000. But in November, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed fraud charges against the company’s CEO, Patrick Rooney, alleging he illegally funneled $3.6 million from a management company into Positron, without properly notifying investors of his relationship with the latter company. The view from Division St. in Noblesville has changed as Firestone demolished its blocklong building over the past six months. Firestone closed the facility in June, 2009 after
Noblesville used other incentives to encourage several local businesses to expand and entice another company into relocating to the city, but at least one deal is likely to fall through. Center for the Performing Arts, Carmel
Noblesville Opens for Business
Offering several major businesses incentives to expand and a new small-business loan program in place, Noblesville made an aggressive play to attract investment last year.
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Industrial Dielectrics – which has two other locations in the U.S., as well as factories in the United Kingdom, China, Mexico and several other countries -- had considered moving its world headquarters to another location until it was granted a pair of tax abatements worth about $600,000 to expand its South Seventh Street location. The
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
Firestone last year
The same block today
73 years in operation. It was once Hamilton County’s major manufacturer, employing nearly 2000 in the 1960’s.
Fishers Goes to the Doctor
Ribbon cutting at IU Health Saxony, Fishers
the coming years; the building’s footprint allows for the addition of more than 300 beds. Dr. Philip Dulberger, CEO and chief medical officer at IU Health Saxony Hospital, said there’s no timetable on future expansion.
In October, workers began construction of a 110,000-square-foot expansion of St. Vincent Health Medical Center Northeast. Upon its completion in 2013, the facility will be a full-fledged, inpatient hospital with more than 40 beds.
“The needs and growth of the community will dictate the expansion of services and space within the hospital,” said Dulberger. “Our current focus continues to be providing specialized services … as well as to offer the community local access to nationally ranked care at Indiana University Health.”
St. Vincent Spokesman Johnny Smith wasn’t able to give a specific cost of the expansion, but the hospital chain isn’t likely to skimp. Befitting the Hamilton County clientele, the hospital will feature various spa-like amenities, indoor and outdoor dining, and convenient 24-hour room service for patients.
When it opens, it will be the only full-service hospital in Fishers, but not for long.
The expansion is expected to create 200 new jobs. v
In 1875 the building now known as The Model Mill was erected. After more than 125 years service this space still thrives in the heart of downtown Noblesville.
Mill Top features six unique event spaces to accomodate groups of near any size in style
Three preferred caterers to suit any taste or budget. Let them create a menu to perfectly complement your event.
Original architecture adds character and charm to this late 1800’s building. Hardwood style floors, brick walls, exposed wood beams all create warm and interesting event space.
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
Photo by Rick Walton Photography
The hospital currently holds 42 beds, but IU Health officials anticipate massive growth in
St. Vincent Medical Center Northeast
Photo by Eclectic Events & Design
In December, the $270-million Indiana University Health Saxony opened just off exit 10. The new 250,000-square-foot hospital and medical office building employs 250 workers in the cardiovascular, orthopedics, spinal care and emergency care fields.
IU Health Saxony,
Photo by GalleriaStudios.com
Medical facilities continue to spring up in Fishers, with one hospital opening and another medical facility beginning an expansion.
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Moonstruck
Words shine in night’s light
By Rosalyn Demaree ~ Photos by Mark Lee
Once she created an alphabet she liked, Sutton formed affirmative words and phrases that speak for themselves on Tshirts, hoodies, polos, barbecue aprons, baby clothes, jewelry, some home décor and even leashes and dog gear. Prices range from $10-$70. obbie Sutton found her muse when a harvest moon was hanging so low in the sky she could almost touch it. On that night in 2007, the longtime Arcadia portrait photographer discovered writing using moonlight as her ink and a camera as her pen. “It’s like writing your name in the sky with a sparkler,” she explains when people ask how she created the alphabet for her Moon Talk Designs apparel, accessories and gifts. Using camera techniques she polished long ago, Sutton found a way to maneuver her camera while photographing the moon to create each letter. It wasn’t nearly as easy as it sounds. “Thank God for digital,” she laughs, touching a crystal pendant she’s wearing; the word “love” shines in moonlight. “There were a lot of deletes.”
Finding the moon Website: www.MoonTalkDesigns.com On Facebook, Moon Talk Gifts Email: Bobbie@MoonTalkDesigns.com
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“Faith” was the first word, and it took a lot of faith over three years to develop her technique and products while the economy slumped and before she sold anything. It also took “hope,” “courage” and a “dream” − all words in Moon Talk Designs’ lexicon. The first two print shops Sutton used went out of business − but “jinx” isn’t a word in her line. “Perseverance” would be a good word to add, though; Sutton found a third printer and her Arcadia studio now houses a heat press. She’s having it adapted so family friend Jason Young can operate it from the wheelchair that he’s had to use after a tree-trimming accident paralyzed him a few years ago.
