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Student Spotlight

Section 1

Thursday, March 19, 2020 • The Times Business & Industry Review

Shaylee Swanson

Swanson uses poetry to process emotions Ottawa High student publishes trio of books BRENT BADER bbader@shawmedia.com 815-431-4045 Healing is often connected to hospitals or treated with medicine, but what about healing through words?

That’s what Shaylee Swanson has done through poetry shared both in class and with others.

And Shaylee isn’t just keeping these poems within her close circle of friends — she’s collected them and published two books, with a third on the way.

“They kind of go through my journey as a teenager dealing with anxiety and depression and kind of finding myself and figuring myself, (such as) dealing with sexuality and going through that process,” Shaylee said.

See SWANSON, page A4

For The Times | Tom Sistak

Ottawa High School student Shaylee Swanson, 17, has published two poetry books reflecting her emotions and experiences in high school. Swanson said part of their creation was about showing other students that “they’re not alone” with their own emotions and questions.

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Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Student Spotlight: About this section The Times’ 2020 Business & Industry Review releases today with the second of four special sections that will highlight local businesses and services, plus include local Student Spotlights.

The multisection editions will be worth saving. Besides recognizing achievements of young adults in our area, these sections will be an excellent directory of businesses and organizations serving the La Salle County and Starved Rock Country area.

This year, The Times will honor 16 high school and community college students who have excelled as students and members of their community. Each will be featured in a cover story outlining their achievements. The students being

recognized were nominated by the schools.

In the second edition, these four students will be featured: u Shaylee Swanson, Ottawa High School u Olivia Wojcik, St. Bede Academy u Maizzy Lucas, Woodland High School (rural Streator) u Grace Rinearson, Marquette Academy A dozen students from Ottawa, Streator, Woodland, Marquette Academy, La Salle-Peru, Seneca, Serena, Earlville, Leland and St. Bede Academy are featured in previous and upcoming editions of the Business & Industry Review.

The articles and photos published inside each section were created in cooperation with businesses and organizations that also

Shaylee Swanson, Page A1

Olivia Wojcik, Page B1

Maizzy Lucas, Page C1

Grace Rinearson, Page D1

have advertising messages throughout the special editions. You will quickly see they share a common message of pride in their products, service and the staffs and workers who make

it all happen.

These local businesses and organizations pin their success on your support.

Our 2020 Business & Industry Review will be inserted in The Times on

Thursdays in March and into April. Upcoming publication dates are March 26 and April 2.

An index to all business articles and the advertisements is provided on this

page for easy reference and future use. Each edition of the Business & Industry Review also will be posted at mywebtimes.com soon after all have been printed in The Times.

INDEX ARTICLE INDEX Anderson Pool Supply....B5 City Folk Urban Decor.....A3 Diversified Sheet Metal ..C2 Dr. William C. Vesely ........D2 Illinois Valley Clean TeamB2 J&M Reliable .....................C2 Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel and Grooming ..................D3 Morris Hospital.................C4 Pirate’s Cay.........................C5 Rental Pros ........................A2 Rosati’s Pizza .....................B3 Streator Chamber of Commerce and Industry..............................D2 Vactor Manufacturing ....C6 Wheel Wash.......................A5 ADVERTISERS Accounting Tax & Business Services ..............................B2 Anthony Liftgates, Inc. ...B6 Bike Works .........................C4 Careers Grouping.............B3 Clarks Run Creek Wine & Gifts.......................C5 Connecting Point Computer Centers...........................B4 Contractor Grouping.......B5 Dr. William Vesely.............C5 Eureka Savings Bank.......B4 Family Vision Corner .......C5 Illinois Watterway Visitor Center .................................A5 J & M Reliable ...................D4 Morris Hospital.................B1 Natural Healing of Peru/ CBD Story...........................C5 Old Glory............................C4 Pet Grouping.....................C3 Pleasant View....................D1 Realtor Grouping .............C6 Solon-Telford Funeral Home ..................................B4 Streator Community Credit Union ..................................B6 Streator Farm Mart ..........A6 Village of Grand Ridge....A4

Look for upcoming editions of Business & Industry Review

To learn more about businesses, services and organizations in Starved Rock Country and what they have to offer, look for Business & Industry Review publications in The Times on Thursdays in March and the first Thursday in April.

The Times

Rental Pros specializes in many things for a variety of purposes, and rents equipment to homeowners, contractors and industries. Rental Pros has two locations, including this one at 321 E. Dayton Road, Ottawa.

Rental Pros offers nearly 3 decades of equipment experience in area Rental Pros is celebrating 29 years of serving the La Salle County and North-Central Illinois area — with two locations to serve you in Ottawa and Peru.

Rental Pros specializes in many things for a variety of purposes. It rents equipment to homeowners, contractors and industries.

Equipment includes large implements, backhoes, tractors, skid loaders, lawn rollers, trenchers and smaller equipment such as generators, cement saws, pumps, floor sanders, ceramic tile cutters and a whole line of lawn and garden equipment such as garden tillers, lawn rollers, thatchers and aerators.

Rental Pros also rents trailers, and sells portable sheds and barns.

Another aspect of the business is wedding and party rentals. Rental Pros rents items for outdoor weddings such as canopies, tables, table linens, chairs, dance floors and wedding arches, as well as food warmers, guest book stands and much more.

Available for parties are children’s bouncy houses, obstacle courses, basketball hoop shoots, cotton candy machines, sno cone machines, hot dog and popcorn machines, as well as dunk tanks.

The Times

Rental Pros specializes in many things for a variety of purposes, and rents equipment to homeowners, contractors and industries. Rental Pros has two locations, including this one at 1150 38th St., Peru.

Come and check out Rental Pros’ wide variety of product lines for 2019. Find some of the newest and latest equipment for making your “do-it-yourself ” project easier.

Check out the weekend rate deals and weekly specials throughout

the summer.

Visit the Ottawa location at 321 E. Dayton Road, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon.

Contact James S. Baxter Sr. for sales and Brandon Baxter for rentals, and Mary Kay Stoneking for party needs.

Rental Pros (Ottawa location)

ADDRESS: 321 E. Dayton Road, Ottawa PHONE: 815-433-6061 HOURS: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday to Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday

EMAIL: rentalpros9@yahoo. com

Rental Pros (Peru location)

ADDRESS: 1150 38th St., Peru PHONE: 815-224-2800

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Times

City Folk Urban Decor owner John Fisher-Dann sits on a bench outside his downtown Ottawa business. He has acquired every object in his ever-shifting eclectic collection, which consists of a variety of fine art, pottery and glass objects as well as African art.

Unique home decor treasures available at City Folk Urban Decor

Visitors can expect a unique adventure through culture with every visit to City Folk Urban Decor in downtown Ottawa.

Owner John Fisher-Dann has acquired every object in his ever-shifting eclectic collection, which consists of a variety of fine art, pottery and glass objects as well as African art.

“What you see in here is really my own collection,” Fisher-Dann explained.

While he’s a Marseilles native and Marquette graduate, he’s ventured across the globe from the moment he graduated college with an art major. His travels took him to The Netherlands, Australia, Paris and all throughout Africa with a backpack slung over his shoulder to take with him the many interesting art pieces he uncovered.

The exploratory nature of discovering the pieces is replicated for visitors in his storefront as customers navigate the tables and art pieces on the walls, discovering what treasures each one holds.

Fisher-Dann’s appreciation for pop art is on display with pieces from Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Robert Mapplethorpe hung on the walls.

