1. travel
2. tourist destinations
3. national parks

VO L 7 IS S U E 3
M AY-JUNE 2 01 5
D E K A L B CO U N T Y E D I T I O N
13
Bike Trails
and Dog Parks
Get outside and get inspired
with some local hotspots
20
Travel
with Toddlers
Get the inside scoop on
family travel with guest
blogger The Fly Mommy
Where life happens.
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens.
3
O F
CONTENTS
20 I N T R AV E L
Keep your vacation fun by reading The Fly
Mommy’s advice for flying with young children
28
ON THE COVER
T A B L E
32
F E AT U R E
Shawn Thrower
Shawn Thrower relies on family,
community, and determination to make
Shawn’s Cafe’ of Sycamore a success
20
10
28 I N S H O P P I N G
Varage Sale and Treasures in the Attic let you
find the best bargains this spring or year round
18
38 D I Y
PROJECTS
Ashley Murcia’s latest DIY project shows how
to create unique, personalized mantle pieces
for every season
42 I N B O O K S
Dee Coover’s mystery picks will have you
reading the afternoon away
06 I N H E A LT H
Katie Dawson writes about staying active and
shares her fruit-based “Nice-Cream” recipe
10 I N B E A U T Y
Dr. Amanda Friedrichs of Radiant Dermatology
is making a difference by treating and
preventing skin cancer in the area
13
I N R E C R E AT I O N
From family fun to romantic nights, the
local area has the best paths and parks for
your spring adventure
4
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
43 C A L E N D A R
18
KishHealth Joint Center
The KishHealth System Joint Center has
gained national and international recognition
for its highly successful patient care system
Contact Us
InVironments
OF EVENTS
Check out the Events Calender to learn about
interesting local events
F E AT U R E
32
P.O. Box 4, Sycamore, IL 60178
InVironments Editorial Staff
[email protected]
Darby Dwyer, Advertising Director
[email protected]
Keith Cameron, Editor/Publisher
FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS GO TO: WWW INVIRONMENTSMAG.COM
Where life happens.
5
I N H E A LT H
DeKalb County Community Gardens. If
running isn’t your thing, check out the Bike
MS: Tour de Farms at the NIU Convention
Center on June 27-28th. This bike tour
helps benefit MS research and is a great
way to tour your community and get
outside. You can register and find more
information for both of these races online.
Get
Even if you aren’t training for a race, these
warm summer months are the perfect
time to take your workout outside. You
Outside!
If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to get
outside than a bike ride, check out any one of
the many parks in the area. In DeKalb you can
visit Hopkins Park and walk the trails there,
play on the playground, listen to music at the
don’t have to run. You can do yoga in
your backyard, take a walk around your
neighborhood, or set up a quick circuit of
bodyweight exercise like squats, pushups,
and crunches at a park near your home.
bandshell, or hop in the pool there. Sycamore
a walk to a local park and have a picnic.
Have your lunch break al fresco and
enjoy the sunshine. Invite some friends
over, have a BBQ, and treat them to the
delicious and healthy nice cream recipe
at the end of this article. However you do
Community park offers an 18-hole golf course,
No matter what you decide to do, try
it, getting your daily dose of nature will
pool, trails, and numerous playgrounds.
and get active outside. Take the kids on
help you stay healthy and happy! f
There are plenty of fun things for the whole
family to do, so go check out your local park.
You can find maps and more information
at each cities park district website.
FARMERS MARKETS
AND STANDS
Chocolate Raspberry Almond
Nice Cream (SERVES 3-4)
1 Place bananas into blender
Along with the warm weather comes the
T
By Katie Dawson
WARM WEATHER IS FINALLY
HERE AND AFTER BEING
COOPED UP INSIDE ALL WINTER
LONG, IT’S TIME TO ENJOY
THE GREAT OUTDOORS.
farmers markets. These are the best places
here are plenty of great outdoor
to get local, seasonal, and fresh produce.
places and activities that you can
DeKalb’s market, located at the Van Buer
take advantage of right here in your
Plaza, is every Thursday, June through
community. From totally free parks and
September from 10 am to 2 pm. Sycamore’s
bike paths to delicious seasonal produce
market, located on the corner of Somonauk
at farmers markets, there is something
and Elm Street, is every Tuesday, June
for everyone in your family to enjoy!
through September from 3 pm to 7 pm. You
can also get fresh produce at Wessel’s stand
BIKE TRAILS,
PATHS, & PARKS
Both Sycamore and DeKalb have a ton of
bike trails and paths. The main DeKalbSycamore trail is 6.6 miles long and starts
at Peace Road and Pleasant Street and
goes to Peace Road and W. State Street.
There are smaller paths in each town as
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
on Sycamore road. Farmers markets give
you the opportunity to meet the people who
or food processor and blend
until broken down. Add in
the frozen raspberries and
combine until smooth.
2 Add in almond butter
and cocoa powder and blend
INGREDIENTS
3-4 frozen bananas
grow your food, ask questions, and eat food
1/2 cup fresh raspberries
that is in season and therefore cheaper.
1/2 cup frozen raspberries
Go pick up some delicious produce and
3 tbsp creamy almond butter
enjoy all the tasty and healthy benefits.
2-3 tbsp cocoa powder
LOCAL RACES AND EVENTS
1/2 cup almonds, crushed
to combine. Add the fresh
berries and pulse a few times
until roughly combined.
3 Remove nice cream
from blender and stir in the
crushed almonds. Scoop
into bowls and enjoy!
well. Go exploring! Hop on your bike or lace
Race season is in full swing now, and you can
up your sneakers and take your workout
find plenty of events to participate in. Malta
Get your raspberries fresh from the farmer’s market and freeze them
outside. The fresh air will give you a ton
is hosting their 7th annual 5k Tractor Trot on
yourself. You can also use any other berries you find at your local stand!
of energy and mood boosting endorphins.
Saturday, June 6th. This race benefits the
Where life happens.
7
815-824-21 0 9
w w w. d a n s c u s t o m p a i n t i n g . c o m
Homeowners CHeCKLIsT
Is your home ready to put on the market, entertain summer
guests, or personally enjoy? Dan’s Custom Painting can help you
protect your home’s value and increase its attractiveness.
PAINTING IS A QUICK AND EASY WAY TO REFRESH AND UPDATE YOUR HOME.
From painting an entryway to changing the color of your exterior finish, painting is
one home improvement strategy that’s both cost effective and produces immediate
results. New environmentally friendly products make inside and outside painting a
safe, enjoyable process while enhancing the home’s interior and curb appeal.
Rejuvenate your
skin this summer
At Radiant Dermatology Dr. Friedrichs and our
experienced Esthetician are here to make you look
and feel amazing. We offer chemical peels, SilkPeel
dermalinfusion, color enhancements and much more.
Give us a call and ask about our latest spring specials.
One of our professional staff would be happy to come and review
this checklist with you and provide them with a free esTImATe.
Curb Appeal:
Are any of the following in need of paint or repair?
Front door
Shuters
Mailbox
Sidewalk
Yard work or mowing
Kitchen:
Are the windows and appliances clean?
Do you have rust stains?
Paint
Lighting
Appliance Cleaning
Flooring Repair
Ceiling Paint or Repair
entryway:
Is it cluttered, well lit, is the flooring in good repair?
Bathroom
Paint
Paint
Lighting
Lighting
Carpet Cleaning
Drywall Repair
Flooring Repair
Floor Repair
Ceiling Paint Repair
Vanity or Sink
Amanda Friedrichs, MD
is now located at
Radiant Dermatology
WE ALWAYS WANT TO RESPECT
INDIVIDUAL PRIVACY AND HAVE
A SEPARATE COSMETICS WAITING
ROOM FOR CLIENTS.
Other
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
RADIANTDERM.COM
|
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INBEAUTY
IF YOU WANT TO KNOW
WHY DERMATOLOGIST
AMANDA FRIEDRICHS,
MD IS SO DETERMINED,
YOU ONLY HAVE TO LOOK
AT THE PICTURES IN
A Mission of
Community Health
HER WAITING ROOM.
H
er passion for family and
treating patients are proudly
displayed in several pieces of
artwork, reassuring visitors that the
professionals of Radiant Dermatology
truly care about the well being of everyone
who walks through their doors.
Originally a solo dermatologist in
the DeKalb Clinic’s multi specialty
group, Dr. Friedrichs decided to fulfill
a life long ambition and form her
own practice when the DeKalb Clinic
became part of KishHealth System.
“It’s everything we want it to be,” says
Dr. Friedrichs as she describes a day
filled with work and family. “I have two
boys who are now eight and ten,” she
explains. “They are my everything. They
are the reason why I do what I do.”
DR. FRIEDRICHS AND HER STAFF MAKE ME VERY
COMFORTABLE. I’M NEVER HESITANT TO MAKE MY
YEARLY APPOINTMENTS.”
- Katie Davis
A new office and demanding career have
certainly taken away some free time, but
Friedrichs and her husband Jason, a
local practicing ophthalmologist, make
sure to work as a team and involve
their family whenever possible.
“Nothing trumps family,” says DeKalb
native Dr. Friedrichs. “Family
brought us back. We wanted to
be back in the community.”
Recently the whole family participated
in Miles for Melanoma Race, where Dr.
Friedrichs gave free cancer screenings
and was able to show her children
Today Vietmeier attends regular check-ups
with Dr. Friedrichs at Radiant Dermatology.
“The exams are necessary to check for
any recurrence of the melanoma or
identifying any questionable spots that
may turn into melanoma,” he says.
