Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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onoring traditions while adapting to new opportunities is a recipe for success at Plum Garden Restaurant in McHenry as the dining institution celebrates its 60th anniversary . Third-generation owner Jason Moy at the helm of the family’s restaurant said his staff maintains traditional methods and recipes, including the ones his grandmother Connie used when she launched the business in 1965. “Our egg rolls are the still the same recipe that my grandmother Connie used when she opened the business,” Jason Moy said. “Our Hong Kong Chicken is still the same recipe as when my father created in 1973.” While some traditions remain, Moy said the key to success for a small business is a willingness to adapt to changes. This fall the restaurant is launching Marco Polo Dinners as a culinary experience. Guests can reserve a seat to join Perry Moy to learn the history of favorite Chinese American dishes. “Diners will be able to learn the history dishes like orange chicken and General Tszo Chicken. It is a walk of time, history and cuisine,” Jason Moy said.
Ce S i n c e 1 9 6 5 r s ! a lebr ating 60 Ye
Jason Moy said his father is stepping out of retirement to share his culinary expertise and his love of history. His father also helped create a new Modern Tiki Drink menu that brings a new definition to the concept of a Tiki drink with over-the-top candies and even the use of dry ice. “Small businesses need to be able to adapt to survive and thrive,” Jason Moy said. Serving customers from the same location for 60 years means knowing many of them by name, seeing their families grow. Jason Moy said he grew up in the restaurant, standing on a milk crate to help wash dishes and sitting in the back booth after school to finish his homework. Every week customers visit the restaurant, remarking how they remembered him as a boy. Before she launched the family restaurant, Jason Moy’s grandmother Connie was born in a small village in China where she learned how to gather food and follow her mother’s recipes. She came to the United States and worked in relatives’ restaurants. The story goes that one day she took her family on a “day of adventure” and they boarded a train to McHenry where she saw a building and knew it was the place for her to make her dream of her own restaurant
a reality. The business started as takeout only and transformed to a full-service restaurant. While the restaurant is steeped in tradition, Jason Moy said they’ve also been pioneers when it comes to providing the best for their customers. He said they were one of the first restaurants to end smoking inside the building, long before it was the law. It was also one of the first restaurants to provide a gluten-free and peanut-free menu. “We removed peanuts entirely from our menu,” he said. The menu features homemade Crab Rangoon alongside the Bacon Mac N’ Cheese Egg Roll. There are Korean, Thai and Chinese dishes on the menu. Jason Moy helped the restaurant embrace new technology, with online ordering and delivery options. “The true goal is knowing what things should change and what things should never change- such as our values and celebrating our history especially the ones who came before us,” Jason Moy said.
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rom tours to family trips as well as planning destination weddings, Neelie Kruse, CTC, Owner, Cary Travel Express has the tools that put their clients in vacation mode.
At a time when it’s possible to book a trip from the palm of your hand, clients know the secret to stress-free planning is leaving it to the professionals. The team at Cary Travel Express brings a wealth of experience in planning.
weddings and even those trips to visit the home of a special mouse and his friends in Florida and California. Travel professionals do not charge their clients a fee, as they are compensated by the vendor. And, Neelie said, they often can help their clients get the best deals.
“With us you get personal service,” Neelie said. “We’re local so you can come in and talk to us.”
For the last 46 years, Neelie has been traveling and helping clients reach destinations, from big cities to beachfront towns. Cary Travel Express employs a team of travel designers, including members who specialize in areas such as cruises, destination
While many of their clients reside in McHenry, Lake counties, Neelie said she’s loved helping friends of friends, taking referrals and helping clients from across the country. “I have a client from a referral, who lives in Arizona. We’ve never met, but we’ve developed a rapport of trust and they love the trips I plan,” Neelie added.
Neelie isn’t just sitting at a computer. She and her team are always checking on destinations and locations. This fall she led a tour with 124 individuals in Europe, and said groups are a great opportunity for someone who is ready for a trip but not interested in going it completely solo. “With group travel there’s security, but you don’t have to be with the group every moment,” Neelie said, adding while there is plenty of time to explore, it’s also proven a great way to connect with others. “A lot of great friendships have forged on these trips.”
