ivl-09-27-2014

LivingIllinois Valley

Fall 2014

Illinois Valley Living’s

WOMENofdistinction

Women of Distinction Award luncheon keynote speaker Kathy O’Malley

2 Illinois Valley Living

JUDY PATTY AMY

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The staff at Illinois Valley Living magazine attempts to publish a wide variety of stories for everyone and anyone — men, women, old, young, city folks and country folks. It is our goal

to create stories and features that will appeal to a wide variety of people; we want Illinois Valley Living to be an exciting magazine to read for all audiences.

But like last year’s fall edition, I am especially tickled about honor-ing area women in our 2014 Illinois Valley Living magazine. Included in this edition, you’ll find the six winners named in our second annu-al Women of Distinction event. A group of last year’s winners of this award were kind enough to evaluate the several Women of Distinc-tion nominations we received this year. I will tell you every nomination we received was clearly deserving; all the women nominated truly make a difference in the Illinois Valley. I was sincerely humbled by all of these wonderful nominations.

Our Women of Distinction Awards luncheon is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Deer Park Country Club in Oglesby. I hope you will be able to attend. All six of our Women of Distinction will be there, but quite honestly, this event is an opportunity to honor all women and the wonderful and benevolent qualities they bring to the Illinois Valley table.

Also, plan on having a ton of fun. Princeton’s own Kathy O’Malley, WGN radio co-host of the Kathy and Judy Show, is our keynote speaker, and trust me ... when Kathy is behind the microphone, you’re bound to have a memorable time.

Did I mention there will be a ton of door prizes too?Mark your calendars, my friends. This will be another event to remember for a long

time. Check out the reservation form on Page 10. Tickets are limited.So sit back and enjoy a leisurely read with our fall edition of Illinois Valley Living. It’s a

beautiful season; try to take time to enjoy it. Remember ... life is not a dress rehearsal.All my best,Terri Simon, editor

Illinois Valley Living 3

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Illinois Valley Living applauds area women


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Calling all ‘Girlfriends’Questions compiled by Donna Barker and Terri SimonPhoto by Kath Clark

Kathy O’Malley is probably best known for her WGN radio show — The Kathy and Judy Show, where the two ladies have tons of fun with each other, their “girlfriend” and “guyfriend” call-ers, and their opportunity to discuss life in general. But to Illinois Valley residents, O’Malley is more than just a radio personality, as she decided to set up residency in Princeton about 10 years ago. Since that time, she has become a welcome fixture in many Illinois Valley events and causes, still bringing with her that determined work ethic coupled with some humor that makes O’Malley a one-of-a-kind personality — on and off the radio.

O’Malley will again be the keynote speaker at the Oct. 16 Women of Dis-tinction Awards luncheon, sponsored by Illinois Valley Living magazine and held at the Deer Park Country Club in Oglesby.

Taking a few minutes from her busy

schedule, her outdoor gardens and her radio show efforts, O’Malley again sat down with Illinois Valley Living maga-zine to talk about her life as it pertains to her following of “girlfriends.”

Illinois Valley Living (IVL): Give us a little history about yourself:

O’Malley: Here are the Cliff Notes: Married young (21), possibly the last wedding night virgin in recorded his-tory; had babies young (first one at 22, four days short of nine months after the wedding!); had a series of not-that-exciting office jobs until in 1979 I landed in a secretarial chair at the Chicago Tribune, working for gossip columnist Aaron Gold. From then, it was a rollercoaster. Aaron died in 1983, and I wound up being a writer on the column, did radio interviews about column items, and that led to a show with Judy on WGN. Lucky, lucky, lucky! Right place, right time more than any-body usually gets.

IVL: How do you define the word “girlfriend:”

O’Malley: Any woman, any age, who you love for her honesty, insight, nur-

turing and great listening ability.IVL: Why did you and Judy intertwine

the girlfriend brand to your radio show:O’Malley: Because it’s so universal;

everybody who has one or more knows how lucky they are, and those who don’t have any know there’s a void.

IVL: Why are girlfriends so important?O’Malley: They get it. They talk about

the stuff other people may think is inappropriate. They laugh at the stuff others may find … inappropriate. You can be honest with them, and they don’t judge and vice versa. They listen when you just need to talk and don’t want advice. They give honest advice if you ask for it (well, yeah, not your best haircut ever, etc.).

IVL: What have your girlfriends brought to your life — both your radio girlfriends and your personal ones:

O’Malley: Joy. Acceptance. Insight. Laughter. Same with the radio girl-friends, except that a lot of them are guys.

IVL: In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary to be a good girl-friend?

O’Malley: Honesty, patience, sense of humor, not keeping score, the will-ingness to travel a bit or stretch a bit to make a worthwhile relationship remain important, and the acknowl-edgement that some things just aren’t worth fighting about (politics, religion, cats, Barry Manilow) because nobody is going to change their mind. Focus instead on the things you both love. If there are none, time to call a taxi.

IVL: What key elements are required in keeping girlfriends who will last a lifetime:

O’Malley: Same as previous ques-tion.

IVL: Are there obstacles are chal-lenges in maintaining or developing relationships with your girlfriends:”

O’Malley: Sure. Aside from acknowl-edging that there are areas in which you differ (and not letting them wreck the relationship), I think one of the biggest challenges is that sometimes you have to acknowledge that a friend-ship has outlasted its shelf life. Some friendships aren’t forever; they usually emerged with a shared interest (athlet-ics, politics, religion, volunteering), and when one or both no longer have that interest, friendships can fade. It happens. That’s hard. I also lost a connection with a group of women who were really heavy drinkers, and I’m not. After one or two white wines,

they’re at a different party than you are, and the connection is lost …

IVL: Any comments about a special girlfriend in your life:

O’Malley: Well, obviously Judy. Our on-air relationship is simply a reflec-tion of what we share off the air. And Anne Frost, who I’ve loved for over 40 years. We raised our kids together; we quit smoking together; and we continue to find connection in shared inappropriateness. We now live about 100 miles apart and make an effort to connect at either end or in the middle as often as we can. I remain connected to several girlfriends I knew when I lived in Chicago, and I cherish the new group of girlfriends I’ve been lucky to cultivate here in Princeton.

IVL: Any random comments about girlfriends and why they are important:

O’Malley: I can’t imagine not hav-ing women friends in my life. I’ve had them since high school (and remain friends with several of them), had a brief period when I was girlfriend-less (when my kids were babies, I moved to a new town, etc.), and in the last 35 or 40 years have been blessed with a number of great women who’ve enriched my life.

For tickets to see O’Malley at the Women of Distinction Awards lun-cheon, see Page 10 or call 815-875-4461.


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It’s no secret the women of the Illinois Valley are an amazing group of ladies. Just ask anyone to name a woman who has made a difference in the Illinois Valley, and there’s no shortage of answers. Whether they are an entrepreneur, a mother, a sol-dier, a visionary, an idealist, a grandmother ... they all have a story, and we are always honored to be able to recognize these women and share their often amazing sto-ries with you, our readers. Likewise, many of the stories in this edition of our maga-zine focus on women.

But last year, Illinois Valley Living maga-zine decided to take that recognition on step further.

To honor those who have made it their passion to better the Illinois Valley, Illinois Valley Living magazine has chosen six

women to receive the 2014 Women of Dis-tinction Awards.

These awards will be given to women who have made a difference in the Illi-nois Valley and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and communities. The featured women were nominated by a member of the community and selected by a special committee of last year’s Women of Distinction Award win-ners.

In the following pages, you will meet each of our winners. It is our hope you become inspired by these women and find your own way to make the Illinois Valley a better place to live, work and play.

To further honor these exceptional women, Illinois Valley Living Magazine will host an awards luncheon from 11:30 a.m.

to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at Deer Park Country Club in Oglesby.

Keynote speaker at the event is Kathy O’Malley, former Chicago Tribune colum-nist and co-host of WGN’s Kathy and Judy Show. O’Malley has made her home in rural Princeton and commutes to the city for the two-hour radio show every Satur-day.

Illinois Valley Living Editor Terri Simon will emcee the event.

The community is invited to join Illinois Valley Living magazine in celebrating the achievements of our six Women of Dis-tinction and listen to a very entertaining Kathy O’Malley, while enjoying a delicious luncheon. For tickets, see Page 10 or call Illinois Valley Living Magazine at 815-875-4461.

Meet our 2014 winners of

ILLINOIS VALLEY LIVING MAGAZINE HONORS THE WOMEN OF THE ILLINOIS VALLEY


Donna BarkerCity of residence: Wyanet.Organization/company: Bureau

County Republican.Donna Barker has been telling the

stories of area residents for nearly 20 years. The senior staff writer at the Bureau County Republican, her assignments vary from feature stories about your friends and neighbors, to covering municipal and school board meetings, to the tragic and often life-altering stories of fires, crashes, court trials and other catastrophes. Barker does it all with grace and under-standing, while still being able to report the facts to her readers.

Not only is she trustworthy and hon-est, but perhaps her best characteristic is her belief that everyone — without exception — is worthy of applause and is important, regardless of their name, their financial situation or their back-ground. She truly cares for people; she believes in others; she tries to showcase people in their best light. She is the moral compass for the newsroom.

While she demonstrates a phenom-enal work ethic, it’s no secret her family is the most important thing in her life, and she is able to balance her tremen-dous work load with her family com-mitments with grace and a positive attitude.

Her nominator said, “Sometimes I

look at Donna and see how tired she is, but she has never complained ... ever. I think she exemplifies a woman in her finest form, for you can always count on her to be the one who is strong, dedi-cated, honest, humorous and a cheer-leader for all. I can’t imagine a person with finer qualities.”

Bureau County Republican Senior Staff Writer Donna Barker (holding certificate) is sur-rounded by staff members of the Bureau County Republican after learning she was one of this year’s Women of Distinction Award winners. Barker of Wyanet has been covering municipal and school board meetings, covering hard news stories and telling the feature stories of area residents for nearly 20 years. Her nominator said her work ethic is second to none, and she is often the moral compass in the BCR newsroom.

Michelle BradyCity of residence: Peru.Organization/company: Carus Corpo-

ration, LaSalle, plus a variety of volunteer efforts.

As a materials coordinator for Carus Corporation’s LaSalle manufacturing facil-ity, Brady is con-stantly on the go at her job, and accord-ing to supervisors, she approaches each day with a cheerful, upbeat attitude which is contagious to her co-workers. Like-wise, Brady looks at her volunteerism with the same enthusiasm, especially when she works with children.

Brady has made a difference in the Illinois Valley by being an adoptive par-ent and an advocate for children in foster care, helping to make sure they receive necessary educational and medical sup-port, as well as safe transportation to and from family visits. She volunteers regularly through The Center for Youth and Family Solutions.

Brady just returned from her first trip to Haiti, where she was instrumental in

working with children and their families. There, she went into orphanages, took supplies, organized a medical clinic, gave them money for food and rent, and got children signed up for school. Basically, she helped children and their families in a variety of ways that many of us merely take for granted. Brady said she does it because that’s where her heart is.

