LNT_IVCC_40 Under 40_041923

ILLINOIS VALLEY

2022 40 Under Forty

publication

As the current Board President of the Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development (IVAC) I am excited and honored to be able to present this publication to you, celebrating 40 of the top up and coming leaders in our community. As you read about each of these young professionals, I hope that you are filled with as much optimism for the future of the Illinois Valley as I am.

ILLINOIS VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

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

ivaced.org

SHAW MEDIA

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

www.shawmediamarketing.com

PUBLISHER

Dan Goetz

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Jeanette Smith

EDITOR

Shannon Serpette

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Teresa Spence

PHOTOGRAPHY

Scott Anderson

As I look at the list of recipients, I am inspired by the leaders I see and the support our community offers them. When we first looked at the Chamber launching 40 Under Forty there were questions around who would qualify and what makes someone a good candidate. The answer was fairly easy, we wanted to open up the program to anyone who lived or worked in the Illinois Valley area. We wanted to select those who demonstrate extraordinary drive by positively impacting our communities, businesses, and organizations. This program is not meant to be limited to only those who own a business, this program is here to celebrate our next generation of leaders who are driving change in everything they do.

Our recipients this year span a range of industries, experience, communities, and interests. However, what they all have in common is that they have had such an impact on others that they earned a nomination and then were chosen to be recognized as this year’s 40 Under Forty. As, a lifelong resident of the Illinois Valley and a business owner I am excited to see what this group will be able to accomplish for many years to come. These are our young leaders who have a passion for their communities and are not afraid to just get things done.

As our 40 Under Forty program continues annually, I invite you to think of the difference makers you know and be sure to nominate them in the years to come. IVAC believes in celebrating those who drive positive change to make our community a better place to live and work.

This

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

JEFF BORELLI President

Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development

A Night To Celebrate

The 40 under Forty recipients were honored at a banquet on February 9 at

Thomas Argubright

Nationwide Sales Manager, Traqnology North America

Staying active is key

Through his journeys as a kid growing up in Oglesby, a student at La Salle-Peru High School, a recipient of a bachelor’s degree in finance and an MBA at Northern Illinois University, and obtaining a master’s degree in international management from the University of Murcia, Thomas Argubright has stayed busy.

His philosophy of staying active and being a part of as much as possible has not changed in his professional life.

“I really like to keep active. I’m always on the move. I like to be involved in my community as well,” said Argubright, who is now 32 years old. “I started as a kid, and I’ve carried on. I played two or three sports each season at L-P. As I got older, I always had one main job and a few side projects.”

Argubright’s main job is being a national sales manager at Traqnology North America, which handles field painting, chemical spraying, aeration, and mowing.

His side jobs are what many would call main jobs as he is the City of Oglesby Commissioner overseeing Oglesby’s finances, a real estate rental and development agent with 19 rental properties, and a co-owner of Mercer’s Rooftop in Oglesby, which opened in the fall.

When he isn’t wearing one of those hats, he is a member of the Knights of Columbus and a volunteer for charity fundraisers.

Argubright goals are to expand each of his portfolios.

“My vision for the future includes expanding my rental portfolio to over 50 units and expanding my business portfolio into other industries,” Argubright said. “I see myself taking on a more managerial role at Traqnology while also being a part of expanding the product line.”

Argubright is happy with his decision to return to his hometown of Oglesby as he believes the Illinois Valley will expand to be more of a tourist destination.

Stephanie Bias General Manager, Camp Aramoni, Inc. Helping grow her family’s business

Stephanie Bias grew up in LaSalle and decided to return to the Illinois Valley to help with her family’s new business, Camp Aramoni, which is a boutique campground and event venue in Tonica. Her role as general manager suits her well, with her work aligning with her educational background and her interests.

“I have always been a creative person, and some of my passions include marketing, food, beverage, design, and producing amazing experiences for others to enjoy. I decided to turn my interests into a career and earned my B.S. in event management from Iowa State University,” Bias, who is now 24 years old and once again living in LaSalle, said.

“Camp Aramoni encompasses every aspect of the hospitality industry: lodging, retail, catering, coffee service, bar service, event management, transportation, marketing, etc. My day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing events, guest experiences, menus, staff, and more. I have played a key role in growing our team from seven to fifty employees in the span of one year. Our plans for expansion only continue to evolve, and I am looking forward to a long, rewarding career at Camp Aramoni,” Bias said.

“Our staff motivates me to be the best version of myself, which includes supporting me to take time off when I need it,” she said. “In addition, my bulldog, Meatball, comes with me to work every day and gives me the energy to power through long days with her snuggles and goofy personality.”

With the help of Bias and the staff, Camp Aramoni received major recognition last year when it was featured on the cover of Midwest Living magazine, which reaches nearly three million people per year.

“This cover story just confirms for me that we are on the right path to success. It has also led to many new reservations and increased business,” she said.

Spencer Luecke

Financial Advisor, Witek Wealth Management

Working numbers to help others

With her desire to help people and skill with numbers, it didn’t take Spencer Luecke too long in life to figure out she wanted to be in the financial advisory sector.

She has been a public accountant and a banker, and now she is a financial advisor for Witek Wealth Management, where she successfully advises clients and works numbers.

“The great thing about this career is that it is always evolving, and I can continue to evolve with it. This evolution allows me to serve more clients and be more of service, which is important to me,” said Luecke, 33, who is a lifelong Illinois Valley resident and currently lives in Oglesby.

“When I took my current role as a financial advisor, I knew I was taking a leap switching careers, but I can happily say that it was 100 percent worth it. Passing the Series 7 and Series 66 were the two most rewarding professional accomplishments I have ever experienced,” she said. “I’m kind of a coach for my clients. It’s really guiding them down their financial path and getting them in the right direction.”

Luecke attended Illinois Valley Community College before transferring to Northern Illinois University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting. In December 2021, she earned the designation of Accredited Wealth Management Advisor.

Luecke also helps the community by participating in the United Way of Illinois Valley, IV Leads Group, and La Salle Business Association.

“The first thing I wanted with my career was to be able to serve people within the capacity of my role. I find it rewarding to help others reach their goals,” Luecke said. “The second thing I wanted was to be able to be a part of the community. My role as a financial advisor allows me the flexibility to be an active and impactful member in local volunteer opportunities.”

Reid Clary Vice president, AssuredPartners Agribusiness Sitting at the table

The vice president of AssuredPartners Agribusiness, Reid Clary, 30, who lives in Princeton with his wife and two daughters, has spent the last eight years showing agriculture business owners the benefits of insurance. And he plans to continue to build partnerships long into the future.

“In insurance, it comes down to the ability to be a consultant for your businesses. Primarily, my book business is agriculture,” said Clary. “It’s a roller coaster of emotions being in the insurance world, but I think it’s about educating your clients and being able to be proactive.”

“I want to be at my client’s table as an advisor in the same way that they look at their attorney and accountant. The client relationships that I seek out are ones that value the partnership,” he said.

After graduating from Princeton High School, Clary played baseball for South Dakota State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in business economics. Since then, he has had two top priorities in life, being the best husband and father for his family and serving his customers to his fullest potential.

“I think what sets me apart from others is my want and desire to be the best. I pursued a career in insurance, and in that time, I have continued to climb the ladder,” said Clary, who is an AssuredPartners’ shareholder. “When I started my career, I was dropping in on local businesses working for a shot to gain their business.

“Now, I work with some of the largest agriculture businesses across the Midwest. To put that in numbers, in the earlier part of my career, I was working with clients paying roughly $10,000 in total premium, to now, I manage programs for clients that are paying in the millions of total premiums,” he said.

