2015 Shop Local Guide

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Shop Local

A special supplement to the

16

Profiles of

local businesses!

Fun shopping ideas and things to do

Great LOCAL success stories!

Go Online to view this section!

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

www.Pantagraph.com

O’Brien MitsuBishi is the PeOPle’s ChOiCe! O’Brien Mitsubishi is proud to be the strongest voice in the campaign. We are so blessed to do business in this wonderful community, and we want nothing more than to see all of our local commerce grow. Shopping local helps not just the local businesses grow, but everything around as well. Successful business means good-paying jobs for the employees that work there. Then those same employees turn around and spend the money they earn in this community, becoming a sustainable cycle of quality living for all of us. That’s what is all about.

We understand that you can’t expect people to shop local just for the sake of it; you have to receive excellent service and fair pricing. O’Brien Mitsubishi has a great reputation for doing exactly that.

For 12 years in a row, O’Brien Mitsubishi has received the Triple Diamond Chapter of Excellence award, which is the highest honor for a dealership in customer satisfaction. We have also remained the No. 1 Mitsubishi dealership for non-metro dealers in the United States for the last five years.

When you offer superb service and volume-style pricing, it’s a recipe for success!

O’BRIEN MITSUBISHI 1601 Fort Jesse Road • Normal, Illinois 309.454.1222 • www.obrienteamnormal.com

www.Pantagraph.com

Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

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The Foehr Group

107 S. Prospect Road, Bloomington; 309-893-4204 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Wed; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thu.; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Fri. On the Net: thefoehrgroup.com; facebook.com/thefoehrgroup

Your smile is your business card for everyone you meet. That’s why it’s crucial to have a good relationship with the people responsible for your smile.

And that’s why the staff at The Foehr Group treats everyone like family.

“We want all of our patients to think of our practice as “patient-focused,” tailoring our treatment options and our delivery of those options to each patient’s specific needs and wants,” said Dr. Robert Wolf, one of three dentists at the practice.

The practice, now in its 35th year, has a total of 15 staff members. Its namesake, Dr. Frank Foehr, retired in 2011 and passed away in 2013. “Where we treat you like family…” was inspired by Dr. Frank Foehr’s family approach to dentistry. Drs. Weiss, Whittet and Wolf along with the entire staff embraces and continues his tradition.

The Foehr Group offers revolutionary dental implant procedures that replace lost or broken teeth, bridges, dentures and other dental attachments. Many times this

tions; media features; and a number of professional honors.

Dr. Weiss attended the University of Illinois in UrbanaChampaign, earning his bachelor of science in 1977. At the University of Illinois at Chicago, he earned a bachelor of dentistry degree in 1979 and Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1981. Licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin, Dr. Weiss provides general/cosmetic dental care for pediatric through elderly patients and is Invisalign® certified.

After working eight years as an electrical engineer, Dr. Whittet attended Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine and graduated in 1999. He completed a postgraduate program in orthodontics and received a master’s of science degree in dentistry from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry. He previously practiced as an orthodontist for 10 years in Chicago and Wisconsin.

If you’re new to the Twin Cities or just considering a new dental provider, the Foehr Group invites you for a free consultation and 3D image so their staff can discuss a treatment option for you.

can be done in JUST one day with a virtually painless procedure where the patient leaves with new teeth.

“The truly astonishing revolutionary state-of-the art technology, standards and skills implemented at the The Foehr Group set new standards for tooth replacement using dental implant treatment, as an important part of aesthetic dentistry and dental health,” said Dr. Wolf.

Dr. Wolf, Dr. James Weiss and Dr. Kurt Whittet provide a full spectrum of dental services, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics (including Invisalign®), prosthodontics, implant dentistry, sleep apnea and reconstructive dentistry.

Dr. Wolf earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of Iowa in 1976, and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa’s College of Dentistry in 1981. He specializes in esthetics, sleep disorders, temporomandibular disorders (TMJ/ TMD), implant and restorative dentistry.

He has multi-state licensures, university faculty posi-

Change your smile.

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embarrassed To smile? low selF-conFidence? ready To enjoy your FavoriTe Foods aGain?

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• Implants including the cutting-edge All-on-4®, treatment concept • Cosmetic veneers from daVinci Dental Studios • Invisalign® • State-of-the-art dentistry close to home 107 S. Prospect St., Bloomington, IL 61704

Robert O. Wolf, DDS

James K. Weiss, DDS

Kurt Whittet, DMD, MS

"...Where we treat you like family..."

309.893.4204 TheFoehrGroup.com

* Must mention this offer to receive free consultation and x-ray. May not be combined with any other offer, discount, or reduced-fee program. Offer expires 60 days after receipt. ADA 9310. Erin Shanahan, DMD, Robert O. Wolf, DDS, James K. Weiss, DDS

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

www.Pantagraph.com

WOW Wednesday in Pontiac has strong first night

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Your money at work in your city Austin Grammer BLOOMINGTON – Did you know that when you buy something in the City of Bloomington, you are investing in your community? Purchases big and small, from a friend’s birthday gift to your family’s weekly groceries, generate sales tax, and that sales tax revenue makes up approximately 30 percent of the city’s general fund, not to mention that your purchase helps that local retailer as well. In general, a larger percentage of money spent locally stays in the community and for a longer period of time than money spent elsewhere.

