A publication of
MAY 2013
Leading the way
Profiles of Columbus businesswomen
Contents Women in Leadership
Lisa Hurley page 4
Lisa Westenberger page 6
Jan HexamerGardner page 8
Also inside
Chamber Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Around the Watercooler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Morton Marcus column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark McNulty column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . On the Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Business Leads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Business Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paula EllerHartwell page 10
2 The Business Connection MAY 2013
Lynn Lucas page 14
12 16 18 19 20 22 22
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MAY 2013 The Business Connection 3
Women in leadership This month, in what we hope will become an annual feature, The Business Connection highlights five women in leadership positions in the local business community. In the pages that follow, Paula Hartwell, Jan Hexamer-Gardner, Lisa Hurley, Lynn Lucas and Lisa Westenberger discuss their career paths, plus the changing landscape in business and how perceptions of women as leaders have changed. They also offer advice for aspiring female business leaders. photos by Mark Freeland
Lisa Hurley Job title: President Company name: Renner Motors Company address: 3055 Central Ave. Family: Parents: Keith and Sharon Renner; husband, Brad; daughter, Tori Anderson, 24; son, Jackson, 10. Education background: 1980 graduate of Columbus East; 1984 graduate of Indiana University Bloomington; 1986 graduate of National Automobile Dealers Association Dealer Candidate Academy, McLean, Va.; Executive MBA from Babson College, Boston, 2009. Employment background: 1984 business manager former Bob Powers Toyota Indy; 1985 sales associate former Rod Burt Buick Fishers; 1986 started in sales at our current corporation founded in 1948 DBA Mahan Motors, which transitioned over the years to Mahan-Renner and finally becoming Renner Motors in late 1986. I have had several job functions in every department in the dealership over the years. I became president of the corporation in 1996 when purchasing it from my father. What do you like most about your job or career field?
The automotive business is constantly changing. Each day brings new challenges and new opportunities. A car dealership has several departments within itself that all operate uniquely, making each day interesting. I truly enjoy getting to meet new customers and catching up with longtime customers when they come in for service or to buy another vehicle.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
The dynamics of balancing various requirements from Ford and Honda, increasing and ever-changing federal regulations and an economy that fluctuates constantly are always a challenge.
How would you characterize your leadership philosophy or style?
Some days I would have to say organized chaos! I was fortunate enough to have two incredible mentors who had different leadership styles. Our founder, Robert Mahan, was a Harvard man who approached everything very analytically, thought everything through
see Hurley on page 5 4 The Business Connection MAY 2013
Hurley continued from page 4 and charted it all out. My father, Keith, grew up a poor farmer during the Depression. He worked hard, he was (and still is) a people person. He was willing to do whatever it took to get the job done. He had a great common-sense approach, what is fair and best for all involved. He could make a decision on the spot when needed. I would like to think my style is a combination of their leadership styles, depending on whether I am facing a process issue or an issue involving people.
What leader do you most admire or try to emulate? Why?
I would have to say the leader I admire most is my father, Keith. He was a wonderful leader of our family growing up. He was always loving, but was not hesitant to give any of us kids a kick in the rear when needed. We were always taught to do our best, give it our all. He was a great leader as a boss as well. I learned a great deal over the years by watching how he would handle certain situations with customers, employees, factory reps and our vendors. His loyalty and devotion to his former employer, Mr. Mahan, his employees, his family, and his friends are unmatched. I was blessed with the opportunity to have a father who was also my business partner and best friend.
Has the perception of women in leadership roles in business changed in the last 20 years? If so, how?
The perception of women in leadership roles has definitely changed in the automotive business over the past 20 years. When I started in this business, women were typically only in the offices at dealerships. I would be the only female at nearly every franchise meeting. The Ford and Honda representatives who called on the dealership were most always men. Over the years more women are involved in every aspect at both the dealership levels and with the manufacturers.
What is your advice to fellow business leaders in these difficult economic times?
Get back to the basics. Revisit your mission statement and review it with your management team. Don’t be afraid to make the tough decisions where needed.
What do you do when you’re not working (hobbies, community involvement, etc.)?
I am a member of First Christian Church. I am in the Columbus Service League, which is a group of remarkable women finding and helping with several needs in the community. I am a member of the Women’s Giving Circle, which again is another wonderful group, and the chamber’s Women’s Professional Development Conference committee (which by the way will be in October this year, so don’t miss it). I am past president of the Indiana Automobile Dealers Association and currently am serving as director at large for the state. I am a member of the Driving Sales Presidents Club. In the past I have been a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, served on the Mill Race fundraising committee and served on the Alzheimer’s advisory board. I enjoy any moments I can capture with my kids. My favorite hobby or leisure activity is to load up my horses and head to Brown County for a day of riding or the entire weekend if possible.
What famous leader, living or dead, would you most like to meet and why?
So many come to mind, but I guess I would answer that with saying Jesus. He served all and led by perfect example. MAY 2013 The Business Connection 5
Women in leadership Lisa Westenberger Job title: The Commons manager Company name: The Commons – Columbus Parks and
Recreation Department
Company address: 300 Washington St. Family: Husband, David Westenberger; sons, Tucker Lang, 19, Will Westenberger, 15, Ben Westenberger, 14; daughters, Hayden Lang, 16, Addison Lang, 14. Education background: B.A. from Butler University Employment background: Throughout my career, I have leveraged my public and corporate communication degree to develop and implement a broad scope of community and economic development projects and programs. These projects have ranged from downtown revitalization, small business loan programs and People Trail projects to capital campaigns and fundraising events, but the element that has remained constant is my passion for relationship building and resource development. Starting my career in sales and marketing, with the Columbus and Brown County Convention and Visitors Bureau, gave me the opportunity to see the importance of building strong relationships in order to make progress. This quickly led to senior positions in development for Foundation for Youth and Turning Point Domestic Violence Services, where I identified potential funders and cultivated relationships with donors. It was these roles that helped me to see that beyond building relationships and securing funding, I wanted something more. I saw myself developing projects from the ground up and bringing them to fruition. My role with Administrative Resources Association, an organization that provides community and economic development services across southern Indiana, made this a reality. In particular as the manager of municipal programs, I spent eight years making a visible difference in the communities where I worked, as well as developing my own leadership capabilities. It was thrilling to bring together teams, from mayors and government officials to business leaders and community members, to create projects that significantly impacted communities. As exciting as it was to make a difference in these communities, I often wondered what it would be like to return to making a difference in my own community. When the chance to manage The Commons, the place I consider the “heart of downtown,” became available, I jumped at the opportunity. My passion for downtown Columbus started at an early age. My father owned a business in downtown Columbus for over 25 years, and I spent countless days walking downtown with my father to various businesses while thinking, “He must know everyone.” I knew that when I grew up, I, too, wanted to be a part of this special place. What do you like most about your job or career field?
Working with and through others has been the best part of my career. In community development work, you have the opportunity to interact with a myriad of people and organizations with the focus on making things better. I love taking an idea, bringing committed 6 The Business Connection MAY 2013
people together and developing a project to completion. The ability to give back to not only my community but many others has been very fulfilling and continues to drive me as I further develop my career.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
With any community icon, there comes a plethora of voices that want to define operation and purpose. The Commons is no different. It is the heart of downtown Columbus, and it is a magical place for young and old. As a liaison between community partners, businesses and residents, I work to inspire and serve the community in a way that allows us to hold on to cherished memories, while growing into the future. Some would call The Commons “the community’s living room,” and as such, I take the job of opening our living room to one and all seriously. This is what contributes to the delicate balancing act my team and I perform each day. We need to ensure the Commons space is open to the public, while at the same time it generates sufficient revenue to be sustainable. Striving to fulfill the community’s vision of The Commons is not always easy, and it is especially hard with a community as involved as Columbus. People here are vocal and engaged, which is a community organizer’s dream. I welcome the challenge to hear these voices, as it confirms that the community truly cares about this vital landmark.
