February 2015 BN Inc.

FEBRUARY 2015

PLUS

Bloomington store runs on customer care Expert advice on workplace health, tourism and more More business news from B-N

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February

BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

1

1/22/2015 12:15:35 PM

BNinc.

INSIDE

Connecting Central Illinois business

jULIE bECHTEL Publisher

terrt o'neill Advertising manager

MARK PICKERING Pantagraph editor

karen Hansen Editor, BN Inc.

FEBRUARY 2015 www.pantagraph.com/bninc A publication of Pantagraph Publishing Inc. 301 W. Washington St. Bloomington, IL 61701 The entire contents may not be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or part, without permission of the publisher.

Advertisements are not endorsed by the publisher. The publisher is not responsible or liable for errors or omissions in any advertisement beyond the paid price of that advertisement.

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Fleet Feet Sports essentials buyer Kelly McBride walks past a display of running shoes displayed on a wall of the store.

Cover Story‌

Features‌

Couple show how Baby Boomers can keep physically fit as they age.

Human Resources‌

A good fit‌

New subscriptions, renewals, inquiries or change of address, mail to: BN Inc. Advertising 301 W. Washington St., Bloomington, IL 61701

Business Bio‌

To advertise or questions regarding advertising, call 800-747-7323, 309-820-3359.

F l e e t Fe e t S p o r ts ’ owners discusses how they got started in busin e ss a n d wh a t t h ey have learned.

© 2015

by Lee Enterprises Inc. Any editorial content or advertising published is the property of Lee Enterprises Inc.

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Reducing health-care cost begins before your employees get sick.

Page 12

Page 7

Feet fans‌

Page 3

on the

cover:

Health‌ Learn how to cope with stress in your life.

Page 13

Tourism‌ Travel industry is important to the Illinois economy.

Page 14

News in Brief‌ Find out the latest happenings in the B-N area.

Page 15

‌STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

Gold's Gym personal trailer Russ Brooks urges Dave Nagle on as Nagle races on a rowing machine. Nagle did a 100-meter sprint in 17.2 seconds.

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Business bio

FLEET FEET sports

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Fleet Feet Sports owners Julie and Brian Sibley stand in the front of their store at 105 Krispy Kreme Drive, Suite 5, Bloomington. The couple, longtime avid runners, opened the business to live their passion.

Making feet happy ‌Brian and Julie Sibley opened Fleet Feet Sports Bloomington in May 2013 at 105 Krispy Kreme Drive, Suite 5, Bloomington. The store carries footwear, apparel and accessories for running, walking and fitness enthusiasts, and promotes itself as a community gathering place for people interested in health, fitness and an active lifestyle. The store is more than just a business for the Sibleys, who can relate to many of the needs of their customers

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because each also runs marathons.

Julie, why did you decide to open your business?

I had been a high school teacher for 13 years when I decided it was time for a career change. My husband and I are both avid runners and have been involved in the running community for many years.

We decided to open a business that allowed us to live our passion.

Because I would be doing something

completely different and would need a little guidance, we wanted the support of a franchise. We were familiar with Fleet Feet Sports in Chicago and knew they were the right fit for us.

You are both runners.

How did you become interested in running and how has your interest helped See FLEET FEET / Page 4

February 3 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

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Business bio

FLEET FEET sports

FLEET FEET FROM page 3

you as business owners?

I started running in high school as a way to take up a sport — I was not a natural athlete and was the slowest one on the team. I began to love the feeling of accomplishment each time I ran a little further or a little faster. I have now completed over 70 marathons with times ranging from 3 hours and 40 minutes to 6 hours.

My experiences as a runner help me relate to a wide customer base. I love meeting people that think they can’t and helping them to discover that they can!

My husband Brian started running while serving in the Marine Corps. He continued to run regularly until he was sidelined with a knee injury. Patience, cross-training and education facilitated his recovery.

He was able to return to running and has now completed seven marathons. Brian is actively involved with the store’s training groups and uses his personal experiences to help mentor our participants.

Who is your cal customer?

typi-

We carry products for men, women and children of all ages. However, I would say that our typical customers are females from the ages of 30 to 50. Seasoned runners shop with us, but we also specialize in working with people who are brand new to exercise. Many of our customers often tell us that they “won’t run unless chased” — they just want a good, comfortable pair of shoes or inserts.

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Fleet Feet Sports owners Julie and Brian Sibley, right, with Bisrat Kidane, fit and hydration specialist, customer Christina Catalan of Bloomington, and essentials buyer Kelly McBride, pose in the store.

