CD’s BBQ is a family-owned restaurant near the intersection of North Grand Avenue and Eighth Street. The “C” is for Cecil Turner, who’s been barbecuing virtually his whole life, while the “D” is for his wife, Doris Turner, who helps prepare the food when she isn’t at the Statehouse performing her duties as a senator. […]
Thomas C. Pavlik Jr.
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When boilerplate is not the best option
I recently met with a prospective client to discuss representing him in a possible business venture. As we discussed the scope of my representation, he said that he planned to sign some standard contracts with various venders and he would not need my help because, other than the price terms, it was all just boilerplate. […]
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Cozy Dog Drive In
I’ve never been a big fan of hot dogs. A few times a year when I’m at the ballpark or some other big venue I’ll opt for one, especially if brown mustard is available. Or late at night after a few beers, a Chicago dog might be called for – but not your general boiled […]
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New laws in 2025 will affect Illinois employers
Starting in 2025, there will be quite a few new laws that will affect Illinois employers. Changes include wage transparency obligations in job postings, inclusion of family responsibilities and reproductive health decisions as protected categories under the Illinois Human Rights Act, stricter record keeping and access requirements under the Personnel Records Review Act and additional […]
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Fairlane Diner
I grew up in Cleveland, where the phrase rock ‘n’ roll was first coined. And I even went to the epic celebratory party when Cleveland was awarded the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. So yes, I’ve got a bit of affinity for it starting all the way back in the 1950s, which is why […]
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Commercial property insurance 101
Commercial property insurance The recent fire on Adams Street downtown has raised some interesting questions about commercial property insurance coverage, especially from a tenant’s perspective. When leasing a commercial space, tenants generally focus on the main terms of the lease, typically the rent and the question of which party bears the expense of maintenance and […]
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Yummy Bowl
I’ve heard about Yummy Bowl for quite some time but had never visited until now, which was my loss. Most of the comments I heard were about how crowded it is and how much creativity diners used in loading their bowl – but more on that later. My friend and I planned to have lunch […]
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A sampling of Springfield’s chili
Every month for over more than 20 years, a group of four friends have been visiting Springfield restaurants and taverns to sample chili. They’ve all become good friends of mine, and we’ve shared hundreds of rounds of golf together. So, I was very pleased when they decided to add me and another friend as probationary […]
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AI and the law
Artificial intelligence has rapidly transformed various sectors, from health care and finance to transportation and entertainment. As AI technologies become increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, they present unique challenges and opportunities for the legal field. Most people probably don’t realize it, but the state of Illinois has taken a leading role in establishing artificial intelligence policies. […]
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New rules for non-compete agreements
I’ve had lots of questions lately about the new rule issued by the Federal Trade Commission that significantly restricts the use of non-compete clauses in employment contracts. This decision, announced in early 2024, aims to enhance labor mobility, foster competition and ultimately benefit both workers and the economy at large. Whether it will actually do […]
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Seoul 4 Soul
Dining options, especially for lunch, have been dwindling in downtown Springfield, which is why I was happy to hear that Seoul 4 Soul had recently opened on the second floor above Buzz Bomb Brewing Co. on Adams Street. Seoul 4 Soul advertises itself as a “Korean fusion bistro with vegan and vegetarian options.” It also […]
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Buying a business
If you want to work for yourself, you may well be thinking about purchasing an existing small business. It could be a printer, restaurant or distributor, for example. The current business owner may be looking to retire or is simply tired of the stress of owning and managing a business. Chances are the business doesn’t […]