Business Journal - Fall 2013

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Find more area business news at NWHerald.com/ business Fall 2013 s A Northwest Herald publication

McHENRY COUNTY’S

BEST

40 UNDER

Meet the area’s brightest young professionals

TRACKING SUCCESS

Woodstock’s LandAirSea Systems plans to revolutionize GPS tracking

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“Serving our communities to make them better places to live.” Mfc% () Ef% + ..(. J% Iflk\ *(# :ipjkXc CXb\# @C -''(+

PUBLISHER John Rung

NORTHWEST HERALD EDITOR Jason Schaumburg jschaumburg@shawmedia.com

BUSINESS JOURNAL EDITOR Brett Rowland /(,$,)-$+-(browland@shawmedia.com

NORTHWEST HERALD PHOTO EDITOR

H. Rick Bamman hbamman@shawmedia.com

DID WE GET IT RIGHT?

Report errors to Business Journal \[`kfi 9i\kk IfncXe[ Xk /(,$,)-$+-(- or browland@shawmedia.com.

HOW TO SUBSCRIBE

McHenry County businesses are eligible to receive the Business Journal at no charge. To request a subscription or a single copy, please ZXcc k_\ Z`iZlcXk`fe [\gXikd\ek Xk /(,$ +,0$/((/ fi /''$,/0$0*-*% I\hl\jkj also can be sent by email to subscrip$ tions@shawmedia.com.

ABOUT BEST UNDER 40

Thirteen people were chosen for the McHenry County Business Journal’s e`ek_ XeelXc 9\jk Le[\i +' \[`k`fe% K_\p n\i\ j\c\Zk\[ ]ifd Xdfe^ ,' efd`e\\j by a panel of last year’s winners.

INDEX

ABOUT THE BUSINESS JOURNAL

The Business Journal, a quarterly publication of Shaw Media, covers the business community in McHenry County. It is distributed to more than .#''' Ylj`e\jj fne\ij Xe[ [\Z`$ j`fe$dXb\ij% K_\ 9lj`e\jj AflieXc produces the annual Power Book Book of Lists each January and Best Under +' \XZ_ FZkfY\i% J_Xn D\[`X `j k_\ publisher of the Northwest Herald.

DXib D`Z_XcXb + <i`e DZ<cifp -$. Kevin Slimko 8 D`Z_X\c 9lZ_XeXe 0 Kpc\i C\nb\ (( >\e\mX DZ:cX`e (+ 9i`Xe =fnc\i (, <c`qXY\k_ MfeXl (-$(. B\m`e >Xii`e^\i (/ A\]]i\p ;\?XXe (0 Af\ Gfe`kq )' <i`b Dfi`dfkf )( :Xic MXcc`XeXkfj ))

First Vice President – Investments Cynthia Brown Komarek, CRPC® has been dedicated to helping her clients manage their investments for since 1983. Cynthia uses an approach to investment management that is customized to each client’s unique goals using Wells Fargo Advisor’s Envision® Plan. She works closely with clients to create strategies to help preserve and maximize wealth. She is committed to delivering the finest wealth management service available in today’s every changing market conditions. Before moving her financial practice to Wells Fargo Advisors in 2008, Cynthia served as Vice President at Merrill Lynch for 17 years in both the Barrington, IL and the Crystal Lake, IL offices. Cynthia began her career as a Financial Advisor at Oberweis Securities and then worked at E.F. Hutton prior to joining Merrill Lynch. She also taught women’s investment classes for a local junior college near the start of her career. Born and raised in Elgin, Ill., Cynthia graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL, and then attended graduate school at Kansas University. Cynthia also holds the Series 7, 63 and 65 securities registrations and the applicable insurance licenses, in addition to the designation of Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorsSM. Cynthia is a member of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) and has frequently been a guest speaker for Fortune 100 Companies’ Women in Management Symposium regarding women’s financial concerns. Take the time to review your financial goals with a complimentary meeting.

Cynthia Brown Komarek • 2424 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock, IL 815-334-2216 • cynthia.komarek@wellsfargoadvisors.com Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2012 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All Rights reserved. Investment and Insurance Products NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

Find more area business news at NWHerald.com/ business Fall 2013 s A Northwest Herald publication

McHENRY COUNTY’S

BEST

40 UNDER

TRACKING SUCCESS

Woodstock’s LandAirSea Systems plans to revolutionize GPS tracking

Meet the area’s brightest young professionals

ABOUT THE COVER >\e\mX DZ:cX`e# *,# fnej Aljk Quality Services. Just Quality Ser$ vices provides packing, cleaning and workers for the needs of businesses and others moving in the northwest suburbs and beyond. Photo by Kyle Grillot.

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© Entire contents copyright 2013 Shaw Media

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BEST UNDER 40 Mark Michalak Age: *. Occupation: Owner of Jersey Mike’s Subs franchises in Lake in the Hills and Crystal Lake Residence: N\jk ;le[\\ Hometown: ;\j GcX`e\j Family: N`]\ DXi`X# [Xl^_k\i 8m\ip# *# Xe[ \og\Zk`e^ X jfe Efm% )) Education: Bachelors of social work from Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree in social work from Loyola University Chicago; licensed clinical social worker Favorite McHenry County restaurant? 8epk_`e^ @kXc`Xe Favorite book? 8epk_`e^ jgfikj i\cXk\[ One word that describes you? Energetic What is your job and what makes you good at it? Owner and operator of Jersey Mike’s Subs. I am a people person and love connecting with the customers. I’m always putting my self in the customer’s situation and try to make the best experience for them as possible. People work hard and often have long days. We try to provide a great experience and

have them escape their day if only for a brief time. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? N\ iX`j\[ fm\i ))#+'' ]fi cfZXc charities and organizations and are on pace to break last year’s numY\i% @ Xcjf \dgcfp dfi\ k_Xe *' cfZXc i\j`[\ekj# ]fi dXep f] n_`Z_ k_`j

800-344-4466

Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com

At 37, Mark Michalak is the owner of two Jersey Mike’s Subs franchise locations in Crystal Lake and Lake in the Hills and is opening a third location in late October in Bloomingdale.

with one charity or foundation a month and hold a two-to threeday fundraiser for them giving out hundreds of free sub cards. We also hold numerous events for the local schools each month by donating a percentage of our sales on those days. What drives our service is working toward that “wowâ€? experience. We want every Zljkfd\i kf c\Xm\ jXp`e^# ĂˆNfn# the food and staff is great. What an awesome place!â€? Our service is focused on one customer at a time. We truly care about each and every customer and go out of our way to show it. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? I would love to visit Italy one day.

is their first time job. Jersey Mike’s takes pride in teaching young peogc\ XYflk _Xi[ nfib# ^`m`e^ YXZb kf the community and what authentic customer service is about.

What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? I enjoy spending time at Crystal Lake Main Beach. My daughter loves to play in the sand.

How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? The core of Jersey Mike’s is about giving back. We work

What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? NXcc\k# g_fe\ Xe[ A\ij\p D`b\Ă‹j free sub coupons.

What is the best career advice you have received? ĂˆK_\ _Xi[\i pfl nfib# k_\ clZb`\i you get.â€? Nominator’s comment: “Mark has been involved in numerous community activities and events. He has been a sponsor for :ipjkXc CXb\ =ff[ GXekip# Fg\iXk`fe :c`Zb# JX^\ PD:8 Xe[ :8J8 f] McHenry County just to name a few nonprofits that he has raised money for each year. He also hosts ]le[iX`j\ij ]fi jgfikj k\Xdj# Z_liZ_ events and blood drives and donates to many of the local charities. Jersey D`b\Ă‹j _Xj iX`j\[ fm\i )'#''' Xj f] 8l^ljk#É Zfcc\X^l\ Jl\ ;Xm`j jX`[% Ăˆ@e k_`j \Zfefdp# jf f]k\e businesses big and small seem to be concerned with the bottom line that they forget who their customers are. Mark is very dedicated in serving the community and his customers. He is a proven leader and a mentor to all of his employees by his generous donations and involvement. Fm\i k_\ gXjk ]\n p\Xij# @ _Xm\ come to respect Mark not only for his approach in doing business but his loyalty to be involved with the local community on every level each and every month.â€?