While the city has a few different funds that finance different parts of the

municipality’s functions, the general fund is considered to be its main operating account. So, when you buy local, you are helping outfit our police officers and firefighters with protective gear; maintain and improve infrastructure; keep our parks beautiful; and more!

That being said, revenue received from local sales tax has been declining recently, just like many other cities throughout the nation. One major reason for this is suspected to be an uptick in online shopping. The initial cost of online goods may be less than those found at traditional retailers (though, to the surprise of many, not always!), but remember the potential long-term cost of buying online instead of locally: decreased investment in your community.

Buying local can be a fun adventure!

Is there a restaurant in Bloomington you’ve always wanted to try? Make this the summer to book dinner reservations! Do you have someone difficult to shop for on your Christmas

list (never too early to start planning!), Bloomington probably has just the right store to find that something special!

And, of course, let’s not forget one of Bloomington’s “Buy Local” gems, the Downtown Bloomington Association’s Farmers’ Market, one of the best markets of its kind in the region. Now is the perfect time to visit the Farmers’ Market and find all sorts of delicious edibles and fantastic artistic creations from local producers.

Plus, the Farmers’ Market runs in one format or another all year-round. You can even find your Thanksgiving turkey there when the time comes!

“We have so many great opportunities to buy locally right here in Bloomington,” explains Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner.

“From national chains to independent shops, from our historic downtown to the Veterans Parkway beltway, you can find it here.”

So remember, making a difference in your community can be as easy as

buying locally. Whether it be from a big box store or a mom-and-pop bakery, as the McLean County Chamber of Commerce would say, “Make your money mean more” here in Bloomington and McLean County.

Grammer is economic development coordinator for the city of Bloomington.

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

PONTIAC – A group of downtown Pontiac businesses will stay open later one day each month to draw more shoppers.

“WOW Wednesdays” will be on the second Wednesday of each month. Participating stores will stay open until 8 p.m.

The idea came after a quarterly forum hosted by the city and PROUD (Pontiac Redeveloping Our United Downtown), when shoppers said they were frustrated by downtown parking and store hours.

“Many people in our community work until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, so they don’t have an opportunity to come in and shop until the weekend,” said Deb Howard of the Pontiac Chamber of Commerce.

The WOW Wednesday in June featured Charmed Boutique, 101 W. Madison St., as “host,” serving wine and cheese and taking registration for a free gift card.

Businesses also open late were Kelly Margaret’s Hair Salon, Pontiac Creative Nook, Total E-Clips, Home Wishes, Lilli’s, Joy’s Hallmark, Once ‘n’ Again, Pontiac Community Art Center, PROUD of Illinois Marketplace, Pontiac Oakland Museum and Wright’s Furniture.

“By the end of the summer, we are hoping to have over a dozen businesses participating in WOW Wednesdays.” said Courtney Lucas of Charmed Boutique.

Karen Schulz of Home Wishes wants to expand WOW Wednesdays to include trunk shows. An evening farmers market is under consideration.

Future ideas also include finishing the evening with dinner or drinks at restaurants and bars within walking distance.

The first WOW Wednesday drew nine businesses.

www.Pantagraph.com

Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

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DAvID PROEbER, The Pantagraph

Shop local in uptown Normal Joe Tulley Uptown Normal manager NORMAL – Although a lot has changed in uptown Normal over the years, one thing has remained the same — the presence of locally-owned-andoperated shops and businesses.

Uptown is proud to be home to an array of businesses, helping to keep local dollars local while adding value to the quality of life.

Once the lifeblood of every community, most towns and cities have seen their central business districts shrivel and wither in the last half century as their boundaries grew in the name of progress. While most communities bemoan the loss, uptown Normal has become a model for what a crumbling central business district can become.

While the list of independent shops and their wonderful owners is too long to list, several examples stand out.

Longstanding favorites such as the Garlic Press have expanded in recent years and offer a large selection of gifts and kitchen accessories. The personal touch customers receive is an experience that is hard to find in a big box store.

Other fantastic retail shops with unique product lines, including locally-made items, also have found a home in uptown.

A shopping trip that includes Fabulous Affairs, Beyond Normal, Uptown Gifts, The Pod and Solid Gold Jewelers won’t disappoint,. Most shoppers will be fortunate to meet the owners during their experience, allowing for an extra special touch of customer service.

Shopping in uptown is more than just gifts and clothing. Two

fantastic independent record stores, Waiting Room Records and North Street Records, call uptown home. Along with Mother Murphy’s and Acme Comics, shoppers looking for their favorite sounds and hobbies are sure to find something to pique their interest. Another perennial favorite, Babbitt’s Books, offers bookworms a chance to peruse aisles of used titles, including rare and out of print options.

Not to be overlooked, a variety of apparel and sporting options are offered in uptown.

Not only can one get excellent service when shopping for specialty and higher end athletic gear at Vitesse, Often Running and Wild Country, but additional services such as bicycle repair and scuba lessons can be found at these long-running favorites.