How would you characterize your leadership philosophy or style?
Regardless of the formal role I play in any organization, one
see Westenberger on page 7
Westenberger continued from page 6 constant is my interest and ability to bring people together around an idea and see it through to implementation. In my opinion, part of what makes this possible is inclusion — making sure that all sides are heard — which isn’t always easy with the political adversity that surrounds most community projects. However, I see the tremendous value in finding the benefit for all involved to enable my teams to devise the best solution. The atmosphere of building up and helping others to see the positive are welcoming challenges to me. As such, I spend a lot of time listening to important input and using that to guide us to a solution. Recently, I read the book “Multipliers,” by Liz Wiseman, and it had a profound impact on me and my leadership style. “Multipliers” contrasts two types of leaders, one who amplifies intelligence and another who drains intelligence. While I don’t position myself in either of these extremes, the idea of “accidentally diminishing” resonated with me. The Accidental Diminisher is the leader who, despite the very best of intentions, shuts down or stifles the intelligence of her staff. As I considered this idea, I came to find I often play the role of “rescuer,” where I am eager to jump in and help out a situation. What I learned was that rather than helping my team, I was actually shutting them down by solving their problems and starving them of the learning opportunities necessary to grow and develop. A leader has the ability to build people up and encourage them (multiplier) or to suck the life out of them (diminisher). I’ll share my favorite quote from the book, which comes from Bono, “It has been said that after meeting the great British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone, you left feeling he was the smartest person in the world, but after meeting with his rival Benjamin Disraeli, you left thinking you were the smartest person.” This is the philosophy in which I try to lead. I believe everyone’s input is valuable and should be heard, and they should feel they bring an important piece to the puzzle.
What leader do you most admire or try to emulate? Why?
I have had the opportunity to work with a lot of amazing leaders. Working in numerous cities, developing community and economic development projects, has afforded me the chance to learn how to bring everyone around the table to make projects happen. These leaders have a passion and a drive to make their communities the best. This passion and drive are what motivates me to continue to want to make a positive impact in any job that I hold. I want to be a leader that makes a difference. From my husband to my parents, I have had a lot of great leaders in my life that have taught me that perseverance can result in great accomplishments.
Has the perception of women in leadership roles in business changed in the last 20 years? If so, how?
I believe great strides have been made in the last few decades when it comes to not only women in the workplace, but families in the workplace. The advancement of technology has afforded families more opportunities to have two income households. The flexibility of the workplace gives people the ability to work from remote locations, or late at night when the kids are asleep. It has totally changed the work environment allowing women to not only have a career, but also to be able to meet the needs of their children.
What is your advice to fellow business leaders in these difficult economic times?
I believe that regardless of the tough economic times, you still have to persevere. Yes, you might have to scale down projects or work with fewer resources, but anything can get accomplished if you have the drive and passion. And, if you’re leading like a multiplier, you’ll get more out of your resources, not because you just pile on
see Westenberger on page 9
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Women in leadership Jan Hexamer-Gardner Job title: President and co-owner Company name: Century 21 Breeden Realtors Company address: 700 Washington St. Family: Husband, Cliff Gardner, and sister, Marsha Kanable, of Columbus, and a blended family of seven children and their families – Lynn and Jim in Indianapolis, Bill in Nashville, Tenn., Linda and Tom in Philadelphia area, Kristi in Seattle, Larry in Dubai. Education background: Business major, Anderson University. Employment background: 1980 to present: Century 21 Breeden Realtors. I began my real estate career in residential sales, then became a part owner and sales manager in 1985 and co-owner of the company with Mark Pratt in 1998. What do you like most about your career field?
I feel we as a company contribute to the happiness of families, individuals. There is tremendous satisfaction in playing a role in something as important as the basic need for shelter, but we believe by doing our job extremely well, we make a difference in the lives of our clients. Home ownership is a basic need, certainly, but it also brings satisfaction, contentment, pride and a sense of accomplishment – often it’s the realization of a goal; many times a home, its amenities and location provide the opportunity for recreation, hobbies, exercise, entertaining and a gathering place for family occasions, holidays. All of these are important to a happy, satisfying life, and helping the dream become a reality matters. All of these make me very proud to be in real estate.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
We are constantly working to improve, looking for ways to be better in the services we offer and the marketing we do. Selling real estate necessitates exposure of homes to the “ready, willing and able” buyer. We have changed the way in which we conduct our business significantly over the past few years and are constantly looking for new, cutting-edge technology to create even greater exposure for the homes we market. With that said, however, I believe that real estate is personal and while technology is a value added, the value of the agent working tirelessly, evenings and weekends to help a buyer find the right home or help the seller sell their home can never be minimized. We are in a people business where we utilize the best of technology, but we help people and strive to make the real estate experience exceptional. We work very hard to make this happen.
How would you characterize your leadership philosophy or style?
I am a coach. While I no longer sell real estate, I am fully involved through the agents. As their coach, I feel I am ultimately responsible for the training, skills and professionalism of the agents who bear our brand. We equip our team with the latest real estate tools, marketing and then provide support to help with questions that arise and problems that occur. I am a coach, cheerleader, helper, adviser and hopefully make their very important job a little easier by being there for the team with whom I work. 8 The Business Connection MAY 2013
What leader do you most admire or try to emulate? Why?
Of course, there are many leaders whom I greatly admire, but I do not have to look very far to find many women whom I admire for so many different reasons. It would be hard to choose only one. I have selected many role models who influence my life in different ways, some for their careers, but others for their attitude, creativity, community involvement, faith, compassion, many who are outstanding mothers and wives, hostesses and some who have had a very positive impact on the lives of others. I work with many very impressive women and there are also many local women whom I greatly admire, among them: Dede Abts, Mary Lu Orr and Mary Weinland (now deceased). But there are others who fill so many roles, making such huge contributions that I am in awe. I constantly work to learn from all of these women on how to be better and do more.
Has the perception of women in leadership roles in business changed in the last 20 years? If so, how?
The perception of women has changed greatly from what it once was. I believe we are perceived as more valuable in management and our ideas considered to be more worthwhile than they once were. It is now easier to be heard and recognized as a worthwhile contributor and effective leader. It has been a struggle for many women, no doubt, in the workplace, but my own personal struggle, however, has caused me to work harder to achieve, causing me to be a much better me.
What is your advice to fellow business leaders in these difficult economic times?
I believe the best advice to anyone in business involves focus and in difficult times, even greater focus. Very often by keeping one’s eye
see Hexamer-Gardner on page 9
Hexamer-Gardner continued from page 8
Westenberger continued from page 7
on the real objective and working tirelessly to realize the objective, it is possible to reduce or eliminate all that really does not matter, saving energy, time and money.
more work, but rather because you ask them to take on tougher challenges. You have to work harder and tell your story better, but in the end it can be realized. Don’t use the difficult economic times as an excuse, use them as a challenge to make yourself more innovative and resourceful.
What do you do when you’re not working (hobbies, community involvement, etc.)?
First, I would have to admit that I really like working – I love what I do. But there are many other things that bring me pleasure, including the creation of websites, technology, indoor and outdoor gardening, photography and travel. Because I am optimistic and believe in people, my days are usually enjoyable, but I try to incorporate one happy, satisfying event or pleasure into each day. I believe every day must include something that brings fun, happiness or joy (sometimes that one thing is as small as eating jelly beans).
What famous leader, living or dead, would you most like to meet and why?