While Fleet Feet Sports is a national franchise with

over 135 stores, all stores are locally owned and operated. We are very much a small family business, and often we can’t compete in price with the discount online retailers.

season, GPS watches and heart rate monitors were a big hit. In addition to shoes, we measure and fit women for sports bras.

We also have quality, moisture wicking socks and apparel available so people can be comfortable during their workWhat are some of your out. We carry ten major footwear and apparel brands, including Nike, Brooks most popular products?

Our most popular products are run- and Saucony. ning shoes, but we are also known for our How aware do you think amazing, comfortable Balega and Feetures people are of the imporsocks. In addition, we see a lot of injury tance of a healthy lifestyle? prevention and recovery tools, such as I think people are very aware of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, but foam rollers, going out the door.

Many doctors, physical therapists and they struggle with living one. There are workout facilities are familiar with our many daily challenges to being active and product line-up and refer their patients healthy. For many people, it’s difficult to and clients to us. During the holiday find the time to work out and they don’t

make it a priority in their day. Eating nutritious meals requires planning and more time at the grocery store filling the cart with fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s often easier to eat out or order delivery. I think the majority of people wish they ate healthier and did more exercise.

The store is promoted as a community gathering place of sorts for people interested in health and fitness. Tell us about how that is done.

It’s very important to us that we’re more than just a shoe store. We want to encourage people to run, walk and be See FLEET FEET / Page 5

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1/22/2015 12:30:34 PM

Business bio

FLEET FEET sports

FLEET FEET FROM page 4

active, as well as to be sociable with others that share their interests. We also want to give other local businesses the opportunity to promote their fitness initiatives.

We have partnered with gyms and fitness instructors to offer classes and bring their knowledge to the community. We promote our events on our website and our Facebook page. We try to put on a run, fitness class, educational clinic or social event at least once per month.

The store has a variety of training programs it offers. Tell us about those activities and their participants.

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Fleet Feet Sports essentials buyer Kelly McBride helps customer Christina Catalan of See FLEET FEET / Page 6 Bloomington try on a pair of Mizuno shoes.

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We promise to partner with you to help you manage your growing business.

Whether you’re considering your first business account, a loan to expand or developing a strong succession plan, we’ll build a relationship with you, so you don’t have to handle these difficult financial decisions alone.

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Business bio

FLEET FEET sports

business since Fleet Feet has opened? What’s the most difficult part of being a small business owner?

The most rewarding?

FLEET FEET FROM page 5

My favorite part of our business is our training programs — we get to meet great people and watch them do amazing things.

All year long we offer training programs for people that want to compete in a 5K, 10K, or half-marathon. Our programs are for both beginners wanting to complete the distance for the first time, and intermediates who want to run the distance faster than a previous performance.

We have a wide range of abilities, including many runners who run an 11to 15-minute per-mile pace. We could not put on our programs without our amazing volunteer mentors — people who want to give back to the sport and help others accomplish goals that they have already accomplished.

Is it harder for people to exercise in the winter months when it’s colder?

Do you have any tips to help people stay active?

It’s mentally tougher for people to get out the door when it’s cold and dark. With the right cold weather apparel (tights, jacket, hat) and gear (reflective lights and a headlamp) and a certain amount of caution on snowy days, it can be done.

What’s most important is that people make it happen — indoors or out. I highly recommend people find a group to help keep them motivated in the winter — accountability is one of the keys to success.

Most of the local gyms offer group training and fitness classes — find a class that will work for you and make it a part of your weekly routine.

Do you see more people in the store at the beginning of the year, when people often make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight or exercise more?

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

The exterior of Fleet Feet Sports in Bloomington.

We’ll see a small increase in customers, but not as many as I would hope. I think people are excited about new workout routines, but they don’t always assess their closet to make sure they have the right equipment to be successful (like new shoes or a sports bra). A lot of our business occurs outside the walls of the store: we start three training programs in January and February so we can help support people trying to be healthier in the New Year.

What kind of advice do you have for people just beginning a fitness routine?

We see lots of beginners in our programs, and it can be tough in the beginning. It’s going to be hard, you might want to give up, but in the end it will be worth it. Find a group to help keep you accountable, and always remember that everyone was a beginner at one point. Don’t compare yourself to others in the group. They might make it look easy, but it was tough for them once, too.

What have you learned about owning a

Hands down the most rewarding part of our business is seeing people setting and accomplishing goals. People who couldn’t run one mile turn into marathoners.