School, opened Cary Travel Express in 1989 and has witnessed travel evolve from paper tickets to using one’s phone for a boarding pass. What hasn’t changed is helping clients take the vision of their trip and creating an itinerary to make it possible.
And she loves having her business in the heart of downtown Cary, where she and her team have front-row access to events. Through the years she’s opened their office doors to be a part of seasonal celebrations. “I love being downtown,” she said. “If you call a cruise line, they only know their cruise line, while we can look at the whole picture,” Neelie said. Travel often includes a few hiccups such as plane delays and weather, which can cause flight changes and cancellations. At Cary Travel Express clients have access to assistance 24-hours-day. Neelie, a graduate of Cary Grove High
This isn’t the first time Cary Travel Express has earned a Best of the Fox award and Neelie said each award from the readers’ choice is an honor. “To us, it feels like a huge honor that it comes from the community,” Neelie said. “We work hard to make everyone’s travel dreams come true.” 9 Jandus Rd, Cary, IL 60013 847-639-3300 carytravelexpress.com
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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CARY TRAVEL EXPRESS
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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Follett Content donates towards free books for kids in McHenry County
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The ITW team kicking off their annual employee giving campaign
UNITED WAY OF GREATER MCHENRY COUNTY
ince 1966 the United Way of Greater McHenry County has brought people and resources together. The organization mobilizes the caring power of community so that all can thrive.
“If you live or work in McHenry County, it is highly likely that you or someone you know has utilized at least one of the services that we provide grants in support of, or that we ourselves bring to the community,” explained Jamie Maravich, President & CEO of United Way of Greater McHenry County. “Everyone benefits from having these resources locally available for when they are needed.” Entirely locally focused, the organization has broad reach and makes a powerful impact. Most well-known for the substantial grant support it provides to partner non-profit programs, the organization also serves as a key connector, matching donated products, information, and volunteers to the people and projects that need them the most. The organization provides its own programs to the community too including 2-1-1, a free and confidential resource hotline as well as Ride United food pantry deliveries. In 2024, the organization took on the responsibility of funding and overseeing Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL) for McHenry County. The program is an opportunity for every child in McHenry County from birth to five years old to receive a free book in the mail every month from the DPIL fulfillment center in Tennessee. United Way of Greater McHenry County pays DPIL for the books and maintains the local database. In only its second year of the program more than 4,000
McHenry County children are enrolled, Maravich said.
as a realtor who dedicates a percentage of a commission to the United Way.
United Way’s support for its own programs and the grants it provides are made possible by its generous donors.
“Our grants and programs provide a hand-up to neighbors in a wide variety of circumstances. Examples include childcare grants to help parents with low incomes and day programming for seniors to help enhance vitality and provide caregivers with greater peace of mind.” Maravich said
“Our grant allocations are driven by the current needs of the community as assessed by caring individuals who live and work in McHenry County,” Maravich said. United Way of Greater McHenry County can receive donations from a variety of sources, including one-time individual donations, recurring donations, stock donations, required minimum distributions, bequests, corporate donations, corporate sponsorships, grants and most notably, through employee giving campaigns. “We are fortunate to be in a community where many employers know how important it is to give back and they recognize how important it is to their employees to work for a company that contributes,” Maravich said. The United Way works with businesses to enable employees to contribute directly from their paychecks, lowering their taxable income and providing a comfortable way to give in smaller amounts that add up to larger contributions over time. Often the companies will offer matching corporate donations in support of their employee’s philanthropic desires. “We’re able to bring in dollars in smaller regular increments that together make a very large impact,” Maravich said. Even smaller businesses and individuals can make contributions with a pledge program, such
As an agency that works with so many community resources, the United Way of Greater McHenry County offers 2-1-1, a free and confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, providing a specialist that can connect the caller with the resources they need to navigate a health or human services challenge. The helpline, which one can call or text, is available to everyone, of all demographics and socio-economic tiers. “We are a key connector, a key resource,” she said. Additionally, Maravich said the agency recently updated its 2-1-1 call center provider so that in the event of a large-scale disaster, such as a large fire or flooding, it can serve as a real-time information provider, preventing backlogs and enabling first responders to fully focus upon individuals and situations in need of emergency assistance. Earning the Best of the Fox recognition is a moment of gratitude for Maravich and her small staff that works to meet the needs of the community. “It means so much to us and it is so humbling,” she said. “We are beyond grateful. Thank you, McHenry County.”