After a long day of shopping, a meal with family and friends

hits the spot. Uptown is home to more than 20 restaurants, the majority of which are locally owned and operated. New additions, such as Anand India and Stave Wine Bar, sit beside longtime favorites such as the Pub II. Ethnic food, bar food, American standards and everything in between are represented in just a few square blocks. Quick service specialties such as D.P. Dough Calzones, Windy City Wieners, the Rock and Jimmy John’s offer a fast but delicious meal while a sit down atmosphere can be found at Maggie Miley’s and Medici.

For those with a sweet tooth, Sugar Mama Cupcakes and Emack & Bolio’s are never a disappointment and make for a great destination after an evening of relaxing in Uptown Circle.

Whatever your pleasure,

uptown has something for you, with a variety of businesses that not only offer unique items and great service, but allow shoppers to keep their dollars in their

community where they benefit friends, family and neighbors alike. For more information on all uptown has to offer, visit UptownNormal.com.

STEvE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

Specs offers a Global & Unique Look Around Town Eyeglasses help you see the world. They also help the world see the real you.

And that’s what makes Specs Around Town not just unique but necessary: This optical shop offers more than 1,000 different frames (not 10 copies of the same 100 frames) as well as the option for you to design your own eyewear.

Julie Kubsch opened Specs in 1998 as a mobile optical boutique, moving to the Center Street store in 2001. She and her staff offer eyewear from Germany, Austria, Japan, Switzerland, France, Denmark, Italy, Belgium and the United States, highquality readers from Eyebobs, EyeOs and Seeos; a complete selection of high-quality prescription lenses; sunglasses for infants to adults; locally made bath and body products, earrings, watches and other small gift items.

“Our selection can’t be found elsewhere within a 150-mile radius of Bloomington-Normal,” Kubsch said. “Most collections we carry are exclusively at Specs Around Town. We do not buy our inventory in ‘bulk’ or frames that are mass produced.

Our selection of eyewear is over 1,000 frames and each one is different. We are a candy shop for your eyes!”

The experienced staff believes eyeglasses aren’t “just glasses” but an extension of you, your personality and your look. Specs provides the personal service and selection to help you find the frames that reflect and project your personality. Just ask Lennie. Our 10 year old shitzu and Head Optical Wizard and Supervisor !

After you have your annual exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist, Specs will help you find the most technologically advanced lenses and unique and most technologically advanced prescription lenses and unique eyewear choices.

“Despite having over 1,000 different frames in our shop, we also offer collections that our clients can design their own frames,” Kubsch said.

“Hundreds of titanium, acetate and even wood color swatches can make your new eyewear really yours!”

Specs Around Town 317 N. Center St., Bloomington 309-827-7327 On the Net: specsaroundtown.com; Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Business Owners: Julie Kubsch

www.Pantagraph.com

www.Pantagraph.com

Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

By improving their patients’ health, McLean County Orthopedics will improve their quality of life.

The practice, 2502 E. Empire St., is nearing its 40th year and, in conjunction with Signet Development, has broken ground for a $35 million facility on Bloomington’s east side.

MCO will be one of three partners in the Center for Integrated Wellness, which will house MCO’s clinical and administrative offices, physical therapy and imaging.

Scheduled to be open by September 2016, the building will bring all MCO services into one comprehensive medical facility.

MCO has seven orthopedic surgeons, two pain management physicians and two podiatrists as part of its 120-person staff.

They take care of broken bones, torn ACLs and total hip or knee replacements, among many other services. The practice can treat most orthopedic needs involving the hip, knee, foot, shoulder, elbow and hand, and its physicians are experts in sports-related injuries.

And, because not all bone and joint injuries need surgery, there are twenty licensed

McLean County Orthopedics, 2502 E. Empire St., Bloomington; 309-663-6461

www.mcleancountyorthopedics.com

therapists who offer a complete array of physical and occupational therapy services.

In many cases, rehabilitation may be all that’s necessary to return a patient to full recovery.

“MCO can help maintain your quality of life and activity,” CEO Don Stumpp says.

“Whether it’s walking, swimming, biking, golf, dancing, or simply playing with your children or grandchildren, joint and muscle pain does not have to prevent you from enjoying life.”

If you do require surgery, MCO physicians are specialists in hip replacements including the anterior approach, says Stumpp. If a patient qualifies, the surgeon can reach the hip joint from the front, leaving soft tissues and key muscles undisturbed and a faster recovery with smaller scars.

MCO has the region’s leading expert in hand and wrist injuries, and the practice is the official provider of orthopedic medicine for the Normal CornBelters baseball team.

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

www.Pantagraph.com

A Caring Touch of McLean County, Inc.

315 N. Center St., Bloomington 309-828-1516 On the Net: www.acaringtouch.info and on Facebook

“When your Loved Ones need a Little Extra Help” As we age, it sometimes becomes more difficult to take care of basic needs. The trained staff of A Caring Touch of McLean County Inc. makes it possible for loved ones to stay in their own homes, where they are comfortable, loved and maintain independence.