After growing up in the suburbs of Chicago and going to college and living in Anderson, I moved to Columbus where I eventually started my real estate career. As I became very aware of the benefits of my surroundings, the architecture and the quality of life in Columbus, I realized how very grateful I was to J. Irwin Miller for all that he contributed to Columbus and created in Columbus. While I realize his accomplishments are vast, I believe his vision was responsible for making this city like none other and an oasis in the Midwest. I wish I could have shared with him how very much I appreciate his gift to this city for it has impacted all aspects of my life. This city is another of his magnificent accomplishments, a real masterpiece.
What do you do when you’re not working (hobbies, community involvement, etc.)?
With five children, there is rarely any downtime. Our kids are all very active, and we often do many things as a family, such as biking, sailing, flying, skiing/snowboarding and cooking. We all love to travel, and the entire family recently sailed a 40-foot boat in the British Virgin Islands. I am involved in a variety of community activities. I am co-chairing the Race to Play playground initiative sponsored by the Parks Foundation and am on the programming committee of the Arts District. This past year, as a midweek stress reliever, I joined the Wednesday Night Downtown Road Bikers group, which has also been a great way to meet new people in the community.
What famous leader, living or dead, would you most like to meet and why?
My junior year at Butler, I completed an international marketing class. The last two weeks of the class consisted of an intensive study of Walt Disney World’s marketing strategies. Yes, I am sure the thought of getting credit for playing at Disney World for two weeks crossed my mind when I signed up. However, I was astounded at the
see Westenberger on page 11
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Women in leadership Paula Eller-Hartwell Job title: Manager–municipal programs Company name: Administrative Resources association Company address: 748 Franklin St. Family: I have been blessed with a wonderful son, Noah, who officially became a teenager this year. I also have three dogs and five cats that through the years found refuge in my home. Education background: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from Western Michigan University. Also a certified marketing director, an industry designation earned through International Council of Shopping Centers, and a certified grant administrator, a state designation earned through Indiana Office of Community & Rural Affairs. Employment background: I spent 10 years in retail center management overseeing marketing initiatives for centers in Kalamazoo, Mich.; Jeffersonville, Ohio; Orlando, Fla.; and Edinburgh. Companies include Insignia/ESG, Prime Retail and Simon Property Group–Premium Outlets division. Other experience includes working for Lawton King Fricke & Johnson Advertising Agency, Western Michigan University Athletic Department and Kalamazoo Community College. What do you like most about your job or career field?
As the creative realm of business, marketing has provided me opportunities to be innovative and creative. I thoroughly enjoy developing marketing initiatives and networking. Marketing adds the element of color to the black-and-white world of spreadsheets and number crunching. Most recently though, my position as manager–municipal programs has been personally rewarding. I assist a number of rural communities in southern Indiana as they seek to improve the quality of life for their residents through a number of projects. The projects range from infrastructure, to fire stations and emergency equipment, to historic preservation and comprehensive planning.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
I wouldn’t say I have any challenges to speak of, but rather opportunities. These opportunities have opened doors to new experiences, career development and personal growth. One of the biggest opportunities I believe we all face is keeping up with the ever-evolving world of technology. It’s practically a daily occurrence. From cellphones, to computers … apps to programs … it’s constantly changing. Another would be juggling work and family and finding balance between the two.
How would you characterize your leadership philosophy or style?
Threefold. One is the adage, “Lead by example.” I’d much rather roll up my sleeves and participate. I discovered early in my career that if you’re willing to pitch in, you’re more likely to build 10 The Business Connection MAY 2013
the respect of your team. The second would be empowering and capitalizing on the talents of your team. Encouraging your team to contribute and take ownership produces commitment and buyin. And third, invest in your team, whether through continuing education, a reward system or just letting staff know they are valued and appreciated, which can be a motivator and create allegiance.
What leader do you most admire or try to emulate? Why?
Without question, Zig Ziglar. The one thing I admire most is that he based his life, both professionally and personally, on his Christian values. He was able to successfully blend his personal convictions with his professional career. His use of humor and optimism was contagious. His philosophy was that if you focus on putting others first, you in turn will achieve your goals.
Has the perception of women in leadership roles in business changed in the last 20 years? If so, how?
Most definitely! Years ago, women had to choose between having a career or a family. I will never forget the female partner of an advertising agency I worked for telling me that in order to compete in a “man’s world” you need to be willing to go to great lengths, even if it means lying. Needless to say, I was horrified. Thankfully, that isn’t the world we live in today. In fact, I believe the roles have evolved for both men and women. Today, both are encouraged to balance career with family.
see Eller-Hartwell on page 11
Eller-Hartwell continued from page 10
Westenberger continued from page 9
What is your advice to fellow business leaders in these difficult economic times?
extensive planning and forethought that went into this empire of fun. Just the study of the architecture was amazing. I never realized that the famous Main Street in Magic Kingdom narrows as visitors reach the castle to create the illusion that the street is longer and the castle is farther away. Or that Disney artists used “forced perspective” techniques that included designing three floors of windows for two floors of actual space to make the castle and other buildings appear larger. The thought never crossed my mind that Buzz Lightyear could never be seen walking through Frontierland, or that a visitor would never see delivery trucks in the park. Who knew there was an entire city beneath the park’s surface to facilitate movement of cast members and cargo out of reach of the public’s eye. The design and foresight were mind-boggling. Maybe it was the fact that I always thought Walt Disney looked like my dad, but I have always been intrigued by him. He might not be the first person one might think of as a leading businessman in America because of his product, but I believe Walt Disney was a marketing and public relations genius. He was an extraordinary leader who understood and embraced change. He had a true vision and made customer service and training a top priority in his company. The fact that over 40 years after his death, his company has continued to be a pioneer in the field of animation, confirms he was an innovative leader. Disney said it best, “You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” No matter what direction my career takes me, I know the one common thread is building relationships and making people feel they can make a difference. Walt Disney exemplified this to the fullest.
Remain optimistic and treat your team members as individuals. Create an atmosphere that enables and encourages active participation and ownership. I think we all understand that money isn’t the only form of motivation.
What do you do when you’re not working (hobbies, community involvement, etc.)?
Since 2009, I’ve been an active board member for the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and was honored with being the chairperson in 2012. I’ve also been active with the youth ministries program at my church. I love interior design, DIY projects and landscaping. Most of all though, I enjoy spending time with my son. Whether bike riding, playing a game or just watching a movie, I appreciate every minute I’m blessed with.
What famous leader, living or dead, would you most like to meet and why?
This question has been the most difficult to answer. I attempt to learn or walk away with something from everyone I encounter, whether it is a CEO or a janitor. But to limit it to a famous leader, I’d be more apt to limit it to a type of leader. I admire those who have worked hard for their success without compromising their values ... leaders whose integrity is not questioned. I would love to meet anyone who has used their success to positively impact the world we live in, whether through philanthropy or helping others achieve their dreams.