Brady also volunteers her time to help

keep the Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail litter and damage free through Carus’ and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Adopt-A-Trail program.

Brady’s nominator said, “Michelle is pretty much about helping the kids who lack an everyday normal life ... Because of her dedication to children and her out-standing work ethic, we proudly nominate Michelle.”

Michelle Brady (center, holding certificate and flowers) is pictured with her colleagues from Carus Corporation in LaSalle. Brady of Peru has a long list of volunteer activities, including a recent trip to Haiti where she helped children and their families.

Mary LanhamCity of residence: Sheffield.Organization/company: Western

Bureau County Food Pantry.Mary Lanham’s door is always open,

and oftentimes, those in need some-how find their way to her door. She has always had a heart for those less fortunate, those with unmet needs, neighbors who just needed a listening ear or a hand up.

A few years ago, it became appar-ent people were going hungry, and resources to help families — adults and children — were limited in Western Bureau County. Along with others, Lanham created the Western Bureau County Food Pantry, which involved a myriad of work — far more than just opening the doors and offering people a bag of groceries. Months were spent researching, creat-ing plans, finding locations and volun-teers, meeting standards and complet-ing paperwork.

With tremendous determination along with a lot of help from her hus-

band, Cleo Lanham, the food pantry opened with the Lanhams as co-man-agers. The pair continues in that role today, where their duties include open-ing the pantry when a family has an immediate need; unloading trucks full of food; making sure holidays are spe-cial for clients; adding school supplies for families with children; and filling out government forms and more.

Her nominator said, “Mary works tirelessly to see to the needs of those who need a good meal, a kind smile a listening ear ... just because she cares. There is no paycheck at the end of the month, but her heart for others and her determination to not let obstacles get in the way of doing the right thing are what makes Mary a Woman of Distinc-tion.”


Mary Lanham (center), along with her husband Cleo (second from right), are the co-managers of the Western Bureau County Food Pantry. Lanham of Sheffield, along with a host of other volunteers, organized the food pantry to help the hungry in the western part of Bureau County. Her nominator said Lanham simply does it “because she cares.”

Pam LangeCity of residence: Princeton.Organization/company: Bureau

County Historical Society.In 1986, Pam Lange started out as a

guide for the Bureau County Historical Society. She became the executive direc-tor in 2001, which now encompasses three buildings/facilities filled with the history of Bureau County.

Lange said when she moved to the area in 1982, she was amazed by the depth of history in the county, particu-larly in Princeton. From museums, covered bridges, brick streets, dozens of historic homes ... she has always believed area folks should know what they have in their own back-yards.

No two days are ever the same for Lange at the Bureau County Historical Society, but she said meeting people, the variety of work, hearing compliments from people about the area and helping people discover their past are the most rewarding. Lange also helps other histor-ical societies/museums in the area when

asked, and gives presentations to groups on the history of Bureau County.

Under Lange’s leadership, much has been preserved, so others can become familiar with their past. And not only can you find Lange managing the museum and its collections, but you can also find her handling a rake, a shovel or a garden hose with no complaints.

Her nominator said, “There are

undoubtedly hundreds of Bureau Coun-ty residents who can acknowledge that Pam has provided them with personal assistance in searching out history of relatives, real estate ownership or doz-ens of other areas of Bureau County history. She does her job quietly, seeks no fanfare or attention and is the silent strength of the Bureau County Historical Society.”

Pam Lange (second from left) has been involved with the Bureau County Historical Soci-ety since 1986. She became the executive director in 2001. While her duties are varied, perhaps her best attribute is being a cheerleader for the historical aspects of the county.

Eleanor WalkerCity of residence: Princeton.Organization/company: Princeton Ele-

mentary School District.Eleanor Walker has spent the past 56

years surrounded by children. Her career in education spans five decades — first as a second grade teacher for 26 years, followed by her principalship for the next 30 years — all in the Princeton Elementary School District.

Throughout her career, Walker has been a supportive leader and advocate for children, always going above and beyond to guar-antee the needs of children in her care were con-stantly being met. She has always been a proponent of the fine arts programs at her schools and has taken extra measures to make sure children gained appreciation for music, art and different cultures. Despite financial constraints in the school district, Walker always took a stand to protect the fine arts for her students.

Walker has been the type of administra-tor who believes every child, every teacher, every parent, every volunteer is equal and

treated with respect. Her soft demeanor should not be mistaken for her ability to make the tough decisions and help teach-ers to enhance the learning environment for all students.

Even though Walker retired last year from her position after 56 years, she remains a constant in the Princeton Elementary School District.

Her nominator said, “A positive role model and a dedicated leader, Eleanor Walker has made a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals with her selfless-ness, class, grace, dignity, integrity and love for learning. Her legacy will continue to inspire teachers and staff members, as she remains involved in the world of educa-tion.”

Carole YandelCity of residence: Wyanet.Organization/company: Wyanet Com-

munity Club/self-employed.Carole Yandel, also known to many as

“Grandma Carole,” moved to Wyanet in 1969 from Chicago, and decided when she moved to this small town that she wanted to be part of the community. Yandel jumped in head first, and she’s never looked back.

Her list of vol-unteer responsi-bilities is a long one and includes Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, parents’ groups at the school, a Wyanet School Board member, Bureau Valley School District Board member and a one-on-one aide at the school.

She is a member of the United Method-ist Church in Wyanet, where she is active in the Sunday school program and also volunteers for the summer vacation Bible school.

Yandel is an active member in the Wyanet Community Club, where she has been the treasurer for 10 years and coordi-nates the food stand at the annual Wyanet

Festival. She has also been a part of the Wyanet Rescue Unit since 1991.

Yandel is a caregiver for many children in the Wyanet area, where she teaches them respect, honesty and to work hard in everything they do, but to also have fun while doing it. She is known to many as “Grandma Carole” because she will help

people with her advice, by making sure one is feeling better after an illness and will always put a Band-Aid on an “ouchy,” even if there is no scratch or blood in sight.

Her nominator said, “Carole keeps us grounded, but she also knows when we should fly.”


Carole Yandel (center) is surrounded by children, family and friends, who surprised her by showing up to help applaud her Women of Distinction Award announcement. Yandel of Wyanet, also known as Grandma Carole to many, has a long list of volunteer activities, including the Wyanet Community Club, where she has been treasurer for 10 years.

Eleanor Walker (seated) might have retired from the Princeton Elementary School District after 56 years of service, but you’d never know it, for you can still find her hard at work in the library at Douglas Grade School in Princeton. Walker of Princeton began her career in education as a second-grade teacher, followed by her principalship for the last 30 years. Walker’s nominator said she is “a positive role model and a dedicated leader .... (she) has made a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals.”



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Date: Thursday,Oct.16,2014Time: 11:30a.m.–1:30p.m.Location: DeerParkCountryClub,OglesbyTickets: $28perperson

YouarecordiallyinvitedtoattendtheWomenofDistinctionAwardsluncheononOctober16,2014.TheWomenofDistinctionAwardwillbepresentedtoDonnaBarkerofWyanet,MichelleBradyofPeru,PamLangeofPrinceton,MaryLanhamofSheffield,EleanorWalkerofPrinceton,andCaroleYandelofWyanet.Thesesixwomenhavebeenchosenasrepresentativerolemodelsandleadersintheirfieldsandcommunities.Awelcomereceptionwillprovidenetworkingopportunitiesthatwillprecedelunchandtheawardsceremony.TheawardsceremonywillhonorWomenofDistinctionandprovidehonoreeswithanopportunitytosharetheirstories.

Women of Distinction Awards Luncheon Reservation Order FormComplete,clipoutandmailthisregistrationformalongwithacheckmadepayabletoIVLivingMagazine.Allforms/paymentmustbereceivedbyThursday, Oct. 9, 2014.AbsolutelyNOREFUNDSwillbeissued.

Name______________________________________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________________________________

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Mailformandpaymentto:WomenofDistinction,BureauCountyRepublican,P.O.Box340,Princeton,IL61356TicketsalsocanbepurchasedattheBureauCountyRepublicanoffice,800AceRoad,Princeton,IL61356orwithacreditcardoverthephoneat815-875-4461.

Story and photo by Ken Schroeder

The dictionary defines philanthropist as “a person who seeks to

promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.” It’s a word that ably describes Peter Limberger of Ottawa ... but he doesn’t see it that way.

“I’m not a philanthropist; I’m just a catalyst,” Limberger said. “I’m not making chang-es here; I’m just helping the process.”

One of the most recent projects Limberger has been a catalyst for is the Starved Rock Country Alliance, whose two-prong goal is to help entrepreneurs get started with knowledge and funding from other entrepreneurs and to keep young people in the area to build business.

“It costs $130,000 to edu-cate a student. Over 2,600 stu-dents graduate locally annu-ally, and most leave the area,” Limberger said. “That’s lost money. We need to change that.”

Limberger is an avid flyer with a few planes parked at Illinois Valley Regional Airport. He’s currently shar-ing his love with a group of high school students from throughout the area with a flying club. Limberger bought the kit for a two-seater ultra-light plane which he donated to the group. His hope is once

the plane is finished, the stu-dents will test for their small plane license and discover the joy of flight for themselves.

“It’s two things. It’s to gar-ner interest in everything related to aviation, which is not only flying but the aero-space industry in general, how to build airplanes, aero-dynamics; everything related to the aerospace industry. Flying is just one part of it,” Limberger said. “It’s partly to drive industry and production

in this area and also to share my hobby, my passion.”

A German native, Lim-berger first became involved in the area eight years ago. At first, he was spending most of his time taking care of his business interests in Europe. Today, he estimates he spends approximately 70 percent of his time in the Illi-nois Valley area, making trips to his European holdings five times a year.

Since coming to the area,

Limberger has been involved in civic organizations and projects nearly non-stop, but he’s quick to move the spot-light away from his efforts.

“The only contribution I have, I’m nothing but a cata-lyst,” Limberger said. “People like to listen to experts. ‘Who is an expert?’ It’s someone out of town. I just tell them things they already know.”

Limberger is an indus-trial engineer with master’s degrees from Germany and Georgia Tech. His first job was with a firm in Chicago, but through the years, he worked his way up through larger companies and loftier positions. That changed in 1990.

“With German unification in 1990, there were many opportunities to become independent,” Limberger said. “Whenever there is major change, it creates tur-moil on one side and oppor-tunities on the other. I quit my position as an executive in a major, multinational multi-billion dollar company, and I started to be independent.”

Limberger is a supporter of the arts as well, believing enrichment is important for economic growth. He married Inga Carus in 2007 and has been a supporter of the music productions at the Carus Mansion as well as local music and theater outlets. He looks forward to acting as a “catalyst” for a long time to come.


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Peter Limberger of Ottawa wants to help make changes in the area which will benefit those who live in the Illinois Valley. An industrial engineer, he considers himself a catalyst for those changes.

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Unofficially speaking ...WITH PUTNAM COUNTY SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT JAY MCCRACKEN

Town of residence: Hennepin.

Where did you grow up: Amboy.

Family: Wife — Kim; daughter — Megan, married to Brian Rolps (son-in-law); grandsons — Gavin, 4 and Aiden, 1 1/2.