Warhol is one artist FisherDann was able to connect with in person; in fact, many of the pieces were purchased from the artists themselves or at least have the artist’s fingerprints on them in some capacity.

“Our unique niche is ev-

City Folk Urban Decor

ADDRESS: 722 La Salle St., Ottawa PHONE: 815-386-5533 WEBSITE: CityFolkOttawa.com FACEBOOK: fb.com/CityFolkUrbanDecor HOURS:10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. erything in here is a designer piece. I can tell you the history, who made it, what factory it came from, what year it was produced, who owned it before you and where I bought it from,” Fisher-Dann said.

The art scene in Ottawa is seeing something of a resurgence and City Folk Urban Decor supports that by being a part of “Third Friday” art nights. Those engaged in the arts or looking to explore local pieces are invited to come to Ottawa every third Friday of the month, which begins again April 17, and visit City Folk Urban Decor, Open Space Art Gallery and CatsEye wine bar where local artists and their pieces are put on display and available for sale.

A variety of distinct home decor items are available for sale and viewing at City Folk Urban Decor.

As to whether Fisher-Dann has that perfect piece to be placed up in your home?

Well, you’ll just have to come in and explore.

The Times

Examples of art for sale (shown above and below) at City Folk Urban Decor in downtown Ottawa. The collection of merchandise includes a variety of media, such as ceramics, glasswork, pop art, photographs, paintings, and more. The shop is open Wednesday through Sunday.

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The Times - Delivering Your Community

Swanson: 17-year-old writes, independently publishes original poetry anthologies From page A1 The 17-year-old Ottawa High School student is the type of teenager who sleeps with a notepad by the bed, never knowing when or where creativity will strike, and each passing thought could be fuel for her next poem or book.

The books “Scars Run Deep” and “More Bees With Honey” were self-published through Amazon but also can be found at Ottawa’s Prairie Fox Books.

The two are meant to be companion pieces with a third, “Tightrope Thoughts,” planned for April. Shaylee said the two books complement each other in a “yin and yang” style, with “Scars Run Deep” representing her more negative thoughts and “More Bees With Honey” representing the more positive side of self-health and healing.

Shaylee first started writing poetry in high school but has had a love of reading since the third grade. Like many students, she was enthralled by the wizarding world of the Harry Potter series and had a desire to explore other forms of storytelling.

She has a special appreciation for instructor Erin Hanley’s creative writing class and joined instructor Mark Cartwright’s poetry club her freshman year. It was a change of pace for Shaylee, but once she got a handle around the unique writing style, she said she was able to use it as a “coping mechanism” for anxiety and depression.

“I was able to kind of dissect my thoughts and put it into words and then find different metaphors for it and apply it into different parts of my life so I can gain something from it,” Shaylee said. “The poetry helped me in a coping way, and I felt like I could publish them and put them together and people could see they’re not alone with what

For The Times | Tom SIstak

Shaylee Swanson began writing poetry after joining the poetry club at Ottawa High School, which allowed her to process her experiences and better understand them. She eventually penned and published volumes of her original works. they’re feeling or, if they need help, seeing it from a different perspective.”

Cartwright said life experiences, even negative ones, can make for a great springboard for poetry and can lead to personal growth or self-analysis.

“I’ve been impressed with (the books) and that she’s differentiating,” Cartwright said. “She’s dealing with positive emotions and aspects of life with ‘More Bees With Honey,’ and with ‘Scars Run Deep’ more of the negative emotions we have to deal with.”

Cartwright said he could

see Shaylee’s potential early on in his English classes.

“There was definitely energy with Shaylee in regards to her passion for writing. I saw the energy from (the first day of class) and that energy is very high right now, and she is highly motivated to write,” Cartwright said.

“She’s definitely bringing a lot of her life to the table here. She seems to flourish doing that,” he added.

Shaylee said it helped to be part of the poetry club and on a regular schedule of creating poems. After a while, she realized she had

enough to fill a book, or two.

She began to look into self-publishing through Amazon. While she had assistance with creating poetry, she didn’t have anyone in her life who had self-published before and had to venture into that territory alone. Some friends doubted it could be done; while it wasn’t easy, it did get done.

It took her roughly two years to create all the material and an additional nine months to work her way through the publishing process and create the necessary covers before

she was able to crack open a box of her very own, self-published books.

“A lot of people think ‘I’m never going to be able to (publish a book),’ but I wanted to kind of show that anybody can. If you have the passion and the ideas, you can put it out for the world to see,” Shaylee said.

And she’s now expanding her brand for the books by working on T-shirts, bookmarks and stickers adorned with lines she’s written for the books.

She said feedback has been positive from many teachers and family, but

some of her most treasured comments have come from fellow students who connected with her words on a personal level.

“That makes me feel like it was worth it,” Shaylee said. “Because if I can help one person, then that was worth it in the end.”

Shaylee will attend Independent Bookstore Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at Prairie Fox Books, 719 La Salle St., Ottawa, where she expects to have all three books available as well as poem prints, stickers and bookmarks available for sale.

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The Times - Delivering Your Community

Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020

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The Times

With nearly 25 years of experience in the car wash business, Jerry Sesto, 78, has been the manager of Wheel Wash for the last 24 years.

‘Spot-free, clean and shiny’ ‘Car owners should be constantly taking the layers of dirt off their vehicles because it is always easier then to keep them clean. If you wait too long without a good washing, it becomes much more difficult to clean it properly.’

At an age when most men begin to take life easy, Sesto became self-employed in a business he loves.

“After retirement, I went to work here for the late Fred Esmond and his wife, Sandy, for almost 20 years.

They built this car wash and others in Utica and Marseilles.”

“I invested my time into this car wash because I like to stay busy,” he said, “I knew everything about running a car wash business, knew all the vendors to keep this place in top shape, and I have the personality and know-how to keep my customers happy and coming back,” he said.

Sesto is serious about helping people keep their vehicles clean — both inside and out.

“Car owners should be constantly taking the layers of dirt off their vehicles because it is always easier then to keep them clean,” he said. “If you wait too long without a good washing, it becomes much more difficult to clean it properly.

“Giving attention to your car or truck is smart and a good investment because keeping it in clean shape helps to give the owner the best return price when it becomes time to trade it in or resell it.”

Wheel Wash has two auto-

Wheel Wash

ADDRESS: 109 Kain St., Ottawa PHONE: 815-433-5626 HOURS: Open seven days a week, 24-hour bay accessibility

matic drive-through washes and three self-service bays.

Most recently, Sesto had new, state-of-the-art touchless hydrospray towers installed in his automatic bays, which is the most recent addition to car wash technology. Undercarriage and side power washing is always part of the wash cycle at Wheel Wash, he said.

“Unlike some other car washes, the high-pressure hoses in the automatic bays here make five passes in front of the vehicle to ensure that all bug spots are cleared away. And we use soft water here to ensure spot-free drying.”

Wheel Wash also has unique hand-held blowers in the self-service stalls which, Sesto said, are useful for cleaning and drying water off motorcycles and in hard to reach places on some vehicles.

“And we have a system in place which trickles out water in the bays so that we can stay open in the coldest

of weather all year round,” he said. “We never freeze.”

You may have also noticed less snow and ice on the ground at Wheel Wash in the winter. That’s due to new technology in the ground which keeps the driveways mostly clean and easy to drive and walk on when weather is inclement.