Every word has a story but the most touching one may be how “mercy” became part of the line. The love of Sutton’s life, her husband Bob, was seeing Dr. Norman Mindrebo for some surgery at the time the physician’s daughter was pregnant. Tests showed that the baby’s spine was unattached so doctors expected the child’s life to be measured in moments. The little girl, named Mercy, lived for a week. Sutton made a special piece for the Mindrebo family. In letters inked by moonlight, it says, “The Lord has Mercy.” Other words and phrases came from fans on her Facebook page, family − her 13-year-old grandson suggested “goal” for athletic shorts − and friends. Young’s battle inspired “Give me strength.” A number of her pieces come in charity pink because cancer survivors have embraced
First sales over the moon
“Hallelujah” would be another good addition. On the first day Sutton had items in a store, cashiers at Day’s Healthy Living Pharmacy in Cicero rang up $1,100 in Moon Talk Designs sales. Retail outlets now include Kid Again in Cicero, Artists on the Square and Living Truth in Noblesville, a couple shops in Broad Ripple, and one in Elmira, N.Y., that found Moon Talk at a stationery store show. There are talks with other retailers. Bob and Bobbie Sutton, Moon Talk Designs
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
Indianapolis based photographer Mark A. Lee has been capturing the best in people and events for over 20 years. He takes great pride in working with his clients to ensure the end results fit their individual needs in a creative and interesting way.
Photography for:
Great Exposures
Magazines Newspapers Funerals Family
Mark A. Lee
Special Events Fundraisers Head Shots and more
1529 N. Park Ave. #1, Indianapolis, IN 46202
317.443.8337
www.GreatExposures.net
Moon Talk Designs’ powerful words and messages. A portion of proceeds from those sales benefit cancer research, and Sutton is establishing the Moon Talk Designs Cancer Survivor Scholarship. She hopes to make her first award to a high school senior this year. Sutton isn’t surprised that her moonstruck work fascinates people. No matter where we are in the world or time, we all see the same moon, she explains. “It’s the same moon that my grandson in Oregon sees, that my grandchildren in Carmel see. It’s the same moon my great-greatgrandparents saw,” she said. “Yea, I’m kind of fascinated by it.” v Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Book Mark
What Happens When the Oil’s Gone?
Life Without Oil:
Why We Must Shift to a New Energy Future By Steve Hallett with John Wright Review by Mike Corbett
Steve Hallett is worried. His view of the future is not pretty. Prepare to face a sobering reality if you buy his arguments in this fascinating book. Arguments like these: • Oil is responsible for an amazing leap forward in human progress in the 20th Century. • It’s a finite resource and we’ve used about half of it • The remaining half is going to be much harder to retrieve • Oil scarcity is leading to a global recession • We humans don’t have a very good track record of dealing with this kind of crisis. Hallett, an environmental scientist at Purdue, teams up with journalist John Wright to put our oil dependence in perspective by noting past energy eras of wood and coal, and how they changed history.
The references to local landmarks make the passage all the more appealing to Hoosier readers. So, if oil is unique, getting scarcer and responsible for so much progress, what’s next? Hallett cites Easter Island, the Roman Empire and the Mayans, among others, as examples of what happens when a civilization’s resources become depleted. Considering they are best known for their ruins, his implication is clear. Hallett predicts a renewed interest in nuclear energy to generate electricity. But 75% of oil worldwide is used for transportation, moving people and goods around, so the most pressing need is for another portable energy source. Hallett thinks hydrogen has the most potential. It burns much cleaner than fossil fuels but, among its challenges: you have to make it because it isn’t readily available underground
We’re 100 years into it and Hallett is convinced that the petroleum interval has peaked; we’re now on the decline. Oil’s ascendance, however, has been so rapid that it isn’t even an era, it’s an “interval” of 200 years. We’re 100 years into it and he is convinced that the petroleum interval has peaked; we’re now on the decline. Demand from developing countries is surging while easy access is over, so prices are rising and there’s no relief on the horizon. That makes the need for a solution all that much more urgent. Hallett explains profound ideas in a very readable style, like this passage about oil’s unique ability to store energy: “A tank of gasoline is easily taken for granted, but just think for a second about the amount of power that it generates. I can put two full jugs of gasoline into my car and drive it sixty miles, taking the kids down to Indianapolis in an hour. Those two jugs full of gasoline are light enough for me to carry, one in each hand, and their weight hardly affects the efficiency of the car at all. Consider now what happens if there’s no gasoline for sale in Indy and we want to get back home to West Lafayette. Think of the human energy it would take for the four of us to push the car back up Highway 65 and how long it would take. The energy contained in those two jugs full of gasoline is prodigious, and it comes in a truly user-friendly, highly dense, liquid form.”
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
like oil, and it isn’t as portable as oil because it’s so explosive at high concentrations. Currently, there is no alternative to oil that packs the same energy punch in such a compact form. Ultimately, Hallett suggests, the answer is to reconnect with the natural world and devise answers that take ecology into account. He laments the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Claiming “ecology is the foundation of economics,” he calls for an economic system that “can support innovation without stressing the environment.” He weighs in on cap and trade, capitalism vs. socialism, and global warming. There’s plenty of political commentary here and Hallett is frank in his prediction that “we are entering an era of hardship over which we have little control.” We’re in for a rough time, he predicts, as we wean ourselves from our dependence on oil and devise a more sustainable way to achieve the same level of progress. Mike Corbett publishes and edits this magazine.
Have you read a good business book lately? Share your thoughts on it with others. Send your book review to news@hamiltoncountybusiness.com and we may run it in a future edition.
