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Visions 2021

Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Simotes Motor Sales and Service By Allison Selk In 1986, Larry Simotes took a chance on a career change from teacher to used car salesman and 35 years later, his business Simotes Motor Sales and Service continues to flourish with second generation management. Larry and his wife Lisa Simotes raised their two sons Grant and Mac in Minooka, who now run the business with their father, Grant as president and Mac as vice president. After college in 2011, Grant said he did not have a set career plan. He returned home and shadowed his father at the dealership for two weeks to learn the ropes and see what it all entailed. “Two weeks turned into 10 years.” Grant said. Mac joined his father and brother in 2015. Larry said he did not have reservations when he passed the day-to-day operations over to his two sons. He said he has worked hard over the past 35 years to grow the business with the philosophy of “we take care of our customers or somebody else will” and passed the legacy of customer service and the importance of family along to

his children. “This is one place people will walk in and meet Grant or Mac Simotes every day, they will be lucky if they catch me there, but in this family business, you walk in and you are going to meet my sons six days a week,” Larry said. Even though Larry, Grant and Mac have the Simotes name, the family atmosphere of the business does not just include the Simotes family. Grant said long term employees Nick Durakis, Michael Caragher, Kasie Watkiss and Oscar Castellanos have also become family in a business known for high turnover. In its humble beginnings, Simotes Motor Sales and Service, on Ridge Rd. just north of I-80, kept 10 or so cars on the lot, but in 1995, Larry had a bigger vision to move a south and build his own dealership on the southeast corner of Ridge Rd. and I-80 in order to expand. Larry said he wanted to renovate the building, as he knew this dealership he built was going to stick around for another generation. In 2018 renovations made room for more office space and a bigger waiting area for sales and the service department. Fall of 2020, the final project was fin-

ished once the construction was complete, Larry wanted to make the once blacktop lot concrete. “This was the last piece to the puzzle. This will keep the cars nicer and cleaner and it’s easier to walk on. It was a lot of money, we could have gone with black top, but we’ve put in 35 hard years, the boys are the next generation to come in which tells us we are going to be here and want to invest in our business,” Larry said. The brothers also added their own stamp to the renovations. Grant and Mac, who recently picked up the game of golf, decided to put in a golf simulator in the service department for the customers to utilize free for the first 20 minutes while they wait for service or financing. “It’s just an extra perk for the customers,” Grant said. As most businesses, Simotes Motor Sales and Service experienced the ups and downs of the effects of Covid. Larry said the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) allowed the business to keep all staff, he said two had planned to purchase homes when Covid hit and he could not fathom a lay-off of employees at that time. Larry said when the manufacturers

of vehicles stopped production, used cars became a hot commodity and valued out more this year than years past. On top of the price increases, the supply was short. If people could not purchase a new car and trade in an old one, the amount of used cars went down as well. Grant said the company’s buyers went online to buy vehicles all over the country to keep inventory on the lot, but inventory remains half of normal. Simotes Motor Sales and Service posts its vehicles online for buyers to browse and pre-approve for loans, Grant said this feature made it easier for customers during the purchase experience to shop and fill out loan applications beforehand. After the customers came to the lot, the process was minutes instead of hours. The newer vehicles slowly have made their way back on the market, but the ripple effect can still be seen in the used car business. Grant predicts it will be a few more months before the market catches up. Grant said he suggests in this market, if a buyer finds a vehicle they wish to purchase, to get in the dealership as soon as possible, because inventory moves quickly.

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300 N. Ridge Rd Minooka, IL. Sales: 815-467-4630 Service: 815-666-9724

simotesmotorsales.com

M-Thurs 8am-7pm • Friday 8am-6pm • Saturday 8am-3pm SM-CL1875388

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

2010 JEEP WRANGLER SPORT 4WD

HOME | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Family owned & operated for over 33-years We specialize in Low- Mile, High Quality Pre-driven Vehicles

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Morris YMCA

Summer Day Camp returns with fun activities while following health guidelines By Allison Selk The Morris Community YMCA’s Summer Day Camp program will be in full swing this summer at Saratoga Elementary School. The Y’s Youth and Family team is working diligently to ensure they are prepared to welcome kids back to camp safely this summer. Missy Durkin, the YMCA’s Executive Director, said the Y is planning to welcome up to 60 campers when the program kicks off on June 7. This year, camp will look a bit different than camps before the pandemic. Sarah Porzel, Morris YMCA Camp Director said all field trips outside of the camp housed at Saratoga Elementary have been postponed due to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and the American Camp Association, but that allows the camp to get back to basics. Porzel said she has worked on several in-house field trips where presenters come to the camp to present, and all hands-on activities will be facilitated by the camp staff, most staff are veterans to day camp. Camp will have 10 weeks of themed activities and on site presenters which include Passport to Fun, Disney Days, Decades Week, Party in the USA, Inventor’s Workshop, Cooking Across the Galaxy, Nature Unleashed, Color Me Crazy, Walk on the Wild Side and Party Palooza. Camp runs June 7 to Aug. 13, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Saratoga Elementary for children who will be in grades K-8 in the 2021-22 academic year. Facility

members pay $165 per child and community members pay $190 per child each week, plus a non-refundable $45 registration fee per family. Porzel said as she plans the summer with the ever-changing guidelines, she said the camp will always focus on its five character development traits: empathy, emotion management, personal development, relationship building and responsibility and be a place for children to come together and just be kids. “I think the biggest benefit for day camp, for this summer alone, is the opportunity to unplug for the reality of what the kids have been going through throughout the entirety of

the pandemic,” Porzel said. “Stepping away from their Chromebook and virtual events and just being a kid again. Running around with friends, making memories and gaining confidence that we are one step closer to our old normal.” She said she will bring back the gardening aspect this summer. Campers will plant a variety of vegetables and herbs in raised beds and be responsible for the care of the plants all summer until harvest. Porzel said this will combine into a lesson on how to cook and incorporate healthy food choices into a diet. In the past the campers have made salsa or pizzas with vegetables; add freshness to

food they may already eat. Porzel said she and staff can enter 2021 camp more relaxed and calm after having run camp last year through the heaviness of Covid. “Covid taught us to be ready for the unexpected,” Porzel said. The Morris YMCA follows the CDC and American Camp Association guidelines during arrival, dismissal and camp itself. As campers are dropped off, health screening questions will be asked and temperatures taken before the camper can enter camp. Those who pick up a camper will text a camp site phone and a team member will escort the camper to the vehicle in order to sign out. Masks must be worn with exception to eating/drinking and the YMCA will provide one reusable mask for the summer, but masks from home are welcomed. High touch areas will be cleaned every hour and equipment will be disinfected after each use. Campers will wash hands upon arrival and throughout the day at designated times. Supplies for crafts and art projects will be kept in individual boxes and sanitized each day. Porzel said in response to hopes for 2021 camp. “Having it feel a little more normal. I’m ready for 10 weeks of fun with the kids, which they so need and deserve to run around again, not logging into Zoom, but to be kids again.” To learn more about Summer Day Camp, contact Porzel at 815-513-8080 ext. 513 or sporzel@jolietymca.org.

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

SAY HELLO TO SUMMER SUMMER DAY CAMP Ages: Camp Location:

Grades K-8 Saratoga Elementary School 4040 N. Division Street | Morris, IL

Hours:

Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Scan below to learn more about summer camps at the Y

Register onine at www.jolietymca.org ALWAYS HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY DHS funds are accepted. Financial assistance is also available. MORRIS COMMUNITY YMCA (815) 513-8080 www.jolietymca.org

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GET YOUR GAME ON The YMCA will also offer sports camps this summer at a variety of locations throughout Grundy County.

In partnership with

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby top office for 2020 The year 2020 was a very good one for Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby as they once again proved that they are unsurpassed in sales, service to their clients and dedication to the communities they serve. Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby finished 2020 as the #1 office for home sales in Morris and Grundy County and in fact sold more than twice as many Morris homes as any other real estate office in 2020 and nearly 1.5 times as many Grundy County homes as any other real estate office. Their high sales volume earned Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby the prestigious Gold Medallion award for outstanding sales in 2020. However, it is not enough to sell far more local homes than any other real estate office because at Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby outstanding sales and client satisfaction are both equally important. In fact, the office was recently awarded the 2020 Century 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Award for outstanding customer service, the highest customer service award bestowed to any Century 21 office, by earning a client satisfaction score of over 99%! Besides their sales and service com-

Photo provided

While many of the agents of Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby were out working with clients, the group pictured above took time out of the busy day to appear in the photo. mitment they are also dedicated to giving back to the communities that they serve. In fact in 2020 Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby ranked 7th of all of the Century 21 offices in the United States for the amount of money for Easter Seals, and they raised the most money of any office in Illinois. “That is quite a feat when you consider how many Century 21 offices there are in the country” exclaims Broker Owner

Coleman-Hornsby

#1 SELLER

OF GRUNDY COUNTY HOMES Source: Midwest Real Estate Database, (MLS) Single Family Detached Homes Sold in 2020 by Real Estate Ofﬁces.