The business also features four industrial vacuums and one shampoo vacuum for interior cleaning.

Prices for washes vary, depending on the service the customer chooses, and pay-in-advance tokens are available six for $20. Sesto said he’s always willing to make a deal for larger quantities of washes. Each of the bays also accept credit cards.

“People, especially our older customers, like the tokens because they are easier to handle than paper money,” he said. Sesto said he will also drive a customer’s car himself through the automatic lanes if they have any reservations about taking the vehicle through the lane themselves.

“My business philosophy is that my customers should always leave this place satisfied and happy,” Sesto said. “If someone is not satisfied with their wash, I will run the vehicle

through again at no charge.

And, if I see that a customer is having some problems here, I’m always happy to go out to give them helpful hints on how to best use our self-service equipment.”

Sesto takes the time to meet customers, including the carpenters and electricians that assisted the city of Ottawa following February’s tornadoes. Sesto thanked them for their service and was able to clean their large vehicles due to the height and width of his sizeable bays.

Pushing his own industry, Eric Wulf, International Car Wash Association’s Chief Operating Officer, says, “Today’s automotive finishes do a better job at preventing visible rust and corrosion from salts and dirt, but that doesn’t help protect equipment that is exposed to the elements under your car.”

Sesto agrees and concluded, “This is why undercarriage and side power washing is always part of our wash cycle at Wheel Wash, and I think I have the best car wash around and I will continue to work hard every day to keep it that way. If you have never been here, drive in and try a wash soon. You and your vehicle will appreciate it.”

Look for Student Spotlights in today’s Business & Industry Review on pages A1, B1, C1 & D1.

Additional Student Spotlights highlighting students from area high schools will be published in upcoming Business & Industry Review installments on March 26 and April 2. Previous articles were published on March 12.

Don’t let the Illinois River take away something or someone you value.

We offer:

• State approved boating classes free to the public • Boat safety checks • Visitor Center for the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor • Listed in Illinois Wildlife and Nature Viewing Guidebook • Special programs for groups • The best view of Starved Rock State Park • Bookstore with Canal and River History items A Public Safety Message from the National Safe Boating Campaign

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Illinois Waterway Visitor Center 950 North 27th Road (Dee Bennett Road) Ottawa, IL 61350 815-667-4054 Email: gary.l.shea@usace.army.mil

SM-CL1750480

The manager of Wheel why they are coming here,” Wash, Ottawa’s premier car Sesto said. “Our equipment wash at 109 Kain St., takes cuts the dirt off really well. great pride in his auto We’re not just splashing on cleaning business and the the car; we’re taking it off complete satisfaction of his with our spray of updated customers. chemicals. That softens the With nearly 25 years of dirt. When it goes to high experience in the car wash pressure, it can actually get business, Jerry Sesto, 78, dirt off quicker and easier. has been the manager of That leaves your car spotWheel Wash for the last 24 free, clean and shiny.” years. He runs the entire Wheel Wash is a “touchoperation by himself, less” business. working some 12 hours a “The pressure that comes day in the out of the service back room business, is with which is spot-free, open sevsoft water. en days a This is week, 24 better hours a than day. brushes “I startrubbing ed in the on the car. car wash The chembusiness icals have many to be betyears ago ter than as a young rubbing man, then it with went on to a hand, work and brush eventualor mitt. ly retire That’s from why evLibby-Owerything ens in is updated Naplate as and the a supervibest you JERRY SESTO sor after can get.”

38 years,” Sesto Wheel Wash manager explained said.

Sesto.

He Wheel said the Wash continually adds new manager has to be a good equipment. listener of what the cus“Any equipment that tomer wants. doesn’t meet standards “You agree with everyone. is replaced, which gives Out of all the suggestions customers a better wash.

I get, I pick the good ones Everything is for the better that mean a lot that I didn’t for the customer, which is think about,” Sesto said.

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Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Times - Delivering Your Community

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Student Spotlight Thursday, March 19, 2020 • The Times Business & Industry Review

Section 2

Olivia Wojcik

St. Bede student shines onstage and off Senior has love of singing, theater — but her future is in the classroom STEPHANIE JAQUINS For The Times For this school year’s St. Bede variety show, Olivia Wojcik sang “Defying Gravity” from her favorite musical, “Wicked.”

Feeling the vibe of the song, a group of freshmen in the front row pulled out their flashlights to help create an ambiance.

“It’s just the most amazing feeling to know they’re feeling the music with you,” Olivia, daughter of Robert and Dana Wojcik, of Peru, said of the experience.

Connecting with the audience through song is what the St. Bede senior loves most about singing.

Her mother, Dana, said Olivia sang often at home as a child. She also began singing at church when she was around 6 years old, and people would tell her mother to put Olivia in voice lessons.

At that time, Olivia wasn’t interested in singing professionally, Dana said.

See WOJCIK, page B4

Shaw Media file | Scott Anderson

Olivia Wojcik (right) plays Prodigal’s Mother in St. Bede Academy’s fall theater performance of “Lost and Found.” She and Levi Bland act out a scene at the St. Bede Theater inside the St. Bede Abbey Church in November. The play was written by the students and featured three 10-minute vignettes.

Our Emergency Entrance has Moved!

The NEW Morris Hospital Emergency entrance is located on the east side of the hospital, accessible from High Street.

MORE treatment rooms mean you’re in and out QUICKER.

Sometimes, patients with the least serious injuries and illness end up having the longest wait in hospital emergency departments.

NOW OPEN! Introducing the NEW

We’re changing that.

• A rapid care area for patients with the least serious illness and injuries.

In our brand new, bigger Emergency Department, patients can count on receiving care sooner. In fact, most patients will avoid the waiting room all together.

Morris Hospital Emergency Department:

• 17 private treatment rooms, including a specialized trauma room, pediatric room, gynecology room, and two rooms designated for psychiatric emergencies.

• For patients coming in by ambulance, reassurance knowing paramedics and emergency medical technicians in the field can consult with board-certified emergency physicians via live video stream.

• Special designations as a Level II Trauma Center and Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics, along with Primary Stroke Certification.

For life threatening emergencies, always call 911!

150 West High Street Morris 815.942.2932 morrishospital.org

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The Times - Delivering Your Community

The Times

(Back, left to right) Jami Beier, Jen Dyer, Julie Tarbox, Teresa Anderson, Casey Anderson, Adam Obenhaus, Tim Anderson, (middle) Rachel Spitz, Sydney Miller, Carlee Yuvan, Cece Thomas, Alexa Vertheen, (front) Kim Tucker, Monica Bergagna and Madison Considine make up the Illinois Valley Clean Team.

Illinois Valley Clean Team beautifies your home, both inside and out Give your home that hands-on deep cleaning that it deserves and save yourself time, energy and stress by calling in the Illinois Valley Clean Team.

If you are ready for an exceptional house cleaning experience, the Illinois Valley Clean Team is ready to provide it. Their staff offers a detailed and thorough top-to-bottom deep cleaning that is sure to please you.

The Illinois Valley Clean Team also can perform a one-time deep-cleaning for clients looking for occasional help, as well as move-in/ move-out services and home areas that require special attention such as cabinets, closets, refrigerators and ovens.

If you will be a first-time customer, Illinois Valley Clean Team requires the deep cleaning so that your home will be ready with a fresh, clean slate for recurring maintenance cleaning. Then, with its regularly scheduled maintenance cleaning, get used to coming home to a clean house.

