NT_Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce - 40 Under 40 - 2024

Celebrating young difference makers across the Illinois Valley!

ILLINOIS VALLEY

2023 40 Under Forty

This publication was created and produced by Shaw Media for the Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development.

ILLINOIS VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1320 Peoria St. Peru, IL 61354 815-223-0227 ivaced.org

SHAW MEDIA

426 Second St. La Salle, IL 61301 815-223-3200 www.shawmediamarketing.com

GENERAL MANAGER/ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Jeanette Smith

EDITOR

Shannon Serpette

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Teresa Spence

PHOTOGRAPHY

Scott Anderson

As IVAC Executive Director, I am excited to present the community with this year’s 40 Under Forty inductees. I have been inspired by the people being recognized, and I have found each year that while I may know the leaders being recognized I don’t always realize the impact they are having on the people around them and the communities they serve. I encourage you to learn more about each of these wonderful people, and hope you are filled with as much pride and hope as I am knowing they are the leaders that will continue to move our region forward!

BILL ZENS Chamber Director

Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development

As our selection committee went through this year’s nominees, I think what truly sets these individuals apart is not just their personal accomplishments, but their tireless efforts to better themselves, their organizations, and their communities. They are the difference makers, the ones who see challenges as opportunities and obstacles as just another step on their path to being their best. They are dedicated community members who sit on boards, coach their kids teams, or donate time and money to so many of our local organizations.

These 40 individuals understand that true success is not necessarily measured by wealth or fame, it is measured more by the positive impact that they have on those around them. As we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals, please reflect on the power of their determination, resilience, and compassion. Be inspired by their example to reach higher, dream bigger, and make a difference in the lives of those around us.

As you read through the bios of this year’s recipients I hope you start to think of community leaders you know that are deserving of this recognition, and I encourage you to nominate them for next years class of 40 Under Forty honorees.

A Night To Celebrate

The 40 under Forty recipients were honored at a banquet on March 14th at

Abigail “Abby” Nambo

Bruin Learning Center Director, Saint Bede Academy

Learning lessons from being a young mother

Abigail Nambo had a career path in mind when she graduated from St. Bede Academy in 2012.

“I had a goal of becoming a nurse. God had different plans and instead decided I would become a mom first,” she said.

Nambo, who is 30 years old and lives in Peru with her husband Justin, is now a mother of three. She recently graduated from college and found a passion for education after working as a paraprofessional at Putnam County Elementary School. She has now returned to St. Bede – this time as an employee.

“I am currently in a program to become a licensed educator while working as the Bruin Learning Center Director,” Nambo said. “Once I have completed the program, I hope to continue as the Bruin Learning Center Director. After two full years of teaching, I plan to enroll in an Educational Leadership program and obtain my master’s. Ultimately, my goal is to become an assistant principal/ dean. Most importantly, I hope to remain at St. Bede and make a positive impact on

Alec Schwab

Financial

Representative,

the students and make sure they have a strong education and positive high school experience.”

Nambo said the path to her career may have been untraditional, but she learned a lot of valuable lessons and skills along the way.

“I completed college at the age of 29 while working full-time and being a mom to three children. I did not achieve my initial goals, but worked towards finding my passion and took the necessary steps, made the sacrifices, and worked hard to get where I am now,” Nambo said.

“The most important virtue I have learned since becoming a mom at a young age is patience. I also learned that just because something doesn’t work the first time, or even the second time, doesn’t mean you won’t eventually figure out what does. The fact that I never completed my degree was always something I held over myself. I made a few attempts to go back to school prior to last year, but it never seemed to be the right time or work out. With patience and the determination to keep trying, I was able to

Country Financial Providing financial guidance

Alec Schwab, a financial representative with Country Financial in the Ottawa office, believes in educating people so they can make the best decisions for their finances.

“Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call an advisor. Ask questions and be curious. Find an advisor that you can relate to and can have a good relationship with,” Schwab said. When he meets with his customers, he wants them to find the answers to their financial questions and have a game plan for their financial future.

“I believe my line of work makes a big impact on people’s lives that can also then make an impact on their local communities,” Schwab said. “People’s lives can depend on decisions we make together about their future and protecting what they’ve worked hard for.”

At 30, Schwab knows some may see him as a ‘young advisor,’ but he always works to serve his clients’ best interests, finding the answer to all their financial needs.

“The feeling that you’ve made somebody’s day or life that much easier is one of the greatest feelings to have,” Schwab said.

After leaving the area for school and work for a few years, he and his wife returned to the community to build their careers and be close to friends and family. The state parks are also a draw for the young family that enjoys hiking and an active lifestyle.

Schwab said he loves to watch and play almost any sport. He played college basketball at Illinois Valley Community College and William Penn University. These days, he tries to give back to the community as a volunteer coach for youth sports. For the last five years, he’s helped as an assistant coach for the varsity boys’ basketball team at St. Bede Academy.

“Coaching lets me be able to be around the game now that I’m not playing anymore,” he said.

He’s also active with the Ottawa Kiwanis and the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce.

complete an online program, work full-time, and be a mom to my three little ones,” she added.

Cameron Graper

Lead Pastor, Ax Church

Feeling a calling to start a church

Cameron Graper of Troy Grove hopes to create an impact in the Illinois Valley by using a non-profit strategy.

“I was born and raised in the Illinois Valley, growing up in our family business, Graper Sales and Service in Troy Grove. Because of these foundations, I have always loved entrepreneurial endeavors. In 2009, I felt called to plant a church in the Illinois Valley and started Ax Church with 15 close friends,” Graper said.

Since then, Graper, who is 36 years old, has helped grow that church.

“Over the last 14 years, we have grown to a thriving church reaching hundreds of people every weekend and giving away $100,000’s and 10,000’s hours to our community through our Hope Week projects every summer. I love leading and developing leaders and love helping people leverage their influence to bless this area

Carson Wetsel

Executive chef, Camp Aramoni

as best they can,” Graper said. “My goal is to create a movement of people who live up to their God-given potential and bless our community with their time, energy, and money.”

Graper is a big believer that great things can happen in small towns.

“Growing up in the Illinois Valley taught me that small towns don’t mean small ideas. Many people think that big thinkers and strong leaders have to leave their small-town foundations in order to accomplish great things. But, when I felt God call me back to my small-town roots to plant our church and become a community leader, I recognized that so much potential exists in these smaller communities. It simply takes a greater measure of creativity and persistence to build something great inside of them,” Graper said.

Building a recipe for success one plate at a time

When Carson Wetsel set out to find a new job, she never could have imagined the whirlwind it would create as she quickly shot to stardom in the culinary field. She went from line cook to head chef in six months and had scouts from Food Network seek her out as she found herself rising quickly in demand.

“I am but a humble chef of the Illinois Valley who has had a very exciting culinary career in a short amount of time,” Wetsel said.

Wetsel knew she wanted to serve others. She had been working in the nursing field since high school and then lost her job as a certified nursing assistant. That night, she went home and decided she needed a new career.

“I walked into Social Kitchen the next day in my defeat of being let go, determined to start my own career in the arts,” Wetsel said.

A love of the arts runs in her family. Her grandmother started the Peoria Art Guild, her father had an award winning career as a wood carving artist & painter, and her greatgrandmother also painted.

Though she has no formal training in the culinary field, she recalled how, as a child, she often sat in the kitchen, helping and spending time with her mother as she prepared meals. As she moved from Social Kitchen to Tangled Roots Brewing Company, she gained knowledge and experience.

Her social media account of her work brought scouts from Food Network to inquire if she’d participate in “Guy’s Grocery Games.”

Today, the 31-year-old is the executive chef at Camp Aramoni, where she has designed custom menus for the visitors who stay at the boutique campgrounds in Tonica. She is proud to utilize locally-based ingredients, purchasing her beef from a location two miles down the road and selecting produce grown in the campground’s garden.

“I’ve had an incredible time here at Camp Aramoni,” Wetsel said. “I’ve been able to work alongside a few James Beard Awardwinning chefs, served the governor an incredible dinner, and I feel very blessed to have such a full career in the Illinois Valley.

Allison Warren

School Social Worker, Bureau Valley High School

Supporting students emotionally

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree in psychology, Allison Warren began working in local educational settings. Because of the experience and incredible mentors in different educational settings, she was inspired to return for her master’s degree in social work, leading her to accept a role as the first school social worker at Bureau Valley High School.