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“Transactional law deals with non-litigation activities that have an economic impact on individuals or companies.” Professional Expertise, Client Focus As transactional law practitioners, Crystal Lake attorneys Jim Militello and Jill Struck, guide clients through the legal process. “Transactional law deals with non-litigation activities that have an economic impact on individuals or companies,” said Jim Militello, founder of Militello & Struck, LLC, Attorneys at Law in Crystal Lake. The firm concentrates in real estate transactions, estate planning, business law, commercial transactions, probate, zoning and land planning. The office size ensures personalized, client-centered service. “Our focus is on the ‘best interest’ of our client,” he said. A graduate of DePaul University Law School, Militello began his career working in the tax division of a Big Eight accounting firm before opening his own practice. His focus deals with business and commercial transactions. A trend he has observed are entrepreneurs turning to the Internet to sort out complex legal issues. “Businesspeople are great innovators and risk takers, but they’re very busy and often don’t have the time or the legal background to fully research and understand the legal ramifications of a situation or contract. We can help them do that, and guide them through the transaction to a satisfactory outcome,” said Militello. Also a graduate of DePaul University Law School, Struck’s concentration areas are business law, real estate, and estate planning. Estate planning is a complex area of law and often

confusing to the client. “It is most rewarding to know that your client understands how her estate plan works. Having sophisticated estate planning documents isn’t enough. If the client doesn’t understand what she has, or why…I think you’ve missed the mark. Our goal is to have the clients understand how their documents are working for them so they can have peace of mind knowing that they have accomplished what they intended, “ Struck said. Jim and Jill focus on a client’s “best interest” which has established long-lasting relationships with their clients. “You can’t advise your client effectively unless you first have an understanding of what they want and what they can stomach; communication is key,” said Struck.

MILITELLO & STRUCK, LLC James G. Militello & Jill J. Struck 820 E. Terra Cotta Ave, #116 Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815.788.9900 www.militello-law.com

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BEST UNDER 40 Erin Byrne McElroy Age: ** Occupation: 8[mXeZ\d\ek Zffi[`eXkfi Xk CXb\j`[\ C\^XZp =fle[Xk`fe Residence: Crystal Lake Hometown: M\iefe ?`ccj Family: ?ljYXe[# J\Xe# Xe[ jfe# B\ccXe GXki`Zb# )) dfek_j Education: Bachelors in advertising from Marquette University and masters in education in student development from Seattle University Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen, Crystal Lake Favorite book? “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho and “Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia” by Elizabeth Gilbert One word that describes you? M\im\ What is your job and what makes you good at it? I am the advancement coordinator Xk CXb\j`[\ C\^XZp =fle[Xk`fe% @ Xd i\jgfej`Yc\ ]fi dXib\k`e^ k_\ =`ijk =i`[Xp Xik j_fnj `eZcl[`e^ Yffb`e^ the gallery exhibits, and accountable for the Hip Hop Explosion dance program. While I have specific XZZflekXY`c`k`\j# n_Xk `j jg\Z`Xc `j

by definition of the title “advancement.” Because of this title, I get to _\cg dfm\ k_\ ]fle[Xk`fe ]finXi[# and I am involved in many amazing aspects of the foundation in gXike\ij_`g n`k_ fli XdXq`e^ k\Xd and board of directors. I thoroughly enjoy the aspects of my job that include community relations and volunteer and event management.

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Erin McElroy, advancement coordinator at the Lakeside Legacy Foundation, poses for a portrait outside the historic Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake. McElroy is responsible for marketing signature events such as the Lakeside Fest, Run and Roll for the Dole and others. While my education and professional background contribute to my achievements, I believe my creativity and determination for the Zfddle`kp kf Y\Zfd\ dfi\ XnXi\ f] _fn jg\Z`Xc CXb\j`[\ `j kilcp drives me to be successful. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? This year, I am most proud of the redesign and launch of [the] CXb\j`[\C\^XZp%fi^ n\Yj`k\% K_`j communication and marketing tool

Special Ways to Say Thank You Looking for a great gift to express your appreciation to clients or customers? Janice Means, owner of EmbroidMe in Crystal Lake can help. Not only does EmbroidMe offer a selection of high-quality, customembroided wearables, the shop also sells useful items that can be customized with your company’s logo. Popular business-to-business gift ideas include electronic accessories such as Smartphone holders, rubber styluses, screen cleaners and sleeves for tablets and laptops. “People use these items over and over, and appreciate them because they’re a useful tool,” said Means. For companies whose end customer is a consumer—especially a family or a female, customized kitchen items are great options. “You can put your logo on cutting boards, spatulas, cups, bowls, glasses and barware. It’s a nice change because so many of the logo gifts target men,” Means said. Kitchen items are also perfect for schools, youth sports programs and more. To ensure holiday delivery, Means recommends placing orders no later than Thanksgiving, but adds that some businesses prefer earlier gift-giving, in late November rather than December. “That way, the item doesn’t get lost in the bustle of the holidays, and it’s a nice opportunity to say thank you,” Means said.

Janice R. Means, EmbroidMe • 6226 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, IL 815-444-1081 • www.embroidme-crystallake.com

n`cc Zfek`el\ kf \mfcm\ Xe[ Xjj`jk lj `e fli \]]fikj kf Yl`c[ XnXi\e\jj in the community. This project is a ^i\Xk \oXdgc\ f] _fn X jdXcc Ylk mighty team of people can celebrate huge victories. This project nXj gfjj`Yc\ Yp k_\ \]]fikj f] YfXi[ members, Lakeside’s Marketing Assistant Patricia Bell and a great local technology company. This `eefmXk`fe n`cc Zfek`el\ kf ^ifn and change and it is a huge resource for the foundation. Additionally, @ Xd gifl[ f] k_\ ^ifnk_ f] k_\ dfek_cp =`ijk =i`[Xp Xik j_fnj%

=`ijk =i`[Xpj Xi\ e\Xi Xe[ [\Xi kf my heart. This year, the attendance _Xj j`^e`]`ZXekcp ^ifne# Xe[ `k `j efn kpg`ZXc ]fi fli gXib`e^ cfk kf Y\ fm\i]cfn`e^ Xe[ k_\ Yl`c[`e^ packed. What is exciting is each dfek_ ^l\jkj m`\n Xiknfib ]ifd local artists and the medium and k_\d\j Xi\ XcnXpj Z_Xe^`e^% CXb\j`[\ j_fnZXj\j gif]\jj`feXc artists, emerging artists, students, guilds and groups, and installations. This year, Lakeside expanded the galleries to also include installations on the second and third floors f] k_\ ;fc\ DXej`fe# Xccfn`e^ lj kf gXike\i n`k_ efe$kiX[`k`feXc Xik ]fidj Xe[ e\n d\[`ldj% @ Xd gifl[ f] k_`j ^ifn`e^ d`jj`fe Z\ek\i\[ event. Another positive result of this event is Lakeside gets to celebrate and support local artists. Sales of fi`^`eXc Xik Xi\ ^ifn`e^ \XZ_ dfek_% The public probably doesn’t realize they can buy art at the events and every day at Lakeside, and k_`j \m\ek _Xj ^ifne \ogfjli\ ]fi these artists. I am also proud of the gXike\ij_`gj n`k_ M`Zb` Jldd\ij and Summers Academy of Dance and Laurie Dayon of Girls on the Run f] Efik_n\jk @cc`ef`j% See McELROY, page 7

DcELROY

Continued from page 6

How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? My service to the community is driven by the example set by my mother and father. They are both my heroes and role models for giving back to the community. So how do I give back? When I’m not serving the Dole, well everything from buying raffle tickets to support causes, attending fundraising events, donating to causes, participating in charitable runs, donating to food and school supply drives, and volunteering. If I had endless resources, I’d run a foundation and give, give, give! Currently I teach Intro to Hospitality at McHenry County College. It is important that I connect with MCC, as I see it as a beacon of education for this county, not only for young people, but for our business community, continuing education and job training. I currently am on [MCC’s] Culinary Programs auxiliary advisory commitk\\ Xe[ @ Zf$X[m`j\ k_\ 9@> @DG8:K ZclY ]fi 9`^ 9ifk_\i 9`^ J`jk\ij f] >i\Xk\i DZ?\eip

What is something you have never done but want to do someday? Butcher a pig from tail to snout. I love food, I love cooking. I’d love to take a butchering class and learn how to prepare all kinds of meats. I’d love to learn how to cure and smoke meat, and make my own charcuterie. I’d love to go to culinary school, but not to become a chef, just for my personal knowledge and love of food. What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? Downtown Crystal Lake. I love the historic buildings, the shops and the great eateries. My family and I visit it often. We are so fortunate to be able to walk to the train, stroller up to the farmers market, shop in great local businesses and go out to eat. I can go to my bank, ^\k B\ccXe X _X`iZlk# Ylp Xe \Zf$]i`\e[cp kfp# get my nails done, pick up a gift, grab a meal and even get groceries. I don’t just love the

businesses, I love the people, as well. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? Dp b\pj ]fi dp ZXi# _fd\ Xe[ ]fi k_\ ;fc\% Ni`jkc\k glij\ n`k_ `G_fe\# @;# c`g ^cfjj Xe[ debitcard. 8 YX^ f] jfikj# Xcdfjk c`b\ X DXip Gfgg`ej bag. One might find a computer, iPad, phone charger, paperwork, note pad, shoes, brush, make-up, baby toys and food, snack bars (often I eat on the go), a water bottle, umbrella, Yffbj# Zcfk_\j# \kZ% I\Xccp Xepk_`e^ @ nflc[ need for work, home or play. What is the best career advice you have

received? “Have fun and love what you do. To lead with your heart, and let your passions show you the way in life.” Nominator’s comment: “Anyone can look at the pages of a résumé and see fancy titles, bullet points of strong skills, and a list of milestones, but it isn’t until you are in the presence of the person they belong to that you realize the strength and power they hold. Erin has both,” friend JoAnne Pavin said. “She manages a schedule as a professional, teacher, volunteer, wife and mother. She has proven that effective time management gets you places and reaps success.”