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As a child, Steve Dalzell loved collecting coins, studying each one with interest. He still loves coins, connecting with clients and acquiring coin collections, but he also surrounds himself with gold and diamonds too. Dalzell Jewelers has outfitted clients with designer and custom pieces of jewelry since 1998. In the early days Dalzell worked with single clients from his small office. With the growing business, he opened the Crystal Lake Shop to the public. 2002 the shop moved to its current location in downtown Crystal Lake at Williams and Brink streets featuring a showroom and onsite design studio. Care and craftsmanship are part of the family tradition for Dalzell. His grandfather had been a watchmaker. He chose to forge his own path in fine jewelry. After graduating with a degree from St. Bonaventure University he continued his studies earning a graduate gemologist degree and a graduate degree in jewelry manufacturing arts. from the Gemological Institute of America. Dalzell Jewelers has built a reputation on its top-rate customer service. Whether the client is shopping for a designer piece, seeking a one-of-
a-kind item or searching for vintage items, there is jewelry to fit every budget. Dalzell carries some of the newest jewelry designers, including Mark Patterson, Lika Behar, Oscar Heyman and Sopraffino. These designers offer classic looks and fashion forward pieces. The jewelry designers at Dalzell can provide custom pieces, taking a client’s vision from a sketch of paper to a 3-D model, said Rebecca Dohe, a senior sales member at Dalzell Jewelers. “We really dig in, to find out what is important to the customer to find out what to include and not include in their designs. It really gives the client an opportunity to create the piece they had in mind,” Dohe said. The skilled design team works with heirloom pieces, whether it’s adjusting the size, re-stringing pearls or taking a sentimental item and refashioning it into something a client can wear. Finding a new way to wear a special piece of inherited jewelry can be a beautiful way to honor the memory of a loved one. The staff’s expertise with vintage items extends to its collection of estate
jewelry pieces, offering customers an inventory of previously enjoyed items such as vintage engagement rings, brooches and earrings. The inventory includes items with precious stones as well as everyday wear. With certified gemologists on staff, every piece is fully evaluated and appraised, providing the client with confidence of every item’s quality, value and condition. One of the most popular items in its pre-owned inventory includes Rolex™ watches. Dalzell said clients find joy in purchasing these items as gifts or as a present for themselves. Dalzell Jewelers is helping to shape the next generation of jewelry craftsmen, providing apprenticeships for goldsmiths with in-house design studios. Crystal Lake is more than home for Dalzell Jewelers. Through the years the business has been an ardent supporter of the community, from neighborhood events in downtown Crystal Lake to annual festivals. Dalzell Jewelers 41 N. Williams Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-455-3600
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
Dalzell Jewelers
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
BEHIND THE BEST 2025
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Voted the BEST moving company for the Best of the Fox
UNIVERSITY MOVERS By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
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ove it, store it or sell it, when it comes the team at University Movers has solutions, having helped more than 25,000 happy customers.
In 2025 University Movers celebrated its 40th business anniversary, said owner Vicki Boxlietner. She has witnessed how technology has changed many aspects in the moving industry, but what hasn’t changed is her dedication to customer satisfaction.
on the occasion a driver needed directions it was time to pull over and ask. Boxlietner was just 18 when she and her former husband started the business. His family owned a self-storage operation and saw the moving company as a way to support customers. Though she and her husband divorced, Boxlietner saw the potential in the local moving company and she took over operations on her own. Today, she leads it with her second husband, Fred, and their son, Michael.