Rachel Balestri

Lender, Eureka Savings Bank

Helping the next generation

The Illinois Valley is full of people who grew up here and decided to stay as adults, but 38-year-old Rachel Balestri grew up about 40 miles away and had to create a name for herself here.

“When I came here, I didn’t have a name that anyone recognized. I didn’t have established roots in the area, so it was really a challenge for me to immerse myself into not only the business side of the town but personally as well. Ten years ago, it took a lot for me to put myself out in the community and form relationships,” she said. “I think hard work, dedication, and getting involved in area organizations has really helped me establish some pretty great relationships which have helped me personally and professionally.”

Balestri, who lives in LaSalle with her husband and four children, loves to stay involved with the community by volunteering. She’s especially proud of her work with the IV Leads Group and the scholarships they’ve been able to offer.

“Together, with my co-founder, TJ Templeton, and an amazing group of individuals on our board, we were able to bring something to this area to help our next generation of leaders find a way to come together, while also providing them with some guidance and education they may not have otherwise been able to obtain. Our area is full of great mentors, and we have a large majority of young individuals that will be stepping into leadership roles within the next 5, 10, or 15 years,” she said.

“Mentoring is so important to me personally because I know how much I have looked up to my mentor when I was starting in my career and still do to this day. Tracy Tunnel is someone that guided me when I first started my career as a Loan Officer, and I still look up to her to this day,” she said

MaryJean Orozco

Entrepreneur, Sure Step IL Keeps going despite challenges

MaryJean Orozco has faced many challenges in her 29 years, but she hasn’t let them stop her from pursuing her goals with fierce determination.

“I did not take the traditional path to my success and where I am in my life,” she said. “I had my first child at 17, and I’ve gone through many bumps along the way. When I first started my business, I was enrolled at IVCC (Illinois Valley Community College) for my associate’s degree, working a full-time job, and just had a new baby three months prior, with three other children. I’ve had to work extremely hard and manage my time extremely well to get to my goals and achievements.”

Orozco, a Tonica resident, works tirelessly on self-improvement, staying fit, motivating others, growing her business, and taking care of her family. But her dedication to her goals was recently tested by two traumatizing ordeals.

Late last year, her young son became sick, and it took a month before the diagnosis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis came in. Then her mother, who was battling acute myeloid leukemia for the third time, lost her fight against cancer on Jan. 1, 2023.

“In these moments, and still today, I was tested. I was put right in front of giving up and lying down or staying strong and moving forward. I choose to keep going and finish what I started, alongside all my emotions, my self-doubts, my fears, my worries, and my sadness,” she said.

Orozco has become a local role model and wants to keep encouraging other people to tackle their goals.

“The best part about all my achievements is I often hear from others how I inspire them. I get messages daily from people thanking me for being so open and honest and giving them hope, and saying, ‘Because of you, I did this.’ I am honored I can inspire and motivate other people in my community,” she said.

Kyle Christman

Teller, Heartland Bank

Staying competitive on the job

It was not uncommon to see Kyle Christman at a field or on a court as he grew up in Mendota, Tonica, and Peru, playing soccer, baseball, basketball, and track and field.

The La Salle-Peru High School graduate, who still lives in Peru, has not lost his athleticism at 24 years old. He weight lifts and plays softball, basketball, and the drums.

Christman hasn’t lost his competitiveness, either. He just transforms it to his duties as a teller at Heartland Bank in Peru.

“I think people appreciate my ability to work hard with a positive mindset and attitude,” said Christman, who attended Illinois Valley Community College before obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Eureka College. “I think the way I work and act makes the day more enjoyable for customers and my co-workers. Work is going to be hard sometimes, so staying calm, collected, and positive helps create a smooth-flowing environment for all of us to get through the workday.”

“I also feel like my interpersonal skills are very strong. People tell me I am very personable, yet it seems like such an easy thing to do by just listening and trying to understand someone, whatever the situation may be. It makes my relationships stronger. Also, growing up in the Illinois Valley, I have so many great relationships I have built already.”

He is learning the banking industry quickly and knows he has the potential to move up the ladder.

“In 5 to 10 years, my current goal is to be working a different job within the bank where my degree would be able to help me,” Christman said. “I am currently looking into credit analyst positions to help me understand the numbers behind lending. I could possibly be a lender. I am still very new to the banking industry, but I plan to keep learning and growing to be a better employee.”

Kevin Foltynewicz District Leader, BeMobile Staying connected

Since graduating from Mendota High School and jumping into the cellular communications industry, Kevin Foltynewicz has stayed connected.

Foltynewicz, who moved to Peru shortly after high school, has remained in Peru besides a few outside stops. Even when he wasn’t in the Illinois Valley, his heart and relationships remained in the valley; enough to bring him back.

Now he is the district leader for BeMobile and runs various locations, including Peru, Galesburg, Peoria, and Princeton.

“I am proud of the advancement my Peru and Princeton stores have made since taking on the district leader role,” said Foltynewicz, who is 34 years old. “Peru has been upgraded to the highest-level store our company has and remodeled into a nextgeneration facility due to its performance.”

“Our Princeton location will be moving to a brand-new facility, also as a nextgeneration location. They have also been able to grow from a two-person staffed store to a four-person staffed store due to their performance. The time and energy put into this has definitely paid off, and our support to our community has been a direct reason for this accomplishment,” he said.

Foltynewicz stays connected to the area outside of communications – he is a dog lover who supports Illinois Valley Animal Rescue (IVAR). He has been involved in local groups and organizations, such as the Mendota Area Chamber of Commerce, American Cancer Society Relay for Life Upper Illinois Valley, and Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce.

“I am a hardworking, caring member of this community. I fully believe that networking, like what IVAC events offer, is a great way to not only get my own name out there, but my business and other things in my community that I am passionate about,” Foltynewicz said. “I have been an IVAC ambassador and held the vice president and president seat for them. I fully believe in what goes around comes around, and referrals I get from my community support that theory.”

Joe Brizgis

Commercial and Agriculture Lender, Eureka Savings Bank

Enjoying an unexpected career

Even though his father was a career-long lender, Joe Brizgis didn’t make the initial push to be a banker or tell anyone he wanted to be a banker or lender when he was a child.

But after college, it seemed like the right place for him. And it has stayed that way with his employment at Eureka Savings Bank as a commercial and agriculture lender.

“My dad, Alan Brizgis, was a lender for 30 to 40 years. That was always an option that was there,” Joe said. “When I went to school, I didn’t have it set in my mind that I was going into banking. I kind of just fell into it, even though my dad was a lender. I got my first job, and I liked being able to talk to people and working with numbers.”

“I don’t anticipate leaving banking now or ever. I like the fact that I get to meet new people, help them, and get advice from them. I get to see different points of views on things that I think can only go one way,” he said.

Brizgis, 33, grew up in Magnolia, graduated from Monmouth College in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and now lives in Oglesby. His first job was as a credit analyst for a financial institution in LaSalle, which he held for ten years before becoming a commercial lender.

“I am most proud of helping people keep their businesses running,” Brizgis said. “Whether it is a $10,000 loan for equipment or $1,000,000 for land or a building, when they know that they can turn to me when they have any kind of borrowing need, it’s always the best moment for me.”

Brizgis is a member of the Illinois Valley Sunrise Rotary and is involved with IVAC and the IV Leads Group through Eureka.

Jenica Cole

Executive Director, Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and Princeton Tourism

Promoting businesses and tourism with a passion

Jenica Cole, 38, has her hands full – both at work and at home. Fortunately, her passion for both of her roles helps her power through her busy days. This Princeton resident has three children with her husband, Brad.