Dining Out
Tending the Tandoori Oven in Fishers Deep Indian Cuisine By Chris Owens
Last winter, my wife and I completed a two and a half-year period as vegetarians. My first meal at Deep was during that period and I found their offerings to be much more interesting and flavorful than the vegetarian stand-by meals like cheese pizza or salad. Dishes like Mattar Paneer, which contains peas and homemade cheese, or Channa Saag with chickpeas and spinach, provide a hearty meal without compromising the vegetarian diet. Both dishes come with rice and are served with complementing sauces. Since that time, we’ve reverted back to eating meat and I enjoyed both the Tandoori Chicken and Goat Curry on my most recent visit. Additionally, the Tandoori Shrimp dish based on the flavor of the chicken and the overall cooking process intrigues me. I’m anxious to order that dish during my next visit. Recently, I spoke with Harpreet about the restaurant and what they’d like the commuForego the norm. Forget the burger and nity to know. “It’s a trendy food” she said fries; take a pass on pasta and dive into authentic Indian food in Fishers. Now, I will and “we give our best service and food to admit that I was skeptical several years ago every customer”. If you’re a fan of the rating site Urban Spoon then be sure to read the when noticing a new restaurant featuring traditional Indian fare had opened off Trade reviews for other perspectives on the food Center Drive. Years later along with several at Deep. meals in their restaurant, I’ve found that Deep Indian Cuisine has made their Fishers The common perception about Indian Food is that it’s largely comprised of vegetables home into quite the popular place. and hot curry with little more. Deep’s vast Operated by owners Jaswinder Singh and his wife Harpreet Kaur, you will find an extensive menu of appetizers, soups, salads, vegetarian fare, rice dishes, chicken, lamb, seafood, and Tandoori meals as well. Tandoori is a cooking style that uses a clay oven where food takes on special flavors from charcoal smoke and a unique blend of spices. Deep Indian Cuisine also offers Indian beers and wines along with many varieties of tea to complement your meal.
“Tandoori…food takes on special flavors from charcoal smoke and a unique blend of spices.” menu includes curry and vegetables, but also boasts a variety of meats, condiments, and chutneys. The food is flavorful, but the spices are not overpowering.
Here’s a suggestion if you are curious enough to try Indian food for the first time: the Monday through Friday lunch buffet. It’s reasonably priced and features favorites like Vegetable Pakora, Pappadum, Tandoori Chicken, Goat Curry, and Chicken Tikka
Naan is flatbreak baked on the side of a tandoor.
Masala, plus it includes a salad and dessert. Perhaps my favorite part of any meal I’ve eaten at Deep has been the bread. Naan, a flatbread baked in the tandoor, is served with meals. They have several varieties of the warm bread including garlic naan, aloo naan with spiced potatoes, and kasmiri naan with fruits and nuts among other specialty breads. Shake up your traditional lunch and enjoy what Deep has to offer. Deep Indian Cuisine 14096 Trade Center Dr. ,Fishers www.deepindiancuisine.com
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Management Chris Gilmer
Selling Your Business
Planning ahead brings more value! I would guess that most every owner at one time or another has thought about the idea of selling their business. There are all kinds of reasons to consider a sale. Some owners want a nest egg for retirement. Others may be bored running the business and like the idea of being in startup mode so they are seeking a new opportunity. They may be passing ownership on to a son or daughter in order to keep it in the family. Whatever the reason, savvy owners will always consider a sale if the price and timing are right, so it’s important that the business is ready to sell.
Owners should always be managing these areas but they are even more critical before a sale. Consider these facts about selling a business: • Approximately 1 out of 5 businesses actually sell. (The number is lower if there are fewer than 5 employees) • 75% sell for much less than the owner desired. • Baby Boomers (of which I am one) often sell their businesses in order to have enough money to retire. • Some business owners don’t think about selling their business until they are desperate and that is probably the worst time to do it. • You should plan at least 12 – 18 months ahead to sell your business and preferably 2 years.
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• Most owners have little or no experience selling a business. • Average duration to sell a business is 4 – 8 months.
This knowledge will help improve the possibility of pushing the price to the high end of the “range of values” so you make more on the sale.
Putting a Value on the Business
Make the Decision Easy for the Buyer
The single biggest concern for owners is what price they can get for their business. There are a number of ways to estimate that value: asset value, PE ratios, annual sales, profit, book value, to name just a few. In the end, the value of a business is based on what someone will pay for it. That is why it is important to plan ahead and strengthen your business results to make your company more attractive to future buyers. Here are some of the things you should be thinking about in order to maximize your sale price. You will need to hire people who understand the process and can help you ready your business for sale (business brokers, lawyers, and business advisors). The value of the business needs to be looked at using some of the value methods above to first establish a range for the price of the business. There are plenty of other factors that can affect the price but the most impactful is the buyer’s perspective. From the buyer’s side, is this a strategic purchase? Is there a particular product(s), trade secret, or intellectual property that they want? Is the buyer a competitor who is trying to expand their market and eliminate you as a competitor, or from outside your industry (or geography) and looking to buy your customer list to develop new markets? It will benefit you to obtain as much information on the buyer as you can and try to understand why they are interested in your company.
