NewsTribune_BCPC Progress_102622

Bureau County Putnam CountyProgress 2022

A closer look at the people, places and businesses at the heart of Bureau and Putnam Counties

Princeton Chevy, Buick and GMC

See the new Princeton Chevy, Buick and GMC where we have hugely increased our inventory and added staff to better serve our incredible customers and have doubled the size of our customer lounge and added topof-the line Wi-Fi. We’ve recently changed our name from Piehl Chevrolet to Princeton Chevrolet Buick GMC. While our name has changed the reliable service you’ve come to know and appre ciate remains the same.

We are community focused and locally owned. We strive for excellent customer experience in every department: Sales, Service Parts and Body Shop.

We carry a large selection of vehicles to meet all our customers needs, from that first car for a teen to the upgrade in your current ride or find a dependable family car. This fall we are bringing in the lat-

est makes and models including a selection of electric vehicles.

We even offer free delivery of your vehicle right to your driveway.

Our stellar service department can work on any make and model vehicle. Schedule an appointment that works with your day or drop in for service. We also have welltrained mechanics to handle your body shop repairs that will have you and your vehicle back on the road quickly. And we recently increased the size of our customer waiting lounge and added free Wi-Fi to make your visit more comfortable.

Our Quick Lube serves all makes and models and is open Monday through Saturday. No appointment is necessary.

Our happy customers know they will find the best selection and quality care at Princeton Chevy Buick and GMC.

PHOTO BY SCOTT ANDERSON

Bureau County Putnam CountyProgress 2022

INDEX

Bureau

Bureau

Capital

Buick

Burroughs

Compeer

Shoppe

GROW Spring Valley

From community events to supporting the business community, there’s plenty to do and see with GROW Spring Valley.

The organization is a collaborative effort among community partners that include business owners, local event coordinators and the city to create enjoyment and help people see the tremendous opportunities to being a part of Spring Valley. Formerly known a Spring Valley Boosters, the movement is working hard to support the community and spread the word about the great opportunities for businesses and families in Spring Valley.

JC Heerdt recently stepped into the role as the organization president and is excited for the collaborations in the coming months. Even before the candy was unwrapped

on the Spring Valley Fright Fest, the group was pulling together events and activities for the holiday season.

Start the holiday shopping at the Elves Night Out in early November and keep the fun going at the large

craft and vendor fair planned for the first weekend in No vember. There will be holi day events that will bring the magic of the season for all ages to enjoy. From promot ing shopping events to the annual Spring Valley Lights Parade, GROW Spring Val ley members are excited to welcome visitors to the com munity.

And while spring may seem far off, members of GROW Spring Valley are developing plans for next year.

Together everyone can make a difference and GROW Spring Valley welcomes new members to its meetings, event planning and of course, the amazing volunteers who help bring everything together. Visit its social media page on Facebook for the latest information and events calendars.

Ready - Set - GROW!

GROW Spring Valley is a collection of community members and business owners with the common goal of growing Spring Valley to its full potential. Be a part of the movement!

Andy’s Karpet Kleaning

Andy’s Karpet Kleaning is a local family owned and operated business that has specialized in carpet, tile and upholstery cleaning in the Illinois Valley for 27 years, providing professional residential and commercial cleaning and sanitation services on carpet, tile, area rugs, and upholstery – even boat, camper, and vehicle carpet! Certified in genuine Scotch Guard application to keep stains from penetrating the fibers of your fabrics and making it easier to clean spills. Andy and his team of Brad Kunkel (Andy’s son; Operations Manager and Cleaning Technician) and Matt Oberholz (Andy’s nephew; Cleaning Technician) have over 60 years of combined industry experience. They take great pride in their work and enjoy making your home or business feel fresh and new again. Servicing all of Bureau, Putnam and La Salle Counties.

First State Bank

Now in our 82nd year of community banking, First State Bank has been providing high-quality financial products and services since 1940. We offer an entire suite of business and personal banking options including our popular high-interest FSBPremier checking account. FSBPremier offers high-quality financial products like the big banks, but with the First State Bank personal touch they can’t match. FSBPremier accounts pay consumers to use their account and receive what interests them most – high interest. Come see your friends at any one of our 19 locations, including our location at 1693 N. Main St. in Princeton and 411 W. Main St. in McNabb.

Brad Kunkel Technician

Matt Oberholz Technician

McNabb

Princeton

McDonald’s

Come in to our Princeton location and meet store manager Nancy Roberts (center) as well as assistant managers Calina Durey-Borsh (right), Savannah Cashmore (left) and their crew. At our Spring Valley location, you can meet store manager Kyle Madsen and his crew. Both locations are proud to serve their communities and look forward to the opportunity to do so every day. Gift cards are available. Also, download our McDonald’s App and register to be a part of the Rewards program earning points with each purchase.

Bruce Jewelers

Gary Bruce is a third generation owner since 1979. The store’s large and varied inventory includes diamond and other precious stone rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets; Citizen, Seiko, Caravelle, and Timex watches; clocks, including wall, mantle and anniversary; gift coin sets; and many other gift items, including a selection of baby gifts. Customer service includes custom design and remounting of jewelry; ring sizing, repair service, watch battery installation, engraving, professional jewelry appraisal services and no charge layaways. Purchases are ready for gift giving with complimentary gift wrap.