What’s also been very rewarding is meeting so many new people that share our passion and are excited about running and being active.

One of the most difficult parts is trying to be competitive business in our current marketplace. While Fleet Feet Sports is a national franchise with over 135 stores, all stores are locally owned and operated. We are very much a small family business, and often we can’t compete in price with the discount online retailers.

We counter that by offering an exceptional customer experience. We take our customers through a FIT process in which our FIT Specialists assess their needs and make individualized recommendations.

We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service that you can’t get online or at a big box retailer.

Tell us something most people don’t know about your business.

People walk into our store and say “I’m not a runner.” People think you have to be a runner to shop with us. We love making everyone’s feet comfortable. Whether you’re new to running or a veteran, we can help you (with shoes or a training program).

If you have a job where you work on your feet all day, we can help you (with comfortable shoes, socks and insoles). If you have an ache or pain from another sport, we can help you (with injury prevention and recovery products).

Our manifesto states that we are not a shoe store, we’re a starting point. And we want to be with our customers all the way through to the finish line.

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1/22/2015 12:15:17 PM

On the cover

Getting healthy together

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Deb Nagle, 62, works hard on bicep curls, as personal trainer Russ Brooks adds resistance, during her training session at Gold’s Gym in Bloomington on Jan. 8.

Getting healthy together

60-something married couple sets example, returns to fitness Paul Swiech pswiech@pantagraph.com‌

‌BLOOMINGTON — When a serious and extended illness left Deb Nagle so weak a year ago that she couldn’t lift one of her grandchildren, she was devastated.

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When her husband, Dave Nagle, went to their garage to move something at about the same time and found it heavier than before, he was disappointed.

“I wasn’t strong anymore,” the 67-yearold Bloomington man concluded.

But the Nagles decided that they didn’t want to be weak.

They began an exercise program that they believe has turned their life around and that they hope inspires other aging Baby Boomers.

“If I can do it, considering how weak I was, everybody can do it,” said Deb, 62.

Furthermore, the Nagles — unlike most couples — frequently exercise together, proving that husbands and wives can work out together and still speak with each other afterward.

“We’re married,” Dave said. “We support each other like that.”

“We encourage each other,” Deb said.

See healthy/ Page 10

February 7 BNinc.

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REDUCED

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9 Westport

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1 Unit Office/Investment Larry Hundman

4,095 Sq. Ft. Retail/Office Gary Trembley

3,500 Sq. Ft. Restaurant/Bar Darren Sheehan

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No warranties or representation, express or implied, is made as to the AccurAcy of the information contained herein, and same is submitted subject to errors, omissions, change of price, withdrawal without notice, and to any special listing conditions imposed by our principals.

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REDUCED

© Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. Coldwell Banker Commercial® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An Equal Opportunity Company. EAch Office is Independently Owned and Operated Except Offices Owned and Operated by NRT Inc.

1/23/2015 9:39:25 AM

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401 E. Monroe, BL

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2444 S. Main

707 N. East St.

139 N. Williamsburg

600-1,000 sq. ft.

Office Yount/Pritts Team

2,720 Sq. Ft. Office Yount/Pritts Team

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ADDRESS

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LAND FOR SALE SIZE

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No warranties or representation, express or implied, is made as to the accuracy of the information contained herein, and same is submitted subject to errors, omissions, change of price, withdrawal without notice, and to any special listing conditions imposed by our principals. © Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. Coldwell Banker Commercial® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An Equal Opportunity Company. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated Except Offices Owned and Operated by NRT Inc.

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1/23/2015 9:39:20 AM

On the cover

Getting healthy together

healthy

FROM page 7

By exercising together — or by doing the same exercises but at different times — they understand what the other person is referencing and offer support and advice.

“It gives us something else to talk about,” Deb said.

The Nagle’s story may resonate not only with Baby Boomers but anyone who wants to return to fitness but isn’t sure what to do, said personal trainer Russ Brooks of Gold’s Gym. “A trainer can help people,” Brooks said.

“We listen and develop programs to help people to reach their goals.”

The Nagles have been married for 27 years, have four adult sons between them and seven grandchildren. Dave is a sales representative for Lawson Products and Deb is retired from State Farm.

In early 2014, Dave, then 66, was feeling weak, complicated by arthritis in his right hand and osteoarthritis in his right knee.

Deb’s condition was more severe. A serious illness included two surgeries and 12 days in a hospital intensive care unit and left Deb so weak that she couldn’t lift more than 10 pounds.