Dr. Friedrichs’s interest in skin care was
inspired by her husband who advised her
to spend a day with a dermatologist
during medical school. She later
spent a month at the Cleveland Clinic
and a month at the University of
Iowa. Those experiences led her to
realize how much of an impact she
could have on numerous lives.
the reason she feels so passionately
about treating skin cancer. “It was
just amazing to watch them see and
talk to the survivors,” she recalls.
One local survivor is DeKalb resident
Brett Veitmeier who was diagnosed with
melanoma in 2014. “I was fortunate
in that I only have a scar to show
where my melanoma was located,”
says Veitmeier. “It had not penetrated
the second layer of skin, so it was
removed without any other treatment.”
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens.
11
INBEAUTY
I N R E C R E AT I O N
MY MAIN THING IS THE PREVENTION. ONCE YOU’RE
IN DERMATOLOGY AND YOU SEE A MELANOMA PATIENT,
YOU KNOW HOW EASILY IT CAN BE PREVENTED.”
In daily interactions, Friedrichs
Bike trails and dog parks
By Keith Cameron
“Melanoma is the most common form
emphasizes how people need to block
of cancer in women 25-29,” Friedrichs
all of the sun’s damaging rays. “What a
explains, a statistic attributed to early
lot of people don’t understand is that
and reoccurring use of tanning beds
there are two types of rays -- UV-B rays,
in teenagers and young adults.
H
which cause burning, and UV-A rays
which are more constant year round.”
sun exposure they actually receive
because their skin doesn’t burn or tan,
general sun safety, Dr. Friedrichs has
but an easy way to ensure that you’re
worked diligently to curb the use of
protected is by using and reapplying a
tanning beds, another common source
sunscreen made with an SPF blocker
of melanoma. Working on behalf of
of at least 30, a broad spectrum
the Illinois Dermatological Society,
blocker, and a physical blocker of
and with some help from Rep. Bob
zinc or titanium. “You don’t have to
Pritchard, she helped ban minors from
fear the sun,” says Friedrichs. “You
tanning booths in the state of Illinois.
just have to be smart about it.” f
and gloves, and most noticeably, people
people have become
quickly trade in their idle, home-based free-
now, remember that the local DeKalb
accustomed to sheltering
time for more active, outdoor activities.
and Sycamore areas have plenty of
themselves away during the cold
Many patients won’t realize how much
Along with educating her patients about
ere in Northern Illinois
WHAT TYPE OF SUN BLOCK?
• SPF 30 (minimum)
• Broad spectrum blocker
• Physical blockers such as
titanium or zinc
weekend trip may seem tempting right
activities to bring out outdoor aficionado
winter months, but as snow melts and
Nothing surpasses the feeling of a warm,
in all of us. Among those activities are
temperatures rise, winter hermits tend
summer sun mixing with cool breezes as
stretches of picturesque bike paths
to become summer enthusiasts.
you enjoy some time in nature with the
leading to summer-time fun for everyone.
family or a special someone. While a trip
Boots are traded for sandals. Hands and
to some distant forest-preserve for the
faces receive sunscreen instead of scarves
SKIN CARE TIPS!
• Reapply sunscreen every 90
minutes or 60 minutes if you’re
swimming or sweating
• Wear UFP 50 clothing
• Stay out of the sun during the
peak hours between 10 – 2
• Perform monthly selfchecks on your skin
THE ABC’S OF MELANOMA
(use this to identify possible skin cancer)
A. ASYMMETRY: One half of a
spot does not look like the other
B. BORDER: A spot has irregular,
scalloped, or poorly defined border
C. COLOR: Colors vary
from spot to spot
D. DIAMETER: Melanoma can
be any size, but check for
spots larger than the diameter
of a pencil eraser (6mm)
E. EVOLUTION: Check for
skin growths that are different
or changing in size
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DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens.
13
I N R E C R E AT I O N
you, “What did you do this weekend?”, then
plan a day of activities to enjoy together.
DOWNTOWN DEKALB, ELLWOOD
PARK, NIU CAMPUS
You have assuredly passed by the Ellwood
House in DeKalb, and driven past the
campus of Northern Illinois University,
but casually glancing out the driver’s side
window at some locale as it speeds past
you is not the same as actually partaking
(Remember it’s good custom for the
winner to buy ice cream afterward.)
After, that long trek disc golf tournament,
you have certainly earned the right to sit
and rest. If you remember to bring a lunch,
this will be the time to unpack your food
and relax under the foliage. A blanket
A BLANKET MIGHT BE SUITABLE AS YOU WILL UNDOUBTEDLY
WANT TO STRETCH OUT IN THE GRASS, CLOSE YOUR EYES AND
LET THE WARM AIR AND RUSTLING TREES CARRY YOUR MIND
FURTHER AND FURTHER AWAY FROM ALL OF YOUR CONCERNS.
HOPKINS PARK TO ANNIE’S
might be suitable as you will undoubtedly
WOOD’S TO PRAIRIE PARK
want to stretch out in the grass, close
This is a longer trek for those interested
your eyes and let the warm air and
in making a full afternoon of their outdoor
rustling trees carry your mind further and
adventuring. Starting at Hopkins Park,
further away from all of your concerns.
you’ll bike toward the northeast corner
and follow the river West. You’ll pass over
Hillcrest Avenue and follow the same path
until you reach the WNIJ radio station.
It’s time to venture into the back of
for a lot of outdoor activities. After
your garage, wheel your bike into
stretching and taking a quick loop
As you pedal, you will see Annie’s Woods,
the sunlight, perform some basic
around Hopkins Park to warm-up,
a perfect spot t let the kids play or to take
maintenance, and strap on your helmet
head out toward the softball fields
a moment to rehydrate. Pushing forward
because biking season is officially here.
located in the park’s northeast corner.
just a bit, you’ll reach the NIU campus,
and maneuver around the university’s
Here are some suggestions
Practice some pitching and batting
music building and lagoon. Emptying
for where to bike and what you
or even have a small pick-up game if
out onto Lincoln Hwy., head West toward
can do when you get there.
you remembered to invite someone
Pearl St. and move South. Take a right at
along with you. If you decided to
Gurler and you’ll arrive at Prairie Park.
PATHS FOR THE ATHLETE
The winter is especially hard on the
athlete who’s normal life includes
routine time spent outdoors. For
Sometimes you have those rare occasions
where you and the person you’re with
have a mutual day of no responsibilities.
When those come, because they don’t
come often, make plans to get out of the
home and back into your community.
So often now people find themselves
binge watching television or sleeping the
day away but also wondering where the
weekend went. If you want to make your
office mates a little jealous when they ask
a private batting cage where you
Make sure your bikes are in a secure
can practice your pitch solo.
spot because you might be distracted by
the Prairie Park’s main attraction –disc
up, and depending on your level of skill
DISTANCE OF NIU’S
River and then move toward First
with a Frisbee, this game might take
St. As you reach the corner of First
thirty minutes, or an entire afternoon.
LAGOON IN DAVIS HALL,
these are the paths for you.
and Bethany, you’ll start to see Katz
Either way, there is hardly a better way
OFFERS YOU AND YOUR
Park, the perfect place to get in some
to spend a spring day than by being out
HOPKINS PARK TO KATZ PARK
boarding at the local skate park, or
in nature with a group of friends. Even if
DATE THE CHANCE TO SEE
you can take a rest and eat a snack
those friends end up winning in the last
at a few of the picnic tables.
hole of your own disc golf tournament.
little longer than a bike ride allows,
Depending on when exactly you start
this ride, you potentially have time
Place yourself in downtown DeKalb
and start to wander past shops, coffee
vendors, and restaurants. You might see
something in a store window that captures
your attention, or you may randomly stop
and decide to go bargain hunting. Give
yourselves the time and freedom to let the
day plan itself – if only for a few hours.
While you are in the area, however, take
a ride over to the Ellwood House at 509
N. First St. for a guided tour offered
Tuesday through Sunday. Be sure to
visit ellwoodhouse.org for more tour
times and prices. When your guided
tour is over, you can give yourselves a
tour of the architecturally ornate and
lavish houses of the area next to the
NIU’s campus. Take as much time as you
want to get lost in your own backyard.
As evening approaches and your appetites
begin to swell, remember that you are
treat yourselves and dine al fresco if
you can. Just because you decided
to sit down for a meal, doesn’t mean
you need to shut yourself up again.
At this point, you can either end your
date day adventure, or try to squeeze
in one more activity. Traveling over to
NIU’s campus allows for a stroll at dusk
along the university’s lagoon. It’s the
perfect place to watch a sun set and
possibly enjoy another celestial body.
The observatory, located within
walking distance of NIU’s lagoon in
Davis Hall, offers you and your date
the chance to see beyond the stars.
Remember that observatory hours can
change depending on scheduling or
the weather, so be certain to visit the
website niu.edu/physics/observatory
to plan for the possibility of staring
into each other’s eyes just before
staring into the eye of Jupiter.
LOCATED WITHIN WALKING
your gear and bike over the Kishwaukee
simply want to stay out in the sun a
bike or walking shoes and get moving.
DeKalb’s local restaurants. Really
THE OBSERVATORY,
golf. The park has a long course set
more energy, or for those who
When you have the chance, dust off your
only a short distance away from many
ride solo, don’t worry, Hopkins has
Once you’re ready to move on, grab
those who want to burn off a little
14
PATHS FOR DATE DAY
in what the community has to offer.
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
BEYOND THE STARS.”
Where life happens.
15
I N R E C R E AT I O N
the noise of everyday life. This rural
location offers hiking, fishing, and an
Skip and his crews spend the extra time
to clean high-traffic areas by hand, often
going over soiled sections more than
once (at no additional charge). They
also employ a truck-mounted extraction
system that provides a more thorough
cleaning compared to the portable systems
used by many cleaning services.
off-leash dog area. Owners should
note that most of the park does require
a leash and there are no fences, so if
your pet is a bit more rambunctious
than most, you may just want to
use the leash for your entire visit.