“I have been given the opportunity to build the program and position from the ground up to what I believe would be most beneficial to the school’s administration, faculty, students, and their families,” Warren said. “I am thankful for their enthusiasm, support, confidence, and trust in my ideas and their helpfulness to help me make them a reality.”

Supporting students and the community is a big part of why Warren, who is 27 years old, has a vision for the future that includes furthering her education to someday become a school principal.

“I hope to see myself as a principal at a

Amanda Carter

community working with our area’s youth and their families,” she said.

Warren was born and raised in Ottawa and is proud to be able to give back to her hometown community while also supporting the community of Tiskilwa, where she recently settled.

“I look forward to seeing what I can offer and bring to this community and the communities that surround it while continuing to grow and support my forever community of Ottawa,” she said.

An avid runner, she’s participated in the Starved Rock Marathon as well as the Chicago Marathon. She recently applied for a spot to run the New York Marathon later this year and said her dream would be to run more marathons.

She’s shared her love for running as a coach for high school students in track and also coaches cheerleading. She’s also participated in other fundraisers, including the Make-A-Wish Polar Plunge.

“The feeling of gratitude expressed by the

Museum Director, LaSalle County Historical Society

Sharing local history with others

Amanda Carter firmly believes people should know and understand their community’s local history.

“Born and raised in Deer Park Township near Matthiessen State Park, a love of local history and a sense of community was instilled in me at an early age by my family,” Carter, who is 39 years old, said. “I hope that through my work as museum director I have guided the LaSalle County Historical Society to serve and preserve all of the wonderful history of our county as well as to share its history with visitors of our area and locals alike.”

One of Carter’s favorite things about being museum director is learning about the rich history of this area.

“There is so much to learn, and every day, I most certainly learn something new about our area that I did not know the day before,” Carter said.

Carter lives with her husband in Oglesby and has four children. As museum director,

Carter has the opportunity to interact with children by introducing them to local history through the Aitken School Program. This program teaches fourth graders about local history and why it is important to understand.

“With this understanding, I believe that everyone would put the interest of their local community and those people within it first,” Carter said.

Carter believes the Illinois Valley is a wonderful place to live and is a current board member of the LaSalle County Tourism Coalition.

“My husband and I did live outside of the area (Spruce Pine, North Carolina) for a couple of years when we had our oldest son, but I had always had a yearning to come back, and once I did, I knew we had made the correct choice to return and serve the community where we were born and raised,” Carter said. “I see the Illinois Valley as a prosperous community that many would want to live in or visit because of the sense

recipients in this fundraiser is heartwarming,” she said. “Where there is volunteering or a role that I can play a part of, I do not shy away as I believe the true importance in life is giving back.”

of community people feel when they are here. The natural beauty coupled with the rich history are sure to play a role in our community’s successes.”

Nicholas “Nick” McLaughlin

Principal, St. Bede Academy

Serving students in a variety of roles

Nicholas McLaughlin, a 32-year-old who lives in Tonica with his wife, Laura, and their family, is fully dedicated to shaping young minds through education.

“In my time in education, I have served as a football and track and field coach, English teacher, assistant principal, athletic director, and principal. I have worked at Chicago Hope Academy, Dakota CUSD 201, LaSalle-Peru High School, Lostant Grade School, and now St. Bede Academy. I have always loved education and working with students because they are the future, and I truly believe that education and positive relationships are the two greatest driving forces in bringing about change in this world,” McLaughlin said.

At the end of the school day, McLaughlin’s dedication to his students continues.

“I show up for my students and their families. I believe it is important for them to see me at their games, performances, and the like. People need to know that you care and that they matter,” he said.

David Loveland VP, Finance, W.H. Maze Company

McLaughlin, who was born and raised in the Illinois Valley, started his career outside of this area but always looked forward to returning.

“Our communities are like a family. I enjoy seeing people I know and catching up in the store, being able to address individuals by their names, and I really enjoy seeing my former students,” he said.

Since he has worked in public and private schools in several different roles, McLaughlin has a broader perspective that can be helpful.

“I think the opportunity to serve in both public and private schools is beneficial because it has given me the opportunity to see what works well from both and mesh them together,” he said. “In addition, serving in a variety of roles has allowed me to see things that work well and things that don’t, allows me to think as a teacher or an athletic director when making decisions, and try to make ideas and plans that are in the best interest of all people in the organization.”

Devoted to family business

To be part of the family business was a goal for David Loveland, but reaching his goal has taken hard work and dedication.

At 36 years old, Loveland is the VP of Finance for W.H. Maze Company, joining fellow members of his family’s sixth generation at the longtime Illinois Valley business.

“Maze Company benefits greatly from the mutual trust employees and ownership have built over many years,” Loveland said. “I love being a part of that and continuing the legacy.”

Markets may change, Loveland said, but good quality, good service, and good people are timeless, critical attributes of a successful business.

“Professionally, I hope to extend the legacy my family has stewarded for many years,” Loveland said.

After going away for college and working in Chicago for a while, Loveland said he was

drawn to return to the area to be closer to family and the region that has always been his home. The Illinois Valley is home to the family businesses and where Loveland and his wife are raising their family, enjoying time together whether hiking, gardening, or tinkering around with a project.

Outside of work, he has served the community through leadership positions in the Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce and as a director for the Illinois Valley Leads Foundation. He is an officer and director at American Nickeloid Company. Loveland said that with each opportunity, he has learned a great deal and grown with the challenges he has faced.

Loveland said he is excited to see what the future has in store for the community.

“Many talented and driven individuals have been working hard to develop and market the tourism economy, the industrial/ manufacturing base, and the arts,” he said.

Ben Brown

Fire Chief, Utica Community Fire Protection District

Keeping the community safe

When he isn’t assisting others in emergencies, Ben Brown is working to ensure his community of Utica has the most up-to-date technology and tactics in their fire prevention program.

Brown, 36, is the Utica Fire Chief. He was appointed to the position in 2013, overseeing the department of 36 members who are paid on call. A lifelong resident of Utica, Brown has been with the Utica Fire Department for 20 years, starting as a cadet firefighter in 2003 and rising through the ranks to fire chief, obtaining certifications and experiences along the way.

“Being appointed chief means that the board of trustees trusted me to lead the department into the future – a task I have not taken lightly and feel that I am excelling at,” Brown said. “Over the last ten years, we have improved our department through increased certifications, updated equipment, and tactic changes.”

Additionally, Brown works full-time with the Village of Downers Grove as a firefighter

and paramedic and previously worked as a firefighter/paramedic in Bloomington.

Brown loves living with his family just across the street from where he was raised and answering calls from neighbors in need.

“It is an awesome feeling to be able to help the people that I grew up around and taught me. When I show up on calls, it helps provide comfort to the families when they see a familiar face,” Brown said. “I am proud to be a member of our community and happy to raise my family in the same area that I grew up and love.”

He sees potential for the area to continue to grow as a desired destination for visitors and businesses.

“We have a lot of great projects being worked on now that I feel we can keep building on into the future,” Brown said.

He is working to ensure the fire department is poised for future growth by being prepared with the equipment and strategies to keep the community safe. One way he does that is by serving as the

Bobby Riahi Director of Food and Nutrition Services, LaSalle-Peru High School

Developing recipes, building community

Soups and pasta made from scratch isn’t your average high school cafeteria lunch, and that’s a fact that makes Bobby Riahi proud of his work.

Riahi, 36, is the director of food and nutrition services for LaSalle-Peru High School, combining his love for cooking and his passion for ensuring students have the nutrition they need to succeed in school.

“We are making a lot of things from scratch, like pasta, soups, and some international dishes like risottos. We are trying to use as many local ingredients as possible and give the kids higher-quality end products,” Riahi said.

Riahi said his love for cooking started with his mother and brother who took the time to teach him how to cook and feel comfortable in the kitchen before letting him take over cooking for family meals.

“Once I stepped in a professional kitchen it just felt natural, and I’ve just had a knack

for it ever since. I enjoy learning, and being a chef is a process of constant learning,” Riahi said.

Whether he’s in a professional kitchen or making bread in his home kitchen for his wife and children, he’s happiest preparing food and developing his chef skills.

“It means a lot to be recognized for my work and accomplishments,” Riahi said.

He’s a part of the Spring Valley Grow Group, supporting the community he truly enjoys.