Occupation: Superintendent - Putnam County Schools.

What is the last book you read: “I Am Abraham.”

What is your favorite TV show: The news.

What is the last movie you saw: (that I liked) “Heaven is for Real.”

If you were stranded on a desert island and could have only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be: Cheeseburger and fries.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take one thing with you, what would it be: A reliable cell phone so I could call for help.

What is your favorite local restaurant and what do you order there: A variety of salads from any Putnam County res-taurants.

When you were a small boy, what did you want to be when you grew up: A farmer.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of being a superintendent: Making a dif-ference in the lives of our students and their families.

What is the biggest challenge of being a superintendent: Dealing with state and federal mandates.

Do you suggest young people enter the field of education and why: Abso-lutely! Teaching can be one of the most rewarding occupations because of the impact on students’ lives.

If someone asked you to name a memorable moment, what first comes to mind: The birth of our daughter, Megan.

How do you spend your spare time: Spare time? What is that?

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement so far: 1. My fam-ily; 2. Serving as superintendent of our fine school system; 3. Serving as a teach-er for more than 20 years.

What is the best advice you can give to others: Each day is a new opportunity to appreciate the people you love.

What three words describe you best: Determined, dedicated, caring.


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Story and photos by Goldie Currie

Orchid plants are known for their sophisticated beauty and elegant blossoms. Unfortu-

nately, they are also notorious for their temperamental manner and reputation of being difficult to grow.

There is one Princeton man, however, who through years of trial and error, has learned to master the caring and keep-ing of Moth Orchids.

Ron Pioterek has been working with orchids since the late ‘80s, and today, he cares for more than 25 orchids in his home.

His favorite characteristic about the orchid plant is its ability to bloom all year long.

The start of his hobby began when he and his wife, Ruth, took a trip to the annual Home and Flower Show at the McCormick Center in Chicago. While there, Ron was drawn to the orchids’ unique, delicate look and decided to purchase three seedlings.

Ron explained it took those same seedlings five years before they finally bloomed — which is the average time-frame for a seedling orchid to produce its first flowers.

Talking about the lengthy wait, Ron chuckled and pointed out a secret to caring for orchids is having the patience.

Within the Pioterek residence, the blooming orchid plants line the window sills, while the others lay “resting” in a back room, until their time to bloom comes around again.

Most of the orchids have been col-lected from grocery stores like Walmart,

Kmart and Sullivan’s Foods. Ron point-ed out the leftover orchids a cashier at Sullivan’s handed over to him after the selling season was complete. The plants were ones that had been left behind and were close to expiring.

Ron took them home with determina-tion to bring them back to life. He cut back the rotten roots and placed the plants in a more natural habitat. Today, they are in good health, and one would never guess they once had a close call.

Ron explained how there are no real secrets or hidden methods he uses in caring for the orchids, but rather he has paid close attention to key factors of the plants’ natural habitat.

The orchid plant is a parasite that grows on the bark of trees in Asia. They bury their roots into the bark, therefore

planting an orchid in bark chips is clos-er to its natural habitat, rather than soil.

Ron explained soil holds more mois-ture than an orchid plant can handle, and its roots will quickly rot if precipita-tion is not properly drained.

Also, Ron keeps up on the feeding of his plants. He uses a Miracle Grow food brand, made especially for orchids. He heavily waters them once a week and uses a spray bottle to mist them with water when needed.

Ron also keeps his orchids together. He said he once placed an orchid plant alone, and it never bloomed. Shortly after moving it with the others, it grew a stem and produced flowers. Ron said he isn’t sure whether it was coincidence or not, but today he makes sure each plant has a friend.


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Ron Pioterek has a passion for orchids, and he’s been working with them since the 1980s. Growing about 25 orchids in his Princeton home, Pioterek said one of his favorite attributes of the beauti-ful blooms is its ability to bloom all year long. He takes special care to water his precious blooms at the right time, mist them when needed, and allow them to grow with other orchids in his home because they enjoy each other’s company.

DID YOU KNOW?• Orchids are the largest family of flowering plants.• The smallest orchid is the size of a dime, while the largest

weighs several hundred pounds.• Orchids have the tiniest seeds in the world, making them a

challenge to grow and cultivate.• There can be up to 3 million seeds in a single orchid seed-

pod.• The plant’s first flowers won’t appear until at least five to

seven years after germination.• Some orchid flowers bloom for mere hours, while others

last up to half a year.• Orchid flowers always grow upside down when mature.• Orchid plants can live to be up to 100 years old.• Orchids have become one of the most popular house-

plants of all time.Source: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden


Pictured from left: Dr. Lori Schultz, Dr. Dennis Farrell, Dr. Jarred Farrell

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of principal. AP2013/03/0938 State Farm VP Management Corp. One State Farm Plaza, Bloomington, Illinois 61710-0001. Neither State Farm nor its agents provide investment, tax, or legal advice.

A miracle before our very eyes

FROM EGG, TO CATERPILLAR TO CHRYSALIS TO ... A BEAUTIFUL BUTTERFLYStory and photos by Dick Todd

“We are all butterflies. Earth is our chrysalis.” LeeAnn Taylor.

Probably the most widely recognized of all butterflies, the Monarch is easily identified by its bright orange and black colors and large size. It’s difficult to miss. But while we watch as the butterfly flits to and fro, its life cycle is nothing short of miraculous.

A butterfly has four stages to complete

its life cycle. The female Monarch lays one egg, usually on the underside of a milkweed leaf. When the tiny egg hatches, it immediately begins to eat and contin-ues eating non-stop from the moment it hatches, only pausing to shed its skin five times as it grows. At just the right time, the caterpillar which is now striped and huge compared to that tiny egg, hangs from the leaf in a J-shape and begins to create its chrysalis, which turns a muted shade of green with a golden edge.

Inside the chrysalis, the caterpillar begins to change. Right before the winged beauty emerges from the chrysalis, the green turns to black and then almost clear, where one can see the orange markings of the Monarch inside the chrysalis.

And then it happens ... the egg which turned into a caterpillar which turned into a chrysalis ... emerges as a Monarch butterfly ... only to repeat the same life cycle again and again.


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Protection for tomorrow–today

Indian fry breadEILEEN BURRESS TREASURES THE FAMILY TRADITION AT KELLY’S PLACEStory and photos by Donna Barker

The art of making authentic Indian fry bread is all in the tech-nique and in the family recipe,

which Eileen (Fisher) Burress is keeping within the family.

A Native American who grew up on the Menoninee Indian Reservation in Keshena, Wis., Burress and her Indian fry bread have been staples at her fami-ly-owned Kelly’s Place restaurant since it opened its doors 15 years ago at 222 W. Main St. in Tiskilwa.

Burress said she’s been making Indian

fry bread since she was a young girl, learning from watching her mother make it. As the second of six children and as the oldest daughter, Burress helped her mother a lot with the cook-ing. Today, Burress is using the same recipe her mother used, which was no doubt the same recipe used by her mother’s mother, Burress said.

The art of making Indian fry bread is something she definitely wants to pass down to the next generation, including her son, Kenny Fisher, and daughter, Kelly Fisher, who operate Kelly’s Place.

For her part, Kelly said she and her

brother know how to make fry bread, but they definitely defer to their mom’s expertise.

“There’s a technique to it, to get the right consistency so it fries up the way it should,” Kelly said. “It’s not so much you have the right recipe but rather than you know how to throw it together.”

With both Kenny and Kelly busy work-ing in other areas of the kitchen, it’s definitely easier for Mom to do the fry bread because she can do it quicker and without the struggle, Kelly said.

Kelly’s Place serves Indian fry bread two days a week. On Wednesdays, it is

Eileen (Fisher) Burress whips up another batch of her famous Indian fry bread at Kelly’s Place in Tiskilwa. Burress, a Native American, uses the same recipe her mother used ... and no doubt the same recipe used by genera-tions before her. Kelly’s Place serves up the well-known and sought-after fry bread two days a week.

served as a side to meals. On Thursdays, it is made into larger pieces and used as the “shell” for Indian tacos.

Now 80 years old, Burress works lunches at the restaurant Tuesday through Friday, preparing food, help-ing with clean-up duties, and of course, making her Indian fry bread.

After all these years, Burress no longer needs the written recipe in front of her as she prepares her bread. She knows the measurements needed as she pours the flour and oil into a large mixing bowl. She can tell by sight and texture if more flour is needed. It takes about

15 minutes to get the dough to the right consistency and kneaded.

Once prepared, Burress divides the double batch of dough into two loaves, which are either then fried or refriger-ated until needed. If the dough is refrig-erated, she will need to take it out of the refrigerator and bring it back to room temperature before frying.

Before putting each slice of bread into the hot oil, Burress will poke a small hole in the center of the bread. Native Ameri-can tradition says the hole is there to let out the evil spirits, she said.

Though also known for her homemade

soups and spaghetti sauce served at Kel-ly’s Place, Burress is possibly best known and appreciated for her Indian fry bread.

After years of making Indian fry bread, first for her mother and then her own family and now also the restaurant, Burress says she never tires of mak-ing another batch or two. It’s a relaxing time, working her hands through the dough. And, every so often, when she’s mixing up yet another batch of Indian fry bread, she thinks of her mom and how the art of making Indian fry bread is one tradition which will be continued with her children and grandkids.


DeliveryWe have private LDRs (Labor, Delivery and Recovery Rooms) that are family-friendly. We also offer:•Individualized birthing plans•Epidural anesthesia•Specialized birthing suite for a cesarean delivery•Hydrotherapy (whirlpool) for labor relaxation•Newborn Channel, providing information to

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Post-Partum Recovery Support and instruction don’t stop once you deliver. In fact, several options can help further educate you and your family as you prepare for your journey upon leaving the hospital:•Breastfeeding Instruction•Post-Partum Depression Support Group•Certified Lactation Consultant to assist new mothers with questions and concerns about breastfeeding•Individualized training in the proper installation and use of your car safety seat

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Eileen Burress’ Indian fry bread is a specialty at Kelly’s Place in Tiskilwa. On Wednesday evenings, it is served as a side to meals. On Thursdays, it is crafted into large pieces and used as a shell for tacos. Burress said she never tires of making the bread, which comes from a recipe handed down through her family.


Bea Veruc-chi is the matriarch of the Verucchi family, a leg-endary name and business in the Illinois Valley.

Hegeler Carus MansionA National Historic Landmark

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815-224-5895

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SEPTEMBERSeptember Story Telling Festival

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24th - Candlelight Tours • 9 pm-11 pm25th - Extreme Vision Paranormal • 7 pm

31st - Candlelight Tours • 9 pm-11 pm

NOVEMBER:Nov 1st - Saloons to Salon • 5 pm

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Verucchi’s Ristorante celebrates 100 years in business

FAMIGLIA (FAMILY) KEY TO RESTAURANT’S LONGEVITYStory and photos by Lyle Ganther

Five generations of “famiglia” or family has kept the doors open of Verucchi’s Ristorante in

Spring Valley, which recently celebrated its 100th year in business.