“My husband and I moved back to the Illinois Valley area after living in the North Peoria/Dunlap area for 10 years,” she said. “Our oldest child was born severely premature and has a lot of extra special and medical needs. We decided after living in Peoria for a decade that we wanted to get back to our roots and raise our family in the place in which we were raised and where the values we so much appreciated would become part of our children’s lives. We wanted our children to grow up near family, cousins, and those friends we considered family.”

Just as Cole works tirelessly to give her children a wonderful upbringing, she also spends a lot of her time in her role as Executive Director for Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and Princeton Tourism.

“This truly is an amazing place to live, work, and play, and I want others to recognize it. I have too many short- and long-term goals to list but I know that Princeton is growing, and I know that more big things are going to happen,” she said. “We are working on so many things behind the scenes for the growth and future of Princeton, and I cannot wait for everyone to see these positive changes come to fruition. I also want to work with the other local Chambers on events and ways to promote the Illinois Valley area because no matter what, working together instead of against one another will always lead to better things for all.”

Jeffrey Arendell

Firefighter, Streator Fire Department

Living childhood dream

When Jeffrey Arendell was a young boy, he already knew what he wanted to do for a profession. The awe of fire trucks and their flashing lights has become a reality for him as he has been a member of the Streator Fire Department for ten years.

“Since I was young, I was always interested in anything involving fire trucks and flashing lights. At 18, I became a member of the Toluca Fire Department and fell in love with the work,” said 34-year-old Arendell, who grew up in Toluca and now lives in Streator. “I was attending Illinois Community College in East Peoria at the time and immediately changed my major from architecture to firefighting, where I was able to get my Associate’s Degree.”

“I have worked tirelessly to be the best I could be and not only learn what I can about this job but to also pass the knowledge I have on to the next generation of firefighters and paramedics,” he said.

Arendell also works part-time at Eastern Marshall County EMS, as well as the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute as an instructor.

He is an everyday member of the Streator Fire Department and a captain with the Toluca-Rutland Fire Protection District, where he leads all trainings as a certified instructor. He is also attending Columbia Southern University to obtain a bachelor’s degree in fire administration.

“My vision for my future success in the next five to ten years is still with the Streator Fire Department and hopefully married with one or two children. My goal is to put in a full 30 years with Streator Fire,” Arendell said. “I am currently on the promotion list for lieutenant, so in the next few years, I hope to be serving in that position and hopefully be a captain in the next five to ten years.”

Dan Eiten

Commercial Loan Officer, La Salle State Bank Mixing and matching passions

Being passionate about the outdoors and helping people with their finances, it wasn’t hard for Dan Eiten to find a career where he could fulfill his passions.

Born and raised in Peru, Eiten went away to college, earning an undergraduate degree from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in public health from Northern Illinois University. He is currently continuing his post-graduate schooling by studying agriculture at the University of Illinois.

Eiten’s education and interest in agriculture led to his last five years at La Salle State Bank, where he is a commercial loan officer helping many local businesses, and to a productive and satisfying farm life with his wife, Anna, and son, Si, in Peru.

Si was the first baby of 2023 for the Illinois Valley, born at 12:58 a.m. on Jan. 1.

“In my personal life, I love to be outdoors and enjoy bicycling, working in my garden, and being on the family farm,” said Eiten, who is 37. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, I helped secure $20,000,000-plus in government assistance for more than 180 small businesses, averaging more than 100 hours per week during the months of April and May 2020.”

Returning to his hometown has been a great decision for him.

“My wife and I spent the first couple of years of married life in Los Angeles. It didn’t take long for me to miss the relationships and sense of community that we enjoy here in the Illinois Valley,” Eiten said. “Being passionate about what you’re doing makes it easy for you to accomplish. When you can couple passion and expertise with what you do for a living, you’re bound to be successful. I think you’ll always have an advantage over those that don’t have that passion.”

Derek Barichello

News Editor, Shaw Local News Network

Keeping local residents informed

Derek Barichello loves the unique feel of the Illinois Valley and is dedicated to informing area residents about what’s going on in their corner of the world.

This 38-year-old Streator resident was born in Streator and graduated from high school there before heading to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he received his bachelor’s degree in journalism in 2006.

“I have worked in journalism since graduation, beginning as a sports writer for The Times in Ottawa, then the Albany Herald newspaper in Albany, Ga. I began covering news for The Times, advancing my career to Sauk Valley Media in Dixon/Sterling, Ill., where I reported how the largest municipal crime in U.S. history occurred with the Rita Crundwell case. I returned to The Times in Ottawa in 2013, and became news editor, also becoming the news editor at the NewsTribune in La Salle in 2020,” he said.

Reporting the news fairly without any bias is important to Barichello.

“The decisions I make within my position could affect the public opinion of thousands of residents across both the La Salle-Peru and Ottawa markets, extending from Mendota to Streator and Princeton to Seneca. It comes with a great deal of responsibility to ensure accuracy, fairness, and integrity,” he said.

Making the decision to return to the Illinois Valley was easy for Barichello, who enjoys the area’s special blend of tourism, home-grown shops and eateries, and values.

“It has its own character, from its features, such as Starved Rock and the Illinois River, to the culture that has grown from the mixture of manufacturing and agriculture, and its proximity to Chicago. It makes for a really cool blend of culture that has its own character,” he said.

Jared Bell

Marketing Executive, Shaw Media

Uniting the Illinois Valley through sports

Hennepin resident Jared Bell, who is 37 years old, has helped bring together generations of past and present Illinois Valley residents through their love of sports. Of all his professional accomplishments, he’s most proud of co-founding the NewsTribune’s IV Sports Hall of Fame with his boss, Jeanette Smith.

“We’ve had three classes inducted so far, but I do everything inductee-related to this event in every way imaginable. Everything builds to our in-person event, and our 2022 event had nearly 300 people attend. It’s so great to get to know all the inductees and their families, while also seeing the event grow itself,” he said.

The event has been so popular because of its ability to ignite memories in the participants, regardless of which generation they were from, where they live now, or which sport they played.

“This area has such a rich tradition of athletic success, and I think honoring and reliving this success has brought people together, remembering their favorite teams, athletes, and coaches,” Bell said. “It’s been fun to see it serve as a reunion for teams, while seeing individual inductees and their families embrace it. The Illinois Valley is such a special place, and the memories created here have such great meaning that we’ve had inductees attend from Florida, Arizona, Ohio, and Colorado. They want to make the trip because it means so much to them.”

Whether he’s at home with his wife and three children, volunteering, or speaking with business owners about their advertising needs, Bell cares about the people he’s interacting with.

“My wife says I have a cheesy personality, but I think my laid-back style and getting to know people beyond the business side helps a ton. I’m family first and often have clients ask about my kids,” he said. “I think this area is full of hard-working people, and I think you can do anything with the right attitude and hard work.”

Bob Tieman

Vice President, Tieman Builders Inc.

Bob of all trades

Do you need work done on your home? Has a DJ been booked for your wedding? Craving a certain meal but don’t want to cook it? Have this year’s taxes been completed? Want to discuss local government?

Bob Tieman is the Bob of all trades to perform these requests and more.

“I’m a firm believer that every day you mold yourself a little more into the person that you are,” said Tieman, 39, who by day is the vice president of Tieman Builders Inc. “All the experiences that I’ve put myself through the last 39 years, they’ve made me the guy that I am now. Working with my dad, I learned a real good work ethic.”

“I have empathy for those who work in the service industry because of how long I worked in restaurants as a cook and a server. I have a good opportunity as a wedding DJ to be a part of most people’s best day of their life,” he said. “I enjoy being out in the community and meeting new people every day.”

