JULY 2016 INSIDE THIS MONTH

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Central Signs p. 4

Eighth Street Revitalized p. 5

PAGES 12-22

About Forty Under 40 By Michelle Higginbotham, associate publisher

It is virtually impossible to read through a lives and volunteer service. of the individual’s businesses and The 2016 recipients are profiled community involvement. 40 awards without seeing some familiar in this issue and will be honored at a It is only because of the ongoing list of previous recipientsSpringfield of the Forty Business Under reception and awards ceremony held commitment of our sponsors, Security Journal has been recognizing outstanding p. 6 names.young professionals Since 1997, in Springfield and the next month. All of the individuals were Real Estate news surrounding communities, representing selectedat the University from nominations of Illinois made Springfield by our Bank and the University of Illinois at a wide variety of local businesses and readers, so thank you for taking the time eachSpringfield year. We MBA also Program, appreciate that Edgar we are Curtis, able to tell us about your interactions with to recognize a new Forty Under 40 class politicians, health care providers and these outstanding young professionals. System, who is serving as the keynote communityindustries. Many leaders of our have area been businesspeople, recipients of While some people received multiple speakerpresident for and this CEOyear’s of event. Memorial Finally, Health thank this award. What they all have in common nominations, the selection process does you to all of our readers who took the is their contributions to improving our not merely involve tabulating votes, but time to submit nominations and helped us community, both through their professional rather looking at the overall picture identify these very deserving individuals.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER EDGAR J. CURTIS Sarra Sophia p. 24 Edgar J. Curtis has Hospital Association. He is chair-elect of Illinois Foodbank. served as president the IHA board of directors and chair of Curtis received his master of business and chief executive IHA’s Transforming Illinois Healthcare task force. He also serves on the Illinois Health System since Higher Education Commission on the scienceadministration degree degreein nursing from from the University Southern Januaryofficer of2008. Memorial Curtis Future of the Workforce, the board of of Illinois at Urbana and his bachelor of provides senior began his career as a registered nurse level administrative Quality Alliance and is a member andIllinois later University served in at management Edwardsville. and He leadership for the ofdirectors several of leadership the Midwest councils Healthcare for overall strategic direction of the health system. He is a Fellow of the American Commerce. Curtis has also served in administrative positions at Memorial College of Healthcare Executives. leadershipthe Greater roles Springfield with several Chamber health- of asMedical executive Center vice president from 1979-1993.and chief In addition, Curtis serves on the related and community organizations, Beginning in October 1993, he served boards of the BJC Collaborative, LLC; untiloperating December officer 2007. of Memorial Health including the Springfield Urban League, System and Memorial Medical Center Az-T-Ca Mexican Grill p. 30 Vizient Mid-America and the Illinois United Way of Central Illinois and Central

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Meet Doug Mayol The Cardologist gets a new lease on life By Colin Patrick Brady

“Twenty-eight years,” marvels the high- new local customers as well as visitors art on consignment. That venture evolved about one week.” from out of town. “We are across from into Goods by Hand and Tumbleweed on the longevity of his store, The the first week of June, so we were closed for two major hotels and pretty close to the Cardologist.spirited and jovialThe venerable Doug Mayol, shop reflecting offers additional space afforded by the new not only greeting cards but novelties, gifts, Mayol is enthusiastic about the Plant Store before finally becoming The tchotchkes and other curious delights. headsPrairie in Capital to see Convention what we are Center, all about.” which evidentCardologist in the in cards 1976. and novelties he stocks, Formerly located at 225 S. Sixth St., it has stocklocation. shelves,” “For one, he says, there adding is more that floor it is space now is definitely a plus for people to stick their andMayol’s any visit irreverent to The Cardologist sense of humor is likely is moved to 627 E. Adams St. (near the corner far– that easier means to display a larger merchandise usable area inthan which it had to numbers of customers wandering over to provide amusing encounters with the of Seventh and Adams). fromMayol the has store’s also begunnew neighbor, to see significant Recycled owner’s witty repartee. After 45 years as an The move was not entirely unexpected: Records, and notes that repeat business been with the old floor plan (the previous has already begun to pick up. the block, and his excitement is palpable. “I his lease in October of last year. Having no location had been 950 square feet with the can’tentrepreneur, wait for Mayolpeople is to again come the see new the kid new on intentionMayol received of shuttering the news his beloved that he business had lost says.new locationSome of measuring the additional 3,000 space square will feet). be spot,” he says with a grin. of nearly three decades, a move was the dedicated“We have to a work lot of by growing local artists room,” and Mayolthere raisedMayol in isthe a same lifelong house Springfield in which native he obvious next step. “Essentially, we were are plans to begin hosting special events as – he was not only born here but was evicted by the owner of the building,” he they arise. precocious businessman his entire life. The Cardologist is open Monday through explains. “Our last day at the old facility The shop’s new location has also made still lives – and describes himself as a Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday 10Colin a.m. Patrickuntil 3 p.m.Brady is a freelance operations in the Adams Street location in Shop.”In 1971, which while specialized still a high in schoolselling student,original writer from Decatur. was May 27 of this year – and we started it accessible to a significantly greater he opened his first store, “The By Hand Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 3 amount of foot traffic, a boon in terms of BUSINESS PROFILE

Central Illinois Signs and Lighting Move to old Pleasant Hill School preserves family and neighborhood heritage By Catherine O’Connor

One of the most striking adaptive reuse projects studioin Springfield and showroom is the transformationfor the family-owned of the CentralPleasant IllinoisHill School Sign building and Lighting into a fabricationCompany. Earlier this year, the company relocated into the 27,000 square foot former grade school at 3040 Linden Avenue, combining their shop andFred, former Elly 5,000 and squaretheir son, foot Jeremyoffice, which Conaway, had previously been located at 1333 N. Wheeler. several decades, once known as A.S.I., which stoodhave beenfor Aluminum affiliated Steel with & the Iron business Design and for of American manufacturing, witnessing the declineSigns. Their in the story metals reflects industry the as transformation the twentieth century groaned to an end, with jobs exported

Looking back, they recall the evolution fromand cheaper hand drawn products signs, flooding once painted in. by Fred’s father, “Fritz,” to the digital L.E.D. custom fabricated lighting displays that have thankfully allowed their family business to thrive. According to Elly Conaway, who is now the Future plans may include leasing spaces to smaller tenants like independent real estate or insurance company PHOTO BY CATHERINE O’CONNOR offices, which could find the gleaming hardwood floors, vast windows and open classrooms just the right fit. principal owner, “the economy almost killed

China had on small business here.” While other Around 2001, when the Internet began to They soon came up with the new moniker, metalus. People fabrication just don’t companies realize in the town effect ended that C.I. Sign Co. the district, city zoning and permit approval up selling out, the Conaways survived with a the Conaways were informed that another At that time, young Jeremy’s interest in wentthat the relatively process smoothly. of finalizing contracts with transition into modern signage and lighting. companyredefine thehad businessalready seized marketing the initials landscape, A.S.I. newer methods in decals and lettering for “Friends in the neighborhood told us race cars helped the business to reshape they were concerned about what could and grow. They serve current signage happen to the vacant building, and they needs ranging from township lettering to were so grateful that we bought it for the government building insignia to graphics for business,” said Elly. One stipulation of the the political signs which perpetually dot the sale was that a secure perimeter fence would Sangamon County landscape. be erected to keep people off the playground, As a female-owned business as well as which had remained a popular attraction for a union shop, the Conaways continue to closed a few years ago. and work diligently to keep pace with the neighborhoodLooking ahead kids, to even taking after Central Pleasant Illinois Hill make substantial new equipment upgrades Signs and Lighting into the future, Jeremy has and subcontracting. With three family many ideas, including potentially remodeling membersrequirements and ofanother government full time procurement employee, a portion of the surplus space on the upper

workers for larger jobs. Another of their sons, spaces for start-ups. whoC.I. Signslives utilizesout of state, Painters is planning Local Union a future 90 floorsAs ofa thetruly school family into business, rental or Ellyco-working enjoys move to join the business as well. Their biggest commercial contracts has the bonus of kid-sized blackboards, coat have been with local and regional education hooks,bringing cupboards her grandkids and manyto the feetoffice, of which open and medical industries, hotels, franchises space to explore. Grandpa Fred has taken and even some local churches, with a with the closed circuit TV monitors and underway at a local residential complex. tardyup residence bells still in in the place, old where principal’s he handles office Thesizeable, move unique to the design larger projectschool currentlybuilding location will allow C.I. Signs to get back to “Dad and I have also been thinking about the custom fabrication of metals into such theaccounts need andfor afinance. trade school, because there things as poles, hand-railings and special really isn’t one for this (the sign and lighting) containers, which had been the specialty of industry.” According to Jeremy, there are at Fred in earlier years. least three decent sized companies in the area that could use employees trained in the School building came up for sale, set in a specialized skills of the sign trade. “Graphic leafyWhen neighborhood the now obsoletestraddling Pleasant the city’s Hill design education doesn’t really reach all the facets we do, like electrical wiring,” he said. “It’s a school. It’s already set up as a place children,eastern border the family – not homes far from of EllyBergen and Park her to teach,” Jeremy said, referring to the 25 futuregolf course husband, – it seemedFred, along like destiny.with their As classrooms on three and half levels, which parents and grandparents, were tightly knit into the trim, well-kept neighborhood With C.I. Signs having just completed the transitionserved 350-500 from studentsits former for Wheelersome 70 years.avenue location, the Conaways have plans to hold an becausewhere Pleasant four generations Hill School of was our a families central open house so neighbors and former students andfixture. friends “The placewent holds to elementary so many memories school can visit, browse and reminisce about the old school days, while they check out the modern they just love it,” according to Elly. sign shop operations. here.The Many Conaways of them were still livethe here,only becausebidders Catherine O’Connor can be reached at the building for sale last year. They found [email protected]. when the Springfield school district listed 4 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal REVITALIZATION A fresh look for Eighth Street By Roberta Codemo

Tony Libri was just looking for a place to and small shops move into the area. “This is store his classic cars. He originally planned the only area adjacent to a Lincoln site that has to purchase the former DX gas station on the not been developed,” he said. “There are four corner of Eighth and Cook streets that was deal he couldn’t pass up. or five commercial properties available.” built in the 1940s. Instead, he was offered a walkMore down than the 300,000block to touristssee what visit else theis “really good” price but also inherited the prior around.Lincoln Home“Within site a half annually, block theresaid Libri.are a Manylot of owner’sLibri legal acquired problems. three “I propertiesreceived a notice for a vacant lots,” he said. He’d like to see a Route 66 museum or Corvette museum move in at the said. Ironically, Libri ended up selling his car from the city to fix up all three properties,” he Libri believes the city does not do “It was serendipitous,” he said. “I don’t enoughcorner of to Ninth promote and Cook. Lincoln. “We need twice collection to finance the work. as many events to draw tourists here,” he if the city had not forced my hand. I’m glad said, adding they also need a reason to stay theyknow did. if I would have fixed up the properties for more than a day. “There’s a ton of history in this block,” he Where tourists once passed a blighted continued. “This was Lincoln’s neighborhood.” eyesore, they can now walk a short distance and see active renovations taking place. Libri took a year off to complete the “This is the perfect neighborhood to rebuild Many of the homes date back to the 1800s. Office of the charitable organization PHOTO BY MARANDA POTTERF he said, adding that he envisions the area The Matthew Project, 622 S. 8th St. Libri would like to see more blighted project. “Not many people would do this,” neighborhoodsLincoln’s Springfield,” rebuilt he said. and points to neighborhoods. Home site around. you what can be done,” he said. “They have a becoming“I never one ofthought Springfield’s I’d higherrevitalize quality a “This is a fantastic place to live,” he story to tell, they’re full of history.” neighborhood as one example. “There are neighborhood,” he said, explaining that the continued, pointing out that the neighborhood The city is behind the project. “Their athe lot renovationof areas that work could in use the this Enos kind Park of plan is to have the renovations completed has become much safer recently thanks to the goal is to improve the neighborhood as love. It just goes to show you what a couple by the end of the year. “These were beautiful well,” he said, adding the city and the of determined folks can do if they work skeletons. They just needed to put their state recently formed a partnership and together,” he added. “I’ve enjoyed this more clothes on.” formerpresence Franklin of the Life Illinois building. State Police, which are spending $600,000 for improvements than any job I’ve ever had.” Today, he and his wife, Ann, own six recentlyThe neighborhood moved its headquarterssupports the work into he’s the including new streets, curbs, gutters, properties and are working on turning the doing. Other property owners are cleaning up sidewalks and street lights. Roberta Codemo is a freelance one-block neighborhood south of the Lincoln and taking care of their homes. “This shows Eventually, he would like to see restaurants writer in Springfield.

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 5 REAL ESTATE

Capital Area Real Estate’s new office space at 316 E. Adams St. PHOTO BY DIANE LYDDON