In addition to the carpet, upholstery, leather,
wood floor, and tile/grout cleaning that
ServiceMaster Restoration and Cleaning
Services by Skip routinely performs for clients,
they are experts at erasing the effects of
water, sewer damage, mold, fire, and soot from
both commercial buildings and residences.
Afton is also a natural sanctuary for
grassland birds during nesting season,
so you may be able to enjoy some
rare sights while roaming through
several wandering prairie paths or
stopping at one of the several picnic
SYCAMORE GOLF COURSE,
event of sharing a bag of popcorn,
DOWNTOWN SYCAMORE
sipping a soda, and watching a
For those outdoor daters who may not
great story unfold before them.
have an entire day open, don’t worry
because the city of Sycamore also offers
the freedom to explore the local area.
Starting your date day with a bike ride in
the Sycamore Park District Golf Course
and Community Park, you will be able to
enjoy a slightly secluded part of the city.
Steering your path down Somonauk
St. and into residential Sycamore,
you will see some of the opulent and
embroidered houses adorning the
streets of their quiet neighborhoods.
A quick internet search for historic
homes in the area will provide you with
DeKalb County is quickly becoming the
place for dog owners by offering different
Katz park has quickly become one of
the most popular places to take dogs
for some exercise. The park offers a full
fenced in softball field for animals to run
and play. Owners can sit and converse at
picnic tables while taking refuge from the
for dogs weighing under twenty pounds.
dining options, and while you are making
a decision about where to eat, enjoy
the serene and charming atmosphere
of the streets filled with brick buildings
tower, overlooking a vast amount of
farmland – a perfect spot to end the day
with your four-legged companion – and
SERVICEMASTER RESTORATION
AND CLEANING SERVICES BY SKIP:
A HIGHER STANDARD OF CUSTOMER CARE
anyone else who wants to tag along. f
KATZ PARK - OFF LEASH
As the daylight begins to dwindle,
opportunity to choose from a variety of
park will lead you to an observation
with exercise and mental stimulation.
hot sun under an enclosed canopy. The
in the area. Sycamore offers you the
Hiking to the northeast corner of the
locations capable of providing your pet
a city wide history scavenger hunt.
stop at one of the several restaurants
16
PLACES FOR THE DOG
shelters to enjoy a small lunch.
park also features a smaller fenced areas
While your dog runs and exhausts its
pent-up energy, take the opportunity to
chat with other patrons. If your dog is
capable of making a new friend, then
you maybe as well. Katz Park isn’t just
a place for dogs to meet, it’s also a
illuminated by street lamps.
place for the community to mingle.
After your meal, you can decide to
AFTON FOREST PRESERVE
casually ride back home, or take in
– PARTIAL LEASH
a movie at Sycamore Theatre. The
Located at McGirr and Crego Rd., the
charismatic cinema offers movies
Afton Forest Preserve offers a secluded
for adults and the families who want
sanctuary for dog lovers and those
to enjoy the iconic summertime
looking to enjoy some time away from
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
ALSO A PATH FOR THE DOG:
In addition to being a great path
for biking, you could bring your
dog for a longer spring hike or jog.
Starting at Hopkins Park, you can
follow the same path, ending at
Katz Park, and let your dog run
free at the Katz Park dog park.
Make sure you keep an eye on your
pet and be ready to make friends
with other local residents. Those
who frequent the park are willing
to share tips and information
about their experiences with
their own furry friends.
If you plan to go on a warmer
day, make sure you bring along a
couple bottles of water for yourself
and your pet because this walk
can take a while to complete.
Skip Schramer doesn’t understand
mediocrity. For proof, look no further than
the remarkably successful career he has
built over the nearly 20 years he’s been with
the ServiceMaster Clean Corporation.
In 1994, Skip worked as a technician at
ServiceMaster of DeKalb County and
ServiceMaster of Sycamore. By 1999, he was
promoted to Service Manager, and in 2005
he bought his own franchise, a separate
ServiceMaster branch in the county that
had been underperforming for years. By
2012, Skip had transformed the struggling
business into the highest revenue-generating
ServiceMaster franchise in the area.
In late 2012 Skip purchased the ServiceMaster
of DeKalb County and ServiceMaster of
Sycamore franchises, where he started as a
technician in the nineties. All three locations
operate under the umbrella of ServiceMaster
Restoration and Cleaning Services by Skip.
Skip also credits his excellent staff, his
adherence to rigid quality standards, and
his commitment to his customers for the
success he has experienced over the years.
“You are only as good as your employees,
and I have great people working with
me,” said Skip. “All my technicians are
trained in the ‘ServiceMaster by Skip’
way of doing things. We put the client’s
needs first, and we never cut corners
and sacrifice quality to get a job done
quickly. Most importantly, we treat the
customer’s home as if it was our own.”
“We are a ServiceMaster-certified Quality
Restoration Vendor (QRV), meaning we
adhere to a rigid set of standards and have
to get re-certified each year in the most
current protocols,” said Skip. “Our Senior
Technicians are certified in water remediation,
fire restoration, and carpet and upholstery
cleaning by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning
and Restoration Certification (IICRC).”
Whether it’s water mitigation services after
heavy rains or a broken pipe, sanitizing
services after a sewer back-up, or fire/
smoke/odor remediation after a fire, Skip
says his customers can rest assured
ServiceMaster Restoration and Cleaning
Services by Skip is equal to the challenge.
To schedule an appointment with
ServiceMaster Restoration and Cleaning
Services by Skip, call (815) 754-5500. You can
also stop by their offices at 1280 E. State St.
in Sycamore or request an appointment on
their website: www.servicemasterbyskip.com.
SERVICEMASTER CLEAN IS NOW SERVICEMASTER RESTORE
TO BETTER REFLECT OUR REMEDIATION AND RESTORATION SERVICES!
“I chose the name ‘ServiceMaster Restoration
and Cleaning Services by Skip’ because it
tells people everything that we do,” said Skip.
“I believe our name and the great service we
provide have been the reasons for our growth.”
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Where life happens.
17
99.6%
98%
96%
of the time NO
of our patients walk
of our patients discharge
our patients are fully
infection rate for
complication
greater than 300
directly home without
satisfied and would
primary total hip
(Complication rate is
feet the morning
the need for home
refer patients back
and total knee
0.4% far surpassing the
after surgery
health nor a nursing/
to our program
replacement patients
national benchmarks)
90%
zero
rehabilitation facility
is the core of our program and allows
us to continually improve the care that
we deliver to our patients and achieve
outcomes that have been recognized
nationally and now internationally,” says
RaJeev. “I treat all of my patients as if they
are my family and my family deserves
only the absolute best care available.”
This method results in a high patient
Cheryl Gush (visitor), Dawn Hudgins (visitor), Dr. Rajeev Jain (joint replacement specialist) and Matthew Carter (visitor).
success rate that has won national
KISHHEALTH SYSTEM
JOINT CENTER:
AMAZING RESULTS,
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
and international attention. As a
During these visits, the Joint Center
happiness in this facility is evident
result, the Joint Center routinely
teaches others about their specialized
when you walk through the front door.
hosts visiting hospitals and health
approach to patient care, reviews current
Thank you for this privileged visit.”
systems interested in learning how
best practices, and educates attendees
to improve their own patient care.
about performance improvements
The Joint Center has recently achieved
and how to improve care based upon
a new accomplishment, reducing
statistical analysis and trends.
the need for blood transfusions in
“We have hosted facilities from Illinois,
Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Oklahoma,
their patients from approximately
Wyoming, Texas, South Carolina, Arizona,
“It has been a great experience to see
California and New York,” says Smith.
16% in 2010 to below 2% in 2014.
such engagement in patient care,”
“Most recently we hosted visitors from
Jackson Hole, Wyoming and New Zealand.”
says Cheryl Gush, a visitor from the
While blood transfusions are expected
New Zealand health system. “The
for some patients, the decision to
reduce transfusions was motivated by
I COULDN’T BE MORE
PLEASED WITH THE CARE
AND SUPPORT I RECEIVED AT
THE JOINT CENTER ... THE
ENTIRE STAFF PROVIDES
A SYSTEMATIC AND WELLDESIGNED PLAN FOR
RECOVERY”
- Marilyn Bazel
K
KISHHEALTH JOINT CENTER BLOOD TRANSFUSION RATE
ishHealth System Joint Center
Once a month the Joint Center doctors
has gained both national and
and staff meet to review center
international recognition as
research and discuss what works
14%
it continues to increase patient
best for patients. By utilizing this
success rates.
patient-centered approach, the Joint
12%
Center is able to confirm what specific
“When a patient comes to the KishHealth
System Joint Center, they can be assured
to continuously improve patient care.
6%
Dave Smith, Joint Care Coordinator.
Joint Center Director, Dr. Rajeev Jain
2%
compassionate care which is determined
for the care of the center’s patients. “It
0%
by continuous research and analysis.”
is the process improvement focus that
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
sponsor of this article.]
7.6%
CONTACT THE KISHHEALTH
4.2%
SYSTEM JOINT CENTER
1.8%
AT (815) 748-2968
KISHJOINTCENTER.ORG
2010
18
[KishHealth System is the proud
11.1%
4%
believes this process to be essential
“We use a unique system that stresses
we can avoid a blood transfusion,” says
Smith, “the patient is better off.” f
10%
8%
we provide the best care possible,” says
risk of infection and associated costs. “If
16.1%
treatments work well. Data is then used
the possibility of side effects including
cardiac complications and the increased
2011
2010
2013
2014
Where life happens.
