Theyoujournal november 2014 by theYOUjournal

theYOUjournal It’s about YOU and for YOU!

Serving the North Shore and Beyond

First Edition Special

November 2014

Fit for a King

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What’s inside? Crown courtesy of pixabay

Lake Villa businessman makes Royal Saddle Isaac’s food rocks! pg. 8

Know your Turkey pg. 4 See Business pg. 3 Libertyville Dining Meet the columnists pg. 6 Bob Martin, at his sewing machine (note the python skin to his right). He and his team at Advanced Custom Design in Lake Villa crafted the “money green” alligator and pearl white leather motorcycle seat for King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, top left. --photo of seat courtesy of Fat Bag-

gers, Inc., photo of Martin by Tina Johansson

by Tina Johansson lligators are determined and fast, as everyone knows. And like them, Bob Martin, better known as “Alligator Bob,” jumps at the chance to put his talented team at Advanced Custom Design in Lake Villa to the test when the opportunity arises. Take for instance, a recent call he received from an Iowa motorcycle builder: The outﬁt, Fat Baggers, Inc. was commissioned to create a custom bike for Saad al-Hariri, the billionaire and former Prime Minister of Lebanon. The company was asked by the prime ministers’ aides to ﬁnd the best seat maker in the business. There was no question who they would call. Soon Alligator Bob Martin was making a red and white number to match

the prime minister’s new motorcycle. After all, making seats and accoutrements for celebrities and other notables is nothing new to Martin. Among his clients are Wayne Newton and B.B. King who had motorcycle seats made by him for the Make-A-Wish foundation. Others are Orange County Choppers (some of a dozen of Martin’s seats and a set of saddle bags have been featured on the former reality show), and singer Billy Joel. This fall Martin’s work is to be featured on the Animal Planet cable television show “Pit Bulls & Parolees” Still, Martin was reeling from the invitation to build the prime minister’s bike seat. “I thought, ‘Wow! We made it into the big leagues now.’” Then, without skipping a beat, he added, “I know we do high-quality

work, so I felt it was just a matter of time.” He touted his well-deserving team including artist Charlie Miller and leather craftsman Jeremy Nelson who do much of the work. Advanced Custom Design’s award-winning creations feature exotic skins including alligator, python, lizard, elephant, stingray, shark and ostrich from the world-over; as well as top-grade cowhide from Italy and Scotland. The exotics come from farms, and are not from poachers, he promised. . Depending on the design and material, his seats can include such details as ﬁne painting or carving, also known as “tattooing.” After the prime minister’s bike was completed, and he sat upon the special saddle, he was apparently so

enthralled, he asked the Iowa bike builder to have Martin create several others. And as if that weren’t enough, soon after, the Lake Villa businessman was commissoned to create another unique piece—this time for the prime minister’s good friend who happens to be none other than King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. The king’s seat mirrors the red and white one Martin made for the prime minister, only in “money green” alligator belly and pearl white leather to match the bike’s custom paint job. “I was really excited and honored that they wanted me to do this. I mean, how many people get to work for the king, even if it’s indirectly through the bike builder?” he said. Continued on Page 9

Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy

Michele Batz, Ph.D.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

theYOUjournal Established 2014

Publisher Long Hwa-shu Hwa-shu@theYOUjournal.com Editor in Chief Tina Johansson Tina@theYOUjournal.com Contributing Writers Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy Michele Batz, Ph.D. Hope Forcier Al Hergott Kathleen King Craig Peterson

From the Publisher Dear Readers, Deep in my mind, I had always wanted to have my own newspaper. I’ve been a journalist all my life. After attending the University of Missouri Journalism School where I received my master’s degree in journalism, I began working as a reporter for The Daily Record in Wooster, Ohio. Later I joined The Chicago Daily News and worked there for seven years. After the Daily News went under, I joined The Lake County News-Sun, covering courts, the county board and business. I also wrote for The New York Times, contributing numerous articles tor its real estate section as a freelancer. After retiring from The News-Sun, I continued to write for it as a freelancer. My wife, Tina Johansson, has also been a long-time journalist. She says she was bitten by the news bug at the age of four when she met a reporter and a photographer in the park where she and others had been playing. Being asked a question by the reporter for a news story is one of her earliest and most vivid memories. She created her very first newspaper in the 5th grade. Tina “employed” a fellow student to help draw cartoons for the paper. That experience led her to write for her high school newspaper. At the age of 19 she began freelancing for a local weekly publication. Later she landed a job on the staff of Lakeland Newspapers winning state awards for Investigative Reporting and News Story divisions. She was also on the staff at the Zion-Benton News and Bargaineer where she was assistant editor, and a staff writer for the former Bulletin in Kenosha County. In between she wrote for The Chicago Tribune, the Northwest Herald, the Kenosha News, and various real estate publications. For a number of years she was a freelance writer and photographer for the News-Sun where she gained a loyal following for her weekly restaurant column.

Jim Zegar

For both of us, this has been a lifelong ambition. With the creation of this newspaper we are doing what we enjoy and what we know best.

Design Consultant

We’ve named our newspaper theYOUjournal, because it’s all about you and for you! It is a people-oriented paper serving the North Shore and beyond. It will start out as a monthly with a web site to be added in the near future. It will be free and available where people meet---at restaurants, stores and other businesses.

Erin Kelly Your suggestions, comments and story ideas are welcome.

Please contact us at: US@theYOUjournal.com 847.293.7028 theYOUjournal P.O. Box 540 Wadsworth IL 60083

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As a people-publication, we will carry in each issue a profile of an individual who has succeeded in business, an entrepreneur who has made it with determination despite all the odds, or someone who has a unique story to tell. Chief among the features of theYOUjournal will be To Your Health, Fitness & Nutrition, Out in the Open, Restaurant Row, Over the Fence, Where Are They Now? What’s This? The Best of Everything, Dog People, the Horse Set, Uncle Al’s Home Remedies, Green Thumb Ladies, and Let Me Tell You. More will be added later. With our first issue we’ve finally made our dream come true. Of course theYOUjournal needs your support to succeed. We promise we will do our utmost to make it worthwhile for you. Thank you for picking up our paper and looking inside. We hope you will enjoy reading! Sincerely,

Long Hwa-shu, the Publisher

Editorial Route 53 extension much needed to ease congestion The recent optimistic appraisal of transportation officials that preliminary work on the extension of Route 53 into Lake County could well begin in two years should hearten motorists. Especially those who use the central and southern corridor to commute to jobs and homes. For decades now, drivers have been caught in the stranglehold of highway gridlock at rush hour along routes 83 and 53 in Vernon Township. Every year that plans for Route 53 have lain fallow has increased the cost of what will be Lake County’s largest public works project when full construction of the proposed tollway starts. The increased cost is now such that besides offering increased tolls along

that portion of Interstate 94 in Lake County, transportation planners are floating bumping up the gas tax to finance the Route 53 extension. Lack of leadership during decades of calls for “no growth” has now caught up with Lake County’s motoring public, which still ply most roads last built and upgraded in the 1980s. Only in recent years have county officials, perhaps prodded by business leaders, spearheaded the push for the eventual completion of the Route 53 extension, along with improving other county roads. The Illinois Tollway created the Illinois Route 53/120 Blue Ribbon Advisory Council to assist in the planning and the

potential building of the project in Lake County. The council is on record recommending the tollway proceed with further project development, configuration and design and propose a financial framework. Indeed, the tollway’s Strategic Planning Committee has agreed to participate in a coordinated, corridor-wide land use plan led by Lake County and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, to develop engineering concepts and funding scenarios, and evaluate local, state and federal authorizations required for the project. Construction of the Route 53 exten-

sion not only will ease traffic congestion, it will provide thousands of good-paying jobs, and we trust, take into consideration environmental concerns which have been at the forefront of opposition to the project. While still years from completion, current action on what many had thought to be a dormant undertaking gives us hope Route 53 will eventually be built in our lifetimes. Tollway officials should continue to green-light Route 53 plans, county lawmakers should continue to support the project and county drivers should let their elected officials know they support the push to finish the job.