Changes afoot in real estate landscape By Roberta Codemo

Three local real estate agents recently left made the decision to leave early this year. “I enjoyed my time there,” he said, noting that he remains on good terms with Buscher. The Real Estate Group (3701 Wabash Ave.) Theand Group. started their own firms, while two that you can’t do when you’re part of a big previously“Real estate independent is a transient firms business,” have joined said company,”“I wanted continued the ability Chiles. to do “It unique gives thingsyou a other opportunities that are more suitable. He plans to start a home buyer’s club There’smanaging plenty broker of roomMike Buscher. for everybody.” “People find little more flexibility.” He’s ecstatic about welcoming classes in home ownership that are geared with help from affiliates and begin offering will receive discounts on services such as RealGrady Estate Realtors, Group. Inc. “We of continue Springfield to andadd mortgages,towards first-time home inspections home buyers. and title Attendees work. strengthWrightsman-Musso, to the organization,” Ltd. of Virden continued to The “For someone who’s never done this Buscher, noting The Group picked up 16 before, it can be a frightening experience,” new agents with 87 years of combined said Chiles. His goal is to make it less so. experience who will bring a lot of value to He also plans to pay for the cost of pre- inspections. “When you list a house, you the company. “It brings a different energy,” have to pay for an inspection,” said Chiles. saidthe company. Buscher, Mergers adding bringthat everybodynew blood intohas By working with the sellers before the house The Real Estate Group held a reception on June 15 to celebrate adding Grady PHOTO COURTESY OF their own level of expertise. goes on the market, they will know exactly Realtors and Wrightsman-Musso to The Group. (Pat Regan and Pat Grady.) THE REAL ESTATE GROUP what needs to be done. agents,” said Buscher, pointing out that “It’s about caring for people,” said Chiles, consolidation“We’re always is the looking nature for goodof the quality real who is also licensed to sell real estate in offered the opportunity, she and Kuhar asked each other, “Why not us?” “It’s a great The Real Estate Group has grown to 144 dream home.” the first Keller Williams Market Center in the company for seasoned real estate brokers licensedestate business agents. right now. Founded in 1997, .Chiles “It’s grew about up on helping the north them end find and their has Springfield After two area, years located of vetting, on the she ground and Kuhar level wanting to ramp up their business as well as “Real estate is a competitive business,” deep roots in the area. His great-grandfather, madeof Town the and decision Country to Bank, leave 3601 The Wabash Group. Ave. “It newly licensed brokers,” she said. said Buscher. “Agents are independent Willis Spaulding, was responsible for was a fantastic opportunity,” said Garst, who When Garst received her real estate contractors.” However, The Real Estate said they weren’t unhappy. “We still have a Group strives to create a team environment, For the past 10 years, Chiles has been lot of good friends at The Real Estate Group.” she felt that there was a lack of tools and with agents dedicated to helping each other. lookingbuilding at Lake downtown Springfield. buildings with an eye Kuhar is the operations principal, and traininglicense infor 2011 newly after licensed 30 years brokers in nursing, in the Buscher says that agents are attracted from seasoned brokers, but no systems and management support and mentoring afford,toward andeventually the rest opening is history,” his own said office. Chiles. “I transactionGarst is the actingcoordinator sales teamSuzanne leader. Daugherty Market modelsSpringfield to area.follow “You to putget ayou lot ofon good a path advice of programsto the firm that The by Group the education, offers. “We training,provide finally found one I wanted, at a price I could arecenter administrative administrator staff Maria on site. Parsons They andare unlimited support that is second to none,” currently recruiting real estate brokers from don’t have to reinvent the wheel. KW has it said Buscher. upper-storyThe building apartments. on Adams has 1,600 square feet the area. allsuccess. with a proven Keller Williamsblueprint hasfor success, all that. which You “It had nothing to do with The Group,” of office“It’s aspace good onlocation the ground for me,” floor said and Chiles. two They were approached by John There are currently three agents working for Schumacher, the regional director for the mid- trained brokers working for them,” said Garst. recently opened Capital Area Real Estate, him and one part-time receptionist. Future American region of Keller Williams Realty. ultimately “Keller benefits Williams our implements clients to have an highly-agent- said Phil Chiles, when asked why he left. He plans include bringing on more agents, and “John knew Jim,” said Garst, adding they were centric model,” Garst continued, “which allows life where I wanted to be on my own and do he expects business to grow 10 to 15 percent “honored Keller Williams chose us.” agents to create and brand themselves, not the my316 own E. Adams thing.” St. “I was at that stage of my per year. Garst went on to say, “Keller Williams brokerage. KW’s culture has been researched “I love downtown,” he enthuses. He would is the number one training company across and studied and is its greatest attribute. That Chiles received his real estate license in 2000 like to see the area become a place where all industries, not just real estate. They are A former lobbyist and Methodist pastor, people can come and shop, play and have a a training and education company that sharing available to all brokers without any good time. “I want to become downtown’s just happens to be in the business of real capitalculture investment,is born out riskof a or model liability.” of true profit- and hasAspen worked Real Estatefor several (prior firms, to its including merger Realtor,” he said. estate. Brokers are very busy people and “We’re really excited about the future,” withJulie DavisThe Real Realtors, Estate Coldwell Group). Banker, ReMax they need the tools, systems and processes said Garst. was recently opened by Jim Kuhar and Kathy that KW offers.” GarstAnother of the newKuharGarst real estate Real office Estate in Team. town Garst said it was the right time for KW to Roberta Codemo is a freelance ago.Chiles After firstweighing started the exploringpros and thecons, idea he They left The Real Estate Group and opened come to town. When Keller Williams Realty writer in Springfield. of opening his own firm a little over a year 6 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal PERSONALITY PROFILE

Delivering the local flavor By Eric Woods

Tyler Gansky has spent the majority of his life and smarter and be my own boss.” a big learning curve since beginning the Abe’s Takeout is a delivery service that company. “What they do not teach in school is the little costs of doing business. The number in Springfieldorder to start with his a briefown businessstop in Columbia, and has beenMissouri here for ever college. since. He He moved has been back attending in 2013 carryout,has partnered Abe’s with will more make than 30the restaurants delivery. seven years is a lack of capital. So budget for in Springfield. As long as a restaurant offers aone rainy reason day.” small businesses fail in their first he is working toward his bachelor’s degree great deal about starting a business from the Another business lesson learned by PHOTO BY MARANDA POTTERF inthe business University administration. of Illinois Springfield From an where early groundGansky up. opened “It started in 2013 with and myself has learned and two a Gansky was how to treat employees. “I age, Gansky knew he wanted to be his own other people playing video games at home boss. When he moved back to town he we’re projected to be at about $1.2 million employees.watched Mark I watch Forinash, the way who they owns work Café for Tyler Gansky and doing four to five deliveries a day. Now him,”Moxo, he and said. learned “Treat by people the way who he work treats hard his decided to start a unique delivery business affair with food. “Food in this town is unlike partners in the company and each own for you well, and they will stick around and Title: Owner, Abe’s Takeout LLC and take advantage of Springfield’s love in sales this year,” he said. “My parents are do their job even better. The average driver Education: A.A. in journalism from University food,” he said. From horseshoes to Cozy business.” Currently, the company employs for us sticks around almost a year.” of Dogso many on Route others. 66 and Springfield multiple is appearances known for a quarter of the business. It is a family Bringing his food delivery brainchild Family: Not married, no children service to more than 10,000. to fruition has been Gansky’s greatest has tapped into an arena that has proven moreGansky than wants 30 people to keep and money has providedlocal in achievement to date. “This has been a on the Food Network, Gansky’s business order to help stimulate the area economy learning experience for me. I started as a Favorites – something to eat here.” Hobby: Playing hockey veryAs successful. a young teenager, “You cannot Gansky go wrongworked with his pants,” he said. Looking to the future, Gansky Movie: Happy Gilmore witnessedas the state’s the financialeconomic situation impact ison having local 20-year-old kid flying by the seat of my Author: Mitch Albom skates at Johnston’s Sporting Emporium. businessesa trickle-down stemming effect infrom Springfield. the state Hebudget has company while possibly being married with first job selling equipment and sharpening impasse. “State workers are without the children.is confident If hehe couldwill still know be runningone thing his about own Tidbits – extra spending money. We see all sides of it,” the future, though, it would be what year the Would like to backpack through Europe As he was frequently playing hockey at the he said. Chicago Cubs will win the World Series. “That Collects old dollar bills jobnearby as a Nelsondishwasher Center while at the in college time, he was found not While on the subject of money, Gansky would be the biggest party of the century. I Belongs to the Greater Springfield Chamber it to be the perfect job. Unfortunately, his advises anyone looking to start their own want to plan for that day.” of Commerce and Local First is $7.25 an hour, so I know what it is like to small business to budget appropriately. “Take workso perfect. 40 hours “In Missouri, a week the for minimum nothing,” wagesaid the amount you think you will need and Eric Woods can be reached Gansky. “I realized that I need to work harder double it,” he said. Gansky has experienced at [email protected].

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 7 SPECIAL SECTION: FAMILY AND MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS

Springfield’s Young and Powerful Q & A with Dominic Watson By Haley Wilson

What is Springfield’s Young and Powerful? campaigns. With the help of dedicated what I wanted to do from a community youngover $300,000 professionals for the 2008around and the2012 country, Obama engagementwith the organization. standpoint. Y&P represented Springfield’s Young & Powerful (SY&P) we successfully orchestrated dozens of What are benefits of someone being professionalsis an extension who of Theare dedicated Young & Powerfulto civic involved or joining this group? engagement,Group (Y&P), training a national future collective leaders of young and For me, one of the biggest selling points empowering young professionals to serve fundraising events in 11 major U.S. cities. disadvantaged communities. days,In 2013, ranging during from inaugurationa presidential weekend, brunch and locally is the opportunity to be exposed What association does the Black towe a were black able tie gala.to organize Our current six events focus in is five on toin beingmany involveddifferent withleaders Y&P from both around nationally the Chamber of Commerce have with mentoring other young professionals who The Young and Powerful Group? are coming after us, in addition to getting change individual lives, including your own. involved in more cities nationwide. Whatcountry challenges – not to mention does the the Young opportunity and to What is your involvement with the group? Powerful group face? the SY&Pform hasof ayoung unique professional partnership outreach. with the We face many of the same challenges OverSpringfield the past Black few years Chamber the two of organizationsCommerce in in addition to being the national marketing that other organizations do during this day have hosted numerous events, including I currently serve as city chair of SY&P and age. Some that stand out are volunteer Dominic Watson is a member of the Illinois young professional brunches, after-work Why did you decide to get involved? recruitment, membership involvement and, and communications chair for Y&P. State Democratic Caucus and has headed gatherings and outreach fairs. most importantly, staying relevant. I am the Watson Creative Marketing Group What impact does this group have 2011. For a while I was searching for a extremely optimistic that we can overcome I first got involved with Y&P back in since 2006. He also serves as the executive locally, statewide and nationally? young professional organization that these minimal challenges. director for the Springfield Black Chamber In a short time, we have collectively was engaging civically. I was introduced of Commerce. We spoke with him about to one of the founding members of the Haley Wilson is a writer and marketing Springfield’s Young and Powerful. political action committee worked to raise organization and became closely involved professional in Springfield. made a huge impact. For instance, the Y&P

8 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal PERSONALITY PROFILE

The social era of marketing By Eric Woods

successful e-commerce business and learned just like any other job,” she said. “Commit her life in Jacksonville, with a brief stint in a good deal about marketing and social Kaleigh Moore has lived the majority of media. After graduating, she found herself of the area. She also appreciates the great with the opportunity to start a new business to it and enjoy it. You should not do it as a smallSpringfield, business and environment. enjoys the affordability“There are that focused on social media and helping fleeting thing in the hopes of getting rich.” It PHOTO BY FRAMEWORK PHOTOGRAPHY a number of wonderful small businesses, businesses expand their reach. She and her tois alsotry crucialand be to everything be specific to and everyone find a niche, and especially restaurants, in the area,” she husband soon began Lumen, which offers insteadaccording attempt to Moore. to connect She waswith adviseda particular not said. She would, however, like to see more creative strategies to assist organizations. demographic. opportunities for young people in their 20s. The company centers on copywriting, editing, Kaleigh Moore “The area is not really growing right now. social media management, consulting, since she was a child. Growing up, she won We are not attracting people my age. It is graphic design and branding. “I focused a youngMoore author’s has had contest a passion and today for writing she is Title: Owner, Lumen really lacking.” on social media initially, but over time I fortunate to write for publications such as Education: B.A. in communication from Entrepreneur and Inc. Magazine. A future University of Illinois Springfield astronaut and a writer, and one of those of my time on social media and the rest is goal is to write a book, and while she does Family: Husband – Brandon Moore grew up wanting to be an shifted to writing. Now I spend 20 percent up was at a movie theater slinging popcorn. e-commerce and software companies all over Favorites – Herdreams worst did job come experience, true. Her though,first job wasgrowing as a creating content,” said Moore. Clients include not have any specifics just yet, she is leaning Hobby: Reading toward fiction. dishwasher. Every job left a mark. “I think blog content and web content. looking ahead she believes she will remain Author: Erik Larson the world. Moore will write copy for emails, Moore’s career is just beginning, and all jobs are a learning experience,” she said. in central Illinois and still be working on her Restaurant: Biaggi’s Something else she learned early in life was the side, but she transitioned to running the the importance of being nice and a good companyInitially full-time Moore startedonce she Lumen felt comfortable as a job on going that route. For those wanting to get own and with various partners. Personally, Tidbits – behind and get greedy. Being nice has been placeshe wants right tonow,” grow she her said. family and find time Fluent in Spanish helpfulperson. to“People me. Handwritten have a tendency thank to youleave notes that says to “make sure it is something you love. to fit in more traveling. “I am in a really good Enjoys yoga or simple phone calls can go a long way.” their own small businesses going, Moore Eric Woods can be reached Would like to visit Paris someday so you must love it, otherwise it becomes at [email protected]. You will be working eight to 10 hours a day, While in college, Moore ran a very

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 9 Springfield Black Chamber of Commerce Directory

All In One Pamela Frazier 866-567-0491

All Star Kutz Audrey Austin 217-698-5889

Ariz Hair & Nail Studio Rhoda Lomelino 217-753-4346

Capital City Courier Michael Pittman 217-528-2998

Davis Mechanical, Inc. Joe Davis 217-753-3140

Diversity Agreements Procurement Co. Veronica Williams 217-698-2702

Ds Auto World Drewnard Woods 217-753-1100

Environ James Forney 217-523-9280

E T Lawn Care Elmer Taborn 217-971-8023

Heard John John Heard 217-638-2207

H & J Lawn Care Howard Veal 217-816-5878

Independent Associates Larry Hemmingway 217-553-9582

Infrastructure Engineering Michael Sutton 312-405-9560

Innovative Concepts & Solutions Too, Inc. Linda Dillon 217-741-6485

L & M Gymnastics Leroy McDaniels 217-753-2613

Lathan Harris Inc. Gina Whitener 217-553-3148

MJ’s Fish and Chicken Express Jerome Taylor 217-572-0257

MLB Lawn Service Dave Freeman 217-741-8063

Oliver Consulting Tina Wilkins 217-220-1056

Perfecting Business LLC Jeleta Robinson 217-721-9600

Photography by Jimmie Jimmy Treadwell 217-523-8004

Porter Technologies Kenneth Porter 217-415-3075

Prepaid Legal Services, Inc. Jerrie Blakely 217-546-2138

Primed for Life, Inc. Leshonda Rogers 217-789-2980

PT’s BBQ (2 locations) Perry Hines 217-620-1013

Pure News T C Christian 217-528-5588

Robert Moore & Associates Robert Moore 217-793-3505

S & P Productions Patricia Dulin 217-971-7389

Springfield IL African American History Douglas King 217-546-0115 Foundation

Springfield’s Young & Powerful Dominic Watson 217-220-3398

Synergetic Solutions Inc. Mellissa Hamilton 217-494-7210

The Key John Crisp 217-670-2113

The Network Group Kimberly Moore 217-553-8890

The Springfield Project Timothy Rowles 217-753-3551

Total Essence Beauty Salon Kila Alexander 217-544-2483

Upward Media Studios Ronald Rhone 217-529-5209

10 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal BUSINESS PROFILE

Pam Frazier, All In One C.E.O., takes a rare break from powerwashing PHOTO BY CATHERINE O’CONNOR vehicles in the parking lot at Lincoln Land Community College. All in One A small company, covering a lot of ground By Catherine O’Connor