Over 76 Years of Sparkle

Karen Miller, Gary Bruce, Lori Hultine (standing) Sue Carlson, Wendy Mussche (sitting) Not Pictured Trudy Miller

North Central Bank offers a wide variety of mortgage loans to assist you in the purchase/ construction of a home or the refinance of your current home. Our knowledgeable lending staff is always ready to help you with our quick pre-approvals, competitive rates, fast loan processing and friendly service for all your financing needs. In addition to our outstanding mortgage loan options, we offer numerous flexible options for financing cars, boats, ATV’s, personal needs, vacation and any of life’s “unexpected” expenses. If you are interested in Ag loans, we are at the top of our field with our experienced and dedicated Ag lending team. From seed to harvest and all the steps in between, we can meet your need to enhance your operation! We are here to assist you achieve your financial success every step of the way!

Equal Housing Lender - Member FDICNMLS#405315

Grassers Plumbing & Heating is

plumbing company located in McNabb IL. Serving the Illinois Valley for over 70 yrs, our family owned and operated company is friendly, reliable, and affordable to bring your home or business total comfort.

With free estimates, affordable prices, and courteous service, Grasser’s is the place to shop when you need plumbing fixtures, fireplaces, heating and air conditioner systems, home appliances and much more.

Grassers educated staff and technicians are available 24 hours a day and ready to serve you!

Valley Coin Jewelry Pawn

If you are in need of a quick, short-term cash loan, visit Valley Coin Jewelry Pawn in Spring Valley. We are a collateral-based pawn shop. Just bring in an item of value and receive cash for your item within minutes. No credit checks. No dipping into your banking accounts and no hassle. We are a non-recourse lender. Your collateral (pawn) becomes security for your cash loan.

To redeem your pawn, just come back in with the amount given to you plus a modest finance charge. Or you can extend the loan another 30 days by just paying the minimum finance charge.

Shop our store for a variety of things such as jewelry, coins, tools, musical equipment and the unusual.

For more information, visit valley-coin-jewelry-pawn.com, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or stop in at 123 West St. Paul St., downtown Spring Valley.

Pictured are (left to right) Brock Drewel, Luke Drewel, Noah Drewel, Chris Drewel, Janet Drewel, Abby Drewel and Jonah Drewel

Each year from October

beneficiaries should

have the best plan for their

SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) funding, the PCCC has Medicare counselors who can provide unbiased help and enrollment assistance. In addition to Part D plans, counselors can help

other parts of Medicare such as Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs to help with the cost of Medicare. Medicare assistance

available Monday through Friday by appointment only; please call 1 (815) 339-2711 or 1 (800) 757-4579 to schedule.

Passini Plumbing & Heating The Cabinet Shoppe

Passini Plumbing & Heating in its eighth year of service, is available to serve all your heating and plumbing needs. The business also offers sewer and water repair work, as well as water service taps. Owner David Passini has over 30 years of experience in the industry. Joining David on the crew is his son Jacob Passini and Roger Doyle. Located at 116 2nd St. Standard, he can be reached at (815) 339-4108 or at davidpassini@hotmail.com.

The Cabinet Shoppe is in its eleventh year of business. Owner Mary Frances Passini has over 20 years of experience and can design the perfect kitchen, bath, office, or entertainment space. Her business is located at 116 2nd St. Standard. Her business offers topof-the-line manufactures, such as DuraSupreme and Wellborn Forest. She also offers a cost-efficient cabinet line, Baileytown USA. Great for a flip or rental with 7-10 day lead times. Joining her is Jenna Fiorentini. They can be reached at W#(815) 339-4108 C# (815) 481-7664 or at thecabinetgirl@ hotmail.com.

City of Spring Valley

Kettman Heating and Plumbing

Furnace or Air Conditioner out at night? Who do you call? Come home from vacation at 11:30 p.m. on a Sunday to a burst pipe? Who can help? The man in the orange and white van! Kettman Heating and Plumbing trucks are stocked and ready to go at any time of the day or night. We service all brands, and offer a full line of York products and Honeywell generators. We offer residential & commercial plumbing services, kitchen & bath remodels, and many other plumbing repairs, including pool heaters. We also service commercial refrigeration and restaurant equipment service and sales. For more information, call Kettman at (815) 339-6124 or visit the website at www.kettmanheating.com.

Keeney Contracting

When it’s time to give your home a fresh look call Keeney Contracting. Whether its new tiling in the bathroom or room remodel, our team has the skills to make your vision for your home a beautiful reality. We can handle kitchen remodels, finish basements, interior spaces like bedrooms and living rooms and outdoor spaces including deck rebuilds. We can help you turn that old barn on your property into a great usable space.

We stand behind our word, our quality and our work to make sure our customers are satisfied.

Call us at 815-878-1817 or visit our website keeneycontracting.com

Al Cioni Ford

At Al Cioni Ford, there’s no Baloney when it comes to great service and hassle-free shopping.

This family-owned dealership has been serving the area since 1968. The staff at Al Cioni Ford works hard to care for their customers. The staff was recognized with the Ford Motor Company’s 2021 Presidential Award for Outstanding Customer Service and Sales Excellence, the highest honor for a dealership. This is the nineth time Al Cioni Ford has earned this award.

Shop for your next vehicle at Al Cioni Ford and discover why customers say it’s a great car buying experience.

Visit online at alcioniford.com, call 815-339-2511 or stop in at 504 S. McCoy St., Granville.

Pictured above: Monnie Cioni, Al Cioni, Laura Vaessen, Jared Vaessen and sons Luke and Chase.