Verucchi’s was founded by Batista and Elizabeth “Mama” Verucchi in 1914, who were born in Pavullo, Italy, and came to this country to settle in Spring Valley in 1904. They were married in 1905 and opened the restaurant in 1914 at its current location.

“Italian people lived in this area of Spring Valley where the restaurant is located,” said Dick Verucchi, one of 10 children of Arthur “Buzz” and Beatrice “Bea” Verucchi.

“Grandma was a good cook. She had no recipes. It was just a pinch here and there.”

Batista Verucchi died in 1948, while


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After serving the Illinois Valley for 100 years, the Verucchi family held a celebration in July to denote their 100th anniversary. The event included specials in the dining room for a week in July with the highlight of the event on July 20 when there were children’s games, live entertainment and Verucchi’s legendary food.

Elizabeth “Mama” Verucchi passed away in 1975 following a fire in her apartment above the restaurant.

Following the passing of their son, Arthur “Buzz,” in 1992, and his son, Jack, in 2002, the restaurant continues to be operated by Arthur’s wife, Beatrice “Bea” and their nine other children — Richard “Dick,” Barbara, Mary, Paula, Tricia, Tom, Bethie, Arthur “Buzz” Jr. and Joanie.

Several of Bea’s 33 grandchildren are still active in the restaurant’s dining room, and 38 great-grandchildren also make appearances from time to time.

The restaurant started as a grocery store and tavern in the building that used to be the Star Model brewery.

The Venetian Room was added in 1969 to give more dining space to the restaurant and to accommodate the extensive menu of Italian specialties and American dishes. Arthur “Buzz” Verucchi expanded the restaurant’s din-ing room, and Verucchi’s Italian Fried Chicken carryout business was added in 1978. He added the private Modena Dining Room in 1979, and Verucchi’s Distinctive Catering began in 1980.

“Dad kept taking up the backyard and

swing set with the expansions,” added Dick. “He had a chicken wagon that he took all over to fairs.”

Arthur died in 1992, while his wife, Bea, is the matriarch of the Verucchi family at 90 years old.

“Mom is the heart of this family, and she holds the family together,” said Dick.

The restaurant’s 100th anniversary was celebrated in July with specials in the dining room every night that week with the highlight being on July 20 when children’s games were played, bands played, and of course, food was served.


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What SeparateS US From the reSt?

Looking back at ‘Sunny Jim’OGLESBY NATIVE STILL HOLDS BASEBALL RECORDS

Story by Ken SchroederPhotos contributed

These days, it seems sports fig-ures are always in the news for the wrong reasons, whether it’s

criminal behavior, poor sportsmanship or personal problems. It wasn’t always that way. At one time, baseball was con-sidered a “gentleman’s game;” and few people represented that more than Jim Bottomley.

Bottomley was born on April 23, 1900, in Oglesby; although he moved with his family at an early age to Nokomis, Oglesby still embraces the Hall-of-Famer as its own.

Bottomley quit school at the age of 16 to help his family financially. As a young man, he worked as a coal miner, a grocery clerk, a railroad clerk and a truck driver. In his off hours, he played semi-pro baseball for several local teams for the princely sum of $5 a game, the equivalent of about $80 today.

While he played semi-pro ball, he attracted the attention of a scout for the St. Louis Cardinals. Bottomley was given a tryout in 1919 and signed to a $150-a-month contract, just over $2,000. Bottomley quickly earned the nickname “Sunny Jim” for his upbeat demeanor.

Bottomley played in the minor leagues for two years before being called up to the Cardinals roster on Aug. 18, 1922. He batted .325 in 37 games that season and was named starting first baseman in the ‘23 season. Bottomley continued honing his craft, batting .371 in his rookie year with a .425 on base percentage, placing second in the National League in both statistics.

In 1924, it was a benchmark year for Bottomley. While his batting average

slipped to .316 for the season, he was still a force to be reckoned with. Bot-tomley proved that in a game against the Brooklyn Dodgers on Sept. 16 when he set the major league record for most runs batted in during a single game, bringing in 12 runs while going 6-for-6 at bat, including two homers and a double. That record was matched in 1993 by St. Louis Cardinal Mike Whiten but still stands today.

“Sunny Jim” continued racking up high percentages for the next several years, leading the Cardinals to the World

Series three times and winning the title twice in 1926 and 1931. He drove in more than 100 runs for six years in a row between 1924 and 1929. In 1928, he was named National League Most Valuable Player after knocking out 31 home runs and 136 RBIs, leading the league in both while batting .325.

Oddly, in 1925, Bottomley became the only major league player to be sued for hitting a home run. A fan named Irwin Hayes sued Bottomley after he home run hit and struck Hayes in the face. Hayes’ $7,500 lawsuit charged Bottomley “deliberately and with the intention to create a situation known as a home run, struck and drove a baseball which hit the plaintiff’s nose, causing severe nervous damage.” The case was thrown out of court.

Things turned sour for Bottomley in 1933 when he was traded to the Cincin-nati Reds, resulting in a substantial pay cut to $8,000 a year ($145,478 in current dollars), down from his $13,000 salary ($224,710) with the Cardinals. Negotiat-ing a contract that still fell short of his previous paycheck, Bottomley still post-ed impressive numbers although he was unable to crack the .300 batting average mark.

Bottomley was traded to the Ameri-can League St. Louis Browns for the 1936 season, and though his hitting still bubbled under the .300 mark, he had one more feat to add to the record books. During the 1936 season, Bot-tomley become a defensive figure for the Browns, setting a major league record for unassisted double-plays in a season with eight. While the record was tied — coincidentally by another St. Louis Car-dinal, Bill White, in 1961 — it has yet to be broken.

Jim Bottomley was born in Oglesby in 1900 and is one of the town’s most famous sports figures.

Bottomley retired from baseball in 1938, but returned in 1955 as a talent scout for the Cardinals, then for the Chicago Cubs while managing for the Pulaski Cubs of the Class D Appalachian League in 1957. He suffered a heart attack in 1958 and retired from baseball. He died in Sullivan, Mo., in December 1959 from a second heart attack.


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Jim Bottomley is one of Oglesby’s most famous sons. A well-known baseball player in his time, he retired in 1938 but later returned as a talent scout for the Cardinals in 1955, fol-lowed by a stint as a talent scout for the Chicago Cubs. He also managed the Pulaski Cubs, a member of the Class D Appalachian League in 1957. He died in 1959.

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Story by Goldie Currie

Brides are falling in love this season — with autumn wed-ding decor, that is.

Florists in the Illinois Valley are talk-ing about the fall trends they are see-ing more brides choose as they plan their dream day.

Julia Cain, owner of Flowers by Julia in Princeton, said when it comes to fall wedding decor, more brides tend to lean toward the outdoorsy, earthy look. She sees a lot of berries mixed in with the floral arrangements, and items like twigs, gourds and wheat used as accents. Fall is also when a lot of bur-lap and twine can be seen tied around vases or flower bouquets to add that extra something special.

One of the more popular trends right now is incorporating baby’s breath in the decor. Whether it’s placed in mason jars for the table centerpieces, arranged in antique-looking fruit jars for an extra touch near the guest book or even placed in small clusters on church pews for an added accent.


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Beautiful ambiance, exceptional cuisine, impeccable service… every detail is in place to create the perfect wedding celebration for you and your guests.

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For information contact our events coordinator at815-667-4230 ext. 10 to arrange a tour of our banquet venue.

Beautiful ambiance, exceptional cuisine, impeccable service… every detailis in place to create the perfect wedding celebration for you and your guests.

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‘Fall’-ing in love with wedding decor


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Some brides are even opting to use a bundle of baby’s breath as their wed-ding bouquet.

Cain said gray seems to be the popu-lar color trend right now. She is seeing more gray bridesmaid dresses, gray tuxedos and even gray as a main color scheme for the event.

Lori Mudge, owner of De’vine Flow-ers in Granville and Oglesby, is also seeing that outdoor, natural look. She explained more brides are wanting that look as if the decor was just picked from the garden.

She’s seeing a lot of brides selecting more wildflower arrangements and adding accents like cattails, feathers

and lotus pods to give it an even more earthy touch.

Mudge hasn’t noticed any specific color schemes in her area, but she said fall is when brides choose more muted colors in their decor, such as soft browns, pinks, purples and oranges.

In the Spring Valley area, wedding designer Connie Miles of Valley Flow-ers is seeing many turn to lilies and Gerber daisies, which she and Cain both said are a favorite because they can come in any color tone or size.

Miles said she’s also seeing more brides using the burlap and lace mix-ture, which comes from the ‘70s era. The look sets the tone for a more coun-

try chic wedding.Lanterns are also a new favorite with

weddings. They can be used as a soft, unique lighting source for either the church or venue; they can sit on tables, be hung from the ceilings or line an aisle.

Miles and Cain both are seeing more brides looking to their grooms for decor inspiration. To them, it seems more brides are wanting to add that little masculine touch to reflect the personality of the groom, whether it’s choosing more darker tones, adding a woodsy feel to the theme or even incorporating a little camouflage here and there.


SENT AS A SEPARATE FILE

Story and photos by Ken Schroeder

When one hears the term painted ladies, the village of Magnolia may not be the first

place they think of. If so, they are using the wrong definition of the term.

Painted ladies is a term in American architecture used for Victorian and Edwardian houses and buildings painted in three or more colors that embellish or enhance the architectural details. The term was first used for San Francisco Victorian houses by writers Elizabeth Pomada and Michael Larsen in their 1978 book “Painted Ladies - San Fran-cisco’s Resplendent Victorians.”

There are a couple of these elegant buildings around Magnolia with one of them belonging to Gary and Cindy Bruch. Located just north of town, the three-story structure is currently being restored to its original look.

“I always wanted a Victorian house, and when this became available, I had to have it,” Cindy Bruch said. “The outside was in disrepair; it needed paint, and the trim was broken. We first thought we

should side it, but in the ‘80s, they would rip everything off and put on the siding.”

Throughout the course of the last 20 years, the Bruches have restored the look of the exterior using new materials and techniques. The exterior walls have been replaced with a wood/polymer blend that looks like regular wood but holds its shape and paint better than normal wood. Bruch and her friends held a painting party to restore the multi-col-ored trim for which the Victorian homes are known.

At one time, the home and the farm it’s on was owned by Knox College in Galesburg. It was rented out to the Briz-gis family, who tended the farm through two generations. In the 1970s, Knox College sold the farm to Kim and Darryl Alleman, who sold off the farmland. The Bruch couple bought the house in 1988.

“We think it was built around 1880. We don’t really know,” Cindy Bruch said. “I got a visit one time by a woman whose family built it, and she was researching the homes of her ancestors. It was built by a man named Mills.”

Interior work has been underway since


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Cindy Bruch sits on the front porch of her three-story Victorian home. The Bruches have been restoring the home since they pur-chased in 1988.

A hand crafted stairway leading up to the second story starts in the parlor. This stair-way would be used exclusively by the own-ers of the home.

