October 2014 BN Inc.

www.pantagraph.com/bninc

October 1 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

INSIDE

BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

jULIE bECHTEL Publisher

Bernard Beoletto Advertising manager

MARK PICKERING Pantagraph interim editor

karen Hansen Editor, BN Inc.

October 2014 www.pantagraph.com/bninc A publication of Pantagraph Publishing Inc. 301 W. Washington St. Bloomington, IL 61701 The entire contents may not be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or part, without permission of the publisher.

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

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

New subscriptions, renewals, inquiries or change of address, mail to: BN Inc. Advertising 301 W. Washington St., Bloomington, IL 61701 To advertise or questions regarding advertising, call 800-747-7323, 309-820-3359. © 2014

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

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BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

Carl Thacker rebuilds the keys of a custom instrument.

Cover Story‌

Features‌

20 under 40‌

Employee health‌

Find out who the new leaders are in McLean County.

Page 10

Learning to live with diabetes is a challenge but connecting with an education program can make the journey a bit less bumpy.

Page 22

Business Bio‌ Music to our ears‌ Carl’s Pro Band offer a range of services to music lovers from throughout the Midwest. Page 3

Farming‌ A new statewide group is on a mission to keep the state’s agricultural advantages top-of-mind for residents and lawmakers alike.

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Business bio

Carl's Pro Band

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Carl Thacker, right, works with his sons, Travis, left and Austin, back center, at Carl’s Pro Band, 802 N. Morris Ave., Bloomington, in September. Carl Thacker has worked in the instrument repair business since 1975.

Keeping Central Illinois in tune ‌Carl Thacker has been repairing band instruments since he was a teenager working at a local music store in 1975. When he left the store in 1994 he became the repair technician for Illinois State University’s music department, a position he held until retirement this year. The same year he started at ISU, Thacker also began Carl’s Pro Band, first working from home before opening his current Bloomington storefront at 802 N. Morris Ave. in 2006. He soon partnered in business with his oldest son, Travis, in 2008, and his youngest son, Austin, has also become an integral part of the business. Today Thacker and his two sons offer a range of services to music lovers from throughout

www.pantagraph.com/bninc

the Midwest.

What drew you to the music repair business as a teenager? Why did you stick with it?

I began in the instrument repair field as a part-time job through the work program at Bloomington High School. I had no plans of attending college after high school and had excelled in all of the industrial courses available (wood shop, metals, etc…) so this mechanical job was a good fit for me.

The person that hired me wanted someone mechanically inclined that did not play an instrument so that he could train See Carl's / Page 4

October 3 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

Business bio

Carl's Pro Band

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

Austin Thacker works on repairing a cornet at Carl’s Pro Band.

Carl's FROM 3

me to do things his way, without any preconceived notions or biases towards certain instruments. Soon into my career I became the service manager at that store and realized that I could make a living working with my hands.

What other services does your business offer in addition to repairs?

We sell new and used quality instruments, accessories and cases that we can be proud of. We also have an unmatched rent-to-own program for beginning band and orchestra instruments. We are very selective of the products and services that we choose to offer because we only want to present the best options to our customers.

Who are your customers? Where do they come from?

Our customer base is very broad. We have customers of all ages and playing levels. We do a lot of work for schools; universities;

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beginning students; university-level players and professors; and professional players. We have customers that drive hours to visit our shop and also have customers that ship their instruments to us from across the U.S. to have them serviced. We do our very best to treat every customer with the same level of respect and attentiveness.

How were you able to transition from a home-based business to a storefront?

When did you know the time was right?

Our business began as a part-time home-based shop offering continued service to many of my long-time customers. When I left the music store to take the job at ISU, they needed service on their instruments and had developed a trust and respect for my work.

After my son Travis began apprenticing with me we were able to accomplish more work and the business quickly grew. After Travis graduated from ISU with his music business degree and the shop expanded to regular full-time business hours, we quickly realized See Carl's / Page 8

October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

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

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810 IAA, BL

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

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

Business bio

Carl's Pro Band

Carl's FROM 4

the need for more space. In 2006 we moved to our current location, which gave us the opportunity to offer more products and services.

You have two sons that work with you in the business. When did you bring them on board and what are the pros and cons of having a family business?

Travis began apprenticing with me when he was 15 in 1997 and has been with me ever since. Austin starting working with us in 2006 and has progressed very quickly in the craft. It is great to be able to work with family and to spend quite a bit of time together. We are all like-minded and have similar goals for our business. We can bounce ideas off each other and also offer different perspectives on how to tackle specific repairs.

The cons I can think of are learning to work with and be patient with each other. When we leave the shop each day we’re still family so we always keep that in mind during a disagreement or frustrating day.

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph‌

The official mascot of Carl’s Pro Band is ‘’Wilson,’’ a sculpture made by owner Carl Thacker out of discarded musical instrument parts, shown in the front of the shop.

Tell us about some of the more interesting or unusual repairs that have been done at the shop through the years.