may have been used by a smoker, harbor a cubic ton of dog hair or just not have been Pamela Frazier, owner of All In One On-Site very well cared-for. “Anytime it is at least energyMobile andWash loves and what Detail she has does. a motto: “Just 27 degrees with sunshine, we’re out there.” get Sheit clean.” and Theher Springfieldcrew, which native includes is full her of Frazier said. husband Robert, travel throughout central Their service area has covered a wide Illinois providing on-site power washing swath from Quincy to Havana, Clinton, and dry extraction services for residential, commercial/industrial and government dealerships. Building relationships and jobs of all sizes. Frazier oversees everything friendshipsand Litchfield, means from a lot rural to Frazier. areas to metro from bids and scheduling to managing the hands-on work of scrubbing and detailing a wide range of projects. she Returnis sold customeron the services Nita Crews of All of InVirden, One. “We’rewho works all busyin Springfield, but want summed clean vehicles. up why and never long enough. The range of They help to move one more thing off your jobsFrazier they tackle says thatencompasses each day iscars, unique RVs checklist,” Crews said. As a result of All In One’s mobility, the of trucks, structural exterior surfaces, concreteand motor preparation, homes but massive also entire bridges, fleets site services that sometimes piggyback boats, airplanes, construction clean-up and withcompany errands can beand flexible repairs, and meeting provide on-the everything in between. needs of professionals on the go. “Some Frazier has seen her business succeed salespeople practically have to live out of mostly by word-of-mouth from a growing business sense,” Frazier says. Another “brick and mortar” location, the large All In waytheir she cars has – keepingbeen able it cleanto introduce makes goodtheir number of satisfied customers. With no services and expand the customer base has been by setting up regular “clean car” One truck and trailer – containing the water days for organizations, which will have upand to equipment each job. needed for power washing employees sign up in advance for washing – hasThe become company’s her best commercial advertising work as it pullswith IDOT has included the power washing of parking lot during the work day. andWhen detailing companies to be use done car in detailing their office as a to remove grime and salt, which can corrode gift to celebrate a work anniversary or to thedozens metal of bridges surfaces. over theHanging suspended River reward goals met, employees just love it, by a bright pink harness high above the according to Frazier. “It’s great as a birthday gift or a little indulgence you give to yourself, diminutive Frazier has undoubtedly caught like a ‘spa day’ for the car,” Crews said. theswirling attention waters of onlookers. of the Mississippi, the All In One was started 14 years ago “Our niche is being mobile. We set up shop in a location and people are fascinated Female Business Enterprise and an IDOT that the water source and extraction are Disadvantagedand is a State of Business Illinois enterprise.certified Minority/ Frazier all self-contained. We jump out and get it is a graduate of Southeast High School done,” Frazier said. According to Frazier, they never know what the job will entail until they ofand Commerce Robert Morris and is College very active as well in asthe a arrive. However, the grungiest and most community.proud member of the Springfield Chamber challenging cleanups can often be the most rewarding as they provide almost instant seems to shine through in their business Pamela and Robert Frazier’s work ethic interior, exterior and engine detailing along says with a smile. withgratification. dressing the A typicaltires and job the may occasional involve practices.To schedule “Put yourservices signature or purchase on it,” shegift pick-up and delivery of a car to its owner.

cards, Catherinecontact Pam O’Connor at 217-415-7719. may be reached at rebuiltIndividuals or returned and dealers lease findvehicles, All In whichOne’s [email protected]. services invaluable for vintage, antique, Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 11 Sabha Ganai, MD, PhD, FACS Age: 39 when nominated Occupation: As sistant professor of surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine; director of Gastrointestinal Oncology, SIU Simmons Cancer Institute Email: [email protected] Online: Twitter: @DrSabha Education: B.S., biomedical engineering, University of Southern Viterbi School of Engineering; M.D., Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California; Ph.D., molecular and cellular biology, University of Sponsored by Amherst; M.P.H. candidate, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Family: Single mom; brothers live in southern California Affiliations / Community Activities: Zonta International, Springfield Chapter The Power of a U of I MBA • Biggest guilty pleasure? Karaoke! • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Helping patients deal with their cancer diagnosis. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Providing a vibrant and creative environment to thrive outside of the workplace.

Tara Long Age: 37 Sam Perks Occupation: Photographer /owner, Tara Long Photography Age: 26 Email: [email protected] Occupation: Broker/Team leader : The Sam Perks Team Online: Facebook, Instagram: taralongphotography at RE/MAX Professionals Education: Blessed Sacrament School; Sacred Heart- Email: [email protected] Griffin; Eastern Illinois University (degree in Online: Facebook.com/EveryoneLikesPerks; Twitter: elementary education) @SamPerksTeam; Instagram: SamPerksTeam Family: Husband – John Long (attorney with Cavanagh Education: SIU-E and Lewis & Clark Community College & O’Hara Law Offices); children – Lennon, Family: Significant other – Benjamin; dogs – eaganR Norah, Harrison and Lincoln; parents, three brothers and Affiliations / Community Activities: Member of Young one sister. Philanthropists; member of Junior Circle of Hope; photographer Affiliations / Community Activities: Commercial Real Estate for “Let It Be Us” (photographing foster children in hopes Network committee member (chairman, 2015); Capital Area of finding them permanent homes); member of Blessed Realtors government affairs committee; Sangamo Club; Sacrament Parish (doing photography work for the school and parish when needed); photographer for the Pink National & Illinois Association of Realtors; Capital Area Realtors Gala (photographing survivors of breast cancer). • Biggest guilty pleasure? I love a gourmet dining experience. I like to cook, but I love to try local restaurants • Biggest guilty pleasure? Going to concerts with my husband and friends, traveling with my family, and the with creative menus wherever I go. I think food should be art and not just functional. Springfield has some great occasional quick trip to Anthropologie. places to try new things. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Biggest perk by far is that I get to make people happy every single day • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The ability to be genuinely useful at major milestones in our (there aren’t many jobs around where you get to say that!) and that I get to be part of a really amazing group of clients’ lives. Specifically, RE/MAX has allowed me to develop my services as a commercial practitioner, while women in my #TLONGFAM Group, who are always willing to help others and always showing how incredible our expanding my residential brokerage team and offering property management services simultaneously. Being community of local moms truly is. “full-service” is a huge perk for my clients and me…and ‘Everyone Likes Perks.’ • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Creating camaraderie is so important. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Springfield is succeeding at expanding Local businesses learning from and leaning on one another helps businesses not only to grow but helps us cultural activities, providing well-managed parks and entertainment venues and improving infrastructure. The next grow as good people/citizens as well, which in turn makes our community a place where we want to raise our step is to excite and inspire young people to create new things. Government and business leaders must play an active families. The fellowship we have in Springfield is truly what makes the Springfield community a great place to role in showing young people that their innovative ideas are valued here, and that we want to help them build reality be a young professional. out of creative thinking. Young people often feel like that don’t have a seat at the table, and that must not be the case.

Abby Sgro Christopher J. Stritzel Age: 27 Age: 37 Occupation: Associate attorney, Giffin, Winning, Cohen Occupation: Project engineer, Crawford, Murphy & Tilly & Bodewes, P.C. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Online: Twitter (@cstritzel), LinkedIn Education: J.D., Saint Louis University School of Law; Education: BS, civil engineering, University of Illinois, University of Dayton School of Law; Eastern New Berlin High School Illinois University; Bachelor of arts in Family: Wife – Tiffany; Children – Owen and Paige journalism with minor in Spanish and pre-law Affiliations / Community Activities: Member West Side Family: Husband - Ben Sgro; parents - Charles & Lynn Christian Church; Camp Compass volunteer; past Springfield Allgire; in-laws - Gregory and Leslie Sgro, Nick Sharefest volunteer; past president Illinois Society of Sgro, Sarah Sgro Professional Engineers (ISPE); past Project Lead the Way mentor; Affiliations / Community Activities: Illinois State Bar Leadership Springfield alumnus (2014); volunteer youth Association; Central Illinois Women’s Bar Association; baseball and basketball coach Sangamon County Bar Association; Government Bar Association; newly appointed registration chair for Illinois Women in Leadership; • Biggest guilty pleasure? Chipotle (they know me by name) and ice cream (cookie dough) founding member of Junior Circle of Hope; Illinois Innocence Project Task Force committee member • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The best ‘perk’ of my job is the flexibility CMT provides its employees to and pro-bono attorney; at-risk student mentor for Icouldbe.org; wish granter for the Make-A-Wish allow and encourage them to become engaged in various extracurricular activities outside of the workplace. Foundation; CJA panel member. From volunteering at local not for profits, to serving on committees and boards, to remaining involved with family activities and sporting events, CMT remains steadfast in its commitment to the growth of the individual Biggest guilty pleasure? Reality TV and Mexican food. employee, both internally and outside the workplace. Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The variety of work. I learn something new every day, and I interact with • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Retaining young professionals starts new people on a regular basis. Also, my co-workers are a major perk. They make my work days enjoyable. with changing the culture and perception of our community. Often times we take for granted what we have How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Springfield’s best quality is the right in front of us. As a lifelong resident of the Springfield area, I have come to cherish the family values plethora of community and volunteer organizations, as well as the closeness of the community. In order provided by our community to young professionals and their families. Marketing this culture, as well as to retain young professionals, Springfield should continue to keep the amazing community and volunteer providing opportunities for quality education and safe, family friendly activities, will help sustain Springfield as organizations alive. New restaurants and shops are always a bonus, too! a ‘Best Place to Live’ for years to come.

12 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 13 FORTY UNDER 40 Melissa Hamilton Nathan Bishop Age: 36 Age: 31 Occupation: Founder of Your Corner Office, Inc. and Occupation: P rogram director, Downtown Springfield president of Synergetic Solutions, Inc. Incorporated Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Online: F acebook/URCornerOffice; Twitter @ Online: LinkedIn URCornerOffice; LinkedIn Your Corner Office; Education: Masters degree in urban and regional URCornerOffice.com planning – University of , bachelor’s Education: Attended District 186 schools, graduating degree in science – Murray State University from Lanphier High School. Went on to Family: Wife – Cara; daughters – Harper, Vivienne; attend college at Benedictine University at dog – Dash Springfield and graduated with a bachelor’s of Affiliations / Community Activities: American Institute of business administration in management and Certified Planners (AICP); Illinois Chapter of the American organizational behavior. Planning Association; Urban Action Network advisory member; Family: C elebrating 13 years of marriage to high school co-founder, Springfield Forward; Sustainable Design Assessment sweetheart Wayne Hamilton, Jr. Together we have one son, Tyree Hamilton, who is a recent Team (SDAT) working groups; Springfield Comprehensive Plan steering committee graduate of Springfield High School. Affiliations / Community Activities: Personal: Co-chair of Downtown Springfield, Inc.’s retail coordination • Biggest guilty pleasure? Fantasy baseball and pizza committee; co-chair/secretary of the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce IT committee; Q5 Diversity • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The best perk of my job is having the opportunity to be involved in the Development Council member. As Synergetic Solutions, Inc./Your Corner Office: Springfield Black Chamber revitalization of downtown. This is where my family and I enjoy frequenting, as it provides a uniqueness of Commerce; Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce; Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce; Downtown unmatched anywhere in the city...so it’s pretty nice to have so many great local establishments and things Springfield, Inc.; Local First; Synergetic Solutions, Inc. DBA Your Corner Office is certified in these programs: going on downtown that are steps away on a daily basis. CMS Small Business Set Aside, CMS Business Enterprise Program, and IDOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Today’s young professionals want more than a job, they want a city they can make their own. They want dense urban amenities that allow • Biggest guilty pleasure? I would definitely have to say watching celebrity reality television programs. I them to dive in and have fun when they’re not working, and they want a wide labor market so they can typically watch them while cleaning or just needing a “relax” day. find their next job when they’re ready. Collaboration locally will be key, with a particular need for large • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? My entire job as a whole is one big perk. I truly enjoy helping people and local employers to support each other to attract and retain talent. One of the biggest selling points for my community in any way I can be of service. I like being a part of helping someone succeed or find success. this region is definitely the affordability factor. For Springfield, the offer to business needs to include an Even if it is something as simple as giving someone advice or just listening. offer for people. This means addressing the wider components of place-making and livability, such as How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? In order to retain young professionals housing diversity, transport options and cultural activities, which in turn will help talent stick. Downtown here in Springfield, we need to create more awareness of the opportunities Springfield has to offer: education, revitalization is already underway and is the ideal place to put resources and energy to bring these careers, entertainment, family growth and personal development. We need our young professionals to components together. feel a part of something great and allow them to share their ideas on how to make Springfield better. Their contribution of new ideas can be a stepping stone towards recognizing their future can be right here in Springfield. Just because we are considered “a small town,” we still have plenty to offer.

14 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal FORTY UNDER 40 Micah R. King Sarah Jones Age: 38 Age: 36 Occupation: President, Identi-Check, Inc.; vice president of Occupation: Nonprofit consultant/Self-employed project management King Technology, Inc.; Online: I’m a social media junkie, so I keep my current secretary-treasurer eGrain, Inc. profiles and contact info on an about me page. Email: [email protected], [email protected] https://about.me/sarah.jones Online: LinkedIn Education: University of Illinois - Springfield Education: BA in economics, minor in physics from Family: Here in town I have my parents, Michael and Rollins College Debra Jones, two younger sisters, Rebecca and Family: Son – Kalvin M. King; brother – Isaac King; Rachel, and my terrific niece, Isla Mae Steward. sister – Kim King; parents – M. Kay and N. King My grandma’s family has been in Springfield Affiliations / Community Activities: On the board of the for seven generations so I have some cousins Springfield Lake Shore Improvement Association (SLSIA) around, too. Affiliations / Community Activities: I’m currently a board • Biggest guilty pleasure? Anything outside makes me happy. member for the local Sierra Club. I have also served as a Hunting, fishing, wake surfing, wakeboarding, gardening, fitness volunteer at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, Junior League member and Kids in the Kitchen chair, • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? KingTech: We assist children in DCFS care to find relatives for placement Kings Daughters Organization member and cookbook committee person, Girl Scouts volunteer and a tour options. It’s nice to help speed the process up and help a child find a stable home fast and with family guide at many historic sites as well as involvement with my church. members. Identi-check: I’m happy to help lower the hiring risk for employers by helping them know who they are hiring. eGrain: It’s interesting to be at the forefront of bringing technology to the farming business. Overall • Biggest guilty pleasure? Wasting weekends by watching full seasons of my favorite shows and random though, it’s great to work for a family-owned company allowing for a flexible schedule during hunting season. documentaries on Netflix (I highly recommend the documentaries Dinosaur 13 and Inequality in America). • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Paul Palazzolo called it “Springfield • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? I have gotten the chance to meet people and learn things that I never Next” during his run for mayor, and his initiative was intended to build a city that can take advantage of the would have expected when I was a history student at UIS with my heart set on a job in museum administration. ability to attract and grow jobs and retain the next generation of young professionals. We should build off I have worked with private schools, arts organizations, a national breast cancer support organization and an this concept and help bring the young professionals back to Springfield. Bring the options and variety from international student exchange program. The variety of my projects, as well as the flexibility, is wonderful. One the big cities where the young professionals currently reside to Springfield. Create community growth that of my current projects is a race event this fall for The Friends of the Sangamon Valley. Did you know we have the is stimulating to young professionals and their families. Our leaders should listen to millennials and young largest preserve for Franklin Ground Squirrels in the country? I learn something new with each group I get to professionals about what is wrong with Springfield and take steps towards improvements. Springfield parks are meet. It’s also amazing to have the chance to make a positive impact on our community. primarily located in highly populated areas and offer more than just the park with a jungle gym and soccer goal. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I would love to see our community They offer outside entertainment, arts, bike paths and other fun activities for the entire family. But what about continue to support projects that bring families back into our traditional neighborhoods (like the work the Enos the parks at the lake? Opportunities at the lake for entertainment and recreation seem endless. For example, Park Association is doing). I grew up on the south side of town near the center of the city and it was nice being it’s sad that a national landmark such as the beach house is no longer accessible to the community except within walking distance to my school, a park and restaurants. Keeping families at our city’s core is important. for private rental. I believe more emphasis should be placed on downtown Springfield, helping stimulate Also, more service and community engagement opportunities for families with younger children. Spending business to create more jobs for young professionals. time working with other people on community projects helps us feel more engaged in our city and more likely to stay as we move up in our professional life.