As a gift to one of their sons, they signed him up for Paul’s Boot Camp, a class created and led at Gold’s Gym by Paul Hursey III. The Nagles described the boot camp as a one-hour, three-times-a-week class of body weight, resistance band and barbell exercises that keep participants’ heart rates up because they are continually moving.

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STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Gold’s Gym personal trailer Russ Brooks adds resistance to a dumbbell incline fly with client Dave Nagle, 67, during a session at Gold’s Gym. “It’s light weight but high reps so you Brooks tried to develop a program to turn burn more calories,” Brooks said. the Nagle’s weaknesses into strengths.

The Nagles decided to try the boot camp Generally speaking, older adults should for themselves. work on their core strength, balance and “It comes down to how you want to live flexibility to reduce their risk of falls, so your life,” Deb said. “I didn’t want to be on See healthy / Page 11 the couch. I didn’t want all those health problems. I was ready to fight it.”

They decided to do it together.

Willow Gramm “We’ve always done things together,” Broker Deb said. “We support each other and help 309.824.5703 willowgramm@remax.net to hold each other accountable.” www.willowgramm.remaxagent.com Deb was so out of condition that she had to walk out of her first boot camp session last March to catch her breath.

In April, the Nagles added to their boot camp routine two personal training sesEach Office Independently Owned and Operated. sions a week with Brooks.

MIKE FLYNN

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL HEART OF AMERICA REALTORS EMAIL: mflynn@cbhoa.com PHONE: 309.662.2124 BROKER – LAWYER – REALTOR® 40 YEARS SERVING McLEAN COUNTY

Valerie Curry

BROKER / REALTOR® Snyder Real Estate #1 Brickyard Drive Bloomington, IL 61701 Mobile: 309-319-0565 Fax 309-663-1380 vrcurry@aol.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affilates, LLC

See healthy/ Page 10

February http://pantagraph.com/bninc

1/22/2015 12:15:05 PM

On the cover

Getting healthy together

healthy

FROM page 10

Brooks makes sure that each training sessions has exercises to work the mid-section and balance and stretching afterward to improve flexibility.

Specifically, Dave wanted to improve his grip and hand strength to offset the arthritis in his hand, so Brooks has him do a plate pinch, which means he holds 25 pounds of weights in each hand for about a minute.

“That works the forearms and finger strength, which helps when opening medicine bottles,” Brooks said.

Unlike in the boot camp when they are exercising side by side, they don’t work out side by side during their personal training sessions. That’s because each of them wants a true personal training session and changing the weights for each person would result in annoying delays.

But their training sessions are one after the other, meaning they can compare notes on their workouts on the way home.

The two personal training sessions combined each week work the entire body.

For example, their Jan. 8 session began with a cardiovascular warm-up and then included battle ropes, walking with kettle bells, dumbbell lateral raises, incline fly, plate-loaded shoulder press, renegade rows (getting into a pushup position and then lifting weights with each hand), chest press, biceps curls with resistance and triceps.

Dave also used a cardio rower and planks — part of the time with a 45-pound weight

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STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Brooks walks down stairs with client Dave Nagle during his training session at Gold’s. on his back.

Each session ended with stretching.

Their other workout that week worked their lower body.

“I’m trying to help them to build muscle and to help them to remain functional with daily activities,” Brooks said.

“I’m a lot stronger than I was,” Deb said.

“I have more energy. It helps me to feel better and do better everyday.

Deb said her hip pain has subsided, she is eating better and her recollection has improved because both of them are sleeping better.

Both Dave and Deb have lost weight and inches, their cholesterol levels and blood pressure are down and Deb is off her cholesterol medicine.

“They’ve improved a lot,” Brooks said.

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But just as important to the Nagles as their health improvements is that they have a new circle of friends.

“The camaraderie here (at Gold’s Gym) is wonderful,” Dave said. “We’re the oldest people in Paul’s Boot Camp and we’ve been accepted.” They even have joined other gym members and trainers at parties.

Brooks suggested that Baby Boomers considering resuming exercise first meet with a personal trainer who can help them to develop an exercise program that can help them to realize their goals safely.

“People think ‘I’m 50, I can’t do it’ or ‘I’m too out of shape,’” Deb said.

“Well, I was out of shape. When I see how much this has helped me, I know it can help others. It’s never too late to start.”

Belinda Trunell 309.287.6105 belindatrunell@remax.net

Decker

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February 11 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

1/23/2015 9:39:17 AM

Human Resources Richard Galbreath

is the founder and president of Performance Growth Partners, inc., a full service organizational development firm. Contact him via email at rick@performtogrow.com.