The Lakeside Legacy Foundation Staff & Board of Directors Warmly Congratulate Erin McElroy on winning the Best Under 40 Award!

401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-455-8000 Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lakesidelegacy

www.lakesideLegacy.org

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These two relationships are examples of how Lakeside collaborates with local businesses and other nonprofits. As a result of the relationship with Vicki, the Hip Hop Explosion program takes place every month for ages .$(+# Xe[ >`icj fe k_\ Ile i\jlck\[ `e X e\n ,B Soles for the Dole on Oct. 6.

County. =fi k_\ gXjk p\Xi# @Ëm\ _X[ k_\ _fefi f] j\iming on the Crystal Lake Centennial Committee. I also participate in the Crystal Lake Young Professionals. This organization is a part of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce. We strive to develop ourselves as young professionals that serve, connect and grow. I also serve as k_\ C\X[\ij_`g >i\Xk\i DZ?\eip :flekp :cXjj f] )'(* i\gi\j\ekXk`m\ kf k_\ Xclde` Zfdd`ktee, and assist with events and programs for this great county-wide organization.

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BEST UNDER 40 Kevin Slimko Age: */ Occupation: Barber, owner of Slim’s Barber Shop in Crystal Lake Residence: Lake in the Hills Hometown: Algonquin Family: Jfej Alc`lj# ('# Xe[ :Xcm`e# 0 Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications from Benedictine University, cosmetology training from the Cosmetology & Spa Institute Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Algonquin Sub Shop, Algonquin Favorite book? “Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption” by Laura Hillenbrand One word that describes you? Unorthodox What is your job and what makes you good at it? I am a barber. I’m good at it because I worked for and learned from the best barber of all time, Marino Lagatuz Jr. at Model Barber Shop in Chicago. Model Barber Shop had the world’s pickiest customers. I make every haircut the most important haircut of the day. And, last, but not least, I get better every day. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? It may sound silly, but after years of teaching them, my sons taking their own fish off the hook is probably the thing I brag about the most. Also, I recently starting teaching clipper hair cutting classes and doing instructional videos, which I shoot and edit. How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? I have done video and audio editing work n`k_ k_\ RE\lif]`YifdXkfj`j E\knfib fiT E= Network, www.nfnetwork.org. They needed an existing radio commercial changed to air in various cities. I knew one of my customers had a great voice and had done a lot of professional voiceover work. So I asked him if I could record him reading the scripts. He actually had his own portable studio, so he recorded them himself, and then I edited the new commercials. I have also helped edit and consulted them on their online videos. We also did a fundraiser at my barber shop for them and will do another this November for ÈEf j_Xm\ Efm\dY\i%É @ _\cg\[ Xe E= ]le[iX`j\i ZXcc\[ E= [ff[c\j Yp `emfcm`e^ X Zflgc\ celebrities who work with a friend of mine. The reason I have gotten involved is because my son, Julius, has neurofibromatosis type fe\# fi E=(% Alc`ljËj dfk_\i# D`Z_\cc\# `j Zlirently getting her doctorate in public health

Xe[ Zfejlckj k_\ E= E\knfib% N\ [f n_Xk n\ ZXe kf _\cg ]`e[ X Zli\ ]fi E=% N\ Xi\ m\ip thankful that Julius has not had any major Zfdgc`ZXk`fej XjjfZ`Xk\[ n`k_ E=(% Every year, I volunteer for St. Baldrick’s. It is a charity designed to help fight pediatric cancer. People raise money in the promise that they will shave their head. It is a symbolic showing of solidarity with people who lose their hair during chemotherapy. I am one of many volunteers who shaves people’s heads and have also had my head shaved. Initially, I began to help with this because it is a great charity and a great cause. While at my first St. Baldrick’s, I heard a testimonial from a child who beat cancer. He showed all of us shavers and shavees gratitude. After hearing this young boy speak, I knew there would be no possible way I would ever miss a chance to be a part of this event. I actually feel strange putting this down as “me giving back.” When you see how much these kids and their families have gone through, raising money, promoting the event and missing work hardly seems like a sacrifice. One good thing about being a barber is that we are directly connected with the community, and it is easy to give back. We give free haircuts to military returning from combat missions as a small way to show them gratitude for their service. We support local sports teams, schools and many charities as much as we can with both monetary donations and gift certificates. Every day, we have a chance to see who we are helping, even if it is in small ways. I don’t know if most people get to do that. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? Dive with great white sharks. What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? Three Oaks Recreation Area in Crystal Lake. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? My camera, my phone and a fresh pair of sneakers. What is the best career advice you have received? “Never stop learning.” Nominator’s comment: “It only makes sense that he has excelled as a barber since he first began cutting hair `e _`j gXi\ekjË ^XiX^\ n_\e _\ nXj () p\Xij fc[% =fccfn`e^ ^iX[lXk`fe ]ifd 9\e\[`Ztine University in Lisle, Kevin entered the workforce in another capacity, but quickly realized that he wanted to pursue his dream of becoming a barber and opening his own

Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com

As a child, Kevin “Slim” Slimko, would cut his friends’ hair. Now 38, he’s been a barber for 13 years. He is seen here at his shop, Slim’s Barber Shop, in Crystal Lake. barbershop. Since there are no traditional barbering schools anymore, the journey began with cosmetology school. Shortly after graduating from cosmetology school, he began cutting hair alongside his soon-to-be fatherin-law on the Northwest side of Chicago. He then took over his father-in-law’s shop when his father-in-law needed time away due to health issues. He kept the business going and upon his father-in-law’s return, Kevin gained

invaluable experience cutting a wide ranging clientele that included police officers, retired military, local sports stars and the youth of the neighborhood. Looking to move closer to his family, Kevin brought his young family to Cary and opened up Slim’s Barbershop in downtown Crystal Lake. The rapport he has with his customers plus the friendly and jovial vibe in the shop make it a fun stop for anyone,” said Mark Slimko, Kevin Slimko’s brother.

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Michael Buchanan Age: *+ Occupation: Director of security at Centegra Health System Residence: McHenry Hometown: Crystal Lake Family: N`]\ D\^^Xe Xe[ Z_`c[i\e DXpX# .2 9Xii\kk# +2 Xe[ <ddX# * Education: Working toward a bachelor of science degree Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Plum Garden in McHenry Favorite book? “Medal of Honor” by Peter Collier One word that describes you? Ready What is your job and what makes you good at it? I am the security director for Centegra Health System. As with most businesses, security is all about staying ahead of the issues we face. It is important to stay proactive and anticipate your customer’s needs. In security we have both patients from the outside and fellow associates as our customers so it can be a balancing act to keep everyone safe and providing customer service. Health care and security are

)+&. fg\iXk`fej k_Xk ZXe Y\ m\ip difficult to plan for, so it is even more `dgfikXek kf XcnXpj Y\ i\X[p% =fitunately for me, I have an incredible security team and co-workers from departments outside of security that are always ready to help make our organization a better and better place to care for patients. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? We have been in the process of

How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? That is something that has always impressed me about McHenry County – there are so many charities, churches and organizations in our area to help out our neighbors. Prior to starting my career with Centegra, I attended college to become a teacher. I have the utmost respect for educators and the work they do. I truly enjoy going to classrooms in the area and talking about being a veteran, military service, or what Veterans Day is all about. While I

am out of the service, I think that is one way I can honor my friends still actively serving and fellow veterans and the service they have done for us and our country. Working at Centegra, I get to see the first-hand `dgXZk k_\ :\ek\^iX =fle[Xk`fe provides for area residents, as well. I have had people very close to me that Centegra’s charity care has touched their lives and helped them through a very difficult time in their life. I try to give back by helping out with various fundraisers, or however I can. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? I have always wanted to go hiking in Alaska. What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? I would say my aunt’s farm in Harvard. Being outside in the fresh air is my way of decompressing from time to time. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? [My] iPhone, especially for my calendar, legal pad and my to-do list.