#1 SELLER

Shawn Hornsby. The agents at Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby also help several other local non-profits and charities and a number of agents also serve on the boards of directors of many local organizations. Explaining their success, Broker Owner Shawn Hornsby states, “Our agents continue to amaze me! In addition to the highest level of sales, our agents continue to exceed their clients’ expectations and also give back

to the communities that they serve. These are all components of a successful office.” Although the agents of Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby had a great 2020, they look forward to the successes they will have serving their clients in 2021! Five agents joined the winning team of agents at Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby in 2020 including Greg and MaryAnn Spiewak, Melissa Morsch, Amber Wills and Brianna Legner. They join the outstanding team of Anni Romines, Betty Piotrowski, Bruce Flatness, Christy Schmaedeke, Cindie Hunt, Cody Krug, Della Coughlin, Jim Maskel, JoEllyn Johnson, Kelly Pina, Kim Garretson, Lorrie Toler, Rodney Baudino, Scott Hunt, Sheri Simms, Tami Ferguson, Terri Kief, Theresa Lamb, Tom Wawczak, Walter Castelluccio and Shawn Hornsby. Marni Van Cleave is the Office Coordinator. Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby is located in the Morris Business and Technology Center at 1802 N. Division St., Morris. They are open 7 days a week and specialize in residential, vacant land, farms, commercial and industrial properties.

Hi, I am Theresa Lamb. I have worked with buyers and sellers in this area for over 40 years. Born and raised in Morris, I have comprehensive knowledge of the local market. As a full time Realtor, my goal is to always put YOU ﬁrst and to help make your dreams come true! Put my experience to work for you and give me a call at:

(815) 735-8494

OF MORRIS HOMES

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Coleman-Hornsby 815-942-9190 1802 N. Division St. • Morris

The Morris Retail Association (MRA) is known for fun and creative events that they host throughout the year. MRA is a non-profit group of retail stores, restaurants & bars, and community members. They volunteer their time, work together and share responsibilities to produce events that shoppers have grown to love. All MRA events are open to the public. Friday, May 7 (5-9pm) is Girls Night Out. Over 20 participating retailers will offer in-store shopping specials. Each participating store will raffle a gift basket (valued at $50+). Stop in each

store to view the baskets and register to win! (No purchase necessary) Other upcoming downtown events include: Yarn Bombing (downtown trees/light poles/benches will be decorated in colorful yarn decorations - starting May 1 ), Sidewalk Sales, Ghouls Night Out, Holiday Open Houses (starting November 5/6), Midnight in Morris, and much more! MRA works with The City of Morris, Morris Downtown Development Partnership, Grundy County Chamber of Commerce, and Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau to promote all downtown

events. Many stores plan to stay open for shopping during Morris Cruise Nights. Current members include: Alpine Coffee Bar, Apple Butter & Shugies, Betty’s, Bigger Bite, Blackbird’s Bowl, Brianna Lynn’s Boutique, Carson Tap House, Clay-

ton’s Tap, Curved Boutique, Ebbey George’s Bar & Grill, Gigi’s, Grundy County Chamber of Commerce, Happy Daisy Art Studio, Just Kidding Around, Liberty Street Cafe, Morris Downtown Development Partnership, Montage, Morris Chop Shop, Oleanders, Pout Boutique, Rock-Soul-Love, Rosie O’Grady’s, Shaw Media, Studio Ferro, The Bramble Rose, The Fabric Center, The Front Porch, The Paper Co., The Thoughtful Spot, Trio (A Vintage Experience), Verbena, WCSJ/ WJDK, and Whimsy. www.shopmorrisil.com

Feeney Package Liquor brings knowledge and friendship to local store

are able to help them pick out the perfect gifts. “We put a big emphasis on developing friendships,” Feeney says. “We know what many people in the

community like to drink. We can recommend gifts. We sometimes know what is needed to fill someone’s collection.” Feeney’s employees also help customers pick out which wine to serve with meals. They know which beers are trendy and which bourbon’s are best to buy for their boss. “Our hope is that our customers are treated like family and Feeney’s becomes

their go to liquor store”. As the pandemic subsides and things get back to normal, Feeney’s will be hosting in-store samplings on a regular basis. For upcoming tastings and new items Like them on Facebook or follow them on Instagram #Feeney Package Liquor. Check out their website @ Feeneypackageliquorandwine.com

Morris Retail Association’s Annual

APRIL SPECIALS April 5th thru May 2nd, 2021

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Friday May 7th from 5pm to 9pm Grab your best girls & Join us downtown Morris for a ggreat night g of shopping! pp g

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209 W. Washington, Morris 815-942-0035 feeneypackageliquor.com • Hours: Mon-Thurs 8-9, Fri & Sat 8-10, Sun Noon-6

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

Feeney Package Liquor has been a fixture in Downtown Morris for more than 87 years. Opened in the wake of Prohibition, the Liquor Store is a fourth generation family owned and operated business. Mike Feeney and his staff have a wealth of experience in the liquor industry. Feeney’s employees know most of their customers by name and

7 HOME | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Morris Retail Association GIRLS NIGHT OUT event is May 7

Sunshine Garden Center blooms through pandemic and evolves into 2021 Sunshine Garden Center is the local garden and gift boutique that has expanded into private event rentals and a full service florist. Located at 2850 E. Division St. in Diamond, Sunshine Garden Center is a second-generation garden center and one of Diamond’s oldest businesses. In 2020, Sunshine Garden Center continued to focus on product mixes, inspiration and ideas, unique items, and a safe shopping environment. With the pandemic changing how people shopped, they launched their online store, www.sunshinegardencenter.com, for spring sales with curbside pickup or delivery while they were shut down to walk in traffic. After seeing a need for extra assistance, they offered gift certificates to help people on WIC or other aid programs grow their own food supply. They leaned on their local suppliers and growers to keep their supply chain in season and fresh throughout the year. We continue to evolve our event spaces and possibilities. Our main greenhouse transforms into 2 different spaces for events, a fun and unique garden atmosphere by day and an intimate space filled with lush plants and twinkle lights by night. It’s the perfect spot for baby and bridal showers, birthday and retirement parties, and let’s not forget weddings. Last year we expanded our outdoor garden areas to create a beautiful backdrop in photos or in the moment. We still continue to come up with new ideas for how to use or adapt the garden areas and event spaces. Our biggest announcement for

ALL your ﬂoral and gardening needs LOCALLY!

2020 though was the opening of The Flower Room at Sunshine Garden Center, not once but twice! The full service florist shut down in the spring just 2 months after it’s official opening on January 30th and it’s second opening ceremony over the summer. They can handle arrangements for any occasion. The Flower Room represents our take on fresh-cut flowers here at Sunshine Garden Center. Each piece is tailored to the recipient. We consider their favorite colors, hobbies, or flowers when we create their one-of-a-kind arrangement. From bouquets to corsages to weddings and celebrations of life they can create statement pieces, sentimental pieces, or subtle accents. They offer delivery to funeral homes in addition to local residential and businesses. There is a lot of growth happening at Sunshine Garden Center year after year. People are encouraged to find and follow them on Facebook and Instagram. All their events, classes, seminars, new arrivals, and general what’s happening now can be found on our social media sites and our website. Sarah at Sunshine Garden Center is always excited to share the journey they have been on and watch it start to come together into something bigger than ever imagined. Sunshine Garden Center can be located at 2850 E. Division St., Diamond, IL, 60416. By phone at 815-458-6100 or online at www. sunshinegardencenter.com. Find them on Facebook or Instagram @sunshinegardencenter or @theflowerroomatsunshine.

SM-CL1876561

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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2850 E Division St, Diamond, IL 60416 1/2 mile west of I-55 on Rt 113 815-458-6100 • www.sunshinegardencenter.com

New owner reopens Weits Café

A truly personal service in your time of need • Locally Owned • Traditional Funeral Services • Offering Prepaid Funerals • Cremation & Memorial Service Available

Richard

WEITS CAFE DOWNTOWN MORRIS

BREAKFAST • BRUNCH • LUNCH 8 am - 3 pm INDOOR / OUTDOOR DINING CARRY OUT - DELIVERY

www.weitscafe.com to order online 815-513-3294

SM-CL1876920

Savannah

Leroy

Cooper (Grief Dog)

Serving Grundy County for 109 Years! 121 W. Jefferson St. • Morris, IL 942-0700 www.frulandfuneralhome.com

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NOW OPEN!!

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

Brian Olson had a vision for the closed Weits Café located in historical downtown Morris, but when Covid hit he had a tough decision to make of his 2019 purchased restaurant. “Choosing to open during a pandemic was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make,” Olson, Weits Café owner said. “I felt I was not ready, but needed to just jump.” He spent almost a year in the design and construction of the restaurant, which included a 100 percent replica of the neon sign on the front of the building. A new exterior was added as well as a complete remodel of the inside with all new kitchen equipment, resurrection of the old sign and added lights and seats in the alley to increase patron volume and a quaint dining experience. “Seating in the alley outdoors has been amazing for us; we can easily add over 60 seats outside which almost doubles our capacity,” Olson said. He wanted to locally source products for the updated Weits Café. Olson said the dark wood tables, which give a cozy and modern ambiance, were all locally crafted. The coffee blends were made just for Weits Café by a Plainfield roaster, Ten Drops Coffee

Labs. “Every product we put out was designed to give something extra. Our coffee isn’t just bulk, it’s small batch local. Our salads aren’t just salads, they have house candied walnuts and house made dressings and the list goes on,” Olson said. Olson took the vision of a local hometown eatery and modernized the timeless recipes. The all-day breakfast menu consists of staples such as omelets, but boasts different types such as a Midwest, Greek, and Pacific. Classic breakfasts can be found on the menu as well as new trends like avocado crostini and breakfast wraps. Lunch sandwiches such as a signature café Rueben and grilled cheese take on a ramped up flavor profile while the fried Cuban wrap and chicken cordon blue sandwich twist the typical recipes into a new culinary experience. The café offers carryout and delivery as well. Liquor has been added to the menu and the $12 bottomless mimosas have been a hit amongst customers. “We are proud to be in the downtown community and have made so many new friends,” Olson said. The Weits Café revamp may not be the only venture for Olson. He said he hopes to build a few more concepts in Morris in the next few years.