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
By planning ahead for a potential sale you can also improve the things that may reduce the value for the buyer. As with any investment, an owner must weigh the cost to fix a problem with the increased value it may provide. This could be factors like a weak management team, high accounts receivable, cash flow problems, excess inventory, or low profit margins, to name just a few. Owners should always be managing these areas but they are even more critical before a sale as they can impact the selling price of the business. Finally, one more piece of advice; never try to hide something from a buyer as they will most likely find it during the due diligence process. Surprises could end the deal or have a larger negative effect on the price than if they were pointed out up front. It is much better to disclose the issue. Perhaps the buyer has the resources or talent to resolve it that you don’t have. These are actions you can take today that will most likely bring value in the end. The best news is if you decide the price isn’t right or just decide not to sell, you are left with a stronger business that will hopefully generate more profit, and make your business more attractive to the next suitor. Chris Gilmer is a certified small business advisor and President of Gilmer Consulting LLC. Reach him at cgilmer@oedadvisors.com
Management Charles Waldo
Lessons from the Dean of American Business Peter Drucker’s advice on being more effective Regardless of your job or occupation, I’ll bet somewhere around the first of the new year you resolved to improve something. Maybe sell more product, reduce costs, get more members, be a better parent, lose weight, and so on. But have you figured out a way to actually be more effective? Anyone who truly wants to be more effective in whatever they do would do well to heed the advice of very long time professor, management consultant, and author Dr. Peter Drucker. Until a few years before his death in 2005 at the grand old age of 96, Dr. Drucker kept a full teaching schedule at the prestigious Claremont (CA) Graduate Colleges. He wrote more than 30 books and hundreds of articles in famed publications such as The Harvard Business Review and The Wall Street Journal. Often called the “Dean of American business” and the “father of modern management,” Dr. Drucker was a pragmatist who taught and wrote about management practices and strategies he observed working and not working in organizations of all types.
What makes an organization “effective”?
Dr. Drucker defines “effectiveness” as (1) getting the right things (2) done right (3) in a timely manner. Producing the right results. Here are nine behavioral traits and practices of the consistently effective (and successful) managers he observed in his 75 year career. Ignore them at your own peril. 1. Identify what really needs to be done. Then prioritize, putting the highest impact (“A” tasks) first on your list. Then make “B” and “C” lists. 2. Actually work on the “A” tasks first. Drucker observed that very few people can successfully handle more than three major
tasks at once, with two more likely. It takes self-discipline to ignore those “B” and “C” items with Drucker advising to either try to hand them off to someone else or just ignore them since, by definition, they have less impact that your “A” tasks. Diversion is so easy….and so deadly. 3. Set goals, make action plans, and establish time tables to accomplish each “A” task. Take timely measurements of where you are and make corrections as needed….Management Towards Objectives (MTO). 4. Take personal responsibility for your decisions and their outcomes. Don’t try to pass the buck or make excuses for not getting the job done. 5. Periodically ask: “What more can I contribute that might significantly enhance the overall performance of my organization?” What is the unused potential of this job….and me? What self-development do I need and how do I get it? Then grow! 6. Help make others’ strengths more productive. Highly effective managers, coaches, pastors, principals, and parents ask: “How are the strengths of my people best used? What potential is under-developed?” Make jobs as big and demanding as possible since “A” players love challenges and stretch assignments. Fit jobs to people and not vice versa. 7. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Keep people informed as to what is going on….good or bad, but emphasize the positive. Be a great listener. Say “please,” “thank you, ” and “good job”….a lot. 8. Run or take part in productive meetings. Surveys show most people feel 50 – 75% of the time they spend in meetings is wasted…. sometimes 100% of their time. Don’t call people into meetings unless they need to be
there. Have an agenda and time schedule… and stick to them. 9. Get as much input as possible from a variety of sources before making major decisions but beware ”paralysis by analysis.” Listen for contrary or different views and don’t hold opposition against people. But once the decision is reached, all hands must get on board and support it. Final words from Dr. Drucker: “I’ve observed over many years that effective managers differ wildly in terms of personality, “look”, style, education, and background. What they have in common are the practices that make them effective wherever they are….Effectiveness is a habit; that is, a complex of practices. And practices can always be learned. But they are always exceedingly hard to do well and consistently. We learn by practicing…” Rate your performance on each of the above nine practices. Then get several people who know you well to do likewise. Compare results. If you are not a “A” on each (probably no one will be), take just one point and figure out a plan to improve, then work the plan for a month or so. Then do another. And another. In just a few months you can be much more effective. Good luck! For a more in-depth look on Drucker and effective management see The Effective Executive (1966 and still very much in print) and/or The Effective Executive in Action (2006). For a broader view of Dr. Drucker’s observations see The Drucker Difference (2009). Dr. Charles Waldo is a retired Professor of Marketing at Anderson University’s Falls School of Business
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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The Pitch-In
Notes from all over the county… Mills and Manufacturing, Inc., IMMI is Hamilton County’s largest manufacturing employer and ships automotive safety products worldwide.
Fishers is launching a new downtown plan that includes trails, infrastructure upgrades and a gathering space behind Town Hall. The green will be improved with new restrooms, paths and an amphitheater. All are to be completed later this year.