19
I N T R AV E L
...THE NOISY AIRPLANE AND MY FIRST TRIP IN AN
AIRPLANE ARE ADORNING THE COFFEE TABLE IN THE
LIVING ROOM, AND HAVE BECOME DAILY FAVORITES.”
Travel with
Toddlers
By Karen Weckerly
WHAT MY FAMILY DID TO SURVIVE
THE AIRPORT AND THE PLANE
RIDE AFTER WE DECIDED FLYING
FROM CHICAGO TO HAWAII
WITH A 4 AND NEARLY-2 YEAR
OLD WOULD BE A GOOD IDEA
ALOHA, HAWAII-
PACKING. The best tip I
the sea, the scent, the sand, the quiet
received about packing from another mom
stillness—this will be my fourth trip to the
was to put a few items for each person into
islands. I’ve been anticipating that first
every bag, so if one bag is lost, it is not just
breath of floral air for nearly a year, and
one person’s belongings entirely missing.
I am so excited to share the experience
My first personal piece of “lesson learned”
with my husband and two young
advice: only travel with hard-shell luggage.
children. But first, we must all survive a
You never know when someone’s deep-sea
long travel day. This trip will be the first
fishing excursion cooler will randomly spill
time traveling with not one, but two little
onto your bag, destroying the bag, making
ones, and I’d be lying if I claimed not to
a miserable and expensive pile of hotel
be anxious about the airport, TSA and
laundry, and wrecking havoc with your
the flight especially. At ages 4 and 2, it
vacation. Second “lesson learned” piece
should be a magical “once-in-a-lifetime”
of advice: with a big time-zone change,
type of idyllic trip, so I am up to the task
pack your own coffee & filters for the hotel
of prepping for months ahead of time.
coffee pot. Starbucks doesn’t usually open
until 5:30a and your jet-lagged kiddos will
At ages 4 and nearly-2, these kiddos
probably awaken at, oh, about 2:30a local
are active and will need entertainment.
time, if you are lucky. Hotel coffee just isn’t
They are also very much aware of
going to cut it for that big of a caffeine
their surroundings, and I hope a bit of
need. We knew about the jet-lag, but
planning will ease their fears about the
forgot about the caffeine. Lesson learned,
experience and avoid major meltdowns.
indeed. Depending on the destination,
As a parent, their safety and comfort
I have also taken to only packing flat
are my highest priority, really. So,
sandals. On Maui, the vibe is very casual,
without further ado, I present the items
so it works, and I get to bring more pairs
deemed carry-on worthy, and activities
of shoes, which is key, obviously.
TSA PRE-CHECK.
REHEARSAL. Taking
Check to see if you qualify at
a vacation is a huge—and fabulous—
as a good sign! Of the many published
www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck then visit
change from the everyday routine.
books for children about travel, The
universalenroll.dhs.gov to apply. You
My kiddos tend to freak out over
Noisy Airplane and My First Trip in an
will have to jump through some virtual
last minute changes in their day, so I
Airplane are adorning the coffee table
hoops, and go to an Enrollment Center,
began researching ways to rehearse
in the living room and have become
available locally at the On-The-Go
the travel day ahead of time, and
daily favorites, but there are dozens
Healthcare Clinic in the Petro just
hopefully reduce angst. We needed
of good choices available. Curious
outside Rochelle to be photographed and
a personalized narrative to get us
George Takes a Vacation is playing on
fingerprinted. It was worth the trouble
through, so I wrote the text, and the
repeat for the 809235th time in the
and extra $80 cost to skip to the front of
hubs, Ryan, got to work finding the
mini-van too. I’ve even purchased
the security line, keep our shoes on, keep
pictures. Using an inexpensive photo
similar miniature planes to the one
our liquids and laptops inside our bags,
flip album, our own pictures, and a
George is given at the airport because
and made it much more manageable to
few stock photos from around the
that might be a thing with how many
get through security with our children.
internet, I wrote a little story about
times we have watched that episode,
Plus, children under 12 get a free pass
the travel day and what would occur,
and children can be tyrannical about
with a qualified adult. Otherwise, they
emphasizing that we would all stay
details. It will be a cute surprise
are strip searched—only kidding!
together. So far, my youngest is
for them either way, so win-win.
AIRPORT SECURITY.
obsessed with it, so I am taking that
Much of my
travel anxiety centers on the airport itself, the new environment,
the “scary” TSA agents, and how my children will cope with
it. Dragging my screaming toddlers through airport security
won’t entirely ruin my vacation, but it makes for a rough
start. My youngest is especially sensitive and shy, so she
is getting extra attention to be prepared and know what to
expect. O’Hare doesn’t have rehearsal days for children, so
I’ve been using the magic that is YouTube to show both my
children videos of the airport. TSA has a useful page www.
tsa.gov/tsa-kids/parents-page entirely devoted to preparing
families for travel. It is helpful for us to know ahead of time
that kids under 12 do not have to remove their shoes for
screening, and that younger children may be carried through
the metal detectors, if needed. The rules for transporting
liquids, and exceptions to those rules are listed as well.
we found helpful to do ahead of time.
20
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens.
21
I N T R AV E L
GEAR.
Car seats. OK, technically
not carry-on, but we WILL carry them on
the plane, so let’s not split hairs. I am
not talking about the nice little newborn
seats with the handy handle. I’m talking
about the bigger ones. Anyone who
has schlepped a convertible car seat
TOYS! AKA:
onto a plane knows the pain of which I
speak. Heavy, awkward—definitely—but
IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT.
the reasons to have my own car seats
MORE GEAR. Speaking
Thankfully we live in the age of the iPad
of Gogo BabyZ, (and no, I do not work for
used freely. Adding kid-friendly ArmorBox
outweigh the trouble of bringing them
along, even with the expense of buying
the extra seat on the plane. Gatechecking or using a rental seat are just
GOGO BABYZ.
Gogo
Kidz BabyZ Travelmate is how the cool
kids—er parents—haul their car seats
travelmate in use by another family of
more problematic for a tired, jet-lagged
four on our last Maui trip, and ran over
family upon reaching our destination.
in your party
practice latching and unlatching your
car seat because this drill will be
is FAA approved, usually indicated
on the seat, or the flight attendants
don’t have wifi on the plane: old school,
down to the size of a small suitcase. I’m
low-tech toys of my generation like the
thinking that it is our best bet for this trip
MY FAVORITE
{ T R AV E L }
to walk? Carry-on bags can ride. I love
its versatility, and it is seriously easy to
all together” parents with people asking
may not allow it onto the plane.
the kiddos will inevitably realize they
as I can put anything in it. Kiddos want
the plane, the extra seat and $99 of
wheel effortlessly through the airport.
having so much screen time, and since
wheels, is lightweight yet sturdy, and folds
now.” Plus, if the kiddos sleep at all on
us about our smarty-pants gear as we
new to them, toys to get a break from
really. This little work-horse has all-terrain
should simply say, “Give us your money
Plus, now we are the cool, hip, “have it
am also bringing a small cache of small,
is a worthy investment for any adventure,
can double as a stroller. Their website
day. Also, be sure that your car seat
by mermaids and unicorns”—SOLD! I
ASTM safety regulations for strollers, so it
that folds down to near nothing, and
extra gear will have been well worth it.
reviewer put it, “The ArmorBox was crafted
kid-gear items. It is designed to meet
to ask about it. It works with any car
repeated many times on the travel
hope!—Plus HANDLES. As one Amazon
collapsible wagon, it is one of my favorite
3” razor wheels, telescoping handle
Have all adults
cases will avert disaster—at least I can
wagon/stroller. So far using this fully
seat, has a quick release ratchet strap,
PRO TIP:
them, I swear!) the newer item that we are
trying out on this trip will be the hybrid
through the airport. I first spotted the
too risky for me and potentially much
and electronic reader, so those will be
collapse. The all-terrain wheels will work
well hauling kids or towels over the sand
at the beach too. The winning feature for
me is that I have the option to push or pull
it. I’ve never pulled it, honestly, but the
front handle also serves as an excellent
cattle prod in crowded areas compared
to a low umbrella stroller. Over a dozen
people stopped us to ask about it—even
an older gentleman interested in using it
for around his garden. Also overheard from
another family as we exited the plane and
I expertly flipped the wagon open: “They’ve
traveled before!” Little did they know it was
our maiden voyage with two kiddos—ha!
BAG-LADY: EBAGS
MOTHER LODE WEEKENDER.
I was loathe to buy yet another utility bag,
as my preference leans more toward “fun”
bags with the first name “Jimmy” and the
last name “Choo,” but at 22” x 14” x 9” and
weighing in at 3lbs, 15oz. this bag was
worth a closer look. I was interested in
having a completely hands-free carry on,
as my hands were going to be full with
two kiddos and their car seats. I ordered
the bright green color so that it would
easier to spot in a crowd, in case we
were separated, and it is unisex so either
parent can carry it without losing too
much street cred. It arrived, and I have to
say I am both excited and scared at how
IF WE GET DESPERATE, I
AM PREPARED TO MAKE HAND
PUPPETS OUT OF THE BARF BAGS,
AND TELL STORIES ABOUT THEM.“
22
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
much this bag will potentially hold. With
the many sections, tie-downs, and divided
interior section, it is safe to say we will
be super organized rather than frantically
digging for our items. One caveat: they
hold so much, it is easy to make them
heavy, so be strategic with your packing.
THINGS
iPad or eReader
ArmorBox
The Noisy Airplane
My First Trip on an Airplane
Curious George Takes a Vacation
Gogo BabyZ Travelmate
Gogo BabyZ Wagon-Stroller
Etch-A-Sketch mini, Hairy Harry, mini
chalkboard slates—Handwriting Without
Tears makes one the perfect size along
with dust-free chalk—and also hoping to
get an hour or two out of some Melissa &
Doug reusable sticker sets and magnetic
Curious George play sets. Nothing that
can roll too far away! A couple of favorite
books, borrowing heavily from the in-flight
stash of plastic cups and spoons will
also be in order. If we get desperate, I am
prepared to make hand puppets out of the
barf bags, and tell stories about them.