Most of the unusual repairs we see are actually unrelated to musical instruments. Over the years we’ve done work on antique Victrola horns, antique brass car parts (horns, light buckets, etc…), church candle holders, trophies, brass name plates from local universities, antique brass light fixtures from historical homes and many more that I can’t remember! Since we work with brass and silver we are often able to transfer these skills to other types of repair. It is nice to work on something different every day and we never know what will come into the shop each day.

What is the easiest instrument to repair? The most difficult? Why?

Instruments all present their own specific issues so it is difficult to characterize one type of instrument as easy or difficult to repair. Generally older instruments are more difficult to repair

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Connecting Central Illinois business

because of the wear and tear that years of playing can do to them. The instrument’s mechanisms and materials tend to wear out over time and the complete rebuilds needed to restore them can be very time-consuming. However, these types of repairs can often be the most rewarding to complete. It is great to see an older instrument playing better than the day it left the factory.

How long does an average repair take?

Most average annual repairs, like a playing condition on a woodwind instrument or ultrasonic cleaning on a brass instrument, take one to three days to complete, depending on our workload.

More extensive repairs can often take longer, due to the amount of labor needed. We do our best to turn around repairs as quickly as possible.

Do you play any instruments?

I can play most instruments well enough to ensure they are working properly. Travis is a saxophonist and played throughout his time at ISU and currently plays with regional groups.

Tell us something most people probably don’t know about Carl’s Pro Band.

Many people think of us strictly for instrument repair and don’t realize that we have a great beginning band and orchestra rent-to-own program. Another interesting fact is that we have a combined 60+ years of repair experience.

October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

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On the cover

20 under 40

Youth Movement These 20 are making an impact now

‌The Pantagraph is proud to introduce its 20 under 40 honorees. Winners were chosen from 59 nominees based on their career accomplishments, community involvement and those showing a likelihood of future success and leadership.

They represent a cross-section of the immense talent that exists in varied sectors throughout Central Illinois, providing inspiration through their determination to exceed expectations and willingness to work hard for success. In addition to career success, this group also believes in giving back to the community in which they live and are active in many charity efforts.

“We are extremely proud to sponsor 20 Under 40,” said Jonell Kehias, Pantagraph marketing manager. “The individuals chosen represent a variety of backgrounds and abilities and highlight the many facets that add to the quality of life in McLean and our surrounding counties.”

The group will honored at the upcoming Leaders of Distinction Awards Reception at 5 p.m. Oct. 9 at the Illinois State University Brown Ballroom. Tickets are $50. To reserve your space please visit to www.mcleancochamber.org or call the McLean County Chamber office at (309) 829-6344.

Amber C. Gruenloh-Luecke‌ trusted contacts creating what I refer to Age: 30 as my ‘advisory board’ there are two indiBusiness: Insight CPAs & Finan- viduals that have had a large influence on cial, LLC

Title: Financial advisor C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishments: Joining

Amber Gruenloh-Luecke

the Insight CPAs & Financial Team, Coro Fellowship in Public Affairs – St. Louis; Class of 2009

Community involvement: The Baby

Fold’s Festival of Trees; steering committee; NEXT Professionals, member, marketing committee; Leadership McLean County, Class of 2014; Marketing Committee Professional Referral Group, member, treasurer; PAX Academic Exchange, host parent 2013-2014, 2014-2015; CommUniversity, committee member; ISU Women Athletics’ Red Hot Society Court 2014; Holy Trinity Church choir.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: Although, I have a handful of

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BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

me – my dance teacher and my mother.

They provided a foundation of self-confidence within me and encouraged establishing goals, working for achievements, and pushing myself to the ultimate limits.

Leisure time diversions:

Volunteering, reading on my front porch, running, biking, dancing, sewing, crafts, travel and visiting family in Missouri while watching Mizzou football.

What was your first job and how old were you? My

first job was after I graduated from high school as a daycare teacher. I loved the kids, although it wasn’t them I remember. Rather it was the single parent who dropped-off and picked-up her child as early or late as possible due to working multiple jobs trying to make ends meet.

When I put that child on the bus for her first day of school I realized I was witnessing first-hand the financial challenges of life and hence my career passion.

∆∆∆

Angie Fulton‌ Age: 30 Business : The Salvation Army Bloomington Corps

Title: Development director

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishments: Grad-

uated from Indiana University in 2002; worked in fundAngela Fulton raising and event planning for five years in Chicago; was regional development manager at Children’s Home + Aid in Bloomington; 2014 Graduate of Leadership McLean County.

Community involvement:

Board member of the Bloomington/Normal Jaycees; member of the Next Professionals of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce; member of the Children’s Home + Aid auxiliary board; American Diabetes Association StepOut Walk team captain; participant in the 2014 Sing for Wishes for Make a Wish Foundation.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: My mom, Mary Ann Fulton,she

raised me to give back to my community and has been a big support throughout See Nominees / Page 11

October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees

“Best Realtor,” 2013 and 2014; BNAR Young Professional’s Network chair, 2014-2015; Illinois Association of Realtors Young Professional’s Network vice chair, 2015.