“I still prefer to talk on a phone,” she said. “I still Taking on a business at such a young age, Boxlietner said she had wonderful mentors, call everybody to make sure their move went starting with her father, a business man, as smoothly. I want to keep the human touch.” an example of honest and leadership and her The business owner still answers calls, handles former mother-in-law, who she shared a great logistics and keeps track of accounting, on relationship with, for mentorship and support. paper as well as on the computer. “She gave me a lot of guidance,” Boxlietner “So much has changed, but I do still keep it old said. school. I use a paper ledger. I’m a paper girl,” With strong mentors and a reliable team, she Boxlietner said. built a strong business and has expanded She remembers when every moving truck had operations beyond McHenry and Lake its own atlas, to help map delivery routes and counties, moving clients across Northern
Illinois and adding the ability to move clients long distance to out of state locations all over the Country. Her team of well-trained, trusted movers are background checked, professionally trained, reliable and always friendly too. “I trust them with everything,” Boxlietner said. “They are good guys and if I need anything above and beyond, we’ve got great guys.” She’s also added more services beyond packing and moving including storage and estate sale services. “It takes a lot of the stress off of older couples trying to downsize,” Boxlietner said. Her greatest pride is hearing another person recommend the business. “Last week I had a call from someone who heard about us from the conductor on the train,” she quipped. University Movers has also racked up its Best of the Fox Awards, winning in 2018, 2020 through 2025.
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Since opening its doors in 1993 the technicians and sales team at A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair has resolved door issues. Broken spring replacement and new operator installations are just part of the story. Company continues to grow its sales division, explained Chief Executive Officer Terry Henson. The garage door is more than a home’s entry point, as homeowners look to customize door designs and enhance their curb appeal, Henson said. A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair’s office includes a large showroom where visitors can see and touch more than 100 different door samples of various colors, styles, window options and insulation
for residential and commercial locations. In addition to its 5,000 square-foot office and showroom three years ago it added a 15,000 square-foot warehouse for its wholesale division.
whether its adding cameras or the ability to open and close remotely. The technicians at A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair can assist homeowners in installation of smart technology options.
When it comes to materials, A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair makes a priority to keep it local using C.H.I Overhead Doors of Illinois as its main manufacturer.
“It’s becoming a big priority,” Henson said.
“We pick up it up right from their warehouse,” Henson said. In 2025 A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair launched a financing option for homeowners. Henson said upgrading a garage door can have a real impact on a home’s appearance and return on investment. Beyond doors, A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair carries and installs screens for those who like to have open doors, while keeping the bugs at bay. One of the biggest requests has been installing smart technology,
And when garage doors won’t open and a spring breaks, the team at A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair can handle the call, providing fast, reliable service. To avoid those late night calls, Henson said preventative maintenance is the homeowner’s best option. Just like yearly tune-ups for the furnace and air conditioner, a garage door service once a year can help identify issues before it becomes an emergency repair. “The annual maintenance can help extend the life of a garage door,” Henson said. “Everyone should do it to prevent a costly repair when it breaks.” Contact ASAP Garage Door Repair today 847-695-8888 A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair, Inc. 11351 Allison Ct. Huntley, IL garagedoorsasap.com
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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hether it’s time for a new look or in need of an urgent repair, the team at A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair of Huntley has been the one to call for more than 30 years.
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
BEHIND THE BEST 2025
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ON ANGELS’ WINGS
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ver since she was a child, Emily Huetson has been bringing home animals in need of a home, said her mother, Jeannette Hager. “She was rescuing pets when she was in kindergarten,” Hager quipped. Today, Hager and Huetson put their love of animals to good use, saving animals and supporting the community through On Angels Wings, a pet rescue operation and adoption that is supported through its Crystal Lake resale shop. Hager serves as the organization’s executive director and resale store manager and Huetson is the animal welfare director. Known as OAW, the pet rescue is a multifaceted operation, saving the lives of pets, providing veterinary care, helping coordinate pet adoptions and managing a thriving resale shop that helps to financially support the mission. It takes the work of countless volunteers who share their time, homes and talents. There are volunteers who help care for the animals in the adoption center, which can house up to eight dogs and eight cats. “We have volunteers who help socialize the animals, walk the dogs, play with the cats, help clean and we even have night walkers to care for the dogs,” Hager explained. There are volunteers who open their homes to foster pets until their adoption. Through fostering, the volunteers see the pet’s true personality and give them respite until they can be adopted. Huetson admits she’s failed at fostering a
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske 6500 Northwest Hwy #2D, Crystal Lake 815-356-8170
handful of times and she has an especially soft spot for aging dogs, and those who are nearing the end of their days. She said it’s never easy to let them go, but she wants them to find peace and comfort.