What’s wellness got to do with it? ‌The primary focus of medical insurance has traditionally been helping pay for the treatment of sickness. Very little effort has been expended, until relatively recently, by insurers and employers to help employees be healthier. As a result, many industry pundits have begun calling medical insurance sickcare.

Sickcare costs continue to climb. It is the rare organization that isn’t struggling with how to fund this ever-increasing burden. As a result, most companies are asking their employees to pay more of the cost of sickcare by increasing premiums, co-pays, out-of-pocket maximums and deductibles.

Deductibles on company offered health plans have increased approximately 47 percent since 2009 and are likely to continue to increase. The government’s healthcare exchanges also have high deductibles. The average “silver” level plan in 2015 will have a $2,927 deductible for individual coverage; $5,187 for a “bronze” level plan.

As a result, many employees are shopping around for needed medical care.

Unfortunately, one in three people is also putting off needed medical treatment, sometimes causing higher costs and more suffering longer-term.

This appears to be a train wreck in progress. We are getting older as a nation, sickcare costs continue to increase, employees are paying more than ever and, as a result, many are delaying needed care. These delays may actually make the cost spiral worse. So much for sickcare. It

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just isn’t enough anymore.

Smart companies know that for every dollar spent on prescriptions and medical claims, they spend $3 due to productivity loss.

Absenteeism is a highly visible cost to every business. It is very expensive to provide excellent customer service when your day-to-day staffing levels aren’t optimal. Additional staffing, overtime, administrative costs and more add up quickly.

While absenteeism is the most visible, it isn’t the largest contributor to lost productivity; presenteeism is. Presenteeism occurs when employees come to work but they aren’t feeling their best. When you aren’t feeling your best, it is hard to be as productive as you normally are. Estimates indicate that presenteeism costs U.S. employers about $150 billion annually; about 71 percent of the total cost of lost productivity.

What can you do?‌ The government’s healthcare exchanges will charge those who don’t use tobacco products significantly less premium than those who do use tobacco. Many companies have started to encourage their employees to make better lifestyle choices by offering “preferred” rates to those who take an online health assessment, participate in wellness activities or don’t smoke.

These changes are a good start but they aren’t enough to significantly reduce overall illness related costs. To do that, many forward thinking companies have

become more actively involved in broad based health initiatives aimed at helping employees improve their health.

Because they want their employees to enjoy healthier lives and are committed to ensuring each customer gets the absolute best service available, The Snyder Companies launched a major wellness initiative last year. The program includes health fairs, fitness programs (including training on exercise, nutrition, discounts on personal fitness programs), group challenges and many other components.

According to Laine Sylvester, HR manager of The Snyder Companies, “employees really like the program. We all know that we can do more to promote our own health and the group nature of this program encourages people to participate.

We are spending a little money to promote wellness but, in the long run, we believe this initiative will have a very positive return on investment.”

You don’t have to do this alone. Contact your health insurance carrier and ask what they will do to assist you in promoting wellness. Fitness Quest, one of The Snyder Companies’ wellness program providers, and many other local businesses will be able to offer counsel, products and services to support your initiative. Consider banding together with other employers to share wellness resources, knowledge and costs.

The cost of sickcare won’t go away but you can reduce the total cost of sickness by actively promoting your employee’s health.

February http://pantagraph.com/bninc

1/22/2015 12:14:58 PM

Workplace Health Toni Bishop-McWain

Bishop-McWain, RN, MSN, is the cardiovascular service line leader at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington and at OSF Saint James – John W. Albrecht Medical Center in Pontiac. Toni is certified in critical care and neuroscience.

Stress and your health: Five ways to cope ‌You undoubtedly face multiple stressors each day, such as taking care of a family, tackling a huge workload or just trying to make ends meet. Each one may be a minor inconvenience on its own, but combined, you may feel as if the walls are caving in.

Stress and your health

Too much stress over an extended period of time is bad for your health.

When we experience stress, our bodies respond by producing adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline elevates blood pressure, increases your heart rate, and boosts energy. Cortisol, a stress hormone, alters immune system responses and suppresses the digestive system. Cortisol also affects the regions of your brain that controls fear, motivation and mood.

When our body is constantly exposed to these hormones, it can lead to a variety of health problems such as anxiety, depression, digestive problems, sleep problems, weight gain and memory impairment.

Stress and your heart

Long-term stress is also bad for your heart.