FROM 10

my career.

Leisure time diversions: I

love spending time with my three nephews – Connor, Chase and Carter. I also love to sing and perform, most recently in The Pantagraph’s Celebrate America! and The Pantagraph’s Holiday Spectacular.

What was your first job and how old were you? I

worked odd jobs at Bergner’s my whole life. My first official job there was at 16 working in the stock room; I have come a long way from there!

∆∆∆

Amanda Wycoff‌ Age: 37 Business : Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate Title: Realtor/ broker and team leader of “Team Wycoff Realtors”

Community involvement:

Three-year director of the BNAR Variety Show which benefits a different charitable organization each year; Foster for HALO Havanese Rescue and As Good As Gold Golden Retriever Rescue; Sing for Wishes 2011, top fundraiser.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: My father, Hugh Wycoff, a Bloom-

ington-Normal home builder. Watching him create amazing homes for families and seeing his work ethic, talent and strength of character was instrumental in helping me choose my career path. I like to joke that I “grew up on a construction site!”

His encouragement of my natural ambition, along with my mother Kathy, enabled me to believe I could do anything I set my mind to… as long as I was willing to work my tail off.

Leisure time diversions:

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishments: Bloom-

Traveling with my fiancé, Ed Neaves, and spending time with my two cats and my dog, Karma.

i n g to n No r m a l Association of Realtors 2015 president; BNAR Realtor of the Year, 2012; Pantagraph Reader’s Choice

first job I can remember was cleaning my dad’s new construction homes in various stages of construction. Though I didn’t enjoy it at the time, I am now an excellent

Amanda Wycoff

www.pantagraph.com/bninc

What was your first job and how old were you? The

“light switch cover putter-onner”! I think I was around 8 years old when I got to start “helping” dad. My first job besides the family business was at age 15; I was an umpire for Bloomington-Normal Parks and Recreation.

∆∆∆

Sarah Franzen‌ Age: 29 Business: Habitat for Humanity of McLean County

Title: Development Director

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishm e n t s : Lec-

turer for the School of Communication at Illinois State on an adjunct basis, Sarah Franzen previously worked as an account manager and trainer for Chestnut Global Partner.

Community involvement:

Sunrise Rotary Member; Make A Wish Foundation volunteer wish granter; member of the McLean County Regional Council for Make A Wish Foundation; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Give Thanks walk planning committee member (served as a team captain for the walk); St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital RadioThon See Nominees / Page 12

October 11 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees

and how old were you?

FROM 11

volunteer; Haiti Women’s Mission Team at Eastview.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your wor k/aspira tions and why: If I had to pick one person I would say my dad. He has worked incredibly hard in his professional career and he is also the first to help someone in need without ever expecting a thing in return. I am incredibly blessed to have him to look up to.

Leisure time diversions:

I love traveling, volunteering, spending time with family and friends, working out and dabbling in photography.

What was your first job

Technically, my first job was working at my dad’s office. After that, my first “real job” was at a movie theater in my hometown of Litchfield, Ill.

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Kristin Tinsley Givens‌ Age: 39 Business: State Farm Mutual Auto Insurance Cos. Title: Counsel

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Indianapolis’ first community city prosecutor; co-chair of the corporate law department’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee. During my tenure I helped create a multi-year curriculum to leverage diverse talents and experiences to further develop myself and colleagues.

C o m m u n i t y involvem e n t : Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority member; McLean County Bar Association member and Lawyers in Kristin Givens the Classroom participant; Faith In Action volunteer; McLean County Chamber of Commerce; Home Sweet Home Ministries.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your wor k/aspira tions and why: My grandfather, Ira T. Neal, and his “why not me,” attitude has been a source of inspiration both See Nominees / Page 13

“Congratulations to Amber on her recognition as one of Pantagraph’s 20 Under 40!”

Keep up the good work, Amber, as we help people plan their financial futures!

Amber Gruenloh-Luecke 12

BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

2712 McGRaw Drive Bloomington, IL 61704 • 309-663-1353 insight@insightcpafinancial.com

October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees FROM 12

Grant Anderson‌ Age: 24 Business: Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal

professionally and personally. He grew up in a family of eight, his mother a widow, in the south during the 1930s. He went on to serve his country, enjoy a successful and rewarding career in education, and earn his doctorate because he never doubted that he could do it.

Leisure time diversions:

Traveling, reading, running, spending time with family and friends, a good craft beer and French fries!

What was your first job and how old were you? I

sold donuts at the Donut Bank in Evansville, Ind. at 15!

∆∆∆

my one year with the Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal the club has Grant Anderson attained financial sustainability; implemented an annual fundraising campaign that raised $85,155; implemented Summer Brain Gain program to stem summer learning loss for low-income youth; increased

Hear what local leaders have planned for the future, what their progress is on current initiatives, and what strategies are being implemented to increase prosperity. www.pantagraph.com/bninc

Title: CEO Career hig h lig h t s a n d / o r accomplishments: During

summer average daily attendance from 62 (2013) to 77 (2014); created more access to computers and dedicated space for teen members.