“I really enjoy that the Illinois Valley is full of small towns with access to culture,” Riahi said. “I like how safe it is and how much history is here. This is a really easy place to live where you can make a difference in people’s lives.”

Riahi said he also enjoys writing. He had several of his short stories published, in addition to some articles in local newspapers.

“I have achieved a lot of success in

chairman of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System 25 training committee, comprised of the local division of fire departments.

professional kitchens as well as being a published author and business owner,” Riahi said.

Alicia

Serving communities’ safety, emergency needs

When, at the age of 16, Alex Justi saw a social media posting about the Dalzell Fire Department needing more volunteer firefighters, he answered the call. Still in high school, the Dalzell native began volunteering with the fire department.

“I contacted my town’s fire chief in response to a plea on Facebook for more volunteer firefighters. I was eager to help but I never imagined that I would take it this far,” he said.

After high school, he started working on his emergency medical technician licensing while juggling multiple part-time jobs. When the city of LaSalle’s upfitter was unable to complete a job, Justi was asked if he could help. Soon, more communities asked for help installing equipment into vehicles, from twoway radios to warning lights and sirens. Justi said he took a leap of faith and launched his own business, Justi Emergency Technologies.

“My goal is to expand my business to be the leading provider of emergency vehicle upfitting in central Illinois,” Justi said. In addition to his business, he has

Meseke Managing Partner, Express Employment Professionals

continued to serve part-time as a paramedic for the Peru Volunteer Ambulance Service and is the assistant fire chief for Dalzell Fire Department. Justi said obtaining his paramedic licensure was one of his proudest accomplishments.

“It has allowed me to serve the community by providing the highest level of pre-hospital emergency care that is available in our area. It also opened the doors for me to progress into the leadership positions that I hold today,” Justi said.

Having just turned 25, Justi said he is motivated by how his work has impacted the lives of those in his community.

“It’s definitely a motivating factor when you see someone who is alive and well after you treated them while they were experiencing a life-threatening emergency.” Justi said. “I am also motivated when I see that the emergency vehicles that I build and maintain are actively used by local police, fire, and EMS agencies to provide service to the citizens served by each agency.”

Solving business staffing needs, changing lives

At her Ottawa office, Alicia Meseke is helping people find work and, one by one, changing lives, too.

As the managing partner at Express Employment Professionals, she and her team are connecting businesses throughout the Illinois Valley with the staff they need. The office works with more than 150 local businesses, Meseke said.

“Over the first few years of business, the Ottawa office set new records for growth in the Express system,” Meseke said.

With each employment placement, Meseke knows firsthand how important that step can be in someone’s life. When she needed a new career, she went to Express seeking a placement.

When she needed another job placement, she returned to Express and was hired to work as the front office coordinator for its Champaign office. She worked her way through different office roles and, in 2018, was invited to partner as franchisees for the Ottawa location. She moved to Ottawa and said she is like many who have come to the area for opportunity and have grown to love

the small-town feel.

“I see the Illinois Valley as continuing to grow and offer opportunities for small and large businesses,” Meseke said. “A place where entrepreneurs can build their businesses and live the American dream.”

Today at 39, she is a partner in the business. Meseke said she loves all the people she has met through her business.

“After Express helped me find a job, my motivation became to help others the way Express helped me,” Meseke said. “I would say all the different roles have helped me in this business and understand it more.”

Meseke said the Ottawa location is ranked 84th out of 850 offices worldwide, and she’s proud of the ability to help people find jobs every week.

“I find it very rewarding; changing people’s lives is what I live for,” she said. “To see people got a new car or house because of us helping them.”

In addition to managing the office, she is part of the Ottawa Business Builders and the Ottawa Network of Young Executives.

Christa Hammers

Superintendent, LaSalle County Veterans Assistance Commission

Making a difference in the lives of veterans

Christa Hammers, a 37-year-old who resides in Ladd, has many roles in life – she’s a wife, a mother to two young children, a proud United States Air Force veteran, and a champion for local veterans.

“I joined the LaSalle County Veterans Assistance Commission in 2017 as a Veterans Service Officer and took over the office as Superintendent in 2021. I completed my Certified Veterans Advocate certification in 2022 and have loved meeting and assisting every veteran and family that has walked through our doors,” Hammers said.

“I personally have seen over 1,000 veterans in my time here and brought in over $10 million in benefits to them since my hire. I appreciate the challenge that the VA can be and am happy to know that I am in a position to help alleviate some of the stress that filing for benefits can cause,” Hammers added. Hammers, who added that she has a wonderful, hardworking staff, can relate

Christopher Safranski Dentist, Safranski Dentistry

to the veterans who come into her office because of her own military background.

“Being a veteran myself, I came back to the area not knowing what to do or how to transition back to being a ‘civilian.’ It was difficult to find resources and know what services were available. I knew that I wanted to be a part of the ‘fix’ for that. It has been the most rewarding job I have ever had. I can literally change lives by applying my knowledge of veterans law – and I have,” Hammers said.

While it’s nice to be recognized for her work, Hammers said the real reward comes from helping others.

“Knowing that I have had a hand in changing people’s lives and allowing veterans to live a little more comfortably… it’s the reason and my reward.  I share all the wins and all the frustration of the losses with my veterans and families. It is my honor and privilege to take the stress out of filing

Building a business, caring for community

It’s a family business at Safranski Dentistry. Dr. Christopher Safranski has joined his father, Dr. David Safranski, to lead a dental practice voted No. 1 in the Bureau County Republican and NewsTribune for multiple years.

“It’s great to feel appreciated and to be honored by your patients,” said Dr. Christopher Safranski.

With degrees from the University of Wisconsin and Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville, Safranski, 39, joined the family practice in 2014.

“As I was considering my future while home from graduate school one spring, I took the time to watch at my father’s practice,” Safranski said. “After seeing the patient interactions, the artistic nature of the profession, and the improvement in patients’ health and esthetics, I realized it was genuinely the profession I wished to pursue.”

He is a 2003 graduate of St. Bede Academy and a member of the St. Bede Academy Alumni Association. He has made

time to volunteer, including helping with the track team at St. Bede Academy.

“I love track and field and really enjoy sharing my knowledge with young athletes. It’s very exciting and fulfilling to watch them improve and to enjoy the fun of the sport with them,” Safranski said.

Having lived outside of the area, Safranski said there is something special about the Illinois Valley.

“I returned to the Illinois Valley area as I always felt it is a beautiful area with so much to offer,” Safranski said. “It has such a tight community feeling that you can not get in other areas I have lived in. It is also such a great, safe, and fun area to raise a family.”

He is excited to see the continued growth in the community with events and activities each year.

“Even now, in every community, I see the Illinois Valley moving towards having more organizations, events, and activities to attract young people and families to the area, and I think this will continue and help allow for not

for benefits so our veterans and families don’t have to worry and know that they have someone they can rely on in their corner,” Hammers said.

only population retention and growth, but the economic growth that comes with it,” he said.

Courtney Levy Streator Chamber Executive Director, Streator Chamber of Commerce

A commitment to growing and learning

Courtney Levy, a 39-year-old residing in Streator with her husband and three children, enjoys her job as the Executive Director of the Streator Chamber of Commerce. It provides Levy with an opportunity to continue learning and networking – two things that help fuel her personal growth.

“I believe the most important thing you can do to help set yourself up for success is to continually strive to learn and grow. In addition to the learning component, I find it just as important to network and help others. You can be one of the smartest people in the room, but if you don’t have a network of people that is supporting you and that you are supporting in return, you will struggle to be successful,” Levy said.

Working for the Streator Chamber of Commerce is highly satisfying to Levy.

“The position has allowed me to utilize my strengths while also pushing me outside my comfort zone. The work that I do also brings me great pride,” Levy said.

To help fuel her personal growth, Levy plans

to stay committed to networking and learning and appreciates the encouragement she gets from her family, friends, peers, and mentors.

“I will continue to participate in volunteer opportunities in my community and hope to join others in the Illinois Valley. I hope to continue to also develop my relationship with other chamber executives in the area by collaborating on projects together,” Levy said. “I am currently enrolled in IVAC’s Leadership Academy to help me network with others in the Illinois Valley as well as improve my leadership skills.”