At OAW, the volunteers treat every pet like a beloved family member, from veterinary care to playtime. Veterinary care can be quite costly, one of the largest expenses the small rescue faces. To help raise funds, the organization hosts a large bingo fundraiser every November, having plenty of fun and raising awareness and dollars in support of the mission. The other fundraising comes from the resale shop, located next to the adoption center. The idea behind the resale shop was born following the mother-daughter duo spending time as volunteers with Sparrow’s
Nest Thrift Store. They were inspired by it to create a resale shop in support of their animal rescue efforts. Volunteers at the resale shop handle donations from individuals, local retailers and estate sale businesses ensuring items are displayed in the store and manage the shop’s online e-bay store. Volunteer Michelle Miller helps manage the shop, keeping the displays to look inviting, Hager said. Volunteers are the heart of the organization, giving a few hours a week, a day a month or as often as possible, Hager said. The work is rewarding and hard. To see an animal find its new forever home is a special joy, though lately there have been rising numbers of pets surrendered as owners find they are unable to continue caring for them. “It’s at a very difficult point,” Hager said. The agency takes in most of its rescues from shelters that would have to euthanize the pets due to limited space in their shelters. The rescued pets can be mixed breeds and these days, there are more pure bred, even the designer dogs like golden doodles, that are sought after. Hager said the organization recently helped navigate adoption for pure-bred puppies. The rescue also tries to support pet owners in need with its pet pantry. It also offers short-term pet housing to help domestic abuse victims, who might choose to stay in a dangerous relationship than risk leaving and losing a pet, Hager said.
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ince opening the doors of DeFiore Funeral Home in Huntley, Funeral Director Carol DeFiore and her team have strived to provide warm, inviting atmosphere where people can feel comfortable at a difficult time. Their newest staff member takes that mission to heart with every wag of his tail. Lovey the trained comfort dog has joined the funeral home team to provide support to grieving families and staff too. The black labradoodle marked his second birthday in October and has truly become a part of the support team at DeFiore Funeral. “I’ve known for a while that I wanted to have a comfort dog,” DeFiore explained. She worked with Ultimate Dog, who helped
certify and train the funeral home staff, who can serve as Lovey’s handlers. “He’s been a great addition to our staff and to the families we see. One hundred percent I have no regrets,” DeFiore said. Though young, Lovey has a keen sense of individuals, understanding who needs his attention and who prefers to remain at a distance, DeFiore said. When Lovey enters a room, the atmosphere changes. He’s trained to visit with people, setting his head on their lap. When he’s at work, Lovey wears his vest. When the vest is off, he’s able to cut loose and enjoy being a pup, chasing toys and day-napping.
10763 Dundee-Huntley Rd, Huntley, 60142 847-515-8772
Adding a comfort dog is one of the ways DeFiore has worked to meet families’ needs. Since opening her business, she has welcomed all, accommodating different faiths, traditions and family wishes. “Every family is different. Every family needs something different,” DeFiore said. Adding Lovey has also been a wonderful support to the DeFiore Funeral staff, who eagerly take turns taking the pup for his walks and spending time with him. “It gives us a little break to walk him during the day. It’s been awesome for our team,” DeFiore said. While her funeral business has always focused on humans, DeFiore said over the years she has received a number of inquiries from the community about providing services for their pets. It inspired her to pursue a second business to serve families saying good bye to their furry family members. Last year she received approval from Huntley Village officials and she plans to break ground in 2026 on a pet crematorium. “We are finding more and more families coming and asking about it,” DeFiore said. “We see it as a need.” With the second business DeFiore said she would offer crematory services for pets, and she hopes to also provide a veterinarian who can perform euthanasia services for pets in their homes, allowing a family to have a peaceful farewell to their beloved pet. “They are just a part of your family. Some people are closer to their pets than their human family,” DeFiore said.
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
BEHIND THE BEST 2025
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ROCK SOLID BUILDERS
ransforming homes for almost 20 years, the team at Rock Solid Builders is a pillar of the McHenry community.