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 15 FORTY UNDER 40 Jakob Lohrenz Andrew Novaria Age: 33 Age: 27 Occupation: Account executive, LRS Consulting Services Occupation: Employee benefits/commercial insurance Email address: [email protected] consultant, American Central Insurance Education: Attended Lincoln Land Community College and Services Malcolm X College Email: [email protected] Family: Wife – McKenzie; daughter – Irie; son – Nash Online: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Affiliations / Community Activities: Board of directors at Education: Bachelor of Arts, political science, University of Family Service Center; donating to many organizations across Illinois Urbana-Champaign. the Springfield area Family: Wife – Christine Novaria Affiliations / Community Activities: United Way executive • Biggest guilty pleasure? Night eating co-chair, American Business Club, Springfield Young • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Always meeting and Philanthropists, Sangamo Club member, and Young Springfield conversing with new people Professionals Network • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I would say that more companies need to create an atmosphere where people want to stick around. • Biggest guilty pleasure? Anything from Café Moxo There are many ways to accomplish this, such as investing in your personnel via training and technology • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The biggest perk of my job is meeting new people. Having the opportunity upgrades that assist them in their everyday duties, creating a work environment that is a fun and exciting place to work for a locally owned independent insurance agency, and being involved in the community, has allowed to come to every day and offer talented professionals the opportunity to be paid exponentially and made to feel me to meet people that I would have never known otherwise. they are extremely valued to the company. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Continuing to grow our downtown area with outdoor dining, beer gardens and great festivals/concerts.

Brian Frieze Age: 29 Occupation: President, Sangamon Reclaimed Christine Novaria Email: [email protected] Online: Facebook, LinkedIn Age: 27 Education: Air Force and Lincoln Land Occupation: Contract food buyer Community College Company: M.J. Kellner Foodservice Family: Wife – Brea; daughter – Ruby Email: [email protected] Affiliations / Community Activities: Greater Springfield Online: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn Chamber of Commerce, Local First Springfield Education: Bachelor of science in agriculture and consumer economics from the University of • Biggest guilty pleasure? Good steak and an ice cold beer Illinois Urbana-Champaign • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The opportunity to create Family: Husband – Andrew Novaria and grow a business from the ground up in my hometown. It’s Affiliations / Community Activities: Illinois Women in been great to work with customers to create something they Leadership hospitality committee co-chair, United Way can’t find anywhere else. I love sharing the stories associated employee campaign coordinator and 2014 campaign co-chair, with each piece of furniture, some of our materials date back to the pre-Civil War era. It’s great to keep that Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery volunteer, Hope School-Junior history alive by passing it along to each of our clients. Circle of Hope member, Sangamo Club member • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? We have to continue to develop downtown by adding green spaces, parking and housing. I believe a core urban center in Springfield would • Biggest guilty pleasure? Drinking a glass or two of Sauvignon Blanc on Lake Springfield with my husband, create an environment for growth and creativity by drawing more people downtown. It’s a shame to see all of parents and siblings. the beautiful historic buildings downtown sit empty due to lack of interest from local businesses or support • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? M.J. Kellner is now an employee-owned company, so the biggest perk that from local consumers. We hope to eventually make one of these historic buildings the home of Sangamon I receive is ownership in the work that I do every day. Another perk is that we take turns cooking lunch for the Reclaimed. I think this type of investment in our community would create excitement and investment, not only company every month in our commercial test kitchen! downtown, but also the community as a whole. With this, other issues within our community, such as schools, • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I believe that it is important for would also benefit from additional revenue and community involvement. businesses to keep their policies current in regard to work/life balance. With today’s technology, young professionals are able and willing to work anytime and anywhere. Flexibility and technology in the workplace are key factors in retaining young professionals, no matter the city. Springfield truly is a great place to live and work. I am looking forward to continuing my career and starting my family here. Joshua Laurent Age: 38 Occupation: District service manager / profitability specialist / Lean Six Sigma Green Belt – Bobcat Company Email: [email protected] Paul Kabbes Online: LinkedIn Education:  B.S. in business management and organizational Age: 28 leadership – Gary Tharaldson School of Business Occupation:  Associate athletic director – University of Illinois at the (), Universal Springfield Technical Institute () Email: [email protected] Family: Spouse – Candi Laurent; children – Vincent, Online: Twitter @PaulKabbes Victor Education: Bachelor’s degree in business management Affiliations / Community Activities: Lean Six Sigma from Illinois Wesleyan University; Master’s degree in sports management from Illinois • Biggest guilty pleasure? Baseball, business, history. State University • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The greatest perk of my job is helping small businesses become more Family: Single. Youngest of four children to Mike profitable, hire more employees and be able to better service their customers. I have worked with businesses and Jody Kabbes and grew up in Normal. on the verge of collapse and some that are in great shape, just looking to get a little better. Every time I can Affiliations / Community Activities: Capital Area Sports help a business solve a problem or take that next big step forward is a reward within itself. After working Commission (Springfield) – board member; NACDA (National with nearly 200 different small to medium size businesses in the last eight years, being able to see them Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics) – active member; overcome so many problems and become more successful than they thought they could be, is the best perk Miracle League of Central Illinois (Normal) – previous board member I could ever hope for. I have always subscribed to the theory that my success is determined by how many people I serve and how well I serve them. • Biggest guilty pleasure? Golf. Honestly can’t spend enough time on the course, despite being an awful • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Retention of young professionals or golfer. Truly enjoy playing as much as possible. talented employees is one of the hottest topics of towns, cities, and businesses alike all over the country. In my • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The people. Between UIS coaches and donors in the Springfield current role, I cover all of Illinois, and and everyone is asking the same question. Retention community, I truly think I interact with the best people in town on a daily basis. of young professionals comes down to opportunity, compensation, recognition and living environment. A town • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Reward hard-working people. It such as Springfield or a business in general must strive to offer the majority, if not all four, of those attributes in doesn’t always have to be on the financial side – continue giving them greater responsibility and allow them to order to retain talent. With Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis so close, Springfield will always struggle without grow every single day in the workplace. Work ethic is something that can’t be taught…reward those who have it serious long-term planning towards retention and attraction of talent outside of the state and medical fields. and help them grow long-term.

16 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal FORTY UNDER 40 Brandon C. Cox, PhD Age: 38 Occupation: Assistant professor in the department of pharmacology and cross-appointed to the department of surgery, division of otolaryngology Organization: Southern Illinois University, School of Medicine Email: [email protected] Online: LinkedIn and Research Gate Education: B.S. in biology from the University of Richmond, Richmond, VA; Ph.D. in pharmacology from Georgetown University, , DC; postdoctoral training at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN Affiliations: Association for Research in Otolaryngology (ARO); Society for Neuroscience (SfN); American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET); and American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Community Activities: Participate in many trivia night fundraisers for local organizations.

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Well-made bread, sushi and the TV show “So You Think You Can Dance.” • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Interacting with some of the top scientists in the world. It is a thrill to see a Nobel Prize winner give a talk about their research. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Improve the networking opportunities for young professionals so that they can establish a life in Springfield outside of work. This is especially needed for those of us who are not from Illinois.

Chris Long Age: 34 Occupation: Director, Gem PR & Media, Inc Email: [email protected] Education: BA in international relations and BSS in psychology and criminology Family: Wife – Gemma Long; baby Long due fall 2016 Affiliations / Community Activities: Springfield Jaycees and American Business Club of Springfield

• Biggest guilty pleasure? I love going to the movies because I have to ignore my phone for a couple of hours. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? We’re just putting the finishing touches on our new office. I made sure to install a beer fridge. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I’d like to see more investment in infrastructure, including broadband.

Gemma Long Age: 33 Occupation: CEO, Gem PR & Media, Inc. Email: [email protected] Online: Twitter: @gemma_long and @GemPRMedia; Facebook: www.facebook.com/gemprmedia; LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ gemmalonggemprmedia ; Skype: Gemma_ GemPRMedia Education: BA first class honors in journalism; MA in journalism and international relations; Press Association Dip; CIPR Dip; MCIPR Family: Husband – Christopher Long; expecting arrival of baby Long in November. Affiliations / Community Activities: Business Networking International; Central Illinois Networking Group; Friends of Memorial (board member); Illinois Women in Leadership (board member); Rotary Club of Springfield South; Springfield Jaycees

• Biggest guilty pleasure? I love to stay busy and to know that I’m helping my clients grow their businesses through strategic PR, marketing and media activity. I don’t enjoy ‘switching off’ because I want clients to know we are here for them 24/7. So, when I can tear myself away from my Mac or the cellphone, my guilty pleasure is spending time with friends and family. With some of my family overseas I regularly speak to them on Skype and that’s one of my favorite ways to take time out. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? What I love about Gem PR & Media is that we work with so many different clients from the health and insurance industries to retail companies and technology businesses. No two days are the same, from managing social media accounts, to organizing and promoting a 5K in Washington Park to helping clients receive the recognition they deserve on TV, radio, online or in print. I love my job, the people I work with and value each and every client here in Springfield, St. Louis and overseas. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Young professionals, in particular millennials, appreciate the opportunity to learn and grow in their job. They also want to take on responsibility and participate in discussions about how the business grows in order to make their mark and further their career. Millennials want to work with brands that stand out for the right reasons and contribute to community. At Gem PR & Media we are involved with a number of nonprofits in the city in order to create positive change and that keeps me motivated to continue to grow our consultancy and support those in need of a little extra help.

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 17 FORTY UNDER 40 Ferguson Tony Zasowski Age: 29 Age: 37 Occupation: Move More and volunteer coordinator Occupation: He ad coach/ general manager, Springfield Organization: genHkids, Inc Junior Blues Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Online: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Education: University of Notre Dame Education: B.A., sociology/anthropology, UIS Family: Wife – DJ; daughter - Esmeralda Affiliations / Community Activities: Founding member, Affiliations / Community Activities: March of Dimes Signature Midstate Mayhem Roller Derby; volunteer, Girl Scouts of Illinois; Chefs Illinois Specialty Growers Association; certified youth bicycle skills instructor. • Biggest guilty pleasure? Stopping for a morning doughnut on my way to work. • Biggest guilty pleasure? I don’t believe in feeling ‘guilty’ • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Getting to travel regularly, about them, but my unlikely joys are hip-hop music and British including some off-season trips (including two trips to Russia comedy. and one upcoming to Sweden). • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Smiling kids, delicious, fresh vegetables from the community garden, the • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Opportunity. Attract great companies chance to break up hours of paperwork to play some foursquare at a school recess, being surrounded by our with opportunity for professional growth along with developing the food and entertainment around Springfield. enthusiastic, passionate community partners, the chance to work toward meaningful, long-term solutions to complex issues - my job has LOTS of perks! • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? We are so fortunate to have so many assets: a low cost of living, ample, beautiful green spaces like Washington and Lincoln Park, short commutes, farmers markets, highly-skilled medical professionals, higher education opportunities, etc. I’d personally like to see continued efforts to make Springfield more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly to encourage people to step Danielle Hunt outside their doors and foster that great sense of community. Age: 38 Occupation: Senior tax manager, Kerber, Eck, & Braeckel LLP Email: [email protected] Education: MacMurray College, bachelor of science in professional accountancy Brad Turasky Family: Husband – Ian Hunt; children – Kaitlyn and Liam Age: 34 Affiliations / Community Activities: American Institute of Occupation: Co-owner and vice president, Y-T Packing Co; Certified Public Accountants; tax division of AICPA; not for profit brand operations for Turasky Meats and Smart division of AICPA; Illinois CPA Society; Missouri Society of CPAs; Grillin treasurer – MERCY Communities, Inc.; vice treasurer – Illinois Email: [email protected] Women in Leadership; former treasurer – The 2015 Lincoln Education: B.A. in business management – Lincoln Funeral Coalition Land Community College, Ultrasource Meat Processing Academy • Biggest guilty pleasure? Chocolate Family: Wife - Dana; Children - Vincent and Spencer; • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Being able to assist clients, in various life stages, plan for and achieve their Parents -Joe and Carolyn financial goals. Compliance with tax filing responsibilities is the core of my practice and I truly enjoy that work, Affiliations / Community Activities: past president, Illinois but it’s those opportunities to add value and have a meaningful impact to that client that are the most rewarding. Association of Meat Processors; board member, American • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Springfield’s job market is more Association of Meat Processors. diverse than many believe; we are more than state government and hospitals. Every day I work with a variety of regional employers who provide wonderful opportunities for career advancement for various levels of • Biggest guilty pleasure? Listening to Justin Timberlake, watching “The Bachelor” and drinking fine wines. education and industry. Helping young professionals to understand that these opportunities are available • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Taste-testing! Traveling is another huge perk. This year I had the wonderful locally and that they don’t have to move away to enjoy a comfortable life is integral. However, the biggest opportunity to go to Frankfurt, Germany, for IFFA, which is the leading international trade fair for processing, threat to Springfield is the uncertainty surrounding the state budget. Continuing to operate without a state packaging, and sales in the meat industry. Mingling with 63,000 trade visitors from 143 countries is a fantastic budget will lead those that are able to seek stability of school systems, social organizations, and future tax way to get some insight on how meat plants across the world do business. obligations outside this area. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Springfield is one of the best places to start a family. Keeping with tradition and creating new projects within the city helps to sustain people like us. Creating more activities and events like fundraisers can help keep young professionals involved in the community. New and upcoming businesses that reach across the country will bring growth and commitment for people to stay. Blake Turner Age: 39 Occupation: Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, information systems analyst; Lindsay Record Lanphier High School, boys head varsity basketball coach Age: 37 Email: [email protected] Occupation: Executive director, Illinois Stewardship Alliance Online: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat Email: [email protected] Education: Wesleyan University, B.S., business Online: Facebook, LinkedIn administration Education: Arizona State University, B.A. in Family: Wife – Kelly Newman Turner; Daughters – interdisciplinary studies; School for Shelby, Chelsea, Olivia International Training, master’s candidate, Affiliations / Community Activities: Phi Beta Sigma fraternity; intercultural service, leadership and past state president Phi Beta Sigma fraternity; Lanphier management High School boys basketball coach; American Cancer Society Family: Husband – Terry Frank; children – Oliver, ambassador; Greater All Nations Tabernacle Church of God in Christ Adeline Affiliations / Community Activities: Illinois Farmers Market • Biggest guilty pleasure? It would have to be never missing an episode of “Game of Thrones,” “House of Association, board member; Illinois Farmers Market Task Force, Cards” and “Meet the Press.” To the naked eye, they would appear to be three very different television shows vice chair; Contact Ministries, volunteer; Illinois Women in that occupy my time; however, they are really the embodiment of my passion for all things political. Leadership, member • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? I am blessed to be able to coach a sport I love on the same court where I played in high school and have the opportunity to influence young men not only with regard to their athletic • Biggest guilty pleasure? I don’t want to say guilty, because I think food is meant to be enjoyed, but if I had a abilities, but more importantly, in their educational and social choices during and after high school. Coaching weakness it would be made-from-scratch cookies or craft beer. basketball at Lanphier High School is truly my dream job! • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The food! Working with local farmers means that our meetings, conferences • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I love Springfield and never and events usually feature locally grown food, which is always super fresh and delicious. considered not returning after college. When I hear people say “There is nothing to do,” I respond, “Perhaps • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I think we have great festivals (like there is nothing you want to do, because Springfield is filled with adventure.” However, I think Springfield Bites on the Boulevard and the Old Capitol Art Fair), and I’ve been a big fan of the Old Capitol Farmers Market could do a better job of marketing itself and all it has to offer, and be more strategic in marketing to addressing my whole adult life, which I think contributes to sense of place and serves as a gathering place for community. the concerns of Springfield’s African-American community. Young professionals such as myself are not all I would love to see more green space, bike lanes and community gardens. Walkable and livable communities interested in the “bar scene” and would like to have opportunities that may be social in nature, but also support that celebrate culture, art, food, history and diversity are attractive to me. professional development, networking, and advocacy for our specific interests.