Levy is involved with a long list of organizations, including the Streator Rotary, Streator Young Professionals Network, Business Liaison and Marketing Committee of NCI Works, Streator Area CEO Board, and Kimes PTO. She also served as the 2023 United Way Campaign Chairperson and is the Vice Chair of Live Well Streator and Secretary/Treasurer of SACCI-IDI, as well as volunteering with a few other organizations.

Anthony Williams Branch Manager, Streator Onized Credit Union (SOCU) in Ottawa

Supporting the community through service

Anthony Williams’ mantra is simple, “Be good, do good.” He practices it daily, whether at his job at Streator Onized Credit Union, at home with his wife and two children, or in the community where he is an active part of local service organizations.

“I firmly believe that actions speak louder than words. Therefore, the most effective way to be a role model is to lead by example,” Williams said.

Williams is the branch manager at SOCU, a position he set his sights on when he joined the credit union. In 2021, he successfully opened the Ottawa branch.

“The simultaneous accomplishment of being a first-time manager while contributing to the establishment of a new branch is a momentous achievement for me,” he said.

He found the opportunity to learn and serve with others through community organizations, serving as a board member for the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce and a treasurer for the Ottawa Noon Rotary, and he is the president of the Ottawa Networking for Young Executives (ONYX).

“I’m grateful for the opportunities to be involved in all the different groups I have

joined. Helping others is something I truly enjoy, and being part of these groups gives me the chance to do that,” Williams said.

“In the past couple of years, I’ve learned a lot and had the pleasure of meeting some amazing people. I try to involve everyone and encourage participation. I’m a firm believer that there are numerous paths to reaching a common goal, and open discussions play a crucial role in achieving success. I enjoy supporting others in pursuing their ideas and helping them achieve their goals,” he said.

“I’m always curious, asking questions, and exploring ways to improve processes. I don’t believe the notion that just because something has been done a certain way in the past, it cannot be improved upon,” Williams added.

While he admits he isn’t much of a runner, he has enjoyed being a part of the planning and day of service for the Starved Rock Country Marathon. He became a secretary for the marathon’s board, where he said he has learned a lot and had the opportunity to work with those who bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Daniel “Danny” Dresbach

Sales Manager/Vice President, Dresbach Distributing Company

Growing a business and a family

Daniel “Danny” Dresbach of Peru cherishes his ties to the Illinois Valley and believes it is an ideal place for his family and business.

“I run a family-owned distribution business called Dresbach Distributing Company in Peru alongside my father, Bob Dresbach, and serve as Vice President and Sales Manager. At Dresbach Distributing, we specialize in distributing janitorial, paper, cleaning, beverage, and restaurant supplies across North Central Illinois,” Dresbach, who is 36 years old, said.

“I have always felt a sense of pride in the Illinois Valley Area from a young age, having a family business that my grandfather started nearly 60 years ago. The legacy of our family business and the challenge to see what I could bring to the table always attracted me to stay in this area. I also grew up here and felt that this would be the perfect area to raise a family,” Dresbach added.

He and his wife, Liana, have four children –Cameron, Ava, Ella, and Cooper.

Dean Colmone

Loan Officer, North Central Bank

A love for banking

A passion for banking runs in 30-year-old Dean Colmone’s blood.

“I am a 2015 graduate from Illinois State University. I returned to the Illinois Valley immediately after graduation to follow my uncle Greg Colmone’s footsteps in banking after his passing,” Colmone said. “My uncle was a lender at Spring Valley City Bank for decades and built strong relationships with Illinois Valley residents and small businesses. It was important to me to continue on the Colmone legacy in community banking.”

Colmone, a Spring Valley resident, quickly joined the banking profession and still loves it.

“I worked at Spring Valley City Bank until March of 2020, when I joined the team at North Central Bank as the lender in the Hennepin branch. I have served as the primary lender in Hennepin now for over three years, focusing on residential real estate and commercial lending,” Colmone said. “Starting and advancing my professional career in banking means the

“In my spare time, I enjoy coaching my children in various sports and activities, including baseball, basketball, and football,” Dresbach said. “Having grown up in the Illinois Valley Area, I have been a part of the community with my family business as well as recreational activities for a large part of my life. Because of this, I feel I have invested my time and services to help the community whether it be through providing goods, services, and solutions with my business, or helping develop children through coaching youth sports and activities.”

Dresbach enjoys the feeling of familiarity he has from settling down in the same area where he grew up.

“Being a resident of the Illinois Valley my entire life, I feel that the familiarity of the people and places growing up here has really helped with developing bonds and good relationships with my customers in my business as well as the kids and families that I help volunteer and coach,” he said. “The

Illinois Valley’s small-town area and values really create a togetherness with the families, customers, and kids that I deal with on a day-to-day basis that you can’t get anywhere else.”

world to me.”

Colmone is also passionate about serving and improving the Illinois Valley.

“I have been a resident of the Illinois Valley since I was born and will remain a resident of the Illinois Valley for the remainder of my professional career,” Colmone said. “From the day I left for college, it was always my intention to return to the Illinois Valley Area, specifically in Spring Valley. My family has lived in Spring Valley since the day I was born and has served the community in numerous ways.”

Colmone has noticed the rejuvenation that has taken place in the LaSalle area and believes Spring Valley can accomplish the same thing.

“There has always been a strong sense of pride and confidence in the community (in Spring Valley). We are very proud of the traditions of our local school systems and the education they provide, the growing business district, and the friendly people that reside here. The downtown area continues to

improve, and the Spring Valley residents have been extremely supportive of all existing and upcoming businesses in town,” Colmone said.

Emily Hardee

Physical Education Teacher, Marseilles Elementary School

Spreading mental health awareness

Emily Hardee of Ottawa dedicates her time to two passions – teaching physical education to students at Marseilles Elementary School and raising awareness for suicide prevention.

“Teaching P.E. is a very rewarding job to me because it’s a subject that the students will use for the rest of their lives. I love introducing activities, sports, and skills that the students end up loving and using to be life-long movers,” Hardee, who is 25 years old, said.

Hardee uses the summer months away from school to raise money and awareness for suicide prevention in honor of her late cousin, Molly Yacko.

“I understand how devastating it is to lose someone I love to suicide, and I’ve seen the effects it has on every single person around them, so I do what I do to try to make sure no one else feels like tomorrow would be better off without them. I do what I do so others know that there are people who care, they aren’t alone in what they’re going

Erin Karlosky

Realtor, Janko Realty

through, and there is help out there for them,” Hardee said.

Every year, Hardee organizes an annual 5k called Run Today for Tomorrow.

“This year was the fourth annual 5k. I partnered with the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation to keep all proceeds local. We created a scholarship for a local graduate currently enrolled in the mental health field of study,” Hardee said. “The rest of the proceeds this year were given as a grant to the Youth Service Bureau and is currently helping people in our community who need financial assistance with getting the services they need.”

In addition to the 5k event, Hardee also tries to raise awareness for mental health in other ways.

“I plan a yearly event called Let’s Chalk About Mental Health, where we cover Washington Square in inspirational quotes during September, National Suicide Prevention Month,” Hardee said.

Finding people homes and granting wishes

As a realtor, 35-year-old Erin Karlosky of Oglesby loves connecting people with a home they’ll treasure and wants to help everyone achieve the American Dream.

“I have been a realtor for six years now and enjoy every crazy moment of it,” Karlosky said. “Before becoming a realtor, I did not realize what a barrier housing is for people, and now that I do know, it’s time to make a difference. I have a unique desire to better my community and to do what I can to improve the lives of every person in it.”

Karlosky, who has one daughter, has a busy schedule. In addition to raising a toddler, she is President of the Illini Valley Association of Realtors this year, serves on several Illinois Realtors state and local committees, and volunteers as a Make-A-Wish wish granter. Karlosky also volunteers at the PADS shelter and Habitat for Humanity.

“My favorite part of being a wish granter with Make-A-Wish is seeing the joy in children when their wish is granted. It really is a life-changing experience for them and their family,” Karlosky said.

Karlosky grew up in the Illinois Valley and has no desire to leave. She believes the area will continue to grow and is filled with opportunity.

“I stayed in the Illinois Valley area because it is my home. I have lived here since I was 2; it is all I know. I love to travel and see other places, but I love my hometown. The people that will make the most difference in this area are the people whose hearts live here, and that is me,” Karlosky said. “This will always be my home; it is the place I choose to raise my daughter, a place I feel safe raising her and creating our lives.”