Tieman received a degree from Illinois Valley Community College before traveling for a degree in culinary arts and hospitality. A decade ago, he returned to the Illinois Valley and began working with his parents, Dean and Dawn Tieman, at Tieman Builders, which Dean started 30 years ago.

Bob Tieman expands his experiences by working in restaurants, completing taxes for Durdan and Associates in Ottawa, serving as an alderman for the Peru City Council, and DJing weddings for Guys on the Radio.

“Stability is nice, and I like being able to help my folks,” Tieman said. “I like being involved with the community, which I think working with my family gives me the opportunity to do. I never had a desire to stay away. Everyone leaves for college, and after I did that, I made my way back here.”

Megan Diss

Assistant Vice President – Loan Operations, Eureka Savings Bank

A hard-working mom of three

Megan Diss is a proud mom to her two daughters and a baby boy, and she and her husband, who was her high school sweetheart, reside in Ottawa. With such a busy home life, she loves her supportive work environment at Eureka Savings Bank, where she is employed as Assistant Vice President – Loan Operations.

“My favorite part of working for ESB is the culture here. From the Board of Directors to the Executive Management Team to my co-workers and staff to our customers – I truly feel valued, supported, and motivated on both a professional and personal level every day,” she said.

Diss, now 36 years old, grew up in Ottawa and attended Ottawa High School before heading to St. Ambrose University and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and corporate finance.

“I moved to Eureka Savings Bank six years ago to help start up their Commercial Loan Department and also assist in the overall lending operations of the bank. I was later promoted to Assistant Vice President of Loan Operations. Today, I supervise and lead a team of five loan operations personnel, oversee lending compliance and all operations for the Loan Department,” she said.

“I think my team and management would agree that I’m about as hard of a worker as they come. I was raised by two parents who were in management and come from a family of farmers. It is in my blood to do whatever it takes – always. I’ve spent many late hours at both banks I have worked at, brainstorming and working on procedures to make things run more smoothly, helping with and leading projects, and staying on top of the ever-changing regulations in lending,” she said. “When I’m not working,you can usually find me running my kids to their many activities or spending time with our extended family, usually at local sporting events.”

Cote Klinefelter

Partner at Herbolsheimer, Duncan, Eiten, Hintz & Klinefelter, P.C.

Never a boring day

Cote Klinefelter found his career path in high school. Since then, the 32-year-old, who was born and raised in LaSalle, completed the classes and the steps to be a successful attorney as a partner with Herbolsheimer, Duncan, Eiten, Hintz & Klinefelter, P.C. in LaSalle.

With conviction, Klinefelter can say he never has a boring or similar day since each client and case is different and interesting.

“I took a business law course in high school, and I kind of gravitated towards law. I took law courses during my undergraduate, and I really enjoyed the problem-solving aspect,” said Klinefelter, who has been married to his wife, Erika, for four years. They have three children, 3-year-old Addison, 1-year-old George, and Kennedy, who was born in February 2023.

“I knew I wanted to come back to the Illinois Valley. Both my family and my wife’s family are in the Illinois Valley. It checked a lot of boxes, and it had a lot of flexibility as you can take a career in a lot of different directions with law,” he said.

After attending Illinois Valley Community College, University of Illinois, and Loyola University Chicago School of Law, Klinefelter returned to LaSalle and quickly began defending clients for the Herbolsheimer Law Office.

“My practice is primarily in the areas of real estate, estate planning, and business law. I’m a passionate problem solver and enjoy crafting creative solutions to help my clients reach their goals. I continually set goals for myself to keep me motivated and avoid complacency,” he said.

“I’m most proud of obtaining a favorable judgment for my clients after a week-long trial to uphold their father’s estate plan. I devoted a great deal of time and effort in preparation of the trial. It was immensely rewarding to see my hard work pay off and help my clients secure their father’s legacy,” he said.

Abbie

Kennedy

Production Operation, Sabic

Loving the manufacturing world

Some people graduate high school and can’t wait to move out of the town they were raised in. However, 33-year-old Abbie Kennedy, who lives with her husband, Jason, in Ottawa, never contemplated leaving the Illinois Valley.

“I have never had the urge to leave at all. Almost my entire family lives in the Ottawa area, and they play such a huge part in my life I couldn’t imagine being far from them. We have six nephews, two nieces, and one great-nephew who are such a major part of our lives. I can’t imagine not being here for all those important, big moments of their lives, and even the little ones, like making a sporting event,” she said.

“I’ve always had such pride in our small town and the people in it as well,” she added. “People of Ottawa just care about other people, and when someone is in need, there are always more than enough people there to lend a helping hand. How could I leave that?”

For the past 11 years, Kennedy has worked the swing shift in the manufacturing world.

“Manufacturing is definitely viewed more as a man’s job, and I do take a lot of pride in being a woman of the workplace for so long,” she said. “I never did graduate from college, but I have been very blessed to start a career path many years ago, showing that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.”

While her work schedule has made it difficult to formally be involved with community organizations, she has come up with and implemented ideas to bring joy to the community. One of those ideas was making sure Ottawa children were able to see the Easter Bunny from the comfort of their own homes during the pandemic by helping arrange an Easter Bunny drive-by route throughout town.

Jacob Postula

Dentist, Ludford and Postula Family Dentistry

Taking care of the community through dentistry

When Jacob Postula graduated from St. Bede Academy, he didn’t know what he wanted to do for a career. Then as the classrooms came and went, he latched on to dentistry and graduated from Loyola University Chicago and Marquette University, getting his D.D.S. degree in May 2022.

“My grandfather, Franklin Jasiek, was also a general dentist in LaSalle. He retired 20 years ago, but I knew growing up dentistry was something that seemed familiar to me,” Postula said. “When I was in high school and early on in college, I always wanted to try medicine, but dentistry was the first thing in the back of my head when I tried to hone in on the career path I wanted to take.”

“All throughout my studious years, I’ve had a thought of returning to the Illinois Valley to have the opportunity to help my community. Since returning to LaSalle, I have been so thankful for the reinforcing support from all people of the Illinois Valley that I now get to call patients,” he said.

Postula, 27, didn’t waste any time after graduating to have his name attached to a practice. Dr. Steven Ludford brought Postula on as an associate, and the Ludford Dentistry became the Ludford and Postula Family Dentistry.

“Considering I am less than one year into my professional career, I believe my level of specialization at my age offers me a great opportunity to make a significant impact on the community,” Postula said. “Dentistry affords the ability to meet many people on a daily basis. The best part of my days are the connections made, laughs shared, and camaraderie built with local people that I continue to see both at and away from work.”

Jenilyn Roether Director, Illinois Valley Community College Choir and Illinois Valley Youth Choir

Singing comes full circle

When Jenilyn Roether was in second grade, she joined the Illinois Valley Youth Choir. She continued to sing through grade school, middle school, and high school. She stuck with singing in college and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music education from Illinois Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in music from Northern Illinois University.

With her life wrapped in music, it only made sense for her to apply for and accept the role as director of the Illinois Valley Youth Choir. Now, she also directs the Illinois Valley Community College Choir.

“I jumped at the opportunity to direct the youth choir. I had been in the choir for a number of years, and so had my siblings,” said Roether, 39, a musician and teacher, who has lived in Peru her entire life except when she attended school. “My children are in the choir now also. It’s been really cool to come back and go full circle from first singing with the choir to directing the choir.”

“Both choirs are community groups, and we serve a wide range of social and economic backgrounds. I try and use music to improve people’s physical and mental well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic has been really hard on all of us, and singing together is a scientifically proven way to release stress and feel a sense of community with others,” she said.