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Cindy Bruch stands in the kitchen of her Victorian home. The butler’s pantry was removed and expanded into a full kitchen with enclosed shelving shared by the kitchen and dining room.

purchasing the home with repainting and refurbishing rooms. One room downstairs has been renovated into a library, using designs from the hand-crafted wood trim elsewhere in the house. A fireplace in the center of the house which opens into three separate rooms has been restored.

When built, the house had no electricity and no plumbing upstairs. The Bruches added an upstairs bathroom, which necessitated putting a drop ceiling in the kitchen to have room for the pipes. All of the work has taken quite a bit of time and money.

“Victorians are very expensive to restore. It takes time and money,” Cindy Bruch said. “I love it. It’s got this beautiful woodwork, and all the doors are carved. They’re expensive to heat, so renters just can’t afford to take care of them.”


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Hey, Punkin — How about some pumpkin?

PUMPKIN RECIPES ARE SURE TO BRING FALL INTO YOUR KITCHENRecipes by Illinois Valley Living Recipe Columnist Judy Dyke

With autumn in the air, some pumpkin recipes are sure to bring this beautiful fall season

into your home. The scent of freshly-baked pumpkin desserts is enough to tease your tastebuds and tempt even the pickiest eater. Pumpkin-flavored dishes are gaining in popularity, and I hope you’ll give one of these pumpkin dishes a try. Happy Pump-kin Eating!

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons caramel ice cream topping, divided

1 Honey Maid graham pie crust1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons Planters Pecan pieces, divided

1 cup cold milk2 3.4-ounce packages Jell-O vanilla instant pudding

1 cup canned pumpkin1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg1 8-ounce tub Cool Whip topping, thawed, divided

Pour 1/4 cup caramel topping into crust. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup pecans. Beat milk, pudding mixes, pumpkin and spices with whisk until blended. Stir in 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip. Spread into crust. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Top with remaining Cool Whip, caramel topping and pecans just before serving. Makes 10 servings.

Turtle Pumpkin Pie

Spiced Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake2 cups pecan halves, toasted2 tablespoons brown sugar3 tablespoons butter, melted

Filling3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened1 cup packed brown sugar, divided3/4 cup sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract3 eggs, lightly beaten1 cup canned pumpkin1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ground ginger1/4 teaspoon ground cloves1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preheat oven to 325°. Place a greased 9-inch spring form pan on a double thickness of heavy duty foil (about 18 inches square). Wrap foil securely around pan. Place pecans and brown sugar in a food pro-cessor, pulse until fine crumbs form. Add butter, pulse to combine. Press onto the bottom of prepared pan. Place pan on a baking sheet. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until light brown. Cool on a wire rack. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup brown sugar until smooth. Beat in sour cream and vanilla. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until blended. In another bowl combine pumpkin, spices and remain-ing brown sugar. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cream cheese mixture. To layer, pour 1 1/2 cups plain cream cheese mixture over crust. Gently spread 1 1/2 cups pumpkin mixture over top. Repeat layer. Cut through layers with a knife to swirl. Place spring form pan in a large baking pan. Add 1 inch of hot water to larger pan. Bake 60 to 70 minutes or until center is just set and top appears dull. Remove spring form pan from water bath. Cool cheesecake on a wire rack 10 minutes. Loosen sides from pan with a knife, remove foil. Cool 1 hour longer. Refrigerate overnight. Remove rim from pan. Note: To toast nuts, spread in a 15-by-10-inch baking pan. Bake at 350° for 5 to 10 minutes until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.


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In a large bowl, beat the sugar, pumpkin, oil and eggs until well blended. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; gradually beat into pumpkin mixture until blended. Transfer to a greased and floured 9-inch square baking pan. Bake at 325° for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Cut cake into 3/4-inch cubes. Meanwhile, whisk egg white, stir in pecans and sugars. Transfer to a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 9 to 13 minutes or until puffed, stirring once. Cool completely. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar until smooth. Add the pumpkin, cinnamon and vanilla. Fold in 1 1/2 cups whipped topping. In a 3 1/2-quart trifle bowl or glass serving bowl, layer half of the cake, pumpkin mousse, remaining whipped topping and pecans. Repeat layers. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serves 14.

Pumpkin Mousse Trifle1 cup sugar1 cup canned pumpkin1/3 cup canola oil2 eggs1 cup all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon salt

Sugared Pecans1 cup pecans1 egg white

2 cups coarsely chopped pecans1/2 cup sugar1/2 cup packed brown sugar

Pumpkin Mousse2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened1 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar1 15-ounce can solid pack pumpkin1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 16-ounce carton frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided

1 18 1/4-ounce package yellow cake mix2 1/2 cups quick cooking oats5 tablespoons butter, melted3 tablespoons honey1 tablespoon water

Filling1 15-ounce can solid pack pumpkin1/4 cup reduced fat cream cheese1/4 cup fat free milk3 tablespoons brown sugar2 tablespoons maple syrup1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/4 teaspoon ground allspice1/4 teaspoon ground cloves1 egg1 egg white1/4 cup chopped walnuts1 tablespoon butter, melted

In a large bowl, combine cake mix and oats. Set aside 1/2 cup for topping. Add the butter, honey and water to the remaining cake mixture. Press onto the bottom of a 13-by-9-inch baking pan coated with cooking spray. For filling: In a large bowl beat the pumpkin, cream cheese, milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, allspice and cloves until blended. Add egg and egg white; beat on low speed just until combined. Pour over crust. In a small bowl, combine the walnuts, butter and reserved cake mix-ture, sprinkle over filling. Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes or until set and edges are lightly browned.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

Chocolaty Pumpkin Squares1 18.25-ounce package yellow cake mix, like Duncan Hines

3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

3 large eggs1 1/3 cups buttermilk1/3 cup canola oil1 16-ounce container chocolate frosting, melted

Heat oven to 350°. Using electric mixer on medium speed, beat first six ingredients for 2 minutes or until blended. Pour batter into greased 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Bake 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool 15 minutes. Pour frosting over cake. Let sit 30 minutes or until set. Cut cake into squares and serve. Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder.

Story and photos by Donna Barker

A group of area parishes collect-ing items for needy mothers and babies … John Bice continuing

his community gardening … fifth-grader Taytum Hahn receiving a state award for her story on Cherry veteran Dante Bulli.

Jack Rooney has told those stories, and more, in “Up Ravioli Alley,” a monthly newsletter he publishes focusing on all the good things that are happening in “Ravioli Alley,” a stretch of geography along Route 89 in western Bureau County.

Rooney, a native of Cherry, said he chose “Up Ravioli Alley” as the name for the newsletter because that area of the county has a rich ethnic heritage, and everyone who knows the area knows the importance of raviolis and Italian eating and culture in those communities, which include Arlington, Cherry, Ladd, Seaton-ville, Hollowayville, Spring Valley and Dalzell.

“Those communities are tied together by a clear strong consistent history and even a unique culture … coal mining, Italians, Polish, Irish, Catholic, ethnic, Hall High, St. Bede, big personalities, great food, unique humor, famous char-acters,” Rooney said. “I love that little unique stretch along Route 89 with its unique history and culture. There are thousands of people around the country who are “Ravioli Alley” alumni who still love this area. I like to think “Up Ravioli

Alley” gives the local folks a good solid feel of community, and I hope that the newsletter gives the alumni a warm reminder of home.”

In addition to spreading the good news of good people doing great things through story, the newsletter also gives local non-for-profits an advertising and promo-

tional tool, all for no cost, to help them achieve their own goals, Rooney said.

The idea of a “good news” newslet-ter started formulating in his mind a couple years ago as he was back in the area, from his home in Springfield, and became aware of “lots of turmoil” going on with churches closing, Rooney


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Cherry native Jack Rooney is the publisher of “Up Ravioli Alley,” a popular publication that focuses on the villages of Arlington, Cherry, Ladd, Seatonville, Hollowayille, Spring Valley and Dalzell.

Taking a trip ‘Up Ravioli Alley’

CHERRY NATIVE JACK ROONEY PUBLISHES POPULAR REGIONAL NEWSLETTER

said. Church attendance and involvement were generally down all over the area, and coupled with fewer priests and cost-cutting measures, there was a rise in church closings, consolidations and mergers, which in turn led to poor morale and upset Catho-lics, Rooney said.

A big part of the challenge revolved around people’s fading involvement in the church, Rooney added. The more he thought about it, the more he realized too many people had gone to church when they were young because they had to, rather than because they wanted to, which created a weak foundation for the church, he said.

His goal is to encourage people to act in a Christ-like way every day, by helping the needy, reaching out to strangers, for-giving others, Rooney said. From there, he envisions people becoming involved with their community, to do something “a little bit great” and lead an effort, start a movement, spread the message. The third step would be for people to go to church because they want to, because they want to thank God for all He has done. That’s a church foundation that is strong and steady, Rooney said.

To be successful with the “Up Ravioli

Alley” (URA) newsletter, Rooney said he knew he would need to develop a clear message, be ready to repeat it many times, and communicate it in a way that folks in Ravioli Alley would appreciate. URA has a very informal, common sense, easy reading, humorous, yet thought-provoking style.

“Our primary goal is to talk about indi-viduals and groups that are ‘good people doing great things’ both currently and in the past,” Rooney said. “Hopefully, the readers will learn and appreciate those people and then mimic them in their own everyday lives.”

Rooney said the stories will entertain the readers a bit and also make them

think. A popular feature of the URA is the “Ravioli Alley Translation” section which takes a Bible verse or compli-cated quote of some sort and puts it in everyday “Ravioli Alley” terms.

Currently, URA has more than 5,000 readers, including 1,000 people who read it every month online and via email. Readers of URA often send the newsletter to their friends and relatives all over the country.

“URA actually asks the read-ers to get out there and do great things,” Rooney said. “We really hope our readers are doing that! If everyone just took care of their own

block … helping the needy, reaching out to strangers and forgiving, everything would be great! At the same time, there have been people doing this on their own block for many years. We need them to do one more great thing, though, and this is to spread the word to others and create others who are actually doing it too.”

And in time, as the news and impact of “Up Ravioli Alley” spreads throughout the region, maybe, just maybe, there will be other communities who develop their own newsletters, solidifying their own identities and highlighting the great things people are doing in their own areas as well, Rooney said.


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“Up Ravioli Alley” currently has more than 5,000 readers, including 1,000 people who read it every month online and via email.


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Economic development in the Starved Rock Country region

FUND ESTABLISHED TO HELP NEW, EXISTING BUSINESSES

Story and photo by Lyle Ganther

Starved Rock Country Alliance is a group of local business people who have banded together to

help with economic development in the greater Illinois Valley area, also known as Starved Rock Country.

The alliance of business people from all walks of life encompasses a 50-mile radius from the intersection of Inter-state 80 and Interstate 39 with 150,000 citizens represented by this geographic area encompassing Princeton to Mor-ris and Minonk to Paw Paw.

Peter Limberger of CL Enterprises in Ottawa said, “We have to do something in the area. We need to attract high quality and paying jobs, not minimum wage jobs.”

Starved Rock Country Alliance is not-for-profit public relations, marketing the area for economic development.