Ethan Koncor

P.E./Driver’s Education/ Kinesiology Teacher, Streator Township High School

Variety keeps life interesting

No one can accuse Ethan Koncor, a 24-year-old Peru resident, of leading a boring life. He works at Streator Township High School where he teaches weight training classes, kinesiology, and driver’s education. During the evenings, he coaches soccer during the fall and spring.

While Koncor’s work schedule keeps him busy, he still makes time for his favorite creative outlet.

“The rest of my time is dedicated to both of my bands. Most people at my day job are unaware that I am in two metal bands based out of Chicago. I spend many hours a week rehearsing, writing music, and driving to the city. During most of my weekends, I am out performing,” Koncor said. “Many of our shows are played in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa during the school year. During the summers, I spend a month touring the country to perform. Teaching, coaching, and drumming are my passions that I love to do and am fortunate enough to do.”

Gabriel Leonard Owner, Rip’s Tavern

Koncor has managed to find enough time in his days to balance all of his obligations.

“I don’t really have a big secret to juggle teaching, coaching, and being in two bands. I just try my best to balance our schedules and sleep on a very modified schedule. If anything, the big secret I’d say is having plenty of coffee,” he joked.

Koncor measures his success by seeing the steady improvement his athletes and students make.

“My proudest accomplishment in the few short years I have been teaching would have to be helping bring back the kinesiology class at Streator High School. The class was offered a few years before I started working here but was no longer offered because there was a lack of interest from the students,” Koncor said.

“After I started teaching here, I expressed interest in possibly bringing it back. In the last two years, we have been able to offer the course each semester, which not all high-

Building a future for historic Ladd business

Managing a small business seems to run in the family for Gabriel Leonard. Growing up around a family of entrepreneurs, it made sense to say yes when an opportunity arose to purchase a long-time and well-loved establishment in Ladd.

In 2019, at the age of 28, Leonard and his sister, Angie, acquired Rip’s Tavern, which opened in 1936. Despite the economic challenges of the past years, with incredible support from the community, they have weathered the storm.

“Being from a community full of small towns, we really saw our customers from near and far come out to support us in a big way as we supported them throughout the hard times that the world was dealing with,” Leonard said. “We were there for them, and they were there for us.”

Throughout the economic challenges, Leonard said the business continued to collect donations for the food pantry and host community fundraisers.

Leonard’s great grandfather, Alex Malooley, operated a food market in downtown Spring Valley and his parents established a video store, Video Vision, also

in downtown Spring Valley.

“Being in a business-oriented family has taught me about having a great work ethic and always supporting the community,” Leonard said.

Now 32 years old, Leonard and Angie are a business team working hard to support employees and the greater community.

‘We are always learning and can always better ourselves,” Leonard said. “We always want to make our established patrons happy but also stay relevant and thriving for future generations to come, for those who will experience Rip’s for the first time.”

As a high school athlete, Leonard is familiar with putting in hard work and being part of a team. He attended Hall High School, where he ran track and played football, earning the 2009-2010 George Boroski Defensive Lineman of the Year award his senior year.

Leonard said he also loves music and is self-taught on the drums, guitar, bass, and piano.

As a business owner, Leonard tries to support local athletic teams and civic organizations.

“I’ve lived in Spring Valley my whole life,”

level electives have the ability to do. I have received a tremendous amount of support from our administrators and our board. We are actually only one of two schools in the entire state to have virtual reality cadaver tables to offer our students,” Koncor added.

Leonard said. “My roots are here. I like the small-town life, knowing my neighbors and community, and seeing it evolve over my 32 years.”

Peyton Lamps

Owner/Florist, Petals by Peyton

Finding her calling at a young age

Peyton Lamps, a 25-year-old from Peru, started working in a greenhouse in eighth grade and now can’t imagine a job where she isn’t surrounded by flowers and plants. That early exposure led to a career as a florist and being the owner of Petals by Peyton.

“I’ve always had a passion for outdoorsy things,” Lamps said. “I started my business when I was just a senior in high school.”

She did vendor shows, set up a shop in her parents’ garage, worked two jobs, and studied horticulture and floral design at Kishwaukee College.

Shortly after graduating from college, Lamps opened a storefront in LaSalle in November of 2019.

“Covid hit just four months later. I closed down my store for what was supposed to be days. Days turned into weeks, and I resorted to doing online live plant sales and offered local delivery. My following on social media

Timothy Gatza

Lawyer, Gatza & Milus

doubled during that time, and my sales were the best they had ever been. I reopened on the Thursday before Mother’s Day and had a line going for what felt like forever,” Lamps said. “It still to this day is one of my favorite memories.”

In the years since, her shop has continued to grow. Looking back, Lamps is happy she had the courage to pursue her dreams despite being young and unsure how the finances would work out.

“I would say I’m most proud of myself for going for the things I want in life, no matter my age. I opened my own store at age 20 with just $800 left to my name. I didn’t even have the money to pay my shop rent for the following month because I put everything I had into my shop,” she said. “I just knew that it was going to work, and I had such a passion for what I was doing. Four years later, my shop is still going strong, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.”

Sharing a passion for justice

When the time was right to build his own private practice, Timothy Gatza turned to his friend and fellow St. Bede alum to launch a law firm to serve the Illinois Valley.

“I was ready to go out on my own, and my partner Zach Milus had just recently done the same thing,” Gatza explained. “I’ve known Zach since we were kids and both went to Saint Bede together. We discussed the idea of opening shop, and who better to go into business with than someone you already know, trust, and get along with?”

Gatza, 38, was born and raised in LaSalle. He earned his law degree at Michigan State University College of Law and decided to return to the Illinois Valley to be near his family and friends as he established his law career.

“I was fortunate enough to earn a job with the law firm Armstrong & Surin in Ottawa,” Gatza said.

In 2017, he and Milus opened their law firm.

“We have been lucky enough to have a busy law practice that allows us to help others in the way we would help our own family and friends,” Gatza said. “My most prized professional accomplishments are running our office like a family and forming meaningful relationships with my clients.”

In addition to managing his law practice, Gatza works part-time as a public defender in Bureau County as a guardian ad litem, handling matters involving children who have been abused, neglected, or have been accused of committing a crime.

Gatza said he was inspired to take up the work to have “the ability to play a small part in helping a child or family through one of the worst times in their life.”

He has previously served as the president of the LaSalle County Bar Association. He is currently a member of the Prairie State Legal Services Conflict Referral Panel and the Saint Bede Alumni Board.

Josie Navarro

Program Director, United Way of Eastern LaSalle County

Relishing each new adventure

Josie Navarro, a 25-year-old Ottawa native who moved back to the area after earning a bachelor’s degree from Coe College, enjoys embracing each challenge that comes her way.

“I began a career in marketing at a local State Farm Agency where I learned that I love the creativity and problemsolving that are inherent in marketing, but I also discovered that sales wasn’t a field I enjoyed,” Navarro said.

During her time at that job, she accepted a new role.

“I was invited to join the Ottawa Network of Young Executives (ONYX) as the marketing chairperson of the board, and I gladly accepted. Today, I maintain a position on the board as secretary-elect. To become more engaged in the community, it was also during this time that I joined the Ottawa Noon Rotary as a member at large. I now serve as a board member after pursuing an

Kara Redshaw

open position,” Navarro said.

Navarro decided to leave the insurance world and enter the banking industry while still indulging in her love of marketing as the digital media specialist at First Federal Savings Bank. Most recently, Navarro was approached about joining the Ottawa Downtown Association board and started a new position as program director at United Way of Eastern LaSalle County while continuing to work at Jeremiah Joe Coffee, a job she began in 2014.

“I was drawn to the Program Director role at United Way of Eastern LaSalle County for a few reasons. I’ve always felt driven to make a meaningful impact. I truly find joy in simply putting a smile on someone’s face,” she said.

Navarro is determined to keep seeking interesting roles, contribute to society, and embrace new opportunities.

“I hear, too often, the generalization that young people lack motivation. Though I am

Licensed clinical social worker, Illinois Valley Counseling Services

Family at the core of life, career

In her younger days, Kara Redshaw would help her mom, a preschool teacher, with her classes and discovered a love for working with children. Today, she continues to work with children, as well as families, by providing support and services as a therapist.

Redshaw, 33, said she credits the incredible mentors in the field and school who helped her along her career path.