Individuals who are often stressed are more likely to have heart disease, chest pain, high blood pressure, or irregular heartbeats. Studies also link stress to changes in the way blood clots, which increases the chance of having a heart attack.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans. It is important to gain control of your stress before it gains control of you. However, research also

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Decreasing your stress is important for your heart and

for your overall health. Learning how to manage your stress levels in a healthy way will give you peace of mind, and perhaps, a longer, healthier life.

shows the way in which people cope with stress may just make matters worse.

Coping with stress

Do you find yourself eating to calm down? Or perhaps you procrastinate or have a hard time concentrating on any one thing. Others turn to alcohol or smoking to help relieve stress.

If you respond to stress in an unhealthy way, this can make matters even worse.

Next time you feel stressed, instead of turning to unhealthy habits to cope, try these healthy ones!

1. Be active. Exercising releases those feel-good hormones, endorphins. Go to the gym, take a walk, or simply take the stairs at work. All of these can help relieve your stress and make you feel better instantly.

2. Maintain a positive attitude. Stress can put you in a bad mood or even lead to depression. When you feel yourself getting down from high stress levels, call up an old friend or turn on your favorite movie. A positive attitude can go a long way!

3. Don’t turn to alcohol, caffeine, or cigarettes. The effects of these drugs on your system can worsen the effects of stress. These habits can increase your blood pressure and may damage artery walls.

4. Make a checklist. Stress can cause a person to procrastinate, try to do too

many things at once, or impair one’s concentration. When feeling stressed because you have too many things going on, make a prioritized checklist and tackle one task at a time.

5. Enjoy a healthy diet. Many people turn to food when they are feeling stressed. This can lead to weight gain, which is a whole other stressor in itself. It is important to maintain a healthy weight to keep stress levels low. In addition, fruits and vegetables have lots of crucial vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling good.

Decreasing your stress is important for your heart and for your overall health. Learning how to manage your stress levels in a healthy way will give you peace of mind, and perhaps, a longer, healthier life.

The Center for Healthy Lifestyles at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center offers a “Stress Less for Success” course to help you learn to cope with your personal stressors. Please visit osfstjoseph.org/calendar to register, or call (309) 661-5151 for more information.

To learn more about the Cardiovascular Services available at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, please visit osfstjoseph. org/services/cardiovascular.

February 13 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

1/22/2015 12:14:57 PM

Tourism

crystal howard

is the director of the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. She can be reached at crystal@visitbn.org.

Tourism — the hidden job generator Tourism is Illinois’ hidden revenue and jobs generator. The travel industry has been important to the Illinois economy due to the large number of businesses and jobs supported by it. These jobs include a large number of executive and managerial positions, as well as service-oriented occupations.

The research provided by the Illinois Bureau of Tourism and the research department of the U.S. Travel Association indicates in their 2013 report, domestic and international visitor direct spending in Illinois generated 301,100 jobs. This employment included full-time and seasonal part-time positions in the state.

This reflects a 0.8 percent increase from the previous year.

Domestic visitor spending supported 277,400 jobs and international visitor spending supported 23,700 jobs. These 301,100 travel-supported jobs composed 5.2 percent of total non-agricultural employment in Illinois.

Tourism generated payroll reached $9.2 billion. The food service sector, including restaurants and other eating and drinking places, provided more employment than any other industry sector, accounting for 119,500 jobs.

The large amount of visitor expenditures spent on food service contributed to the high level of employment in this sector.

Public transportation was the second

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State tax receipts related to travel were $24 million and local tax receipts were at $5.75 million. The average rate of return on investment that Illinois tourism generates is $6. In Bloomington-Normal the return on investment is $8.24 for every dollar the city of Bloomington and the town of Normal invest in the BloomingtonNormal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. largest sector to provide employment, generating 75,200 jobs. Travel generated employment in Illinois includes 39.7 percent in food service, 28.8 percent in public and auto transportation, 13.7 percent in lodging, 10.4 percent with entertainment and recreation and 7.3 percent in general retail trade.

Tourism in McLean County also generates significant revenue and employment. Visitor expenditures in 2013 in McLean County were $352.81 million.

According to the Illinois Bureau of Tourism and the U.S. Travel Association, tourism generated payroll was $63.04 million and more than 2,730 were employed in one of the listed above travel industry sectors.

State tax receipts related to travel were $24 million and local tax receipts were at $5.75 million. The average rate of return on investment that Illinois tourism generates is $6. In Bloomington-Normal the return on investment is

$8.24 for every dollar the city of Bloomington and the town of Normal invest in the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

We have a wealth of contributors to the economic impact of tourism and the jobs generated in McLean County.