Community involvement:

McLean County Juvenile Justice Council; Promise Council; Illinois Prairie Community Foundation Youth and Education focus group; United Way agency executive council.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your wor k/aspira tions and why: My parents. They instilled

a sense of community in me from a young age. When Chicago began dismantling public housing high-rises our Danville experienced a huge influx of the displaced families. Seeing a need, my parents worked with our church to create a See Nominees / Page 14

Thursday, October 23 Illinois Wesleyan University Hansen Student Center Learn More and Register Online @ mcleancochamber.org

October 13 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees FROM 13

program to deliver basic household items and information on job and education opportunities.

Leisure time diversions:

Water activities, reading, visiting family, and urban exploring.

What was your first job and how old were you? The

first job that I had taxes deducted was as a Kmart associate when I was 16. Prior to that I mowed lawns and umpired baseball.

I also had a couple of failed entrepreneurial endeavors (lemonade stand and car wash) when I was 9. The failure might’ve had something to do with growing up in the country and only having six neighbors.

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Nathan Hinch (Nate)‌ Age: 36 B u s i n e s s : Mueller, Reece & Hinch, LLC Title: Partner attorney

Career highlights and/ or accomplishments: Licensed to practice law in Illinois in 2007; opened own law practice in Wheaton in 2009; moved to Bloomington and joined firm in 2010; named partner at firm in 2013.

Community involvement:

McLean County Bar Association, ISBA, ABA and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys; emeritus board member of chamber Next Professionals; Bloomington Rotary Club/Foundation board member; • Let me know your interest in INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE • The very best professional advice • Properties up to $5.7 million • 9+ % Cap Rates

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The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and w hy : Hands down my wife, Sarah

Hinch, who put up with and supported me going to law school at night while working a full-time job, and throughout my career.

Leisure time diversions:

Spending time with my family and friends, and barbecuing.

What was your first job and how old were you? Pig roast catering at 14!

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C o m m u n i t y involvement: Member

of Sunrise Rotary; Hispanic Family Work Group board Axel Jimenez member 2011, 2012; Community Cancer Center board member, 2014; Junior Achievement, 2011; PCSL soccer coach, 2014; PCSL soccer assistant coach 2012-2014; Fusion soccer assistant coach, 2014.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why : My father, retired Col. Mario

Jimenez, an Army officer with 30 years of service. I enthusiastically and with much honor followed in five of his 30 footsteps.

My five years as an Army officer and the training I received via R.O.T.C. is what shaped me into the hard working and See Nominees / Page 15

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Axel Jimenez‌ Age: 37 B u s i n e s s : Axel Jimenez State

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and NEXT Professionals member; Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal board of directors.

FROM 14

reliable entrepreneur I am today.

Leisure time diversions: I love to cycle, run, play and coach soccer as well as be with my awesome family.

What was your first job and how old were you? My

first job was as a bagger at a commissary located on an Army base called Ft. Wainwright outside of Fairbanks, Alaska.

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Laura Kraynak‌ Age: 29 Business: Eastland Suites Hotel & Conference Center

T i t l e : Sales manager

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishm e n t s : 2012

Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year; twotime recipient of Laura Kraynak the Mary Kay Unit “Miss Go Give” Award, highest honor given in Mary Kay.

Community involvement:

Council for IWU Women; Kappa Delta Sorority Chapter advisory board; Leadership McLean County alumni committee; McLean County Chamber of Commerce board of directors; Ambassador

Valerie Curry

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

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the country and recently launched my own nonprofit that provides night and weekend activities to at-risk te e n s ; W I N G S award recipient.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: Crystal Ciasnocha, my Mary Kay

director, has always believed in me and encouraged me to reach for goals I never dreamed I could hit. She taught me to do everything with a servant heart, to lead by example and inspire those around me.

I’ve achieved so much in my life because of her leadership and encouragement, and the best is yet to come!

Leisure time diversions:

Cooking, traveling and spending time with family and friends. My husband is a huge Cubs fan, so watching Cubs games on TV is a common leisurely occurrence.

What was your first job and how old were you?

Working at the world-famous Gayety’s Ice Cream in Lansing, Ill., when I was 16.

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Alicia Lenard‌ Age: 37 Business: Nonprofit Leadership Tit le : Director of organizational advancement

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Transitioning from a high school drop out to completing my second master’s degree this year; selftaught grant writer, have attained nearly $500,000 dollars in funds for YouthBuild since 2010; program coach for other youth development programs throughout

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C o m m u n i t y involvem e n t : I have

completed nearly 3,000 hours of volunteer service in McLean County and assisted hundreds of youth with completing nearly 200,000 hours of volunteer service through YouthBuild AmeriCorps. I am an active member of the Juvenile Justice Council of McLean County and mentor many youth in the community.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: My boss and mentor Suzanne has

introduced me to numerous opportunities and always challenged me to complete See Nominees / Page 16

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advisory board for Lincoln College in Normal; accepted into the 2015 Class of the Multi-Cultural Leadership Program.

