MLS# 12207483 - 354 Civic Rd., La Salle, IL 61301 - $400,000
FEATURED PROPERTY
Amazing opportunity to own this versatile 2400 SF building located in north La Salle’s commercial business district and conveniently accessible to I-80 and I-39 and just 90 minutes west of the Chicago-Metro area. This one-story, metal building features open reception area, 4 private o ces, work area, and warehouse with overhead door. Perfect for a range of uses including professional o ce, show room, or regional distribution/sales center. Well-maintained building and site: Roof replaced in 2022, air conditioner 2022, and parking lot re-sealed in 2024. Ample parking with fenced area perfect for securing delivery vehicles or inventory. Take advantage of this prime location that is convenient for both customers and employees.
See listing on page 10
Maximize comfort and minimize your energy bill this winter PAGE 6
How to upgrade your bathroom for holiday guests PAGE 12
Transform a playroom into a space that grows with the family PAGE 18
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VERMILIONVUE SUBDIVISION
Located in the picturesque countryside. Lot size ½ - 1+ acre starting at $29,000. City sewer, water, underground utilities, covenants and restrictions apply. Call Wendy Fulmer @815-252-8280 or Barb Kuzma @815-343-1433. MLS#12061416
HERITAGE FIELDS SUBDIVISION
Large residential building lots starting at $19,900. Curb & gutters, city sewer & water available. Close to I-39! Lot size begins at .25 an acre & covenants are available. Call Garry Schroeder at 815-252-5854. MLS#10141625
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Maximize comfort and minimize your energy bill this winter
(BPT) - As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to ensure your home is ready to help keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. From preventing frozen pipes to optimizing heating costs, proactive steps can help safeguard your property and well-being.
“A system tune-up at the beginning of the cold weather season can prevent problems and expensive repairs as the temperatures get more extreme later in the winter,” says Jon Ryan, president of Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating based in Minnesota and Honeywell Home HVAC customer. “We’ve been servicing homes for over 70 years - my team has seen it all - and we know that being proactive with system maintenance is one of the best things a homeowner can do to keep their systems running smooth and
the home comfortable.”
To prepare your home for the cold, consider these tips:
SCHEDULE A PRO TO CHECK THE HVAC SYSTEM
Just like your car, your furnace needs regular maintenance. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your system to keep it at peak performance. An inspection can check system performance, air filters, and identify indoor air quality opportunities. Professionals also can check the system for harmful cracks, which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide (CO) seeping into the home.
“Have your heating system serviced every year,” suggests Ryan. “As temperatures drop, the use of fuel-burning heaters increases as people try to stay warm, and winter can bring a
higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning - so be sure your professional tests for cracks in the heating unit.”
Also be sure your utility room and home are properly outfitted with CO alarms.
UPGRADE TO A SMART THERMOSTAT
By learning your home’s heating trends and adjusting temperatures accordingly, smart thermostats can ensure your home stays comfortable and can help you optimize your energy consumption. For example, during winter, smart thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat can automatically lower temperatures when you’re away and increase them as you return, creating a cozy atmosphere without wasting energy through Geofencing technology. Thermostats also offer programmable features that let you effortlessly adjust temperatures based on your schedule. By lowering your thermostat just 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day, you can potentially cut heating costs
by 10% annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, many utilities offer rewards for enrolling in demand response programs that can reduce energy consumption during peak times.
CHANGE AIR FILTERS
Regularly replacing your air filters is a proven way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment.
Ryan said: “We get a lot of calls about systems not working properly, and in fact the issue was a result of a dirty air filter.”
Clean air filters also help the overall health of your heating system and allow for better air flow, reducing the stress on your home’s HVAC system and promoting energy efficiency. Inspect your filter once a month for signs of dirt or dust buildup.
PROTECT YOUR PIPES
Following a cold snap, pipes in the home prone to freezing (i.e., pipes on outside walls, in the basement, or crawl
spaces), could burst following the water expansion. As the water melts, it could create costly water damage and disruptions. To help protect your home, cover pipes with insulation and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. For added protection, consider installing a First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector in areas like basements, laundry rooms and utility closets to effectively detect winter leaks or freezing temperatures and help prevent home damage. Talk to a professional plumber about installing an automatic shutoff valve that can turn off the water to the whole home in case of a leak.
SEAL GAPS AROUND WINDOWS AND DOORS
Drafty windows and doors
can significantly increase your heating costs. To prevent heat loss, inspect the areas around your windows and doors for gaps. Use weatherstripping to seal cracks and gaps and consider applying caulk to larger openings. For extra insulation, install thermal curtains or blinds. By blocking cold air from entering your home, you’ll enjoy a warmer and more energy-efficient living space.
“Just a few easy steps can help make sure your family stays cozy and your home is protected from the havoc winter weather can wreak,” said Ryan.
For more winter home preparation tips or to find an HVAC professional visit Honeywellhome.com.