Cody Burroughs State Farm

Cody Burroughs is your local State Farm agent with locations in Spring Valley and La Salle. Cody has been helping clients in the Illinois Valley since 2012. Cody served as a sergeant in the United States Army and is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom.

With a staff of 11 to serve your needs, we are here to answer your questions. We provide auto, home, renters, fire, life and health insurance as well as investment planning services. Contact us at 815664-5302 or 815-223-1059 and see how we can help you.

Pictured is the Spring Valley staff (left to right): Laurie Urbanski, Kendall Cinotte, Kali Petit, Cody Burroughs, Devin Marchesi, Ian Trevier and Alex Castelan.

One

Great

of all

to

Cody R Burroughs State Farm Agent

S Spalding St.

Valley

Third St.

Salle

Gillan Construction LLC

Bringing with him 18 years of heavy highway experience in the Chicagoland area, Jeff Gillan formed Gillan Construction LLC to serve the residents of Bureau and surrounding counties. Gillan Construction specializes in turn-key site preparation, including clearing, underground utility installation, and grading. We provide infrastructure development for a number of different applications, including roads, parking lots, sanitary sewer systems, water service systems, flood control systems, pump stations and shoreline stabilization. We also provide commercial snow removal services and install fiberglass inground swimming pools. In 2021, Gillan Construction acquired Area Wide Septic Service (AWSS) and proudly continues its 29-year legacy of serving all of your septic installation and maintenance needs. What sets us apart is our efficiencies and attention to detail on every project. Visit our website gillanconstructionllc.com to schedule your free estimate or call 815-559-2088.

Valley Flowers and Gifts

Since October 2009, the friendly staff at Valley Flowers and Gifts has been creating floral arrangements for every occasion. Whether fresh or silk flowers, our staff creates unique arrangements for every special occasion.

From vase arrangements and bouquets to wristlets and boutonnieres, our staff creates the custom design you are looking for!

Our shop is a great place to look for that unique gift to celebrate a friend’s birthday or find that perfect hostess gift from our inventory of home interior decorating pieces. Our shop also carries the area’s largest supply of concrete memorial benches, stones and statues! Gardener... We carry lovely concrete decorative pieces for your yard.

Valley Flowers and Gifts, located at 130 E Dakota Street in Spring Valley, is a family-owned small business. The hours of operation are MondayFriday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Stop in and visit us any time! Our staff is here to help!

Pictured are, Cathy Harvey, Theresa Taliani, Chuck Taliani, Linda Washowiak and Kelly Dillon.

Alfano’s Little Sicily has been family-owned for more than 60 years

Whether on a boat, in your home or at the office the best lunch, dinner or late night snack is from Alfano’s Little Sicily in Spring Valley. With its great delivery service and kitchen open until 2 a.m. you can have your pasta, pizza and more when you want it and where you want it.

For more than 60 years this family-owned restaurant has used the freshest ingredients. The menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, subs, pasta, pizza and ribs, chicken and even tasty tacos, too.

Our hand-tossed pizzas are made to order. If it’s in the kitchen, we can put it on your pizza. We can top your pizza with pepperoni, meat balls, even shrimp and tur key. Try our chicken, bacon ranch pizza.

Family and community are at the heart of Alfano’s Little Sicily. We are proud to part ner with many organizations

through the years.

Try our catering options at your next event and party. Take the night off cooking and try our Family Value Meals. Our restaurant is the only place to find our frozen take and bake pizzas, the perfect item to keep in your freezer for that last-minute meal.

We offer delivery service to more than a 15-mile ra dius including Princeton. We can bring your next meal right to you whether you are working in the field, fishing in the canal or enjoying a day on the water and steer your boat to nearest dock for our fresh delivery.

We are located at 115 W. St. Paul St., Spring Valley. Visit our website at www. alfanospizza-restaurant.com or to order call 815-663-9081 or 815-664-5422. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Front row left to right: Kris Reinbeck/RN Director of Patient Care Services, Penny Lusietto/Care Coordinator, Angela Schultz/Social Worker, Tara Bitting and Kim Park/Care Coordinators. Back row left to right: Joe Park/Administrator, Hannah Bohm/RN Case Manager, Michelle Hansen/RN Agency Supervisor, Darin Jones/Spiritual Care Coordinator.

In-Home Care Connection

The In-Home Care Connection team has a passion for providing Home Health, Hospice, & Caregiver Services to Veterans, Senior Citizens and the Disabled living in our community. We come together as a locally owned and operated agency providing care to our clients and employing over 150 staff members. Many of us have years of experience providing home health, hospice, and caregiver services in the community or have backgrounds in long-term care and hospital settings. We understand the importance and desire to live safely and independently in your home for as long as possible. Please call us if you or someone you know may benefit from Home Health, Hospice, or Caregiver Services.

Service

Look no further than the skilled and insured arborists at AAA Tree Service for your tree removal needs. Our team has the experience and tools required to remove the diseased trees safely from your property. Stump removal, stumps not only affects the appearance of your property, but it also poses a threat to the safety of those who are around. Call us for professional stump grinding or removal services. You’ll be glad to know that we’re licensed and insured for your safety.

Increase the aesthetic appeal of your property by keeping your trees in shape. Contact our knowledgeable professionals today! We provide trimming, pruning, and various other services to keep the trees looking beautiful at all times. We also provide snow removal and salting during the cold winter months. Land clearing services and firewood delivery available. Don’t forget to ask for a 5% senior DISCOUNT if you’re eligible for it. Feel free to contact us at 815-883-4551 for your FREE ESTIMATE today!