MAY 2013 The Business Connection 11
chamberc MAY 2013
Get Connected “When we recognize we are in a relationship with our place, we start to treat it differently and we act accordingly. When cities give back to us, even in small ways, they make themselves more lovable. When we connect with our cities on an emotional level, we are more likely to do things, sometimes extraordinary things for our cities.” — Peter Kageyama “For the Love of Cities” I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead your Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce. For more than 25 years, I’ve aspired to make communities better. My meandering career path includes stints as an editor of a business publication, a small-business owner, an economic development agent at the state and local levels, a community development specialist, a community marketer and a corporate communicator. That non-linear path has led me to my new role at the Chamber, an organization that works on behalf of businesses to create a more vibrant place in which to work and thrive. At our annual meeting in late February, Peter Kageyama, author of “For the Love of Cities,” set out to prove a relationship between economic vitality and citizens’ emotional connection to their community. According to the Soul of the Community survey by the Gallup Organization and the Jon S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the most “attached” communities are also the ones with the highest local GDP growth. The bottom line? When citizens love their cities, their cities experience tangible economic benefits. I want to invite you to express your affection for our city by reengaging with your community. One way you can do this is by getting more involved with your Chamber. Participate in a networking session or one of the TEN meetings, a gathering of entrepreneurs. Attend our open board meeting at 11:30 a.m. May 29 at the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation Administration Building. Or set up a time to visit the Chamber, learn more about the benefits of membership and get to know our capable team. The best way to express your love for your city is to get involved. Cindy Frey President Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce
12 The Business Connection MAY 2013
Monthly publication of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerc
May Open Board Meeting All Members Welcome Special presentation by John Quick, superintendent, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation
May 29th from 11:30am-1:00pm BCSC Administration Building, 1200 Central Ave. Reservations required: www.columbusareachamber.com/events
Calendar May 1 — New Member Orientation, 4 p.m., Chamber office, 500 Franklin St. Your chance as a new member to learn about what the Chamber offers and how to make the most of your investment. May 1 — New Member Welcome Reception, 5 p.m., Chamber office, 500 Franklin St. All Chamber members are invited to welcome new Chamber members at this networking reception. No charge to attend; reservations are requested. May 10 — Leadercast, 8 a.m., First Christian Church. Register for the Chick-Fil-A Leadercast event. Chamber members receive a discount. See story on website for more information and tickets. May 17 — TEN Roundtable, 8 a.m., Visitors Center. Free speed networking event; reservations required. May 29 — Open Board Meeting with BCSC update
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German American Dawn Andrews 445 Fifth St. Columbus, IN 47201 812-372-2265 dawn.andrews@ germanamerican.com www.germanamerican.com Banks
American Family Insurance Christopher Eggers Paul Hardin Kyle Petty Mike Robbins www.amfam.com Insurance Bloomfield Apartments Cassandra Wuensch 4210 Sims Court, No.1 Columbus, IN 47203 812-376-8995 aptbloomfield@att.net Apartments Burt’s Termite & Pest Control Inc. Doug Foster 805 Depot St. Columbus, IN 47201 812-372-3212 info@burtspestcontrol.com www.burtspestcontrol.com Services
Hendrix Pool & Patio Inc. 495 N. Burkhart Blvd., Seymour, IN 47274 812-522-7387 www.hendrixpools.com
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Nomad Technology Group Rita Euers 611 N. State St. North Vernon, IN 47265 888-306-1148 www.nomadtechgroup.com Services Profit Improvement Solutions LLC David Wiley davewiley84@hotmail.com www. howtoattractcustomersprofitably. com World Arts Inc. Linda Ennis 156 E. Franklin St. Spencer, IN 47460 800-530-9202 lindaennis@waprinting.com www.waprinting.com Printing/Copying
Griswold Home Care Bobby Crider 2530 Sandcrest Blvd. Columbus, IN 47203 812-371-5281 bobby.crider@griswoldhomecare. com www.griswoldhomecare.com Health Care
MAY 2013 The Business Connection 13
Women in leadership Lynn Lucas Job title: Executive director Company name: Columbus Area Visitors Center Company address: 506 Fifth St. Family: Husband, Larry Lucas; children, Beth Lucas Haney and Mark Lucas; Beth and husband Tyler are parents of Luke and Alex Haney; Mark and wife Jessica are parents of Olivia and Camille Lucas. Education background: B.S. degree in secondary education from Indiana State University. Majors in social studies and English. Note: Did my student teaching in Columbus. Employment background: Executive vice president – Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce; director of marketing for SIECO Inc. (Midwest consulting engineering firm); coordinator for university relations for IUPUC. Additional work history: Two leaves of absence from SIECO to manage state Sen. Robert Garton’s re-election campaign, followed by leadership position for his gubernatorial campaign; partner in Columbus catering business; co-owner of manufacturing business with husband in Griffith; high school English teacher in Griffith. What do you like most about your job or career field?
I definitely enjoy sharing the Columbus/Bartholomew County story. Along with that, I enjoy growing our local economy by attracting visitors, conferences, sports events, groups, etc. There is great variety in our work — visitors from around the country and the world , as well as the diversity of markets and projects — from architecture and public art to sports tourism, corporate, culinary tourism, military and family travel, etc. In addition, I like the entrepreneurial opportunities including our tour and retail businesses. I don’t know of any other tourism bureau that runs a tour operation.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
Sustaining and growing funding sources in order to market Columbus/Bartholomew County and host individuals and groups that visit our area.
How would you characterize your leadership philosophy or style?
I am a “change maker,” always looking for new projects/activities or ways to improve current programs/structure. At the same time, I attempt to be sensitive to those who resist change. I work to engage staff, my board and partners in the development of new projects or changes that may be proposed. Their buy-in is very important to our success. One of my staff recently commented that I “manage by walking around.” I try to avoid micro-managing, but like to discuss 14 The Business Connection MAY 2013
ideas/progress/challenges informally with staff on a regular basis, in addition to staff meetings, so that I can stay abreast of our progress. I am a real advocate of assigning staff to work in teams, with the composition of team depending on project, and I participate in some of the team assignments.
What leader do you most admire or try to emulate? Why?
I served in leadership positions for two of former state Sen. Bob Garton’s election campaigns and also had the opportunity to be the treasurer of his campaign committee for a number of years. I admire many things about Bob’s leadership style, including his willingness to listen to all sides of an issue and then make his decision. He treated all residents with respect and made it a priority to personally answer their phone calls and/or respond to letters. As president pro tempore of the Indiana Senate, Bob researched issues in depth, including reading proposed legislation. Listening to his speeches was also a treat. He has a great gift as an orator, plus an incredible memory.
see Lucas on page 15
LUCAS continued from page 14
Has the perception of women in leadership roles in business changed in the last 20 years? If so, how?
Our gender has made some progress, since there are more females in leadership roles than in the past. However, if we judge the value of a leader by compensation paid, our female leaders are often paid less in the not-for-profit sector as well as business. I believe that women often have to take risks as they change career paths in order to find the leadership opportunities. That has been my experience. Accepting the challenge to develop a marketing program for a consulting engineering firm in the late 1980s was the biggest “cliff I’ve jumped.” I entered that world as a female, non-engineer, in marketing — with very few females in management in that industry around Indiana or the Midwest. Looking back, I know that I grew as a stronger leader during eight years in that position, and the network I established is still serving me in my current position.
What is your advice to fellow business leaders in these difficult economic times?
Fortunately, the local tourism industry has grown during the past six years — 33 percent according to one significant benchmark. The Columbus Visitors Center has diversified our target markets, by concentrating on our area’s strengths — architecture/public art, sports facilities, parks, shopping, etc. Growing local, statewide and national partnerships has been a big factor in our growth. One example is our successful partnership with the Indianapolis Museum of Art to offer tours of the Miller House and Garden. Another is our sports tourism partnerships with the Columbus Parks and Recreation
Department, Ceraland, Otter Creek, as well as other facilities and area, state and national sports organizations. The development of the Columbus Area Sports Advisory Council has been a tremendous asset.
What do you do when you’re not working (hobbies, community involvement, etc.)?
We love to travel, usually taking several trips a year in the U.S. and traveling internationally every two/three years. I am looking forward to a trip to Ireland this summer. I find gardening is a great stress reliever. I still enjoy cooking, even though it has been many years since I was a partner in a catering business. Since we have lived in Columbus since 1974, I’ve had opportunities to serve on many boards and committees in addition to several regional and state boards, task forces, etc. Currently, most of those responsibilities are job-related.
What famous leader, living or dead, would you most like to meet and why?
Even though Gen. John Tipton was not world-famous, our community’s history includes his leadership. He was founder of Columbus, originally named Tiptona. My mother was a Tipton from a small community south of Terre Haute, and the family history indicates that the general was an ancestor. According to what I have heard and read, he was an interesting man — both in positive and negative ways. He was a politician who served in the state legislature and also had a military career.