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By Allison Selk

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Photo provided

The Front Porch celebrates 21 years in business Lucky 21! This year The Front Porch has been open for 21 years. There have been many changes throughout those years, but there have also been many aspects of the store that has remained the same. The Front Porch began in 2000 with about 1800 square feet of retail space on Washington Street. Today they have over 4000 square feet of retail space on Liberty Street. Different products have come and gone over the years, mostly merchandise to stay with the current trends. But

The Front Porch has stayed true to their mission when they opened their doors. They have always been that “one stop shop” in Morris. It’s an old cliché but they also strive to be an old fashioned store. They believe in common courtesy, kindness, friendliness and good old-fashioned personal customer service. In this day and age where the only thing between you and your purchases are a click of a mouse on a computer and a random box left on your front stoop, The Front Porch prefers

to offer the personal touch that is lost in that transaction. From the beginning in 2000 they have stayed true to their roots. The Front Porch has always been the place to go for gifts, candles, unique home furnishings, linens, tabletop accessories, gourmet foods, and kitchen gadgets. In 2003 they became the first store to acquire a wine license to sell wine and accessories. Despite throwing a pandemic in the mix, The Front Porch simply

adjusted their sails and became more conscious and cautious of their valued customers. They were diligent to disinfect throughout the day, require masks and offer hand sanitizer stations. They perfected their on-line shopping and curbside pickup, which is still offered today. As always, another old cliché The Front Porch lives by is “without you, there is no us.” The Front Porch is thankful for 21 years of business, opportunity and customers that have become friends.

Merchandise has ARRIVED!

GIRLS NIGHT OUT!! FRIDAY, MAY 7TH FROM 5-9 Lots of fun to be had!!

Find us on Facebook SM-CL1876572

317 N. Liberty St., Morris • 815-941-2358 Hours: M-F 9am-5pm • Sat 9am-4pm Sunday Seasonal

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

Mark your calendars and grab your best girlfriends for

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Beautiful New Spring

12 Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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TRADITION REDEFINED A MODERN MEMBERSHIP P

GOLF & GOLF INSTRUCTION MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS CLUBHOUSE & DINING WEDDINGS & BANQUETS

The Creek at Morris Country Club

Photo provided

In 2018, the ownership group of Morris Country Club purchased neighboring Nettle Creek Country Club. Members of Morris Country Club are now able to enjoy both Morris Country Club and Nettle Creek with their membership dues. A path has been constructed to join the two courses and the membership has access to two very unique properties. As the Membership continues to grow so does the opportunity for new improvements. In 2020 The Creek Bar and Pro Shop were rebuilt after a fire in early 2019 destroyed the Clubhouse. We are excited to bring a facility with a gorgeous view, easy accessibility, a private feel with public access to the community. The Creek Bar & Driving Range are open to the public 7 days a week, while the Golf Course is private Monday – Friday it remains open to the public on the weekends. Tee times can be made online at morriscountryclub.com. As the 2021 season begins The Creek Bar welcomes guests to enjoy great customer service, a fantastic view and relaxing ambiance. Most guests will say it’s the best kept secret in Morris, stop in and see us!

Morris C o u n t ry C lu b 2615 W. Route 6, Morris, IL 60450 | Golf: 815-942-3628 | Office: 815-942-3440 Club House: 815-942-3621 | Nettle Creek: 815-941-4300

morriscountryclub.com

Apple Butter and Shugie’s Novelty Gift Shop offers friendly service 13 Kerr’s have had three different locations. Morris, Ottawa, and Downer’s Grove. As the Kerr’s family grew, adding grandchildren to the mix, Jane wanted to put herself in a position that Stu and her could help babysit. Hence, the 309 N. Liberty location was created. Apple Butter and Shugie’s Jane, Stu, and their crew pride themselves on offering

friendly and helpful customer service. They offer a wide variety of inventory for many occasions. They describe themselves as a NOVELTY GIFT SHOP. Something for everyone on your gift giving list. They are proud to have created Morris’ 1st Yarn Bombing event. Come visit and view May 1st - September 1st. Apple Butter and Shugie’s belong

to 2 prestigious buying groups in the United States that help them find those unique and one of a kind items and definitely the next big trend. Shopping is a holiday. Come spend one with Jane, Stu, and their crew: Angi, Suzi, Sondra, Emily, Abbie, Petey, Deb, Sophie, Parker, Hadley and Johnny.

Just Kidding Around boutique for kids of all ages

Quality children’s

Just Kidding Around carries a wide selection of children’s books, games, stuffed animals and animated plush. If accessories are needed, Just Kidding Around has it covered with the widest selection of bows in town. By annually joining the Kids Club at Just Kidding Around, customers not only receive many benefits but also become part of the store’s mission in supporting two very important organizations helping children – Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Sunrise Therapeutic Riding Center. Be sure to follow Just Kidding Around on Facebook and also on Photo provided Instagram. Mother/Daughter team Maureen Headrick and Monica Brehm from Just Kidding Around.

16, boys and girls.

Fine women’s apparel and accessories from casual to dressy, including Joseph Ribkoff, Brighton jewelry, shoes & more.

218 Liberty Street Morris, IL 60450 (815) 942-3999

215 Liberty Street Morris, IL 60450 (815) 942-1514

apparel from Mayoral, Under Armour, Little Me, and Mud Pie in sizes preemie to

309 N. Liberty St. Morris, IL 815-942-5093 applebutterandshugies.com

L ANNUA MRA’S IGHT OUT N GIRLS TH , MAY 7 FRIDAY-9PM 5 IN AND COME R TO WIN E T REGIS BASKET! OUR

Visit Morris for their 1st

YARN BOMBING EVENT MAY 1 - SEPT 1

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

Located at 218 Liberty Street in downtown Morris, Just Kidding Around Children’s Boutique, owned by Mother Daughter team Maureen Headrick and Monica Brehm, opened its doors in September of 1995. Since that day, customers have enjoyed shopping for sizes preemie – 18 for both boys and girls in favorite brands such as Mayoral, Isobella and Chloe, Little Me, CR Sports, ML Kids, Wes and Willy, Mudpie, Serendipity and Under Armour. A customer favorite for infants is the “Magnetic Me” sleepers from Magnificent Baby and the sleep sacks from Little Unicorn.

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Jane Kerr co-owner of Apple Butter and Shugie’s has been in retail since 1988. Being a cheer coach for 23-plus years put her into a position to become the Illinois Cheerleading Coaches Association scholarship fundraiser. In 1992, the Kerr’s purchased their first brick and mortar location in Morris, Il. Over the years the

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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All Grundy Bank employees are eager to serve your needs. L to R: Kelly Adamack, Kevin Olson, Whitney Valdivia, Chris Breyman, Pete Brummel & J.R. Hock.

GRUNDY BANK Countryside Village celebrates Voted the BEST BANK 24 years in business And Financial Institution In Greater Grundy Your n Hometow e Advantag County Again!

Countryside Village is celebrating 24 years in business and owner Randy Fleetwood wants to thank all their customers who have supported them in their journey. This will be their third year for the outdoor Village Markets. The 2021 Village Market days will be June 19, August 21 and September 18. They have added two Special Events – a Sidewalk Sale July 17 and an Anniversary Open House/Outdoor Pop-Up Market on October 16. The three-acre property lends itself to be an ideal spot to host an outdoor market. Last year the Village Market took place twice and due to an overwhelming response a third date was added. Customers can enjoy free admission to the outdoor market and shop from local artisans and crafters with specialties in home décor, garden décor, handcrafted items, gourmet foods, gifts, local farmers, customer pieces and more, according to the online event page. Wine tastings are held on select Sat-

urdays. The dates and wines that will be sampled are advertised on their Facebook page. Inside the store shoppers will find candles, lotions and soaps, a full kitchen department, garden area, rugs and linens, women’s apparel and jewelry, baby gifts, purses, scarves, gourmet foods, teas, coffee and so much more. The store boasts a fabric/quilt center with over 2000 bolts and employees have a combined 47 years of experience. They teach classes for the beginner and advanced quilter. Customers who take a class can get a discount on their supplies needed. Classes are posted on their website at www.countrysidevillagegifts.com and on their Facebook page. When Randy began his business in 1997, he wanted it to be considered a one-stop shop, like an old-style department store. “A lot of customers tell me they can buy things for anyone and everyone.”

• 201 Liberty St. Morris • 444 Bedford Rd. Morris • 120 S. Main St. Wilmington (815) 942-0130 • www.grundybank.com

Spring is in the Air! NEW MERCHANDISE has arrived! This is your One Stop Shop

Outdoor Village Markets June 19, August 21, September 18 9am-2pm

Sidewalk Sale July 17 • 9am-3pm

Anniversary Open House & Outdoor Pop-Up Market October 16 • 9am-3pm

SM-CL1876343

Mon-Sat. 9am-5pm Sun 11am-4pm

1540 N. Division • Braidwood, IL • 815-458-2191 15 miles south of Joliet on I-55 & Rt. 113. Exit 236 countrysidevillagegifts.com

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

for home decor, garden art, women’s fashions & jewelry, gourmet foods & tea, wine, linens and a huge selection of quilt fabrics and supplies!