What is the best career advice you have received? Anticipate your customer’s needs, fulfill to your best ability and follow up. I think you can knock a job out of the park but if you wait until someone asks for it, it will never be as meaningful. Nominator’s comment: “Mike began working at Centegra `e (00/ `e k_\ d\[`ZXc `dX^`e^ department. He was then deployed to serve with the Army National Guard. He had eight years of service as a sergeant in the Army National Guard and four tours of active duty, during which he trained troops at =fik Gfcb ]fi Fg\iXk`fe @iXh` =i\\dom,” said Bernadette Szczepanski, vice president of human resources at Centegra. “Mike volunteers at Centegra Health System events and donates to the Centegra Health Sysk\d =fle[Xk`fe% ?\ _Xe^j :_i`jkdXj lights at Hearthstone Communities and donates to charities including hospice, Home of the Sparrow and his church. He also volunteers time in his wife’s first-grade classroom. He is an excellent example of character and leadership both at Centegra and in the community.”

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upgrading many aspects of our physical security system to include cameras and electronic access control over the last couple of years. We are almost finished programming mobile devices, which will help our department share resources system-wide, remote monitoring, multi-task, speed up the flow of real-time information and give us the tools to more safely respond to emergencies at our hospitals.

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Age: */ Occupation: CEO, Keller Williams Success Realty Residence: Bull Valley Hometown: Eau Claire, Wis. Family: N`]\# ;\\# Xe[ [Xl^_k\i# Afi`Xe# (. Education: The school stuff is great for some folks I prefer being in the trenches and figuring things out Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Expressly Leslie Vegetarian Specialties, Woodstock Favorite book? “This Is How: Surviving What You Think You Can’t” by Augusten Burroughs. But, by the time this goes to print, it will be something else because I read about three books a week. One word that describes you? Kind

What is your job and what makes you good at it? I run an awesome real estate company n`k_ (,' X^\ekj% 9Xj`ZXccp# @ Zi\Xk\ k_\ Y`^ picture and inspire [other] people to see it too. I’m good at it because I work hard, tell the truth, show up early, am kind and believe that to have, we first have to give. I’m very comfortable telling people the hard truth even when it’s not easy because I believe we can always find a way to be kind and real at the same time. I love moving people, maybe move them physically, but for sure move them in many other ways – that’s what I love the most. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? Through the worst real estate market in history, we’ve exploded beyond what anyone could [have] imagined, and I believe it’s because we’ve focused on how to do the most good possible and be as happy as possible. I am absolutely convinced that people are attracted to people who are happy – it’s

irresistible – so that’s what we focus on, and it works. How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? I believe in people, not organizations. So I try to find amazing people to collaborate n`k_ Xe[ [f i\Xccp Y`^ k_`e^j% =fi \oXdgc\# Lakeside Legacy Arts Park. I’ve worked with cool people for more than a decade helping to create an experience and culture that I believe fosters something our world really needs – it’s so much more than an art school or concert venue or gallery or park – it’s a place where people come alive and remember what really matters, where kids learn to believe in themselves again, where people forget about what’s wrong and celebrate what’s right. I love it. I also write a daily blog, postsfromthepath. com, that is my way of giving to people I don’t yet know. It’s a venue for me to express how I see the world, which occasionally has inspired a few people.

Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Tyler Lewke, CEO of Keller Williams Success Realty, poses for a portrait at his Crystal Lake office. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? @ nXek kf Y\ j`c\ek ]fi 0' [Xpj jkiX`^_k% @ find that in silence, what matters and what doesn’t shows up in a hurry, and I’m interested in doing a lot in this life so the focus of where to spend my time helps. What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? I seriously can’t imagine a much better morning than mediation at the Blue Lotus K\dgc\ Xk (' X%d% fe JXkli[Xp# k_\e nXcb`e^ over to the Woodstock Square for the farmers market at lunch, drinking too much coffee, and listening to music with friend. Most weekends, it’s my entire Saturday. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? Coffee, coffee and coffee. What is the best career advice you have received? “Believe nothing, no matter where you

read it or who has said it, ever, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense.” Nominator’s comment: “Tyler Lewke is an extraordinary person. He has grown several different businesses through economically challenged times. As a young man, he and his wife created a health food store in Crystal Lake. Once that business was up and running, he moved his attention to real estate. During his career in real estate he has created an amazing team, Lewke Partners. ... Tyler next took on the challenge of [owning and operating] the Keller Williams Success Realty office in Barrington. ... Not satisfied with creating n\Xck_ ]fi _`j XjjfZ`Xk\j Xe[ Zc`\ekj# (' years ago he turned his attention to a piece of property in Crystal Lake, the Dole Mansion. Long empty and without purpose, Tyler organized a campaign to purchase and retain this historical treasure for the Crystal Lake community ... [and] the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park was born,” friend Deborah DeBoer said.

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Tyler Lewke

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Tracking success LandAirSea Systems What: A GPS tracking device and jf]knXi\ dXb\i n`k_ (- \dgcfp\\j Xe[ XeelXc jXc\j f] XYflk +%) million Where: )'+' ;`ccXi[ :flik# Nff[stock Information: www.landairsea.com; /+.$+-)$/('' sive and active vehicle tracking devices and software for fleet management, law enforcement and personal GPS tracking. In addition to law enforcement agencies, its customers include businesses, such as transportation companies, and consumers, such as private investigators and parents who want to keep an eye on their teen drivers. The company, founded in 1994 by Robert Wagner, Steven Moehling and Lin Xu, started out making GPS equipment for small planes. In 1996, it launched Flight-Trac for tracking the time, position, speed and altitude of aircraft. Making sense of the information it logged required a computer, so the market for the company’s early products was limited. In 1993, the year before the company was founded, 23 percent of U.S.

households had a computer. “Unfortunately, not everyone had a computer back then,� de la Chapelle said. “For every person that ordered Flight-Trac, we were giving them a computer. It wasn’t economical.� Besides, far more people owned cars than planes. Realizing this, LandAirSea President and CEO Robert Wagner came up with a similar device for vehicles, the GPS Tracking Key. In 1999, LandAirSea launched the first vehicle tracking unit to transmit data in real time, a product used primarily by law enforcement agencies and private investigators. The market for the GPS Tracking Key and the company’s active tracking products grew quickly. Fifty-one percent of U.S. households had computers in 2000, and 41.5 percent had home Internet use. By 2011, 75.6 percent of U.S. households had a computer, and 71.7 percent had home Internet use, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. When sales of the GPS Tracking Key started to take off in the mid-2000s, “it was pretty exciting because before that the company was struggling,� Wagner said. “Our technology surpassed

LandAirSea plans to revolutionize industry By BRETT ROWLAND browland@shawmedia.com WOODSTOCK – Five years after being named one of the fastest-growing companies in the nation, LandAirSea Systems Inc. is working on new technology it hopes will revolutionize the GPS tracking industry. The Woodstock-based GPS tracking device maker is looking to recapture the explosive sales growth that put it on Inc. magazine’s list of the 500 fastest-growing private companies in 2008. That year, LandAirSea was ranked No. 341 after its revenue increased more than 850 percent over three years, going from $440,000 in 2004 to $4.2 million in 2007. Since then, sales have plateaued in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving marketplace. LandAirSea’s annual revenue remains about $4.2 million, said Andrew de la Chapelle, the company’s vice president of sales who was brought in earlier this year to boost that figure. “For any company to grow that fast, it takes a lot of work,� he said. “Maintaining it is the second part of the equation.� LandAirSea makes pasLathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com

with stalking his ex-girlfriend using one of LandAirSea’s products. The case made national news and was covered by the Chicago Tribune and NBC’s “Today Show.� “You always have people who will use it in unethical ways,� de la Chapelle said. “Unfortunately for us, there’s nothing we can do to stop it. We really don’t know whose hands it’s getting into. It’s hard. We hear about it afterward.� Despite privacy concerns from some, GPS tracking is becoming more mainstream, both in the workplace and at home. “For years, people were hesitant, they were waiting, but now we’re seeing a lot more people buy into the technology,� de la Chapelle said. “It’s becoming more acceptable from a business standpoint and from a consumer standpoint.�

An example of live GPS tracking with LandAirSea’s SilverCloud device seen on a computer screen at the company’s headquarters in Woodstock. anything else that was out there, so we just started selling volumes and volumes,� he said. “It was nice to get out of debt.� The GPS Tracking Key, which costs $139, can be plugged into a computer’s USB port to display location data records as a written activity report, displayed over a digital street map, or displayed over a satellite image using Google Earth. “It’s still our best-selling product,� de la Chapelle said. “We’ve sold about a quartermillion units.� The GPS Tracking Key has been featured in automotive magazines and on TV shows such as “Burn Notice� and “Breaking Bad.� It’s even sold by the reality TV program “Cheaters� in the Cheaters Spy Shop. But not all of the attention has been positive. In 2003, a Wisconsin man was charged

Photo provided

LandAirSea sells a range of GPS tracking products including the GPS Tracking Key (top), SilverCloud (middle) and the GPS Tracking Key Pro (bottom).