Total Tree Care

Experienced Tree Maintenance and Removal

Services include:

Compeer Financial

Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural communities. We provide loans, leases, risk management and other financial services throughout 144 counties in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Based in the upper Midwest, Compeer Financial exists to champion the hopes and dreams of rural America. With 1,300 dedicated team members serving approximately 72,000 member-owners, we offer specialized expertise and personalized service regardless of the size of the farm, the type of crop grown or the livestock raised. Our services are provided with convenience in mind, through visits to fields, barns and homes, or by maximizing technology to make the most of every hour in every day. Compeer Financial regularly collaborates with others who are also dedicated to agriculture and rural America. Our in-house specialists participate in conversations that extend beyond our service area, providing formal and informal insight on topics pertinent to all industries, including dairy, swine, grain and renewable energy. With $25.5 billion in total assets, Compeer Financial is one of the largest cooperatives in the Farm Credit System. This nationwide network of lending institutions supports agriculture and rural communities with reliable, consistent credit and financial services.

Pictured above is the Princeton staff which includes, from left, Nate Edlefson, Myron Rumbold, Dan Legner and Adam King.

TURN WHAT IF INTO WHAT IS.

WISHING FARMERS AND GROWERS A SAFE HARVEST SEASON.

Working relentlessly to feed, clothe and fuel our nation and world takes passion and dedication. From real estate and operating loans to crop insurance programs and more, our solutions are designed to give you the tools needed to succeed. And our focus on exceptional client experience is at the heart of everything we do.

See why our clients trust us to make their goals possible.

COMPEER.COM/GOALS

Nate Edlefson Financial Officer (815) 760-2490

Nathan.Edlefson@compeer.com

Myron Rumbold Insurance Officer (815) 275-5313

Myron.Rumbold@compeer.com

Adam King Financial Officer (309) 574-0405

Adam.King@compeer.com

Dan Legner Sr. Certified Appraiser (309) 255-0648

Dan.Legner@compeer.com

A & B Garage

For honest, dependable care, see the mechanics at A & B Garage. We are a family-owned and operated garage that has been serving the community for the last four and half years, and Andy has been a mechanic since 1993.

A & B Garage has the latest diagnostic scan tools to analyze your vehicle. A & B Garage is a NAPA Auto Care Center. In addition, Andy enjoys working on older model vehicles, making custom exhaust and can rebuild carburetors.

Pictured above (from left) are Brandy Groleau, Andy Groleau and Bob Parker.

A & B Garage is located at 235 N. Main Ave., Ladd. We are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday and 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday.

Sullivan’s Foods

Sullivan’s Foods in Princeton is a hometown grocery store to fit all your needs! A family-owned company since 1967, Sullivan’s offers the best in fresh bakery, deli, produce and meat. Ask about free meat slicing from our in-house butcher. Our caterers can service any size gathering – from your small business meeting to your big wedding day! Our managers are in store daily to help you with any question. We have a great gaming section available in the store with free snacks and adult beverages available! Online groceries to go is now available by computer or mobile app. Stop by our gas station for some of the cheapest fuel prices in town. Open daily 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 125 E. Backbone Rd. in Princeton. Phone: (815) 879-7351, Gas Station: (815) 875-1494

QUALITY,

AND SERVICE IS GUARANTEED!

Cyr Financial

Cyr Financial is a one stop shop for all your financial needs, from comprehensive retirement planning, investments and tax preparation services. As Fiduciaries, we are legally obligated to place our client’s best interests ahead of our own. We provide one-to-one financial advising as well as free events throughout the year to help educate our customers and the community on ways to protect your savings, ways to maximize your Social Security benefits and questions you must ask your financial advisor before trusting them with your investments.

Our team of wealth advisors and CPAs are committed to supporting your future. Our Retirement 22 program is a comprehensive planning process which helps clients retire with confidence. The firm’s portfolio structure focuses on asset protection, asset allocation and guaranteed lifetime income to help provide stability and longevity in retirement.

Let us show you why our team is the best choice when it comes to planning your financial future. Call or text us at 815-925-7501. Check out our website www.cyrfinancial.com or email us at admin@ cyrfinancial.net. Our office is located at 220 E. High Street in Hennepin. You can also find us on social media including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Landmark Realty - Team Noble

Team Noble’s aim is to make your real estate transaction as seamless as possible. We use our combined resources to find your dream home or sell your property. The benefit of using our team is having four realtors working for you instead of just one!

We know the local market, and it shows with more than $23 million dollars in sales in 2021!

As a team, we hold ourselves to a high standard of trustworthiness, professionalism and dependability. We believe that every client deserves the best service possible.

Pictured above: Team Noble’s Realtors Beth Mulcahy, Kaye Pearson, Roxana Noble and Lauren Smith

Roxana Noble ...........815-878-7171

Kaye Pearson.......... 815-866-7783

Beth Mulcahy..........815-866-3630

Lauren Smith .......... 815-200-8746

Landmark Realty of IL, LLC 1221 North Main Street Princeton, IL 61356

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE Let us help you find your dream home!

Town & Country Services

Town & Country Services is a family-owned business serving the greater Illinois Valley area since 1919. They provide quality home services including plumbing, heating - cooling and electricalinstallation, maintenance and repair.