theYOUjournal

Local Business

November 2014

Variety is the spice of dining in Libertyville by Long Hwa-shu

With more than two dozen restaurants in downtown, Libertyville has begun to rival Highwood as Lake County’s dining capital. The restaurants offer cuisines from all over the world: Italian, French, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Mexican and, of course, American. “We’re very proud of the mix of tastes. We run the whole gamut. You can have burgers, pizza, sushi and steaks --- from casual to a fancy night out,” said Pam Hume, executive director of MainStreet Libertyville, a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to preserve and promote downtown. It boasts 950 members. “They range from the inexpensive to the expensive with high quality food, and the service is great,” echoed Michael Kaufman who lives in Vernon Hills on the south edge of Libertyville. “I come here to eat often.” Among the popular places are Mickey Finn’s, Casa Bonita Uno, the Green Room, the Picnic Basket, Milwalky Trace and 545 North Bar & Grill. At noon on a recent weekday, the restaurants were doing a brisk trade with hungry locals as well as out-of-towners either visiting or on business. “People in Libertyville have a good sense of community. They seem to be happy,” said Becky White of New Berlin, Wis., who was having lunch with her mother at Egg Harbor Café. Becky grew up in Libertyville where her mother still lives. Both are retired teachers. “Downtown is always a wonderful

place to eat,” vouched her mother Audrey Zetterberg. Unlike some downtowns, Libertyville is “alive and vibrant at night,” observed Sandy Cole, former state representative and County Board member from Grayslake who owns the Savory Spice Shop in the heart of downtown. Hume pointed out 25 years ago when MainStreet Libertyville was founded, the vacancy rate in the downtown business district was 30 percent. “There’s no vacancy now except on some side streets,” she said. Among the new eateries is the Big Ed’s BBQ which offers among other tantalizing pit stuffs as baby back ribs, beef brisket, rib tips, and “burnt end dinner”--- brisket top seasoned with dry rub and smoked low for 15 hours. Kim Nero, wife of Ed Nero, the owner, said when the space became available, “the landlord contacted us and asked us to come here.” The hustle and bustle of downtown often makes street parking a challenge. The village does have a three-story parking garage with 365 spaces behind Lake Street which most of the out-of-towners apparently don’t know about. And it is free for four hours. While the ground level is mostly used for village employees during the day, it is also available for public parking in the evening, said John Spoden, director of economic development. The village is planning to build another public parking facility on a lot at the south end of Church Street behind the St. Lawrence Church.

Milwaukee Avenue in downtown Libertyville is alive with dining choices. The Green Room shown here on the left, is one of them.

James D. Smith, a real estate broker with Re/Max Showcase in Gurnee walks past Casa Bonita Uno in downtown Libertyville. “There is really a lot of variety here,” said Smith of the many eateries. -photos by Tina Johansson

Jeff Weissman of Lincolnwood and a friend leave the Egg Harbor Cafe in Libertyville after lunch.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Local dentist talks turkey by Long Hwa-shu

Dr. Steven Brucki, a Gurnee dentist, will have a wild turkey this Thanksgiving. “I’ll hunt one on my farm or go up north to get one,” said Brucki who lives with his wife, Lynn, on a 140-acre farm in Trevor, Wis. Wild turkeys used to roam on their farm – as many as 50 of them years ago. They still do, but in much smaller numbers. “We raise them and let them go so that they can make it on their own,” said Dr. Brucki, who practices dentistry with a partner under the name Smith, Brucki & Associates at 36100 Brookside Drive, Gurnee. Wild turkeys were released years ago by conservation groups to the prairie and farms in an effort to restore them to their natural state in the ecological system. Some of the wild ones the Bruckis helped to raise often come back to their farm, perhaps for a handout. “They would come back to the railing of our house,” Brucki said, adding: “Some people say they are ugly, but I think they

are beautiful birds. Oh yes, they do fly fast.” As for taste, Brucki thinks the storebought have been “genetically altered” over the years in favor of big size and fast growth. The average weight of a turkey sold in stores is about 15 pounds. The heaviest domesticated turkey ever raised was 86 pounds, according to University of Illinois Agricultural Extension Service. Wild turkeys are much smaller and leaner by comparison. Besides the gamey flavor, Brucki said he decided to hunt for a turkey because “it makes me feel more connected to the earth.”

Right, a poult (baby turkey) born on Dr. Steven Brucki’s farm. Adult turkeys shown roaming the 140-acre farm. - photos courtesy of Dr. Steven Brucki

Fun Turkey Facts -Believe or not, Ben Franklin once proposed the turkey as America’s national bird. In any event, Americans eat plenty of turkey - not just on Thanksgiving but throughout the year to the tune about 16 pounds per capita. -Turkey consumption has increased 104 percent since 1970, according to the University of Illinois Agricultural Extension. -The turkeys sold in grocery stores are of a domesticated variety. -A male, called Tom, can reach 30 pounds in 18 weeks after hatching. -Turkey hens are usually sold as whole birds. Toms are processed into turkey sausage, franks, tenderloins, cutlets and deli meats. -Turkey is high in protein and low in fat.

-Wild turkeys were nearly wiped out in the early 1900s. Today, they are found in every state except Alaska. -They spend the night in trees, preferring oak trees. -Unlike the domesticated turkeys, wild ones can fly for short distances up to 55 miles per hour. -Bred for meat, today’s turkeys grow so large that they tend to fall over. By the way, the turkey trot is a ballroom dance style known for its short, jerky steps. -Since 1947, the National Turkey Federation has presented a live turkey to the President of the United States. As a custom, the President “pardons it” and sends it to live out its days on a historical farm.

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A big wild Tom turkey in the yard of Dr. Steven Brucki who lives in Trevor, Wis. Note another turkey behind him. Dr. Brucki has been raising wild turkeys for years. - photo courtesy of Dr. Steven Brucki

theYOUjournal

November 2014

the

Over.....

.....Fence

Not enjoyable

Firewood vendor fired

Shopping should be a pleasant experience. Not so! Often when you walk into a store, you are practically ignored, to say nothing of being greeted. If you ask for help, often the response is lukewarm. The sales clerk seems to be preoccupied, talking to a fellow worker. Giving help to a customer is almost an after-thought. Little wonder some stores are not doing so well.