Both of de la Chapelle’s children, Britton, 16, and Elizabeth, 18, have LandAirSea Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com tracking devices in their cars, LandAirSea Systems President and CEO Robert Wagner poses for a portrait at the company’s office in Woodstock. he said. “They don’t like it,� he said. “But from a parent’s Sea came out with the Track- cle diagnostics, offering alerts lic fleet transportation ser- cause a lot of people don’t for rapid acceleration, harsh vices, such as airport shuttles, want to pay a monthly fee,� standpoint, it’s awesome to ing Key Pro and SilverCloud. SilverCloud is a subscrip- braking, low fuel, idling and taxis, limousines or school de la Chapelle said. “And the know where your kids are, esbuses because it gives busi- live tracking market will conpecially when they are 16 or tion-based service that offers tampering. LandAirSea’s latest offer- nesses and municipalities the tinue to be strong as long as 17 and have a newly minted real-time GPS tracking that can be viewed online. It was ing for the SilverCloud service ability to share the GPS loca- there are assets to monitor.� driver’s license.� And LandAirSea is workAlthough de la Chapelle’s used during the 2012 Summer is ShareSpot, which allows us- tion of their service vehicles, ing on new technologies that children don’t like having Olympics to track athletes ers to share their location on the company said. The company’s products will “reinvent the whole GPS the devices on their cars, the and guests as they traveled Facebook or on a company’s tracking units have proved to through London on buses, de website. It could be used, for continue to advance as tech- tracking industry,� de la Chainstance, to track a pizza de- nology advances and becomes pelle said. He said he couldn’t be helpful on a few occasions la Chapelle said. SilverCloud Sync goes one livery order from restaurant more affordable. talk about the specific projwhen lost. “The passive market will ects while they are in develFollowing the success of the step further to allow real-time to home, de la Chapelle said. GPS Tracking Key, LandAir- tracking of location and vehi- ShareSpot is designed for pub- continue to be out there be- opment.

Senior VP The Boeing Company

Keynote speaker • In partnership Celebrating 22 years of Celebrating 21 years of Keynote speaker: with Leadership Greater McHenry economic development economic development Richard (Rick) County Stephens,

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BEST UNDER 40 Geneva McClain Age: *, Occupation: CEO and owner of Just Quality Services Inc. in Woodstock Residence: Woodstock Hometown: Chicago Family: ;Xl^_k\ij# <jj\eZ\# (.2 AXqd`e\# (+2 DpX# ()2 Xe[ jfe# AXp[\e# / Education: Majored in office systems technology at McHenry County College Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Chop Suey Hut, Woodstock Favorite books? “The Color of Love” by Sandra Kitt and “Almost Doesn’t Count” by Electa Rome Parks One word that describes you? Resilient What is your job and what makes you good at it? I currently have two job titles. My first job is being a full-time mother of four children, and my second is the owner of Just Quality Services, a moving, packing and cleaning business. What makes me so good at my job is that I have no choice. Not only is this business my family’s main source of income, but I’m also highly dedicated to making sure the business’ name and services are in excellent standing with consumers. The overall growth of this company is very important to me.

surreal, but also a great experience.

What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? Some of the accomplishments and innovations I’m most proud of this year are generating business through marketing and advertising, all without prior experience in business. My hard work afforded JQS Inc. repeat customers, referrals and new commerce. In return, this increase has heightened my family budget, making things a bit more comfortable.

What is the best career advice you have received? The best career advice I’ve received was from my cousin, Pam, who said, “you can start your own business.” Nothing major, just short and simple. And here I am today, an entrepreneur. I also recently read a quote that said, “Entrepreneurship is living a few years of your life like most people won’t, so that you can spend the rest of your life like most people can’t.”

How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? In today’s time, the job market is falling. People are paid less than minimum wage at billion dollar corporations. The way I give back is to create an environment where people will be paid fairly based on their experience and compensated for their work. What drives me? Integrity, honesty and my faith in Jesus!

Nominator’s comment: “I feel this woman to be worthy because I was visually able to see the struggle of a single mom of four with virtually nothing to her name create a foundation and persevere through the economic degradation that the world offers,” friend Chad Armstrong said. “With not a soul to rely on except herself, she single-handedly took the cards she was dealt and made them work. With her being a single black woman in a man’s world, I attribute her success to her resilience and fortitude. I have heard of the traditional rags-to-riches story and I think this is far from it. To me, it’s more of proving things to yourself, not giving up even when failure seems imminent. This business is not just an increase of income for Geneva, it’s proof to her and her children that all things are possible, to strive for better, to understand the tough times for it will allow you to appreciate the good times. Everything Geneva has obtained she acquired on her own.”

What is something you have never done but want to do someday? Two things I’ve always wanted to do are see mountains and travel to another country. Believe it or not, I’ve never physically seen mountains before, but I would absolutely love to. I’ve always been very intrigued to know the world is so much bigger than the areas I know and come from. That’s why traveling to countries like Spain, Japan or Africa and experiencing their culture, art, food and way of life, would not only be very

What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? My favorite place to visit is the McHenry Outdoor Theater. Bringing the kids there for the experience is always fun. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? I absolutely can’t leave home without my cellphone, iPad and business cards. If I did, it would be a crime.

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

Geneva McClain, 35, owns Just Quality Services, a packing and moving company. Just Quality Services provides packing, cleaning and workers for the needs of businesses and others moving in the northwest suburbs and beyond.

Brian Fowler

What is the best career advice you have received? “The best way to advance through your career is to first perform at the next level, then ask for the promotion,” [from] James N. Thorpe [president and CEO of Crystal Lake Bank & Trust].

Age: *. Occupation: Vice president commercial lending, Crystal Lake Bank & Trust Company Residence: Crystal Lake Hometown: Crystal Lake Family: N`]\# :Xk_p# Xe[ [Xl^_k\i# ;\cXe\p# ( Education: Bachelor of science degree with a major in finance from the University of Tampa Favorite McHenry County restaurant? The Village Squire, Crystal Lake Favorite book? Currently anything by Dr. Seuss, which I read to my daughter at bed time One word that describes you? Diligent What is your job and what makes you good at it? I am a commercial loan officer. I have been successful in my career because of the support from Crystal Lake Bank & Trust and my customers. Through the great partnerships we have formed we’ve found successful solutions in this challenging economy.

What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? I am most proud of my ability to think outside the box and find alternative financing options in order to best meet the clients’ needs. How do you give back to the community and what drives

Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com

At 37, Brian Fowler is vice president of commercial lending at Crystal Lake Bank & Trust. He is seen here posing for a portrait at Crystal Lake Bank & Trust in Crystal Lake. your service? I am the treasurer of Community Action Agency of McHenry County (Head Start Program), Chairman of the City of Crystal Lake’s Economic Development Committee and a board member of Downtown Crystal Lake. I have been very fortunate in my life but I have seen that others are not always as fortunate. Therefore I enjoy giving back to the community I grew up in.

What is something you have never done but want to do someday? Sail to Hawaii, Tahiti, then Australia. What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? Hiking in Veteran Acres Park with my family and two dogs. What are three things you never leave home without in the

Nominator’s comment: “Brian is a dedicated professional. He always exerts that extra special effort so often necessary to have a successful real estate transaction,” business colleague Linda Bykowski said. “He is in touch with his clients and provides knowledgeable efficient services in all aspects of lending. Brian has many satisfied clients and is well respected among his peers. Always interested in giving back to the community, Brian has shared his time and abilities to an number of civic activities. Brian is a credit to his profession and his community.”