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Around the WATERCOOLER PMG expanding in Columbus
A combination of state and local incentives will aid a Columbus company in a $23 million expansion that adds about 50 jobs over the next two years. PMG Indiana Corp. received a 10-year tax abatement from Columbus City Council. Additionally, the Indiana Economic Development Corp. announced it would offer $75,000 in training grants and $250,000 in conditional tax incentives to the company. PMG plans to invest $5 million in a new building at its Arcadia Drive plant and almost $18 million in equipment. The company plans to add a new production line in its existing plant and two lines in the new building. The new 36,000-squarefoot building will include enough room to add a third line in the future.
FairOaks Mall sale planned
FairOaks Mall in Columbus is scheduled to go on the auction block May 14 to settle debts with creditors who successfully sued to foreclose on the 415,000-square-foot shopping center that is about one-third vacant. The mall will be up for sheriff ’s sale at 10 a.m. that day, a spokesman for the Bartholomew County Sheriff ’s Office said. Real estate professionals are eager to see how much interest the mall attracts from regional or national bidders. Opinions are split on how much interest there will be in buying and trying to revive the mall, which has a $21.2 million unpaid debt on its mortgage and related fees.
Waffle House will build
Waffle House plans to build a restaurant at 2665 Jonathan Moore Pike on the site of a closed convenience store on a stretch of the highway between two hotels. The site is across from the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center and directly in front of a Comfort Inn and Suites. Fast-food stores Subway and Burger King are nearby. A spokeswoman for the Norcross, Ga.-based Waffle House chain said the company hopes to open the restaurant later this year. The company bought the site this year under the corporate name Midwest Waffle Inc.
Casey’s gets zoning OK
The Columbus City Council has cleared the way for construction of a Casey’s General Store at State Street and Gladstone Avenue. Casey’s Marketing Co., owners of the store chain, plans to build a gas station and convenience store at the former Kennedy Mobile Home Park. The property owners removed the last of the mobile homes in the nearly 60-year-old park last summer.
CRH honored for heart care
Submitted photo
A groundbreaking ceremony was held April 11 at Woodside Northwest Park for the $15 million manufacturing and assembly plant being built for The Phoenix Group, an Indianapolis-based supply chain management company. Browning Construction is the general contractor. From left: Scott Newlund, Phoenix; Jim Riggs , NTN; Gary Sherman, Phoenix; Mayor Kristen Brown; Michael Browning, Browning; Harry Sherman, Phoenix; Larry Waskom, Phoenix; and Brian McMackin, Pinchal & Co. LLC. 16 The Business Connection MAY 2013
Columbus Regional Hospital has been recognized as the first community-based independent hospital to achieve Heart Failure Center re-accreditation by the Healthcare Accreditation Colloquium in 2013. The colloquium requires hospitals to add additional heart failure services for their communities each year. CRH has launched a new effort at reducing sudden cardiac death for those with heart failure. Risk of sudden cardiac arrest is highest immediately after the diagnosis of heart failure and before treatment is medically optimized. “As an independent community hospital, Columbus Regional has shown remarkable leadership serving their community with new heart failure programs,” said Dr. Tony Joseph, president and CEO of the colloquium. The Healthcare Colloquium is the only accrediting body focused solely on Heart Failure
Accreditation and is the only hospital membership organization providing accreditation.
American and Asia and launched its Edinburgh manufacturing facility in 2009.
Nursing service expands
New bank signs lease
A Jeffersonville-based business that provides health care and other assistance for the elderly and disabled has expanded its services to the Columbus area and plans to hire 40 to 50 caregivers in the next six months. Adaptive Nursing and Healthcare Services is renting an office in the United Way Center, 1531 13th St., and has begun providing services to Bartholomew and surrounding counties. The business joins a growing number of companies in the area that are responding to a need for home care services, said Teresa Lorenz, lifespan options director for Aging & Community Services of South Central Indiana.
Edinburgh manufacturer increases capacity
Georg Utz Inc. in Edinburgh, manufacturers of totes, bulk containers, pallets and specialty solutions for industrial and storage industries, has added four silos, for a total of six, increasing plastic pellet storage capacity from 400,000 pounds to 1.2 million pounds. The company operates production facilities in seven countries throughout Europe, North
German American Bank has signed a lease for a branch in The Cole apartment complex in downtown Columbus and plans to open this summer. The foray into Columbus continues the Jasperbased company’s controlled growth, said Clay W. Ewing, president of commercial and retail banking. German American Bancorp operates 35 offices in 13 counties. Columbus is the financial services company’s most northern and eastern location.
Commuting stats released
The Columbus metro area, which consists of Bartholomew County, has a net commuting gain of about 6,000, according to the Census Bureau. Also, nearly 82 percent of employed Bartholomew County residents have a job in the county. The state average was 68.5 percent. Only 10 Indiana counties reported a greater share, according to an analysis of recent Census Bureau data.
Crop payouts top $1B
WEST LAFAYETTE — Indiana crop insurance payouts for losses during last year’s drought have
reached a record $1 billion. Purdue University said that Indiana farmers have received the payouts for 2012 corn, soybean and wheat losses. That’s nearly twice as much as the previous record of $522 million in 2008. Purdue Extension agricultural economist Chris Hurt says the total will likely grow in the coming weeks as final claims are filed. He says the payouts are the primary reason Indiana’s farm sector income has not collapsed under drought losses. Indiana corn yields averaged 99 bushels per acre last year, or nearly 40 percent below normal. Purdue says about 75 percent of Indiana crop acres were insured last year.
Ivy Tech expanding Franklin campus
FRANKLIN — Ivy Tech Foundation has bought 27 acres for expansion of the school’s campus on the east side of Franklin. The land was purchased using $400,000 awarded by the Franklin Development Corp. and $225,000 contributed by the foundation. The school said that since moving to its current site in 2008, Ivy Tech’s enrollment has grown from about 450 students to nearly 1,200. Campus Executive Director Tina Gross says expanding the campus is critical to the school’s role in educating
see watercooler on page 18
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Eye on the pie
Morton Marcus
Measuring Indiana’s economic progress The news about Indiana’s economy released last month was a mixed bag. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Indiana ranked 16th in growth of personal income among the 50 states. Our 3.7 percent increase over 2011 beat the national figure of 3.5 percent. Contained within these positive numbers are a few disturbing facts. The difference between the Indiana growth rates, quarter by quarter, and the U.S. rates declined over the course of 2012. The advantage (+0.2 percent) we had in the first quarter turned negative (-0.5 percent) by the fourth quarter. Relatively then, Indiana slipped compared to the nation as the year progressed. In the fourth quarter our 1.4 percent growth ranked 48th or the third-slowest in the U.S. One reason for this slower Hoosier growth lies in the nation’s unusual fast growth in dividends, interest and rent. We depend less on this form of income than do other states. Sixty-eight percent of our personal income growth came from earnings, compared to 63 percent nationally. In addition, Indiana is not noted for having large numbers of heavily compensated executives.