WHS physics teacher Christian Horner (left), with students (L to R) Alex Mueller, Jon Golliher, Ben Carroll, Nick Hobar, Dave Hildebrand, Mike McBride, Austin Helm (front with grey jacket), Joe Gidley, Alex Leversen
IMMI demonstrated a live automobile crash test for Westfield High School physics students at the Center for Advanced Product Evaluation (CAPE) crash test facility in Westfield. Students also toured the facility as part of the company’s 50th anniversary celebration. Founded in 1961 as Indiana
CAPE was named 2011 Crash Test Facility of the Year by Automotive Testing Technology International magazine in December, due to its “impressive ability to develop occupant protection equipment for industries ranging from commercial vehicles to motorsports.” IMMI and CAPE were the subject of a Dec 2008 profile in the Hamilton County Business Magazine. The Carmel Chamber recognized its annual award winners: Business of the Year: Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel Lifetime Achievement: Harold Kaiser Most Valuable Volunteer: Beth Smietana The Look award for Renovation: PFM Car & Truck Care Center, 116th Street and Guilford Road. The Look award for New Construction: Carmel City Center, City Center Drive and Rangeline Road. The Carmel Green award: Carmel Green Teen Micro-Grant Program Kelties in Westfield was recognized by Open Table, Inc. as one of the top 100 restaurants in the nation serving American cuisine. It was one of only three Indiana restaurants to earn the distinction. Open Table is an
Hamilton County’s Only Locally Owned Bank 830 Logan Street • Noblesville • 773-0800 8 Convenient Hamilton County Locations cbindianaonline.com
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
online reservation website and based the awards on reviews by its diners. Barearms, offering firearms, accessories and personal defense products, opened on Conner St. in Noblesville. Dr. Judi Campbell received Legacy Fund’s third annual Living Legacy Award. Campbell was recognized as a founding contributor to Chaucie’s Place, the children’s advocacy center in Carmel. She and her late husband Bob helped make Coxhall Gardens and Strawtown Koteewi Park possible, and she remains an advocate of the Hamilton County Parks system. Doug True was named CEO of FORUM Credit Union. True has been with Forum for more than 20 years, most recently serving as the Chief Lending and Technology Officer.
Rosenthal
Holt
Breeden
The Hamilton County Leadership Academy Alumni Association bestowed its 11th annual distinguished Alumna Award to Conner Prairie CEO Ellen Rosenthal, a 2004 graduate of the program. Rosenthal has led Conner Prairie through the transformation from a living history museum to an interactive, guestcentric history park. The Academy also presented two special awards for Distinguished Service to County Commissioner Steve Holt and Board Member Bruce Breeden.
Encouraging the Entrepreneurial Spirit
T
By Mike Corbett
he Entrepreneurship Advancement Center’s winter Student Business Plan Competition wrapped up in January. Here are the top three finishers in the individual and team competitions. The EAC conducts
1st Place Individual
the competition among area schools twice annually. Students write and present their own business plans. Local businesspeople serve as volunteer judges.
1st Place Team
Emily Westcott, Carmel High School Yo Mama’s Bakery
Yo Mama’s mission is to offer an inviting atmosphere and provide desserts that satisfy cravings as well as the taste buds of college students.
2nd Place Individual
Caitlin Flatley, Lacey Goedde, Carmel High School Two Cats in a Chef Hat
Two Cats in a Chef Hat is a modern chef-catering service dedicated to providing top-notch culinary services as well as specific dietary meal plans for families with financial stability and specific culinary needs.
2nd Place Team
Delaney Burgess, Hamilton Southeastern High School Happy Days
Happy Days is a food truck business. Our mission is to use a truck to provide quick, easy meals to our customers, while also giving back to the community and people around the world by giving 10% of our income to charitable causes.
3rd Place Individual James Tyler, North Central High School Jet’s Soccer Jet’s will feature soccer shoes, equipment, and apparel.
Chris Irwin, Matt Wagner, Hamilton Southeastern High School College Care
College Care is a webbased company offering college care packages. The consumer receives a variety of products ranging from snacks and quick meals to school supplies and toiletries.
3rd Place Team Lewis Hostetler, Ziyad Bannourah, Carmel High School Fire & Ice Cafe
Fire & Ice Cafe is a restaurant that features spicy entrees and cold delicious desserts in a family friendly atmosphere.
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
EVENTS
and
NEW MEMBERS
Welcome New
2012 CALENDAR of EVENTS FEBRUARY
1st/Wed Morning Motivator Networking and More Breakfast 8:00am-9:30am ($10 pre-paid and pre-registration only) Applebee’s Fishers 8310 E. 96th St. (in front of Wal-Mart) 9th/Thurs Navigating the Chamber (no fee; please RSVP) 3:00pm-4:00pm Informational session for new members, and new and current contacts Fishers Train Station 11601 Municipal Dr.
MARCH
8th/Thurs Navigating the Chamber (no fee; please RSVP) 3:00pm-4:00pm Informational session for new members, and new and current contacts Fishers Train Station 11601 Municipal Dr. 12th/Mon Legislative Breakfast ($15/members; $20/non-members) 7:30am-9:00am Mansion at Oak Hill 5801 E. 116th St. SE corner of Hazel Dell Pkwy & 116th St.