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morning? A hug from my daughter, a positive attitude and Starbucks Coffee.

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BEST UNDER 40 Elizabeth Vonau Age: *. Occupation: Partner, Kililis, Ridings & Vonau P.C. Residence: Crystal Lake Hometown: Lake Barrington Family: ?ljYXe[# Af\ :fic\p# Xe[ [Xl^_k\i# 8d\c`X# (( dfek_j Education: Bachelor of arts degree in history from Northern Illinois University and juris doctorate from DePaul College of Law Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Le Petit Marche, Crystal Lake Favorite book? “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee One word that describes you? Tenacious What is your job and what makes you good at it? I am a partner in a law firm. I primarily deal with criminal defense work, although the firm does both criminal defense and family law litigation. I am in court nearly every day. We work with people who are often going through the most difficult times of their lives. My ability to listen and be empathetic helps me do my job. There are very few

women who work in criminal defense and I think my being tough but honest and really caring about my clients has helped me succeed. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? The accomplishment I am most proud of this year is becoming a mother. Having my daughter has changed everything in my life. It

Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Elizabeth Vonau of Crystal Lake poses for a portrait at her Crystal Lake office. She is one of the founding partners in the only law firm in McHenry County that is majority owned by women. is the single most important thing to me and the hardest job @Ëm\ \m\i _X[% =`e[`e^ X nXp kf balance my professional career and motherhood has been challenging, but I have had the support of my husband, my business partners and my extended family. How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? In the past, I have served on

the board of directors for Turning Point and the board of directors for CASA of McHenry County (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Abused and Neglected Children). I also have served as a member and an officer in the Crystal Lake Jaycees, a group that works to support a wide range of people and projects all local to our area. My husband and I also have donated our time and money to various people

and causes within the community as individual needs have been brought to our attention. I needed to take a step back from much of my volunteer work when I underwent some rigorous fertility treatment and a high-risk pregnancy. However, now that my daughter is nearly one, I am jumping back in. I am driven to give back because it is the right thing to do. My parents were always involved in community service and served as an excellent example to me. I want to set that same example for my daughter. I have been blessed with a great family, a fantastic public school education, a good head on my shoulders and a strong work ethic. I was raised to believe it is our duty to help those around us and success is measured in how much you help, not how much you have. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? I want to start a community center in Crystal Lake. See VONAU, page 17

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extra T-shirt – the weather changes fast and frequently and I like to be ready to roll with whatever pops up.

I would want to have a kid-friendly supervised visitation facility, do supervised visitation exchange, have a homework hangout program where kids can drop in after school to get help with homework, offer classes in various life skills and work as a life coach/mentor to people who need a sounding board to help them make good choices for their lives.

What is the best career advice you have received? È;feËk Zfdgifd`j\ n_f pfl Xi\ ]fi what you do,” from my Dad.

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What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? The Dole Mansion. I have loved watching it be restored by so many volunteers and artisans. It is such a beautiful building with a great history that continues with its arts education programs in the Lakeside Legacy Arts Parks. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? 9XZb lg j_f\j1 @ n\Xi _`^_ _\\cj kf court but keep sandals in the car so I can kick off my heels after court and be comfy. RC`g YXcdT f] jfd\ b`e[1 @ [feËk n\Xi X cfk f] dXb\lg Ylk XcnXpj _Xm\ Rc`g YXcdT handy. C`^_k cXp\ij1 Jl`k ZfXk# c`^_k jn\Xk\i#

Nominator’s comment: È<c`qXY\k_ nXj Xe Xjj`jkXek jkXk\Ëj attorney in McHenry County out of law school, where she quickly rose to be a talented trial attorney. ÈJ_\ k_\e n\ek flk fe _\i fne ]fi X few years, then became a partner at age *'% ÈJ_\ ]fle[\[ k_\ cXn ]`id B`c`c`j# I`[`e^j & Vonau P.C., which is a firm composed of three female attorneys and one male attorney. ÈJ_\ _Xj Zi\Xk\[ fe\ f] k_\ ]\n firms in McHenry County that is female-owned, and moreover, succeeded in the male-dominated area of law that is criminal defense. ÈJ_\ `j X mfclek\\i `e _\i Zfddle`kp# nfib`e^ n`k_ k_\ AXpZ\\j# :8J8# Xe[ other philanthropic groups. Despite being a busy attorney, a new mom, a wife and friend to many, she still finds time to contribute to charities and community ^iflgj#É jX`[ A\Xee`\ I`[`e^j# X ]i`\e[ Xe[ business partner.

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Thank you, McHenry County~ June of 2013 will mark our 5th year of operation at our Charles Miller Road location. We thank you for your trust, and for the privilege of serving your families throughout the years. Mark & Nancy Justen Mark Justen, 4th generation owner, Licensed Funeral Director Nancy Justen, Licensed Funeral Director, IL & WI Debbie J. Thompson, Licensed Funeral Dir/Embalmer, Monuments Providing on-site cremation since 1983

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BEST UNDER 40

What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? Veteran Acres Park in Crystal Lake. The kids love the park, and the nature walk is awesome.

Kevin Garringer Age: )0 Occupation: Account executive, LPS Midwest & Stan’s Office Technologies Residence: Crystal Lake Hometown: Crystal Lake Family: N`]\ E`Zfc\ Xe[ Z_`c[i\e K\ec\p# *# >iXpjfe# )# Xe[ 9i\Zb\e# + months Education: Bachelor’s degree in business and marketing from Northern Illinois University Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Burnt Toast in Algonquin for breakfast and La Placita on the Square in Woodstock for tacos Favorite book? The Robert Langdon series by Dan Brown One word that describes you? Happy What is your job and what makes you good at it? I work with local businesses and help them improve their print and document management processes. Whether this is accomplished through new hardware, outsourced service management, or through software solutions to help them go paperless and improve business workflow is decided by working

closely in a consultative manner with our customers and figuring out what is truly best for their organization. I suppose my natural attraction to helping others and the way I approach business allows me to build a level of trust with individuals where they know I have their best interests at heart, helps me to be successful. I think that is uncommon in today’s business world.

What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? Wallet, keys and a positive attitude. I travel light.

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Kevin Garringer, 29, an account executive at LPS Midwest and a Raue Center volunteer, poses for a portrait at LPS Midwest in Woodstock. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? =`ijk Xe[ ]fi\dfjk# n\cZfd`e^ my beautiful daughter, Brecken, into this world. Secondly, becoming a certified document management consultant. How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? Time is short these days with three young kids, but I do enjoy

working with the Raue Center for the Arts in downtown Crystal Lake. They work so hard and do a great job keeping the arts alive and growing in McHenry County in a time when so many schools are cutting back on arts programs and individuals have limited exposure to some of the best things that make this country so great. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? Travel across Europe.

What is the best career advice you have received? It’s pretty classic, but true: “Success and opportunity isn’t given; it’s earned.” Nominator’s comment: “Kevin is a valuable resource to his clients and his employer, where he is always ready and willing to share, contribute and serve,” said Mark Steadman, owner of LPS Midwest and Stan’s Office Technologies. “Kevin always has the long term business relationship in mind when engaging with current and future customers. Kevin has a special gift of presenting technical material with an easy to understand and friendly delivery. Charisma, integrity and reliability also describe Kevin’s personality.

Jeffrey DeHaan Age: ). Occupation: Senior financial adviser and chief compliance officer of BSC Private Wealth Management LLC Residence: Crystal Lake Hometown: Crystal Lake Family: Single Education: Bachelor of science degree in finance and a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Georgio’s Pizza in Crystal Lake Favorite book? “Outliers: The Story of Success� by Malcolm Gladwell One word that describes you? Astute What is your job and what makes you good at it? As a senior financial adviser, I work with high net worth individuals to help identify and meet their financial goals and avoid financial risks through comprehensive wealth management. This includes investment management, retirement incoming planning, goal planning, educa-

tion planning, estate planning reviews and anything else that applies to their financial world. I help clients by applying a holistic view of their financial picture to the decision-making process. I believe that my critical thinking skills, being able to sort through a vast amount of information that applies to a given situation in order to narrow it down to what

What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? Being named senior financial adviser and chief compliance officer of BSC Private Wealth Management LLC. Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com

At 27, Jeffery DeHaan is a senior financial adviser and chief compliance officer at BSC Private Wealth Management LLC in Elgin. is applicable, is what makes me good at my job. I’m also a good listener, which also is very important. Often people don’t know how to put their feelings into financial terms or perhaps haven’t really thought out all of their goals and desires. It’s my job to understand what they are telling me and help steer decisions based on that information. As chief compliance

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How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? I sit on the Crystal Lake Economic Development Committee and the Board of Directors for the United Way of Greater McHenry County, which are both great organizations. I volunteer my time because I believe in their goals, and believe it’s important to act on those beliefs to help better the community. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? Travel to space.