Roether also teaches private voice lesion at IVCC and at a music studio in Peru. She was invited to be a guest conductor at the Bureau Valley Music Conference and volunteers to sing the national anthem and other songs at many events.

“My future success would be to grow each of my choirs a little larger so I could reach more people with music,” Roether said. “I have always wanted to offer a kindergarten through 2nd choir so that younger students could join.”

Kendra Poole

Family Nurse Practitioner, Kendra Poole INC (Collective Family Health)

A busy but full life

Kendra Poole has to be highly organized professionally and in her personal life to make her schedule work. This 32-year-old lives with her husband, Jack, and three sons in Peru, and she also has three nieces who are living with her.

It’s a challenge to stay organized with such a full house, but Poole stays on task through lots of calendars and post-it notes.

“I live, breathe, and function by my calendars. I do forget things on occasions, but I try to have grace on myself, knowing I will never be perfect,” she said.

Poole grew up in DePue before moving to Spring Valley at age 14. After graduating Hall High School and attending Illinois Valley Community College for two years, she went to Methodist College of Nursing, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014. She earned a master’s degree at Bradley University before becoming a family nurse practitioner and opening her own medical practice.

“A dear friend and colleague, Angela Reidner CNM, actually had wanted to open her own practice and had asked if I would be interested in joining her in providing care to our community. As a team, we could build Collective Family Health together rather than each on our own,” she said. “I feel that God had opened that door for me and has instilled a strong desire to serve the people of our community.”

“I always hoped to open my own practice and provide evidenced-based, patientcentered care, a place where my patients felt heard and supported. This desire is now a reality,” Poole said. “I hope to continue to grow my medical practice patient volume. I also want to offer some additional services, such as nutritional IV therapies and minor cosmetic procedures. I will always continue learning and expanding my knowledge base and hopefully implement more offerings that will benefit our community.”

Emily Carney School Counselor, LaSalle-Peru Township High School Making a difference in others’ lives

For some students, school is an amazing experience, but for others, it’s a struggle at times. As a school counselor at LaSalle-Peru Township High School and as Division Chair for Student Support Services, 38-year-old Emily Carney of Utica is well aware that not everyone has the same experience in school.

“With a focus on academic, college/career, and social-emotional development, I get to help through some of the happiest and hardest experiences. It can be a heavy load to carry, but it is also more rewarding than I ever dreamed,” she said. “I am honored to have such an incredible opportunity to work with and support our students, parents, school, and community.”

Carney was born and raised in Peru, so making a difference in her hometown community is extra special to her.

“I am not someone that simply goes to work every day to fulfill a requirement. I go in with a list of responsibilities, but also respond to the constant unexpected needs of our students and staff. I am willing to go the extra mile to help someone through counseling,” she said. “I fully believe outstanding services are something every student deserves.”

Knowing she has helped students, parents, her school, and the community is rewarding enough for Carney, but she is thrilled when she is formally recognized for the work she does.

“Although I am humbled and overjoyed when former students give me updates on how they are doing or send simple notes of thanks, my greatest professional accomplishment is being recognized by the University of Chicago as an Outstanding Educator. The award is not only granted by one of the most prestigious institutions in Illinois but is, in fact, student-driven,” she said.

“My driving force in this profession is the belief that every child deserves a successful, happy life. So, when a student felt that impacted to take the time to nominate me – I cannot think of anything more rewarding,” she added.

Mark Wilson

Site Manager, Epsilyte A team leader and a team player

Mark Wilson hasn’t been in the Illinois Valley long, but ever since he moved to Ottawa with his wife, Sara, and his two sons, Maxwell and Oliver, the Wilson family has enjoyed the area.

“I’m impressed by what I already see. Most weekends, there is a family event somewhere along the river to get out and enjoy the area,” Wilson said. “There is a diverse selection of restaurants. There is history and culture. The area is safe by all measures.”

“With that said, I’d look for areas to strengthen the municipalities and look to foster economic growth and tourism and continue to make something good get even better,” he said.

Wilson, 34, who was born and raised in Byron, earned a chemical engineering degree from the University of Illinois in 2010. He worked for Dow Chemical for the next 12 years at different sites in Illinois, Louisiana, and Texas.

One of his proudest moments was hearing he made a difference to the Dow Chemical team. Now, he takes great pride in doing the same as the site manager for Epsilyte in Peru, which produces expandable polystyrene and sells to companies to mold the beads into parts used for home installation, construction, and packaging applications.

“While my love of science and problem-solving got my career off to a fast start, the rewarding nature of working with and growing people has become my passion,” Wilson said. “I started with a variety of chemical process engineering roles and was given opportunities to lead chemical operators, mechanics, engineers, and more.”

“I strive to lead with integrity and equality and believe that organizational success can only be achieved by supporting your people,” he said. “In a world full of polarizing headlines, I try to communicate frequently and transparently with my coworkers, sharing my honest opinions.”

Laura Olson Business Service Representative, Business Employment Skills Team, Inc. An advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion

Laura Olson’s role as a business service representative at Business Employment Skills Team, Inc. (BEST), which serves LaSalle, Bureau, and Putnam counties, keeps her constantly challenged.

“The position that I’m currently in is vastly different than anything I’ve done before. There is no typical day. Mastering the uniquely different responsibilities of this role is my current goal. One moment, I am advising someone on probation in their job search and soft skills set, and the next day, I may be organizing a job fair or planning an Incumbent worker project. It’s a position where I will always be learning something,” she said.

“I have a unique blend of traditional values, especially when it comes to my family, along with a social awareness and forward-thinking mindset that challenges the longheld workplace and social stereotypes. I am an advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, and I believe my flexibility and understanding of workforce development allows me to embrace and advocate for underrepresented populations,” she said.

Olson, who is 36 years old and resides in Oglesby with her wife and 4-year-old son, attended Illinois Valley Community College before completing her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at Illinois State University. She knew she wanted to return to the Illinois Valley after college and eventually landed at BEST, where she started as a career advisor.

“Workforce development was entirely new to me, but I quickly found my niche for helping the citizens of the communities we serve,” she said. “I currently serve as an Ambassador for the Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, I sit on the NCAT Advisory committee, and I work closely with the LaSalle County Probation in the Adult Redeploy program and will soon sit on the LaSalle County Specialty Courts panel.”

David Stewart

Account manager, Coca Cola; Mayor, Village of North Utica Working toward growth for the Illinois Valley

Not many people can say they now help run the village they grew up in. David Stewart, who has served as the mayor of North Utica since 2017, makes that elite list.

“I went to grade school at the former Utica Grade School, which is now our village hall,” he said. “I have lived in Utica my whole life. I have never wanted to leave. I live in a small, quiet community where we all know each other and have friendly conversations. I can’t imagine ever topping that.”

After graduating from LaSalle-Peru High School, Stewart studied business administration at Illinois Valley Community College. During high school and college, he worked at Sears in Peru and became a marketing manager there.

“In 2006, I started working for Coca Cola as an account manager, and I am still employed by them with the same position,” Stewart, who is now 38 years old, said.

As mayor, Stewart envisions growth for Utica and the entire Illinois Valley and works to ensure that the village keeps what makes it special as it grows. He is especially proud of the fact that North Utica successfully applied for the Rebuild Downtown and Main Street grants they applied for.

“I strive to work closely with my village board to help make Utica successful. My job is to ensure that both residents and businesses are happy within our community. I strive to make sure that Utica has the small-town charm feel while continuing to grow our business base,” he said. “Success is all about communication. Being engaged with the board of trustees, the residents of Utica, and the business owners is vital. I envision Utica only growing in both population and new business development.”