CHECK OUT MORE AT:
THEFLYMOMMY.COM
Handwriting Without Tears Mini Slate
Etch-a-sketch
Melissa & Doug Reusable
Sticker Activity Pads
Curious George Magnetic Playset
MotherLode Weekender Convertible
Carry-On from eBags
Hard-shell Kenneth Cole luggage
Where life happens. 23
24
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens. 25
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26
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
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(815) 539-6263
209 Powers Road, Hwy. 251 North
Rochelle, IL 61068
(815) 562-8792
w w w. m e y e r s f u r n i t u r e . c o m
FIND US ON FACEBOOK!
Where life happens. 27
INSHOPPING
By Keith Cameron
HIDDEN TREASURES
in
WITH SPRING COMES
CLEAN, AND WITH CLEAN
COMES NEW.
Your Neighbors
Front Yard
But the new “it item” that keeps appearing in your imagination shouldn’t
come with a price tag that drives you into debt, and for this reason, the
inventive bargain hunters of the world created the garage sale.
W
e all want to save money, so
from all over the state who are looking to
it’s no surprise that garage
find great deals no matter the distance.
sales have become a staple
“Last year we had two women call from
annually during the Treasures in the Attic
weekend, but many people are thinking
about the festivities 365 days a year.
of the season and just as prolific as
Galesburg Illinois asking for directions,”
the fragrance of freshly cut grass. So,
says Rose Treml, Executive Director of
“We receive phone calls from interested
for those interested in making some
the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce.
‘treasure hunters’ all year long,” says
Treml, and she points out that the
serious finds, this spring can provide
That type of dedication to the deal is
weather in Northern Illinois is perfect in
rare treasures of our fantasies.
easy to understand when considering
June if you want to spend the weekend
the amount of garages opening all
hunting for an antique piece necessary
FOR THE TRADITIONALIST
at once. According to Treml there
for completing the “shabby-chic” look
are usually 100 plus sales going on
you’re adopting in your own home.
opportunities for discovering those
Before you self-identify as a traditionalist,
ask yourself this question: What do you
like more, driving somewhere, handing
someone your cash and driving off, or do
you enjoy spending the day meeting some
new people while browsing in the sun?
If you’re the type of person who enjoys
the in-depth thrill of the hunt more
than the certainty of buying, then
you’re probably a traditionalist, and
for you, traditional garage sales are
always the guaranteed way to go.
Fortunately for you, the city of Sycamore
devotes an entire weekend to garage
sales from June 11-13. The event known
as Treasures in the Attic brings people
28
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens. 29
INSHOPPING
“Unlike Craigslist the anonymity is taken
away,” says Threewitt. “Each person’s
account is tied to their Facebook profile
so you automatically have a name and
a face to put with your purchase.”
You can follow the status of a
fashionable handbag the same way
you follow your favorite celebrity on
Twitter. Unlike Twitter, disagreements
on VarageSale are typically resolved
by the third party administrators who
use a site wide code-of-conduct to
resolve disputes among users.
“As an admin we have to weigh-in
on issues with transactions as they
arise,” said Threewitt. “For example
some of the issues that come up are
UNLIKE CRAIGSLIST
THE ANONYMITY
IS TAKEN AWAY.
EACH PERSON’S
ACCOUNT IS TIED TO
THEIR FACEBOOK
PROFILE, SO YOU
AUTOMATICALLY
HAVE A NAME AND
A FACE TO PUT WITH
YOUR PURCHASE.”
people who miss their scheduled
“A member may end up purchasing
items multiple times from one buyer or
pick up times and questions of which
buyer has the right to purchase first.”
only have a single transaction,” adds
FURNITURE
FASHION
HOBBY
site administrator Katie Threewitt.
Locally, members can find items
varying from barn doors to children’s
Deals are often conducted right on
toys and even an antique accordion.
site in same fashion that a Facebook
conversation would take place. Users can
“The most interesting things I see
“like” and “watch” items to follow the same
are usually the vintage/antique
way you “like” and “follow” posts or people.
With its continued success, Treasures in
and managed by fellow deal chasers.
Similar to other social networking
the Attic continues to gain supporters and
If you’re leery about online shopping,
sites, VarageSale operates on a local
patrons every year, and the event shows
then you may be turned off by sites
level, so the people you buy from
no signs of slowing down in the future.
like Craigslist which force you to sift
are never far away. Members often
through countless listings just to drive
find that buying and selling leads to
to an unknown destination and bargain
new friendships in the community.
“This will be our 7th year, and we hope it
will be our best ever,” Says Treml. “We
are already receiving phone calls and
accepting registration forms that you
that it is a true community,” adds
USING TECH TO NAB THE DEAL
cyber-sleuth or an urban explorer, so
have been formed from people
if the idea of getting a cut-rate gem
who have met on the page.“
garage sale season all year long, you
may need to shop online, and the easiest
way to do so may be with user friendly
bargain hunting platforms developed for
administrators, some friendly neighbors,
and your favorite shopping partner, you’ll
be able to scope out the deal you’ve
been dreaming of this entire season. f
different than other selling sites is
Decker. “In fact, many friendships
once a year. So if you want to enjoy the
there. And with the help of some online
“The thing that makes VarageSale
which doesn’t require you to be a
now on your springtime radar, you must
30
process sounds idyllic, but it’s not ideal.
Today, however, there’s an alternative
remember this event only occurs only
So for those who are dedicated enough,
deals on the items of your dreams are out
with a stranger. In our imaginations the
can get on discoversycamore.com.”
Just because Treasures in the Attic is
items,” said Decker. “Someone once
was selling some end tables from the
1970s, and those were pretty neat.”
from the comfort of your couch still
appeals to you, then the online service
Those friendships sometimes
VarageSale might be the best option.
foster lucrative trading partners
as well, or people may only buy
“The biggest motivating factor is the ability
from somebody only once. Either
to save money,” says local resident and
way, the process is fairly simple
VarageSale administrator Brandee Decker.
and the users are always local.
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
*(From left to right) VarageSale site administrators Katie Threewitt, Andy Decker, Brandee Decker, and Jessica Fischer. (Not pictured Amanda Williams.)
Where life happens.
31
INPEOPLE
Making Lattes,
Friends, and Homes
in Sycamore
By Keith Cameron
It’s 9am on a dreary Tuesday, and the Shawn’s Café corner coffee shop is
packed with morning customers ready to move forward with the day. Everyone
strolls into the corner shop with the same ease as walking into their own
kitchen or living room. Here everyone seems to know somebody else.
A
couple stands off to one corner
In a few minutes the morning rush dies
This choreography of customer and
waiting patiently, and then
down, and the bustling market returns
shop owner undoubtedly happens every
suddenly Shawn Thrower has
to the neighborhood coffee shop.
morning, and while nothing at all seems
literally ducked his head to come from
Customers continue to straggle in as
scheduled, there is a sense of expectation
behind the counter and personally
baristas wipe down tables, take orders
and ritual as coffee cups are restacked
handed the customers their order.
and prepare for the day ahead of them.
and the smell of fresh dough baking in
Amid the noise of coffee grinders and
Shawn strikes up a conversation with
morning chatter, Shawn’s voice can still
a patron about last night’s March
This is the world Shawn Thrower has created
be heard through the crowd. “Thanks for
Madness results. “I told my wife that
in his Sycamore café. It is for many the
schooling me,” he says as he hands the
nine minutes is like an entire game in
place where the first conversation of the day
couple their order, smiling the entire time.
basketball,” he says while managing to
occurs. It is quiet and yet lively – hushed at
“Sorry about that. I try to get it right.”
somehow lean over the counter and still
some moments and clamorous in others. But
physically tower over everyone else.
it is always an extension of Shawn himself.
a backroom oven permeates the air.
The original order was obviously
wrong, but no one seems to care.
The delay in this couple’s morning
has just been an opportunity to talk
with the proprietor, a welcome pause.
The three talk like old friends who
YEAH, I’M GOING TO RISK THAT BECAUSE I’VE
ALWAYS WANTED TO DO SOMETHING ON MY OWN.”
have met on the street, attempting to
catch-up as quickly as possible.
32
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens. 33
INPEOPLE
nothing skipped a beat. But if you ask
Thrower about those twenty years of
managing this business, he’ll tell you
that change happens all of the time.
In addition to all the all of the success
he’s had, Thrower has faced down
challenging times as well. In 2001 he
was forced to file bankruptcy and closed
two of his three locations. “That was
I DON’T GET
RAZZLED REAL EASILY.
IT’S NOT WORTH IT.
LIFE IS TOO SHORT.”
a real tough time when you’re trying
to hang on to your business and your
house. That was a real stressful time.”
It’s now just a few minutes past 9am,
Thrower came to the DeKalb/ Sycamore
and while business remains calm for a
area to attend college at Northern Illinois
few more minutes, Thrower steps into
University. The 6 ft. ’7 high school
the backroom and checks on the ovens.
basketball star was tempted by other
Walking up to the front, he adjusts a pale-
schools, but the honest Coach McDougal
yellow, timeworn baseball cap and dusts
persuaded him that NIU was the right
of his shirt; there’s never a down moment,
decision when it came to education.
and it’s time to man the counter again.
done and then following through.