What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? The Volo Auto Museum. What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? My phone, my lunch and my iPad. What is the best career advice you have received? “If you aren’t a little nervous, then you probably aren’t setting your goals high enough.� Nominator’s comment: “Jeff has quickly established himself and proven his abilities in a highly competitive industry in his five years with BSC Private Wealth Management LLC. His ability to fast track has made him a key member of a team responsible for dXeX^`e^ `e \oZ\jj f] (.' d`cc`fe of client assets, as both a senior financial adviser and also as the firm’s chief compliance officer. His technical proficiency, attention to detail and consistently positive attitude have proven him a valuable asset to his clients, this firm and the community at large,� employer John Chapman said.

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BEST UNDER 40

officer, it’s my job to create and execute the firm’s compliance program to be sure we are meeting the expectations of regulators and our clients. I would say my attention to detail makes me effective at compliance work.

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BEST UNDER 40 Joe Ponitz Age: *+ Occupation: GXike\i# =iXebj# >\ib`e DZB\eeX `e DXi\e^f Residence: Belvidere Hometown: Marengo Family: N`]\# JXiX_# [Xl^_k\i# Jp[e\p# (/# Xe[ \og\Zk`e^ X jfe `e ;\Z\dY\i Education: Bachelor of Science from Western Illinois University and juris doctor from South\ie @cc`ef`j Le`m\ij`kp JZ_ffc f] CXn Favorite McHenry County restaurant? I cannot choose between my favorite spots in DXi\e^f1 :X] )'# ?fe^Ëj ;\c`^_k# =cXkcXe[\iËj DXib\k Xe[ Af\Ëj GcXZ\ Favorite book? ÈK_\ >f[]Xk_\iÉ Yp DXi`f Glqf One word that describes you? Driven What is your job and what makes you good at it? @ Xd Xe Xkkfie\p Xk =iXebj# >\ib`e McKenna in Marengo. I really enjoy my clients and being able to help people in the community with the issues they are facing in their life. I have been told repeatedly by Zc`\ekj k_Xk @ Xd \Xjp kf kXcb kf Xe[ Zfe]`[\ in after only a brief meeting. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? Gif]\jj`feXccp# @ _Xm\ _\cg\[ [\m\cfg X jkiXk\^`Z dXib\k`e^ gcXe Xk dp ]`id% G\ijfeXccp# dp n`]\ Xe[ @ _Xm\ Y\\e Yc\jj\[ kf Y\ expecting a son in December. Our daughter is a freshman at Southern Illinois Universikp Xk <[nXi[jm`cc\# jf n\ n`cc _Xm\ fe\ `e college and one in diapers very soon. How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? @ kip kf ^`m\ YXZb kf k_\ Zfddle`kp `e Xj many ways as possible. I am active with various cancer organizations and do volunteer nfib k_ifl^_ YXi XjjfZ`Xk`fej% Dp n`]\ `j the executive director of Senior Care Volunk\\i E\knfib `e :ipjkXc CXb\# Xe[ Xj X i\jlck# we see the importance of volunteering and `k `j gXik f] fli [X`cp c`m\j% >`m`e^ YXZb kf

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Attorney Joseph Ponitz, a 34-year-old non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma survivor, has served as the secretary for the Board of Directors of the McHenry County Youth Service Bureau the community is something that comes to and serves on the Governance Committee of Healing Pathways Cancer Resource Center, me naturally. My father has been battling ZXeZ\i ]fi k_\ cXjk )' p\Xij Xe[ X]k\i Xcc k_\ where he drafts policies and procedures for the nonprofit agency. For the past several lgj Xe[ [fnej# _\ jk`cc mfclek\\i\[ ]fi X ki`Xc years, he has worked to raise money for cancer research. group when other means of treatment were XmX`cXYc\ kf _`d% N_\e Xjb\[ n_p _\ nXek\[ accomplished so many things in his profesfifth year in remission. To memorialize this kf mfclek\\i# _`j i\jgfej\ nXj j`dgc\# _\ j`feXc ZXi\\i# Af\ `j Xcjf X ZXeZ\i jlim`afpflj fZZXj`fe# kil\ kf ]fid# Af\ Zfdgc\khoped to be able to help others successfully mfi% ?\ nXj [`X^efj\[ n`k_ efe$?f[^b`eËj ed a half marathon. His journey made him battle cancer in the future. cpdg_fdX `e )''/% Af\ ]XZ\[ k_`j [`]]`Zlck more determined than ever to live life to the and emotional time with great bravery and ]lcc\jk Xe[ kf ^`m\ YXZb kf _`j Zfddle`kp What is something you have never done strength and with the love and support n_\e\m\i gfjj`Yc\#É Zfcc\X^l\ JljXe ;fYY\ but want to do someday? f] _`j ]Xd`cp# _\ i\Z\ekcp Z\c\YiXk\[ _`j said. My daughter and I completed a half marak_fe X p\Xi X^f# Xe[ @ nflc[ c`b\ kf Zfdgc\k\ a full marathon in the future. What is your favorite place to visit in McHenry County? K_\ JhlXi\ `e Nff[jkfZb% What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? :\ccg_fe\# Yi`\]ZXj\ Xe[ X ;`\k :fb\%

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What is the best career advice you have received? È@] `k nXj \Xjp# \m\ipfe\ nflc[ [f `k%É

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Nominator’s comment: “It is admirable to note that while he has

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BOAT MANUFACTURER HIRING Melges Boats is looking to fill various permanent FT positions: Laminator, Finisher & Carpenter / Boat Builder. Apply in person M-F 8-4 at N598 Zenda Rd Zenda, WI.

$66-$75K/year + benefits. HS grad w/6 years exp in field. 4 yrs supervisory exp. Knowledge of trades, AutoCAD, drafting, computers, budgeting located at the Great Lakes Naval Base. Apply @ www.mwrgl.com or 847-688-2110 x103.

Computer / IT Age: *. Elgin area computer support co. Occupation:DSP-Day DirectorProgram of engineering City of Crystalseeking LakeSr Computer Network Elginbuilding, (FT) - Aurora &and Administrator w/ 10 yrs exp Case Manager managing complex business Residence: Crystal Lake QIDP Home-based computer networks. Must have Aurora & Elgin (FT) expert skills building & Hometown: Vernon Hills Supports - Aurora (FT) Animal Care DSP - Behavior troubleshooting network configs Employment Specialist - Elgin (FT) Family: N`]\ JkXZ`\# [Xl^_k\ij 8`ejc`\# -# Xe[ G`g\i# )* dfek_j VETERINARY ASSISTANT / including: MS Server OS, MS Exchange, virtual servers, VPN, Direct Service Person (DSP) TECHNICIAN Education: Bachelor of science inAurora civil &engineering of& firewalls of various VOIP, Tri-Cities (FT &from PT) University Must have 2+ years of experience. makes/models. Looking for a DSP-House Manager - Aurora (FT) Email resume to: Illinois at Urbana-Champaign go-to, level 3, technical resource Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com Mental Health Professional (Day & Overnight)amcofcl@gmail.com to join our award-winning Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Tie between Duke’s Alehouse Aurora (FT) support team. 50% work from Apply in person at: Erik Morimoto is director of engineering and building for the city of Mechanic home & 50% on-site @ clients. Animal Medical Center (PT) Jan-Aid Crew Leader and Taqueria Las Cumbres, both in- Aurora downtown Crystal Lake Email with subjectCrystal line Lake. During his time in the engineering department, DIESEL SCHOOL BUS 41 S. Virginia (Route 14) MorimoBehavioral Health Manager - Aurora (FT) “Network Admin” to: Crystal Lake. Favorite books? HarryMHP Potter series, to helped implementMECHANIC many of the city’s green initiatives, such as the CaseThe Manager - Aurora (FT) by J.K. Rowling sbrennan@cmitsolutions.com Full time position, health benefits, One word that describes you? atCreative city’s rain garden and firstneeded. buffered bike lanes in McHenry County. second shift,the experience Contact Elizabeth 630-966-4028 Apply in person: 1204 S. to schedule an interview. Walk-ins welcome! Morimoto is seen here McHenry Ave,posing Crystal Lakein the rain garden outside City Hall. Association for Individual Development 309 W. New Indian Trail Court, Aurora, IL 60506