“My mentors helped guide me throughout my education and career,” Redshaw said. “They shared connections to a network of social workers and other professionals. This network provided a variety of experiences and opportunities that I would have otherwise missed. Much of my knowledge and framework in the field came from education and modeling provided by mentors.”

As a therapist, Redshaw is an advocate for early diagnosis and treatment to benefit a child and the family.

“Often symptoms are observed in multiple settings, which can lead to challenges

at school and home,” Redshaw said. “In treatment, children are able to develop healthy coping skills, build self-esteem, improve social skills, and improve emotional wellness.”

Raised in Putnam County and currently a resident of Streator, Redshaw said she did leave the area for a few years, moving to Arizona to escape winters. Her desire to raise her family close to family and friends brought her back to the Illinois Valley.

Her path to a career included juggling her work and her family. She was a mother to four children while working on her associate degree. Redshaw said graduating with her master’s in social work was a proud moment.

“Having a family was a huge motivator to do well, but also a challenge in balancing work, school, and family,” Redshaw said. “It was such a relief and accomplishment to graduate with my children there, cheering me on.”

She isn’t finished pursuing an education, as she is working to become a certified

stubborn and I appreciate being a testament to a falsehood, the core of my motivation stems from a passion to create positive change and invoke positive influence. Throughout the various roles I hold within the community, I intend to contribute positivity, inclusivity, and innovation,” she said.

Gottman Couples Therapist.

For Redshaw, volunteering and supporting organizations is a family project.

“Throughout the years, our family has volunteered with Relay for Life, Special Olympics, and Salvation Army,” Redshaw said. “My husband and I both value community involvement for ourselves and children.”

Angelica Rivera

Owner and Founder, Clean Queens Cleaning Service LLC

Creating a brighter future

Angelica Rivera, a 26-year-old secondgeneration Latin American who lives in LaSalle, wanted a career that fit in with being a parent. She didn’t want to miss those moments, milestones, and memories with her children because she was working a job where she had to adhere to someone else’s schedule.

“I had my second child in August of 2023, and while I was on maternity leave is when myself and my husband thought of the idea to create a cleaning business,” Rivera said.

Rivera hopes this business will be the beginning of a bright future for her children.

“This business is something bigger than just being my own boss and creating my own schedule; it is something I have created from the ground up and can watch grow for years to come and eventually pass on to my children. The satisfaction and fulfillment that comes from putting your all into watching something grow like that is amazing, and I can’t wait for what’s in store for the future. I

Jacob Aden

hope to be an inspiration for others that want to take the road less traveled,” she said. “We are all capable of amounting to something in this world regardless of age, race, statistics, and anything else society has told us will stop us from being who we want to be and following our dreams.”

Rivera’s parents provided her with a great example of what someone can do with a dream, drive, and determination.

“I was born here in the U.S. My mother was born here as a daughter of immigrants, and my father came here as an immigrant from Mexico when he was only 16 years old with little to nothing, didn’t know the language, and managed to learn a trade and the language as well. He has had his own construction business for 26 years now and is a huge inspiration,” Rivera said. “My mother is a real estate agent, which was always her dream that she never gave up on achieving, and both of those things have set an example for me.”

Owner & Mechanic, LaMoille Auto Care Center

Stepping up and helping family

Jacob Aden was just 13 when his parents opened LaMoille Auto Care Center, and he never imagined at age 19 that he’d be the one running the shop and serving as the lead mechanic.

Family is everything to Aden, and when his parents were badly injured in a car accident, he stepped in to keep the family business going, working long days and nights and juggling repairs, billing, and the maintenance on the rentals his parents owned in the community.

“Whether we were ready or not, my parents were no longer able to work at the shop, and it was my time to step up entirely,” Aden said. “I’m fortunate to have amazing customers, friends, and suppliers that supported me and believed in me in times that I didn’t.”

Now 26 years old, Aden is proud to say the family business continues to thrive. He said the Illinois Valley has a strong sense of community, with residents who support each other and help the area grow. He’d like to continue to see his own business grow and

add another bay to serve customers.

As a mechanic, it’s essential to be reliable, trustworthy, and fair, but Aden goes beyond the essentials to try to educate his customers too.

“Many times, if I am able to, I like to take customers to their vehicle and show them the damaged part,” Aden said. “This gives me the opportunity to educate customers on where the part is located on the vehicle, explain how the part should operate in comparison to how it’s operating while damaged, and provide overall transparency as to why the repair is necessary.”

In addition to running the business with his wife, Michelle, he is also the co-owner of J & S Aden Management for 18 rental units and co-owns Lucky Cuts Gaming in LaSalle. He’s a member of the LaMoille Lions Club. Aden said it’s been a privilege to work and serve in the Illinois Valley, and he is looking forward to continued growth in the area.

“The opportunity to grow has always been here and will continue to bring us new businesses and attractions,” Aden said.

Kelsey Sarver

Spanish Teacher, Princeton High School

Teaching a second language

Kelsey Sarver, a 32-year-old who lives in Princeton with her husband and two children, believes in the transformative power of learning a second language.

“I believe it is essential for children to learn and be proficient in a second language as our country truly is a melting pot of different cultures and languages. If students have the ability to communicate in multiple languages, they give themselves a huge opportunity to expand potential job opportunities as well as being able to communicate with a wider audience base. The countless doors they open for themselves is motivation enough; however, simply learning about and being able to understand another’s culture, identity, and language allows for a more empathetic and well-rounded individual who can connect with more people in general,” Sarver said.

Every day in her role as a Spanish teacher, she works to teach not only language but also the appreciation for another culture.

“I am an enthusiastic and energetic educator and love teaching the Spanish

Neal Knauf

language, culture, and community,” Sarver said. “In my free time, I enjoy acting, singing, and playing the piano. I can be described as having ‘too much energy in the early morning’ and enjoy putting a smile on my students’ and children’s faces.”

Despite having a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Aurora University, Sarver said she didn’t realize what she wanted to do until her mid-20s.

“I found myself unhappy and unfulfilled in my first career. I made a drastic change when given the opportunity to move to the Illinois Valley in 2016 on a whim to teach Spanish at Bureau Valley High School. I never looked back and am so grateful. I went back to school for my education career while teaching at Hall High School and had to earn my teaching license, take all content exams, pass all education-related exams while teaching full-time,” she said.

She later began teaching at Princeton High School, where she is the only Spanish teacher.

“I became my own Spanish department.

Sr. Vice President – Loan Officer, Central Bank Illinois

Building career, community in the IV

As a bank vice president, one would imagine Neal Knauf spends his days dealing with numbers. While that is true to an extent, he also finds himself captivated by his clients’ stories.

With a focus on agribusiness and commercial loans, many of Knauf’s clients at the Peru branch of Central Bank Illinois are farmers or small business owners.

“One of my favorite parts of my job is getting to know my clients and the history of their farm or business through regular conversation,” Knauf said. “Many farms and businesses go back several generations with their own stories of success and heartache along the way. The hope is that I can continue to work with the next generation of that farm or business and help guide that generation through their own success stories.”

Knauf, 29, grew up in Peru and is an alum of St. Bede Academy. At Illinois State University, he majored in agribusiness and began working at Central Bank Illinois as an intern during his sophomore year of college.

“Early on, I recognized great opportunity within the organization. Over the next eight years, I worked my way up to senior vice president-loan officer at the bank,” Knauf said.

In addition to his hard work helping to grow the bank and support his clients, he has become an active part of several community organizations. He is the president of the Peru Rotary, vice president for the Illinois Valley Leads Group, as well as a member of the United Way Executive Board, the St. Bede Alumni Association Board, and Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce board.

“Over the past eight years, I have focused on building my career, but I have recognized that it is important in a rural community to be involved within the community. In order for our community to be strong, it will take many individuals to sacrifice their time and efforts,” Knauf said.

For Knauf, building his career and family in the Illinois Valley represents opportunities in a great place.

“Coming back to the Illinois Valley was

I teach all levels of Spanish,” Sarver said. “I have grown this department here at PHS immensely over the last four years, having more than a 50 percent retaining rate from Spanish 1 to Spanish 4.”

important to me because I wanted to build a career and raise a family in a place where we could embrace the sense of community,” Knauf said. “The Illinois Valley offers the ability to raise a family in a rural area while still allowing many opportunities for social and professional development.”

Matthew Klein

Developing a professional network

Through a local professional organization based in the Illinois Valley, Kyle Foley has been able to connect with others in his field and develop his own leadership skills.