“He came out to my community and
At the time Shawn’s opened, Thrower had
“There’s a lot that I didn’t know about
was real straight and honest to me,”
worked as a restaurant manager, was
Thrower says. “He told me what I
married, and had two children. For many,
honestly wanted to hear. He told it
the reality of supporting a family would
like it was. He flat out told me I’m
be enough reason to stay at a steady job,
not going to start unless I earn it.”
but Thrower’s aspirations were fueled by
his most significant supporter – his wife.
something to learn from but not dwell
on. “I don’t get razzled real easily. It’s
not worth it. Life is too short.” Instead,
Thrower dedicated himself in the same
manner he has always been accustomed
to by admitting what needs to be
the food industry and the coffee
business for that matter,” he admits.
“But you read a lot, you do a lot of
research, you visit a lot of places and
you come up with your own concoction
of what you think is going to work.”
That type of straight forward honesty
“She was all for it. She was 110% behind
is also a personal quality which pushed
me, so that made it a lot easier. That takes
Thrower to take one of the biggest
all the pressure of you whatsoever.”
itself into every aspect of the Shawn’s
open his locally famous coffee shop.
Soon after quitting his management
chalkboard menu, the welcoming
“The hardest part is taking the risk,”
position, Shawn’s went from dream
Thrower says while leaning his large
to reality, and to many in the area,
frame against a coffee table.
this is how the story ends. Shawn’s
risks of his life when he decided to
opened it’s doors, and for twenty years
“I understand most people they get in this
little comfortable job and they’re there
for years. They have a check coming
in every week, the kids are clothed, the
wife is happy, they got money in the
That concoction has now embedded
Café. The uniqueness of the of the
atmosphere, and constant, steady pace
of employees moving about balances
with the customers who can still find
quiet tables to crack open books
or merely collect their thoughts.
Today, this well established sense of
ambition and calm comes from a place
of wisdom, and if you ask Thrower
bank. Do you really want to risk that?”
about business now, he’ll mention
As he relaxes his shoulders, Thrower
real truths. “There’s no such thing
says with confidence, “Yeah, I’m
going to risk that because I’ve always
wanted to do something on my own.”
34
But he now sees the whole endeavor as
Originally from the south side of Chicago,
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
the learning process and some very
as perfect service in any business. If
somebody tells you that, they’re lying.
Because that means that business is
perfect, and there’s no such thing.”
Where life happens. 35
INPEOPLE
American Realty
WELCOME TO
Attracted by the small-town appeal,
the couple chose to stay in the DeKalb/
Sycamore region when they started
their family, and this is a habit Thrower
sees throughout the community.
He watches as younger residents move
away from the area for school only to
move back. “I’m surprised how many come
back here and start their family here. That
says a lot about the community, that they
trust the community. It has a lot to offer.”
It’s a sentiment that few would argue
with, and when he talks about the home
he came from and the one he’s made,
There’s no place like home.
And, DeKalb County is
ours. We understand that when it comes to buying or selling a home, the
only thing that matters is our unique local market. We do our homework.
Shawn acknowledges the similarities
and the changes. “Actually it [Sycamore]
seems better than home because I
“You’ll go in dips where you’ll have
and three children, but managing
employee turnover and service will
a business while consecutively
suffer, and then you’ll come back,
raising a family hasn’t been easy.
and the service will surpass that,
but you’ll always have a wave.”
When you ask him which has been
more difficult, Shawn answers with
As Thrower gives this insight, he gestures
his patented, room-filling laugh. “Oh
around the room and highlights a group
raising a family. It’s not even close,” he
of employees moving through the café.
says grinning. “I seriously think that’s
Everyone is busy restacking cups, wiping
probably one of the hardest things
down machines, or arranging tables. You
that any man or woman or husband or
can tell by the wide grin on his face that
wife can do is managing a family.”
he knows this is a high point in the wave.
Pivotal to managing his family is the
The home he has created here for
influence of Thrower’s wife, Lori. “I
his customers also reflects the
tell you what. My wife is probably the
home Shawn has built with his wife
biggest inspiration that I have,” Shawn
says. “She was always telling me
don’t worry about it. It’ll be alright.”
I’M SURPRISED
HOW MANY COME BACK
HERE AND START THEIR
FAMILY HERE. THAT
SAYS A LOT ABOUT THE
COMMUNITY, THAT THEY
TRUST THE COMMUNITY.
IT HAS A LOT TO OFFER.”
Originally a teacher in the Sycamore
school district, Lori later decided to
homeschool the couple’s three children,
total mayhem, but when I grew up there
things were a little bit less chaotic. You
didn’t have the crime, the way we have
now, people were a little more trusting,
your neighbors looked out for you.”
As he makes this comparison, the
community Shawn speaks so highly of
continues to move through his café but at
a trickle instead of the morning rush. Still,
he greets them all personally and by name
because these patrons are neighbors.
They do look out for another. And while
watching the interaction between
customer and owner, it’s hard to tell
Lee Ann Foresman
Alison Rosenow
Kelly Robinson
Broker Associate, SFRM
Managing Broker Owner
Broker Associate, QRS, QSP
815-508-6870
815-762-5226
815-217-0766
[email protected]
which has shaped the other more. You
wonder if they just fit together. f
Some agents will tell you what you want to hear rather than providing solid statistics
to guide you to the best decisions possible when listing or buying. We are interested
in sound business decisions, effective marketing and timely communication.
but she still always managed to find
ways of showing support for her husband
and their 26 year long marriage.
There is only one “first impression”. Let us help you make it the best one.
“She’s not part of the everyday
operation,” says Shawn, “but getting
up at 2 o’clock in the morning, a lot
of times she’s up with me, kissing me
before I go to work. If it wasn’t for, I
seriously don’t think I’d be here.”
36
grew on the south side of Chicago -- not
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
AmericanRealtyIL.com
519 W State Street, Sycamore, Illinois 60178
Where life happens. 37
Dressing
Your Mantle
All Year
Round
W IT H AS H LE Y MU R C IA
“MAKING YOUR MANTLE
SHINE THROUGHOUT THE
YEAR IS AS SIMPLE AS A DIY”
I
n many homes, the fireplace symbolizes a place
of gathering, a place where memories are made,
and a place of warmth. Yet, when it comes to home
décor, the mantle tends to be a place that only gets
dressed up once a year and only around the winter
holidays. But with all sorts of holidays and happenings
between spring and winter, who says you can’t have a
little decorating fun with your mantle all year long?
Ashley Murcia is the owner/designer
of re-nest studio, a customized
home décor and personalized
Just by taking a simple look at Pinterest, you will see
party décor Etsy boutique, based
the options for mantle décor are booming! Whether it is
in DeKalb. In addition to creating
vases, banners, or swags that strike your décor fancy,
the options really are endless. And the great news is
that making your mantle shine throughout the year is as
simple as a DIY project you can do in less than a day!
unique home and party décor,
Ashley also shares her work, DIY
tutorials, and life stories as a
mother on her blog,
An easy way to dress up a mantle is with a simple fabric swag
banner. With a quick trip to your local craft store (JoAnn’s,
Hobby Lobby), and some basic materials, you’ll have your
alittlecreativeeveryday.blogspot.com.
mantle spruced up with some color and texture in no time!
38
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Where life happens. 39
HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL
NEED TO GET STARTED:
“AFFIX YOUR SWAG TO
YOUR MANTLE FOR A
LITTLE EXTRA, HANDMADE
1
2
3
Ribbon, bakers twine, or twine
(measured to length of your mantle plus
additional for preferred drape.)
Three to four different patterned
or solid fabrics to match your
color scheme/décor
(It’s recommended to use a lightweight cotton
with ½ yard of each fabric.)
Scissors
Either pinking shears or straight scissors, based
on your preference.
DÉCOR FOR YOUR HOME!”
1 Start your swag by cutting your ribbon or twine
to the preferred length for your mantle (including the
amount of drape you would like). Simply adhere/fasten
your ribbon or twine to one end of the mantle, drape
to the opposite side, mark your length, and cut.
2 Set aside your ribbon or twine (for now!), and
layout your fabrics. If your fabrics have wrinkles or
fold marks, a quick pass of a hot iron over your fabrics
is a great way to prep your fabrics for cutting.
3 With your fabric flattened out, fold your fabric
over one time horizontally. Cut the fabric horizontally
with either your pinking shears or straight scissors,
to give you two swatches of fabric (approximately
22-1/2”H x 18” W). Take all of your fabrics and make
cuts to get a total of six to eight pieces of fabric.
SEE AND BE SEEN IN GLASSES FROM
4 Choose one swatch of fabric, and place it flat, ready to cut.
Select your pinking shears or straight scissors (depending on
the style of cut you would like). Depending on your personal
preference, the fabric strips can be as wide or skinny as
you’d like! (I typically go with a 1” wide fabric strip.) Take your
scissors and cut your first strip the entire length of the fabric,
and continue to cut strips on this fabric swatch, and on all
of the others until you have a nice assortment of strips.
5 Once all of your strips are cut, it’s time to start tying them
on your ribbon/twine! The easiest way to do this is to do a
simple pull-through knot, knotting fabric strips all along the
ribbon/twine until it’s full. And, don’t forget to get creative with
your fabric strips….mix up the order in whatever way you like!
6 And, the finishing touch….affix your swag to your
mantle for a little extra, handmade décor for your home!
Lacking a mantle? Don’t worry! These super-simple swags have so many other uses with your home decor! Take your custom,
SAMA, ZERO G, SILHOUETTE, LACOSTE, LUCKY BRAND & MORE
(815) 758-1039
SPEXEXPRESSIONS.COM
40
2570 DEKALB AVENUE • SYCAMORE, IL 60178
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
handmade fabric swag, and drape is across an entryway, along a staircase, or as wall art above a couch or bed. Make one as
party décor for graduation parties, birthdays, engagements, or for any reason to celebrate, or a smaller version makes a lovely
addition to a lampshade to add some uniqueness and personalization! f
DO YOU H AVE DIY PROJECTS YOU’VE DONE TO SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME? WE WANT TO SEE THEM!