HOME | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE GIFTS

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

| HOME

Your Grundy County Custom Wheel Headquarters!

e k a M

STEVE’S TIRE R YOU

TIRE STORE! Just to name a few... • American Racing • American Eagle Alloys • Epic • Motegi • KMC • Borbet • Moda • BBS • Boss • MSR • O.E. Chrome Plating

For All Your Car & Light Truck Service & Tire Needs! • Quality Parts • Saturday Hours • Competitive Prices

• Nationwide Warranty • We Service National Accounts QUALITY USED TIRES - TUNE-UPS - BELTS HOSES - WIPERS - HEADLIGHTS COMPUTERIZED DIAGNOSTIC - INTERSTATE BATTERIES

Oil, Lube & Filter

Computerized Alignment

FREE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE CHECK

Includes: • Lube, where applicable (On Request) • New oil filter installed • Up to 5 quarts major brand oil (brands vary) Must present coupon to get this price.Most vehicles.No other discounts apply.Redeem at participating Goodyear Retailer. Special diesel oil and filter extra.Vehicles requiring 5W20 may be extra.Fluid/filter disposal charges may apply.Additional charges for shop supplies,up to 7% or $25 maximum,may be added.See store for complete details.Offer ends 6/30/21.

SM-CL1876612

20 OFF

New brake pads, resurface front rotors, add brake ﬂuid, inspect hydraulic system. Metallic pads extra. Every brake job is different.Additional parts/service often needed at substantial extra cost. Free limited estimate. Limited Warranty - 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever ﬁrst. Offer ends 6/30/21. No other discounts apply.

STEVE’S TIRE

& Service Center

119

Limited Warranty - 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever ﬁrst. Additional parts and labor extra. Offer ends 6/30/21.No other discounts apply.

Spring Car Care Package

5995

• Lube, oil change, new ﬁlter (up to 5 quarts of a major brand of oil) • Complete vehicle inspection (including condition of brakes) • Top off all ﬂuids under the hood • Examine all belts and hoses for cracks and proper tension • Complete 4 tire rotation • Check tread depth and adjust tire pressure • Check antifreeze

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

2-Wheel Front Disc Brake Service

HOME | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

10 OFF

On Any Service of $100 or More Offer ends 6/30/21. No other discounts apply.

Special diesel oil & ﬁlter are extra. Offer ends 6/30/21. No other discounts apply.

Steve Holtan

“Your Full Service Auto & Light Truck Center”

514 Liberty Street • Morris, IL • 942-5080 • HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30; Sat ‘til 1

Owner

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

| HOME

Grundy-Three Rivers Habitat for Humanity Submitted By Julie Wilkinson, Board President The availability of affordable housing remains a critical issue in Grundy County. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, a Grundy County resident earning minimum wage needs to work more than 2.5 weeks in order to pay the average month’s rent on a two-bedroom home. This leaves only 1.5 weeks of monthly wages to pay for utilities, food, gas, childcare, medical care, and other basic expenses. As a result, many working families are forced to make tough decisions- choosing unsafe or overcrowded housing, moving in with loved ones, or finding alternative means to make ends meet such as high interest credit cards and predatory loans. For the past 24 years, this urgency has driven Grundy-Three Rivers Habitat for Humanity’s mission to bring people together to build and renovate homes, revitalize communities, and restore hope. The heart of Habitat’s work is building simple, decent, affordable homes for low-income families. Families are chosen through a thorough application process and are then joined by skilled and unskilled volunteers from the community and local businesses to construct their home using discounted material and donated labor. Just before Christmas of 2020, volunteers cut a ribbon with partner family Kathleen and her ten-year-old son Patrick who are the fourteenth Grundy County family to break the cycle of renting after helping construct their new home in Morris. Kathleen’s mortgage, which includes property taxes and insurance, is nearly the same as the rent she paid previously. Now her family is building equity, enjoying stability, and experiencing the pride of homeownership. They are also very happy.

Parallel to new home construction, volunteers are helping keep Grundy County residents from being displaced from their homes. Through the Home Preservation program, Habitat serves low-income homeowners with affordable repairs and modifications. In return, they contribute sweat equity, often providing lunch for volunteers, and up to 20% of the project’s cost. Since inception in 2016, this program has impacted 30 families through exterior repair projects- ranging from replacing broken doors that no longer locked to buildPhoto provided ing wheelchair ramps that restore Kathleen and her son Patrick sharing a laugh outside of their new Habitat home. dignity and mobility. Each new home and home repair is funded by dollars raised locally by a board of directors, special event volunteers and two part-time staff members. The organization is five home repairs in 2021 at an average cost of $2,500 each. The construction of a simple, three-bedroom home has topped $110,000 in recent years due to rising material prices and the impacts of Covid-19. Businesses, clubs, and churches are invited to get involved by sponsor their workday, designating a day for their volunteers to help repair or construct a house while following Covid guidelines. Past participants in this meaningful exchange include LyondellBasell, Exelon Dresden 4 Types of Hardwood Mulch in Stock! Station, DuPont, New Community Christian Church, Park Street Church, Grundy Bank and others. Additionally, the organization COMPLETE COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SERVICES seeks volunteers for committees and • PONDS & SUPPLIES • LANDSCAPING • RETAINING WALLS special events, and has a few open• GARDEN CENTER • PAVER STONES • LAWN CARE ings on the Board of Directors. We carry over 700 varieties of Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, In safe, decent housing, families Roses, Annuals & more! thrive. Homeownership builds better neighborhoods and stronger commuYOUR ONE STOP LANDSCAPING SHOP! nities. For this reason, housing impacts all of us. To learn more, please 1565 W. Rt. 6, Morris call (815)942-1452 or email elena@ 815.942.2235 grundy3rivershabitat.org.

NOW OPEN

T That

e wwww.thatperennialplace.com c a l P l a i n n Pere Celebrating 27 Years!

Ponds, Nursery, Landscaping, Landscape & Water Garden Center

19 HOME | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Village of Channahon

Celebrates 60th Anniversary Channahon Potato Festival (September) – Fun fact: did you know that the large river rocks often found under Channahon’s soil are affectionately referred to as “Channahon potatoes”? In spirit of this land we call home, the Village of Channahon, Channahon Park District and the Three Rivers Public Library District are joining forces to throw the inaugural Channahon Potato Festival! Food trucks, potato-themed competitions and much more are in the works. Stay tuned for more delicious details! Pumpkin Carving Contest (October) – Put your pumpkin carving skills to the test using one of the Village’s fun carving designs, or a creation all your own! More details to be shared later this year. Channaholidays (December) – Channaholidays will be back and better than ever in 2021 to culminate the Village’s year-long 60th anniversary celebration. Stay tuned as the winter gets closer for more announcements on how the Village is expanding its holiday festivities this year.

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

While Channahon has been around since the early 1800s, it was officially incorporated as a village on December 15, 1961 – which means the Village of Channahon celebrates its 60th anniversary this year! In recognition of this milestone anniversary, the Village is in the process of planning a number of exciting events throughout the year to celebrate the momentous occasion with residents. Here’s just a sneak peek of upcoming events the Village has planned: 60th Scavenger Hunt (May) – Join in on this Village-wide scavenger hunt for the chance to win some special, limitededition prizes. Residents are encouraged to get out, explore and enjoy many of the parks, preserves, walking trails and other natural amenities that Channahon has to offer while hunting for hidden eggs among the foliage. Prizes include gift certificates to local businesses, Channahon memorabilia and more. More details, including dates and maps, will be posted to www.channahon.org and the Village’s social media pages in the weeks ahead.

Cheers to 60 years! SM-CL1871099

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

| BUSINESS

BUSINESS

Grundy Bank continues their mission to provide the best customer service during the pandemic

By Allison Selk Grundy Bank stepped up during the 2020 pandemic crisis to assist local businesses and non-profits to stay afloat and pushes forward to provide the best customer service with the current trends as the world navigates through a pandemic. Kevin Olson, Grundy Bank President and CEO said just weeks after the Paycheck Protection Program was passed under the federal Cares Act in March 2020, loans began to process through the bank. Olson said the eligibility was set by the federal government and the U.S. Small Business Administration. The U.S. Small Business Administration web site said the loans were designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep workers on payroll and will run through May 31, 2021. JR Hock, Grundy Bank Marketing Coordinator said Grundy Bank processed more than $23 million in PPP loans. “This money went back to many small businesses right here in Grundy County, benefiting our local economy,” Hock said. In addition, Grundy Bank received $36,000 in grant funds through its partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) FHLBank Targeted Impact Fund. Grundy Bank in turn, donated $5,000 for

Photo provided

Grundy Bank’s Bedford Road branch in Morris

Photo provided

Grundy Bank’s Liberty Street branch in Morris a total of $41,000 in grant money which was dispersed among local non-profits. “This was a way for us to help out our community and help out the non-profits so, in turn, they could help our community members,” Olson said. Olson said the bank looked at agencies that helped the community during the pandemic. Non-profits which received the grant funds included the Morris YMCA, We

Care of Grundy County, the Community Foundation of Grundy County, Morris Hospital Auxiliary and Our Caring Closet in Wilmington. Hock said Grundy Bank, which has been in Morris for 157 years, wants to offer the best service to its clients. Current trends in banking, safety and social media remain on the forefront of this mission. A recycled trend, check fraud, has arisen due to tighter security

with chip readers in credit and debit cards. New fraud protection services will include more in-depth questions when online banking in order to heighten security. Hock said the bank wants to “up our game” when it comes to fraud. Olson said on top of check fraud, fraud of all types went rampant during the pandemic in 2020 and continues. People receive phone calls from someone who claims to be from the Internal Revenue Service, social security offices, banks, unemployment and more. In response, Grundy Bank joined the “Banks Never Ask That” campaign through the American Bankers Association and posted questions that banks would not ask on social media to educate customers of scams. On the Facebook page, some of the information banks do not ask includes emails to ask for bank account information or social security number for example. More information can be found on the Facebook page on how to look for fraud. As the bank moves through 2021, Hock encouraged clients to be on the look out for a new website slated to launch during the first quarter next year. The new site will be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant and have new features for the hearing and vision impaired, it will be quicker to navigate with less clicks, more user friendly. Apple and Google Pay will be included on cards, per request from the client, which can also be tied to a cell phone for ease of use. Hock said Grundy Bank will add the Zelle payment option which goes through the bank network instead of a separate provider account which has to be transferred to a bank account. Olson said Grundy Bank will continue to pursue the best service for its clients and with the spike in technology use due to Covid; the bank strives to provide technology advances onto its clients. “We will continue to serve our clients and community as it has been through history,” Olson said.