FROM 15

them with minimal to no involvement from anyone else. The youth that I serve also inspire me to continue my development so that I can break down barriers for them and develop pathways for them to access.

Leisure time diversions: I enjoy spending time with my children and significant other, trying new foods and helping my children develop their leadership and commitment to being community-minded and helpful individuals.

What was your first job and how old were you? My

first job was through a youth program that Project Oz ran in 1993. I was part of the creative writing group.

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Lacey MacLeod‌ Age: 31 Business: Four Seasons Health Club T i t l e : Vice president of support services

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishments: Build-

ing a marketing department from scratch; leading two HR departments; strategically and operaLacey MacLeod tionally leading all business departments at Four Seasons.

Community involvement:

Programs director for Professional Women of McLean County. I founded this organization with a group of local women after the Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce dissolved. I am a past president and continue to be involved as a member and board member; YWCA McLean County volunteer; member of the League of Women Voters; sports management

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Connecting Central Illinois business

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: I have not been influenced by any

one person, but by the many phenomenal women beginning with my mother, who supported my leadership growth and feminist ideals, to Professor Michelle Bobbitt, who fueled my learning in college, to Becky Hines, who has mentored me and helped mold me into the woman I am today.

Leisure time diversions:

I spend a lot of time with best friend and husband, Will. We travel, workout and have recently started riding a motorcycle!

We have visited 11 states and seven countries together.

What was your first job and how old were you? My

first job was at the Whirla-Whip where I made and served ice cream. I started on my 16th birthday.

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Melissa Marx‌ Age: 33 Business: Fort Jesse Imaging Center and Gale Keeran Center for Women Title: Administrator

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishm e n t s : Mid

Illinois Hematology and Oncology at the Community Cancer Center; in 2012 started at the Fort Jesse ImagMelissa Marx ing Center and Gale Keeran Center for Women as office manager, promoted to the administrator in 2014.

Community involvement:

Business Networking International; Mclean County Chamber of Commerce; Professional Women of McLean

County; Race for the Cure; Relay for Life; Safe Harbor.

The person who has had the biggest influence on yo u r wo r k/a s pi r a t io n s and why: My mother, Toni Tucker, has always shown me that hard work and dedication pays off. I watched her complete her college education when I was a young child and she showed me it was not only possible but rewarding.

Leisure time diversions:

Running 5K charity runs, spending time with my family, reading.

What was your first job and how old were you? I

worked for the town of Normal as a gymnastics instructor at the age of 16 and worked my way up to running the program by the age of 18.

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Jeff Mavros‌ Age: 38 Business: Illinois State University Title: Director of admissions Career highlights and/ or accomplishments: During my 16 years as an employee of Illinois Wesleyan University, I enjoyed success in See Nominees / Page 18 Four Seasons Health Club congratulates Lacey MacLeod on being chosen as a 2014 Twenty Under Forty award recipient. The Twenty Under Forty recognizes young professionals who excel in their career, are passionate about the community and are making a mark in the area. MacLeod is currently a class participant in the Multicultural Leadership Program and is Director of Programs for Professional Women of McLean County.

MacLeod currently serves as the Vice President of Support Services and oversees the departments of Human Resources, Membership, Marketing and Member Relations. MacLeod has worked for Four Seasons for 3 years and has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Bradley University and a Masters in Business Administration from Illinois State University.

October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

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On the cover

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What was your first job and how old were you? I

FROM 16

numbers-driven, goal-oriented positions in both Admissions a n d Un ive rs i ty Advancement. I am most proud of the new programs and traditions I created at IWU, Jeff Mavros the most impactful of which was a 24-hour fundraising initiative called All in for Wesleyan. Having the freedom to design and implement these new programs was an incredible opportunity for me as a young professional.

Community involvement:

Town of Normal Children’s Discovery Museum foundation board — vice president; United Way of McLean County events and promotions committee; Leadership McLean County Class of 2014; Leadership McLean County Alumni Task Force project committee; PCSL U8 girls soccer coach.

The person who has had the biggest influence on yo u r wo r k/a s pi r a t io n s and why: The individual who has

had the biggest influence on my career is Steve Seibring, associate vice president for advancement at Illinois Wesleyan University. He has been my preferred sounding board for the last several years. Steve is someone who sees the big picture, he treats people with kindness, he is driven and goal-oriented and he is a very effective listener. This last trait is the one I most strive to emulate — I have room to improve as a listener.

Leisure time diversions:

I love spending time with my wife and three kids, doing almost anything. There is never a dull moment with three little kids, and we have fun anytime we’re all together. I also love playing basketball over my lunch break any chance I get.