SH ARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK AT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/INVIRONMENTSM AGAZINE.
Where life happens.
41
INBOOKS
INVIRONMENTS
MAGAZINE
BOOK CLUB
You’ll LOVE
These Book Club
Suggestions
T H I S MONTH S SERIES
M
y husband I appreciate
different shows on TV, but we
both relish intriguing television
mysteries. Detective shows like Bones and
those featured on Masterpiece Theatre are
among our mutual favorites. These series
are available both here at the library and
through streaming video, but you can also
enjoy them through the written word.
I have always been intrigued by two
classic versions of the mystery story.
I like the private investigator model as
well as the police procedural. Often,
mysteries are looking at general society
and the ills that are prevalent. For
example, Steig Larsson’s incredibly
successful Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
trilogy investigates Swedish society using
the lone detective model through the
perspective of a young woman and her
investigative reporter friend who fulfills
the part of the procedural police back up.
[InVironments introduces new books each issue in cooperation
with the DeKalb Public Library and its executive director,
Dee Coover. If you’d like to share your thoughts about this
month’s books for publication in the July/August issue,
send them to [email protected] by June 1.]
3-23 “ A Visual Memoir” of
visiting professor and recently was the
featured speaker at the NIU Anthropology
Museum’s 50th Anniversary gala evening.
Murder mysteries are perennial favorites
at libraries, and classic British mysteries
are always popular at all age levels of
library patrons. These new versions of
the classic formula are real hits on TV.
Colin Dexter’s Inspector Morse book series
has spawned into three different crime
dramas. The shows Inspector Morse,
Inspector Lewis, and Endeavor are all based
on Dexter’s gruff detective character who
loves opera and has a prickly relationship
with authority. The character’s nettlesome
nature translates to his superiors and also
to the hypocrisy of some Oxford faculty
members. Due to the success of the
original series two other dramas were
developed. Inspector Lewis focuses
on Morse’s assistant and Endeavor
stresses Morse’s early career.
With American mysteries a lone private
investigator appears, and the plot line
changes dramatically. Books which also
use this pattern have found success in
other media. The show Bones is based on
a book series centered around character
Temperance Brennan. Brennan is the
creation of forensic anthropologist
and bestselling author Kathy Reichs,
who amazingly once taught at NIU as a
42
may
CALENDAR
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
Another compelling series of British
mysteries is Midsomer Murders. The plot
follows the traditional pattern of British
police procedurals set by characters such
as: Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot,
Maigret, Inspector Lynley, Inspector Alleyn,
and Inspector Dalgrlish. There is a detective,
a sidekick, a plot with clues, and a solution.
So as the weather warms up, grab a
mystery novel and take the intrigue
of gritty crime scenes and persistent
inspectors with you anywhere. Inevitably,
the gravity of these detectives will draw
you in because, as author Raymond
Chandler once said, the crime detective
“…must be the best man in his world and
a good enough man for any world.” f
Robert L. Even This is a memorial
exhibition celebrating the art of
Robert L. Even, Professor Emeritus
of Northern Illinois University School
of Art – Chair and Art Education.
On display will be art from his early
years depicting no major theme, but
evidence of his love for art. For more
information call 815-758-0313.
9 Stamp Our Hunger Food Drive
Just leave a bag of nonperishable
food next to your mailbox and your
carrier will pick it up during normal
mail delivery hours. Food will be
distributed to local food pantries. Call
815-901-1275 for more information.
16 Lobster Boil of St. Paul’s The
Lobster Boil at St. Paul’s Episcopal
Church 900 Normal Rd. DeKalb, start
with live lobsters distributed at 4
p.m., and cooked lobsters at 5, 6 or
7 p.m. These 1 1/4-pound lobsters
from New England are shipped
overnight. A significant portion of
the proceeds from this fundraiser
benefit local agencies and charities.
23 Jo Dee Messina 7:30, at the
Egyptian Theatre. Country artist
Jo Dee Messina will perform new
hits from her latest album released
on her newly established album,
Dreambound Records. For more
information visit egyptiantheatre.org.
24 Antique Car Show
and Flea Market
The Antique Car Show and Flea
Market will be held at the Sandwich
Fairgrounds. For more information
visit sandwhichfair.com.
25 Memorial Day Parade The
Memorial Day Parade will be held
Monday, May 25. For more information
please visit www.dekalb.org.
[Items for the July/August issue (covering
July 16-August 15), must be submitted by June 5,
online at: invironmentsmag.com/submit-event.]
25 Memorial Day Ceremony
Ellwood House DeKalb, IL. The
Memorial Day Parade will be held
Monday, May 25. For more information
please visit www.dekalb.org.
26 Memorial Day Celebration at
Somonauk 10am, Memorial Day
celebrations will include a parade, water
fights, and barbeque pork chops.
For more information visit
www.vil.somonauk.il.us.
30
Egyptian Theatre Flashlight
Tour at the Egyptian Theatre. Come
on a two hour tour of the historic
Egyptian Theatre using just your
flashlights! Witness its haunted
history and areas not open to the
public! Tickets are limited, $20 for
adults, $15 for students and seniors.
Guests must bring a flashlight, and
minors must be accompanied
an adult. For more information
visitegyptiantheatredekalb.com.
23 Genoa Open Air Market
9am–2pm, at the corner of Genoa
and Main St. The Open Air Market
is an annual event held the last
Saturday of every month. The
Market features locally-grown
produce, wine, baked goods,
flowers and artisan crafts.
For more information call
815-784-6961 or visit
genoaareachamber.com.
Where life happens. 43
CALENDAR
6
3pm–7pm, at the Corner of
Somonauk & Elm St. The Sycamore
Farmer’s Market is a weekly event
held every Tuesday From June
1–Sept. 30. Enjoy live music and
fresh food grown by the farmers
and brought directly to you!
2 Swing Dancing in DeKalb
O’Leary’s Restaurant and Pub 260
E. Lincoln Hwy. This is an annual
event held the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays
of every month in the O’Leary’s
upstairs banquet hall. Admission
is $5. Casual dress and rubber
soled shoes are recommended.
Lessons are at 7pm and open
dancing goes from 8–10:30pm.
4 1893 World’s Fair Paula Buccoil,
Project Manager for the Field Museum’s
exhibit, “Opening the Vault: Wonders
at the 1893 World’s Fair” will visit the
Sycamore History Museum for the
June Brown Bag lunch. Bring your
lunch to enjoy during the presentation.
Admission is free. For more information,
visit sycamorehistory.org.
4 Think Like Einstein – Creative
Thinking Innovation 8:30am–5pm
at Kishwaukee College. Challenge
assumptions that creative possibilities
and establish a healthy, productive
method for managing risk-taking
and failure. For more information
visit kishwaukeecollege.com.
4 Summer Concerts in the Park
Good Tymes Shelter in Sycamore, IL.
This is an annual event which runs
every Thursday (except June 25)
starting June 4 and ending Aug. 6.
44
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
14 Sundays at Sandwich Antique
Show 8am–4 pm, 1401 Suydam Road
Sandwich, IL. Parking is free, adult
admission remains at $5.00, children
12 and under free, and food is available
from several popular vendors. Come
and join us and discover the many
treasures our dealers bring to you. Visit
dekalbcountycvb.com for
more information.
18 Garden Story Time Garden Story
june
2 Sycamore Farmer’s Market
TH
6 Tractor Trot 5K 9am, at the corner
of Jackson and Fourth, Malta, IL.
The 2015 Tractor Trot race will take
place on June 6, 2015 at 9:00 a.m.
The proceeds will be donated to the
DeKalb County Community Gardens.
6-7
4 Ladies Night Out Downtown
Sycamore. Ladies Night Out is a
non-profit organization dedicated in
the fight against breast cancer! The
event is held downtown Sycamore
the first Thursday in June.
4-14 Monty Python’s Spamalot
Stage Coach Players 126 S 5th St.
DeKalb, IL. Come see the hilarious
musical based on Monty Python’s
classic comedy “Monty Python and
the Holy Grail”. There will be classic
skits as well as new elements
not featured in the film. For more
information visit stagecoachers.com.
5-7 Malta Days Downtown Malta.
Come have fun in the village of Malta
and enjoy family fun attractions
including: a carnival, petting zoo,
live music, a tractor pull, and
much more. For more information
visit www.villageofmalta.net.
Northern Illinois Art Show This
show is an outstanding opportunity for
fine artists to reach a wide audience
and a great place for shoppers to find
unique gifts. The Northern Illinois Art
Show attracts artists, residents, and
tourists. For more information go to kval.
us/art-show.
9 DeKalb Municipal Band Concerts
8pm, Band shell in Hopkins Park
1403 Sycamore Road. Listen to a
live performance every Tuesday
(except June 30) for free. The event
is sponsored by the City of DeKalb
and the DeKalb Park District.
10-13 Genoa Days 317 E Railroad
Ave. Genoa, IL. Come enjoy family fun
events and attractions including a
carnival and live music. Come to Genoa
for a great time! For more information
email [email protected].
11-13 Treasures in the Attic Taking
place June 11th-13th, Sycamore will
host this year’s city-wide estate, yard,
and sidewalk sale. For more information
visit discoversycamore.com.
Time continues on Thursday, June 18
at 10:00 a.m. with “Friendly Ladybugs.”
This program is for ages 3-6 years.
Registration is recommended (for one
or all of the programs). Call 815-8955762 or email info@sycamorehistory.
org. Other dates include: July 9, July 16,
and August 13. Admission is free.