Jessica Strauch

Owner, Jessica Strauch State Farm Agency

Being a team-building leader

Jessica Strauch spent her high school years working hard as a three-sport athlete at LaSalle-Peru High School. She then attended and graduated from Illinois State University, majoring in political science and minoring in legal studies. She began working as a legal assistant but later accepted a store manager opportunity so she could move back home to be closer to her family.

“While working in retail, I really wanted to do something where I could run my own business and give back to the community that I grew up in. That’s when I was approached with this amazing opportunity to open up my own State Farm agency,” she said. Now, I get to be back home with my family, run a small business, give back to the community, and help members of this amazing community with their insurance needs. In my free time, I coach softball. It’s a dream come true.”

Strauch, who is 30 years old and living in Ladd, said she learned valuable lessons as a high school athlete that she still uses today, including time management, how to be a leader, and the value of motivating others.

“It’s important to motivate with not only words but actions too. Show you appreciate your team or employees because appreciation does make a person work harder for you,” she said. “I’ve experienced it being a business owner, a coach, a player, and an employee.”

Strauch is highly involved in the community as a member of Peru Rotary, IV Leads, and Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce.

“I help coach softball at LP as well as a travel softball organization, Aftershock. I am a sponsor for Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp, Peru Little League Softball, Peru Little League Baseball, LaSalle Peru Township High School Athletics, Bowl for the Cure event at the Super Bowl, the Taste of the Illinois Valley, Challenge Day at LPHS, Trick or Treating in the Park, the TBM Avenger Air Show, and many other community events,” she said.

Katrina McQuilkin

Owner, Mac Chiropractic Finding her calling the hard way

Katrina McQuilkin found her professional calling in a very unusual way.

“I was in my senior year of college, triple majoring because I am an overachiever, when I started passing out three to four times a day. In downtown Chicago, that is really bad. I fell downstairs. I was hit by bicyclists. I was robbed. I sustained so many traumas the ER frequently questioned me as to whether I was being abused. My life came to a complete standstill,” she said.

Her health issues radically changed her life. She couldn’t drive, had to move back in with her parents, and had to drop out of school.

“My doctor told me, at age 21, to go on disability because there was no hope for me. After about six months, my friend invited me to nutrition night at her chiropractor’s office. I knew nothing of chiropractic but was so excited to just get out of the house that I jumped at the opportunity,” she said.

While talking to her friend’s chiropractor, she learned her neck could be causing her issues.

“I was skeptical but was willing to try anything at that point. After a month of care, I went from passing out three to four times a day to once a week, and with continued care, it went away completely,” she said. “It turns out that the curve in my neck was going the wrong direction and put so much pressure on my spinal cord that I would pass out.”

McQuilkin, who is now 35 years old and living in LaSalle, decided to become a chiropractor, graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic, and moved to the Illinois Valley.

“I feel my biggest professional accomplishment is that I built my business from the ground up to become a successful, patient-centered practice where my patients know that they are not just another number, but a member of the Mac Chiropractic family,” she said.

Heather Milus Owner, Kelley Cawley Boutique From Barbies to a boutique

Heather Milus, who grew up in Seatonville, knew she had a passion for fashion early on in her life.

“From spending hours dressing Barbie dolls to pretend fashion shows with friends, fashion has always been a big part of my life and something that I have always been drawn to,” she said.

After graduating from Hall High School, she studied fashion business at Columbia College Chicago. When she graduated, she received an offer from Kelley Cawley to work at her boutique as her first full-time employee.

“I had no idea where it would end up taking me, but I immediately knew I had found something I could do forever,” Milus said. “In October of 2022, I became the owner of Kelley Cawley Boutique. Although the years go by fast, it’s truly amazing what can happen over time.”

“It was June 2009 when I started working alongside Kelley full-time. I was fortunate enough to be able to see the business through her eyes for 13 years and learned how to operate and grow a business in all aspects,” she said. “This has given me so much knowledge and insight to what it takes to be a successful business owner, and I am confident those experiences will be vital as I move forward with growing the Kelley Cawley brand.”

Milus, who is 36 years old and living in Peru, married Zach Milus in 2011, and they have two children, Morrison and Monroe. She is happy with her decision to return to the Illinois Valley after college.

“There is something about the familiarity and community that I genuinely missed while living in Chicago,” she said. “I think living a simple life is extremely underrated. I love living in the IV because it makes me feel like I can slow down and enjoy life at a slower pace. We have a true sense of community here.”

Amanda Weygand-Zehr

Owner, Open Space Art Gallery and Studios

Opening a space for everyone

When Amanda Weygand-Zehr graduated from Illinois State University with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, she wanted to bring her skills back to the Illinois Valley and open a space where every other artist could be creative as well.

Weygand-Zeher, 36, who grew up in Naplate and has lived in Ottawa since high school, did exactly that when she became the owner of Open Space Art Gallery and Studios in Ottawa.

“It’s giving people a place where they can feel safe to express themselves and show their work,” Weygand-Zehr said. “I’ve been to places where I felt like my art was too weird to be shown. When you feel that way, you don’t create or express yourself.”

“If you have a community that is open to letting people express themselves, we’re going to have art all over the place. People like coming to towns and cities that are colorful and have murals and paintings everywhere,” she said. “It’s also really good for mental health and relieving stress.”

She was an art teacher at Marseilles Elementary School but resigned to put her efforts into Open Space and serve as the administrator of The Arts of Starved Rock Country Fund.

“I would love to see Open Space grow into a bigger space with more ways for us to bring art to Ottawa,” said Weygand-Zehr. “I envision a maker’s space where we can teach ceramics, photography, painting, woodworking, sculpture making, and more. I want to continue to grow the understanding of art and bring more community art to our town.”

“I am most proud of growing and fighting for our Third Friday Artisan Market. I started the market inside Open Space, CatsEye, and City Folk in 2019,” WeygandZehr said. “It started slow, but I knew that it would grow. This year we had the biggest attendance to date. The event is so inclusive and fun for everyone.”

Aleigh Day Assistant Branch Manager, Heartland Bank and Trust

Constantly growing, learning, and building

up others

Aleigh Day is originally from the Bloomington-Normal area, but she has embraced life in the Illinois Valley wholeheartedly since moving here.

“I am a dedicated and resourceful financial professional with diverse experience in leadership, development, organizational impact processes, and growth initiatives. I have been with Heartland Bank and Trust for nine years, starting my career in Bloomington, my hometown area, and now serving as the Assistant Branch Manager of our Spring Valley office,” she said. “When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, taking advantage of the beautiful outdoor opportunities in the area, and traveling.”

Day, who is now 30 years old and lives in Sheffield, moved to the Illinois Valley in 2014.

“The initial draw was my family in the area. My parents were both natives to the Illinois Valley until the late ‘80s, and most of my extended family has remained in the area for generations,” she said.

Day received an Associate of Science degree from Illinois Valley Community College in 2018 and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Lincoln College in 2020.

“I am passionate about helping preserve, improve, and expand the wonderful traits that make the Illinois Valley truly unique. The sense of neighborly care and the ability to come together in times of adversity, despite differences, is something I have come to appreciate and value in my years here,” she said. “I strive to support my business in the community and volunteer my time and services through several organizations and boards. I’m always looking for ways to grow, learn, and build up others in the area through mentoring, resume development, and business establishment advice.”

During the next few years, Day wants to continue learning, giving, and growing.

“I would like to continue my education and expand the impact I can make through volunteering and advocacy,” she said.