Events are back in Downtown Morris!

k n a B y Grund r u o Y n e Has Be e g a t n a v d A n w Hometo 864! Since 1 The banking industry and world in general has changed since we first opened our doors in Morris in 1864.

While many other banks have been acquired by larger banks, closed or moved out of the area, Grundy Bank has stood by you and continues to be your Hometown Advantage. Our roots run deep here in Morris, Wilmington and the Grundy County area communities we serve. Today, some 157 years after we began, Grundy Bank is the only locally owned and managed bank remaining here in Grundy County and the surrounding area. Our decisions are not made in Chicago, Springfield or New York for that matter. They are made right here by our local management team. We’re your neighbors, your friends and make this our home. Make Grundy Bank your bank. You’ll love our friendly professional quality service.

Kevin Olson

President & CEO

• 201 Liberty St. Morris • 444 Bedford Rd. Morris • 120 S. Main St. Wilmington (815) 942-0130 • www.grundybank.com SM-CL1876972

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

Plans are in place for 2021 events in downtown Morris! Although some modifications may be necessary, the Morris Downtown Development Partnership (MDDP) is making plans to bring all of their major events back this year. These events will provide a variety of experiences for local residents, and bring visitors to the area to support the local economy. Current MDDP events include the Liberty 5k Run/Walk, the Liberty Arts Festival and Home for the Holiday’s. MDDP also coordinates the Run 4 Morris circuit and promotion. Thousands of people visit downtown Morris during events where they can also shop, dine and enjoy all that downtown Morris has to offer. The first 2021 event for the Morris Downtown Development Partnership is the annual Liberty 5K Run/ Walk. The Liberty 5k has grown into what may be the largest 5k in Morris. The race boasts chip timing on a certified course that takes runners through nostalgic downtown Morris, area parks, and neighborhoods. Winners receive beautiful medals and trophies and all runners receive finishers medals and dri-weave shirts. Although these things are certainly appealing to the runners, perhaps one of the biggest draws is the fact that military personnel are honored and supported. The 5K is scheduled for July 3rd at 6:00pm. At this time, plans have been made for a socially distanced run with participants staring in waves. Should mitigations allow, the run can easily transition to a traditional run with pre-race activities and an awards ceremony. Registration is now open at www.liberty5k.run. The second major event for the Morris Downtown Development Partnership is the Liberty Arts Festival. Plans are already in place for the annual Art Walk on Saturday, October 2. Holding the event later in the year should bring cooler temperatures than the festival’s original July date, and will hopefully allow for additional activities with larger groups of people. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy strolling down the streets of Morris visiting booths filled with photography, paintings, watercolors, pottery and more! In addition to the Fine Art Walk, the separate Makers Market will be returning. The Fine Art Walk will be juried and ribbons and cash prizes

will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place participants. Those interested in participating in the Art Walk can visit the MDDP website, www.downtownmorris.com, for registration information. The “Run 4 Morris” promotion will be returning in 2021. Those who participate in the Liberty 5k and three of the additional 5ks in Morris will receive a promotional item, such as a jacket, and will be eligible for a Garmin running watch and Grundy County Chamber gift certificates. The other runs on the “Run 4 Morris” circuit are the Superhero 5k Run/Walk on April 17, the AnyBODY 5k on August 21, the Corn Fest 5k on September 25 and Run the Beat on October 16. Home for the Holidays will return to downtown Morris on November 26-27. The committee is making plans for this year’s activities, including Santa and his Reindeer, and the festival’s signature House Walk and Lighted Parade. Home owners who might be interested in having their home featured this year are encouraged to contact the MDDP. Besides the events that the Morris Downtown Development Partnership hosts, many other events are going forward this year. You won’t want to miss Girls Night Out, The City of Morris’ Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn, Cruise Nights and the Grundy County Corn Festival! Be sure to visit the MDDP’s website www.downtownmorris.com for additional events and information. Adding to the atmosphere of downtown Morris’ evening events is new “celebration lighting” at the intersection of Washington and Liberty streets. The MDDP would love to bring lighting to additional intersections, but the cost of structural enhancements and labor is significant. Various funding options to move forward are being considered including individual and corporate donations. Now is your opportunity to help enhance your local community! For additional information, please contact the Morris Downtown Development Partnership at (815) 941-0245. The MDDP operates under the direction of part-time Executive Director, Julie Applegate, and a board of directors. Individuals interested in being involved with MDDP events or activities are encouraged to call 815-941-0245 or e-mail mddp@downtownmorris.com.

BUSINESS | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Julie Applegate Morris Downtown Development Partnership

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

| BUSINESS

Fruland Funeral Home celebrates more than 109 years This year, Fruland Funeral Home celebrates 109 years in the funeral business. Lifelong Morris resident Richard Hexdall has been funeral director of the downtown Morris business since 1972 and owner since 2000, when he purchased it from H. Paul Fruland. Earl Fruland had given the business to his son in 1973. The staff at Fruland includes J. LeRoy Claypool, Paul W. Jung and Stephen D. Keech, all assistants to the funeral director. Fruland Funeral Home also added a new face to its staff last year when Morris Community High School graduate Savannah Strange became an apprentice after attending Joliet Junior College and graduating from Worsham College of Mortuary Science. Hexdall and his staff are active members of the community and are committed to providing funeral services to families of all faiths and nationalities. Their commitment to helping families in need includes individualized attention and answering calls personally. Clients of Fruland’s may be assured that the staff understands their needs and respects their considerations, and they will feel comfortable and confident with the funeral home’s ability to carry out a loved one’s last wishes. Fruland Funeral Home offers a variety of options to fit families’ requests and needs, including traditional funerals, graveside services, customized caskets and rental cas-

kets for cremation services. With the popularity of cremations, Fruland now offers several options to families. They carry a large selection of urns and mementos in many shapes, sizes and colors to suit individual tastes. Also offered are options of keepsake jewelry such as rings, crosses, hearts, bracelets, necklaces and rose stems. Personalized caskets and memorial service selections are also available. Fruland Funeral Home offers preplanning, so that clients may select the type of funeral and end-of-life wishes they desire. Planning ahead of time can also take some of the burden off families. Pre-planning a funeral may be done at a client’s own pace, with ample time to consider the pros and cons of each option. Many say they have peace of mind knowing plans are already in place. Pre-need funds are placed in trust in an Illinois bank or other financial institution. Visit the Fruland Funeral Home website for more information about pre-planning. Many updates have been made to the interior and exterior of the business in recent years, including improved accessibility for the handicapped. Fruland Funeral Home is located at 121 W. Jefferson St. in Morris. For more information visit them online at www.frulandfuneralhome.com or call 815-942-0700.

A truly personal service in your time of need • Locally Owned • Traditional Funeral Services • Offering Prepaid Funerals • Cremation & Memorial Service Available

Richard

Savannah

Leroy

Cooper (Grief Dog)

Serving Grundy County for 109 Years! 121 W. Jefferson St. • Morris, IL 942-0700 www.frulandfuneralhome.com SM-CL1876640

Trusted for over 86 Years!

Steve and Jordan are always up to date on the most recent crop insurRoth Jorstad Insurance, located ance changes and updates to assist in downtown Morris at the corner farmers with their decisions. of Liberty and Jefferson Streets Deborah Baker, Managing Agent, strives to be your hometown indecan be found at the 322 Liberty pendent insurance agency. St. location along with Personal As an independent agency Roth Lines licensed assistant, Cindy Jorstad has capabilities to quote McCormack and Commerical Lines and write your business with more assistant, Sandy Wiekert. The than one company. Dealing with Morris office can assist you with numerous companies allows Roth your questions or quote requests Jorstad agents to “shop” for a clifor home and auto or business and ent’s coverage. farm insurance. Baker can also asRoth Jorstad can assist clients sist you with Life, Health and Longwho only require coverage for Term Care Insurance. Roth Jorstad a scooter or a family with many household vehicles. They can quote has access to several companies where they can find the coverage coverage for your starter home or best suited for your needs. your dream home, your downtown Roth Jorstad at 322 Liberty St. business or your farmland. Steve Jorstad and Jordan Jorstad can be reached by calling 815-942would be happy to help you with all 4900 or stop in anytime to learn more ways they can be of assisyour Crop Insurance needs along tance. with any necessary farm coverage.

SUBMITTED STORY

2021

•

Best of

•

Herald-N e

ris r o

Gr und y C

Voting begins June 10th

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

Greater Grundy County Readers’ Choice 2021!