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Connecting Central Illinois business

delivered The Courier News seven days a week in Elgin on my 10-speed bike when I was in junior high. I remember my dad getting up early on Saturday mornings with me and helping me to roll the papers before I delivered them to about 60 homes in our neighborhood.

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Aaron McArdle‌ Age: 36 Business: Zdi, Inc. Title: CEO C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishments: Named Top 40 CI Influencers Under 40, 2014. Zdi has received national re cog n i t i o n by Commercial InteAaron McArdle grator for Top 5 Higher Education Market Integrators in the U.S., 2014; Top 5 Museum Market Integrators in the U.S., 2013; CI Industry Leaders: 21 Other Firms Worth Following, 2012. Zdi has the most highly certified staff in the United States .

Community involvement:

Board of directors for the McLean County Economic Development Council.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: The person that has made the most

significant impact on my life has been my wife. We were married when we were 20, had our first of three kids right away and haven’t looked back. When our friends were being kids, we were raising ours. I’ve always had a job that went way beyond eight hours a day. I haven’t always given her the easiest stress-free life, but she’s supported me and stood by me. I couldn’t do it without her. I’m blessed.

Leisure time diversions:

We have a boat and a camper at Sullivan Marine.

What was your first job and how old were you? My first job off the farm was with Integrity Technology Solutions, then Bloomington Computer Service Co. I worked summers through high school then worked for them full time after I quit college. That was a significant part of my career. I’m still trying to be like them.

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Coleen Moore‌ Age: 39 Business: American Red Cross of the Heartland Title: Executive director

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r a c c o m plishments:

Spokesperson for many of the different types of addictions; consultant and educator with international preColeen Moore sentations as well as media appearances on networks including Fox and Friends, CNN, E! Entertainment News and the Katie Couric Show. I currently have the honor and privilege of working for the largest humanitarian service organization in the nation, the American Red Cross.

Community involvement:

Upon moving to Bloomington I’ve been involved with Sing for Wishes – Make a Wish Foundation; The Bloomington/ Normal YMCA; The Illinois Symphony Orchestra; Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees; Race for the Cure; Home Sweet Home Ministries.

The person who has had the biggest influence on yo u r wo r k/a s pi r a t io n s and why: My parents, who provided See Nominees / Page 19

October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees FROM 18

me with love, support and freedom. My grandmother,who taught me to always laugh and my husband who tells it like it is. My fifth grade teacher, who helped me find my voice and my undergraduate professor who told me the only way I was going to graduate was if I started smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee; that pushed me to work harder because I didn’t want to start up either of those habits.

Then as I move into my career there are mentors such as my first supervisor who provided guidance, freedom to find my path and a fellow colleague who owned her own business and provided leadership skills and the key to a balanced lifestyle.

Although I am unable to pinpoint one

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person who had the biggest influence in my life, I firmly believe if I didn’t have each of these individuals in my corner I wouldn’t be where I am today.

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Carlo Robustelli‌ Age: 33 Business: WGLT Title: Development director Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Awarded Key to the city after my tenure in the Chapel Hill mayor’s office; awarded the inter-departmental colleague of the year after one year of service at Durham Technical Community College; selected as a “Goodman Fellow” by Leadership Triangle; selected to participate in the International Rotary Foundation Group Study Exchange in Belgium, 2011; selected for the WCHL

1360 Village Pride Award “Hometown Hero” for my service to the community, 2011; recently hired as WGLT’s development director after working for three years at Illinois Carlo Robustelli Wesleyan University, first as the assistant director of the annual fund before being promoted to director of grants and foundation relations.

Community involvement:

McLean County Board, District 8; Convention & Visitors Bureau board member; Ecology Action Center, board president; Household Hazardous Waste fundraising See Nominees / Page 19

October 19 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees

Community involvement:

FROM 19

committee chair; Downtown Bloomington Association board member; Friends of the Constitution Trail member; Bike BloNo member; Home Sweet Home Ministries volunteer.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: Former Chapel Hill Mayor Kevin

Foy who taught me about diplomacy and to be a servant-leader. He has always believed in me and he modeled how to be fair and just.

Leisure time diversions:

Bicycling, motorcycling, reading, listening to NPR, traveling, eating good food.

What was your first job and how old were you? I

made pizza boxes while standing on a milk crate at my father’s pizzeria starting at around 5 years old; I wasn’t tall enough to reach the counter.

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Kevin Suess‌ Age: 38 Business: Normal Community High School/Unit 5 Tit le : Geography teacher/NCHS So c i a l S t u d i e s Department building chairperson

C a r e e r highlights a n d / o r accomplishments: National

Board Teaching Certificate, 2010; Na t i o n a l G e o Kevin Suess graphic Grosvenor Fellowship, 2010; NCHS Social Studies Department chairperson, 2010 to present; president of the Illinois Geographical Society; Illinois State Board of Education Those Who Excel Award of Merit, 2012. For past three 3 years, I’ve helped organize a student

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why: I have been

Bike To School event in May.