Foley was born and raised in Peru. Following graduation at LaSalle-Peru High School, he attended Illinois Valley Community College and Illinois State University.

“I have always called the Illinois Valley area home,” Foley said.

He spent nearly a decade as the Human Resource Generalist for Horizon House of Illinois Valley.

“During my tenure with Horizon House, I was lucky enough to have met numerous area professionals in the community,” Foley said.

Today, he enjoys his role as a Talent Acquisition Specialist for Ace Hardware in the recruitment and hiring for the Illinois Ace Distribution Warehouse.

One way he has found to help develop his career is through his involvement with the Illinois Valley Society for Human Resource Management. He found himself recruited to the organization and has quickly risen in the ranks to become the Program Director.

“At that point, I finally felt that someone was noticing me in the area,” Foley said, adding that even during the challenges of the

pandemic, he was able to navigate to bring programming to the members. “Even in 2020 and in the thick of Covid, I still gathered and confirmed virtual speakers for our membership to give them the most up-todate guidance on employment law.”

Foley said being a part of a professional organization within your career area helps to build professional relationships and learn best practices, while sharing ideas and resources.

“The Illinois Valley Society for Human Resource Management has given me the confidence to not only multi-task but to be a resource for area HR professionals,” Foley said.

Beyond developing his career, Foley has found connections in the community, including Stage 212, where he serves on the board of directors for the theater company. He started working with the theater behind the scenes in sound design and discovered a love for sound operating work. He has also been a member of the nights of Columbus in LaSalle for 16 years, where he served as Grand Knight form 2021-2023 and now serves as the tootsie Roll Chairman, a program that benefits area nonprofits for people with intellectual disabilities.

Marketing, CL Enterprises; Founder, Matthew Klein Films

Capturing the stories on film

Through the lens of a camera, Matthew Klein shares stories of places and people.

At 24 years old, he’s received credit for his work that was used in large production houses and garnered accolades for his work in competitions and beyond.

“I started sharing my videos and photos online in February 2017. At the time, I took simple video clips on my iPhone and put them together in a basic video editor called iMovie,” Klein said. “Fast forward to today, there’s a little more gear, time, software, and more that goes into the process, to say the least.”

He launched his own video production company at the age of 17. He has created more than 500 films for a range of public and private entities. He’s had more than three million views of his work, in addition to having his work included in everything from a holiday movie to documentaries.

“While it can be difficult to envision success

in the future, I do confidently believe that as long as I am learning, growing, and enjoying my work, the outcome should be successful,” he said.

One area he has enjoyed showcasing is the natural beauty of the Illinois Valley. He said the collection of small communities with distinctive characteristics is ideal for storytelling.

He enjoys photographing nature, flying drones, and exploring our national parks. In 2022, the avid hiker joined the Starved Rock Foundation Board of Directors.

“I do believe there is a great deal of untapped tourism potential in the valley,” Klein said. “We are fortunate to have many destinations for world tourists.”

He completed his bachelor’s degree with honors from Bradley University and is pursuing a Master’s of Business Administration while working full-time at CL Enterprises and managing his video production company.

Kaylee Sienza-Duncan

Speech-Language Pathologist, Ottawa Elementary School District 141

Students’ success inspires therapist

While to her students she is a therapist, Kaylee Sienza-Duncan hasn’t stopped pursuing her own studies, seeking new programs and learning new methods to bring the best practices to her students every day.

This school year, Sienza-Duncan joined the staff at Ottawa Elementary School District 141 to provide support to students as a speech-language pathologist.

“My philosophy is that if I can do anything for my students, I should give them not only the ability to communicate but also be literate,” Sienza-Duncan said. “I have incorporated components of the science of reading in therapy and educated others on the association of speech and language disorders and reading difficulties.”

Sienza-Duncan, 29, has shared her research and practices with college students, helping to educate future teachers. She’s remained a student herself, whether studying new practices and programs or her study to become fluently bilingual in Spanish and a bilingual speech-language pathologist and support English Language Learners.

Patrick Chismarick

Managing

Broker, Chismarick

“My vision is to continue developing my speech therapy practice as it pertains to literacy and the science of reading and incorporate this knowledge in my speech therapy practices to benefit my students,” Sienza-Duncan said.

Sienza-Duncan said she had wanted to be a teacher since she was a child.

“From a young age, I played ‘school’ after school. I spent time volunteering to help teachers whenever possible,” she said.

Her mom encouraged her to observe a speech-language pathologist, and she instantly connected with the work and the therapist, who would become her mentor and, later, her colleague.

She started her path to becoming a speech language pathologist by attending Illinois Valley Community College and completing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Illinois State University.

Sienza-Duncan is proud to be a fourthgeneration resident of Oglesby and part of a team of educators supporting students.

“My accomplishment I am most proud

Realty, LLC/ Town & Country Apartments

Honoring the lessons his mother taught him

Patrick Chismarick, a 30-year-old who lives in Streator, is the fourth generation of his family to own small businesses in the Streator area.

“After college, I returned to manage the family business known as Town & Country Apartments, where I managed, oversaw, and conducted all aspects of the business and the day-to-day operations. I continue in that role today,” he said.

“I also obtained my real estate license and began working as a Broker/Realtor in the other family business known as Chismarick Realty, LLC, where I assist clients in the buying, selling, and leasing of real estate. In 2022, I became the Designated Managing Broker of Chismarick Realty, LLC, overseeing and managing all aspects of the business and affiliated agents, while continuing my role personally serving clients,” he added.

In 2022, Chismarick experienced a painful loss – his beloved mother, Beckie Chismarick,

unexpectedly passed away.

“My mother and I had formulated business succession plans in the event anything was to happen to her or I. While they are not fun to think about or do, I am abundantly glad we had the foresight to do so,” he said.

Chismarick continues to implement the life lessons his mother taught him.

“The most important life lessons my mother taught me were to always remain ethical, honest, and do the right thing in all situations; to treat everyone with the same level of respect and dignity; to never quit regardless of the obstacles, that there is always a solution to be found, you just have to be willing to work hard enough to find it; and to always do what you can to leave what you are involved with better than how you found it,” he said.

Chismarick and his wife, Alyssa, are parents to one daughter, Madilyn. He gives back to the community by being active in the Streator

of is watching my students succeed,” she said. “I am proud to have had students go from being unable to read, to fluent readers, while also working on their speech and language skills. Watching their excitement for their own accomplishments makes me proud. It feels rewarding to give students opportunities for communication and success they otherwise might not experience.”

Area Chamber, Streator Young Professional Network, and Streator LEADS Group and serving as a Lieutenant on the Long Point Volunteer Fire Department.

“My entire life, I have been driven to better myself, my organizations, my community, and all that I am involved with,” Chismarick said.

Matthew Staab

Manager, Cody Burroughs State Farm

Megan Theisinger

Social worker, St. Bede Academy

Inspired by family members

Matthew Staab knows cars. He’s fixed them, sold them, and knows them inside and out. With his passion for cars, he likes to make sure his clients have the right protection for whatever vehicle they want to drive, as well as coverage for their property.

Staab, 36, is the manager for the Cody Burroughs State Farm Agency in LaSalle. The path to his current role took several twists and turns, but he said he’s found where he belongs.

“I’ve had work experience in multiple fields over the years, and somehow they all contributed in some way to the insurance industry,” he said.

Staab said he grew up around vehicles thanks to his father, who used to race and restore cars. Staab’s first car was a 1988 Monte Carlo SS, a gift from his father. After his father died, Staab inherited his 1965 Buick Wildcat and took it upon himself to complete the restoration work.

After high school, Staab bought Last Detail in LaSalle and spent four years detailing cars. When he decided to take a break, he packed up and joined a friend in

New Hampshire, where he took a job selling cars. Within months, he was a top salesman. While he enjoyed his time on the East Coast, after a few years, it was time to return to the Illinois Valley.

He found a position as a service writer at Jeff Perry Buick GMC, building his knowledge of cars and customer service. In 2022, he accepted the role with Cody Burroughs and said it brought all his interests and experience together.

“I feel like I do have an advantage over some people in this industry due to my automobile knowledge,” Staab said. “It’s important to be passionate about something, and that’s my thing.”

While his father instilled a love of cars, Staab said his stepdad Kevin and his mom helped shape his work ethic.