23 BUSINESS | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Roth Jorstad strives to be your hometown independent insurance agency

Trust someone who doesn’t just know insurance, but someone who knows and understands your coverage needs. As your hometown agency, we give you personal assistance and offer choices IN INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC from several 815-942-4900 excellent insurance 322 Liberty St. companies to (Corner of Liberty & Jefferson) make sure you can • HOME • LIFE obtain the quality • AUTO • BUSINESS coverage you • FARM • BOAT deserve. • CROP • MOTORCYCLE

SM-CL1876653

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

| HEALTH

HEALTH

Morris Hospital Completes Next Phase in Main Campus Modernization SUBMITTED STORY In March 2020, Morris Hospital opened its new Emergency Department in renovated space on the hospital’s first floor, dramatically changing the experience for emergency patients. Since then, the space

previously occupied by the Emergency Department has been transformed into a new Cardio Diagnostics department and Interventional Prep/ Recovery area as part of the second phase of Morris Hospital’s main campus modernization project. Both are strategically located next to the Cath

Photo provided

Morris Hospital has a new 5 bay Interventional Prep/Recovery area for patients preparing for and recovering from an interventional radiology or cath lab procedure, such as angioplasty, pacemaker or defibrillator insertion, or PICC line insertion.

Photo provided

EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, cardioversions, and neurology studies are performed in Morris Hospital’s new Cardio Diagnostics department, located in renovated space that previously held the hospital’s Emergency Department.

Photo provided

Morris Hospital’s new Emergency Department was part of the first phase of renovations on the hospital main campus and offers all private treatment rooms.

Lab, bringing all of Morris Hospital’s cardiovascular services together in the same part of the hospital. The new Cardio Diagnostics department provides enhanced facilities for patients undergoing EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, cardioversions, and other cardiac diagnostic services, as well as EEG (electroencephalogram) and EMG (electromyography) neurology studies. All of the testing rooms are bigger and more functional, resulting in enhanced privacy and patient care. Along with the newly renovated space, Morris Hospital has added new stress testing and EMG equipment, and a new tilt table that is used to assist with specialized diagnostic studies. Interventional Prep/Recovery Located adjacent to the Cardio Diagnostics, the new Interventional Prep/Recovery features 5 private, spacious bays for patients preparing for and recovering from an interventional radiology or cath lab procedure, such as angioplasty, pacemaker or defibrillator insertion, or PICC line insertion, a vast improvement compared to the Cath Lab’s previous 2-bay prep/recovery area. Even on the busiest days, there should be ample space to recover and discharge patients following a procedure in the Cath Lab, avoiding the need to take patients to another area of the hospital until they are ready to go home. An added enhancement to the space is natural lighting. Families will appreciate a new consultation room that gives physicians a private place to meet with families following a procedure in the Cath Lab. The consultation room has a wall mounted monitor that allows the physician to show images that were obtained during the procedure to the family representative. Imaging Services Renovations to the hospital’s Imaging Services department are also now complete. One of the highlights is the new Women’s Imaging Center that has a separate sub-waiting area for women having a mammogram, bone density test, stereotactic breast biopsy, or ultrasound. Along with the Women’s Imaging Center, Morris Hospital has brought all of its ultrasound and x-ray testing together in the main Imaging department, rather than having a separate area for outpatients. This helps simplify way-finding for patients and visitors, who now access the hospital

from High Street for all services. The new Imaging department has four ultrasound rooms (one dedicated for women’s imaging and connected to the Women’s Imaging Center), three x-ray rooms, and two 64-slice CT scanners. The MRI remains in its original location at the hospital due to the room’s special magnetic shielding features. Renovations are currently underway for relocating nuclear medicine testing to the former Cardio Diagnostics area. Infusion Therapy Early last year, renovations to the hospital main lobby were completed, which resulted in relocating the Outpatient Laboratory just down the hall from the main entrance. Phase one renovations also included a new Infusion Therapy Center for patients who require medication delivered through an IV pump or intramuscular injection, blood transfusions, IV antibiotic therapy, hydration therapy, and central line catheter care. The new Infusion Therapy Center features five private patient treatment rooms, each equipped with recliners, warm blankets, pillows, television, Wi-Fi, refreshments, oxygen and windows for natural light. Emergency Department Serving over 25,000 patients a year, Morris Hospital’s new Emergency Department couldn’t have come at a better time. The 17 private treatment rooms have definitely been advantageous throughout the COVID pandemic, as compared to the previous 11 bed Emergency Department. The new Emergency Department also includes a rapid care area, allowing patients with the least serious injuries to be seen quickly by a provider and registered nurse. As long as rooms are available, patients can count on going straight to a treatment room instead of returning to the waiting room. The new Emergency Department also features a specialized trauma room, pediatric room, gynecology room, and two rooms designated for psychiatric emergencies, along with improved decontamination facilities for biohazard emergencies. Future Plans Next, Morris Hospital is making plans for renovations that will modernize the hospital’s peri-operative services facilities, including the operating rooms, post anesthesia recovery unit, sterile processing, and ambulatory surgery unit. These renovations are expected to begin in summer 2021.

BRAIDWOOD: Braidwood Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 389 E. Main St. 815-458-2532 (Family Medicine)

GARDNER: Gardner Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 409 N. Route 53 815-237-0413 (Family Medicine)

CHANNAHON: Morris Hospital Ridge Road Campus 27240 W. Saxony Dr. 815-521-1500 (Immediate Care, Occupational Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Cardiology, Allergy, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Laboratory, X-Ray, Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI Mammography, Bone Density)

MARSEILLES: Marseilles Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 580 Sycamore St. 815-795-2122 (Pediatrics)

Channahon Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 25259 Reed St. 815-467-0555 (Family Medicine, Rheumatology, Endocrinology, Neurology) DIAMOND-COAL CITY: Morris Hospital Diamond-Coal City Campus 1450 E. Division St. 815-634-3500 (Convenient Care, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Occupational Medicine, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Laboratory, X-Ray, Ultrasound, CT Scan, DEXA Scan, Mammography) DWIGHT: Dwight Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 101 S. Prairie Ave. 815-584-3291 (Family Medicine, Cardiology)

MAZON: Mazon Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 522 Depot St. 815-448-2423 (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine) MINOOKA: Minooka Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 603 W. Mondamin St. 815-521-1010 (Family Medicine) MORRIS: Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers (Main Hospital Campus) 150 West High St. 815-942-2932 Radiation Therapy Center of Morris Hospital 1600 West U.S. Rt. 6 815-364-8915 Diagnostic & Rehabilitative Center of Morris Hospital 100 Gore Rd. 815-364-8919 (Immediate Care, Occupational Medicine, Laboratory, X-Ray, Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Pulmonary Rehabilitation)

Morris Healthcare Centers of Morris Hospital 1345 N. Edwards St. 815-942-9299 (Rheumatology) 815-467-0555 (Endocrinology) 815-942-1421 (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine) 815-941-1580 (Internal Medicine) 425 E. U.S. Route 6 815-942-8080 (Internal Medicine) 815-513-3074 (Infectious Disease) 1499 Lakewood Drive, Suite C 815-416-1300 (Family Medicine)

NEWARK: Newark Healthcare of Morris Hospital 5 N. Johnson St. 815-695-5042 (Family Medicine) OTTAWA: Morris Hospital Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists 1300 Starfire Dr. 815-324-9700 (Obstetrics & Gynecology, Bone Density, Mammography)

948 W. U.S. Route 6 815-942-5474 (Family Medicine)

Morris Hospital Cardiovascular Specialists 1300 Starfire Drive 815-705-1000 (Cardiology)

1300 W. Dresden Dr. 815-942-5200 (General Surgery, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine)

Morris Hospital Ottawa Campus 1306 Gemini Circle, Ste. 1 815-433-9200 (Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Laboratory)

Morris Hospital Obstetrics Gynecology Specialists 237 W. Waverly St. 815-941-0441 (Obstetrics & Gynecology)

SENECA: Seneca Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital 271 N. Main St. 815-357-8511 (Family Medicine)

Morris Hospital Cardiovascular Specialists 151 West High St. – Lower Level 815-705-1000 (Cardiology) Morris Hospital Pediatricians 151 West High St. – Upper Level 815-705-3300 (Pediatrics) Morris Hospital Neurology Specialists 1802 N. Division St., Suite 703 815-942-4506 (Neurology) Morris Hospital Sleep Center 1499 Lakewood Dr. Unit I 815-941-7533 (Sleep Center)

LEARN MORE BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE WWW.MORRISHOSPITAL.ORG

YORKVILLE: Morris Hospital Yorkville Campus 105 Saravanos Dr. 630-553-8200 (Convenient Care, Occupational Medicine, PhysicalTherapy,X-Ray)

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

SERVING YOU FROM 26 LOCATIONS!