Jesse Arellano

Retail Market Manager, Sauk Valley Bank

Dedicating his time to the community

At 34 years old, Jesse Arellano of Mendota has built up an impressive community service resumé.

“I pride myself in being a person that helps their community through volunteering for any organization that I can and truly like being able to make things better for people that don’t have the same luxuries as myself,” he said. “What I like most about living in the Illinois Valley is the closeness of our communities and willingness to work together in times of need.”

He has held a wide range of roles within many charitable organizations, including having served as American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Upper Illinois Valley Event Co-Chair, American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of UIV Advocacy/Entertainment Chair, the 2014 American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast CancerBatavia (Event Advocacy Chair), and the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life Illinois Leadership Team (where he was one of eight total leads for the State of Illinois).

He has also served on the Mendota Area YMCA Board of Directors, the North Central Illinois ARTworks Board of Directors, as North Central Illinois ARTworks Treasurer, as a La Salle County Tourism Coalition member, as the Mendota Museum & Historical Society Board of Director, and has held many other roles as well.

“The professional accomplishment that I am the most proud of is being able to successfully run and operate the Mendota Area Chamber of Commerce as its President and CEO for five years. Prior to my role as President and CEO, I had managed a small number of employees, but the Chamber of Commerce was different as I had to oversee a board of 22 members, 12 members of the ambassador club, and my office staff. Having this role taught me a lot about time management and helped with my creativity in not just my work life, but all aspects of life,” he said.

Theresa Solon Wargo Owner, Theresa Solon State Farm Agency

Highly involved in the community

Theresa Solon Wargo, a 33-year-old Streator resident, likes to volunteer so she can help make her community better in every aspect.

“At a young age, I saw the impact that individuals from my family, friends, and other community members had on my community by dedicating their time, giving back, and being involved. Volunteering benefits everyone and can have a very positive impact in the community,” she said. “I love my community, and I want to continue to see us thrive. I want my children to have the same opportunities in our town that I did as a child, so I volunteer and put forth the effort to try to do my part in helping our community.”

Solon Wargo was born and raised in Streator, graduated from Streator High School, and was a member of the 2006 Streator High School Hall of Fame softball team. She attended the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, where she received a degree in agri-finance.

“I have been with State Farm since January of 2012 and came back to Streator to start my own agency in January of 2016,” she said. “I am a mom of two amazing boys, one dog, and a wife to a wonderful husband. I have a passion for taking care of my community and the Starved Rock Region, both professionally and personally. One of my favorite things about being a State Farm Agent is being able to give back.”

She currently serves on the Streator YMCA Board, the Streator Area United Way Board, and the Streator Young Professionals Board, and is a member of the Streator Lions Club and the Streator Kiwanis. She is a Streator Red and White Booster Club supporter, a member of the John and Kathryn Solon Scholarship committee and presenter, a supporter and ambassador for the Lynne F Solon Foundation, a member of the Streator Area Chamber of Commerce, and volunteers in many other ways in the community.

Sarah Kinkin

Deputy Chief of Police, Spring Valley Police Department

Protecting the people of her hometown

Sarah Kinkin, who was born in Spring Valley and attended Hall High School, knew from a young age she wanted to be a police officer.

“I cannot pinpoint exactly what made me feel that I wanted to be a police officer, but as far back as I can remember, that was my chosen career path. As a kid, I thoroughly enjoyed solving puzzles and figuring things out, which translated nicely to investigative work. I wanted a career that was challenging and not monotonous. I have always had an interest in law, human rights, as well as the Constitution. Law enforcement was and is the perfect career,” she said.

After high school, Kinkin attended Bradley University, double majoring in sociology and administration of criminal justice.

“I completed two internships, one with Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department and the second with East Peoria Police Department. I moved back to the Illinois Valley area in 2009 and worked as a counselor at Choices Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit and then for the Illinois Department on Aging as an Elder Abuse Investigator,” she said. “I was hired as a part-time police officer by Spring Valley Police Department in 2011 and became full-time in December of 2013. In February of 2021, I was appointed to the position of Sergeant, and in March of 2022, I was appointed to Deputy Chief of Police.” Kinkin, now 38 years old, has had to overcome obstacles while working in a maledominated field.

“In my department, I was the first full-time female police officer, the first female Sergeant, and the first female Deputy Chief of Police,” she said. “I have never used this as an excuse, nor have I ever used it as an advantage, and look forward to the day that police officer does not have the connotation of being male. I proved my worth through action, percentage of cases solved, convictions for arrests, and, most importantly, building community relations with the citizens of Spring Valley and our police department. I like to believe that I also changed a few people’s minds on who they believe should be in law enforcement.”

Danielle DeCarlo Connecting Point Computer Centers

Spreading joy to others through volunteer work

Danielle DeCarlo, who was born and raised in the Illinois Valley, learned at an early age how rewarding it can be to volunteer.

“I love when I can put a smile on someone else’s face. I grew up with my parents running the local MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) telethon, and seeing the pure joy on the faces of those suffering when people took the time out of their busy day to help them made my heart so happy that I knew when I was old enough to help the community, I had to do it,” she said. “Volunteering has always been in my blood.”

DeCarlo, who is 38 years old and lives in Peru, was greatly influenced by those early years of volunteering and has continued to give back to her community in several ways.

“I am currently the President of the Ambassadors for the Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development and a board member for IV Leads Group,” she said.

DeCarlo is also a dedicated employee who has worked her way up.

“I am currently employed by Connecting Point Computer Centers. I have been employed with them since July 2018. When I first started there, I was the Accounts Payable/Receivable clerk. I have added the role of Service Coordinator as of May 2021,” she said. “This has given me the chance to work directly with our customers and help them, which helps our community.”

DeCarlo loves living in the Illinois Valley and missed it while attending school.

“I did leave the area very briefly for a year of school in the Bloomington-Normal area. I came back because of family and the sense of community,” she said. “Our area is one big family. I feel the Illinois Valley is a great place to be and work.”

Corey

VanSchaick

Chief Credit Officer, Spring Valley City Bank

Loving life in the Illinois Valley

Corey VanSchaick is a lifelong resident and big supporter of the Illinois Valley. Raised in Spring Valley and having graduated from St. Bede Academy, he attended Illinois Valley Community College and then Roosevelt University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in business administration with an accounting major. Now, at age 36, he works at Spring Valley City Bank and lives in Oglesby with his wife, Courtney, and their two dogs.

“The Illinois Valley is a great place to live and work because of the people, businesses, and the amenities this area has to offer. There are many local businesses that when I visit them, it feels like going to see family versus going to just dine or shop. It is this essence that sets our community apart and has kept me here,” he said.

VanSchaick believes that, with enough effort, the Illinois Valley is poised for growth.

“The Illinois Valley has yet to achieve its full potential,” he said. “We are situated at one of the most attractive transportation corridors in the country at the intersection of I-80 and I-39. It is my hope that the potential of this area gets used to its fullest potential in order to attract industrial and commercial developments that can bring more employment opportunities to the area. If we succeed in attracting these developments, I believe it would bring more amenities, shops, and restaurants.”

VanSchaick loves that his job allows him to help make other people’s dreams come true.

“I am lucky to work in the financial service industry for a community bank that provides key funding for local businesses and consumers; this affords me the opportunity to work alongside many local business owners and service providers,” he said. “In this capacity, I am able to use my experience in financial analysis and loan structuring to help others in the community to achieve their goals and dreams.”