18 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal FORTY UNDER 40 Jessica L. Galanos Age: 34 Occupation: Associate attorney, HeplerBroom, LLC law firm Email: [email protected] Online: LinkedIn, Facebook Education: Southern Illinois University School of Law, 2008; Southern Illinois University, B.A. paralegal studies, 2003 Family: Husband – Chris Affiliations / Community Activities: Chatham Area Chamber of Commerce, director; Girls on the Run of Central Illinois, fundraising and events leadership committee and governance committee; Sangamon County Bar Association, member and mentor with the Lawyer-to-Lawyer mentoring program; Central Illinois Women’s Bar Association, member; Government Bar Association, member; Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel, member.

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Unhealthy coffee drinks with chocolate and whipped cream. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Being with a client who has just prevailed in his or her case. Whether the person finds out because she is standing there after a verdict is read or because I have just called to deliver the news, the best part of my job is being there to see the relief and excitement from someone that has likely been worried about the case for several years. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I think Springfield has to do more to keep pace with the things that young professionals are looking for in a home. That will obviously include things like employment opportunities and affordable housing, but it also includes things like entertainment, outdoor recreation, athletic events and opportunities for young professionals to socialize with each other.

Quinn Allen Age: 31 Occupation: Insurance producer, Lee/ O’Keefe Insurance Agency Email: [email protected] Online: Facebook, LinkedIn Education: Williamsville High School; Springfield College in Illinois; Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Family: Wife –Jessica; Son – Quinn; Parents – Steve and Pam Allen; Sister – Courtney Hoffman (Husband – Bryce) Affiliations / Community Activities: Youth basketball and baseball coach; visitor to Harvard Park Elementary students. Past: Special Olympics Polar Plunge; prepared meals for Ronald McDonald House; educated new drivers about auto insurance in high school driver’s ed classes.

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Fishing • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Meeting different / new people from all over the country • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Encouragement! Encourage our youth to be great. Encourage them to make a difference. Encourage them to help others. Encourage them to be part of something bigger.

Katrina Schroeder Age: 27 Occupation: Director of community impact, United Way of Central Illinois Email: [email protected] Online: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram Education: Bachelor of Arts in communications, minor in graphic design, from Quincy University. Family: My wonderful fiancé and pets. Affiliations / Community Activities: Countless work affiliations; Junior League of Springfield; Young Springfield Professionals Network; graduate of Leadership Springfield

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Frozen coffees; Dip-N-Dots; anything chocolate • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The people! My boss and coworkers, the leaders of our community organizations, the committee members I serve with, and most importantly the volunteers I support. They all have, and continue to contribute to my career story, and I am continuously thankful for the challenges they involve me in, the faith they have in me, and the constant support they provide. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? That’s tough! I truly believe there are some things the community can’t influence, such as finding a spouse, having a family close by, and/or finding the job that fulfills their vision for themselves. What I can say is having employers that are open and supportive of flexible work models that support and strengthen families and the individuals within them is key. Most people I know would rank their job as one of the most important pieces in their life, especially starting out in their career, and when the company they are employed by no longer is helping them meet their goals, whether individually focused, family focused, or community focused, they begin to look elsewhere. Creating an environment where the person is just as important as the employee is key in developing a committed and impassioned workforce. People have a hard time leaving the community where their goals became a reality.

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 19 FORTY UNDER 40 Rachel Miller Brent Boesdorfer Age: 29 Age: 35 Occupation: Staff attorney with the SIU-Land of Lincoln Occupation: C o-owner-operator at Custom Cup Coffee / Medical-Legal Partnership manager at Boesdorfer Trucking, Inc. Organization: Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Online: CustomCupC offee on Facebook, Twitter and Online: Facebook, LinkedIn Instagram Education: BA in history from the University of Florida and Education: St. Louis University – BS in marketing; a JD from Saint Louis University School of Law University of Illinois Springfield - MBA Family: Husband – Patrick Miller Family: Wife – Kendra Boesdorfer; sons – Connor, Affiliations / Community Activities: board member for the Benjamin and George; dog – Bean Central Illinois Women’s Bar Association; Sangamon County Bar Affiliations / Community Activities: Downtown Springfield Association; Memorial Festival of Trees Inc.; Young Philanthropists; Illinois Trucking Association; Illinois Stewardship Alliance • Biggest guilty pleasure? I really enjoy gardening and mixing in new plants (frequently). • Biggest guilty pleasure? Thursday night basketball social league • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Helping clients improve their quality of life • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Meeting and getting to know our customers and other small business • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? People sometimes say that they don’t owners on a personal level, being part of downtown and our community growth...and free coffee. think there’s anything to do in Springfield, but I think it’s very much the opposite. Previously, it might have • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Invest more in cultural and commerce required a little legwork to find out about activities, but I think the park district, city and local businesses have centers (i. e., downtown) to make that decision to leave for Chicago or St. Louis a little bit harder. We have a been really great about cultivating new and fun events for residents. Springfield can retain professionals by great opportunity to create new attractions and replicate those that people leave to find right here in our own continuing to sponsor cultural and networking opportunities. city. I left for St. Louis when I was 18, came back at 26, and found a completely different experience. That was from 1998 to 2006. We have moved even further in the right direction since then, but there is so much room to grow, as we have noticed personally with our coffee company.

David J. Picchi Age: 34 Kendra Leigh Boesdorfer Occupation: Supervisory Contract Specialist of the Illinois National Guard. Department of the Army Age: 37 Contracting Officer, GS Series 1102 Occupation: Co-owner-operator of Custom Cup Coffee Organization: Illinois Army National Guard Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Online: www .customcupcoffee.com, Custom Cup Education: Associates degree – Highland Community Coffee – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter College; bachelors in economics – Northern Education: Saint Louis University Illinois University; masters in public Family: Husband – Brent Boesdorfer; sons – Connor, administration – UIS; certified contracting Benjamin and George; dog – Bean professional level III – Defense Acquisition Affiliations: Member of Illinois Stewardship Alliance, University Downtown Springfield Inc., Springfield Art Association, Young Family: Wife – Rebecca Picchi; son – Henry Philanthropists, parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Church Affiliations / Community Activities: Member of the Army Acquisition Corps; lifetime member of the National Guard Association of Illinois; Springfield area foster parent. • Biggest guilty pleasure? I don’t really feel guilty about it but I love going to a nice lunch at any of the amazing locally owned • Biggest guilty pleasure? Energy drinks.... I know they are terrible for me but I can’t resist them. restaurants in town. It is a real treat to sit and have a moment to just enjoy the food and catch up on some • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The travel. Sometimes it’s to places no one wants to go (Afghanistan) but reading or work. other times it can be really great. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Ha! The obvious answer is all the coffee I can drink! Honestly, the bigger • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Focus on improving the appeal of the perk for me is forming relationships with my customers. I am grateful for the many interesting people that I get city through its free places. Where possible improve the city parks and the area around Lincoln’s home. People to see and talk to on a daily basis. need great free spaces to be creative and create community. • How should Springfield retain young professionals? Springfield needs a strong downtown that our local residents support. Our city has a lot to offer in a lot of areas, and I find it frustrating when our resources are under-appreciated. Young professionals want a sense of community and to feel that they can live a fulfilling life here outside of work. As a community, we need to promote ourselves and what we have to offer. Personally, I have found opening a small business downtown has been a rewarding endeavor. I don’t know if my husband and I would have tried it anywhere else. Brandon Rebbe Age: 37 Occupation: Technology director at Zdi Email: [email protected] Online: LinkedIn;Twitter @brebbe79 Education: Attended LLCC for one year, when I decided Andrew C. Proctor that formal education was not exactly suited for Age: 34 me. The rest of my education has come from Occupation: Alderman, Ward 5 - City of Springfield and self-study, hard knocks and the drive to keep director of legislative affairs for the Illinois learning and never accept defeat. Department of Employment Security Family: Wife – Brandi Rebbe; son – Dash; daughter – Email: [email protected] Arlen Education: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Affiliations / Community Activities: I have been a member of Bachelor of Arts – political science the Springfield ABC club for 17 years. I joined this club when I Family: Wife – Heather; sons – Charlie and Lincoln was 20 years old and it’s one of greatest impacts I have had in Affiliations: Springfield City Council, Springfield-Sangamon my life. I served as president of the club from 2014-2015 and have held several other positions in the club as well. County Regional Planning Commission, Enos Park Neighborhood Improvement Association • Biggest guilty pleasure? I enjoy excellent bourbon and good cigars way too much! and Downtown Springfield, Inc. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The ability to work with cutting edge technology alongside people who have my same morals and work ethic. In the tech industry you typically do not hear about a group of people Biggest guilty pleasure: Watching “The Mindy Project” on Hulu. who were raised on farms changing the way people do business across the world. The company I work for does Best perk of your current job: The people I work and serve with. As alderman for the City of Springfield and exactly that. We are Midwestern people with a work ethic that helps us drive our business. We have clients all director of legislative affairs for IDES I have the privilege to work and serve with outstanding professionals and over the globe and do work for several fortune 500 companies that are a household name. the opportunity to meet, interact and cultivate new relationships on a daily basis. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? At this point, I don’t feel like a young How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Continue the revitalization of downtown person anymore! I started in this industry when I was 16, and the average age of the people who work on my Springfield by attracting businesses that provide additional nightlife activities that millennials enjoy. team is about 26. I am the grandpa of the group. If you want to keep younger people interested, you need to Improving the inner core older neighborhoods adjacent to downtown to increase the number of affordable cultivate their ideas. It is hard to come up with something new in this day and age, but we can find ways to do housing options for young professionals to live. As well as increase recreational options throughout the city that things better and easier with a perspective. The younger generation is ready to tackle those great ideas from 15 can be enjoyed by young families, such as the Third Street rail corridor transformed into a bike path after the years ago and make them better. 10th Street rail consolidation is complete.

20 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal FORTY UNDER 40

Tracy Shaw-Peterman Age: 32 Occupation: Realtor/broker/GRI, The Real Estate Group Email: [email protected] Education: Bachelor’s degree Family: Married with one son and one daughter Affiliations / Community Activities: Founder of The Sherman Area Chamber of Commerce, second term president, Sherman Area Chamber of Commerce; vice chair – community service committee at Capital Area Realtors; social committee at CAR; chair of Sherman homecoming,

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Shopping and ice cream • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Creating my own success. Time freedom. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? I’m embedded deep in my roots here, no plans on leaving.

Matthew R. Trapp Age: 39 Occupation: Senior associate at Giffin, Winning, Cohen & Bodewes, P.C. Email: [email protected] Education: Pleasant Plains High School; Illinois College (BS in biology); Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law (JD) Family: Wife – Sarah; parents – Dr. Robert Trapp and Kathleen Trapp; sisters – Caitlin Watson, Leanne Bensko, and Claire Adams Affiliations / Community Activities: Illinois State Bar Association; Central Illinois Women’s Bar Association; Sangamon County Bar Association; Government Bar Association; Appellate Lawyers Association; Lincoln Douglas Chapter of the American Inns of Court.

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Chipotle • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The best part of my job is working with people I really enjoy being around and who encourage maintaining a healthy work-life balance. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? There are many factors that go into whether young professionals stay in cities like Springfield or move elsewhere. Increasingly, younger people are considering more than just their employment when deciding where to live. Quality of life has become more and more important. I think young professionals want to be in a place where there is affordable housing, good neighborhoods and schools for their children, and a variety of options with respect to things like networking opportunities with people their age, entertainment, restaurants, and nightlife. Springfield has many of these qualities. However, I think Springfield can constantly work to improve in these areas. I have read that having a vibrant downtown is essential to attracting and retaining young professionals and is one of the most common traits of cities that are successful in doing so. One of the most common complaints I hear about Springfield is that people don’t feel downtown offers enough diverse entertainment and nightlife options besides the occasional festival in the summer and fall. Whether true or not, I think continuing the city’s ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Springfield is important so that it becomes a social and entertainment destination for people after work and on weekends rather than just a place they go to work.

Alex P. Block, AIA Age: 37 Occupation: Senior architect, Crawford, Murphy and Tilly, Inc. Email: [email protected] Online: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Education: Lutheran High School; University of Detroit, Mercy (BA and MA in architecture) Family: Wife – Missy Block; parents – Tim and Lynn Block; sister – Amanda Block Affiliations / Community Activities: President, Prairie Chapter of the American Institute of Architects; executive council member, image and design council chair and events council member of Downtown Springfield, Inc.; assistant scoutmaster/ troop treasurer Boy Scout Troop 1; PechaKucha Springfield steering committee; Sangamo Club membership and marketing committee; volunteer for Forever Home Feline Ranch

• Biggest guilty pleasure? Good bourbon, cigars and too much of my wife’s famous homemade coconut oil popcorn. • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? CMT provides the support and flexibility to be involved with multiple community organizations. • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Springfield should strive to support local small businesses, provide a wide variety of quality community events and support local live music and art events.