Town & Country Services plumbing department can handle any repair from a simple faucet replacement to a whole house repipe or bathroom remodel. One of their specialties is Navien tankless water heaters and boilers. Their heating and cooling department is available 24/7 with NATE certified technicians to repair, maintain or install any type of heating or cooling equipment. They offer a complete line of the new super-efficient ductless mini-split heat pumps and air conditioners. Their electrical department specializes in home standby generators and electrical service upgrades. Town & Country Services is the largest Generac dealer in the Illinois Valley area, providing factory authorized service and installation.

So, whether you’re fixing, maintaining or replacing any plumbing, heating-cooling or electrical system in your home, give Town & Country Services a call or schedule an appointment on the web at towncountryservices.com. Now serving you from two locations in LaSalle and Bureau counties. And always, Doing Whatever It Take!

Roxana Noble ...................815-878-7171

Kaye Pearson ...................815-866-7783

Beth Mulcahy

Lauren Smith....................815-200-8746

Fiscal Conservative

Ryan Spain fights for a comprehensive balanced state budget that doesn’t spend more than we bring in. He opposes income and property tax increases and understands we need pension reform and other fiscal reforms to close our budget deficit. He believes ethics reforms are paramount to reforming government spending.

Fighting Government Intrusion and Overreach

From his background in local government to his service in the Illinois House, Ryan has opposed unfunded mandates. He’s fought to protect local government funding from raids and sweeps, has boosted local road funding, and believes government closest to the people is the most accountable to taxpayers. Spain has fought to empower parents to be involved with their children’s education and healthcare.

Protecting Our Core Values and Rights

Ryan Spain is a lifelong Republican. He is a law-and-order conservative with Central Illinois roots and the strength to stand up for the core values important to bringing families back to Illinois. A leader against the SAFE-T Act, Spain is endorsed by the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police and Sheriffs of Illinois PAC. Ryan and his wife, Ashley, raise their two school-aged daughters in Peoria where they are active in giving back to their community through their time and servant leadership.

Learn more and get involved at

*Paid for by Friends of Ryan Spain. Not paid for at taxpayers’ expense. A copy of our report is (or will be) filed with the

Springfield,

Fiscal Conservative

Rebuilding downtowns a key interest for Ryan Spain

When it comes to small towns, Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) said, “I love downtowns and am passionate about making downtowns succeed.”

For Spain, his background in economic development intersects with his work in the Illinois House of Representatives.

owner, having run The Costume Trunk through decades of hustle and long hours.”

Investing in and rebuilding great downtowns is part of what piques Spain’s interest in the communities he will serve under the new legislative map, which is effective in January.

than 5 percent of the popula tion of the 73rd District under the previous legislative map, it now represents more than 20 percent of the population in the new boundaries of the 73rd District.

ple as much as voters.”

Ryan Spain

“My entire career has been centered around helping local businesses thrive,” Spain said. “Before being elected to the Illinois House, I began my career working at the Heartland Partnership where I helped manage an important project to create a small business incubator, literally on Main Street, in my hometown of Peoria. My father was already a dedicated and longtime Main Street business

“Under the new map, I am so excited to be picking up several great downtowns, with particularly exciting opportu nities in Princeton,” said Spain about the new communities he will represent in the Illinois House beginning in January.

As Illinois has a part-time citizen legislature, Spain is employed at OSF Healthcare System as the Vice President of Economic Development, but he spends the rest of his time meeting with and advo cating for constituents and employers in his district which stretches from Peoria County on the southern end of the district to Whiteside County in the northwest. While Bu reau County represented less

“All the building blocks are here for success, and we just need good leadership and a favorable jobs climate to make even more progress. Creating a favorable jobs climate is a top need to grow jobs in Illinois and save our downtowns in Illinois,” Spain continued.

“That’s part of why I always try to lead by example, rejecting a legislative pension and healthcare benefits for my service in the legislature,” Spain explained. “When I am out recruiting employers to come to this district, I want them to know I am not in this role for self-service, but for public service. Every partnership must begin with trust and investors in Illinois communities want to see that principle of leading by exam-

Asked about spending time in Princeton’s historic downtown, Spain said he loves Princeton and hosted a meet and greet downtown this spring and he participated in the 2022 Homestead Parade. He said he looks forward to serving voters in Bureau County and helping with problems with state agencies and services.

“Constituent service is my most important priority. I look forward to helping Bureau County residents tackle chal lenges with the State of Illinois and state agencies, which is a part of the job I find very re warding,” Spain said.

Spain and his wife Ashley have two young daughters, Vivienne and Eleanor, and live in Peoria. He has served as State Representative of the 73rd District since January 2017. He serves as an Assistant House Republican Leader and the Chairman of the House Republican Majority Committee.

Trains, alpacas & love of history

Take one small alpaca ranch and add owners with big dreams, a love of trains and you too will understand the vision and joy of Princ eton Heritage Meadows Al paca & Railroad Ranch.

The Ferguson Family, in cluding Hunter, his father, Jim, best friend Bryan Luke and partner Thomas have taken their farm and created spaces for the public to share their loves of trains along with alpacas, llamas and goats.

Hunter said his love of trains harkens back to his grandmother, who used to spin stories of how as a little girl, her favorite time of year was the arrival of the circus trains in her small Nebraska farm town. At the farm, Hunter and his team are cre ating a model train display, that will include models of locomotives that would have crossed through Princeton in

the late 1800s.

“I’m tying in education and history to create a fam ily-friendly experience,” Hunter said.

Along with the miniature trains, Hunter is proud to have a miniature steam train that visitors will be able to ride in the farm.

“I love history, I love mod

els and old engines and I love the way people light up when they see these trains,” Hunter said.