We bought a cord of firewood from a vendor who had piles of firewood on display outdoors. They looked pretty good. But when it was delivered to us, some of the pieces were covered with dirt and rotting. They don’t burn good. He is fired. We’ll never buy from him again.

seem to understand me, nor do I understand them. The problems I call about rarely are resolved, and most always end in nothing but frustration. As a business owner myself I can understand having to ship some production jobs overseas to cut costs. But shipping customer service and technical support jobs there makes no sense, especially if you want to retain your customer base.

Customer service took a hike

Complaints fall on deaf ears

Yank ‘em out

What’s going on with customer service these days? I recently purchased an expensive computer and have had to call customer service and technical support several times for help. Each time has been a nightmare. The calls are always routed out of the country and take at least an hour as I’m shifted between people to person. These people don’t

My husband and I had been going to a popular hamburger chain where we ate lunch with friends, until we couldn’t stand the loud, annoying music anymore. We complained several times but nothing happened. I have to say, even though we like the food, we won’t be back anytime soon. We’ve been to other chain restaurants too and the same

Campaign signs are everywhere. It’s democracy in action. But after the election, they look stale, weedy and junky, especially for those who lost. Win or lose, it is incumbent for these politicians to yank out the eyesores.

What’s This?

It’s mangosteen, a tropical fruit the size of a small plum with a deep purplish-brown hard shell.

The edible part inside that comes in cloves is mildly sweet and fragrant that tastes somewhat like strawberry. Known as “the queen of fruit,” it is said to be full of antioxidants. Legend has it that Queen Victoria once offered a high prize for anyone bringing the fruit fresh to her majesty. Despite its name, mangosteen is not related to mango. The fruit is produced on evergreen trees grown mostly in Southeast Asia. It is rarely found in grocery stores, but available seasonally at some Asian pro-

duce markets. And it is not cheap—a recent purchase cost $6.99/lb. - story by Long Hwa-shu, photos by Tina Johansson

thing. Why does the music have to be so loud? Do they think we’re all deaf?

Bye for now pie I really miss the local farmer’s markets, many of which I visited regularly. Gurnee had a little trailer that sold home-baked sweets, shakes and coffee. They had kettle corn too. And the Wadsworth Farmers Market offered a lot of different kinds of fresh produce, but my favorites were the little pies and the different bread they sold. I’m really going to miss those pies. To join in on the chorus for Over the Fence, please send your anonymous praises or complaints to: US@theYOUjournal.com.

Maintaining your home with Uncle AL Hey Al, I live in Lake Bluff where I own a home. Last winter was brutal and I am anticipating the coming one. What do I need to do to the outside of my house, should we have another one of those “Chicago Winters?” --Chilling out in Lake Bluff Dear Chilling Out: I hate to say it, but winter is on its way and there is no escaping it. The outside of the home needs to be ready! So let me give you some simple outdoor fixes that might save you money and the value of your house. First, the most important thing is to make sure the gutters are clean. Cleaning the gutters can be as easy as getting a ladder (it’s always a good idea to have a helper hold the ladder and you should never over-reach while on a ladder), a garden hose and a small 4-inch putty knife (or gutter scoop). Once you have climbed the ladder and have reached the gutters, use the putty knife or gutter scoop to help scoop out any debris found along the length of the gutter. After all of the debris is visually removed, run water helping to clear the

gutter and assure it drains properly. If water is backing up, check downspouts for a jam. This can be cleared by using the hose and spraying it with water and working it down the downspout. The debris should pass through freely. Clean gutters can prevent ice damming, prevent the shingles from lifting and helping to alleviate any leaks that might otherwise be created, causing problems from water damage inside your house. A leaking roof can be the worst thing to happen in winter, so make a visual inspection of your roof now because it can be dangerous to walk on a roof. Use binoculars if heights are an issue. Is there any buckling or any of the shingles cracked? Look at the chimney. Is it showing any cracks or rusting? If you spot any of these problems, contact a roofer for a free estimate. If you catch the problem early enough, the cost of repair may be much lower than if you wait and let it get worse. Next, walk around the house to look for signs of rot or caulk that lost its integrity around the windows and siding. Recaulk them, if necessary. Check the seals around the doors and windows for gaps that may require weather stripping. --Uncle Al

Who is Uncle Al?

My life has always been about hardware and the tools. I grew up on the North Shore in Deerfield where my family owned a Ma and Pa hardware store located in Hubbard Woods near Winnetka. I would take things apart and try ot put them together at the store, especially if it had nuts, bolts or screws. After years of taking apart things and putting them back the way they were I became handy and would be asked by customers to fix things around their houses. By 16 my dad sold the store but I found a similar family hardware store close to home to go to where I continued to learn how to repair things. Later I became a manufacture rep selling everything from screwdrivers to water heaters. Today I am still in the hardware business, just as I was when I was nine.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Mind, Body and Soul

‘Tis the Season to be Jolly?... Stressed?... a Little Bit of Both? Dr. Jeannie offers tips on coping Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy, Clinical Psychologist

The beginning of November heralds the holiday season: Thanksgiving followed by Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza, other celebrations, and the New Year. In Chicago, November 15 is the deadline for all boats to be removed from Lake Michigan, and the unofficial end to our fall season. Days become shorter; Daylight Savings Time ends November 2. Sunlight becomes scarce and the dreaded Chicago winter is almost upon us. People’s moods truly can be affected by the weather, formally named seasonal affective disorder. In years past, stores closed on the holidays, everybody had time off, and families and friends lived near each other. Now you have to decide where to spend the holidays - and with whom. You may have limited funds and time to travel. You may be single, married, divorced or have blended families, sharing old traditions or creating new ones. As a therapist, I often hear of individuals struggling to cope with the holidays, for a vari-

ety of reasons. If you ARE looking forward to the holidays, be grateful. However, you can still experience additional stress, as there are increased demands on your time and resources. And if you ARE NOT looking forward to the holidays, and you are concerned that you will be and/or feel alone, then perhaps you might look into volunteering – serve a meal to someone else (homeless shelter or soup kitchen), or engage in random acts of kindness. Try to anticipate what you will do for the holidays, and make a plan. Here are some helpful tips: 1. Set a dollar amount you have to spend, and supplement with “coupons of action” (give a massage, cook a meal, babysit etc.) 2. Give a present to yourself -- something you will enjoy. 3. Do not overcommit – too much of a good thing can be too much. 4. Try to get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in physical activity. 5. When with family, it is still okay to take

some “alone time” - go for a walk, run, read, etc. 6. Talk with friends – make a plan with them, or see if you might join them in their plans. 7. Foster a pet. 8. Make a list of what you are grateful for. 9. Keep expectations realistic – about the holidays, your family, your friends, and yourself. 10. If you are divorced or have blended families, keep your children out of the middle. 11. If someone close to you has died in the past year, expect this holiday to be different and possibly, difficult. 12. Finally, If you find that you cannot even begin to look or plan ahead, or feel very depressed, anxious, hopeless, have difficulty sleeping or there is a significant change in your appetite, you may benefit from talking with a counselor. Contact your internist or primary care physician for a mental health referral, or go to the nearest Emergency Room.