With maintenance cleaning, the focus is on the frequently-used and commonly-dirty areas. Maintenance cleanings can be performed on weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis.

The business also partnered with Cleaning for a Reason to offer free cleanings for women going through any type of cancer, once a month for two months.

It’s a struggle owner Teresa Anderson is all too familiar with, having watched both her grandmothers battle breast cancer. She wanted those suffering to have one less thing on their mind during their fight.

“They can focus on their health and we can focus on their home for them,” she said.

Typical tasks performed during maintenance cleaning include: Kitchen: trash emptied, floor swept and mopped, outside of appliances cleaned, top of refrigerator dusted, inside of microwave cleaned, countertops and backsplash cleaned, hand wipe table top, dust table legs and chairs and sink cleaned.

Bathrooms: tub/shower scrubbed, cleaned and thoroughly rinsed; toilets cleaned and disinfected inside and out; mirrors cleaned, floor mopped, vanity areas and sinks cleaned.

All rooms: ceiling fans and light fixtures dusted; beds made (changing sheets is an additional charge per bed); furniture dusted or polished; baseboards dusted; blinds, window sills and lock ledges dusted; woodwork/door frames dusted, cobwebs removed, floors vacuumed or mopped, picture frames dusted,

Illinois Valley Clean Team, Inc. ADDRESS: 914 First St., La Salle PHONE: call or text: 815-228-5273 EMAIL: clean@ivcleanteam.com WEB: www.ivcleanteam.com

wastebaskets emptied, stairs vacuumed or wood dusted.

The Illinois Valley Clean Team also offers other superior services: Window cleaning: This service includes streak-free cleaning of inside and outside glass.

Sills, tracks and frames are thoroughly cleaned. All dust and cobwebs removed from screens.

Gutter cleaning: This process includes the removal of all debris from gutters, checking and clearing of downspouts, unclogging or snaking of downspouts if necessary, collection of all gutter debris and pictures are provided so you can see your clean gutters. Additional related services include gutter whitening, roof cleaning, gutter seam repair and downspout repair.

House/siding washing: Illinois Valley Clean Team employs a “soft washing” technique to clean the exterior of your home and/or property. Soft washing will make your home look new again; extend the life of your siding, soffits, gutters for a fraction of the cost of replacing them; completely kills and removes all dirt, mold/mildew, fungus and algae growing on your home and prevents it from returning for a greater period of time versus high pressure washing.

Only low-pressure spray and professional cleaning products are used when cleaning your home. Potentially harmful high pressure spray is not used. High pressure water spray is not used since it can cause water to get behind your siding, in soffits and under your shingles.

This could cause a hazardous mold problem in the future, which could mean costly repairs to your home. High pressure spray can also cause physical damage such as holes and permanent scarring.

Illinois Valley Clean Team also takes the care and time to pre-wet and thoroughly rinse any grass, plants, bushes, etc. surrounding your home. It also moves any items such as furniture, rugs, potted plants, etc. and returns them to their original place when finished.

This helps ensure no damage is caused to the valuable items around your home.

For more information about the Illinois Valley Clean Team’s services and techniques visit ivcleanteam.com or call — or text — 815-228-5273.

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(815) 673-3326

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020

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Rosati’s reboots with ‘Pizza King’

The Times

Husband and wife co-owners Jess and Geno Olivito, also known as “the Pizza King” for his 30 years of restaurant experience, took over running Rosati’s Pizza in Ottawa about 10 months ago and have righted the inconsistencies with previous managers. food offerings. We know there’s a lot of great pizza in Ottawa already, which brings us some quality competition. However, we know that we have one of the nicest spaces around for dining in and we always have ample parking for our guests.

“Our goals include making more partnerships with Chamber businesses, especially Tangled Roots Brewery, who already makes a special draft beer for us called Rosati’s Golden Ale. We’ve also joined forces with other community organizations like the Ottawa YMCA, Starved Rock Regional Center, the La Salle County Sheriff ’s Office to philanthropically give back,” Geno said.

“We want Rosati’s to be a place that families gather for quality food and fun,” Jess said. “On Wednesdays, kids eat free with an adult purchase and can watch Magician Rob Thompson stump guests with his tricks.

“On Friday and Saturday nights, we offer permanent pizza deals that encourage families to order. We also offer consistent free entertainment on several other nights of the week.

“On Mondays, we have trivia nights for teams up to four players and on Tuesdays, you can join us for Free N’ Fun Bar Bingo where customers are invited to play for prizes supplied by local businesses and Rosati’s. All locations share a progressive jackpot that increases $1,000 per week. To date, the largest jackpot awarded was $10,000.”

Saturday nights have probably been the biggest game changer for attracting new audiences and

growing this location’s customer base. Geno & Jess Olivito have brought in quality live music each week, featuring both local and Chicago-based musicians, including fiddle rocker Casey McGrath. As an orchestral concertmaster and violin soloist for nearly a decade, Casey now brings her love of classical music to the pop world, infusing her covers of rock, dubstep, folk, cinematic pieces, ballads and tango classics with technical flash. Audiences just love her.

“We have one of the largest (and nicest) bars in Ottawa and are working tirelessly to regain sports fans. We boast over 30 HDTVs, offering stateof-the-art viewing to our guests from anywhere in the restaurant. We’ve got

good specials for March Madness and Opening Day. And yes, all the Chicago Cubs games will be available here,” said Geno as he rolls his eyes as a die-hard Chicago White Sox fan.

Their brand new cocktail menu features 10 vintage drinks with special pricing for “Throwback Thursdays.” They offer 12 beers on draft and have a solid house wine list. Happy Hour is from 3 to 5 p.m. daily with many other daily drink specials offered throughout the week. Their Rosati’s Italian Martini, made with a sweet Italian brandy and Amaretto, comes highly recommended.

“The last thing we need to do is educate Ottawa about our robust delivery route and its advantages,” said the “Pizza King.” “We

not only go to the south side of Ottawa, but we also deliver to Marseilles and Grand Ridge for a reasonable delivery fee. During lunch, (noon to 3 p.m. daily) we offer free delivery within Ottawa city limits. With our catering menu being entirely revamped, we can better accommodate large groups. We can go way beyond pizza to achieve the perfect menu for your event.”

“Lastly, we are just thrilled about bringing more entertainment to Ottawa. We booked Windy City Dueling Pianos for three amazing Thursday night shows in April, May and June and encourage guests to make reservations for guaranteed seating. We’re also committed to offering monthly art events that spark creativity,

Rosati’s Pizza

ADDRESS: 375 W. Stevenson Road, Ottawa PHONE: 815-324-9559 HOURS: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday WEB: www.myrosatis.com/ ottawa fellowship and connection.

It’s been awesome to watch all our passions come together to serve people.

We look forward to people enjoying Rosati’s again now that the reboot has occurred.”

To learn more about upcoming events, menu options and daily specials, visit Rosati’s Facebook Page or online menu at www.myrosatis.com/ottawa

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Since Rosati’s Pizza & Sports Pub opened its doors in 2016, there has been inconsistent leadership — frustrating employees and guests alike — but a new ownership team has helped right the ship.

At first, locals appeared supportive of the iconic Chicago pizza brand, known for making great thin crust and Chicago-style pies. However, after experiencing several owners/managers over the last four years, the people of Ottawa began to lose faith and simply stopped coming back.