Four pillars identified by the group for the area’s economic development are arts and culture, education, tour-ism and hospitality, plus industrial and manufacturing businesses.

“Our team wants to increase the number of high-quality, well-paying jobs in the Starved Rock Country region by 150-200 jobs per year indefi-nitely,” said Limberger. “We want to help small businesses in the area to grow and expand. We want to give them advice and money for entrepre-neurs. We want to create private equity

or entrepreneurial funds dedicated to the area.”

This $1 million Starved Rock Coun-try Capital Fund (SRCCF) was recently established with 30-50 investors lined up to work with local banks as inves-tors

“There are 20 banks who have

invested in this for-profit fund. Banks support this effort,” said Limberger. “Government rules and regulations tie banks’ hands. This fund has patient money. It will get a regular market return. We will invest in a company, and several years later, the investors will turn the company over to the

THE AREA’S OWN ‘SHARK TANK’

FORMER RESIDENT WANTS TO START ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR PROGRAM

Cody Sommer, who grew up in Sheffield and is now founder and CEO of Stout Brewing Co. in North Carolina, wants to start an Entrepreneur of the Year program in the Starved Rock area.

Dick Janko of Janko Financial in Peru said young talented people like Som-mer grow up in this area and leave. “There are no resources or mentorship in the area to keep this talent here.”

Sommer said he wants to develop an Entrepreneur of the Year program by targeting students and existing small businesses to help them grow and res-cue their businesses.

He wants to make it like Shark Tank, the cable TV show, to have entrepre-neurs with ideas apply for funds to help their businesses.

“There is a nice pool of talent through 18 high schools and one community college in the area. The Illinois Valley Entrepreneur of the Year program will have five finalists on stage and present their ideas. We will award the win-ner that night by giving them $20,000, $50,000 or $100,000. This will encour-age people forever. Other finalists may be helped by other investors who are inspired to hear their story that night, even though they may not be chosen as the winner,” added Sommer.

owner and reinvest the money in other companies.”

This team of business people want to combine forces by “tearing down invis-ible walls” between cities, villages and townships. The group’s mission is to convince, one-by-one, the pessimists

and naysayers that they can achieve much by working together.

Dick Janko of Janko Financial in Peru said the group wants to have an incu-bator building on the horizon through the alliance fund.

“There are a lot of vacant buildings

in the Starved Rock Valley. They go off the tax rolls. There are 102 vacant homes in Peru. We need to get taxation through more jobs and people by using these buildings,” he said.

Limberger’s wife’s is Inga Carus, who is chairman and chief executive officer of Carus Group Inc. “My wife’s com-pany can’t get well-trained employees. We need to attract talented profession-als to work and live here through real good wages for their jobs. We need to attract the young and creative class of people to this market area. It is a great area, but people don’t know it.”

Limberger said Festival 56, a sum-mer theatre festival based in Princeton, is a fine example of an activity in this region that not many have heard about who live here.

“Festival 56 is first class with Broad-way shows and quality actors,” said Limberger. “This is not well known in the area. We need to raise the attention level internally and get people to locate here. We have no traffic jams and bring in people from outside. We need to attract the creative class of people to live and work here.”

Limberger said manufacturing is coming back to the United States. “We are not more expensive than China, which has seen higher wages and materials,” he reported.


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David Smiley (from left), general manager of the Holiday Inn Express and Suites of Peru; Cody Sommer, founder and CEO of Stout Brewing Co. of Kings Mountain, N.C., and former-ly of Sheffield; Fran Brolley, director of community relations for Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby; and Dick Janko of Janko Financial of Peru discuss the Entrepreneur of the Year program Sommer wants to promote in the areas as part of the Starved Rock Country Alliance.


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A collection of Gary James wood carvings is as var-ied as the personalities he carves into the wood. A former crime scene recon-structionist from Okla-homa, James now lives in Princeton and enjoys this wood-carving hobby, which he started about six years ago.

Carving his way to retirement

HOBBY RELAXES RETIRED CRIME SCENE RECONSTRUCTIONISTStory and photos by Lyle Ganther

Gary James, who moved to Princeton from Oklahoma City in June, was hooked the

moment he started carving wood six years ago.

“I have been a hobbyist all my life,” he said. “I put together model airplanes

before I started carving. I found carving as a good release for me to forget what went on in my job. This is a fun hobby.”

James was a crime scene reconstruc-tionist for 40 years and taught classes on this subject in Oklahoma City with the state of Oklahoma and through the U.S. Marshal’s office.

James said the associate pastor of the

First Baptist Church in Oklahoma City talked him into trying this hobby at a summer arts and crafts program about six years ago. James, who recently retired, said he moved to the Midwest to be closer to his daughters. One lives in Princeton, while his other daughter lives in Indiana.

“My daughter (Karen Kloepping) has

two kids,” he added. “I am looking for-ward to playing with them and going to their school activities.”

James likes to carve basswood and northern cottonwood.

“I love to carve. It relaxes me,” he said. “You can do it for several hours and see what you have created.”

Many times James looks at a picture to get an idea what to carve out of a fresh piece of wood. After he finishes the carving, James also paints the piec-es he has carved.

“I have taken a lot of classes to learn as much as possible,” he added. “I con-sider myself a novice wood carver. I use my dad’s old pocket knife.”

Since moving to this area, James has joined the Woodcrafters Unlimited Club in Princeton, which he calls a great group of people, and the Valley Carvers Association in Ottawa. He is also affili-ated with other carving groups.

After moving to Illinois, he has also been able to find a wood craft store in Bettendorf, Iowa, where he can finds tools, etc. for his hobby.

There is a carving club located there, and he also works with the Princeton

Arts Academy to offer carving classes two Wednesdays a month from 4 to 6 p.m. He also submitted some of this carvings to be judged at the Bureau County Fair. He has won ribbons while living in Oklahoma, but mainly does carving for pleasure and relaxation.

He attends carving shows at Starved Rock Lodge and a two-day sale in Springfield to meet people and get ideas, he added.


Perhaps you have a passion for those old porcelain coffee pots that you used to see on Grandma’s stove. Or maybe your collection of old tools, salt

and pepper shakers or shot glasses has a prominent place in your home. Old furniture, sleds, watering cans, thim-bles ... yesterday’s treasures are abundant in the Illinois Valley. Whether you take an hour here and there or dedi-cate an entire day to antique hunting, you’ll want to make time to visit one or all of the antique dealers listed below.

24 Long StreetPrinceton, IL 61356(south of the RR depot)

Open 7 Days a Week, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Sunday, 12 noon to 4 p.m.

(815) 875-9151

Arts & Antiques

OPEN DAILY 9-5:30

815-872-25801661 N. Main St. • Princeton

1-80 to Exit 56; 1/2 mi. South

ANTIQUE MALL450 Dealer Spaces

Located on the North side of I-80 Between Exit 73 & 75 in Peru, IL

OVER 200 QUALITY DEALERS

2702 MAY RD., PERU, IL 61354

HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE • SINGLE LEVEL

Jack & Jan Olson • (815) 224-99919:30am-5:30pm, 7 days a week

One of the finest malls in North Central Illinois

Peru Antique Mall

At right, Gary James works on a hand-carved piece at his Princeton home. Above, another collection of carved and painted pieces are pictured. James carves for plea-sure and relaxation.

Story and photos by Ken Schroeder

If you’re lucky, a hobby can some-times be parlayed into a career. Princeton’s Aaron Isaacson, 20, is

hoping it works that way for him. Look-ing for a way to improve his own guitar-playing, Isaacson ended up starting his own recording studio at the ripe old age of 17.

“I starting recording my own stuff, just fiddling around with some free programs I could find,” Isaacson said. “It just started from there. There was a local band that asked, ‘Could you record us, we want to get some demos out?’ I wasn’t recording bass yet, just drums and guitar. I listened back. It was bad.”

However, the money he picked up from that recording session went into new equipment and spare instruments for bands that might travel a long dis-tance. Today, in the rental house Isaac-son currently uses as a recording studio, he has a full set of drums, a dozen or more microphone stands, three guitars and an organ; just in case. His workload over the few years he’s been recording other bands has steadily increased.

“One band told another, and it just exponentially went from there. So far I haven’t had anybody who’s talked bad about me,” Isaacson said.

Isaacson has some mixers and equal-izers, but for recording he uses a desktop computer with a production program that allows him to individually hone each instrument’s sound, fine-tuning the band’s recordings for the best sound. It wasn’t always that easy.

“The first program I used was free-ware. It was sad,” Isaacson said. “I did a lot of research, tried a lot of programs

and I found Reaper, which I really like. It’s user-friendly and inexpensive. It’s open-source, so I can make modifica-tions to it. It’s really clean, really well-coded.”

While Isaacson has figured out a lot of his technique on his own, he also took advantage of other people’s experi-ences.

“I taught myself; I found people on the Internet that were willing to tell me what I needed to know,” Isaacson said. “I still spend most of my days on online forums trying to learn.”

Fledgling bands from as far away as Chicago have journeyed to Isaacson’s studio, Sound in Silence Recordings, to create demos and a few actual mass-produced CDs to further their career. That’s a point of pride for Isaacson.

“When you get a CD, and it has your name on it as recorder/producer and you know it’s a good product, it’s satis-fying when it’s all done,” he said.

Isaacson will sometimes lend his talents to a band’s recording, playing guitar or adding bass and vocals. By pushing artists to keep up with his abili-

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Princeton resident Aaron Isaacson mixes some guitar tracks which were recorded in his studio in Princeton. Isaacson records single songs as well as full albums for bands through-out Illinois.

Sound in SilenceBUILDING A DREAM ONE SONG AT A TIME

ties, Isaacson has made an impact on some of them.

“A band will come back and say, ‘You really pushed me to get better and inspired me,’” Isaacson said. “One guy came back. He went to college to study voice and guitar performance. He said, ‘I was horrible when I came down to record with you. But you pushed me. This is what I want to do with my life.’”

In addition to his studio, Isaacson has some other projects he’s working on. The first band he recorded — a local band called Listen to Reason — asked him to join, and though they’re not very active, they have more original mate-rial ready to record. Isaacson also just bought a dilapidated house that he is

in the process of refurbishing and has started building his new studio in one of the rooms. That room is receiving his top priority.

“I honestly could never see myself doing anything else. That’s what keeps me going,” Isaacson said. “I’m work-ing construction part-time, and when I don’t have bands in, everyday I think, ‘If I had to do this forever and this is what I had to look forward to, I don’t know if I could keep going.’”

Sound in Silence Recordings can be found on Facebook, and inquiries into recording are welcome.

Illinois Valley Living 3910.2014

Congratulations to the 2014 Women of Distinction Award Recipients!

Proud to be thePresenting Sponsorfor this special recognition.

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Aaron Isaacson (pictured in all three photos above) tends to a variety of duties in his Princeton studio, called Sound of Silence. In addition to recording and producing music, he also will lend guitar and vocals to the recordings. He has several instruments on hand for bands to borrow, if they can-not bring their own equipment. Isaacson just bought a home, where he is creating a new studio, which will benefit his recording abilities.