ONTHEMARKET
THIS VERSATILE 2400 SF BUILDING Is located in north LaSalle's Commercial Business District is conveniently accessible to I-80 and I-39. This one-story, metal building features open reception area, 4 private offices, work area, and warehouse with overhead door. Perfect for a range of uses including professional office, show room, regional distribution center.
354 CIVIC RD., LASALLE, IL 61301
CHRISTINE DAHM, LISTING BROKER 815.303.4622
SELLING AS IS!
Amazing mixed-use re-development opportunity in vibrant Downtown Ottawa. This site is situated adjacent to the Historic downtown LaSalle County Court House and within walking distance to the beautiful Fox & Illinois Rivers. Take advantage of a bustling mixed-use downtown filled with amazing restaurants, unique retail, entertainment & professional offices.
112 W MADISON ST., OTTAWA, IL 61350
CHRISTINE DAHM, BROKER 815-303-4622
MOVE RIGHT IN 3 BEDS / 1 BATH
Great location - Walk to YMCA! Close to shopping, schools, & I-80 2002 Walnut St, Peru, IL 61354
815.343.1900
IMMACULATE & SPACIOUS
3 Beds / 2 Baths / 1536 Sq ft 225 5th St., Cedar Point, IL 61316 MLS #12160649
(BPT) - The holidays are full of fun, festive get-togethers, magical moments with friends and family - and often, a lengthy holiday home prep list. With celebrations just around the corner, you may want to prep your home for overnight guests to help you feel your best about hosting your loved ones this season.
What room most needs your attention? According to a survey conducted by Delta Faucet, a bathroom refresh is the project that is the most pesky for people to complete. While a full reno is unlikely, it’s easy to complete a few simple swaps that instantly transform the look and function of
bathroom just in time for
celebrations.
Here are three ideas for upgrading your bathroom that are sure to impress your guests - all with easy DIY installation.
UPGRADE
YOUR BATHROOM FAUCET
Trouble keeping your bathroom sink clean? This chore can be especially challenging when entertaining and hosting guests. One simple solution is installing the Delta® Stryke® Pull-Down Bathroom Faucet, which makes quick work of cleaning toothpaste, dirt and small debris from your sink with a nimble pull-down spray wand. The Lumicoat® Finish is guaranteed to resist water spots and mineral buildup, so you can easily wipe it clean without the need for cleaners or chemicals. You’ll also appreciate this faucet’s sleek and stylish look, with subtly upturned spout and handles.
Find peace of mind knowing that this faucet is ADA compliant for the benefit of
all your guests, and the Worry-Free Drain Catch is a simple solution to the common problem of pills, jewelry or other valuables washing down the drain.
POWER YOUR SHOWER
Provide an outstanding shower experience and keep your shower in pristine condition with the versatile Delta® 6-Setting Hand Shower with Cleaning Spray. Bathroom messes have never been easier to tackle thanks to the Delta ® ProClean™ Spray, which cleans shower surfaces at least two times faster than standard sprays, powering off soap scum and other common shower messes. The focused, wide fan spray allows you to effortlessly clean hard-toreach places without even stepping foot in the shower.
and other shower tasks, then easily restarts at the water temperature where you left off, helping to conserve water - and avoid depleting your hot water supply when you have multiple guests staying in your home. WaterSense ® labeled hand showers also use at least 20% less water than the industry standard, helping you save water without compromising performance.
While other products may gather unsightly mineral buildup over time, this shower head’s soft rubber TouchClean® spray holes allow any mineral residue to simply be wiped away for an instantly refreshed look - with no need for soaking or chemical cleaners.
The six spray settings include: ProClean™ spray, Full spray, Full spray with Massage, Massage spray, Shampoo Rinse spray and Pause. The Pause setting gives you ample space for shaving, lathering
Best yet, this is an incredibly easy DIY installation you can do in minutes, with no tools required.
IMPROVE THE SHOWER EXPERIENCE
A quality water filter can make all the difference. With the Delta ® Clarifi™ Shower
Filter Attachment you can instantly elevate your shower experience. The shower filter attachment has been thirdparty tested and proven to reduce chlorine and impurities in your shower water that may cause dry skin or hair. Simply attach the filter between your current shower head and supply line, and the unique filter design will get to work, improving the water you and your guests shower with every day. Your loved ones will appreciate this simple but impactful shower enhancement!
Filters require replacing every six months, but replacements take less than two minutes. You can make that task even easier by connecting to the DFC@Home™ app to be notified when it’s time to change filters.
With these three DIY bathroom projects, you can quickly take your guests’ experience to the next level - while also making it easier to keep your bathroom looking its best, all season long.
Secure your home this winter with electric backup power
(BPT) - Winter is just around the corner. Are you prepared to weather potential power outages?
gencies, they can pose more risks than benefits.
According to data from Climate Central, 80 percent of all major U.S. power outages reported from 2000 to 2023 were caused by weather. Of those weather-related events, 23 percent were specifically caused by winter storms. The cold temperatures, winds and ice can disrupt or damage a single home’s electrical and even the power grid for a whole neighborhood.