Our top contributors include: the city of Bloomington; the town of Normal; State Farm; Illinois State University; Country Financial; Advocate Bromenn Medical Center; Mitsubishi Motors North America; our attractions; bars; restaurants and hotels.

Tourism is a reliable source of revenue, an employer hiring all levels of education, both part-time and fulltime, and a necessity for the economic development of McLean County. For more information on the economic impact of tourism and the jobs generated, contact the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.visitbn.org or 309-665-0033.

February http://pantagraph.com/bninc

1/22/2015 12:14:56 PM

News in brief Business developments‌

Historic warehouse torn down‌ BLOOMINGTON — Kirk C&D Recycling began tearing down a downtown warehouse at 407 S. Main St. because owners Tom and Tim Kirk feared the 121year old building would collapse.

They worried it would end up like the three-story brick building at 317 S. Center St., which collapsed in July 2011, damaging the Center Stret bridge and injuring one person.

The building was constructed in 1893 and first housed Harber Bros. Co. of Bloomington, which manufactured carriages, wagons, buggies, bicycles and farm machinery until 1907.

The Kirks purchased the building four years ago from Nancy Cruse, widow of Recycled Office Furniture owner Tom Cruse, who operated his business out of the warehouse for about seven years prior to his death in December 2009.

Government/taxes‌

Contractor hired for senior center remodel‌ NORMAL — The Normal Township board of trustees approved a low bid from Tarter Construction of Bloomington to remodel the former Illinois State University Rec Center at Beech and Willow streets for the new township Senior Center.

Tarter was one of six companies submitting bids for the project, said Rich Farr, township supervisor. The company’s bid was just over $3.84 million.

Among the items expected in the remodel are a new driveway that will exit onto Beech Street, new insulation and a new roof. A variety of activity rooms are planned, including a computer lab; an exercise room with lockers and showers across the hall; a library; a dining room; a game room and gymnasium; an arts and crafts room; and separate rooms for billiards and card playing.

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Farr said the contract calls for the project to be completed in November.

City sees shortfall in solid waste budget ‌ BLOOMINGTON — The city of Bloomington is anticipating a $2.3 million shortfall in its solid waste program despite higher fees that took effect in May. With the higher monthly fees, the city expected to see a corresponding decrease in general fund tax support to operate the service.

But revenue from the program for fiscal year 2015 is projected at nearly $5.5 million while expenses are projected to be $7.8 million, resulting in the $2.3 million shortfall, Public Works Director Jim Karch has told the City Council.

The unexpected shortfall is largely due to the city’s three-tiered fee system based on the size of garbage carts, Karch said.

City predicts shortfall in its general fund BLOOMINGTON — The city of Bloomington is projecting ending this fiscal year on March 31 with possibly a $2.1 million deficit in its general fund, Finance Director Patti-Lynn Silva told the City Council.

The fiscal 2015 budget called for $92.4 million in revenue and $91.8 million in spending, but now those figures are projected to be $91 million and $93.1 million, respectively. A plan for closing the gap already is in place, she said.

Sales tax revenue is running 3 percent to 4 percent behind this time last year.

The city’s share of state income tax also is trending down at 4 percent.

Bloomington library circulation at maximum‌ BLOOMINGTON — Nearly 1.5 million items were borrowed from the Bloomington Public Library in the past year.

That’s up 112 percent over the number of items borrowed in fiscal year 2005, library Director Georgia Bouda told the City Council while recapping the library’s activities during fiscal year 2014 that ended April 30.

“We are going to settle into that 1.5 million (figure) because we own about 300,000 items in our building and we really don’t have room for any more,” Bouda said. “You can only get only so much turnover out of so much stuff, so I think we have kind of hit our max from where we are without some significant change.”

Over those 10 years, the library’s cost per circulated item decreased from $6.06 to $3.49 during fiscal year 2014, or a savings of $2.57 per circulated item, she said.

Costigan takes Robb’s seat on bench‌ BLOOMINGTON — Associate Judge J. Casey Costigan was named an at-large circuit judge Dec. 12 to fill a vacancy created by the Dec. 31 retirement of Chief Judge Elizabeth Robb.

Costigan, 48, was appointed associate judge in 2006, serving two years in the family division and then six years hearing criminal matters. He was reappointed associate judge in 2007 and 2011.

The 11th Judicial Circuit covers McLean, Woodford, Ford, Logan and Woodford counties.