Jeannie Aschkenasy, Ph.D. (“Dr. Jeannie”) is a licensed clinical psychologist, who has more than 25 years of experience in private practice and at Rush University Medical Center working with children, adolescents, adults and families. Dr. Jeannie graduated from Smith College and earned her Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. Her post- doctoral training was at the Piaget Institute in Geneva Switzerland, Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago and the University of Chicago. Dr. Jeannie is also on staff at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County. Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy 180 N. Michigan Ave. #2201 Chicago, IL 60601 312-726-4464 docjeanniea@gmail.com docjeanniea.com

Are you ready to get fit?

Michele Batz gets YOU motivated

Michele Batz, Ph.D. Fitness Instructor

Hello! I am so happy and blessed to be a part of this new publication, theYOUjournal. Let me introduce myself, Michele Batz at your service.I love life, love kids and love working out. I hope this column will bring your level of enthusiasm up and if you need a shot in the arm, a boost in the seat or just something positive to read, you’ve come to the right place. I am currently teaching physical education classes to our wonderful students at Kenneth Murphy Elementary School in Beach Park. I have 32 years of teaching experience in my field. I’ve taught water aerobics, step aerobics, YogaFit, young athletes, and started running clubs in our community.Yes, I love being active and fit—and the big news is –You can, too!Are you looking to get started? Have you found yourself making up excuses like; “I can wait until Monday?” or “I can start after I eat half of this pizza pie?” Take heart, today is the day; you take those excuses and put them away forever. Forever, I am telling you, forever. First and foremost, after reading this

column, post it on a mirror, a bulletin board, or somewhere where you will see it everyday. Okay, got it? Here we go! Guess how you are going to get fit?

“All you need is a good pair of walking shoes.” - Michele Batz, physical education instructor

Simply, by moving more and eating less. You are going to start a walking program. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes. Not your tennis shoes that have been sitting in your closet for years. Invest in yourself, go out and treat yourself to a new pair of walking shoes. New Balance, Nike and Asics have great shoes that will support your feet and that are kind to your legs. Next dress for the fall weather--layer your t-shirts and hoodies, so as you walk and get warm, you can peel off the layers for your comfort. Select your neighborhood, or a park to start your journey and head out the door. The first walk should only be about 15 minutes and a comfortable pace---your comfort, not someone else’s. When you re-

turn, stretch out your calves (find a stretch on Google) and take a drink of water. Congratulate yourself on the beginning of your fitness journey. This is how it begins, you will find yourself looking forward to your time alone, a time to reflect, a time to breathe, take a look around you and say, whew, thank you, Lord. The first week, start out walking four or five days for 15 minutes. If your job allows it, you could do this walk on your lunch time. Bring your walking shoes to work and escape for a few moments. It will refresh you and you’ll find the afternoon, flying by and your energy level increase, making you more productive at work. What is wrong with that? As the weeks pass, you will simply add 5 minutes per week until you are walking continuously for 30-40 minutes, at least 5 days a week. Your waist will thank you, your family will thank you and you will find yourself looking and seeking new challenges in your life, guaranteed. See you next month when we will discuss the opportunities of giving back through fitness.

Michele Batz has been an educator for 32 years and presently teaches physical education at Kenneth Murphy Elementary School in Beach Park. Her love of learning has earned her two masters degrees in education and administration. She also has a Ph.D. in Holistic Nutrition.

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theYOUjournal

November 2014

To Your Health by Victor Plotkin Epidemiologist, Lake County Health Department/ Community Health Center

Each winter (generally between January and March) influenza or “the flu” can intrude in our lives and cause lost time from work, school absences, and hospitalizations. Influenza is one of the few remaining viruses that can cause worldwide disease. A yearly flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. In addition, there are three magic C’s that will help you as well: Clean: wash your hands frequently Cover: cover your cough and sneeze Contain: contain your germs - stay home if you are sick. What exactly is the flu? Influenza is a

Shooting down the flu

viral infection of the respiratory system. Influenza can be devastating to anyone, especially to children. In general, the flu can be transmitted anywhere, but most often when we congregate indoors in classrooms, day care centers, theaters and conferences, just to name a few. Influenza is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and a dry cough. It differs from the common cold by its abrupt onset of fever, which seldom accompanies a cold. The virus is rapidly spread from person to person through the air. It takes about 24-72 hours after exposure to experience symptoms that last 2-8 days; the cough may persist for 1-2 weeks. Some people who come down with the flu are more likely to get complications that result in being hospitalized and occasionally result in death. Pneumonia, bron-

chitis, sinus infections and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. The flu also can make chronic health problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have the flu, and people with chronic congestive heart failure may experience a worsening of this condition that is triggered by the flu. To protect yourself and your family during the flu season, wash your hands frequently, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of fluids, stay away from crowds, get plenty of rest and exercise, and get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age or older. Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of more serious flu outcomes, like hospitalizations and deaths.

A recent study showed that flu vaccine reduced children’s risk of flu-related pediatric intensive care unit admission by 74% during flu seasons from 2010-2012. Another study showed that flu vaccination was associated with a 71% reduction in flu-related hospitalizations among adults of all ages and a 77% reduction among adults 50 years of age and older during the 2011-2012 flu season. If you are looking for a flu vaccine for yourself and your family, the vaccine is available at retail health clinics, healthcare providers and other locations throughout the Chicago area. For more information or to schedule an appointment for a flu shot at the Lake County Health Department, please call 847.377.8470.

CTCA in Zion honored for exemplary patient experiences The Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Zion has been named the recipient of the 2014 Healthgrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award for delivering positive experiences for patients during their stay at

the hospital. Healthgrades, the leading online resource for comprehensive information about physicians and hospitals, considered 3,582 hospitals across the country for the

award covering a period from March 2012 to April 2013. CTCA was one of 17 hospitals in Illinois to receive the recognition.Questions asked of patients by the Healthgrades sur-

vey included cleanliness and noise levels in patient rooms, pain management and responsiveness to patient needs by nurses. Patients were also asked if they would recommend the hospital to friends or family.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Restaurant Row Triple Threat

Restaurateur delivers knock out with trio of extraordinary eateries

by Tina Johansson

f you like Mexican food, you are going to love the food at the restaurants owned and operated by Isaac Nava and his family in Highwood and Highland Park. Nava has taken Mexican staples and turned them into something special, all the while staying true to his Jewish beliefs. This includes omitting pork products from his Kosher-style menus and closing down during Shabbat. You may want to start by visiting Isaac & Moishe Deli and Taqueria, 311 Waukegan Avenue for a bustling shopping experience where you can pick up the biggest and freshest produce, premier meats and delightful baked goods. If shopping makes you hungry grab a bite at the recently added taqueria which offers everything from rustic soups to Italian specialties, and hefty tamales. Moishe’s wife Lidia makes 3,000 of them each week. Or try the popular green joy drink for a healthy boost. It contains orange, pineapple and green leafy vegetables blended together. From 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. the taqueria features a breakfast special including omelet, toast and coffee for $4.99. On Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. beef tacos are 99 cents. Speaking of tacos, Nava also offers tacos at his nearby restaurants---La Casa de Isaac which is right around the corner at 431 Temple Avenue, and La Casa de Isaac & Moishe at 2014 First Street. The tacos here are sophisticated and are served on handmade blue corn tortillas. A satisfying trio is grilled Mahi-mahi tacos topped with a relish of mango, jicama, red onion and a hint of chile piquin. Creamy avocado salsa is a perfect topping for them. A dish not to be missed is “Isaac’s mother’s favorite enchiladas”---chicken-stuffed enchiladas reminiscent of the amazing dishes prepared by his late mother Florencia who offered her recipes and helped out at the restaurants for a time. She was and still is one of Isaac’s biggest inspirations. Another favorite are taquitos de pato, crispy little rolled duck-filled tacos topped with refried black beans, sour cream, queso fresco, avocado salsa, and a side of mango relish---a beautiful dish. The molkajete with a choice of chicken or steak and served in a hot lava bowl is an impressive and tasty dish you will like sharing. How about something really different like a burrito with salmon and goat