Registered nurse Wendy Werderits opened the business in February 1992 after realizing there was a need for private duty care. A Caring Touch staff can plan and prepare meals, do light housekeeping and laundry, shop and run errands, provide travel assistance, medication reminders and companionship, in addition to the very personal needs of bathing, oral hygiene, feeding, personal grooming and help with walking or transferring to and from beds or other furniture.

“We have 23 years of experience serving members of our community with caregivers selected based on the needs and personalities of our clients,” said company president John Werderits, who oversees three office staff members and 30 caregivers. “We have a tradition of integrity and service.”

Each caregiver is a company employee, thoroughly trained and covered by proper insurance. A Caring Touch screens and conducts background checks of all potential employees, and the company is licensed and regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“The amount and type of care is determined by an initial in-home assessment,” Werderits said. “Our RN supervisor makes on-site visits to determine clients’ well-being and employee performance. The amount and type of care can be modified at any time based on the clients’ desire.”

For A Caring Touch, just as important as the care for the clients is the feeling of confidence by family members whose loved ones need a little extra help.

“We are here to help them enjoy life in their own home and for their children and loved ones to know that they are being properly cared for,” Werderits said. “They are being watched over to assure their comfort and safety.”

Need A Break?

We are here to help!

Call us today for a free consultation Everyone needs a little help sometime. Our caregivers have been helping for over 20 years.

24/7 care for all ages.

A licensed home services agency Locally owned • Insured • RN supervised

Bloomington • (309) 828-1516 Pontiac • (815) 844-2400 www.acaringtouch.info

www.Pantagraph.com

Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

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“Banking the way it should be”

Technology is quickly changing how, when and where we bank. Marine Bank offers its customers all of the latest conveniences, including paying bills online, depositing checks by taking a photo, and turning debit cards on and off with the touch of a button.

Even so, customers still enjoy visiting their local bank, according to Hillary McFeeters, Manager of the Marine Bank Branch at 1508 Fort Jesse Road in Normal. “Customers love that we are just a click away on their smartphones or computers, but when they have a question or need a loan, there is no substitute for the face-toface, personal attention that we can provide.”

The expansion of Marine Bank across central Illinois has been guided by the needs

of its customers. What began in 1993 with a single location, 12 employees, and an approach for providing “banking the way it should be” has grown to a branch network that spans all of central Illinois and a family more than 200 members strong.

McFeeters says she and her colleagues think of their jobs as helping their neighbors.

“The benefit of Marine as a local, community bank is that we take the time to get to know our customers by name, to understand their financial needs, and to look out for their best interests.”

Marine Bank first entered the Bloomington-Normal market in 2007 with a commercial lending office.

Pretty soon, those commercial loan customers were asking for a full-service bank branch that

could also handle their deposit accounts. That request was fulfilled with the opening of Marine Bank’s Fort Jesse Road Branch on June 2, 2014.

McFeeters and her team have been celebrating the branch’s first anniversary throughout the month of June.

A free Shred Day helped area residents protect their personal information through secure onsite shredding. Treats in the branch and surprise giveaways will continue until the end of the month.

“Customers who visit the lobby or the drive-up during the month of June have a chance to win local merchant gift cards,” McFeeters explained. “As a community bank, we enjoy supporting and promoting other local businesses.”

Another way that the bank

supports local businesses is through its BaZing discount network.

Merchants can offer promotions for free or discounted products and services, which Marine Bank then includes in the nationwide BaZing website and mobile app. Every Marine Bank customer with a Vault Checking account has access to the BaZing network and can save hundreds of dollars a year on purchases made locally, online or across the nation.

“Our customers love the perks of Vault Checking,” McFeeters said, “and our merchant neighbors love having another way to promote their business for free.” Current local BaZing offers include special pricing on pizzas from Rosati’s of Normal, $5 off a $15 purchase at Casey’s

Garden Shop and Florist, and a buy two/get one free deal at Sweet Temptations Cupcakes.

“Vault Checking is just one more way that Marine Bank looks out for its customers,” McFeeters said. “In addition to the BaZing discount network, our Vault Checking customers enjoy free roadside assistance services and a cell phone protection plan that helps cover loss or damage. We are constantly looking for ways to make our customers’ lives easier, and we make sure that all of our account benefits can be accessed quickly and simply, usually with a single phone call or an online click.”

The Bank also prides itself on making the process of getting a home loan stressfree. “We take an educational approach,” says Vice President

of Mortgage Lending Scott Dillon. “We want to get to know our customers so that we can find them the best possible mortgage. Many customers are surprised to learn how much mortgage fees can impact what they pay for a house. We show them the true cost of the loan, including principal, interest and fees.”

Through its expertise in conventional, FHA, VA and first-time buyer mortgages, Marine Bank has grown to be one of the biggest lenders in all of Central Illinois. “We’ve got the best possible combination of great rates and low fees,” Dillon said.

At the end of its first year of full-service banking in Bloomington-Normal, Marine Bank is looking toward a bright future.

268.9100 • ibankmarine.com 1508 Fort Jesse Road, Normal

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

www.Pantagraph.com

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Shop local in downtown Bloomington Tricia Stiller President of the Downtown bloomington Association The buck stops here.

Seriously. Well, maybe it doesn’t stop, but it sure does spend time here,when you choose to shop locally.