In 2012, executive compensation ballooned at the end of the year, boosting the data for both Indiana and the U.S. Both of these factors were in anticipation of higher federal personal income tax rates. Therefore, we may expect a decline in earnings nationally in the first quarter of 2013. Among the favorable details of these data is the slight rise in relative per capita personal income, or PCPI, for Indiana. The state now ranks 39th in PCPI and is 14 percent below the national figure. These data represent a continuing, but slight improvement over the past five years. The problem with PCPI, although it is used widely as a measure of collective well-being, is that it does not tell the story of the average household and is limited for policy purposes. Personal income includes earnings by workers and proprietors. It also includes, as noted above, dividends, interest and rent, or DIR, plus transfer payments. DIR are not necessarily received by people. They are credited to states and counties based on federal income tax returns. Yet for many of us, whatever DIR we get goes into a retirement account we may
not touch for decades. Transfer payments include unemployment compensation, which means the worse the economy, the higher this component of personal income. Also included are Social Security payments, which depend on the numbers of people over 65 or on disability. Not included in personal income are withdrawals made by individuals from their savings. These may be simply bank accounts, certificates of deposit, all forms of IRAs, mutual funds, annuities, stocks and bonds. Given our demographics, this omission becomes more important annually. Fortunately, the Bureau of Economic Analysis is working on the problem. These shortcomings do not invalidate the data. They do suggest that Indiana’s political leadership a few years back made a mistake in hitching its wagon to PCPI as an indicator of its success. We can hope the current administration will not make the same mistake.
watercooler continued from page 17
passenger-friendly airports throughout the world. Results are derived from year-round passenger satisfaction surveys conducted in gate areas. Among the other top regional airports for 2012 were Cancun’s for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Abu Dhabi’s for the Middle East.
Indiana population growth continues to wane
and training the workforce in and around Johnson County. The school wants to expand its student services, increase degree programs and add faculty and staff to assist students in such areas as admissions, financial aid and career services.
Indy airport best in North America
INDIANAPOLIS — A worldwide airports group has named Indianapolis International Airport the best in North America for the second time since 2010. The award from Airports Council International comes as part of the global airport organization’s annual Airport Service Quality awards. Indianapolis International beat out airports in Ottawa and Tampa. Indianapolis also was named the top North American airport in 2010. Indianapolis airport spokesman Carlo Bertolini says the awards program identifies the most 18 The Business Connection MAY 2013
Counties pool resources
KOKOMO — Six Indiana counties are joining forces to spur economic development and bring more federal money into the state. Howard, Miami, Tipton, Cass, Fulton and Clinton counties are forming the North Central Indiana Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. Howard County Commissioner Paul Wyman says the group is focused on combining its resources to use local matching funds to attract federal money. Each county will contribute money to the organization. A director will be hired to oversee the group. County leaders hope the federal money will lead to improvements in infrastructure.
Morton Marcus is an independent economist, writer and speaker. He can be reached at mortonjmarcus@ yahoo.com.
BLOOMINGTON — Indiana’s rate of population growth has fallen for a sixth straight year. The Indiana Business Research Center at Indiana University in Bloomington said U.S. Census Bureau estimates show Indiana’s population grew by just 0.32 percent in 2012, but that was still higher than those of each of its adjacent states. Researchers say sluggish population growth has been the norm in many parts of the country. Several central Indiana counties remain among the fastest growing in the state, but even their rate of growth is falling off. While Hamilton County north of Indianapolis remained the state’s fastestgrowing county with a 2.2 percent increase last year, that rate falls short of its annual growth rate from 2000 to 2010.
see watercooler on page 19
coach’s corner
Mark McNulty
Getting in the zone Whether you own a business or work for someone who does, you have probably experienced the “never enough time” phenomenon. When I worked in the software development world, the saying was always that there was never enough time to do it right, but always plenty of time to go back and fix it later. If we want our businesses to provide for our employees, our customers and ourselves, then we must take the time to make sure the right things happen. Stephen Covey, in his book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” wrote about the four time quadrants as part of his concept, “Put first things first.” Quadrant II is the set of activities in a business, or your life, that are not urgent, but important. When teaching business owners how to better manage themselves, I draw the quadrants as rings, like a target, with Quadrant II in the middle, and I call this area “the zone.” It is that place where you set aside all the trivia of the day and focus on the things that are truly important for the long-term success of your business and your life. So how do we get in the zone? First and foremost, you have to make a decision to go there. It will not happen naturally, because these tasks are not urgent, they are not in your face demanding to be done. When was the last time your most important client called you up and demanded that you get to work on your budget? Probably never, but when was the last time a client complained that you
didn’t have the right parts in stock or that you delivered her order a week late? Did you take the time to tell them that earlier this year you failed to budget for sufficient stock or that you failed to plan the replacement of that machine that you knew was on its last legs? As Covey tells us, we have to allocate time for Quadrant II, or zone activities; we have to practice in order for them to become habits. Here are some tips for how to do so. • Put it on your calendar on a regular basis. Scheduling time for planning activities is probably the best and maybe the only way to ensure that they get done. You should spend 20 percent of your time in zone activities, but that doesn’t necessarily have to be weekly. It could be on a monthly or quarterly basis. One way is to allocate four hours per week to planning (medium to long term, not short term), an additional eight hours per month, perhaps a couple of half-day sessions and then an additional 16 hours per quarter, perhaps in an off-site session or two. • Establish a system for accountability to help you reinforce the need and the habit. This can take the form of a coach, an accountability partner, a mastermind group, a partner, a spouse or any other person whom you will feel accountable to for following through. Be sure that they know to ask you when you are allocating your time and how you intend to spend
it. Be sure that you have deliverables to them for the output of your planning and set aside the time to review and discuss it with them. • Break up the work and the time into propersized chunks. Some people work best in 30 minute bursts, others prefer two-hour chunks of time. Pay attention to your attention span and work style and allocate the most efficient periods of time for you to get your work done. Break up the work so that you can accomplish something meaningful in each time period. Know yourself and when you set aside your zone time, make sure the chunks of time will be most effective for you. • Pick the right time of day for your zone activities. In every business there are times of day or days of the week that are better or worse than others. If you know that Monday mornings are always crazy, don’t allocate any zone time for Mondays. You also know your daily cycles, so be sure to schedule your zone time when it is best for the type of thinking you will be doing — creative out-of-the-box brainstorming or detailed numbercrunching. If you want your business to be a long-term success, it takes this kind of intentional, disciplined planning. Success rarely happens by mistake, so be sure that you are always planning for success, not just this week, but for the next decade.
watercooler continued from page 18
the Hoosier Lottery faces a $20 million penalty in Illinois because it fell nearly $66 million short of the profits it promised that state. The contract between the Illinois Lottery and Northstar Lottery Group requires the company to compensate the state when it doesn’t reach certain targets for net income. Northstar promised $823 million in fiscal year 2012, but Illinois officials estimated it generated $757 million. The company disputes that figure. Northstar is 80 percent owned by Rhode Islandbased GTECH Corp. GTECH won the Indiana contract in October. Hoosier Lottery officials say the Indiana contract is less complicated than that in Illinois. Indiana’s contract pays GTECH bonuses for exceeding sales thresholds and penalizes the company for not meeting them.
Astronaut joins Museum
GEICO expanding in Indiana
INDIANAPOLIS — Geico will bring 1,200 jobs to Indiana and pump millions of dollars into developing a campus just north of Indianapolis. The Washington, D.C.-based insurance company plans to equip a 109,000-square-foot customer service center in Carmel. The Indiana Economic Development Corp. is offering $10 million in conditional tax credits and $400,000 in training grants if Geico can show it filled the jobs as promised.
Hoosier Lottery vendor docked in Illinois
INDIANAPOLIS — The private operator of
Mark McNulty is a business coach with ActionCoach Business Coaching. He can be reached at 372-7377 or mark@coachmark.biz.