18 Kishwaukee United Way’s 11th
Annual Day of Caring 8:30am at DeKalb
Park District’s Hopkins Park. Join
community volunteers visit, assist, and
complete projects at one of our 24
partner agencies. Volunteer registration,
tee shirt distribution, breakfast snacks &
more! To volunteer or submit a project,
call 815.756.7522.
26-28 MS: Tour de Farms Bike
Ride NIU Convocation Center 1525
West Lincoln Highway, DeKalb, IL. MS:
Tour de Farms will ride over rolling hills
and through Northern Illinois farmland.
Start and finish at Northern Illinois
University. For more information please
visit niuconvo.com.
27 Genoa Open Air Market
9am–2pm, at the corner of Genoa
and Main St. The Open Air Market is
an annual event held the last Saturday
of every month. The Market features
locally-grown produce, wine, baked
goods, flowers and artisan crafts.
For more information call 815-7846961 or visit genoaareachamber.com.
27-28 Sandwich Early Day
Engine Club 44th Annual Show
7am at the Sandwich Fairgrounds.
Events include: kid’s pedal pull, flea
market, arts and crafts displays, toy
show/sale, consignment auction,
antique tractors and trucks, hit and
miss engine, and truck displays,
equipment demonstrations, corn
shelling, 50/50 Raffle, tractor parade,
tractor ride. For more information
visit dekalbcountycvb.com.
27 Rockin’ for Reptiles 12:00pm, at
Midwest Museum of Natural History.
Rock out at the Museum’s annual
outdoor event! Don’t miss out on
delicious food tents, fun games, crafts,
live music, and of course, live reptiles!
This event is great for families! All
proceeds go towards supporting the
Museum’s live animal collection.
For more information visit
www.mmnh.org. Admission $6.
27 Barn-B-Que, grill, gaze and
FUNdraise 6:30pm–10:00pm at 64
and Clare Rd. Clare, IL. Gather your
friends for an evening of food, and
music. The event will feature a grilled
meal by Inboden’s, a cash bar, music
by the Dreadnaughts, campfires,
stargazing, interactive adventure
demonstrations and a silent auction.
Tickets are $40 per person and includes
a meal, entertainment and 2 drink
tickets. Proceeds donated to charity.
For more information visit dekalb.org.
27
H
Where life happens. 45
CALENDAR
july
2 Summer Concerts in the Park Good
Tymes Shelter in Sycamore, IL. This
is an annual event which runs every
Thursday (except June 25) starting
June 4 and ending Aug. 6. Concerts will
be held at the Good Tymes Shelter in
Sycamore, IL.
2 DeKalb Farmers Market 10am–
2pm, Van Buer Plaza on the corner
of North Second and Locust St. in
DeKalb. The DeKalb Farmers Market
features locally-grown produce, baked
goods, flowers and artisan crafts.
Every Thursday (June 4 – Sept. 24).
3-5 Kirkland 4th of July Celebration
There will be many activities all
weekend long, including live music,
a beer tent, bingo, a queen contest,
parade, car show, tractor show, bags
tournament, a ventriloquist, a magician,
and much more! For more information
visit: kirkland4ofjuly.com.
4-5 Freedom Days 10am–2pm,
Sandwich Fairgrounds. July 4thParade 10:00 start, July 5th-Freddom
Run 5K/1Mile Walk/Run 8:00am
start, Fireworks at dark. Visit
sandwichparkdistrict.org for more info.
4 Lake Shabbona 4th of July Please
join us as we celebrate our Country’s
birthday. The Fireworks over the lake
is sustained by public support from
the attendees, in the form of a $10
per car donation, a $10 per campsite
donation. For more information
visit dekalbcountycvb.com.
46
ad index
4 Hopkins Park 4th of July Come
to Hopkins Park for a fun-filled 4th
of July! Food booths from favorite
caterers and vendors open near the
shelter at 2:00pm. Hopkins Pool will
be open until 5:00pm. Fireworks at
dusk are co-sponsored by the DeKalb
Park District and City of DeKalb.
7 Sycamore Farmer’s Market
3pm–7pm at the Corner of Somonauk
& Elm St. Sycamore, IL. The Sycamore
Farmer’s Market is a weekly event held
every Tuesday From June 1–Sept. 30.
Enjoy live music and fresh food grown by
the farmers and brought directly to you!
7 Swing Dancing in DeKalb
O’Leary’s Restaurant and Pub 260 E.
Lincoln Hwy. This is an annual event
held the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of
every month in the O’Leary’s upstairs
banquet hall. Admission is $5. Casual
dress and rubber soled shoes are
recommended. Lessons are at 7pm and
open dancing goes from 8–10:30pm.
7 DeKalb Municipal Band Concerts
8pm, Band shell in Hopkins Park
1403 Sycamore Road. Listen to a live
performance every Tuesday for free at
the Band shell in Hopkins Park in DeKalb.
9 Summer Concerts in the Park Good
Tymes Shelter in Sycamore, IL. This is an
annual event which runs every Thursday
(except June 25) starting June 4 and
ending Aug. 6. Concerts will be held at
the Good Tymes Shelter in Sycamore, IL.
12 Sundays at Sandwich Antique
Show 8am–4 pm, 1401 Suydam Road
Sandwich, IL. Parking is free, adult
admission remains at $5.00, children
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
12 and under free, and food is available
from several popular vendors. Come
and join us and discover the many
treasures our dealers bring to you. Visit
dekalbcountycvb.com for information.
Benson Stone.......................................................... 2-3
Spex Expressions.................................................... 40
Dan’s Custom Painting..............................................8
Swanson’s Discount Vacuums............................. 47
Radiant Dermatology.................................................9
Turner Law Offices............................................ 48-49
Service Master Restore.......................................... 17
Answers for Emett................................................... 50
NB&T..................................................................... 24-25
Hauser-Ross Medical Aesthetics........................ 51
Meyers Furniture................................................ 26-27
Northern Illinois ENT Specialists������������������������ 52
American Realty....................................................... 37
12 2015 Drum Corps Show
7pm, Huskie Stadium 1245 Stadium
Drive, DeKalb. Come see these
champion drum lines perform at the
NIU Convocation Center. Fore more
information visit dekalbcountycvn.com
or dci.org.
18 Meet Me at the Fair 3pm–6pm,
The Pay it Forward House at 719
Somonauk St. in Sycamore will host an
afternoon of family –oriented activity
from 3pm-6pm to raise awareness of
our mission and to bring in needed funds
to continue our mission of providing
shelter to families of patients receiving
medical treatment in DeKalb County.
For more information, visit www.
payitforwardhouse.org
25
Genoa Open Air Market 9am–2pm,
The corner of Genoa and Main St.. The
Open Air Market is an annual event held
the last Saturday of every month. The
Market features locally-grown produce,
wine, baked goods, flowers and artisan
crafts. For more information call 815-7846961 or visit genoaareachamber.com.
Pets are a joy...
now cleaning up
after them
can be too.
Miele’s S8 Cat & Dog vacuum delivers a custom solution
to the unique, and often challenging, cleaning needs of pet
owners. Providing powerful performance, advanced filtration,
brilliant design and enduring quality, Miele makes cleaning
up after “Spot” or Fluffy” a virtually effortless task. Explore
further at:
Swanson’s North
7507 N. Second
Machesney Park
815.282.2882
Swanson’s East
6935 E. State St.
Rockford
815.394.1746
Hy-Vee Shopping
2682 DeKalb Rd.
Sycamore
815.758.4949
8swansonsvacuum.com
Trade-in your old vacuum and
receive $100 OFF MSRP
of Miele’s S8 Cat & Dog Vacuum
Offer expires 2/28/15. See store for details.
Where life happens. 47
815-895-2131
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Solace in Injury and Loss
Justice Carried Forward
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Free:
MAIN OFFICE
1-866-TURNLAW
107 West Exchange Street
Sycamore, IL 60178-1423
ST. CHARLES OFFICE
2435 Dean St, Unit 2f
St. Charles, Il 60175
PRACTICE LIMITED TO:
P ER SO NA L I N J U R Y
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W O R K E RS COMPE N SAT I ON
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015
•
WRON GFU L DEATH
Where life happens. 49
www.rturnerlaw.com
Hauser-Ross
DEC, LLC DBA
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LOOKING BETTER
IS
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Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood
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7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Registration
10:00 a.m.
400M Youth Run Begins
9:00 a.m.
5K Run and Walk Begins
10:15 a.m.
Toddler Sprint Begins
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Also includes food, drinks, and
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Register online through May 28, 2015 (or in person on day of event)
$25-5K*, $10-400M Youth Run, $5-Toddler Sprint
(*Early bird registration discount before April 15, $30 before May 29, $35 on race day)
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Benefiting
The SUDC
Foundation. For more info visit www.sudc.org.
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE
• MAY-JUNE
2015
BEFORE BBL
CALL TODAY FOR YOUR CONSULTATION
815-756-8571
AFTER BBL
2240 GATEWAY DRIVE, SYCAMORE, IL 60178
WWW.HAUSER-ROSS.COM
Where life happens.
51
N O MOR E S INU S PA I N , PR E S S U R E OR
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1
3
2
B A L L O ON S I N UPL A S T Y
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Step 3: Saline is sprayed into the inflamed sinus to
flush out the pus and mucus.
JOSEPH SCIANNA M.D.
Find answers at Northern Illinois ENT.
2127 Midlands Ct., Suite 203, Sycamore, IL 60178
OF F IC E HO U R S
M: 7AM - 4PM • T: 7AM - 4PM • W: 9AM - 5PM • Th: 7AM - 5PM • F: 10AM - 2PM
Limited late hours by request
52
(815)758-8106 | northernillinoisent.com
DEKALB COUNTY INVIRONMENTS MAGAZINE • MAY-JUNE 2015