25 HEALTH | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

YOUR LOCAL RESOURCE FOR HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Dr. George Roebuck Family Eyecare provides eyecare updates for 2021 2020 was supposed to be the year of the Optometrist, and the year to get your eyes checked. But now it will forever be remembered as the year COVID-19 took over. And like all the other businesses, we were shut down for 3 months to get control of the virus. “We did our best to care for our patients using Facebook and Skype” said Dr. Roebuck. “At least we were allowed to see emergency patients and repair or re-order glasses as needed for our doctors, nurses and other essential front line workers” But then in June we were allowed to open using COVID guidelines. “Safety has to be our priority--patients have to social distance, and the exam rooms and eyeglass frames have to be sanitized in-between patients,” Dr. Roebuck replied. Other things that have changed this last year are listed below. Anti Fog Spray: When you wear your mask, your glasses often fog up. So Zeiss has developed Zeiss Fog Defender Spray. It’s a wonderful product if your glasses fog up. You have to clean your glasses in the morning, then spritz on some Fog Defender Spray and wipe it off with a micro fiber cloth. It puts on a special film that lasts for 24 hours, and it truly makes glasses stop fogging. It only costs $10 but is a tremendous help to a lot of my patients. Another help with fogging is to make sure your glasses sit away from your cheeks and have some air circulation. Sometimes larger plastic frames can hug your cheeks and cut off air flow. Frames with nose pads can usually be adjusted to keep the frame off your cheeks, but if you like the plastic look, Dr. Roebuck has a new selection of plastic frames with the nose pads so you can have the plastic look, but have the nose pads to keep them off your cheeks and help with the fogging. Allergy Season is Back: The weather man just said last night that the tree pollen is very high now, and the grass pollen is moderate. And if you’re sensitive to fresh mowed grass, or cottonwood pollen, you already know that the season is upon us. For years I’ve been prescribing Alaway eye drops and antihistamine pills, but now we have a new choice. Pataday is now available without a prescription. So if you get the itchy watery

eyes with allergies, Pataday is a great choice without having to come in and get a prescription. Droopy Eyelids: As we age, our eyelids lose elasticity and begin to droop. Cosmetic eyelid surgery has been the only cure until now. Upneeq is a new eyedrop approved by the FDA to help patients open their eyes wider and see up to 30% more range of vision. It is available only by prescription, so you have to see your eye doctor and see if it’s right for you. Some patients use it every day, and some just use it when needed. Dry Eyes: The strongest medicine to help with dry eyes is the Amniotic Membrane. A small piece of amniotic tissue is prepared from the umbilical cord or amniotic sac which is usually discarded after a baby is born. The prepared tissue is then placed on the eye for about a week and the dry sore eye tissue heals and usually becomes healthy again. And this procedure can be repeated as needed every 6 months if the eyes get irritated again. But now in 2021 we can continue the healing with Regener-Eyes Ophthalmic eye drops. They gather up over 700 different healing proteins, cytokines and growth factors and bottle it for daily use. This is

a brand new product. Again you need a prescription, so talk to your eye doctor and see if it’s right for you. 1-Day Contacts: My sales rep pulled my figures and told me that 30% of my contact lens orders were for 1-Day contacts. I couldn’t believe it--but they are really catching on. And if you have allergies or dryness issues they are a big improvement. Normal contacts absorb air and all the pollen particles associated with it. And after wearing contacts for 30 days that’s a lot of pollen for your eyes. But with the new 1-Day contacts, you are always putting in a fresh clean pair with no pollen or dust or contaminants to react to, so your eyes feel fresh all day. It’s a huge improvement over the 2 week or 30 day contacts.. Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are still the mainstay of optometry. Women are going to new fun designs that are larger and playful in unconventional shapes with unique color palates. Men are going with professional, classic stylish frames in larger sizes, but with flexible metals or slick thin line shapes. Kids with Computer Eyestrain: Children are suffering more with computer eyestrain since they are

doing so much schooling on their computer, and then spending much of their play time in front of a screen. Before COVID hit, most doctors told parents to limit screen time and make sure your child has at least 1 hour per day to play outside and get away from computer screens altogether. As we get through this pandemic, here are a few computer tips to remember: 1. Young eyes were not meant to look at a computer for 8 hours a day. Kids will need time to look around and “stretch” their vision. 2. After 20 to 30 minutes of screen time, younger children may need to look up at a calendar across the room and rest their eyes for 10 or 20 blinks. 3. Since computers are backlit, you can turn the room lights down so it’s not so “glary” to young eyes. 4. And if headaches and eyestrain persist with too much eyestrain, kids may need a pair of reading glasses. Bad grades and frequent headaches often point to a vision problem. 5. And school age children still need still need 1 hour of outdoor or gym playtime to develop strong bones and strong muscles. And kids that get their 1 hour of good playtime get fewer eye problems including lesser amounts of near-sightedness.

“One of the Best” Eye Doctors for Over Ten Years!

COMPREHENSIVE EXAMS • DIABETIC EYE EXAMS • EYE INFECTIONS IRRITATED DRY EYES • CONTACT LENSES • GLAUCOMA TREATMENT EYE ALLERGIES • EMERGENCY EYE CARE - Medicare - Medicaid

815-942-1951

113 E. Jefferson, Morris • www.drgeorgeroebuck.com

SM-CL1876599

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

George Roebuck O.D.

HEALTH | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Dr. George Roebuck Family Eyecare

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Local Hospice Expands Outreach with New Brand By Eileen Hooks Gutierrez Senior director of development and communications at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care It’s been a year of incredible progress for Joliet Area Community Hospice—a new addition, a new building, a new name and brand. The 40-year-old organization is transitioning to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care. Lightways will continue to be nonprofit, independent and based in Joliet. The new name and brand are designed to encompass the health care providers’ expansion and be a catalyst for future growth. In 1982 when the organization was founded, Joliet Area Community Hospice was the perfect name. It clearly defined what the organization did—provide hospice care--and where they did it—Joliet. But now, outreach is greater. Lightways cares for patients in eight Illinois counties and will add three more counties this year for a total of 11. And services are broader. Lightways continues to provide exceptional hospice care, and additionally has an extensive Serious Illness Care program, the leading Pediatric Program in the state and a comprehensive Grief Support program. “Hospice care and serious illness care are unique segments in the spectrum of healthcare people will receive in their lifetime. It’s important to us that our brand reflects the unique care we provide,” said Mary Kay Sheehan, Chief Executive Officer. “People come to us in a dark time filled with unknowns. At Lightways, we provide unwavering support and guidance to light the way.” The new website is lightways.org and a broad-based multimedia campaign will begin this month. The new logo will be used with a “Founded as Joliet Area Community Hospice” description during the transition. “It’s very important to us that the community understand that we are

still independent and nonprofit. Our Joliet roots are tremendously important to the organization—they are the foundation supporting our growth and expansion,” said Sheehan.

New Addition:

Lightways is expanding the Hospice Inpatient Unit with a 12-bed new addition that opened in February. This project is phase one of a twopart project to expand the organization’s facility at 250 Water Stone Circle in Joliet. The goal is to create a 20-bed facility that provides great functionality for patients, families and staff in a warm and peaceful setting. The 9,000-square-foot addition includes 12 all-new patient suites that are built for comfort for both patients and families. Highlights include: • Large suites with beautiful décor and natural lighting • Over-sized patient beds and stateof-the-art medical equipment • Pullout beds for overnight visitors • Electronic communications system, TVs with streaming services and refrigerators in every suite

Each room has French doors which open to a private patio. The doors are wide enough that the patient can go outside from the comfort of his or her bed. Construction is now underway on phase two—the renovation of the existing Hospice Home. Built in 2004 as the first free-standing hospice facility in Illinois, the Hospice Home has served thousands of people who require 24-hour care to manage pain and symptoms. When the entire Hospice Inpatient Unit is complete, it will feature family-focused gathering areas including: • A multi-family living room and dining room where families can gather • A private dining room and kitchen where families can prepare and enjoy a special meal if they choose • A renovated lobby • A business center for families’ use

Joliet Area Community Hospice CEO Mary Kay Sheehan checks in with volunteers who are assembling information packets about the organization’s transition to the new Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care name. All construction is expected to be completed this summer. This $8.3 million project was funded through the Remembering from the Heart Capital Campaign which began in 2017. A limited number of naming rights are still available for gifts between $5,000 to$50,000. For more information, please contact Eileen Gutierrez, Sr. Director of Development and Communications, at 815-740-4104. For Sheehan, the completion of phase one is a milestone for the organization she has led since 2015. “For nearly 40 years, we have had the honor and privilege of serving those in need of end-of-life care. The generosity of this community in supporting this project is heart-warming.”

New Building

In 2020, Lightways acquired the neighboring office building at 320 Waterstone Way. As Covid restrictions lift, the building will be a resource center to provide in-person Grief Support as well as training and education for the community. Grief support is offered to all Lightways families and extends to anyone in the community in need of support. Licensed grief counselors provide individual and family counseling as well as conduct a slate of workshops.

All Grief Support is provided at no charge. This summer the building will be dedicated as the Dorothy Brown Resource Center to honor the long-time volunteer and supporter of the Joliet Area Community Hospice. For Sheehan, this whirlwind of major changes fits Lightways’ bold and innovative mindset. “We remove barriers so our patients and their families get time with less pain, less fear and more joy. We are doing the same thing for our organization—removing barriers so we can provide exceptional end-of-life care for all who seek it.” Lightways hospice and serious illness care is a not-for-profit, community based, state licensed and Medicare/Medicaid certified agency with local, highly trained teams serving Will, Grundy, Kendall, LaSalle, Livingston, Cook, DuPage, Kankakee, McHenry, Kane, and Lake counties. Lightways provides serious illness and hospice care for adults and children and grief support services for family members and the community. Care is provided in the patient’s home, at assisted or nursing care facilities, or in the hospice inpatient unit. No one in need of JACH services is turned away due to their inability to pay.

These annual grants help to financially support vital programs and services that provide for basic human needs, health, education, income stability, mental health services, homeless prevention, crisis intervention, domestic violence programs, disability services, transportation, and disaster relief to positively impact the lives of our community’s youth, individuals families, seniors, and veterans. Since 1946, nearly $12 Million dollars has been granted to support local programs and services that help make a positive impact in our community. The funds raised helps more than one agency, more than one program, and more than one person in Grundy County. Currently, there are 28 local not-for-profit Community Partner Agencies, providing nearly 50 programs and services in Grundy County. Over 42,000 units of service were provided last year through these funded programs throughout the community. The Board of Directors represent local community members from a variety of companies, businesses and industries. These dedicated volunteers serve the organization through their leadership, governance, guidance, and advocacy to assure that the United Way of Grundy County continues to make the greatest positive impact

Same great legacy, now with a new name. Joliet Area Community Hospice is now Lightways.

Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care Founded as Joliet Area Community Hospice 815.740.4104 | 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet

in the community. Executive Board Members include: President Paul Nordstrom, Vice-President Christina Van Yperen, Treasurer/Secretary Chris Spencer, and Past President Scott Shannon. Board of Directors include: Katie Bodine, Jeff Colbert, Dan Duffy, Jeff Heap, Sarah Hintze, J.C. Lawson, Heidi Lawton, Lon Lovellette, Tawnya Mack, Randy Matravers, Paula Mercer, John Roundtree, and Randy Tatum. These volunteer Board Members have dedicated more than 185 years of service collectively; advocating for the United Way of Grundy County and in helping those in need in the community. The Executive Director is Karen Nall, who celebrated her 10th year with the organization in 2020. Volunteering is a great way to get involved and give back. United Way of Grundy County helps to match individuals with opportunities for volunteering, community service hours, and projects for companies. Volunteers can turn their time and talents into meaningful action and positive change. Each year, United Way of Grundy County holds an annual dinner and auction fundraising event organized by their Special Events Committee, which consists of staff, board mem-

bers and local volunteers. This event is an opportunity to thank those who support the organization and to recognize those who help to make a difference in the community. Every year, the event has a theme and although dressing in costume is not required, many of the attendees participate. There is always an opportunity for local businesses and individuals to get involved with this annual event through sponsorship, auction item donation, volunteerism, and by attending the event. Plans are underway for this year’s Roaring 20’s themed event, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at the Morris Country Club. United Way of Grundy County is a member of the United Way of Illinois and the United Way Worldwide. Staff and Board serve on several community committees, local Boards of Directors, and volunteer throughout the community. For more information about opportunities to give, advocate and volunteer; or about the programs, services, and other resources available, call (815) 942-4430, visit their website at www.UWGrundy.org, email them at Info@UWGrundy.org; and find them on Facebook.

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

United Way of Grundy County has been helping to improve lives in Grundy County for 75 years. Founded in 1946 as the Community Chest, then in 2007 became the Grundy County United Fund, and ultimately became the United Way of Grundy County in 2002. United Way of Grundy County’s mission encourages others to LIVE UNITED, which means to work together for a common goal; for the health, education and financial stability of every person in in every community. United Way of Grundy County creates opportunities to give, advocate, and volunteer to help improve the lives of others in our communities. The main focus areas that United Way of Grundy County invests in include: fulfilling urgent and basic needs, improving financial stability, helping youth succeed, increasing independence and self-sufficiency, and promoting health and wellness. Through the generous support from local businesses, corporations and their employees, individual donors, and the community; the funds raised annually supports vital programs and services in Grundy County provided by local not-for-profit Community Partner Agencies through an annual Community Investment Grant program.

29 HEALTH | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

United Way of Grundy County – Celebrating 75 Years

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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Complete Chiropractic Care with a Hometown Touch

Photo provided

Wilkinson Clinic of Chiropractic is located at 115 E. Waverly St. in Morris.

Wilkinson Chiropractic offers supplements, custom orthotics SUBMITTED REPORT Wilkinson Clinic of Chiropractic has expanded offerings to provide patients with more comprehensive care. The Clinic is owned and operated by Dr. Phillip Wilkinson, a Morris who is committed to helping treat and prevent injuries and chronic pain among his patients. In addition to providing safe, affordable Chiropractic care for all ages, Dr. Wilkinson recently added supplements, vitamins and custom orthotics to help patients meet their health and wellness goals. Several patients looking to make lifestyle changes asked Dr. Wilkinson to recommend vitamins and supplements since the options can be overwhelming. After more than a year of research, he chose Innate Choice, an evidence-based brand that he trusts for his own family’s health. Wilkinson Clinic offers Omega 3, Vitamin D, probiotic, and a multivitamin. These products are third-party tested for purity and quality. While you do not need to be a patient to purchase, many are experiencing positive results from these products. Since many patients come to the

Clinic experiencing pain, Dr. Wilkinson sought a product to help address a common root cause: structural deficiency. Patients can now receive a complimentary scan of their feet and body at a Foot Levelers kiosk located in the Clinic. The three-minute scan produces a custom, user-friendly report showing the relationship between imbalances in the patient’s feet and body. The scan is used to create custom orthotics made for the shoe style of their choice. Trusted for more than seventy years, Foot Levelers is an industry leader in orthotics specific to the individual. Patients are already reporting significant relief from back, hip and foot pain. Entering his eleventh year serving patients in Grundy County and surrounding communities, Dr. Wilkinson prides himself on personalized care that helps patients reach their optimal health. He is a graduate of Palmer College and Chiropractic and holds certifications in sports Chiropractic, wellness and extremities adjusting. For more information, visit drphilwilkinson.com or find Wilkinson Clinic of Chiropractic on Facebook.

I pride myself on personalized patient care. Whether it is acute injury or wellness care, I believe in helping my patients achieve and maintain optimum health through quality, affordable, chiropractic care.

Dr. Phillip Wilkinson

The real measure of my effectiveness is in the thousands of patients who have seen improvements in their health and mobility as a result of regular chiropractic care and changes in their lifestyle.

Call today for an appointment! Dr. Phillip Wilkinson 815-942-5350 115 E. Waverly St. Morris

www.drphilwilkinson.com SM-CL1876270

A Remarkable Year

Despite the challenges that 2020 brought, Silver Cross showed its strength, resilience and its commitment to putting patients and safety first. In 2020, the hospital observed the one-year anniversary of its open-heart surgery program that has exceeded volume projections and continued

• Thursday, April 29, 2021

It seems hard to imagine, but COVID-19 isn’t the first pandemic Silver Cross Hospital has faced in its long and vibrant history. The New Lenox hospital’s healthcare heroes of more than a century ago cared for patients during the global flu pandemic of 1918. And like the Silver Cross staff of today and all the years in between, they faced it with bravery, dedication and compassion. “Silver Cross has been at the frontlines of COVID-19 since it arrived in our community in March of last year,” President and Chief Executive Officer Ruth Colby said. In fact, as of mid-March, the hospital has cared for more than 2,200 COVID-19 inpatients and performed more than 58,000 COVID-19 tests in the last year. What’s more, the hospital has become one of the busiest COVID-19 vaccine sites in Will County, giving 30,000 doses since the hospital began vaccinating healthcare workers this past December. “We are privileged to provide this service to our community that we know will save lives,” she added. “And we’re grateful to collaborate with the Will County Health Department in these vaccination clinics and will continue to do all that we can to help bring an end to COVID-19.”

construction on a $22 million heart expansion that opened in April, offering minimally invasive heart procedures, including transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

In addition, the new expansion features:

Two Cardiovascular Operating Rooms Cardiac Hybrid Room Two Recovery Rooms Patient Elevator to New 16-bed Cardiothoracic Unit with four (4) Cardiac Echo and Stress Testing Rooms • Space for Future Growth including a 16-bed observation unit and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

• • • •

Silver Cross now has the capability to provide innovative, multi-specialty care for patients with advanced and complex coronary disease. This includes surgery to correct the abnormalities of the heart structure such as repairing and replacing aortic and mitral valves. At the same time, Silver Cross earned national recognition for quality, safety and patient ratings. Last fall, the 300-bed hospital earned its 12th Straight A for Patient Safety from the Leapfrog Group. In June of 2020, Silver Cross was recognized as a 100 Top Hospital by IBM Watson Health for the 8th time; in July of last year, Silver Cross was named a high-performing hospital for heart and lung care by U.S. News & World Report. Last November, specifically Thanksgiving Day, Silver Cross observed its 125th anniversary. And in March, the hospital was named to Newsweek’s Best Hospitals in the World. Since its opening in 1895, the hospital has grown to a 650,000-square-foot, 300-bed facility on a 130-acre campus in New Lenox that also includes an Ambulatory Surgery Center, Endos-

31 HEALTH | Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com

Silver Cross Hospital faced COVID challenges while achieving historic milestones in 2020

copy Center and Silver Oaks Behavioral Hospital. The hospital also operates several off-site physician offices through Silver Cross Medical Group. The hospital also partners with leading academic providers including the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Shirley Ryan Ability Lab (formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago – RIC), UChicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, Loyola Medicine for neurosciences and stroke car, and Rush University Medical Center for thoracic surgery.

What’s coming in 2021?

In addition to opening its heart expansion, the hospital will break ground on a new urgent care center in Mokena in May; expand its cardiac rehabilitation program; add three new labor, delivery and recovery rooms; and open a 16-bed observation unit adjacent to its Emergency Department. “While the past year was a challenging year for hospitals everywhere, I’m proud of our Silver Cross team for putting safety first, delivering an unrivaled experience to our patients and continually finding new ways to serve the community,” Colby added. For more information, visit www.silvercross.org.

Morris Herald-News / morrisherald-news.com • Thursday, April 29, 2021

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One of the

NATION’S BEST. CLOSE to Home. Silver Cross Hospital Being named one of the nation’s 100 TOP HOSPITALS is something few hospitals ever achieve. So you can imagine how proud we are to earn this distinction for the 8th time! 100 Top Hospitals like Silver Cross have better survival rates, fewer complications, shorter hospital stays and higher ratings from patients. Added to our Straight A’s for Patient Safety from the Leapfrog Group, our 100 Top recognition demonstrates that safety, quality and patient experience are at the heart of everything we do. So when you’re looking for one of the country’s best hospitals, look no further than Silver Cross — proud to be your 100 Top Hospital.

1900 Silver Cross Blvd. • New Lenox, IL 60451 silvercross.org