Rock Solid Builders helps families transform their outdoor space with decks, screen rooms, pergolas, retractable awnings and outdoor kitchens. Business partners Anna Kaufmann and Butch Wuchter launched Rock Solid Builders in 2006 remodeling multi-family residential units in Chicago. When the housing crisis took hold in 2007, they saw an opportunity to pivot and fill the need for outdoor designs and decks in McHenry County by focusing on long-lasting composite decking products, which were new to the building trades at the time. They specialize in composite wood structures. Kaufmann explains composite offers a maintenance-free option that can hold up against the harsh Midwest climate. Rock Solid Builders works with Trex and TimberTech, the leading brands in composite and PVC decking. Kaufmann said some of their deck materials come with stain and fade resistance warranties that can last 25 to 50 years and the PVC decking includes lifetime warranties.
“Northern Illinois’ climate is very hard on exterior wood with the extreme heat and extreme cold temperatures,” Kaufmann explained, adding that with rain and snow, the wood in outdoor structures can expand and contract causing wood to deteriorate at a faster pace than in milder climates. Wuchter visits with clients to review ideas, take measurements and design an outdoor solution to fit each client’s budget. Rock Solid Builders services throughout McHenry County, Lake County and into southern Wisconsin. “We work on a lot of lake and vacation homes in southern Wisconsin, and along the Chain O’Lakes,” Kaufmann said. The partners started the company working from home and then found a small office space where they operated for more than 10 years. Two years ago, they built a custom free-standing office with large indoor and outdoor showrooms at their current location in McHenry where clients can see and touch materials and space for its expanded operations. “It’s the largest deck showroom in the Chicagoland area,” Kaufmann said. The business has grown through the years,
expanding services and designs. Rock Solid Builders now operates with four crews and full-time office staff. At Rock Solid Builders the carpenters are employees, not sub-contractors, allowing the business to maintain quality control and build a strong internal team. Rock Solid Builders has earned a Best of the Fox award for the last 16 years, an honor that comes from its service to clients and the greater community. Kaufmann said her crews donated multiple days to help with construction of the McHenry Riverwalk’s Tiny Shops, the incubator retail space along the Fox River in downtown McHenry. Each year the company helps to support projects in the community, sponsoring events and activities. Rock Solid Builders is a longtime member of the McHenry Chamber of Commerce. “We try to give back to the community that has supported us for the last 20 years,” Kaufmann said. “The area is growing and becoming a destination. We are proud to be a locally owned business in the City of McHenry.”
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t the core of Scholl Construction Company is a team of professionals who are excited about the ability to build or transform a home, a shopping center or business office.
Owner and business developer Peter Scholl formed Scholl Construction in 2002, creating a team ready to tackle new construction, extensive remodels, and commercial projects throughout northern Illinois. Every project is an opportunity to collaborate, taking the vision of the property owner, the designs from the architect and the designer, to bring all the elements together. “It’s great seeing something come from nothing and to see the way a project can transform a community,” Scholl said. Green and sustainable practices are opportunities to bring energy efficiency into a project, creating cost savings over the long term. At Scholl Construction, the company strives to incorporate these practices whenever possible. These include limiting waste, using sustainable building materials, utilizing plumbing that conserves water, using higher-rated insulation and energy efficient materials and recycling waste materials to limit the amount of garbage that goes to landfills. For the team at Scholl Construction, it was an honor to earn their ninth consecutive Best of the Fox award as the Best Home Builder and Best Home Remodeler. Scholl said he’s honored that the clients and the community continue to recognize the work and commitment to quality and collaboration. Scholl said it was several years back when he began to have follow up calls
from clients that he had completed projects with, seeking help with smaller projects around their home or business, like replacing a window, or asking for recommendations to tackle home maintenance. These calls gave him the inspiration for creating Maintenance Matters, a second company he launched five years ago to help clients with home and commercial property maintenance. “I started to get calls from past clients that needed to replace a window, get a furnace checked, clean their gutters or help inspecting and maintaining a building,” Scholl said. With more than 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Scholl said he and his team have plenty of contacts to help support these needs. Scholl shared his years of experience as an Executive Board Member of the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation. “We’re attracting new businesses to the county and help keep existing businesses from leaving,” Scholl explained. Scholl is a 2018 graduate of Leadership Greater McHenry County, a year-long program that connects, educates, and inspires leaders in the community. For Scholl, it was a great opportunity to enhance his understanding of the county and engage with other rising leaders. He’s also a member of the McHenry Historical Society Board, which oversees historic building preservation and support for historic homes and buildings in the community. Scholl knows firsthand the challenges with older construction and the board is a great way for him to use his expertise.