Story and photos by Goldie Currie

Walking along the streets of Princeton’s north end business district, shoppers will stumble

upon the new fashion boutique — juniper & mae.

The Bohemian chic shop is owned by Mindy Leone of Ladd and offers an eclec-tic mix of styles, including urban, vintage, modern and a little country.

Talking about her new business on Main Street, Leone will tell you a year ago she wasn’t even dreaming about owning her own boutique.

“It’s never been a lifelong dream or any-thing. The opportunity more or less just landed in my lap one day,” she explained “Today, driving down the street and see-ing the store, it’s still a shock to me that I’m the owner of juniper & mae.”

Managing a store space may be a new endeavor for Leone, but the business world is no stranger to her. For the past 10 years, she’s worked selling handmade products on the online market, Esty.com. Using the sewing skills inherited from her mother, Leone has filled orders for chil-dren’s clothes, embroidery, personalized stockings and bags, home decor items and more.

When a friend interested in purchasing a downtown space for his architecture busi-ness offered to lease part of the building to Leone to sell her products, she jumped on the idea with no hesitation.

“From there, this became a reality,” she said.

The unexpected opportunity is described as a lucky one.

“I have a lot of family support and the business background, and I’ve never been afraid to throw money out there and take

a risk,” she explained.Leone’s first plans for the store included

selling her handmade items, but it quickly became clear there wouldn’t be enough time to fill orders and manage a shop on her own.

“Juniper & mae ended up becoming more of a fashion store than I thought it was going to be, but it’s working well,” she said

The unique merchandise inside attracts all ages and interests — whether someone is looking for new accessories, a thick scarf for fall, a dress for an event, a gift for a friend or child.

“Being in a small town, you can’t rely on

selling to one age group, and we can’t be too specific of a niche,” Leone explained.

Being one of the younger women in Princeton’s art district, Leone stands as a model and inspiration to those looking to bring their business ideas to life. Her advice to those looking to open up shop is to keep chugging.

“I know a lot of people have the idea to do things, and whether or not they are detailed by other things in their life or feel discouraged, just keep after it because time really does fly. If you don’t do some-thing when you have the idea, you’re going to look back and wish you had worked harder for it,” she said.

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Mindy Leone of Ladd stands amid some of her products at her new store in Princeton — juniper & mae. Leone will tell you a year ago, opening up a Main Street business hadn’t even entered her mind, however ... she’s not stranger to the business world.

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Situated in the historic northend Princeton business district on Main Street (above), juniper & mae has a wide variety of products — something for just about everyone, including acces-sories, jewelry, scarves, candles, home decor and much, much more.


The Care Management Department of Perry Memorial Hospital consists of seven women who perform case management, discharge planning, utilization review, Infection control and Quality management functions for patients of all ages. Their mission is to be a patient/family advocate who facilitates the patient’s plan of care through the healthcare continuum, striving to achieve an optimal clinical outcome in a timely and cost effective manner.

The women who perform these functions are Celia Goers, Director, who is a registered nurse with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing; Luanne Behrens RN, Case Coordinator; Sharon Smith RN, Case Coordinator; Mary Neill, Licensed Social Worker; Collette Yelm, Licensed Social Worker; Anne Krus, Clerical Support; and Sue Gorman RN, Infection Control Practitioner. The department functions daily, including weekends and holidays.Case Management functions are performed by the Case Coordinator who is the multidisciplinary team facilitator and physician liaison. They coordinate and facilitate the plan of care with the patient, family, care team members and medical staff.

The Social Worker provides assistance to the patient and family in acceptance of the social and personal impact of illness and ensures emotional and/or spiritual need support; assists the physician in dealing with patients whose medical problems are complicated or interwoven with adverse social or psychological circumstances; and serves as a link between the patient and community resources that best meet the needs of the patient and family. Optimal clinical outcomes that are timely and cost effective are achieved through utilization management activities. Clerical Support staff facilitates the precertification process, assists with data collection, and maintains records of utilization activities.

The Infection Control Practitioner maintains the overall coordination and implementation of the Infection Control program. Responsibilities include maintaining a system for identifying, evaluating, monitoring, and reporting patient infections; acting as a liaison regarding quality improvement, policies, procedures, and incidents related to Infection Control; providing education related to Infection Control, with assistance to the employee Health program.

The Director of Care Management performs Quality Management functions and is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing clinical effectiveness; managing the collection, analysis, and reporting of data; using the data in implementing proactive initiatives to prevent negative outcomes; assist with planning and providing educational offerings related to evidence-based clinical practices and impact ofchanges in regulatory requirements; assessing, planning, implementing,and evaluating the operational processes and with activeparticipation of the staff continuously working toimprove their effectiveness and efficiency.

Perry Memorial Hospital’s Care Management Department

530 Park Avenue EastPrinceton, Illinois

815-875-2811www.perrymemorial.org


08.2013

Service that’s personal.

Women of distinction can be found in every business, every organization and every community. They are known for giving their personal service and support where it is needed. Above are a few of the many dedicated women at Heartland Bank and Trust Company who go beyond their responsibilities to the bank and give of their time and talents. Our many communities benefit from their strengths and beliefs in taking an active role to better others.

Congratulations to the 2013 Women of Distinction Award Recipients!

Proud to be thePresenting Sponsorfor this special recognition.

Pictured , from left, Shelley Giesen, Kathy Truskoski, Brenda Trump, Cindy Ricci, Michele King, Jackie Norris, Diana Dye, Susan Tondi, Ginger Freeberg, Sara Hudson and Tracy Makransky.


Visit Flowers By Julia for the best flower arrangements and gifts in Princeton, IL!

Our professional florists can help you find the perfect flowers for any individual or occasion and can even create a custom bouquet to fit your unique needs.

Flowers By Julia offers same-day delivery for your last-minute gift needs and delivers flower arrangements throughout Princeton and the surrounding areas! Flowers By Julia can also deliver quality flowers nationwide through our trusted florist network.

Bright, fresh flowers make a thoughtful gift for any type of occasion. Flowers By Julia has a wide variety of beautiful arrangements available in Princeton, IL. From gorgeous anniversary flowers and Mother’s Day flowers to sympathetic get well flowers and funeral flowers,

floral gifts are the perfect way to show just how much you care.

Trust Flowers By Julia for local, high-quality flower arrangements like cheerful birthday flowers for your friends and family or stunning Valentine’s Day flowers for the one you love.

Julia is also an expert wedding florist. Whether the event is casual or elaborate, Flowers by Julia will ensure your special day is beautiful and memorable.

Visit our website and check out our vast selection of lovely flowers and more!

Delivering a personal, special touch for all your gift & floral occasions

Julia Cain, owner of Flowers by Julia in Princeton, IL

811 EAST PERU STREET PRINCETON, IL, 61356

815-875-3819www.flowersbyjuliaprinceton.com

Liberty Village RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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815-875-6600140 N. 6th St., Princeton

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815 N. Orlando Smith Rd. • Oglesby, IL • 815-224-2720 • www.ivcc.edu

IVCC: PRODUCING LEADERS FOR 90 YEARSIntroducing the IVCC Foundation’s 21st Century Scholars Society

2014 finalists and their intended majors

Tiernan EbenerPeru

Chemical Engineering

Whitley FunfsinnLaSalleNursing

Camrie MaxonOttawa

Mechanical Engineering

Danae RossPrincetonDentistry

Aubrey MollnLaMoille

Ag Engineering

The 21st Century Scholars Society rewards academic excellence by providingfinancial support to IVCC’s most promising second-year students.

For information on joining the Society, call (815) 224-0551.

No place so close cantake you so far

Professional CounselorNancy Carper, LCPC

Nancy Carper specializes in anxiety disorders, anger issues, mood disorders, and family, individual and marital counseling. She has practiced for 20 years.

Eckert and Associates is a small, innovative multidimensional family centered general practice which provides treatment for clients who are requesting assistance with a wide variety of mental health needs. We make every attempt to approach each client with patience, empathy and respect in our search to find answers for the problems for which they are seeking help. We believe that people can heal, change and grow.

Our goal is for each patient to leave treatment feeling whole, integrated and peaceful, so that their dreams can become reality,

and so each client can live their lives in as fulfilling a manner as possible. We feel each person is unique and so are their strengths, challenges, and goals. Together we develop personalized treatment objectives.

128 E. MAIN STREET WYANET, IL, 61379

815-699-2302www.eckertandassociates.com

EckErt & AssociAtEs


Holly Grasser and Heather Grasser-Davis carry on the family-owned business, Grasser’s Plumbing & Heating with their cousins Mike Grasser & Brad Grasser. They are the daughters of owner, Gary E Grasser. Holly has worked at Grasser’s for 17 years and she specializes in helping customers with all of their plumbing needs. She can assist you in selecting a kitchen faucet replacement on your existing sink; remodeling an entire bathroom or kitchen; or assist you with plumbing on an addition or building a new construction home. Heather has worked at Grasser’s for 8 years and she specializes in helping you with all your appliance needs. She can help you find the appliances that your are looking for whether you are trying to stay in a particular budget or trying to fit your appliance a certain sized area. Heather is extremely knowledgeable on all the brands, makes & models. Combined with Heathers friendly knowledgeable service, Grasser’s offers a full service department to service all makes & models. Grasser’s Plumbing & Heating has been in business for more than 60 years, Grasser’s is open 8 am - 5 pm Monday - Friday & 8 am - 2 pm on Saturdays. The business is located at 404 W. Main Street in McNabb. Besides appliances and plumbing, Grasser’s offers many other products and services such as:Geo-Thermal Systems, Generators, Fireplaces, Furnaces, Air Conditioners and complete ductwork system. Holly & Heather said that Grasser’s prides themselves on prompt service, affordable prices and free estimates.

404 W. Main, McNabb, ILwww.grassersplumbingheating.com

815-882-2111 • 815-875-2540

Grasser’sPlumbing & Heating

PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.

Heather Grasser-Davis & Holly Grasser

For 20 years and counting, Johnsons Carpet Shoppe in Princeton has been offering styles of flooring for the grandest designs to the smallest apartment bathroom. Carpet, glass, porcelain and ceramic tile, wood, vinyl and laminate for backsplashes, walk in showers, and any floor space you need to cover. Dana VanAutreve, and her great support team of Cathy Emmett, Sheryl Woodbury, Kami Krieger, and Joyce Mansfield all offer decorating experience and guidance for selecting the right choices in colors and textures. We take pride in the product lines we offer, educating ourselves to what is the absolute best product for each and every room and considering the value of budgets into our time spent working with our customers. Main Street Princeton is a great place to showcase our uniqueness from others as we offer a welcoming environment that brings calmness when faced with the overwhelming feeling of so many selections in styles, brands and colors. We serve every customer with the products, service and installation but we are excited at how we can also serve our community thru Second Story, a Teen Youth Center, above Johnsons Carpet Shoppe. The doors are opening more and more to Second Story and we are extremely excited at the opportunities we are offering our teenagers to find someone who cares and is willing to help them with their own ‘second stories’. Life is about forgiveness and second chances. We live knowing and wanting to share in the greatest act of love, which we experience daily thru the Lord. Just listening, offering a safe place to hang out, enjoying concerts, movies, sports, games and fun is the direction Second Story is offering. It’s all because of the blessings and dreams the Lord has placed in our lives starting with Johnsons Carpet Shoppe and sharing with the community.