The plans are to open the model trains and minia ture train in the spring, but friends can find their own train model sets and more at the new retail center. Inside the store find model trains

sure to please train hobby ists and sets perfect for the family.

Also, inside the store find alpaca fibers, spun yarn perfect for knitting your own scarves and sweaters. The fleece of an alpaca is lightweight, silky and is con sidered hypoallergenic and water resistant, Hunter said.

Hunter said he started the farm with pygmy goats, per fect for helping to trim grass. Realizing his small goats needed some protection, he discovered llamas made great herd protectors. And, soon after llamas, he added alpacas, which are smaller than a llama and their fleece is softer, more desirable for the fiber arts.

Step by step, Hunter and his family are excited to open their farm, share their loves and provide hard-tofind models for local train enthusiasts.

RETAIL SHOP!

Princeton Heritage Meadows Alpaca & Railroad Ranch just opened our on-site retail store on October 1st, 2022. Our shop will feature products made from the fleece of our own alpacas including but not limited to yarn, rugs and yoga mats. We are also an authorized Bachmann Trains USA and Broadway Limited Imports retailing with a wide selection of model trains from both companies as well as some used and new/old stock models in all the popular scales such as N, HO, O and G scales. We will also have some of our animals available to interact with on a limited scale and timeframe for the remainder of our 2022 season which ends on December 12th

Retail Store Hours-Wednesdays thru Sundays, 11am-5pm.

Now Open!

forward to seeing you!

Much of our Farm Site is under construction/renovations. It will open in phases, starting in spring 2023, with the miniature steam railroad. For more information, please call 815-915-1130. You may email us at hunterfergusonphm@gmail.com or bryanlukephm@gmail.com and be sure to visit us on Facebook at @PHMAlpacasAndRailroad

Princeton Heritage Meadows Alpaca & Railroad Ranch LLC • 22206 Il. Hwy 26, Princeton, Illinois

www.princetonalpacas.com

Land Pro

Since 2013, Land Pro has been involved with the buy or selling side of real estate transactions totalling $252,360,528 within 31 countries in Illinois. Land Pro farm managers professionally manage more than 14,300 acres in 23 Illinois countries. Their clients are individuals, families, investors and major financial institutions. Land Pro prides itself in providing personalized attention to all their clients to help them determine their goals regarding selling a farm, buying a farm or ownership of a farm.

To learn more about what Land Pro has to offer, you are invited to visit www.landprollc.us or feel free to call 331-999-3490.

Nyman Insurance

At Nyman Insurance, we have been helping seniors navigate the maze of Medicare, insurance, rate increases and coverage changes for the last 36 years.

We are a family-owned and operated busi ness. We care for our clients as if they are our family. We work directly for our clients and not the companies we carry. Our job is to make sure that our clients always receive the best coverage for the best rates. We never want somebody to pay too much.

If you are looking for a company who has the experience and expertise to offer that personal touch, our agents are here to take care of your Medicare needs.

Choose Nyman Insurance, “the Medicare Experts.” We always offer free advice and quotes including prescription drug coverage quotes. We’re located at 15 W. Warren St. Ste 3., Princeton. To speak with one of our agents, please call (815) 879-2721.

It’s The Time To Start Thinking About Medicare Enrollment!

We have been providing seniors with our knowledge & personal service since 1986. Our plans include Medicare Supplements, Prescription Drug Coverage, and Medicare Advantage

Community is at the heart of Norberg’s dedication

like the sunflowers in the field reaching to the sun, the team at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments finds themselves drawn to serve the community at times of need, but also at times of joy and happiness.

Norberg’s owners, JD and Janice Smallwood and their employee of the month (every month), Joey Rainford, strive to give back. You will often find Janice volunteer ing her time doing the face painting at the downtown concerts and the surrounding communities to help out. It’s a team effort as JD is usually there to assist with the set up and tear down, and Joey isn’t far behind.

“Living in a small community, you tend to help one another. If everyone would volunteer just one hour a month, think of all that could be done,” Janice said.

Norberg has been family owned and operated, serving its community since 1903, fast approaching their 120th

year. The Smallwoods, have worked at the funeral home since 1956. Bodie, JD’s father, partnered with Arthur Nor berg in the 1960’s as he was a man Bodie greatly respected, as a mentor and a friend.

JD was able to work along side his father for almost his entire life. From landscaper, plumber, carpenter, clean up tornado crew and finally as a

licensed Funeral Director in 1996. JD and his father both graduated from Worsham Col lege of Mortuary Science. JD purchased Norberg in 2008.

JD and Janice will celebrate their seven-year wedding anniversary in 2023. Janice has worked for Norberg since 2018, and Joey came on board in early 2019. They, as a team, are always striving to

do their best.

Norberg provides affordable funerals, cremations, burials, monuments and headstones as well as urns, vaults, memorial jewelry, memento urns and customized jewelry. They also offer “Prearrangements” which is a burial fund to cover the expenses at the time of your passing. “It’s the final gift you can give to your loved ones” Janice said.

Norberg is located at 701 E. Thompson Street, Princeton, or visit the website at www.norbergfh.com.

Bureau, Putnam & Marshall County Health Departments

The mission of the Bureau, Putnam and Marshall County Health Departments is to prevent disease and promote and protect health through education, collaboration and public service.

The Marshall County Board of Health shall strive to provide the programs and public health services that ensure safety and good health for the community of Marshall County.

Our vision is to be a collaborative agent for change in health problems that our community faces and to become a health/wellness provider and resource for all in our community.