Bloomington’s historic downtown is filled with unique shops, galleries restaurants and entertainment venues that are owned and operated by your neighbors.

Maybe they have children that go to school with your children. Maybe they attend your church. Perhaps they share your love for rhubarb pie.

The point is these are people you know, working to support their families just like you.

Supporting them supports you, too. It pays to “buy local.” Here is some compelling information you may not realize:

In a recent article published in Forbes Magazine, researchers revealed in a case study conducted in Maine, that for every dollar spent in a locally-owned establishment (not to be confused with a local chain store), nearly 45 percent that revenue stayed in the local community, with another 9 percent being spent elsewhere in the state.

Local business owners tend to utilize other local business owners for their supplies and services and are more inclined to become actively involved in charitable activities that drive additional benefit directly back into the community.

By contrast, for every dollar spent at a chain store, only about 14 percent of the revenue stayed in the community, mostly in the form of payroll dollars, said the study. The balance of that money flows to

out-of-state suppliers and then back to the parent corporation.

Another compelling study,commissioned by the Andersonville Development Corp., found that locallyowned businesses generate 70 percent more local economic impact per square foot than chain stores.

The study’s authors, Dan Houston and Matt Cunningham of Civic Economics, analyzed 10 locally-owned restaurants, retail stores, and service providers in the Andersonville neighborhood on Chicago’s north side and compared them with 10 national chains competing in the same categories.

Because chains funnel more of this revenue out of the local economy, the study concluded that for every square foot of space occupied by a chain, the local economic impact is $105,

compared to $179 for every square foot occupied by an independent business.

As we continue to explore ways to enhance Bloomington’s center with new projects, it is important to remember the independent business owners already working and adding to the quality of life in our community.

Many have endured the fluctuations of a fickle economy for decades and remain committed to making a difference in this community that we share. They are our unsung heroes, helping to fill our potholes, add bike lanes, and making visitors feel welcome so they’ll come back again and again. Before you surf the web for the latest item on your must-have list, take minute and consider the possibility that it might be available at a local store. The

return on that investment will be lasting.

But you don’t have to take my word for it. The McLean County Chamber of Commerce, in its “Make Your Money Mean More” awareness

campaign launched late last year, championed the buy local movement by encouraging consumers to “shop where you live.”

I think that’s excellent advice.

STEvE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

www.Pantagraph.com

Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

LOCAL ROOTS – GLOBAL REACH Fifteen years ago, Tammy and Daniel Carcasson started a local business to help overassessed property owners.

Today, they oversee Crowne Realty LLC, a company with global reach helping families find that most personal space: a home.

The couple developed their initial business plan around a kitchen table, and Tammy received her managing broker’s license in 2000, the same year Daniel received his sales license. The business grew quickly after friends starting asking for help to sell and buy houses.

With four employees and 30 sponsored agents, Crowne provides full-service real estate as well as corporate relocation, institutional services, shortsale and foreclosure avoidance, commercial, international

settling-in services, alternative listing options and military assistance programs.

“Crowne Realty is a local company – locally grown, owned and independent,” the Carcassons said. “That means every resource and service we develop, every dollar we invest, every decision we make is driven by our desire to create value for our clients and our community.”

The company is affiliated with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, the world’s largest network of independent brokerage firms.

Last year, LeadingRE-affiliated firms collectively sold $321 billion and closed more than 1 million transactions, more than any national franchise organization.

The Carcassons point to Crowne’s ability to use

top search portals, such as Realtor.com, Zillow.com and Trulia.com, in addition to the LeadingRE network’s affiliate companies and their 600-plus websites.

“We innovate,” the couple said. “We invest our time and energy into every agent. Our agents and staff are extended family and we take care of our clients. We never stop the education, training and support.”

That is crucial, they said.

“We learned early on that our job is one of education, support and being available to our agents to answer questions and mentoring. Each agent’s success is everyone’s success.

We’re in this together. … (We do) what is needed to get the job done and help our clients move on to the next adventure in their lives.”

4 Yount Drive Suite 5 | Bloomington IL 61704 (309) 863-5015 | www.crownerealty.com

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

www.Pantagraph.com

"Try it before you buy it, “has always been the Merle Norman philosophy and the local Merle Norman in Eastland Mall wants you to do just that. Sit down with their warm & welcoming staff to experience a complimentary Express Facial and Makeover. Merle Norman specializes in custom skin care recommendations, educational makeovers, and professional make up application for weddings and special events. They are also known for walk-in waxing, a variety of rejuvenating facials, regular and gel manicures & pedicures and even earpiercing & eyelash application.

Merle Norman is locally owned by Ann Gilmore, who fulfilled her dream by purchasing the studio 11 years ago, but it has been in Bloomington since the 1950© s. "We want to make Bloomington/Normal residents more beautiful than they already are!" said Gilmore, "We© ve created a fun environment where customers leave refreshed! We want our clients to feel relaxed, enjoy our family atmosphere, and leave happy."