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 21 FORTY UNDER 40

Amanda Vinicky Amy Lally, MS, RODC Age: Under 40 :) Age: 39 Occupation: Statehouse bureau chief Occupation: Manager , leadership and team development, Organization: NPR Illinois (WUIS 91.9 FM in Springfield) Memorial Health System Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]; [email protected] Online: I’m on all of them (anyone else use Anchor?) Online: LinkedIn but especially Twitter - it’s great for news Education: BA, psychology (University of Illinois junkies! @AmandaVinicky; Facebook: Amanda Springfield); MS, management and N Vinicky; Snapchat: avinicky; Instagram: organization behavior (Benedictine University) vinicky; Soundcloud: AmandaVinicky Family: Spouse – Doug; Children – Chloe, Carson, Education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Declan, Aria (due in September) B.A. in political science, B.S. in journalism; Affiliations / Community Activities: Served as external University of Illinois Springfield – master’s consultant/facilitator for Mayor Langfelder’s 2015 community degree from the Public Affairs Reporting (PAR) ward meetings; served on steering committee and as external program facilitator for Toxic Charity conference with author Bob Lupton; Family: The best parents, brother, cousins, aunts, roommate, colleagues and friends a gal could ask volunteer work: Mini-O’Beirne holiday store; team manager, Springfield Area Soccer Association U13 Boys for! Plus, a blue fish named Stevie Ray. (SASA); president (2016/2017) Central Illinois Organization Development Network (CIODN); member and Affiliations / Community Activities: YMCA (yoga teacher), Springfield Road Runners Club (thank goodness for registered organization development consultant (RODC) - International Society for Organization Development Abe’s Army), Illinois News Broadcasters Association, WSEC-TV (Capitol View co-host), Vachel Lindsay Association, and Change (ISODC); member – Organization Development Network (ODN); member – Illinois Women in farmers market shopaholic, supporter of downtown Springfield and the arts, a happy volunteer whenever and Leadership (IWIL); member – Young Springfield Professionals Network (YSPN); certified facilitator – VitalSmarts; wherever needed! certified facilitator – FranklinCovey; certified OD process consultant professional – Institute of Organization Development; certified coach – Association for Talent Development; certified coach – InsideOut Development; • Biggest guilty pleasure? A horseshoe (duh) and half-price wine night at Augie’s certified MBTI practitioner – CPP, Inc.; certified FIRO-B practitioner – CPP, Inc.; Certified Trainer – Association for • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Free license to explore the state, to indulge my curiosity, to meet Talent Development; certified technical trainer – CompTia. fascinating people … and to ask questions/demand answers of Illinois’ political leaders on behalf of people and groups who can’t. (Another perk: I’ve no social media guilt -- tweeting and following • Biggest guilty pleasure? Sleep, sweets and reality television – pretty much in that order after my Facebook updates is part of the job!) kids’ activities! • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Continue to work to make it a • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? The absolute best perk of my job is having the most amazing team. friendly, safe place to live with activities, restaurants and shops for everyone. Springfield is home to gems We are fortunate each and every day to work with leadership and their teams to provide development and -- kudos to places like Maldaner’s, Floyd’s, the Hoogland and the Dana-Thomas House that have been around growth opportunities through coaching, consultation, classes and interventional work. To see a “light bulb” for years, and welcome/thanks to relative newbies like Custom Cup, Driftwood, the updated Elf Shelf and the go off for someone, as well as their resulting behavioral change, is so intrinsically rewarding. By developing Old State Capitol. Support them, help them thrive, and more will come! Want more of us? I’d love affordable our leaders and teams across the health system, we are ultimately creating a better experience for our downtown condos and a convenience store that’s open beyond 9-5, a rooftop bar/restaurant, and additional patients and their families. Sunday brunch options. A state budget would probably help, too, huh? • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Springfield is a wonderful community offering many types of opportunities for all phases of life – networking, professional associations/groups, family events, theater/arts, etc. Continue to offer diverse opportunities to continually engage young professionals across their career AND family life cycle.

22 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal FORTY UNDER 40 Veronica Williams Courtney Babiak Age: 34 Age: 32 Occupation: Contracts, projects and agreements manager Occupation: COO and financial advisor at Troxell at Illinois Department of Transportation Financial Advisors Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Online: Facebook and LinkedIn Online: LinkedIn and Facebook Education: Bachelor’s in communications and graphic Education: Bachelor of arts in psychology and master design, Master’s degree in law and public of public administration (MPA) from the administration University of Illinois Springfield Family: Mother, father, sister and brother all reside in Family: Husband – Mike; children – Lillian and my hometown of Peoria. Bennett; dog – Izzy; mother – Marilynne Affiliations / Community Activities: I am active on the Cunningham; brother – Joey Langbehn; sisters board of the Quantum 5 (Q5) Diversity Counsel and as the – Jessica and Olivia Langbehn networking chair for the Young Springfield Professionals Affiliations / Community Activities: United Cerebral Palsy Network (YSPN). I collaborate with the Springfield Black fundraising/blue chip committee; IWIL; Elks Lodge; coaching Chamber of Commerce and was recently appointed to the City of Springfield’s community relations board Rochester youth/peewee soccer. My husband and I are currently in the beginning steps of developing an whose goal and action is helping to shape and define a new era in advocacy and leadership. I volunteer at adaptive soccer league for children with varying special needs in the Springfield Area. First United Methodist Church for multimedia support, sing with the New Life Choir and provide technical and professional services to organizations that support social and societal and improvements. My motto is, • Biggest guilty pleasure? I love the outdoors and water so anything involving pools, lakes, boats, kayaks, etc. “It isn’t problem solving, it is solution creation.” I have confidence that with the right attitude, any positive • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Getting to work with people of varying backgrounds and helping them change is possible. envision their goals and develop plans to achieve them. The investment industry is always changing and I love the fast paced environment-it keeps me on my toes. • Biggest guilty pleasure? I believe the following quote says it best: “Happiness does not come from doing • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? It is critical for Springfield to develop easy work but from the afterglow of satisfaction that comes after the achievement of a difficult task that and promote events that appeal to both young professionals and families. Larger cities such as Chicago and demanded our best.” – Theodore Isaac Rubin St. Louis have a plethora of things to do and places to see. Springfield today hosts so many more events than it • Best ‘perk’ of your current job? Learning new and progressive skills, having an opportunity for career did when I grew up here, either downtown, at the fairgrounds, the PCCC, etc. We need to keep the momentum advancement and meeting new professionals. going. I also believe the Springfield community needs to support networking/mentoring for our youth, • How should Springfield retain young professionals like yourself? Embrace innovation, positive change especially with locally operated businesses. Often times local high school and college students are encouraged and the abilities this generation has to improve on the existing and create the future. Social, professional and to move away and follow their dreams in larger cities. While travel, education, and experiences away from community inclusion is the key. ‘home’ are incredibly important, I want Springfield to remain a viable option. And one that doesn’t limit their aspirations in any way. I think maintaining a sense of community is key to our hometown success.

Congratulations to all the nominees!

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 23 BUSINESS PROFILE

PHOTO BY CATHERINE O’CONNOR PHOTOS COURTESY OF SARRA SOPHIA Sarra Sophia Consignment boutique bringing local color to MacArthur Boulevard By Catherine O’Connor

Tasha Kembrough is making practical use of of ramen noodles and spending less on a couple elegant gowns to Russia and . her considerable knowledge in fashion and As Kembrough explained, before the stylish clothing. “That is when I decided to Consigned merchandise is on display for merchandising at Sarra Sophia, a new resale Internettransitioned changed to “Macy’s the shopping By Appointment.” experience for many people, these were services that you’re an entrepreneur you just can’t sleep.” offerings regularly. location, the former home of a dry cleaner worked directly with shoppers to learn their move to Springfield,” she explained. “When periodsIn the of future,90 days Kembrough and refreshed plans with to new do boutique at 2112 S. MacArthur Blvd. The preferences and pre-select items to build a Boulevard Association out of curiosity a outreach to the community dovetailing to and from Hy-Vee, which is directly across distinctive personalized wardrobe based on yearKembrough before she said had she even joined selected the MacArthur a location with her earlier experience as a personal theand street. tailor shop, With benefitsa great selection from traffic of women’s heading their choices. for the store. shopper. Another avenue she expects and juniors’ clothes, shoes, housewares, art Kembrough later traveled to Carbondale to explore is working with elderly or pieces, jewelry, colorful scarves, purses, was named for her niece, Sarra, along with pillows and a small kids’ and mens’ section, her Accordingyoungest daughter, to Kembrough, Sophia. theFamily boutique plays merchandise directly to customers. Kembrough has situated herself as a Bootstrap,to study fashion a grant and program photography which at helpedSIU. In a particularly strong role in her life, and is disabled“In the care past, facilities, I worked bringingwith the Southern boutique distinctive retail businesswoman. her2009-2010, launch she “Exclusive was selected Exposure,” for Operation an partly the reason she decided to relocate to the Illinois Traumatic Brain Injury Center to About 10 years ago, Kembrough upscale resale shop she operated in capitol city. She enjoys cultivating a sense of provide job readiness training. Here I have graduated with a degree in business and Carbondale. Always the entrepreneur, she community and inclusiveness in relationships a lady who is deaf that comes in and works fashion marketing from the Illinois Institute with consignees and her ever-expanding a couple days a week,” she said. “The Virtuous Woman.” It catered to groups customer base. Sarra Sophia is on its way to becoming hostingalso created expos a travelingand events, boutique showcasing called “I really want to use the space to help fast-pacedof Art and thenworld worked of showroom at the Merchandise buyers and clothing manufacturing houses such as inspire other entrepreneurs with vendor wholesalers.Mart in Chicago There where she came she enjoyedinto contact the Alfred Dunner, with appeal to particular space to sell products to help build their customersa significant are part people of the from new all face walks of theof with notables in the fashion industry, audiences. life.MacArthur I enjoy Boulevard seeing new neighborhood. faces every day,” “My Kembrough says. began to falter two or three years ago, businessesHer hard – worklike a has mini-Merchandise been rewarded asMart, the Agency.including She Vera also Wang,became Michael a personal Kors, shopper John As the Illinois financial aid programs storeright hereis moving in Springfield,” toward full Kembrough capacity and said. she Catherine O’Connor may be reached at Varvatos, Gene Meyer and the Ford Modeling Carbondale’s college students eating meals [email protected]. enrollment at SIU declined, leaving for Marshall Field’s flagship, which later has even had some requests for shipping of

24 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal BUSINESS PROFILE

The Greasy Bag Collection Vibrant clothing line reflects urban nostalgia By Haley Wilson

the southeast side of Chicago. a limited time The idea of the Greasy Bag each season. The Collection arose from the design line entitled nostalgia of going to a “America the favorite local eatery and Hungry” made its taking home a (perhaps slightly translucent) bag Day weekend. A more to enjoy a glorious meal. While some sentimentaldebut on Memorialline is may be repulsed by the idea of a grease- set to launch this smudged paper bag, it is nonetheless the month. “The Candy Lady Series” will concept and experience that inspired The pay respect to Jamal’s grandmother who owned a thrift store in Chicago which much like the communities that support she also sold candy out of, earning her Greasy Bag Collection. “Urban eateries, the neighborhood nickname of “The Jamal says. His purpose with the collection isthem, not offeronly ato unique, highlight untold up-and-coming experience.” honor not only Jamal’s grandmother, but local concessions, but also to capture the countlessCandy Lady.” Candy This Ladies unique throughout design urban will communities everywhere. through t-shirt designs. Jamal has made a To learn more about the Greasy Bag substantialunique qualities effort of to people, explore places the foodand food and Collection, visit thegreasybag.com or cultures around Springfield. facebook.com/TheGreasyBagCo. The Greasy Bag Collection as a seasonal Haley Wilson is a writer and marketing 2016 featuring various new designs for professional in Springfield. clothing line was launched in March of

PHOTO COURTESY OF THEGREASYBAG.COM

The Greasy Bag Collection began as a highly personal clothing concept and has by syllabi and deadlines.” Jamal worked become a reality for local business owner severalfrom college, formal Ijobs felt throughout like I was his confined college Khalil Jamal. The idea of celebrating career but never felt truly valued for his work, only that he was replaceable. “I am thankful for the experiences those homageboth urban to foodhis childhood – and the memoriesurban foodie in opportunities provided me,” Jamal states, southeastwho consumes Chicago. it – Hisinspired Greasy Jamal Bag t-shirtto pay “but I wanted to be a part of the growth of line celebrates inner city food, art, music something, not just a warm body there to do work.” Starting a small business is full of Jamal initially got his foot in the door soand many early jarring90’s pop details culture. including risks, by pursuing another passion in the form that would discourage many young long hours and inconsistencies – things D5200of his camera, K Jamal taking Photography pictures business. of local woodlandHe started areas, off with provincial a standard attractions Nikon entrepreneurialentrepreneurs tryingsuccess to was find an theireasy one. way and his family. As his photography Whenafter college. Jamal startedNo one hisever college said the career road toin business grew, Jamal began challenging himself with more advanced endeavors such as prestigious political and athletic setting.2009, he “It hadhas always already just decided been my he mother would events and eventually weddings. “It was andnot beI,” hea goodsaid. “I’vefit for always the corporate attended smallwork so much fun to be able to capture such an schools.” It seems as if managing himself important moment in someone’s life,” he was Jamal’s only option. said. Jamal’s photography business was decided to break away from the corporate moving in the right direction, but he felt worldUpon and graduationstart his own in 2014,business. Jamal “I the need to celebrate the rich memories found myself needing autonomy. Coming he had of growing up with his mother on

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 25 NEW BUSINESS LISTINGS

The Subversive Housewife Reviotek Just A Little Off Hair Salon 1701 Stevenson Drive

Owner:30 White Kyle Birch Looby Rd. Owner:560 North Adam Street L. Suver 529-6021 899-1518 529-4100 GBA Financial Walker Builders KJCOwner: Enterprise Melanie Eades

Owner:203 S. Walnut, Jenny Kleinschmidt Rochester Owner:1819 Prairie Brett VistaWalker Dr., Chatham 18300 Cope Road, Buffalo 498-8575 820-8890 519-0383 Custom Creations DeRosa’s Autobody & Sales AnythingOwner: Johnathon Motors W. Camfield #16 Chatham Villa, Chatham 415-0862 741-0221 210-2028 Owner: Christopher L. Cantrall 2235 E. Ash 408 N. Dirksen Pkwy DeRosa Daniel Taylor Owners: Joseph T. DeRosa, Gwen Griffitts LoweOwner: Landscaping Nathan Barber and Excavating 71 Drawbridge Rd. Do It All Drywall & General Contracting

Owner: Daniel Hardway Owner:1340 W. John Carpenter Lowe 899-5743 1451 N. 5th St. 361-7772 PHOTO COURTESY OF SKY HAIR DESIGNS Diamond NailSpa 622-7269 Matt Cawley Appliance Service Sky Hair Designs PLAYOwner: Preschool Charles H. & Miller Child Development 101 S. Chatham Road Center 2929 W. Iles Ave. 624 S Walnut St. 1236 North Oaklane Rd 553-1150 415-3164 515-771-8975 InternationalOwner: Hien P. SoccerNguyen Consultants Owner: Barbara Kelley CentralOwner: MattIllinois Cawley Renovation Services Owner: Shaneel K. Napier 1200 S. 8th St. 210-2348 Specializing in Color, Braiding, ComixWerx LLC 741-4105 2337 E. Converse NaturalWeaving/Extensions Healthy Hair Care Salon, 415-9891 761-7417 JustinOwner: Hurley Jose M. Photography Burgos 9 Scott Ct. TierraOwner: Vista Caitlyn M. Rapacz and Natural Hair 625 Woodland Dr, Chatham DK Paint Company Dale’sOwner: Guns John W. Moore 2002 E. Keys Ave Owner: Justin Hurley 10781 Thunderbird Road, Loami Owner:2188 J. DavidColin EidtJones Pkwy 719-9390 502-1015 546-1836 Owner: Donny Anderson Feed with Seeds 494-9254 Jarrard Custom Homes Owner: Dale Molohon Owner:1310 N 2ndRyne Street T. Goodrich 503-4555 Owner:7673 Roberts Jeremy Road, A. Jarrard New Berlin McClanahan’s Kangen Water System 899-1372 Hayes On Homes 124 S. Allen Street 2352 S. 6th St. 899-1825 Owner: David W. Hayes Jr. Owners: Teresa McClanahan, Gary 502-1386 Daenimal’sMcClanahan Sales Pane in the Glass 1675 W. Glenn Ave. 816-0572 1416 Pennslyvania Ave 544-3319 TheOwner: Automated Christine Lifestyle M Waters Patrick’sOwner: Mario Lawn A. Service Gagliardi