The newly appointed circuit judge is a Bloomington native and attended Central Catholic High School.

Drowning prompts safety steps at boat ramp‌ BLOOMINGTON — McLean County officials expect new work at a ramp at Evergreen Lake will prevent tragedies similar to one in November when an elderly woman drove into the lake and drowned.

Signs, the removal of pavement and the rerouting of traffic hopefully will prevent any future mishaps, said McLean County Parks Director Mike Steffa.

Crews tore up the pavement, installed two new warning signs — a large white sign announcing the road ends that is above a brown sign redirecting boat launch traffic to the parking lot entrance.

February 15 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

1/22/2015 12:14:55 PM

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Retail, Office, Land, Lease Space, Investment & Multi-Family

3808 Ballybunion, BL $896,026

REDUCED

Mixed use subdivision, surrounding area - Medical, Retail, Office, Restaurants, Golf Course, Driving Range, Child Care, Financial Services and Residential. 2.42 Acres/348’ Frontage on Ireland Grove Streets on 3 sides/corner lot Ready to Build/B-1 Zoning.

Great Exposure

Mike Flynn

Broker, Lawyer, ReaLtoR® 309-662-2124 mflynn@cbhoa.com

Unique multi-use property in South Bloomington on nearly 20 acres with three stocked lakes.

Would be great for company retreat or conservation & recreation club. Outdoor canopy for activities. Two bedroom caretaker’s home. Large hall with kitchen for events. All kitchen appliances remain. Two baths with multiple stalls. Four car garage.

Ed Larsen (309) 275-3545 www.edlarsensells.com

18845 State HWY 54, Dewitt • $80,000

Jessica Devore GRI, SFR, ePRO Managing Broker/Owner 217-201-8132 www.greenacresrealestate.biz

• 700 sq. ft – 10,000 sq. ft • Retail/Office Spaces • Warehouse Space • High Traffic Areas

Managing Broker • (309) 454-4888 tom@redbirdapts.com 200 N. Linden Normal, IL 61761

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Mike Flynn

Broker, Lawyer, ReaLtoR® 309-662-2124 mflynn@cbhoa.com

Ol’ Joe’s Live Bait & Tackle is a Turn Key Business Opportunity. You can open the doors for business Day of Closing. Everything comes with this property: land, building, business, inventory...down to the cash in the register. Ol Joe is retiring and looking for a motivated entrepreneur to take over his successful tackle and bait shop. Also included are two bait & one tackle vending machines, Inventory valued at $12k+, all shelving, peg boards, new minnow tanks & water chiller. Building is only 3 years old!

Jessica Devore GRI, SFR, ePRO Managing Broker/Owner 217-201-8132 www.greenacresrealestate.biz

604 W Side Square, Clinton • $73,900

Commercial Leasing

Tom O’Rourke

Multi use, flex, office, warehouse, Production-Assembly & storage. Newer spacious office addition. East wing-2 story, Heat, A/C, restrooms on both floors, Lift. Warehouse has 1 dock & 1 drive in door, 14’ clearance. Existing business to relocate. 31,720 Sq. Ft. Office, 9,520 Sq. Ft. Warehouse, 7,380 Sq. Ft. and Production area, 7,380 Sq. Ft. 50 parking spaces. Easy access to all interstate highways. Under appraisal.

18843 State HWY 54, Dewitt • $160,000

2100 Bunn Street, BL $550,000

Wonderful opportunity to have a restaurant and/or convenience store located right on Route 54 in close proximity to Clinton Power Station as well as Clinton Lake and Mascoutin State Park. High traffic area due to it being the main route between Clinton and Farmer City offers the new owners highway visibility and exposure. All equipment that you see stays. Upstairs offers another income opportunity with an unfinished 2 bed, full bath apt with elec.

1833 W. Hovey, NL $875,000

Historical building on the Clinton Square features two commercial spaces that can be one or two separate businesses you choose!

Income is also generated from the three apartments that are located above the retail space. Apartments that are included are a one bedroom efficiency, a one bedroom apt and a two bedroom apt and are all fully occupied. One meter runs the whole building currently but could easily be separated.

Each apt comes with the appliances that are there. Priced to sell..call for a private tour

Jessica Devore GRI, SFR, ePRO Managing Broker/Owner 217-201-8132 www.greenacresrealestate.biz

SEE ONE OF THESE REALTORS FOR ALL YOUR COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE NEEDS! ®

1/23/2015 9:39:13 AM