21st/Wed Monthly Luncheon* Program - TBD 13th/Mon ($20 pre-paid members; Legislative Breakfast ($15/members; $20/non-members) $25 non-members & at door) 11:30am-1:00pm 7:30am-9:00am FORUM Conference Center Mansion at Oak Hill 11313 USA Pkwy. 5801 E. 116th St. SE corner of Hazel Dell Pkwy & 28th/Wed 116th St. Business After Hours 15th/Wed Monthly Luncheon* State of the Town ($20 pre-paid members; $25 non-members & at door) 11:30am-1:00pm FORUM Conference Center 11313 USA Pkwy. 22nd/Wed Business After Hours (no fee) 4:30pm-6:30pm Farmers Bank 7126 East 116th St. (just west of Allisonville Rd.)
Chamber Members
(no fee) 4:30pm-6:30pm Stonegate Mortgage 9190 Priority Way West, Ste. 300 (off 96th)
Ryan Kelly Whitinger & Company LLC
Jeff Myers Old National Bank
Mike Patel Old National Bank
Sherri Stawick Graphite Interactive, LLC
Left: Hamilton Trace of Fishers, 11851 Cumberland Rd., Fishers, IN www.hamiltontrace.us
REGISTRATION To register, please visit: www.FishersChamber.com or call 317.578.0700.
Getting More Done With Less Time
Presented by C.J. McClanahan Reachmore February 29, 2012 11:30am - 1:00pm ($10/members; $15/non-members)
www.FishersChamber.com
Photos by Brien Richmond Focal Point Studios
Indiana Vein Specialists Ribbon Cutting, 11876 Olio Road Suite 700, Fishers, IN, www.indyveins.com
*Pre-pay for lunch by 10:00am Friday prior to the luncheon for reduced price.
Lunch & Learn
Mark Price Whitinger & Company LLC
Below: GiGi’s Cupcakes 8981 E. 116th St., Fishers, IN www. gigiscupcakesusa.com/ fishersindiana
SAVE THE DATE Fishers chamber Golf Outing Friday June 1, 2012 317.578.0700 Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
29
HAMILTON NORTH
Hamilton North Chamber 70 N. Byron Street Cicero, IN 46034 317-984-4079
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Upcoming Events! FEBRUARY 2012
MARCH 2012
Tuesday, February 7 HNCC Luncheon ~ 11:30 am
Red Bridge Park Community Building “Chamber Marketing Opportunities”
Monday, February 13 Legislative Breakfast ~ 7:30 am
Tuesday, March 6 HNCC Luncheon ~ 11:30 am
Red Bridge Park Community Building Speaker: Elaine Bedel, Bedel Financial Consulting
Monday, March 12 Legislative Breakfast ~ 7:30 am
The Mansion at Oak Hill
The Mansion at Oak Hill
November Chamber Luncheon Cathly Langlois of the Entrpreneurship Advancement Center talks about the Small Enterprise Loan Fund (SELF) at the November Luncheon
Business Showcase “Trick or Treat with the Chamber”
Brett Morrow encourages chamber members to attend upcoming meetings sponsored by Cicero Economic Development Committee
NEW MEMBERS Big Dogs Smokehouse BBQ Chris Faulkner 29 E. Jackson Street Cicero, IN 46034 (317) 800-5430
Visiting Nurse Service
Forum Credit Union
Bolden’s Cleaning and Restoration
US Architects
Karl Fettig 9200 W. Smith St. Yorktown, IN 47936 (765) 405-1220
Alive After Five at Moon Talk Designs Moon Talk Designs are on display as Bobbie Sutton celebrates one year in business with an Alive After Five event
View from above of Moon Talk Design studio visitors
Holiday Celebration Luncheon featuring the Indiana Academy Bell Choir “Grace Notes”
February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
UPCOMING EVENTS! FEBRUARY 2012
MARCH 2012
The Mansion at Oak Hill
The Mansion at Oak Hill
February 13 – 7:30 a.m. Legislative Breakfast
Noblesville Chamber 601 Conner Street Noblesville, IN 46060 317-773-0086
March 12 – 7:30 a.m. Legislative Breakfast
February 22 – 11:30 a.m. Membership Luncheon – State of the Schools
March 15 – 11:30 a.m. Women’s Luncheon
Harbour Trees Golf Club
Harbour Trees Golf Club
This event was held at Purgatory Golf Club on November 17th.
TBD
March 27 – 4:30 p.m. Taste of Business
Hamilton County Fairgrounds
March 28 – 11:30 a.m. Membership Luncheon
Business of the Year
SMC Corporation of America
Stacey Kelly
Best New Construction/ Renovation
Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development, Inc. (HAND)
Business Person of the Year
Stephanie Burdick
Smith Jewelers
O’Dell Lakes
Best Green Initiative
Best New Business
McDonald’s at Hamilton Town Center
Hans Williams
GreenCycle of Noblesville
Not in attendance, no picture
NEW MEMBERS New Members that were recognized at the December Holiday Membership Luncheon which was held at Purgatory Golf Club on December 9th
www.noblesvillechamber.com
Purgatory Golf Club
NOBLESVILLE
winners of the 8th Annual Enterprise Awards
March 22 – 7:30 a.m. Network Breakfast (Noblesville, Carmel & Westfield)
Best Small Business Subway of Noblesville
Owners, Tom and Trish Crist
Jay Mundy 116th Street Insurance 8388 E. 116th Street Fishers, IN 46038
Tom Fowler Noblesville Music Center 17021 Clover Rd., Ste. 103 Noblesville, IN 46060
Dua Turkmani and Tiffany Lunsford Indiana Business Solutions, LLC 8227 Northwest Blvd., Ste. 200 Indianapolis, IN 46278
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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Sheridan Chamber 407 S. Main Street P.O. Box 202 Sheridan, IN 46069 317-758-1311
Sheridan Chamber of Commerce Christmas Dinner
www.sheridanchamber.org
SHERIDAN
Held at the Community Center
The SHS Choir sang. Dr Derek Arrowood gave us the State of the School address. He was joined by essay winner Nick Roberts from Mrs Nina Lechner 4th grade class.