Bloomington Planning Commissioner; vice president and co-founder of Bike BloNo; helped repair bikes as part of the WBRP’s Walk In/Bike program; Bloomington Comprehensive Plan Transportation/Air Quality working group member.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why : My government teacher, Robert

Rodey, at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights. He demonstrated what it was to be an excellent teacher who made connections beyond the textbook. One way that he did this was by inviting a variety of guest speakers from different political backgrounds in the Chicagoland area to our government class. I’ve modeled a lot of my teaching based off of those experiences from his class.

Leisure time diversions:

Cycling, hiking, camping, and travel.

What was your first job and how old were you? My

first job was at a pharmacy/convenience store in the south suburbs of Chicago where I worked as a stock boy. I was 16 years old.

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Laine Sylvester‌ Age: 28 Business: The Snyder Companies Title: HR manager Career highlights and/or accomplishments: TV weather anchor at WEIU TV; TV meteorologist at WAND TV; human resources manager at The Snyder Companies at 26.

Community involvement:

The Employers’ Coalition for Healthcare, Inc. board member; McLean County Wellness Coalition committee member; OSF Foundation’s World Tour Event committee member; The Snyder Companies’ campaign liaison for Community Health Charities of Central Illinois.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and

very lucky to have had many mentors throughout my life and career including teachers, softball coaches, family, bosses and co-workers. Most recently I have Laine Sylvester been mentored by Rick Galbreath of Performance Growth Partners. Rick has taught me so much about business and life in general. I would not be as successful as I am today without his guidance over the past two years.

Leisure time diversions:

Travel, play sports/workout, read a good book, shop, and spend time with family and friends.

What was your first job and how old were you? I

babysat for my neighbors occasionally at the age of 13 but my first “real” job was as a “folder/fluffer” at Bergner’s over the holiday season! I was 15 years old.

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Casey Pirtle‌ Age: 34 Business: Fox & Hounds Hair Studio & Day Spa

Title: Co-owner Career highlights and/ or accomplishments: Teaming up with my sister, Denise Geske, in the purchase of Fox & Hounds from our parents.

Community involvement : McLean

County Chamber of Commerce Make Your Money Mean Casey Pirtle More committee; Bent Elementary PTO; children’s ministry at my church; Locks of Love.

See Nominees / Page 21

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On the cover

20 under 40

Nominees FROM 20

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: My mom, Vicki Tilton, is the ultimate example of “these things always work out.” She has shown me, through her example, how to lead with integrity and how to overcome adversity in life.

Leisure time diversions:

Dates with my husband, Arron; hanging out with our three daughters; geocaching; listening to music.

What was your first job and how old were you? My

first job was at Fox & Hounds. I helped around the salon by folding towels, doing dishes or answering the phones. At that

time Fox & Hounds was a much smaller operation. I grew up at Fox & Hounds, started working at 11. You can do that at a family business.

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Phani Aytam‌ Age: 33 Business: State Farm Bank Title: Bank director Career highlights and/ or accomplishments: Worked for State Farm Bank since Aug 2005; served in several role over the years, from product to credit risk management, currently serving in the role of interim bank credit officer.

Community involvement:

Serve on the board of directors for Multicultural Leadership Program; McLean Co u n ty H i s to ry M u se u m ; WG LT

Advisory Council.

The person who has had the biggest influence on your work/aspirations and why: Robert Greenleaf who is the founder of the modern servant leadership movePhani Aytam ment. His writings and philosophy on life had a profound impact on my life.

They shaped my view of the world, the way I live, think and serve.

Leisure time diversions:

Scuba diving, volleyball, travel, volunteering

What was your first job and how old were you?

Selling books when I was 17.

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October 21 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

Workplace Health LINDA AVERY is a registered nurse and a certified diabetes educator at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center in Normal.

Let’s have a conversation about diabetes

‌D

Maps, as patients are not just listening to an educator leciabetes is a growing concern across the globe. Uncontrolled diabetes can compromise the health and way of ture on a topic. It’s all about interacting with each other and life for both patient and family. learning from everyone in the group. The educators are really Diabetes is a group of diseases that is marked by high blood just the facilitators and keep everyone on the right track. The sugar levels resulting from a defect in the body’s ability to maps promote discussion and learning in a non-threatening produce and/or use the insulin. High blood sugar levels left environment. untreated over time can lead to problems and decreased qual“We at the American Diabetes Association believe Conity of life. versation Maps are one of the most important innovations in No matter the type, onset of diabetes leads to alterations patient and physician education in a decade,” said Karmeen in a person’s current lifestyle. Recommendations are often Kulkarni, president of healthcare and education for the ADA. made to change one’s eating style, activSimilar in appearance to a board game ity level, medications and even in how (think the game of LIFE), participants you celebrate events or deal with stress. draw cards with discussion questions on With knowledge As with any chronic condition requirthem and are led through the maps by the comes empowerment to ing self-management skills, people with facilitator. As they proceed, they learn make better decisions for diabetes will have healthier outcomes more about their disease, each other and blood sugar management. when education is part of the treatment themselves.