“While it has certainly been difficult hearing all the past customer issues that occurred at our store, it’s also helped us know where to focus our energy to make drastic improvements,” said owner Geno Olivito. “It’s been 10 months since we took over and we can finally say that the cruise ship has been turned around and now we’re heading full throttle toward a better experience. Our message is fairly simple and totally genuine — we are not afraid to publicly apologize to the entire community for the inconsistencies of this store and will always choose to own the mistakes that occurred even before we came on board. Our customer base needed to be heard and we listened — implementing massive changes to both our management, staff and systems. No restaurant gets everything right for every customer. However, when a mistake does occur here, we promise to always own it and do everything possible to make it right with our guest. That will always be our philosophy.”

“While we knew the reputation had been damaged, we did not know the full extent until we took over,” said co-owner (and wife) Jess Olivito. Regardless, the Olivitos are here to stay and are laser-focused on winning this community back.

“We come from a small river town (similar to Ottawa) and so we know what it will take to reestablish trust and connection. We’re also excited to make this place our new home. Despite the reputation problems that have occurred, we are confident that we have what it takes to win this community back — one guest at a time. We know we make a solid pizza, especially with my husband at the helm of the ship.”

With almost 30 years of restaurant experience working specifically with pizza and Italian cuisine, there isn’t much that Geno has not encountered, creating the nickname “Pizza King.”

“Our number one goal is to exceed customer expectations every time that they visit us. We are looking to win back local customers who wrote this location off years ago due to poor or inconsistent service. My wife and I are a dynamic duo with complimentary skills and are here to serve the people of Ottawa.

“We were honored to win The Times’ Pizza Games Contest last fall and are hoping this will help strengthen the views of our quality ingredients and

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Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Wojcik: High school singer, actress to take her first lead role in spring performance From page B1 That is, until she started at St. Bede and became interested in theater. As a freshman, she performed in the production of “Godspell” as part of the ensemble, and her interest and participation continued throughout her high school years.

Now a senior, Olivia’s first lead is in the school’s spring production of “Seussical.” She plays Gertrude McFuzz, an insecure, one-feathered-tail bird in love with Horton the Elephant.

“It’s a really sweet story,” she said. “I’m very excited.”

Olivia meets weekly with Kori Suarez, voice coach with Maestro and Mi Music Academy in Peru.

She’s been taking lessons since July.

“She’s very enthusiastic,” Suarez said. “She’s really open to singing a lot of different styles of music and her voice can do a lot of different varieties of songs.”

Olivia takes direction well and has grown a great deal in the short time she’s been in lessons, Suarez said.

“She’s hardworking and she works at it until she gets it. She’s really focused on achieving a high level

of performance. It’s really nice to work with a student who has that kind of dedication,” she said.

Last year, Suarez directed the snowflake choir for a local production of “The Nutcracker,” and Olivia was part of the choir.

“I had a lot of younger members, and she was really good with the younger members of the choir.

She’s just a good friend to everyone,” she said.

She plans to work with children as a career, although older ones. This fall, she’ll attend the University of Iowa to major in English, secondary education, and minor in theater.

She hopes to teach high school English.

“I don’t know where yet, but I’ve had great English teachers. I’m open to anywhere. I think it’d be awesome to come back and teach at St. Bede. I’m open to go to new places, meeting new people.”

She said her teachers had a great impact on her decision to go into teaching.

“The teachers here are just awesome, and it makes the experience that much more personalized,” she said.

In addition to plays and musicals, Olivia also is captain of the cheer squad and a member of Scholas-

tic Bowl, Venturing Club and Lectio, which meets weekly to discuss the Bible.

“I think it’s a unique experience,” she said of her time at St. Bede. “I know our tagline is, ‘Where you belong,’ and we’re a family.

You don’t realize how real it is until you get here. The friends I’ve made are my second family.”

She also enjoys spending time with her younger sister, Amanda.

“She’s the sports one, so I go to all her games,” she said.

Her mother said she’ll miss hearing her singing around the house when she goes away to school next year — but her sister won’t, she chided.

At home, Dana describes her daughter as upbeat and happy. She also gives her all to her schoolwork.

“She’s very organized, and she really tries hard.

She’s not the kind of student who always does well on tests, but she’s always trying and studying hard, and I tell her that’s all I ask for.”

Dana’s excited to see where life takes Olivia.

“I hope for her to experience the world and meet new, fun, different people.

And to learn and keep learning. She loves having new experiences.”

YOUR SECURITY IS AT RISK! Contributed

Olivia Wojcik, a senior at St. Bede Academy in Peru, said she hopes to be a high school English teacher. She credits her teachers at St. Bede as having a positive impact on her life and her choice of career path.

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Business & industry review

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Thursday, March 19, 2020

n B5

Your family’s fun is Anderson Pool Supply’s No. 1 priority Family-owned Anderson Pool Supply has serviced the Ottawa and La Salle-Peru area for 50 years. During that time, the business has earned the reputation as an expert in the installation of in-ground swimming pools and service.

They carry in-ground and above-ground pools, Nordic Hot Tubs, chemicals, toys, wave pads, pergolas, outdoor kitchen/bar, fireplaces and fire pits.

Visit them at 301 W. Etna Road in Ottawa and see what they have to offer. Your family fun is their No. 1 priority.

At Anderson Pool, they strive to give their customers a great value for a fair price and service what they sell.

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ADDRESS: 301 W. Etna Road, Ottawa PHONE: 815-434-7362 HOURS: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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The Times

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Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Times - Delivering Your Community

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Student Spotlight

Section 3

Thursday, March 19, 2020 • The Times Business & Industry Review

Maizzy Lucas

Maizzy Lucas empties a recycling bin as part of her Key Club duties at Woodland High School.

For The Times | Annette Barr

Woodland senior has set her path Teen has steps in place to achieve future career goals MICHAEL URBANEC murbanec@shawmedia.com 815-431-4041 Woodland High School senior Maizzy Lucas has planned every step ahead of herself, at least as long as English teacher Heather Drysdale has known her.

“Maizzy is a worker,” Drysdale said. “She’s not one who complains about anything you ask her

to do. She’s very willing to step doing,” Drysdale said. “She talks up to any challenge that you give about going into nursing constanther.” ly and she’s passionate about it. I Maizzy transferred to the rural think she’s successful in at least Streator high school as a sophomy class, and at LACC, because of more, and she’s how determined been impressing she is to reach her teachers there goal.”

‘Teamwork is ever since.

Kuerth, very important in the anBeth She’s been takinstructor in ing classes at the LACC’s CNA licensmedical field, and Livingston Area ing program, said Maizzy demonstrates Career Center Maizzy is well on in the mornings her way to achievthat daily.’ before she starts ing the first step in her day at Woodher plans. land with the intention of getting “She is very attentive to the her Certified Nursing Assistant needs of her residents and makes license, the first step in her final sure she does everything right,” goal of becoming a nurse practiKuerth said. “Teamwork is very tioner. important in the medical field, and “She’s committed to what she’s Maizzy demonstrates that daily.”

Kuerth praised Maizzy’s time management skills; not a surprise, given the workload Maizzy carries. She works at the Evenglow Lodge and Evenglow Inn in Pontiac taking care of senior citizens as well as the Eastwood in Streator.

“I do so much because I like giving back,” Maizzy said. “That’s why I started taking CNA classes.”

Maizzy also does volunteer work through Key Club, where she helped work programs like the American Cross Blood Drive and the Salvation Army’s Bell Ringing, where Woodland’s Key Club beat out Streator’s Key Club in their annual donation competition for the second year in a row.