INDIANAPOLIS — David Wolf, a former astronaut and scientist from Indianapolis, is joining the staff of the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis as its first extraordinary scientist-in-residence. Besides flying on the space shuttle, Wolf is a physician, electrical engineer and inventor who has received 17 U.S. patents and published more than 40 technical publications. He will help develop new programs designed to inspire youth. Families and children will be able to conduct hands-on experiments modeled after experiments on the International Space Station. New programs dealing with cell growth, electronics, the impact of zero gravity and how GPS navigation works also will be developed. — Staff and Wire Reports MAY 2013 The Business Connection 19
on the move
Nancy Stroia
Cindy Mitchell
April Hooker
Roberta Miller
Several real estate agents with Prudential Indiana Realty team were honored at Prudential Real Estate’s sales convention in March in Las Vegas. Ryan Ebener, Carol Rudicel, Team Columbus (Ryan Crissinger and Todd Sims), Jim Baker and Spring Parsons were named to the Honor Society. The award recognizes residential sales professionals who exemplified great performance in closed residential gross commission income (GCI), commercial GCI or closed residential units for the year. Stroia & Mitchell Team (Nancy Stroia and Cindy Mitchell) and April Hooker were named to the Leading Edge Society. The award recognizes residential sales professionals who reached great sales thresholds in closed residential GCI, commercial GCI or closed at least 35 residential units for the year. Roberta Miller was named to the President’s Circle. The award recognizes the network’s top 3 percent of residential sales professionals who exemplified great sales measures in closed residential GCI, commercial GCI or closed 50 residential units for the year.
was business manager at Country Chevrolet and Acra Automotive Group and also has an extensive background in insurance sales and accounting services. He is a graduate of Columbus North High School and studied economics at Franklin College.
Bill Mahoney
Dr. Melissa Webb has recently purchased the lot on Washington Street at the former location of Lockett’s for an expansion of The Eye Place. This will be a second location for the optometry practice now operating at 2665 Foxpointe Drive.
Melissa Webb
Sarah King of Columbus has joined Origami Owl Custom Jewelry as an independent designer, helping guests at interactive events and home parties create one-of-akind personalized jewelry, customized to reflect their style. Information: 350-2757; simplycharmingsarah@gmail.com. Family Chiropractic and Wellness has purchased Aimers Chiropractic Center. After 33 years of practice, Dr. William Aimers retired, and Dr. Mandy Wyant, who shared office space with him the past two years, took over the practice. Wyant is a graduate of DePauw University, with a degree in biochemistry, and a graduate of Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis. Dr. Justin Beckner has joined the practice. He is a graduate of Indiana State University, with a degree in life sciences, and Logan College of Chiropractic. Bill Mahoney of Columbus has joined Centra Credit Union as director of indirect lending sales. Prior to joining Centra, he
20 The Business Connection MAY 2013
Linda Cutrell has opened a baked goods business called Sweet Celebrations, featuring deep-dish fruit and specialty pies, rolls and more. Items can be ordered individually or in themed gift baskets with cards. Delivery is available. Information: 350-5386 or 376-7569.
Crossroads Association of Realtors recently recognized Vicky Gelfius and Annette Donica Blythe, real estate brokers with Re/Max Real Estate Professionals on Marr Road, at its annual gala. Gelfius received the Realtor of the Year Award for 2012 for outstanding service and contributions to the real estate profession during the past year. Blythe received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of service and dedication to the profession.
Elizabeth Lynch
Elizabeth Lynch, a student at Ivy Tech Community College – Columbus/Franklin, was elected president of the Indiana region of Phi Theta Kappa at the Indiana regional conference in Indianapolis. As president, she will lead her regional staff and provide guidance to the chapter members in the 25 Indiana chapters.
David M. Geis
David M. Geis, president and CEO of Jackson County Bank, was elected to the Independent Community Bankers of America Federal Delegate Board. Besides helping shape and advocate ICBA’s national policy positions and programs, his duties include being a liaison between independent community bankers in Indiana and ICBA staff and leadership in Washington, D.C. He will also work to recruit new
students in completing college applications, setting up college visits, finding scholarships and registering for the ACT or SAT exam.
members to ICBA. As the sole state delegate, Geis is also back on the board of directors of the Indiana Bankers Association, for which he recently completed an eight-year term, serving as chairman in 2011.
Brian Mormino
Dr. Yvonne Asiimwe
Brian Mormino has been promoted to executive director of environmental strategy and compliance at Cummins Inc. In addition to his current areas of responsibility, emissions compliance, energy and environmental policy and environmental sustainability, he will assume responsibility for product environmental management, working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, fuel consumption and the overall environmental footprint of Cummins products. Mormino joined Cummins in 2006 as director of government relations in the Washington, D.C., office and has led several key initiatives, including the creation and implementation of the emissions compliance function for the company. Dr. Yvonne Asiimwe has joined the staff of St. Vincent Medical Group at St. Vincent Jennings Hospital in North Vernon. A graduate of Kigezi International School of Medicine in the United Kingdom, she completed a family medicine residency at St. Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City and is board-certified in family medicine. Special medical interests include management of chronic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease and obesityrelated illness, women’s health, cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety and children’s well and sick visits.
Shaunna Cross is a new customer service representative with TLS.NET. She has a background in technology support and customer service and graduated from Ivy Tech in 2002. She worked at Indianapolis Public Schools and then for Hewlett-Packard at Eli Lilly, supporting users with software, hardware and mobile devices. Shaunna Cross
Pam Schmelz
Rose Ann Dunlap has been named executive director of Southern Indiana Center for the Arts in Seymour. She replaces Warren Baumgart, who has accepted the opportunity to work abroad. Dunlap retired in 2004 after 34 years with Cummins Inc., then became executive director of Easter Seals of Bartholomew County, a United Way agency, until December 2010. Rose Ann Dunlap
Michelle Hudson
Sylvia Babcock
Michelle Hudson, a Columbus native and former reporter at The Republic, has been named director of publishing and special projects at Reliabilityweb.com. The company produces Uptime Magazine and several books each year and also presents conferences on maintenance reliability. She will oversee the digital and print publications and lead strategic initiatives. Hudson, of Fort Myers, Fla., has more than 20 years of experience in the publishing business. She joined Reliabilityweb.com after nearly 15 years with The News-Press Media Group, a Gannett newspaper in Fort Myers. She also worked at the Terre Haute TribuneStar prior to moving to Fort Myers. Sylvia Babcock, admissions assistant at Ivy Tech Community College – Columbus/Franklin, has been selected for the Hari Mirchandani Community Service Award, given annually to an Ivy Tech student who exhibits love of community and selflessness in service to others. It was established by Hari Mirchandani, the first full-time faculty member at Columbus, and his family. She assists Hispanic high school
Pam Schmelz, assistant professor of information technology at Ivy Tech Community College – Columbus/Franklin, has received the President’s Award for Instructional Excellence. This award is presented annually to a faculty member at each of the 14 regions of the college to recognize faculty who typify excellence in instruction and in representing the mission of Ivy Tech. The award consists of a commemorative plaque and a $1,000 professional development grant. She has been an Ivy Tech faculty member for nine years and holds a master of business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University and a bachelor of science in electrical engineering from Purdue University.