cheese? Or maybe you have a taste for filet mignon fajitas? There are cocktails including excellent margaritas; and don’t forget dessert--several are available such as homemade flan and bananas flameadas. Breakfast is also offered at the restaurants including challa bread French toast and fruit filled crepes. At the restaurants the portions are adequate, the quality is phenomenal, the service is good and Isaac peppers everything with his sunny disposition. But it was a long journey for Isaac Nava who came here at age 14 nearly 30-years ago.

“I had it in my mind that someday I’d open my own restaurant. I never gave up.” -Isaac Nava The number four child of a very large family, he said he hoofed it much of the way to the border of California from his home in Mexico. Though his life back home was good (he was middle class and his father owned a supermarket--still does) he was in search of an adventure, and if he could, have an even better life, he said. Once in the states, Nava boarded a plane to Chicago (he had saved some money to do so). But he was in such a hurry to come here, he didn’t bother to say goodbye to his parents. When they discovered he was missing, they were sick with worry. His mother Florencia and his father Ruben didn’t receive a phone call from their son for three days after he left. Once in Chicago he stayed with friends and got a job as a dishwasher at Bob’s Big Boy in Northbrook. After doing tons of dishes he began realizing his dream. “I had it in my mind that someday I’d open my own restaurant,” said Nava. “I never gave up.” He worked at several eateries including a bagel shop until he was suddenly let go. It was devastating because he had planned to go into business with his former boss. But his brother Moishe came to his rescue and gave him $80,000--all his savings. With it, Nava was able to open his first restaurant--La Casa de Isaac. Now successful, and the father of four, Nava, 45, employs about 60 people, some of them relatives. His “real goal” in life is not to own a lot of restaurants, but to give back to others. “I have some ideas about it,” he said.

From left, Poncho Alvarez, a butcher at Isaac’s deli; Isaac Nava, and his brother Moishe Nava. Below right is molkajete served in a a hot lava bowl, and below that are duck taquitos. --Photos by Tina Johansson

Mary Ann Betz of Lake Forest picks up a boatload of hot tamales at Isaac’s deli. Below is Isaac’s Mother’s Favorite Enchilladas.

Neat Eats

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Mariano’s prepares lunch, dinner before your eyes

For a quick, delicious and reasonably-priced lunch or even dinner, there’s no place like Mariano’s at 6655 Grand Avenue in Gurnee. Mariano’s, a supermarket which opened in July, has a lunch counter as you walk in where you can have a hamburger, a rib-eye, an Italian sausage or a grilled veggie sandwich made right before your eyes for just $6. There is also a coffee bar, a juice counter, a soup bar, a salad bar, and a gelato counter - all strategically grouped together for easy access. “People come in to get what they want. They can sit and enjoy it at the comfortable dining area,” said Dave Conner, co-manager of the store, pointing out that there are 18 tables with a seating capacity for 72 people. “We’re doing real well, much better than we expected,” he said of the lunch business. “They have some of the best soups around,” said Matt Gore of Lindenhurst as he filled a container with chicken dumpling soup the other day for a take-out.

The choices at the heart-warming soup kettle included clam chowder, mushroom with wild rice, cream of chicken and lobster bisque. A small cup costs just $1.99. The menu changes every day. Wisconsin beer cheddar, for instance, is offered in cold months. At the salad bar you can dress up your salad with bacon bits, julienne ham, pulled chicken, Italian grape tomatoes with fresh basil and sliced cucumber flavored with raspberry. There are many other salad enhancers. For pizza lovers Thursday is Family Pizza Night. For $10 you can get an oblong-shaped pizza, 14 by 18 inches, enough for several hungry people. It comes with a two-liter Pepsi to quench your thirst. The lunch counter is open 10 a.m.-9 p.m., so you can have your dinner there too.—Long Hwa-shu

Tables include fresh flowers.

Thursday is pizza day at Mariano’s.

Above, Annette Gordon cooks up Italian sausage. Below, the salad bar at Mariano’s with 66 items including stuffed grape leaves. photos by Tina Johansson

The Best of Everything...(in our opinion) Chocolate-Chocolate Chip coffee cake from O’Brothers Bakery A diet is no match for this buttery, chocolaty treat called Chocolate-Chocolate Chip coffee cake from O’Brothers Bakery in Waukegan. Once you start eating it, it’s tough to stop. Weighing in at about 2 ½-pounds and measuring 15-inches, this delightful cake is thickly-veined with chocolate throughout, and topped with semi-sweet mini chocolate chips. Then another layer of chocolate is spread on top. And if by chance after serving it to friends and family you have any left, it freezes quite well.This coffee cake which sells for $5.50 is very popular and often sells out by mid-morning. Ricky Ortega, a former U.S. Marine whose father Ramiro is an owner of the bakery, sells the baked goods while his dad gets some shut eye. Each day the elder Mr. Ortega rises well before dawn to make pastries, bread, and at least 1,000 donuts. Leftovers are donated to the St. Dismas Church food pantry in Waukegan. In 1992 Ramiro and his brother Isidro Ortega bought the European-style bakery and the traditional recipes which are still used today. Isidro has since moved to Florida. The Ortega’s plan to expand the business next year to make room for tables, and to serve sandwiches and other goodies. O’Brothers Bakery is located at 2820 Bel-

videre Road, 847.249.0091. -Tina Johansson

Quotables Lauren Bacall, famed actress, on being a New Yorker: “I spent my childhood in New York, riding on subways and buses. And you know what you learn if you’re a New Yorker? The world doesn’t owe you a damn thing.”

Looking for Ad Reps email US@theYOUjournal.com

Ricky Ortega and the coffee cakes at his family business O’Brothers Bakery. - photo by Tina Johansson

November 2014

theYOUjournal

Green Thumb Ladies: Hope & Kathleen

Care for your sweet-smelling plants before the big chill

We believe that gardening should be fun and relaxing for everybody, regardless of the size of the garden. It is important to have the right plant in the right place. Here are some simple tips to help manage your garden:

We all know that it’s just a matter of time before winter arrives. While last winter’s weather took a toll on many gardens, the deep snow was actually a blanket of protection -- it kept the ground frozen and insulated the plants from the cold, drying winds. Evergreens If you put in new evergreens this summer, you might want to boost their chances

of survival by making sure they are well watered until the ground freezes, and putting a wind break around them. Now is the time, before the ground freezes, to put in tall stakes, or bamboo poles, around each plant. Set the stakes one to two feet out from the plant, and when winter comes, wrap them with burlap or woven landscape cloth. (Other fabric works too, but not plastic.) This will let in light and water, but keep out drying winds and salt spray. Roses Once a hard, killing frost has caused most of the leaves to fall, roses need to be “put to bed” to protect them during the winter. There are several methods to choose from. If you use rose cones, it’s important to use

a knife or screwdriver to poke 20-30 holes in the cone. Using the cone without poking holes risks cooking the rose. Place a heavy brick on top of the cone to anchor it. A second method is to put a cage around the rose and fill it full of leaves. You can also just cover the crown of the rose with soil, hay, straw or mulch. We have used all three methods and they all work. Climbing roses need protection from winter winds. You can take down the canes and cover them with several inches of soil, or just wrap the rose with burlap. In the spring when you uncover your roses, you will need to cut off any winter-damaged canes, which helps to stimulate new growth.