Our office is located at 526 Bureau Valley Pkwy. Princeton. To reach the main office call (815) 872-5091 or fax: (815) 872-5092.

Buildrite Home Pros

Thinking of repairing or building a new deck? Is your siding old and faded? Windows leaking, and not working properly? Buildrite Home Pros is here to help. Buildrie Home Pros is your local Andersen Window Certified Contractor. We offer windows, siding, decks, doors, and much more! We have an A t rating with the Business Business Bureau, and we offer a 5 year workmanship guarantee!

Buildrite Home Pros has over 20 years experience. We just opened a new office in Princeton, at 457 South Main Street. Feel free to stop by, or give us a call. Please check us out at www.buildritehomepros.com.

“When You Need It Built Right.....Buildrite”

Serving the senior community

The Bureau County Senior Center is open to all senior residents, age 60 and older, in Bureau County, with daily hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at its location in Princeton. Enjoy a delicious lunch with its Congregate meal pro gram. Please call the day be fore to reserve a seat at the table. The meal program of fers the opportunity to enjoy time socializing and making new friends.

The Bureau County Se nior Center is proud to offer several services, from transportation assistance for medical appointments to shopping to social trips. Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. with at least a 24 hours advance reservation appreciated but not required. Per the Older

Americans Act, all of their services are provided at no charge. But as always, dona tions are appreciated.

The Lending Closet offers the community the opportu

nity to borrow devices, such as walkers, wheelchairs and commodes. The closet also accepts donations of devices.

The Food Bank is open on Mondays and Wednesdays

between 12:30 and 1 p.m. to those in need by curbside pickup in Bureau County.

Staff at the Senior Center can provide assistance with Medicare, Medicaid and Medicare Part D applica tions as well as assistance applying for a benefit access sticker for your vehicle for those who qualify with the Income guidelines.

The Outreach Program Coordinator for the Senior Center can make home visits to help connect residents and their caregivers to avail able services.

For more information call 815-879-3981or visit our website bcseniorcenter.com, follow us on Facebook or drop-in to see us at 16 W. Marion St. The coffee pot is always on and there is ice cream in the freezer.

Transportation Senior Center Information Assistance Outreach

ADRD Assistance

Congregate Meals Options Counseling

Ship/Shap Certified Staff

The Bureau County Senior Citizens Association is a 501c3 organization that is part of a coordinated system of information and access where older adults, adults with disabilities and caregivers can access long term services and supports 815-879-3981 • 800-544-5955

bcseniorcenter.com 16 West Marion Street Princeton, IL 61356

studioK Architecture

Is your business outgrowing its current space? Do you dream of a space that looks, feels and works better for your business? Do you want to provide a new, updated work environment for your customers and employees?

Whether redeveloping an existing historic building or creating something brand new, studioK Architecture has the expertise to turn your idea into reality.

Our architectural services include retail, restaurant, office, municipal, educational, healthcare, industrial, and community projects.

We are a registered Women Business Enterprise in Illinois, and we work with public clients as well as private owners. One of our specialties is working within rural, historic communities. We know that every build ing has a story, and we love working with clients to cele

brate a building’s past while figuring out its best use for the future.

Founder Ryan Keutzer’s passion for working with historic buildings goes back to her childhood growing up in a small town outside of Charleston, South Carolina.

A graduate of Clemson University and Southern Illinois University Carbon dale, she gained experience

working for architects in Illinois and South Carolina before launching her own firm in Charleston, South Carolina in 2015. In 2016, she brought her experience, vision and her family to the Illinois Valley.

Her philosophy is you get out of your community what you are willing to give and is currently a member of the Princeton Rotary Club and

the Princeton Area Chamber board of directors. She is the former founding chairwoman of the City of Princeton Historic Preservation Commission, served on the Main Street Revitalization Committee and most recently wrapped up her term on the Bureau County Historical Society board of directors.

Keutzer and her in-house team of architectural and interior designers are ready to get started working with you on your next building project. If you have an idea and don’t know where to start studioK Architecture can help guide you through an often-overwhelming process. They’ll listen to your idea and create a vision to bring into reality.

Learn more and visit their website, studiokarchitecture. com, follow them on Instagram, call them at 815-8722478 or visit their Princeton office at 910 N. Main St.

The studioK team includes, from far left, Virginia Pavy, Ryan Keutzer, Hillary Natale and Michael Zearing.

to know you – and your fields! Channel Seed is the 3rd largest and fastest growing seed company in the country, built on product performance and exceptional customer service. Tyler Thompson and Lyle Eiten represent Channel Seed locally, accompanied by a team of agronomists, to offer their customers unmatched service and local knowledge. Using satellite imagery, UAV technology and boots on the ground, they work hard to ensure success on your farm! Tyler Thompson is located northeast of Granville on Rt. 89. Eiten Ag Solutions is located north of Peru on Plank Rd.

Lee’s Water Systems

Since 1974, Lee’s Water Systems has served the Princeton and surrounding area with excellent customer service in the Water Treatment industry. Water is the root of all life. When your water tastes or smells off, it’s time to call Lee’s Water Systems to remove contaminants and produce the best drinking water possible. The Kinetico systems we offer are brilliantly engineered to be simply the most efficient and effective water softeners, drinking water systems, and water filters in the world. Our water experts put their very best thinking into designing water treatment solutions that remove just about everything from water that isn’t water.

You and your family deserve superior water. There is a system for every budget with great rental and financing options available. Contact us to bring water purification to your home today!