2012 Monthly Luncheon Dates January 26, 2012 Member Luncheon February 23, 2012 Member Luncheon March 22, 2012 Member Luncheon
SHS Choir
2011 Christmas Dinner attendees, Cheryl, Helen, & Linda
New Members
Mrs. Nina Lechner, essay winner Nick Roberts and Dr. Derek Arrowood Don Vita, Hoosier Hospitality
2011 Christmas Dinner attendees
Ken Hodgin, Residential Repair
Lisa Glunt, Independent Mary Kay Consultant
Grapevine Shops, located on Main Street in Sheridan
Be sure to visit the Sheridan Chamber Website, www.sheridanchamber.org for information on all upcoming events!
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February • March 2012/Hamilton County Business Magazine
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
FEBRUARY 2012
MARCH 2012
Hilton Garden Inn ~ 13090 Pennsylvania Street ~ Carmel Power network as you rotate from table to table during this fast-paced event. Make contacts and build your client database - and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the same time. Come prepared with a two-minute “elevator” speech about your business and plenty of business cards and brochures to distribute. Reservations required by February 3rd $10 for Chamber Members • $20 for non members RSVP online at www.westfield-chamber.org
The Mansion at Oak Hill 5801 East 116th Street ~ Carmel $15 members; $20 non-members info@westfield-chamber.org or register online at www.westfield-chamber.org
Thursday, February 9th ~ 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Westfield & Carmel Chamber Joint Networking Breakfast
The Palomino Ballroom 481 South County 1200 East Members with a reservation: $15.00 ~ Walk-ins, non-members, and all billables: $20.00. Reservations are due March 9th. RSVP online at www.westfield-chamber.org
Thursday, March 22, 2012 ~ 7:30 a.m. -9:30 a.m. Joint Network Breakfast with Carmel, Noblesville & Westfield Chambers
Thursday, February 16th ~ 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Membership Luncheon - Networking
CrossRoads Church at Westfield ~ 191st & Grassy Branch ~ Westfield This popular annual program features rotating rounds of meeting, greeting, passing out business cards and literature.This is a great opportunity to meet and mingle with Chamber members and share information about your business. Members with reservations: $15; guests and billables: $20. Due to the nature of this event, reservations are required by February 10th: Register online at www.westfield-chamber.org
Mudsocks Grill ~ 14741 Hazel Dell Crossing ~ Noblesville The Carmel, Noblesville and Westfield Chambers are joining forces. Plan to attend and triple your networking power by making connections with members of all three Chambers. Members with reservations: $10; Non Members and billables $20. Due to the nature of this event, reservations are required by March 16th. RSVP online at www.westfield-chamber.org.
All Chamber event dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please call 317-804-3030 or visit www.westfield-chamber.org for details.
NEW MEMBERS Kelties Restaurant in Westfield Makes National List Kelties Restaurant in Westfield was one of only three Indiana eateries to make Open Table Inc.’s list of the top 100 restaurants in the United States. The Diners’ Choice Awards also went to establishments in Fort Wayne and Bloomington. Brian Vackar and Darrin Denton, Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance
Jay Mundy, 116th Street Insurance
Congratulations!
Open Table selected the restaurants based on feedback collected from diners.
www.westfield-chamber.org
The Mansion at Oak Hill ~ 5801 East 116th Street Chamber Members $15; Non-members $20 Reservations due by February 8th: 317-804-3030 or register online at info@westfield-chamber.org. Organized and presented by the Hamilton County Business Issues Committee
Thursday, March 15th ~ 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Membership Luncheon
WESTFIELD
Monday, February 13th ~ 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Legislative Breakfast
Monday, March 12th ~ 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Legislative Breakfast
Westfield Chamber 130 Penn Street P.O. Box 534 Westfield, IN 46074 317-804-3030
Proud sponsor of the September 22, 2012 Lantern Awards Keith Beall, Atttorney at Law with Beall & Beall
Dan Ballard, Allstate Insurance Agency
Robert Patterson, Caldwell Leasing
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
Hamilton County History
Fall Creek Atlantis
I
n any area, communities appear and disappear as time goes by. In Hamilton County, towns such as Cynthiana, West Liberty, and Walnut Grove have all come and gone. It’s usually due to transportation routes changing or a population shift. However, one community in this area disappeared under millions of gallons of water. This was the former community of Germantown that was sunk under the waters of Geist Reservoir.