What was created in the early 1920© s as a homebased business brewing cosmetics in a coffee pot has grown into a world leader in premium skincare, foundations, and color cosmetic products with studios in seven countries. Its founder, Merle Nethercutt Norman, a girl who grew up on a farm in Indiana, was one of the first women in cosmetics and a true innovator. In addition to creating break through products, she empowered other women to begin their own business selling her cosmetic products.

In addition to being a locally owned store with an empowering history, all Merle Norman products are Made in the USA. So you can feel proud that the excellent service you receive is on behalf of our community and country.

Merle Norman Cosmetics 1615 E. Empire St, (Eastland Mall) Bloomington; 309-663-4733; Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm.

On the Net: www.merleblm.com; Facebook, Twitter Business Owners: Ann Gilmore

Merle Nethercutt Norman

www.Pantagraph.com

Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

Grab Bar Guyz provide Bathroom Design with Safety in mind

Turning your tub into a shower reduces the risk of tripping

The name of the business tells you almost everything you need to know, except this: These aren’t your grandma’s grab bars.

Grab Bar Guyz supplies and installs safety products following federal accessibility rules and universal design practices. The niche company, formed 10 years ago, works with clients on grab bars, hand rails, hand showers, raised toilets, accessible sinks and tub-toshower conversions.

“We employ the concept of “universal design,” where a person is able to live comfortably in their home regardless of their age or situation,” said owner Patrick Nelson.

“Our focus is on safety and accessibility. We understand the difference our products and services can make in people’s lives and that this can be an ongoing process. We plan to be there to help along the way.”

The five-person staff works individually with clients to find the right solution. “We are patient, creative and enthusiastic about what we do,” Nelson said.

Nowadays, safety grab bars are available in designer styles and colors to match any décor and can be virtually undetectable. Whether necessity dictates safety grab bars or you just understand the importance of general safety throughout the home, there are

You may not notice but the towel rack, paper holder and soap dish are grab bars

solutions for everyone.

“We want to create a safe environment for the home – not just for the elderly or those with limited mobility – but for everyone,” Nelson said. “When these products are in place, they don’t just assist after an injury but can help prevent injuries.

A fall can change both you and your loved ones lives!”

In emergency situations, the Grab Bar Guyz typically can make installations the same day. Safety grab bars can attach to almost any surface and have the ability to hold up to 500 pounds.

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

www.Pantagraph.com

More than 15 years ago, Joyce Hightower attended a meeting about the vision that would become Uptown Normal.

Last year, Hightower’s own dream came true when she opened Beyond Normal, a home décor and gift shop that offers that special something for any occasion or just because.

Beyond Normal has unique gifts, original artwork, handmade jewelry, scarves, lotions and soaps, gourmet dip mixes, and accents. In fact, if you like the vintage furniture used for the displays, you can buy those, too.

“We want to keep things interesting for our customers by giving them new experiences every time they come to Beyond Normal,” Hightower said, explaining the look of the shop changes often.

Hightower and her two employees (she prefers “customer service associates”) do everything they can to provide an exceptional shopping experience and to promote Uptown Normal as a unique destination for shopping and dining.

“Throughout the year, we have many special events, such as Ladies Night Out, a Men’s Shopping event for the holidays, small business Saturday, our holiday open house, Sugar Creek Arts Festival and Sweet Corn Festival,” Hightower said.

It’s that kind of vision that makes Uptown Normal special. Dare we say, Beyond Normal.

“Come See Us On Facebook”

HOURS: Monday: Closed • Tuesday: 10:00am - 6:00pm • Wednesday: 10:00am - 6:00pm Thursday: 10:00am - 6:00pm • Friday: 10:00am - 6:00pm • Saturday: 10:00am - 6:00pm Sunday: Closed

112 E. Beaufort St., Normal; 309-451-1473 www.beyondnormalllc.com

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

Wendell Niepagen Greenhouses:

“The Place to Go for Things That Grow” One million. That’s the number of plants that Lee and Anne Niepagen have at Wendell Niepagen Greenhouses at peak season. The greenhouse, whose roots date to 1910, has been officially operating since 1963. It was established to grow produce to sell to all the “mom and pop” grocery stores in town. Today, Niepagen’s has a full line of annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, pottery and more.

Lee and Anne are hands-on owners and in the store almost every

day. Their motto, “Where You’re More Than a Customer…You’re a Friend,” is obvious as soon as you walk in the door. Niepagen’s, as it is known to many, offers outstanding service from friendly and helpful staff and the expertise of four generations of growers.

Their staff - four full-time yearround and 15 at peak - are fully trained with a wealth of knowledge.

Their biggest challenge, Anne said, is getting the younger generation to shop at small

businesses. Niepagen’s has a loyal customer base and hopes to grow year over year, attracting the younger generation along the way. Niepagen’s has implemented a number of new ideas in order to help draw the younger crowd. Their new app allows customers to earn rewards just for shopping, gives plant tips, recipes, coupons and more. Niepagen’s also has classes throughout the season, including the “Thirsty Thursday” series. This weekly event teaches gardeners,

both new and skilled, insights into many specialized themes, such as “Straw Bale Gardening” and “Canning and Freezing Your Produce.” Each lesson also comes with cocktails/mocktails and lots of fun.