Lavender To protect lavender, place a large paper bag or burlap sack over the plant and anchor it firmly. Do NOT use plastic. The bag helps prevent the plant from drying out by the wind. This only works for plants that are hardy to zone 5 such as Hidcote or Munster lavender. French lavenders should be treated as annuals in our area.-Hope Forcier and Kathleen King

The ladies have more than 100-years of gardening experience between them. Kathleen King was born in Chicago and Hope Forcier is originally from England. Both enjoy all types of gardening and are active Master Gardeners with the Lake County University of Illinois Extension.

Let me tell you by JoAnn “Joey” Zuganelis Guest Writer

We sometimes find that out of need and necessity comes direction and calling. Little did I know that when I applied for a bartending position 12 years ago at the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center that I would find what so many people say is my “calling.” I was asked to write about what I do and to tell the truth. Words can only give a brief description. Yes, I make drinks. However, mixing delicious beverages is only one aspect of what truly happens at the Sand Piper Lounge.

have been made in my “little bar” between my local guests and friends who travel many miles, patients that are so grateful to have a home away from home and myself. Amazing spiritual blessing! I can’t even imagine when my last day may come. What I would miss! Thank You to all whom I have ever met that gave me their strength and courage. Thank you to all who have come and experienced the blessing!

The Sand Piper Lounge over looks our beautiful Lake Michigan and with all the glass walls I can see the scenery and weather changes. At any given time the wild life at the surrounding Illinois Beach State Park graze the grasses and the shore making every experience unique and comforting. Over the years mixing drinks and actual bartending has come second to the healing and blessings that happen in this beautiful little lounge: With the cancer hospital being in Zion (Cancer Treatment Centers of America), so many of the patients reside in our hotel during their treatment and this is where the blessings begin. For some reason and somehow so many of these very strong people find themselves sitting with me, sharing with me and sometimes laughing or crying with me. By the end of our meeting all can agree that something very spiritual has happened. So much more than the quench of thirst. Many friendships from all over the country

Word Power - Use it!

Joey Zuganelis at her job at the Sand Piper Lounge, Illinois Beach State Park in Zion. - Photo by Tina Johansson

Your word of the month is: Obstreperous - to make unruly or aggressive noises in a defiant manner.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Out in the Open by Jim Zegar

Theater of the North: Deer Hunting Opening Day

t was opening day of deer hunting season: Pitch black at 5:30 a.m., and a bone-chilling five degrees in Langlade County, northern Wisconsin. My tree stand was set up far back in the woods and it would be a long walk through the deep snow with ambushes of deadfall and blowdowns everywhere to thwart my progress. With flashlight in hand, I left my truck and headed down a dilapidated logging road that was grown over. It is treacherous walking through those old growth forests of hardwoods and conifers. I tripped over an old, rotting stump, fell to the ground with my rifle held far away from the body so as not to damage it upon impact with the earth. I would rather have damaged my body than the scope, especially on opening day. With face in the snow, expletives deleted. I reached my tree stand and climbed up. I would be there all day, waiting for a deer to sacrifice itself for a space in my freezer. I would sit there, making no sounds, being as motionless as possible, trying to deal with the cold and not let it penetrate me. At 6 o’clock it is still dark, with about a half hour to go before light and legal shooting hours. The reason I got here so early is to give any deer which might have been spooked by my movement, a chance to calm down and return to normal activity. The woods are quiet this morning with a pristine silence. There is no wind blowing or birds chirping in the blackness of these northwoods. Your sense of hearing is at its keenest level and you listen intently for the crunching sounds of a deer walking. As dawn finally takes over, flickers of light and shadows play tricks on your sense of sight. Some bushes look like deer. You

About Jim

Backwards glance. This doe stopped, turned around, and stared at me before slinking off into the woods.-photo by Jim Zegar

squint and strain your eyes, hoping that the bush moves and morphs into a buck or a doe. Squirrels, both red and gray, play sound games with the hunter. When they scurry across the frozen tundra of grass and leaves, you swear it’s a deer. But you always laugh to yourself when you are tricked yet again. On days when there isn’t much animal life to keep you alert and excited, the bone-chilling cold drills itself right into your inner core. You can’t move around on your stand because you’ll spook any deer coming your way. Usually, your feet get cold ﬁrst, even in the best pac boots. Sitting still, ten feet off the ground in a tree stand, with temperatures barely above zero---well, you’re gonna get cold no matter what you have on. On days like this, it’s easy to eat your entire sack lunch before 10 a.m. I’ve done it many times. Two sandwiches, a small

bag of junk food, a half-dozen cookies, a granola bar, a box of raisins, a little candy bar and some homemade venison jerky--all gone by mid-morning. It makes for a long day when you’ve mortgaged your noon sustenance in order to fight off the morning shivers. But if you’re lucky, you might be treated to the howl of a lone wolf or the symphony of a coyote pack, or see a fisher, with its glistening black fur coat, slink along a deadfall. The old growth forests of the north offer music and animal acts that provide inspiration far beyond any kill. On this day, I didn’t shoot a deer and never even saw one. But it didn’t matter. The forest had offered a theater of sound and sight far beyond the instant gratification of killing the prey. And that is what hunting is really all about.

I am delighted to be a contributor to theYOUjournal each month, I will bring the outdoors closer to you. It might be the sharing of an experience, as it is this month about fishing with my daughter and her best friend. There might be stories about hunting, picking wild mushrooms, or my golden retriever, Charlie. Every now and then there might even be a “how to” piece, such as fishing Independence Grove in Libertyville. You might ask what my experience and credentials are. Fair enough. I started fishing with my dad when I was seven, catching perch off the government pier in Waukegan with a cane pole. I’ve fished all over the United States and most of the Canadian provinces. I’ve hunted deer in Wisconsin, elk in Colorado, and shot ducks and rabbits in Illinois. I’ve even fished in China once and have been fortunate to do many things in many places. I wrote the outdoor column for the Lake County News-Sun for several years and have been an Illinois editor for MidWest Outdoors Magazine for many years.