Getting the necessary selfplan. With knowledge comes empowerNational studies affirm the Conversamanagement tools can be ment to make better decisions for blood tion Map program’s effectiveness, with a very valuable asset. data that shows an increased return rate sugar management. Getting the necof attendees, improved patient satisessary self-management tools can be a faction and most importantly, increased very valuable asset. Medical professionlearning through its interactive nature. Each map covers a als trained as diabetes educators can help with this learning process. different topic, leading discussion through important aspects of self-care.

Education generally begins with an individual assessment with an educator, and based on the person’s needs, other Experts in diabetes education point out that while people sessions may be held individually or in a group class setting. respect the advice of health care professionals, they generally Education is patient-centered to ensure the educators do all act on their own conclusions. Through Conversation Maps, people engage in an experience that provides them with a they can to help patients achieve a healthier life with diabetes.

One of the most successful tools educators are using for means to learn health facts through dialogue, and ultimately group instruction is the U.S. Diabetes Conversation Map prodraw their own conclusions. gram. Thousands of health care professionals have adopted Recent data from the ADA lists the prevalence of diabetes at this approach to teaching. The Conversation Map program 29.1 million children and adults in the United States. New cases was developed by Healthy Interactions in collaboration with of diabetes in 2012 were listed at 1.7 million in people older than 20. As of this time, there is no cure for diabetes; rather the American Diabetes Association and is sponsored by the Merck Journey for Control program. it’s a condition that can be controlled.

Conversation Maps are a colorful and engaging tool Learning to live with diabetes is a challenge and may feel designed to facilitate group discussion among three to 10 like a full-time job. However, connecting with an education people about the important aspects of diabetes. Group program can make the journey a bit less bumpy and if you can classes are more relaxed and open with the Conversation enjoy yourself along the way, you’ll have even better outcomes.

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October http://pantagraph.com/bninc

Farming RICHARD GUEBERT JR.

of Ellis Grove, is currently serving as president of the Illinois Farm Bureau, elected in December 2013. Prior to serving as president, Guebert served as vice president and president of the Randolph County Farm bureau. He farms corn, soybeans and wheat.

Partnering for competitiveness and growth ‌As a farmer, I’m proud of what I do. I love growing the food on which your family depends, and know I and my fellow farmers play an extremely important role in the state’s rebounding economy.

But there seems to be a knowledge gap when it comes to agriculture and the important role it plays. In fact, most Illinois residents don’t realize agriculture is the No. 1 industry in terms of economic impact, bringing in more than $9 billion to the state each year and exporting almost $4 billion in goods annually.

What’s more, approximately one million Illinois workers are employed in the food and fiber system, ranking Illinois as one of the top states in dependency on agriculture. Illinois also is a leading state in agriculture-related industries.

To help close the gap, a new statewide group, the Food and Agricultural Roadmap for Illinois (FARM Illinois), is on a mission to keep the state’s agricultural advantages top-of-mind for residents and lawmakers alike. With backing from the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust, FARM Illinois will partner to encourage competitiveness and sustainable growth in food and agriculture throughout the state.

The effort has its roots with the Vision for Illinois Agriculture.

The Vision for Illinois Agriculture had three main goals: to rank Illinois among the top three states in both food manufacturing and in crop and animal production, and to lead the nation in biobased product technology and services. FARM Illinois includes the state’s top agricultural, business and economic leaders, including

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many from the Chicago business community. The group is tasked with developing and advocating for a strategic plan focusing on the state’s economic leadership in global food security.

This new partnership, and the agricultural leaders behind it, will plan how the agriculture and food industries in Illinois can come together to promote the whole sector from farm to plate. What’s more, it could help tie our agricultural assets downstate and Chicago food assets together.

FARM Illinois will be led by Dr. Robert Easter, president of the University of Illinois, and overseen by a leadership council comprised of more than 25 experts and distinguished leaders.

By spring 2015, the group hopes to have a plan in place to help drive agricultural innovation; enable sustainable economic growth; encourage public-private partnerships and collaboration; develop a world-class workforce; address community development and nutrition needs; conserve and enhance natural resources; adapt to climate change pressures; and enhance global and local food security.

The goals are lofty, but the potential rewards are endless. As a farmer myself, I know there are tremendous opportunities for Illinois agriculture as global population and incomes rise. FARM Illinois will help examine our strengths, weaknesses and our influences on agricultural production and distribution in the state so we can improve both our rural and urban economies. And that’s a win for everyone — not just farmers like me.

October 23 BNinc.

Connecting Central Illinois business

From State Farm to our family farm it’s wonderful having an ally who advocates for businesses both big and small.

With the promotion of agricultural education and programs the McLean County Chamber of Commerce has positioned itself as a leader in our community’s number one industry. Whether your operation consists of 400 workers or 400 acres the Chamber is a valuable resource to our county’s diverse business landscape.

The Rader Family Rader Family Farms