See LUCAS, page C4

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Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Times - Delivering Your Community

All employees of Diversified Sheet Metal have had four years of apprenticeship training, OSHA training and all necessary certifications.

The Times

Diversified Sheet Metal a trusted name in HVAC Located at 402 N. Illinois Street, Diversified Sheet Metal is a fully insured union contractor. They have been a trusted name in the HVAC and sheet metal business for over 30 years now.

All employees have had four years of apprenticeship training, OSHA training and all necessary certifications. Their services

include HVAC repair and maintenance, new heating, venting and air conditioning system installation, 24-hour emergency service, maintenance agreements, industrial sheet metal work and architectural sheet metal work.

Diversified Sheet Metal is owned and operated by David and Kim Harcharik.

David is a lifelong Streator resident who began his career in the sheet metal trade as an apprentice in 1977. The opportunity to start Diversified Sheet Metal came along in 1989 and David is now President.

His oldest son, Dave Jr., began at Diversified Sheet Metal in 1995 and is now the Business Manager. Dave’s

younger son, Tony, started in 2002 and is now Service Manager. D.J. Marconi came on board in 1998 and is now a Journeyman. They also have an apprentice, Dylan Tooley who started in 2019.

Some recent projects include the Streator HighSchool Auditorium, City of Streator Public Works

Building, Owens-Illinois, Eagle Point, Streator Onized Credit Union, La Salle County Housing Authority, Northpoint Plaza and Alloy Specialties.

Being in business for over 30 years, Diversified Sheet Metal realizes how important it is to have happy customers. They work every day to ensure that happens.

Diversified Sheet

ADDRESS: 402 N. Illinois St. Streator, IL WEBSITE: diversifiedsheetmetalil.com EMAIL: dvrsfd@frontier.com PHONE: 815-672-2990

ABOVE: J&M Reliable owner Jason Hawley takes great pride in providing high-quality services within Streator and the Illinois Valley areas.

AT RIGHT: J&M Reliable is much more than just a restoration service. The business helps families and businesses with residential or commercial premises get back to their day-to-day living after a fire or flood.

The Times

J&M Reliable servicing area for over 40 years J&M Reliable is a family run business, owned and operated by Jason Hawley. He takes great pride in providing high-quality services within Streator and the Illinois Valley areas. Many people within the area are familiar with the outstanding services provided by J&M Reliable.

Being a complete restoration company means so much more than just a service. Hawley explains that the many services provided help families and businesses with residential

or commercial premises get back to their day-to-day living.

J&M has staff certified in mold mitigation, inspections and testing to determine the best methods of mitigation based on their individual situation. If anyone experiences the unfortunate event of a fire or flood, the company is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The staff is trained in the process of full recovery from such traumatic and difficult events. This can be confusing and over-

whelming, but the company handles all claims and works with your insurance company to make sure all of your concerns and needs are met. Many restoration companies exist, but we provide a service that is individualized to meet you where you are at, providing the home or business owner with peace of mind to begin the recovery process.

J&M is a multi-faceted company but it is well known for its carpet and upholstery cleaning.

“Providing residential

J&M Reliable

ADDRESS: 1202 E. Livingston Rd., Streator, IL EMAIL: jason.jmreliable@ gmail.com WEBSITE: jmreliable.com PHONE: 815-712-1988

and commercial carpet cleaning is something we excel in.” Hawley said.

The level of detail and service provided by our leading technicians, Andrew and Cippy, is some-

thing that brings customers back time and time again.

All state of the art equipment and products are used to ensure that the highest quality service is provided all the time, every time.

Hawley says to try their services. You won’t be disappointed, he guarantees it!

J&M Reliable is a company that has been servicing the area for over 40 years.

Yes, the business has grown, but so has the level of expertise, knowledge and services.

Hawley said one aspect

that we will never outgrow is personalized service. We pride ourselves on making our customers the most important aspect of our business, not just another number. If you have any doubts about your current service provider for your residential and commercial needs, then give us an opportunity to meet your individual needs with a service second to none.

Servicing Streator and the Illinois Valley, Hawley and his team look forward to hearing from you.

Business & industry review

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Thursday, March 19, 2020

n C3

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Business & industry review

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The Times - Delivering Your Community

AT RIGHT: Morris Hospital provides exceptional infusion care for a wide variety of patient needs at the newly renovated, state-of-the art Infusion Therapy Center on the hospital main campus.

The Times

Morris Hospital completes first phase of major renovations After months of anticipation, Morris Hospital has completed the first phase of a $33.5 million modernization on the hospital main campus.

A new Infusion Therapy Center and Outpatient Lab opened in January off the hospital main lobby, followed by the March 5 opening of a new Emergency Department on the east wing of the hospital’s first floor. The new Emergency Department has 17 treatment rooms compared to 11 previously, including a new rapid care area for patients with the least serious illness and injuries. For patients, the enhancements should mean improved privacy and less time spent in the Emergency Department.

“The new Emergency Department was designed to provide patients with a completely different experience compared to our previous process,” says Tony Bucki, Director of Emergency Services at Morris Hospital. “As long as rooms are available, patients can count on going straight back to treatment instead of returning to the waiting room. We don’t want people waiting.”

The hospital also has a new Women’s Imaging Center, bringing mammography, breast ultrasound, bone density and stereotactic breast biopsy together in one location, with a private waiting area for women undergoing testing.

Along with the building enhancements and service expansions, Morris Hospital achieved a number of accolades over the past year, including an “A” grade on both Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade reports released in 2019, an indication of the hospital’s overall performance in keeping patients safe from preventable harm and medical errors. Additionally, Morris Hospital was recognized with two distinc-

Lucas From page C1 Woodland science teacher Cathy Kalnicky said Maizzy is always one of the first to step up and take the lead whenever they work on a project as a group.

“Maizzy leads her group and they’re constantly focused,” Kalnicky said. “She leads everyone by example and they really tend to follow her lead.”

Kalnicky and Drysdale both praised Maizzy’s ability to keep a level head when leading a group; she takes the lead and keeps everyone on task.

Kalnicky teaches Maizzy in STEM, a class focused on finding practical uses for education in science, technology, engineering and math. Their current project is building a zero-energy greenhouse that works on conduction currents and solar energy.

Maizzy said that’s her favorite class, and Kalnicky said it shines through in her work.

“She’s a lead-by-example kind of leader and she does anything she needs to do,” Kalnicky said. “People in

WHAT’S

?

Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers

ADDRESS: 150 W High St, Morris PHONE: 815-942-2932 WEB: morrishospital.com tions in quality excellence from Healthgrades: the Healthgrades 2019 Patient Safety Excellent Aware and the Outstanding Patient Experience Award. Morris Hospital also made the 100 Great Community Hospitals list on Becker’s Hospital Review for the fourth year in a row.

Staff at the hospital have worked hard to maintain a number of prestigious designations. In 2019, Morris Hospital was re-designated as a Level II Trauma Center for Emergency Medical Systems Region 7 and as an Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics. Morris Hospital also renewed its designation as a Level II perinatal facility, which allows the hospital to care for women who have the potential for complicated or high risk deliveries, as well as newborns who may require specialized care.

Morris Hospital remains committed to improving the health of area residents through a number of health education programs and screenings. In 2019, the hospital added a prenatal exercise class for expecting moms and a Low Intensity Functional Training exercise class for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. her group follow her lead.”