1508 W. Monroe 820 N 652-1539 306-6453 JOwner:ust the Unique Basics HomeCatering Theater, LLC TechnicOwner: Patrick Home HolcombInspection PHOTO COURTESY OF ANYTHING BUY SELL TRADE Owners:15 S. Old JustState the Capitol Basics, Plaza LLC Anything Buy Sell Trade 1043 W. Washington StrEATside899-7239 Bistro, LLC 618-207-9669 Owner: Nicholas Broyles 406 N. Dirksen Pkwy, 210-2028 Owner: Nathan Barber

26 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal Senators Publications 80 Oakmont Drive

691-8803 NewOwner: Age Philip Design J. Eck

3772 Sherman Road, Sherman 303-589-0690 Tina’sOwner: Hair James Salon W. Priester

Owner:2803 Old Tina Rochester Anderson Road 502-7330 Smokers World

Owner:100 N. Wesley David J. Scroggins 331-4314

PHOTO COURTESY OF Gelido’s Premium Shaved Ice Liberated Productions LIBERATED PRODUCTIONS website design, social media management, photography, aerial Owner: Broc E. Hunter videography/photography,Liberated Productions offers promotional a wide variety videos, of services etc. including Owner:117 W. Mulberry Debbie Drennan St., Chatham 4609 S. 4th, 741-7949 816-4991 Mac Cleaning Services 2 Groton Drive GSBS Clothing & Apparel Kristys Audacious Interiors LLC Prudential Properties LLC 816-4474 208 W. Laurel 1501 West Leland Ave 2705 Rutherford Trek

Owners: Robin C. Croom, Tyrone Croom Owner: Kristy Sweeney 312-241-6158 773-304-8040 275-3613 Chi-TownOwner: Anna Candies M. Mahoney LC Logistics Consulting Landscape Creations RyanOwners: Turner Akshra Builder Verma, Ashish Moonat 208 W. Laurel Owners: Robin C. Croom, Kimberly Joiner 312-241-6158 Owner:324 Cumberland Shane Hilton Dr., Rochester Owner:1203 Commanche John A. Wease Rd, Auburn Owner:723 N. Main, Ryan LoamiTurner Lewis, James E. Lewis 381-8648 299-3550 725-3446 Mike Bergen Heating and Cooling PT’s-Bar-B-Que J. F. Rentals & Sons

720-2221 353 E. Spruce, Chatham Owner:601 S. 9th Andre St. L. Booker Owner:2800 Placid Joseph Court L Fickas III 816-4099 899-2621 TheOwner: Kick-It Mike Coalition Bergen FLO Senior Benefit Specialists 1724 East Lawrence Street 414-5052 1303 Winch Ln, Apt. 5 Owner: Bernice Austin Owner:319 E. Madison Jon Garland-Sutter 341-9589 638-6364 D.A.D.A.Owners: ShaunVending Sorenson, Aaron Phillips Downey Concession/Downey’s Dogs Absolute Auto Detailing 7 Jamestown Estates, Riverton 741-0514 320 N. Park Ave., Apt. 1 2072 N. 22nd Owners: Edward L Jester Jr, Kim G Jester PHOTO COURTESY OF GRIFFGRAFIX CREATIVE WORKSHOP Grand303-3571 Avenue Exhaust 679-5774 Owner: Allen M. Lott Owner: Michael Downey Diversified Computer Services Interactive Media Inc. GriffGrafix 816-5855 100 Grizzly Dr., Chatham Creative Workshop Owner:1613 North Christopher Grand Ave. Reid East Owner: Brenda Kautzer Owner:832 S. 4th Eric St. Broughton Apt. 4 636-328-3635 725-3329 Blank Slate Credit 1009 W. Edwards Journey Fitness Maxx Pro Clean Freelance931-2000 Graphic Artist 855-2874 2158 S 11th St. Owner: Ryan S. Griffith Owners:6600 S. 6th Drew Street Jacobs, Rd Unit Cody 220 Jacobs 850-528-8146 Owners:3605 Spanish Jessica Trace Formea, Cory Formea 415-9397 Owner: Robert McDaniel

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Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 27 BUSINESS NEWS

Rogers celebrates 40 years at Hanson’s multidiscipline projects, including aviation, 15,000 signs along interstates and primary consolidate more than 10 miles of rail headquarters environmental, industrial, military, railroad, highways. He also is the survey manager corridor on the city’s south side. Rogers also was project manager for the Illinois of these projects have involved creating Commerce Commission’s statewide assistant vice president roadway and telecommunications. Many for the Springfield Rail Improvements grade crossing and grade separation andGary senior Rogers, project PLS, survey data to assist in the preparation Program and the South Suburban Airport study. During this study, Hanson manager, recently databases to store and organize field Rogers’land acquisition, career highlights relocation include assistance working and celebrated 40 years control documents and project plans. withproperty clients management from Hanson’s program seven in markets:Peotone. photographs, prepared drawings and of service at Hanson Rogersof maps, has qualitybeen instrumental assurance andin Hanson’s quality aviation, federal, government and energy, createdcollected a inventorydatabase for data, more acquired than 12,000 aerial use of global positioning systems and infrastructure, power and industry, railway grade crossings and grade separations mobile asset data collection for geographic and telecommunications. He was survey across Illinois. Gary Rogers Professional Services information system projects. Rogers is specializesInc.’s in Springfield highway project manager for the Illinois Department Illinois Community College Trustees route and right-of-wayheadquarters. surveys, Rogersasset of Transportation Bureau of Land manager for the Paducah and Louisville Association honors Cinda Edwards and inventories, database management, site study(P&L) for railroad a 56-mile relocation expressway in Grand from Rivers, Alton Dr. Charlotte Warren , the U.S. Route 67 Phase 1 location development, railroad coordination and support services program, for which to Jacksonville and a railroad relocation operations, planning studies, construction heAcquisition’s coordinates outdoor efforts advertising for maintaining control engineering and project management. and updating an inventory database 2004. This project included the relocation He has served as project manager for many and permitting for the state’s more than andproject design in Springfield of several that roads was and completed bridges toin

Cinda Edwards Dr. Charlotte Warren

Cinda Edwards, a graduate of Lincoln Land Community College who rose to chair the LLCC board of trustees, along with Dr. Charlotte Warren, LLCC president, were honored by the Illinois Community College Trustees Association

the current Sangamon County coroner, receivedat its annual the convention statewide June Distinguished 3. Edwards, Alumnus Award which recognizes the professional, technical and humanitarian accomplishments of individuals who have graduated from Illinois community colleges. She was nominated by current LLCC board chair Craig Findley, who noted, “Cinda practices her profession with the utmost integrity, inspiring others through her sense of dedication while demonstrating the highest standards of accountability.” Edwards graduated from LLCC with an associate in science degree

earnedin 1978 a andbachelor’s an associate degree in nursing applied science degree in nursing in 1979. She Advocacy Award, which recognizes individualsin 1989. Warren who washave honored demonstrated with the outstanding leadership in advocating for the needs of students and the Illinois community college system. She also received a Trustee Education Award, honoring outstanding achievement in the area of professional development.

H. D. Smith’s Henry Dale Smith, Jr. presented with Nexus Award

The HDA Research Foundation (formerly the Center for Healthcare Supply Chain Research), Genentech Inc., a member of the Roche Group, and

Jr., of H. D. Smith Holding Company with Mylan Inc., honored Henry Dale Smith,

recognizesthe 2016 Nexusexceptional Award forcharacter, Lifetime professionalAchievement. accomplishments, The Nexus Awardand leadership in HDA, the industry and

community. The award was first arepresented thrilled into 1956.celebrate “On Dale, the whose 60th visionanniversary has had of an the enormous Nexus Award, impact weon not only his company, but on HDA and the distribution industry as a whole,”

CEO, and president, HDA Research said John M. Gray, HDA president and footsteps of his father, Henry Dale Smith, Sr.,Foundation. and longtime “Mr. H. Smith D. Smith follows colleague in the

Joseph Conda, Nexus Award honorees 28 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal in 2003 and 1998, respectively.” MEDICAL NEWS

St. John’s College of Nursing unveils SIU faculty, student receive humanism, St. John’s College of Nursing approved Trauma-focused therapy helps simulation lab teaching awards to offer master’s degree more than 175 patients

A new type of therapy is available through its new simulation lab in June. The sim received approval from the Higher Learning labSt. John’sgives nursing College ofstudents Nursing a unveiledrealistic As part of Southern Illinois University CommissionSt. John’s College to offer of a Nursing master’s (SJC) of science recently in hands-on experience to better prepare forSchool student of Medicine’s affairs 2016and commencement,admissions and nursing. SJC anticipates admitting 10 to 20 the Children’s Medical and Mental Health them for the routine and unexpected associateErik Constance, professor MD,of internal associate medicine, dean students in the new program each year. Full Resource Network (CMMHRN), a program events they’ll encounter in the actual and part-time programs will be available. childrenof Southern and teens Illinois with University trauma focused School clinical environment as nurses. The The graduate program offers specialty cognitiveof Medicine. behavioral The programtherapy providesthrough new sim lab is about four times the graduate,Tracy Lower, received MD, professor awards offor pediatrics, teaching the Trauma Informed System of Care and Aprilhumanism. McNeill, The MD, acommencement class of 2016 Learning Collaborative, an effort made classesoptions: will family begin nurse this practitioner fall. “The addition (FNP) and of possible by a $100,000 donation from thenursing graduate administration/leadership. program further builds The on firstthe Constancetook place and on Saturday,Lower are May alumni 21 atof the University of Illinois at Springfield. Both of excellence in nursing education,” said RuralThe Poshard Health FoundationInitiative. andThe an Learning $80,000 Hospital Sisters of St. Francis 130 year legacy Collaborative,grant from the launched SIU School in February of Medicine 2015, assistantSchool of Medicine.professor Constance,of internal who medicine, joined receivedthe School the of 2016 Medicine Golden in Apple 1995 Award as an “TheBrenda need Jeffers, for family PhD, RN,nurse NEA-BC, practitioners chancellor and It is comprised of health care providers, for Excellence in Teaching, an award master’sand professor prepared of St. John’snurse Collegeadministrators of Nursing. is socialserves workers, 23 counties law enforcement in southern officials Illinois. given by the graduating class. Constance well documented in the community needs and representatives from child advocacy assessment survey we conducted prior centers, the Department of Child and Family Services, state attorney offices, earned his bachelor’s degree at SIU at nursing administration/leadership students women’s centers and other social service PHOTO COURTESY OF HSHS ST. JOHN’S HOSPITAL Edwardsville and graduated from SIU willto development take their core of curricular the program.” courses FNP online. and School of Medicine in 1988. He completed After moving into their specialty areas, the LCSW, abused children referred to the size of the previously used lab. It’s a $2 his internal medicine residency at SIU in nursing administration/leadership students program,agencies. on According average, toexperience Ginger Meyer,more million dollar project that’s part of the 1991. “This year’s recipient was one of the than three different types of trauma, most HSHS Central Illinois Division’s strategic first people that each of us students met students will take their courses at the college. often sexual and emotional abuse, before capital planning. The sim lab has six awhen class we of visited 2016 SIUgraduate School whoof Medicine presented for Thewill continuenew nursing their college courses simulation online, and lab the will FNP be clinical settings: an operating room, the firstaward time,” to Constance.said Michael “He Clanahan, was one MD, of used extensively to prepare students for their an emergency room, medical/surgical clinical and practice roles. To learn more call formreceiving of post-traumatic help. Nearly two-thirdsstress. of these patient room, a pediatric room, an exam children, ages 3 to 18, experience some room, a skills lab and classrooms. It will andthe mainafter four reasons years, why that I choseconviction SIU School holds be used in every course the college offers. strong.”of Medicine Lower, for a myfaculty medical member education, since 525-5628 or email Michelle Ellenz at michelle. “The sim lab allows students to learn, [email protected]. practice and enhance their skills in a safe, risk-free environment,” said Brenda 1991 and an SIU School of Medicine class of 1988 alumna, and McNeill, a class of 2016 chancellor and professor of St. John’s graduate from Fayetteville, NC, received the Jeffers, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, outgoing Foundation.2016 Leonard The Tow awards Humanism are given in Medicineannually faculty members are always nearby toAwards a faculty presented member byand the graduating Arnold student P. Gold toCollege identify of Nursing.and correct “St. John’sany mistakes. College who demonstrate compassion, respect for Additionally, each interaction with the patients and families, and clinical excellence. the student and faculty can review the Memorial Medical Center’s bariatric- practicepatient mannequins scenario to learn can bewhat recorded went well so surgery program earns reaccreditation and what should be done differently in the future.” surgery program has been reaccredited Memorial Physician Services to open byMemorial a national Medical agency Center’s for its bariatricsurgical walk-in clinic in Hy-Vee weight loss program. The reaccreditation

Surgery Accreditation and Quality a walk-in primary care clinic inside the is from the Metabolic and Bariatric Memorial Physician Services will open by the American College of Surgeons. “AchievingImprovement this three-year Program reaccreditation administered Springfield Hy-Vee grocery store at 2115 S. MacArthur Boulevard this fall. The clinic bariatric program meets the highest will be the first of its kind for the network once again demonstrates that Memorial’s isof expectedprimary careto begin physicians this summer affiliated on with the Memorial Health System. Construction standards of patient safety and quality “Ourcare,” weight-loss said Dr. Maxsurgery Hammer, patients medicalreceive Clinic.new clinic, The whichwalk-in will clinic’s be called hours Memorial will be director of Memorial Bariatric Services. Physician Services – MacArthur Walk-In multidisciplinary approach that is a and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. nationallythe benefits recognized offered by leader a comprehensive in bariatric The8 a.m. clinic to 8 will p.m. have Monday two through exam Fridayrooms and will be near the front of the store. has performed more than 1,500 The clinic will be staffed by advanced bariatric,services.” or Memorial weight-loss, Bariatric surgeries Services since

care before, during and after surgery offerpractice treatment nurses supervisedfor non-life-threatening by Memorial fromits founding a team of in healthcare 2002. Patients professionals receive conditionsPhysician Servicesto all ages. physicians Staff will and treat will that includes nurses, dietitians, social illnesses and injuries including cold, workers, clinical psychologists and sprains; fevers; minor burns, cuts, ear, eye types of minimally invasive bariatric andcough skin and infections; flu symptoms; nausea fracturesand vomiting; and procedures:physical therapists. gastric Memorial bypass, offersadjustable three sore throats; urinary tract infections; gastric banding and vertical sleeve skin rashes and seasonal allergies. Staff gastrectomy. For more information, call will also offer sports, school and daycare provider physicals. 217-788-3948 or 866-205-7915 or visit Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 29 MemorialBariatricServices.com. RESTAURANT REVIEW