Clayton Theisinger Superintendent, Putnam County CUSD #535 An advocate for public education

As superintendent of Putnam County CUSD #535, Clayton Theisinger helps ensure all students have the chance to receive an excellent public school education, just as he did. This 35-year-old LaSalle resident was born in Peru and graduated from LaSalle-Peru High School in 2006. He then attended Bradley University, majoring in special and elementary education.

“I was provided many opportunities upon graduating in 2010, but I wanted to come home and give back to the community that gave so much to me. I was honored to be a special education teacher at LPHS for five years and eventually transitioned to an administrator role (Director of Teaching and Learning) in 2015-2016. After one year in that position, I accepted the role as Principal at Putnam County High School, which I proudly served in for five years,” he said. “With a firm belief in the critical role public schools serve for children and communities, I became Superintendent of Putnam County CUSD #535 in fall 2021 and continue to serve in the role.”

Theisinger and his wife, Alison, have two children, and he has earned more degrees since graduating from Bradley, including a master’s in special education from Illinois State University, a master’s in education administration from the University of St. Francis, and a Doctor of Education from the University of Nebraska.

“I am a staunch advocate for public education and schools in general. I think the Illinois Valley area has had a pattern of growth and success with its schools for many, many decades. However, I see this pattern as only the beginning and the foundation to greater things to come for our children and communities,” he said. “I think the dynamic of our schools is going to vastly change in the next few years by transitioning from a traditional, industrial model of schooling to one focused on the individual academic, social, and transitional needs of children. I want to be part of and help lead that effort with the amazing teachers, staff, and families in our communities.”

Casey McGrath

Self-employed violinist and writer Reinventing her career

Casey McGrath’s decision to reinvent herself was a bold choice that is paying off. The 39-year-old Marseilles resident spent over a decade as an adjunct music professor, concertmaster, studio teacher, and guest concerto soloist with various orchestras.

“In 2019, I resigned from academia and my orchestral positions to focus solely on the development of my solo violin show, Fiddlerock! Fiddlerock’s mission is to unite audiences of all backgrounds through the ‘life soundtrack’ of popular music,” she said. “What started as ten handwritten pieces of sheet music performed on a borrowed sound system has since expanded to a full light and sound production of over 250 arrangements spanning virtually every musical genre. We have over three thousand Facebook followers, four commercial releases, and a full calendar of performances at businesses, festivals, and venues all over the Illinois Valley. It’s truly one of the most rewarding projects of my career.”

McGrath has many other interests in addition to playing the violin.

“I have my doctorate in music, my master’s in violin performance, and I’m currently pursuing my editing certificate from the University of Chicago. During that time, I also earned my skydiving licenses at Skydive Chicago, which proved to be such a life-changing experience that it inspired both my dissertation research on stage fright therapies and, eventually, my first book,” she said.

McGrath has been impressed by the supportive, encouraging people who live in the Illinois Valley.

“My favorite thing about life in the Illinois Valley is the fine arts community and its uncompromising sense of camaraderie. I have never met a more supportive, active, passionate, present, talented, hardworking group of artists and musicians as I have in the Illinois Valley,” she said. “They make it a point to come out for each other’s shows when they can, collaborate as often as possible, help promote their friends’ new albums, refer students and opportunities to each other — it’s truly the reason Fiddlerock! was able to develop and grow into what it is now.”

Bill Zens

Executive Director, Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Embracing taking risks in life

Bill Zens hasn’t always taken a linear approach to his career, but with every calculated risk he has taken, he has learned valuable lessons.

“I have learned that it is okay to take a risk so long as you learn from mistakes that may happen along the way. Not everything you do or every project you take on is going to go exactly according to plan, but your ability to adjust and learn is where you can see success happen. Without at least a little risk, there is no growth,” he said.

Zens, who is 35 years old and lives in Utica with his wife, Michelle, and their two sons, was born and raised in the Illinois Valley. He attended grade school in Tonica, high school at LaSalle-Peru High School, and went to Illinois Valley Community College for two years before transferring to North Illinois University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing with a certificate in sales.

“After graduation, I worked in downtown Chicago for less than a year and realized the city/suburb living wasn’t for me, and I missed the Illinois Valley and home. Professionally, I have been fortunate to grow through each role I have had, from front line sales, to sales management, account executive, to business owner, and now my role as the executive director of IVAC,” he said. “Though some roles didn’t work out the way I had planned, I think they all led me to where I am today and where I am meant to be. I am passionate about the Illinois Valley and extremely honored to serve this area.”

Zens believes in giving back to the community and currently serves as the treasurer for the Illinois River Road Scenic Byway, a board member for the Illinois Valley United Way, a member of the Utica Planning Commission, a youth tee ball/baseball coach, a youth soccer assistant coach, and an IV LEADS member.

Lyle Eiten Owner, Eiten Ag Solutions LLC

Merging technology and farming

Born and raised in Peru, Lyle Eiten has always appreciated agriculture and saw his future in the industry.

Eiten, 29, who lives in Ladd with his wife, Casey, has continued to move forward in his quest to be in agriculture, graduating from the University of Nebraska with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture economics and a minor in agronomy.

While still in school, he had an internship in the Illinois Valley with a local agricultural business. After graduating from the University of Nebraska in 2016, he became a fulltime seed sales representative with the business and went on to start his own feed business, Eiten Feed LLC, in the fall of 2018.

In June 2020, the Eiten couple began Eiten Ag Solutions.

“We sell and service Channel Seed products, a full line of small and large animal feed, as well as a few complimentary products. I treat seed on site and remotely to bring as much value to my customers as possible,” Lyle said. “We have built our business on honesty, performance, and service, and look forward to growing it locally for years to come.”

“I also row crop farm a few acres, along with help manage conservation acres with my family. I enjoy trying new practices to provide more wildlife habitat while increasing ROI (return on investment). I hope when I am gone, I have made a positive impact on local agriculture and economy,” he said.

Lyle sees the importance of a merger between agriculture and technology, which will present even more opportunities than there already are.

“There are lots of opportunities in agriculture right now, and technology is one of them,” Lyle said. “A lot of technology is available to improve farmers’ efficiency and environmental stewardship. I am excited for what is to come and believe the career options for young people in agriculture are plentiful.”

Adam Thorson Director of Parks, Recreation, and Special Events, City of Peru Your source of recreation

If you’ve attended a summer camp, went to the splash pad, been on a piece of equipment in one of Peru’s 12 parks, went to a movie in the park, ate or drank at the Taste of Illinois Valley, or enjoyed the downtown Christmas festivities, you’ve enjoyed the work of Adam Thorson.

Thorson, 27, a Peru resident, is the City of Peru Director of Parks, Recreation, and Special Events. In other words, he is the source of Peru recreation.

“The passion for what I do pushes me daily to be better and continue to serve Peru and the Illinois Valley community,” said Thorson, who took the job in 2020. “Everyone needs recreational activities in their daily lives. When I am not at work, I am enjoying recreational activities of my own, such as golfing, hunting, and spending time with my family and friends.”

“Everyone has a passion for what they do, but at the City of Peru Parks and Recreation Department, we are committed to excellence and serving our community to fulfill the recreational needs and passions of others,” he added.

“Seeing the enjoyment from everyone else makes the time and effort of coordinating an event worth the work. I am committed to serving our community and fulfilling the recreational needs of others, along with striving to earn continued confidence in the community,” he said. “I believe my vision of success includes updating our current parks, enhancing the quality of our current special events that we host, and enhancing the community relationship bonds with business owners and residents.”

When asked if there are challenges to his job, Thorson gives two quick answers: COVID-19, which began causing problems just as he began his position, and the weather. Other than those uncontrollable factors, Thorson enjoys installing equipment, planning events months in advance, and his daily operations.