1033 N. Main St. • Princeton, ILwww.JohnsonsCarpetShoppe.net

815-875-3444

Dana VanAutreve

Building the strategic, successful growth of a specialized retina practice in Peru from one physician in 2003 to a full service ophthalmology and retina practice with 3 physicians, 17 staff members and 3 locations in Peoria, Peru and Galesburg has required Lynn’s exceptional skills acquired from her 25 years in the medical field.As Practice Administrator, Lynn provides all aspects of human resource management including an action-oriented approach to promote team building and educational growth. She plays a key role in implementing healthcare law changes, negotiating contracts, and serves as physician liaison in addition to handling the day to day operations at Illinois Retina & Eye Associates. Always citing patient care as the guiding principal for the practice, Lynn’s strong character in compassion and faith have been instrumental in putting the needs of the patients, their families, and support systems first. As an active volunteer in the community and as a mother, Lynn’s passion has been evident in the lives she has touched.

Lynn Tamborini

3602 Marquette Rd. Peru IL 61354www.illinoisretinainstitute.com

815-223-7400


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If you or someone you love has need for advanced nursing or rehabilitative care, you may be uncertain as to where to turn for the most appropriate support.

Rest assured, Colonial HealthCare and Rehabilitation Centre is here for you! We have provided excellence for 40+ years!

So you’ve had a stroke, joint replacement / injury, or illness... What happens after the hospital stay?

Ask us at Colonial HealthCare and Rehabilitation Centre about our terrific Step Forward Program.

SERVICES: 24 / 7 Skilled Nursing Care; Long-term and Short-term Care; In-house Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy; Restorative Nursing Program; Respite Care; Pain Management; IV Therapy; Wound Care and Management.

AMENITIES: Daily Activities; Free Cable; Beauty/Barber Shop; Courtyard and Patio; Church Services; Laundry Services; Community Outings.

The Team at Colonial HealthCare and Rehabilitation Centre

(Front Row) Kate Webster-MSW, Social Service Director; Arin Peterson- Marketing Director(Back Row)Denise Hayes- Human Resource, Payroll, Accounts Payable; Tracy Nally- CDM, CFPP, Dietary Manager; Missy Burden- RN, WCC, Director Of Nursing; Diane Lewis- Accounts Receivable, Business office manager; Cami Emmerson- Central Supply, Medical Records; Trisha Hamrick- MDS, Care Plan Coordinator

515 BUREAU VALLEY PARKWAY, PRINCETON, IL, 61356815-875-3347 • FAX: 815-875-2012

www.colonialcarecentre.com






Bringing Care to Your Community

530 Park Avenue EastSuite 202Princeton, IL 61356(815) 875-4428

1400 Midtown RoadPeru, IL 61354(815) 220-2693

Dr. Lavavej is Board Certified in Gynecology and a Fellow with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Providing General Care for Women of All Ages: • Yearly Exams • Menopause & more

Dr. Benavides is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Certified as a Headache Specialist by the United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties, and has an Acupuncture Certification from the Academy of Pain Research University in CA.

Neurologist Specializing in: • Migraine Headaches (utilizing Botox treatments)• Carpal Tunnel Testing • Conditions of Nervous System

Christine Hermosillo received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Lewis University in Romeoville, IL. She then went on to Northern Illinois University for her Master of Science, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Christine has been a nurse since 2008, coming to St. Margaret’s from Mendota Community Hospital and Rush-Copley Medical Center in Aurora previous to that.

GynecologySripen Lavavej, MD

NeurologyAngela Benavides, MD

Comprehensive Health CareChristine Hermosillo, NP-C

Dr. Lavavej is now accepting patients. Please call today to set up your appointment!

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Benavides you must have a referral from your family physician.

Christine will be working with Dr. Thaw Tun at the Henry and Spring Valley Clinics. Call today to set up your appointment!

Henry & Spring Valley Clinics

528 Edward StHenry, IL 61537(309) 364-3088

1302 N Greenwood StSpring Valley, IL 61362(815) 664-4308

St. Margaret’s online MyCare Patient Portal is now available.Visit www.aboutsmh.org online and sign up to view your medical records online. This online tool gives you the flexibility to access your health information and other resources on your time and between visits.

The Ladies of theBureau County Republican

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Illinois Valley

Front Row:

Mona Cruse, Lisa Lally, Dixie Schroeder, Teresa Gleason, Sarah Maxwell, Angie Jones

Back Row:

Ashley Oliver, Phyllis Fargher, Erica Oertel, Pam Marsh, Goldie Currie,Rita Roberts, Terri Simon, Christy Wagner, Donna Barker

Absent from photo: Rita Byrd and Kelly Milnes



Illinois Valley Living JournalBy Terri SimonPhoto by Kath Clark

Traveling down those old dusty roads from yes-teryear that live in my

head, the memories come and go, much like the seasons of our lives. While some of those memories are vivid and still vibrant, there are others that lay cold and dormant, hard as I try to revive them.

I’m always kind of amazed at the memories from life’s jour-neys that have stayed with me, for the ones I thought would always accompany me into the future are nowhere to be found now. Instead, I’ve found it’s the little things — the things that at the time seemed relatively unimportant — that have cho-sen to accompany me into the future.

When I was just knee-high to the proverbial grasshop-per, I just knew the Christmas gifts and deliveries from the giant rabbit at Easter would fill my future with moments that would allow me to reflect on a wonderful childhood. Instead, though, I couldn’t tell you one item that I discovered under the Christmas tree, and the

only thing I remember from Easter was plenty of hard-boiled eggs and one of those little paddles with a red, rubber ball that ultimately became disengaged from one another. If my memory serves me cor-rectly, I’m pretty sure there were tears associated with the latter, though I’m not exactly sure if they rolled down my cheeks from the broken paddle ball or from my youthful uncle getting spanked with the pad-dle for breaking the living room lamp with that little red ball ... but that’s another story.

What’s interesting to me are the things that have lodged themselves in my memory, ultimately my heart, that refuse to leave. Like the stray cat who won’t quit visiting the backyard patio no matter how loud the dog barks, some memories are just here to stay. I am thankful for those memories, for they remind me of a place in time when life was easier, love came without stipulations, and tears were dried quickly with Grand-ma’s apron.

Not surprisingly, Grandma plays into many of my memo-ries that drift like clouds through my waking moments.

Most bring smiles to my face, as I remember her face, her hands, her heart. She was a kindred old soul with fire in her eyes. She loved the simple things in life and didn’t want to be bothered with the mundane tasks of the world. Ultimately, as I look back, I think that’s why I loved her most.

Regardless of the season but especially in the fall when the clouds overhead hung like giant pillows of marshmal-low cream, Grandma and I would lay in the crunchy, late-summer grass and watch the clouds. Picture this older lady wearing a still-summer cot-ton dress along with her little granddaughter in the middle of the yard, sun shining down on our faces — both of us only a couple of inches apart. For a while, we would be silent, and then one of us, usually Grand-ma, would finally speak ...

“Look at that cloud there,” she’d say as she pointed to the sky. “Why, it looks just like an elephant with its trunk raised!”

“I see it,” I’d say (probably whether I really did or not). “Look at that one, Grandma! It looks like Abraham Lincoln.”

“Why, you’re right. I see his

nose,” she’d answer. “And that one over there looks like a dinosaur ...”

The exchanges went on for a good long time, but before long, the sun would be drifting toward the horizon. Reluctant-ly, we’d get up out of the grass and continue our day with the cloud-hidden images still dancing in our heads.

Nearly 50 years have passed since those long ago memories of Grandma and me imagin-ing and daydreaming in the grass, but the image is still as vivid as every cloud I see now in the bright blue, late summer sky. Those memory-making moments didn’t cost my grandmother a dime, but today, they are priceless ... and every cloud I see takes me on another journey down that old dusty road of yesteryear.

Illinois Valley Living Editor Terri Simon is an Illinois Press Association award-winning col-umnist, journalist and photog-rapher. She can be reached at [email protected]. You can find other essays like this one in her book titled, “Grandma’s Cookie Jar,” published by Box-ing Day Books and available at www.boxingdaybooks.com.

Starved rock Lodge

in Starved Rock State Park

www.starvedrocklodge.com www.starvedrockstatepark.org

Starved Rock Lodge and Conference CenterRoutes 178 & 71 Utica, IL 61373 800. 868. 7625

The Only Place to Stay

bLive Music (Veranda) on Friday & Saturday (8-11 pm)

bOutdoor Dining!bFull Service Restaurant & BarbCorporate Meetings, Retreats & TeambuildingbDestination WeddingsbGift Shop, Café, Artisan Ice Cream, Gelato & FudgebIndoor Pool & Hot Tub for our Lodge GuestsbFree WiFibAmazing Chainsaw Art Collection

This is why you come to Starved Rock Country!

Starved rock Lodge

in Starved Rock State Park

www.starvedrocklodge.com www.starvedrockstatepark.org

Starved Rock Lodge and Conference CenterRoutes 178 & 71 Utica, IL 61373 800. 868. 7625

The Only Place to Stay

bLive Music (Veranda) on Friday & Saturday (8-11 pm)

bOutdoor Dining!bFull Service Restaurant & BarbCorporate Meetings, Retreats & TeambuildingbDestination WeddingsbGift Shop, Café, Artisan Ice Cream, Gelato & FudgebIndoor Pool & Hot Tub for our Lodge GuestsbFree WiFibAmazing Chainsaw Art Collection

This is why you come to Starved Rock Country!

www.starvedrocklodge.com • www.starvedrockstatepark.org

This is why you come to Starved Rock!b Live Music (Veranda) on Friday & Saturday (8-11 pm)

b Outdoor Dining!b Full Service Restaurant & Barb Corporate Meetings, Retreats & Teambuildingb Destination Weddingsb Gift Shop, Café, Artisan Ice Cream, Gelato & Fudgeb Indoor Pool & Hot Tub for our Lodge Guestsb Free WiFib Amazing Chainsaw Art Collection

Starved Rock Lodgeand Conference Center

Routes 178 & 71, Utica, IL 61373800. 868. 7625


www.libertyvillageofprinceton.com

140 N. 6th St.Princeton, IL

815-875-6600Not-for-Profit Provider

. . .ALL THIS AND MORE ASA BOUNCE BACK PATIENT

• Pre-admit Contacts to Address Questions• Skilled Nursing Care• Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy• Dietary and Social needs• State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment• Comprehensive Discharge Planning• Support and Reassurance

Liberty Village

13 Elegant & Peaceful Private Suites Including flat screen TVs with satellite in each room

& internet access - all so you can relax and recover quickly!

WE ARE WITH YOUALL THE WAY.. .

Please call for more information or to arrange a tour!


ivl-09-27-2014

Documents

illinois valley table

editorillinois valley

women of distinction

honoring area women

years winners

country folks

magazine attempts

exciting magazine