Scholl Construction
432 W. Virginia Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815-479-0910 • SchollConstruction.net
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
BEHIND THE BEST 2025
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MARJ CARPENTER
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inding the perfect house isn’t about the house, said Realtor Marj Carpenter. It’s about listening to her clients. “Knowing what they want means you have to pay attention,” Carpenter said. For over 35 years Carpenter has been helping her clients buy and sell real estate, paying close attention to the details and understanding the housing market of McHenry County and beyond. Carpenter joined the real estate field with a heart full of determination. She was a newly single parent trying to find a way to support herself and her three children. She saw real estate as a field where if she worked hard, she could produce results and set her mind to it. It’s the same determination she has used in her pursuit of completing an Ironman 70.3 Triathlons. She started with an indoor triathlon with her daughter. Carpenter said she saw the
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opportunity to train with her grown daughter as a great way for the two of them to spend some time together. “We did a couple of them together,” she explained. It didn’t take long for Carpenter to go from a local competition to meeting fellow women including Trudy Wakeman, Kathryn Nelson and Sue Burton from McHenry County, who also trained for Ironman Wisconsin. “They inspired me,” Carpenter said. “I thought if they can do it, I can do it.” Neither age or lack of experience stopped Carpenter. She joined training programs and has gone on to compete in 25 of the 70.3 Ironman Triathlons, including five World 70.3 Ironman Triathlon Championships all over the world. The 70.3 refers to a half distance Ironman Triathlon, representing the cumulative distance of 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and a 13.1 mile run. Dedication and determination is key for
Carpenter, whether she is training for a triathlon or she is helping her clients sell or purchase a home. In addition to the Best of the Fox honors this year, in 2023 she was named No. 1 Individual Agent for RE/MAX Suburban. Residential or commercial, finding a home in a quiet cul de sac or a property surrounded by open fields, Carpenter strives to find the right solutions for her clients. Direct: 815-444-6275 (MARJ) Email: Marj@MarjCarpenter.com
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“We have fashion for every day to date night,” Ormsby said. For the last 13 years her downtown Crystal Lake boutique has become a go-to place for those looking for something to spruce up their seasonal look or when it’s time for a new ensemble. “We have customers who’ve lost weight and find they need new clothes,” Ormsby said. “We have customers who have spent their career in professional clothes and now they are retired and unsure how to dress. We can help them with a capsule wardrobe, in fact, that’s what we love to do. I can help you find an outfit.” When Ormsby launched the boutique she wasn’t interested in high fashion
or trends. She wanted clothes women would wear and clothes to fit women of varying sizes and body types. They carry items in sizes extra small to XXL and denim options in up to size 18. When it comes to buying, she and her daughter, Molly Hammerl, are looking for designs with their customers already in mind. “We put a lot of thought into buying,” Ormsby said. “Our customers have become our friends. We know our customers so well.”
of being able to touch the fabric, try on the clothes and make a personal connection. “That’s what we’re known for,” Ormsby said. And having a location in downtown Crystal Lake means the Wear Did U Get That is a part of the bustling activities, from holiday walks to downtown events. “We love being a part of downtown Crystal Lake,” Ormsby said. “We have a great downtown.”
For shoppers looking for some advice, Ormsby said she and her team love to be that support. She recently had a customer ask for help finding pants she could wear in her classroom and still be able to sit on the floor. Another customer wanted something nice for a night out with her husband.
The shop has earned Best of the Fox recognition for 11 years and for Ormsby and her staff, it’s an honor to serve customers, make friends.
“We’re so hands on with our customers,” Ormsby said. “You can see, when they step out of the fitting room, they stand a little taller. They feel better.”
WEAR DID U GET THAT
For Ormsby, it’s a shopping experience
Ormsby said, “I love what I do, making women look and feel beautiful.”
66 N. Williams Street Downtown Crystal Lake 815-455-7500
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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or Stephanie Ormsby, her boutique Wear Did U Get That isn’t just for the clothes. She likes to think of it like having the perfect closet to find clothes, great belt, cute sweater, jewelry, a cute bag, shoes and the personal touch to help make it all come together.