What is your job and whatwww.the-association.org What accomplishments and makes you good at it? innovations are you most proud I currently serve as the director of this year? of engineering and building and I am most proud of the high city engineer for the City of Crystal level of service and professionalLake. Prior to working at the city ism demonstrated by the entire and becoming a civil engineer, team in the Community DevelI had considered a career in opment Department, despite our industrial design or another area of highest workload in many years. It fine arts. is very satisfying to be a part of But, I eventually gravitated the process that helped bring toward a career in local governmany new businesses to the city, ment where I could build new revitalized the Virginia Street improvements in my community corridor and improved the safety in both the design and construcof our streets. tion phases. I think my creative I am particularly proud of nature as a “frustrated artist” our recent success in securing complements my detail-oriented competitive grant funding toward technical skills as an engineer in a most of our capital improvements, manner that works very well in my minimizing the financial burden on role as director of engineering and our residents for major life-safety building. improvements such as the North

Shore Drive flooding mitigation project and the new traffic signal Xk 9i`Xinff[ IfX[ fe Iflk\ (.-% Even our green initiatives have been substantially funded by federal grants, including this fall’s installation of the very first buffered bike lanes in McHenry County.

tion project, watershed protection studies and rain barrel incentive program. My interaction with the residents on our Clean Air Counts Committee has also been very inspiring, as we work together toward our goal of becoming one of the few towns in the state to Y\ Z\ik`]`\[ Xj X È9`ZpZc\ =i`\e[cp Community.”

General

Card Clothing & Services is taking applications for the

positions: visitfollowing in McHenry County? MACHINIST - Candidate mustthe lakes of Kayaking around have 5 years experience in machine shop Oaks environment and caThree Recreation Area is still pable of operating engine lathe, one of vertical mill,my andfavorite have goodescapes. It still mechanical skills. Any previous amazesinmemanufacturing how serene the park experience rolls andbe cylinders is a plus. can despite being situated just WELDER / FABRICATOR - CanX ]\n ]\\k ]ifd Iflk\ (+% didate must have minimum 5 years experience in mig welding working in a shop environment and capable of reading blue prints. Any experience in basic machine shop a plus.

What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? INDUSTRIAL PAINTER - Candidate must have minimum 2 Being a slightly sleep-deprived years experience in surface preparation / application of a children, I father of two young verity of paints, working with reducers and leave hardeners.home without: a big never Allcup Candidates must bemy a hard of coffee, iPad and my working, be able to complete bikewithhelmet, least when I’m not tasks minimumatsupervision, possess a strong attention a tie. towearing detail and be able to work overtime when needed. Benefits include medical insurance / Dental / 401K, paid vacation and competitive wages.

What is the best career advice you have received? Please send or fax resume to: CCS Inc. The best career advice I received 11421 Kiley Drive IL 60142be an active listener. wasHuntley, to simply Fax : 847-961-5775 Being open to different points of view and creative outside-the-box solutions has been very important to my success in both the local government and the technical aspects of my career.

For more Jobs and Career Information

Nominator’s comment: in McHenry, Lake, Kane & DeKalb Counties in Suburban Chicago “Erik Morimoto is a talented and How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? My work in local government gives me a unique opportunity to give back to our community on a daily basis, and contribute to some of the improvements that make Crystal Lake a great place to live. In addition, I am able help protect our community’s natural resources and promote green infrastructure with our rain garden demonstra-

www.facebook.com/SuburbanChicagoJobs What is something you have

@SuburbanChiJobs

never done but want to do someday? I’d like to finish the stair climb races at the five tallest skyscrapers in Chicago and support some great charities in the process. Two down, three to go. What is your favorite place to

dedicated engineering professional who is committed to serving the public and to doing the right thing,” said colleague James Richter, the city’s assistant director of economic development. “Erik is a great leader, he’s detail-oriented, and a he is a great communicator, and I’m honored to work with him.” Crystal Lake City Manager Gary Mayerhofer added: “Erik is very dedicated to improving the city’s `e]iXjkilZkli\ Xe[ XcnXpj ^`m\j ((' percent.”

21 DZ?\eip :flekp 9lj`e\jj AflieXc &EN?\iXc[%Zfd&Ylj`e\jj =Xcc )'(*

BEST UNDER 40 JOB FAIR

To apply, please visit www.amcombank.com/ career_opportunities.htm

Service Tech. Active HVAC located in Gilberts, IL. is looking for FT person with minimum 5 years experience. Must have own tools & reliable transportation.

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BEST UNDER 40 Carl D. Vallianatos II Age: *0 Occupation: Assistant Principal, McHenry High School West Campus Residence: McHenry Hometown: Metamora Family: N`]\ EXkXc`\2 [Xl^_k\ij 8i`XeeX# 0# Xe[ Jfg_`X# * Education: 9XZ_\cfiĂ‹j f] jZ`\eZ\ [\^i\\ ]ifd Efik_\ie @cc`ef`j Le`m\ij`kp `e (00.# dXjk\iĂ‹j [\^i\\ ]ifd Efik_ GXib Le`m\ij`kp `e )'') Xe[ \[lZXk`fe jg\Z`Xc`jk [\^i\\ ]ifd Efik_\ie @cc`ef`j Le`m\ij`kp `e )'() Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Buddyz Pizza and the Village Squire in McHenry Favorite book? “Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’tâ€? by Jim Collins One word that describes you? Compassionate What is your job and what makes you good at it? I am an assistant principal at McHenry High School-West and I have a variety of duties that include student activities, student leadership development, testing and teacher evaluation. I love working with teachers and students on great causes along the path to personal and organization development. I just really love working with all kinds of people, especially students. What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year? This year I am especially proud of what the students have done to unify the community in becoming the largest St. Baldrick’s shaving \m\ek f] fm\i (#)'' nfic[n`[\% @ Xd Xcjf m\ip proud of the first graduating class at MCHS to receive the Distinguished Warrior Honor and the amount of quality well-rounded people we continue to help produce and send on their ways into the world to be contributors. I am very proud of my wife and children every year. How do you give back to the community and what drives your service? I am committed to promoting community service to our students and building programs that do so. This is consistent to our mission to produce life-long learners and productive citizens. I also believe in modeling this. I am a member of McHenry Rotary-Sunrise and the McHenry Area Character Counts Coalition. I believe that my drive for service comes from my fulfillment from building relationships with people. What is something you have never done but want to do someday? KiXm\c kf Xe[ kfli EfidXe[p# =iXeZ\ Xe[ stand on Omaha Beach. What is your favorite place to visit in

McHenry County? I really enjoy being by the water, whether it be dining out or even feeding the ducks.

Lathan Goumas – lgoumas@shawmedia.com

McHenry High School-West assistant principal Carl Vallianatos has worked at the school for 17 years, including nine as an assistant principal and eight as a social sciences teacher. He is seen here posing for a portrait at the school.

What are three things you never leave home without in the morning? In order of importance: my wedding ring, my iPhone and my wallet. What is the best career advice you have received? I think the advice I have received all my life that I have always remembered is to make decisions based on your ethical values. I have always admired those who go about their jobs and duties with conviction and humility. Nominator’s comment: “Carl is responsible for bringing St. 9Xc[i`ZbĂ‹j ;Xp kf DZ?\eip% =`m\ p\Xij ago when a student approached him with the idea, he immediately embraced it and helped the student set everything in motion. Carl’s unwavering commitment to raising funds as well as community awareness regarding pediatric cancer, while also uniting his students with a common purpose, has been nothing short of phenomenal,â€? McHenry Mayor Sue Low said. “In March, thanks to Carl’s efforts to inspire students and staff of District (,-# jkl[\ekj Xe[ jkX]] f] ;`jki`Zk (,# cfZXc churches, service clubs, police and fire departments, city workers and the community as a whole, McHenry achieved the goal of Y\`e^ Ef% ( `e k_\ nfic[ ]fi k_\ eldY\i f] shavees at a single event. Nine hundred eighty-five people stood in line to have their heads shaved for the cause, raising almost ))'#''' ]fi g\[`Xki`Z ZXeZ\i i\j\XiZ_% Efk only has St. Baldrick’s Day turned into an incredible school event, it has turned into a unifying community event embraced by everyone. Carl is such an inspiring person to all he meets.â€?

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