“He actually taught me the value of a dollar,” Staab said. “I’ll be the first to admit that I wasn’t the easiest kid to get along with, and we didn’t always see eye to eye, but I now know when he was tough with me, he was only doing it to make me a better person.”

Supporting students through social work

To return to the halls of St. Bede Academy has been a homecoming for Megan Theisinger, an alumna of the school who is now working to support the next generation of students.

Theisinger, 32, is proud to serve as the school’s first social worker, combining her experience in the field with her firsthand experience as a student.

“I bring a unique perspective to the world of Catholic and private education and to the field of social work,” Theisinger said. “Having been lucky enough to attend Peru Catholic and St. Bede, I understand and value the family-like atmosphere as well as supportive and faith-based environment a student can come to expect from their education in a private and Catholic school.”

Theisinger, the oldest of five daughters, said she has always loved helping others and looking for the best in people. Throughout her career experience, she has been a social worker at The Center for Homelessness in South Bend, Indiana; a foster care caseworker at the Center for Youth and Family Solutions in LaSalle; and in the hospice unit at St. Margaret Hospital.

She has been a school social worker for seven years, including six years at Streator Elementary School District 44. Theisinger said a social worker is greatly needed in schools.

“It’s important for students, in all schools, to have access to a social worker not only because of the rise in mental health needs in teens, but also because social media and technology make it harder for students to navigate conflict, relationships, selfadvocacy, emotions, and stress in general,” Theisinger said. “All of this coupled with high school expectations, juggling multiple responsibilities, hormones, and tough everyday experiences such as grief, trauma, and home stress make it even harder to be a teen in today’s world.”

She sees herself as an advocate for students, thinking of those who helped her reach her goals.

“During the school day, they were always a listening ear and an open door for me during my best or worst days. I always knew I wanted to be that for other people one day,” Theisinger said.

Kathryn Andreoni Kurkowski

Project Manager, MCS Advertising

Diving into the community

After spending time launching her career in Chicago, Kathryn Andreoni Kurkowski returned to her roots in the Illinois Valley, where she crafted career opportunities and made community involvement a priority.

The 39-year-old enjoys the opportunity to work with local leaders and nonprofit clients as a project manager for MCS Advertising.

“I aim to harness the transformative potential of emerging technologies, including AI and Google innovations, to elevate marketing strategies when combined with the human touch,” she said.

The experience of working in Chicago with a major corporation was beneficial, Andreoni Kurkowski said.

“That experience of working for an employer with over 9,000 employees has been invaluable. It continues to help shape how I problem solve, navigate team dynamics, and interact with clients,” she said.

For Andreoni Kurkowski, the opportunity to work with wonderful community groups is more than goodwill. She treasures the

opportunity to take on leadership roles and have a positive impact. She has been involved with organizations, including LaSalle County CASA, the LaSalle Business Association, and the Illinois Valley Area Chamber Ambassadors. Kathryn currently serves on the St. Bede Alumni Association, IV Leads, the marketing committee for Habitat for Humanity, and the auction committee for the Perfectly Flawed Foundation.

She returned to the area for a career opportunity and, in the process, met her husband, reconnected with school friends, and found ways to get involved in the community to make a difference.

“I am thrilled to have an established career and roots in my hometown community,” Andreoni Kurkowski said.

While she recognizes there is still work to do in the Illinois Valley, she sees opportunities from education to employment and the investment to rejuvenate the downtown districts, too.

“Recognizing jobs as the primary draw

Heather Smith

Owner, The Place 2 Be in Streator

Making good health

choices fun, tasty

Heather Smith’s vision for business goes beyond serving people’s hunger. She sees an opportunity to help make a difference in her customers’ lives.

In 2018, Smith opened The Place 2 Be, a café specializing in energizing teas, meal replacement shakes, protein bites and smoothies, hot and iced coffee, and fitness products. In addition to the menu, Smith hosts events and programs for the community, with a focus on healthy living.

“I realized the community had several bars and fast food but no location that provided a healthy (on-the-go) and uplifting/ encouraging space. I wanted to flip the concept of a bar to become a healthy and positive place that would challenge people to try a new way of approaching life, which led me to opening my business, The Place 2 B,” Smith said.

She dedicated space inside the shop to serve as a fitness studio, and she said it feels more like a party as she leads workouts.

“I love working out and challenging my body. I know often women feel uncomfortable or not confident going to the gym and I like to help them overcome that,” Smith said.

Whether offering nutrition, fitness, or friendly support, Smith said she strives to create a welcoming community for all.

“I am genuinely joyful and love connecting with people,” Smith said. “I strive to help create an environment for others that encourages them to see the positive and hope for themselves. It’s a passion of mine to make sure everyone in the room feels seen.”

From Davenport, Iowa, Smith, 37, has found her home in the Illinois Valley, launching a small business and becoming involved in the community. She carries this passion with her other community projects, from the local chamber to serving as the president of Streator Young Professionals Network, part of the Streator Chamber of Commerce.

for any region, we need to continually focus on economic development, especially in the manufacturing and healthcare sectors. A robust and diversified job market will ensure this region’s success in the future,” she said.

“We network, connect in learning new skills, and desire to help the upcoming generation of professionals learn they have a great support system professionally,” Smith said.

Tony Bacidore

Credit Analyst, LaSalle State Bank

Zachary Milus Attorney, Gatza & Milus

Stepping up as a community leader

Leadership is a role Tony Bacidore takes to heart. He is president-elect of the Illinois Valley Sunrise Rotary Club, a member of the board of directors for the LaSalle Business Association, and a member of the Illinois Valley Leads Group.

He has taken on these leadership roles and just celebrated his 26th birthday.

“What sets me apart is my commitment to the community and to the organizations that do things for the betterment of the Illinois Valley,” Bacidore said.

He was born and raised in LaSalle and started working as a teller for LaSalle State Bank shortly after graduating from LaSallePeru High School. While working, he studied at Illinois Valley Community College before transferring to Illinois State University. After receiving his degree in finance and marketing, he returned to LaSalle State Bank and took a position in the bank’s credit analyst department.

“My vision for the future includes continuing to grow in my career at LaSalle State Bank and in my various roles within the

community,” Bacidore said. “I returned to the Illinois Valley to continue growing in my career at LaSalle State Bank. In turn, I hope to continue to help grow LSB alongside the Illinois Valley.”

He’s working to complete a master’s degree in business administration.

“Being selected to 40 Under 40 is a tremendous honor, as it recognizes those who go above and beyond in their career and in the community,” Bacidore said.

In 2022, he was named Rotarian of the Year for the Illinois Valley Sunrise Rotary Club.

“I am very proud to be recognized as a member of the club who had portrayed the values of Rotary in the community,” Bacidore said.

Bacidore said he sees great opportunities in the Illinois Valley and is excited to see more younger individuals in the area contribute to the growing business community.

“I hope to see the continued growth of small business in the area,” he said.

Growing a career in law

Problem-solving is what Zachary Milus said drew his interest toward the field of law. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago, he returned to the area and started working toward his law degree.

“I think I was always drawn to it a bit due to the problem-solving nature of the job and the challenge that comes along with that,” Milus said.

While attending Thomas M. Cooley Law School, Milus worked with the LaSalle County State’s Attorney’s Office. After graduating law school in 2013, he was an assistant state’s attorney. Milus decided it was time for a new challenge and chose to broaden his area of legal focus.

In 2016, he launched his own practice. During this time and over the course of several conversations he and former fellow St. Bede Academy alum Timothy Gatza decided to form a law practice together, Milus said he saw a great opportunity. In 2017, they launched Gatza & Milus.

“We’ve known each other for years, and

the opportunity to go in business with someone you’ve known and can trust was enticing,” Milus said. “Additionally, it is always a positive to have another person to bounce ideas off and work on more challenging projects together. I feel like our partnership has allowed the firm to grow. We hired our first associate this year and hope to keep going from there.”

At 38, Milus said launching his own firm has been an invaluable learning experience. His firm serves as the attorneys for the Village of Mark and Administrative Hearing Officers for Ordinance court for LaSalle and Marseilles. In addition to the firm, Milus continues to work part-time as a public defender in the juvenile division in LaSalle County.

Born and raised in Peru, Milus said he’s seen the growth in downtown LaSalle and Utica as they continue to draw new visitors and residents.

“Hopefully, it continues to change and grow for the better,” Milus said.

Mission Statement