Germantown was sunk under the waters of Geist Reservoir. Germantown was not in Hamilton County properly speaking. It was on the county line where, if the roads continued, Brooks School Road would run into 96th Street. Although most of the houses were in
1876
Marion County, it was on a bend in Fall Creek with the only land based road coming from the north. Two bridges were built later to connect it to the southern county. The land along Fall Creek was some of the first area settled in central Indiana when it was opened in
1818. For example, Thorpe’s Creek, which is on the north side of the reservoir near Ringer Road, was home to two of the men who committed the 1824 Massacre on Fall Creek. One source says that Germantown was established in 1834 by a group of German immigrants, hence the name. The community is mentioned in an 1836 congressional act to establish a post road from Indianapolis to Strawtown, so it was substantial enough to require a post office. It can be seen on the 1843 Indiana state map. It was being listed in national post office directories by 1846. By 1859, it was even mentioned in a railroad shipping guide. It sat equidistant between two railroads – the Peru and Indianapolis which went to Noblesville and beyond, and the Bellefontaine which went to Pendleton and beyond. An 1880 map shows a store on the Hamilton County side of the line. Apparently Germantown was never very large – the store was gone by 1900. A man from California wrote to the Noblesville Library in 1940 requesting information about the community. Someone told him that his mother had been born in Germantown, and he wasn’t sure that the community was even real. The library put the letter in the newspaper and got 25 replies. They assured the man that the community was indeed a real place, but by that time, it only consisted of a few houses. The major reason for the decline was that the water company was buying any land that became available. This had started in 1913 when the Indianapolis Water Company had realized that just pulling water from White River was not going to be enough to supply the growing capital city. The company looked for likely spots for a reservoir and the leading engineer in the country told them this would be the best spot. The president of the company at the time was Clarence Geist, who was
David Heighway
born in a farm in northern Indiana, but preferred business to agriculture. He became a very successful businessman and was later was part of the Florida land boom. He died in 1938 before the project was completed. Public hearings about the construction of the dam were still being held as late as 1941. However, the pouring of the concrete for dam was finished in December of 1942. Over the years there have been myths about buildings that could be seen during low water, including a church tower where one could hear a mysterious bell tolling. This is absurd nonsense; there wasn’t even a church there to begin with. The buildings of Germantown, largely farm-
1949
houses and barns, were demolished, and there were nothing but foundations left. Any remnants would now be buried under a layer of sediment. Originally, Geist Reservoir was not supposed to have any residential area (fishing was not even allowed at first), but the rules for usage changed over the years. It became a popular site for boating in the 1950’s and sailing regattas were being held by 1956. At that time it was the third largest body of water in Indiana. Although there was an effort to turn it into a park much like Eagle Creek Reservoir, the land was opened for housing in the 1960s and 70s. Today, elite homes stand on the land that once belonged to the farmers of Germantown. But, except for the occasional fishing line, the original homestead sites will remain untouched. David Heighway is the Hamilton County Historian
BUSINESS RESOURCE DIRECTORY Commercial Lease Space
Service Club Rotary International
Signs and Banners Logan Street Signs & Banners 1720 South 10th Street, Noblesville, IN 317-773-7200 Open M-F 7-5 www.loganstreetsigns.com www.noblesvilletrophies.com www.noblesville.com
River Edge Professional Center and River Edge Market Place Noblesville, IN Call John Landy at 317-289-7662 landyfortune@gmail.com
The Noblesville Midday Rotary Club is one of 32,000 local Rotary clubs throughout the world and six in Hamilton County. Open to all persons regardless of race, color, creed or political preference, Rotary brings together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Each club meets weekly. For more information on the Noblesville Midday Rotary Club. Call Mike Corbett David Heighway at 774-7747 is the Hamilton County historian
Computer Consulting
Compumed 802 Mulberry Street Noblesville, IN, Suite B1 317-340-4802 Rocky@compumed-indy.com
340-4802
• Business Computer Hardware and Software Installation • Custom Application Development • On-Site Support and Service
65,000 square feet of flexible floor plans. Design and build to your specifications. Time Share space available. Retail space also available from 1,600 square feet up. Easy access and abundant parking! High speed internet. 3 minutes from Riverview Hospital.
Business Technology Sharp Business Systems of Indiana 7330 East 86th Street Indianapolis, IN 46256 317-844-0033 sbsindiana.com
Digitally printed signs and banners of any size, vehicle wraps and graphics, T-shirt printing, laser engraving. Great customer service, fast turn-around. Family Owned and Operated. Serving Noblesville and Hamilton County since 1992. Also home of Noblesville Trophies. 773-7391 Open M-F 9-6 Sat. 10-2
Freelance Graphic Design Mezign Design 11505 River Drive East Carmel, IN Call Melanie at 317-306-8984 imartist58@yahoo.com
We are serious about improving our clients businesses by updating office technology, managing office printing and streamlining critical business processes.
Mezign Design offers graphic design services for anything from business cards to billboards, specializing in print and web advertising. Reasonable rates, modern design and fast turnaround. Give Mezign Design a try. You’ll be glad you did.
Sharp Business Systems of Indiana, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, can increase your company’s bottom line.
ADVERTISING SALES If you have a knack for sales and enjoy this magazine, we would like to talk to you.
TRADEBANK
We have an opportunity for just the right person. Call or email Mike Corbett, Publisher
Cashless Commerce
317.774.7747
mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com
Next Edition:
™
™
New Customers ~ Increased Profits
www.Tradebank.com
(317) 819-8355 ~ (317) 225-8125
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Advertising deadline: February 24, Mails March 26
Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2012
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