Fishing with the girls in Door County - by Jim Zegar A fall outing to Door County, Wisconsin, this year proved successful for my daughter Katie Zegar and Theresa Macrowski, her best friend since grade school at St. Patrick’s in Wadsworth. I was their guide. The girls had a good time angling and played a name game with the ﬁsh they

caught: “George” was an eight-pound, 27inch brute of a walleye hauled in by Theresa. Katie’s best catch was a ﬁve-pound, 21inch smallie that was immediately tagged as “Sebastian.” We launched my boat at the DNR ramp in Little Sturgeon Bay and motored over to Riley’s Point, a longtime good ﬁshing Theresa Macrowski, left, and Katie Zegar admire one of the many smallmouth bass they landed in Door County. -photos by Jim Zegar Right, Katie Zegar displays a chunkie smallie caught on a sucker minnow and circle hook. Theresa Macrowski with her 8 lb. walleye is on the far right.

area. The point has some deep drop offs which smallmouth bass relate to in the fall of the year. The magic depth that day was 15 feet. Pound for pound, smallies are the gamiest, hardest ﬁghting freshwater ﬁsh of all. Built like a football, when they blast

out of the water and leap for the sky, it’s something you never get tired of. The girls loved watching the acrobatics and so did I. Long, limber ﬁshing rods with 10# test monoﬁlament line with circle hooks and medium-size sucker minnows was the most effective presentation.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Art Fossland, former mayor of Winthrop Harbor, 1969-1985. Mr. Fossland is on the board of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America where he has served for more than 30 years since it was first the Zion-Benton Hospital and later the American International Hospital before it became CTCA. Born in Winthrop Harbor, he worked for the American Steel & Wire, a division of US Steel for 27 years where he was a cost analyst. During World War II, he served in the Navy for four years rising in rank to lieutenant. He took pride to mention he was one of the two U.S. naval officers to land at Nagasaki after the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city which hastened Japan’s surrender. At 95, Fossland appears to be in good health. His hearing is good, he speaks clearly and he walks unassisted. Asked about his secrecy of longevity, he replied, “The Lord blesses me.”

Art Fossland

Dan Pierce Dick Welton

Dick Welton, former mayor of Gurnee, 1973-2001. Mr. Welton keeps himself busy in retirement after 28 years as mayor of one of the fastest growing villages in Illinois. He is a director of the Pace Suburban Bus Board which serves five collar counties including Lake and McHenry. He is also a member of

Continued from page 1

While he declined to say how much he was paid for the jobs, it was noted that at least one of the royal motorcycles completed by the Iowa bike builder, cost in the realm of $250,000. And no matter if the customer is a royal or a regular, Martin is sure to build every seat with the same creativity and care. His customer base is a 30/70 mix. “Thirty-percent of the people are local, including Wisconsin, and about 70% are from out of state,” he said.. A number of Advanced Custom Design’s clients are out of the country as well including Denmark, Switzerland, Italy and “lots” in Canada. “I can even say we have one in Japan,” quipped Martin, explaining a customer moved there taking his beloved motorcycle seat with him. Martin, a 1981 graduate of Antioch High School, became interested in motorcycles as a boy. He was influenced by his late father Larry Martin, a triumphant racer of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. A former upholstery maker who has sewn his share of canvas boat coverings, Martin started making motorcycle seats by request years ago. People saw the burly, 6’2,” 300-lb. man and asked how he was able to ride on his motorcycle so comfortably. “I told them I moved the seat back two-inches,” said Martin. Soon others--whether large or small---were paying him to do the same. Though riding season for motorcyclists is all but over, Martin is hard at work. “When people are storing their bikes for the winter, that’s when I’m the busiest,” he said. Martin met his wife and business partner Carla 29-years ago. He recalls telling her, “If you’re going to be with me, you better learn all about motorcycles, because they’re my life.” She did.

Where are they now?

Sandy Cole

the Gurnee Economic Commission and the Lake County Transportation Alliance. Welton became mayor when he was 30, making him the youngest mayor in the state. He was instrumental in bringing Six Flags Great America and Gurnee Mills to the village, turning the once sleepy community of 300 people to a boom town with a population of more than 33,000. For its phenomenal growth, Welton, congenial and popular, attributed to the teamwork of his aides and other community leaders. He and his family once owned six grocery stores including the Welton Food Mart, the Piggly Wiggly and a Cub Foods in Mundelein. For his vision and achievements, current Mayor Kristina Kovarik recently honored him by naming a new park on Old Grand Avenue after him. Still under construction, it will be called the Richard A. Welton Village Plaza. Dan Pierce, former mayor of Highland Park for two terms, 1987-1995 and 19992003. Mr. Pierce is the in-coming president of the North Shore Water Reclamation District, the former North Shore Sanitary District where he has been a longtime trusee. For 20 years he was the state representative of Districts 37 and later 58th covering most of the southern Lake County and parts of northern

Cook County. The name change of the sanitary district, he points out, reflects the district’s new emphasis to reclaim water resources in addition to sewage treatment. Pierce’s wife, Rhoda, is the chairwoman of the Highland Park Cultural Arts Council and vice president of the Illinois Arts Council. They have five grown sons. Sandy Cole of Grayslake, former State Representative of District 62, 2006-2012. Her district included Grayslake, Libertyville, Round Lake, Wildwood and Gurnee. She also served on the Lake County Board, 1996-2006, for District 11 which consisted of Grayslake, Wildwood, northern Libertyville, parts of Gurnee and Third Lake. Ms. Cole is the proud owner of Savory Spice Shop in downtown Libertyville at 528 N. Milwaukee Avenue which she opened Sept. 13, 2013 and therefore is celebrating her first anniversary in business. The store, a franchise, sells all kinds of spices. Walking into the store, one is greeted by a welcome aroma of exotic spices from around the world and a strong hint of success. The store employs six people. “I have always wanted to have my own business and this is absolutely rewarding,” she said.- Long Hwa-shu

Today Carla rides her own decked-out bike beside his alligator-motif one, cruising the highways and back roads to the famous yearly motorcycle rally—Sturgis in South Dakota. And while Martin never knows when or if he will see another order for a royal seat anytime soon, he is taking his time creating his unique brand in every one he makes. “It’s still ones and twos---no mass production here,” he said. “My motto has always been, ‘One at a time, one of a kind.’”

Bob Martin in front of his Lake Villa shop. Right, a brindle cow hair and Scottish leather seat adorned with handmade silver Conchos for the former prime minister of Lebanon, made by Martin and his team.-courtest of Fat Baggers, Inc. Below right, a “tattooed” stingray and leather seat, and far right a hand-carved and painted seat, both made by Advanced Custom Design.