Diamond Apartments: Maintenance-free independence

Diamond Senior Apartments of Princeton is income-restricted villastyle 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for seniors 55 and over. Apartments offer central heat and A/C, dishwasher, refrigerator, stove/oven, microwave and washer/dryer in-unit and small pets are welcome. Residents can enjoy maintenance-free independent living in a quiet, friendly neighborhood setting with amenities including clubhouse, community room with activities, fitness center and library. Pictured is Kaitlyn Pugh, Property Manager. Diamond Senior Apartments is located at 1000 Diamond Circle, Princeton. Diamond Senior Apartments will be building a new development in Peru, opening in 2024. For more information, or to add your name to the waiting list, call Kaitlyn Pugh at (815) 915-8243 or email kasmith@ludwigco.com.

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The Living Room Model:

A Better Solution for Mental Health & Substance Abuse Crises in Our Community

Each year in the United States, approximately 1 in 5 people visit an emergency room at least once. These visits are typically due to injuries and issues such as chest pain, broken bones, falls, strokes or back pain. Although emergency rooms are designed for physical ailments such as these, approximately four percent of all visits are due to mental illness or substance use, including overdose, acute psychotic episodes, panic attacks, suicide attempts and more.

Unfortunately, emergency rooms are not always set up to adequately treat mental illness or behavioral health due to time constraints and stressful surroundings. Most emergency room doctors also do not specialize in mental health or addiction and will often treat the medical symptoms rather than the mental and emotional causes of a person’s condition. This isn’t the fault of emergency room care providers or the patients themselves. Rather, it is a complex problem that needs addressing in the community.

The Living Room Model was designed as a response to the com munity’s need for mental health services outside of the emergency room setting. The model is a com munity crisis center that offers peo ple experiencing a mental health crisis an alternative to hospital ization. When people experience a mental health crisis, they are faced with the decision to go to the emergency department or to try to manage the crisis themselves. This model is an evidence-based, alterna tive solution to emergency rooms. The Living Room model was devel oped by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to provide

a walk-in respite for persons expe riencing mental health crises. The Living Rooms are staffed by persons with lived experience, known as Recovery Support Specialists (RSS), allowing them to better connect with “guests” who walk in.

St. Margaret’s Center for Holistic Health & Wellness (CHHW) has partnered with Arukah Institute of Healing in Princeton to bring the Living Room model of care to Central Illinois. Arukah provides client-centered, complementary health and counseling services to foster prevention wellness and mental health in rural communities. Arukah’s method involves a variety of unique approaches, including novel, video-based programs and mind-body therapies, as well as more conventional, individual and group therapies. As with previous collaborations, CHHW is combin ing resources with Arukah to better serve the needs of the community and expand mental health services throughout LaSalle, Bureau, Put nam and Marshall Counties.

The Living Room will provide additional clinical resources, substance misuse/ recovery resources and access to social determinant resources, such as housing, employment and food. Living Rooms are rare in rural communities, making this effort somewhat unique. The Illinois Valley, like every community, faces its own unique set of issues and challenges. The Living Room model here has been adapted to address the most pressing needs. Sarah Scruggs, Ph.D., Director of Arukah Institute explains: “We will also address substance use-related crises, something not addressed by conventional Liv-

ing Room facilities. We believe the creation of the Living Room in our rural area will provide much-needed access to vital services, without judgment and regardless of ability to pay. We also recognize that, despite their empathy and dedication, police officers and emergency room staff are not trained or equipped to handle mental health and substance misuse crises as well as trained RSS and clinical staff can. We are partnering with local hospitals, law enforcement and a host of others to bring these services to our community.”

The Living Room model is one piece of expanding mental health, substance abuse and crisis care in the Illinois Valley. The partnership between St. Margaret’s Center for Holistic Health and Wellness and Arukah Institute of Healing will continue to offer traditional and complementary/ alternative thera pies. These range from trauma-in formed, addiction-focused, crisis counseling, serious and persistent mental illness, anxiety/depressive disorders, eating disorders, recov ery-oriented, faith-based counseling, psychological testing, family and youth-focused counseling, among others. In addition, they offer a va riety of group counseling options geared towards teens, substance misuse, life skills and boundaries.

Community training for groups such as schools, first responders and other leaders is also available.

For the latest news and updates from St. Margaret’s Center for Holistic Health & Wellness and the Living Room, visit us online at smhchhw. org. For news and announcements from St. Margaret’s Health, follow us on Facebook or visit aboutsmh.org.

The Living Room Model:

A Better Solution for Mental Health & Substance Abuse Crises in Our Community

The Living Room Model, developed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), was designed as a response to the community’s need for mental health services outside of the emergency room setting. The model is a crisis center that offers people experiencing a mental health crisis an alternative to hospitalization.

The Living Room at the Center for Holistic Health & Wellness will provide the Illinois Valley:

• A walk-in respite for persons experiencing a mental health crisis

• Additional clinical resources, substance misuse/recovery resources & access to social determinant resources, such as housing, employment & food

• And More

Living Rooms are rare in rural communities, making this effort somewhat unique. The Living Room model is one piece of expanding mental health, substance abuse and crisis care in the Illinois Valley.

Pictured above: Sarah Scruggs, PhD, R-HYI Linda Burt, MSN Michael Lau, MA, MS, PhD, LCPC & Benjamin Shepherd, MD

To stay informed on the latest news and announcements on the Living Room Model, visit smhchhw.org or follow us on social media.