Gas generators cannot be used indoors because they give off deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Also, you’ll need to keep gas on hand, which poses a fire risk to your home. Even if you have safely stored gas, you may run out, as power outages can last from a few hours to a few days.
Power outages aren’t just inconvenient. They can be dangerous. If your primary source of heat is electric, a power outage can lead to frozen pipes and structural damage. A power outage can even pose a safety risk to your family if you can’t heat your home.
Luckily, gas-powered generators aren’t the only option. Electric-based generators offer a safer, more reliable power source for homeowners when they need it most.
You can’t control the weather. However, you can prepare yourself for winter emergencies with an electric backup power generator.
A reliable source of power in your time of need
You may be familiar with traditional gas-powered generators. While these backups do provide power during emer-
Whether battery or solar-powered, electric generators offer homeowners a safe, efficient and sustainable solution for whole-home power during winter emergencies. Unlike their gas counterparts, electric generators don’t give off poisonous fumes, so they can be safely used indoors.
POWER YOU CAN COUNT ON
Jackery, a leader in innovative solar generators and green off-grid energy solutions, knows how important it is to have trusted home backup power. To that end, the company designed the 5000 Plus to help people stay connected, powered and secured, even in the most difficult and unexpected circumstances.
connected to a second unit, users can get up to 14,400W, making it more than sufficient to power a home in the most unpredictable situation.
The powerful, portable and compact electric generator is the lightest in its class, offering homeowners operating convenience. This generator operates quietly and requires zero maintenance, making it an ideal option for indoor use and far safer than traditional gas generators, especially during extreme weather conditions.
When paired with Jackery’s Smart Transfer Switch (STS), a single 5000 Plus delivers up to 7200W of power. Thanks to its modular design, you can extend the power capacity to fit your needs. When
Without the need for gas, an electric-based power backup can provide continuous, uninterrupted power without the risk of running out of fuel during extended outages. Some electric generators, like the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus, are even solar-powered, offering a sustainable, green solution for wholehome power needs.
Since the 5000 Plus is equipped with dual-voltage solar charging, you have options. You can recharge the battery through a high-voltage rooftop solar system or with the company’s portable solar panels. You’ll never run out of fuel or be forced to brave the weather to refuel your generator.
STAY POWERED ALL WINTER LONG
This winter, keeping your home safe and comfortable, even during severe weather, has never been easier. By prioritizing preparedness and safety with an electric, solar-powered generator, you’re investing in your family’s well-being and your own peace of mind during serious winter storms.
To learn more about electric-based power backups and solar power, visit Jackery.com.
Transform a playroom into a space that grows with the family
Parents typically make certain changes around a home to ensure it’s accommodating to children. Childproofing is a necessity, but entire rooms also may be transformed with children’s enjoyment and well-being in mind.
It’s common for homeowners to set aside rooms for children to play and explore. These playrooms may initially feature infant swings and bouncers, and eventually start to accumulate the toys that kids receive on holidays and birthdays. Easels, building block sets, puzzles, video games, books, and so much more fill these playrooms where young children spend the majority of their time engrossed in imaginative play. But as children grow, playrooms may no longer be necessary. Homeowners can ensure these rooms evolve with the family, and here are a few ways to do just that.
MAKE IT A HOME THEATER/GAMING ROOM
The National Institutes of Health says children between the ages of eight and 17 spend an average of 1.5 to 2 hours playing video games each day. It’s important for parents to monitor their children’s gaming, particularly when kids participate in social platform games that involve people with an internet connection chatting and working together. One way to do so is to locate the gaming setup in a central location, like a home theater room.
ESTABLISH A HOBBY SPACE
Trade in kids’ toys for “toys” that everyone in the family will enjoy. Turn the room into one where family members can explore their passions. This may include scrapbooking, painting, yarn crafts, collecting, photography, and more.
CREATE A QUIET LEARNING SPOT
As children grow up, they may need to spend more time studying. Transforming a playroom into a library or a study space can provide that out-of-the-way spot to get homework and studying done. Adults in the home also can use it for reading, paying the bills or any other task that requires concentration and quiet.
BUILD A HOME GYM
If the space is large enough, bring in some workout equipment and make the play space one that encourages exercise and fitness. You may not even need large equipment and can utilize interlocking foam tiles that already may be in the playroom. With some free weights, resistance bands and even your own body weight, you can perform a number of beneficial exercises.
EXPAND YOUR LIVING SPACE
If the playroom currently abuts another room that can use some more real estate but is separated by a wall, take down the wall to increase the square footage.
SET
IT ASIDE FOR GUESTS
Clean out the toys and bring in a bed and nightstand. Now you’ll have a dedicated spot for overnight guests to stay, or a room that visiting older children (and eventually grandchildren) can call their own. Playrooms are much-used areas when children are young. These rooms can evolve as kids get older and families’ needs change. HI248171