This 2003 Softail Springer includes a seat of cognac Italian leather, alligator belly, chrome studs, and handmade silver Conchos, among other embellishments.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

Home ownership dreams come true Habitat for Humanity, volunteers build ‘wonderful homes’

by Long Hwa-shu

our lucky families are moving to their new homes in Waukegan this holiday, thanks to the Lake County Habitat for Humanity and its volunteers. “We’ve been dreaming of living in a house for a long time,” said Shaneeka Lewis whose new three-bedroom home at 1909 Linden Avenue, was donated by the Bank of America and rehabilitated with funding from the Glencoe Interfaith Builders. Until now, she has lived in a crowded apartment with her five children. “I thank Bank of America for our house and all the Habitat volunteers and donors for helping me make my dream come true,” she added. Lake County Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization dedicated to homeownership for low-income working families, is one of 1,500 U.S. affiliates of the Habitat for Humanity International which was founded in 1976. “In the past 25 years, we have made it possible for more than 200 families to own their homes, interest-free,” said Julie Donovan, executive director of the Lake County Habitat of Humanity. “It’s misconception that we’re giving away these homes,” she pointed out. “There’s a mortgage to be paid monthly by the home owners, but it’s interest-free,” she emphasized. The Habitat of Humanity holds the 30-year mortgage which can range up to $110,000, depending on the value of the property. The monthly payment including property taxes and insurance premium is about

$600 which, Donovan noted, is “much lower than renting” which can easily cost $900 or more according to current market prices. Home owners also must pay for their own utility bills. “We’ve never had to foreclose a home. We always try to work with them when

“We’ve been dreaming of living in a house for a long time.” - Shaneeka

Lewis, new homeowner

they have problems,” said Donovan with obvious pride. Candidates for home ownership are screened for their housing needs, household income ($28,000 to $40,000 for a family of four) and the ability to pay, said Donovan. Those selected for buying a home from the Habitat of Humanity must be willing to contribute 500 hours of “sweat equity” to the organization as a partner. They must also attend a series of 25 classes on financial literacy and home ownership. Habitat of Humanity relies on volunteers from corporations as well as civic and faith-based organizations to build or rehabilitate affordable, energy-efficient quality homes for sale to the qualified buyers. Sarah Johnson is another recent buyer. She bought a three-bedroom house with one bath at 131 S. Gretta Avenue. The house was originally built for demonstration at the Pioneer Plaza in Chicago. It was then disassembled and re-built at the Gretta Avenue location. Among those who helped

Sarah Johnson and her family, right, will soon be moving into this three-bedroom house, above, located at 131 Gretta Avenue. The house was built in Chicago by volunteer celebrities including actor Jim Belushi and members of the Chicago Bears. It was then disassembled and shipped to Waukegan where it was re-built. - photos courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Lake County

More photos on page 14

build it in Chicago were team members of the Chicago Bears and actor Jim Belushi, according to Donovan. There were other celebrities to lend us a hand, she said. “It was fun to see my house go up in Chicago,” said Johnson, beaming with joy, who has until now lived with her parents, with her three children. “The kids and I are so excited to see it standing now in Waukegan, right near my parent’s house,” she added. Arlene Martinez is another happy owner. She will soon move into a house at 222 Park Avenue with her son, Ethan, 2. The house, built in 1928, was one of 13 donated recently by the City of Waukegan. It has been refurbished by hundreds of volunteers with funding from CDW Computer Centers of Vernon Hills and Lake County. Rosa Carrillo will move into a house at 923 Cummings Avenue which was restored with funds donated by New Trier High School in Winnetka. “Habitat built us such a wonderful home. It will be a perfect place for the four boys and me to live,” she said, adding: “It will be a perfect place for my daycare business.” Habitat for Humanity Lake County is located at 315 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Waukegan. Call 847-623-1020 or email at info@habitatlc.org or visit http://www.habitatlc.org or http://www.habitatlc.org/restore.

Habitat for Humanity Lake County is an affiliate of Habitat International. HFHLC was established in 1989 with the sole purpose of providing affordable homes for lower income families. We have built over 100 homes for over 450 people. Its mission is seeking to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope. Habitat for Humanity Lake County is all about: Building Homes. Building Community. Building Hope. It is a Christian housing ministry which welcomes all people dedicated to building safe, decent, affordable housing for low-income, hard-working families. HFHLC builds partnerships with diverse members of the community which break down the walls that divide and builds a sense of community among all people. HFHLC seeks to make safe, simple, decent housing for all people a matter of conscience and action. Habitat for Humanity Lake County helps so empower families to help themselves. It builds partnerships with diverse members of the community which break down the walls that divide and builds a sense of community among all people.

November 2014

theYOUjournal

Habitat for Humanity Lake County helps families realize their dreams Continued from page 13

Arleen Martinez and her little boy have a home they can call thier

own located at 923 Cummings Avenue in Waukegan.

For Shaneeka Lewis and her family having their own three-bedroom house is a dream come true. They will be moving into the place soon. It is located at 1909 Linden Avenue in Waukegan.

Family First Center Annual Health Fair & Wellness Expo held Nov. 15

Rosa Carrillo and her family will be livng at thier new home at 222 S. Park Avenue in Waukegan. The house is one of 13 donated by the city of Waukegan and was renovated by volunteers.- photos courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Lake County

The Family First Center in Waukegan is hosting its 3rd Annual Ultimate Workout – Health Fair & Wellness Expo on Saturday, November 15 at 202 S. Genesee Street. The event starts at 8 a.m. and is going on until 2 p.m. It is free and everyone is welcome to attend. Featured is a marathon day of fitness programs “with some of the best instructors in Lake County.” Healthy food demonstrations are part of the event, and there will be a number of activities for children including face painting. There will be prize drawings throughout the event, and health screenings also. Get Covered Illinois certified navigators will assist with Affordable Care Act enrollment at the event. Marketplace Open Enrollment begins Nov. 15. To make an appointment to meet with a navigator at this event, or for another time, please call 847.377.4999.

theYOUjournal

Dog People

by Georgene Knight Guest Writer

November 2014

Border collies....what can I say?

In 1992 I got my first Border collie. What a wonderful, smart, caring friend it was. When my husband saw how great that dog was, he had to have one too. Since then we have had six in our household, of which all have become obedience and agility champions, with one grand champion. Some have obedience and sheep herding titles in the U.S. and Canada. Even if they never became show dogs they are such great companions. All of our dogs have been rescued from around the country. Giving them a good loving home is the best feeling, knowing we saved a life from hurt, pain or death. I know they are grateful, you can just tell. I love my Border collies and would have no other breed. They are special. All dogs are. One of the best features about the Border collie is their intelligence. No matter what they do, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as if their brain is working overtime. Yes, a Border collie must be kept busy. That is what keeps them happy. They love to work, play and be affectionate. They are not a dog for an apartment or one to be tied up. My advice would be not to get one of these dogs unless you have the time to devote to

them. Currently I have Kate 14, a retired champion; Buzz 9, a two-time grand champion; and Biu 9, champion. They love being together and they really adore one other. For 16-years I have been teaching obedience and agility for the Zion Park District. I have many different dog breeds in my classes, and quite a few of them go on to earn titles. It makes me proud that I am able to help them achieve their goals. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun watching the progress they make while having a good time. Most dogs love coming to school and it makes the owners feel good too. Anyone wanting to have a good feeling should take their dog to school. Bonding with him or her is a great experience. Dogs are truly our best friends. They are devoted, loyal, and love us more than anyone could. To find out more about Georgene Knight and her dog training classes, call the Zion Park District at 847-746-5506. or visit www.zionparkdistrict.com.

Dog trainer Georgene Knight and her champion Border collies. -contributed photo

According to the American Kennel Club, the Border collie is the workaholic breed, always ready and willing to do a job. An excellent sheep herder, it controls livestock with a stalking movement and an intense gaze. Some say the breed has been around for more than 300 years. These dogs were first classified as the Scotch sheep dog, shepherding the border country between Scotland and England. They come in varying colors and patterns including black and white, merle, and tri-color.

theYOUjournal

November 2014

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