Niepagen’s offers “quality, quantity and customer service,” Lee says, and that’s why it stands out for quality plants and services.

Wendell Niepagen Greenhouses,

2010 Fox Creek Road, Bloomington; (309) 828-4580 Open Daily www.niepagens.com

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

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Whitacre’s Furniture

A Family Owned Business Selling Amish Wood Furniture At Whitacre’s Furniture, you buy it once and enjoy it forever… the way furniture should be made. For more than 23 years this locally owned furniture store has featured quality, handcrafted solid hardwood furniture. The furniture at Whitacre’s is built by Amish craftsmen in Holmes and Wayne Counties in northeast Ohio.

stained and finished with a premium catalyzed varnish.

Staining

Sanding Quality, choice, flexibility and service are just a few of the reasons Whitacre’s Furniture has attracted so many loyal customers over the years. Their 20,000 square foot showroom features a wide variety of beautiful dining room, bedroom, living room, office and family room furniture.

Whitacre’s also carries children’s furniture and Amish made polyvinyl outdoor furniture. The staff at Whitacre’s can work with customers to create custom pieces to suit their style and space.

Customers can choose the species of hardwood, the stain color and the hardware for each of their pieces. The furniture arrives at the shop unfinished where it is then sanded,

Rick, Gwyn, Chuck and Helen Whitacre, and their 12 employees are very proud to provide Central Illinois with high quality, affordable, hardwood furniture built in America. Located in Hudson, only minutes north of Bloomington-Normal, the Whitacre Family would like to personally invite you to stop by their showroom to view their large selection of Amish made furniture.

Finishing

Whitacre’s Furniture 704 S. Broadway, Hudson; 309-726-1305 Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am -5pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm On the Net: www.WhitacreFurniture.com or visit us on Facebook

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

Nord Outdoor Power

Whether you want to pull a cord, flip a switch or stick a fork in it, the 18-person staff at Nord Outdoor Power will provide the service you need.

In business since 2004, Nord Outdoor Power offers brands such as STIHL, Kubota, Echo, Shindaiwa and Toro, as well as grills and grilling accessories from Big Green Egg and Smokin’ Brothers.

“We are a family-run business,” said owner Douglas Nord. “My wife, son, daughter and daughterin-law all work here. Even our dog, Henry, is the greeter every day.

Doug and Bert cook on the Big Green Egg or Smokin’ Brothers Grill almost every day.”

Nord opened the business using the assets of a previous company that had served the area for many years. He had previously owned a

company that destroyed confidential documents but “saw an opportunity in this market and decided to take it.”

“Not only do we sell them, but also our staff utilizes these grills and are very knowledgeable about all aspects of cooking,” Nord said.

Today, Nord Outdoor Power offers in-house sales, parts and service and will order parts and service for brands the store doesn’t sell. Nord is the only authorized Big Green Egg dealer in the BloomingtonNormal area.

“We bring together a group of people who are very knowledgeable in this industry and we want to help them select a product that is best for their application,” he said. “It is hard in today’s world to choose the correct product with the hundreds or choices that are out there, and

Nord Outdoor Power

1716 E. Hamilton Road, Bloomington; 309-663-5151;

open 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat.; 12:30-4 p.m. Sun. On the Net: www.nordpower.com and Facebook, Twitter, Google+

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we want to provide them with some answers to help them find what they really need.”

The Nord staff prides itself on great service and treats their customers as they want to be treated themselves: like family. And that includes questions, concerns and service after the sale.

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

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Central Illinois Regional Airport takes you above and beyond CIRA makes the world conveniently yours.

The Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington provides an easy and low-cost alternative to big city airports.

You can’t beat the convenience of flying from Bloomington-Normal — savings in time, driving distance, gasoline costs and parking fees.

Air service to the world is available through three airlines - American, Delta, and Allegiant. American provides service through two hubs Chicago O’Hare and Dallas-Ft. Worth.

Delta offers service through three hubs - Atlanta, Detroit, and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Allegiant provides NONSTOP service to two leisure destinations Orlando Sanford and Tampa/St. Pete.

CIRA has free parking, free baggage carts, free parking shuttle service, free Wi-Fi, five car rental services, Tailwind Food and Beverage pre and postsecurity and an easy to navigate and conveniently located terminal building.

Consider the following: • American offers daily flights on regional jets to Chicago O’Hare and

Dallas-Ft. Worth with worldwide connections. Chicago O’Hare is American’s largest hub with hundreds of destinations. Through Dallas-Ft. Worth, travelers can easily access Texas, the Southwestern part of the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and South America.

• Delta currently has flights available through its Atlanta, Detroit and Minneapolis-St. Paul hubs from CIRA daily that offer connections to your favorite leisure or business destination.

free throughout the terminal building.

Public conference rooms are available for rent on an hourly, half-day or fullday basis.

Contact your travel agent, visit us on the Web at cira.com, find us on Facebook at FlyCIRA or visit your favorite travel site the next time you are booking a flight and ask for flights from Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington.

• Allegiant’s two nonstop destinationsOrlando/Sanford and Tampa Bay/St. Pete provide an affordable, easy way to take your family on your spring or summer vacation.

• Five car rentals are available at CIRA: Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, National and Budget.