Az-T-Ca Mexican Grill By Thomas C. Pavlik, Jr

enough to try Az-T-Ca. scene for over a decade, but thanks to its We were provided with the dinner diminutiveAz-T-Ca has footprint, been part until of Springfield’s recently you dining might menu and a smaller lunch menu, one can not have known about it. That would be a order off of either. The lunch menu has shame, because despite the unconventional spelling of its name, Az-T-Ca serves up 15 specials ranging in price from $5.99 to Az-T-Ca originally opened as a tiny $9.59. Notable options included the fish authentic and flavorful food. servedtacos ($6.99, with rice two and tilapia beans), tacos and served the Speedy with had more than ten tables. Thanks to a rice and pico), the lunch fajitas ($9.59, recentspot in expansion,Montvale Plaza however, – it couldn’t Az-T-Ca have has with choice of beans or rice). The dinner more than doubled its space. It was a menuGonzalez is ($5.99,more expansive beef taco andand, chicken in general, taco, serious remodel that has transformed mirrors Az-T-Ca’s competitors. I’m a huge pork fan and was disappointed that there south-of-the-border restaurant wars. were no carnitas on the menu. On the Az-T-CaThe remodel into a has player provided in Springfield’sAz-T-Ca with an authentic feel. I felt like I’d entered a simmered in green chili sauce, served with traditional hacienda. The colors are dark other hand, the chili verde ($10.99, pork satisfying dish. And I was sorely tempted by TV tuned to the Spanish language soccer flour tortillas and beans) looked like a and soothing. Of course, there’s the requisite with pork belly, grilled jalapeños, roasted The day we visited, Az-T-Ca was about tomatoes,the “Messy chipotle Mexican” sauce ($9.99, and burgerOaxaca toppedcheese channel and Mexican themed knick-knacks. of customers came through the door during ourone-third visit. Withfilled theat 11:30 exception a.m. A of steady the suit stream and and wrapped in a tortilla – served with fries tie crowd, our fellow diners represented a or, forSadly, an Az-T-Caadditional no 99longer cents, serves yucca menudo fries). healthy cross-section of local types. (tripeMaybe soup), on my whichnext trip. was formerly available only on Saturdays. I asked the owner, who gaming machines. A few of the gamblers replied that there simply wasn’t enough It being Springfield, there were video demand to justify the dish. We were, Estates. Who says retirement is boring? lookedOnce like we they’d were walked seated over in froma comfortable Montvale pork stew) pops up on Az-T-Ca’s special list fromhowever, time to informed time. that posole (Mexican our table together with menus. We couldn’t decidebooth, chipsif the and chips salsa were quickly made appeared on the at premises or not, with the consensus leaning My dining companions and I decided toward not. The salsa, however, certainly dinnerto start withmenu. the Although cheese dipI ($4.99,prefer meltedyellow cheesequeso cheeseto the servedomnipresent with chips)white, fromit was the a Az-T-Ca and he also asked for the homemade satisfying way to start the meal, especially hottasted sauce. homemade. This was My some guest really is a good regular stuff at when amped up with a few dollops of the special hot sauce.

some– very into hot, the but regular not hot salsa enough for toan overpower extra kick. Frankly,some wonderful the salsa flavor. and hot Don’t sauce be afraid are reason to mix riceAs and entrées, beans), wethe burrito opted forand theenchilada lunch quesadilla ($6.99, beef or chicken, with 30 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal PHOTOS BY MARANDA POTTERF

was left on our collective plates. chicken).lunch combo All dishes ($5.99, were served served with piping rice), andhot andthe dinnerwere generously Mix Fajitas sized ($12.59, for steakthe price. and And then there were the beans – which Appropriate accompaniments garnished I usually treat as an afterthought – sort of each plate, including generous helpings of justlike thea sprig right of consistency parsley on (nota plate. runny, Not yet Az-T- not lime and cilantro. Ca’s. They were packed with flavor and had We particularly enjoyed the delectable thoughpaste-like). one Nicelyof my done. guests was a regular, I was, at least based on my party’s collective sensedService that was things efficient would and have friendly. been Even no knowledge,flavor in the authentically beef fajitas. prepared. The enchilada Even if different if he had not been there. With its new layout, vastly increased insidenot, it surewith tastedjust the that right way. crunchiness My companion’s on the worthy destination for a business lunch. outside.quesadillas The were burrito, soft while and chewytasty, was on the We’llspace be and back. flavor-packed food, Az-T-Ca is a despite having gorged ourselves on liberal Thomas C. Pavlik is an attorney with amountsleast favored of chips of our and selections. salsa, barely Nonetheless, a scrap Delano Law Offices, LLC, in Springfield.

AZ-T-CA MEXICAN GRILL

2753 Chatham Road (Montvale Plaza) Atmosphere: HHHH 217-546-6906 Service: HHHH www.aztcamexicangrill.com Food: HHHH1/2 Monday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm Price: HHHH Friday – Saturday, 11 am – 10 pm Suitability for Business Lunch: HHHH Lunch Monday – Friday 11 am – 2:30 pm. OVERALL: HHHH1/4 Wheelchair Access: Yes Credit Cards: Yes

Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 31 LEGAL

Family business succession planning By Sarah Delano Pavlik

When you hear the term “family business,” family members or unrelated parties. do you think of the mom and pop restaurant If the successors are unrelated parties or the corner auto repair shop? What about is generally a buy-sell agreement. This Family businesses come in all types and agreement– such as keywill specify employees when – the the successors first step Walmart and Mars, IncorporatedForbes magazine(M&Ms)? article, “family businesses generate over 50 The buy-sell agreement can be triggered by sizes. According to a 2013 thecan owner’sacquire thedeath, business disability and orat retirement.what price. The price can be stated as a set amount, as a arepercent family-owned of the U.S. or Gross controlled National by aProduct” family.” formula or as determined by an appraisal at andEvery “about family 90 percent business, of noall U.S.matter businesses the size, the time of the sale. needs a succession plan. Statistics show that After the price has been determined, you must address funding. How will the businesses survive into the second generation, 12approximately percent into 30 percentthe third of allgeneration family-owned and they be allowed to pay over time or must three percent into the fourth generation and theysuccessors pay all pay at once?to acquire Should the thebusiness? successors Will beyond. One reason family businesses don’t purchase life insurance on the life of the survive is that there is no succession plan in owner which they can use to purchase the place at the founder’s death, leading to a void business upon the owner’s death? Should the company or the successors own the or other critical problems. insurance? in leadership,If you’re familylike most fighting, business lack of financingowners, The owner must also consider estate you’ve devoted yourself to your business tax issues. As of Jan. 1, 2016, the federal business can buy back his interest, or transfer an interest in the business to the and you may not be able to even think estate tax exemption amount is $5,450,000 the other owners can buy the interest children in trust. The owner cannot serve about leaving. But you will leave one day per person, and the estate tax rate is 40 from the deceased owner’s estate. Each as trustee of the trust, although the owner’s (whether because of a sale of the business, percent. The Illinois estate tax exemption of these options will have different spouse can. In this way, the owner can death or disability), and your departure amount is $4,000,000. If the owner allows could destroy your business if you don’t the successors to purchase the business the type of entity of the business, such family but know that control remains in the plan for it. asincome an S corporation, tax consequences a C corporation depending or on a handstransfer of someone ownership he fortrusts. the benefit of his Succession planning is one of the most partnership. A buy-sell agreement can also be used over time, will his estate have sufficient owner purchase additional life insurance to The owner may wish to transfer an in family situations. If the owner has liquidity to pay estate taxes? Should the because of the emotional issues involved. pay estate taxes? If so, the insurance should ownership interest in the business now to several children but only one is active in the difficult tasks for most business owners The business and the owner often seem like be held in a life insurance trust or it will only the successors without giving up control of business, he may wish to sell the business to increase the estate tax liability of the owner. the business. This can be accomplished in that child rather than give it to her. In that any control. If the owner fails to properly Although estate tax can be daunting, several ways. If the business is a corporation, one, and the owner may refuse to relinquish most closely held businesses do not fail the corporation can be re-capitalized into owner’s estate to sell to the child and specify Once the emotional issues have been because of estate taxes. They fail because of thecase, terms a buy-sell of the agreement sale. The canpurchase require price the train a successor, the business may flounder. addressed and a successor or successors shares can be transferred to the successors, can be for less than fair market value, but no one who remains has the ability or the givingvoting them and non-voting an ownership shares. interest Non-voting in the such a price will not be binding for estate fighting among family members or because vision of the owner. business but keeping the owner in control. tax purposes. For example, if the owner and have been identified, there are complex problems and solutions can be very different If there are multiple owners, there are If the successors are family members his daughter execute a buy-sell agreement legal and financial issues to be faced. The depending upon whether the successors are multiple options. If one owner dies, the such as children, the owner may wish to specifying a purchase price of $5,000,000, that price will be binding on the owner’s estate. However, if the fair market value of the business is $10,000,000 at the time of the owner’s death, estate taxes will be owed on the entire $10,000,000 (and as always with tax law, certain exceptions apply). The owner’s estate planning documents must also be coordinated with the succession plan, including a will to direct the disposition of the business and a trust or power of attorney to provide for control of the business in the event of incapacity.

comprehensive task involving business, Ultimately, succession planning is a

inputfinancial, of an tax attorney, and familyan accountant issues. and A successful plan will probably require the

personala financial and planner emotional or insurance issues. If agent.properly It implemented,may also require however, a consultant the tosuccession address plan can allow a business to survive the

rather than to disintegrate. departure of the founder and to flourish, Sarah Delano Pavlik is an attorney with Delano Law Offices, LLC.

Have a legal question? Email Tom and Sarah Pavlik at [email protected] and they may be able to address the issue in our legal column. 32 | July 2016 | Springfield Business Journal EDITORIAL

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PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD CAPITOL FARMERS MARKET [email protected] Contributors

Roberta Codemo ColinTerry Patrick Farmer Brady Sarah Delano Pavlik Catherine O’Connor ThomasHaley C. Wilson Pavlik, Jr. Maranda Potterf Go local Eric Woods By Diane Beauchamp, co-owner of Wiley Office Furniture and current president of Local First Springfield

Production Designer David Hine

I am often asked: “Why local? Why does it [email protected] Designer matter if I purchase at a local, independent taxes for schools and roads, zero products in the community to the tune of 68 Diane Lyddon business?” The short answer is when you andin the services least –purchased it results from in zero your jobs, friends zero result of buying local – the money stays and neighbors and zero multiplier effect. a chain and zero percent on the internet. dollar goes further and works harder and Spend $100 on the internet, and $0 dollars percentBen orFranklin more versus famously 30-35 percentsaid that at [email protected] Manager eat, drink, shop and think local first, your goes into the local economy. Spend $100 at nothing is certain except death and taxes. friends and neighbors. a local, independent business and watch Why wouldn’t we want those inevitable the benefit is to you, your family, your that soar to $48 or more. taxes to benefit the community where Brenda Matheis impact of spending at local independent I challenge you to try a different we live, rather than some far-off city? [email protected] businessesMuch research as opposed has been to chain done onstores the The taxes generated by spending locally or franchises (and more recently the shopping areas and buy goods and benefit our local roads, schools, libraries internet), consistently showing that servicespurchasing from strategy your –family, go to yourfriends nearby and and parks. If our local governmental Beth Parkes-Irwin Stacie Lewis entities would also give preference to [email protected] economies are staggering. Corkscrew to buy a bottle of wine and local businesses for their purchase of the benefits to communities and local someneighbors. cheeses, Next then Saturday, to Ace follow to get me my to goods and services, they would see their Teri Hill [email protected] the multiplier effect. When you buy from grilling and gardening supplies, then to dollars’ impact also multiplied. a localOne business, reason for it impacts such a hugetheir benefitbusiness is directly, as well as other local businesses some veggies. I have a couple of birthday is to share with consumers and business [email protected] indirectly. Based on your purchase, the giftsCountry to shopMarket for, for so a I’ll fabulous head downtown steak and At Local First Springfield, our mission initial business you purchased from can to Studio on Sixth for an awesome art spending dollars at local, independent monthly by Central Illinois Communications., SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL is published then go out in the community and purchase piece or jewelry, to Recycled Records for businessesowners the provides. tremendous In our ninth benefits year, thatour

P.O. Box 5256, Springfield IL 62705. The are copyrighted, and material contained herein has resonated strongly in our community. contents of SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL may not be copied or reproduced in any manner potentiallyother services hiring – contractors including ITto renovate support, thena cool of poster, course, to to Merchant The Cardologist House for for a slogan,Do “Eat,you Drink,want Shop,to “go THINK local”? Local ThinkFirst,” without the permission of the publisher. andmarketing grow andtheir office businesses, supplies, as upgrade well as anunique irreverent home birthday gift for mycard. daughter Lastly, I will and about where you are spending your hard- computers and other business machines. earned dollars and shift some to local, Manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and letters They can also hire more employees whose all of these businesses, I will interact independent businesses, encourage your to the editor are welcome, but SPRINGFIELD withhave the lunch owners at Maldaner’s and long-term or Augie’s. managers At friends and families to do the same and BUSINESS JOURNAL can take no responsibility economy even more. and staff, who know my preferences and challenge your employers to review how publication. Letters may be edited. Information for them while in transit or in the office of the wagesHere’s consequently a breakdown stimulate of spending the $100: local provide excellent service. A big bonus: I they spend their dollars. gathered from reliable sources, but the accuracy of • At a local, independent business, $48 get to interact with my community, family, This coming week, July 1-7, is published in SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL is this information cannot be guaranteed. Opinions is recirculated, friends and neighbors. • At a chain store, $14 is recirculated, The jobs created by local, independent celebrates locally owned, independent are those of their authors, and no information or • On the internet, $0 is recirculated. businesses are what my parents referred Independent’s Week, where Springfield expressed in SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL As mentioned, one big challenge to as “the good jobs,” with competitive have a booth at the downtown farmers marketbusinesses. on July Local 2 and First 6. We Springfield will be sharing will opinions expressed in SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS facing independent businesses today is pay and benefits. They enable their JOURNAL represent an endorsement or competing with the Internet. A single employees to live independently, have solicitation for purchase or sale by SPRINGFIELD mouse-click to purchase goods from all a family, donate to local charities and handing out freebies from our members. BUSINESS JOURNAL or its staff. over the world might be convenient, but it support their schools, churches and Onceinformation, you “Go answeringLocal” you’ll questionsnever go back! and synagogues. That’s another important Springfield Business Journal | July 2016 | 33 does not benefit the Springfield community Visit our website – localspringfield.com. GET YOUR BUSINESS CARD AD HERE ON THIS PAGE

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