Jenny Manns
Dean Doughty
Jenny Manns of Old National Bank has been promoted to the position of vice president, private banker. The 15-year veteran of Old National most recently worked in operations and lending. She is a graduate of DePauw University and American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking. Dean Doughty and CENTURY21 Breeden Realtors are recipients of the Relocation Director Award for the Cartus Relocation system. Doughty was awarded the Relocation Director Achievement Award by achieving over 238 percent of closed goal. He has been relocation director and sales manager for the past seven years. Previously, he held similar positions with Century 21 Scheetz in Indianapolis and Sibcy Cline Realtors in Cincinnati, owning his own real estate brokerage prior to those positions. Cartus Broker network is a network of more than 811 market-leading real estate firms representing approximately 3,000 offices and more than 109,000 agents. — Staff Reports MAY 2013 The Business Connection 21
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1665 N NATIONAL RD COMMERCIAL ADDITION THARP INVESTMENTS/ GREYHAWK INV, OWNER B & T BUILDING SOLUTIONS, CONTRACTOR COM/REM
2525 25TH ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $2,000 CALLAWAY, ED, OWNER JB SERVICES,W CONTRACTOR REM/WALL
2525 25TH ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $20,106 GAGES, KIMBLE, OWNER SHAPE BUILDERS, CONTRACTOR COM REMODEL GUITAR CITY 3600 SF
417 WASHINGTON ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $5,000 SOUTHEASTERN IND HEALTH ORG, OWNER MONROE, LYMAN, CONTRACTOR NEW DOOR TO SECOND FLOOR/ SIHO
2727 CENTRAL AVE COMMERCIAL REMODEL $27,967 DUKE ENERGY,OWNER T & W CORPORATION, CONTRACTOR COMMREM 1693 N NATIONAL RD COMMERCIAL REMODEL $150,000 PATEL, NAYAN, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR JIMMY JOHNS REMODEL 1800 SF 1665 N NATIONAL RD COMMERCIAL REMODEL $20,000 THARP INVESTMENTS/ GREYHAWK INV, OWNER B & T BUILDING SOLUTIONS,
2075 JONATHAN MOORE PIKE COMMERCIAL REMODEL $25,000 MOOREHEAD COMMUNICATIONS INC., OWNER LEWIS & ASSOCIATES OF INDIANA,CONTRACTOR VERIZON REMODEL 1800 SF 2034 17TH ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $8,000 KIEL, KIMBERLY, OWNER ASA WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION INC, CONTRACTOR COM REMODEL 1239 SF
MarcH
$7,000 VERIZON WIRELESS,OWNER TERRA COMMUNICATIONS, INC, CONTRACTOR ANTENNA ADDN TO CELL TOWER VERIZON
1220 11TH ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $5,000 OWNER MANN, CLINTON, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR ROOF
2525 STATE ST NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDING $228,000 KING, MARK/DOREL,OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2 NEW STORAGE TANKS
602 3RD ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $7,000 MANN, CLINTON, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR COM/ROOF
500 CENTRAL AVE COMMERCIAL ADDITION 02 $1,089,846 CUMMINS INC, OWNER FORCE CONSTRUCTION CO INC, CONTRACTOR COM ADDN CUMMINS COOLING TOWER 3364 SF
1258 WASHINGTON ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $3,000 PERR, ANDREW,PERR INVESTMENTS, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR COM REMODEL 700 SF
911 WASHINGTON ST COMMERCIAL REMODEL $30,000 EDI SANTOS, OWNER HAYS & SONS COMPLETE RESTORATION FIRE REMODEL 1100 SF
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS 2636 DAFFODIL CT WEST $175,000 NEW 4146 SF RES/BMT/GAR PHILLIPS DEVELOPMENT INC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR
1900 MCKINLEY AVE COMMERCIAL ADDITION 02 $5,000,000 CUMMINS ENGINE CO, OWNER AFFILIATED CONSTRUCTION SERVICE, CONTRACTOR CUMMINS ADDN 8876 SF
2656 DAFFODIL CT WEST $200,000 NEW 4358 SF RES/BMT/GAR PHILLIPS DEVELOPMENT INC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 1940 LAKECREST DR $150,000 NEW 2807 SF RES/GAR
3271 W 650 N COMMERCIAL ADDITION 02
Business Indicators for Bartholomew County Percent changes FEB 13/ FEB 13/ Description FEB 13 JAN 13 FEB 12 JAN 13 FEB 12 Labor Force
41,232
41,531
41,313
-0.7
-0.2
Household Employment
38,170
38,327
38,515
-0.4
-0.9
Unemployment Rate (pct)
7.4
7.7
6.8
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— Center for Business and Economic Research, Ball State University 22 The Business Connection MAY 2013
BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2020 LAKECREST DR $128,240 NEW 2137 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 4051 MELBOURNE DR $350,000 RES/NEW LOAHAN DEVELOPMENT LLC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 4061 MELBOURNE DR $235,000 RES/NEW LOAHAN DEVELOPMENT LLC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 4071 MELBOURNE DR $310,000 RES/NEW LOAHAN DEVELOPMENT LLC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 4081 MELBOURNE DR $330,000 RES/NEW LOAHAN DEVELOPMENT LLC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 254 N WOLFCREEK RD $300,000 NEW SF RES/BMT/GAR 4367 SF PING, RONALD D., OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2263 SHADOW BEND DR $126,600 NEW 2327 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2283 SHADOW BEND DR $98,700 NEW 1709 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2323 SHADOW BEND DR NEW 1709 SF RE/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2353 SHADOW BEND DR $99,200 NEW 1719 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2363 SHADOW BEND DR $146,400 NEW 2570 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2413 SHADOW BEND DR $127,000
NEW 2570 RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2017 SHADOW CREEK BLVD $127,000 NEW 2427 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 2134 SHADOW CREEK BLVD $120,700 NEW 2508 SF RES/GAR BEAZER HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR 5590 TREELINE DR $240,000 NEW 4258 SF RES/BMT/GAR OSBORNE, ROBERT D, OWNER D&D DESIGN BUILD LLC, CONTRACTOR 4358 WESTMINSTER PL $150,000 NEW 2461 SF RES/GAR PHILLIPS DEVELOPMENT INC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 4364 WESTMINSTER PL $150,000 NEW 2402 SF RES/GAR PHILLIPS DEVELOPMENT INC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 1022 WESTVIEW POINT DR $220,000 RES/NEW DREES HOMES, OWNER/ CONTRACTOR
RENA BEAN AND MITZI GAY, DBA WHITE GLOVE CUSTOM CLEANING, 6465 S. ROAD 1000E, SCIPIO GAVIN SUTTON, DBA SUTTON’S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING, COLUMBUS DAVID L. SEBASTIAN, DBA LYNN RENTALS, 1327 CALIFORNIA ST., COLUMBUS JAMES R. CHRISTY, DBA DEER CREEK PRODUCTS, 9911 N. STATE ROAD 9, HOPE BARTON W. FRIEND, DBA SERVICE CLEAN STAIN PRO, 1502 LAFAYETTE AVE., COLUMBUS MICHAEL L. GORBETT, DBA GORBETT’S CONSTRUCTION, 344 PATTERSON ROAD
SERVICE, 653 N. ROAD 275E, COLUMBUS ANGIE WOLF, DBA ANGIE WOLF’S K-9 KUTZ, 2519 25TH ST., COLUMBUS DAVID NEWLAND, DBA NEWLAND PAINTING AND REPAIR, 9148 W. ROAD 300S, COLUMBUS JORGE DELGADILLO, DBA DELGADILLO MI TIERRA INC., 1461 CENTRAL AVE., COLUMBUS NELLIE HALL, DBA NELL’S CREATIONS, 8730 S. ROAD 700W, COLUMBUS CHRISTINE MULLHOLAND, DBA ENDLESS X THREE, 321 FLATROCK DRIVE, COLUMBUS APRIL KNOX, DBA APRIL KNOX PHOTOGRAPHY, 4252 E. WINDSOR LANE, COLUMBUS
KEVIN WALL, DBA WALL TO WALL REMODELING, 1130 SAYLOR DRIVE, APT. 2A, COLUMBUS MARK W. ADAMS, DBA AFFORDABLE LAWN & GARDEN
We are your local printing company, family owned for 140 years FULL SERVICE PRINTING, BINDERY & MAILING
2765 WILD ORCHID WAY $150,000 RES/NEW PHILLIPS DEVELOPMENT INC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR 2780 WILD ORCHID WAY $250,000 NEW 5124 SF RES/BMT/GAR CLARK, RON, OWNER PRATT, TIM/BREEDEN INC, CONTRACTOR 2785 WILD ORCHID WAY $150,000 RES/NEW PHILLIPS DEVELOPMENT INC, OWNER/CONTRACTOR
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HNEprinters.com 3330 W. International Court, Columbus // 812-342-1056
MAY 2013 The Business Connection 23
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24 The Business Connection MAY 2013