• Parking at the terminal is free, regardless of the length of your trip.

A free parking shuttle is available for access to the terminal from the parking areas.

Wireless Internet access is available

Central Illinois Regional Airport

3201 CIRA Drive, Bloomington; 309-663-7383 WEB: cira.com

• EMAIL: cira@cira.com • FACEBOOK: Fly_Cira • TWITTER: @Fly_CIRA

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

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Ziebart Superstore & Redline Motorsports 2023 Ireland Grove Road, Bloomington 309-662-7878 Next to Chuck’s Harley-Davidson 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Monday thru Friday, 8:00 am - Noon Sat. On the Net: www.zteamsuperstore.com & www.redline-motorsports.com; Facebook

BETTER THAN NEW!

Some people want their car to always look good as new.

Others want it to look better than showroom. And still, there’s a group that wants to take their vehicle to perform better than everybody else’s. Whichever category you fit in, your local Ziebart Superstore and Redline Motorsports can fill the bill.

Ziebart, a pioneer in automotive appearance and protection for over 50 years, opened a store in Bloomington in the early 1980s . Matt and Steve Bell bought the business in 2007, moving it to the Ireland Grove location next to Chuck’s Harley-Davidson this year. “We offer auto detailing; sound, rust and paint protection; window tinting, bed liners (Rhino Lining), LEER toppers, auto glass, rock chip repair, and accessories like electronics, wheels/tires, hitches, interior, exterior, lift kits, covers/utility, and step-ups,” Matt Bell says. The Ziebart Superstore can even apply its automotive knowledge

and experience to window tinting on residential and commercial buildings as well.

The 10-person staff provides top-notch service using quality products. “Our age-old saying, ‘How long do you plan on keeping your vehicle’ means we can make it look better and keep it looking new for as long as you own it.” The newest product is Z-shield, which the Bells described as a screen protector for your car. “It is an optically clear protection that can be applied by technicians to cover your vehicle’s most vulnerable areas,” they said.

The Redline Motorsports location features performance parts for street rods to full blown race cars, as well as tuneups on the Dynojet Dyno that is good to 2000 hp. Redline Motorsports is a Holley EFI distributor and they also tune, Diablosport, EFI Systems PMS, FAST, Big Stuff, Holley EFI, HP Tuners. They’re even an authorized VP Fuels distributor.

“If we don’t have what you’re looking for, we’ll direct you to a place that can help you,” they add. “The customer’s satisfaction comes first, so it makes sense to start at Ziebart.”

$

50 off

Any purchase over $300

Not valid with other offers, excludes maintenance services Expires 08/30/15

2023 Ireland Grove Rd, Bloomington (309) 662-7878 Next to Chuck’s Harley Davidson

www.zteamsuperstore.com

25 off

$

Any purchase over $150

Not valid with other offers, excludes maintenance services Expires 08/30/15

2023 Ireland Grove Rd, Bloomington (309) 662-7878 Next to Chuck’s Harley Davidson

www.zteamsuperstore.com

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Shop Local — The Pantagraph, Thursday, June 25, 2015

BLOOMINGTON – When Clay Dooley borrowed $500 from the old Corn Belt Bank, the rubber met the road.

Clay Dooley Inc. opened as a tire business on July 4, 1917, in the 400 block of West Washington Street. Today, Clay Dooley has two stores and offers full-service auto work including engine tune-ups, transmissions, air conditioning, brakes, mufflers, and shocks.

And yes, tires.

The locally owned business has no trouble competing with bigbox or chain stores. “I guess that’s because of the service,” said Brian Trower, whose father Vern worked hand-in-glove with Dooley.

“Customer service and customer relations, and knowing what we’re selling.”

Brian and three siblings - Dave, Ruth and Steve – co-own the

business, each with more than 25 years experience.

But that’s today. The longevity of Clay Dooley Inc. rests squarely with its founder, staff and service.

Dooley started handling Goodyear in the early 1940s, when farmers converted from steel tires to rubber. During World War II, when rubber was scarce, the business handled whatever brand it could get, and Dooley had about five, including Denman, Diamond and Gates. The war years also brought an expansion into appliances to make up for the lack of tire business. Appliances were part of the store until 1986.

From its West Washington location, the business moved to 210-212 W. Front St. in 1928. It was there when Vernon Trower joined the staff in 1948. He’d had a summer job at East Bay Camp at

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Lake Bloomington and was looking for a full-time job. A friend of a friend took him into Clay Dooley Inc., where he went to work in the back shop.

One day, Dooley brought Trower into the office and asked if he knew how to type.

“Yes,” replied Trower, who took on bookkeeping responsibilities before becoming a partner in the 1960s.

The growing business moved to 210-216 E. Grove St. in February 1962, staying there until 1986 when it moved to its current location at 307 E. Grove St. The second location on East Vernon Avenue had opened a year earlier to meet a developing market, and both stores added engine tune-ups and work on transmissions, air conditioning, brakes, mufflers, and shocks.

And still have tires.

307 E. Grove St., Bloomington; 309-828-5037 Open 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 1507 E. Vernon Ave., Bloomington; 309-662-2886 Open 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.