Drysdale agreed.

“She’s somebody who helps others step up to their potential,” Drysdale said. “Not even in just her work; I’ve seen the same kinds of things happen with her friends.”

Drysdale said it’s interesting to hear her speak of her future. Maizzy plans to attend Methodist College in Peoria to become a nurse at UnityPoint Health Methodist Hospital.

“She knows exactly where she’s going and what she plans to do,” Drysdale said. “She’s got the timeline all set up. She’s extremely motivated.”

Kalnicky said, being only 17 or 18 years old, it’s very difficult to come up with a plan as well laid out as the one Maizzy has for herself.

“She’s got that goal of becoming a nurse practitioner, and that’s even more school than she’s already doing,” Kalnicky said. “She’s got that final goal and a bunch of small goals in between to help her get to the end. That’s very impressive. You really don’t see that in a high schooler very often.”

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Business & industry review

The Times - Delivering Your Community

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Thursday, March 19, 2020*

The Times

Pirate’s Cay, located north of Ottawa, offers 31,000 square feet of fun, including a pirate’s ship-themed children’s playscape with operator-controlled water features, water guns, slides and a dump bucket that is fun for the whole family.

Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park offers year-round fun It’s not every day that you get to stand in a deluge of water being dumped from a giant bucket!

But at Pirate’s Cay Waterpark in Sheridan, it happens daily!

Located just minutes north of Ottawa off Illinois Route 71, it is 31,000 square feet of awesome!

The park includes a pirate’s ship-themed children’s playscape with operator-controlled water features, water guns, slides and a dump bucket that is fun for the whole family.

Out of the four water slides, two of them are tube slides entitled The Kraken and The Hydra. If that isn’t enough, ride the two body slides, The Jewel and The Pearl.

But for those looking for a slower pace, take a few trips around the Lazy River to relax and unwind.

If you happen to find yourself overcome with hunger after a day spent twirling, dipping and drifting your way through the park, grab a bite to eat at Subway or Mama DeLuca’s Pizza.

A gift shop offers swimsuits, towels, t-shirts, jewelry and novelty candy and ice cream. Senior Manager of Guest Engagement Brynn Skinner had this to say about Pirate’s Cay and what it has to offer: “Being in the Midwest, it is always challenging to find a family friendly and focused environment that offers water based activities year round

and Pirate’s Cay fits that bill. The party room offers a great economical option for families who are looking for something different than the traditional party.”

The park offers several different tiers in pricing.

If you stay at Fox River Resort, either through a public booking with IHG.Com or with a timeshare ownership, there is a discounted rate. Party packages can be tailor fit to your specific needs!

Pirate’s Cay also offers unique employment opportunities for the surrounding communities. As the park looks toward summer, it is looking to fill a variety of positions. To see what is currently open, please visit: jobs.holidayinnclub.com.

Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park

ADDRESS: 2558 N. 3653rd Road, Sheridan PHONE: 815-496-3292

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Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020*

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Vactor a manufacturing leader for more than a century

The TImes

Vactor is the industry leader in sewer and catch basin cleaners, industrial vacuum loaders and vacuum excavators featuring innovative technology and custom configurable designs.

For more than 100 years, Vactor Manufacturing has been building durable, reliable products using air conveyance, high-pressure water and vacuum technology. The business began in Chicago in 1911 as the Myers-Sherman Company, a manufacturer of pneumatic farm equipment, before moving to its current location in Streator during the Vactor 1930s. The pneumatic Manufacturing conveying ADDRESS: 1621 S. systems in the Illinois St., Streator original prodPHONE: 815-672ucts provided 3171 the impetus GENERAL MANAGER: for today’s Sam Miceli success as a HUMAN RESOURCES global leader MANAGER: Katie in the manMuntz ufacture of sewer cleaners. Today, Vactor is the industry leader in sewer and catch basin cleaners, industrial vacuum loaders and vacuum excavators featuring innovative technology and custom configurable designs.

Vactor Manufacturing has more than 50+ North American distributors in more than 100 locations to serve the municipal market, as well as 12 factory direct locations through FS Solutions for industrial and utility customers in the United States, and eight locations through Joe Johnson Equipment (JJE) in Canada.

“Our employees take great pride in their work.” shared Katie Muntz, Human Resources Manager. “The employee commitment to quality drives the proven reputation of Vactor products.”

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Student Spotlight Thursday, March 19, 2020 • The Times Business & Industry Review

Section 4

Grace Rinearson

Experience in club shapes Grace’s future Marquette senior impresses with her skills, maturity ANNETTE BARR For The Times Instructing a fellow student to sit on a table in the athletic trainer’s office, Grace Rinearson begins to wrap the bare ankle as if it’s second nature. She rolls the stretchy tape around the arch of the foot.

“I joined (the Sports Medicine Club) and the more I helped out, I fell in love with it,” she said.

Grace, a senior at Marquette Academy High School, has been serving as the president of the Sports Medicine Club since her junior year. In fact, she has become so interested in the field that she has decided to study physical therapy when she attends college in the fall.

See RINEARSON, page D3 AT RIGHT: Grace Rinearson wraps another student’s ankle as part of her Sports Medicine Club duties at Marquette Academy in Ottawa. The senior plans to pursue a career in physical therapy after discovering a love of sports medicine.

For The Times | Annette Barr

Hearthstone Assisted Living at Pleasant View retirement community fosters an independent lifestyle with person-centered care when you need it. This combination is perfect for those who may need a little extra help with the activities of daily living like medication management, bathing or dressing. Personal rhythms of life are respected. Every effort is made to accommodate individual preferences and daily routines.

Beautifully appointed suites feature a host of upgrades. With a welcoming grand entrance, and new amenities that include a fireplace lounge, landscaped courtyard, computers and social sitting areas throughout the building, you’re sure to feel right at home.

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505 College Avenue | Ottawa, Illinois 61350 | (815) 434-1130 | pvOttawa.org Pleasant View is a Lutheran Life Community - Empowering vibrant, grace-filled living across all generations

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Thursday, March 19, 2020*

Business & industry review

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Healthy smiles are a priority with Dr. Vesely This year marks the 37th anniversary of Dr. William C. Vesely becoming a Doctor of Dentistry.

The popular South Side Ottawa dentist graduated from the University of Illinois school of dental surgery in 1981 after earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Marquette University in 1976.

For decades, Dr. Vesely has been one of Ottawa’s most successful practitioners of family and general dentistry, attracting patients from all over the Illinois Valley. His office has provided comprehensive, allphase dental care for people of all ages.

Dr. Vesely believes, no matter what your age, most people can benefit from new options in dentistry that promote good oral health and improve the cosmetic appearance of a person’s teeth. Due to many recent advances in dentistry, many people may not be aware of several new alternatives that could dramatically benefit anyone’s smile.

His practice participates in cosmetic dentistry and he prides himself in gentle, caring, thorough examinations and treatments in a friendly and comfortable environment.

The family-oriented dentist services include: u Root canals u Crown and dentures u Emergency service with evening hours available u Digital X-rays u Implant restorations u Whiteners u Cosmetic bonding and veneers Only a generation ago, it was normal for the majority of seniors in the U.S. to lose all their teeth, replacing them with dentures. Now,

The Times

(Left to right) Pam Spencer, Julie Shreve, Dr. William Vesely and Valerie Vesely makes up Dr. Vesely’s team. Dr. Vesely has been one of Ottawa’s most successful practitioners of family and general dentistry, attracting patients from all over the Illinois Valley. His office has provided comprehensive, all-phase dental care for people of all ages. only a few decades later, most older Americans keep most of their teeth for their entire lives. This is a major achievement of modern dental practices and the work of professionals like Dr. Vesely.