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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Commercial • Residential • Estate Clean Outs & Junk Removal • Packing & Crating
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elocating a piano or moving to a new home, the team at Big Lou’s Move Crew in Cary is ready to pack it up and deliver it. “Our specialties are the big items, pianos, armoire, antiques. We take on the stuff other companies don’t do,” explained Owner/Operator Drew Farkas. The company may be young as it marks its second anniversary, but Farkas and his team bring years of service and experience. Farkas worked for his father, Big Lou, who he honors with the company’s name. Farkas spent a number of years working in Chicago where he navigated high rises and multi-floor walk up apartments.
“I took all those ideas and experiences and brought it to the suburbs,” Farkas said. “We’ve moved people all over the place.” The company has a fleet of two trucks
and plans to add a third. Farkas said they are working hard and building the business. They handle residential and commercial moves as well as estate clean outs and junk removal. They can also provide packing and crating services. Finding the right moving company is essential, whether it’s moving a few items or packing up a house. Start with collecting multiple quotes and check a company’s reviews and licensing, to feel confident using the right company that will deliver results. Farkas uses his social media pages to go beyond promoting business to share tips for finding the right movers, knowing the differences in services and helping inform customers. Having the right company that understands how to move items, protect belongings and show professionalism are all key aspects. He chose to base his home in Cary and said it’s been the right place to help his company grow. For a number of years, he lived in the area, and even after his family moved, he kept his ties to his close friends in the area. Farkas said for many years Cary
felt like a second home and now, it is home. It’s more than an address, as Farkas said he is an advocate for supporting the community collaborating with fellow businesses and organizations. “I try to keep it as local as possible,” Farkas said. “The Cary-Fox Grove Chamber and the towns have really entrusted us.” He added, “Everybody wants to support local businesses.” From events to car shows, Farkas said he’s doing his part to support the community and spread the message about his company. “It takes a village and I’m very much into it,” he said.
Get a Free Quote Call Or E-mail Us Directly
773.416.3922
BigLousMoveCrew@Gmail.com
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Activity Center
Our dogs are truly a part of the family, and sometimes they need a little extra tender loving care.
environment for their dogs. The day camp includes supervised play time indoors and outdoors.
The team at Four Paws Activity Center answers the call, from day camp that keeps a pup active and engaged during the daytime to professional grooming and expert training.
Young said she’s working to incorporate more enrichment into the care of her canine clients, in both one-to-one settings and small group activities.
Owner Kim Young has more than 40 years of experience in the dog care industry. After working for large corporate businesses and small family-run operations, she decided to launch her own operation bringing the best of her experiences to the families and dogs in the community. Four Paws Activity Center will mark its seventh anniversary in January, providing quality care for canines. “We’ve made a lot of friends,” Young said. “The best part of my job is the connection with the clients, both the humans and canines.” For pet owners, finding a trusted place for dog boarding is a hardship that keeps many from saying yes to trips and vacations. Young said she and her team understand and go above and beyond to each of their four-legged clients to help them feel comfortable while away from home. “We focus on the individual dog’s needs,” Young said. “Some love to run and play all day, some like to hang out.” Doggy Day Camp offers clients a safe and engaging
“It’s the best for dogs,” she said. Four Paws Activity Center also offers professional grooming services with groomer Tara O’Neill either by appointment or as part of the pet kennel care. She has a certified dog trainer Chad Mackin on staff, who provides varied training services, from working with owners and a new puppy to providing private training to help with specific needs. Young understands the bond with one’s dogs. One of the biggest drivers for her launching her own business was the adoption of a puppy. “I got a puppy and I wanted to be with him,” she said. Houston is an Australian Shepherd who is as much a part of the business as his owner. “He comes to work with me every day. Most clients know him,” Young said. Building a business to be able to spend time with her dog and providing a home away from home for clients’ dogs has helped Young earn waging tails and great reviews.
4 Paws Pet Resort & Activity Center | 825 Munshaw Ln. Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 224-507-7297
BEHIND THE BEST Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
4 PAWS
Northwest Herald / shawlocal.com/northwest-herald • Saturday, November 22, 2025
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