Dr. Vesely’s staff works to develop a relationship with each patient. They listen to concerns and provide all with personal attention and

custom care. And dentistry education never ends for his staff so his office can provide cutting-edge technology and the latest techniques.

Patient comfort is of most importance to Dr. Vesely. His exam rooms have flat screen TVs in them to help take the patient’s mind off the procedure. There is also a television located in the waiting

room along with complimentary coffee. The doctor also has nitrous oxide, (aka laughing gas) available for those who might be a little nervous.

Whenever you have questions or concerns about caring for your teeth or gums, or about improving the appearance of your smile, talk with Dr. Vesely first.

Nancy Yanek and Jack Dzuris stand in front of Streator Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s new front facade.

Dr. William C. Vesely

ADDRESS: 111 E. McKinley Road, Ottawa PHONE: 815-433-3996 HOURS: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Monday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; closed Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday WEB: drveselydental.com

The Times

Streator Chamber of Commerce fosters continued growth The Streator Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry continues to bring businesses together as well as to improve the area’s quality of life and community image.

Continued growth in 2017 was witnessed in Streator.

Although down from the near record-setting pace of 2012, existing businesses such as Teleperformance Call Center, Owens Illinois, Stertil ALM, Walmart, Kroger, Vactor Manufacturing and OSF Center for Health lead Streator in jobs creation and retention. Last year was also a strong year in retail sales tax receipts as the number collected

was just more than $3 million due in part to the opening of new businesses in Streator.

City/Chamber visitations remain in the plan to keep in touch within the business arena.

Communication lines remain strong and are a “give and take” well-received occurrence. Executive Director Jack Dzuris notes that the city and chamber are a strong force when they work together.

The Chamber has also recently begun using its website, streatorchamber. com, to highlight specific local businesses. The website details deals Streator

Streator Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry ADDRESS: 320 E. Main St., Streator PHONE: 815-672-2921 WEB: streatorchamber.com FACEBOOK: “Streator Chamber of Commerce”

area businesses are offering as well as a calendar of Chamber hosted events.

The chamber hosts timely breakfast workshops called “Eggs and Issues,” an annual golf outing, an annual awards recognition dinner and networking opportunities called “Business and Bagels.”

With a staff of two, the chamber operates on an

annual budget of $130,000.

Along with Dzuris, who handles much of the organization’s communications, is Sue Yanek, administrative assistant.

A dues structure is in place for membership and the organization boasts an excess of 175 members.

Ambassadors from member businesses also serve as a link for new business-

es to the community. The ambassadors operate as the social outreach portion of the chamber and can be useful connections for new businesses to make.

Saturday, April 14, is the date of the annual “Stems and Stilettos” fundraiser — a wine and cheese event with a live/silent auction included.

The Chamber also showed its dedication to the community by participating in the city’s facade grant program. The Chamber is happy to be a part of the downtown revitalization effort and looks forward to showcasing its new look this year.

The Times - Delivering Your Community

Business & industry review

Thursday, March 19, 2020*

n D3

The Times

April D’Agay and Susan Kmetz, groom “Honey Bun” at Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel & Grooming in Streator.

Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel & Grooming offers 30-plus years experience Since 1983, Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel & Grooming has been the premier provider of pet boarding and dog grooming in the Streator area.

They are a proud local, family-owned and operated business with more than 30 years experience, and it shows through in the quality of their work and customer service.

Their friendly and pro-

fessional staff works hard to provide quality care with your pets in mind. As passionate pet people, they know that you don’t trust your pets’ well-being to just anyone.

“We take our responsibility to our two and four-legged customers very seriously!”

Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel specializes in pet boarding, doggie daycare Monday

through Friday and pet grooming, including cats.

If you are a senior citizen who has mobility trouble, they will pick up and drop off your furry friend for you! Their grooming services run the full gamut, from basics like trimming and teeth cleaning to extras like nail grinding and even spa packages. They have special shampoos and conditioners for all dogs

and cats. They offer medicated specialty shampoos for those with coat and skin conditions.

Services also include: Mats (combed or clipped), flea and tick bath, baths, teeth cleaning, nail trimming, table drying, pet grooming service, a full service groom / puppy trim, nail grinding, groom package, spa package, deluxe spa package, a basic bath pack-

Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel & Grooming

ADDRESS: 1607 S. Hawthorne Road, Streator PHONE: 815-672-3871 WEBSITE: kmetzkennel.com age, shed-less treatments and blowouts.

If you are in need of personable and affordable

grooming or pet boarding in La Salle or Livingston counties, in and around the Streator area, they hope you’ll visit or call Kmetz’s Hawthorne Kennel & Grooming LLC soon. They’ll make sure your furry friend is given the care and attention they deserve while you’re away from home — you can trust their seasoned staff to always be on hand while your pet is with them.

Rinearson: Marquette student displays drive, dedication in extracurriculars and church programs From page D1 She recounted an especially exciting time in her recent sports medicine career during this past fall’s first football game when several players needed assistance.

“That was pretty busy because one guy would go down and we would have to rub out their cramps or feed them Gatorade or pickle juice, and then another guy would go down so we would have to share the roller. It was just very chaotic,” she said.

It’s her drive and dedication that has stood out to Brandi Peters, Marquette’s head athletic trainer and Sports Medicine Club adviser.

“I let Grace do a little

AT LEFT: Grace Rinearson stands alongside an informational display about the Marquette Academy High School Sports Med Club. She has been president of the club since her junior year of high school.

Facebook | Marquette Academy High School Sports Med Club

more than a lot of the Sports Med Club members because she is more involved. She’s with me almost every day, and she knows the routine,” said Peters.

Those learned skills include basic first aid, injury evaluation, concussion training, leading rehabilitation and following a plan for strengthening exercises.

“She never hesitates to try something. You ask her to do anything and she’ll try.

She asks good questions, and if she doesn’t understand something she’ll ask and then she’ll give it her best shot every time,” Peters said. “She approaches everything with high energy and a good attitude. To me, that’s what makes her stand out the most.”

That standout behavior has carried over to Grace’s service in the Catholic church as well. Although this is just the second year she has been a lead CCD teacher at St. Columba Church, she began assisting other teachers on Sunday mornings before she entered high school. Grace leads a

“

class of 11 second-graders in their studies as they prepare to receive the sacrament of Holy Communion for the first time this spring.

“I really like kids. I just love teaching kids, and they have such high energy all the time,” she said.

It’s actually Grace’s energy that continues to impress Mary Mann, director of religious education at St. Columba. Mann uses words such as conscientious, patient and knowledgeable to describe her.

“We gave her more and more responsibilities, honestly every year. And we gave her more and more stuff to do because she could handle it. She always did it willingly and always with a smile. Grace is just an amazing young gal,” Mann said.

“I can’t wait to see what Grace’s future holds because I know she’s going to do great things. I’m sorry, I get choked up a little bit because she’s a mature girl for her age and I’m proud of her. She’s not mine, my own child, but I’m just proud of her representing our faith.”

She never hesitates to try something.

You ask her to do anything and she’ll try.

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Thursday, March 19, 2020*

Business & industry review

The Times - Delivering Your Community

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